Tag Archives: Unity Stoakes

Introducing the StartUp Health Network: A New Era of Collaboration

Why We Opened the StartUp Health Network to the Ecosystem

Business, Health, Healthcare, Innovation, Startups, , , , ,

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An insider interview with StartUp Health co-founder Unity Stoakes on our new membership that invites the world’s leading investors, buyers, industry experts, and policymakers to our exclusive member community dedicated to health innovation and achieving health moonshots.

We flipped the script. In this special episode of StartUp Health NOW, our regular host Unity Stoakes sits in the guest chair while Logan Plaster leads the interview. Unity shares why StartUp Health is opening the StartUp Health Network to a broader community of investors, buyers, and industry leaders, and how a curated, 24/7 platform helps builders connect with the people who can help them scale.

The conversation gets personal and practical. Unity explains his “5 to 80 rule” for communicating ideas that resonate across ages, plus a story about bringing kids into professional spaces to remind us who we serve. You will hear how our online community ties together Health Moonshot groups like brain health, women’s health, diabetes, access to care, and longevity, and why a vetted, niche network can cut through the noise of generic platforms.

Unity also breaks down how the membership model removes friction for both founders and the wider ecosystem. For industry and ecosystem members, the StartUp Health Network is a vetted, paid membership that acts as a smart filter, with simple, inexpensive monthly or annual dues. Members get 24/7 access to the online community, curated intros to founders across Health Moonshots, private roundtables and fireside chats with industry leaders, real-time trend discussions, and VIP access to meetups at major gatherings like JP Morgan, HLTH, and ViVE. Investors can compare notes and share deal flow in a trusted forum. Buyers and operators can scout solutions faster, pressure test needs with peers, and shorten the path from first meeting to pilot. Founders continue to have dedicated membership plans with peer circles, weekly office hours, and a robust perks platform that can deliver meaningful savings on tools and services. Unity explains why the membership model removes friction by eliminating equity and complex legal lift, making it simple to participate whether you are pre-seed or scaling globally.

What is the StartUp Health Network?
A private global community for visionary decision makers, thought leaders, funders, and innovators transforming the future of health. If you are a healthcare executive, operator, investor, or industry stakeholder who wants to stay connected to the people and ideas driving what is next, this is your place to collaborate with:

  • Healthcare executives and operators – leaders inside health systems, payers, and pharma who are shaping the future of care delivery

  • Investors – venture firms, strategics, angels, and family offices backing transformative ideas

  • Mission-driven stakeholders – clinicians, researchers, policy makers, educators, nonprofit leaders, technologists, and ecosystem builders across the health landscape

  • Founders and entrepreneurs – the backbone of our community, building breakthroughs in digital health, biotech, medtech, and life sciences, with dedicated membership plans designed for entrepreneurs

Stay to the end for a VIP thank you that unlocks a special rate on Network membership. You can use the code LOGAN at checkout for a VIP rate on an annual StartUp Health Network membership.

 

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Revolutionizing Alzheimer's Research: Gates Ventures Backs a Million-Dollar AI Initiative

Supercharging Alzheimer’s Research: Gates Ventures Backs a Million-Dollar AI Initiative

Alzheimer's Moonshot, Health, Healthcare, Innovation, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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Unlocking Innovation: The Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize and Its Impact on Healthcare

There are currently more than 55 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Recent breakthroughs in new treatments and diagnostics provide hope, but there is potential to accelerate the pace of discovery and development.

Last year, StartUp Health, in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation’s (ADDF) Diagnostics Accelerator (DxA) and Gates Ventures, the private office of Bill Gates, launched the Alzheimer’s Moonshot. This initiative breaks down silos and fosters meaningful collaboration between mission-aligned founders, funders, and partners, accelerating progress in preventing, managing, and curing Alzheimer’s and related dementias through the support of entrepreneurial innovation.

Now, the Alzheimer’s Disease Data Initiative (AD Data Initiative) is backing visionary AI solutions to accelerate Alzheimer’s research with the launch of a new million-dollar prize competition. The goal is to leverage agentic AI – AI that can plan, reason, and act autonomously – to help drive breakthroughs in  Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research.

Gregory Moore, MD, PhD, senior advisor to Gates Ventures and the Alzheimer’s Disease Data Initiative, sat down with us to share how you can join the competition to harness AI to radically accelerate Alzheimer’s disease research. The Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize offers $1M to the winner for the agentic AI solution that can generate a powerful leap in the pace, scale, and reach of ADRD research.

Drawing from his unique background in both engineering and medicine, Dr. Moore discusses how AI could dramatically accelerate drug discovery and clinical trials by up to 50%. The initiative aims to break down traditional research barriers by harmonizing diverse data sets, from genomics to neuroimaging, making breakthroughs more accessible to the global scientific community.

The Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize competition semi-finalist teams will be selected to present at a pitch event alongside the Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference in San Diego this December, where innovators worldwide will present their ideas to a distinguished panel of judges from tech, academia, and venture capital. From there, up to three finalist teams will be invited to a final event at the AD/PD International Conference next March in Copenhagen, Denmark. With travel support available for participants, this initiative ensures global accessibility and collaboration.

Ready to learn how AI could revolutionize brain health research to potentially detect Alzheimer’s earlier, improve treatments, and work toward prevention and cures? Listen to this inspiring episode that bridges technology and medicine in the fight against dementia. Then visit Alzheimer’s Insights AI Prize to learn more and apply by September 12, 2025.

 

 

Do you want to participate in live conversations with industry luminaries? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Fireside Chats, Expert Office Hours, and Peer Circles are benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To get involved, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit.
» Learn more and apply today.

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Ribon, Rafael Rodeiro

The Future of Health Fundraising: How Ribon Is Revolutionizing Philanthropy

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Transforming Healthcare Fundraising: A Revolutionary Approach

In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, discover how Rafael Rodeiro, CEO & Founder of Ribon Health, is revolutionizing nonprofit healthcare fundraising through an innovative platform that’s changing the game. From a modest start in Brasilia to developing a groundbreaking “reverse matching gifts” system, Rafael’s journey showcases the power of reimagining traditional giving methods.

The episode explores how Ribon’s unique approach provides free donation tickets to individuals, removing financial barriers and fostering a natural sense of generosity. This innovative system not only transforms how people give but also creates lasting engagement within healthcare communities.

Rafael also shares his personal growth story and his experience as a member of the StartUp Health community, including how he improved his pitch from a 6.5 NPS score to an impressive 9.5 through persistence and continuous refinement. His StartUp Health membership evolved from initial skepticism to valuable partnerships, demonstrating the importance of community support in healthcare innovation.

Key Highlights Include:

  • The concept of “reverse matching gifts” allows donors to engage with health projects without the pressure of traditional fundraising, making giving more joyful and accessible.  
  • Building long-term relationships with donors can create a positive cycle of giving, enhancing community engagement and fostering a culture of altruism.  
  • Community feedback and training can lead to significant improvements, as demonstrated by Rafael’s pitch journey and collaborations.

Ready to be inspired by a fresh perspective on healthcare fundraising and entrepreneurial resilience? Tune in to hear how one founder’s vision is reshaping the future of giving in healthcare.

 

Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit.
» Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

From Diabetes to Data: The Life-Changing Power of Food as Medicine

Feeding Health Equity: How EntreVita Is Using AI to Bring Personalized Nutrition to the People Who Need It Most

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From Personal Tragedy to Transformation: Cory Mitchell’s Food as Medicine Mission with EntreVita

In this powerful episode of StartUp Health NOW, Unity Stoakes sits down with Cory Mitchell, D.Bioethics, CEO & Founder of EntreVita and a founding member of StartUp Health’s Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community. Cory shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey — from growing up in poverty, losing family to diet-related illnesses, and serving in the Navy, to becoming a public health researcher and now a visionary entrepreneur tackling cardiometabolic diseases and food insecurity with tech-driven precision.

Hear how Cory’s lived experience and research background led to the creation of EntreVita, a platform combining AI with real-time meal recommendations to help patients manage chronic conditions like Type 2 diabetes.

Learn how Cory is thinking beyond software — envisioning a future with robotic kiosks delivering personalized, healthy meals directly in food deserts, gas stations, and eventually even outer space.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cory’s transformative personal and professional journey

  • Why EntreVita blends AI + real-time nutrition guidance

  • The systemic barriers to healthy food access — and how to solve them

  • The role of mission-driven community and the power of the Food as Medicine movement

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and reimagining health equity through food. Don’t miss it.

Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit.
» Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Encore: Unity Stoakes on How to Use Storytelling to Scale Your Business

Business, Health, Innovation, Startups, , , , , ,

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We’re taking a short break while we work on our new season, but in the meantime, we’ve got a special encore episode from our archives with Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, to discuss the power of branding and storytelling.

In this insightful conversation, you’ll learn:

  • The importance of a strong brand identity for startups
  • Lessons learned from building StartUp Health’s brand that has become synonymous with health innovation
  • How to leverage media and storytelling to amplify your message
  • The benefits of our Health Moonshot Community Membership program

This episode is a must-listen for any founder looking to build a successful and impactful healthcare company.

Tune in now and gain valuable insights from a seasoned entrepreneur and storyteller.

Stay tuned, and we’ll be back soon with more fresh content!

 

Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit.
» Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Imaginostics: Brand New Technology for Preventative Health

Imaginostics Is Imagining Brand New Innovative, Non-Invasive Diagnostic Solutions for Health & Disease

Alzheimer's Moonshot, Business, Health, Innovation, Startups, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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What if a single scan could not only diagnose existing health issues but also predict future problems and help prevent them? That’s the groundbreaking vision behind Imaginostics, a startup co-founded by Codi Gharagouzloo, PhD. A new member of the StartUp Health community, Imaginostics creates innovative, non-invasive diagnostic solutions using breakthrough quantitative imaging biomarkers to provide new insight in health and disease.

In this episode, StartUp Health co-founder Unity Stoakes interviews Gharagouzloo during JPM Week in San Francisco to explore the science behind Imaginostics and the unique technology they’re developing to revolutionize preventative health. You’ll also hear Gharagouzloo’s fascinating founder journey, from a troublemaking youth to a physicist with a soul-deep passion for transforming healthcare.

With $5M raised and an FDA breakthrough designation in hand, Imaginostics is making waves. Don’t miss this inspiring story of innovation, passion, and the pursuit of better health for all.Tune in now!

 

Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

What We Saw at CES

What We Saw at CES: Health Innovation at the Consumer Tech Circus

Business, Health, Innovation, Insights, Startups, , , , , , ,

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Join Unity Stoakes and Logan Plaster for a special podcast episode dedicated to their experience at CES 2025 in Las Vegas this past week.

Hear their insights on:

  • The rise of health tech at the world’s largest consumer electronics show
  • Key trends observed in the AARP AgeTech Collaborative and Eureka Park
  • The future of innovation in areas like wearable technology and assistive devices
  • The role of events like CES in advancing health moonshots

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and healthcare.

Tune in now to gain valuable insights from CES 2025!

Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

How to Leverage Storytelling

Unlocking the Power of Storytelling to Grow Your Company

Business, Health, Innovation, Startups, , , , , ,

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (51.3MB)

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Join host Logan Plaster as he sits down with Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, to discuss the power of branding and storytelling.

In this insightful conversation, you’ll learn:

  • The importance of a strong brand identity for startups
  • Lessons learned from building StartUp Health’s brand that has become synonymous with health innovation
  • How to leverage media and storytelling to amplify your message
  • The benefits of StartUp Health’s new Health Moonshot Community PRO Membership program

This episode is a must-listen for any founder looking to build a successful and impactful healthcare company.

Tune in now and gain valuable insights from a seasoned entrepreneur and storyteller!

Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community PRO Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Are You Ready to Join a Health Moonshot Community?

Alzheimer's Moonshot, Business, Health, Innovation, Startups, Type 1 Diabetes Moonshot, , , , , , , , ,

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Want to be part of the StartUp Health community? This special episode of StartUp Health NOW goes behind the scenes here at StartUp Health as we unveil new health moonshot community offerings!

Join host Logan Plaster as he talks with the co-founders of StartUp Health, Steven Krein and Unity Stoakes, on the evolution of StartUp Health’s global community.

Discover:

  • An exciting new offering for the StartUp Health community
  • Exclusive events and a new member app fostering deeper connections
  • The unifying idea that fuels community success
  • How YOU can qualify for a health moonshot community and apply

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of healthcare innovation and the power of community in driving change.

Listen now and learn how you can get involved!

 

Are you ready to join a Health Moonshot Community? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today.

Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

 

Living the Moonshot Mindset, with Lee Shapiro of 7wireVentures

Business, Health, Innovation, Insights, Startups, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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This week we bring you a conversation between Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, and a very special guest, long-time StartUp Health investor, collaborator, and friend Lee Shapiro. Lee is the Managing Partner at 7wireVentures, a leading health tech investment firm, but that’s just one of the many hats he’s worn in recent years.

The “beachside chat,” which was held live at the 2022 StartUp Health Festival @ ViVE in Miami Beach, covers a range of topics, from what 7wireVentures looks for in a startup to how healthcare can learn from adjacent industries, like gaming and banking.

Lee Shapiro is one of those rare voices in the industry that combines hard-earned operational experience with the health moonshot wisdom of a philosopher. He embodies the characteristics of tenacity and humility that he looks for in a startup founder, and he’s always a pleasure to talk to. Enjoy the conversation.

 

 

Entrepreneurs: How to get investment from StartUp Health startuphealth.com

Investors: How to invest in StartUp Health Moonshots healthmoonshots.com
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