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On this episode of the SPOT Radio Podcast, Charlie Webb, CPPL, sits down with Keith Smith of Vonco Products for a conversation about the growing opportunities between medical device manufactures and contract packaging/manufacturing firms. Together, they explore how smart alliances can strengthen packaging validation, streamline production, and open new pathways for medical device manufacturers looking to improve efficiency and compliance.  About Keith Smith Keith brings over 25 years of relevant industry experience to Vonco. He currently serves as President of Vonco Products. Prior to acquiring Vonco, he served as General Manager of Carbonless Rolls and Security Papers for Appleton Papers, the largest division of a $1BN paper company. From 2010 to 2012, he served in General Management roles for Appleton Papers in thermal and carbonless papers. He brings significant flexible packaging sales relationships and printing/converting operating experience. Prior to his tenure in the paper businesses, he held various general management, operations and engineering roles with Appleton within the blown films and converting businesses and started his flexible packaging career with Printpack in 1994 running printing presses. His education consists of a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering as well as an MBA from Northern Illinois University and Lean and Six Sigma certifications from University of Michigan. Keith Smith: https://keithsmith.io/about/  Vonco website: www.vonco.com

On this episode of the SPOT Radio podcast, Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with Jeff Devich BSME, MBA about the Sterile Start™ program, together they break down why so many medical device manufacturers struggle with the complexity of the ISO 11607 framework and how gaps in understanding can lead to costly delays, failed validations, and audit findings. They share real world insights, practical strategies, and clear explanations that help teams strengthen their sterile packaging programs and avoid common pitfalls. About Jeff Devich BSME, MBA Jeff’s background includes serving as Director of Operations for a combination of device contract manufacturers. He has extensive experience in equipment and process validation within the MedTech industry. Jeff applies his mathematic and engineering expertise to for the Sterile Start™ program creating Design of Experiments and characterization reports for Van der Stähl Scientific sealers, helping customers understand how process parameters affect their specific products.  Email me: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-devich-1b6b2788

On this episode of the SPOT radio Podcast, Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with Sarah Deputy CKF from Van der Stähl Scientific about the HSPA (hospital sterile processing association) event that took place in Baltimore, Maryland, in the spring of 2026. The two spoke about this year's events, including the Superstars Sterile Awareness Awards and new technology on the horizon. Guest bio: Sarah Deputy Sarah is a skilled Service technician in Van der Stahl Scientific's ISO 17025 calibration and service center. She performs laboratory studies for medical device pouch seal strength and integrity for validating the sterile barrier system. Sarah is also a skilled calibration technician and calibrates force, time and thermal environments under Van der Stahl Scientific's ISO 17025 scope of accreditation.  Sarah is Kaizen and Six Sigma Green & Black Belt certified, and is currently working towards a CPP certification through the IOPP.  About Van der Stähl Scientific Van der Stahl Scientific supports hospital sterile processing department packaging programs by providing validated medical pouch sealers, ISO‑17025–accredited calibration, and reliable seal‑quality testing tools. Their solutions help SPDs maintain sterile‑barrier integrity, meet ISO 11607 and FDA requirements, and strengthen overall packaging safety and workflow. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.vanderstahl.com

On this episode of the SPOT Radio® podcast, Charlie Webb speaks with Malinda Elammari, who many in our industry know as the packaging princess. In this conversation, they explore together how sterile processing departments often favor different packaging methods, and how heat‑sealing pouches may be preferred over self‑sealing pouches in many facilities. Listen in on today’s episode to hear the full discussion. About Malinda Elammari:  As a certified Infection Preventionist with over two decades of experience in acute care, long-term care, public health, and professional sports, but most importantly being a wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend, She has learned the importance of living the life you want while doing something you love. She is passionate about spreading the message of creating a safe environment for people, young and old, using infection prevention principles. I use evidence to support my recommendations while applying Her own experience, including some interesting stories, for application. Missy specialize in helping new Infection Preventionists develop an Infection Prevention Plan while managing their busy schedule. She also work with health departments, healthcare facilities (acute, post-acute, and long-term care), and sports teams to develop an Infection Prevention Program that promotes safety and excellence. Email me: https://crownpointconsult.com/ Linkedin: [email protected]

On this episode of SPOT Radio, Charlie Webb, CPPL, breaks down five common mistakes medical device manufacturers make around equipment purchase, maintenance, and calibration. These gaps create significant process risk and are frequent root causes of failed seals in sterile barrier systems. Charlie draws on 30 years of experience in medical device packaging to explain how improper procurement choices, inconsistent maintenance schedules, and inadequate calibration practices undermine seal integrity and increase the likelihood of product recalls and patient risk. He outlines practical steps to tighten controls, improve documentation, and design validation protocols that reduce failure modes. Listen in for clear, actionable guidance on preventing seal failures, streamlining validation, and protecting patients from exposure to non‑sterile devices. Whether you manage packaging engineering, quality, or regulatory affairs, Charlie’s insights will help your organisation avoid costly mistakes and strengthen your sterile barrier strategy. About Charlie Webb CPPL:  Charlie Webb CPPL is the founder and President of Van der Stahl Scientific, a medical device packaging and testing machine provider and packaging testing and calibration laboratories. He is also a certified internal auditor and is the Quality Manager for Van der Stähl Scientific’s demanding ISO/IEC 17025 Laboratory accreditation. Under Charlie's quality management system, his lab received the MSI Continuous Improvement Award. Charlie is a member of the IOPP Medical Device Packaging Technical Committee. He is a former co-PM in the Kiip group and voting ASTM F02 technical committee and has multiple granted and pending patents on medical device packaging machinery and pouch testers. His current patent-pending technologies include a medical device tray sealer that will integrate pouch testing within the packaging machine to provide 100% real-time seal testing. Also, in development is his patented HTIP system (human tissue isolation pouch) this disposable system is designed to help avoid packaging machine contamination. Charlie Webb CPPL Email: [email protected] website:  www.vanderstahl.com

In this thought-provoking episode of SPOT Radio, host Charlie Webb, CPPL, sits down with sustainability advocate Samantha Smith to explore the critical intersection of healthcare and environmental responsibility. Together, they unpack the growing urgency to make hospitals and clinics more sustainable—without compromising patient care or regulatory compliance.  They also dive into the cultural and institutional hurdles that often slow progress, and how a possible shift towards a data-driven decision-making can open new possibilities for long-term impact. If you’ve ever wondered how medical facilities can reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining safety and sterility, this episode will leave you inspired—and armed with insights to make a difference. About Samantha Smith: DIRECTOR, SUSTAINABILITY AND PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP Senior MedTech leader in Sustainability, ESG, and Product Stewardship, shaping corporate strategy, securing executive alignment, and delivering measurable business and environmental impact. Selected by Medtronic’s Executive Leadership Team to build and scale the first R&D function focused on Sustainability, securing $4M+ in funding. Defined and reported to investors Medtronic’s first external-facing Sustainability Product and Packaging goals. Trusted voice in MedTech Sustainability, representing the company in key industry and customer forums. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Sustainability Strategy & External Reporting: Secured $4M+ in executive-approved funding to build Medtronic’s first R&D function focused on Sustainability and defined external product and packaging ESG goals reported to investors, embedding ESG into product innovation and driving investor confidence. Cost Savings & Risk Mitigation:  Negotiated $100M+ in Master Supply Agreements for packaging, delivering 5% year-over-year cost savings and protecting Medtronic from COVID-related supply chain price surges, saving $10M+. Operational Excellence & Circularity: Integrated circularity and eco-design criteria into Medtronic’s New Product Development process, advancing FY30 sustainability commitments Samantha Smith Email: [email protected] Linkedin:  linkedin.com/in/samanthakeeneysmith

On this episode of SPOT Radio, Charlie Webb, CPPL, speaks with Karen Goelst. Karen and Charlie dive into strategies for building consensus across departments. By presenting a multi-benefit sales proposition—one that speaks to the priorities of clinical teams, procurement officers, and risk managers alike—they explore how layering value can break through resistance and foster collaborative buy-in. About Karen Goelst:  As CEO of KleenEdge, a company specializing in privacy curtain compliance software and patented “no-ladder” exchange solutions, our focus is on empowering hospitals with cost-saving, innovations that get patient curtains exchanged on time. With over 14 years in architectural specialties we leverage lean, safe workflows along with technology to mitigate healthcare-acquired infections ensuring patient and staff safety. KleenEdge has pioneered software that empowers on-time curtain exchanges while providing actionable data. Our mission centers on delivering safety-driven, cost-saving, tools that address compliance and infection control challenges while supporting hospitals in optimizing their resources effectively. Karen Goelst Email: [email protected]  Roadtrip webpage: www.kleenedge.com Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kleenedge/

On this episode of SPOT Radio, Charlie Webb, CPPL, discusses the Sterile Summer Patient Safety Road Trip 2025—an outreach initiative designed to raise awareness about sterile packaging practices and awareness. Joined by his wife, Lisa Webb, General Manager of Van der Stähl Scientific, the duo will actively support the Sterile Aware initiative, engaging medical device manufacturers by distributing awareness bracelets and posters while demonstrating advanced medical device packaging machinery. Beyond their mission to promote patient safety, Charlie and Lisa are also weaving moments of vacation and exploration into their journey, striking a balance between industry advocacy and personal adventure. Tune in to hear more about this unique road trip blending education, engagement, and a bit of summer fun! About Charlie Webb CPPL:  Charlie Webb CPPL is the founder and President of Van der Stahl Scientific; a medical device packaging and testing machine provider and packaging testing and calibration laboratories. He is also a certified internal auditor and is the Quality Manager for Van der Stähl Scientific’s demanding ISO/IEC 17025 Laboratory accreditation. Under Charlie's quality management system his lab received the MSI Continuous Improvement Award. Charlie is a member of the IOPP Medical Device Packaging Technical Committee, he is a former co-PM in the Kiip group and voting ASTM F02 technical committee and has multiple granted and pending patents on medical device packaging machinery and pouch testers. His current patent-pending technologies include a medical device tray sealer that will integrate pouch testing within the packaging machine to provide 100% real-time seal testing. Also, in development is his patented HTIP system (human tissue isolation pouch) this disposable system is designed to help avoid packaging machine contamination. About Lisa Webb:  As the General manager of Van der Stähl Scientific she has grown the company sales by double in her 15-year tenure. Her technical acumen is impressive as there is not a packaging machine in Van der Stähl Scientific’s offering that she does not know every nut and bolt and its placement. Beyond understand the medical device packaging and testing machines operation and build she also understands the ISO 11607 processes for which they are held under. Lisa also oversees many of the functions in Van der Stähl Scientific’s ISO/IEC 17025 medical device pouch test and calibration laboratory. She is Kaizen trained and certified and continues to improve Van der Stähl Scientific’s operation from product development to market reach. Team Email: [email protected] Roadtrip webpage:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/missy-travis-b8588b45/ Roadtrip Video: https://youtu.be/s58_ih8G7IM?si=Vglm3Nm60M5-3EmW  Storyteller Hilt: https://www.storytelleroverland.com/pages/hilt

On this episode of the Spot Radio Podcast, host Charlie Webb CPPL sits down with Elon Goldbaum from the Network Partner Group to delve into the intricacies of performing a Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA). They discuss the framework that underpins the CAPA process, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring product quality and compliance in the medical device industry. Charlie and Elon explore the vital importance of the CAPA process, shedding light on how it helps organizations identify, address, and prevent potential issues. They also share valuable tips and strategies to make the CAPA process more manageable and effective, ensuring that businesses can maintain high standards of safety and quality. Tune in to gain insights from industry experts and learn practical advice that can be applied to your own CAPA initiatives. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in quality assurance, regulatory affairs, or medical device manufacturing. About our guest: As Vice President, Client Solutions for Network Partners Group, Elon (Lon) brings over 20 years of experience in the medical device field specializing in packaging, labeling, quality management systems, CAPA and sterilization.  Lon’s multifaceted background provides support and leadership to Network Partners’ packaging consulting, quality assurance, labeling, and the Apprentice Leadership Program. Prior to joining Network Partners, Lon held various roles with Baxter Healthcare, Edwards Lifesciences, Endologix and Danaher with a wide range of responsibilities. Lon earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Packaging from Michigan State University. Elon Goldbaum e-mail: [email protected]

On this episode of the Spot Radio Podcast, Charlie Webb, CPPL, speaks with Michael Geanous and Doug Stallard both experts in VHP ( vaporized hydrogen peroxide) The discussion is centered around the movement to perform in-house sterilization at the MDM's location in order to streamline distribution. About Our Guests:  Michael Geanous  Michael Geanous has worked in the industry for 42 years, the last 20 of which have been using Hydrogen Peroxide technology. Michael has developed several commercially successful pieces of DECON equipment with STERIS and his current independent company. He has been the lead engineering manager in developing DECON chambers, Deep Vacuum hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, and the interface of VHP with freeze dryers. His expertise is in steam, Eto, chemical sterilization, and decontamination methods. Doug Stallard For the past 25 years Doug Stallard has been working as an independent consultant in business development, marketing, and sales management. Doug represented and consulted with several companies over his career primarily in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device industries. Many of his clients over the years have been start-ups, smaller domestic manufacturers without internal sales and marketing resources, or companies based in Europe wanting to penetrate the US market. His experience and expertise have been with capital equipment such as H202 decontamination, liquid and powder aseptic fill finish machines, WFI water systems, sterilization and autoclave equipment, inspection equipment, cleanrooms, isolators, and material handling. For more information on VHP e-mail me: [email protected]

On this episode of the Spot Radio Podcast Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with Cord Burnham CKF about his observations of both healthy and unhealthy cleanroom cultures. Over the past 10 years, Cord has visited hundreds of cleanrooms throughout the United States and abroad. About Cord Burnham:  As a Van der Stahl Scientific's ISO 17025 laboratory manager, Cord oversees all of the functions of the calibration and their empirical Laboratory. Cord is certified as a CKF (certified kaizen facilitator) and he co-authored the quality system manual for Van der Stahl Scientific. Cord is hands-on with all of the machinery that Van der Stahl Scientific offers and is also an SME for regulatory processes surrounding the ISO 17025 standards Email: [email protected] Website: www.vanderstahl.com

On this episode of the Spot Radio and the Sterile Aware Podcast Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with Missy Travis a certified Infection Preventionist about her role in managing contaminants and healthcare-acquired infections.   About Missy Travis:  As a certified Infection Preventionist with over two decades of experience in acute care, long-term care, public health, and professional sports, but most importantly being a wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend, She has learned the importance of living the life you want while doing something you love. She is passionate about spreading the message of creating a safe environment for people, young and old, using infection prevention principles. I use evidence to support my recommendations while applying Her own experience, including some interesting stories, for application. Missy specializes in helping new Infection Preventionists develop an Infection Prevention Plan while managing their busy schedule. She also work with health departments, healthcare facilities (acute, post-acute, and long-term care), and sports teams to develop an Infection Prevention Program that promotes safety and excellence. Email: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/missy-travis-b8588b45/

On this episode of the Spot Radio Podcast Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with  Stan Gibson, JD. Listen in as Stan Uncovers the secrets to securing your medical device or packaging innovations. Stan Gibson is a leader in patent litigation and Chairman of the Patent Litigation Group at Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP.  About the Stan Gibson:  Stan is a seasoned trial attorney dedicated to helping innovators and entrepreneurs protect and monetize their ideas, transforming them into valuable business assets. With 30 years of experience and victories in dozens of trials, he has developed a specific strategy to shield clients' intellectual property from theft, ensuring they truly own their envisioned assets. His approach provides early peace of mind, allowing clients to focus on business growth. Stan's mission is to help 10,000 innovators secure and enhance the value of their intellectual property while avoiding costly trials and litigation.  Contact Stan: www.ip-checklist.com

On this episode of the Spot Radio Podcast Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with biomedical engineer Emily Graba about her scoring system for the visual features of a medical device Pouch or Tray sealing. About the Emily Graba:  Emily Graba is a biomedical engineering graduate from the University of Minnesota and a Process Development Engineer at QTS. Prior to joining QTS as a full-time engineer, Emily completed an R&D Co-op with the Cardiac Surgery group at Medtronic and a Project Engineering Co-op at QTS. At QTS Emily is heavily involved in the development and improvement of the sealing characterization and validation process for medical devices. Outside of work, Emily enjoys going to Society of Women Engineers (SWE) events and spending time outdoors! Guest Email: [email protected] Visual seal inspection app: https://vanderstahl.com/viu-system/ Visual seal inspection device: https://vanderstahl.com/seal-stats/

On this episode of the SPOT® Radio Podcast Charlie Webb CPPL speaks with Justin Paur the president of Achates about when and why to use a contract medical device packaging and consultancy firm. About Justin Paur: Justin Paur is the president of Achates (A-kate-ees), a medical device contract manufacturing and product development company in the Twin Cities focused on startup medical device technologies. Justin has undergraduate degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering from West Virginia University, and an MBA from the Carlson Medical Industry Leadership Institute at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities, where Justin is now a senior lecturer. Justin authored “The Core Chain”, a book on lean medical device development, which is available now on Amazon. Email: [email protected] Link to The Core Chain Book: https://a.co/d/7vBnVeu Link to Achates: www.achates.com  Link to Biodesign Book: https://a.co/d/hPq9Aun