The Innovation Series

Investing in Health Tech: Sanjana Vig on AI, FemTech, and the Future of Care

In this episode of The Innovation Series, host Mike Kelly sits down with Dr. Sanjana Vig, anesthesiologist, co-founder, and Chief Marketing Officer of Langar Holdings, to explore the cutting edge of health tech investing. From AI-powered radiology to robotic surgery and digital scribes, Sanjana shares how emerging technologies are reshaping the patient and physician experience.    She explains the philosophy behind Langar’s ETF, which focuses on companies addressing real pain points in healthcare—inefficiencies, costly processes, and gaps that impact everyone from patients to clinicians to insurers. Sanjana also offers a candid look at how her clinical expertise feeds into investment decisions, helping to separate hype from true innovation.    The conversation ranges from the practical use of AI in anesthesia and hospital triage to the promise of femtech in fertility and menopause care. Sanjana and Mike also tackle the thorny role of AI in billing and insurance, raising questions about whether algorithms will streamline care—or simply argue with each other.    If you’re curious about how AI, femtech, and innovation at the investment level are changing the future of healthcare, you won’t want to miss this insightful conversation.   In This Episode •      Langar’s Mission: Why their ETF zeroes in on health tech that solves critical pain points. •      Separating Hype from Reality: Screening companies through quantitative models and subject matter experts. •      The Robot Test: Why not all surgical innovations live up to the promise. •      FemTech on the Rise: Fertility, menopause, and women’s health as key areas of innovation and investment. •      Physician Shortages: How tech can help clinicians work smarter and deliver better patient care. •      Actively Managed Advantage: How Langar adapts the fund in real time to policy and market shifts.   Recommended Resources Connect with Dr. Sanjana Vig Sanjana Vig, MD, MBA is a board-certified anesthesiologist, entrepreneur, and writer who bridges medicine and business. She is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Langar Holdings, where she vets healthtech companies for inclusion in the firm’s ETF and contributes thought leadership on healthcare innovation.   Previously, Dr. Vig founded the Perioperative Management Fellowship Program at UC San Diego, combining clinical expertise with business principles to improve healthcare operations. Her professional background includes healthcare administration, preoperative clinic management, workflow efficiency, and academic program development. LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjana-vig-md-mba/] Langar Holdings [https://www.langarholdings.com/] thefemaleprofessional.com [http://thefemaleprofessional.com/]   Connect with Mike Kelly Mike Kelly is a Managing Partner at DeveloperTown and host of The Innovation Series. He helps corporate leaders and founders craft strategies, assemble teams, and secure funding to launch and scale new products.   Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldkelly/] Connect with DeveloperTown DeveloperTown [https://developertown.com/] is a multi-faceted software consultancy for today’s IT and Business Leaders. They create world-class digital experiences to help businesses succeed in a competitive digital world. Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/developertown] Twitter [https://twitter.com/developertown] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/developertown] Hear more inspirational and motivational interviews like this one at TheInnovationSeries.com [https://theinnovationseries.com/], brought to you by DeveloperTown.

What VCs Look For: Startup Traits, Market Opportunities, and Risk Management Insights

In this AMA episode of "Venture Declassified," hosts Mike Kelly, Jacob Schpok, and Ben Pidgeon break down what it really takes to succeed in early-stage venture capital—especially for students and aspiring founders.    The conversation kicks off with each speaker’s personal journey into VC, highlighting different career paths from software development to entrepreneurship and fund management. They then dive into the fundamentals of evaluating startups at various stages, unpacking what makes a company truly “venture backable.” Key factors such as market size, strong founding teams, product-market fit, and timing are explored with plenty of candid examples.    Listeners get a hands-on explanation of how VC funds measure success through return multiples, manage risk, and deal with the unpredictability of startup outcomes. The hosts pull back the curtain on fund structures, the art of raising capital from both institutional LPs and local angels, and the critical role of continued investment through multiple rounds.    A major highlight is their practical discussion around the use of AI in both investing and startup operations. They share how they leverage tools like ChatGPT and NotebookLM for market research, pitch analysis, and even internal business processes—underscoring that experimenting with AI is essential for anyone entering the modern business world.    Packed with straight talk, actionable advice, and plenty of laughs, this episode offers an invaluable peek into the VC playbook and the evolving role of technology in shaping tomorrow’s investment landscape.     Key Topics •      Venture Fund Structures and Investment Approach •      Startup Investment Criteria and Decision Factors •      Economics of VC firms •      Raising Venture and Angel Capital •      The Realities and Mechanics of Venture Investing •      When (and When NOT) to Raise Venture Capital •      Application of AI in Venture and Startup Work     Connect Mike Kelly •      LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldkelly/] •      Website [https://www.michaeldkelly.com/] •      Developer Town [https://developertown.com/]   Ben Pidgeon •      LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/benpidgeon/] •      VisionTech [https://visiontech-partners.com/]   Jacob Schpok •      LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/schpok/] •      Elevate Ventures [https://elevateventures.com/]   Connect with DeveloperTown DeveloperTown [https://developertown.com/] is a multi-faceted software consultancy for today’s IT and Business Leaders. They create world-class digital experiences to help businesses succeed in a competitive digital world. Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/developertown] Twitter [https://twitter.com/developertown] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/developertown] Hear more inspirational and motivational interviews like this one at TheInnovationSeries.com [https://theinnovationseries.com/], brought to you by DeveloperTown.

Future of Automotive Aftermarkets: Insights from ZF’s Digital Innovation Leader Anuj Gupta

In this installment of our Innovation Series, we dive deep into the transformative power of technology in the automotive aftermarket world. Join our host, Mike Kelly, as he chats with Anuj Gupta, head of digital business at ZF Aftermarket, with a special cameo from Sam Koch. If you're curious about how AI, blockchain, and IoT are shaking up the way we look at vehicle maintenance and repair, this episode is for you! Anuj opens up about the enormous potential of these technologies to tackle stubborn industry issues. He shares insights from ZF's approach, where they either leverage their internal tech abilities or partner up for the best solutions. As Anuj puts it, “Innovation is about bringing new offerings to the market and ensuring they provide commercial returns." The discussion also explores the importance of internal networking and a journalistic approach to understanding complex market dynamics. Anuj likens this process to investigative journalism—digging deep and connecting the dots. Alongside technological innovations, Anuj touches on the necessity of being customer-centric for successful innovation. He emphasizes understanding human psychology and how this insight drives more effective customer interactions. Anuj also talks about reducing vehicle downtime with existing technologies, making unpredictable breakdowns, like dead batteries, a thing of the past. He also discusses the hurdles and future potential for electrification and hydrogen fuel technologies. So buckle up and tune in to this enriching conversation about the digital transformation in the automotive aftermarket industry. You won’t want to miss it! In This Episode •      Technological Advances: Anuj Gupta discusses key advances in aftermarket tech, especially the digitization of solutions to address industry challenges. •      ZF’s Strategy: ZF's focus on solving customer issues with commercial value, leveraging internal skills and partnerships. •      Customer Proximity: Emphasis on staying close to customers to better understand their needs and drive innovation. •      Digital Solutions & Strategy: Anuj and Sam cover ZF’s digital shift, market strategy, and focus on "mobility uptime." •      Consultant Qualities: Mike Kelly highlights qualities that set good consultants apart, like a natural excitement for problem-solving. •      Future Vision: Anuj shares excitement for reducing vehicle downtime with predictive tech. •      Innovation and Market Fit: Discusses balancing innovation with company goals and moving the needle in large organizations.   Recommended Resources Connect with Anuj Gupta Our guest is a product and market strategy leader with experience across roles in market analysis, discovery research, and product planning. Currently, he leads the Digital Business Line for ZF Group's Division Aftermarket in North America. Previously, he held leadership positions at Cummins, including Senior Project Manager in Digital Solutions, Marketing and Sales Leader, and Global Product Manager. He holds an MBA in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Indiana University and a technical degree from Purdue University. https://www.linkedin.com/in/anuj-gupta-online/ Connect with DeveloperTown DeveloperTown [https://developertown.com/] is a multi-faceted software consultancy for today’s IT and Business Leaders. They create world-class digital experiences to help businesses succeed in a competitive digital world. Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/developertown] Twitter [https://twitter.com/developertown] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/developertown] Hear more inspirational and motivational interviews like this one at TheInnovationSeries.com [https://theinnovationseries.com/], brought to you by DeveloperTown.

The Business of Well-being: Ryan Larcom's Journey in Entrepreneurship and Health

In this episode, we're joined by Ryan Larcom, an entrepreneurial expert with an impressive track record of launching over 40 businesses with High Alpha Studio & High Alpha Innovation and investing in countless more through High Alpha Capital. Ryan opens up about the personal side of entrepreneurship, sharing his commitment to self-care and the disciplined regimens that fuel his productivity. But this episode isn't just about the grind—it's a holistic look at life. From debunking holiday weight gain myths to exploring the nurturing role of curiosity in personal growth, Ryan keeps us engaged with stories that inspire. We shift gears to discuss the power of design beyond aesthetics—how it functions as a force for intentional living and a strategic tool in business and societal transformation. Venturing deeper, Ryan provides an insider's take on the unique venture studio model that's setting a new standard for entrepreneurship and innovation. Dr. Luke Pittman adds a poignant perspective on healthcare's transformation, echoing Ryan's insights on commercializing healthcare intellectual property and the unmet needs in patient care. They explore the future of corporate innovation and the critical role of startups in driving strategic growth. As we navigate this rich conversation, Ryan reveals his versatile career trajectory, his ambitions, and even his whimsical dreams. So enjoy this conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, self-reflection, and a masterclass in innovation on this episode of The Innovation Series. In This Episode * The importance of implementing healthy routines * Cultivating Curiosities: Ryan’s interests beyond work, like chess and Irish script * Reflecting on personal contributions to one's field: Ryan's professional pride and significant milestones * Emphasizing personalized healthcare and human connection * Venture Studios and Entrepreneurship: Ryan’s role in launching businesses and investing * The evolution of design from products to broader applications * Corporate Growth through Innovation: Innovation strategy and identifying opportunities and learning by doing Connect with Ryan Larcom Ryan loves turning bold ideas into reality. His superpower is complexity-busting–guiding leaders to make sense of business and industry complexities in order to confidently execute. As a Director, Ryan partners with corporations and universities to co-design and structure investments in new venture-backable startups to unlock innovation. His career has intertwined strategy, product design, and innovation within Fortune 500 companies, venture capital, and startups. The common thread of Ryan’s career has been a desire to make the world a better place through thoughtfully designed business models, products, and experiences. Ryan is a graduate of Rochester Institute of Technology with masters and bachelors degrees in mechanical engineering and industrial design. He lives in Indianapolis with his wife and two children. Website: High Alpha Innovation [https://www.highalphainno.com/] Instagram: @highalphainno [https://www.instagram.com/highalphainno/] LinkedIn: High [https://www.linkedin.com/company/hainnovation/] Connect with DeveloperTown DeveloperTown [https://developertown.com/] is a multi-faceted software consultancy for today’s IT and Business Leaders. They create world-class digital experiences to help businesses succeed in a competitive digital world. Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/developertown] Twitter [https://twitter.com/developertown] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/developertown] Hear more inspirational and motivational interviews like this one at TheInnovationSeries.com [https://theinnovationseries.com/], brought to you by DeveloperTown.

Revolutionizing Ideas: David Wong’s Guide to Transforming Organizational Innovation and Growth

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of The Innovation Series, where host Mike Kelly had the pleasure of hosting David Wong, the Executive Director of Innovation and New Growth at CME Group. This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the innovation practices that drive successful product development. David begins the conversation by giving listeners a glimpse into his role at CME Group, where he leads the innovation lab. His responsibilities include steering the company’s focus towards exploring new territories such as bitcoin and blockchain, as well as addressing complex internal challenges. The discussion illustrates how strategic innovation not only pursues new growth but also adds substantial value to an established corporation. In a strategic departure from traditional brainstorming methods, David introduces the concept of brainwriting. This technique promotes an independent ideation process followed by collective synthesis, facilitating a wider array of thought and minimizing the pressure often associated with group brainstorming sessions. Interested listeners can find a detailed video on this inventive method linked in the show notes. David also emphasizes the critical trifecta of innovation: desirability, feasibility, and viability. He highlights the importance of prioritizing customer desirability to ensure that innovations address true consumer needs before delving into technical feasibility and financial viability. Join us again for more insightful conversations here on The Innovation Series, where we explore the edges of innovation and strategy. In This Episode * Innovation Lab: Emphasis on the lab’s role in developing new financial products, technology challenges, and fostering organizational collaboration * Innovation in Practice at CME Group * Movement from critiquing to generating ideas and shifting from "no but" to "yes and" in discussions. * Introduction to brainwriting and its advantages over traditional brainstorming. * Usage of divergent thinking prompts to foster creativity. * Championing transformative thinking and value optimization * Innovation Fundamentals: Desirability, Feasibility, and Viability Connect with David Wong David Wong is a dynamic leader known for his expertise in innovation, strategy, and navigating uncertainty. Passionate about unlocking potential, he thrives on guiding leaders and teams in his organization towards breakthrough insights and accelerated actions in complex opportunity areas. At CME Group, the world's leading derivatives marketplace, David founded the Innovation & Acceleration Lab in 2014 and most recently leads CME Group's co-innovation partnership with Google Cloud.  Leveraging his diverse capabilities, he drives forward-thinking initiatives that create value for customers and propel organizational growth. LinkedIn - David Wong [https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmichaelwong/] Article: Shifting Into Innovation Gear [https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/shifting-innovation-gear-david-wong/?trackingId=K2FCzJzakKipLXBND5UIyw%3D%3D] Northwestern Kellogg Video on Brainwrit [https://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/news_articles/2014/06262014-video-thompson-brainwriting.aspx] Connect with DeveloperTown DeveloperTown [https://developertown.com/] is a multi-faceted software consultancy for today’s IT and Business Leaders. They create world-class digital experiences to help businesses succeed in a competitive digital world. Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/developertown] Twitter [https://twitter.com/developertown] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/developertown] Hear more inspirational and motivational interviews like this one at TheInnovationSeries.com [https://theinnovationseries.com/], brought to you by DeveloperTown.