Investing in Heart Health Innovation: A Conversation with Forbes 50 Over 50 Honoree Lisa Suennen of AHA Ventures

Welcome to today's episode where we have the distinct privilege of speaking with Lisa Suennen, Managing Partner of American Heart Association Ventures, who was just featured in Forbes 50 Over 50 and we couldn't be more thrilled to congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition! This honor celebrates Lisa's extraordinary impact as a true powerhouse in healthcare innovation and venture capital. With over 35 years of experience at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and investment, Lisa brings an unparalleled perspective on how we can transform healthcare delivery and outcomes. At American Heart Association Ventures, she leads a multi-fund platform that's investing in the future of healthcare across the entire spectrum—from cutting-edge medical technologies to addressing critical social determinants of health.

Her career has spanned multiple dimensions of the healthcare ecosystem:

• Venture Capital Leadership: From her current role at AHA Ventures to previous General Partner positions at Manatt Ventures, Psilos Group, and GE Ventures, where she led the healthcare fund and served on the overall Investment Committee
• Entrepreneurial Success: Co-founded and served as CEO of CSweetener, a healthcare leadership development company that was successfully acquired by HLTH Foundation
• Strategic Advisory Roles: Chairs the Scientific Advisory Board of NASA's Translational Research Institute for Space Health and serves on the International Investment Committee of the ANDHealth Digital Health Fund
• Thought Leadership: Author of the widely-read Venture Valkyrie blog, internationally recognized speaker, and faculty member at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business
• Industry Recognition: Fellow of the prestigious Aspen Institute's Health Innovators Fellowship

Lisa Suennen, Managing Partner, American Heart Association Ventures

Megan Antonelli, Founder & CEO, HealthIMPACT Live