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Ari Akerstein

Ari Akerstein

Product leader, cancer survivor, and health tech founder empowering patients with AI

axe
Acton, Massachusetts
Joined March 2026
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Summary

Ari Akerstein is a seasoned product leader with extensive experience across major technology and e-commerce companies like Meta (Facebook), Walmart, and Included Health. He has a proven track record of driving product strategy, managing complex portfolios, and leading teams to deliver impactful solutions, particularly in buyer experience and growth. productschool+2
His personal journey as a cancer survivor (diagnosed with aggressive Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer) profoundly reshaped his career focus, inspiring him to dedicate his expertise to health technology. This experience ignited a passion for empowering patients and navigating the complexities of healthcare. seeingpatients+3
Ari is a dedicated health tech entrepreneur, co-founding NavisAI and CancerHacker Lab to leverage AI and innovative solutions for cancer diagnostics and patient navigation. He actively works to bridge the gap between rapidly advancing technology and the slower-moving healthcare system, aiming to provide patients with better access to innovation and personalized care. cancerhackerlab+3
Beyond his professional pursuits, Ari maintains a personal Substack blog, 'Seeing Patients', where he shares his insights on product management, cancer, and fatherhood. He also co-founded West Acton Sauna with his wife, demonstrating an interest in wellness and community-focused projects. seeingpatients+2

Work

Education

Projects

Writing

From Warehouse to Your House: Data in E-commerce

July 1, 2017

An article published on Medium by Outlier AI, featuring Ari Akerstein as an expert on e-commerce and a product leader at Walmart.com, discussing the role of data in online retail.

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Seeing Patients

A Substack publication where Ari shares insights on technology, product craft, and empathy in healthcare, particularly for cancer patients. He covers AI, diagnostics, life science trends, and stories from founders and clinicians.

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An ER visit — neutropenic fever

A personal account on Medium detailing an emergency room visit during his cancer treatment, reflecting on his journey as a cancer survivor.

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Simulating DNA Repair Mechanisms Using Reaction-Diffusion Methods

Co-authored research project during his graduate studies at San Francisco State University, focusing on computational biology.

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Hobbies

Enjoys sauna and cold plunge therapy, having co-founded a home-based sauna business. wcvb

Notes

SMSree Menonsaid
AAAri Akerstein
has driven significant product innovation and team success as a CPO.

Nov 4, 2025

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