Ep 3: From Olympian to AI Pioneer: Simon Arkell's Journey to Revolutionize Healthcare with Generative AI

Artificial intelligence has been a buzzword for years, but few leaders in healthcare are truly harnessing its potential to transform how we diagnose, treat, and ultimately save lives. Bradley Bostic, host of BoomBostic Health and CEO of hc1, recently invited Simon Arkell, CEO of Ryght AI, to explore the incredible leaps AI is making in clinical trials and diagnostics. Simon, a former Olympian turned serial entrepreneur, brings a refreshing perspective on AI’s untapped capabilities in healthcare, grounded in years of experience and success.

Simon’s journey from Olympic pole vaulter to AI innovator is remarkable in itself. But it’s his insights into how generative AI can revamp clinical trials that truly set him apart. He explains how AI has evolved, not just as a buzzword but as a game-changing force that redefines what’s possible in healthcare. Ryght AI’s approach is to simplify and accelerate clinical research by connecting all the moving parts involved, creating a platform that benefits from each new advancement in AI without the technical “debt” that usually accompanies such innovation.

One of the most significant obstacles in clinical research is data fragmentation. Many biotech firms lack access to real-time data, making it difficult to connect the right patients with the right trials. Simon elaborates on how Ryght AI leverages generative AI to bridge this gap, creating a network that can process data from various sources, making trial recruitment faster and more precise. Bradley, a strong advocate for personalized care, was quick to highlight the urgent need for such a transformation. “There’s a reason AI is essential here—it could mean years shaved off in bringing life-saving drugs to market,” Bradley emphasized.

Simon’s vision for AI goes beyond mere data processing. He explains that AI enables a more holistic approach, where clinical trials are no longer bound by outdated methods, such as manually matching patient profiles with trials. Instead, AI can predict which clinical trial sites will succeed based on historical data, patient demographics, and existing workloads. This way, clinical trials aren’t just fast-tracked; they’re also more effective. As Simon puts it, “We’re looking to create a future-proof platform that can adapt to new AI models and leverage data without re-engineering the wheel.”

The conversation then shifts to the human element in AI-driven healthcare. Simon recounts how AI, if used correctly, could reduce the burnout that often affects doctors and researchers by automating repetitive tasks and allowing them to focus on direct patient care. He imagines a future where AI doesn’t replace human judgment but enhances it, giving medical professionals the time and data to make better-informed decisions.
One of the key points Simon raised was the necessity of keeping AI adaptable. Ryght AI’s platform sits above the shifting landscape of AI models, allowing it to incorporate the latest and best models without a massive overhaul each time. This adaptability, as he argues, is crucial for any healthcare company looking to stay relevant. In response, Bradley acknowledged the unique challenges and pointed out that “AI in healthcare isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic advantage for those ready to evolve.”

In closing, Bradley expressed admiration for Ryght AI’s mission, describing it as a “turbocharger” for clinical research. With the support of healthcare giants and innovative AI, Simon is optimistic about a future where clinical trials are faster, more accessible, and far more accurate. He envisions a time when life-saving treatments are developed not in decades but in years, a transformation he believes AI will make possible.