Project Medtech

In this episode, Duane Mancini sits down with Walter Haydock, founder of StackAware and former Marine Corps intelligence officer, to explore the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and startup leadership in the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Walter shares how his military background informs his approach to risk, decision-making, and company building, and offers practical strategies for navigating regulatory challenges, implementing effective AI governance, and avoiding common pitfalls as a healthtech founder. Walter Haydock LinkedInStackAware WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Eduardo Palma, a senior analyst at 415 Capital, a VC firm specializing in cardiovascular medtech investments. Eduardo shares insights on his background, the emergence of Portugal as a VC hub, and the strategic advantages of their Munich base. The conversation explores 415 Capital’s origin, investment thesis, and their unique focus on clinical-stage PMA-track devices. Highlights include the critical role of clinical data, strategies for effective fundraising, and the importance of teamwork between VCs and startups. Eduardo also discusses the challenges and learning experiences of raising a second fund, offering invaluable advice for startups aiming to stand out in their pitches.Eduardo Palma LinkedIn415 Capital LinkedIn415 Capital WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Jessica Richter, a seasoned medtech executive and board member of MedtechWOMEN. With over 20 years in the industry, Jessica shares her extensive career journey from a medical device sales rep, through various leadership roles at companies like Medtronic, to her current independent consulting role. The discussion covers vital topics such as navigating the US healthcare market, effective sales strategies, the importance of stakeholder alignment, and tips for early-stage entrepreneurs transitioning into leadership roles. Jessica also highlights the critical role of diversity in medtech and shares insights on the mission and initiatives of MedtechWOMEN, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering female leaders in the field.Jessica Richter LinkedInMedtechWOMEN LinkedInMedtechWOMEN WebsiteMedtechVISION Conference WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Dasha Tyshlek, Founder & Chief Strategic Officer of StratCraft. An innovator who's bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and market-ready technologies, Dasha shares her fascinating journey from a science-loving student to a leader in the medtech, biotech, and defense industries. Learn how her experiences at Bridgewater Associates and Micro-Ant have shaped her approach to strategic planning and commercialization, discover the mission behind her consulting firm, StratCraft, and the impact of her Biomedical Frontiers podcast. Plus, get an inside look at the upcoming Disrupt Health conference in Jacksonville, where real-world case studies and innovative discussions promise to elevate the industry.Dasha Tyshlek LinkedInStratCraft WebsiteDisrupt Health Event WebsiteBiomedical Frontiers Podcast“Principles: Life & Work” by Ray DalioDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes to the show Aaron DeGagne, Healthcare Senior Analyst at PitchBook. From quarterly reports to market dynamics, Aaron sheds light on significant healthcare investments, including the rise in surgical tools, devices, and the blurring lines between healthtech and medtech. They delve into the impact of global market uncertainties, interest rates, and the noteworthy deals like Neuralink’s $600 million raise. The conversation also explores themes like consumer health advancements, cancer diagnostics, and the potential shifts in IPO activities.Aaron DeGagne LinkedInPitchBook WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes Bob Roda, President and CEO of HemoSonics, to discuss the essential components of building a successful and purpose-driven career in the medical device industry. The conversation explores Bob's formative experiences at Johnson & Johnson and Becton Dickson, the critical need for purpose as a guiding principle, and the continuous process of learning and absorbing information. They delve into practical strategies for building brand equity, the intricacies of the selling process, and the thinking behind acquisition strategy and innovation, including his commercial due diligence on CareFusion. The episode also introduces the value of context and being humbled, highlighting how vulnerability creates connection and why adapting your communication style like a "chameleon" is crucial for impactful leadership.Bob Roda LinkedInHemoSonics WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini welcomes Brian Morley, CMO of Native Orthopaedics, and returning guest Tino Chow, CEO and Founder at Giant Shoulders, to discuss the critical aspects of building and growing a medtech brand. The conversation explores Brian's journey into Native Orthopaedics, the importance of a clear, operationalized vision for startups, and how to effectively balance creative ideation with execution. They delve into practical strategies for achieving brand alignment, identifying when a rebrand is necessary, and leveraging the digital age for reach. The episode also introduces the valuable concept of visionary and integrator roles, highlighting how a strong brand can serve as an integrator to connect a company's vision with its team and partners.Brian Morley LinkedInNative Orthopaedics WebsiteTino Chow LinkedInGiant Shoulders WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini reconnects with Joseph Mocanu, Managing Partner at Verge HealthTec Fund, for a follow-up to their insightful conversation in episode 103. Joseph shares the significant milestones Verge HealthTec Fund has achieved since their last discussion and offers a glimpse into what we can anticipate in the coming years. The conversation takes a critical look at the venture capital landscape, exploring what needs to change and addressing the often-broken feedback loop between startups and investors. We delve into the importance of developing technologies with a global impact, the strategic advantages of a global approach to collecting clinical data, and navigating the complexities of various healthcare systems across the world. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of healthtech investment and innovation.Joseph MocanuVerve HealthTech FundDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini is joined by Harrison Lands, Director of Translational Sciences at UPMC Enterprises. Harrison brings a unique perspective, shaped by his background as a physician, MBA, consultant, and now investor. We delve into the workings of UPMC Enterprises, exploring their investment thesis – the who, what, how much, when, and how their fund operates. Harrison also sheds light on the powerful advantages of UPMC's payer/provider integrated medical system and its impact on fostering innovation. The conversation touches on the vibrant Pittsburgh life science community, Harrison's time at the University of Virginia, and insights from CvilleBioHub. Tune in to understand how a major integrated health system strategically invests and drives translational science forward.Harrison Lands LinkedInUPMC Enterprises WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn

In this episode, Duane Mancini sits down with Isaiah Kaiser, Co-Founder and CEO of Auxilium Health, and Elyse Ball, Vice President of Programming at Bounce Innovation Hub. Fresh off Auxilium Health's exciting $1.5M oversubscribed pre-seed round and new office at Cleveland Clinic, Isaiah returns to share their journey since his first appearance in episode 147. Elyse discusses the vital role of Bounce Innovation Hub in supporting startups and how her journalism background aids in her work. Together, they delve into navigating the regional iCorp program and the JumpStart accelerator, offering invaluable advice for raising capital and maneuvering the startup landscape. Tune in to hear their insights and get a glimpse into Auxilium Health's next major milestones.Isaiah Kaiser LinkedInElyse Ball LinkedInDuane Mancini LinkedInAuxilium Health WebsiteBounce Innovation Hub WebsiteProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn