These startups are creating innovations that make life (and death) better

Founders Gabriel Sanchez (Enspectra Health) and Tom Harries (Earth Funeral) share what it takes to build in a highly regulated industry where “moving fast and breaking things” just won’t work. In this episode of Build Mode, he reveals the realities of navigating FDA approval processes, state and federal regulations, and cultural norms while building products that are truly a matter of life and death. Gabriel walks Enspectra’s long journey toward FDA approval for its skin-imaging device, while Tom discusses building a composting facility as an alternative to cremation and burial. He provides insightful advice on iterations while awaiting regulatory approvals, developing your airline strategy when success is unlikely, and raising business capital in areas that many investors find difficult to touch.

New Build Mode episodes drop every Thursday. Subscribe to the podcast or watch YouTube. Isabelle Johannessen is our host. Build Mode is designed and edited by Maggie Nye. Audience Development is led by Morgan Little. And special thanks to the Foundry and Cheddar video teams.