Digital Health Heavyweights
This conversational podcast brings you exclusive interviews with all the Heavyweights in Digital Health. Hosted by Norm Volsky, a top industry headhunter, whose team helped scale companies including Livongo, Hinge Health, Lyra, Virta, Progyny and many more. This series will bring listeners insights into the latest trends, technologies, and strategies driving the digital health revolution.
In each episode, Norm sits down with some of the most influential and innovative leaders in healthcare technology today from legendary founders who have built successful companies, venture capitalists who have led funding rounds, HR/Benefits leaders at forward thinking companies, Consultants and Brokers at the top benefits consulting firms, and other impactful visionaries challenging the status quo in healthcare. Listeners can learn from the industry greats who have created what we now know as health benefits, and who are changing the face of healthcare as we know it.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, a tech enthusiast, a start-up founder, benefits aficionado, jobseeker in Digital Health, or simply curious about the future of healthcare, Digital Health Heavyweights has something for you.
Digital Health Heavyweights
Episode 11 : Shawn Ellis, Managing Partner at Distributed Ventures
Welcome back to another fantastic episode of the Digital Health Heavyweights podcast, Norm Volsky interviews Shawn Ellis, managing partner at Distributed Ventures. Shawn shares his journey into healthcare and venture capital, discussing his experiences at Sevenwire Ventures and Zest Health. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, time management, and understanding founder dynamics in the venture capital space. Shawn also provides insights into evaluating founders, the role of board members, and the significance of leveraging networks for startup success. In this conversation, Shawn Ellis discusses the intricacies of early-stage investing, particularly in healthcare startups. He emphasizes the importance of understanding market dynamics, the role of expertise in founders, and the strategic approach to board composition. Shawn shares insights on navigating fundraising in challenging environments and highlights success stories from Distributed Ventures. He also touches on maintaining a work-life balance amidst the demands of venture capital. If you are interested in how Healthcare and Venture collide, tune in for this insightful episode! Be sure to subscribe!!
Takeaways
🌟 Shawn's journey into healthcare was influenced by personal experiences and family background.
📈 The importance of revenue momentum in early-stage company building.
🎯 Founders should focus on what matters most in the early innings of their business.
💡 Empathy is crucial for venture capitalists to support founders effectively.
⏳ Time is the most valuable asset for founders, more than money.
🔍 Understanding board dynamics is essential for providing value to companies.
🤝 Board members should check their egos and focus on helping the founder.
🗣️ A frank conversation about expectations is vital for board members.
🔄 Founders need to be adaptable and willing to pivot in their strategies.
🌐 Building a strong network is essential for board members to add value. Maximizing impact requires a clear understanding of market dynamics.
🏥 Expertise in founders is crucial for success in healthcare startups.
🧩 Strategic board composition can significantly influence a startup's trajectory.
🚧 Healthcare startups face unique challenges, including long sales cycles and market resistance.
📊 Building a strong go-to-market strategy is essential for early-stage companies.
📚 Success stories often stem from a deep understanding of the industry and its stakeholders.
💰 Raising funds in a tough market requires preparation and a clear vision.
⚖️ Maintaining a work-life balance is vital for long-term success and well-being.
🔑 Investors should focus on the fundamentals to drive better outcomes.
🥗 Healthy eating and lifestyle choices contribute to overall performance and happiness.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Shawn Ellis and Distributed Ventures
06:42 Lessons from SevenWire Ventures
13:40 Evaluating Founders: Key Traits for Success
20:52 Board Dynamics and Providing Value
29:33 The Role of Network in Board Contributions
34:52 The Importance of Expertise in Founders
40:01 Strategic Board Composition for Startups
46:25 Unique Challenges in Healthcare Startups
53:36 Navigating Fundraising in a Tough Market
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