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Have you ever felt overwhelmed trying to navigate the healthcare system for a seriously ill loved one? You're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Erin Galyean, author of "Badass Advocate: Becoming the Champion Your Seriously Ill Loved One Deserves," to explore how to effectively advocate for those we care about most.

Turning Personal Tragedy into a Mission

Erin shares her heartbreaking journey of losing both her father and sister to cancer, and how these experiences fueled her passion for patient advocacy. We discuss:

• The emotional toll of caring for a seriously ill family member.
• How Erin's background in pharmaceutical sales equipped her for advocacy.
• Why she decided to write a book to help others navigate similar challenges.

Essential Advocacy Strategies - Discover practical tips to become a more effective advocate:

• The power of keeping organized notes and recordings.
• Building a support team to share caregiving responsibilities.
• Asking open-ended questions to get more information from healthcare providers.
• Preparing for appointments with a prioritized list of questions.

Nurturing Connection During Illness

Erin introduces her new journal, "Getting Through This Together," designed to:

• Foster meaningful conversations between patients and loved ones.
• Provide a treasured keepsake of shared memories.
• Offer a form of self-care for both patients and caregivers.

Whether you're currently supporting a loved one through illness or want to be prepared for future challenges, this episode provides invaluable insights to help you become the advocate your family deserves.

Remember, you have the power to make a difference in your loved one's care – it's time to embrace your inner badass advocate!

Resources:

Erin Galyean Website

Badass Advocate: Becoming The Champion Your Seriously Ill Loved One Deserves

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Have you ever felt trapped in the darkness of mental illness, unsure if there's a way out? You're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Dave Mowry, a stand-up comedian who's turning his struggles with bipolar disorder into laughter and hope for others.

The Moment Everything Changed

• The sudden "snap" that derailed his life
• Years of isolation and debilitating depression
• The crucial role his wife played in his survival and recovery

Navigating the Mental Health Maze

• The challenges of getting an accurate diagnosis
• Why finding the right care team can be challenging
• How comedy became an unexpected lifeline

Transforming Pain into Purpose

• Using humor to rewire negative thought patterns
• Teaching stand-up to others with mental illness
• The power of sharing your story to shatter stigma

Dave's journey reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there's hope for a brighter future. His unique approach to mental health advocacy – using laughter as medicine – offers a fresh perspective on healing and resilience.

Whether you're struggling with mental health challenges yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode provides:

• Practical advice for coping with severe depression and anxiety
• Insights into the transformative power of humor and self-expression
• Encouragement to keep pushing forward, one step at a time

Don't miss Dave's gentle yet powerful message: You are not alone, and your story matters. It's time to break the silence and find the courage to laugh in the face of adversity.

Resources:

OMG That’s Me…Book

BP Hope - Blog

National Alliance on Mental Illness

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Have you ever found yourself suddenly without health insurance, wondering what to do next? Whether you've lost your job, aged out of your parents' plan, or experienced another life-changing event, navigating the world of health insurance outside of standard enrollment periods can feel overwhelming. But don't worry – you're not alone, and you have options.

Understanding Your Insurance Options

• The difference between on-Exchange and off-Exchange plans
• How income affects your eligibility for subsidies and cost-sharing reductions
• Why the distinction matters for your wallet and coverage

Qualifying Life Events for Special Enrollment

• Changes in household composition (marriage, divorce, new baby)
• Loss of existing coverage (job loss, aging out of parents' plan)
• Changes in residence or income
• Real-life scenarios that might surprise you

Navigating the Enrollment Process

• Key deadlines and timeframes you can't afford to miss
• How to prove your eligibility for special enrollment
• The benefits of working with a licensed broker (at no cost to you!)

Don't let the complexity of health insurance leave you feeling paralyzed. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you take control of your healthcare journey, even when the unexpected happens.

Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your health coverage. Are you ready to get Savvy about Special Enrollment Periods and ensure you're never caught without the protection you need?

Resources

Advocate Healthcare Consulting

Special Enrollment Periods

Turned 26 – Get Your Own Healthcare Insurance

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Have you ever felt overwhelmed or anxious during a hospital stay? You're not alone. Navigating the complex world of healthcare can be daunting, especially when you're feeling vulnerable.

What if you could turn that anxiety into empowerment?

In this episode, I sit down with Morgan Taylor, a Board Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Chief Nursing Officer at Archer Review. With her wealth of experience in pediatric nursing and passion for education, Morgan shares invaluable insights on:

The Evolving Landscape of Nursing

• Why patients are getting sicker and care is becoming more complex
• How technology is changing the way nurses communicate and work
• The critical gaps in nursing education and how they're being addressed

Empowering Yourself as a Patient

• The power of finding your "go-to" person on the healthcare team
• Why it's okay (and important) to ask questions
• How to effectively communicate your concerns and needs

Behind the Scenes of Nursing Care

• The tools nurses use to keep track of multiple patients
• How technology helps prevent errors in medication administration
• The importance of teamwork in delivering quality care

The Future of Nursing Education

• How online learning is revolutionizing nurse preparation
• The role of compassion and joy in nursing education
• Strategies to combat nurse burnout and high turnover rates

Whether you're a patient, a caregiver, or simply curious about the inner workings of healthcare, this episode offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of modern nursing.

You'll walk away with practical tips to advocate for yourself and your loved ones, and a deeper appreciation for the dedicated professionals who care for us when we're at our most vulnerable.

Are you ready to transform your healthcare experience from intimidating to empowering? Let's get SAVVY about partnering with our Nursing teams together!

Resources:

Morgan Taylor’s Website

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Are you struggling to navigate the complex world of Medicaid and disability benefits? You're not alone. For many individuals with disabilities and their families, understanding the maze of waivers, eligibility requirements, and available resources can be overwhelming.

Navigating the Medicaid Waiver System

• The challenges of accessing and understanding state-specific waivers
• Practical tips for finding accurate information and helpful resources
• Why it's crucial to verify information, even from official sources

Advocating for Disability Rights

• The importance of the SSI Restoration Act and SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act
• How current asset and income limits create barriers for people with disabilities
• Ways you can support these crucial legislative changes

Breaking Down Stigma and Misconceptions

• Why living with stigma can be more challenging than the disability itself
• Strategies for educating others and changing perceptions
• The power of representation in media and politics

Whether you're directly affected by disability or simply want to be a better ally, this episode is packed with valuable information and actionable advice. Devon's passion for creating a more inclusive world shines through as she shares resources, personal anecdotes, and hope for the future.

Don't miss out on:

• Essential websites and tools for understanding Medicaid waivers in your state
• Recommended movies and books that offer insight into disability experiences
• How to get involved and make a difference in disability rights advocacy

Are you ready to become a more informed and empowered advocate for yourself or your loved ones? Let's get savvy about Medicaid, waivers, and disability rights together!

Resources:

Wheel With It

State Medicaid and Waivers - CMS

Many people who qualify for waiver services are not even aware that they exist. Families struggle alone, to provide care- creating economic, physical, and emotional strain. States do not educate people about these programs, and it is often only through crisis that people realize help is available.

Patrice the Movie

Patrice the Movie – Take Action

Hillbilly Elegy – The Book

Medicaidwaiver.org

Google Community Service Board Near Me or Use Your Zip Code

Health First Colorado – Medicaid Program

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Are you tired of feeling trapped by Medicare's rigid enrollment periods? What if I told you there's a way to change your health coverage when you need it most, not just when the calendar says you can?

In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on Medicare Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) - a game-changing option for those managing ongoing health conditions. If you're dealing with diabetes, heart disease, or any of the 15 qualifying chronic conditions (Per CMS Medicare), this information could be a lifeline.

Unveiling the Power of C-SNPs

• What sets C-SNPs apart from standard Medicare Advantage plans
• The 15 chronic conditions that could qualify you for these specialized plans
• How C-SNPs can provide tailored support for your unique health needs

Beyond Basic Coverage: The C-SNP Advantage

• Discover the potential for $0 copays on primary care and specialist visits
• Learn about the extra benefits card that could help with everyday expenses
• Explore how a dedicated care team can simplify your healthcare journey

Breaking Free from Enrollment Restrictions

• Why C-SNPs offer unparalleled flexibility for changing your coverage
• How a new diagnosis could open the door to better-suited health insurance
• The importance of acting quickly when your health needs change

Don't let the complexities of Medicare leave you feeling powerless. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate your options with confidence. Whether you're a Medicare veteran or just turning 65, understanding C-SNPs could be the key to unlocking the care you deserve.

Are you ready to take control of your health coverage and ensure you're getting the specialized care you need, when you need it?

Let's get SAVVY about Medicare together!

Resources:

Eligibility Requirement for a CSNP

Medicare List of Chronic Conditions

H5 Healthcare Consulting

Advocate Healthcare Consulting

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Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and struggling to balance caring for others with taking care of yourself? You're not alone.

In this episode, I sit down with Jenny Lytle, a nurse with over 30 years of experience specializing in hospice and end-of-life care. Jenny shares her personal journey of realizing the importance of self-care after her mother's sudden passing and how it led her to become an advocate for caregivers everywhere.

The Hidden Costs of Constant Caregiving

Jenny opens up about:

• Her mother's untimely death and how it revealed the dangers of neglecting self-care
• Why so many caregivers struggle with guilt when prioritizing their own needs
• The physical and emotional toll of putting everyone else first

Redefining Self-Care: It's Not Selfish, It's Essential

Discover practical strategies for incorporating self-care into your busy life:

• Simple breathing exercises you can do anywhere to reduce stress
• How to personalize your self-care routine to fit your unique needs and preferences
• The importance of setting boundaries and asking for help

Building Your Self-Care Toolkit

Jenny introduces her proprietary "Becoming" method and shares insights from her book, "Self Care Isn't Selfish":

• Why one-size-fits-all approaches to self-care often fail
• How to identify what you truly need in moments of overwhelm
• Practical tips for creating a sustainable self-care practice

Whether you're a professional caregiver, looking after aging parents, or juggling the demands of family life, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you show up as your best self for those who need you most. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup – it's time to prioritize your well-being without the guilt.

Are you ready to transform your approach to caregiving and rediscover the joy in helping others? Let's get savvy about self-care together!

Resources:

Jenny Lytle Website

Self-Care Isn't Selfish: The Compassionate Nurse's Step-by-Step Guide to Personalized Stress Relief

Free Copy of Selfcare Isn’t Selfish

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Are you approaching your 65th birthday or helping a loved one navigate the complex world of Medicare? The maze of eligibility rules, enrollment periods, and potential penalties can leave even the most organized person feeling overwhelmed. But don't worry – I'm here to guide you through the Medicare eligibility landscape with clarity and confidence.

In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of Medicare to demystify the process and empower you to make informed choices. Whether you're turning 65, managing a disability, or caring for someone who might qualify, this information is crucial for navigating the complex healthcare landscape.

Decoding Medicare Eligibility

• The three main pathways to Medicare eligibility: age, disability, and specific medical conditions
• Automatic enrollment vs. initial enrollment periods: What you need to know
• Special considerations for those still working or covered by a spouse's plan

Avoiding Costly Penalties

• The importance of creditable coverage and how to determine if you have it
• Special enrollment periods: When and how to use them
• The steep price of missing your enrollment window

Navigating Special Situations

• Veterans benefits and Medicare: How they work together
• TRICARE, CHAMP VA, and Health Savings Accounts: Impact on Medicare decisions
• Working past 65: What you need to consider

Don't let the complexity of Medicare leave you feeling paralyzed. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you confidently navigate your healthcare options. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to your health coverage.

Are you ready to take control of your Medicare journey and make choices that truly serve your needs? Let's get savvy about Medicare together!

Resources:

H5 Healthcare Consulting

Advocate Healthcare Consulting

Medicare Savings Program

Medicare Sign Up Online

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