Global Medical Device Podcast powered by Greenlight Guru

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Global Medical Device Podcast powered by Greenlight Guru

The Global Medical Device Podcast, powered by Greenlight Guru, is where today's brightest minds in the medical device industry go to get their most useful and actionable insider knowledge, direct from some of the world's leading medical device experts and companies.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    #399: How To Approach Culture Differences

    In this episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, host Etienne Nichols sits down with Olga Chashchina, a MedTech startup founder with extensive international experience. They explore how cultural differences affect communication in the medical device industry and the importance of understanding intercultural nuances. Drawing from the book The Culture Map by Erin Meyer, Olga shares practical insights on managing global teams, the role of context in communication styles, and how cultural awareness can improve both workplace dynamics and patient care. Key Timestamps:00:00 – Intro & Sponsor: Introduction to the episode and Greenlight Guru sponsorship02:20 – Meet Olga Chashchina: Olga’s background in MedTech and international work experience06:45 – Understanding Cultural Missteps: Common mistakes when navigating cultural differences in teams12:15 – High vs. Low Context Communication: How context affects communication styles across cultures15:00 – Cultural Impact on Healthcare: How cultural backgrounds influence patient care and medical communication18:30 – Feedback Across Cultures: Differences in giving and receiving feedback globally20:00 – Building Personal Connections in Professional Settings: Balancing personal relationships and cultural norms in business22:00 – Final Thoughts: Olga’s key takeaway for appreciating cultural diversity Quotes:"The biggest problem in intercultural management is thinking everybody thinks the same way." – Olga Chashchina\"Positive feedback should be well-measured and well-argued; a vague 'amazing' doesn’t help anyone improve." – Etienne Nichols"Sometimes you need the culture map in the beginning, but eventually, you just see the person in front of you." – Olga ChashchinaTakeaways:Key Insights on MedTech Trends:Global Teams Need Cultural Awareness: Effective communication hinges on understanding cultural contexts.Healthcare is Deeply Cultural: Patient care varies across cultures due to differences in symptom expression and medical expectations.Feedback Styles Differ Greatly: Recognizing how cultures approach feedback can prevent misunderstandings and improve collaboration. Practical Tips for MedTech Professionals:Educate Yourself: Read books like The Culture Map to understand global communication styles.Ask, Don’t Assume: Always ask clarifying questions rather than assuming shared context.Balance Praise and Constructive Feedback: Be specific and culturally sensitive when providing feedback. Future-Focused Questions:How will global team dynamics evolve with remote work becoming the norm?Can AI tools help bridge cultural communication gaps in healthcare?What future training will be essential for MedTech leaders to manage diverse teams effectively? References:The Culture Map by Erin Meyer – A pivotal resource discussed in the episode for understanding intercultural communication.Etienne Nichols’ LinkedIn – Connect with Etienne for more insights and MedTech discussions.a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/olgachashchina/?originalSubdomain=fr"...

    23 min

  2. FEB 13

    #398: Game-Changing Connections in MedTech: Inside LSI with Scott Pantel

    In this episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, host Etienne Nichols sits down with Scott Pantel, CEO and founder of Life Science Intelligence (LSI), to explore how LSI bridges the gap between medtech innovation and commercialization. Scott shares LSI’s origin story, the evolution of its events, and the importance of cultivating meaningful relationships within the medtech ecosystem. Learn how LSI’s global meetings—from Dana Point to Portugal, London, and Singapore—create spaces where deals happen, ideas flourish, and the future of patient care is shaped. Plus, Scott offers actionable advice for medtech founders preparing for investor pitches and shares inspiring stories of industry impact. Key Timestamps[02:10] – LSI’s partnership with Greenlight Guru and the value of ecosystem collaboration[05:30] – Scott Pantel’s journey into medtech and how LSI was born[12:20] – Reinventing the investor meeting experience: “There’s got to be a better way”[18:45] – The power of unexpected connections: Coffee chats, cab rides, and transformative deals[25:10] – Heartfelt story: How an Edwards Lifesciences valve saved Scott’s aunt’s life[31:00] – The role of fun and social events in serious deal-making (yes, golf included!)[39:20] – Global expansion: Why LSI is heading to Singapore in 2025[45:50] – What makes a medtech pitch stand out to investors[53:15] – The importance of patient-centered innovation and next-gen leadership[59:00] – 🎉 Exclusive! Etienne is joining LSI’s “Game Day” commentary stage at Dana Point Quotes to Remember"Some of the most valuable connections are the ones you never planned for—like meeting someone at the coffee stand or sharing a cab ride to the airport." – Scott Pantel"Investors hear pitches all the time. Tell them how you’re going to make money—clear, concise, compelling." – Scott Pantel"There’s never been a more exciting time to be in medtech. The convergence of AI, wearables, and patient-driven care is revolutionizing healthcare." – Etienne Nichols"Relationships aren’t just nice to have; they’re how deals get done in this industry." – Scott PantelTop MedTech InsightsRelationships Drive Results: Successful deals often stem from unplanned, personal interactions beyond formal meetings.Global Expansion is Essential: Medtech innovators can’t ignore APAC markets—capital and patient demand in Asia are reshaping the industry. 3 Practical Tips for MedTech InnovatorsPrepare Beyond the Pitch: Articulate how your company makes money early in conversations with investors.Prioritize Presence: Spend time at networking events—connections happen when you least expect them.Know the Culture: Adapt your approach to different markets; relationship-building is key in Europe and APAC. References & ResourcesLearn more about LSI: Life Science IntelligenceConnect with Etienne Nichols: LinkedIn ProfileExplore Greenlight Guru’s solutions: Greenlight...

    36 min

  3. FEB 6

    #397: Winning Over Skeptics: the Key to Product Adoption in Healthcare

    In this episode, Etienne Nichols sits down with Tiffany Ryder—healthcare advocate, physician assistant, and founder of Red Flag Hero—to discuss the complexities of product adoption in healthcare. Tiffany shares her journey from rural Louisiana to the NFL cheerleading squad and into emergency medicine, highlighting how personal experience shapes her patient advocacy. The conversation dives deep into why healthcare professionals are skeptical of new devices, how authenticity and storytelling improve adoption, and what MedTech professionals often overlook when pitching to clinicians. Tiffany also reveals the importance of grassroots movements within medical communities, why workflow integration matters more than flashy features, and how patient education should never be an afterthought. Key Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction & Sponsor Message (Greenlight Guru)02:15 – Tiffany Ryder’s unique career path and patient advocacy roots10:30 – Turning skepticism into belief: What clinicians really want to hear18:45 – Personal experience shaping patient communication and device adoption25:00 – Case study: Why a vein finder device sits unused in the hospital closet34:15 – The importance of workflow integration for successful product adoption41:50 – Grassroots influence: How clinicians share device recommendations47:20 – Tiffany’s “what’s in your emergency room backpack” essentials53:00 – Final advice: Talk to your biggest skeptics, not just early adopters58:15 – Importance of patient education in medical device usage Memorable Quotes:“Authenticity comes through. You can’t sell snake oil to a clinician who’s sacrificed years of their life to help patients.” – Tiffany Ryder “If your device saves me time or helps my patients, I’ll listen. Otherwise, it’s just another thing in the closet.” – Tiffany Ryder “Find your harshest critic, not your biggest fan. That’s where real product improvement happens.” – Tiffany Ryder Key Takeaways:🔍 MedTech Trends:Grassroots Advocacy: Clinician word-of-mouth remains a powerful tool in product adoption.Workflow Integration: Devices must improve efficiency without adding complexity.Patient-Centric Design: Products that consider patient education and usability stand out. 🛠️ Practical Tips:Engage Skeptics Early: Prioritize conversations with clinicians who question your device.Tell Compelling Stories: Use real-life patient and clinician testimonials to foster connection.Show Workflow Benefits: Highlight how your product saves time or improves patient outcomes. References:Visit Greenlight Guru for quality management solutions tailored for MedTech.Connect with Etienne Nichols on LinkedIn to share your feedback or ideas.Connect with Tiffany Ryder on LinkedInLearn more about Red Flag Hero, Tiffany Ryder’s patient advocacy initiative. MedTech 101: Beginner’s...

    33 min

  4. 12/19/2024

    #396: Mastering Device Descriptions: The Cornerstone of Medical Device Submissions

    In this episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, Etienne Nichols and regulatory consultant Mike Drues delve into the often-overlooked yet critical topic of device descriptions in FDA submissions. Discover why this foundational element can determine the success of your regulatory pathway, influence classification, and impact the required testing for your device. With actionable tips and real-world examples, this discussion highlights how to craft effective, clear, and concise device descriptions that resonate with both reviewers and regulators. Key Timestamps[00:01] Introduction: Why device descriptions are foundational for regulatory submissions.[07:15] Common challenges: Why device descriptions are often poorly written.[14:30] Purpose and impact: How descriptions influence classification, testing, and approval pathways.[25:45] Practical advice: Balancing simplicity with technical detail for diverse audiences.[36:10] Pre-sub meetings: Communicating device descriptions effectively with the FDA.[50:30] Final recommendations: Testing the efficacy of your device description. Memorable QuotesMike Drues: "If the FDA doesn’t understand your device, it’s not their fault—it’s the manufacturer’s responsibility to communicate effectively."Etienne Nichols: "Uncertainty in your device description leads to questions, delays, and potential rejection."Mike Drues: "A picture’s worth a thousand words, but a video is worth a thousand pictures—use it to demonstrate your device clearly." Key TakeawaysMedTech TrendsClear communication is essential in the increasingly complex regulatory environment, especially with AI and software-based devices.Ambiguity in device descriptions can lead to unnecessary testing or inappropriate classification.Visual aids, like images and videos, are becoming standard tools to enhance submissions. Practical TipsTest your description’s efficacy by asking someone unfamiliar with the device to explain it back to you.Write layered descriptions—simple overviews for general audiences and detailed appendices for specialists.Incorporate visuals or videos to clarify complex mechanisms or testing processes. Future QuestionsHow might advancements in AI reshape the expectations for device descriptions?Could the FDA eventually require interactive or multimedia submissions as standard?What new tools or technologies can help manufacturers streamline the description-writing process? References & ResourcesGreenlight Guru: Purpose-built quality management systems for MedTech. Learn more.Stephen Covey: Seven Habits of Highly Effective People—inspiration for improving communication practices.Etienne Nichols on LinkedIn: Connect with Etienne for insights on MedTech and regulatory affairs. Connect now. MedTech 101: Device DescriptionsWhat is a device description? A section of your regulatory submission detailing what your device is, how it works, and its intended use. It includes: Anatomy: Components and materials.Physiology: Function and mechanism of action...

    51 min

  5. 12/12/2024

    #395: IEC 60601 Updates: What MedTech Professionals Need to Know for 2025 and Beyond

    In this episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, Etienne Nichols sits down with Leo Eisner, founder of Eisner Safety Consultants and a leading voice in IEC 60601 standards development. They unpack the upcoming revisions to the fourth edition of IEC 60601, focusing on the rationale behind these changes, their impact on medical device design, and how MedTech professionals can prepare for the future. Leo provides insights into the intricate process of updating global standards, shares practical advice for compliance, and discusses the role of risk management in ensuring safer, more effective medical devices. Key Timestamps[02:30] – Introducing Leo Eisner and his expertise in IEC 60601 and global standards.[06:45] – The complexities of updating IEC 60601 and its 12 working groups.[12:20] – Expected timeline for the fourth edition (2029-2030) and why companies need to plan now.[18:50] – Overview of the most significant upcoming changes, including wireless coexistence and integration of collateral standards.[27:00] – Practical advice for navigating new standards during product development.[36:15] – How to engage in the standards development process and submit comments.[48:30] – Benefits of proactive planning and test preparation for regulatory success.[53:45] – The importance of staying informed and embracing continuous learning in MedTech. Top Quotes from the Episode"The biggest mistake you can make is waiting too long to plan for changes. Compliance is about foresight." – Leo Eisner"IEC 60601 is often thought of as just an electrical standard, but it’s so much more—it’s about mitigating risks across all aspects of a device." – Leo Eisner"Standards aren’t just rules; they’re lessons learned from history, guiding us to safer, better devices." – Etienne Nichols Key TakeawaysLatest Trends in MedTech StandardsThe modular approach in the new IEC 60601 simplifies updates and aligns better with global regulations.Wireless coexistence and other cutting-edge technologies will soon become international requirements.Consolidating collateral standards improves consistency and reduces redundancies. Practical Tips for ComplianceBegin designing for new standards early, even before they are finalized.Stay informed by engaging with industry groups and standards organizations.Use test planning to streamline development and meet regulatory expectations efficiently. Questions to Ponder for the FutureHow will integrating advanced hazard mitigation strategies impact device innovation?What role will emerging technologies like AI and IoT play in future standards revisions?How can smaller MedTech companies effectively adapt to these significant changes? MedTech 101: Understanding IEC 60601For new listeners, IEC 60601 is a global standard that ensures the safety and effectiveness of medical electrical equipment. It encompasses requirements for design, labeling, testing, and risk management. With updates spanning usability, wireless technologies, and biocompatibility, it’s essential for any MedTech company working with electrical devices. References and ResourcesGreenlight Guru – The QMS software designed exclusively for MedTech: Learn moreConnect with Leo Eisner – Founder of Eisner Safety Consultants and leading expert on IEC 60601: a...

    42 min

  6. 12/06/2024

    #394: Class III PMAs in MedTech: Advantages, Misconceptions, and Competitive Strategies with Dr. Mike Drues

    In this episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, Etienne Nichols sits down with regulatory expert Dr. Mike Drues to demystify the pre-market approval (PMA) process for medical devices. They delve into the key differences between PMAs, 510(k)s, and de novos, bust common myths, and explore strategic advantages for companies willing to pursue the rigorous PMA pathway. Mike explains the nuances of the “six-year rule,” alternatives like the humanitarian device exemption (HDE), and the evolving role of clinical data. With insights on using PMAs as a competitive strategy and overcoming internal resistance to high-risk device development, this discussion is essential for MedTech innovators looking to turn regulatory challenges into opportunities. Key Timestamps:00:00 – Intro and Greenlight Guru's Quality Management System software sponsor message03:15 – Introduction to Dr. Mike Drues and his background in PMAs05:45 – Overview of PMAs and when they should be used11:30 – Are PMAs the only pathway for Class 3 devices?16:20 – Types of PMAs: Traditional, Modular, and Streamlined22:40 – Advantages of PMAs compared to 510(k)s and de novos27:50 – The strategic use of predicates in the PMA process33:00 – Clinical data requirements and misconceptions for PMAs41:10 – Post-market requirements and differences for PMA devices47:25 – Innovation and the future of PMAs: Six-year rule and potential EU approvals54:30 – Final thoughts on overcoming industry resistance to PMAs Standout Quotes:"Don't be afraid of the big bad PMA—often, the regulatory burden is justified for complex devices tackling high-risk conditions." – Dr. Mike Drues"Regulatory professionals know the rules; the best ones know the exceptions. When it comes to PMAs, there are more options than many realize." – Dr. Mike Drues 3 Key Takeaways:PMA Isn’t the Only Path for Class 3 Devices: Companies can consider alternatives like the Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE) and Product Development Protocol (PDP) to reduce the regulatory burden.Strategic Use of PMAs Can Provide a Competitive Edge: By choosing the PMA route, companies can create barriers for competitors, potentially driving smaller rivals out of the market.Clinical Data Isn’t Always Mandatory for PMAs: While most PMAs involve clinical trials, there is flexibility in requirements, offering an opportunity to minimize the scope and cost of clinical studies. References:Previous Greenlight Guru Webinars by Dr. Mike DruesGreenlight Guru’s QMS SoftwareEtienne Nichols’ LinkedIn MedTech 101:PMA Pathway Explained – Pre-market approval (PMA) is the FDA's strictest regulatory pathway, typically reserved for Class 3 medical devices with higher risks. Unlike the 510(k) pathway, PMA requires evidence of safety and efficacy, often through clinical trials, but the scope can vary. There are traditional, modular, and streamlined PMA types, each with unique requirements. Audience Engagement:Poll Question: "Have you considered using a PMA as a strategic advantage for your MedTech device? What challenges do you...

    51 min

  7. 11/29/2024

    #393: Engineering MedTech Success: Simplifying Prototypes, Pivoting Strategy, and Creating Complex Designs with Justin Bushko

    In this episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, Etienne Nichols talks with Justin Bushko, president of Concise Engineering and founder of MedTech Man. Justin shares his extensive experience in MedTech, guiding startups and major players alike through complex engineering challenges. From simplifying prototypes to pivoting product strategies, Justin emphasizes the importance of clear user needs, iterative testing, and knowing when to focus or adapt. Whether you’re an early-stage founder or an industry veteran, this conversation is filled with insights on navigating design, reducing costs, and succeeding in MedTech’s complex regulatory landscape. Key Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction and Greenlight Guru sponsor message02:45 – Welcoming Justin Bushko; background in MedTech and engineering07:20 – Overcoming early-stage engineering challenges, like autoclave and sterility testing10:45 – Prototyping with a purpose: Ensuring design iterations target risks16:00 – Balancing innovation, user needs, and cost-effectiveness20:30 – Defining essential versus “nice-to-have” features in MedTech26:45 – Strategic pivots in MedTech: When and why to change course32:50 – The critical role of design freeze and usability studies39:10 – Lessons from competitive benchmarking and reverse engineering46:25 – Handling unique challenges in regulated industries like MedTech52:15 – Opportunities for MedTech innovation and faster regulatory approvals58:45 – Advice for founders and importance of building the right team Standout Quotes:"Prototype with purpose: Focus on the biggest risks and test early to eliminate costly mistakes down the road." – Justin Bushko"MedTech is a complex dance of regulation, innovation, and simplicity—knowing when to add and when to strip away is key to success." – Justin Bushko 3 Key Takeaways:Test Prototypes with a Purpose: Focus on high-risk areas and essential features early to prevent costly mistakes in later stages.Simplicity is Often the Key: Resist the urge to over-engineer; clarify core features and eliminate unnecessary ones to save on costs and improve usability.MedTech Requires Unique Knowledge: Navigating regulations, usability studies, and design iterations requires industry-specific experience and collaboration. References:Connect with Justin Bushko on LinkedInGreenlight Guru’s QMS SoftwareEtienne Nichols’ LinkedIn MedTech 101:Formative vs. Summative Usability Testing – Formative testing occurs early in the design process to gather feedback and iterate quickly, while summative testing is conducted later to validate that the design meets user needs and regulatory requirements. Audience Engagement:Poll Question: "Have you ever had to pivot your MedTech product development strategy due to user feedback or regulatory hurdles? Share your story below!" Feedback:We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode, or suggest topics you’d like covered. Email us at a href="mailto:podcast@greenlight.guru" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    34 min

  8. 11/22/2024

    #392: Verification and Validation in MedTech: A Practical Guide with Devon Campbell

    In this engaging episode of the Global Medical Device Podcast, Etienne Nichols and Devon Campbell dive into the complexities of verification and validation (V&V) in medical device development. Whether you’re a medtech startup founder or an industry veteran, this conversation offers essential insights on creating robust V&V processes. Devon shares practical advice on defining user needs, writing strong design inputs, conducting pre-verification testing, and ensuring that verification protocols provide meaningful evidence. The discussion explores how to avoid common pitfalls, optimize your design reviews, and strategically approach V&V for complex devices, offering listeners a wealth of actionable takeaways for navigating regulatory challenges and accelerating market access. Key Timestamps:00:01 – Introduction to Greenlight Guru’s QMS capabilities03:15 – Setting the stage: Why verification and validation matter08:30 – Differences between verification and validation explained12:50 – Importance of strong user needs and design inputs23:45 – Writing effective user needs and identifying users33:00 – Creating robust design inputs and their sources beyond user needs40:10 – From design inputs to design outputs: Key considerations48:20 – Best practices for conducting design reviews and managing revisions57:15 – Verification strategies: The importance of pre-verification01:05:40 – Common challenges in V&V, including sample sizes and justifying tests01:15:10 – Using feedback during testing and leveraging observations01:23:00 – Final takeaways and practical advice for V&V success Standout Quotes:"Verification asks if we built the product correctly, while validation asks if we built the right product for the user." – Devon Campbell"You can't do verification or validation without strong, well-informed requirements. Weak requirements lead to validation failures." – Devon Campbell 3 Key Takeaways:Verification and Validation Are Not the Same: Understand that verification ensures your device meets specified design inputs, while validation confirms it meets user needs and functions as intended.Pre-Verification Testing Minimizes Risk: Conducting a "pre-verification" run allows you to refine testing protocols and identify potential design issues before formal verification begins.Define Users Clearly in User Needs: Avoid generic statements; specify which user (e.g., clinician, technician, patient) has which needs to ensure robust validation testing. References:Devon Campbell’s Consulting – Connect with Devon for more insights on product development.Etienne Nichols’ LinkedInGreenlight Guru’s QMS Software MedTech 101:Verification vs. Validation – Verification checks if a product meets specified requirements, while validation ensures it fulfills the needs and expectations of its intended users. Both are critical steps in medical device development, and their successful execution depends on precise, testable requirements. Audience Engagement:Poll Question: "What’s been your biggest challenge in navigating verification and validation for...

    59 min
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The Global Medical Device Podcast, powered by Greenlight Guru, is where today's brightest minds in the medical device industry go to get their most useful and actionable insider knowledge, direct from some of the world's leading medical device experts and companies.

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