Boombostic Health

 

Episode Title: Healthcare Innovation with Steve Yaskin - AI Agents, Clinical Data, and the Future of Digital Health

Guest: Steve Yaskin, Founder and Board Member of Health Gorilla

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Boombostic Health, we welcome Steve Yaskin, a visionary healthcare entrepreneur and founder of Health Gorilla. Steve shares insights from his journey in healthcare, starting from his background in theoretical physics to becoming a leader in clinical data exchange. He discusses the evolution of Health Gorilla and its role in the Trusted Exchange Framework Common Agreement (TEFCA), a significant milestone in healthcare data interoperability.

Steve also introduces his latest venture, BeHuman.Health, a startup currently in stealth mode, and shares his excitement about its potential impact on the healthcare industry. The conversation delves into the importance of clinical data, the challenges of data utilization, and the transformative role of AI agents in healthcare workflows. Steve emphasizes the shift towards preventative care and the need for comprehensive, longitudinal patient data to improve health outcomes.

 

Key Topics:

• Steve Yaskin's journey from theoretical physics to healthcare entrepreneurship

• The founding and growth of Health Gorilla

• The significance of TEFCA in healthcare data exchange

• Introduction to BeHuman.Health and its potential impact

• The role of AI agents in automating healthcare workflows

• The shift towards preventative care and the importance of clinical data

Links:

• BeHuman.Health

• Health Gorilla

 

Subscribe & Follow:

Stay updated with the latest episodes by subscribing to Boombostic Health on your favorite podcast platform. Follow us on social media for more insights and updates.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IQqQDXPgGM8

Guest: Christal Contini, Chair of the M&A Group at McDonald Hopkins Episode Overview Step into the high-stakes arena of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) in healthcare with healthcare attorney, Christal Contini, who unveils the secrets behind successful sales transactions. This episode challenges conventional wisdom, revealing hidden pitfalls that can make or break a deal. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the M&A landscape, this discussion will reshape your understanding of the healthcare market's complexities.   Key Topics M&A Considerations for Healthcare Sellers:

• Transform your sale from a routine transaction into a strategic masterstroke. Are you truly ready to sell? Crystal shares insights on preparing for a sale, dealing with non-compete clauses, and navigating legal intricacies.

Market Trends:

• Explore the hottest segments in healthcare M&A, with a spotlight on laboratory and mental health sectors. Is your sector poised for a boom or a bust? Understand the macro trends influencing the market today.

Strategic Partnerships:

• Discover why choosing the right partner is more than just a financial decision—it's a strategic necessity that can redefine your future. Learn how to align your vision with potential buyers for maximum impact.

Regulatory Challenges:

• Navigate the minefield of healthcare regulations with insights that could save your deal from disaster. Are you prepared to tackle the Stark Law head-on? Christal and Emily discuss the importance of compliance and how to avoid common pitfalls.

  Join us for a discussion that will challenge your assumptions and prepare you for a transformative journey in healthcare M&A. Whether you're contemplating a sale or simply seeking to understand the landscape, this episode offers invaluable insights and strategies. Tune in and elevate your M&A game.

Epic Health Revolution: Adam Mendelsohn's GLP-1 Breakthroughs and Transformative Obesity Solutions

Welcome to another episode of Boombostic Health in the Wild, recorded live from the JPMorgan Healthcare Conference 2025. Join us as we engage with Adam Mendelsohn, CEO of Vivani Medical, Inc., to explore pioneering advancements in healthcare and the future of obesity treatment.

In this episode, we cover:

• Adam's Journey into Healthcare: Discover how Adam's early exposure to medical device companies, influenced by his father, set the stage for his career in healthcare innovation. Learn about his experiences at MiniMed and how they shaped his entrepreneurial path.

• GLP-1 Medications: Understand the significance of GLP-1 medications in combating obesity and diabetes. We discuss their mechanism, benefits, and the challenges of medication adherence that Vivani aims to address.

• Vivani's Innovative Implant Technology: Dive into Vivani's groundbreaking implant technology designed to enhance medication adherence. Learn how this small implant offers a six-month treatment solution, potentially transforming patient care and health outcomes.

• The Obesity Epidemic: Engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the obesity crisis, the role of lifestyle changes versus medication, and the societal factors influencing health behaviors. Explore the potential of GLP-1 as a catalyst for sustainable lifestyle changes.

• Market Opportunities and Business Insights: Gain insights into the GLP-1 market, valued at $50-$60 billion annually, and the business potential of Vivani's innovations. Understand the regulatory pathways and the financial implications of bringing new healthcare solutions to market.

 

Tune in to discover how these innovations are shaping the future of healthcare, offering hope and solutions for obesity and diabetes management. Perfect for healthcare professionals, innovators, and anyone interested in the cutting-edge of health tech!

 

Summary

 In this episode of Boombostic Health, Bradley Bostic interviews Jeff Fischer, president of Longhorn Vaccines & Diagnostics, at the JPMorgan Healthcare 2025 conference.

They discuss Jeff's unexpected journey into healthcare, the impact of his military background on his leadership style, and the revolutionary sample collection technology developed by his company during the pandemic. The conversation also touches on advancements in vaccine development and innovative approaches to treating sepsis, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship in healthcare. 

Recorded live at the JPMorgan Healthcare 2025 conference in San Francisco, this episode highlights:

1. Revolutionary Sample Collection Technology: Discover how Longhorn Vaccines & Diagnostics scaled from 30,000 to 25 million units during the pandemic, transforming the handling of infectious samples.
2. Universal Influenza Vaccine Development: Learn about their 15-year journey towards creating a universal vaccine, aiming to prevent future pandemics.
3. Sepsis Treatment Innovations: Explore their groundbreaking work in developing therapeutics to prevent and treat sepsis, potentially impacting inflammatory diseases and more.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Boombostic Health, host Bradley welcomes Michael Zaccaro, a pioneering entrepreneur in the healthcare industry. Michael shares his journey from delivering beer and working in a lumberyard to founding Pharma Logistics, a leader in reverse pharmaceutical distribution. Discover how Michael stumbled into healthcare, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that shaped his business.

Key Discussion Points:

• Michael's Background: From manual labor to healthcare entrepreneur, Michael's unexpected path to success.

• Reverse Pharmaceutical Distribution: Understanding the niche industry and its impact on reducing waste in healthcare.

• Entrepreneurial Journey: The importance of systems, processes, and people in building a successful business.

• Growth and Challenges: Navigating crucial decisions, including securing a Department of Defense contract and automating operations.

• Private Equity Transition: Michael's experience with private equity, the sale process, and the importance of finding the right partner.

• Future of Pharma Logistics: Insights into the evolving industry and the role of data and technology.

• Life After Exit: Michael's new pace of life, investing in other ventures, and maintaining a board role.

 

Guest Bio:

Michael Zaccaro is the founder of Pharma Logistics, a company specializing in reverse pharmaceutical distribution. With over 27 years of experience, Michael has grown his business from a small startup to an international player. He now focuses on investing and supporting other entrepreneurs.

 

Connect with Us:

• Website: Boombostic Health

• Social Media: Follow us on YouTube and LinkedIn

 

Listen and Subscribe:

Catch this episode and more on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

Boombostic Health in the Wild: From the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference In this special on-location episode of Boombostic Health in the Wild, we're in San Francisco at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference. From the Palace Hotel, Chris Brown, Emily Johnson, and I share insider perspectives on the latest trends, surprises, and the evolving investment landscape in healthcare.   Who Will Enjoy This Episode:

• Healthcare Entrepreneurs: Tips on attracting investors and navigating healthcare tech complexities.
• Investors & Venture Capitalists: Insights into successful investors who engage beyond spreadsheets.
• Anyone Interested in Healthcare Innovation: Discover future trends like AI and remote patient care.

  Key Takeaways:

• Investor Insights: Discussion on what makes a great investor in healthcare.
• No Assholes Policy: Importance of choosing the right investors and partners.
• Exploring investors: Their questions, mindset, and suitability for healthcare innovators.

  Episode Highlights:   Investor Qualities:

• Curiosity and Listening: Investors who understand and engage with the business.
• Value Creation: Beyond capital, investors should facilitate growth and innovation.
• Avoiding Spreadsheet Buyers: Importance of human and qualitative aspects in investment.

  Industry Trends:

• AI and Data: Emphasis on data-driven strategies and AI's role in healthcare.
• Remote Healthcare: Growth in telemedicine and remote patient management.
• Government Scrutiny: Increased audits and investigations in the provider space.

  Listener Takeaways:

• Healthcare Entrepreneurs: Tips on attracting the right investors.
• Investors & Venture Capitalists: Insights into successful investment strategies.
• Healthcare Innovation Enthusiasts: Future trends shaping the industry.

  Final Thoughts: Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or just passionate about healthcare innovation, this episode will give you a fresh, behind-the-scenes perspective on the current state and future of the industry. From the latest in AI and data analytics to the qualities that make a great investor, this episode will provide valuable insights for anyone looking to navigate the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

As healthcare systems grapple with inefficiencies, particularly in the realm of insurance denials, the role of artificial intelligence is gaining traction. This recent episode of Boombostic Health dives deep into these pressing issues, featuring insights from Brian Norris of MedeAnalytics. By addressing both the challenges and opportunities that AI presents in managing denials, this conversation sheds light on the potential for transforming patient experiences and outcomes. As we navigate this complex topic, it's essential to consider not just the technology itself, but the stories and motivations that drive individuals to seek change in the healthcare system.

  Episode Highlights:  

• Introduction to Healthcare Denials:
• Discussion on the complexities of healthcare denials, focusing on UnitedHealthcare.
• Exploration of how AI can revolutionize denials management by addressing misunderstandings and policy gaps.
• Guest Introduction:
• Brian Norris shares his background and journey into healthcare, inspired by his grandmother's experiences.
• Overview of MedeAnalytics and its role in optimizing healthcare processes through data-driven strategies.
• AI in Denials Management:
• Potential of AI to streamline processes, reduce errors, and improve patient outcomes.
• Discussion on the challenges of denials management and the role of AI in preventing denials by identifying issues early.
• Value-Based Care:
• Exploration of the concept of value-based care and its impact on healthcare delivery.
• Discussion on the integration of AI in enhancing value-based care models.
• Agentic AI and Future Applications:
• Introduction to agentic AI and its potential applications in healthcare.
• Examples of how AI can assist in mundane tasks, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on high-value activities.
• Regulatory and Legal Considerations:
• Brief mention of ongoing litigation related to AI in healthcare denials.
• Discussion on the importance of transparency and patient inclusion in payer processes.

  Key Takeaways:

• AI has the potential to transform healthcare denials management by providing actionable insights and reducing administrative burdens.
• Value-based care models can benefit from AI integration, improving patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.
• The future of AI in healthcare includes agentic AI, which can automate low-risk tasks and enhance clinical workflows.

  Call to Action:

• Listeners are encouraged to consider the role of AI in healthcare and explore opportunities for innovation in their organizations.
• For more information on MedeAnalytics and their work, visit their website (https://medeanalytics.com/)

Bradley Bostic's career has been nothing short of extraordinary. As a trailblazer in the healthcare and technology sectors, he's spent decades reshaping how we approach patient care. From founding hc1 to establishing Health Cloud Capital, Bradley has harnessed the power of data to create innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes while aligning with economic incentives. His story is both a blueprint and a call to action for healthcare leaders to rethink the systems that underpin modern medicine.

Bradley's inspiration began early, influenced by his father, a banker with a knack for evaluating risk. Conversations with his dad laid the foundation for Bradley's entrepreneurial mindset. "Everyone has ideas," Bradley shared, "but unless you bring the right elements together, you aren't going to succeed." This principle became his north star, guiding him through ventures ranging from e-commerce to healthcare innovation.

His pivot into healthcare was deeply personal. After losing his mother to colon cancer, Bradley saw firsthand the disjointed and reactive nature of the healthcare system. "She was otherwise healthy, but she never had a colonoscopy recommended," he recounted. This experience ignited a passion for proactive, patient-centric care, leading him to focus on integrating data to enhance diagnostics and treatment.

Bradley's vision culminated in hc1, a company leveraging lab data to personalize care. He recognized that laboratory results hold unparalleled potential in healthcare, describing them as "the most powerful dataset across all of healthcare." By unlocking insights from these results, hc1 ensures patients receive the right tests and treatments at the right time, ultimately saving lives and reducing costs.

However, his journey wasn't without challenges. Bradley recalls a conversation with a healthcare CFO who questioned the revenue impact of a system designed to reduce hospital visits. "It was shocking," Bradley admitted, "but it reinforced the need to align innovation with the economic realities of healthcare." This realization became the cornerstone of his approach: marrying transformative ideas with sustainable business models.

His work aligns with the industry's shift toward value-based care, where providers are rewarded for keeping patients healthy rather than for the volume of services rendered. Bradley sees this as a turning point: "It's creating the right kind of alignment between payers and providers, focusing on outcomes instead of events."

Bradley's optimism about the future of healthcare is infectious. He credits advancements in cloud computing and artificial intelligence as enablers of what he calls a "golden era" in medicine. Yet, he remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship. "Every day, I wake up with a day-one mentality," he said. "I want to help others achieve their goals faster by sharing what I've learned."

As Bradley continues to lead hc1 and its sister companies, his focus remains clear: creating solutions that are as impactful as they are sustainable. His dedication to innovation, coupled with a deep respect for the human side of healthcare, serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to make a difference in this complex industry.

In Bradley's words, "If we align technology, economics, and patient care, we can create a future where everyone benefits. That's not just an aspiration—it's a responsibility."

In an era where healthcare increasingly embraces personalization, Bradley Bostic and Lisa Huse are at the forefront, advocating for a shift in patient care that's both effective and tailored. Their conversation isn't just about innovation; it's about making healthcare meet the unique needs of each patient. They explore a new kind of patient experience—one where traditional trial-and-error approaches are left behind, replaced by diagnostics and therapies that fit each individual.

Lisa's extensive experience, particularly in diabetes care with Roche, gives her insights a grounded credibility. She understands that managing diabetes is about more than just medication. As she puts it, "It was about personalization and helping people find their own version of what good looked like." This isn't an easy path; the transition from standard methods to personalized care requires shifting entire systems and mindsets, something she and Bradley both passionately advocate for.

When managing diabetes, the challenge goes beyond merely prescribing treatments. Lisa discusses her work with Roche in a world where devices and apps are not always integrated. As she explains, many people face "disparate pieces and parts where one diagnostic product didn't talk to the therapeutic product." This lack of connectivity can prevent patients from seeing the full picture of their health. It's here where Lisa saw the potential to change lives—working on models to guide patients toward sustainable behavior changes, which, as she mentions, "feels realistic and something they could accomplish."

For those navigating diabetes, or any chronic condition, this kind of behavioral support is essential. "Diabetes in many situations is a behavioral disease," Lisa says, stressing that while medication is critical, it isn't the full solution. She and Bradley explore how success lies in creating a system where patients are motivated by personal goals—like walking a daughter down the aisle—rather than abstract medical advice. The conversation brings into focus the question: How do we enable patients to take control without overwhelming them?

Bradley's interest in this subject isn't just theoretical. As the founder of hc1, he's been a transformative figure, guiding his company to become a leader in using AI to analyze lab data, ensuring that each patient gets the treatment they need, at the time they need it. His experience underscores the need for an approach that combines empathy with innovation.

One key topic Lisa highlights is the evolution from clinic-centered care to care at home. Technology is paving the way for home diagnostics and telehealth to improve accessibility and outcomes. As Lisa describes, the future of healthcare is not in prescribing more but in enabling patients to "engage the healthcare community that surrounds you." It's a vision where patients work with healthcare professionals in a more collaborative and personalized way—one that doesn't sacrifice individual needs for a one-size-fits-all solution.

As our healthcare system faces shortages of trained professionals and escalating costs, it's leaders like Bradley and Lisa who bring new hope. Their vision of a system where personalized care is accessible and economically viable is a bold reimagining of what healthcare can be. They're not just discussing a concept; they're crafting a blueprint for a future where patients are more empowered, and providers are better equipped to deliver care that truly matters.

 

Regenerative medicine isn't just a trending topic—it's reshaping the entire healthcare landscape. In a recent discussion, Bradley Bostic and Chris Gandy tackle this rapidly evolving field, focusing on how it impacts medical professionals, patients, and the healthcare business itself. With rising frustrations among healthcare providers over declining reimbursements and the risk-heavy nature of traditional practices, Chris has found a unique approach to adapt while empowering his clients to make impactful choices.

For those unfamiliar, regenerative medicine emphasizes the body's ability to heal itself. This includes therapies like peptides, stem cells, and treatments aimed at restoring function without invasive procedures. Chris notes a profound shift: many seasoned surgeons and anesthesiologists are pivoting to regenerative practices, recognizing that the high-stakes environment of Western medicine often comes with shrinking margins and intense liability. "I've seen seasoned professionals turn to regenerative medicine, not just for the income streams but for a fresh, proactive approach to healthcare," Chris explains. In his experience, the shift isn't merely financial—it's philosophical.

Chris's own story highlights the personal side of regenerative medicine. Following a sports injury, he found himself exploring alternative paths to healing—ones that didn't rely on the typical pharmaceutical or surgical interventions. "I needed to find a way to stay active without compromising my body's longevity," he says. His exploration of regenerative techniques has become a lifestyle, encompassing everything from stem cell therapies to cutting-edge physical regimens like hot yoga. This journey has enabled him to help others, particularly former athletes, to find sustainable health solutions that extend far beyond the sports field.

Beyond the physical, Chris also touches on the mental resilience that regenerative medicine brings. He describes the phenomenon where many patients, himself included, find renewed energy and clarity. This aligns well with studies showing that proactive health measures not only improve physical wellness but mental acuity. For Bradley, this isn't just an emerging trend—it's a philosophical shift. He adds that individuals willing to adopt preventative, health-focused habits are often better equipped to handle life's pressures, both personally and professionally.

This type of medicine, however, isn't accessible to all. Regenerative treatments are largely cash-based, putting them out of reach for many. Yet, Chris argues that the value they bring, in terms of reduced downtime and improved quality of life, is unparalleled. "If you're considering regenerative options, start by consulting with a trusted physician," he advises, emphasizing that expertise is paramount in this field, where unqualified practitioners can often get it wrong.

Bradley and Chris's discussion is a powerful reminder that innovation isn't just about technology; it's about rethinking our entire approach to health. Whether it's an athlete like Chris seeking to extend his mobility or a surgeon reconsidering their career path, regenerative medicine holds transformative potential. In this dialogue, Bradley and Chris make one thing clear: the future of healthcare will be driven not only by medical advancements but by an ethos that prioritizes sustainable health, financial literacy, and a proactive approach to life.