Healthcare Champions (S2E3): A new model for pediatric trust – Krista Nelson

Lessons + insights from S2E3 of BarkleyOKRP’s Healthcare Champions Podcast

With a background in iconic Kansas City brands like H&R Block and Hallmark, Krista Nelson has always believed in mission-driven work. At Children’s Mercy, she’s turned that belief into action by leading the creation of an internal Innovation Center, and more recently, launching PedsMrkt, a business-to-business marketplace designed to commercialize pediatric solutions that would otherwise be lost in the noise of adult healthcare. 

Pediatric care often requires custom solutions, and Krista saw too many good ideas stall out before reaching the market. PedsMrkt bridges that gap, empowering startups and hospital-based innovators to scale products, connect with buyers, and ultimately improve outcomes for kids.

Krista dives into the business case, regulatory hurdles, and scrappy mindset it took to build a sustainable platform that now features over 30 products and IP solutions from 17 organizations. She also shares powerful examples like My Heart Art and SMöLTAP, two innovations born on the pediatric frontlines that are now improving care nationwide. 

This episode pulls back the curtain on what it takes to innovate in a highly regulated, high-impact environment, and why Krista believes that measuring success in mission, reputation, and ROI is key to long-term growth in pediatric healthcare.

Healthcare Champions captures stories from visionaries at the forefront of healthcare business strategy and innovation. Each episode highlights healthcare industry opportunities that could drive real impact from individuals who are champions of real change.

To explore more episodes of Healthcare Champions, click here

Are you looking for a partner who creates gravity for your brand with ideas that attract and keep your customers for life? Contact Sam Meers, EVP, Healthcare, at smeers@barkleyokrp.com