We believe that Good Design is Good for Healthcare. medDesign is the culmination of years of collaboration between our team, UNC Health, and the larger community of medical innovators. The goal was to create a curriculum that uses Design Thinking to empower medical innovators with the tools needed to bring transformative solutions to healthcare’s greatest problems. Here on this podcast, we know that the path of each medical innovator is often very different. We are here to highlight the stories of Medtech Entrepreneurs, Leaders, and Innovators that inspire us.
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March 18, 202530 min
Healthcare Innovation: How University Hospitals Stays Ahead with David Sylvan
In this episode of the medDesign podcast, David Sylvan, Chief Strategy, Innovation, and Marketing Officer at University Hospitals, shares how one of the nation’s top healthcare systems drives innovation at scale.🔹 Key Topics Covered:✅ Blending strategy, innovation, and marketing to accelerate impact✅ The Vivid Vision framework—predicting the future of medicine✅ How AI and smart tech are helping solve the nursing shortage✅ The role of human-centered AI in improving patient care✅ Scaling hospital innovation from patents to real-world solutions✅ Advice for aspiring medical entrepreneurs and innovatorsAs a Becker’s Hospital Review Trailblazing Chief Innovation Officer, David offers a behind-the-scenes look at how healthcare leaders stay ahead of emerging trends and build future-ready hospital systems.📌 Watch now to learn how innovation is reshaping the future of healthcare!🔗 Follow David Sylvan & University Hospitals:https://ventures.uhhospitals.org/submissions/
January 21, 202532 min
From Exit to Impact: Dave Ferrera on Leading MedTech Ventures
Welcome to the MedDesign Podcast! In this intriguing episode, host Ty Hagler talks with Dave Ferrera, a seasoned medtech entrepreneur and founder of RC Medical, a groundbreaking venture studio. Dave shares insights on the venture studio model, starting from concept to commercialization and financing. He discusses how his studio operates, the importance of raising capital, and the value of forming strong partnerships. Dave also details his journey in the medtech industry, including his exits and current ventures, while offering wisdom from his book 'Innovation and Translation'. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned innovator, this episode is packed with practical advice and compelling stories that highlight the challenges and triumphs of medical innovation.
Books Mentioned:
Pitch Anything by Oren Klaff
Flip the Script by Oren Klaff
Innovation and Translation by Dave Ferrera
Art of the Start by Guy Kawasaki
Follow Dave Ferrera on LinkedIn for more insights and updates:
linkedin.com/in/daveferrera
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations about innovation in healthcare!
#medDesignPodcast #MedicalInnovation #VentureStudio #MedTech #Entrepreneurship
00:00 Introduction to Venture Studios
01:04 Welcome to MedDesign Podcast
02:00 Dave Ferrara's Journey in MedTech
02:55 Understanding the Venture Studio Model
04:10 Building and Financing Companies
09:49 The Importance of a Strong Team
16:39 Insights from Dave's Book
17:16 Pitching and Raising Capital
21:08 Lessons from Theranos and Leadership
31:27 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
December 19, 202432 min
Secrets of University Tech Transfer: Navigating IP and Innovation with Jonathan Rosen
Welcome to the medDesign Podcast! In this episode, Ty Hagler sits down with Jonathan Rosen, a veteran in biomedical engineering and innovation, to explore the intersection of academia, technology transfer, and commercializing life-changing medical technologies. With over 28 years of experience teaching at the University of Virginia and Boston University, Jonathan shares invaluable insights on:
How universities and tech transfer offices turn research into startups 🚀
The importance of focusing on patient care over market size 💡
Navigating intellectual property and conflict of interest 🤝
The impact of the Bayh-Dole Act on U.S. innovation 🇺🇸
Balancing the roles of researchers and entrepreneurs in commercialization
Jonathan also offers advice for aspiring medical innovators and recommends key resources, including the Stanford BioDesign book and Clay Christensen's transformative approach to innovation.
📚 Books Mentioned:
BioDesign: The Process of Innovating Medical Technologies
Business Model Generation (Business Model Canvas)
Clay Christensen's Theory of Jobs-to-Be-Done
Whether you're a biomedical engineer, startup founder, or healthcare professional, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you turn groundbreaking ideas into impactful solutions.
Connect with Jonathan Rosen on LinkedIn: Jonathan Rosen https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanjrosen/
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations about innovation in healthcare!
#medDesignPodcast #BiomedicalEngineering #Innovation #TechTransfer #medicalstartups
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
04:00 Jonathan's Career Journey
05:43 Master's Program and Innovation
07:18 Tech Transfer Process
10:39 Conflict of Interest in Research
12:46 Bayh-Dole Act and Its Impact
23:16 Advice for Medical Innovators
26:43 Retirement and Reflections
28:59 Recommended Reading for Innovators
30:59 Contact Information and Farewell
December 11, 202433 min
Exploring the Future of Healthcare: AI, Wearables, and Digital Twins with Katie Donohue McMillan, MPH
Join us for an enlightening episode with Katie Donohue McMillan, MPH on the medDesign podcast.
Katie shares her journey and insights on digital health and women's health, recounting her pivotal Grand Rounds presentation at Duke University and its impact on OBGYN care. Delve into the rise of FemTech, the importance of consumer tech in healthcare, and Katie's vision of a comprehensive database for clinicians. Discover valuable resources, the future of wearable tech, and her thoughts on AI in patient care. Whether you are a healthcare professional or an innovator in the field, Katie’s expertise offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
03:00 Introduction and Welcome
03:05 Grand Rounds Presentation at Duke
03:39 Emergence of FemTech
04:46 Consumer Tech in Women's Health
06:22 Challenges and Solutions in Digital Health
08:31 Owlet Infant Monitor Discussion
12:07 Design Thinking in Healthcare Education
16:34 Career Reflections and Innovations
22:48 Current Trends in Digital Health
27:47 Future of Digital Health and AI
32:05 Conclusion and Contact Information
November 18, 202425 min
Pediatric Innovation and Patient Advocacy: Leadership Lessons from Neal Piper
In this episode of medDesign, Neal Piper, founder of Luminoah, shares his inspiring journey from navigating his son’s pediatric health challenges to leading innovation in tube feeding technology. Learn how Neal transformed his family’s adversity into a mission to improve the lives of millions worldwide.
Discover leadership lessons, patient advocacy insights, and strategies for tackling complex challenges in the pediatric healthcare space. From building a resilient startup culture to revolutionizing tube feeding with cutting-edge technology, Neal provides invaluable advice for entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and advocates alike.
📌 Topics Covered:
Neal’s personal journey with his son, Noah, and the challenges of tube feeding
The founding of Luminoah and its mission to modernize pediatric nutrition
Leadership principles for startups, including hiring for cultural fit and resilience
Navigating fundraising, manufacturing, and regulatory pathways in MedTech
The importance of patient advocacy and listening to end users
Book Recommendation
Neal highlighted a recent book that his team has been reading, The Ideal Team Player: How to Recognize and Cultivate the Three Essential Virtues: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni. Neal appreciates the emphasis on finding people that are humble, hungry and smart.
Humble: Find high performers who don't have an ego.
Hungry: Wake up each day thinking about solving the problem.
Smart: Strong IQ and EQ to have best-in-class technical and people skills.
This book has influenced Neal's commitment to culture as he grows the phenomenal team at Luminoah: https://amzn.to/3ObIvLH
👉 Don’t miss this heartfelt and insightful conversation about innovation, advocacy, and making a lasting impact in healthcare.
🔗 Connect with Neal Piper:
Website: luminoah.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nealpiper
💡 Like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories of healthcare innovation!
#PediatricInnovation #PatientAdvocacy #LeadershipLessons #HealthcareEntrepreneurship #MedDesignPodcast
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:04 Neil's Personal Story: Noah's Health Journey
02:35 The Birth of Luminoah
06:47 Fundraising and Business Strategy
18:44 Patient Advocacy and Human-Centered Design
24:10 Leadership and Team Building
27:13 Manufacturing and Supply Chain Insights
29:55 Conclusion and Contact Information
November 11, 202448 min
Nothing About Us Without Us: How Patients Can Lead in Healthcare Innovation with Randall Rutta
Join us as we dive deep into a conversation with Randy, a leader at the National Health Council, a century-old organization dedicated to patient-centered healthcare. Learn about the Council’s commitment to involving patients in every stage of health decision-making, from fostering early engagement with patients to promoting an empathy-first approach to healthcare innovation. Discover how this inclusive method brings together nearly 200 national organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Heart Association, and supports diverse patient groups in contributing to the development of new healthcare solutions. Understand the importance of integrating patient experiences and feedback in innovation processes and how it improves both patient outcomes and healthcare systems. Whether you're a healthcare professional, innovator, or patient advocate, this insightful conversation offers valuable perspectives on creating an equitable and inclusive health system.
For more information about the National Health Council and the resources they provide to patient advocates, be sure to visit https://nationalhealthcouncil.org/
Book Recommendations
Randy offered compelling book recommendations during our conversation:
Algorithmic Inequality: Removing Biases and Improving Data for AI in Healthcare by Damon Davis
Damon’s book examines the potential of AI to revolutionize healthcare by analyzing vast amounts of genetic and medical data, enabling personalized medicine and better outcomes. However, it also warns of the risks of perpetuating biases that could lead to unequal care. A must-read for understanding AI's dual role in health equity.
Searching for Health by Dr. Kapil Parakh
This practical guide helps readers find reliable health information online and work effectively with healthcare providers. Dr. Parakh blends his expertise in medicine and technology to offer clear advice on avoiding misinformation and making informed health decisions.
Dead Wrong: Diagnosing and Treating Healthcare’s Misinformation Illness by Dr. Geeta Nayyar
Dr. Nayyar tackles the dangers of health misinformation, especially in the wake of COVID-19, and provides actionable strategies to combat false narratives. This timely book is essential for anyone concerned about the impact of misinformation on public health.
The Patient Will See You Now by Dr. Eric Topol
This forward-thinking book explores the shift in healthcare towards patient empowerment driven by digital health technologies. It resonates deeply with the NHC’s mission to center patient agency in shaping healthcare innovations.
Human-Centered AI by Professor Ben Shneiderman
Ty jumped in to offer his own book recommendation. This foundational text articulates the principles behind the emerging HCAI movement to keep Humans in the Loop through reliable, safe, and trustworthy ways that respect human values, rights, justice, and dignity.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:58 Overview of the National Health Council
03:28 Patient-Centered Health System
05:05 Early Patient Engagement in Innovation
06:04 Challenges in Healthcare Innovation
07:33 Importance of Patient Perspective
10:25 Case Study: Postnatal Infant Bassinet
13:39 AI and Healthcare Innovation
15:36 Access and Advocacy in Healthcare
16:46 Engaging Patients in the Innovation Process
30:09 Future Role of the National Health Council
33:23 Books and Resources on AI and Healthcare
43:52 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
November 4, 202434 min
What is the Behavior Change Marketplace? Discover Cassie Wallace with Zeal Care
Join us for an insightful conversation with Cassie, President of Zeal Care, as she shares her journey and the innovative approach her company is taking to improve the lives of those with complex chronic conditions. Learn about Zeal Care’s unique relationship-based model, focused on behavior change and holistic support, and how they are making a real impact in healthcare. Discover the story behind Zeal Care's origins, their focus on patient empowerment, and how they are revolutionizing patient care through integrative health coaching and personalized programs. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone managing a chronic condition, Cassie’s insights offer valuable perspectives on creating sustainable health improvements.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:03 Cassie's Journey to Zeal Care
03:12 Zeal Care's Mission and Approach
08:09 Focus on Congestive Heart Failure
24:27 Expanding Zeal Care's Reach
26:43 The Human-Centric Approach
34:22 Final Thoughts and Getting Started
August 16, 2024Episode 4452 min
Why Medtech Startups Win: Plan the Plan, Then Execute with Aaron TenHuisen
In this episode of the medDesign Podcast, we explore the critical steps that Medtech startups must take to succeed with Aaron TenHuisen, COO of Project Medtech. As an expert in operational milestone mapping, Aaron provides actionable insights on the importance of planning the plan, executing strategically, and setting up essential structures for your business.
Key Topics Covered:
Planning for Success: Discover why many Medtech startups fail due to a lack of strategic planning and how you can avoid these pitfalls.
Execution Strategies: Learn how to create and execute a detailed plan for your business, including crucial steps for each quarter.
Equity Management: Understand the importance of setting up equity arrangements correctly and the tools you need to get started.
Why Watch This Episode:
For Medtech Entrepreneurs: Gain practical advice on setting up your business for success, from strategic planning to equity management.
For Startup Founders: Learn the importance of planning iterations and setting clear goals for each phase of your startup journey.
For Business Leaders: Explore the framework Aaron TenHuisen uses to help companies achieve their operational milestones.
Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation that can transform the way you approach your Medtech startup. Watch now and start planning for success!
Connect with Aaron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-tenhuisen/
Work with Project Medtech: https://www.projectmedtech.com/
Free Learning for You:
Start here, learn how to scope your problem: https://med.trig.com/offers/2yPcPdM2/
Download our free Guidebook to Design History File Ready Ideation: https://www.trig.com/guidebooks/design-history-file-ready-ideation-guidebook
Free Creativity Course for Nurses: https://think.trig.com/offers/FnWZRGaC
00:00 Welcome to the medDesign Podcast
00:02 Introducing Aaron TenHuisen
00:59 Secrets to Startup Success
02:07 The Importance of Focus and Energy
03:38 Project Medtech: Betting on Yourself
07:36 Core Values and Team Culture
10:38 Project Medtech's Mission and Evolution
13:47 Comprehensive Support for Startups
16:11 Navigating Reimbursement and Health Economics
18:09 Talent Acquisition and Quality Management
22:56 Milestone Mapping and Strategic Planning
23:53 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Succession Planning
24:53 Tips for Communicating with Medical Professionals
26:30 Optimizing Partnerships and Business Development
29:21 The Value of Project Medtech Events
31:20 Innovation and Commercialization Strategies
33:39 Navigating the Funding Environment in Medtech
39:14 Common Pitfalls in the Commercialization Process
43:35 Emerging Trends and Technologies in Medtech
47:47 Future Plans for Project Medtech
August 9, 2024Episode 4356 min
How to start a career in health media? Ask Nurse Alice Explains
In this episode of the medDesign Podcast, we sit down with Nurse Alice Benjamin, a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner, and TV Medical Correspondent, to explore her inspiring journey from bedside care to the national media stage. Nurse Alice has made a significant impact as a trusted voice in healthcare, translating complex medical information into actionable advice for the public.
Key Topics Covered:
Nurse Alice's Media Journey: Learn how Nurse Alice Benjamin successfully transitioned from her role as a healthcare provider to becoming a prominent media personality. She shares the challenges she faced, the skills she had to develop, and the strategies she used to break into media.
Healthcare Professionals in Media: Discover valuable tips and advice for healthcare professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in media. Nurse Alice discusses the importance of using your platform to educate and empower the public, and how to maintain credibility while reaching a broader audience.
Becoming a TV Medical Correspondent: If you've ever wondered how to become a TV medical correspondent, Nurse Alice provides insights into what it takes to get started, including the critical role of effective communication and public speaking skills.
Balancing Multiple Roles: Nurse Alice shares how she manages her time and responsibilities across clinical practice, entrepreneurship, and media engagements. Find out how she maintains balance while juggling her various roles.
Why Watch This Video:
For Healthcare Professionals: This video is a must-watch for nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals who are curious about expanding their careers into media and public speaking.
For Aspiring Media Personalities: If you're interested in learning how to start a career in health media, this episode offers practical advice from someone who has successfully made the transition.
For Entrepreneurs in Healthcare: Learn how Nurse Alice's entrepreneurial spirit led her to create platforms like AskNurseAlice.com and TheMediaRx.com, and how you can apply similar principles to your own ventures.
Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation with Nurse Alice Benjamin, where we uncover the secrets to successfully navigating the worlds of healthcare and media.
Connect with Nurse Alice: https://asknursealice.com/
Media training for Nurses: https://www.themediarx.com/
Free Learning for You:
Start here, learn how to scope your problem: https://med.trig.com/offers/2yPcPdM2/checkout
Download our free Guidebook to Design History File Ready Ideation: https://www.trig.com/guidebooks/design-history-file-ready-ideation-guidebook
Free Creativity Course for Nurses: https://think.trig.com/offers/FnWZRGaC
00:00 Welcome to the medDesign Podcast
00:57 Nurse Alice's Impactful Moments
04:22 AskNurseAlice and TheMediaRx
08:31 The Drive Behind Nurse Alice's Journey
12:25 Transitioning to Media and Entrepreneurship
18:44 Balancing Multiple Roles
22:11 The Power and Potential of Nursing
27:03 Understanding Misinformation and Disinformation
27:34 Challenges in Identifying Trusted Sources
28:01 Engaging Health Consumers Through Media
28:40 Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals in Media
29:54 The Need for Communication Training in Healthcare
30:29 The Role of MediaRx in Healthcare Education
32:01 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Health Communication
33:23 Impact of COVID-19 on Trust in Medical Evidence
39:10 Staffing Challenges in Healthcare
47:52 Addressing Administrative Harm in Healthcare
52:49 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
July 24, 2024Episode 4248 min
Why Outcome Driven Innovation Falls Short: The Power of Mission Driven Innovation
In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the concept of Mission-Driven Innovation and why it surpasses Outcome-Driven Innovation for businesses. Our special guest, Andrew DiMeo, PhD, a renowned expert in healthcare innovation, shares his insights on the importance of aligning business goals with a mission that goes beyond mere outcomes.
Topics Covered:
The superior impact of Mission-Driven Innovation over Outcome-Driven Innovation
Andrew DiMeo's framework on enabling evolutionary design
The fascinating story of how Eminem helped raise 2 million dollars in fundraising
Challenges and strategies for first-time startup founders seeking government funding
The current government funding paradigm in healthcare and the role of NIH programs
Andrew's latest venture, Hangar Dreys, and its mission to combat the loneliness epidemic through a unique coworking concept
Key Takeaways:
Why businesses should focus on mission and vision rather than just outcomes
Practical advice for startup founders on building a team for grant funding success
Insights into the NIH funding process and how to align your project with their mission
The importance of empathy and mission alignment in innovation and business strategy
Join us for an enlightening discussion that will transform the way you think about innovation and business strategy.
Free Learning for You:
Read Andrew's Writings on Mission-Drive Innovation: https://medium.com/venturehq/mission-driven-innovation-f18da7361c88?sk=2abaaafb8e18fd93de810f3d0190efce
More writing on Mission-Driven Innovation: https://medium.com/venturehq/implementing-mission-driven-innovation-610aa2cf34ad?sk=93779d56c9cf833f3845639d5ac47dbd
Learn more about Enabling Evolutionary Design through the All Free IDEAL Biomedical Publication: https://medium.com/ideal-biomedical
Download our free Guidebook to Design History File Ready Ideation: https://www.trig.com/guidebooks/design-history-file-ready-ideation-guidebook
Free Creativity Course for Nurses: https://think.trig.com/offers/FnWZRGaC
Connect with Andrew DiMeo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajdimeo/
Check out Hangar Dreys: https://hangardreys.com/
Become a Medical Innovator: https://md.trig.com/
Work with Trig: https://www.trig.com/contact
00:00 Welcome Back to the medDesign Podcast
00:34 Introducing Mission Driven Innovation
01:03 Defining Mission Driven Innovation
01:26 The Importance of Vision and Mission
02:50 Aligning Vision and Mission with Business Goals
04:36 Challenges and Solutions in Mission Driven Innovation
05:58 Implementing Mission Driven Innovation
08:56 Evolutionary Design and Flexibility
09:43 Connecting the Dots: From Vision to Specifications
12:46 Engaging Teams in Mission Driven Innovation
19:20 Personal Vision and Mission
25:10 Defining Vision, Mission, and Objectives
25:59 Personal Vision and Self-Expression
27:38 Challenges in Team Alignment and Vision
29:57 The Role of NIH in Mission-Driven Research
34:18 Navigating NIH Funding for Healthcare Projects
39:16 Advice for First-Time Startup Founders
44:08 Mission-Driven Innovation and Personal Projects
47:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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