A Healthier, Happier You: The People Working to Make It Happen

Evan J. Cholfin

A Healthier, Happier You: The People Working to Make It Happen is a podcast about the innovators and entrepreneurs behind the brands helping people live better, feel better, and thrive.

  1. JAN 9

    Inside the Fight to End Addiction Stigma with Emily Aylott

    Send us a text Summary In this conversation, Evan J. Cholfin speaks with Emily Aylott, CEO of Mothers Against Addiction (MAA), about the organization's mission to support families affected by addiction. They discuss the importance of community-focused support, the challenges of changing perceptions about addiction, and the need for education and outreach. Emily shares insights on the emotional toll of supporting mothers through trauma, the difficulties in securing funding for nonprofit work, and the hope she sees in breaking the stigma surrounding addiction. The conversation highlights the vital role of MAA in providing resources and support to those in need. Takeaways Mothers Against Addiction was created to support families affected by addiction. Community-focused support helps alleviate the stigma surrounding addiction. Addiction is often misunderstood as a choice rather than a disease. Open dialogue about addiction can lighten the burden for families. MAA offers a variety of resources, including one-on-one support and community meetings. Education is crucial in recognizing the signs of addiction early. The organization faces challenges in outreach due to its virtual nature. Funding for nonprofits is becoming increasingly limited, impacting growth. Partnerships are essential for expanding MAA's reach and resources. There is hope in the growing willingness to discuss addiction openly. Sound Bites "Addiction is a disease, not a moral failing." "We have a very personalized touch." "I love partnerships. I think they're great." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mothers Against Addiction 02:51 Community-Focused Support for Families 05:00 Changing Perceptions of Addiction 06:46 Challenges in Outreach and Education 08:45 Funding and Partnerships in Nonprofits 10:57 Future Goals and Impact 13:17 Hope and Progress in Addiction Support 15:04 Finding the Right Support Resources 16:53 Conclusion and Call to Action Watch Full YouTube Video Here: https://youtu.be/H8adv59MZHU

    20 min
  2. JAN 2

    Nano Solutions with Dr. Steven Bloembergen, CEO, GreenMark Biomedical Inc

    Send us a text Summary In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Dr. Steven Bloembergen, a pioneer in biomaterials innovation and founder of GreenMark Biomedical. They discuss the journey of scaling up nanoparticle production, transitioning from industrial applications to dental care, and the unique nano sponge technology that targets early-stage dental lesions. Dr. Bloombergen shares insights on the challenges of adopting new dental technologies, navigating FDA regulations, and the importance of preventative care in dentistry. The conversation concludes with a look at future growth targets and the evolving landscape of oral health. Takeaways  Dr. Bloembergen has over 30 years of experience in biomaterials innovation. GreenMark Biomedical focuses on delivering health benefits through biobased materials. Scaling up nanoparticle production was a significant achievement for the company. The transition to dental applications was driven by a passion for health and innovation. Unique nano sponge technology targets early-stage dental lesions non-invasively. Challenges in dental technology adoption include reimbursement issues and market acceptance. Navigating FDA regulations is crucial for medical device companies. The future of oral health is linked to systemic health and preventative care. Growth targets for GreenMark include expanding distribution and scaling manufacturing. The dental industry is seeing a shift towards preventative care and innovation. Sound Bites "We scaled it up to over 200 million pounds." "We can literally treat it non-invasively." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Biomaterials Innovation 03:04 Scaling Up: Lessons from Ecosynthetics 05:39 Transitioning to Healthcare: The Birth of GreenMark 08:01 Nano Sponge Technology: A Game Changer in Dental Care 10:31 Challenges in Market Adoption and Reimbursement 14:09 Navigating FDA Regulations and Medical Device Production 17:20 Building a Reputation in Dental Technology 20:11 The Future of Preventive Dental Care 22:27 Growth Targets and Expansion Strategies 25:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook Watch Full YouTube Video Here: https://youtu.be/lV_Pv_5Tod0

    38 min
  3. 12/26/2025

    Smilesaver: How Dennis Hanlon is Revolutionizing Oral Care One Spray at a Time

    Send us a text Summary  In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Dennis Hanlon, CEO of Soluria and founder of Smilesaver, discussing the innovative oral care product designed to eliminate harmful bacteria from removable oral appliances. Dennis shares insights into the scientific research behind Smilesaver, the challenges of educating consumers about oral hygiene, and the marketing strategies employed to raise awareness. The conversation also touches on the regulatory landscape, future growth targets, and the importance of convenience in oral care products. Takeaways Smilesaver eliminates 99.9% of harmful bacteria from oral devices. The product has been thoroughly tested and validated. Direct-to-consumer marketing is a key focus for Smilesaver. Consumer education is crucial for changing cleaning habits. Many people neglect proper care for their oral devices. Smilesaver is designed for convenience and ease of use. The oral care market is crowded and competitive. Awareness and education are the biggest challenges. The product is FDA registered and made in a certified facility. Future growth includes expanding into retail markets. Sound Bites "We eliminate 99.9% of harmful bacteria." "It's a spray. It's convenient." "They don't care for them at all." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to SmileSaver and Dennis Hanlon 02:10 The Science Behind SmileSaver 04:47 Targeting Consumers and Educating the Market 08:30 Challenges in Oral Device Care 10:42 Overcoming Adoption Barriers 12:46 Standing Out in a Crowded Market 15:03 Growth Targets and Future Plans 17:42 Innovations in Oral Health Technology 19:08 Regulatory Landscape and Future Challenges 20:22 Brand Messaging and Market Positioning 21:24 Conclusion and Future Aspirations Watch Video Here: https://youtu.be/3EUPecc44hc

    23 min
  4. 12/19/2025

    Cracking the Code on Dementia Care: A New Approach with Gary Skole

    Send us a text Summary In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Gary Skole, founder of AlzBetter, who discusses the challenges and innovations in dementia care. Gary shares the story behind AlzBetter's creation, the unique approaches to dementia education, and the integration of AI technology in caregiving. He highlights the importance of simplifying training for caregivers and the potential of their AI tool, Abby, to revolutionize support for families and caregivers. The conversation also touches on the challenges of expanding AlzBetter, future growth targets, and the significance of partnerships in the healthcare sector. Takeaways Gary Skole founded AlzBetter after realizing the lack of knowledge in dementia care. The Dementia 360 program focuses on actionable education for caregivers. High turnover rates in caregiving necessitate simplified training methods. AI integration in dementia care is revolutionizing support for caregivers. Managed care organizations benefit significantly from AlzBetter's technology. The Guide Model is a promising new Medicare program for dementia care. Effective communication is crucial for expanding AlzBetter's reach. Innovative partnerships with healthcare associations enhance training efforts. Trends in technology, like smart homes, are vital for dementia care. The labor shortage in healthcare is a pressing issue that needs addressing. Sound Bites "I better figure this out." "We had to simplify the process." "Abby is our AI tool." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dementia Care Innovation 03:54 The Birth of All's Better and Dementia 360 08:35 Unique Approach to Dementia Care Education 11:44 Challenges and Growth in Dementia Care 15:57 Future Aspirations and Technology Integration 19:51 Partnerships and Trends in Dementia Care Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/l3O-Ad4_sYQ

    25 min
  5. 12/12/2025

    The Converting Idea in Modern-Day Healthcare with WikiPouch's Scott Hatfield

    Send us a text Summary In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Scott Hatfield, President and CEO of WikiPouch, discussing the innovative moisture-wicking technology designed to prevent infections in healthcare settings. Scott shares the origin story of WikiPouch, the unique features of their product, and the significant issues with traditional plastic bag storage for respiratory devices. The conversation explores the challenges of market adoption, particularly in hospitals, and the importance of clinical trials to validate the effectiveness of their product. Scott also highlights trends in healthcare and outlines his goals for growth and increased awareness of infection prevention. Takeaways WikiPouch was inspired by a personal experience in healthcare. The product significantly reduces bacterial growth compared to plastic bags. Moisture-wicking technology is key to preventing infections. Healthcare facilities often use plastic bags for storing respiratory devices, which is problematic. Nursing homes are the primary market for WikiPouch products. Scott emphasizes the need for hospitals to adopt better practices. Clinical trials are crucial for validating the effectiveness of new healthcare products. The healthcare industry is slowly recognizing the importance of infection prevention post-pandemic. Scott aims for substantial growth in nursing home partnerships. Awareness campaigns are essential for promoting the WikiPouch. Sound Bites "This can't be good." "The WikiPouch is a good product." "We try to grow about 50% a year." Chapters 00:00 The Birth of WikiPouch 03:02 Innovative Infection Prevention Technology 05:45 Addressing Healthcare Challenges 08:19 Market Focus and Growth Strategies 10:33 Barriers to Hospital Adoption 12:53 The Importance of Social Proof 15:26 Future Growth and Trends in Healthcare 17:42 Goals for the Coming Year Full video here: https://youtu.be/uPm4w-sYxmc

    28 min
  6. 12/05/2025

    The Future of Affordable Health with Healthy ID's Laura Owen

    Send us a text Summary In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Laura Owen, founder and CEO of Healthy ID, who discusses innovative approaches to making specialty medications affordable and transforming employee healthcare. Laura shares insights on the rising costs of healthcare, the importance of medication compliance, and the role of education in helping employers manage their healthcare expenses. She also highlights the development of an AI health coach and the significance of lifestyle changes in addressing chronic illnesses. The conversation concludes with a look at trends in healthcare and the future of employer-sponsored health plans. Takeaways Healthy ID aims to save employers up to 60% on specialty medications. Rising healthcare costs are a significant burden for employers and employees. Medication compliance is crucial for reducing hospitalizations and improving health outcomes. Healthy ID provides educational resources at no cost to employers. The AI health coach will help individuals set health goals and achieve sustainable changes. Self-funded health plans are becoming increasingly popular among employers. Many employers are unaware of the true costs of their pharmacy expenses. Healthy ID partners with existing insurance providers to enhance their programs. Lifestyle changes can reverse chronic illnesses and improve overall health. The future of healthcare requires a shift in how we view food and medication. Sound Bites "We created a path for employers to save 60%." "The insurance providers like our program." "The AI health coach will be a game changer." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healthy ID and Its Mission 02:31 Innovative Approach to Prescription Savings 06:39 Transforming Employee Healthcare 10:31 Challenges in the Employee Benefits Space 14:19 The Role of Education in Healthcare Costs 18:00 The Importance of Lifestyle Changes 22:07 Future Trends in Healthcare 26:57 The Evolution of Employer-Sponsored Healthcare Full Video Here: https://youtu.be/L4twI1cwUvg

    29 min
  7. 11/28/2025

    What to Hear from Ishan Patel on Making Waves in the Ear Space

    Send us a text Summary In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Ishan Patel, founder and CEO of Audien Hearing, who is revolutionizing the hearing aid industry by making quality hearing care more affordable and accessible. Ishan shares his personal motivation for starting Audien, the company's innovative approach to hearing aids, and the challenges they face in a competitive market. He discusses their direct-to-consumer model, marketing strategies, and growth targets, as well as the importance of partnerships and customer education. Ishan also highlights the future of the industry, including upcoming product innovations and the need for deeper integration with healthcare providers. Takeaways Ishan Patel's personal experience with hearing loss inspired the creation of Audien Hearing. Audien Hearing aims to make hearing aids affordable and accessible for everyone. The company focuses on direct-to-consumer sales and innovative marketing strategies. Audien is the number one volume-selling over-the-counter hearing aid company in the world. The hearing aid industry has historically failed to serve the needs of those with hearing loss. Partnerships with retailers like Walmart are crucial for expanding reach. Customer education is key to successful retail partnerships. Eshaan emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs through direct interaction. The future of the hearing aid industry includes deeper integration with healthcare providers. Audien is preparing for challenges such as tariffs and market competition. Sound Bites "Hearing for everyone." "We're a bootstrap company." "We had to invent it." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Audien Hearing 01:38 The Inspiration Behind Audien Hearing 02:38 Innovative Approach to Hearing Aids 03:37 Direct-to-Consumer Model Success 04:15 Target Audience and Market Reach 04:47 What Sets Audien Apart 05:49 Marketing Challenges in the Hearing Aid Industry 06:30 Strategies for Overcoming Awareness Challenges 07:42 Competition in the OTC Hearing Aid Market 09:09 Growth Targets and Retail Expansion 09:56 Partnering with Retailers for Success 10:53 Customer Acquisition Strategies 11:24 Trends in the Hearing Aid Industry 12:21 Future Changes Impacting the Industry 13:39 Exciting Opportunities Ahead 14:19 Preparing for Challenges 15:05 Key Focus Areas for the Coming Year 16:10 Vision for Future Success Full Video Here: https://youtu.be/BSP9wTaIJAY

    18 min
  8. 11/21/2025

    Real Connections, Real Results: Joanna Bacchus’ Approach to Organic Marketing

    Send us a text Summary  In this episode, Evan J. Cholfin interviews Joanna Bacchus, founder and CEO of BIOSTRIPS, who discusses her innovative approach to health supplements through oral strip technology. Joanna shares her personal journey that led to the creation of BIOSTRIPS, the challenges of educating consumers about new supplement formats, and the importance of transparency in the health industry. She also highlights her marketing strategies, target audience, and future aspirations for the brand. Takeaways Joanna created BIOSTRIPS to address the challenges of traditional supplements. Microencapsulation technology enhances the absorption and flavor of supplements. The supplement industry lacks transparency and quality control. Consumers are increasingly aware and demanding better products. Gummy supplements are facing backlash due to their sugar content. Education is essential for consumer trust in new products. Social media marketing should be agile and trend-responsive. Targeting niche markets can lead to better engagement. Partnerships with retailers are crucial for growth. Providing value through educational content builds brand loyalty. Sound Bites "Consumers deserve better." "Gummy fatigue is real." "Biohacking is a growing niche." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to BIOSTRIPS and Health Innovation 02:24 The Journey of Creating BIOSTRIPS 06:10 Understanding Microencapsulation Technology 08:34 Target Audience and Customer Feedback 11:49 Success at Expo West and Market Trends 14:25 Challenges in Marketing and Education 16:54 Growth Strategies and Retail Partnerships 19:22 Customer Acquisition and Social Media Strategy 21:58 Value-Driven Marketing and Educational Content 24:54 Future Goals and Strategic Partnerships Full video here: https://youtu.be/UcmXOk0b1Aw

    29 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

A Healthier, Happier You: The People Working to Make It Happen is a podcast about the innovators and entrepreneurs behind the brands helping people live better, feel better, and thrive.