HLTH Forward Podcast

In this episode I am in conversation with Othman Laraki, co-founder and CEO of Color. Othman shared his fascinating journey from tech to healthcare, driven by personal cancer experiences in his family. He and his mother are carriers of the BRCA2 gene mutation, which predisposes them to certain cancers.

Color began as a cancer genetics company focused on making testing more affordable and accessible. Over time, they evolved into a full-spectrum cancer solution with a virtual cancer clinic model in partnership with the American Cancer Society. Their innovative approach brings healthcare to people where they are, rather...

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Jason Carter — grandson of President Jimmy Carter and a force in global health and justice in his own right. As we talk, Jason reflects on the unique balance of carrying a legacy while forging his own path. He shares how his work — from the Georgia Senate to chairing the Carter Center — is rooted in impact, not just identity. He’s thoughtful, grounded, and refreshingly open as he walks us through the shifts he sees in global public health, especially in a post-Covid world, where our interconnectedness is more real than ever.

Throu...

I'm diving into a fascinating topic this episode: how global tariff increases affect our wallets and social connections. With global tariff rates up 57% since 2021, households are spending 7-11% more on consumer goods, leading to a 14% decrease in social spending for every 5% increase in essential goods pricing. The health implications are significant - reduced social interaction correlates with increased depression, chronic stress, and loneliness. I'll share compelling data from countries worldwide showing how economic pressures are forcing people to cut back on social activities.

The good news is communities are developing creative solutions that I'm excited to explore...

In our candid conversation leveraging Fast Company's September 2024 feature, Dr. Oliver Kharraz reveals the harsh realities of healthcare technology innovation. "When we launched ZocDoc in 2007, I watched wave after wave of self-proclaimed 'disruptors' enter the healthcare arena like lions, only to retreat like lambs," he shares, pointing out that 90% of healthtech startups have gone bust. 

The stark truth is that even tech giants like Amazon, Apple, and Google have struggled to make meaningful inroads in an industry that resists quick fixes. With America spending $4.8 trillion on healthcare annually and 73% of adults feeling the system is failing them, K...

In this episode I am in conversation with Jeff Jacques, CMO of Personify Health, who reveals the harsh realities of our one-size-fits-all healthcare system. We'll explore alarming metrics showing how standardized approaches contribute to the $4.3 trillion annual US healthcare expenditure (nearly 20% of GDP), while 30% of medical spending—approximately $760-$935 billion—is wasted on unnecessary treatments and inefficiencies. Jeff will highlight how non-personalized care leads to the 13-20% hospital readmission rates costing Medicare alone $26 billion annually, and explain why medication non-adherence affects nearly 50% of patients with chronic conditions, resulting in 125,000 preventable deaths each year.

Jeff shares Personify Health's grou...

In this episode, I am in conversation with with the President and Co-Founder  of Komodo Health to explore how their revolutionary healthcare journey mapping is transforming patient care in ways no other company has achieved.

What sets Komodo Health apart is their proprietary Healthcare Map™ – the industry's largest and most comprehensive patient-level database that tracks nearly 330 million Americans' interactions with the healthcare system. Unlike traditional data aggregators, Komodo has created an interconnected ecosystem that links clinical encounters, prescription data, insurance claims, lab results, and social determinants of health into a unified, longitudinal view.

We dive into...

In a groundbreaking conversation, Wei Li, President of Omada Health, outlined a transformative vision for healthcare deeply rooted in a profound belief that health is a fundamental human right. Drawing inspiration from a World Health Organization quote that "help is the core of sustainable development," Li has dedicated his entire professional career to addressing the universal health challenges people face globally. His approach seamlessly integrates technology and human connection, focusing on comprehensive, personalized care across chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and musculoskeletal issues. Li emphasizes that the real healthcare challenge lies not in medical appointments, but in the day-to-day...

Medtronic's technological strategy represents a sophisticated convergence of AI, data analytics, and medical innovation, positioned to fundamentally reshape healthcare delivery. Under Chief Technology Officer Ken Washington's leadership, the organization is pioneering a model of technological augmentation that prioritizes human expertise while leveraging advanced computational capabilities. The core strategic approach focuses on developing intelligent medical devices that provide precision insights and predictive healthcare interventions.

The technology framework centers on comprehensive data infrastructure, spanning 70 distinct medical conditions. By meticulously collecting and analyzing patient data through advanced sensing technologies, Medtronic is developing AI-enabled platforms capable of personalized health monitoring and...

95% of rare diseases do not have approved treatments, highlighting the significant unmet need in the rare disease community.The unpredictable symptoms and long diagnostic process for conditions like neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) can lead to debilitating long-term disabilities.There is an urgent need for increased education, resources, and support to address the global diagnostic challenge and financial burden on rare disease patients and their families.

Tamar shares her inspiring healthcare journey, starting as a provider and then transitioning to the life sciences industry after marrying an Air Force member and moving to North Dakota. She now advocates...

In this episode I sit down with a good friend and mentor Rob Fried, CEO of ChromaDex, who shares his remarkable transition from Hollywood executive producer to leader of a cutting-edge nutraceutical company. Fried's journey from producing films like Rudy and Godzilla to helming a science-focused organization dedicated to extending human healthspan showcases the power of reinvention and following one's passion.

Through ChromaDex's pioneering research into NAD+ and cellular health, Fried has positioned himself at the intersection of scientific innovation and consumer wellness, bringing Hollywood storytelling skills to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broader audience.
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In this episode I am in conversation with Matthew Holt, a prominent figure in health technology and policy;  an uncensored discussion on the current state of healthcare. Known for his frank and often controversial opinions, Holt is expected to delve into pressing issues such as the impact of artificial intelligence on medical practices, the ongoing challenges of healthcare affordability, and the slow pace of digital transformation in the industry. We'll explore his views on why many promised healthcare innovations have failed to deliver and what he believes are the most promising solutions on the horizon.

The interview w...

I had the privilege of sitting down with Interwell Health's CEO, Robert Sepucha to explore the future of kidney care in America. The statistics are sobering - chronic kidney disease impacts an estimated 37 million U.S. adults, with over 500,000 relying on dialysis. As I listened to Bobby's insights, it became clear that innovative care models aren't just desirable but crucial. Interwell Health is tackling this challenge head-on, and I was fascinated to learn about its value-based approach. Their mission to improve patient outcomes while simultaneously reducing the enormous $114 billion annual Medicare spending on kidney disease is both ambitious and...

In this episode, I am in conversation with Viz.AI CEO, Dr. Chris Mansi, a pioneer in leveraging artificial intelligence for early disease detection. Our discourse unveiled the revolutionary strides Viz.ai has made in the medical field, particularly in neurovascular and cardiology domains. Dr. Mansi elucidated how their AI-powered platform has dramatically reduced time-to-treatment for stroke patients, citing their flagship product that can detect large vessel occlusions in CT scans within minutes, enabling rapid triage and intervention.

Their AI algorithms have shown remarkable efficacy in detecting pulmonary embolisms and aortic dissections, conditions where timely diagnosis can...

In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking fusion of virtual reality and mental health with Nanea Reeves, the innovative CEO and founder of TRIPP. With nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiencing mental illness each year, and global depression rates rising by 28% since 2020, the need for novel therapeutic approaches has never been more urgent. Nanea's journey into this space isn't merely a business venture; it's a deeply personal mission rooted in her experiences and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.

We'll delve into how TRIPP leverages the immersive power of VR to revolutionize mindfulness and emotional...

In this episode, I am in conversation with Seema Verma, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Oracle Health & Life Sciences.

Seema shared her insights into the company's innovative approaches to transforming healthcare. Verma highlighted Oracle Health's focus on leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics to streamline healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. She emphasized the importance of interoperability in healthcare systems, explaining how Oracle's solutions facilitate seamless data exchange between healthcare providers and institutions. Verma also discussed Oracle Health's efforts to enhance patient engagement through personalized digital health tools and...

In this episode, I am in conversation with Seema Verma, Executive Vice President and General Manager at Oracle Health.

Seema shared her insights into the company's innovative approaches to transforming healthcare. Verma highlighted Oracle Health's focus on leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics to streamline healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. She emphasized the importance of interoperability in healthcare systems, explaining how Oracle's solutions facilitate seamless data exchange between healthcare providers and institutions. Verma also discussed Oracle Health's efforts to enhance patient engagement through personalized digital health tools and their work...

Global aging trends show a significant shift in demographics, with approximately 10% of the world's population aged 65 and over. This proportion is expected to double by 2050, reaching about 1.5 billion people. The old-age dependency ratio, currently at about 14 elderly per 100 working-age individuals globally, is projected to increase substantially in the coming decades. Additionally, the number of centenarians worldwide, estimated at 573,000, is expected to grow more than sixfold by 2050, reaching 3.7 million.

In this captivating episode, I delve into aging research with Dr. Valter Longo, a renowned expert who challenges conventional wisdom on longevity and nutrition. Dr. Longo explores whether aging...

The United States faces significant maternal health challenges, with a higher maternal mortality rate than many developed countries, particularly affecting women of color and those in rural areas. Against this backdrop, Maven Clinic has emerged as a leading innovator in women's and family health. As the world's largest virtual clinic in this field, Maven leverages technology to provide comprehensive, personalized care, offering a unique blend of telemedicine and care coordination services. Their platform connects patients with a diverse network of providers specializing in reproductive health, pregnancy, postpartum care, pediatrics, and more, addressing gaps in traditional healthcare systems and offering...

As a country, we are experiencing mental health crises across all ages.  I sit down with Dr.Jenna Glover, Chief Clinical Officer at Headspace, to delve into the pressing mental health crisis in the United States. 

We are facing alarming statistics, including that 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness annually, 17% of youth aged 6-17 grapple with mental health disorders, and suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-34. Against this backdrop, Glover discusses how Headspace, a digital mental health platform, addresses these challenges through accessible meditation and mindfulness tools tailored for various age gr...

In a nation that cherishes freedom and democracy, the men and women who have worn the uniform and stood as guardians of our liberty deserve the utmost respect, care, and support. Dr. Shereef Elnahal, the Under Secretary of Health at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is at the forefront of this noble cause, ensuring that those who have sacrificed so much for our country receive the highest quality healthcare they deserve.

With an annual budget of approximately $102.2 billion, Dr. Elnahal oversees the delivery of care to more than 9 million enrolled Veterans, a responsibility that he...

On today's episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dorothy Kilroy, Chief Commercial Officer at Oura, the innovative company behind the popular Oura ring wearable device. 

Oura has been making waves in the health tech space by providing valuable sleep, activity, and biometric data to help people optimize their well-being. 

 Dorothy gives us an inside look at the technology and science behind the Oura ring. We'll learn about the key benefits and features that have made it a favorite among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to elevate their health and performance. 

Doro...

In an insightful interview, Dr. Giullian, Chief Medical Officer of DaVita, a healthcare provider serving over 250,000 patients annually, reveals his pioneering vision for revolutionizing kidney care. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology, mental health support, nutritional interventions, and a relentless focus on preventive care and aging, Dr. G spearheads a comprehensive transformation in the nephrology field.

DaVita's strategic leveraging of emerging technologies, such as cloud computing and data integration, is at the core of this revolution. Through their proprietary DaVita CWOW™ (Center Without Walls™) platform, the company is pioneering advanced collaborations across care teams and streamlining workflows to pers...

In this episode, I talk to Dr. Nwando Anyaoku, a physician and public health advocate working tirelessly to address racial and socioeconomic disparities in healthcare.

Dr. Anyaoku shares her personal story of growing up in Nigeria and witnessing firsthand the devastating impacts of inadequate access to quality healthcare. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in medicine to promote health equity.

After completing her medical training in the United States, Dr. Anyaoku spent several years providing care in underserved communities. She quickly realized that while medical treatment is crucial, deeper systemic barriers are preventing...

In this episode, I am in conversation with Neuroscientist and "Godfather of VR" Dr. Walter Greenleaf. He shares his insights on the rapidly evolving roles of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in the healthcare sphere. Greenleaf, whose work explores the intersections of technology and human experience, discusses how immersive technologies like VR are being leveraged for medical training, therapy, and even surgical planning.

The integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies within the healthcare ecosystem is no longer merely a novelty, but a clinically validated practice area. Among the many promising applications...

In this episode, I sit down with the Chief Medical Officer and SVP of R&D Life Sciences at PepsiCo to discuss the company's focus on improving the nutritional profile of its portfolio for the lives they touch every day. 

As a large global business, PepsiCo is acutely aware of the opportunity they
have to offer positive choices for the individuals who enjoy their products. With rising rates of chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity, the CMO explains how PepsiCo is taking a proactive approach to nutrition. PepsiCo is making a concerted effort to provide more n...

In this inspiring episode, we're joined by  J. Nwando Olayiwola (Dr. O), MD, MPH, FAAFP, Senior Vice President and  She shares her powerful personal story of how her aspiration to work in healthcare began in childhood when she witnessed firsthand the profound impact physicians can have on people's lives. This experience sparked a passion that has driven her career journey to the highest levels of healthcare leadership.

Dr. O discusses Humana's comprehensive approach to embedding equity into every aspect of the organization - from the boardroom strategy to the frontline delivery of care. A major focus is cr...

In this compelling podcast episode, I sit down with Dr. Schlosser, the Senior Vice President of Care Transformation and Innovation at HCA Healthcare, to unravel the intricacies of clinically led transformation in healthcare. At the helm of the newly established department, Care Transformation & Innovation, within HCA Healthcare’s Clinical Operations Group, Dr. Schlosser spearheads a visionary initiative to reshape Models of Care in acute facilities.

Focusing on a trifecta of digital enablement, patient-centered approaches, and heightened efficiency, he shares insights into the dynamic world of healthcare innovation. The episode explores the pivotal collaboration with HCA's Information Technology le...

Given the increasing burnout rate in the Healthcare industry and our desperate need to have great leaders in place, the art of cultivating resilience becomes key. In this episode, I am in conversation with renowned Suneel Gupta, a famous Author and Entrepreneur.

Suneel Gupta shares his unique journey through a diverse career background, including law, an MBA, and involvement in healthcare innovation. His story involves entrepreneurial ventures, including working at Groupon and his many struggles in the journey of entrepreneurship. Suneel emphasizes the pivotal moments of failure and the lessons learned from setbacks, such as his experience...

In this enlightening podcast episode, I sit down with Mike, a seasoned automotive executive and COO of Blink, bringing over 25 years of invaluable experience in the automotive and technology sectors. With a keen understanding of the industry, Mike is pivotal in overseeing Blink's sales, business development, and operational aspects, contributing significantly to the company's expansion in the U.S. and globally. The episode delves into the profound transformation in the automobile industry as it undergoes a drastic shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). Mike provides insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with this shift, emphasizing the importance of optimizing...

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, I engage in a heartfelt conversation with Piyush Tewari, a distinguished Indian social entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of SaveLIFE Foundation. Focused on transforming road safety, enhancing access to emergency medical care, and championing urban governance in India, Tewari is best known for his instrumental role in advocating for the passage of the Good Samaritan Law in the country. The narrative unfolds as Tewari shares the profoundly personal origin of his mission—a poignant account of losing a cousin in a tragic accident. This catalyst ignited his unwavering commitment to reforming legislation in In...

In a captivating dialogue with Shyamal Patel, Head of Science at Oura Ring, we embarked on a journey into the heart of the science of sleep and its profound implications for healthcare and wellness. With infectious enthusiasm, Patel narrated how the Oura Ring is not just a wearable but a beacon illuminating the path to optimal health through a deep understanding of sleep patterns. The interview was a testament to sleep's pivotal role in overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of leveraging data to tailor personalized wellness strategies. With its intricate sensors and algorithms, Patel's insights underscored how the Oura...

In this compelling podcast episode, I engage in a profound conversation with Jared Genser, renowned as "The Extractor" by The New York Times, acknowledging his tireless efforts in liberating political prisoners globally. Serving as pro bono counsel to five Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, Genser's impact is highlighted by his representation of figures like Aung San Suu Kyi, Liu Xiaobo, and Ales Bialiatski—individuals whose laurels were earned while enduring imprisonment. The discussion navigates through the intricacies of Genser's journey, unraveling his unwavering dedication, resilience, and profound belief in the inherent right to freedom.

As we explore the pr...

In this enlightening podcast interview with Dr. Momo, Chief Science Officer at Viome, we delve into the profound significance of microbiome research and its pivotal role in maintaining optimal health. With meticulous research and compassionate insight, Dr. Momo elucidates how the intricate ecosystem of microbes living within us profoundly influences our mental and physical well-being.

Drawing on a wealth of scientific studies, Dr. Momo highlights the symbiotic relationship between the human body and its microbial inhabitants. These tiny organisms, residing in our gut, skin, and other organs, play a monumental role in digestion and immune response functions...

" The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man" - Charles Darwin

 I am in conversation with James Wilks, producer of the groundbreaking documentary "The Game Changers," which sheds light on the transformative power of a plant-based diet for athletes and emphasizes its pivotal role in shaping the future of health and nutrition.

Wilks highlighted the documentary's core message: that a plant-based diet can not only meet but exceed the nutritional needs of high-performance athletes. He cited numerous examples of elite athletes featured in the film who have successfully transitioned to a...

In a deeply insightful conversation with Dr. Asima Ahmad, the visionary founder of Carrot Fertility, we explored the nuanced landscape of fertility rates in the US, the imperative role of companies in empowering women with fertility choices, the emerging discourse around menopause normalization, and the evolving trend of delayed motherhood, coupled with the cost intricacies of egg freezing.

With a compassionate and intellectual demeanor, Asima Ahmad illuminated contemporary women's pressing fertility challenges. Fertility rates in the US have been experiencing a steady decline, a complex interplay of societal, economic, and personal factors. These factors have led to...

In an era where mental health concerns have taken center stage, organizations like The Jed Foundation have been instrumental in generating awareness and support for young individuals struggling with mental health issues. In an exclusive interview, I had the privilege of speaking with John MacPhee, CEO of JED , to gain insights into their efforts to address mental health challenges among teens in the United States.

Adolescents in the US are grappling with prevalent mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, exacerbated by factors like academic pressure, social media, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic...

In this episode of the podcast, the spotlight is on Vidya Raman Tangella, a seasoned physician and visionary leader at the helm of Teladoc Health. As she takes the virtual stage, her journey unfolds – a tapestry woven with threads of medical expertise and innovation.

With a voice that resonates confidence and compassion, Vidya delves into the world of telehealth, a realm where distances are bridged and lives transformed, all from the comfort of home. The episode isn't just a conversation; it's a deep dive into the boundless potential that telehealth brings to the table.

Imagine si...

Customer experience, in other words, human experience, is of higher importance in healthcare. Surveys indicate that 80% of us would value an experience that is seamless, integrated, and innovative and, of course, one that is of high quality and is delivered with empathy and good knowledgeable practice skills.

In this episode, I am in conversation with Anika Gardenhire, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Centene, serving 28 million members. She shares her journey as a nurse and caregiver, giving her the front-row seat to witness and learn the waves of human experience in a clinical setting that she now brings...

Diagnostics play a critical role in healthcare. Predicting and preventing diseases early can reduce healthcare costs, reduce emotional stress, and improve precision care and medicine. The future of diagnostics lies at the intersection of good governance, innovation, social impact, and humanity.

The global Digital Diagnostics market size was valued at USD 458.57 million in 2021-2022 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 26.23% during the forecast period, reaching USD 1855.5 million by 2030.

In this episode, I am in conversation with Thierry Bernard, Chief Executive Officer at Qiagen. We discuss the importance of good diagnostics in our...

There are 250 million footballers globally. The United States hosts the top football players through NFL , holding just 1696 players in the last 11 years. Extreme sports come with unpredictable and severe injuries and not to mention the importance of maintaining one's mental health. This begs for attention to longitudinal healthcare planning and engagement.

"Taking on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse, isn't it? If you're comfortable while you're doing it, you're probably doing it wrong." - Ted Lasso

In this episode, I am in conversation with Kelvin Beachum, NFL Player at Arizona...