In this episode of Medsider Radio, we sat down with Justin Zenanko, co-founder & CEO of SynerFuse.

SynerFuse is developing the e-TLIF procedure, which combines spinal fusion with neuromodulation by placing leads directly at exposed nerves during surgery.

A certified public accountant and serial entrepreneur, Justin previously served as CFO and senior vice president of corporate development at Recombinetics, where he led fundraising efforts totaling $68 million.

In this interview, Justin discusses approaching FDA interactions as negotiations, validating procedures with off-the-shelf components before investing in custom devices, and structuring private raises through investment banks to preserve control while delaying institutional venture capital.

Before we dive into the discussion, I wanted to mention a few things:

First, if you’re into learning from medical device founders and CEOs, and want to know when new interviews are live, head over to Medsider.com and sign up for our free newsletter.

And if you’re ready to level up your medtech game, you should check out Medsider Courses — 8-week masterclasses covering topics like fundraising, M&A and exit planning, design and development, clinical and regulatory strategy, and commercialization.

These courses, featuring hard-earned lessons from elite medtech CEOs, can be purchased individually or come free with our All-Access Pass.

If you'd rather read than listen, here's a link to the full interview with Justin Zenanko.