Richard Powers’ journey as an entrepreneur in healthcare technology began during his 13-year tenure at CardioMEMs, a startup focused on implantable technology for heart failure patients. “Those years were transformative, shaping my understanding of the intricate process of creating pioneering medical solutions,” said Powers. “The startup environment instilled in me an unwavering commitment to innovation and creation.”
Developing groundbreaking technology from scratch isn’t easy, said Powers, but it fueled his passion and provided invaluable experience in growing a startup within the dynamic healthcare sector and led to him co-founding Strados Labs Inc. where he serves as the chief product officer.
Strados Labs Inc. developed the RESP sensor platform, a first of its kind wearable acoustic sensor and software application cleared by the FDA and CE that can help prevent pulmonary exacerbations through remote monitoring. The firm has a mission to make every breath count.
The mission of the company is clear to Powers – to create impactful solutions that redefine chronic disease management and empower patients on their health journey. “This journey epitomizes my commitment to pioneering healthcare innovation and making a lasting difference in the lives of both patients and healthcare professionals,” he said. “Each step reaffirms my belief that disruptive innovation in healthcare is not just a goal; it’s a responsibility to transform the way we approach healthcare.”
The move to take the leap to pursue an entrepreneurial venture was a pivotal risk, said Powers. “This move was fueled by a deep hunger for personal growth, a desire to explore my passions and the aspiration to create a more profound impact in my field,” he said. “This new venture allowed me to leverage my accumulated expertise and take a leadership role in shaping the future of healthcare.”
As a leader, Powers said having a clear vision and the ability to communicate it effectively is crucial. “Leaders need to inspire others by articulating a compelling future and rallying people around shared goals,” he said. “Dealing with setbacks and challenges is inevitable, but resilient leaders bounce back from adversity, learn from failures and maintain a positive attitude amid difficulties.”
Navigating difficult times is Powers’ specialty. “I possess a unique knack for problem-solving and unraveling the intricate workings of systems,” he said. “Understanding how things work, coupled with my analytical problem-solving skills, allows me to dissect challenges and devise effective solutions.”
This superpower has impacted Powers’ career in healthcare during his tenure at CardioMEMs Inc., where he played a pivotal role in developing a groundbreaking SaaS disease management platform valued at over $450 million and in his role at Strados Labs Inc., resulting in being named a CIO of the Year finalist and receiving the Intel Innovation Award.
