Episodes
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This episode features a conversation with Bill Betten.
Bill Betten is an experienced engineer and entrepreneur in the medtech industry, currently serving as President of Betten System Solutions and Director of Solutions – Medtech at S3 Connected Health. We met Bill at the Medical Alley Annual Summit, where he shared his journey from Redfield, South Dakota to leading product development for major medical device companies.
Betten Systems Solutions focuses on early-stage product development and commercialization in the medical and life sciences industries. With leadership roles at companies like Devicix (now Nortech Systems), Logic PD, Nonin Medical, Honeywell, and 3M, Bill has played a key role in developing technologies like hearing aids, telemedicine solutions, and mobile health devices. His expertise spans startups to Fortune 100 companies.
In addition to his consulting work, Bill actively mentors entrepreneurs through commercialization programs at South Dakota Mines and the University of Minnesota.
This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.
Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/
USD Discovery District Leasing: https://www.usddiscovery.com/lease
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This episode features a conversation with Dr. Neel Patel.
In 2016, Dr. Neel Patel and his co-founder, Dr. Shaolin Liang, united with a clear mission – to empower people to take control of their health.
Previously as Doctor, Dr. Neel Patel was frustrated with the inefficiencies of hospital blood testing and sought a solution to accelerate the testing process. This was inspired by his co-founder, Dr. Shaolin Liang, who wanted to ensure his newborn was receiving proper nutrients and aimed to bring lab testing into the home using his technical expertise. Together, they worked towards a shared goal: bringing hospital-grade lab testing to the point-of-use, enhancing accessibility to molecular testing and optimizing health and sickness prevention. More specifically, they have developed a point-of-care therapeutic drug monitoring device which measures medication concentration levels to improve drug treatment outcomes.
Today, ZiO Health is based in London with a location in San Fransico, CA. The company’s’ vision is to democratize medical testing and health data, making it accessible for everyone to make meaningful changes to their daily routines and improve their overall well-being.
This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.
Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/
ZiO Health: https://www.zio-health.com/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/lease
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Missing episodes?
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In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Max Ostermeier. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of ImplantData Ophthalmic Products and has an impressive background, transitioning from a career in finance to becoming a serial entrepreneur in the medtech industry. His innovative spirit and dedication to improving patient care have led to the development of several groundbreaking technologies. Through his ventures, he has a successful track record of regulatory approval, fundraising, and strategic exits through acquisition.
Today, Max’s work through ImplantData Opthalmic Products is focused on developing an implantable sensor for continuous monitoring of intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients. Implandata Ophthalmic Products GmbH is a digital health company, based in Hannover Germany. The company’s mission is to address a vastly underserved need in care of glaucoma patients, by combining innovative medical technology with state of the art information technology.
This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.
Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Lisa MacFadden, PhD.
Lisa is a Professor of Practice in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director of Biomechanics Research at the University of South Dakota. With a career spanning academia and applied science, she explores the complexities of human movement to optimize performance, reduce injury risks, and enhance rehabilitation. Her interdisciplinary approach involves collaborations across medicine, kinesiology, therapy, psychology, and computer science. Previously, she led the Sanford Sports Science Institute and now focuses on integrating AI and computer vision into biomechanics, making advanced motion-capture technology more accessible. Dr. MacFadden is also dedicated to STEM outreach, inspiring students to pursue careers in biomechanics through initiatives like the Biomechanics Initiative. Today, her work continues to advance the field, combining advanced technology with a passion for teaching and mentoring.
This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.
Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Aaron Emerson.
Aaron is the Chief Executive Officer at CEGA Innovations located in Sioux Falls, SD. Before co founding CEGA, Aaron honed his expertise as a litigation attorney, specializing in complex commercial disputes and risk advisement. His rich background also extends into the academic realm, having delved into neuroscience at the University of South Dakota and Creighton University School of Medicine, kidney ischemia research at University Physicians, and cardiovascular studies at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Furthermore, Aaron's scholarly contributions include publications and co-authorship in prominent journals such as Behavioral Brain Research, Brain Research Bulletin, and General Comparative Endocrinology, among others. His educational journey encompasses a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Biology, a Master of Arts in Neuroscience from the University of South Dakota, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of South Dakota School of Law.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
CEGA Innovations: https://www.cegaco.com/
celer: https://www.celerco.io/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Jon Greenwald.
With over two decades in healthcare and technology, Jon Greenwald is the co-founder and leader of Caira Surgical and has pioneered Radar Surgical Tracking and other innovative technologies to enhance joint replacement surgery. He has successfully launched and grown new businesses that leveraged proprietary technologies to transform industries that delivered top-line growth and profitability. In addition, he has secured and served as Principal Investigator on two $1M+ grants from the National Science Foundation to develop new surgical technologies. His areas of expertise include technology development, start-up and early-stage operations, commercialization, global supply chain and manufacturing, partnerships and alliances, non-dilutive funding, VC, and strategic partnerships.
As of April 2024, Caira Surgical is raising a $3MM bridge round. For more information, please reach out to Jon Greenwald at [email protected].
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
Caira Surgical: https://www.cairasurgical.com/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Mark Christopherson.
Mark brings over three decades of expertise to the forefront of the medical device industry, with pivotal roles at Medtronic and leadership in venture-backed startups. Mark’s track record includes foundational roles at Inspire Medical and Cryosa, where he was instrumental from the startup phase through commercialization.
With a rich background in managing international development, clinical trials, and a wide array of therapies, Mark has made significant contributions across various domains. His expertise in class III implantables is only a glimpse into his capabilities. Specifically, he has worked with technologies in neuro stimulation, cardiology, heart failure, sleep apnea, disposable catheters, radio frequency and vapor ablation, and cryotherapies. His diverse experience highlights his versatility and innovation in healthcare solutions.
Renowned for building dynamic teams and cultivating strategic relationships with healthcare practitioners and partners, Mark’s leadership continues to influence the medical device sector as he resides in Minnesota.
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Jason Foster. Jason is a dynamic leader with over 20 years of experience in the healthcare and technology sectors across the US, UK, and Europe. As the Chief Executive Officer of Ori Biotech, he spearheads the company's efforts in revolutionizing cell and gene therapy manufacturing technology.
Through digital transformation, Ori Biotech's technology is automating and standardizing cell and gene therapy manufacturing. As a result, their system facilitates an innovative progression from pre-clinical stages to large-scale commercial production for therapy developers.
The platform’s advanced hardware, intuitive software, and detailed analytical tools, is designed to boost production efficiency and reliability, all while simultaneously reducing costs. This advancement is pivotal in scaling up the production of critical therapies, facilitating their accessibility to a broader range of patients globally.
In the medtech sector, the significance of people extends far beyond the confines of a single company. It's not merely the internal team that propels a business forward; success also hinges on a network of partners, including collaborators from other organizations, local government, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. These diverse contributors, ranging from researchers and specialists to external stakeholders, all play a vital role. They are more than just a workforce or partners; they are integral to embodying and advancing the company's mission. In medtech, the collective efforts and alignment of all these people towards a purposeful mission are what truly differentiate and drive successful ventures. This holistic approach to embracing people in every aspect of the ecosystem is what marks the path to meaningful progress in healthcare.
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
Ori Biotech: https://oribiotech.com/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Mark Carbone. He is a healthcare entrepreneur, inventor, researcher, and is the CEO of PN Medical. Under Mark’s leadership, PN Medical has become a leader in the respiratory therapy and cardiopulmonary fields and has been instrumental in dozens of novel clinical studies conducted with Mayo Clinic, Fighter Pilots, Army Rangers and SEALS, Olympians, and professional athletes. With a dedication to evidence-based science and cutting-edge research, they have helped almost 2 million people breathe better, overcome illness, improve their physical and mental health, their well-being, and maximize their human performance.
Every startup has a distinct origin story, painting a unique journey from inception to its current state. While many first-time founders narrate tales of starting from scratch, not every startup's story follows this path. The essence of a startup lies in the narrative of its evolution - how it materialized and grew into what it is today. Understanding the history, the pivotal figures involved, and the core mission is crucial in crafting a clear and compelling story for any business.
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
PN Medical: https://www.pnmedical.com/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Ken Londoner. He has established himself as an authority in capital markets and capital architecture, as well as a prominent executive in the life sciences sector. Beginning his career as a research analyst at the prestigious J. & W. Seligman & Co., Inc. in New York, he rapidly advanced to a key position within the biotech industry during the 1990s. His expertise and leadership enabled him to oversee the management of $3.5 billion across mutual and pension funds, along with a range of international assets.
Driven by a deep commitment to advancing medical technology, Mr. Londoner co-established and directed multiple companies in the life sciences domain to market prominence, among them BioSig Technologies, Inc., listed as [NASDAQ: BSGM]. By partnering with leading experts in electrophysiology, BioSig is dedicated to improve the outcomes of cardiac ablation procedures for arrhythmia treatment with its cutting-edge technological innovations. The firm leverages its specialized expertise in sophisticated biomedical signal processing and analysis, extending these capabilities to broader medical applications.
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
BioSig Technologies: https://www.biosig.com/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Dr. Vincent Keereman. He is the Chief Medical Officer and co-founder of Xeos, a medtech company with the goal to eliminate the risk of resurgery through smarter specimen imaging. Vincent has dual Master's degrees in Electronics Engineering and Medicine from Ghent University. He earned his PhD in Biomedical Engineering in 2011, specializing in PET-MR imaging, and became a board-certified Neurologist in 2018. In addition to being a co-founder and clinical advisor of other medtech spin-offs, Vincent is an Associate Professor at Ghent University.
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by the USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
Xeos: https://www.xeos.care/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
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This episode features a conversation with Dr. Tom Ulrich, a seasoned engineer and engineering manager with over 30 years of experience, a consultant, an Engineering Fellow at Tandem Diabetes, and an Adjunct Professor of Engineering at Biola University. He is also the author of 'Leading Engineers,' a book tailored for engineering managers that melds the wisdom accrued from his extensive career in engineering and management with insightful leadership theories from academia. This unique blend of practical experience and scholarly insight makes the book both relatable and trustworthy.
This is Favorable Environments, a podcast sponsored by USD Discovery District.
“I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence. Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.
EPISODE LINKS:
Tom Ulrich: https://www.tomulrichconsulting.com/
Tandem Diabetes: https://www.tandemdiabetes.com/
USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/
