In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Lisa Voronkova, CEO of Ova Solutions and author of Hardware Bible: Build a Medical Device from Scratch, to unpack the real reasons medical devices fail, not in the lab, but in the real world.

Lisa shares hard-earned lessons from her own founder journey, including the classic trap of building around “cool tech” instead of solving a real clinical and commercial problem. Together, they explore what founders consistently underestimate: manufacturing realities, clinical adoption, reimbursement strategy and what truly happens after FDA clearance.

This conversation dives into why FDA approval is a milestone, not the finish line and how many startups get stuck in the “valley of death” between prototype and real revenue. Lisa explains the difference between building a prototype and designing for manufacturability, why hospital purchasing decisions are more complex than most founders realize, and how reimbursement can determine whether a breakthrough device ever reaches patients. They also discuss when outsourcing R&D makes sense, where AI is creating meaningful opportunity in medtech, and the single most important question every founder must answer before building anything: Who will pay and why?

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 https://industryignited.com/
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 https://www.instagram.com/industryignited/
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 https://www.facebook.com/industryignited/
𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 https://www.linkedin.com/company/industry-ignited
𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 https://open.spotify.com/show/3TX1L5LPr4lt1UtcSpSvlN?si=7037433a58c54162
𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/industry-ignited-podcast/id1824619671 

Lisa Voronkova
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-voronkova/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ova-solutions/

#podcasts #podcasts #podcastshorts #podcastinterview #podcastlife#businessgrowth #industryignited #drleeanneaguilar #lisavoronkova #innovation #medicine #medicaldevice

Hydrogen is often talked about as the fuel of the future, but what does it actually look like in practice?

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Salim Rahemtulla, President and CEO of PowerTap Hydrogen Fuel Corp, to break down how hydrogen fuel cell vehicles work, where they make sense, and where they don’t. From 20-minute heavy-duty refueling to water-only tailpipe emissions, this conversation cuts through the noise and gets into real-world infrastructure, not science fiction.

Salim explains why hydrogen may not be the best solution for every vehicle, but could be transformative for long-haul trucking, transit buses, forklifts and industrial applications where downtime and payload matter. He also addresses safety concerns head-on, explaining how modern hydrogen storage and fueling systems are designed, regulated and deployed today.

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 https://industryignited.com/
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 https://www.instagram.com/industryignited/
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 https://www.facebook.com/industryignited/
𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 https://www.linkedin.com/company/industry-ignited
𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 https://open.spotify.com/show/3TX1L5LPr4lt1UtcSpSvlN?si=7037433a58c54162
𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/industry-ignited-podcast/id1824619671 

𝐒𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐦 𝐑𝐚𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐚
https://www.linkedin.com/in/salimrahemtulla/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/powertap-hydrogen-fueling-corp/

#podcasts #podcasts #podcastshorts #podcastinterview #podcastlife#businessgrowth #industryignited #drleeanneaguilar #salimrahemtulla #innovation 

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Robert Poe, President and CEO of Olon USA, about what it takes to move a fragile lab concept into a real-world, life-changing medicine—at scale, safely, and with quality. Robert shares his unconventional leadership journey (from combat medic and lab maintenance to CEO), the power of mentors who allow people to learn through failure, and why decisive leadership beats “paralysis by analysis” in high-stakes environments. He demystifies Olon USA’s role in pharmaceutical development—helping clients develop and manufacture the API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) and scale programs from early-stage molecules through clinical phases and commercialization—while highlighting the brutal reality of drug development’s high failure rate and the importance of resilience, partnership, and scientific rigor. Great pharma manufacturing leadership is people-centered and mission-driven—building trust, closing feedback loops, and acting as a true problem-solving partner so promising therapies can reach patients and strengthen the U.S. drug supply chain.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Angie Griffin, Chief Commercial Officer at Third Coast, to unpack what it really takes to scale a fast-growing chemical company without losing agility, safety, or customer intimacy. Angie shares her unconventional path from English degrees to commercial leadership, then breaks down Third Coast’s core growth challenge—when revenue and demand outpace processes—and how the team redesigned critical workflows like order-to-cash by involving the people closest to the work, not just leadership. The key takeaway: sustainable growth isn’t about slowing down—it’s about building the “engine” mid-flight through empowered teams, practical process improvement, and clear operational guardrails that keep a nimble culture intact while scaling for the next decade.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Robert Swint, CEO of ATA Associates, whose 50-year career spans NASA’s Apollo and Space Shuttle programs to some of the world’s most complex accident and failure investigations. Drawing on his 24 years at NASA—including work on Apollo, Apollo 13 recovery, Shuttle avionics integration, and space-station safety—Bob explains how systems thinking, human factors, and rigorous data analysis are the foundation of both spaceflight safety and modern forensic engineering. Catastrophic failures rarely come from a single mistake; they emerge when systems, technology, and human decisions interact—and the only path to truth and prevention is disciplined, objective analysis grounded in science, data, and transparency. From Exxon Valdez and Deepwater Horizon to trucking, marine, aviation, and petrochemical cases, Bob reveals how evolving technologies like instrumentation, 3D scanning, and emerging AI are transforming accident reconstruction from educated guesswork into fact-based accountability that ultimately saves lives.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Tim Mikhelashvili, CEO and Co-Founder of Amedea Pharma, to explore how life sciences can achieve elite performance by borrowing principles from Olympic sports and data science. Drawing on more than 20 years across pharma, biotech, and medical affairs, Tim shares how early exposure to drug recalls and poor manufacturing conditions shaped his mission to raise healthcare quality standards, why traditional metrics fail to drive real accountability, and how organizations can connect purpose, progress, and reward through transparent performance systems. Healthcare organizations don’t need more pressure—they need better accountability models that measure both results and behaviors, empowering teams to operate like championship athletes while improving patient outcomes. From launching the ANCORA platform to hosting the Medical Innovation Olympics, Tim offers a compelling blueprint for turning accountability into motivation and scaling excellence across the life sciences industry.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar talks with Andrew Bish, CEO of BISH Enterprises and Hemp Harvest Works (Giltner, Nebraska) and President of the Hemp Feed Coalition, about what it takes to modernize agriculture when the barriers aren’t just engineering—they’re markets, policy, and perception. Andrew shares how returning to his small-town roots shaped his leadership, how corporate lessons (including what not to do) influenced his long-term approach, and why he’s drawn to “weird problems” in niche crops where real innovation still exists. Hemp’s future in American farming depends on building an entire system—machines that harvest it efficiently, supply chains that make it profitable, and FDA/AAFCO approvals that normalize it as safe animal feed. From designing equipment that boosts combine efficiency to pushing science-based evidence that THC transfer fears are unfounded, Andrew paints a practical vision of hemp as a third rotational commodity that can improve soil health, reduce chemical dependence, stabilize farm income, and accelerate regenerative agriculture—if regulation catches up to reality.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Chandan Manocha, CEO of Player Footwear Company in Delhi, India, to explore how a third-generation manufacturer can be modernized through science, design thinking, and customer-first innovation. Taking over the business at just 19 during COVID, Chandan used the shutdown as a reset moment—revamping operations, shifting from traditional closed footwear into open footwear better suited to India’s hot, humid climate, and helping brands ride the post-COVID surge in fashionable sandals and slip-ons. Chandan explains how great footwear isn’t just style—it’s applied science. By designing from first principles, consulting doctors, conducting gait analysis, and discovering how common foot deformities and flat feet really are, Chandan built a process focused on comfort, posture, and “one product fits most,” while also evolving materials through gradual upcycling and higher natural-content blends. From wider Indian sizing needs to the emerging role of 3D printing and AI, this conversation highlights what it takes to shift culture, upgrade legacy manufacturing, and position Player Footwear for a future global breakthrough design.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Richard Rives Bird, President of Rives Consult, on why breakthrough medical devices don’t succeed on innovation alone—they succeed when founders pair great science with the right commercialization strategy, regulatory pathway, and reimbursement reality. Richard shares how he moved from physics into clinical affairs after a CEO recognized his ability to work with clinicians, and why he pioneered a fractional executive model (before it was mainstream) to give early-stage startups—especially European innovators entering the U.S.—hands-on expertise without the cost of full-time leadership. The conversation delivers a clear, practical takeaway: start with customer discovery and economics (follow the money), define reimbursement and workflow impact early, launch with an MVP and a focused indication for use, and build traction through real sales process learning before handing it to distributors—a playbook Richard uses to “graduate” clients into scalable growth. From FDA pre-subs and faster U.S. timelines versus EU MDR delays to inspiring examples like triple-negative breast cancer monitoring and regenerative medicine scaffolds, this episode is a masterclass in turning life science innovation into market impact.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Sol Bobst, President of Solar Ranch Development Company and ToxSci Advisors, to explore how Texas can meet a rapidly accelerating power demand through practical, scalable renewable energy development. Sol shares how his background as a board-certified toxicologist and applied scientist led him from oil and gas into solar entrepreneurship, and why his core strategy—partnering with Texas landowners to develop distributed solar-plus-storage projects—is designed to bring power online faster than many large projects that stall in the ERCOT pipeline. From agrivoltaics (like sheep grazing and honey bees) to grid-tied battery storage that strengthens reliability during extreme heat and winter storms, the conversation highlights how a distributed, smarter grid can protect rural land legacies, improve affordability, and keep the lights on as Texas load forecasts surge—making the episode a must-listen for energy investors, landowners, and anyone tracking the future of solar and storage in ERCOT.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Dr. Naresh Sharma, CEO and President of NASHERO, a lifelong aerospace innovator whose passion for flight began in childhood and evolved into decades of breakthrough engineering. Dr. Sharma shares how deep fundamentals, relentless curiosity, and world-class collaborations—most notably with Stanford’s Professor Stephen W. Tsai—have enabled NASHERO to pioneer revolutionary carbon composite technologies that dramatically reduce structural weight, eliminate material variability, and improve sustainability in aerospace. From double-double laminate technology and zero-void composites to rivet-free, laminar-flow aircraft structures, the conversation reveals how disciplined innovation, certification rigor, and global perspective are reshaping how aircraft are designed, manufactured, and flown—unlocking safer, lighter, and more sustainable aviation for the future.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar speaks with David Esposito, Chief Executive Officer of ONL Therapeutics, a decorated combat veteran and seasoned healthcare executive who has successfully built and scaled multiple life science companies. David shares how leadership forged on the battlefield now guides his work at the forefront of biotech innovation, where ONL Therapeutics is pioneering a first-in-class approach to preserving vision by preventing Fas-mediated retinal cell death—the root cause of many blinding conditions. He discusses the realities of leading high-risk clinical-stage companies, the discipline required to navigate long clinical trials, and the importance of humility, communication, and purpose when outcomes directly impact patients’ quality of life. Through ONL’s breakthrough therapeutic candidate, ONL1204, David illustrates how courage, compassion, and scientific rigor must work together to advance medicine, move science forward, and give patients a real chance to preserve their sight.

What if the most misunderstood part of a product category isn’t the product people obsess over, but the one that actually determines performance?

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Gary Ramey, CEO of Liberty Ammunition, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, brand strategy, innovation and what it takes to grow in highly regulated, high-stakes industries.

Gary shares his unusual career arc, from classic CPG brand leadership to building major retail partnerships, leading turnarounds and now reinventing how people think about ammunition performance.

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 https://industryignited.com/
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 https://www.instagram.com/industryignited/
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 https://www.facebook.com/industryignited/
𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 https://www.linkedin.com/company/industry-ignited
𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 https://open.spotify.com/show/3TX1L5LPr4lt1UtcSpSvlN?si=7037433a58c54162
𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/industry-ignited-podcast/id1824619671 

Gary Ramey
https://www.linkedin.com/in/garyramey/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/liberty-ammunition/

#podcasts #podcasts #podcastshorts #podcastinterview #podcastlife#businessgrowth #industryignited #drleeanneaguilar #garyramey #innovation 

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Brianne “Bri” Bustos, Chief Information Officer at CCMC, to unpack how modern CIOs transform technology from a cost center into a strategic growth engine. Bri shares her journey across energy, archaeology, and property management, revealing why strong data foundations, deep business partnerships, and relentless communication are the keys to successful modernization. She explains what must be true before AI can thrive, how to drive adoption across 260 unique communities, and the cybersecurity disciplines that deliver the highest ROI. 

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Lawrence “Larry” Richenstein, Founder and CEO of WePower Technologies (GEMS), to uncover how kinetic energy harvesting is poised to eliminate batteries forever. Larry shares his unconventional entrepreneurial journey, the costly lessons that shaped his leadership, and the groundbreaking physics behind GEMS—technology capable of generating powerful, renewable energy from a single push, vibration, or movement. He explains why early adoption is psychologically difficult, how WePower navigated conservative industries, and why smart homes will be the first to embrace battery-free devices. GEMS isn’t just a new power source—it’s a complete reimagining of how sensors, switches, and IoT devices can operate indefinitely without batteries, wiring, or waste.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Lisa Roy, CEO and President of Optimum Energy, a global leader in engineered energy infrastructure and energy-as-a-service solutions. With more than 30 years of experience in building systems, technology, and sustainability—including a senior leadership role at Johnson Controls—Lisa shares how Optimum is helping organizations reduce carbon emissions, ensure energy reliability, and improve operational performance through smarter engineering, lifecycle planning, and data-driven decision-making.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Dr. Laurie Myers, CEO of Hallett Davis Strategic Group, to unpack how science, ethics, and commercialization must intersect to deliver life-changing medicines. Dr. Myers shares her remarkable transition from toxicology research to senior marketing leadership at global pharma giants, revealing how listening, data translation, and ethical judgment drive successful product launches. She also discusses the future of AI in pharma, the growing importance of truth-verified data sources, lessons from mergers and acquisitions, and why resilience and flexibility remain essential for leaders navigating constant industry change. This conversation highlights the power of cross-functional expertise and why today’s pharmaceutical leaders must balance innovation with responsibility.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Stephen Sweeney, CEO of Upright Services, to unpack how small and mid-sized businesses can turn technology from a constant headache into a genuine competitive advantage. Stephen shares his unexpected journey from educator to entrepreneur, the lessons he learned buying and scaling an IT company, and why proactive technology decisions—not reactive ones—ultimately determine a company’s resilience, profitability, and long-term success. From cybersecurity pitfalls to AI’s growing role in automation, Stephen offers practical, real-world insights that empower leaders to grow smarter, operate safer, and build organizations that can adapt in an age of nonstop digital change. 

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar talks with Adam Broadway, CEO of Platform OS, about the future of platforms, marketplace ecosystems, and community-centered technology. Adam shares his remarkable journey from high-school dropout to building companies acquired by Adobe, and how these experiences shaped his mission to help innovators build scalable, secure, and customizable digital ecosystems. Together they explore the importance of data ownership, AI augmentation (not replacement), communities of practice, and the human-first principles behind impactful technology. The most transformative platforms aren’t just built on code—they’re built on shared purpose, collaboration, and empowering real people to solve real problems.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Ali Rezaei, CEO and Nanobiotechnology Researcher, and Maryam Lotfitanha, Marketing Director of Polyean Technology Inc., the clean-tech startup behind K-Lean—a biodegradable, nano-enhanced powder that solidifies leachate, eliminates odors, reduces bacteria, and deters pests in everyday waste. Ali shares how a common household problem inspired him to develop a breakthrough absorbent technology built from food-grade biopolymers and safe nanomaterials, while Maryam describes the challenge of building awareness for a product category consumers don’t yet know exists. Together, they reveal how K-Lean works at a material level, where it delivers the highest real-world impact, and why their move to Canada positions Polyean Technology for global growth across households, hospitals, airlines, restaurants, and waste-management systems. The key takeaway: the future of waste management may start with one simple scoop—transforming messy, smelly trash into a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable process for everyone.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Gabrielle Vasquez Baumeyer, CEO and Founder of Baumeyer Coaching and ACC-ICF Certified Executive Coach, to explore what truly unlocks sustainable leadership and performance from the inside out. Drawing on over 25 years in training, consulting, and executive coaching, Gabrielle shares how real transformation begins with slowing down, increasing self-awareness, questioning limiting beliefs, and learning to truly listen—to ourselves and others. She demystifies the difference between coaching, consulting, mentoring, and training, and explains why high-achieving leaders often resist presence and connection in a hyper-digital, always-on world. From breakthrough moments with clients to her own journey of courage in putting her name on her company, Gabrielle offers practical insights for executives, founders, and emerging leaders who want to lead authentically, build stronger teams, and create meaningful results without burning out.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Thomas Moschos, CEO, agronomist, and dairy production expert at Moschos Farm in Greece, to explore how a multigenerational farm is preserving the authenticity of true Greek dairy while scaling sustainably. Thomas shares the pivotal moment that drove him to bring cheese and yogurt production in-house, how agronomy choices like organic soil health, silage timing, and feed chemistry directly shape milk quality, and why real strained Greek yogurt has nothing to do with the “Greek-style” products found in most supermarkets. From navigating Greece’s financial crisis to winning European Organic Producer of the Year, Thomas reveals what resilience looks like in modern agriculture.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Paul Dempers, chemist and CEO of Demron Naturals, whose science-driven approach to natural formulations is reshaping personal care, home care, and pet care across Africa and beyond. Dempers shares how witnessing the toxicity of traditional detergents sparked his mission to develop effective, ethically sourced, and environmentally safe alternatives—long before sustainability became a trend. From transparent ingredient sourcing and stem-cell-derived botanical actives to localized manufacturing that reduces carbon footprint, he reveals how Demron Naturals blends natural integrity with biotechnology, global regulations, and deep customer listening. 

What does it really take to turn breakthrough medical innovation into real-world impact when lives are on the line and the system isn’t built for speed?

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Joseph Rafferty, CEO of Vestec, a seasoned medtech leader who has spent decades operating at the intersection of innovation, commercialization, and clinical reality.

Joseph shares his unconventional journey from journalism to medtech, revealing how curiosity, deep listening, and humility became his greatest leadership advantages. Together, they unpack what it takes to build durable medical technologies, scale complex organizations, and survive the infamous “valley of death” between innovation and FDA clearance.

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 https://industryignited.com/
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 https://www.instagram.com/industryignited/
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 https://www.facebook.com/industryignited/
𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 https://www.linkedin.com/company/industry-ignited
𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 https://open.spotify.com/show/3TX1L5LPr4lt1UtcSpSvlN?si=7037433a58c54162
𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/industry-ignited-podcast/id1824619671 

Joseph Rafferty 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-w-rafferty-a5579b4/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/vesteck-inc/

#podcasts #podcasts #podcastshorts #podcastinterview #podcastlife#businessgrowth #industryignited #drleeanneaguilar #josephrafferty #innovation 

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Michael Brown, Chairman and CEO of Skyline Robotics, the company behind Osmo—the world’s first robotic-armed window-cleaning system. Brown shares how a shrinking labor pool, extreme safety risks, and rising urban skylines sparked Skyline’s mission to reinvent facade maintenance using AI, LIDAR, computer vision, and real-time force sensing. He explains how Osmo cleans up to three times faster than human crews, captures structural data for predictive maintenance, and creates new career pathways for operators rather than replacing jobs. With global expansion underway in New York, London, and Tokyo, Brown reveals how Skyline is pioneering a safer, smarter, fully digitized future for building exteriors—one robotic sweep at a time.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar speaks with Jeff Monroe, CEO and Chief Innovation Officer of LifeSpaces Innovation Group, about how disruptive sustainable technologies are reshaping the B2B and manufacturing landscape. With over four decades of experience spanning consumer goods, food service, and industrial markets, Monroe shares how his company bridges innovation and sustainability—bringing robotics, AI, and eco-friendly materials like grass-based packaging and compostable films to everyday operations. His message is clear: true progress comes from thinking five to ten years ahead, driving efficiency, safety, and sustainability while creating a better world for the next generation.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Ariadne Dimoula, CEO and founder of Paramount Planet Product (P3RD.Earth), whose groundbreaking innovation in microfibrillated cellulose could replace the world’s most common plastic pollutants—wrappers, lids, filters, and straws—with biodegradable, ocean-safe materials. Drawing from her background as an oceanographer and a family legacy in pulp and paper engineering, Ariadne shares how her company is redesigning packaging from the ground up to mimic nature’s closed-loop systems—where waste becomes nourishment instead of pollution. Her story is a powerful reminder that sustainability isn’t about cleaning up the past; it’s about inventing a smarter, cleaner future.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Skip Giessing, President of the Rotating Equipment Division at DXP Enterprises, to explore how he helped grow the division from $150 million to over $1 billion while preserving the company’s core culture of loyalty, entrepreneurship, and long-term vision. Skip shares how lessons from the U.S. Navy and owning his own business shaped his leadership approach—fostering innovation, empowering regional autonomy, and driving growth through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. His story is a masterclass in building billion-dollar success without compromising integrity or people.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews T’Ray Rutledge, P.E., CEO of Circle R Engineering, whose career spans the U.S. Air Force flight line to founding a design-build firm that turns napkin sketches into working machines. Rutledge shares how aerospace discipline, curiosity, and safety culture shaped his approach to hydraulics, pneumatics, and electric-drive systems across industries from agriculture to steel. He explains how Circle R Engineering helps inventors and manufacturers accelerate innovation with maintenance-friendly, power-efficient, patent-ready designs—demonstrating how precision engineering and servant leadership can move ideas from concept to market with reliability and heart.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Paul Jaminet, Ph.D., Founder and President of Angiex, to discuss a revolutionary new approach to cancer therapy that delivers drugs directly into tumor cell nuclei while sparing healthy tissue. Drawing from his journey through MIT physics, Harvard astrophysics, software entrepreneurship, and natural health research, Jaminet shares how he and his wife, Angiex’s scientific co-founder, developed AGX-101, a TM4SF1-targeted nuclear-delivered antibody drug conjugate now in Phase 1 clinical trials. This conversation explores how physics, biology, and patient-first engineering converge to change the future of oncology and redefine how cancer can be safely and effectively treated.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Erik Visser, CEO of Hamlet Protein, to explore how early-life animal nutrition is shaping the future of sustainable protein. From law and political science to leading global feed innovation, Visser shares how strategy, culture, and servant leadership drive transformation across the feed and food value chain. He discusses how Hamlet Protein’s soy-based specialty proteins improve gut health and long-term performance in young animals, why data sharing and collaboration accelerate progress, and how global leaders can balance sustainability, efficiency, and affordability in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. The conversation offers actionable lessons on building trust, scaling innovation, and leading with empathy in an industry where people—and purpose—still matter most.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Ann Marie O’Connell, professional engineer, MBA, and certified Six Sigma Black Belt, to explore the intersection of process discipline and creativity. With over four decades leading MCU Limited, Ann Marie shares how flexible, physics- and economics-based design thinking can drive real innovation—without stifling imagination. She reveals why true process excellence isn’t about rigid control, but about empowering teams to think critically, identify root causes, and design systems that sustain improvement even in disruption. From digital twins to design-for-manufacture, Ann Marie explains how leaders can balance rigor and empathy to make continuous improvement part of their company’s DNA.

On Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Sara Quintero, founder & chief innovation officer of KarmaChic Marketplace—an e-commerce platform built to scale women-owned and minority-owned businesses. Sara shares how a boutique setback became the launchpad for a human-first, AI-powered marketplace with low fees, geolocation discovery, and a CreatorLab vendor hub for content, analytics, and social scheduling. We cover why storytelling converts, which KPIs matter for small sellers, and how KarmaChic blends video, real-time analytics, and simple dashboards to turn data into action. Sara talks community-building, referrals, and mentorship, plus expanding from Tampa to Texas and Los Angeles—including a Youngpreneur track to reach Gen Z. If you care about inclusive commerce, AI tools that don’t erase the human, and practical growth for makers and service pros, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar talks with Thomas Gilman, founder of Driving Business Growth and former BP executive, about how CEOs can move from running their business to truly scaling it. Drawing on decades of global leadership and financial strategy experience, Gilman reveals the Wall Street techniques that every Main Street CEO should know—from improving business credit and building bankability to mastering cash flow and reducing expenses by up to 30%. He explains how to avoid the most common blind spot in growth planning, why humility is a CEO’s greatest strength, and how to prepare for funding before you need it. Whether you’re growing fast or trying to stabilize, this episode will help you make smarter financial decisions and unlock sustainable profitability.

What does it take to turn an idea into a life-changing medical device? Peter Bonutti, MD explains how mentorship, curiosity and patient-driven innovation led to over 500 patents and 700 licensed products. Learn the importance of persistence, problem-solving, and ethical innovation in medicine. 

 Discover how Peter Bonutti is pushing the limits of medicine. From early orthopedic innovations to opening the blood-brain barrier for neurorestoration, he shares his vision for safer, patient-centered, biologically driven solutions. Explore the intersection of technology, ethics, and healthcare innovation. 

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 https://industryignited.com/
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 https://www.instagram.com/industryignited/
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 https://www.facebook.com/industryignited/
𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 https://www.linkedin.com/company/industry-ignited
𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 https://open.spotify.com/show/3TX1L5LPr4lt1UtcSpSvlN?si=7037433a58c54162
𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/industry-ignited-podcast/id1824619671 

𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐢, 𝐌𝐃 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-bonutti-md-facs-3758b7130/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/realeve-llc/

#podcasts #podcasts #podcastshorts #podcastinterview #podcastlife #businessgrowth #industryignited #drleeanneaguilar #peterbonutti #medicaldoctor #medicine #innovation 

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar talks with LaToya Hinton-Howery, MPH, CEO and Research Director of Next Innovative Clinical Research (Next ICR), about reshaping the future of clinical trials through representation, accessibility, and trust. From Chicago to Houston and beyond, Hinton-Howery is proving that innovation doesn’t just come from labs—it comes from the communities research serves. She shares how her team trains local coordinators, partners with minority physicians, and creates culturally competent sites that welcome participants who have historically been overlooked. The discussion covers inclusive trial design, the importance of diverse investigators, and how community-based research improves both data quality and health equity.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Dr. David Smith, physician, innovator, and founder of DeltaChase and TBI Innovations, to explore how nature-inspired science is revolutionizing medicine. Known for the FDA-cleared Q-Collar—the first medical device proven to help protect against traumatic brain injury—Dr. Smith shares how studying woodpeckers, giraffes, and sheep led to breakthrough solutions in brain protection, sleep apnea, altitude illness, and even dementia research. With over 40 patents and decades of research, he reveals how biomimicry—copying nature’s own designs—could hold the key to solving medicine’s toughest challenges, from the battlefield to the bedroom.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Daniel Williams, CEO of Steel Design & Build, to explore what it takes to construct some of America’s most complex and iconic steel structures—from stadiums and airports to large-scale government projects. With over 25 years in the industry, Daniel shares how he rose from field laborer to executive consultant, leading multi-million-dollar projects through grit, persistence, and people-first leadership. He reveals lessons learned from working on projects like SoFi Stadium and The Hollywood Bowl, why he embraces high-risk builds over easy wins, and how technology—from 3D modeling to AI—is reshaping steel construction. Williams also shares his passion for mentoring the next generation and his vision for creating apprenticeship programs that pass down the wisdom of seasoned builders before it’s lost.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Tal Maor, founder & CEO of Lighthouse Ag (Israel), on how to de-risk AgTech adoption and deliver measurable field results. Combining his background as a farmer, technologist, and business strategist, Maor shares how Lighthouse Ag bridges the gap between innovation and implementation by acting as an integrator and single source of support for growers worldwide. He explains why success in AgTech isn’t just about better technology—it’s about reducing risk, building trust, and helping farmers work with data to make smarter, more sustainable decisions. From precision irrigation and AI-driven analytics to boots-on-the-ground service, Maor reveals how Lighthouse Ag helps clients save up to 50% water and often double production. A must-listen for anyone shaping the future of sustainable agriculture and AgTech innovation.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leanne Aguilar interviews Shawn Kim, founder & CEO of Between Bits, about how the Bitcoin Lightning Network is redefining global finance. Kim explains why Bitcoin’s creation of digital scarcity was a world-changing innovation, and how Lightning makes Bitcoin faster, cheaper, and more practical for everyday use. He shares how his company is pioneering stablecoin transactions on the Lightning Network, enabling instant, low-fee cross-border payments and empowering the 1.7 billion unbanked with only a smartphone and internet connection. From South Korea to Southeast Asia, Kim discusses financial inclusion, regulatory innovation, and the partnerships driving Bitcoin’s next wave of adoption.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Michael Choate, president of Solutions Press and author of Silicon Trenches, to explore the fascinating evolution of technology—from hands-on debugging in the pre-AI era to today’s rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Drawing on decades in semiconductor engineering and product development, Choate shares his proven methods for solving “impossible” problems, building resilient teams, and teaching critical thinking in high-tech environments. He also warns of the growing risks of AI dependency, from energy demand to infrastructure vulnerabilities, while offering insights into how creative minds can shape a safer, smarter future.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, CEO Mark Terrill of OrthodontiCell reveals how a patented bioelectric stimulation device accelerates orthodontic treatment from ~2 years to 3–6 months, cuts pain by 70%, and permanently stabilizes teeth—all while working alongside braces or clear aligners. Terrill explains the science (targeted waveforms that modulate proteins to loosen, move, and re-calcify teeth), real-world outcomes (fewer refinements, no removable retainers), and why a recent AJO-DO study flagged the approach as “best evidence.” We cover patient convenience (25 minutes, twice weekly at home), orthodontist economics (more capacity and >$2K added value per case), and aligner partner upside (massively fewer refinements). Terrill also shares the FDA path to U.S. launch and plans for EU/Japan/India expansion. If you care about orthodontics innovation, faster treatment, and lasting results, this conversation is your field guide.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leanne Aguilar interviews Morgan Templar, CEO of First CDO Partners and founder of Get Governed, on how to build healthy data that powers trustworthy AI and real business results. Morgan shares the pivotal lessons that took her from paper-bound healthcare ops to enterprise Chief Data Officer, then breaks down practical playbooks: diagnosing data debt vs tech debt, mapping unstructured data (email, SharePoint, chats) to reduce legal risk, and using knowledge graphs + ontologies to align definitions at scale. She outlines an AI readiness checklist for CEOs, continuous monitoring to prevent model drift and bias (EU AI Act, NIST-aligned), and how to move from “using AI” to “doing AI” with agents that improve data quality, governance, and ROI. If you’re a leader aiming to make AI safe, useful, and profitable, this conversation is your blueprint.

On Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Charlles Bohdy, CEO of NANEAU, about “supercharged” water powered by nanobubbles/nanoplasmoids and structured filtration. Bohdy explains how metastable nano-gases (hydrogen, oxygen, CO₂, nitric oxide) enhance cellular hydration, vasodilation, and anti-inflammatory responses, enabling applications from NBOT hydrotherapy (a hyperbaric-like soak) to chemical-free oxygenated pools, whole-house water systems, and high-yield agriculture. He shares how on-site purification, vortex structuring, and gas infusion can cut chemicals, boost plant growth, and elevate guest experiences in hotels and spas—while reducing operational costs and waste.

On Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Floris Graziosi, CEO & founder of AYR Water (Bali, Indonesia), on how on-site purification, chilling, and bottling systems let hotels and restaurants serve premium still and sparkling water without single-use bottles. Graziosi explains the operational model—dishwasher-safe refillable glass, tap-and-chill systems with CO₂, HACCP-aligned SOPs, and third-party lab testing—that cuts logistics, reduces plastic waste and CO₂, and lowers total cost while elevating guest experience. He shares adoption wins, pre-opening integration for new builds, and why replacing trucked-in bottled water with on-demand, zero-waste service is the fastest sustainability upgrade in hospitality.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, host Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Jordan Pollack, CEO and co-founder of Sub-Q Bionics, to explore breakthrough innovations in medtech that are transforming the lives of cancer survivors.

Jordan, a biomedical engineer and medical device entrepreneur, shares his journey from Boston Scientific to founding SubQ Bionics, a company developing implantable bionic solutions for lymphedema, a chronic and often overlooked condition affecting millions worldwide. Learn how Jordan and his team are tackling unmet needs in healthcare with resilience, innovation and a patient-first approach.

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 https://industryignited.com/
𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦 https://www.instagram.com/industryignited/
𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 https://www.facebook.com/industryignited/
𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐈𝐧 https://www.linkedin.com/company/industry-ignited
𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 https://open.spotify.com/show/3TX1L5LPr4lt1UtcSpSvlN?si=7037433a58c54162
𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/industry-ignited-podcast/id1824619671

𝐉𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-pollack-81464827/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/sub-q-bionics/

#podcast #podcastinterview #industryignited #drleeanneaguilar #jordanpollack #Lymphedema #CancerSurvivors #BionicDevices #MedicalDevices #BiomedicalEngineering #FemTech #HealthcareInnovation #LifeChangingTech #PatientCare #MedTechStartup

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Steven Ward, founder of ITech Governance Consulting and author of Strategy Before Tools. Ward shares lessons from his journey through business ownership, banking, and IT leadership—revealing why most companies overspend on technology while underinvesting in strategy. He explains how leaders can shift from reactive IT to proactive governance by focusing on clarity, accountability, and alignment with business objectives. From avoiding bloated tech stacks to preparing for the disruptive impacts of AI and automation, Ward offers practical insights for executives who want technology to serve their mission—not dictate it.

In this episode of Industry Ignited, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar speaks with Shannon J. Dobbs, disabled veteran, regenerative entrepreneur, and founder of the Fellowship of Living Systems. Dobbs shares how his team is redefining food infrastructure by converting organic waste into climate-resilient prosperity. From Humisoil technology that transforms biomass into carbon-sequestering topsoil, to blast chiller food rescue systems that repurpose surplus meals, Dobbs outlines a bold vision for circular economies that connect communities, industries, and global supply chains. Listeners will learn how regenerative models can cut waste, unlock manufacturing efficiencies, and empower farmers and municipalities to build community-controlled, climate-smart food systems that are both sustainable and profitable.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar interviews Sara Beth Raab, award-winning fractional Chief Events Officer at SB Events, on how to transform trade shows and large-scale activations into measurable B2B growth engines. Sara Beth explains building an event strategy that aligns C-suite goals with marketing and sales, how to quantify “squishy” metrics like trust, relationships, and brand perception, and practical ways to design neurodiverse-friendly experiences that remove barriers to connection. She also shares a realistic playbook for integrating AI in event planning—choosing tools that solve real problems without creating friction for attendees or teams. If you want events that drive pipeline, culture, and customer loyalty (not just logos on swag), this episode delivers the blueprint.
 Keywords: Sara Beth Raab, fractional chief events officer, event strategy, B2B marketing, trade shows, neurodiversity, AI for events, measurable ROI, experiential marketing, SB Events.

In this Industry Ignited episode, Dr. Leeanne Aguilar sits down with Tal Mund, founder and chairman of BL Energy, to unpack how he helped turn battery energy storage from a blank slate into Israel’s new grid backbone. Mund shares the mindset behind entering complex, capital-intensive markets early, the pivotal partnerships (including top-tier battery manufacturers) that fueled BL Energy’s growth past 1 GWh in contracted projects, and why BESS is the flexibility layer modern grids can’t live without. He explains moving from integrator to asset developer, Europe’s early-stage expansion opportunities (Baltics, Balkans/Romania), and the rising energy demands of AI-driven data centers. Leaders will hear practical lessons on de-risking first-of-kind projects, building trust-based global supply chains, and scaling with software, monitoring, and reliability at the core.