Duane Mancini interviews Spencer Jones, a registered nurse turned medtech entrepreneur. Spencer recounts his journey from bedside nursing to founding two medtech companies, sharing valuable advice on navigating the often complex medtech landscape, including the critical role of thorough customer discovery and strategic vendor relationships in mitigating commercial risks. He also introduces XO MedTech, a training and community platform for medtech innovators, and MedTech Vendors, an AI-driven platform designed to connect medtech teams with ideal service providers.
Duane Mancini welcomes Emily Adams, Co-Founder of Leading with Human Design, who shares her remarkable journey from growing up in the Amish culture to becoming a leader in the tech and consulting world. Emily details her escape at 17, her transition into the corporate world, her rapid rise in the automotive manufacturing industry, and her healing journey through therapy and powerlifting, which led her to discover human design. Now, with her tech platform, she helps teams understand their unique working and decision-making styles to improve leadership and team dynamics.
Duane Mancini welcomes Ben Fogarty, a design generalist and strategist and founder partner at Council. Ben shares his journey from an art student to leading an independent design practice working with startups and Fortune 500 companies. The conversation delves into the vital role of design thinking in problem-solving, the importance of internal and external brand alignment, and crafting clear, compelling narratives crucial for success in the MedTech industry.
This special episode of the podcast is a recording of a panel discussion that took place at the 2025 Ohio VC Fest powered by @JumpStart Inc. entitled "AI-Driven Healthcare: The Heartland Advantage." Panelists include Michael Dalton (CEO & Founder at @Ovatient), Kaleigh Gallagher (VP of Tech Services & Network Management at @JumpStart), Matthew Zenker (Director of Tech Partnerships & Investments at @University Hospitals Ventures), Jennifer Owens (Senior AI Program Administrator at @Cleveland Clinic), and moderated by Duane Mancini. The conversation dives into the rapidly-growing AI-driven healthcare innovation in the Midwest, exploring the unique advantages the region faces. The discussion covers various topics including talent acquisition, clinical validation, partnerships with healthcare systems, and the role of data in accelerating growth.
In this episode, Duane Mancini chats with Holly Cotter, a seasoned regulatory quality and clinical consulting expert in MedTech and co-founder of indieMedTech. Holly discusses the inception of indieMedTech, a platform designed to support MedTech professionals, especially independent consultants and startups, with a robust community and marketplace. The conversation delves into Holly's background in biomedical engineering, her hands-on experiences with regulatory submissions, quality management, and clinical trials, and the significance of community and networking within the MedTech space.
In this episode, Duane Mancini interviews Allison Komiyama, a former FDA reviewer turned successful entrepreneur, who shares her journey from her early passion for biology, through her academic achievements in molecular cell biology and neuroscience, to landing a role at the FDA. She recounts the challenges and lessons learned starting her own regulatory consulting business and scaling it to a successful acquisition. The conversation delves into her latest venture, Bluestocking Health, a medtech hype company aimed at educating the public and professionals about medical technology. They discuss the importance of understanding the FDA’s role, navigating the complexities of bringing new tech to market, and the significance of promoting and celebrating medtech innovations.
In this episode, Duane Mancini, Tino Chow, and Lindsey Dinneen dive into the intricacies of pitching, focusing on both the technical and emotional aspects. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, building relationships, and the critical role a cohesive and credible team plays in attracting investors. They share strategies for maintaining consistency across your brand and various pitching scenarios, whether it's a pitch competition or casual networking.
In this episode, Duane Mancini sits down with Amy Rinaldo, Partner at Ward Law Office, to discuss the strategic intricacies of intellectual property in the medtech industry. Amy shares her extensive experience in patent and trademark law, exploring the intersection of IP strategy with regulatory compliance and commercialization. The conversation covers the importance of comprehensive IP planning, the nuances of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, as well as global IP considerations for medtech startups.
In this episode, Duane Mancini sits downs with Leo Eisner, a seasoned expert in medical device safety and compliance, as he shares his extensive experience and knowledge on the IEC 60601 standards. With a career spanning over 40 years, Leo talks about his beginnings at NASA, his role in the development of medical safety standards, and the intricacies of compliance testing. Discover the complexities of the IEC 60601 updates, the importance of staying informed, and practical advice for medical device manufacturers.
In this episode, Duane Mancini chats with Logan McKnight, a seasoned professional with a vast background in medtech. Logan shares her journey from starting in medical services and neuromonitoring to leadership roles, culminating in the establishment of her consulting firm, GoodKnight Consulting. The conversation dives into the nuances of managing corporate and field leaders, the importance of transparency, communication, and trust in leadership, and the complexities of managing people. Logan also highlights the benefits of feedback mechanisms like 360 reviews and underscores the significance of self-awareness and mindset in effective leadership.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes back Kevin Saem, Managing Director of Zapyrus, for an enlightening discussion on the future of the MedTech industry. The episode delves into the latest trends in medtech funding, highlighting a significant increase in investments outside the U.S., the pivotal role of diagnostic technologies, and the importance of clinical data over revenue for attracting investments. Kevin shares groundbreaking advancements in data analytics and predictive machine learning applications, helping medtech companies and service providers enhance their commercialization strategies and efficiency.
In this episode, Duane Mancini chats with Lisa Jacobs, US President of eCential Robotics and Founder of STRIPES. With over 20 years of experience in orthopedics, robotics, and spine, Lisa delves into her motivations, challenges, and significant career milestones, including her personal connection to orthopedics through her brother's medical condition. The conversation covers her leadership style, emphasizing hands-on mentorship and the importance of not rushing commercialization efforts in startups. Lisa also discusses her organization, STRIPES, a women-focused networking group in medtech offering mentorship and support to help break industry barriers.
In this episode, Duane Mancini sits down with Walter Haydock, founder of StackAware and former Marine Corps intelligence officer, to explore the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and startup leadership in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Walter shares how his military background informs his approach to risk, decision-making, and company building, and offers practical strategies for navigating regulatory challenges, implementing effective AI governance, and avoiding common pitfalls as a healthtech founder.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Eduardo Palma, a senior analyst at 415 Capital, a VC firm specializing in cardiovascular medtech investments. Eduardo shares insights on his background, the emergence of Portugal as a VC hub, and the strategic advantages of their Munich base. The conversation explores 415 Capital’s origin, investment thesis, and their unique focus on clinical-stage PMA-track devices. Highlights include the critical role of clinical data, strategies for effective fundraising, and the importance of teamwork between VCs and startups. Eduardo also discusses the challenges and learning experiences of raising a second fund, offering invaluable advice for startups aiming to stand out in their pitches.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Jessica Richter, a seasoned medtech executive and board member of MedtechWOMEN. With over 20 years in the industry, Jessica shares her extensive career journey from a medical device sales rep, through various leadership roles at companies like Medtronic, to her current independent consulting role. The discussion covers vital topics such as navigating the US healthcare market, effective sales strategies, the importance of stakeholder alignment, and tips for early-stage entrepreneurs transitioning into leadership roles. Jessica also highlights the critical role of diversity in medtech and shares insights on the mission and initiatives of MedtechWOMEN, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering female leaders in the field.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Dasha Tyshlek, Founder & Chief Strategic Officer of StratCraft. An innovator who's bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and market-ready technologies, Dasha shares her fascinating journey from a science-loving student to a leader in the medtech, biotech, and defense industries. Learn how her experiences at Bridgewater Associates and Micro-Ant have shaped her approach to strategic planning and commercialization, discover the mission behind her consulting firm, StratCraft, and the impact of her Biomedical Frontiers podcast. Plus, get an inside look at the upcoming Disrupt Health conference in Jacksonville, where real-world case studies and innovative discussions promise to elevate the industry.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Aaron DeGagne, Healthcare Senior Analyst at PitchBook. From quarterly reports to market dynamics, Aaron sheds light on significant healthcare investments, including the rise in surgical tools, devices, and the blurring lines between healthtech and medtech. They delve into the impact of global market uncertainties, interest rates, and the noteworthy deals like Neuralink’s $600 million raise. The conversation also explores themes like consumer health advancements, cancer diagnostics, and the potential shifts in IPO activities.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes Bob Roda, President and CEO of HemoSonics, to discuss the essential components of building a successful and purpose-driven career in the medical device industry. The conversation explores Bob's formative experiences at Johnson & Johnson and Becton Dickson, the critical need for purpose as a guiding principle, and the continuous process of learning and absorbing information. They delve into practical strategies for building brand equity, the intricacies of the selling process, and the thinking behind acquisition strategy and innovation, including his commercial due diligence on CareFusion. The episode also introduces the value of context and being humbled, highlighting how vulnerability creates connection and why adapting your communication style like a "chameleon" is crucial for impactful leadership.
In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes Brian Morley, CMO of Native Orthopaedics, and returning guest Tino Chow, CEO and Founder at Giant Shoulders, to discuss the critical aspects of building and growing a medtech brand. The conversation explores Brian's journey into Native Orthopaedics, the importance of a clear, operationalized vision for startups, and how to effectively balance creative ideation with execution. They delve into practical strategies for achieving brand alignment, identifying when a rebrand is necessary, and leveraging the digital age for reach. The episode also introduces the valuable concept of visionary and integrator roles, highlighting how a strong brand can serve as an integrator to connect a company's vision with its team and partners.
In this episode, Duane Mancini reconnects with Joseph Mocanu, Managing Partner at Verge HealthTec Fund, for a follow-up to their insightful conversation in episode 103. Joseph shares the significant milestones Verge HealthTec Fund has achieved since their last discussion and offers a glimpse into what we can anticipate in the coming years. The conversation takes a critical look at the venture capital landscape, exploring what needs to change and addressing the often-broken feedback loop between startups and investors. We delve into the importance of developing technologies with a global impact, the strategic advantages of a global approach to collecting clinical data, and navigating the complexities of various healthcare systems across the world. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of healthtech investment and innovation.