Manish Bhandari, MD, E-MBA, is the Founder and Managing Partner of Angel Physicians Fund, a venture capital firm that supports early-stage healthcare technology companies. He is also Medical Oncologist and Chief of Innovation & Oncology at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in MidWest USA. With over two decades of experience in the healthcare sector as a clinician, research investigator, and as a MedTech investor, he advises five large MedTech funds nationally.
As a medical oncologist, healthcare executive, and strategy consultant, Manish brings a combination of clinical, operational, and financial expertise to identify, evaluate, and invest in promising opportunities in the healthcare sector. His work is driven by a mission to improve patient outcomes, advance medical innovation, and drive healthcare transformation. He also serves on the Board of Directors of several portfolio companies in oncology, where he provides strategic guidance, industry insights, and mentorship to the founders and management teams. Additionally, he advises Catalyst Health Ventures and AngelMD, two leading healthcare investment platforms. Manish has multiple publications and patents in the field of oncology and medical devices, was named “Doctor of the Year” by Cincinnati Magazine in 2018, and bestowed a lifetime achievement award by a cancer patient support group in the U.S.
Manish is a graduate of Harvard Medical School and a board-certified medical oncologist from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, with an executive MBA from McKinsey & Co.
Laura Rowe is a healthcare and technology professional with over 25 years of clinical and technical expertise. She has built a diverse background in critical care nursing, legal nurse consulting, and advanced data insights, serving patients across transplant coordination, the operating room, cath lab, and COVID-19 ICU.
Now working in the startup and venture capital space, Laura applies her clinical, legal, and analytical expertise to deliver actionable insights and develop scalable solutions. Recognized for her strength in interdisciplinary collaboration, project management, and forward-thinking approaches, she focuses on initiatives that support long-term success.
Laura graduated with honors in International Relations from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she also earned her nursing degree. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biochemistry. Outside of her professional endeavors, Laura enjoys gardening, home improvement, and baking.
Annu Lunia Singhvi is passionate about revolutionizing the way Angel Physicians Fund supports patient care and wellness. With a proven track record in driving growth and innovation, she has had the privilege of fostering strategic partnerships globally. She also serves as a consultant to various medical startups.
In her new role as Partner with Angel Physicians Fund, Annu is excited to leverage her expertise to empower visionary entrepreneurs and cutting-edge technologies that transform healthcare outcomes. She is committed to fueling the growth of innovative solutions that will improve lives and make a meaningful impact. Annu brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial acumen, market insight, and a collaborative spirit to the table.
Aditya Kalakonda is a distinguished advanced gastroenterologist with a robust background in both clinical practice and academic medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at SUNY Upstate in Syracuse, NY, and his Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Massachusetts - Baystate, graduating Summa Cum Laude from medical school. Dr. Kalakonda is proficient in advanced endoscopic procedures such as ERCP and EUS.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Kalakonda is deeply involved in medical education and research. He has contributed to numerous clinical trials and holds leadership positions in prominent gastroenterology organizations, focusing on education and peer review of cutting-edge research. His dedication to advancing patient care and medical innovation positions him as a thought leader in the field.
In addition to his medical expertise, Dr. Kalakonda serves on the board of advisors at Kenobi Capital, where he specializes in mergers and acquisitions.
Dr. Aman Ghotra is a leading Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiologist with over ten years of experience in managing clinical trials and developing treatment protocols for patients with heart failure. He serves as a National Principal Investigator for several clinical and device trials, and his contributions include multiple peer-reviewed publications and patents that have advanced cardiovascular care.
Dr. Ghotra holds a BS and MS in Biomedical Engineering with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and completed fellowships in Cardiovascular Disease and Advanced Heart Failure at the University of Texas-Houston. His career has been defined by significant involvement in both laboratory and clinical research, providing a foundation for his ongoing collaborations with medical device manufacturers and cardiovascular startups, where he offers clinical insights into product design and research development.
An experienced angel investor, Dr. Ghotra is committed to supporting innovation in the healthcare space, with a focus on med-tech and life sciences. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children and is also actively involved in real estate investment, with properties across the Midwest USA.
Anand Narayan is the driving force behind Kenobi Capital, where he focuses on empowering entrepreneurs to navigate their exit strategies with confidence and success. As a visionary leader, Anand has a proven track record, having scaled a $65 million IT staffing firm to a successful sale and leading ITTDigital to over $10 million in revenue. With an MBA from Cornell University and a background in Chemical and Nuclear Engineering, Anand blends strategic insight with technical expertise.
His experience as a U.S. Navy Officer further sharpens his leadership skills, enabling him to tackle complex challenges with precision.
Angie Willmott brings 14 years of experience in the field of medical research. At Ethicon Endo-Surgery, a Johnson & Johnson company, she worked as a Clinical Education Specialist, where she was a surgical trainer for clinical trials, investigative procedures, and newly launched medical devices. Willmott played a pivotal role in pioneering new medical practices that reduced testing costs and decreased the reliance on animate models.
During her tenure at Ethicon, she furthered her education, earning a degree in Organizational Leadership with a minor in Psychology from Northern Kentucky University. Angie also gained experience as a clinical researcher at VetPharm, an animal health contract research organization (CRO). Since 2015, she has served as the President of Prime Properties, LLC, focusing on real estate investments based on researched market trends.
Anil Verma has built a career as a physician and scientific researcher. Currently, he practices interventional cardiology at Mercy Health. His medical journey began at Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi, India. After relocating to the United States, Verma completed his internal medicine training at Hahnemann University Hospital, pursued a research-postdoctoral fellowship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School in Boston, and underwent cardiovascular training at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
Verma is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention. He also earned a Master’s in Public Health from Emory University. In addition to his clinical practice, Verma is involved in several clinical and device trials, contributing to the advancement of interventional cardiology.
He has a passion for patient care, believing that the most important part of his job is caring for his patients, regardless of the circumstance. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and is actively involved in philanthropic activities in the Cincinnati region.
Dr. Kathryn Ann Weichert is a retired Oncologist having spent 35 years in a solo private practice. She was affiliated with Christ Hospital, TriHealth, Mercy and University Hospitals in Cincinnati, Ohio throughout her career. At the University Hospital, she was an Assistant Clinical Professor and taught medical students during their freshman summer internships.
She completed her entire Medical Education with the University of Cincinnati Hospital System. During her career, she participated in several clinical trials and was a Principal Investigator for Femara (Novatis). She also authored several Oncology related papers.
Since she retired, she devotes her time to volunteering in several areas including the Foundation Boards of Christ and Children’s Hospitals in Cincinnati. She also does Quality Assurance work for The Christ Hospital Tumor Registry.
Arshdeep Tindni is renowned for his critical contributions to improving the quality of life for elderly patients on dialysis. His research has focused on significant issues affecting the healthcare of this population in the United States. As one of the pioneers in home dialysis, Tindni serves as both a researcher and the Medical Director of the top-ranked Home Dialysis Unit in Cincinnati.
Tindni is recognized as one of the top nephrologists in the country, with numerous contributions as a member of the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Cincinnati Chapter Advisory Board. He also holds a key role in the Medical Executive Board of the Regional NKF and has significantly contributed to the National Kidney Foundation’s Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP®), which reached over 185,000 individuals at increased risk for kidney disease between August 2000 and June 2013.
He has served on the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) Practicing Nephrologists Advisory Group and is currently a member of the Renal Physicians Association Clinical Practice Committee. Additionally, he is an Assistant Professor at The Jewish Hospital, Internal Medicine Residency Program, University of Cincinnati. Tindni is board-certified in Nephrology and Internal Medicine and has presented research and abstracts at national conferences, particularly in the prevention and treatment of acute renal failure. His expertise has earned him the title of Fellow of the American Society of Nephrology (FASN), a designation that honors members who have excelled in practice or research.
Dr. Tindni is passionate about community education on preventive medicine practices and is an executive member of the local NKF chapter. He has also participated in several medical mission trips to underserved regions, demonstrating his commitment to extending healthcare beyond traditional settings.
Dr. Brian Kuhlman is an experienced optometrist who has been practicing at the Cincinnati Eye Institute (CEI) since 2003, specializing in the management of chronic ocular diseases, including cataracts and glaucoma. He earned both his undergraduate and doctoral degrees from The Ohio State University, completing his externship at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio, followed by a 13-month post-doctoral residency at CEI focused on ocular disease.
Certified by the International Board of Optometric Examiners, Dr. Kuhlman is also actively involved in clinical research, contributing to numerous clinical trials aimed at advancing treatments for ocular conditions. He plays a significant role in training optometry residents and is a dedicated member of the American Optometric Association and the Cincinnati Optometric Association, where he has served as Treasurer since 2016.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Kuhlman supports startups in developing innovative drugs and devices for eye care, ensuring that the latest advancements benefit his patients. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Kuhlman enjoys spending quality time with his wife and three children.
Chris Skufca holds an impressive academic background with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Miami University, a cum laude Juris Doctor from Capital Law School, and a Master of Laws in Taxation with distinction from Georgetown University Law Center.
With extensive experience in both private practice and corporate legal settings, Skufca specializes in corporate, transactional, and compliance legal matters. He currently serves as Deputy General Counsel at Cintas, a Fortune 500 publicly traded company. Since joining Cintas in August 2005, he has focused on US and international corporate transactions, governance, securities, compliance, general litigation, business consulting, and managing legal matters assigned to outside counsel.
Prior to his role at Cintas, Skufca was a Partner at Keating, Muething & Klekamp from March 1997 to August 2005, where he excelled as a Corporate Transactional and Tax Attorney. He also served as an Attorney at Keating Muething & Klekamp PLL from 1997 to 2005. His career began at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he worked as a Senior Tax Consultant from October 1995 to March 1997.
Skufca’s rich legal expertise, combined with his strong educational foundation, underscores his proficiency in navigating complex legal landscapes and providing strategic counsel in corporate settings.
Dr. Cornelia McCluskey has been a leading radiation oncologist in Cincinnati for nearly 20 years. As the department director for radiation oncology at Christ Hospital, she has overseen numerous clinical trials and been instrumental in the development of advanced radiation therapy techniques. Her leadership has significantly improved cancer treatment options, contributing to better patient outcomes through innovation.
Dr. McCluskey completed her medical degree at the University of Cincinnati and received residency training at Christ Hospital and the Barrett Center. She lives in Cincinnati with her husband and enjoys gardening, attending the symphony, and supporting the opera.
Craig M. Sarembock is a Wealth Advisor and Principal at Bartlett Wealth Management. He specializes in providing investment advisory services to high net worth individuals and their families, as well as to foundations, endowments, and non-profit institutions.
Craig holds a BA in Economics from Princeton University and an MBA from Columbia University. Before joining Bartlett, he worked at Goldman Sachs in Chicago as a Regional Consultant in their asset management division. He also gained experience as an Investment Advisor at Ladenburg Thalmann in New York. Craig has been with Bartlett since 2012 and has amassed 17 years of investment experience. He has also been recognized as a Five Star Wealth Manager for his excellence in the field.
In addition to his professional work, Craig serves on the boards of The Art Academy of Cincinnati and the Jewish Community Center.
Dan Walker has over 34 years of experience in the healthcare industry, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer of Ohio Gastroenterology and Liver Institute (Ohio GI). Ohio GI is a nationally recognized independent medical practice with a reputation for its entrepreneurial approach. In his role, Walker has spearheaded the development of first-to-market and early-to-market initiatives, including Ambulatory Endoscopy Centers, Infusion Centers, Pathology Laboratories, Anesthesia Services, and Pharmacy Services, all in non-hospital settings.
Walker was also a Co-Founder of a healthcare IT solutions company that designed end-to-end workflow solutions for Ambulatory Endoscopy Centers, with a focus on intra-operative procedural documentation. He serves as Chief Executive Officer of a HyGIeaCare Center, one of the few in the United States, offering same-day preparation services prior to colonoscopy. Beyond his operational roles, Walker has contributed to national organizations like the Digestive Health Physicians Association, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, the Medical Group Management Association, and The Independent Physicians Collaborative of Greater Cincinnati.
Walker is also an active early-stage investor. His extensive background in Accounting and Operations gives him the skills to effectively evaluate early- and mid-stage investment opportunities.
Darryl Dias is a practicing Invasive Cardiologist based in Northern Kentucky. He began his medical education at Mangalore University, followed by Internal Medicine training in New York and New Jersey. Dias pursued a Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania, during which he presented his work at the American College of Cardiology conference. His interest in cardiology led him to complete an Invasive Cardiology fellowship at the University of Kentucky.
Since 2004, he has been practicing at the St. Elizabeth Hospital system in Northern Kentucky.
Deepak Mittal has devoted his entire career to healthcare, spending the past 20 years as a Nephrologist in Kentucky. He received his medical degree from the University of Louisville and holds board certifications in both Internal Medicine and Nephrology. Dr. Mittal is the Medical Director for three major dialysis centers in Kentucky and Ohio, leading a team of 100 professionals, and he serves as Chief of Staff at Gateway Rehab Hospital in Northern Kentucky. He is also active in clinical trials, contributing to the advancement of nephrology.
Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Mittal is a dedicated angel investor, supporting innovative startups like Kurome Therapeutics, Blue Water Vaccines, and Foldax. He is deeply passionate about his work and takes great pride in his achievements. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his three children, engaging in their various activities. Dr. Mittal is also committed to giving back to the community through his philanthropic efforts, including his support for establishing a rural hospital in Kentucky to serve the needs of the local community.
Shilpa Dias operates a private acupuncture practice in Northern Kentucky. She completed her medical studies in Mumbai, India, and practiced medicine there for two years before relocating to the United States in 1997.
In 2001, she earned a master’s degree in Acupuncture from the New York College of Health Professions in Long Island, New York. Dias holds board certification with the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. She also completed a fellowship with the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine and has been practicing in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area since 2004.
Geoffrey A. Answini is a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon and one of the few cardiac surgeons in the Greater Cincinnati area who performs complex open and endovascular aortic surgery. His clinical specialty is minimally invasive surgery, including valves, LVADS, and endovascular surgery (including EVAR, TEVAR, and TAVR).
After graduating magna cum laude from Auburn University, AL, where he was an All-American swimmer, Answini earned his medical degree at Temple University School of Medicine (now known as the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University), Philadelphia, PA. He completed a surgical residency at Carolinas Medical Center (now known as Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center), Charlotte, NC, followed by a cardiothoracic surgery residency with extensive exposure to endovascular therapies at St. Louis University Hospital (now known as SSM Health St. Louis University Hospital), MO. He joined the Ohio Heart and Vascular Center at The Christ Hospital in 2003.
An active industry consultant and researcher, Answini has participated in more than 40 clinical trials and has authored several articles in peer-reviewed medical journals. He has presented his work at conferences and symposia including the annual meetings of the American College of Surgery and the World Surgical Congress of Endoscopic Surgery. A fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Answini is also a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons, the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons, the Academy of Medicine of Cincinnati, the Ohio State Medical Association, the Eastern Cardiothoracic Surgical Society, the Southern Thoracic Surgical Association, the American Medical Association, and the Christian Medical and Dental Associations.
Gitanjli Channan holds a B.Sc. in Biochemistry from the University of Calgary, after which she earned her MD from the University of Alberta. She went on to complete her Family Medicine residency at the University of Toronto. Channan began her medical career as an emergency room physician and now serves as a primary care physician at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Beyond her clinical work, Channan is active in the investment community, serving on the advisory board of the Global Health Impact Fund (GHIF), a venture capital fund that supports early-stage healthcare technology companies. She is also an investor with CincyTech, a venture capital firm focusing on life sciences and digital technology. Her other investments span a range of industries, including companies like Enable Injections and Aria CV, as well as various real estate ventures.
Ian J. Sarembock, MB, ChB, MD, FCP(SA), FACC, FAHA, FSCAI, is a structural and interventional cardiologist with an extensive international background. Born in South Africa, he earned his medical degree and doctorate from the University of Cape Town. After completing a two-year research associate position at Yale University, he moved to the University of Virginia (UVA), where he served as Director of the Coronary Care Unit, Harrison Distinguished Teaching Professor of Internal Medicine, and Director of the Center for Interventional Cardiology. At UVA, he helped establish a leading translational research and clinical trials program, engaging in both original hypothesis-driven studies and NIH- and industry-supported clinical trials.
In 2007, Sarembock joined the Ohio Heart and Vascular Center in Cincinnati and became Co-Director of The Heart and Vascular Center at The Christ Hospital. He later served as Executive Medical Director of the Heart and Vascular Service Line until 2017. Currently, he focuses on complex coronary and structural interventions, including advanced valve and device trials, and holds the Harold C. Schott Foundation Endowed Chair in Structural Heart.
Sarembock's achievements include the J. Edwin Wood Jr. Cardiovascular Division Attending Teaching Award, the Clinical Excellence Award, and repeated recognition among the Best Doctors in America®, Best Doctors in Cincinnati, and Marquis Who's Who in Medicine and Healthcare. He has authored more than 250 peer-reviewed articles, abstracts, book chapters, and invited papers in cardiology, and serves as a peer reviewer for several leading journals in cardiovascular medicine. His expertise and contributions make him a prominent figure in the cardiology field.
Jay Bedi has over 25 years of expertise in the hospitality sector, providing strategic guidance in real estate investments and operational excellence. At LDI Hospitality, Jay plays a pivotal role in advising businesses on asset management and property development. His extensive background includes successfully launching and scaling multiple hospitality ventures with a focus on efficiency and service quality.
In addition to his professional commitments, Jay is dedicated to enriching the lives of young learners as a consultant at Elevated Minds Academy. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati, with specialized knowledge in hotel operations and food and beverage management.
Jeff Oravitz is the Chief Executive Officer of Seal For Life Industries, the coatings platform of Arsenal Capital Partners, where he also serves on the Board of Directors. He partnered with Arsenal Capital in 2019. Previously, Jeff was Vice President of PPG Coatings Services and President of MetoKote Corporation from 2016 to 2019, and he led the sale of MetoKote to PPG Industries during his tenure as CEO from 2011 to 2016. He initially joined MetoKote in 2005 as Vice President of North American In-Plant Businesses.
Jeff has collaborated with prominent private equity firms, including CCMP, Platinum Equity, May River Capital, and Arsenal Capital, driving strategic growth and transformation across sectors. Before MetoKote, Jeff spent 20 years at PPG Industries, Inc., advancing through various technical, commercial, and management roles in divisions such as Automotive OEM, Refinish, General Industrial, and Packaging Coatings.
A native of Pittsburgh, PA, Jeff earned a B.S. in Chemistry and an MBA, both with honors, from the University of Pittsburgh. His contributions earned him the Brewer Award from the Electrocoat Association, where he also served as Vice President and Board member.
Jeff has also held leadership roles in organizations like the Ohio Manufacturers Association, where he was recently elected Chairman, and served on boards including Tiffin University, Lima Central Catholic High School, and Hunt Valve Company.
Joel Reginelli has seventeen years of experience as an interventional cardiologist in Cincinnati, Ohio. He studied Zoology at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, before attending medical school at The Ohio State University. While there, he served as class president for four years, was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha, and received the American College of Physicians award for the top Internal Medicine graduate.
After Ohio State, Reginelli completed his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. It was there that he developed an interest in clinical research, particularly in cardiovascular medicine, which led him to pursue a cardiovascular fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. As a fellow, he was chosen to be Chief Fellow and then extended his stay for two more years to complete an advanced fellowship in coronary and peripheral vascular intervention, receiving extensive training in complex procedures. During his time at the Cleveland Clinic, he presented research at national conferences and published numerous abstracts, journal articles, and book chapters.
In 2003, Reginelli returned to Cincinnati to start his cardiovascular practice. He has been involved in clinical research and played a significant role in program development at The Christ Hospital, serving as Medical Director for the Advanced Vascular Program and helping to establish a program for complex coronary artery disease. At the end of 2019, he retired from performing interventional procedures in the cardiac catheterization lab and plans to spend the rest of his career focusing on clinical cardiology, medical student and resident education, and exploring the use of artificial intelligence in medical practice.
John Grantham grew up in Manhattan, Kansas, and attended Emporia State University in Emporia, Kansas, where he earned a B.S. in business. His career began at Koch Industries, where he spent a decade holding various leadership roles across their carbon, minerals, and agriculture divisions.
After Koch Industries, Grantham became Vice President - Origination for DTE Coal Services in Ann Arbor, Michigan. His work at DTE included managing the company's industrial coal business and the Chicago Fuels Terminal. In 2009, Grantham moved to Cincinnati with his family to join River Trading Company, which later became Liberty Hill Equity Partners. As a Partner and Managing Director, Grantham oversees several businesses in the firm's portfolio and plays a key role in identifying new growth opportunities.
Grantham and his family live in Anderson Township, Cincinnati, Ohio, where he continues to contribute to Liberty Hill's success while exploring new ventures.
Joseph Choo is an experienced interventional cardiologist with 19 years of practice, currently serving as the Medical Director of The Christ Hospital Structural Heart Division and Co-Director of the Valve Center in Cincinnati, OH.
Choo's academic journey began at Harvard College, followed by earning his medical degree with highest honors from the Yale University School of Medicine. He completed his internal medicine residency at Harvard-affiliated Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston, MA, where he also served as Chief Resident in Internal Medicine at the West Roxbury VA Medical Center. His fellowship training in General Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology was at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Among his academic accolades are membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) National Medical Honor Society and recognition as a Richard Farr Scholar.
In addition to his clinical roles, Choo has been involved in over 100 national and international clinical trials as a site principal investigator and/or sub-investigator through the Carl & Edyth Lindner Research Center at The Christ Hospital, Cincinnati.
Dr. Kayur Bhavsar is a highly accomplished endocrinologist, board-certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, and Obesity Medicine. Practicing in Frederick, Maryland, Dr. Bhavsar has developed a strong reputation for his patient-focused approach and innovative treatment solutions. He completed his medical degree at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and his residency at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, followed by an Endocrinology fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Center.
He remains deeply involved in research efforts, contributing to advances in endocrine disorder treatment and care.
Dr. Reddy earned his D.D.S. from Case Western Reserve University and his M.D. from UT Southwestern Medical Center. His research focuses on advancing surgical techniques, including facial allotransplantation and tissue engineering, with a particular interest in developing customized devices for reconstruction. He has secured significant research grants from the National Science Foundation, the medical device industry, and multiple foundations, supporting his efforts to innovate in craniofacial surgery.
Dr. Reddy is an active consultant for medical device companies, including Stryker Corporation and Johnson & Johnson's CMF division, where he bridges the gap between clinical practice and technology development. His collaboration with startups and involvement in evaluating new technologies make him a valuable resource for medtech companies looking to innovate in the field of surgical devices and procedures.
Throughout his career, Dr. Reddy has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications, textbook chapters, and clinical research projects, making him a sought-after expert in the areas of surgical innovation and technology-driven healthcare solutions.
Mahendra K. Matta is a Colon & Rectal Surgeon based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with over 40 years of experience in private practice. He is certified by the American Board of Colon & Rectal Surgery, a testament to his extensive expertise in the field. Dr. Matta earned his medical degree from Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi, India, before completing his General Surgery residency and Fellowship in Colon & Rectal Surgery in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Dr. Matta is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons as well as the American College of Colon & Rectal Surgeons, and he has served as President of the Ohio Valley Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons. His clinical approach is patient-focused, and he is dedicated to providing the highest level of care.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Matta is an advocate for the use of technology to advance healthcare. He has been an angel investor in startups like Foldax and Aria CV, demonstrating his commitment to supporting innovative medical solutions.
Pradeep Bekal is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist serving as President of Ohio Gastroenterology & Liver Institute (Ohio GI). Known for his expertise in advanced endoscopic procedures and leadership roles, Bekal has made a significant impact on both the local and national gastrointestinal communities. He is the Director of Endoscopy at The Christ Hospital and actively teaches medical students, residents, and undergraduate students at Miami University (Ohio).
Bekal is a Fellow of both the American College of Gastroenterology and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. He was recently appointed to the board of the Port of Greater Cincinnati Development Authority, where he serves as a Director. Bekal has also been part of the executive committee of the national Digestive Health Physicians Association and currently serves as a board member. He graduated from Madras Medical College in Chennai, India, and completed his Residency, Fellowship, and Advanced Fellowship training at New York–Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, and Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.
Beyond patient care, Bekal is a principal investigator in numerous clinical trials at Ohio GI, focusing on the efficacy and safety of new drugs to treat IBD, IBS, GERD, and other gastrointestinal disorders. He is also the Co-Founder of eMerge Health Solutions, a healthcare IT solutions company, and is an active early-stage investor. Bekal is married with two children and enjoys world travel in his spare time.
Pratish H. Shah is a radiation oncologist based in Northern Kentucky. He completed his undergraduate studies at Penn State University and went on to earn both his medical degree and MBA at the University of Kentucky. Following a General Surgery internship, Shah specialized in Radiation Oncology during his residency training. He believes in using advanced radiotherapeutic techniques to deliver quality patient care, which he views as a privilege.
Dr. Shah has a strong interest in emerging technologies, particularly in the medical sciences. Leveraging his business expertise, he has worked as a consultant for biotech startups, assisting with the development of business plans and financial documents during their early growth stages.
Before pursuing medicine, Shah gained valuable research experience at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, focusing on optimizing platelet preservation techniques. He later worked at Merck & Co., where he applied advanced robotics to support diabetes drug development through ultra-high throughput screening. Shah believes that strong multidisciplinary collaboration is key to both introducing new technologies to the market and improving patient care.
Rajbir Minhas is a prominent Pain Physician practicing in Cincinnati, Ohio, with over 30 years of medical experience. He obtained his medical degree and post-graduation in Ophthalmology in India, followed by a residency in Internal Medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Throughout his career, Dr. Minhas has engaged in various aspects of health care, including administration, research, and teaching.
Outside of his clinical practice, Minhas has held numerous leadership roles in organized medicine at local and state levels. His notable accomplishments include serving as President of the Academy of Medicine of Cincinnati, Treasurer of the Doctor's Foundation of Greater Cincinnati, and Trustee of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College. He has also served as Vice President of the Academy of Medicine Foundation, President and board member of the Association of Indian Physicians of Ohio, Vice President of the Asian Indian Alliance, and Treasurer of the Tristate Pain Society. Additionally, he has been actively involved with the Drug Abuse Task Force of the Ohio State Medical Association, the Hamilton County Heroin Task Force, and the Recovery Ohio Minority Health Working Group.
When Minhas is not involved in one of his professional pursuits, he takes solace in gardening, spending time with his family, traveling for leisure, and enjoying adventure sports. He lives by the philosophy, Stay focused but take time to enjoy the simple things in life.
Ravi B. Berry is a distinguished psychiatrist and neurologist renowned for his compassionate care and extensive medical expertise. He is dedicated to providing exceptional mental health services, including psychotherapy and pharmacological treatments. Dr. Berry's experience spans a range of mental health services, covering individual therapy, marital therapy, interpersonal conflict resolution, retirement-related issues, and industrial worker versus management conflicts. He has treated patients with serious mental illnesses, such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance abuse.
Alongside his clinical work, Dr. Berry has held academic and medical directorship positions at various hospitals in the Cincinnati area. He is also an advocate for political change in the field of mental health, having published articles on the need for policy reforms to support those struggling with mental health conditions.
Robert Pelberg is a newcomer to entrepreneurship and early-stage investing. He is a managing partner at Cardioventure Partners LLC and an angel investor in Foldax Inc. and Aria CV Inc. Robert Pelberg has been a cardiologist for 18 years. He started his education at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, where he was a Benjamin Franklin Scholar. He earned his medical degree from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois, where he joined the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. Pelberg continued his training with an internal medicine residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, followed by a cardiovascular fellowship at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center in Charlottesville.
Pelberg is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, the American Heart Association, the American Society of Echocardiography, the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, and the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography. His research work includes serving as a primary site investigator for clinical trials in cardiac CT angiography, and he is currently part of the Data and Safety Monitoring Committee for the PRECISE Trial. He has co-authored several books, including The Cardiac CT Angiography Manual (first and second editions) and The Cardiac CT Atlas of Adult Congenital Heart Disease, and has published various research papers on numerous cardiovascular subjects. Pelberg finds joy in helping patients lead healthier lives. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three children, playing softball and chess, and watching movies and theater.
Shabbi Khan serves as co-chair of the Artificial Intelligence (AI), Automation, and Robotics group within Foley & Lardner’s Manufacturing Sector and is a registered patent attorney in the firm’s Intellectual Property (IP) department. He provides strategic advice on all aspects of IP strategy, enforcement, technology transactions, and licensing, with a focus on AI, machine learning, robotics, computer software (including cloud and SaaS-based technologies), and digital therapeutics.
Shabbi’s practice centers on patent portfolio development, patent application preparation, prosecution, infringement analysis, and validity analysis. His work spans various industries, including AI, robotics, medical devices, and AI in healthcare. His deep technical experience allows him to deliver high-quality, litigation-ready patents that align with clients' business objectives.
Shabbi also advises clients on AI-related legal issues, including copyright concerns tied to AI model training and the implementation of AI solutions. He helps navigate technology agreements, such as master service agreements, joint development agreements, and vendor contracts, with a focus on AI-related issues and data monetization.
In addition, Shabbi conducts buy-side IP due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and financing transactions, while also advising tech companies undergoing due diligence or preparing for upcoming transactions.
Dr. Snehal Patel is a practicing interventional nephrologist with over 15 years of experience. He completed his medical training at the University of Louisville and is board-certified in Nephrology, Interventional Nephrology, and Internal Medicine. Dr. Patel serves as a board member of the Kidney and Hypertension Center, the largest nephrology group in southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky and is the Medical Director for both in-center and home-based dialysis units in Ohio.
In addition to his clinical roles, Dr. Patel is actively involved in several leadership capacities. He serves on DaVita’s Physician Leadership Council and is a dedicated member of the American Society of Nephrology (ASN), the American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology (ASDIN), and the Renal Physicians Association (RPA). Dr. Patel is also the Principal Investigator in various nephrology clinical trials, focusing on advancing treatments and outcomes in kidney care. He collaborates with startups in vascular biology, contributing his expertise to innovative developments in the field.
Dr. Sudhir Manda is a medical oncologist and director of the phase I research program at Arizona Oncology. His career is distinguished by a strong commitment to patient-centered care, focusing on advancing treatments that align with patients' individual goals and values. As a clinical researcher, Dr. Manda has served as the principal investigator in numerous oncology clinical trials, presented his findings at major conferences, and published extensively in peer-reviewed oncology journals. His contributions to the field have earned him recognition as a "Top Doctor" by Castle Connolly for five consecutive years.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Manda is an angel investor in early-stage biotech companies and serves as a strategic advisor to portfolio companies. His deep clinical experience and dedication to improving patient outcomes have led him to work closely with life sciences startups, offering valuable insights into the intersection of healthcare innovation and patient care.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Dr. Manda enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends.
Dr. Surmeet Bedi is a board-certified nephrologist with over 15 years of experience in private practice. She graduated from Govt. Medical College and Hospital in Chandigarh, India, and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, followed by a Nephrology fellowship at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.
Throughout her career, Dr. Bedi has made significant contributions to the medical community, serving on various boards, including the Board of Health in Cincinnati and the Clinton Memorial Hospital Board. At Clinton Memorial, she held the position of Chief of Medicine and actively participated in the Medical Staff Quality Improvement Committee. Dr. Bedi is also the Director of the Fresenius Outpatient Dialysis Clinic in Wilmington, Ohio, where she provides expert care to patients with end-stage kidney disease.
Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Bedi is a founding board member of the Indian American Chamber of Commerce and is deeply committed to community service, demonstrating a strong dedication to both healthcare and civic engagement.
Vansh Puri is a cardiologist based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a specialty in interventional cardiology. He has 14 years of clinical experience, focusing on cardiac critical care medicine and acute myocardial infarction management.
Puri entered NEOMED's combined BS/MD program right after high school, completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Akron. In 1999, he moved to Cincinnati for his residency and fellowship training at the University of Cincinnati, before returning to Northeast Ohio to complete his interventional fellowship at Case Western Reserve/University Hospitals Health System.
He also holds an MBA from the University of Cincinnati Lindner College of Business, a qualification that has enabled him to take on various leadership roles, including serving on the Executive Council for his medical practice. Puri's management training complements his clinical expertise, allowing him to contribute strategically to his organization.
In addition to his medical career, Puri is a small business owner and venture capitalist. He seeks to broaden his non-clinical experience by forming partnerships with other like-minded professionals, aiming to leverage his skills in both the medical and business realms.
Vic Manocha is an Interventional Pain Specialist serving patients in the Dayton and Cincinnati area. He has fellowship training and holds key certifications in the field of Interventional Pain Management. Manocha is certified in Pain Management by the American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and is a diplomate of the American Board of Interventional Pain Physicians, which represents the highest level of credentialing in this field. He is also a Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice, an honor granted by the World Institute of Pain.
In his academic role, Manocha serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at Wright State University Medical School. His excellence in pain management has been widely recognized; he was named one of America’s Top Doctors in Pain Management in 2014 and has received the Patient’s Choice Award for five consecutive years — an honor reserved for the top 1% of physicians in the United States.
Manocha also contributes to the medical community by serving on the editorial boards of the Pain Physician journal and Pain Medicine Case Reports. His industry experience includes consulting for Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation, where he has served on their advisory board. Currently, he is a principal investigator for a clinical trial focusing on implantable therapy for post-amputation pain.
W. Clay Willmott began his medical education at the University of Louisville School of Medicine and continued with fellowships in internal medicine, sleep medicine, and pulmonary and critical care at the University of Cincinnati. During his training, Willmott spent six months in Melbourne, Australia, where he engaged in surgical volunteer work alongside Michael Long.
In addition to his medical career, Willmott is an active real estate investor with Prime Properties, LLC, Fundrise, and Cincy Tech, and is also involved in early-stage investing.
Willmott currently serves as the Director of Sleep Medicine for the St. Elizabeth Hospitals, and he practices as a pulmonary and critical care physician. His areas of special interest include sleep disorders and interventional pulmonology. He also serves as the director of pulmonary care at Encompass Healthcare in Edgewood, Kentucky.
William Francis earned his Engineering degree from the University of Dayton in 1968. After serving in the United States Air Force, he joined his father's aluminum sand foundry, Francis Manufacturing Company, in Russia, Ohio. There, he played a pivotal role in expanding the business from around 10 employees to its current workforce of 175. While he remains involved in the foundry, he has delegated much of the management to his two sons and grandson.
In 1993, Francis launched a retail furniture store that eventually grew to six locations with over 125 employees before he sold the business to Ashley Furniture in 2021. His entrepreneurial spirit has led him to own or co-own 11 different small businesses over his career. Beyond his business ventures, Francis has served on the boards of Bank One and Wilson Memorial Hospital and has been actively involved in various community organizations.
In 1968 he married Mary Lou, and together they have raised a large family of seven children, 33 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
William F. Bahl, CFA, CIC, was the co-founder, chairman, portfolio manager, and principal of Bahl & Gaynor. He played a significant role in shaping the firm's guiding principles, particularly its focus on dividend growth investing and employee ownership. As a portfolio manager, he primarily worked with high-net-worth clients and select institutional relationships, contributing to the firm's Investment Committee.
Before co-founding Bahl & Gaynor in 1990, Bill held several influential positions. He served as Vice President and Chief Investment Officer at Northern Trust and Fifth Third Bank, and Investment Officer at Mellon Bank.
Bill was deeply involved in various professional and community organizations. His notable affiliations included serving as a Trustee of the CFA Society of Chicago, President of the CFA Society of Cincinnati, Chairman of Cincinnati Country Day School, and Chairman of the Cincinnati Country Day School Foundation. He also served as a Trustee of the Deaconess Associations (Cincinnati), Chairman of Deaconess Hospital (Cincinnati), Trustee of the Hamilton County Parks Foundation, and Trustee of the Talbert House Foundation.
William F. Bahl's legacy continues to influence the firm and the broader financial community, thanks to his dedication to portfolio management and community engagement.