In this Heart to Heart conversation, Dr. Keith, OTD, CLT-LANA, Director of Research and Board President of The Lipedema Project, and Lisa Duerre dive into some of the most pressing questions faced by individuals living with lipedema and lymphedema. They tackle important issues such as how to advocate for yourself at work, particularly when navigating chronic health conditions, and offer strategies to find balance between managing your well-being and professional responsibilities.

Lisa and Dr. Keith discuss how remote work can provide significant health benefits and how employees can confidently ask for support in their workplace. From setting up ergonomic workspaces to ensuring flexibility in schedules, they explore practical ways to enhance your quality of life while staying productive. They also share critical insights into overcoming workplace stigma and the importance of creating a supportive, inclusive environment.

Key Takeaways:

• Effective ways to advocate for remote work and accommodations.
• How to manage chronic conditions like lipedema while maintaining your professional life.
• The impact of sleep, inflammation, and posture on productivity and overall health.

Call to Action: Don’t miss this insightful episode that could change the way you approach self-care and advocacy at work. Whether you're navigating a chronic condition or supporting someone who is, this conversation is packed with actionable tips and heartfelt advice. Tune in now!

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 discuss the often-overlooked realities of traveling with lipedema. They share practical strategies and firsthand experiences, addressing common travel concerns such as managing swelling during flights, finding accessible accommodations, and maintaining comfort on long journeys. Lisa shares her personal tips on packing medical supplies, choosing the right compression garments, and advocating for her needs while traveling.

They also dive into the emotional side of travel—how to balance the desire for adventure with the physical challenges lipedema can present, and how to practice self-care along the way. Whether you're navigating airport security or seeking mobility support at your destination, this conversation offers empowering advice to help you travel with greater confidence and ease.

If you or a loved one are living with lipedema and have questions about how to make travel more manageable, this episode is a must-listen.

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 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/

In this heart to heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Shawn Bigby and Ashley Fisher, hosts of "The Lipedema Mama's" podcast.

Shawn and Ashley highlight their journey of learning about lipedema to becoming advocates themselves, in part inspired by Dr. Seo's focus on advocacy and community through her creation of The Lipedema Project and Lipedema Simplified.

This episode emphasizes a collaborative approach, celebrating the newly launched community and courses created by Shawn and Ashley. Catherine, Lisa, Shawn and Ashley discuss their commitment to providing education and fostering solidarity among those affected by lipedema. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration over competition and the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire advocacy and understanding.

The episode underscores the collaborative spirit and feminine leadership approach that drive initiatives and create resources aimed at raising awareness and empowering the 1 in 11 women worldwide living with lipedema. Shawn and Ashley along with Catheirne and Lisa celebrate a shared mission to create inclusive spaces where everyone can advocate, learn, and thrive.

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/

LIpedema Simplified TRIBE Community:

https://learn.lipedema-simplified.org/tribe

Lipedema Mama’s Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/4I8IKiBwjKprQURNVTrZkB?si=09fb9b1b6c8d48b8

Shawn and Ashley’s Lipedema Courses

https://lipedemacourses.com

Shawn Bigby: @the_lipedema_mama on Instagram

Ashley Fisher: @the_lippy_lady on Instagram

Lisa Duerre on Linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaduerre/

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 Susan O'Hara, founder of Legs Like Mine and a passionate advocate for lipedema awareness. Susan bravely recounts losing her corporate career due to workplace bias and a lack of understanding about lipedema management.

Catherine, Lisa and Susan share their experiences navigating corporate careers while managing lipedema. They discuss the broader implications of Susan's story, emphasizing the urgent need for education and awareness among employers about lipedema, obesity, hidden disabilities, and chronic illnesses. The conversation underscores the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces that accommodate diverse needs and promote flexible work environments.

Employers and managers are invited to tune in to gain insights from Susan, Catherine, and Lisa's experiences, along with practical advice for creating supportive workplace environments. Together, they explore strategies for challenging workplace fat biases and advocating for policies that empower employees with chronic conditions.

Join us for a heart to heart highlighting the intersection of workplace dynamics and lipedema awareness.

Mentioned in this episode:

Legs Like Mine:

https://legslikemine.com/

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

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

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

Lipedema Foundation

https://www.lipedema.org/

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 Pattie Cornute, Founder of Lipedema Fitness and an advanced stage Lipedema patient advocate. Together, they delve into Pattie's journey with Lipedema, emphasizing workplace accommodations for chronic conditions and addressing fat bias.

They explore the impact of chronic pain management strategies and the empowering #allorsomething motto, which encourages action despite challenges caused by Lipedema and Lymphedema.

They also discuss the frustration and shared experiences of misdiagnosis, highlighting the importance of awareness and education about these conditions. Learn how Pattie, Catherine, and Lisa met and uncovered their shared passion and lived experience with Lipedema, offering hope and practical advice for patients and caregivers alike.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Fitness:

http://www.lipedemafitness.com/home.html

Proposed Research Case Definitions of Lipedema:

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/lrb.2023.0062

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/