
Raising Health
A myriad of AI, science, and technology experts explore the real challenges and enormous opportunities facing entrepreneurs who are building the future of health. Raising Health, a podcast by a16z Bio + Health and hosted by Kris Tatiossian and Olivia Webb, dives deep into the heart of biotechnology and healthcare innovation. Join veteran company builders, operators, and investors Vijay Pande, Julie Yoo, Vineeta Agarwala, and Jorge Conde, along with distinguished guests like Mark Cuban, Greg Verdine, Fei-Fei Li, and Suchi Saria, as they explore the intricacies of these technological advancements and how they can be built and effectively delivered. Together, we can rewrite the script. Welcome to Raising Health.
Latest episodes

57 snips
Jan 9, 2025 • 25min
Super Staffing in Healthcare with Munjal Shah
Munjal Shah, Co-founder and CEO of Hippocratic AI, dives deep into the transformative power of generative AI in healthcare. He highlights the 'voice renaissance' for improved patient communication, particularly for seniors. The conversation shifts to AI's role in 'super staffing' to optimize healthcare delivery and enhance patient outcomes. Munjal also discusses addressing safety in AI interactions, coupled with innovative training initiatives involving thousands of nurses, ensuring that empathy remains at the heart of technology.

16 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 23min
Lessons from Healthcare Infrastructure Pioneers with Jeff Margolis
Jeff Margolis, founder of TriZetto and a pioneer in healthcare technology, shares his journey of revolutionizing healthcare infrastructure. He discusses the evolution of managed care and the challenges of software fragmentation. Jeff highlights TriZetto’s innovative approaches to value-based care and the significance of data aggregation. The conversation also covers electronic transaction standards and the impact of AI on healthcare data, along with the importance of strategic growth in the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

16 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 23min
Rare Disease, Big Impact with Matt Wilsey
Matt Wilsey, co-founder and CEO of Grace Science, shares a deeply personal journey after his daughter Grace was diagnosed with NGLY1 deficiency. He discusses the arduous path families face in rare disease diagnoses and the transformative advancements in genetic sequencing. Matt highlights innovative gene therapies, like AV9, aimed at treating NGLY1, and emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships with scientists such as Nobel laureate Carolyn Bertozzi. The conversation also sheds light on navigating regulatory challenges in drug development.

12 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 31min
Bioorthogonal Chemistry with Carolyn Bertozzi
Nobel laureate Carolyn Bertozzi, renowned for her pioneering work in bioorthogonal chemistry, chats with Jorge Conde about her groundbreaking research. They discuss how manipulating chemical reactions in the body can enhance cancer treatment and drug delivery. Carolyn shares her journey through carbohydrate chemistry during the AIDS crisis, highlighting sugars' dual role in immune responses. The conversation also covers the challenges of translating discoveries into market-ready solutions and insights on bridging academia with biotech innovations.

17 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 27min
Mastering Data with Sajith Wickramasekara
Sajith Wickramasekara, CEO and co-founder of Benchling, transforms biotech workflows through innovative software solutions. He shares insights on the evolution of biotechnology and the crucial role of AI in drug discovery. Saji reveals how structured data can supercharge scientific research, addressing the challenges in integrating modern technology into pharma. He also discusses navigating competition and the startup journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding customer needs in a rapidly changing landscape.

12 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 25min
Build Your Own Provider Network with Dan Rosenthal
Dan Rosenthal, a healthcare expert and former CEO at UnitedHealth Group, shares his wealth of knowledge on building and managing provider networks. He delves into the complexities of payor-provider contracts and the future impacts of transparency laws. Dan also highlights the rise of digital health startups and the innovative potential of AI-driven personalized networks. This dynamic conversation uncovers how traditional healthcare models can be challenged, offering a roadmap for startups seeking to modernize the healthcare landscape.

13 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 28min
The Freedom to Choose Your Own Insurance with Chris Ellis and Adam Stevenson
Explore how ICHRA is revolutionizing health insurance, allowing consumers to choose personalized plans funded by tax-free dollars. Discover the friction caused by traditional group plans in a mobile workforce and how fintech solutions can enhance healthcare spending. Learn about the shift towards consumer empowerment and custom healthcare options, especially in the gig economy. Regulatory changes and innovative models hold the potential to reshape the healthcare market, promising a more flexible and effective approach to health coverage.

Oct 15, 2024 • 28min
From Surgeon to Biotech CEO with Jonathan Lim
Jonathan Lim, CEO of Erasca and former surgeon, shares his intriguing journey from the operating room to biotech leadership. He highlights the critical need for adaptability in the competitive biotech landscape, echoing Darwin's principles of evolution. Discussing advancements in cancer treatment, he showcases promising innovations like targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Lim's unique perspective intertwines the worlds of science and storytelling, revealing captivating insights on funding challenges and the shared complexities of biotech and Hollywood.

53 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 42min
Why Tech Must Disrupt Healthcare Now
Technologists are seen as vital to revolutionizing healthcare, with discussions on making the system more consumer-friendly. The conversation highlights the shift towards tech-driven solutions that enhance patient engagement and experience. Challenges like medication adherence are framed as logistics problems. Innovative ideas like AI and gamification are presented to improve health outcomes. The speakers emphasize a future where technology and traditional healthcare systems collaborate for better overall wellness and access.

6 snips
Sep 30, 2024 • 29min
Medicaid Matters with Marta Bralic Kerns
Marta Bralic Kerns, founder and CEO of Pomelo Care, shares insights on navigating the Medicaid landscape. She discusses how her venture addresses the innovators' dilemma while partnering with managed care plans. Highlighting strategies to improve maternal care, Marta emphasizes tailored care plans for Medicaid recipients. The conversation also touches on the fragmented nature of Medicaid regulations and the need for precise data collection. Additionally, the guests advocate for innovation in Medicaid programs to enhance healthcare delivery and support pregnant women.