In this Heart to Heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by workplace culture expert Brenda Viola. Together, they explore how individuals with Lipedema can advocate for themselves and be heard in their professional environments—without feeling like they have to scream to be understood. Brenda offers actionable insights on effective communication, building rapport with colleagues, and fostering inclusive workplaces that are sensitive to hidden disabilities.

Dr. Catherine Seo provides valuable perspectives on the challenges that arise when managing a condition like Lipedema in professional settings. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion, reminding listeners that advocating for your health is not just a personal necessity but also a professional strength. Throughout the episode, Dr. Seo shares tips for setting boundaries and effectively communicating needs without fear or hesitation, drawing from both her personal and professional experience as an advocate for Lipedema awareness.

Lisa Duerre adds to the conversation by sharing her own journey of balancing leadership with managing Lipedema, offering strategies that helped her find balance while leading a successful business. Whether you're living with Lipedema or working to create a more inclusive work environment, this episode delivers powerful insights for amplifying your voice without raising it.

Ready to reclaim your voice at work without feeling the need to shout? Tune in to this empowering conversation for strategies that will help you advocate for yourself or support others with Lipedema in the workplace. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating hidden disabilities or seeking to create a more inclusive professional environment. Don’t miss out—your voice matters!

Mentioned in this episode:

Brenda Viola

https://www.brendaviola.com/

How To Be Heard Without Screaming

https://www.brendaviola.com/how-to-be-heard-without-screaming

Lipedema Project Provider Directory: https://lipedemaproject.org/lipedema-lipoedema-lipodem-provider-directory/

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/events-calendar/

This episode is brought to you by:

Lipedema Simplified:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/

Lipedema Project:

https://lipedemaproject.org

RLD Group:

https://rldgroupllc.com/

In this Heart to Heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Michelle Jaqua, a healthcare navigator and lead of Lipedema Simplified’s Surgery Simplified Concierge Program. Together, they explore the critical aspects of preparing for lipedema removal surgery, what patients need to know, and the steps involved in achieving the best outcomes.

Michelle shares her expertise on the logistical, emotional, and practical considerations of surgery, including how the Surgery Simplified Concierge Program offers support to patients throughout their surgical journey. From the initial consultation to post-surgery care, Michelle provides invaluable insights into how to navigate the entire process. Lisa and Catherine also offer their personal reflections and experiences, bringing added depth to this important discussion.

This conversation is essential for anyone considering lipedema removal surgery or supporting someone through it.

Highlights from the Episode:

• What to expect when preparing for lipedema removal surgery
• Key considerations for selecting a surgeon and understanding your options
• The role of Lipedema Simplified’s Surgery Simplified Concierge Program in supporting patients
• Navigating pre-and post-surgical care: tips for recovery and long-term management
• Emotional and mental health preparation before surgery

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Project Provider Directory: https://lipedemaproject.org/lipedema-lipoedema-lipodem-provider-directory/

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/events-calendar/

This episode is brought to you by:

Lipedema Simplified:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/

Lipedema Project:

https://lipedemaproject.org

RLD Group:

https://rldgroupllc.com/

In this heart to heart conversation Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Dr. Leslyn Keith, OTD, CLT-LANA, a certified lymphedema therapist and Director of Research for The Lipedema Project. Together, they dive into the intersection of leadership, workplace advocacy, and lymphatic care, sharing insights on how to better support individuals living with hidden disabilities like Lipedema in professional settings.

Dr. Keith, who has over 20 years of experience treating lymphatic and fat disorders, highlights the importance of accessible care and ongoing research in lymphedema and Lipedema management. She also emphasizes the role of workplace accommodations and the benefits of flexible work environments for those managing chronic conditions.

Lisa Duerre reflects on her personal journey of leading in the tech industry while navigating Lipedema, offering practical insights on workplace advocacy for hidden disabilities and the critical role of well-being in leadership. Together, they explore strategies for building supportive workplace cultures that prioritize empathy, inclusivity, and mental health. Lisa also shares advice on preventing burnout, advocating for oneself, and the importance of flexibility for employees dealing with chronic illnesses.

This episode underscores the shared commitment to leadership, advocacy, and creating workplaces that work for everyone. Dr. Seo, Lisa, and Dr. Keith encourage listeners to think critically about how leaders and organizations can better support employees with hidden health challenges.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Project Provider Directory: https://lipedemaproject.org/lipedema-lipoedema-lipodem-provider-directory/

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/events-calendar/

This episode is brought to you by:

Lipedema Simplified:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/

Lipedema Project:

https://lipedemaproject.org

RLD Group:

https://rldgroupllc.com/