• Joyce Griggs: How to Advocate for Yourself Before, During, and After your Appointment
    Oct 15 2025

    Keywords


    health advocacy, patient empowerment, healthcare system, self-advocacy, doctor visits, healthcare resources, United States of Healthcare, patient stories, healthcare challenges, AI in healthcare



    Summary


    In this conversation, Joyce Griggs shares her journey into health advocacy, highlighting the challenges faced by patients in navigating the healthcare system. She discusses the importance of self-advocacy, preparing for doctor visits, and managing the dynamics between patients and healthcare providers. Joyce emphasizes the need for personalized care and the role of technology, including AI, in shaping the future of healthcare. The discussion also touches on the systemic issues within the healthcare system and the importance of community support and resources for patients.



    Takeaways


    Advocacy is crucial for navigating the healthcare system.

    Patients often face significant challenges in getting proper care.

    Self-advocacy is an essential skill for all patients.

    Preparing for doctor visits can improve outcomes.

    Emotional management is key before healthcare appointments.

    Bias exists in healthcare, affecting patient treatment.

    Community support can empower patients in their advocacy efforts.

    AI has potential benefits and risks in healthcare decision-making.

    Personalized care is necessary for effective treatment.

    Understanding insurance processes can help patients advocate for themselves.



    Titles


    Navigating the Healthcare Maze: A Journey of Advocacy

    Empowering Patients: The Role of Self-Advocacy



    Sound bites


    "We need to be our own advocates."

    "We are the experts of ourselves."

    "Personalized care is essential."



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Health Advocacy

    02:54 Personal Journey into Healthcare Advocacy

    05:53 Navigating the Healthcare System

    08:25 Building the United States of Healthcare

    11:34 Resources for Health Advocacy

    14:23 Preparing for Doctor Visits

    17:07 Managing Emotions in Healthcare

    19:48 Interviewing Healthcare Providers

    22:49 Addressing Systemic Issues in Healthcare

    28:02 Navigating Healthcare Access Challenges

    30:38 Addressing Power Imbalances in Healthcare

    34:26 The Impact of Bias in Medical Treatment

    35:22 Evolving Perspectives in Medicine

    37:23 Utilizing Technology for Patient Advocacy

    42:04 Building Community and Support

    46:51 Envisioning a Better Healthcare System

    50:20 end cap.mp4


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    50 mins
  • Dr. Weatherly: HOPE, being present, and baby steps toward healing - interview with Eva of Wellacopia
    Jul 18 2019
    “Most things are beyond our control...but we CAN control our responses and our micro experiences.”Bojana Jankovic Weatherly, MD is an award-winning physician, double board certified in internal and integrative medicine. After completing internal medicine residency, she did a fellowship in integrative medicine, trained in functional medicine, nutrition and mindfulness. Her approach is rooted in evidence-based medicine that is personalized to each individual she works with. She partners with her patients to discover and address the root causes of their conditions and develops individualized plans to support and empower each unique individual to achieve her or his health goals.➡️ visit https://drbojana.com____CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES@Dr_bojana – Instagram + twitterDrbojana.com – sign up for my newsletter for actionable, evidence-based health tips and recipes. We will also be sharing more information about our upcoming workshops if you are in NYC!SHARE 😍RATE & REVIEW 👍 ➡️ Watch the video version of this interview 👉 find moreepisodes like this on Invisible Not Broken👉 read andwatch more content (or submit your own) on the #Wellspo blog ___ Episode supported by Wellacopia - the first matching site that helps people with chronic illnessesfind their ideal, long-term, specialized practitioners (a similar approach to adating site!). Our mission is to help build better, trusting healthcarerelationships and therefore, see better outcomes and quality of life. 👉 Find yourideal practitioners - https://www.Wellacopia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Interview With Service Dog Trainer: Tara Moriarty
    Feb 3 2025

    Summary


    In this conversation, Tara Moriarty discusses her journey into the world of service dogs, the challenges of finding and training them, and the importance of understanding their role in supporting individuals with disabilities. The discussion covers the costs associated with obtaining a service dog, the various training methods, and the misconceptions that the public holds about service dogs and their handlers. This conversation delves into the distinctions between service dogs and emotional support animals, emphasizing the legal definitions and roles of each. It explores the challenges faced by service dog owners, including the need for proper training and support systems. The discussion highlights the importance of planning for the future care of service dogs, especially for individuals with degenerative conditions. Additionally, it covers the process of finding the right dog and trainer, advocating for positive reinforcement training methods, and the significance of using food as a motivational tool in dog training.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Service Dogs and Their Importance

    03:13 The Cost and Accessibility of Service Dogs

    06:07 The Journey into Dog Training

    08:52 Understanding Dog Behavior and Training Methods

    12:06 The Need for Service Dogs: When is it Time?

    14:59 Choosing the Right Breed for Service Dogs

    17:45 Public Misconceptions About Service Dogs

    25:50 Understanding Service Dogs vs. Emotional Support Animals

    29:08 Navigating the Challenges of Service Dog Ownership

    31:55 Preparing for a Service Dog: Key Considerations

    34:22 Finding the Right Dog and Trainer

    38:53 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement in Training

    44:57 Innovative Training Techniques and Resources



    Takeaways


    Service dogs can be very expensive, ranging from $20,000 to $40,000.

    Nonprofits may offer lower-cost options, but availability is limited.

    Training a service dog can be a complex and costly process.

    Understanding dog behavior is crucial for effective training.

    Positive reinforcement is a more effective training method than punishment.

    Many people consider getting a service dog too late in their journey.

    The right breed for a service dog is less important than temperament.

    Labradors, Goldens, and Poodles are commonly recommended breeds.

    Public misconceptions about service dogs can lead to challenges for handlers.

    Emotional support is not a task that qualifies a dog as a service dog. Service dogs are task-trained to mitigate specific disabilities.

    Emotional support animals provide comfort but lack legal recognition as service animals.

    It's crucial to have a plan for the care of a service dog as health conditions change.

    Choosing the right breed is essential for first-time service dog owners.

    Positive reinforcement is key to effective dog training.

    Finding a qualified dog trainer can significantly impact training success.

    Service dog tasks are tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

    Proper training and socialization are vital for service dogs to function in public.

    Planning ahead for a service dog's future is necessary for responsible ownership.

    Using food as a reward can enhance training and strengthen the bond with your dog.


    Keywords


    service dogs, dog training, psychiatric service dogs, emotional support, dog behavior, training methods, cost of service dogs, choosing a service dog, public misconceptions, service dogs, emotional support animals, training, positive reinforcement, disability, dog ownership, service dog tasks, finding a trainer, dog breeds, service dog laws


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    45 mins
  • Roundtable: Weathering the Storm with Monica and Jason
    Feb 25 2021

    Chronic illness is a marathon and not a sprint! Monica (Explicitly Sick) and Jason (Discomfort Zone) talk about how they cope with chronic illness and other life bullshit:

    • Finding the people that won't tell you you're crazy
    • Pets that both comfort and injure Monica
    • Meditating when you can't sit still
    • Denial! YES, denial is a perfectly legitimate coping response, and never let anyone tell you otherwise :)


    Do you have coping strategies that you'd like to share? Let us know what works for you in our Facebook Group!


    **ALSO, BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Monica and Jason are both seeking your stories on gaslighting. These stories could be a part of a long-form audio story or in Monica's Magazine. Send us an email at contact@invisiblenotbroken.com with a written or oral summary of your story. In the subject line, please write "gaslighting stories" as well as your country of residence.

    _____

    PLEASE SHARE 😍 RATE & REVIEW 👍

    DON’T FORGET TO LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE TO EACH OF OUR PODCASTS :


    EXPLICITLY SICK WITH MONICA

    HUMANCARE WITH EVA

    DISCOMFORT ZONE WITH JASON

    SEX AND CHRONIC ILLNESS WITH DR. LEE

    CHECK OUT OUR OFFICIAL INVISIBLE NOT BROKEN FACEBOOK PAGE AND OUR INSTAGRAMS!

    @HUMANCARE_PODCAST

    @DRLEEPHILLIPS

    @DZONEPODCAST

    @EXPLICITLYSICK

    @INVISIBLENOTBROKEN


    BE KIND. BE GENTLE. BE BADASS.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    59 mins
  • Roundtable - Spoonie Gifting: Monica, Eva and Jason
    Dec 18 2020
    Another sort of Holiday Special roundtable on gifting for people with chronic illness & disability!JOIN INB NETWORK HOSTS MONICA (EXPLICITLY SICK), EVA (HUMANCARE) & JASON (DISCOMFORT ZONE) FOR A FUN DISCUSSION ON OUR PERSONAL GIFTING IDEAS.“A little effort goes a really long way” – Jason Herterich Gift ideas mentioned throughout the episode:*No sponsorships, personal recommendations only!*Rower machineShort stories, like “Disability Visibility” and Kelly Link (surreal fiction)VR headset – the OculusPhotobook (google photos or Shutterfly)Fancy journals, like Passion PlannerGratitude letters to friends and familyDigital Cards (TouchNote)Insomnia Cookies!Masterclass (current sale of two for one!) – check out ‘Gangster Gardener’ PLEASE SHARE 😍 RATE & REVIEW 👍Don’t forget to listen & subscribe to each of our podcasts :Explicitly Sick with MonicaHumancare with EvaDiscomfort Zone with JasonSex and Chronic Illness with Dr. LeeCheck out our official Invisible Not Broken Facebook Page and our INSTAGRAMS!@humancare_podcast@drleephillips@dzonepodcast@explicitlysick be kind. be gentle. be badass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    51 mins
  • (HumanCare podcast) How to Adapt to Challenges and Treat the Individual: Jay Berger – Part 1
    May 24 2020
    “Find that marriage between you and your practitioner – they need to hear you and if they're not hearing you, they're not the right person for you” – Jay BergerAs a Physical Therapist with over 20 years expertise in most healthcare areas, Jay Berger has had extensive experience with most chronic diagnoses. She deals primarily with clients with chronic illnesses, and they have taught her a great deal about the personal side of illness. Jay’s technique is holistic, eclectic, and empathetic. Years of experience dealing with those with chronic illness has taught her many invaluable tools and strategies that she uses in her treatments. ➡️ visit http://rehabsmarter.com/https://www.facebook.com/rehabsmarter/Summary of Part 1· Personal and professional insights, adoption and family challenges· Values coming from giving· Treating the person vs. the diagnoses - Patient stories of strength· Adapting to the challenge: telehealth and COVID19· The new age of telemedicine· Showing clinicians the opportunities through telehealthMORE FROM JAYA brief listed summary of what you want people to know:There are clinicians who will work hard and fight for you.Simple strategies to consider when you flare up.How telemedicine is ideal for this population. It has demonstrated success in multiple studies and clients find they enjoy the platform.“if you were doing it before COVID (and it was working) you should be doing it during COVID”· What does telemedicine look like now vs before COVID19?o There is more willingness to try a new platform, and more people utilizing it than ever before.o Medicare and other insurance companies are recognizing the benefit, reimbursing and loosening their reins, hopefully soon to let therapy perform telehealth visits.· What can it be used for that often goes overlooked or unknown? Predictions about future?o 75% of office visits were deemed appropriate for telehealth.o It reduces the effort/energy and risks involved going into an office.o It is often more personalized and intense than an office visit, allowing you to get more done in less time.o There are clinical specialists online that may not be local and available.o It improves the opportunity to communicate with your clinician between sessions.o Daily, there are more clinical tools being made available that will work on this platform, including electronic stethoscopes.· What are important ways to use this time for our physical and mental well-being?o Continue to take time each day for physical activity of any sort. Try to limit your viewing of current events to 1-2x daily max. Take 10 min each day to sit in a quiet area, and focus on your breathing, shutting out the outside world to center yourself. If you find yourself getting anxious, use this method or one where you hold a object like crumpled paper in your hand and focus for 10 min on your breathing and what the object’s characteristics (how it feels, smells, sounds like, etc.)· What are strategies that can be taught online to improve quality of life?o Stretching exercises esp. to chest wall coordinated with breathingo Breathing exercises to strengthen the lungs- using straws, tissue on table, pinwheel, bubbles, books, etc.-with focus on diaphragmatic and pursed lip breathing.o Strengthening exercises for your upper and lower limbs using your body weight, tinned cans, water jugso Energy conservation strategies and work simplification· Can you share with us some specific examples and tell us about how they work?o Stretching your chest wall by standing in a corner and placing a forearm on each wall at shoulder height, lean into it and hold for 5 secs, return. Do 5 stretches twice daily.o Reaching overhead and back as far as you can, then to each side to lengthen the trunk. Hold each for 5 sec. Do 5 stretches twice daily.o Strengthening your legs and buttocks standing at the sink, holding on, and performing shallow squats with emphasis on moving slowly and keeping good form-keeping shoulder over hips. Strive to do 10-12 reps twice, three times a week.o Strengthening the shoulders by holding a 16oz can (or water jug filled so you can perform 8-10 reps with some difficulty) in your hand and slowing raising your arm up to the front, side, and backwards in a horizontal line to your chest keeping elbow straight. Bring down slowly using a count of 4. Strive to do 10-12 reps twice, three times a week.o Strengthening front of legs -Holding onto sink and with one foot forward, lunging towards to front foot and back keeping shoulder over hips. Alternately, holding onto a stair rail, placing one foot up on first step, and trying to slowly lift other leg up in the air and down, repeating 10-12x, twice three x a week.** Full show notes can always be found at www.InvisibleNotBroken.com/...
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    34 mins
  • Aggressive Systemic Mastocytosis: Life, Advocacy, and Resilience: author Rachell Largent Phillips
    Sep 23 2025

    Keywords


    Aggressive Systemic Mastocytosis, chronic illness, advocacy, mental health, writing, self-care, body image, healthcare activism, rare diseases, education



    Summary


    In this conversation, Rachel Largent Phillips shares her journey with aggressive systemic mastocytosis, a rare disorder that significantly impacts her daily life. She discusses the challenges of living with a chronic illness, including navigating the healthcare system, advocating for herself and others, and the emotional toll of writing her book, 'Life Beyond the Flare.' Rachel emphasizes the importance of self-care, mental health, and authenticity in the face of societal pressures and the complexities of living with a rare disease. She also highlights the political nature of healthcare and the need for continued advocacy for those with chronic illnesses.



    Takeaways


    Rachel was born with aggressive systemic mastocytosis, diagnosed in her 30s.

    It took 12 years for her to receive a proper diagnosis.

    Daily life is unpredictable, requiring constant vigilance and preparedness.

    Advocacy is crucial; Rachel has lobbied for healthcare reforms.

    Writing her book was a way to educate others about her rare disease.

    Self-care and giving oneself grace are essential for managing chronic illness.

    Rest can take many forms, including mental and emotional breaks.

    Navigating relationships while managing a chronic illness can be challenging.

    Societal beauty standards can add pressure to those with chronic illnesses.

    Mental health is as important as physical health in chronic illness management.



    Sound bites


    "I was born with it."

    "I have lots of EpiPens."

    "It's okay to have bad days."



    Chapters


    00:00 Understanding Aggressive Systemic Mastocytosis

    03:31 Navigating Daily Life with a Rare Disorder

    07:47 Advocacy and Activism in Healthcare

    10:51 The Emotional Journey of Writing a Book

    13:48 Finding Grace in Chronic Illness

    16:01 Rest and Self-Care Strategies

    18:27 Managing Allergies and Anaphylaxis

    21:33 Dating and Relationships with Chronic Illness

    24:45 Societal Pressures and Body Image

    29:11 The Importance of Mental Health

    34:07 The Power of Authenticity

    37:34 Navigating the Medical System

    43:45 The Reality of Living with a Rare Disease

    49:56 Pursuing Education Amidst Health Challenges

    54:06 The Political Nature of Healthcare


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    53 mins
  • Tisha Foster: Glamour, Motherhood, Faith, and Chronic Illness
    Jan 9 2025

    Summary


    In this conversation, Tisha shares her journey of living with chronic illness, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, community support, and the struggles of public perception. She discusses her experiences with autoimmune disorders, the challenges of diagnosis, and how she has reframed her relationship with her illness, focusing on empowerment rather than battle. In this conversation, the speaker shares their experiences of parenting with a disability, discussing the challenges of communicating their condition to their children and the emotional toll it takes on family dynamics. They explore the journey of finding purpose while being bedbound and the therapeutic process of writing a book about their experiences. The discussion emphasizes the importance of support systems, the need for understanding in educational settings, and the resilience required to navigate life with a disability.


    Takeaways


    Gratitude can be a powerful tool for coping with chronic illness.

    Public perception often overlooks the struggles of those with invisible illnesses.

    Community support plays a crucial role in mental health and resilience.

    The journey to diagnosis can be long and fraught with challenges.

    Reframing the narrative around illness can lead to empowerment.

    It's important to check in on loved ones, even those who seem happy.

    Sharing personal stories can help others feel less alone.

    Wearing heels can be a form of self-expression and empowerment.

    Language matters when discussing illness and identity.

    Writing can be a therapeutic way to share one's journey. Talking to children about disabilities requires different approaches based on their age.

    The emotional impact of a parent's illness can lead to complex family dynamics.

    Creating a game out of challenges can help children cope with difficult situations.

    Parents often feel guilt for not being able to participate in typical activities with their children.

    Support from family and friends is crucial when dealing with chronic illness.

    Living with a disability can lead to feelings of isolation and despair.

    Finding purpose and joy in life, even from bed, is possible.

    Writing about personal experiences can be a healing process.

    It's important to advocate for accessibility in schools and public spaces.

    Resilience and community support are key to thriving despite adversity.



    Keywords


    gratitude, chronic illness, public perception, diagnosis journey, living with illness, mental health, autoimmune disorders, personal stories, resilience, community support, disability, parenting, mental health, communication, writing, resilience, family dynamics, bedbound life, emotional support, personal journey


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    53 mins