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Pioneers
Siemens Digital Industry Software
49 episodes
1 week ago
Ideas alone can’t change the world. It takes grit. In this podcast, Siemens sits down with startup founders, ecosystem partners and more in a quest to get to the bottom of what makes startups (and the people in them) tick.  At Siemens, we understand the struggles of early-stage startups. Let us remove the barriers on your startup journey by helping you transform your engineering ideas into real, marketable products with industry-leading software solutions. Join the Siemens Startups Program to grow your startup to its full potential. Want to get in touch? Reach out here.
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Technology
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All content for Pioneers is the property of Siemens Digital Industry Software and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Ideas alone can’t change the world. It takes grit. In this podcast, Siemens sits down with startup founders, ecosystem partners and more in a quest to get to the bottom of what makes startups (and the people in them) tick.  At Siemens, we understand the struggles of early-stage startups. Let us remove the barriers on your startup journey by helping you transform your engineering ideas into real, marketable products with industry-leading software solutions. Join the Siemens Startups Program to grow your startup to its full potential. Want to get in touch? Reach out here.
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Technology
Episodes (20/49)
Pioneers
From Spider-Man to Spidey Tek: How Roberto Veloso is Spinning the Future of Sustainable Materials
What if Spider-Man’s web were real? For Roberto Veloso, founder and CEO of Spidey Tek, that question turned into a lifelong pursuit, and eventually, a business. What you’ll discover today… (02:10) The “aha moment” that turned science fiction into science fact (05:00) Early adopters and investors who believed before mass production (06:30) Scaling spider silk using an alfalfa-based production platform (11:40) Partnerships, fundraising, and the $5 million scale-up plan (18:00) The power of building the right team and leadership under pressure (18:50) Refugee roots, resilience, and redefining what “hard” really means (19:50) Advice for scientists and engineers building hard-tech startups (23:30) The five-floor elevator pitch that sums up Spidey Tek’s trillion-dollar potential More about the episode Originally from El Salvador, Roberto’s journey from comic-book fan to biotech innovator has been anything but ordinary. After decades of research, his team discovered how to produce spider silk proteins at scale—creating a material that’s stronger than steel, lighter than carbon fiber, and completely biodegradable. In this episode, Roberto shares how Spidey Tek went from lab experiment to a company attracting attention from aerospace giants, automotive manufacturers, and materials science firms across the world. With a production model built on alfalfa plants and partnerships that remove traditional manufacturing barriers, Spidey Tek stands at the edge of a sustainable-materials revolution. If you’re an investor, innovator, or anyone fascinated by nature-inspired technology, this conversation is a masterclass in turning impossible science into scalable impact. Connect with us Peng-Sang Cau LinkedIn Website Roberto Velozzi LinkedIn
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1 week ago
27 minutes

Pioneers
From PhD Lab to Industry Leader: Paul Webster’s Journey to a Hard Tech Exit
What if your PhD side project could turn into a multimillion-dollar acquisition in just five years—without going through endless VC rounds? What you’ll discover… The crucial pivot that took Laser Depth Dynamics from medical imaging to manufacturing—and why it made all the difference How leveraging your university ecosystem can give you world-class R&D resources without the overhead Why empathy might be the most underrated skill for technical founders The role strategic partnerships played in landing Laser Depth Dynamics’ very first customer How to prepare your company for acquisition from day one Where to find it… (2:00) From PhD research into optical coherence tomography to a startup idea (5:15) The big pivot: starting a technology business (8:00) Using the university ecosystem to develop and test prototypes (9:40) Strategic partnerships with IPG Photonics and securing first customers (13:40) Building marketing assets that engineers often overlook (19:05) Understanding product-market fit in B2B hard tech (25:10) Finding and cultivating early adopter customers (28:15) Funding strategies without heavy VC involvement (46:32) Leadership styles and growth over time (50:15) Preparing for acquisition and knowing when to sell More about the episode Turning cutting-edge research into a viable, market-ready product is never easy—especially in hard tech, where the path from prototype to profitability is often long and capital-intensive. But Paul Webster, Chief Technology Officer and General Manager at IPG Photonics Canada, managed to do just that with Laser Depth Dynamics, the company he co-founded while finishing his PhD at Queen’s University. In this episode of Pioneers, host Peng-Sang Cau dives deep into Paul’s journey from academic research to successful acquisition. You’ll hear how he pivoted from medical imaging to manufacturing to shorten time-to-market, leveraged the resources of the university ecosystem to refine his prototype, and built strategic relationships—most notably with IPG Photonics—that fast-tracked his path to customers and growth. Paul also reveals how empathy, overbuilt hardware, and smart pricing decisions helped him win early adopters, how he avoided the common pitfalls of hard tech fundraising, and why preparing for acquisition starts on day one. For founders, investors, and innovators in deep tech, this episode offers a masterclass in turning research into a thriving business. Connect with us Peng-Sang Cau LinkedIn Website Paul Webster LinkedIn
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1 month ago
56 minutes

Pioneers
From Big Tech to Robots: Cobot Founder Brad Porter and the Race to Robotics
What you’ll discover… How to build trust with customers before you’ve even built a product Lessons on raising $150M and convincing top-tier VCs like Sequoia and General Catalyst The emotional story that sparked Cobot’s mission inside a hospital hallway Why humanoid robots might not be the future and what should replace them Why swappable batteries, high-mounted sensors, and swerve drives make all the difference The founder’s journey: anxiety, ambition, and the power of embracing the Odyssey Where to find it… (02:35) Why Brad left a high-flying career to start something from scratch (06:10) Timing the AI and robotics wave (08:45) From Scale AI to Cobot: building the product he truly believed in (11:45) Identifying Real-world problems to be solved by your new start-up (19:45) Why top investors believed in him before a prototype even existed (27:00) Selling the vision before building the robot (32:45) MVP success, user feedback, and building trust with early adopters (40:00) What “everyday work” means for Brad and how Cobot improves lives (44:00) The next 10 years of robotics and physical AI (52:00) Brad’s proudest moment and how it ties back to a promise to his father More about the episode Before founding Cobot, Brad Porter held senior roles at Amazon, Scale AI, and even helped pioneer voice applications at Tellme and Netscape. But it was a walk with his father through the halls of Mayo Clinic that planted the seed for something radically new. In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Brad shares how a personal loss became a professional mission to build collaborative robots that enhance human work instead of replacing it. With over $150M raised in just three years and clients like the Mayo Clinic, Maersk, and the US Department of Defense, Brad has done what few in hard tech manage to do: build, fund, and deploy a real solution in record time. You’ll hear how digital twin technology and fast iteration allowed Cobot to deliver results before having a fully built prototype, and why design decisions like swappable batteries and swerve drives matter more than buzzwords. If you’re a founder, investor, or just fascinated by where robotics is headed, this episode delivers hard-won insights and inspiration in equal measure. Connect with us: Peng-Sang Cau LinkedIn Website Brad Porter LinkedIn
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2 months ago
55 minutes

Pioneers
Forged in War, Proven in Business: The Story of Peng Cau
What does it take to build a company from nothing—and then start again to help others do the same? How do resilience, innovation, and leadership shape not just a business, but an entire life? In this unforgettable episode of Pioneers: The Siemens Startup Podcast, hosts Paul Musto and Jim Gernatt welcome Peng Cau, the newest member of the Siemens startup team. From surviving Cambodia’s killing fields to building and selling one of Canada’s premier automation companies, Peng’s journey is a masterclass in overcoming adversity, grit, leading with integrity, bold vision and execution. She shares powerful personal stories—escaping war, learning business from her parents, and launching Transformix from a basement with a $1,000 loan. Peng opens up about navigating racism, sexism, and strategic pivots, including the bold decisions that led to an eight-figure exit without venture capital. Listeners will hear why Peng never says "I've made it," and the leadership philosophy that drove her company's culture. Now, as part of Siemens, Peng brings her passion, startup experience, and bold energy to help new founders reach their dreams—and she's officially joining the podcast as a future host! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Surviving the Khmer Rouge: How Peng’s early life taught her resilience and adaptability (2:20), the same skills needed to build deeptech company. Entrepreneurship Lessons: Building a company with nothing but grit and loyalty (6:15) Starting Transformix: From a basement and cold-calling manufacturers to landing their first big contract (11:45) Facing Business Collapse: How Peng pivoted after losing 90% of her revenue (15:30) Never "Making It":  An entrepreneur’s mindset of constant growth (18:10) Leadership Philosophy: Integrity, Respect, Passion, and Innovation (19:35) The Bittersweet Reality of Acquisition: Letting go of her “first child” (24:20) The Investment Ecosystem in Canada vs. the U.S.: Challenges raising capital (26:55) Overcoming Sexism and Racism: Advice for underrepresented founders (30:20) Why Peng saw the Siemens Startup Program as a perfect next step (34:00) Connect with us: Paul Musto LinkedIn Website Peng Cau LinkedIn X
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4 months ago
33 minutes

Pioneers
50% Less Fuel, Fewer Emissions: JetZero’s Game-Changing Aircraft Design
What if the shape of an aircraft could unlock 50% fuel savings and drastically cut carbon emissions? How can innovative startups challenge decades-old aviation designs to create a more sustainable, cost-efficient future? In this episode of the Siemens Startup Podcast, hosts Paul Musto (Siemens Digital Industries) and Tucker Marion (Northeastern University) sit down with Tim Berry, Head of Manufacturing, Quality & Integration at JetZero. With a background at SpaceX, VAST, and other aerospace pioneers, Tim shares how JetZero is breaking through 60 years of aviation stagnation with its blended wing body (BWB) aircraft—a revolutionary design that promises game-changing efficiency, sustainability, and improved passenger experience. This episode is perfect for startup founders, aerospace engineers, investors, and sustainability advocates looking to understand how game-changing innovation can disrupt a legacy industry. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge aircraft design, sustainable aviation, or the role of digital tools in manufacturing, you'll gain insights into how JetZero is tackling these challenges—from securing major partnerships with NASA and the U.S. Air Force to reimagining the future of air travel. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: JetZero’s goals and achievements and target market (2:00) Key technical challenges that JetZero is facing (9:15) How JetZero aims to improve the passenger experience (12:05) JetZero’s low-risk approach to producing revolutionary aircraft (18:20) How Siemens helps to accelerate JetZero’s development and manufacturing processes (24:30) JetZero and NASA’s partnership (27:25) Words of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs (29:40) The future of aviation and aircraft manufacturing (35:21) Connect with Paul Musto LinkedIn Website Connect with Tim Berry LinkedIn  Website Connect with Tucker Marion Website LinkedIn
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7 months ago
37 minutes

Pioneers
Reducing failure rates and improving development time: How AdaIQ makes it possible
In this second part of our Pioneers Podcast special on Ada IQ, host Paul Musto, co-host Tucker Marion, and CEO Liz Graham dive deep into how Ada IQ is changing the game for product design. With a focus on breaking down data silos and integrating insights from various sources, they explore how AI can help product teams design smarter, faster, and more efficiently. Liz discusses the importance of combining fragmented data from different departments—sales, marketing, and product management—to inform design decisions from the beginning. Ada IQ’s AI technology acts as a co-pilot, helping designers navigate constraints, enhance creativity, and improve the marketability of products. The conversation also explores how AI can democratize complex tools like CAD and simulation, giving more team members the ability to innovate and solve problems without needing specialized knowledge. Liz shares insights into how AI can help make the design process more intuitive and accessible for all types of engineers. With advice for young entrepreneurs and reflections on the evolution of technology, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for founders and innovators looking to stay ahead of the curve. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Ada IQ connects fragmented data to inform early-stage product design (0:40) The role of AI in augmenting the work of product designers (3:00) How AI helps bridge the gap between product conception and CAD design (9:30) Key advice for young entrepreneurs navigating the ups and downs of startup life (11:50) How the intersection of academic research and industry drives innovation at Ada IQ (18:00) Golden advice for young entrepreneurs of startup companies (21:50) Connect with Paul Musto LinkedIn Website Connect with Tucker Marion LinkedIn Website Connect with Elizabeth Graham LinkedIn Website
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8 months ago
27 minutes

Pioneers
40% of New Products Fail: AdaIQ’s AI Solution Might Change the Game
What if AI could transform product design by seamlessly integrating consumer insights and predictive analytics? How can startups and established companies alike harness AI to bridge the gap between creativity and data-driven innovation? In this episode of Pioneers: The Siemens Startup Podcast, host Paul Musto is joined by co-host Tucker Marion from Northeastern University and special guest Liz Graham, CEO of AdaIQ. Liz discusses her journey from corporate law to startup leadership, her experience with hyper-growth companies like HubSpot and Wayfair, and her vision for AdaIQ—a company using AI to revolutionize product design. The trio dives into the challenges of creating a culture of innovation, the opportunities AI offers in enhancing the product development process, and how startups can build resilient teams to weather the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.  From tackling inefficiencies in product design to fostering a trust-centered company culture, this episode offers invaluable insights for founders, product managers, and innovators alike. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How do companies keep the innovative spirit alive? (7:50) Practical strategies for founders to navigate the rollercoaster of startup life (9:00) Why 40% of new products fail or underperform and how AdaIQ aims to change that (11:30) What does AdaIQ do? (12:30) What drives the business model of AdaIQ (19:20) How AI and design technology will evolve over the next few years ( 20:40 ) Connect with Paul Musto LinkedIn Website Connect with Tucker Marion LinkedIn Website Connect with Elizabeth Graham LinkedIn Website
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9 months ago
25 minutes

Pioneers
32 Engines, Zero Emissions: What Startup Innovators Can Learn from Cosmic Aerospace’s Skylark
How can aviation achieve zero-emission flight without compromising performance and range? What does it take to build the next generation of electric aircraft from the ground up? Aviation is at a crossroads, with sustainability emerging as a critical goal for the industry. But what does the future hold for electric aviation, and how can it achieve zero-emission flight while meeting commercial demands? In this episode of Pioneers, the Siemens Startup Podcast, host Kevin Blevins speaks with Christopher Chahine, the co-founder and CEO of Cosmic Aerospace. Christopher shares his journey from researching fluid dynamics at the von Karman Institute and the University of Oxford to founding Cosmic Aerospace, a company dedicated to creating ultra-efficient, all-electric passenger aircraft with long flight ranges.  Together, they discuss the challenges and opportunities in building sustainable aviation technology, from overcoming range limitations to navigating FAA certification. Christopher also highlights the importance of leveraging Siemens’ advanced tools, such as STAR CCM+ and Femap, in bringing Skylark’s innovative design to life. Listeners will discover how Cosmic Aerospace’s Skylark aircraft is poised to revolutionize regional aviation with its zero-emission, highly efficient design and why embracing current battery technology without betting on miracles is a cornerstone of their strategy.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The dangers associated with aviation CO2 emissions ( 06:00 ) Characteristics and capabilities of the new Skylark electric aircraft ( 10:30 ) The significance of a clean-sheet design for electric aircraft efficiency (11:00) Key milestones in Cosmic Aerospace’s journey ( 16:00 ) The design philosophy with regards to battery technology ( 25:30 )  The outcome of test flights and subscale aircrafts ( 30:00 ) Plans and strategy around production and ensuring affordability and maintainability ( 33:50 ) Why did Aerospace choose to use Siemens products? ( 35:30 ) Christopher’s advice for budding entrepreneurs in the aerospace industry ( 36:50 ) Connect with us Christopher Chahine LinkedIn Website Kevin Blevins LinkedIn Website
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9 months ago
41 minutes

Pioneers
First Flight Venture Center: Launching Startups Successfully
What does it take for deep tech startups to move from idea to impact? How can innovation hubs like First Flight Venture Center provide the tools, mentorship, and support founders need to thrive? In this episode of Siemens for Startups, host Jim Gernatt welcomes Krista Covey and Ben Provan from First Flight Venture Center, North Carolina’s leading business innovation hub. Krista, President of First Flight, and Ben, Director of Hangar 6, provide an in-depth look at how their organization fosters early-stage startups with mentorship, cutting-edge prototyping services, and a thriving ecosystem of support. Discover how First Flight bridges the gap between groundbreaking science and market-ready solutions, and learn how their collaboration with Siemens empowers deep tech entrepreneurs to accelerate their innovation cycles. Gain insights into their unique programs, such as Hangar 6’s rapid prototyping resources, and hear inspiring success stories of startups that turned ambitious ideas into real-world impact. Listeners will walk away with actionable takeaways for navigating the startup journey, including strategies for overcoming funding challenges, building strong teams, and creating scalable business models. Whether you’re a startup founder, an investor looking to better understand deep tech, or an innovation enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons for transforming bold visions into sustainable success. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: History and role of First Flight Venture Center and Hangar6  (01:00) Examples of company journeys in the Research Triangle Park (RTP) ecosystem (03:55) How can founders stay focused and motivated when faced with challenges or setbacks? (6:50) Why is it a good time now to start a start-up or invest in one? (25:10) How do the investment community and Siemens’ tools support deep tech?  (29:00) Vital questions that founders should ask to improve long-term success (39:35) Siemens’ special packaging and pricing for startups through First Flight Venture Center (43:40) Connect with Jim Gernatt LinkedIn Website Connect with Ben Provan Website LinkedIn Connect with Krista Covey Website LinkedIn 
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11 months ago
44 minutes

Pioneers
Transforming Startup Potential into Success with Siemens and Big Red Jelly’s Strategic Approach
What are the foundational issues that often hold back growth, and how can they be resolved? How can startups achieve the brand clarity they need to scale successfully?  In this episode of Pioneers, the Siemens Startup Podcast, host Jim Gernatt sits down with Josh and Zach Webber, the dynamic brother duo behind Big Red Jelly, an award-winning marketing agency. Josh and Zach share their expertise in helping startups unlock growth through a meticulously crafted process they call “Brand, Build, Grow.” They discuss their journey, their unique approach to branding, and how they assist startups in addressing foundational issues that hinder their growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges startups face, the importance of understanding product-market fit, and how strategic branding can be the key to unlocking accelerated growth. From deep-tech startups to scalable service businesses, this episode offers practical advice for founders looking to refine their messaging, engage their ideal customers effectively, and improve the customer journey. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Big Red Jelly identifies and addresses growth barriers for startups (09:10) The connection between Siemens, Keiretsu and Big Red Jelly (16:30) What are the symptoms of brand issues for start-ups? (19:45) Practical branding exercises for deep tech startup founders (30:30) How to improve self-awareness for your brand (32:35) How Siemens and Big Red Jelly help tech start-ups succeed (41:50) Connect with Jim Gernatt LinkedIn Website Connect with Josh Webber LinkedIn Website Connect with Zach Webber LinkedIn Website
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1 year ago
44 minutes

Pioneers
Affordable Space Tourism
Space travel is no longer reserved for astronauts only; it's on the verge of becoming an extraordinary experience within reach for everyone. As the boundaries of exploration expand, today's episode dives into innovations that are making space travel more accessible than ever. In this captivating episode of Pioneers, the Siemens Startup Podcast, host Kevin Blevins sits down with Michael Savage, COO of Space Perspective.  In this episode, you'll explore the latest innovations from Space Perspective, including their unique space balloon and advanced spaceship, Neptune. You'll also discover their significant achievements with the new capsule and cutting-edge marine spaceport, Voyager. Kevin Blevins provides insights into the growing space tourism industry and how companies like Space Perspective are working to make space travel more accessible and affordable for everyone. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Michael Savage’s journey from being a business owner to becoming a partner at a venture capital firm, Space Perspective. (01:54) Space travel technology with a focus on a new capsule design and upcoming launch. (14:21) Space tourism industry growth and cost reduction. (16:40) The development of a commercial spacecraft. (21:56) Partnership with Siemens for space technology development. (36:56) Space tourism and innovation with Space Perspective. (42:59) Connect with Michael Savage: LinkedIn Website Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
47 minutes

Pioneers
A Deep Dive into Berkeley SkyDeck
Incubators and accelerators serve as vital support systems, fostering early-stage ventures by offering essential resources, mentorship, and invaluable networking opportunities. In this insightful episode of Pioneers, the Siemens Startup Podcast, host Kevin Blevins engages in a conversation with Caroline Winnett, Executive Director of Berkeley SkyDeck, and Craig Conlee, growth strategist at Siemens Digital Industries Software and key advisor at SkyDeck.  Caroline shares her fascinating journey from a professional violinist to a successful entrepreneur and executive director, highlighting her experiences with startups and her pivotal role at SkyDeck. Craig discusses his transition from a political science major and a sales professional to a startup founder and advisor. In this episode, you will gain valuable insights into the unique structure and mission of Berkeley SkyDeck, its impressive network of advisors, and its innovative partnership with Siemens.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Berkeley SkyDeck and UC Berkeley. (15:46) SkyDeck's role in accelerating startups at UC Berkeley. (18:19) Berkeley SkyDeck's global presence, investor network, and successful alumni. (23:59) Entrepreneurship, incubators, and partnerships between Berkeley Skydeck and Siemens. (34:47) Connect with Caroline Winnett: LinkedIn Website Connect with Craig Conlee: LinkedIn Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
38 minutes

Pioneers
Revolutionizing Drug Development in Space
Manufacturing in space leverages the unique conditions of microgravity to enhance processes that are challenging or impossible on Earth.  In this exciting episode of Pioneers, the Siemens StartUp Podcast, host Kevin Blevins sits down with Will Bruey, CEO and co-founder of Varda Space Industries. Varda is not just any space company; they are pioneering the manufacturing of products in space and bringing them back to Earth for terrestrial use. In this episode, you will gain insights into Varda Space Industries' unique business model, including their focus on pharmaceuticals and the benefits of microgravity in drug development. You will also get to hear details about their successful first mission and the future potential of space manufacturing.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Will Bruey's background and journey to founding Varda Space Industries (01:29) How Varda manufactures drugs in orbit for unique formulations. (06:20) Space manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and entrepreneurship. (16:35) The future of space manufacturing and its potential impact on various industries (19:22) The importance of clear communication and team building for startup success (21:44) Why Varda Space Industries chose Siemens for their aerospace manufacturing (22:31) Connect with Will Bruey: LinkedIn Website Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
28 minutes

Pioneers
MedTech Innovator: Accelerating Healthcare Innovation (Part 2)
As a startup venturing into the dynamic landscape of medical technology innovation, the road ahead may seem riddled with obstacles. From fierce competition to ever-evolving regulatory landscapes, the journey to success can be fraught with uncertainty. I'm your host, Kevin Blevins. In the last episode, Jim Gernatt and I were speaking with Paul Grand founder and CEO of Med Tech Innovatory. We left off discussing Paul's background, the remarkable journey of Med Tech Innovator, and its pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare. Today, we continue this conversation with Paul diving into innovative initiatives driving this transformative organization.  In this part, you will gain insights into the pivotal role of organizations like MedTech Innovator in guiding companies through the complexities of commercialization, including navigating investment challenges and addressing payment and coverage issues. By the end of this episode, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the MedTech Innovator landscape and actionable advice for making a significant impact in healthcare. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Challenges faced by MedTech startups, including lack of guidance and funding. (04:16) MedTech Innovation ecosystem, including peers, key opinion leaders, investors, strategic partners, and payers. (07:02) The value of working with a partner like Siemens. (14:05) The importance of getting out of echo chambers and seeing different perspectives. (20:20) The importance of fixing investment and payment systems in the medical technology industry. (31:49) Connect with Paul Grand: LinkedIn Website  Connect with Jim Gernatt: LinkedIn Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
34 minutes

Pioneers
MedTech Innovator: Accelerating Healthcare Innovation
Accelerators provide essential coaching, resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to startups, enabling them to navigate challenges and scale effectively in the competitive landscape.  I'm your host, Kevin Blevins, and I have a co-host, Jim Gernatt. He leads the Innovation Partnership ecosystem for Siemens, working with incubators and accelerators.   Today, we're speaking with Paul Grand, founder and CEO of MedTech Innovator, one of the foremost MedTech accelerators globally, dedicated to fostering innovation in digital health, medical devices, and diagnostics. In this part one of a two-part episode, you will gain valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by startups in the MedTech space. From understanding the funding dynamics and investor sentiments to the genesis of MedTech Innovator as a platform to support and guide healthcare startups, this episode offers a deep dive into the world of medical technology entrepreneurship.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: MedTech industry funding challenges and exit opportunities. (2:28) Entrepreneurship, resilience, and persistence in the MedTech industry. (7:29) The evolution of a venture capitalist in the MedTech industry. (13:17) The challenges faced by MedTech startups in gaining visibility (16:27) MedTech innovation and its impact on healthcare. (21:35) Connect with Paul Grand: LinkedIn Website Connect with Jim Gernatt: LinkedIn Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
25 minutes

Pioneers
Navigating Angel Investment with Sandy Wollman
Often, entrepreneurs embark on their journey with a brilliant idea they believe addresses a pressing market need. But turning that idea into reality requires more than just ingenuity; it demands funding. Today, we'll delve into the world of startup funding, exploring the strategies and challenges entrepreneurs face as they seek the financial support necessary to bring their innovations to life.  I'm your host, Kevin Blevins, and joining us today is Sanford Wollman, or Sandy, an ACA (Angel Capital Association) board member, Director of the Syndication Committee, and the co-founder and Managing Director of Westchester Angels. In this episode, Sandy provides valuable insights into what startups need to know from the initial stages of pitching to navigating due diligence to attract angel investment. We will also explore the collaborative nature of the angel investing ecosystem, the importance of finding the right angel group, and the role of organizations like the ACA in facilitating connections and providing educational resources for entrepreneurs. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Sandy’s entrepreneurship, business failures, and personal growth. (6:03) The dynamics and characteristics of the angel investing ecosystem (22:36) How the ACA works with angel groups to help startups raise money easier (28:33) How the ACA streamlines the investment process for angel groups (35:43) The "pizza lunch test" and its significance in the angel group. (41:14) Siemens partnership with the ACA (44:26) Advice for entrepreneurs. (47:28) Connect with Sanford Wollman: LinkedIn E-mail ACA Website Westchester Angels Website Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
58 minutes

Pioneers
Sustainable Space Travel
If you're like many outside the launch industry, the concept of a company that is pushing the aerospace boundaries by developing the world's first commercial rocket powered by carbon-neutral biofuel might sound foreign to you. I'm your host, Kevin Blevins, and today, I'm joined by David Hayrikyan, the Chief Technology Officer at BluShift Aerospace, a US-based startup company in Brunswick, Maine. BluShift Aerospace is a sustainable space launch service provider, offering dedicated, small 'taxi-ride' Space Launch Services, catering to the quickly growing market of sending nano-satellites and micro-satellites into space In this episode, you will get a captivating glimpse into the world of space exploration, innovation, and sustainability, with BluShift Aerospace. You will also get to hear in-depth about BluShift's unique rocket technology, the use of carbon-neutral biofuels, and their plans for launching from Maine.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Space exploration and Blue Shift's mission to reach the stars. (3:43) Space technology and rocket development. (8:38) Carbon-neutral biofuel for rocket launches in Maine. (15:30) Using Siemens NX for rocket design and simulation. (21:30) Advice for both aspiring entrepreneurs and those interested in joining startup companies. (26:51) Connect with David Hayrikyan: LinkedIn Website Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
34 minutes

Pioneers
Creating Safer Healthcare Environments with the ALTA Platform
We live in a world where advancements in medical science have extended our lifespan and are transforming how we experience healthcare. However, one statistic shows one-third of the surveyed healthcare workers plan to leave their jobs in the next year due to experiencing exhaustion, anxiety, and depression. Many are looking for ways to make healthcare a bit easier by developing technologies that will help with the labor-intensive tasks they deal with every day. In this episode Kevin Blevins and Jim Gernatt interview Jay Singh, the CEO and founder of Able Innovations, a healthcare technology company.  Able Innovations' ALTA platform is addressing a critical challenge in healthcare by making patient transfers safer and more efficient, benefiting both healthcare workers and patients In this conversation with Jay, you will gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in healthcare innovation. You will also get to hear about a robotic device developed by Able Innovations, that allows a single caregiver to transfer a patient with the push of a button, providing a consistent and dignified experience for the patient. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The problem of patient transfers in healthcare and the Alta platform (07:32) Automating patient transfers using sensors and technology (09:41) Safety and adoption of new technology in healthcare (16:06) Medical technology and partnerships. (18:56) Product development, commercialization, and company growth (27:34) Connect with Jay Singh: LinkedIn Website Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn Connect with Jim Gernatt: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
42 minutes

Pioneers
The Osom Privacy Story
When you hear the word "privacy," what comes to mind? Your personal information? The security cameras in your home? Your favorite Alexa or Google device that is listening to your every word? But what about your car, or even more importantly, what about your phone? According to the ACLU website, cell phones and other wireless electronic devices are vital communication tools that have become necessary for full participation in modern life. But they are also powerful tracking devices that can be used to infringe on individual privacy. I'm your host, Kevin Blevins, and today; I'm speaking with Jason Keats, founder and self-proclaimed "Chief Hooligan" at Osom Privacy, a US-based startup company developing new smartphone technology that, according to their website, is built better and built private.  In this episode, you will gain valuable insights into the critical role of privacy in today's technology, especially smartphones, and the challenges and strategies of starting and running a successful startup. You will also hear about Keats' passions, such as racing, and how they parallel his professional life, illustrating the diverse interests and skills that can contribute to entrepreneurial success. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The challenges of hardware production  and Osom's partnership with Solana for the "Saga" device  (04:04) Materials used in smartphone manufacturing, like glass and titanium, and their impact on product quality (13:04) The importance of maintaining a flat organizational structure (24:36) Privacy-focused tech and racing sponsorships (28:57) The use of Siemens software at Osom Privacy (34:20) Connect with Jason Keats: LinkedIn  Website  Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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1 year ago
44 minutes

Pioneers
Space Engine Systems' Vision for Space Exploration
If you're not familiar with the phrase "hypersonic," just think Mach 5, or something traveling at five times the speed of sound. There are several companies out there developing vehicles to travel at these speeds; they include private companies, such as the one we're going to speak with today. I'm your host, Kevin Blevins, and today, I'm joined by Pradeep Dass, the President and CTO of Space Engine Systems, a Canadian-based aerospace start-up company located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. In this episode, we will dive deep into Pradeep Dass's insights and vision for Space Engine Systems offering a fascinating glimpse into the future of aerospace innovation. In this episode, you will gain insights into Space Engine Systems' focus on pushing the boundaries of high-speed flight and its determination to make space more accessible. You will also get to hear about the challenges and limitations of traditional rockets, such as the waste of fuel, which Space Engine Systems aims to overcome with their approach. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Multi-fuel propulsion system. (00:12) Aerospace and medical applications, including the rapid transport of organs. (08:44) Space exploration and reusable rocket. (12:52) Space technology development and funding. (17:27) The challenges of developing new technology and the importance of a clear mission in space exploration.  (23:31) Hypersonic aircraft design and development challenges. (34:51) Space Engine Systems works with Siemens. (42:58) Connect with Pradeep Dass: LinkedIn Website Connect with Kevin Blevins: LinkedIn
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2 years ago
44 minutes

Pioneers
Ideas alone can’t change the world. It takes grit. In this podcast, Siemens sits down with startup founders, ecosystem partners and more in a quest to get to the bottom of what makes startups (and the people in them) tick.  At Siemens, we understand the struggles of early-stage startups. Let us remove the barriers on your startup journey by helping you transform your engineering ideas into real, marketable products with industry-leading software solutions. Join the Siemens Startups Program to grow your startup to its full potential. Want to get in touch? Reach out here.