In this thought-provoking episode of SPOT Radio, host Charlie Webb, CPPL, sits down with sustainability advocate Samantha Smith to explore the critical intersection of healthcare and environmental responsibility. Together, they unpack the growing urgency to make hospitals and clinics more sustainable—without compromising patient care or regulatory compliance. 

They also dive into the cultural and institutional hurdles that often slow progress, and how a possible shift towards a data-driven decision-making can open new possibilities for long-term impact.

If you’ve ever wondered how medical facilities can reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining safety and sterility, this episode will leave you inspired—and armed with insights to make a difference.

About Samantha Smith: DIRECTOR, SUSTAINABILITY AND PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP

Senior MedTech leader in Sustainability, ESG, and Product Stewardship, shaping corporate strategy, securing executive alignment, and delivering measurable business and environmental impact. Selected by Medtronic’s Executive Leadership Team to build and scale the first R&D function focused on Sustainability, securing $4M+ in funding. Defined and reported to investors Medtronic’s first external-facing Sustainability Product and Packaging goals. Trusted voice in MedTech Sustainability, representing the company in key industry and customer forums.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Sustainability Strategy & External Reporting: Secured $4M+ in executive-approved funding to build Medtronic’s first R&D function focused on Sustainability and defined external product and packaging ESG goals reported to investors, embedding ESG into product innovation and driving investor confidence.

Cost Savings & Risk Mitigation: 

Negotiated $100M+ in Master Supply Agreements for packaging, delivering 5% year-over-year cost savings and protecting Medtronic from COVID-related supply chain price surges, saving $10M+.

Operational Excellence & Circularity:

Integrated circularity and eco-design criteria into Medtronic’s New Product Development process, advancing FY30 sustainability commitments

Samantha Smith Email: samanthakeeneysmith@gmail.com

Linkedin:  linkedin.com/in/samanthakeeneysmith