From Bootstrapping to NIH Funding: Building an Evidence-Based AgeTech Solution

Is recording a grandmother's life story just a sentimental hobby, or is it actually a form of therapy?

In this episode of The AgeTech Podcast, Keren Etkin is joined by Beth Sanders, Founder and CEO of LifeBio. What started in a backyard "grandma suite" with a tape recorder has evolved into an AI-powered platform used by major healthcare organizations to deliver person-centered care.

Beth shares her journey of transforming LifeBio from a physical journal business into a high-tech reminiscence therapy platform. She dives deep into the science behind storytelling, revealing how capturing memories can reduce depressive symptoms in older adults by 15% and improve staff-resident relationships in senior living.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Origin Story: How a conversation with her grandmother inspired a global business.

• The Tech Evolution: Moving from pen and paper to voice-activated AI that acts as a "modern-day tape recorder."

• Evidence-Based Success: Why proving ROI through research partners (like Brown and George Mason University) is critical for selling to B2B healthcare clients.

• Funding Strategy: A masterclass in non-dilutive funding—how Beth secured millions in Phase II SBIR grants from the NIH/NIA instead of relying solely on VC.

• Advice for Founders: How to navigate the "gauntlet" of grant applications and the importance of persistence.

Links & Resources:

• Check out LifeBio: https://www.lifebio.org/

• Follow LifeBio on Instagram: @lifebiostories

• Learn more at The AgeTech Academy: www.theagetechacademy.com