Send us a text

In this episode of the Compliance Advantage Podcast, host Ross Ronan is joined by Melanie Sponholtz, Chief Compliance Officer and Director of Responsible Investing at Wad Capital Partners.

They discuss Melanie's unique career journey from an English major and physical therapist to a private equity strategist in compliance. Melanie shares her insights on how compliance can become a value driver rather than a cost center, and emphasizes the importance of understanding business strategy to embed compliance seamlessly.

She highlights the significance of proactive compliance in protecting business value, especially during transactions and audits. Melanie also shares her favorite books and practices for personal wellness, including her use of the Peloton and meditation.

The episode concludes with advice for healthcare leaders on fostering a culture of compliance and integrating compliance into strategic decision-making.
01:14 Meet Melanie Sponholtz: From Publishing to Compliance
01:34 The Journey into Healthcare and Compliance
04:26 The Role of Compliance in Private Equity
07:31 Books and Philosophies that Shape Leadership
14:48 Mentorship and Strategies for Compliance Professionals
15:22 The Importance of Strategic Communication in Compliance
21:42 Ronan Healthcare Compliance: Transforming Compliance into a Strategic Advantage
22:30 Back to the Show: Compliance Insights
23:13 The Role of Compliance in Business Strategy
23:56 Aha Moments in Compliance
24:59 Compliance in Private Equity Deals
27:02 Operationalizing Compliance Programs
29:32 The Importance of Internal Audits
30:45 Changing Perceptions of Compliance
32:07 Compliance as a Strategic Partner
37:42 Final Thoughts and Advice for Healthcare Leaders
39:22 Personal Well-being and Closing Remarks

Melanie's Bio:
Melanie Sponholz, is the Chief Compliance Officer and Director of Responsible Investing for Waud Capital Partners. Ms. Sponholz enjoys leveraging her clinical and operational experience in her role as a compliance professional to build and lead compliance teams and programs. She served as Chief Compliance Officer for several healthcare organizations, before coming to her current position in which she serves as a strategic resource to her firm's investment team and portfolio companies. Melanie enjoys life with her husband and three daughters, and loves dogs, musical theater, good food, and working out, in that order.

Connect with Melanie on LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/in/melaniesponholz

Connect with Ross

• LinkedIn: Ross Ronan
• Podcast Show Page: The Compliance Advantage
• Ross' Company: Ronan Healthcare Compliance