Breaking Barriers of Innovation in Healthcare

CHARLIE NAHABEDIAN

CEO

VK Digital Health

It’s a scenario that plays out every day in countless communities—someone wakes up with an alarming health concern, but instead of receiving immediate medical attention, they find themselves caught in the web of long appointment wait times, crowded emergency rooms, and rising healthcare costs. For many, access to quality care is a privilege, not a guarantee. This is the harsh reality that Charlie Nahabedian saw firsthand, and he knew something had to change. With a career spanning decades in technology, telecommunications, and healthcare innovation, Charlie has always been drawn to solving big problems. His ability to foresee industry shifts and develop groundbreaking solutions has set him apart as a leader in his field. From working on early advancements in telecommunications to spearheading companies that integrate technology into everyday life, his focus has always been on making things more efficient, accessible, and impactful. Now, as the CEO of VK Digital Health, Charlie is tackling one of the biggest challenges yet—bringing quality healthcare closer to those who need it most. His company is redefining telehealth, offering more than just virtual doctor visits. Through remote patient monitoring, medication adherence, and diagnostic technology, VK Digital Health is creating a future where medical care is not just digital but seamless, proactive, and truly patient-first. TradeFlock interviewed Charlie Nahabedian to discuss how he is revolutionizing the telehealth landscape and what the future holds for digital healthcare.

How did your time in the U.S. Army Signal Corps shape your leadership and approach to technology?

As a young officer in Vietnam, I traveled to over 20 remote radio sites, often in unpredictable conditions. Every mission demanded sharp thinking—survival wasn’t just physical, it was professional too. One moment stands out: I was asked to extend my tour, risking my wedding, because my commanding officer made a mistake. Instead of blindly accepting it, I understood my responsibilities, challenged the demand, and navigated my way out with logic, not defiance. That moment shaped my leadership philosophy: “Always perform at your best, but never be afraid to question, justify, and push for the right outcome.” Later, as a test engineer, I applied the same mindset— challenging outdated systems, pushing technology’s limits, and implementing solutions that improved performance tenfold. Whether in the military or in business, I’ve learned that true leadership isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about knowing when to rewrite them for the better.

“In the Army, you either adapt, or you get left behind.

Your career spans telecom, healthcare, AI, and robotics. What’s the common thread driving your evolution across industries?

“I’ve never believed in tearing things down just to build something new. The best innovations don’t replace the past—they elevate it.”Whether in telecom, healthcare, AI, or robotics, I’ve always focused on understanding the core technology, identifying gaps, and integrating new advancements to create a real competitive edge. Too many developers chase the latest trend without thinking about how it fits into the bigger picture. True progress isn’t about what’s new—it’s about what’s needed. That mindset has shaped every step of my journey.

“I’ve never believed in tearing things down just to build something new. The best innovations don’t replace the past—they elevate it.”

What’s the most non-traditional leadership lesson you’ve learned that more CEOs should embrace?

A leader isn’t just a decision-maker—they should be willing to step in and do the work when needed. It is critical to understand the market, your people, their roles, and the technologies that drive success. But the real difference? Being ready to assist, support, and step in wherever possible. Titles don’t build companies—leaders who empower their teams do. The best CEOs don’t just lead from the top—they work alongside their people to make success happen.

Do you see parallels between military strategy and business strategy in your career?

Absolutely, yes, and I even believe that strategy is everything—whether in battle or business. In the Army, every mission requires careful planning, adaptability, and precision. You don’t charge ahead blindly—you assess, strategize, and execute with purpose. I carried that same mindset into business, especially at Bell Labs, where I led the development of the first microprocessor-based business communication system. It took three years and $30 million, but like any well-planned mission, it had a lasting impact— staying in the Bell System lineup for over a decade.

“Success isn’t about reacting to the present—it’s about anticipating the future and making every move count.” That’s the strategy I’ve lived by ever since.

You’ve worked across corporate giants like AT&T, innovative startups like Fonetek, and now VK Digital Health. What’s been more fulfilling: building from scratch or driving innovation within an established structure?

Both have their rewards, but nothing beats building something from the ground up—when you have the right resources to make it work. At AT&T, I built five marketing groups from scratch, fighting resistance to win multi-million-dollar contracts and reshape the company’s competitive position. Even in a corporate giant, real innovation meant challenging the status quo and proving that new ideas drive big results. But startups like Fonetek had a different kind of fulfillment— speed, agility, and the freedom to move in the right direction without layers of bureaucracy. We built a strong company, made smart decisions quickly, and when the time came, we had something truly valuable to sell. The mindset I carry forward daily is that “The most fulfilling work isn’t just about building—it’s about creating something that lasts.”