StartUp Health NOW Podcast

Bridging Home, Family, and Health Plans: Avanlee Christine on Caregiver-First Health Innovation StartUp Health community member Avanlee Christine, CEO & Co-founder of Avanlee Care, joins Unity Stoakes on StartUp Health NOW to share how a pivot from fundraising to customer development unlocked product traction, investor interest, and partnerships with innovative health plans. From Billings, Montana, Avanlee explains why integrating unpaid family caregivers into care workflows improves outcomes, raises satisfaction, and helps Medicare Advantage plans do more with less. In this episode: How shifting focus from pitching to building sparked inbound VC interest, including the first venture investor Why 60% of Medicare Advantage members rely on informal caregivers, and how formalizing that communication closes gaps Practical ways caregiver engagement boosts stars, adherence, annual wellness visits, and CAHPS Lessons from scaling a health tech company in Montana, with support from mentors and investors like Esther Dyson Real talk on resilience, motherhood, team building, and staying alive through tough cycles What health plan leaders, quality and risk teams, and investor partners should know about Avanlee Care right now Listen for: Simple, structured steps health plans can take to bring caregivers into the loop A founder’s playbook for surviving early years, finding product-market fit, and creating momentum outside traditional tech hubs     Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

In this special episode of StartUp Health NOW, recorded in front of a live virtual audience of StartUp Health community members, Unity Stoakes sits down with Vishal Vasishth, Co-founder & Managing Director of Obvious Ventures. Listeners get to hear not only Vishal’s insights on purpose-driven investing but also questions from community members who joined the conversation in real time. Vishal shares how Obvious Ventures backs founders building companies that align human, planetary, and economic health. From pioneering startups reversing Type 2 diabetes to biotech companies harnessing AI to decode biology, he explains why the most valuable businesses of tomorrow will be those solving humanity’s biggest challenges. This conversation goes beyond capital, digging into the role of optimism, authenticity, and creativity in fueling sustainable innovation. If you want to understand how values-based investing is reshaping healthcare and the economy, this is a must-listen. Tune in to learn: How Obvious Ventures integrates purpose into early-stage investing Why healthcare innovation is central to systemic change How AI and generative science are accelerating new solutions The future of outcomes-based models and sustainable growth Whether you’re an investor, founder, or changemaker working to improve health, you’ll come away with fresh insights on building with purpose. And if you join the StartUp Health community, you can attend Fireside Chats like this one in real time and ask your own questions directly.   Do you want to participate in live conversations with industry luminaries? When you join the StartUp Health Network – a new private community for investors, buyers, and industry leaders to connect year-round with top health entrepreneurs – you are invited to a full calendar of interactive Fireside Chats with the most influential leaders shaping health innovation. Come with questions, learn what is working right now, and connect with industry icons. » Learn more and join today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

An insider interview with StartUp Health co-founder Unity Stoakes on our new membership that invites the world’s leading investors, buyers, industry experts, and policymakers to our exclusive member community dedicated to health innovation and achieving health moonshots. We flipped the script. In this special episode of StartUp Health NOW, our regular host Unity Stoakes sits in the guest chair while Logan Plaster leads the interview. Unity shares why StartUp Health is opening the StartUp Health Network to a broader community of investors, buyers, and industry leaders, and how a curated, 24/7 platform helps builders connect with the people who can help them scale. The conversation gets personal and practical. Unity explains his “5 to 80 rule” for communicating ideas that resonate across ages, plus a story about bringing kids into professional spaces to remind us who we serve. You will hear how our online community ties together Health Moonshot groups like brain health, women’s health, diabetes, access to care, and longevity, and why a vetted, niche network can cut through the noise of generic platforms. Unity also breaks down how the membership model removes friction for both founders and the wider ecosystem. For industry and ecosystem members, the StartUp Health Network is a vetted, paid membership that acts as a smart filter, with simple, inexpensive monthly or annual dues. Members get 24/7 access to the online community, curated intros to founders across Health Moonshots, private roundtables and fireside chats with industry leaders, real-time trend discussions, and VIP access to meetups at major gatherings like JP Morgan, HLTH, and ViVE. Investors can compare notes and share deal flow in a trusted forum. Buyers and operators can scout solutions faster, pressure test needs with peers, and shorten the path from first meeting to pilot. Founders continue to have dedicated membership plans with peer circles, weekly office hours, and a robust perks platform that can deliver meaningful savings on tools and services. Unity explains why the membership model removes friction by eliminating equity and complex legal lift, making it simple to participate whether you are pre-seed or scaling globally. What is the StartUp Health Network? A private global community for visionary decision makers, thought leaders, funders, and innovators transforming the future of health. If you are a healthcare executive, operator, investor, or industry stakeholder who wants to stay connected to the people and ideas driving what is next, this is your place to collaborate with: Healthcare executives and operators – leaders inside health systems, payers, and pharma who are shaping the future of care delivery Investors – venture firms, strategics, angels, and family offices backing transformative ideas Mission-driven stakeholders – clinicians, researchers, policy makers, educators, nonprofit leaders, technologists, and ecosystem builders across the health landscape Founders and entrepreneurs – the backbone of our community, building breakthroughs in digital health, biotech, medtech, and life sciences, with dedicated membership plans designed for entrepreneurs Stay to the end for a VIP thank you that unlocks a special rate on Network membership. You can use the code LOGAN at checkout for a VIP rate on an annual StartUp Health Network membership.   Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Unlocking Innovation: The Alzheimer's Insights AI Prize and Its Impact on Healthcare There are currently more than 55 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Recent breakthroughs in new treatments and diagnostics provide hope, but there is potential to accelerate the pace of discovery and development. Last year, StartUp Health, in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation’s (ADDF) Diagnostics Accelerator (DxA) and Gates Ventures, the private office of Bill Gates, launched the Alzheimer’s Moonshot. This initiative breaks down silos and fosters meaningful collaboration between mission-aligned founders, funders, and partners, accelerating progress in preventing, managing, and curing Alzheimer’s and related dementias through the support of entrepreneurial innovation. Now, the Alzheimer’s Disease Data Initiative (AD Data Initiative) is backing visionary AI solutions to accelerate Alzheimer’s research with the launch of a new million-dollar prize competition. The goal is to leverage agentic AI – AI that can plan, reason, and act autonomously – to help drive breakthroughs in  Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research. Gregory Moore, MD, PhD, senior advisor to Gates Ventures and the Alzheimer's Disease Data Initiative, sat down with us to share how you can join the competition to harness AI to radically accelerate Alzheimer’s disease research. The Alzheimer's Insights AI Prize offers $1M to the winner for the agentic AI solution that can generate a powerful leap in the pace, scale, and reach of ADRD research. Drawing from his unique background in both engineering and medicine, Dr. Moore discusses how AI could dramatically accelerate drug discovery and clinical trials by up to 50%. The initiative aims to break down traditional research barriers by harmonizing diverse data sets, from genomics to neuroimaging, making breakthroughs more accessible to the global scientific community. The Alzheimer's Insights AI Prize competition semi-finalist teams will be selected to present at a pitch event alongside the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) Conference in San Diego this December, where innovators worldwide will present their ideas to a distinguished panel of judges from tech, academia, and venture capital. From there, up to three finalist teams will be invited to a final event at the AD/PD International Conference next March in Copenhagen, Denmark. With travel support available for participants, this initiative ensures global accessibility and collaboration. Ready to learn how AI could revolutionize brain health research to potentially detect Alzheimer's earlier, improve treatments, and work toward prevention and cures? Listen to this inspiring episode that bridges technology and medicine in the fight against dementia. Then visit Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize to learn more and apply by September 12, 2025.     Do you want to participate in live conversations with industry luminaries? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Fireside Chats, Expert Office Hours, and Peer Circles are benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To get involved, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Transforming Healthcare Fundraising: A Revolutionary Approach In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, discover how Rafael Rodeiro, CEO & Founder of Ribon Health, is revolutionizing nonprofit healthcare fundraising through an innovative platform that's changing the game. From a modest start in Brasilia to developing a groundbreaking "reverse matching gifts" system, Rafael's journey showcases the power of reimagining traditional giving methods. The episode explores how Ribon's unique approach provides free donation tickets to individuals, removing financial barriers and fostering a natural sense of generosity. This innovative system not only transforms how people give but also creates lasting engagement within healthcare communities. Rafael also shares his personal growth story and his experience as a member of the StartUp Health community, including how he improved his pitch from a 6.5 NPS score to an impressive 9.5 through persistence and continuous refinement. His StartUp Health membership evolved from initial skepticism to valuable partnerships, demonstrating the importance of community support in healthcare innovation. Key Highlights Include: The concept of "reverse matching gifts" allows donors to engage with health projects without the pressure of traditional fundraising, making giving more joyful and accessible.   Building long-term relationships with donors can create a positive cycle of giving, enhancing community engagement and fostering a culture of altruism.   Community feedback and training can lead to significant improvements, as demonstrated by Rafael's pitch journey and collaborations. Ready to be inspired by a fresh perspective on healthcare fundraising and entrepreneurial resilience? Tune in to hear how one founder's vision is reshaping the future of giving in healthcare.   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, speaks with Christopher Jue, CEO & Co-founder of CAREgivers Insight, a leading member of our Caregiving Health Moonshot Community. Christopher, a serial entrepreneur with a personal connection to caregiving, shares the story behind his company’s mission to transform how family caregivers manage care and track their loved ones' health. Key highlights of the conversation include: Personal Journey & Inspiration: Christopher discusses his experiences as a caregiver for his father, who suffered from Alzheimer's, and how these challenges led to the creation of CAREgivers Insight. He reflects on how caregiving from a distance sparked the need for better, more efficient solutions. Innovative Solution: Learn about the platform Christopher and his team developed to empower caregivers by giving them real-time access to vital health data and insights. This easy-to-use tool helps caregivers make informed decisions and reduce hospitalizations, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The Circle of Care: Christopher explains the “circle of care” and how the solution benefits not just the caregiver, but also the care recipient, family members, healthcare providers, and insurers. The Power of Collaboration: As a serial entrepreneur, Christopher discusses the importance of collaboration with other health innovators and founders. He shares how the collective efforts of the StartUp Health community are helping to accelerate the impact of caregiving solutions. Future of Caregiving: With caregiving needs set to grow exponentially as the population ages, Christopher envisions a future where caregivers feel empowered, supported, and less stressed – leading to better care for patients and reduced pressure on the healthcare system. Tune in to this insightful conversation to discover how technology can transform caregiving and support the millions of families facing the challenges of chronic illness, aging, and Alzheimer’s care. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Healthcare Investment Landscape: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities On this episode of StartUp Health NOW, dive into a compelling conversation with Lee Shapiro, managing partner of 7wire Ventures, as he unravels the complexities of digital health investment in today's challenging market. Discover how successful healthcare startups are adapting to a landscape marked by IPO stagnation and reduced funding streams. In this interactive Fireside Chat with members of the StartUp Health community, Shapiro generously shares his wisdom and answers real-world questions from participants.  Key highlights include: The critical importance of demonstrating ROI in healthcare offerings Strategies for founders to secure funding in a tight market The vital role of scientific evidence in business strategies The importance of long-term thinking in achieving health moonshots The discussion offers valuable insights into how entrepreneurs can thrive despite economic uncertainties and regulatory challenges. From leveraging strategic investors to building sustainable business models, learn how innovative companies are reshaping healthcare delivery. Want to understand how to navigate the evolving healthcare investment landscape and build successful partnerships in digital health? Listen to this interactive episode for actionable insights from industry veterans. Do you want to participate in live conversations with industry luminaries? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Fireside Chats, Expert Office Hours, and Peer Circles are benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To get involved, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

From Personal Tragedy to Transformation: Cory Mitchell’s Food as Medicine Mission with EntreVita In this powerful episode of StartUp Health NOW, Unity Stoakes sits down with Cory Mitchell, D.Bioethics, CEO & Founder of EntreVita and a founding member of StartUp Health’s Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community. Cory shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey — from growing up in poverty, losing family to diet-related illnesses, and serving in the Navy, to becoming a public health researcher and now a visionary entrepreneur tackling cardiometabolic diseases and food insecurity with tech-driven precision. Hear how Cory’s lived experience and research background led to the creation of EntreVita, a platform combining AI with real-time meal recommendations to help patients manage chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes. Learn how Cory is thinking beyond software — envisioning a future with robotic kiosks delivering personalized, healthy meals directly in food deserts, gas stations, and eventually even outer space. Key Takeaways: Cory’s transformative personal and professional journey Why EntreVita blends AI + real-time nutrition guidance The systemic barriers to healthy food access — and how to solve them The role of mission-driven community and the power of the Food as Medicine movement This episode is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and reimagining health equity through food. Don’t miss it. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

We’re taking a short break while we work on our new season, but in the meantime, we’ve got a special encore episode from our archives with Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, to discuss the power of branding and storytelling. In this insightful conversation, you’ll learn: The importance of a strong brand identity for startups Lessons learned from building StartUp Health’s brand that has become synonymous with health innovation How to leverage media and storytelling to amplify your message The benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership program This episode is a must-listen for any founder looking to build a successful and impactful healthcare company. Tune in now and gain valuable insights from a seasoned entrepreneur and storyteller. Stay tuned, and we’ll be back soon with more fresh content!   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

We’re taking a short break while we work on our new season, but in the meantime, we’ve got a special encore episode from our archives where we chat with a powerful force in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease: Meryl Comer, a member of our Alzheimer’s Moonshot Impact Board. Driven by personal experience watching her husband battle the disease, Comer transformed from award-winning journalist to passionate advocate. She is the Co-founder & Board Member of UsAgainstAlzheimers; the U.S. Representative for the Global Brain Trust; and Vice-Chair of WHAM (Women’s Health Access Matters). Hear her story: Witnessing the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s firsthand Taking action through co-founding UsAgainstAlzheimers The critical role of advocacy and policy change The emotional and physical burden of caregiving Comer also shares her insights on: Destigmatizing Alzheimer’s diagnosis Anchoring innovation in the realities of care Treating the source of the disease This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by Alzheimer’s, passionate about healthcare innovation, or inspired by the power of advocacy. Stay tuned, and we'll be back soon with more fresh content!   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

The phrase "Food as Medicine" has moved beyond buzzwords to become a powerful force in health tech and digital health. From dedicated pavilions at major conferences like HLTH to a growing understanding of its profound impact to StartUp Health's newly-launched Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, the concept is clear: what we eat plays a crucial role in preventing and managing chronic diseases – often more so than medication alone. Nutrition is not just about sustenance or weight management; it's a vital tool in fighting disease and fostering overall wellbeing. Beyond its direct health benefits, treating food as medicine offers a unique advantage: it connects us. Sharing meals builds community and belonging, essential elements for human health and thriving that a pill simply cannot replicate. In this episode, we speak with Rich Bennett, CEO & Co-founder of Epicured, a true standard-bearer in the Food as Medicine movement. Epicured delivers medically-tailored meals directly to individuals' homes, offering personalized nutrition plans designed by a team of expert nutritionists and Michelin-starred chefs, catering to a range of health conditions. We delve into Epicured's exciting recent developments, including their groundbreaking partnership with Medicaid in New York State. This significant move expands access to their life-changing service to a wider population, particularly those who may not have had the means to benefit previously. Bennett also shares his insights on joining as a founding member of StartUp Health's Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, highlighting the collaborative efforts driving innovation and growth in this vital field. Epicured is one of the exciting growth stories in digital health today, and they are at a fascinating inflection point. Join us as Bennett discusses their recent successful fundraise and their ambitious plans to scale up production at their "healing food" facilities. This is a pivotal moment for Epicured and the entire Food as Medicine movement. Tune in to hear how they are revolutionizing healthcare, one delicious and nutritious meal at a time. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, we dive into one of the most fascinating innovation stories in health tech. Our guest is Chuck Papageorgiou, CEO of NeuroEM Therapeutics, a company that’s part of StartUp Health’s Alzheimer’s Moonshot Community and is making waves with a radically different approach to treating Alzheimer’s disease — using radio waves. What started as a research study to prove that cell phones cause brain cancer led to an unexpected breakthrough: the very same radio frequencies used in phones appeared to improve brain health in mice with Alzheimer’s. The discovery sparked a scientific journey that has since included promising human trials, FDA Breakthrough Device designation, partnerships, and progress towards bringing this non-invasive, affordable, at-home therapy to millions. Papageorgiou shares how NeuroEM’s wearable headset is helping untangle the brain’s toxic proteins, the science behind this counterintuitive tech, and why the impact could rival — or even surpass — that of current Alzheimer’s drugs. If you're looking for an inspiring story about accidental genius ideas, bold leadership, and breakthrough innovation in brain health, this one’s a must-listen. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

AI has been quietly transforming healthcare for years, but the arrival of ChatGPT changed the game. Suddenly, everyone—from patients to investors—could see the real-world impact of AI in making healthcare more efficient and accessible. One company leading this transformation is Mediktor, a pioneer in AI-powered symptom assessment. Before AI had its cultural moment, Mediktor—a member of the StartUp Health community since 2016—was already using it to help stratify patients and guide them to the right level of care. Now, they’re growing rapidly and shaping the future of AI in healthcare. In this episode, we chat with Cristian Pascual, CEO & Co-founder of Mediktor, to discuss: The evolution of AI in healthcare and why it’s accelerating now How Mediktor’s AI-driven symptom assessment is improving patient care The challenges of AI in healthcare, including LLMs, "black-box" models, and hallucinations Why a hybrid AI approach—combining automation with human safeguards—is the future As AI continues to shape healthcare, companies must balance innovation with accuracy. Pascual shares insights on how to harness AI’s power while ensuring reliability and trust. Tune in to explore the next wave of AI in healthcare—and what it means for patients, providers, and the industry at large. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

We all know light therapy can brighten our mood, especially for those battling depression or seasonal affective disorder. But what if light could do so much more? In this week's episode of StartUp Health NOW, we dive deep into the revolutionary work of StartUp Health community member Mai Nguyen, PhD, CEO & Co-founder of Optoceutics. Forget what you think you know about light therapy. Nguyen and her team are pioneering a new frontier, demonstrating how precisely delivered light, through the eyes, can actually reprogram brain waves. This isn't just about mood enhancement; it's about potentially slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Join us for a fascinating conversation with Nguyen, a Berkeley researcher turned entrepreneur, as she discusses her groundbreaking device, currently marketed as a wellness tool, but with profound clinical aspirations. Discover how her collaboration with engineers in Copenhagen has led to a novel technology that's already making waves. This episode will challenge your perception of the lights around you and illuminate the future of brain health. Get ready to have your mind blown! Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Imagine this: 73 million Americans are over 65. Among them, 10-20% experience mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a potential precursor to Alzheimer’s. Yet their primary care doctors, with only 14 minutes per patient, lack the time for crucial neurological screenings. This is a critical gap in our healthcare system, especially as groundbreaking Alzheimer's research and therapies emerge, making early detection more vital than ever. That’s where Cx Precision Medicine comes in. In this episode, we sit down with Sid O’Bryant, PhD, and Danguole Altman, the team behind CxPM, a company in the StartUp Health Alzheimer's Moonshot Community working to revolutionize early cognitive screening with a simple blood test. Their innovative diagnostic tool is designed to detect neurodegenerative diseases earlier, ensuring patients get the right care at the right time. O’Bryant's extensive research, now commercialized by Altman's leadership, offers a powerful tool for personalized care, enabling earlier, more accurate diagnoses of neurodegenerative diseases. We'll dive into their unique journeys, the science behind their innovative blood test, and how it's poised to transform patient care.    Discover how Cx Precision Medicine is empowering patients to get the right care at the right time, streamlining the diagnostic process and ultimately, improving lives. Join us as we explore the future of Alzheimer's detection and the hope it brings. Let's get into it! Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

On this episode of StartUp Health NOW, we learn about the power of photobiomodulation, a light therapy that promotes healing at the cellular level. From treating seasonal affective disorder to wound healing, light therapy's applications are expanding. We're joined by Guillaume Blivet of REGEnLIFE, a member of the StartUp Health community who is pioneering research into using photobiomodulation to address Alzheimer's disease. Learn how their unique approach, targeting both the brain and gut, shows promise in reducing inflammation and improving cellular health. We discuss the science, the promising early results, and the potential of this groundbreaking approach. Unveiling Photobiomodulation: Dive into the science of photobiomodulation, a cutting-edge light therapy that stimulates cellular healing at the molecular level. Explore how specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can trigger biological responses, reducing inflammation and promoting cellular health. Beyond Traditional Light Therapy: Discover how researchers are pushing the boundaries of light therapy beyond seasonal affective disorder and dermatology. Learn about innovative applications of photobiomodulation for internal therapeutic benefits. REGEnLIFE's Revolutionary Approach: Meet Guillaume Blivet, co-founder of REGEnLIFE, and his team's pioneering work in applying photobiomodulation to combat Alzheimer's disease. Explore their unique strategy of targeting both the brain and the gut simultaneously, leveraging the crucial gut-brain connection. Learn about the animal studies that have shown promising results. Innovation in Alzheimer's Treatment: Understand how REGEnLIFE's photobiomodulation therapy aims to slow the progression of Alzheimer's by reducing neuroinflammation and enhancing cellular function. Hear about the ongoing human trials in France and the potential for this non-invasive, safe treatment to transform Alzheimer's care. Tune in now as we learn how targeting the gut-brain connection with specific wavelengths of light could offer new hope for patients.   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

When your health is on the line, accurate diagnostics are crucial. But many blood tests suffer from false positives, false negatives, and frustrating gray areas. In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, host Logan Plaster sits down with John Forrest, CEO & Co-founder of Veravas, a member of the StartUp Health community, to discuss their groundbreaking solution. VeraBIND: Learn how Veravas' patented technology cleans blood samples to remove impurities, dramatically increasing diagnostic accuracy and eliminating ambiguous results. Transforming Alzheimer's Detection: Find out how VeraBIND results in a test with a single result that says yes, you have the disease, or no, you don’t. Beyond Blood: Explore the potential of VeraBIND to transform diagnostics for a wide range of diseases, even using saliva samples – which are much easier for older patients to manage on a regular basis. The Future: Hear Forrest's insights on the challenges and opportunities in the health tech industry and how Veravas is poised to make a significant impact. Tune in for the conversation and learn how Veravas is turning the tide on diagnostic uncertainty.   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Are health tech founders building what the market actually needs? At StartUp Health, we see firsthand their biggest challenge: achieving product-market fit. But it's more than just market alignment. Investor Robert Garber of 7wireVentures calls it "contract-market fit"—proof that people will pay. This week, we talk with Robin Roberts, CEO & Founder of DatosX, a company in the StartUp Health community that is helping digital health startups achieve just that. The Problem: Many early-stage health companies struggle with product-market fit. They may be building amazing technology, but the market isn't ready. The Solution: DatosX is a two-sided marketplace connecting health tech buyers (like hospitals) with startups. This enables: Pre-validation of purchases by hospitals. Creation of buyable products by startups. The Insight: This unique position gives Roberts a front-row seat to what hospitals really want (hint: it involves physician efficiency) and where startups often miss the mark. The Opportunity: We explore these critical trends and discover the opportunities for savvy startups in 2025. Listen in as Roberts shares his insights on achieving product-market fit and contract-market fit in the digital health space. The Access to Care Moonshot Community is comprised of mission-aligned founders and CEOs collaborating to accelerate breakthroughs to deliver quality care to everyone, regardless of location or income. » Meet the Access to Care Moonshot Community » Join a Health Moonshot Community Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Ever wonder where the next big breakthrough in health will come from? Sometimes, the most innovative solutions arise from the most unexpected places. This week’s podcast episode dives into the fascinating world of a neurosurgeon who's revolutionizing glucose monitoring. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. Casey Halpern, co-founder of SynchNeuro, who is changing cardiometabolic care via the brain. We discuss: The unexpected connection between the brain and metabolism: How a neurosurgeon specializing in Parkinson's disease came across a game-changing approach to glucose monitoring. A non-invasive CGM for everyone: Learn about SynchNeuro's innovative behind-the-ear EEG device that could make continuous glucose monitoring accessible and affordable for millions at risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. From physician to founder: Dr. Halpern shares his inspiring story as a doctorpreneur, leading the double life of a medical career and leading a cutting-edge health tech startup. The future of cardiometabolic health: We explore how this new technology, combined with the rise of GLP-1 medications, could transform the way we manage and prevent diabetes and heart disease. The science behind the breakthrough: A deep dive into the research connecting brain signals to appetite and blood sugar regulation. Tune in to discover how SynchNeuro – a member of our Cardiometabolic Health Moonshot Community – is poised to reshape the landscape of cardiometabolic health and empower individuals to take control of their wellbeing.   For years, chronic health problems like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes have grown, becoming some of society's biggest killers. Thankfully, there's a generation of entrepreneurs tackling the issue from every angle. In the Cardiometabolic Health Moonshot Community, mission-aligned founders and CEOs collaborate to accelerate breakthroughs in cardiometabolic disease prevention, diagnosis, monitoring, management, and cures. » Meet the Community » Join the Community Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

This idea called “food as medicine” isn’t new. People have been talking for decades about how the foods we put in our body play a bigger role in preventative health and disease management than any drug or medication we could. But it’s always been on the fringe. Partly because it’s difficult to do the studies that clinically prove that foods can be as effective as medications. And second, which is related, there hasn’t been much funding for this kind of work. So, what’s changed? To answer that question, we sat down with Victor Penev, CEO & Founder of Edamam, a longtime member of the StartUp Health Community. Victor’s created what may be the world’s largest repository of food data. But he’s also a futurist with a keen eye on where the industry is heading. In our conversation Penev explains how the uptake in GLP-1s and generative AI have come together in a fascinating way that opens up new opportunities in nutrition. Importantly, it may open up new funding sources and innovative business models. On that note: StartUp Health has formally kicked off our Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, so if you or someone you know is a founder working in nutrition, someone with a passion to use food to make the world a healthier place, we’re accepting applications at StartUpHealth.com. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.