Aussie medtech NeedleCalm sharpens its edge with new Co-Founder

After nearly a decade of grit and solo determination, Lauren Barber, Founder of Aussie medtech startup NeedleCalm, is no longer carrying the mission alone.

The company, known for its award-winning medical device that reduces pain and anxiety associated with needle procedures, has welcomed seasoned healthcare executive Elisha Mullins as Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer.

This appointment signals a new phase for NeedleCalm as it transitions from a bootstrapped venture to a fast-scaling, patient-centric innovation poised for global impact.

“After nine years of navigating the entrepreneurial path largely alone – managing product development, funding, operations, and outreach – it feels incredibly energising to now be running at lightning speed, together,” Barber told Health Industry Hub.

Mullins brings nearly two decades of healthcare leadership, having held senior roles at Boston Scientific across ANZ, Asia-Pacific, and EMEA. Her expertise spans commercial growth, clinical strategy, and operational execution.

“The impact of needle-related anxiety on patient care is significant, and Lauren’s deep passion and clinical insight have shaped a truly innovative solution,” said Mullins. “I’m honoured to support her vision and bring my experience to help NeedleCalm reach more clinicians and patients globally. Together, we have an opportunity to make a real difference – improving comfort, confidence, and the overall patient experience.”

Barber’s journey has been one of resilience and raw honesty.

“There’s a long-running joke from a few MTAA colleagues who used to ask me, ‘Are you calm, Lauren?’ knowing full well I was anything but,” she shared. “Being a founder is often glamourised, but the war stories are rarely told truthfully. I’ve been homeless, gone without food, and sold most of my belongings – yet I kept going. I didn’t want to bring anyone into that kind of hardship, so I chose the solo path for a long time.”

A fierce advocate for female founders, Barber is a member of the Entrepreneurial Women in Health (EWiH) network and remains committed to lifting others as she climbs.

“I’ve always shared my missteps openly so others – especially women – don’t repeat them. And I’ll always hold the ladder for others. That’s the EWiH way,” she emphasised.

The company’s recent momentum has also been fuelled by support from Ocean VC, engaged to provide corporate advisory services and help steer the next stage of growth. Plans are underway for a clinical trial and a potential partnership with vaccine giant GSK.

“Somewhere on the edge of madness is where the magic happens,” Barber added. “This next chapter for NeedleCalm is all about clarity, collaboration, and reaching the patients and clinicians who need us most.”

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