Welcome to the Health Marketing Collective, where strong leadership meets marketing excellence.

In today’s episode, host Sara Payne sits down with Jody Tropeano Greene, Head of Content at HLTH, to discuss what it really takes to land a coveted speaking spot on one of health care’s biggest stages—HLTH 2025. As speaker submissions open, Jody offers valuable insights into the inner workings of the highly competitive selection process, the evolving themes of the conference, and the bold voices the team is eager to bring to the forefront.

With her role overseeing the development and implementation of agendas for both HLTH US and VIVE—including 50+ sessions, specialty programs, and speaker curation—Jody is uniquely positioned to pull back the curtain on what separates a standout submission from the rest. Sara and Jody explore the core conference theme, “Heroes and Legends,” the emerging topics shaping this year’s event, and actionable guidance for applicants to showcase the authentic, transformative perspectives that resonate most.

Whether you’re a health care leader, innovator, or marketer aspiring to share your story or gain insight into the future of health care events, this episode is packed with honest advice, inspiration, and a look at the exciting new formats HLTH is bringing to the table.

Thank you for being part of the Health Marketing Collective, where strong leadership meets marketing excellence. The future of health care depends on it.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Bar for Speaking at HLTH is Rising—Be Bold, Be Authentic: HLTH is looking for speakers who embody the “Heroes and Legends” spirit—big thinkers, risk takers, and change-makers willing to share bold ideas and speak candidly about challenges and opportunities. Submissions that highlight a unique, authentic perspective—rather than a polished corporate narrative—are far more likely to catch the selection team’s attention.
2. Emerging Topics: Cardiometabolic Disease, Aging, and Women’s Health: This year’s Sunday kickoff features deep dives into cardiometabolic disease (with a special focus on GLP-1s), the societal and technological challenges of caring for our rapidly aging population, and a holistic look at women’s health that goes far beyond maternal and reproductive care. These areas are ripe for transformative ideas and debate.
3. New Session Formats Drive Real Conversation & Problem Solving: HLTH is shaking up the agenda with engaging new formats like the Challenge Arena—bringing experts together to solve real attendee-submitted challenges on stage, live—and Power Panels that begin with strong, diverse perspectives before moving into open discussion. These innovations are designed to move past traditional panels and foster genuine, actionable insights.
4. Standout Submissions Focus on Perspective, Not Promotion: Successful applicants answer questions about their personal, unique perspectives—not just their company’s offerings. Honest, concise answers, willingness to express strong (even controversial) opinions, and a well-developed digital presence signal readiness for the HLTH stage—even for newer voices.
5. Community & Consistency Matter—Engage Beyond the Stage: Demonstrated commitment to the HLTH community—through previous attendance, participation, or year-round engagement—can make a difference for equally qualified applicants. Even if you don’t land a spot this year, attending the conference, participating in roundtables, or contributing to HLTH’s digital platforms will set you up for success in future years.

The bottom line: The HLTH 2025 stage isn’t just for headline names—it’s for anyone with a bold outlook, a clear point of view, and a commitment to honest leadership in health care. Whether you’re an ex-government official ready to speak candidly, a founder or clinician with a fire to drive change, or a marketer passionate about innovative storytelling, there’s a place for you—if you bring your authentic self and a willingness to contribute to health care’s next big chapter.

Don’t miss your chance—speaker submissions for HLTH 2025 are now open. Submit your best ideas, register early, and become part of health care’s most dynamic community.

Thank you for tuning in to the Health Marketing Collective, where strong leadership meets marketing excellence. The future of health care depends on it.