StartUp Health NOW Podcast

Unlocking Innovation: The Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize and Its Impact on Healthcare There are currently more than 55 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Recent breakthroughs in new treatments and diagnostics provide hope, but there is potential to accelerate the pace of discovery and development. Last year, StartUp Health, in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation’s (ADDF) Diagnostics Accelerator (DxA) and Gates Ventures, the private office of Bill Gates, launched the Alzheimer’s Moonshot. This initiative breaks down silos and fosters meaningful collaboration between mission-aligned founders, funders, and partners, accelerating progress in preventing, managing, and curing Alzheimer’s and related dementias through the support of entrepreneurial innovation. Now, the Alzheimer’s Disease Data Initiative (AD Data Initiative) is backing visionary AI solutions to accelerate Alzheimer’s research with the launch of a new million-dollar prize competition. The goal is to leverage agentic AI – AI that can plan, reason, and act autonomously – to help drive breakthroughs in  Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research. Gregory Moore, MD, PhD, senior advisor to Gates Ventures and the Alzheimer’s Disease Data Initiative, sat down with us to share how you can join the competition to harness AI to radically accelerate Alzheimer’s disease research. The Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize offers $1M to the winner for the agentic AI solution that can generate a powerful leap in the pace, scale, and reach of ADRD research. Drawing from his unique background in both engineering and medicine, Dr. Moore discusses how AI could dramatically accelerate drug discovery and clinical trials by up to 50%. The initiative aims to break down traditional research barriers by harmonizing diverse data sets, from genomics to neuroimaging, making breakthroughs more accessible to the global scientific community. The Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize competition semi-finalist teams will be selected to present at a pitch event alongside the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference in San Diego this December, where innovators worldwide will present their ideas to a distinguished panel of judges from tech, academia, and venture capital. From there, up to three finalist teams will be invited to a final event at the AD/PD International Conference next March in Copenhagen, Denmark. With travel support available for participants, this initiative ensures global accessibility and collaboration. Ready to learn how AI could revolutionize brain health research to potentially detect Alzheimer’s earlier, improve treatments, and work toward prevention and cures? Listen to this inspiring episode that bridges technology and medicine in the fight against dementia. Then visit Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize to learn more and apply by September 12, 2025.     Do you want to participate in live conversations with industry luminaries? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Fireside Chats, Expert Office Hours, and Peer Circles are benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To get involved, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Transforming Healthcare Fundraising: A Revolutionary Approach In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, discover how Rafael Rodeiro, CEO & Founder of Ribon Health, is revolutionizing nonprofit healthcare fundraising through an innovative platform that’s changing the game. From a modest start in Brasilia to developing a groundbreaking “reverse matching gifts” system, Rafael’s journey showcases the power of reimagining traditional giving methods. The episode explores how Ribon’s unique approach provides free donation tickets to individuals, removing financial barriers and fostering a natural sense of generosity. This innovative system not only transforms how people give but also creates lasting engagement within healthcare communities. Rafael also shares his personal growth story and his experience as a member of the StartUp Health community, including how he improved his pitch from a 6.5 NPS score to an impressive 9.5 through persistence and continuous refinement. His StartUp Health membership evolved from initial skepticism to valuable partnerships, demonstrating the importance of community support in healthcare innovation. Key Highlights Include: The concept of “reverse matching gifts” allows donors to engage with health projects without the pressure of traditional fundraising, making giving more joyful and accessible.   Building long-term relationships with donors can create a positive cycle of giving, enhancing community engagement and fostering a culture of altruism.   Community feedback and training can lead to significant improvements, as demonstrated by Rafael’s pitch journey and collaborations. Ready to be inspired by a fresh perspective on healthcare fundraising and entrepreneurial resilience? Tune in to hear how one founder’s vision is reshaping the future of giving in healthcare.   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, speaks with Christopher Jue, CEO & Co-founder of CAREgivers Insight, a leading member of our Caregiving Health Moonshot Community. Christopher, a serial entrepreneur with a personal connection to caregiving, shares the story behind his company’s mission to transform how family caregivers manage care and track their loved ones’ health. Key highlights of the conversation include: Personal Journey & Inspiration: Christopher discusses his experiences as a caregiver for his father, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, and how these challenges led to the creation of CAREgivers Insight. He reflects on how caregiving from a distance sparked the need for better, more efficient solutions. Innovative Solution: Learn about the platform Christopher and his team developed to empower caregivers by giving them real-time access to vital health data and insights. This easy-to-use tool helps caregivers make informed decisions and reduce hospitalizations, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The Circle of Care: Christopher explains the “circle of care” and how the solution benefits not just the caregiver, but also the care recipient, family members, healthcare providers, and insurers. The Power of Collaboration: As a serial entrepreneur, Christopher discusses the importance of collaboration with other health innovators and founders. He shares how the collective efforts of the StartUp Health community are helping to accelerate the impact of caregiving solutions. Future of Caregiving: With caregiving needs set to grow exponentially as the population ages, Christopher envisions a future where caregivers feel empowered, supported, and less stressed – leading to better care for patients and reduced pressure on the healthcare system. Tune in to this insightful conversation to discover how technology can transform caregiving and support the millions of families facing the challenges of chronic illness, aging, and Alzheimer’s care. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Lee Shapiro, managing partner at 7wire Ventures and former CFO of Livongo, shares invaluable insights on navigating the current digital health investment landscape. He emphasizes ROI's critical role in healthcare offerings and discusses strategies for startups to secure funding despite economic challenges. Shapiro also addresses the complexities of engaging with the FDA regarding digital therapeutics and the importance of long-term thinking in health innovations. Join him for guidance on building sustainable business models and thriving in the evolving digital health sector.

From Personal Tragedy to Transformation: Cory Mitchell’s Food as Medicine Mission with EntreVita In this powerful episode of StartUp Health NOW, Unity Stoakes sits down with Cory Mitchell, D.Bioethics, CEO & Founder of EntreVita and a founding member of StartUp Health’s Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community. Cory shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey — from growing up in poverty, losing family to diet-related illnesses, and serving in the Navy, to becoming a public health researcher and now a visionary entrepreneur tackling cardiometabolic diseases and food insecurity with tech-driven precision. Hear how Cory’s lived experience and research background led to the creation of EntreVita, a platform combining AI with real-time meal recommendations to help patients manage chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes. Learn how Cory is thinking beyond software — envisioning a future with robotic kiosks delivering personalized, healthy meals directly in food deserts, gas stations, and eventually even outer space. Key Takeaways: Cory’s transformative personal and professional journey Why EntreVita blends AI + real-time nutrition guidance The systemic barriers to healthy food access — and how to solve them The role of mission-driven community and the power of the Food as Medicine movement This episode is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and reimagining health equity through food. Don’t miss it. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

In this engaging discussion, Jeff Boyes, founder of Thryvly Health Tech, shares his journey from educator to health tech innovator. He emphasizes transforming healthcare by focusing on long-term wellness rather than quick fixes. Jeff highlights the importance of leveraging real-world data and empathy in patient engagement, particularly around GLP-1 medications. He also reveals how Thryvly is fostering sustainable lifestyle changes through technology and community collaboration, aiming to reshape the future of patient-connected health solutions.

We’re taking a short break while we work on our new season, but in the meantime, we’ve got a special encore episode from our archives with Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, to discuss the power of branding and storytelling. In this insightful conversation, you’ll learn: The importance of a strong brand identity for startups Lessons learned from building StartUp Health’s brand that has become synonymous with health innovation How to leverage media and storytelling to amplify your message The benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership program This episode is a must-listen for any founder looking to build a successful and impactful healthcare company. Tune in now and gain valuable insights from a seasoned entrepreneur and storyteller. Stay tuned, and we’ll be back soon with more fresh content!   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

We’re taking a short break while we work on our new season, but in the meantime, we’ve got a special encore episode from our archives where we chat with a powerful force in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease: Meryl Comer, a member of our Alzheimer’s Moonshot Impact Board. Driven by personal experience watching her husband battle the disease, Comer transformed from award-winning journalist to passionate advocate. She is the Co-founder & Board Member of UsAgainstAlzheimers; the U.S. Representative for the Global Brain Trust; and Vice-Chair of WHAM (Women’s Health Access Matters). Hear her story: Witnessing the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s firsthand Taking action through co-founding UsAgainstAlzheimers The critical role of advocacy and policy change The emotional and physical burden of caregiving Comer also shares her insights on: Destigmatizing Alzheimer’s diagnosis Anchoring innovation in the realities of care Treating the source of the disease This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by Alzheimer’s, passionate about healthcare innovation, or inspired by the power of advocacy. Stay tuned, and we’ll be back soon with more fresh content!   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

The phrase “Food as Medicine” has moved beyond buzzwords to become a powerful force in health tech and digital health. From dedicated pavilions at major conferences like HLTH to a growing understanding of its profound impact to StartUp Health’s newly-launched Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, the concept is clear: what we eat plays a crucial role in preventing and managing chronic diseases – often more so than medication alone. Nutrition is not just about sustenance or weight management; it’s a vital tool in fighting disease and fostering overall wellbeing. Beyond its direct health benefits, treating food as medicine offers a unique advantage: it connects us. Sharing meals builds community and belonging, essential elements for human health and thriving that a pill simply cannot replicate. In this episode, we speak with Rich Bennett, CEO & Co-founder of Epicured, a true standard-bearer in the Food as Medicine movement. Epicured delivers medically-tailored meals directly to individuals’ homes, offering personalized nutrition plans designed by a team of expert nutritionists and Michelin-starred chefs, catering to a range of health conditions. We delve into Epicured’s exciting recent developments, including their groundbreaking partnership with Medicaid in New York State. This significant move expands access to their life-changing service to a wider population, particularly those who may not have had the means to benefit previously. Bennett also shares his insights on joining as a founding member of StartUp Health’s Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, highlighting the collaborative efforts driving innovation and growth in this vital field. Epicured is one of the exciting growth stories in digital health today, and they are at a fascinating inflection point. Join us as Bennett discusses their recent successful fundraise and their ambitious plans to scale up production at their “healing food” facilities. This is a pivotal moment for Epicured and the entire Food as Medicine movement. Tune in to hear how they are revolutionizing healthcare, one delicious and nutritious meal at a time. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, we dive into one of the most fascinating innovation stories in health tech. Our guest is Chuck Papageorgiou, CEO of NeuroEM Therapeutics, a company that’s part of StartUp Health’s Alzheimer’s Moonshot Community and is making waves with a radically different approach to treating Alzheimer’s disease — using radio waves. What started as a research study to prove that cell phones cause brain cancer led to an unexpected breakthrough: the very same radio frequencies used in phones appeared to improve brain health in mice with Alzheimer’s. The discovery sparked a scientific journey that has since included promising human trials, FDA Breakthrough Device designation, partnerships, and progress towards bringing this non-invasive, affordable, at-home therapy to millions. Papageorgiou shares how NeuroEM’s wearable headset is helping untangle the brain’s toxic proteins, the science behind this counterintuitive tech, and why the impact could rival — or even surpass — that of current Alzheimer’s drugs. If you’re looking for an inspiring story about accidental genius ideas, bold leadership, and breakthrough innovation in brain health, this one’s a must-listen. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.