How Tech is Solving the Organ Shortage Problem with Shola Oyewole

One of the biggest challenges in modern medicine is the severe shortage of organs for transplant patients. With thousands waiting in line, new technologies may hold the key to saving lives.

In this episode, I sit down with Shola Oyewole, the VP of Digital Innovation at United Therapeutics Corporation. Shola shares how his company is tackling the organ shortage with cutting-edge technologies, including 3D printing, genetically modified organs, and AI-powered drug development. We explore his journey from CIO to innovation leader, how the company is building organs on demand, and the transformative potential of personalized medicine.

Shola emphasizes the importance of curiosity, teamwork, and a patient-first approach in driving change.

Technology is reshaping healthcare in powerful ways, and United Therapeutics is proving that innovation and empathy can go hand in hand. Don’t miss this inspiring episode where we uncover how the future of medicine is being built today.

Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes:

• Tackling the organ shortage through 3D printing and genetic modification
• AI and data governance challenges in healthcare
• Fostering innovation through teamwork and open competitions

Links from this episode:

• Get to know more about Shola Oyewole: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sholaoyewole
• Learn more about United Therapeutics: https://www.unither.com

• Read NPR’s Insightful Article on Organ Transplants:

https://www.npr.org/2024/04/13/1244583164/patients-die-every-day-waiting-for-organ-transplants-the-problem-isnt-a-lack-of

• Check Out the Netflix Documentary on “We Are the World”:

https://www.comingsoon.net/movies/trailers/1477397-the-greatest-night-in-pop-trailer-previews-netflix-documentary-about-the-making-of-we-are-the-world-song

• Read Forbes’ Article on Martine Rothblatt: https://www.forbes.com/sites/richardjchang/2024/07/18/meet-the-new-biotech-martine-rothblatt-billionaire-putting-pig-hearts-in-humans
• Get to know more about Steven Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroup

==== Time Stamps ====

00:00 – Introduction 

00:37 – About Shola Oyewole
06:42 – Creating unlimited transplantable organs to save lives

12:24 – Certain diseases may be more easily solvable
17:02 – Facilitating employee ideas into potential products
20:46 – Curiosity, innovation, creativity thrive, benefiting all
22:17 – Autonomy and experimentation create a lasting culture
25:19 – Validate AI responses with expert research