Project Medtech

Project Medtech
undefined
Jul 7, 2025 • 54min

Episode 226 | Bob Roda, President & CEO at HemoSonics | Leveraging Experience & Vulnerability for Medtech Leadership

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
undefined
Jun 30, 2025 • 55min

Episode 225 | Brian Morley, Chief Marketing Officer at Native Orthopaedics & Tino Chow, CEO at Giant Shoulders | Crafting & Aligning Your Medtech Brand for Growth

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
undefined
Jun 23, 2025 • 47min

Episode 224 | Joseph Mocanu, Managing Partner at Verge HealthTech Fund | Rethinking Venture Capital & Achieving Global HealthTech Impact

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
undefined
Jun 16, 2025 • 30min

Episode 223 | Harrison Lands, Director, Translational Sciences at UPMC Enterprises | Investing in Innovation: Inside UPMC's Payer/Provider Model & Life Science Strategy

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
undefined
Jun 9, 2025 • 53min

Episode 222 | Isaiah Kaiser, Co-Founder & CEO at Auxilium Health and Elyse Ball, Vice President at Bounce Innovation Hub | Securing $1.5M and Thriving in the Startup Ecosystem

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
undefined
Jun 2, 2025 • 59min

Episode 221 | Devon Campbell, Christine Johnson, and Dan Tipaldo with Prodct | The AI Co-Pilot: Boosting Lean Startups

In this episode, Duane Mancini interviews Devon Campbell, Christie Johnson, and Dan Tipaldo to continue the theme from episodes 207, 208, and 209 about how startups can effectively 'do it yourself' when budgets are tight, this episode tackles the next frontier: Artificial Intelligence. We acknowledge that resource-strapped startups need to be resourceful, but how can AI help avoid costly mistakes and actually accelerate progress? Join us as we explore practical ways startups can leverage various types of AI – often at low or no cost – to improve internal processes, support essential tasks, and ultimately keep moving the needle forward without breaking the bank. Tune in to learn how AI can become a powerful tool in your startup's DIY toolkit.Devon Campbell LinkedInChristie Johnson LinkedInDan Tipaldo LinkedInDuane Mancini LinkedInProdct WebsiteProject Medtech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn
undefined
May 5, 2025 • 52min

Episode 220 | Joao Rezende-Neto, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer at InventoRR MD | Bridging Worlds of Medicine: Innovation Across Continents

In this episode, Duane Mancini interviews Joao Rezende-Neto on his remarkable journey through the global landscape of medicine and innovation. From medical training in Brazil to a trauma fellowship in the US, exposure to Boston's cutting-edge medical advancements, and experiences in Canada, this episode explores the unique insights gained from navigating diverse healthcare systems. Discover how these international experiences spurred the drive to bring innovative solutions across borders, adapting ideas from Boston for Brazil and vice versa. We delve into the critical considerations of clinically relevant research, fostering effective collaborations between clinicians and business leaders, and the balance of scientific rigor with economic impact. Hear firsthand about the challenges and rewards of being a physician entrepreneur dedicated to advancing healthcare on a global scale. Tune in for a unique perspective on the intersection of global medicine, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit.Joao Rezende-Neto LinkedInInventoRR Md LinkedInAbClo WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medtech LinkedInProject Medtech Website
undefined
Apr 28, 2025 • 43min

Episode 219 | Kelly Collier, Director of Ecosystem Development at LifeX | Steel City Science: Building Pittsburgh's Life Science Ecosystem

In this episode, Duane Mancini interviews Kelly Collier at LifeX on the dynamic life science startup ecosystem thriving in Pittsburgh. We explore the unique synergy between major academic institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University, and healthcare giants such as UPMC and Allegheny Health Network. Discover Kelly's entrepreneurial journey and learn how LifeX provides crucial support and programming for emerging life science companies. We also discuss the common pitfalls startups face and the specific advantages Pittsburgh offers to innovators. Tune in to understand the key ingredients fueling Pittsburgh's rise as a life science hub.Kelly Collier LinkedInLifeX WebsiteDuane Mancini LinkedInProject Medech WebsiteProject Medtech LinkedIn
undefined
Apr 15, 2025 • 39min

Episode 218 | Niki Caporali Spaniel and Chad Gibson at CMD Medtech | Navigating Medtech Regulations: Post Market Clinical Follow-up to Cybersecurity

In this episode, Duane Mancini explores the critical aspects of medtech regulation and product development with Niki Caporali Spaniel and Chad Gibson of CMD Medtech. Niki shares her expertise in post-market clinical follow-up and navigating the complexities of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR). Chad emphasizes the importance of integrating cybersecurity throughout the product lifecycle, rather than treating it as an afterthought. They both discuss the significance of robust design controls, the pitfalls of inadequate planning, and the power of leveraging professional networks. The conversation highlights how regulatory considerations should inform decisions across all business functions, and the crucial role of thorough market research in achieving success. Tune in for valuable insights on building compliant, secure, and market-ready medical devices.Niki Caporali Spaniel LinkedIn Chad Gibson LinkedInCMD Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Duane Mancini LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Project Medtech LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Project Medtech Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Midwest Showcase Registration⁠
undefined
Apr 7, 2025 • 50min

Episode 217 | Christin Godale, Executive Director at LifeSciKY and Nicholas Lyktey, Chief of Laboratory Operations at Gravity Diagnostics | The Growing Kentucky Life Science Ecosystem

In this episode, Duane Mancini delves into the life science ecosystem in Kentucky with Christin Godale, Executive Director at LifeSciKY, and Nicholas Lyktey, Chief of Laboratory Operations at Gravity Diagnostics. Christin discusses the collaborative, bipartisan efforts driving innovation in the Commonwealth, including the launch of strategic initiatives and the benefits available to participating companies. Nicholas shares the remarkable growth story of Gravity Diagnostics, from a startup with 30 employees to a powerhouse of 330, highlighting the challenges and successes of rapid scaling. We also explore the partnership between Project Medtech and LifeSciKY and how it is shaping the future of the industry in Kentucky. Tune in to discover how strategic investments and collaborative partnerships are fueling a life science revolution in the heart of the Bluegrass State. Christin Godale, PhD  LinkedInNicholas Lyktey LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Duane Mancini LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Project Medtech LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Project Medtech Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Midwest Showcase Registration⁠

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app