Healthcare Nation
Welcome to Healthcare Nation, the podcast for enthusiasts passionate about the healthcare sector and eager to explore its current state and future trajectory. Join us as we delve into the heart of the healthcare, biotech, and MedTech industries with the help of top thought leaders. I'm your host, Rick Gannotta, with over four decades of experience in healthcare, spanning from the hospital bedside to the boardroom, C-Suite roles in renowned health systems, advising game-changing startups and established companies, and educating the next generation of healthcare leaders. In each episode, we'll bring you conversations with distinguished guests, including innovators, scholars, practitioners...
Analyzing Trump's HealthCare Policy with Emily Evans
Join Rick Gannotta on the Healthcare Nation Podcast as he converses with Emily Evans, top policy strategist from Hedge Eye's Health Squad. They dive into the substantial shifts seen in healthcare just over 100 days into Trump's second term. Topics include drug pricing, tariffs, global supply chains, and the pivot toward more free market solutions. Emily provides an in-depth analysis of the changes in federal healthcare policies and their impacts on the sector, including insights into the funding environment for startups, the role of innovation, and the global implications of these policy shifts. This is a must-watch episode for anyone...
The First 100 Days - and it's impact on Healthcare
In this episode, host Rick Gannotta discusses the significant changes and trends shaping the future of US healthcare during the first 100 days of the current administration. The conversation covers the rollback of Medicaid and ACA provisions, the impact of funding cuts on medical research and higher education, and the potential and risks of Project Stargate, a major AI healthcare initiative. Rick and co-host Joe get into the implications for patients, hospitals, innovation, and the healthcare market. Stay informed on how these shifts may affect the entire healthcare ecosystem.
00:00 Introduction: The Inflection Point in US Healthcare
02:18...
Healthcare Shakeups: Trump's Policies 2.0, Domestic & Global Health Impacts
In this episode of the Healthcare Nation Podcast, host Rick Gannotta and producer Joe Woolworth discuss the major changes and impacts in healthcare policy under the new Trump administration. They cover rapid-fire healthcare headlines, including the resurgence of measles in Texas, the accessibility of Narcan, mental health licensing reforms, and the approval of a new bird flu vaccine. The conversation delves into significant federal workforce reductions at the VA and CDC, executive orders reshaping healthcare with RFK Jr.'s new commission, and budget cuts affecting Medicare and ACA subsidies. The episode concludes with reflections on the broader implications of...
Healthcare Predictions for 2025: AI, Innovation, Policy Changes & MAHA
In this episode of the Healthcare Nation Podcast, host Rick Gannotta and producer Joe Woolworth discuss key predictions for the healthcare sector in 2025. They cover a broad range of topics including the impact of a potential federal shutdown, RFK Jr.'s 'Make America Healthy Again' agenda, the FDA's new definition of healthy food, and advancements in gene-edited organ transplants. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in healthcare, digital health innovations, workforce challenges, and the implications of a Trump administration on the Affordable Care Act. They wrap up with a summary of market growth expectations and potential...
Healthcare Under Fire: A Nation Reflects After CEO Killing

In this episode of the Healthcare Nation Podcast, host Rick Gannotta and producer Joe Woolworth discuss the recent assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. They discuss the shocking killing by Luigi Mangione, a disillusioned software developer, and its broader implications for the healthcare sector. The conversation explores the deep-seated frustrations with the US healthcare system, public reactions, and the systemic issues highlighted by this tragic event. Emphasizing the necessity to balance reform and nonviolence, the podcast aims to ignite dialogue on improving transparency, equity, and trust within healthcare. The episode brings a multi-faceted perspective from personal stories, professional challenges...
Trump's Healthcare Agenda with Expert Analysis by Emily Evans
Join us on Healthcare Nation podcast as we sit down with Emily Evans from Hedgeye Research to delve into Trump's healthcare agenda. From Medicare and Medicaid to MedTech and commercial insurance, Emily provides expert insights on the expected policy shifts under a potential second Trump term. We explore the influence of key figures like Vivek Ramaswamy and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the potential deregulation push, and what it means for everyday individuals. Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on the future of healthcare policy!
00:00 Introduction to the Guest and Topic
02:34 Trump's Healthcare Agenda: Key Differences from...
Political Pulse Check: Biden vs. Trump Debate and Critical Health Issues
In this episode of the Healthcare Nation Podcast, host Rick Gannotta and producer Joe Woolworth address urgent matters in the political landscape, including the assassination attempt on former President Trump and its implications, the RNC's announcement of JD Vance as Trump's VP nominee, and a detailed discussion on the Biden-Trump debate. The podcast also dives into the erosion of political and social trust and the dangers of violent rhetoric and considers the potential future direction of political leadership and policies, particularly in healthcare.
00:00 Introduction and Today's Agenda
00:18 Assassination Attempt on Former President Trump
03:53...
Leading the Gummy Revolution: Trends, Safety, & Innovations with Deltrium
In this episode of the Healthcare Nation Podcast, host Rick Gannotta and producer Joe Woolworth discuss innovative trends in the cannabis and gummy industry. The focus of this episode is a deep dive into the cannabis gummy market, including regulation, research, and the burgeoning growth of this sector, featuring guest Martin Andelman, CEO of Trem. Martin shares his expertise in creating specialized, research-based gummy products aimed at targeted effects such as sleep, energy, and mood elevation. The discussion highlights Trem’s meticulous approach to quality control, double-blind testing, and responsible marketing, including age verification and dosing algorithms for precision. Th...
Revolutionizing Employer Benefits: ClearPoint Health's Innovative Approach
Guest: Jeb Dunkelberger, Founder and CEO of ClearPoint Health
Introduction:
Welcome to the Healthcare Nation Podcast.Today's focus is on policy and the payer space with guest Jeb Dunkelberger.Guest Introduction:
Jeb Dunkelberger, founder, and CEO of ClearPoint Health, specializes in empowering small and mid-sized companies with innovative employer benefit solutions.Background includes C-suite positions in healthcare insurance, a master's in Healthcare Innovation from Penn, and a passion for improving clinical delivery and insurance risk.Discussion Highlights:
Rising Healthcare Costs:Primary drivers include rising costs of claims, underpayment issues in Medicare and...Capitol Gains: Navigating the Hill's Health Hurdles
Host: Rick Gannotta
Producer: Joe Woolworth
Guest: Andrew Barnhill, Director for Federal Policy at BioDelivery Sciences
Show Notes:
Introduction:
Episode Highlights:
Federal Health Policy Overview:
Healthcare Policy and Diagnostic Advancements: Insights from Dr. Bruce Quinn
Episode Highlights:
West Coast Update:
AI and Precision Medicine:
...
Riders on the Storm: Healthcare's Four Horsemen of Change
Episode Summary:
In this riveting episode of Health Care Nation, hosts Rick Gannotta and Joe Woolworth tackle the transformative shifts occurring in the healthcare sector, dubbed "The Four Horsemen of Health Sector Change." They delve into the implications of demographic shifts, technological advancements, evolving payment models, and clinician shortages, providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and future directions.
Featured Topics:
The Cybersecurity Landscape in Healthcare with Judith Germano
Guest: Judith Germano, Cybersecurity Expert and Founder of Germano Law
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Healthcare Nation, Rick Gannotta sits down with cybersecurity expert Judith Germano to discuss the evolving threat landscape in the healthcare sector. With her extensive background in economic crimes and as a distinguished fellow at NYU's Center for Cybersecurity, Judith offers invaluable insights into the challenges and strategies for protecting patient data and healthcare systems against cyber threats.
Key Topics Discussed:
Navigating the Future: Healthcare Innovation with Emily Evans
Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of the Healthcare Nation Podcast, host Rick Gannotta is joined by Emily Evans, Managing Director of Health Policy at Hedgeye Risk Management. With a rich background in healthcare analysis and policy and a stint on the Nashville City Council, Emily shares her profound insights into the current state of the healthcare industry, including labor shortages, the impact of technology and policy, and the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery.
Key Topics Discussed:
2024 Forecast form the Healthcare Nation
Hosts: Rick (Host), Joe Woolworth (Producer)Main Topics:Consumer-Centric Healthcare: Evolution and increasing importance.Technology and AI: Impact on healthcare efficiency and patient care.Workforce Challenges: Addressing the shortage in healthcare professionals.Mental Health Startups: Emerging trends and investment opportunities.Social Media's Role: Influence on health decisions and misinformation.Internet of Medical Things (IoMT): Potential and upcoming trends.Insights:Venture Capital in Healthcare: Trends and predictions.Private Equity's Role: Shaping the healthcare landscape.Market Dynamics: Evolving nature of healthcare services and delivery.
The discussion in this episode provides a comprehensive overview of anticipated changes and innovations in the...
The Search for Truth in a Post-Truth-World
Host: Rick Gannotta
Guest: Dr. Brian Southwell, expert in science communication
Episode Highlights:
Search for Truth in Science and Medicine: Exploring the challenges of communicating complex scientific and medical concepts to the public.Impact of Social Media and Technology: Discussion on how social media and technology shape public perceptions and understanding of science.Navigating Misinformation: Strategies for identifying and countering misinformation in the digital age.Science Communication and Public Engagement: The importance of effective science communication and ways to improve public engagement with scientific issues.Role of Higher Education: Discussion on the role of...The Power of Social Justice in Modern Healthcare: Conversations with Vincent Guilamo-Ramos
Vincent's unique career trajectory, from social welfare to public health and nursing.The challenges communities face in the South Bronx and Vincent’s commitment to addressing them.Insight into the gaps and inequities in the US healthcare system and the need for policy change.A deeper dive into Vincent’s new role at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing and his vision for the future of healthcare in the US.
Spirituality in Healthcare: A Deep Dive into Chaplaincy
Episode Description:
In this episode, Rick and Joe discuss chaplaincy's often overlooked yet essential role in the healthcare sector. With special guest David Cowell, the Vice President for Mission Integration at Dignity Health in Northern California, the trio navigates the intersections of spirituality, healthcare, and chaplains' challenges in a clinical setting.
Key Points:
Unpacking 2024 Healthcare Policy with Andrew Barnhill
Introduction: Andrew Barnhill's background in law, policy, and his stint in North Carolina politics. He is recognized as the show's resident policy expert.New Studio: The excitement of broadcasting from a new studio and reaching out for audience feedback.GOP Policy Discussion: Observations about the lack of healthcare policy discussions in the potential GOP presidential debate.Presidential Healthcare Policy: Examination of the priorities of the Biden administration and past administrations.Big Announcement: Discussing President Biden's announcement on CMS's drug pricing. The White House unveiled the first 10 prescription drugs that will be subject to price negotiations.Impact on the Market: Even...
The Healthcare Sector: A.I. and the G.O.P. debate
[00:02:05] Shift to topic on the global AI landscape.Mention of Rick's LinkedIn post on the AI strategic risk exposure between the U.S. and China.Importance of AI in global health.Highlight: Ian Bremmer's article in Foreign Affairs.[00:03:14] Dive into the AI zero-sum game between the U.S. and China.Both countries combined contribute over 70% of AI research.AI's potential impact on the healthcare sector, especially diagnostics.[00:04:31] The importance of collaboration in the AI sector.Potential countermeasures and strategic planning for international collaboration.Handling cross-border data flows and data-sharing protocols.Balancing shared goals, trust, and national interests.[00:06:13] Intellectual Property (IP...
A Masterclass in Outcome-Driven Innovation
Our Guest: Tony Ulwick is the pioneer of Jobs-to-be-Done Theory and the inventor of Outcome-Driven Innovation® (ODI), a powerful strategy and innovation process with a documented success rate that is 5-times the industry average. Tony has been granted 12 patents for his game-changing innovation practices, which result in products that help customers get a “job” done better.
Key Takeaways:
Culture Shift and IT in Healthcare with Ed Marx
Guest: Ed Marx, The youngest child in a family of Holocaust survivors, hemoved to the United States when he was 10. With humble beginnings, his career began at age 16. He took successive positions over the years as a medical clinic janitor, strategic planner for a hospital, combat medic, and anesthesia tech. It wasn't until he accepted a job as a technology manager for a small healthcare system that he discovered his calling for healthcare. He quickly found the existence of a convergence of three important things. Clinical environments, business operations, and digital infrastructure - a marriage of perfect harmony that...
The Venture Valkyrie
We talk about venture capitalism for healthcare innovators, how to get funded, and healthcare in space for NASA's Artemis Project.Â
Lisa Suennen, also known as the Venture Valkyrie, is a special guest on "The Healthcare Nation" podcast hosted by Rick Gannotta.Lisa's background includes a journey from tech to healthcare, driven by a desire to do good while making money.The current state of healthcare faces challenges with complex systems and misaligned incentives hindering innovation.Technology can improve healthcare if services are optimized and personalized beyond just pharmaceuticals.Private equity and venture capital drive innovation and scaling of h...The Great Vaccine Debate
Mention of the proposed debate between Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Peter Hotez on the Joe Rogan podcast regarding vaccines.Host's view on the importance of debates and exploring the science behind such issues in detail.Brief discussion on the role of big money in these debates and its potential donation to charity.Emphasis on the importance of peer-reviewed studies in such debates, avoiding misinformation.Discussion on the recent loss of trust in institutions such as the CDC and FDA.The conversation turns to the role of social media in shaping people's views and how it's not currently designed...
Reinventing Surgery: From Assembly Robots to Operating Rooms with Sal Brogna
Rick shares an update on the team's efforts to reach out to politicians in the U.S. Congress and Senate to discuss healthcare issues. They're still waiting for responses and hope to make progress soon.This episode focuses on innovation and technology in healthcare, specifically robotic surgery.Joe shares his recent experience on the STEM Plug Podcast, where they discussed robotics in competition.The host introduces the guest, Sal Brogna, who was the COO of Intuitive Surgical, the company that developed the Da Vinci robot. Sal spent 21 years building out the Da Vinci surgical platform, enhancing its capabilities and reliability...
Postscript - June 2023
Rick explains his view that technology is the new biology and its influence on personal health and societyConversation about the emergence of healthcare delivery in the retail sector and its impact on patient careDiscussion about the role of technology, convenience, and consumer-centric care in retail settings like Walmart and CVSExploration of Amazon's entry into the healthcare space with Amazon Care and the challenges of licensing and regulationSpeculation on the potential for a solution to licensing barriers for telehealth practitioners across statesOverview of Walmart Health's goal to be the provider for rural America and CVS's transformation into health hubsExamination of the...
From Digital Black Bags to Sentient Assistants: Revolutionizing EHRs with AI
Rick Gannotta and Joe discuss the guest, Dr. David Butler, who shares his predictions and timelines for chat AI and language modeling systems in healthcare.Dr. Butler's expertise lies in implementing digital health solutions, particularly electronic health records (EHRs), and using lean methodologies for solving organizational challenges.Dr. Butler highlights the current challenges in healthcare delivery, including staffing, high costs, health equity, and the opportunities and pitfalls of new technologies.The conversation delves into the future of EHR technology, with a focus on AI and machine learning. Dr. Butler discusses how AI can improve EHR workflows and alleviate clinician burnout...
From Pipeline to Commercialization - with Stan Miele
Stan's career and experience: Stan shares his career journey from his previous roles to his current position in AQUALUNG THERAPEUTICS CORP. He's leading the commercialization process.Journey to commercialization: Stan discusses the ongoing development of AQUALUNG THERAPEUTICS CORP., an early-stage biotech company focused on addressing runaway or unchecked inflammation and fibrosis.Challenges faced by startups: Stan highlights the evolving challenges for startups in the health sector, with capital raising being a prominent issue. He notes the shift from "hype" to substance in funding, emphasizing the need for substantiated and validated scientific research.Clinical development: Stan shares the unique challenges that...
Poscript: May 2023 - part two
Introduction: Host Rick Gannotta and producer Joe discuss their commitment to provide regular updates on the latest trends and news in healthcare.Healthcare sector in the markets:Q1 2023 saw a pullback in private equity investment in healthcare, possibly due to the post-COVID shakeout.The sector had previously been flush with cash with some less-than-realistic initiatives.The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the resulting complications for accessing capital for smaller firms also contributed to this downturn.Positives and negatives of the current state:Positives: Continued strong investment in models of care, especially with a future focus on Medicare Advantage.Increasing r...
Surviving the Squeeze: Financial Challenges & Opportunities in Today's Healthcare
The podcast features Thad Calabrese, Associate Professor of Public and Non-profit Financial Management at NYU's Wagner School. He has a wealth of experience in financial management theories and techniques for public sector, public services, and healthcare organizations.Thad Calabrese's professional background includes serving on the board for the Journal of Public Administration Research in Theory and Public Budgeting and Finance. He was also with the New York City Office of Management and Budget, specializing in tax policy.Discussing financial management in healthcare, both hosts stress the importance of generating a margin, regardless of whether an organization is for-profit or not-for-profit...
Neurosurgical Innovations; AI/AR and the future with Dr Michael Ivan
Healthcare Nation Podcast discusses healthcare innovation and technology with guest Dr. Michael Ivan, a renowned neurosurgeon.Dr. Ivan specializes in complex brain tumor and skull-based surgery and is an associate professor at the University of Miami.His research focuses on minimally invasive brain tumor management using endoscopic approaches and robotic keyhole surgery.The podcast covers new Alzheimer's drugs and the use of technology such as artificial intelligence in healthcare.Dr. Ivan's work at the University of Miami Brain Tumor Initiative has been a source of hope for many patients.In his practice, Dr. Ivan aims to integrate various data points...
Postscript - May 2023
Eli Lilly's experimental Alzheimer's drug shows promise, slowing disease progression by 35% compared to a placebo, but still needs further vetting and FDA approval.OpenAI's ChatGPT shows more empathy in answering patient questions than human physicians, potentially improving patient experience and addressing physician burnout.AI tools like ChatGPT can be valuable in supporting healthcare professionals and enhancing communication but they must ensure accuracy, reliability, and fairness.Effective AI integration depends on training, user input, and ethical considerations such as informed consent and minimizing bias.A shift towards consumer-centric capitalism in healthcare is driven by increasing patient demands, empowerment, and the need...
Revolutionizing Healthcare: Oracle Health's Innovative Approach with Dr. Nasim Afsar
Dr. Nasim Afsar is currently the Chief Health Officer at Oracle Health, focusing on improving healthcare delivery systems in a data-driven manner.Oracle Health aims to deliver healthy people, healthy workforce, and healthy business by partnering with healthcare delivery systems and managing populations of patients.Oracle Health addresses burnout among healthcare professionals by streamlining workflows and leveraging technology.Oracle's acquisition of Cerner has expanded its capabilities in building a broader ecosystem of healthcare, integrating human management and supply chain data.Oracle Health has a learning health network where over a hundred different health systems anonymously share data for research and...
Empathy, Innovation, and Transformation: Dr. Paul Coyne's Journey in Healthcare and HSS
Welcome to Healthcare Nation Podcast - discussing new and noteworthy healthcare topics.Hosts and guests express opinions for informational purposes only, not tied to specific companies or institutions.Today's guest: Dr. Paul Coyne, VP, and Chief Nursing Informatics Officer at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS).Dr. Coyne's background includes nursing, finance, technology, and being a stroke survivor at age 22.HSS, the world's leading academic medical center for musculoskeletal health, is building a new 12-story clinical building over FDR Drive.HSS transformed from an orthopedic hospital to a COVID hospital during the pandemic.Dr. Coyne focuses on the intersection of clinical...
Navigating the Medicare Maze: Challenges & Opportunities in Healthcare Innovation
Healthcare Nation Podcast features Dr. Bruce Quinn, a national expert on Medicare, business innovation, and federal health policy.Dr. Quinn has been tracking genomics policy since 2006 and authored numerous white papers on CMS payment and coverage for genomics.Dr. Quinn's background includes an MD, Ph.D. from Stanford, postdoc in neuroscience at MIT, UCLA Path and Neuropathology, and an MBA from Kellogg.The podcast discusses the impact of technology on healthcare, including telemedicine, remote care, genomics, and precision medicine.Challenges faced by startups in the healthcare sector include difficulties navigating the Medicare system and aligning with payment structures.Dr. Quinn...
March 2023 HEALTHCARE NATION Wrap UP
Healthcare Nation Podcast; Healthcare Politics & Policy with Andrew Barnhill JD
Healthcare Politics and Policy with Andrew Barnhill, JD Head of Policy and Chief Government Affairs Officer for IQVIA, the world’s largest clinical research organization.
In this episode, Rick discusses Healthcare Policy and Politics, the implications associated with the ending of PHE, Medicaid expansion, data modernization, the impact of technology on access to clinical trials, the future of the CDC, and the upcoming legislative agenda; what’s next for Congress???
Ep. 10 - Leadership in the workplace
Jaclyn shares her insights and advise on the common and not so common issues that challenge leaders at every level of the organization, they discuss the healthcare environment where the stakes are high and each encounter with a patient, handoff to another staff member, miss communication or lack of compliance with protocol can have a significant consequence, the impact of burnout and finally the consequences of misalignment in an organization where the companies mission and leaderships values are out of sync.
On this episode: Creators & Guests
Rick Gannotta - HostEp. 9 - Healthcare Innovation; Uber Health
Topics discussed: what it means to leverage transportation in the healthcare space, influencing access by allowing patients to live independently in their community, present and future relationships with health insurers & provider systems, prescription delivery, meals and other in-home services to patients, what’s next for the Uber Health dashboard as well as Ubers history of maximizing strategy as it continues to dominate their unique market. Â
Ep. 8 - Healthcare Transformation, with Dr Wael Barsoum
In this episode Rick has the opportunity to discuss Healthcare Transformation with an industry thought leader, unpacking the sometimes complicating and challenging issues associated with a health systems responsibility to their communities, value-based care, the role of technology in the advancement of healthcare delivery, payment structures and the new and essential competencies for healthcare executives.
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