Digital Health Heavyweights

Welcome back to the Second season of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast for Episode 4! In today’s interview, Norm sits down with Shawn Gremminger, president and CEO of the National Alliance, who discusses his journey into healthcare advocacy, the role of employers in the healthcare system, and the challenges of misaligned incentives. He emphasizes the importance of direct contracting and telehealth as innovative solutions to improve healthcare access and reduce costs. Shawn also shares insights on the future of healthcare, including the potential shift towards a single-payer system, and the need for better incentives for benefits leaders to drive meaningful change. Takeaways 🚑 Shawn Gremminger leads the National Alliance, focusing on healthcare value. 🔹 His career in healthcare advocacy began unexpectedly after a political campaign. 🏥 Essential hospitals play a critical role in providing care to underserved populations. 🔍 Understanding different perspectives in healthcare is crucial for effective advocacy. 💼 The National Alliance aims to empower employers to take control of healthcare costs. 🔗 Direct contracting can help employers bypass traditional health plans for better outcomes. 📱 Telehealth presents opportunities for improved access but also challenges in cost management. 😩 Employers are experiencing fatigue from numerous point solutions in healthcare. 💥 The healthcare system is approaching a breaking point due to rising costs. 🎯 Incentivizing benefits leaders is essential for driving change in healthcare management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sean Gremminger and the National Alliance02:21 Sean's Journey into Healthcare Advocacy06:42 Understanding the Healthcare System from Multiple Perspectives08:16 Key Learnings from Reservoir Communications Group11:23 Leading the National Alliance: Challenges and Responsibilities13:05 Delivering Value to Employers in Healthcare14:39 The Role of Employers in the Healthcare System17:24 Empowering Employers through the National Alliance19:35 Exciting Developments in Telehealth23:40 Point Solution Fatigue in Healthcare26:25 Vision for the National Alliance30:28 Misaligned Incentives in Healthcare34:08 Learnings and Successes at the Alliance36:29 Policy Initiatives and Legislative Focus41:44 Direct Contracting and Cost Savings45:31 Future of Healthcare: Single Payer System?48:40 Incentivizing Benefits Leaders to Innovate50:29 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Second Season of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for our Third Episode. Today, Norm Volsky interviews Steve Blumenfield, the global head of partnerships and alliances at Willis Towers Watson. Steve shares his journey from strategy consulting to benefits consulting, discussing the evolution of the healthcare landscape, innovations in the early 2000s, and the challenges faced by health plans in engaging consumers. He reflects on his experiences in the PBM industry, the importance of building partnerships, and the trends shaping digital health today. Steve also offers insights into the future of benefits consulting, the role of AI in healthcare, and shares his personal wellness practices. Takeaways 🧳 Steve's journey into healthcare was inspired by personal experiences and family health issues. 📊 The benefits consulting landscape has evolved significantly over the years, with a focus on innovation and client-specific solutions. 🤯 Engagement remains a critical challenge for health plans, as consumers often feel overwhelmed by options. 🤝 Building partnerships and alliances is essential for navigating the complex healthcare ecosystem. 📱 The rise of digital health solutions has transformed the way benefits are delivered and managed. 🤖 AI is poised to play a significant role in enhancing patient care and engagement. 🔑 Vendors must focus on delivering real value to gain trust and establish long-term relationships with clients. 🌀 Point solution fatigue is a common issue, and effective navigation tools are needed to help clients manage their options. 🔮 The future of benefits consulting will involve increased accountability and a focus on cost management. 💪 Personal wellness practices, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, are crucial for maintaining health in a high-stress industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Steve Blumenfield and His Journey02:30 Transitioning from Strategy to Benefits Consulting06:04 Innovations in the Early 2000s Benefits Landscape07:30 Insights from the PBM Industry09:22 Challenges in Health Plan Engagement11:42 Returning to Willis Towers Watson13:43 The Evolution of Digital Health15:21 Building Strategic Partnerships17:12 Lessons Learned from the Past Decade21:58 Proud Accomplishments and Industry Impact26:17 Identifying Durable Digital Health Solutions27:02 Evaluating Solutions for Durability and Engagement29:35 Navigating Point Solution Fatigue31:47 The Challenge of Vendor Promises33:59 Advice for New Vendors in the Market36:26 Current Trends in Digital Health38:29 The Future of Selling to Benefits Leaders40:37 Predictions for Accountability and AI in Healthcare45:03 Personal Wellness Practices and Philosophy49:16 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Second Season of The Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 2! In today’s sit down, Norm Volsky interviews Alan Lotvin, CEO and co-founder of Sequel Med Tech. Alan shares his journey from being a practicing cardiologist to leading various healthcare organizations, including CVS Caremark. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in the diabetes care space, particularly focusing on innovative drug delivery systems. Alan emphasizes the importance of collaboration in healthcare and the evolving role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in making healthcare more affordable. He also shares insights into his personal health practices and the future direction of Sequel Med Tech. Takeaways 👨‍⚕️ Alan Lotvin transitioned from cardiology to healthcare leadership. 🧑‍💼 The importance of recruiting top talent in healthcare organizations. 💊 PBMs play a crucial role in managing drug costs and healthcare affordability. 💡 Sequel Med Tech aims to simplify diabetes care through innovative technology. 🤝 Collaboration is key in healthcare decision-making processes. 📈 The diabetes technology market is experiencing significant growth. ⏱️ Sequel's device offers real-time monitoring and alerts for insulin delivery. 🧠 Mental health is a critical aspect of managing chronic diseases like diabetes. 🏋️‍♀️🍏 Exercise and nutrition are vital for maintaining health and wellness. 🔜 Sequel Med Tech plans to expand its offerings to include type 2 diabetes solutions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alan Lotvin and His Journey 03:05 Transition from Medicine to Business Leadership 05:40 Experience at CVS Caremark and Key Learnings 11:19 The Role of PBMs in Healthcare 17:43 Future of Pharmacy and Drug Pricing 23:23 Starting Sequel MedTech and Innovations in Diabetes Management 27:57 The Evolution of Diabetes Technology 29:56 Sequel’s Innovative Approach to Diabetes Care 36:30 The Impact of Diabetes on Mental Health 39:21 Future Directions for Sequel MedTech 43:11 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Diabetes Treatment 46:17 Expanding Beyond Diabetes: Future Opportunities 48:28 Personal Health Practices and Wellness Insights 53:32 Outro Follow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Happy New Year and welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast! In the first episode of 2025, our host Norm Volsky interviews Tom Cassels, Managing Director at Manatt Health. Tom shares his journey into healthcare, discussing his experiences in consulting, team building, and the complexities of the US healthcare system. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the system as a whole, the challenges and successes he has faced, and the values he upholds as a board member. Tom also highlights current trends in digital health and shares insights on personal wellness and healthy living. Takeaways🩺 Tom's journey into healthcare was influenced by personal experiences with the system. 💼 Building a consulting practice requires hard work and authenticity. 👥 Team building is essential for success in consulting. 🇺🇸 Understanding the US healthcare system is crucial for innovators. ⚠️ Challenges in healthcare can be frustrating but motivate change. 🤝 Humility and candor are key values for board members. 💬 Effective partnerships require trust and open communication. 🚩 Identifying red flags in startups is critical for success. 💪 Resilience and storytelling are core traits for startup founders. 💻 Current trends in digital health focus on AI and chronic disease management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background01:20 Motivation to Work in Healthcare02:55 Early Strategy in Consulting04:34 Team Building and Authenticity05:57 Being a Trusted Advisor07:34 Understanding the US Healthcare System09:19 Challenges and Successes in Career11:46 Proud Achievements and Building Relationships15:04 Values as a Board Member18:09 Partnership with Companies as a Board Member20:20 Philosophy on Team Building in Early Stage Companies22:00 Identifying Red Flags in Digital Health Startups22:48 Qualifying Leads and Understanding Why You Win or Lose26:08 The Key Traits of Successful Startup Founders27:32 Trends in Digital Health: Use Cases, Chronic Disease Management, and Automation32:02 The Importance of Self-Care and Not Taking Oneself Too Seriously42:56 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights for Episode 60!In today’s episode, Norm Volsky interviews Jon Stout, the president of Motivo Health. They discuss Jon’s journey into healthcare, the importance of leadership in career growth, and the transition from corporate to startup culture. Jon shares insights on value-based care from his time at Blue Cross Blue Shield, the lessons learned at AbleTo, and the significance of building authentic relationships in sales. They also explore the mission of Motivo Health in addressing the therapist shortage and the key traits of successful startup CEOs, all while emphasizing the importance of personal health and wellness practices. Takeaways💼 Jon Stout's journey into healthcare began unexpectedly after studying accounting. 👥 The importance of leadership and mentorship in career decisions cannot be overstated. 🌟 Delivering amazing work and having a positive attitude can lead to career advancement. 🚀 Transitioning from a corporate environment to a startup can be challenging but rewarding. 💡 Value-based care was a new concept that John helped implement at Blue Cross Blue Shield. 🤝 Building authentic relationships is crucial in sales and networking. 🍭 Lollipop moments are significant experiences that can change the trajectory of a business. 📊 Understanding the venture capital landscape can enhance leadership effectiveness in startups. 🩺 Motivo Health aims to improve therapist licensing rates and address the therapist shortage. 🌱 Creating a positive company culture involves allowing employees to be their authentic selves. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jon Stout and Motivo Health02:00 Jon's Journey into Healthcare06:02 The Importance of Leadership in Career Growth11:44 Transitioning from Corporate to Startup19:05 Navigating Value-Based Care Contracts23:17 The Challenges of Startup Life24:22 Joining AbleTo and Its Mission27:39 Building Authentic Relationships in Sales32:33 Lollipop Moments: Defining Success in Startups36:52 Transitioning to Venture Capital: Insights and Learnings40:12 Motivo's Mission: Addressing the Therapist Shortage46:58 Key Traits of Successful Startup CEOs49:20 Creating a Positive Company Culture51:30 Personal Health and Wellness Practices53:44 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 59! Today, Norm Volsky interviews Laurel Pickering, CEO of the St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition. Laurel shares her journey from a background in anthropology to becoming a leader in healthcare transformation. She discusses the evolution of healthcare benefits, the challenges and successes of building coalitions, and the importance of employer leverage in influencing the healthcare system. Laurel also highlights the need for integration of digital health solutions and the role of policy advocacy in improving healthcare access and quality. She concludes with personal insights on wellness and healthy living. Takeaways🪶 Laurel Pickering transitioned from archaeology to healthcare through medical anthropology. 🏢 Employers have significant leverage to influence healthcare systems. 💰 The healthcare benefits landscape has shifted back towards first-dollar coverage. 🤝 Coalitions can drive change by getting health plans to collaborate. 😓 Point solution fatigue is a growing concern among employers. 💼 Employers are increasingly focused on the employee experience in healthcare. 🏥 Direct contracting between employers and health systems is on the rise. ❓ The ROI claims made by vendors are often met with skepticism by employers. 💪 Wellness strategies, including exercise, are crucial for managing stress. 🍣 Simple, healthy recipes like air-fried salmon can promote better eating habits. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:15 The Role of Employers in Driving Change07:33 The Evolution of Healthcare Benefits12:01 Bringing Together Stakeholders19:03 Understanding the Target Audience in Healthcare Marketing22:21 Buying Differently: Driving Transformation in the Market26:15 Driving Healthcare Transformation: Leadership Buy-In and Consultant Support32:38 The Vision for the St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition38:32 Policy Advocacy and Impacting Legislation41:41 Employer Priorities: Cost, Employee Experience, and Health Improvement44:33 Employer Expectations and Building Trust with Vendors46:34 The Future of Healthcare: Integration of Point Solutions and Direct Contracting48:25 Reducing Stress and Healthy Recipes: Salmon in the Air Fryer52:12 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 58! Today, Norm Volsky interviews Chris Fisher, founder of BenefitsAlly. Chris shares his journey into the healthcare industry, the inspiration behind BenefitsAlly, and the innovative 3x3x3 challenge that aims to simplify the presentation of employee benefits solutions. The conversation delves into the importance of operational execution, the role of brokers and consultants, and common misconceptions about them. Chris also discusses the future of Benefits Ally, industry trends, and his personal wellness practices, emphasizing the need for clarity and differentiation in the benefits space. Takeaways🌟 Chris Fisher's background in healthcare is deeply rooted in family influence. 🔍 The 3x3x3 challenge is designed for brevity and clarity. ⚙️ Operational execution is critical in the employee benefits industry. 🤝 Brokers and consultants are often underestimated in their intelligence and capabilities. 🏗️ Reputation in the healthcare industry can take years to build and moments to destroy. 🚀 Innovative approaches are needed to keep up with the evolving benefits landscape. 📞 The importance of being responsive and easy to work with cannot be overstated. 📚 Content should be accessible and not gated to encourage learning. 💡 The future of healthcare requires a focus on lowering costs and improving quality. 🧘 Personal wellness practices can help manage stress in a demanding industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chris Fisher and BenefitsAlly05:33 The Inspiration Behind BenefitsAlly12:10 The 3x3x3 Challenge Explained17:01 Value Creation and Networking in BenefitsAlly22:47 Common Misconceptions About Brokers and Consultants30:26 Future Vision for BenefitsAlly36:26 Industry Trends and Areas for Growth44:19 Predictions for the Future of Healthcare46:22 Personal Wellness and Healthy Living51:03 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 57! In today’s episode, Norm Volsky interviews Dr. Madhavi Vemireddy, CEO of Cleo, who shares her journey from traditional medicine to digital health. With over 24 years of experience, Madhavi discusses her roles in various health organizations, the founding of Care Tribe, and the importance of supporting caregivers. She emphasizes the need for integrated health solutions for families, particularly those in the sandwich generation, and highlights the innovative approaches Cleo is taking to address these challenges. The conversation also touches on the importance of clinician involvement in tech, hiring philosophies in growth-stage companies, and personal wellness practices. Takeaways 🩺 Madhavi's journey into medicine was influenced by family expectations.  🔄 Transitioning from hospital care to digital health was a pivotal career move.  📊 Building advanced analytics in healthcare can improve patient outcomes.  🤝 Caregiving support is often overlooked in traditional healthcare models.  🌟 Cleo aims to empower caregivers through technology and human expertise.  👪 The sandwich generation faces unique challenges that require comprehensive support.  💬 Member experiences at Cleo highlight the importance of personalized care.  📖 Real stories from members illustrate the impact of caregiving support.  👩‍⚕️ Clinicians in tech can bridge gaps in healthcare delivery.  🚀 Hiring for growth-stage companies requires flexibility and a collaborative mindset.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Madhavi Vemireddy04:13 Experience at Active Health Management09:39 Founding Care Tribe and Personal Motivation16:40 Combining Analytics with Human Expertise at Care Tribe20:05 Challenges and Successes in Building Care Tribe24:11 Joining Clio and Integrating Services27:46 The Sandwich Generation and Comprehensive Support32:23 Member Experience at Cleo35:45 Impactful Member Stories38:39 The Need for Clinicians in Tech42:34 Hiring Philosophy in Growth Stage Companies45:47 Future of Cleo and Digital Health Innovations47:37 Personal Wellness Practices50:09 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 56!In this episode , Norm Volsky interviews Matt Sydney, founder and CEO of Beanstalk Benefits. They discuss Matt's extensive background in healthcare technology, his transition to CEO roles, and the founding of Beanstalk Benefits. The conversation explores the challenges and innovations in the benefits space, the importance of technology in personalizing employee experiences, and the vision for the future of digital health. Matt shares insights on leadership, funding in a challenging market, and his personal wellness practices, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to employee benefits. Takeaways🏥 Matt Sydney has over 25 years of experience in health technology.  🤝 Leadership requires surrounding yourself with a strong team.  📲 The benefits landscape is evolving with technology and personalization.  🌱 Beanstalk Benefits aims to simplify access to diverse employee services.  💰 Funding in 2023 was challenging but necessary for growth.  🙌 Employee-driven solutions are key to successful benefits programs.  🗣️ The importance of listening to user feedback in product development.  🔗 Consolidation in digital health is a growing trend.  🧘 Personal wellness practices are essential for leaders in healthcare.  🚀 The future of benefits will focus on personalization and accessibility.   Chapters00:00 Introduction to Matt Sidney and Beanstalk Benefits01:52 Matt's Journey in Healthcare and Leadership05:20 Transitioning to CEO Roles and Lessons Learned11:09 The Vision Behind Beanstalk Benefits18:02 Building Beanstalk: Challenges and Successes21:56 Funding and Market Conditions in 202331:05 Future Trends and Predictions in Benefits Space41:03 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast

SummaryWelcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast for Episode 55! In today’s sit down , host Norm Volsky interviews Nikhil Marathe, a senior principal at Juxtapose. Nikhil shares his unique journey into healthcare, contrasting it with the typical paths of many in the industry. He discusses his experiences at TA Associates and SilverSmith Capital Partners, highlighting the challenges and successes he faced in private equity. Nikhil emphasizes the importance of understanding the strengths and weaknesses of founders when investing and shares insights on strategic discussions within boardrooms. He also explains Juxtapose's innovative approach to sourcing deals and building companies, particularly in the healthcare sector. The conversation concludes with Nikhil's personal wellness strategies and healthy cooking tips for families. Takeaways 🌟 Nikhil's path to healthcare is unique, coming from a tech background.  ⏳ Healthcare is lagging behind other industries by about 10 years.  💡 The juxtaposition of innovation in tech and stagnation in healthcare piqued Nikhil's interest.  🤝 Building relationships with entrepreneurs is crucial in private equity.  📈 Success in private equity requires understanding market dynamics and valuations.  🔍 Nikhil emphasizes the importance of domain expertise in founders.  ⚙️ Strategic M&A discussions are vital for growth in healthcare companies.  🛠️ Juxtapose focuses on creative buy-and-build strategies in healthcare.  🧠 Nikhil values openness and a learning mindset in founders.  🥗 Wellness and healthy eating are important aspects of Nikhil's life.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nikhil Marathe04:07 The Lag in Healthcare Innovation07:40 The Growth of SilverSmith Capital Partners13:33 Challenges and Successes at SilverSmith20:22 Proud Moments and Successes at SilverSmith22:16 Adding Value as a Private Equity Partner24:28 Qualities to Look for in Founders27:31 Strategic Discussions that Shape Healthcare Organizations33:09 The Process of Sourcing Deals in Healthcare38:11 Joining Juxtapose and the Concept Development Team41:21 Partnering with Portfolio Companies at Juxtapose43:17 Ideation and Focus Areas at Juxtapose49:34 Reducing Stress and Maintaining Physical Health52:39 Cooking Healthy Meals for the Family54:52 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast