Nathan Piland of Nunex: From Medtech Concept to Commercialization

In this episode of the Neural Implant Podcast, we’re joined by Nathan Piland, CEO of Nunex, a consulting firm that specializes in helping MedTech companies navigate the complex journey from concept to commercialization. With over two decades of experience across regulatory strategy, product development, and market access, Nathan shares invaluable insights into the critical steps for MedTech startups and established companies looking to succeed in today’s competitive landscape. Tune in as we discuss the unique challenges of the neurotech industry, strategic consulting for MedTech ventures, and how Nunex is helping companies grow and scale through a holistic, tailored approach.

Top 3 Takeaways:

• "Some people are saying that the brain is becoming the new heart, referring to the decades-long focus on cardiovascular research and devices, from mitral valve replacements to aortic repairs. However, advancements in heart treatments are becoming incremental, while the brain remains a vast unknown. In fact, we may know less about neuroscience than we do about the heart. This is exciting, though, as it means we have fewer biases about how to solve problems in the brain. There’s a lot of activity in areas like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, with ongoing efforts to improve patients’ lives."
• "The reason we formed the company was to partner with founders and leaders in the MedTech industry. Like many listeners of this podcast, I’ve been on the other side, constantly receiving sales pitches. We believe we can add the most value by highlighting key insights and trends within the industry."
• "If I were the CEO of a startup, I would consider doing most of the work in another geography for a fraction of the cost, while still obtaining high-quality data. Then, I would come to the US for a follow-up study. Even if you needed to do a 50-patient study to confirm results with a US-based population to satisfy the FDA, it would be much cheaper, faster, and more cost-effective than conducting a large-scale trial here in the US with all the associated costs and challenges."

0:45 Do you want to introduce yourself better than I just did?

1:30 How did you get into medtech consulting?

5:15 Why did you decide to work with startups?

7:15 What are the 7 dimensions and what are the order of these?

12:45 What does a typical workflow look like with a company?

19:30 Is neurotech different or unique compared to other types of medtech?

23:45 Do you want to talk about your newsletter and conference also?

30:00 And you'll have another conference this year too?

32:00 Malaysia sounds great but are there any drawbacks to working there?

36:45 With the new administration what is your prognosis on funding and medtech development?

41:15 Anything that we didn't talk about that you wanted to mention?