Explore every episode of the podcast Digital Health Heavyweights
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 21: Trenor Williams, Founder & CEO of Socially Determined | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:44:57 | |
In this episode of Digital Health Heavyweights, Norm Volsky interviews Dr. Trenor Williams, Founder and CEO of Socially Determined, to discuss how social risk data and analytics are transforming healthcare decision-making. Dr. Williams shares his journey from clinical practice and healthcare consulting to building a company focused on integrating social determinants of health into population health strategies. The conversation explores how social risk factors impact health outcomes, healthcare costs, and engagement, as well as how AI and advanced analytics can help healthcare organizations deliver more personalized and proactive care. They also discuss lessons learned from building health technology companies, the importance of empathy in leadership, and why the future of healthcare will depend on combining clinical and social data to improve outcomes at scale.
Takeaways 🏥 Social determinants play a major role in healthcare outcomes and costs. 📊 Social risk data can help healthcare organizations deliver more personalized care. 🧠 AI and advanced analytics are reshaping population health management. 🌍 Integrating social and healthcare data creates a more complete picture of patient needs. 💡 Precision medicine should include social context, not just clinical data. 📈 Healthcare organizations are increasingly recognizing the business case for social risk integration. 🤝 Empathy and culture are essential when building healthcare technology companies. ⚡ Early intervention and proactive engagement can improve long term health outcomes. 🚀 Socially Determined was created to help organizations better understand and act on social risks. 🌱 Sustainable healthcare strategies require addressing barriers outside of traditional clinical care.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Trenor Williams 01:30 Early Influences and Career Path 03:12 Consulting Experience and Healthcare Insights 05:59 Founding Clinovations and Key Lessons 08:10 The Birth of Socially Determined 10:42 Understanding Social Determinants of Health 14:07 Integrating Social Risk Data in Healthcare 17:05 The Business Case for Social Risk Integration 19:26 Quantifying Social Risks and Their Impact 22:28 Leveraging Data for Better Health Outcomes 23:46 Integrating Social and Healthcare Data 25:42 Learning from Global Health Models 29:51 Diverse Applications Across Healthcare Sectors 31:43 Lessons from Building a Health Tech Company 35:16 Hiring for Culture and Empathy 36:46 The Future of AI in Healthcare 41:29 Maintaining Well-being in a Demanding Role Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 20: Al Lewis, Founder & Validator in Chief of Validation Institute | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:40:27 | |
Discover why some of the biggest healthcare ROI claims may not be telling the full story. Join Norm Volsky as he interviews Al Lewis, President of the Validation Institute, on healthcare validation, participation bias, fiduciary responsibility, and how employers can separate meaningful outcomes from misleading metrics. "Comparing participants to non-participants is often misleading." Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 19: Bill Gianoukos, CEO and CoFounder of Goodpath | 26 May 2026 | 00:39:49 | |
Join us for another amazing episode of Digital Health Heavyweights for Healthcare nerds who want to fight rising healthcare costs! Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 18: Dr. Daniel Stein, Founder of Embold Health | 13 May 2026 | 00:52:44 | |
Discover how Embold Health is redefining healthcare quality through data, AI, and transparency, and why better care does not always mean higher cost. Join Norm Volsky as he interviews Dr. Daniel Stein, founder of Embold Health, on how employers and patients can make smarter healthcare decisions by focusing on outcomes, not reputation. “Quality and cost don’t always go together.” Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 17: Scott Kirschner, Senior Director of Global Benefits at Greystar | 13 May 2026 | 00:42:41 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norman Volsky sits down with Scott Kirschner, Senior Director of Global Benefits at Greystar, to unpack what it really takes to manage employee benefits at scale in today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Ending the podcast with 'Scott we need to talk' because we ALL need to be talking about these issues, on and off air. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 16: Isaac Kassab, the Co founder of Pearl Talent | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:45:45 | |
Building High-Performing Healthcare Teams with Isaac Kassab
Isaac Kassab on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-kassab/ Book: "High Growth Handbook" by Elad Gil Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 15: Ardie Sameti Co-Founder and CEO of Scala | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:51:40 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norman Volsky sits down with Ardie Sameti, CEO and founder of Scala AI. Ardie shares his journey through healthcare, including his experience at Accolade, and the leadership lessons that shaped his approach to building and scaling companies. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 14: Donovan Ryckis, Founder and CEO of Ethos Benefits | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:57:23 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky sits down with Donovan Ryckis, Founder & CEO of Ethos Benefits, to break down one of the biggest challenges facing employers today: rising healthcare costs. “We can save 36% on drugs.” They dive into the hidden forces driving healthcare inflation, why fiduciary responsibility matters more than ever, and how data transparency is reshaping the future of employee benefits. Donovan shares his journey into healthcare, how Ethos Benefits is helping employers take control of their spend, and why education is the missing piece in most healthcare strategies. Talking about other brokers Donovan stresses, “It does not make sense to hire someone to give you advice who refuses to act in your best interest.” Ethos is out to change that- they work purely out of results for the employer directly. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 13: Ann Lewandowski, Co-Founder of Equitable Evidence | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:51:19 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Ann Lewandowski, a leading healthcare advocate and founder of Equitable Evidence, to unpack the structural challenges driving rising healthcare costs. Anne shares her perspective on fiduciary duty, misaligned incentives, and the lack of transparency in employer-sponsored health plans. The conversation dives into the influence of PBMs, the complexity of drug pricing, and how employers can take a more active role in reducing waste and improving outcomes. Ann also explores the growing role of AI and data analytics in healthcare, while emphasizing the importance of trust, accountability, and system-wide reform. This episode is a powerful call to action for employers, advisors, and innovators looking to challenge the status quo.
Takeaways ⚖️ Fiduciary duty is critical for protecting employer and employee interests in healthcare. 💸 Misaligned incentives are a root cause of rising healthcare costs. 🔍 Transparency in pricing and contracts is essential for meaningful reform. 💊 PBMs play a significant role in drug pricing complexity and cost inflation. 📊 Data-driven decision making can help identify and eliminate healthcare waste. 🤝 Employers should engage independent advocates to evaluate healthcare strategies. 🏢 Employer-sponsored health plans are a key lever for system-wide change. 🤖 AI has strong potential but must be built on trust and accountability. 🚀 Challenging legacy systems requires collaboration and bold leadership. 🌱 Personal wellness and resilience are important when driving industry changes.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Advocacy 02:10 Personal Journey into Healthcare Advocacy 04:24 Navigating the Healthcare System: A Personal Story 09:32 Understanding Healthcare Decision-Making 15:48 Fiduciary Duty in Healthcare 18:53 Denials and PBM Influence on Coverage 24:41 Understanding Healthcare Costs and Incentives 28:10 The Role of AI in Patient Care 31:56 Building the Healthcare Rebel Alliance 33:00 Challenging Existing Power Structures 38:27 Engaging Employers and Advisors 42:54 Evaluating Digital Health Solutions 45:13 Empowering Employers in Healthcare 46:15 The Importance of Trust in AI 49:28 Personal Well-being and Healthy Living 51:39 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 12: Justin Leader, CEO of BenefitsDNA | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:49:53 | |
Join us for another amazing episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast where we interview the heaviest hitters in the Digital Health Industry and chat about the future of Digital Health!! Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 11: Scilla Andreen, CEO & Founder of Impactful Networks, Inc. | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:47:32 | |
Welcome back for another great week on the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast with your host Norm Volsky, this week we sit down for a fascinating conversation with the wonderful Scilla Andreen, CEO and founder of Impactful Networks. Together we discuss her journey from the film industry to mental health education. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling in creating community and connection, the role of ethical AI in emotional wellness, and the need for empathy in mental health technology. Scilla shares insights on the evolution of her organization, the impact of their programs, and the future goals for making mental health education accessible to all. “We are human beings wired to connect.” The conversation highlights the significance of seeking help, building trust, and the power of community in addressing mental health challenges. Learn how they are transforming mental health education through the power of storytelling! Takeaways 🎬 Scilla Andreen emphasizes the importance of storytelling in mental health education.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Impactful Networks 02:25 Sheila's Journey from Media to Mental Health 04:34 The Power of Storytelling in Mental Health 08:48 Creating Change Through Community Engagement 10:30 Evolving Focus on Mental Health Education 17:20 Preventative Approaches to Emotional Wellness 19:51 The Role of Storytelling in Behavior Change 25:21 Ethical AI and Human Connection 25:56 Balancing AI and Human Connection 27:11 The Risks of Technology Without Empathy 28:16 Misunderstood Trends in Digital Mental Health 30:05 The Power of Storytelling in Mental Health 33:58 Success Stories and Corporate Impact 40:31 Personal Wellness Practices and Mindset 47:24 Outro (1).mp4 Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 10: Donovan Pyle, Founder & CEO of Health Compass Consulting | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:50:57 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Donovan Pyle, founder of Health Compass Consulting, to explore the growing movement of employer-led healthcare reform. Donovan shares his journey into healthcare and explains how hidden costs, misaligned incentives, and outdated consulting models continue to drive unnecessary spending across employer-sponsored health plans. The conversation highlights the need for unbiased, fiduciary-driven consulting and more transparent procurement strategies that empower employers to take control of healthcare costs. Donovan also discusses real-world examples of cost reduction, the evolving digital health vendor landscape, and why employers must rethink how they select benefits partners. This episode offers practical insights into reducing healthcare waste while improving outcomes for employees and organizations alike.
Takeaways 🏢 Employers have significant influence over healthcare costs but often underestimate their power. 💸 Hidden waste and inefficiencies drive a large portion of healthcare spending. ⚖️ Traditional consulting and broker models can contain conflicts of interest. 🔍 Fiduciary, unbiased advice is critical for smarter healthcare decision-making. 📊 Employers need transparent procurement processes for healthcare vendors. 📉 Strategic vendor selection can lead to meaningful healthcare cost reductions. 🚀 Emerging digital health vendors are reshaping the benefits landscape. 📘 Employers benefit from structured playbooks for managing healthcare strategy. 🔄 Reform in healthcare purchasing must be led by employers themselves. 🌱 Personal balance and wellness are essential when advocating for systemic change.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Health Compass Consulting 03:01 Donovan's Journey into Healthcare 06:05 Understanding Employer Influence in Healthcare 08:41 The Need for a New Consulting Model 11:38 Identifying Waste in Healthcare Spending 14:34 The Role of Employers in Healthcare Costs 17:34 Case Studies of Successful Cost Reduction 20:16 Emerging Vendors and Market Changes 23:11 Challenges in Managing Healthcare Costs 25:45 Conflicts of Interest in Traditional Consulting 27:01 Broker Incentives and Objectivity 30:52 The Role of Benefits Consultants 36:11 The Need for a Fiduciary Process 38:29 Creating a Playbook for Employers 42:51 Transforming the Healthcare System 45:09 Optimism for Employer-Led Reform 47:04 Disruption in the Digital Health Industry 48:27 Balancing Work and Advocacy 49:37 Healthy Eating and Family Recipes 50:50 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 9: Mark Mincy, Chief Commercial Officer at US-RX Care | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:42:24 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Mark Mincy, Chief Commercial Officer of USRX, to unpack the complex and often opaque world of pharmacy benefit management. They discuss fiduciary risks, conflicts of interest within traditional PBM models, and the structural incentives that drive up pharmacy costs for employers and employees. Mark shares his career journey in the pharmacy benefits space and explains why transparency, accountability, and independent fiduciary oversight are essential to meaningful reform. The conversation also explores specialty drug cost drivers, high-deductible health plans, legislative shifts, and how employers can take greater control of their pharmacy strategy without relying solely on legacy PBMs.
Takeaways 💊 Pharmacy benefit management is one of the most misunderstood drivers of healthcare costs. ⚖️ Fiduciary risk in pharmacy benefits is growing and requires employer attention. 🏦 Traditional PBM models often contain structural conflicts of interest. 🔍 Transparency is critical for controlling pharmacy spending. 📈 Specialty drug costs are a major contributor to rising employer healthcare expenses. 🏢 Employers can reclaim control by reevaluating vendor relationships. 📜 Legislative reform may reshape the future of pharmacy benefit management. 🔄 Alternative PBM models are gaining traction as cost containment solutions. 💡 Evaluating pharmacy vendors requires deeper scrutiny beyond surface-level pricing guarantees. 🧘♂️ Maintaining personal wellbeing is crucial in a high-pressure healthcare industry.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pharmacy Benefit Management 03:02 Mark Mincy's Journey in Pharmacy Benefits 05:51 Understanding the Corruption in PBM Systems 08:40 The Role of Fiduciaries in Pharmacy Benefits 11:41 Challenges in the Current PBM Model 14:28 Legislative Recommendations for Pharmacy Benefits 17:15 Innovative Approaches at USRX Care 19:43 The Conflict of Interest in Pharmacy Benefits 22:01 Strategies for Managing Specialty Drug Costs 23:37 Taking Control of Pharmacy Benefits 25:50 The Impact of High-Deductible Health Plans 27:38 Future of Pharmacy Benefit Management 31:01 Evaluating Pharmacy Benefit Vendors 33:50 The Shift Towards Alternative PBMs 37:36 Navigating Change in Pharmacy Benefits 38:28 Maintaining Personal Well-being in a Stressful Industry 42:16 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 8: Sims Tillirson, Founder & Principal of Tillirson Consulting Group | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:55:05 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Sims Tillirson, founder of Tillirson Consulting Group, about his unexpected entry into employee benefits and how his experience has shaped his approach to consulting, sales, and digital health innovation. The conversation covers the importance of storytelling, building relationships, and continuous coaching. Sims shares his views on what consultants and brokers need, how transparency can unlock progress in healthcare, and why vendors must deliver real ROI to stand out in today’s saturated market. They also explore strategies for cost containment, evolving buyer expectations, and the connection between personal wellness and professional success.
Takeaways 🧠 Sims entered the employee benefits industry by accident but saw its long-term potential. 📚 Continuous learning and coaching are essential for personal and career growth. 📖 Storytelling is a powerful tool for building trust in consulting and sales. 💡 Point solution fatigue is real brokers are looking for clarity, not clutter. 💰 Transparency in healthcare pricing is critical for market transformation. 📦 Vendors must guarantee ROI to earn buyer trust in a crowded landscape. 🧭 The employee experience—not just tech—should be the north star. 📉 Cost containment efforts need to focus on high-impact strategies. 🌐 Innovation can stall without real disruption or accountability. 🏃♂️ Community engagement helps reduce stress and maintain balance.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sims Tillirson and His Journey 03:04 Career Path and Lessons Learned 05:51 Transitioning to Consulting and Overcoming Challenges 08:57 Identifying Ideal Clients and Business Adjustments 11:41 Insights from Experience in Employee Benefits 14:44 Challenges in the Employee Benefits Ecosystem 17:42 The Need for Transparency in Healthcare 20:18 Coaching Brokers and Consultants 23:18 Common Challenges for Vendors in Employee Benefits 27:42 Standing Out in a Crowded Market 32:11 Changing Expectations of Brokers and Consultants 36:14 The Importance of Results in Vendor Relationships 38:21 Identifying Promising Vendor Pitches 40:32 Hunger for Stability and Accountability 42:06 The Need for Transparency in Healthcare 44:57 Impact of Incentives on Behavior 46:07 Data-Driven Cost Containment Strategies 48:38 Stalled Innovation and the Need for Disruption 50:31 The Importance of Impact Over Intent 51:35 Personal Strategies for Reducing Stress Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 7: Lee Lewis, Chief Strategy Officer & GM Medical Solutions at Health Transformation Alliance | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:55:23 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norman Volsky welcomes Lee Lewis, the Chief Strategy Officer and General Manager of Medical Solutions at the Health Transformation Alliance (HTA). They discuss the pressing issue of rising healthcare costs and the misconceptions that many leaders have about managing healthcare expenses. Lee shares his insights on the three major dogmas that hinder progress in healthcare cost management: the belief that costs are fixed, that saving money equates to harming people, and the notion that efforts to save money are not worth the trouble. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the disconnect between price and quality in healthcare, urging employers to take a proactive approach in managing their health benefits. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 6: Anish Sebastian, Co-Founder & CEO of Babyscripts | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:52:27 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Anish Sebastian, co-founder and CEO of Baby Scripts, a digital health startup transforming prenatal care through technology and data. Anish shares his journey into healthcare, the founding vision of Baby Scripts, and how the pandemic accelerated innovation in maternal care. The conversation highlights alarming U.S. maternal mortality rates, the importance of virtual monitoring, and how digital tools empower both patients and providers. They also dive into how AI could shape the future of maternal health, the need for system-level collaboration, and the role of active listening in effective innovation. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 5: Jacob Peters, Founder of Superpower & Prabhat Dhar, EVP of Enterprise at Superpower | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:50:04 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky speaks with Jacob Peters, founder of Superpower, and Prabhat Dhar, Executive Vice President of Enterprise at Superpower. They discuss their personal journeys into healthcare, the founding of Superpower, and the challenges and opportunities in the preventative health space. The conversation covers the importance of proactive healthcare, the need for actionable health data, and the role of technology in transforming the healthcare experience. They also touch on the challenges of scaling a health tech company, measuring success, and the importance of personal health intelligence.
Takeaways 🧠 Jacob Peters’ personal health journey was the catalyst behind founding Superpower. ❤️ Prabhat Dhar emphasizes the humanity that must remain central to healthcare. 🚀 Superpower is reimagining preventative health through a technology-enabled approach. 🧪 The platform turns biomarker testing into clear, actionable insights. 👥 Consumer education and awareness are critical drivers of enterprise health adoption. 💪 Superpower’s model empowers individuals to take ownership of their health. 📊 Digital health often prioritizes engagement metrics over true outcomes. 🧩 Employers face point-solution fatigue across today’s healthcare ecosystem. 📈 Preventative health ROI can be demonstrated through early risk identification. 🧘 Stress management is essential for executives in high-pressure environment
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Superpower and Founders' Backgrounds 02:08 Jacob Peters' Journey into Healthcare 04:17 Prabhat Dhar's Perspective on Healthcare and Technology 08:54 The Early Days of Superpower and Founding Vision 12:44 Prabhat's Personal Experience and Motivation 16:47 Investor Interest and the Future of Preventative Health 19:25 Challenges in Preventative Healthcare 21:28 The Need for Proactive Health Models 24:13 Defining Success in Preventative Health 26:22 Making Biomarker Data Actionable 26:58 Transforming Healthcare with AI and Intelligence 29:46 Navigating the Point Solution Landscape 33:56 ROI in Preventative Healthcare Solutions 37:53 Scaling Superpower: Challenges and Successes 40:42 Measuring Impact: Success Stories from Superpower 43:21 The Digital Health Ecosystem: What’s Missing? 45:46 Managing Stress in a High-Stakes Environment 48:26 Healthy Eating: Recipes for Optimal Health 49:56 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 4: Kris Davis, Chief Operating Officer at OneImaging | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:57:02 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Kris Davis, the Chief Operating Officer at OneImaging. Kris shares his journey from Google to the startup world, discussing his experiences at Virta and Sword Health, and the lessons learned from each role. He emphasizes the importance of customer success, leadership styles, and the need for a strong product focus in the digital health space. Kris also highlights the unique value proposition of OneImaging, which aims to cut imaging costs significantly while improving patient care. The conversation touches on maintaining balance in high-stress environments and the importance of healthy living performance. 00:00 Introduction to Kris Davis and OneImaging Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 3: Nandan Rao, CEO of Starlight | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:55:07 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Nandan Rao, CEO of Starlight, a virtual proactive care clinic. Nandan shares his background, including his experience founding Virtual Lab and his transition from international public health to digital health. He discusses the importance of culturally sensitive coaching, the mission of Starlight to improve patient adherence, and the successes the company has achieved in partnership with major health systems. Following the model of CMS ACCESS, Starlight coordinates closely with provider groups for referrals and co-management The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the importance of technology in enhancing patient care, and the personal experiences that shape Nandan's leadership style. Takeaways 🧠 Nandan Rao has a diverse background in public health and technology. 🌟 Starlight focuses on improving patient adherence through health coaching. 🤝 Culturally sensitive coaching is crucial for patient engagement. 💻 The integration of technology with healthcare can enhance patient outcomes. 📉 Value-based care is essential for improving healthcare efficiency. 🩺 Patient relationships with coaches drive better health outcomes. 🏥 Starlight has successfully partnered with major health systems. 🧩 Understanding patient behavior is key to increasing program participation. 💰 The healthcare system often prioritizes profit over patient care. 🧘♂️ Nandan emphasizes the importance of self-care and stress management for leaders.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nandan Rao and Starlight 01:27 Founding Virtual Lab and Its Impact 04:41 Comparing International Public Health and Digital Health 07:13 The Value of an Eclectic Career in Leadership 12:17 The Inspiration Behind Starlight 23:48 Starlight's Mission and Approach 24:58 Success Stories and Outcomes from Starlight 29:15 Enhancing Patient Engagement through Referrals 32:15 The Balance of Technology and Human Touch in Healthcare 36:06 Leveraging Technology for Better Patient Outcomes 39:28 Creating Meaningful Patient Experiences 40:23 Scaling Healthcare Solutions Across Diverse Populations 44:14 Navigating the Financial Landscape of Healthcare 55:30 Personal Well-being in a High-Stress Environment Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 2: Dr. Kumar Dharmarajan, Chief Medical Officer at World Class Health | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:58:39 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Dr. Kumar Dharmarajan, co-founder and chief medical officer of World Class Health. They discuss Dr. Dharmarajan's journey in healthcare, the challenges of patient experience, and the importance of technology in improving healthcare delivery. The conversation delves into the economics of employer-sponsored healthcare, the mission behind founding World Class Health, and the potential of direct contracting and global healthcare solutions. Dr. Dharmarajan shares insights on engagement strategies, innovations, shaping the future of healthcare, and his personal health practices. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 1: Noah Kotlove, CEO of Berry Street | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:54:25 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky interviews Noah Kotlove, Founder and CEO of Berry Street, a virtual nutrition therapy platform connecting patients with dietitians for one-on-one personalized nutrition care across more than 25 conditions, and leveraging AI to empower providers and patients . Noah shares his patient-first journey how working with a dietitian helped him lose weight and why nutrition counseling remains one of the most underutilized benefits in U.S. healthcare despite broad commercial coverage that is often $0 out of pocket. The conversation explores Berry Street’s rapid growth since January 2023, its $50M raise in 2025, the difference between dietitians vs. “nutritionists,” and how Berry Street supports patients navigating the GLP-1 era with sustainable nutrition and behavior change.
Takeaways
Chapters
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| Episode 40: Karl Ulfers, Co-Founder & CEO of DUOS | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:50:54 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky interviews Karl Ulfers, Co-Founder and CEO of DUOS. They discuss Karl’s career journey from consulting to healthcare technology, his experiences at Optum and Rally Health, and the founding vision of DUOS, which aims to create a seamless system of aging for older adults. Karl shares insights on partnerships with health plans, the importance of addressing day-to-day needs for older adults, and the recent growth and investment in DUOS. He also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a work-life balance and shares personal anecdotes about healthy cooking and family life.
Takeaways 💼 Karl Ulfers emphasizes the importance of doing your job well as the foundation for career progression.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Karl Ulfers and DUOS 01:33 Early Career and Consulting Insights 04:38 Journey at Optum and Innovations in Healthcare 11:04 Transition to Rally Health and Leadership Growth 14:41 Career Progression and Promotion Strategies 20:23 Building Teams and Company Culture 25:43 Evolution of Products at Rally Health 28:23 Founding DUOS and Personal Inspiration 28:28 The Journey Begins: A Decade of Insight 31:14 Vision for Aging: Building a System of Care 34:11 Partnerships with Health Plans: Enhancing Member Care 37:06 Securing Growth: Navigating Investment in a Tough Market 42:37 Member Experience: Simplifying Access to Care 50:50 Practicing What You Preach: Balancing Work and Life Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 39: Elan Adler, Founder & CEO of OneImaging | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:52:19 | |
In this latest episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky and guest Elan Adler, CEO and founder of OneImaging, dive into a dynamic discussion about their respective ventures. Elan shares insights on OneImaging's recent $31 million Series A funding round led by VY Capital, highlighting strategic growth plans and industry challenges. Meanwhile, Norm discusses the founding and mission of MVP Growth Partners, emphasizing the importance of investing in companies that deliver real value. Together, they explore the broader implications for the digital health industry, the role of behavior change, and the potential for significant market impact. Takeaways 💰 Elan Adler discusses the successful $31 million Series A funding round for OneImaging and its strategic implications.
Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:05:00 One Imaging's Series A Funding Success 00:15:00 Strategic Partnership with VY Capital 00:25:00 MVP Growth Partners: Vision and Strategy 00:35:00 Healthcare Industry Challenges 00:45:00 Behavior Change and Health Outcomes 00:55:00 Future of Digital Health Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 38: John Quinn, CEO at Wellnecity | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:42:59 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews John Quinn, founder and CEO of Wellnecity. They discuss John's journey from financial services to healthcare, the evolution of Wellnecity data-driven benefits management platform, and the importance of data in transforming healthcare. John shares insights from his consulting experience, the mission of Wellnecity, and the company's approach to hiring and building a strong culture. They also explore client success stories, the significance of fiduciary duty, and the future trends in healthcare, emphasizing the need for convenience and better patient experiences.
Takeaways 💼 John Quinn transitioned from financial services to healthcare due to the inefficiencies he observed in the industry.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wellnessity and John Quinn 01:55 John's Journey into Healthcare 03:56 Insights from Consulting Experience 06:54 Building Wellnessity: The Origin Story 09:54 Evolution of Wellnessity's Product 13:58 Mission and Vision of Wellnessity 14:55 Company Building and Hiring Practices 17:55 Successes and Lessons Learned 19:54 Client Success Story and Impact 21:20 The Dynamics of Competition in Healthcare 23:05 Fiduciary Duties and Data Utilization 24:37 Ensuring Data Accuracy and Integration 26:40 Proactive Benefits Management for Cost Savings 28:29 Performance Improvement Strategies 30:23 Surprising Insights from Client Engagement 32:46 Building a Mission-Driven Company 35:40 Future Trends in Healthcare 39:26 Enhancing Patient Experience in Healthcare 44:38 Personal Health Practices and Lifestyle Choices
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| Episode 37: Brad Kreick, CEO at AccessHope | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:49:01 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Brad Kreick, CEO of Access Hope, discussing his journey in healthcare, the evolution of cancer care, and the innovative solutions AccessHope provides to bridge the gap between cutting-edge oncology and local treatment. Brad shares insights from his extensive experience in healthcare management, consulting, and investment, highlighting the importance of collaboration between treating oncologists and specialized cancer experts. The conversation also touches on the future of digital health, the impact of AI, and the personal stories that drive the mission of AccessHope. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 36: Kili Preitauer (CEO) & Christina Le-Short (VP of Clinical Delivery) at Override Health | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:56:01 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky is joined by Kili Preitauer, CEO of Override Health, and Dr. Christina Le-Short, VP of Clinical Delivery. They discuss the innovative approaches of Override Health in managing chronic pain through a virtual, patient-centered model that emphasizes non-opioid solutions. The conversation explores the misconceptions surrounding healthcare providers and payers, the importance of whole person care, and the integration of AI in healthcare. Both guests share their personal journeys in healthcare, the challenges they face, and the successes they've achieved in improving patient outcomes. The episode concludes with insights on the future of healthcare and the importance of personal health practices for leaders in the industry.
Takeaways 💻 Override Health focuses on virtual chronic pain management.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Override Health and Its Mission 01:43 Personal Journeys into Healthcare 04:11 Misconceptions in Healthcare: Payers and Providers 06:40 Building Teams and Leadership in Healthcare 08:45 Accomplishments in Pain Management 09:49 The Importance of Whole Person Care 10:34 Startup Experiences and Lessons Learned 11:56 Inspiration Behind Joining Override Health 15:14 Hiring for Success: Key Traits 16:59 Identifying Better Approaches to Chronic Pain 22:46 Patient Experience and Success Stories 26:47 Non-Opioid Approaches to Pain Management 28:20 Partnerships with Payers for Cost Reduction 29:38 Transforming Pain Management: A New Approach 30:19 Understanding Opioid Side Effects 33:34 The Role of AI in Healthcare 39:08 Future of AI in Pain Management 44:10 Major Accomplishments at Override 45:20 Predictions for Digital Health 49:06 Practicing What You Preach: Healthy Habits 55:53 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 35: Rich Fahn, Senior VP, Corporate Benefits at NFP | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:47:49 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Rich Fahn, Senior VP at NFP, discussing the evolution of employee benefits, the impact of digital health solutions, and the importance of understanding demographics in managing healthcare costs. Rich shares his journey from starting his own brokerage to joining NFP, emphasizing the significance of culture and relationships in the industry. The conversation also touches on the challenges of innovation, the role of GLP-1s in healthcare, and the necessity of preventative care.
Takeaways 💡 Innovation in employee benefits has significantly changed over the years.
Chapters 01:33 Rich Fahn's Journey into Healthcare 05:36 Innovation in Employee Benefits and Cost Control 09:04 Building Excel Benefit Group 12:41 Challenges and Successes in the Benefits Industry 18:04 Impact of Digital Health Solutions 23:45 Navigating GLP-1s and Preventative Care 29:10 Joining NFP and the Importance of Culture 36:43 Strategies for Managing Aging Populations 39:31 Vendor Approaches to Brokers and Consultants 42:18 Consultant Mistakes and Client Relationships 45:14 Stress Management in High-Pressure Roles 47:32 Healthy Living and Nutrition Tips
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| Episode 34: Trupti Mukker, Co-Founder and COO of Complement 1 | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:34:07 | |
In this episode, Norm Volsky sits down with Trupti Mukker, Co-Founder and COO of Complement 1, the digital cancer rehabilitation platform, 1st non-pharma treatment layer helping patients complete treatment, recover faster, and lower costs. Trupti shares her journey into healthcare, the inspiration behind Complement 1, and how digital cancer rehabilitation, rooted in exercise, nutrition, and stress management can significantly improve outcomes for patients during and after treatment. The conversation explores the clinical rigor behind Complement 1’s evidence-based approach, how the platform achieves 90% engagement and cost savings for payers and health systems, and the growing role of AI in personalizing rehabilitation for every cancer type, recovery stage, and side effects. Trupti also highlights the importance of daily clinical support in improving treatment adherence, quality of life, and long-term survivorship outcomes.
00:00 Introduction to Complement 1 and Its Mission 02:07 Trupti's Journey into Healthcare 04:30 The Importance of Lifestyle Interventions in Cancer Care 07:51 Personalized Patient Experience with Complement One 11:37 The Impact of Lifestyle Changes on Cancer Recurrence 14:22 Maintaining Clinical Rigor in a Human-Centric Model 17:08 Driving Engagement and Cost Savings 19:30 Partnerships and Market Response 21:30 Personalization in Cancer Care 24:19 Patient Success Stories 26:18 The Future of Lifestyle Medicine and AI 28:05 Advice for Founders in Healthcare 29:01 Trupti's Personal Health Practices 34:07 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 33: Vinay Nagaraj, Co-Founder & CEO at Bonfire Analytics | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:37:49 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Vinay Nagaraj, CEO of Bonfire Analytics. Vinay shares his journey from biomedical engineering to healthcare sales, discussing the challenges and successes he faced while scaling revenue at Roundtrip. He emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships in sales, the role of data in healthcare, and the key traits he looks for in salespeople. Vinay also discusses the inspiration behind Bonfire Analytics, its mission to accelerate healthcare technology adoption, and the common mistakes healthcare companies make in sales. He provides insights into market opportunities, the importance of making data actionable, and offers advice for founders seeking funding. The conversation concludes with a discussion on personal well-being and healthy recipes.
Takeaways 🧑⚕️ Vinay's fascination with healthcare began early, driven by a desire to solve problems. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vinay Nagaraj and Bonfire Analytics 01:11 Vinay's Journey into Healthcare and Technology 02:12 Experience at Roundtrip and Transition to Sales 05:16 Sales Successes and Lessons Learned 07:55 Key Traits for Hiring Salespeople 10:59 The Inspiration Behind Bonfire Analytics 13:15 How Bonfire Analytics Helps Customers 17:32 Vinay's Personal Background and Its Impact 23:58 Common Mistakes in Healthcare Sales 26:08 Opportunities in the Healthcare Market 28:07 Making Data Actionable for Clients 30:36 Advice for Founders Seeking Funding 34:54 Stress Relief and Healthy Living 36:58 Conclusion and Future Outlook Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 32: Joseph Kitonga, Founder & CEO at Vitable Health | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:37:16 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Joseph Kitonga, CEO and founder of Vitable Health. Joseph shares his journey from a family background in caregiving to creating a health plan that addresses the needs of underserved workers. He discusses the inspiration behind Vitable, his experience with the Thiel Fellowship, and the unique aspects of Vitable's direct primary care model. The conversation also covers the challenges of hybrid care models, the importance of empathy in healthcare, and the company's growth trajectory. Joseph emphasizes the need for accessible healthcare and shares insights on building a successful startup in the healthcare space. Takeaways ✨ Joseph's family background in caregiving inspired him to create Vitable Health.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Vitable Health and Joseph Kitonga 01:42 Inspiration Behind Vitable Health 05:12 The Thiel Fellowship Experience 08:50 Vitable's Unique Care Model 12:20 Challenges in Hybrid Care Models 13:18 Building Empathy Through User Engagement 16:02 Scaling Vitable Health 18:20 Diverse Clientele and Market Focus 20:09 The Y Combinator Experience 26:37 Advice for Aspiring Founders 27:43 Innovative Prescription Model 29:20 Future Vision for Vitable Health 31:41 Practicing What You Preach 34:02 Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Choices 37:08 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 31: Joseph Perekupka, CEO at Freespira | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:45:04 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Joe Perekupka, CEO of Freespira, a company focused on medication-free treatments for panic attacks and PTSD. Joe shares his journey into healthcare, his leadership experiences, and the importance of learning from mistakes. He discusses the mission of FreeSpira, the impact of COVID-19 on mental health treatment, and shares patient success stories. Joe also emphasizes the significance of cultural fitness in hiring and offers advice for employees of companies approaching IPOs. The conversation highlights the innovative approach of Freespira in addressing mental health issues and the importance of action and adaptability in leadership.
Takeaways 🩺 Healthcare offers a chance to positively impact society.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Freespira and Joe Perekupka 02:12 Joe's Journey in Healthcare 06:37 Building a US Subsidiary for Brainsway 10:11 Learning from Mistakes in Leadership 13:23 Successes and Milestones at Brainsway 16:10 Hiring for Sales in Startups 17:28 Freespira Mission and Mental Health 20:08 Understanding PTSD Beyond Combat 22:40 Impact of COVID on Freespira 23:43 The Shift to Virtual Care in Mental Health 24:38 Patient Success Stories with Freespira 28:11 Understanding the 17-Minute Protocol 30:17 Real-World Impact and Statistics 32:11 Veterans and the Ease of Use of Freespira 33:42 CO2 Hypersensitivity and Its Effects 34:56 Comparing Freespira to Traditional Treatments 39:18 Managing Stress and Personal Well-being 42:16 Healthy Eating and Family Recipes Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 30: Spencer Smith, SVP of Sales at Pareto Health | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:53:11 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Spencer Smith, SVP of Sales at Pareto Health. They discuss Spencer's journey in the healthcare industry, the misconceptions surrounding stop-loss insurance, and the benefits of self-funding for mid-sized employers. Spencer shares insights from his time at Plan Sight, the culture at Pareto, and the importance of leadership traits in healthcare. The conversation also touches on the role of brokers, the impact of digital health vendors, and future trends in the industry. Spencer emphasizes the need for trust and transparency in healthcare, as well as the personal growth he has experienced through podcasts.
Takeaways 🎓 Spencer Smith's journey into healthcare began by chance after college. 📉 Many employers treat stop-loss insurance as a commodity, missing the bigger picture. 🏢 Self-funding is not just for large employers; most employees are in self-funded plans. 🔓 Pareto Health offers a unique solution by unbundling healthcare components for employers. 🤝 The culture at Pareto is driven by a mission to support small to mid-sized employers. 🧘 Effective leadership in healthcare requires empathy, attitude, and self-care. ❗ Many misconceptions exist about self-funding among mid-sized employers. 💼 Brokers may have incentives to keep employers fully insured, impacting their advice. 🖥️ Digital health vendors play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare solutions. 🎙️ Podcasting has opened new doors for Spencer, enhancing his credibility in the industry.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Spencer Smith and Pareto Health 03:18 Common Misconceptions about Stop Loss 07:27 Transition to Pareto Health and Its Mission 11:17 The Role of Captives in Healthcare 13:33 Simplifying Self-Funding for Mid-Size Employers 14:15 Explaining Risk Financing 15:20 Success Stories from Pareto Health 16:23 Memorable Sales Experiences 18:06 Attracting Talent to Pareto Health 19:36 Company Culture at Pareto Health 20:33 Traits of Effective Leaders 24:35 Misconceptions about Healthcare for Mid-Size Employers 25:31 The Role of Brokers and Consultants in Self-Funding 27:46 Understanding When to Stay Fully Insured 30:01 Integrating Digital Health Solutions 31:46 Evaluating Return on Investment in Health Solutions 34:20 The Future of Captives and Primary Care 36:14 Lessons from Podcasting 39:46 The Impact of Personal Branding in Business 48:20 Maintaining Health and Wellness in a Busy Life
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| Episode 29: Kristian Ranta, CEO & Founder at Meru Health | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:51:08 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky interviews Kristian Ranta, CEO and founder of Meru Health. They discuss Kristian's journey from founding Mendor to establishing Meru Health, a company focused on redefining mental health care. The conversation explores cultural differences in healthcare systems, the importance of networking through Y Combinator, and the innovative approaches Meru takes in mental health treatment, including peer support and holistic care. Kristian shares insights on the impact of technology and generational differences on mental health, as well as the key traits needed for founders in the healthcare space. The episode concludes with a discussion on personal health practices and the future of mental health care.
Takeaways 🧠 Meru Health aims to redefine mental health care standards. 👤 Kristian Ranta's personal experiences shaped his mission in healthcare. 🌍 Cultural differences in healthcare systems can be eye-opening. 🤝 Y Combinator provides invaluable networking opportunities for startups. 📆 Continuous engagement in mental health care leads to better outcomes. ⚖️ Holistic approaches to mental health consider physical health factors. 🫂 Peer support is crucial for individuals facing mental health challenges. 👶👴 Generational differences impact mental health needs and perceptions. 📱 Technology and social media contribute to increased anxiety levels. 🔥 Founders in healthcare need tenacity, mission-driven focus, and strong teams.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Meru Health and Kristian Ranta 03:07 Kristian's Journey in Healthcare and Founding Mendor 05:56 Cultural Shock: Finland vs. US Healthcare Systems 08:44 The Y Combinator Experience: Building Connections and Credibility 11:53 Lessons from Y Combinator: Tenacity and Startup Principles 14:51 Meru Health's Holistic Approach to Mental Health 17:48 Understanding HRV Therapy and Its Benefits 20:47 Meru Health's Patient-Centric Model and Success Stories 23:42 Addressing the Anxious Generation: Causes and Solutions 28:13 The Impact of Technology on Privacy and Work-Life Balance 30:47 Setting Boundaries in a 24/7 Work Culture 32:40 The Importance of Peer Support in Mental Health 36:10 Finding Balance: Personal Stories of Mental Health 39:29 Innovations in Mental Health Care: Unlimited Support 43:24 The Future of Mental Health: Integrating Physical and Mental Health 46:36 Traits for Success in Healthcare Entrepreneurship Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 28: Akifa Khattak, Co-Founder of Her Health AI | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:39:22 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky interviews Akifa Khattak, co-founder of Her Health AI, a fem-tech startup focused on non-invasive diagnostics for endometriosis. Akifa shares her personal journey with endometriosis, her legal advocacy in healthcare, and the importance of integrating technology into women's health. The conversation covers the challenges faced by women with endometriosis, the need for better diagnostics, and the financial implications of current treatment approaches. Akifa emphasizes the importance of awareness, education, and breaking taboos surrounding women's health issues, while also discussing the future of Her Health AI and the fem-tech industry.
Takeaways ⚖️ The legal profession plays a crucial role in navigating healthcare innovation. 🌎 Endometriosis affects 200 million women worldwide, often going undiagnosed for years. 🧬 Her Health AI aims to revolutionize diagnostics for endometriosis. ⏳ The current diagnostic timeline for endometriosis is around 10 years. 📚 Awareness and education are key to improving women's health outcomes. 💸 Financial implications of endometriosis treatment is significant for healthcare payers. 🗣️ Breaking taboos around women's health is essential for better support. 🩺 Her Health AI is focused on non-invasive diagnostic methods. 🚺 The future of fem-tech looks promising with increased integration in healthcare.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Akifa Khattak and Her Health AI 02:15 The Intersection of Law and Biotechnology 04:08 Successes in Legal Advocacy and Healthcare 06:56 Personal Journey: From Patient to Innovator 09:54 Understanding Endometriosis: Impact and Challenges 10:22 Treatment and Recovery for Endometriosis 12:40 Innovations in Diagnostics: Her Health AI's Approach 14:46 Financial Implications of Endometriosis Screening 16:54 Addressing the Stigma Around Women's Health 18:41 User Experience with Her Health AI 19:11 Integrating Technology in Healthcare 20:08 AI's Role in Diagnosing Endometriosis 22:53 Future Aspirations for Her Health 24:06 Evolution of Healthcare Technology 25:11 Recognition and Exposure in the Industry 27:14 The Future of fem-tech 29:20 Understanding Endometriosis Across Ages 32:15 Personal Health Practices and Stress Management 37:26 Nutrition and Lifestyle Choices for Health
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| Episode 27: Elena Gambon (CGO/CSO) & Dr. Cole Barfield (CMO) at First Stop Health | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:54:10 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky speaks with Dr. Cole Barfield and Elena Gambon from First Stop Health. They discuss their personal journeys into healthcare, the founding of Century Health and WellView, and the mission of First Stop Health to provide whole person care. The conversation highlights the importance of patient engagement, the role of strategy in healthcare growth, and the impact of 24/7 access to doctors on patient care. They also explore emerging trends in healthcare, including the use of AI and the importance of empathy in leadership. The episode concludes with insights on stress management and healthy living.
Takeaways 🧍♂️ First Stop Health provides whole person care for employees. 💬 Elena Gambon and Dr. Cole Barfield share their inspirations for entering healthcare. 🛤️ Dr. Cole Barfield's journey led him to co-found Century Health and WellView. 📈 First Stop Health focuses on high patient engagement and usage rates. 🏥 The company positions itself as a valuable alternative in the healthcare market. 🚪 The mission of First Stop Health is to eliminate barriers to care. 🧠 Elena Gambon emphasizes the importance of a Chief Strategy Officer in a growing company. 💖 Leadership at First Stop Health is centered around vulnerability and authenticity. 🎯 Career-defining moments shape how leaders bring value to clients. ⏰ 24/7 access to doctors significantly impacts patient care and decision-making.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to First Stop Health 02:30 Personal Journeys into Healthcare 05:30 Founding and Growth of First Stop Health 08:26 Understanding Usage and Engagement in Healthcare 12:19 The Unique Value Proposition of First Stop Health 14:38 The Mission and Vision of First Stop Health 16:54 The Role of Strategy in Growth 21:40 Career-Defining Moments 27:16 Impact of 24/7 Access to Healthcare 31:33 The Emotional Aspect of Decision Making in Healthcare 33:17 Cost Savings and Direct Care Models 36:53 Generational Differences in Decision Making 41:09 Improving Access and Affordability in Healthcare 42:32 Future Directions for First Stop Health 47:34 Emerging Trends in Healthcare Technology 50:58 Personal Well-being and Healthy Living
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| Episode 26: Dickon Waterfield, President at Lantern | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:59:31 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavy Weights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Dickon Waterfield, president of Lantern, a specialty care platform. They discuss Dickon's journey from strategy consulting to healthcare, his experiences in investing, and his pivotal roles at Big Health and Lantern. The conversation delves into the challenges of the PBM industry, the importance of direct contracting, and the future of healthcare innovations, particularly in specialty care and oncology. Dickon emphasizes the need for transparency, quality care, and the alignment of incentives in the healthcare system.
Takeaways ❤️ Healthcare is a deep personal field that impacts everyone. 🔄 Transitioning from investing to operational roles can provide valuable insights. 🤝 Sales in healthcare requires a focus on building relationships and trust. 🔍 Understanding the details of the product and the buyer is crucial for success. ⚠️ The PBM industry faces significant challenges due to misaligned incentives. 💼 Direct contracting models can lead to substantial cost savings for employers. 🔎 Quality care and transparency are essential in specialty care. 👥 Building a strong team is vital for scaling a healthcare business. 🎯 Focusing on a few core services can lead to greater impact than spreading too thin. 🧘 Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is important for long-term success.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dickon Waterfield and Lantern 02:22 The Personal Connection to Healthcare 04:50 Early Career at Monitor Group 06:29 Transition to Investing and Early-Stage Companies 09:43 Lessons from the Investment Side 11:47 Joining Big Health and Early Challenges 13:52 The Role of Sales in Early-Stage Companies 16:53 Building Relationships in Sales 19:41 Navigating the Two-Sided Marketplace 21:03 Scaling from Zero to 2.5 million Members 23:41 The Evolving Landscape of Healthcare Sales 25:12 The Difference Between Evangelists and Scalers 26:40 The Importance of Mentorship in Business Growth 27:56 Building Effective Sales Teams: Experience vs. Potential 31:16 Navigating Challenges in the PBM Industry 39:21 The Evolution of Direct Contracting Models 41:01 Expanding Horizons: The Future of Lantern 56:45 Personal Health Practices in a Stressful Industry Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 25: Ryan Coplon, Co-Founder & CEO of Health Wallet | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:48:53 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Ryan Coplon, founder and CEO of Health Wallet. They discussed Ryan's transition from risk finance to healthcare, the inception of Health Wallet, and the challenges faced in the industry. Ryan shares insights on how Health Wallet simplifies benefits for stakeholders, leverages technology and AI for engagement, and maintains cost efficiency compared to competitors. The conversation also touches on the company's growth, hiring philosophy, and personal health practices of Ryan Coplon.
Takeaways 📱 Health Wallet simplifies access to benefits through a mobile platform. 🔄 Ryan transitioned from risk finance to healthcare to address employee benefits challenges. 🚀 Echelon Advisors helped incubate Health Wallet's concept. ⛰️ Self-funding benefits were not popular when they started, presenting challenges. 📉 Health Wallet addresses underutilization of point solutions in healthcare. 🌟 The platform enhances member experience and engagement. 🔗 Health Wallet integrates various third-party solutions for better service. 💸 The company operates at a lower cost compared to its competitors. 📈 Customer retention is high due to continuous product developments. 🤝 Ryan emphasizes the importance of autonomy and trust in his team.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Health Wallet and Ryan Coplon 01:32 Transitioning from Risk Finance to Healthcare 03:03 Challenges in Employee Benefits and Self-Funding 06:33 Inception of Health Wallet 08:33 Simplifying Benefits for Stakeholders 11:56 Common Issues Addressed by Health Wallet 14:04 Leveraging Technology for Engagement 16:47 Introduction of Benny AI Bot 17:58 Pricing and Competitive Advantage 19:25 Customer Retention and Product Enhancements 21:20 Broadening Service Offerings 25:13 Company Growth and Team Dynamics 26:35 The Evolution of Software Infrastructure 28:05 Hiring and Leadership Philosophies for a Lean Team 31:06 The Importance of Autonomy and Trust in Teams 33:57 Milestones and Achievements at Health Wallet 38:54 Future Growth and Industry Awareness 41:43 Anticipating Changes in the Benefits Landscape 45:16 Personal Health Practices and Lifestyle Choices Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 24: Dr Tim Church, Chief Medical Officer at Wondr Health | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:57:19 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, our host Norm Volsky speaks with Dr. Tim Church, Chief Medical Officer at Wondr Health about his journey in healthcare, the challenges and successes in digital health, and the importance of behavior change in weight loss. They discussed the impact of GLP-1 medications, the role of AI in healthcare, and the essential leadership skills needed for success in the digital health landscape. Tim emphasizes the need for clinicians in digital health and shares insights on how to inspire doctors to transition into this innovative field.
Takeaways 🩺 Dr. Tim Church emphasizes the importance of helping people through healthcare. ⚖️ The obesity epidemic is a significant concern that needs attention. 🧪 Digital health companies face challenges in differentiation and scientific backing. 🔁 Behavior change is crucial for effective weight loss and health improvement. 💉 GLP-1 medications are a game changer but should be used wisely. 🤖 AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare but requires quality data. 🎓 Leadership skills are essential for success in digital health companies. 👩⚕️ Clinicians should be involved in digital health to ensure effective solutions. 🌍 Understanding population-based medicine is key for healthcare professionals transitioning to digital health. 🥗 Practicing a balanced diet and exercise is vital for personal health.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Tim Church and Digital Health 02:20 Journey into Healthcare and Digital Health 04:05 Founding Catapult Health 05:43 Challenges in Digital Health 10:23 Successes in Health Initiatives 13:20 Customer Acquisition in Digital Health 15:25 Lessons Learned in Digital Health 20:41 Navigating the Digital Health Ecosystem 27:56 Understanding ROI in Digital Health 30:26 Key Traits for Digital Health Founders 32:42 The Importance of Clinical Expertise in Digital Health 36:49 Navigating the Digital Health Landscape 40:34 Behavior Change: The Holy Grail of Digital Health 42:54 The Role of GLP-1s in Weight Management 48:25 AI's Impact on Healthcare 53:44 Practicing What You Preach in Health Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 23: Matt Eurey, Chief Commercial Officer at Carrum Health | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:43:13 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Matt Eurey, Chief Commercial Officer of Carrum Health. Matt shares his extensive experience in the healthcare industry, discussing his journey from leading benefits at Time Warner Cable, and transitioning to the vendor side with Accolade. He emphasizes the importance of ROI in employee benefits, the need for innovation, and the significance of customer relationships in driving success. Matt also shares insights on the future of healthcare, the challenges faced by digital health companies, and why he chose Carrum Health, highlighting its commitment to value-based care and transparency.
Takeaways 🔄 Matt transitioned into healthcare benefits through union negotiations. 📺 At Time Warner Cable, free cable is the most valued employee benefit. 💡 ROI in employee benefits is often misunderstood and exaggerated. 🏥 Carrum Health focuses on value-based care and transparency. 🤝 Building a successful sales team requires collaboration and alignment. 🧑💼 Customer relationships are crucial for driving sales and success. 📊 Digital health companies need to demonstrate clear ROI to gain traction. 💥 The healthcare industry is ripe for innovation and transformation. 🤖 AI will play a significant role in improving healthcare delivery. ⚖️ The future will see a divide between successful and unsuccessful healthcare solutions.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Matt Eurey and Carrum Health 02:54 Matt's Journey into Healthcare Benefits 05:55 Leading Benefits at Time Warner Cable 08:52 Transitioning to Lowe's and Managing Scale 11:47 Calculating ROI in Benefits Programs 14:22 Innovations in Care Navigation and COEs 17:32 Moving to the Vendor Side at Accolade 20:21 Lessons Learned from Vendor Experience 22:19 From Struggles to Success: Building a Winning Team 26:02 The Art of Selling: Traits of Great Salespeople 28:34 Customer-Centric Approach: The Key to Sales Success 33:44 Innovating in Healthcare: The Role of Employers 38:26 Navigating the Digital Health Landscape: Common Pitfalls 40:38 Future Trends in Healthcare: Winners and Losers 42:45 Balancing Work and Health: Personal Insights Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 22: Pramod John, CEO of VIVIO Health | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:47:28 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Pramod John, CEO of VIVIO, who discusses his journey from technology to healthcare, the inefficiencies of the current healthcare system, and the mission of VIVIO to provide data-driven solutions that improve patient outcomes while reducing costs. Pramod emphasizes the need to rethink the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and advocates for a healthcare model that prioritizes transparency and efficiency. He shares insights on the importance of data in healthcare decision-making and the responsibility of leaders to act in the best interests of patients and the healthcare system. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 21: Antonio Moraes, CEO & Co-Founder at XP Health | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:45:00 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavy Weights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Antonio Moraes, co-founder and CEO of XP Health. They discuss Antonio's journey from founding Vox Capital to creating XP Health, a revolutionary vision care platform. The conversation covers the challenges of fundraising, the importance of purpose in business, and the impact of AI on healthcare. Antonio shares insights on building a strong company culture, the growth of XP Health, and the mission to provide affordable vision care to millions.
Takeaways 👓 Antonio Moraes founded XP Health to improve vision care.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to XP Health and Antonio Moraes 01:55 Founding Vox Capital: A Journey of Purpose and Impact 05:13 The Evolution of Vox Capital and Fundraising Challenges 07:19 Lessons Learned from Leading Vox Capital 08:14 A New Capitalism: Merging Profit with Purpose 10:52 The Birth of XP Health: Addressing Vision Care Challenges 14:48 The Vision Care Crisis: Global Perspectives and Solutions 17:09 The XP Health Experience: Member and Employer Benefits 19:21 Cost Savings for Employers: The XP Health Model 20:39 Growth Journey of XP Health: From Garage to 3,000 Clients 22:04 Navigating Challenges and Innovations in Business 23:22 Building a Strong Team Culture 26:51 Strategic Hiring for Innovation 29:04 Creating a Positive Company Culture 30:47 Fundraising Insights for Founders 33:59 The Role of AI in Digital Health 36:13 Expanding Product Offerings in Vision Care 38:32 Characteristics of Successful Founders 41:45 Personal Well-being and Stress Management Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 20: Sherry Rais the CEO and Co-founder of Enthea | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:55:34 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, host Norm Volsky interviews Sherry Rais, co-founder and CEO of Enthea, a company focused on innovative mental health solutions through psychedelic therapy. Sherry shares her background working with the UN and World Bank, her insights into the global mental health crisis, and the inspiration behind founding Enthea. The conversation delves into the benefits of ketamine therapy, the challenges of stigma surrounding mental health and psychedelics, and the transformative outcomes seen in patients. “We’ve seen an 86% reduction in PTSD.” Sherry emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health disparities and the potential of psychedelic therapies to provide hope and healing. “Psychedelics are non-addictive, like whatsoever.” In this conversation, Norm and Sherry Rais explore the profound impact of music, social anxiety, and the healing potential of psychedelics. They discuss how psychedelics can help individuals confront and rewire traumatic memories, leading to significant breakthroughs in mental health treatment. The conversation also highlights the importance of employer support for mental health initiatives and the role of psychedelics in addiction recovery. Sherry shares insights on the neuroscience behind these therapies and emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to mental wellness. Learn about how Enthea is lifting the veil on Psychedelics and revolutionizing the mental health space!
Takeaways:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sherry Rais and Enthea 04:39 Inspiration Behind Founding Enthea 09:43 Benefits of Enthea's Services for Employees 13:03 Transformative Outcomes of Ketamine Therapy 20:54 Comparing SSRIs and Psychedelic Therapies 28:48 The Therapeutic Benefits of Altered States 30:00 Understanding Social Anxiety and Its Impact 31:00 Neuroscience of Memory and Healing 32:26 Revisiting Traumatic Memories for Healing 33:25 The Clarity of Psychedelics in Therapy 34:55 Lifting the Veil: Psychedelics and Self-Discovery 37:33 The Role of Ego in Psychedelic Experiences 39:22 Confronting Internal Struggles 41:34 The Importance of Employer Support for Mental Health 43:26 Utilization of Mental Health Benefits 46:00 Addressing Root Causes of Mental Health Issues 48:06 The Role of Psychedelics in Addiction Treatment 50:09 Understanding Addiction and Its Underlying Causes 52:03 The Science Beh Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 19: Kimball Thomas, CEO & Co-Founder at Walrus Health | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:53:18 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Kimball Thomas, CEO and founder of Walrus, a company dedicated to improving medication adherence and reducing pharmacy costs for employers. Kimball shares his personal journey into healthcare, inspired by his own experiences with asthma and the complexities of the healthcare system. He discusses how Walrus leverages data insights to provide personalized medication management, emphasizing the importance of user engagement and the unique value proposition of their services. The conversation also covers the impact of Walrus on employee health, cost savings for employers, and the innovative Walrus RX Rewards program that incentivizes healthy behaviors. Kimball highlights the role of technology in enhancing the patient experience and the ongoing need for pharmacists to provide personalized care in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
Takeaways 🔹 Kimball Thomas is the CEO and founder of Walrus, a company focused on improving medication adherence and reducing pharmacy costs for employers.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Walrus and Kimball Thomas 02:34 Kimball's Journey into Healthcare 09:47 The Unique Approach of Walrus Health 18:17 Precision Pharmacy: A New Paradigm 22:02 Case Study: Success with Pitney Bowes 27:48 Walrus Technology Evolution 34:28 Personalized Patient Engagement 39:40 The Role of Pharmacists in Modern Healthcare 45:20 Walrus RX Rewards Program 47:16 Personal Health Practices and Team Culture 53:10 Outro
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| Episode 18: Zak Holdswoth, Co-founder and CEO of Hint Health | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:54:32 | |
Join us for another great episode on the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, today our host Norm Volsky interviews Zak Holdsworth, co-founder and CEO of Hint Health. Learn all about how Hint Health is transforming the DPC model! Tune in to discuss Zak's journey from engineering to healthcare, the challenges of startup investment, and the importance of perseverance in founders. Zak shares insights from his experience at WellnessFX, emphasizing the need for customer retention and understanding the healthcare system's fundamental issues. He explains the vision behind Hint Health, focusing on transforming primary care through the direct primary care movement and the importance of building trust with clients. “Building a deep trust.” In this conversation, Zak Holdsworth discusses the unique challenges and solutions in the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, emphasizing the importance of automation in billing and member management. He shares insights on team building, company culture, and the significance of transparency in fostering trust within the community. “Culture is built through action!” Zak also highlights Hint's milestones, its differentiation in the DPC market, and the future vision for integrating care. The discussion concludes with personal reflections on maintaining a healthy lifestyle amidst the demands of running a company. takeaways 💪 Zak Holdsworth emphasizes the importance of perseverance in founders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hint Health and Zach Holdsworth 03:10 Zak's Journey into Healthcare and Technology 06:02 Investing in Startups: What to Look For in Founders 09:05 Lessons from WellnessFX: Customer Retention and Growth 11:59 Understanding the Healthcare System's Fundamental Issues 15:01 Founding Hint Health: Vision and Mission 18:03 Transforming Primary Care: The Direct Primary Care Movement 20:59 Early Days of Hint: Challenges and First Clients 23:47 Building Trust and Relationships with Clients 29:40 Building Custom Solutions for DPC Models 31:23 Philosophy of Team Building and Culture 38:13 Automating Member Enrollment and Billing Solutions 44:56 Major Milestones and Community Trust 47:07 Differentiating Hint in the DPC Market 49:17 Future Vision for Hint and DPC Movement 53:37 Maintaining Balance and Healthy Living
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| Episode 17: Nick Reber, founder and CEO of Garner Health | 19 May 2025 | 00:52:20 | |
Welcome back to another great episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast! This week our host Norm Volsky interviews Nick Reber, founder and CEO of Garner Health. They discuss Nick's personal journey into healthcare, his experiences at Oscar Health, and the innovative approaches Garner Health is taking to transform the healthcare system. The conversation delves into the challenges of healthcare spending, the importance of quality over cost, and the insights gained from analyzing the largest claims database in the US. Nick emphasizes the need for better incentives in healthcare and the role of data in improving patient outcomes. In this conversation, Nick Reber discusses the complexities of healthcare provider compensation, the innovative reimbursement model of Garner Health, and the importance of data solutions in navigating healthcare fragmentation. Stressing that in the current broken healthcare system "there's zero correlation between cost and quality". He emphasizes the need for high-performance teams, dispels common misconceptions about healthcare options, and shares insights on maintaining personal health as a CEO. The discussion also covers predictions for the future of digital health and the traits necessary for successful founders in this space. Learn about Garner's goal to transform the healthcare economy! "It's all about results." Tune in to find out more! Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more amazing Digital Health content, just like this!
Takeaways 💡 Nick's personal experience as a patient inspired his journey into healthcare. ⚙️ The healthcare system is plagued by inefficiencies and misaligned incentives. 📉 Oscar Health's early challenges included high medical loss ratios. 🔍 Transforming healthcare requires understanding the root causes of problems. 🏥 Quality of care is often unrelated to the prestige of providers. 📊 Garner Health aims to provide better data on provider performance. 🎯 The importance of aligning patient incentives with healthcare outcomes. 💸 Healthcare spending is often disconnected from actual quality of care. 🤝 Building a large claims database requires strategic partnerships and timing. 📐 Innovative metrics are needed to evaluate healthcare providers effectively. 🩺 Hospitals have varying degrees of control over their salaried doctors. 📈 There is a growing demand for data-driven insights in healthcare. 💰 Garner Health's reimbursement model incentivizes employees to choose recommended doctors. 🔗 The DataPro solution helps providers understand patient referrals better. 🚀 Future innovations at Garner will focus on improving data and user experience. 🧩 Healthcare fragmentation complicates employee benefits management. 🧠 Successful healthcare teams require deep operational understanding. ❌ Common misconceptions include the belief that price equals quality. ✅ Creating seamless healthcare experiences is essential for patient satisfaction. 💼 Garner has achieved significant cost savings for employers.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nick Reber and Garner Health 04:12 Experiences at Oscar Health 07:23 Key Learnings from Oscar Health 10:25 Innovative Approaches to Healthcare Spending 15:16 Quality vs. Cost in Healthcare 18:55 Founding Garner Health 23:25 Challenges in Building Garner Health 24:54 Building the Doctor Recommendation System 29:02 Navigating Provider Compensation and Hospital Control 31:56 Understanding Garner Health's Reimbursement Model 33:29 Exploring the Garner DataPro Solution 35:25 Future Trends and Innovations at Garner Health 37:25 Addressin Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 16: Bismarck Lepe founder and CEO of Misalud | 12 May 2025 | 00:44:46 | |
Welcome back to another great episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast! This week our host Norm Volsky interviews Bismarck Lepe, CEO and founder of Misalud Health. Interested in Healthcare access and trust? Then you’re in for a great episode. We cover a lot of ground, from Bismarck's journey from the tech industry to healthcare, the challenges and successes he faced while building his companies, and the unique approach Misalud takes to address healthcare disparities, particularly for the Hispanic community. “ I believe capitalism can do a lot of good.” Bismarck emphasizes the importance of trust in virtual healthcare and shares insights on how Misalud is leveraging technology to improve access and outcomes for patients. Explaining how he believes we can bridge a lot of gaps in care with technology. In this conversation, Bismarck Lepe discusses the transformative potential of virtual dentistry and telemedicine, emphasizing that a significant portion of dental consultations can be conducted online. He shares inspiring clinical outcomes from his company, Misalud, highlighting success stories of patients who have improved their health through their services. The importance of analytics in healthcare is also addressed, as well as the value of employer partnerships in enhancing employee health. Bismarck reflects on the competitive landscape of healthcare, his principles for hiring and building a strong team, and the leadership traits necessary for growth-stage companies. He also shares personal health strategies and insights into the future of healthcare, including trends towards preventative care and healthy living. “Healthy mind, healthy body.” We couldn’t agree more! Tune in for another great episode!
Takeaways 🌟 Bismarck Lepe founded Misalud Health to improve healthcare access. 🗣️ Misalud offers bilingual telemedicine consultations. 🤝 Building trust is crucial in virtual healthcare. ⚠️ The Hispanic community faces significant healthcare disparities. 🌎 Misalud model leverages talent from Mexico for cost-effective care. 📈 Enrollment rates for Misalud are significantly higher than industry averages. 🩺 The company focuses on preventative care and wellness programs. 🧠 Mental health services are growing in demand within the Hispanic community. 💡 Bismarck believes in the power of capitalism to drive social good. 🏥 Misalud aims to create a parallel healthcare system for underserved populations. 80-85% of dental consults can be virtual. 🦷 Telemedicine can reduce stigma around dental visits. ✅ Clinical outcomes show significant health improvements. 📊 Analytics are crucial for tracking healthcare outcomes. 🤝 Employer partnerships can enhance employee health. 💸 Healthcare costs can be significantly lower in Mexico. 🎯 Hiring for potential is key to building a great team. 🛠️ Leadership requires a focus on operational processes. 🧘 Personal health practices are essential for leaders. 🥗 Healthy eating habits contribute to overall well-being.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bismarck Lepe and Misalud Health 02:12 Bismarck's Journey: From Tech to Healthcare 09:07 Transitioning from Product Delivery to Digital Health 15:10 Addressing Healthcare Disparities for Hispanics 19:06 Building Trust in Virtual Healthcare 22:48 Exploring Misalud's Services and Patient Experience 24:11 Virtual Dentistry: The Future of Care 25:17 Transformative Clinical Outcomes: Real-Life Success Stories 27:29 The Importance of Analytics in Healthcare 29:10 Employer Partnerships: Enhancing Employee Health 31:45 Competition and Market Dynamics in Healthcare 33:04 Building a Great Team: Hiring Principles and Culture 35:47 Leadership Traits for Growth Stage Companies 37:06 Practicing What You Preach: Personal H Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 15: Patrick Nelli, CEO and Founder at Aligned Marketplace | 06 May 2025 | 00:50:29 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Patrick Nelli, CEO and founder of Aligned Marketplace. They discuss Patrick's journey from healthcare finance to founding a mission-driven company focused on improving health outcomes through advanced primary care. Patrick shares insights on leadership, career growth, and the importance of personal health practices. The conversation also covers the challenges faced during COVID-19 and the growth of Aligned Marketplace, emphasizing the significance of member choice and engagement in healthcare. Aligned Marketplace is a national, value-based care marketplace of advanced primary care providers. Through a single, easy to administer contract, self-insured employers have access to a network of over 3,000 advanced primary care clinics across all 50 states, including virtual-first options, offering holistic, patient-centered care that improves member outcomes and experiences while reducing healthcare costs.
Takeaways 🔍 Patrick Nelli emphasizes the importance of finding a career at the intersection of personal passion, skills, and societal needs.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Patrick Nelli and Aligned Marketplace 03:06 Patrick's Journey into Healthcare Finance 06:14 Transitioning from Finance to Health Catalyst 09:10 Building a Career at Health Catalyst 12:03 Personal Directives and Work Ethic 15:01 Cultural Principles and Trust in Leadership 18:10 Challenges Faced During COVID-19 21:07 Leaving Health Catalyst to Start Aligned Marketplace 28:13 The Importance of a Meaningful Mission 29:55 Challenges in Advanced Primary Care 32:56 Founding On: A New Approach to Healthcare 34:10 Growth and Success of On 35:44 Advice for Founders in Tough Markets 39:11 Supporting Diverse Workforces 42:04 Measuring Impact: Access vs. Cost 45:23 Member Experience in Advanced Primary Care 48:55 Evolving Value Propositions 52:11 Practicing What You Preach 55:39 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 14: Jonathon Feit, CEO at Beyond Lucid Technologies | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:50:01 | |
Welcome back to Season 2 of The Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for our 14th episode. Today, Norm Volsky interviews Jonathon Feit, CEO and co-founder of Beyond Lucid Technologies. They discussed Jonathon's journey into healthcare, the importance of data interoperability in emergency medical services, and how Beyond Lucid is innovating patient care. Jonathon shares insights on addressing substance abuse through data, the development of the company’s patented HALCYON Post-Crash Intelligence application, and the impact of regulatory frameworks on EMS. The conversation also touches on mental health and wellness in high-stress jobs, as well as personal wellness practices. Follow, connect and subscribe: | |||
| Episode 13: Bill Snyder, CEO & Founder at Cylinder Health | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:56:08 | |
In this episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Bill Snyder, founder and CEO of Cylinder Health. They discuss Bill's extensive background in healthcare, his journey from Humana to leading sales at Virta, and ultimately founding Cylinder Health to address chronic digestive conditions. Bill shares insights on the importance of personalized care, the scale of digestive health issues in the U.S., and how Cylinder is making a significant impact on patient outcomes and employer health plans. The conversation also touches on leadership, career growth, and the integration of AI in healthcare.
Takeaways 🧫 Cylinder supports those suffering from the full spectrum of GI issues.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cylinder Health and Bill Snyder 03:13 Bill's Journey into Healthcare 06:17 Transforming Humana's Illinois Market 09:09 Leadership Lessons from Humana 12:12 Taking Risks for Career Growth 15:09 The Impact of Virta Health 18:13 Sales Leadership Insights 21:12 Building a Sales Organization 24:01 Evaluating Sales Talent 28:40 The Importance of Data-Driven Leadership 30:52 Founding Cylinder: Mission and Inspiration 33:40 Understanding the Scale of Gut Health Issues 37:33 Cylinder's Impact on Healthcare Costs 41:47 Patient Experiences and the Importance of Support 46:33 Future Innovations and AI in Healthcare 49:41 Personal Health Practices and Their Impact 57:40 Outro
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| Episode 12: Torben Nielsen, CEO at Uptiv Health | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:52:25 | |
Welcome back to another phenomenal episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast. This week our host Norm Volsky interviews Torben Nielsen, CEO and co-founder of Uptiv Health. Torben shares his journey from working with major brands like Lego and Xerox to making a significant impact in the healthcare industry. He discusses the founding of HealthSpark, its rapid growth, and the importance of transparency in healthcare. The conversation also delves into hiring philosophies, product evolution, challenges in the healthcare landscape, and the merger of HealthSparq with Kairos. Torben reflects on his transition to corporate venture capital and his experience leading ZoomCare through a pivotal shift to virtual care during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this conversation, Torben discusses the evolution of healthcare delivery through the lens of Uptiv Health, emphasizing the importance of virtual care, human-centered design, and the integration of technology in improving patient experiences and outcomes. He highlights the need for a hybrid model of care that combines in-person and virtual services, the significance of cost savings through direct contracting, and the potential of AI in transforming infusion therapy. The discussion also touches on the personal health practices that keep him grounded as a healthcare entrepreneur. Be sure to like and subscribe to our channel!
Takeaways 🌱 Healthcare found me, it was a natural transition.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Torben Nielsen and Uptiv Health 06:46 The Growth of HealthSpark: Achieving Rapid Success 14:14 Evolving Products: Adapting to Market Needs 20:07 The Merger of HealthSpark and Kairos 26:28 Understanding the Healthcare System: A Holistic View 33:25 Founding Uptive Health 38:32 Geographic Expansion and Patient Demographics 46:02 Patient-Centric Innovations 52:24 Cost Savings through Direct Contracting
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