Episode 1: Tom Cassels, Managing Director at Manatt Health Strategies

Happy New Year and welcome back to the Digital Health Heavyweights Podcast! In the first episode of 2025, our host Norm Volsky interviews Tom Cassels, Managing Director at Manatt Health. Tom shares his journey into healthcare, discussing his experiences in consulting, team building, and the complexities of the US healthcare system. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the system as a whole, the challenges and successes he has faced, and the values he upholds as a board member. Tom also highlights current trends in digital health and shares insights on personal wellness and healthy living. Takeaways🩺 Tom's journey into healthcare was influenced by personal experiences with the system. 💼 Building a consulting practice requires hard work and authenticity. 👥 Team building is essential for success in consulting. 🇺🇸 Understanding the US healthcare system is crucial for innovators. ⚠️ Challenges in healthcare can be frustrating but motivate change. 🤝 Humility and candor are key values for board members. 💬 Effective partnerships require trust and open communication. 🚩 Identifying red flags in startups is critical for success. 💪 Resilience and storytelling are core traits for startup founders. 💻 Current trends in digital health focus on AI and chronic disease management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background01:20 Motivation to Work in Healthcare02:55 Early Strategy in Consulting04:34 Team Building and Authenticity05:57 Being a Trusted Advisor07:34 Understanding the US Healthcare System09:19 Challenges and Successes in Career11:46 Proud Achievements and Building Relationships15:04 Values as a Board Member18:09 Partnership with Companies as a Board Member20:20 Philosophy on Team Building in Early Stage Companies22:00 Identifying Red Flags in Digital Health Startups22:48 Qualifying Leads and Understanding Why You Win or Lose26:08 The Key Traits of Successful Startup Founders27:32 Trends in Digital Health: Use Cases, Chronic Disease Management, and Automation32:02 The Importance of Self-Care and Not Taking Oneself Too Seriously42:56 OutroFollow, connect and subscribe:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-health-heavyweights-podcastYoutube: https://youtube.com/@DigitalHealthHeavyweightsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalhealthheavyweights/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heavyweightspodcast