Humotech Podcast

In this conversation, Adam Norton from the University of Massachusetts Lowell NERVE Center discusses his journey into the field of exoskeletons and robotics, emphasizing the importance of standards in the development and evaluation of these technologies. He highlights the challenges of measuring human-robot performance, the role of ASTM in setting standards, and the need for transparency in testin...

In this conversation, Dr. Elliott Rouse shares his journey from a mechanical engineer in auto racing to a leading figure in rehabilitation research at the University of Michigan . He discusses the importance of hands-on experience in engineering, the impact of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab , and his experiences at Google X . Dr. Rouse elaborates on the Open Source Leg project, its significance in th...

In this conversation, Dr. Sasha Portnova, creator and host with Gears of Progress Podcast , shares her journey from academia to the corporate world, discussing her work in biomechanics, rehabilitation engineering, and assistive technology. She emphasizes the importance of user-centered design and collaboration between engineers and clinicians to create effective solutions for individuals with disa...

In this conversation, Dr. Matty Major discusses his journey into the field of prosthetics and rehabilitation, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the unique ecosystem at Northwestern University . He emphasizes the challenges of maintaining focus in a dynamic research environment and the significance of building a multidisciplinary team. Dr. Major also explores the Je...

In this conversation, Todd Schaffhauser, a co-founder of the Amputee Walking School , shares his inspiring journey from becoming an above-knee amputee at 15 to winning multiple Paralympic medals and pioneering a new running technique for amputees. He discusses the importance of mentorship, community, and the role of technology in enhancing mobility for amputees. Todd emphasizes the need for early...

In this conversation, Patrick Tarnowski, Chief Commercial Officer at OneStep , discusses his background as a physical therapist and how it shaped his understanding of mobility and healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of mobility as a vital sign and how OneStep leverages smartphone technology to analyze gait and improve patient outcomes. The discussion also covers the alignment between payors a...

In this conversation, Dr. Kota Takahashi from the University of Utah discusses his journey into biomechanics, the importance of technology in research, and the values that guide his mentorship style. He emphasizes the need for curiosity, scientific rigor, and collaboration in research in the Sayu Lab for Biomechanics & Locomotion , particularly in the context of translational biomechanics. The...

In this conversation, Dr. Matthew Dickinson from the University of Central Lancashire discusses his work in the field of exoskeletons and wearable technology, focusing on the ASTM F48 standards committee, safety certification, and the importance of user-centric design. He shares insights from his journey in mechanical engineering, the Exo Games initiative, and the evolving landscape of funding and...

Urs Schneider, PhD Scientific Director of Health, Fraunhofer IPA Summary In this conversation, Dr. Urs Schneider, Scientific Director of Health at Fraunhofer IPA, discusses his extensive experience in mechatronics engineering, particularly in the fields of exoskeletons, prosthetics, and orthotics. He emphasizes the importance of integrating medical rehabilitation devices with workplace application...

Matthew Marino Owner, Evolving Innovation Owner, Prime Performance Summary In this conversation, Josh Caputo and Matt Marino discuss the evolving field of exoskeletons, focusing on their applications in both medical and occupational settings. They explore the challenges of adoption, the importance of user education, and the economic benefits of implementing exoskeletons in the workplace. Matt shar...

Summary In this episode of the Human Part of Humotech podcast, host Candice Caputo interviews Elaine Kachala, an award-winning children's nonfiction author known for her book 'Superpower: The Wearable-Tech Revolution.' Elaine discusses the importance of wearable technology, the ethical implications of innovation, and the role of STEM education in inspiring young readers. She emphasizes...

Thomas Sugar, PhD Associate Dean, Polytechnic School, Barrett, The Honors College, Arizona State University Summary In this conversation, Dr. Thomas Sugar discusses his extensive work in the field of wearable robotics, particularly focusing on exoskeletons and their applications in both medical and industrial settings. He shares insights from his journey developing the SPARKy ankle, his transition...

Rita Vazquez-Torres CEO/Senior Technology Strategist, New Stone Soup VT LLCFounding Partner, ASTM Exo Technology Center of Excellence Summary In this conversation, Rita Vazquez-Torres shares her extensive experience in exoskeleton technology, discussing its evolution, the interplay of politics and policy in technology development, and the personal stories that drive her passion for this field. She...

Summary In this conversation, Jeremy Lewis shares insights from his extensive leadership experience in the U.S. Army and at Tesla, focusing on transformational leadership, the impact of exoskeleton technology, and the importance of mentorship. He discusses the future of wearable technology for veterans, the challenges of scaling operations in tech companies, and the significance of fostering a cul...

In this conversation, Josh Caputo speaks with Borislav (Bobby) Marinov, the preeminent voice of the press in the exoskeleton and wearable robotics field. Bobby shares his journey from a background in robotics to his current role in popularizing exoskeleton technology. They discuss the importance of user experience, the need for broader accessibility, and the potential of exoskeletons to enhance mo...

In this conversation, Josh Caputo speaks with Sarah Ballini-Ross, an expert in safety and public health, about her journey from working in a warehouse and her own farms, to becoming a co-founder of Evolving Innovation and Prime Performance. They discuss the role of exoskeletons in workplace safety, the challenges of implementing them, and the cultural barriers that exist. Sarah shares insights on...

In this conversation, Dr. David Morgenroth discusses his career at the VA, emphasizing the importance of giving back to veterans and the unique opportunities for thorough clinical practice and research within the VA system. He highlights the significance of collaboration between government and industry in advancing prosthetic technologies and the challenges of translating innovations from the VA t...

In today's episode, we sit down with Tim Reissman, Associate Professor from the University of Dayton in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department. Join us to learn more about his unique journey in rehabilitation engineering, spanning a wide range of technology areas, all focused on realizing the freedom of movement through human-centered design and collaborative research/education. Learn...

In today's episode, we sit down with Peter Adamczyk, Associate Professor from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the Mechanical Engineering department. Join us to learn more about his journey through the research, development, and clinical translation of advanced prosthetic design as well as explorations into how wearable sensors could transform this industry and many others. Learn more about...

In this episode, we sit down with Geoff Turner, an independent consultant to prosthetics manufacturers (including Humotech) based out of New York City. Join us as we learn how he leverages his own daily experience using prosthetic technology, diverse business background, and passion for mobility and athletics to deliver no-nonsense perspective that is helping multiple exciting companies realize mo...

In today’s episode, we sit down with Steve Collins, Associate Professor from Stanford University in the Mechanical Engineering Department. Join us to learn more about his quest to improve mobility with robotic prosthetics and exoskeletons that optimize metabolic energy efficiency by leveraging advanced learning algorithms. Learn more about Steve, who encourages you to reach out to him at stevecoll...

In today's episode, we sit down with Joyce Perrone, an independent consultant to Orthotics & Prosthetics businesses (including Humotech) based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Join us as we learn how she navigates the complex healthcare landscape with empathy, optimism, and a keen eye for data insights. Learn more about Joyce , who encourages you to reach out to her via email at jperrone.jp@gmail.com .

In today’s episode, we sit down with Philippe Malcolm, Associate Professor from the University of Nebraska Omaha. Join us as we learn more about what makes Philippe tick and how his unique approach is leading us towards a more nuanced understanding of the nature of human energy consumption during locomotion and where wearable robotics could have the greatest impact. Learn more about Philippe and t...

In today's episode, we sit down with Matt Yandell, Chief Innovation Officer at HeroWear , an exciting spin-off company from Vanderbilt University. Join us to learn more about how to build an exoskeleton product that delights users: from optimizing the design, to fostering a healthy company culture, to honing your unique value proposition within this burgeoning industry. Learn more about Matt , who...

In today’s episode, we sit down with Greg Sawicki, an Associate Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology in the School of Mechanical Engineering. Join us to learn more about his fascinating journey from studying biology to building robots, and how he connects two to unlock insights that are advancing the science of wearable robotics. Learn more about Greg , who encourages you to reach out...