HLTH Forward Podcast

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

The good news is communities are developing creative solutions that I'm excited to explore. I'll highlight three approaches: resource-sharing systems like tool libraries and childcare exchanges that reduce costs while building relationships; rediscovering free social activities with park usage up 42% in tariff-affected areas; and consistency over frequency in social interactions. I'll share stories from communities worldwide who've found that navigating economic challenges together often creates stronger bonds than before. The episode will conclude with practical suggestions for maintaining social connections despite financial constraints, emphasizing that meaningful connections don't require significant spending.

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

The stark truth is that even tech giants like Amazon, Apple, and Google have struggled to make meaningful inroads in an industry that resists quick fixes. With America spending $4.8 trillion on healthcare annually and 73% of adults feeling the system is failing them, Kharraz argues that the solution isn't radical disruption, but what he calls "inside-out pragmatism" – a methodical, patient approach that understands and works within the existing healthcare ecosystem.

Diving into the seven critical challenges facing healthtech, Kharraz pulls back the curtain on the industry's complex landscape. From the fragmentation of 340,000 physician practices running on hundreds of electronic health record systems to the intricate dance of stakeholder incentives, he emphasizes that healthcare technology can't be treated like any other consumer sector. "Moving fast and breaking things simply doesn't work when people's lives are at stake," he explains, recounting ZocDoc's own near-death experience navigating regulatory ambiguities. 

The most profound insight emerges in his belief that technology's role is not to replace healthcare providers, but to connect, enhance, and incrementally improve a system that requires deep understanding, patience, and a commitment to solving complex problems one step at a time. For Kharraz, the future of healthcare technology lies not in disruption, but in pragmatic, thoughtful innovation that respects the nuanced human elements of medical care.

About

Oliver Kharraz, MD, is CEO and founder of Zocdoc. Oliver is the most recent doctor in a 300-year family tradition. Over the course of his wide-ranging career, Oliver has accrued comprehensive experience effecting change and building efficiency in large scale healthcare organizations using information technology.

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

Jeff shares Personify Health's groundbreaking approach that's transforming healthcare delivery through their proprietary assessment methodology and AI-driven platform. He elaborates how their unique services—from personalized chronic disease management to customized mental health support—are producing measurable improvements in patient outcomes while reducing costs by up to 25% for participating systems. 

With 60% of Americans having at least one chronic condition (accounting for 90% of healthcare spending), this conversation promises to illuminate how Personify Health's patient-centered technology is pioneering a future where healthcare finally acknowledges that each patient's journey is as unique as their fingerprint, potentially saving billions while significantly improving quality of life for millions of Americans.

About

Jeff Jacques, MD, is a physician executive leader and entrepreneur who has spent more than 20 years in digital health, building products and services that deliver personalized support for individuals experiencing complex care journeys. As Chief Medical Officer at Personify Health, he focuses on ensuring alignment with member and market needs, enhancing the company’s behavior science approach, and exploring additional ways its unique capabilities can further simplify and support the member journey.

Jeff’s personal experiences and frustrations with the healthcare system ignited a passion for solving complex health problems, driving much of his career. He was previously CEO and co-founder of CareTribe, a digital health platform dedicated to supporting the needs of family caregivers. It was acquired by family support company Cleo in 2022. He also held leadership roles with CVS Health/Aetna for more than a decade, including as founder of NeoCare Solutions, a CVS Health/Aetna business supporting the parents of premature infants in the NICU, and as chief clinical innovation officer at ActiveHealth Management, a CVS Health company.

Jeff was a member of the Food and Drug Administration Safety Innovation Act (FDASIA) Workgroup and has held several non-profit board positions. He trained in Internal Medicine at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital, part of the Mount Sinai system in NYC.

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

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

We dive into how Komodo's unique artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities extract actionable insights from this massive dataset, identifying patterns invisible to traditional analytics. Web explains their distinctive approach to tokenization and de-identification that maintains patient privacy while enabling unprecedented analytical depth across the entire patient journey.

I seek to understand how Komodo's platform differs from competitors by enabling not just retrospective analysis but predictive modeling that helps healthcare providers anticipate patient needs before they develop complications. We'll explore their innovative Sentinel system that alerts care teams to intervention opportunities based on real-world evidence rather than theoretical care pathways.

Throughout our conversation, we examine how this comprehensive approach allows Komodo to address healthcare disparities by identifying gaps in care that other platforms simply cannot detect. Web shares case studies of how their technology has revolutionized rare disease diagnosis, reduced care variation, and optimized treatment pathways in ways that were impossible before their platform existed.

This fascinating conversation reveals how Komodo Health's distinctive data-driven insights are not just improving individual patient outcomes but transforming our entire approach to healthcare delivery.

About

Web Sun, the President and Co-Founder of Komodo Health, has dedicated his career to making a meaningful impact on healthcare. He began as a cancer researcher, followed by a decade working with Fortune 100 companies in research and development, before ultimately moving into health technology. Throughout his career, he became increasingly focused on the power of data and analytics in shaping critical decisions within the healthcare system. His passion for leveraging data and emerging technologies led to his current role at Komodo Health.

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

Central to Omada Health's strategy is a delicate balance between AI-driven solutions and human coaching, with Li asserting that human relationships remain the critical "currency" of behavior change. The company leverages billions of health data points to create highly personalized care experiences, particularly in innovative areas like GLP-1 medication management and behavioral intervention programs. By prioritizing accessibility, continuous support, and a holistic view of patient needs, Omada Health is fundamentally reimagining healthcare delivery—making it more integrated, proactive, and centered on individual patient experiences across diverse populations. Li envisions a future where healthcare becomes as accessible and routine as daily personal care, breaking down traditional barriers between in-person and virtual health services, and providing persistent, personalized support that recognizes the complex interplay of health challenges faced by patients.

About 

Wei Li is a global executive and leader with over 20 years of experience building and leading biopharmaceutical, diagnostic imaging, and digital health businesses across the world. After a rewarding 18-year career at Eli Lilly and Company, he came to Omada Health in 2019 to take on a new professional challenge––upending the status quo in chronic condition care by scaling virtual health. Currently, 70% of U.S. healthcare spending is for people with chronic conditions. He is steadfast in his belief that Omada is at the forefront of health tech innovation that's gradually improving outcomes and reducing costs for health systems and organizations.

He holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master of Business Administration from the Kelley School of Business, Indiana University. Over the course of his career, he has demonstrated an ability to grow successful organizations, lead turn-arounds, and establish start-ups. He has brought his wealth of experience to Omada, where he has surrounded himself with amazing people, built a strong team, set high expectations, and helped create an organization grounded in values and principles.

In addition to his professional achievements, Li has published a children's book, "Anny The Tall Girl," a touching story imbued with diversity, equity, and inclusion. He and his wife Sarah are the proud parents of two daughters.

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

The technology framework centers on comprehensive data infrastructure, spanning 70 distinct medical conditions. By meticulously collecting and analyzing patient data through advanced sensing technologies, Medtronic is developing AI-enabled platforms capable of personalized health monitoring and preemptive diagnostic capabilities. This approach transforms medical technology from a reactive to a predictive model, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes through early intervention strategies.

Washington's innovation model extends beyond technological development to include critical considerations of regulatory compliance, global scalability, and sustainable design. With a commitment to net-zero emissions by 2045 and strategic partnerships across healthcare and technology sectors, Medtronic is positioning itself as a leader in responsible, forward-thinking medical innovation. The organization's approach integrates high-precision robotics, advanced algorithmic models, and data-driven personalization to create transformative healthcare solutions that address complex global health challenges.

About
Ken Washington serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Technology and Innovation Officer. In this role, Ken is responsible for accelerating Medtronic innovation through product development and technology strategies.

Ken joined Medtronic in 2023 and brought with him deep expertise in leading technology development and execution across industries including robotics, consumer products, automotive, and space. Ken inspires teams and pushes them even further in their ability to invent, innovate and create positive market disruptions. He partners closely with teams and leaders around Medtronic to ensure our products and therapies continue to advance the Mission to better serve patients and customers.

Prior to joining Medtronic, Ken was Vice President and General Manager of Consumer Robotics at Amazon. Prior to that, he was Chief Technology Officer at Ford Motor Company, overseeing development of the company’s technology strategy including next-generation vehicle architectures, controls and automated systems. He also spent seven years at Lockheed Martin in various leadership roles including Chief Technology Officer, Chief Privacy Officer and Vice President, Advanced Technology Center, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company.

Ken is an internationally recognized thought leader on technology and innovation. He earned a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Science, and a PhD in nuclear engineering from Texas A&M University. He was inducted into the National Academy of Engineering in 2020 and was inducted into the Black Engineer Hall of Fame in 2023.

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

Tamar shares her inspiring healthcare journey, starting as a provider and then transitioning to the life sciences industry after marrying an Air Force member and moving to North Dakota. She now advocates for the rare disease community, particularly focusing on NMOSD, a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system. Tamar explains that while there are an estimated 7,000-10,000 rare diseases, only 5% have approved treatments, and 90% of these diseases do not have any approved treatments

The symptoms of NMOSD can be unpredictable and lead to long-term disabilities like vision loss and paralysis. Tamar emphasizes that the journey to diagnosis for rare disease patients can be long, often taking 7 years on average, and that NMOSD is more common in women in their mid-30s, though it can also affect men and children. Tamar discusses the challenges in diagnosing rare diseases like neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)

Rare diseases are often genetic in nature, making diagnosis difficult as symptoms can be ambiguous. Tamar highlights Alexion's history of pioneering research and development in the rare disease space, including complement-based therapies and the promise of cell and gene therapies. She emphasizes the global nature of the diagnostic challenge, with patients often seeing multiple specialists before receiving the correct diagnosis

Tamar highlights the significant financial burden on families dealing with rare diseases, with costs 10-20 times higher annually. She also touches on the promise of advancing technologies, like genome sequencing, to help with earlier diagnosis, but emphasize that access and affordability remain challenges. Overall, the discussion sheds light on the struggles faced by those impacted by rare diseases and the need for more education, resources, and support for patients and their caregivers

The discussion highlights the significant challenges faced by rare disease patients and their families, including the high financial burden and lack of awareness and support. There is a need for increased education, policy changes, and investment to foster rare disease diagnosis, treatment, and access to care. 

We share the call for urgent action to address these issues and prepare for the future, given the aging population and the potential for a "silent epidemic" if left unaddressed. We discuss the challenges of diagnosing rare diseases, emphasizing the need for greater education and awareness among medical professionals. 

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

Through ChromaDex's pioneering research into NAD+ and cellular health, Fried has positioned himself at the intersection of scientific innovation and consumer wellness, bringing Hollywood storytelling skills to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broader audience.

The conversation delves deep into the crucial role of NAD+ in cellular health, particularly its impact on mitochondrial function – our cells' power plants. As Fried explains, our NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, accelerated by modern lifestyle factors like poor sleep, excessive alcohol consumption, and environmental stressors. We explore the growing need for consumer education in the supplement industry and draw compelling parallels between the responsible AI movement and the necessity for ethical governance in the supplement space. Fried advocates for establishing a responsible supplement board to ensure product quality, ingredient sourcing transparency, and consumer safety – addressing the current regulatory gaps in the industry.

Buy Here- Upgrade your cellular Health 

About NAD+
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) serves as a fundamental molecule in cellular health, playing multiple vital roles throughout the body. At its core, NAD+ is essential for energy production, working within our mitochondria to convert food into usable cellular energy. Beyond energy production, it acts as a crucial coenzyme for hundreds of biological processes, including DNA repair, gene expression regulation, and cellular stress response. NAD+ activates important proteins called sirtuins, which are often referred to as "longevity genes" due to their role in promoting healthy aging and cellular maintenance. As we age, our natural NAD+ levels decline, potentially contributing to various age-related conditions and decreased cellular function. This decline affects multiple aspects of health, including cognitive function, muscle strength, metabolic health, and cardiovascular wellness. Research has shown that maintaining healthy NAD+ levels can support improved energy levels, enhanced cellular repair, better brain function, stronger immune response, and more efficient metabolism. The molecule's influence extends to supporting liver health, promoting muscle recovery after exercise, regulating circadian rhythms, and potentially protecting against various age-related diseases, making it a crucial target for research in healthy aging and longevity science.

About Rob Fried
Robert Fried is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ChromaDex. Mr. Fried is an Academy Award and Emmy Award-winning motion picture producer.  He has held senior roles at entertainment companies Savoy Pictures (CEO), Columbia Pictures (Executive Vice President), and Fried Films (founder, CEO).  He has also founded and served as CEO of internet companies Feeln (now Hallmark Movies Now), WHN (a leading e-commerce service provider), and Healthspan Research (now part of ChromaDex). Mr. Fried holds a B.S. from Cornell University and an M.B.A. from the Columbia University Graduate School of Business.

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In this episode I am in conversation with Matthew Holt, a prominent figure in health technology and policy;  an uncensored discussion on the current state of healthcare. Known for his frank and often controversial opinions, Holt is expected to delve into pressing issues such as the impact of artificial intelligence on medical practices, the ongoing challenges of healthcare affordability, and the slow pace of digital transformation in the industry. We'll explore his views on why many promised healthcare innovations have failed to deliver and what he believes are the most promising solutions on the horizon.

The interview will also touch on sensitive topics that often go undiscussed in mainstream healthcare conversations. Holt may share his unfiltered thoughts on the influence of big pharma and insurance companies, the shortcomings of current health policies, and the real-world consequences of a fragmented healthcare system.

About
Matthew Holt is the founder and publisher of The Health Care Blog and still writes regularly for the site and hosts the #THCBGang and #HealthInTwoPoint00 video shows/podcasts. He was co-founder of the Health 2.0 Conference and now also does advisory work mostly for health tech startups at his consulting firm SMACK.health.

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

Our discussion deeply explored what makes Interwell unique. The merger of Fresenius Health Partners, Cricket Health, and Interwell Health has created a powerhouse in kidney care, and I was eager to understand how this combination translates to better patient care. Bobby's explanation of their integrated care model was eye-opening. 

By marrying Acumen EHR's sophisticated data analytics with hands-on nephrology expertise, they're reimagining the entire patient care journey. What struck me most was how this approach extends beyond just managing the disease - it's about empowering patients, particularly through increased access to home-based care options

About
As Chief Executive Officer, Bobby leads Interwell Health’s overall strategy and is passionate about helping patients live their best lives while delivering results for payers and providers. Bobby brings over ten years of value-based kidney care experience to his role, having served as CEO of Cricket Health and as a senior executive in policy and corporate affairs at Fresenius Medical Care. He has long worked at the intersection of business, policy, and law, having served as chief of staff to a member of Congress and General Counsel at the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center. He also practiced as an attorney with Gunderson Dettmer in Silicon Valley and Boston where he represented venture capital firms and high-tech startups. Bobby received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan and a BA degree from Dartmouth College.

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