Be Open: Montse Barcelo Riera on Embracing Change at Any Stage of Your Career
Dr. Montse Barcelo Riera is a medical doctor and senior leader in clinical research, with over 30 years of experience shaping drug development and healthcare access. But her latest career shift proves that leadership isn’t linear—it evolves with us. In this episode, Montse shares how she followed a deeply personal experience into an entirely new professional purpose.
The Story Behind the Episode
Montse made a bold choice: to enter an entirely new sector—elder care and the silver economy—reminding us that reinvention can happen at any point in a career. What sparked the shift? A personal crisis. Her father, once fully autonomous, became immobile after a hospital stay. Frustrated by the lack of proactive care, Montse stepped in—and discovered a whole new mission.
We talk about what it means to follow purpose, not prestige. How decades of leadership in clinical trials prepared her to reimagine aging, wellness, and quality of life. And how scary—but necessary, it is to leave the safety of the known when your values are calling you elsewhere.
Montse also shares her philosophy on decision-making: she never moves blindly. She seeks advice from a trusted circle, reflects deeply, and owns the moment. Whether she’s leading a company or researching a new sector, she’s not afraid to ask the hard questions: Is this worth it? And if I don’t do this now, what kind of example am I setting for others—and myself?
🎧 Listen or Watch the Episode Here →
YouTube: https://youtu.be/6IYC9wbkoxo?si=M_75ugTkruySDmpO
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Qhd6MuiwglMmozSzc5L9f?si=QLdmbe-ITiGbrEiwMMm0rw
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Guest: Montse Barcelo Riera
Montse Barcelo Riera is a physician, clinical trial expert, and longevity advocate. She splits her time between research innovation and advising start-ups focused on healthy aging. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
Shortened Transcript with Timestamps
00:20 – Montse’s background in medicine and clinical trials
02:15 – Facing uncertainty and stepping into new challenges every few years
04:10 – The decision to switch sectors—and what prompted it
05:45 – How her father’s recovery sparked a personal and professional pivot
07:50 – Using her network and personal conviction to guide big moves
09:30 – What legacy means to her: service, innovation, and purpose
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