Digital Health Heavyweights

Welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights hosted by Norm Volsky!In Episode 30, we are joined by Matt Herman, a seasoned executive in healthcare investing, who shares his insights and experiences. He discusses his inspiration for entering healthcare with a finance background and his role at Ascension Ventures. Matt highlights the success of the model and the factors that contribute to achieving outsized financial returns. He also talks about the impact of COVID-19 on the healthcare sector and how his team navigated the challenges during that time. Matt shares his advice for founders raising funds and discusses the future of venture firms in the healthcare space. He also shares his personal strategies for managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.Takeaways:💰 Combining a love for mission and business can be achieved through healthcare venture investing.🤝Building a community and fostering relationships with health systems can provide strategic value beyond capital investment.⤴ Early success is critical in building credibility and attracting investors.💫Differentiated models and shared services can set venture firms apart and provide additional value to portfolio companies.🏋️‍♂️Investing in founders with grit, resilience, and an openness to new ideas is key to success.Chapters:00:00Introduction and Background01:27Inspiration to Enter Healthcare05:04Success of the Model07:15Navigating the Diverse Landscape of Startups08:38Achieving Outsized Financial Returns09:50Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Sector11:26Onboarding LPs14:32Delivering Strategic Value to Health Systems15:59Notable Investments and Success Stories19:08Identifying Red Flags in Founders23:05Bullish on Emerging Trends and Technologies25:26Differentiating Venture Firms in the Healthcare Space28:38Adding Value Post-Investment32:17Advice for Founders Raising Funds35:30Venture Firms of the Future40:30Managing Stress and De-Stressing41:52Healthy Recipes and Eating HabitsFollow, 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

On Episode 29 of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast, Norm interviews Joe Murad, CEO of Vida Health. Joe discusses his journey in digital health, focusing on business flexibility and lessons from health benefits ventures. He emphasizes Vida's impact in virtual cardio metabolic care, detailing the integrated care model, personalized coaching, and data-driven clinical outcomes. Joe shares insights on leadership, GLP-1 drugs, Vida's integration with PBMs, and keys to commercial success in healthcare. Predictions for the future include increased transparency, value-based care, and integrated service delivery. Joe also shares personal wellness practices and a preview of his upcoming GLP-1 drugs panel discussion.Our Takeaways from this episode 👇🏼💡 Focus and flexibility are important in business, allowing for adaptation and seizing opportunities.💡 Building a sustainable business with differentiated capabilities is key to success in the healthcare industry.💡 Precision pharmacy and following recommended clinical pathways can greatly improve health outcomes.💡 When fundraising, it is important to have a solid plan and demonstrate how the capital will lead to cashflow break even. 💡 Integrated care delivery models that combine personalized coaching and data are crucial for achieving clinical outcomes.💡 Companies in the healthcare space should prioritize team building and foster a culture of excellence.💡 A balanced approach that combines behavioral change and medication is necessary for effective obesity management.💡 Integration with PBMs can streamline the prior authorization process and improve the member experience.💡 The future of healthcare will involve increased transparency, value-based care models, and integrated service delivery.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Background01:28 Transition into Healthcare04:43 Balancing Focus and Flexibility in Business07:36 Transitioning to a Larger Entity08:07 Impact of Extend Health on Health Benefits09:15 Improving the Quality of Life for Retirees10:08 Joining PocketDoc as President and CEO11:01 PocketDoc's Approach and Value in the Market12:07 Focusing on Pragmatic Components of Service Delivery14:03 Lessons Learned from Acquisitions15:31 Disrupting the Pharmacy Benefit Management Space18:04 WithMe's Approach and Impact in the Market19:44 The Importance of Precision Pharmacy21:24 Fundraising Tips for Founders22:47 Joining Vida as CEO23:39 Vida's Mission and Impact24:03 Integrated Care Delivery Model25:08 Opportunity and Momentum at Vida27:05 Leadership Philosophy28:25 Fostering a Culture of Excellence29:39 GLP-1 Drugs and Obesity Management31:19 Unintended Consequences of Overprescribing GLP-1 Drugs32:14 Integration with PBMs for Prior Authorization33:15 Member Experience at VIDA34:14 Sales and Leading a Company35:22 Commercial Success in the Healthcare Space36:21 Predictions for the Future of Healthcare41:24 Personal Wellness and Stress Management43:31 Healthy Recipes and Balanced Eating45:01 Panel Discussion on GLP-1 DrugsFollow, 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 to this insightful episode featuring Cheryl Cheng, founder and CEO of Vive Collective, as she joins Norm Volsky to delve into the dynamic world of venture capital. With a background steeped in finance and venture capital, Cheryl shares her invaluable experiences from her time at Blue Run Ventures, shedding light on the intricacies of the industry. Throughout the conversation, Cheryl underscores the importance of grasping the business side of venture capital and navigating the unique challenges within healthcare. She offers her perspective on investment strategies, emphasizing transparency and collaboration as essential components of the process. Cheryl explores the qualities she seeks in founders, stressing the significance of integrity, maturity, and practicality, particularly in the healthcare sector. Furthermore, she provides invaluable advice for entrepreneurs navigating fundraising in a competitive market, while also addressing the vital aspects of maintaining wellness amidst the demands of the job. As the discussion unfolds, Cheryl shares her takeaways and insights, touching upon crucial elements such as market timing, leadership, and the significance of emotional intelligence in the VC landscape. Additionally, she outlines her areas of interest for investments, including pharma tech, back-office, and oncology spaces. Join us for a deep dive into the world of venture capital, where Cheryl Cheng's wealth of knowledge offers invaluable guidance for both investors and entrepreneurs alike. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation! Chapters:Cheryl's Background and Venture Experience03:18Lessons from Blue Run Ventures05:34Lessons from Successful Investments08:35Lessons from Investments that Didn't Go Well11:02Starting Veev Collective26:45Building Veev Collective33:44Investments at Veev Collective44:36Transparency and Collaboration in Investing45:05Characteristics of Founders46:31Importance of Analysis, Decision-Making, and Strong Operators47:29The Need for Strong Operators in a Sluggish Market48:25Maturity and Stepping Aside for Strong Leadership49:34Integrity and Understanding the Business in Founders50:01Avoiding Scaling Too Quickly and Understanding Healthcare51:28Defining a Great Operator52:29Building a High-Performing Team and Cross-Functional Cooperation53:54Hiring, Firing, and Leveling Up the Team55:03The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in VC56:08Organizational Issues in Tech Companies57:12Advice for Founders Raising Money in a Difficult Market58:40Fundraising Process and Managing Existing Board and Investors01:01:30Areas of Interest for Investments01:05:07Balancing a Stressful Job with Wellness01:09:55Healthy Recipes and CommunityFollow, 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

In this episode of Digital Health Heavyweights, we have the honor of speaking with Snezana Mahon, Pharm.D., the dynamic COO of Transcarent and a trailblazer in innovative healthcare solutions. With a rich background at Express Scripts and Evernorth, Snezana brings a wealth of experience and clinical expertise to the forefront of digital health.Join us as we delve into Snezana's inspiring journey, exploring her motivation to join the healthcare industry, rise through the ranks at Express Scripts, and eventually take on the role of COO at Transcarent. We unravel industry insights and gain valuable tips for professionals aspiring to succeed in the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare.Throughout the conversation, Snezana shares how her PharmD has shaped her digital health career, emphasizing the importance of clinical perspectives in a field often criticized for a lack of clinicians. Discover the transformative mission of Transcarent and how it aims to reshape the healthcare experience, offering insights into predictive data utilization, PBM solutions, and strategic partnerships.As we navigate through Snezana's experiences and challenges at Transcarent, we also explore the exciting Transcarent Weight Health Solution and her bold predictions for 2024 in the digital health industry.Tune in for an engaging discussion that not only unpacks the complexities of the healthcare sector but also provides a glimpse into the future of digital health. Don't miss out on the insider perspectives and thoughtful reflections of one of healthcare's leading executives.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

Norm sits down with Stephen Sokoler, CEO of Journey, who shares his journey from founding Altrum Honors to starting Journey, a mental health solution. He discusses the unique approach of Journey in proactively engaging employees and meeting them where they are. Stephen emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma around mental health and training managers to support their teams. He also highlights the impact of live group therapy and peer support in addressing mental health challenges. Stephen shares customer success stories and case studies, as well as his learnings in building Journey. He provides advice for founders in the digital health space and discusses the role of AI in mental health. Stephen concludes by sharing his personal wellness practices.What makes Journey Special?-Journey takes a proactive approach to mental health, engaging employees through daily emails, calendar integrations, and other tools to keep mental health top of mind.-Live group therapy and peer support play a crucial role in addressing mental health challenges, providing employees with a supportive community and opportunities for growth.-Journey has achieved significant success with Fortune 500 companies and universities, driving high engagement rates and clinical improvements.-Reducing stigma and creating a culture that supports mental health are essential for the success of mental health programs in organizations.Stephen Sokoler emphasizes the importance of sleep, exercise, nutrition, and meditation in maintaining overall wellness. Great episode if you're interested in how different Mental Health solutions differentiate, and how Journey is making a huge impact!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

In the most recent episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast, hosted by Norm Volsky, listeners are treated to a captivating conversation with Kelly McDevitt, President of Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI). With a rich background in managing Fortune 100 accounts within the healthcare industry, McDevitt shares her insightful journey and expertise. The dialogue spans the transformative landscape of digital health, exploring McDevitt's experiences at Aetna and UnitedHealthcare, while also clarifying the nuanced differences between UnitedHealthcare (UHC) and UnitedHealth Group (UHG). She sheds light on the impactful work of IBI, providing essential data and research to empower employers in making informed decisions about healthcare.The episode offers practical advice for companies contemplating self-insurance, touching on key considerations and highlighting notable vendors like Magellan and Terra Mind. McDevitt's discussion emphasizes essential takeaways, stressing the significance of impressive clinical data, personal stories, and audience-centric solutions for founders and vendors in the dynamic healthcare industry. Furthermore, the conversation delves into wellness and self-care practices, with McDevitt advocating for meditation, exercise, and maintaining a nutritious diet through meal prepping. The retirement perspective shared is framed as an opportunity for personal growth while staying connected to the industry through consulting and volunteer work. 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

Welcome to Episode 24 of The Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast! Join host Norm Volsky as he sits down with Warren Templeton, Managing Director at Health2047, for a captivating conversation at the intersection of health tech, product development, and consumer engagement.In this episode, Warren shares insights from his diverse career, spanning co-founding a marketing content creation platform to shaping growth strategies at Fitbit, to now being a Health tech investor. Delve into topics such as Fitbit's monumental IPO, Warren's inspiration for joining Health2047, and the organization's strategic partnership with the American Medical Association.Explore the world of Health2047's portfolio companies, including RecoverX, and learn about the challenges and successes in product formation, GTM execution guidance for founders, and the hurdles healthcare startups face. Warren also provides valuable advice for founders navigating VC meetings in the current financial environment.Don't miss this dynamic episode packed with insights and predictions in the ever-evolving landscape of digital health! 🌐💡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

Join us in this episode of The Digital Health Heavyweights podcast as we delve into the dynamic world of healthcare innovation with Sally Welborn, the Executive Director of Advisory Services at EHIR. With over 30 years of industry experience, Sally has been a driving force in reshaping payer/employer solutions, emphasizing improved quality and reduced costs.Discover key insights into Sally's impactful journey, from overseeing global benefits for Walmart to advising innovators at EHIR. Gain valuable perspectives on healthcare trends, innovation strategies, her tips for emerging founders, and the delicate balance between quality and cost.Don't miss this chance to glean wisdom from a healthcare trailblazer. Check out the episode, and be sure to follow Sally on Linkedin!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

Join host Norm Volsky in an insightful conversation with Gregg Mauro, the Program Director and Senior Fellow at The Conference Board, in the latest episode of Digital Health Heavyweights.With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Gregg founded and chaired pivotal initiatives like the Employee Health Care Council and played a crucial role in steering events such as the annual Employee Health Care Conferences.Discover Gregg Mauro's unique insights into the evolving landscape of employee health, as he shares trends, challenges, and innovative solutions shaping the digital health revolution within corporate settings.Tune in for a concise yet enlightening discussion on navigating the future of employee health and well-being. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from one of the industry's foremost thought leaders.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

Join host Norm Volsky as he engages in a meaningful conversation with healthcare executive Natalie Cummins Chief Business Officer of Talkspace. Gain insights into Natalie's impactful journey at BioReference Laboratories and her belief that healthcare should serve a higher mission than just profitability. Discover her leadership strategies, from negotiating contracts to innovative revenue generation, and how she integrates her values into her professional life.Finally jump into Talkspace’s mission, impact and incredible work as the #1 rated online therapy option for millions, and hear real client stories.Learn more about Natalie's perspective on the healthcare industry, her commitment to a higher purpose, and how she incorporates wellness into her life, enjoying Yin Yoga and savoring butternut squash soup as a health food. Subscribe now to delve into this enriching discussion on leadership, values, and the evolving landscape of healthcare.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