Hands On Business

Today, we're diving into how funding for digital health has plummeted 3× since 2021, yet Tamar Blue still raised over $1 million for her mental-health startup, MentalHappy. Stick around for her exact playbook, complete with action challenges you can use today. Let's get started!

Digital-health cash is scarce, yet Tamar Blue secured > $1 M for MentalHappy. Hear her fundraising tactics, user-validation hacks, and the 12-year mindset every founder needs. Perfect for med-tech builders hungry for traction.

"In this 5-in-5 episode of The H-Files, we review the key takeaways from my podcast with MedTech entrepreneur Spencer Jones to break down 5 practical ways AI is transforming how we build and scale MedTech businesses. From FDA submissions to ROI calculators, these aren't hypotheticals, they're real-world strategies you can apply today.Hit play and discover how to save time, scale smarter, and stay competitive using AI."

In this episode of The H-Files, Hakeem is joined by returning guest Spencer Jones to dive into the real-world applications of AI in building and scaling MedTech businesses.From cutting regulatory prep time in half to identifying top KOLs across Europe, Spencer walks through the exact tools and workflows he uses to supercharge productivity, speed, and innovation.

In this 5-in-5 episode, I unpack my conversation with Lee Ali, MD of Expo Stars and international exhibition expert.We break down how most MedTech companies waste tens of thousands at global healthcare events—and what to do instead.From qualifying leads to energising your team, this is your no-fluff guide to making every trade show count.Five key insights. Five minutes. One smarter conference strategy.

Too many companies show up to healthcare exhibitions, but few stand out. This week on The H-Files, I sit down with Lee Ali, founder of Expo Stars, to explore what turns a passive booth into a powerful business engine. From the TEO framework to practical tips on team structure and lead conversion, this is a must-listen for anyone serious about turning trade show presence into real ROI.

Welcome to The H-Files: 5-in-5, the weekly dose of distilled insight from healthcare leaders — in five minutes or less.In this episode, I reflect on my conversation with Dave Taylor, CEO of Valley Diagnostics, who's navigating the hard road of building a medtech company from scratch.We cover five key lessons — from funding dilemmas and NHS barriers, to vision, values, and health economics plus one action step you can take right now for each.Whether you're an innovator, founder, or investor , this one's for you.

Dave Taylor, CEO of Valid Diagnostics, joins The H-Files to talk about building a startup in the high-stakes world of early cancer detection. From health economics to the NHS's slow pace, we dive into the hurdles and the purpose that keep you going.

One of the biggest mistakes I see in leadership? The fear of failure. And guess what? It's not just affecting leaders - it's holding entire teams back.Too many businesses get stuck because their teams are terrified of making mistakes. Perfectionism leads to delays, stress, and, ironically, more failure.In this Five in Five, I break down five key takeaways from my conversation with Cas Rix, a leadership expert with nearly 30 years of experience in strategic thinking, team dynamics, and guiding leadership teams through critical transitions.We explore:✅ Why fear of failure kills innovation✅ How perfectionism leads to business stagnation✅ Why failure should be embraced, not avoided✅ How leaders can set the tone for a culture of resilience✅ Practical steps to build a high-performing team that fails fast and learns fasterIf you're in healthcare, startups, or leadership, this one's for you!

WHY LEADERSHIP WITHOUT FAILURE IS A DANGEROUS GAME

Every time a healthcare business talks to me about expansion, they say the same thing:“We want to go to America.” But here's the thing… just because it's the biggest healthcare market in the world, doesn't mean it should be your first stop.The US is complex, highly regulated, and fiercely competitive—so getting your strategy right before you enter is crucial.That's why, in this Five in Five, I'm sharing five key lessons from my conversation with Angela Spang, an award-winning MedTech entrepreneur who's successfully scaled her business across the UK, Sweden, and the USA.If you're considering an international expansion, this episode is packed with insights to help you make smarter moves and avoid costly mistakes.

Many healthcare businesses dream of expanding into the US—it's the world's biggest healthcare market, after all. But size doesn't always equal opportunity. The US is highly regulated, expensive, and incredibly competitive. Without the right strategy, even the best companies can struggle. In this episode, I sit down with Angela Spang, award-winning entrepreneur and founder of June Medical, who has successfully scaled businesses across the UK, US, and Sweden. She shares the five key lessons she learned while launching into the US healthcare market—so you don't have to learn them the hard way. Tune in to learn:

Expanding internationally can be exciting—but also full of risks. Without the right strategy, partnerships, and market entry plan, you could be wasting time and money.In this 5 in 5 episode, I break down:✅ How to choose the right international expansion strategy✅ The importance of evidence & credibility in new markets✅ Why local partnerships can make or break your success✅ How to evaluate if a market is right for your business✅ The key action step you can take this week to start expanding strategically

The UK's entry into CPTPP and increasing trade agreements with the Middle East and India mean exciting new opportunities for UK health tech companies. But breaking into new international markets isn't easy.In this episode, I speak with Suzie Ali-Hassan, International Business Director at ABHI, about:✅ The common mistakes UK SMEs make when expanding overseas✅ How the ABHI Middle East Accelerator helps businesses grow internationally✅ Why evidence and local partnerships are essential for success✅ Key trends shaping international health tech expansion

Welcome toThe H-Files Five in Five—where we serve up five key insights in just five minutes! In this episode, we're tackling a game-changing question:Is LinkedIn just a networking site, or is it a powerhouse for international expansion?Join me as I break down five actionable takeaways from my conversation withNorma Foster, a LinkedIn expert who has helped businesses secure international deals through strategic networking.You'll discover:✅ How to optimize your LinkedIn profile for global opportunities

Welcome to Five in Five on The H-Files Podcast! This episode distills the top five insights from our conversation with Kath Darlington, a global marketing expert and Export Champion. Whether it's finding your niche, de-risking international expansion, or leveraging export opportunities, you'll get actionable wisdom to grow your business—all in just five minutes. Tune in now for a bite-sized dose of practical strategies Tune into full episode here: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hakeem-adebiyi/episodes/From-Start-Up-to-Global-Healthcare-aAency---Kath-Darlington-MBE-e2to33n

In this episode of The H-Files Podcast, Hakeem Adebiyi sits down with Kath Darlington MBE, founder of The Scott Partnership, a global marketing agency specialising in life sciences and technology. Kath shares her journey of building an international business, lessons from over two decades in B2B marketing, and actionable tips for navigating global markets. Whether you're a healthcare leader, a startup founder, or a business looking to expand internationally, this episode is full of valuable insights to help you succeed. Tune in now!"

In this episode of The H-Files Podcast, 5 in 5, discover five essential lessons for success in the healthcare industry, including how to align with the right partners, prioritise cultural fit, and master market preparation. Whether you're a manufacturer, distributor, or healthcare leader, this episode will inspire and empower your growth strategy. Tune in now!" Listen to full episode: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hakeem-adebiyi/episodes/How-Innovators-Find-Distributors--How-Distributors-Spot-Winning-Products-e2talm6

In this episode of The Hands-on Business Podcast, Hakeem Adebiyi welcomes Bo Wiesman, an accomplished entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and MedTech. Bo shares his journey from running a successful distribution company to founding a leading digital health firm and launching an investment fund. Discover how innovators can find the right distributors, why 'following the money' is crucial, and how cultural fit impacts international healthcare partnerships. Whether you're a manufacturer, distributor, or healthcare professional, this conversation is full of valuable lessons. Tune in now!

Today, we're diving into Nishant Varma's incredible journey from finance to healthcare innovation. In just five minutes, discover five transformative lessons on calculated risks, purpose-driven work, meticulous preparation, strong relationships, and operational excellence. Perfect for entrepreneurs and healthcare leaders—get ready to be inspired and take action! To listen to the full episode >>>> https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/8L1oPAD7SPb

On this episode Hakeem Adebiyi interviews Nishant Varma, who transitioned from finance to healthcare innovation, helping his father commercialise a groundbreaking medical device. Nishant dives into global expansion strategies, the power of calculated risks, and lessons from building a business with purpose.

Welcome to the 5 in 5 series! In this episode, I break down five powerful takeaways from my conversation with international business expert Marco Rombi. We're talking about:1️⃣ Why humility and curiosity are your secret weapons in new markets.2️⃣ How to build partnerships that work for both sides.3️⃣ Why cultural awareness is non-negotiable.4️⃣ How to stand out by simply delivering on your promises.5️⃣ The importance of taking that first critical step with conviction. If you're ready to unlock the keys to international business success – in just five minutes – hit play now!

In this episode of the H-Files Podcast, Hakeem Adebiyi sits down with Marco Rombi, an international business expert with over a decade of experience scaling healthcare companies worldwide. Marco shares his proven strategies for navigating cultural differences, building genuine partnerships, and delivering results in global markets. Whether you're expanding internationally or fine-tuning your business approach, this episode offers invaluable advice to help you succeed. Tune in now to learn how to grow your business the right way!

In this episode of the H-Files Podcast, we explore the five essential takeaways for building a biotech business ready for success and acquisition. This episode dives into: The importance of commitment and consistency. Why defining your mission early shapes your strategy. The value of trusted advisors over crowdsourced opinions. How operational excellence drives valuation. The power of kind leadership in building loyalty and uncovering blind spots. Whether you're in biotech, healthcare, or another industry, these principles are universal for creating and scaling a thriving business. Tune in to learn actionable steps you can take today to set your business on the path to success! Watch the full episode: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/hakeem-adebiyi/episodes/How-Do-You-Build-Your-Biotech-Company-For-Sale-e2rhb8q

Welcome to the H-Files Podcast! Today, we're talking about biotech businesses built for acquisition with Taggart McGurrin. From operational excellence to strategic planning, this episode is packed with insights for healthcare leaders looking to scale and sell successfully. If you find value here, please follow the podcast, leave a review,

Welcome to The H-Files: 5 in 5, where we deliver powerful insights in five minutes. In this episode, I'm diving into my conversation with Dr. Jonathan Sackier—a renowned physician and entrepreneur at the forefront of AI, robotics, and healthcare innovation. Together, we explore the practical side of innovation, the challenges of regulation, and the importance of purpose-driven work. Tune in for these quick and impactful takeaways, and be sure to follow us for more thought-provoking discussions!" Don't forget to comment, and subscribe for more actionable insights!" Listen to full episode: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/w7kkKQdXvOb

"In this episode of The H Files, I sit down with Dr. Jonathan Sackier, a pioneering healthcare entrepreneur and physician, to discuss the future of healthcare innovation. Dr. Sackier shares his thoughts on the impact of AI and robotics, the importance of operational strategy, and his ‘no-asshole rule' for building a winning team. From patent strategies to regulatory insights, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone navigating the complexities of the healthcare field. Tune in for a fascinating conversation!"

"Welcome to The H Files – 5 in 5! In this new segment, we're bringing you the juiciest takeaways from each episode in just five minutes. Today's insights come from my conversation with MedTech innovator Spencer Jones. Whether you're looking to understand the importance of going deep over wide, mastering champion development in sales, or tackling international expansion, this episode has got you covered. Perfect for when you want the highlights without the fluff—let's dive into today's top five takeaways!" Watch the full episode:https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/PpkzzOwLpOb ✨ Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast!

Welcome to The H Files, where host Hakeem Adebiyi explores the unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare business growth. In this first episode of this new series, MedTech entrepreneur Spencer Jones, CEO of Lapovations, shares strategies on scaling startups, navigating sales, and expanding internationally. Whether you're a founder or leader in MedTech, join us for practical insights to drive your healthcare business forward.

Welcome to The H-Files, the podcast where healthcare meets growth and leadership. Every 2 weeks, we dive into the real-world challenges and opportunities of building successful small and medium-sized healthcare businesses. Whether you're a leader, innovator, or just stepping into the industry, join us for insights and strategies that make a difference. The H-Files—your guide to thriving in healthcare.

In this insightful episode of the Hands on Business Podcast, host Hakeem Adebi sits down with Dr. Abdullah Sharif, MD of MSD in Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei, to explore how a clear and compelling vision can drive business growth and accelerate international expansion. From healthcare to global markets, they discuss practical strategies for using vision as a filter for decision-making, choosing the right partners, and aligning your team toward common goals. Whether you're an entrepreneur or business leader, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you achieve your growth ambitions. Key Topics: The role of vision in business acceleration Keeping your vision simple yet impactful How vision guides decision-making, especially in international markets Choosing the right partners to align with your vision Regularly reassessing and communicating your vision for ongoing success Tune in for expert insights and practical strategies you can implement today to drive growth in your business!

In this conversation, Hakeem Adebiyi and Nishant Varma discuss the critical aspects of managing distributor relationships in the healthcare export sector..

In this conversation, Hakeem and mindset coach Veronica Safoa Owusu discuss how strategic thinking and cultivating a growth-oriented mindset are essential for success. The conversation emphasises the importance of questioning assumptions, overcoming limiting beliefs, inspiring team members, and taking responsibility for one's actions to achieve business goals.

Todays episode is with Dr Abdullahi Sheriff - Pharmaceutical leader, Associate VP at MSD and winner of the black business awards 2020.  We delved into the topic of market creation through partnerships and hence 5 key steps for building a sustainable healthcare business that lasts.  If you are in healthcare this is a must listen as Sheriff had built a reputation as the go to guy for developing markets/categories and sustainable growth solutions.  If you aren't in healthcare then you need to listen to pick up the same tips and apply them to your industry

In this episode, Hakeem Adebiyi discusses the importance of decisiveness in business and how it is linked to having a clear vision. He introduces the 40-70 rule for decision-making, which states that you need between 40% and 70% of the relevant information to make a decision. He also highlights the five key mindset traits for success in business: global mindset, innovative mindset, decisiveness, resilience and adaptability, and collaboration. If you like what you hear, please subscribe to the channel

Todays episode explores the importance of building relationships and the role they play in business success. Our guest, Elisabetta Torretti, shares her journey from not speaking English to becoming the head of sales for a fast-growing startup and then starting her own recruitment agency in the UK. If you like what you hear, please subscribe to the channel

In this conversation, Hakeem discusses the importance of considering probability when identifying which customers to target. He provides examples of factors that can help accelerate progress, 

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) is not a black issue or a white issue, IT's A GREEN ISSUE. Join Global HR leader Dr Tana M.Session as she discusses why DEIB shouldn't be just performative, becasue it's critical to growing your business. ✨ Don't forget to subscribe to the Channel!

Todays episode explores the importance of vision and mindset in scaling a business. Hakeem shares his experience of reorganising his online course to prioritise vision and mindset as the first step, before anything else. He discusses the key elements of a powerful vision, including clarity, inspiration, and direction. He also explains the concept of a growth mindset and its role in personal and business growth. The conversation emphasizes the synergy between a compelling vision and a growth mindset in effective leadership and business growth.

Evidence suggests (https://getsession.com/resources/guides/coaching-statistics-prove-roi-to-executives) that when done correctly Coaching can lead to between 400 -700% return on investment with a payback of 6 months. Hakeem explores with Dr Rob Kemp the best way to achieve those results

Our conversation today provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and individuals seeking to turn their passion into a profitable venture. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to entrepreneurship, time management and creativity. If you like what you hear, please subscribe to the channel

In this episode we explore the necessary ingredients for successful change. It requires good leadership and in his book 'No Bullshit Change,' Chris Hirst explores the process of driving successful change We get into that and many other things

Want to know how to supercharge your conversions on Linkedin? hen listen to this episode with Likedin video specialist Ercan Abraham. Find out What type of videos are best How to better use the format of Linkedin to drive engagement How best to script a video The ideal length your video should be Plus many more tips and tricks

Nicola Richardson, a business leadership expert, shares her experience of the harmful effects of avoiding difficult conversations. She emphasizes the importance of open communication, compassion, and empathy in addressing these conversations. Key Takeaways Ignoring or avoiding difficult conversations at work can have negative consequences for businesses. Difficult conversations can lead to grievances, employee turnover, and performance issues. Open communication, compassion, and empathy are essential in addressing difficult conversations. A framework for difficult conversations includes action, impact, and development. Documentation and follow-up are crucial for clarity and accountability. Always prepare for difficult conversations to ensure a positive outcome. Manage your emotions and create a compassionate environment during conversations. Effective communication can lead to a positive culture and improved performance. Bullying behavior is unacceptable and should be addressed. Treat people with empathy, kindness, and respect in all interactions.

In this conversation, Hakeem discusses the importance of having a vision in small businesses. Hakeem emphasizes the simplicity of developing a clear vision statement and provides examples from various industries. Takeaways A clear vision is crucial for small businesses as it provides direction and purpose. Developing a concise and inspiring vision statement is the first step in crafting a roadmap for growth and success. Communicating and regularly reinforcing the vision to employees and stakeholders is essential for alignment and engagement. The vision should guide decision making, strategic planning, and marketing efforts to attract customers who align with the business's values.

In this conversation, Tom Schwab discusses the potential downsides of digital marketing and how it may not always be effective for businesses. He shares his journey from being a Navy veteran to becoming an entrepreneur and marketer. Despite its promise of efficiency and profitability, digital marketing strategies might be harming your business. Pick up a FREE copy of Toms book : https://interviewvalet.com/handson/

In this conversation, Hakeem Adebiyi and Athole Forbes discuss the importance of business planning and simplifying the planning process. They dive into the seven key elements to supercharge a business, including getting clear on your skills and value, creating an offer, business planning, social media strategy, sales, feedback, and networking.

This conversation with Tim Butler, Founder and CEO of Innovation Visual explores the impact of AI on business, particularly in the field of digital marketing. The discussion covers the fear of job losses, the transformation of marketing strategies, and the adoption of AI tools in different countries Takeaways AI has the potential to transform marketing strategies, particularly in areas such as chat and call centers, content generation, and image editing. The adoption of AI tools should be driven by efficiency and performance goals, with a focus on understanding data and leveraging it to improve customer experiences. When integrating AI into marketing strategies, it is important to have a clear data strategy, join up data sources, and consider the context and expertise that humans bring to the table. AI has the potential to transform society on a wide scale, similar to the industrial revolution, but at a faster pace.

Adrian Kay-ler, a senior partner at the executive coaching firm Take New Ground, and on this episode he discusses the importance of speaking and listening for unprecedented results. Takeaways Own the impact of your actions and live with intention. Transitioning from founder to CEO requires embracing new responsibilities and delegating tasks. Raising the bar and aligning work with passion can lead to greater freedom. Effective communication involves listening, speaking with clarity and purpose, and living with integrity.

“Mindset is one of the key attributes that determine how successful you become in any walk of life.” In this episode, we discuss the difference between UK and US business mindset and culture, and how you can develop a winning mindset in your entrepreneurial journey. Listen and get practical steps and invaluable insights that will help you navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with the right mindset.