In this episode, Joe Kaiser, CEO and Managing Director at Mercato Partners, shares how his experience at Blackstone and in operating roles, including scaling Vivint Solar from zero to $200M in revenue through an IPO and a $5B exit, shaped his “show me” mindset, quantitative rigor, and focus on unit economics. He explains Mercato’s heartland thesis, how geography affects founder incentives, talent development, and board dynamics, and what coastal investors often misunderstand about scaling outside major hubs. Joe outlines Mercato’s “head in, hands out” board approach, when engagement is most critical in balance sheet decisions, and why respectful, direct communication matters. He also critiques growth equity overcapitalization, warns against spreadsheet-driven projections, and shares views on AI, deep tech diligence, hardware-enabled moats, and hiring leaders who’ve done it before.

Tune in and learn how to build and fund enduring companies without chasing hype or relocating to the coast.

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Joe Kaiser on LinkedIn. 
• Follow Mercato Partners on LinkedIn and explore their website. 
• Watch the interview here.

In this episode, Ken Fine, CEO of Affinity, shares how his career path from naval engineering and physics to enterprise SaaS leadership shaped his thinking about data, systems, and decision-making. He reflects on designing high-stakes systems in the Navy, applying behavioral economics at Financial Engines, and learning how to separate signal from noise at Medallia. Ken explains why differentiated data matters more than algorithms alone, how speed and accuracy work together to build trust, and why transparency is essential as AI becomes more embedded in workflows. He also discusses leadership, emphasizing accountability balanced with empathy, and introduces his “nail it, then scale it” framework for building sustainable companies.

Tune in and learn how data, trust, and human judgment come together to power better decisions at scale.
Resources:

• Connect with and follow Ken Fine on LinkedIn.
• Follow Affinity.co on LinkedIn and explore their website.

In this episode, Deanna Harshbarger, CEO of Cala Health, discusses how precision neuromodulation is transforming care by measuring each patient’s unique tremor and tailoring therapy in real-time. She explains why millions of essential tremor and Parkinson’s patients are left undertreated under today’s pharma-first, procedure-heavy system. She shares how Cala’s wearable, watch-like device restores daily function and dignity without habituation or invasive surgery. She also explains why modernizing reimbursement, regulation, and clinical workflows is crucial for digital therapeutics to scale.

Tune in to discover how electricity is becoming medicine.

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Deanna Harshbarger on LinkedIn.
• Follow Cala Health on LinkedIn and explore their website.

In this episode, Dr. Ilias Tagkopoulos, chairman and founder of PIPA, professor at UC Davis, and director at the USDA AI Institute, talks about how academia shaped his pursuit of long-term, high-impact innovation and how that led him to build AI platforms reshaping food, nutrition, and health. He shares a personal story that shifted his company's focus from broad AI applications to the power of diet and lifestyle. He explains how AI-as-a-service has evolved, why global talent has been crucial to scaling, and where AI can have the most immediate impact on nutrition. He also explores the future, from personalized diets based on biomarkers to the rise of agentic AI.

Tune in to hear how AI is redefining the way we nourish and care for ourselves!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Dr. Ilias Tagkopoulos on LinkedIn.
• Follow PIPA on LinkedIn and explore their website.
• Follow UC Davis on LinkedIn and visit their website.

In this episode, Viwat Visuthikraisee, Co-Founder and COO of Auransa, discusses his journey from studying theoretical physics in Japan to building an AI-driven biotech company in the Bay Area. His early fascination with computers led to a career in software and, ultimately, to applying computational power to biopharma using human-derived molecular data to identify promising drug candidates early. He reflects on the role of large language models like ChatGPT as productivity tools that expand human capabilities without immediately replacing core programming skills. Viwat also discusses the challenges of drug discovery and advises founders to raise funds whenever possible, build the right team, and focus on long-term success.

Tune in and learn how AI is transforming drug discovery, why direction matters more than speed, and what it takes to lead innovation in a high-stakes industry

Resources:

• Follow Auransa on LinkedIn and visit their website.

In this episode, Dr. Chris Murphy, CEO and founder of Ocular Services on Demand, a distinguished veterinary ophthalmologist and serial healthcare entrepreneur, shares his journey from veterinary ophthalmology into entrepreneurship and medical innovation. He describes how his early curiosity about raptor eyes led to a passion for research and business, influenced by his academic foundation at Cornell. Dr. Murphy explores the comparative anatomy of vision across species and how animals adapt their sight for survival. His work on ocular wound healing expanded into broader medical ventures, resulting in companies like Imbed Biosciences and OSOD. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes integrity in leadership, science-driven innovation, and the importance of building teams for societal good.

Tune in and learn how one man bridged the gap between science, startups, and service to leave behind a legacy that truly heals!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Dr. Christopher Murphy on LinkedIn.

• Follow Ocular Services on Demand (OSOD) on LinkedIn and visit their website.

• Learn more about Imbed Biosciencies on their LinkedIn and explore their website.

• Read Confucius: The Secular As Sacred by Herbert Fingarette here.

In this episode, Michael Lemcke, Associate Director of the Venture Catalyst program at UC Davis, shares how the university helps turn research into viable startups. He explains how initiatives like proof-of-concept funding, incubators, and investor networks support innovation from idea to company. Michael also highlights the strengths of the Sacramento region for startups in health, food, agriculture, and biotech, and how UC Davis fosters cross-disciplinary partnerships. He discusses the One Health initiative, the $1B Aggie Square project, and offers advice for startups seeking university collaboration: be intentional, clear on value, and focused on the long term.

Tune in and learn how ecosystems are what truly launch the future of health and tech innovation!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Michael Lemcke on LinkedIn.

• Follow UC Davis Venture Capitalist on their LinkedIn and visit their website.

In this episode, Rich Yang, CEO of Biolinq, shares his 27-year journey in diabetes and biosensing, beginning with the first FDA-approved CGM and leading to his current role. He describes the ambitious goal of building a novel semiconductor biosensor that combines five complex disciplines: semiconductor manufacturing, software, material science, consumer electronics, and scaling. Rich highlights Biolinq’s unique value proposition, which includes metabolic tracking, real-time LED feedback, and multi-electrode reliability. He also reflects on the future of multi-analyte sensing, the importance of hiring resilient talent, and how deep tech is shaping proactive health management.

Tune in and learn how deep tech is revolutionizing metabolic health and what it takes to lead a team through unprecedented technological hurdles!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Rich Yang on LinkedIn.
• Follow Biolinq on their LinkedIn and visit their website.

In this episode, Brian Flucht, Head of the US Region for Global Brain, reflects on his 20-year venture capital journey, comparing his strategic corporate VC experience at Nike with his current financially-driven global role. He shares how his investment approach shifted from being a generalist to developing deep, thesis-driven convictions, particularly in deep tech and solutions that act as "painkillers" rather than "vitamins." Brian also offers practical advice for founders, highlighting the importance of storytelling, audience awareness, and qualities like persistence and a strong say-do ratio. He discusses the growing influence of AI in both venture capital and healthcare and shares his optimistic view of the current VC landscape and exit opportunities.

Tune in and learn how to navigate the evolving venture landscape, from pitching corporate VCs to understanding the transformative power of AI in both investing and healthcare!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Brian Flucht on LinkedIn.

• Follow Global Brain on their LinkedIn and visit their website.

• Email Brian directly here.

In this episode, Brad Niles, CEO of ARIZ Precision Medicine, shares his entrepreneurial journey, from quirky early ventures like breeding mice and wedding pigeons to co-founding a biotech company. Motivated by a personal connection to cancer, he discusses ARIZ’s development of siRNA-based therapies targeting genetic drivers like the Prdm2 gene in lung cancer, aiming for precision treatment with fewer side effects. Brad reflects on the challenges of biotech entrepreneurship, including securing funding, building expert networks, and working within regional innovation ecosystems. He also explores regulatory shifts, drug pricing complexities, and how environmental and demographic changes are reshaping cancer trends.

Tune in to explore the journey from early ventures to cutting-edge cancer therapies, and discover the power of resilience, networking, and precision medicine in shaping the future of cancer care!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Brad Niles on LinkedIn.

• Follow ARIZ on their LinkedIn and visit their website.

• Email Brad directly here.

In this episode, Dr. Nathan Bryan discusses the role and therapeutic potential of nitric oxide and the challenges in its therapy development, explaining how chronic diseases can stem from missing molecules or toxins and how to naturally restore nitric oxide production. Dr. Bryan also shares insights on nitric oxide’s benefits in treating conditions like ischemic heart disease, Alzheimer's, and diabetic ulcers, emphasizing the importance of understanding its correct dosage.

Tune in and learn how nitric oxide can transform health and therapeutic approaches for chronic diseases!

In this episode, Glenn Snyder delves into the distinctions between operational and strategy consulting, emphasizing the crucial role of strategy in directing business operations. He highlights the significance of alignment in the MedTech industry, particularly in adapting to the evolving landscape shaped by technological advancements.

Tune in and learn how to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving MedTech world and discover why strategy is crucial in directing business operations.

In this episode, Dr. Ankit Agarwal, CEO and co-founder of Imbed Biosciences, shares his journey from engineering to business, highlighting the role of the Kauffman Fellowship program in his entrepreneurial success. He discusses the importance of timing, market validation, and solving unmet clinical needs for aspiring entrepreneurs, while also showcasing his innovative work in developing synthetic wound matrix technology for chronic ulcers. 

Tune in and learn how Dr. Ankit Agarwal’s journey can inspire your own entrepreneurial endeavors in science and technology-based startups!

In this episode, Paul Leschiner discusses the 340B program and healthcare technology, emphasizing its critical role in reducing medication costs for low-income patients. He explores challenges within the 340B space, such as legal battles and sustainability concerns, while stressing the significance of patient-focused pricing and trust in business relationships, alongside personal strategies for building trust and advocating for healthcare equity through awareness of programs like 340B.

Tune in and learn how patient-focused pricing ensures equitable access to healthcare services and medications!

In this episode, Philipp Wehn dives into the convergence of virtual reality and AI and their impacts on our daily lives. He discusses the nuanced relationship between our physical world and the burgeoning virtual landscapes we're creating.

So, plug in your earbuds and get ready for a ride into the infinite game of tech and progress with Tom and Philipp.

In this part two episode with Jason Novak, he dives deeper into the intricate world of pharmaceuticals and the balance of life and ethics in health tech. Tom and Jason delve into nebulizing medicine and its significance in drug administration. They discuss the future of pharmaceuticals, where continuous data ecosystems could revolutionize healthcare. 

Join this episode and unpack these themes and learn Jason's golden nuggets of wisdom for young professionals, guardrails for work-life balance, and why parenting principles might be the ultimate guide for better business.

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Jason Novak on LinkedIn.
• Follow Norton Rose Fulbright on LinkedIn.
• Explore the Norton Rose Fulbright Website!

In this episode, Jason Novak, Partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, unravels the complexities of IP law and breaks down the three key areas of IP practice: litigation, prosecution, and transactions, focusing on how his team expertly handles everything but litigation due to their expansive in-house experience. Jason discusses the intricacies of patent prosecution, the critical duty of citing prior art, and how strategic filing can catapult entrepreneurs to exclusivity — a vital asset in the battlefield of innovation. 

So, sit tight and get ready for an intellectual excursion with Jason Novak as we unpack what it takes to protect your ideas and keep your competitive edge sharp in the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and health innovation.

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Jason Novak on LinkedIn.
• Follow Norton Rose Fulbright on LinkedIn.
• Explore the Norton Rose Fulbright Website!

In this episode, Mark Prather explores the challenges and innovations in healthcare, the impact of technology, and the transformative potential of providing high-acuity care in patients' homes. He recognizes the need for alternative care models like DispatchHealth, emphasizing in-home care, addressing challenges in hospital-based medicine, leveraging AI and machine learning for optimization, and envisioning a distributed health system for enhanced patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Tune in to learn how DispatchHealth is transforming traditional healthcare models and bringing medical expertise to your doorstep!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Mark Prather on LinkedIn.
• Follow DispatchHealth on LinkedIn.
• Explore the DispatchHealth Website!

In this episode, Ulrike Sailer, the CEO and managing partner of neoplas med, is back to explore the spectacular promise and proven efficacy of their company’s technology, delving into how it's transforming the treatment of chronic wounds like diabetic foot ulcers and the impact it's having on healthcare. Ulrike shares her inspirational journey, from her admiration of decisive leadership to the strategic shifts and pivots essential for startup success. 

Join this episode to learn more about the synergy between human and veterinary medicine, the importance of staying passionate, and why transparency in business is non-negotiable.

In this episode, Ulrike Sailer, the CEO and managing partner of neoplas med, dives into the remarkable realm of cold plasma technology and its groundbreaking applications in wound care. 

She explores the challenges of building a medical device company in the highly regulated German market, the long road to reimbursement, and why patience and financial resources are vital in this endeavor. 

Tune in to this episode as Ulrike seamlessly blends passion, strategic thinking, and expectation management while navigating the intricate landscape of healthcare innovation.

In this episode, Anisha Sood talks about the transformation of First Choice Health over 35 years from a network to a third-party administrator in the healthcare sector. She navigates TPAs' role in custom healthcare for self-insured employers, delving into COVID-19's impact, emphasizing innovation's balance with financial responsibility, evaluating EAP trends and pandemic-induced changes' sustainability, all while highlighting the value of diverse experiences in a dynamic healthcare career.

Listen to this episode as Anisha sheds light on how First Choice adapts, innovates, and leads in the era of telehealth and pandemic-driven changes!

Resources:

• Connect with and follow Anisha Sood on LinkedIn.
• Follow First Choice Health on LinkedIn.
• Discover the First Choice Health Website!

In this episode, Jenny Hopkins delves into the intricacies of successful company spin-offs, citing Agilent Technologies' $3 billion public spin-off from HP as a significant example. She underscores the critical importance of a well-defined strategy and execution for successful spin-outs, discusses her insightful setbacks and lessons from experiences during the dotcom bust and the 2008 recession, which shaped her future investing decisions, and foresees substantial changes in the post-COVID healthcare industry, urging entrepreneurs to explore diverse opportunities.

Tune in and learn about the dynamic intersection of entrepreneurship, healthcare, and the changing business landscape!

In today's episode, Neil Tawari shares his fascinating journey into the healthcare space and shares reflections on current trends like artificial intelligence, and key experiences that led him to explore the world of venture capital investing. He discusses his journey from medical aspirations to engineering, provides advice for aspiring investors, explores current trends in AI and business models in healthcare, reflects on decision-making challenges, and emphasizes clear communication and value propositions.

Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation with Neil Tawari. Let's dive in and spark innovation in the world of healthcare investing!

In this episode, Bill Reichert talks about the challenges impeding rapid adoption in the healthcare industry like regulatory processes and the time required for scientific advancements to manifest. He stresses realistic expectations and shares insights from his diverse background in healthcare, health tech, McKinsey, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, encouraging exploration in these dynamic fields.

Tune into the heartbeat of health tech as Bill Reichert shares his wisdom, unraveling the mysteries of slow adoption, the role of optimism, and the keys to entrepreneurial success!

In this episode, Dirk Schapeler, SVP & President of Niterra Ventures and the Business Creation company at NGK Sparkplugs, talks about NGK's strategic move into the healthcare sector with Niterra Ventures and the convergence of healthcare, medical devices, and technology. He highlights Niterra Ventures' focus on leveraging technology, including sensors and materials, to enhance healthcare in various areas such as elderly care, home care, and women's health. Throughout this conversation, Dirk also touches on his career transition and provides insights into the challenges of integrating different cultures in the business environment. He also offers advice to entrepreneurs and discusses the positive impact of the pandemic on accelerating the acceptance of telemedicine and fostering regulatory changes in the healthcare industry.

Tune in and learn more about the fruitful intersection of culture, innovation, and healthcare!

In this episode, Sam Reynolds provides a comprehensive exploration of the challenges, opportunities, and strategic considerations within the evolving healthcare ecosystem. He discusses pivotal healthcare trends, private equity, the potential of AI, transitioning care to the home, and the crucial role of relationships in healthcare.

Tune in to learn about the pivotal trends shaping the future of healthcare and Sam’s unique insights as a senior industry professional!

In this episode, Tom Kluz sits down to talk with Priya Abani, Chief Executive Officer at AliveCor, who shares insights into her background, her journey into the healthcare space, and the mission of AliveCor, particularly in developing cardio mobile devices aimed at saving lives. Throughout this conversation, Priya touches on topics such as her career trajectory from Amazon to her role at AliveCor, advice for entrepreneurs, AliveCor's global expansion, commitment to accessibility, and the introduction of new healthcare services. She also discusses the impact of AI in healthcare, the challenges faced by AliveCor during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of agility in supply chain management. Priya encourages a combination of visionary thinking and daily execution, emphasizing the company's dedication to providing innovative solutions in healthcare technology.

Tune in to learn about innovative healthcare solutions, the impact of AI in cardiological care, and the challenges and lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic!