Surgical devices made from compostable plant fiber? Bountiful, “cheesey” appetizers made without help from cows or sheep? Advising individuals at some of the world’s greatest companies about all that surrounds them without seeing their products for yourself? These are small glimpses into the daily lives of this year’s Northbay biz GameChangers. One of the 21st Century’s most important philosophers said it best, “If you ain’t first, you’re last!” (Okay, full disclosure: The philosopher is Reese Bobby of Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby. But the truth is, there’s wisdom in that line!)
GameChangers debuted in 2013 and has become an annual tradition at NorthBay biz. Throughout the year, our editorial team compiles a list of worthy candidates to feature in this special issue. They also reach out to leaders across the North Bay for their input. Eligible for consideration are businesses, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, philanthropists and individuals who are changing the game. We are blessed to live in an area with so many extraordinary organizations and individuals reshaping our experiences, health care and the environment.
NewGen Surgical’s use of a natural, compostable material to fabricate a decades-old device is a game changer. Merely seven years old, the San Rafael company is mastering the application of sustainable, eco-friendly materials into single-use medical devices. Founder Rob Chase launched his company’s first product, a skin stapler, that both surgeons and Mother Nature have vigorously approved.
In Sonoma County, Miyoko’s Kitchen has engineered a savory new product for the dinner table, vegan cheese. You’ve got to taste it to believe how delicious Chef Miyoko Shinner has made her dairy-free products. They’re healthy, award-winning and as she calls it, “Phenomenally Vegan.” My niece, Courtney, our family’s lifelong vegan and an aspiring physician, insists this approach is at once kinder, healthier and another positive step toward environmental sustainability. Currently, Miyoko’s products are in 10,000 stores nationwide, and I’m hopeful her products will continue to thrive.
The late Charles Krauthammer was impressive beyond imagination. Many know that his Harvard University Medical School degree launched a career as an accomplished psychiatrist, lecturer and author. He and his wife raised a fine family as well. During his later years, his interest directed him toward political analysis. Many remember Charles for his insightful political writings and cable news commentary. However, what many don’t know is that while in his twenties, Charles suffered an injury, which left him paralyzed from the neck down. This injury, however, seemed to only strengthen his will. His final years in medical school were conducted from his hospital bed.
As Charles laid motionless, volunteers held medical journals over his head, turning pages for him as he read. His wheelchair granted mobility, but little more. Charles let his imagination, intellect and determination provide the rest. GameChanger Dr. Hoby Wedler is living his life with the same determination and grace that Krauthammer did. Hoby earned his academic success at UC Davis with a Ph.D. in chemistry. He founded and now oversees Senspoint Design, based in Petaluma.
The company’s client list includes global food, tech and grocery giants such as The French Laundry, Francis Ford Coppola Winery, and Safeway. To heighten consumer appeal and retention, these companies count on Dr. Wedler to maximize their customers’ sensory experiences. Yet surprisingly, Hoby is blind, blind since birth. His game-changing story is among the most important and touching stories we’ve printed all year. So settle in and enjoy our GameChangers edition! These stories and others bring the North Bay’s most imaginative and innovative business leaders to life. We hope you enjoy reading these, as much as we’ve enjoyed writing them.
On a final note, my June column has found a broad and multi-faceted array of supporters and detractors. Some positive and negative comments have been grounded in trigger-finger reactions to automatically defend or criticize anything written about our 45th President. Based more on emotion than fact, these reactions weren’t hoped for, but were expected; that’s the nature of our times.
The bulk of your comments, however, have shed clear light to me regarding his actions, and those who constantly support or battle President Trump. For this I’m very thankful, so keep the letters coming to Lawrence@NorthBayBiz.com. I only wish we could hear Krauthammer’s thoughts on this matter.
Gamchangers 2019 feature stories
Hoby Wedler: https://bit.ly/2XM0aBP
Living with Lions: https://bit.ly/2Gh1B0p
Cameo Cinema: https://bit.ly/2XUXhdd
NewGen Surgical: https://bit.ly/32v2Z96
Miyoko’s: https://bit.ly/2JNMEno
Going Green—The City of San Rafael: https://bit.ly/30H0pLF