In this episode of the Industry Matters podcast, Tyler Coulander sits down with Alan Morris to explore what makes the VGM Heartland Conference a must-attend event for the HME and DME industry. As Heartland celebrates its 25th anniversary, Tyler and Alan break down why this year's conference is more relevant than ever — from navigating margin pressure and evolving payer networks to leveraging technology for operational efficiency. Whether you're a business owner, an operator, or an emerging leader, they share why Heartland delivers practical, actionable takeaways you won't find anywhere else. If you're serious about growing your business and staying ahead of the industry's biggest challenges and opportunities, this episode — and this conference — is for you.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zW2UrWjREAs

In this episode of IM: Unfiltered, Lindy Tentinger (President, VGM & Associates) and Ike Isaacson (SVP of Government & Regulatory Relations, VGM Group) sit down with Joel Gallion, CEO of Bellevue Healthcare in Washington, for a candid conversation about the urgency of advocacy in the home health and DME industry.

They unpack the real risks behind new payer and TPA models reshaping care delivery — from sole sourcing and network restrictions to the erosion of quality and competition — drawing a stark parallel to what the PBM model did to independent pharmacies.

Joel shares how Bellevue Healthcare went from advocacy bystanders to active champions of change through their state association PAMES, and why he believes the time to act is now, not tomorrow. Whether you're a large supplier or a small independent provider, this episode is a call to step up, get involved, and own your role in shaping the future of the industry.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6TTJ4e7ch5g

Ted Metcalf, VP of Clinical Mobility and Accessibility at VGM, sits down with Jason Smith, VP of Sales & Marketing, and Javier Nunez, Director of Business Development, both from MK Battery, to discuss the evolving landscape of power wheelchair batteries and parts. From the true total cost of ownership of gel vs. AGM batteries, to the future of lithium ion in HME, to MK Battery's growing distribution partnership with Rolko USA — this episode is packed with practical insights for U.S. Rehab members looking to cut costs, streamline service repair operations, and get more from their vendor relationships. If you're managing a service repair department, this one's for you.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-HamzOlHz_0

Chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, COPD, and congestive heart failure are reshaping the U.S. healthcare system — and the demand for durable medical equipment along with it. In this episode of Industry Matters, VGM's Tyler Coulander and Alan Morris dig into the data behind America's growing chronic disease burden, what it means for DME providers navigating the shift from hospital-based to home-based care, and why demand for equipment and long-term patient support is more resilient than ever. They also tackle the big GLP-1 question: do drugs like Ozempic threaten CPAP and diabetes equipment markets, or do they actually open new doors? Tune in for a high-level look at the forces driving industry growth — and check out the VGM Industry Insights library for a deeper dive into the data.

Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rwZAg90E3d8

In this episode of Industry Matters, Ted Metcalf, VP of Clinical Mobility and Accessibility at VGM, sits down with Cody Verrett, VP of Sales at Permobil Americas, to explore how Permobil is transforming the complex rehab technology space. Cody walks us through the Permobil Store — a real-time 3D wheelchair configurator that lets ATPs spec out ultralight manual and power chairs, share live visuals with clients, and eliminate costly rework. They discuss Permobil's investment in a state-of-the-art Nashville production facility with robotic welding and automated processes, cutting lead times to just three days for aluminum chairs and ten days for fully custom titanium products. From the integration of PDG tilt-in-space seating to 24/7 ordering and template-based workflows, this conversation covers what's driving efficiency, reducing eval-to-delivery timelines, and helping providers deliver better outcomes for their patients.

Watch this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/n4h2_As-dKQ

Tyler Coulander sits down with Alan to break down the biggest themes and takeaways from Medtrade 2026 in Arizona. From the resurgence of competitive bidding and federal anti-fraud initiatives to AI innovation reshaping the DME ecosystem, they explore what these developments mean for providers and the industry at large. They also discuss the record-setting attendance growth, the surge in demand for education sessions, and the advocacy efforts underway to protect suppliers of all sizes. Whether you're a seasoned industry veteran or new to the HME space, this episode offers a forward-looking view of where the DME industry is headed in 2030 and beyond.

View the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/U2dBjnT0x_0

Join Tyler Mahncke from VGM & Associates as he sits down with Gene Richtsmeier and Michael Berling from Huntington National Bank to discuss strategic financing solutions for DME businesses. In this episode, they explore critical topics including access to capital, business expansion strategies, mergers and acquisitions, succession planning, and SBA lending options. Whether you're looking to grow your DME business, navigate an acquisition, or plan for retirement, this conversation offers practical insights on building banking relationships, understanding cash flow versus revenue, and preparing your business for long-term success. Perfect for DME providers, HME companies, and healthcare business owners seeking financial guidance in today's evolving market.

Watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RrzbuqZuNLA

Join Mandi Rodgers, VP of Events at VGM, as she sits down with Heartland Conference leaders Shanon Eckhardt (Heartland Pillar Chair & VP of Special Projects) and Arienne Martinez (Education Pillar & Director of Organizational Development for HOMELINK) to celebrate a major milestone—the 25th anniversary of the Heartland Conference.

In this special Industry Matters podcast, discover what makes Heartland more than just a conference. From the legendary "drunk on kindness" hospitality to practical education sessions led by industry peers, Shanon and Arienne share what attendees can expect at this year's reunion-style event happening June 8-10, 2025, in Waterloo, Iowa.

The conversation explores the power of community and connection that's defined Heartland for 25 years, reveals what's new and exciting for this milestone anniversary (including a special field trip!), and explains how the education tracks balance honoring legacy with preparing for the next 25 years. Shanon and Arienne offer practical tips for first-time attendees to maximize their experience and discuss why AI, leadership, and resilience stories are taking center stage this year. They also share the moments you absolutely can't miss, from keynotes to Farewell at the Farm.

Whether you're a Heartland veteran or considering your first visit, this episode will inspire you to be part of something bigger than yourself. As Shanon says, "You're not just coming to Waterloo, Iowa—you're coming to our home."

Learn more and register at vgmheartland.com.