23 HRS AGO

You Have a PhD in You: Self-Advocacy, Ovarian Cancer & Integrative Care

Your personal history of disease is a PhD in you—and it deserves to be heard! How do you find your voice when your body’s in shock and your world’s just turned upside down? This is a powerful story of women’s health advocacy, integrative care, and navigating the real-world challenges of self-health advocacy during—and after—ovarian cancer treatment. In this episode, Luan speaks with Gill Stannard, a naturopath and advocate who was diagnosed just hours after a GP visit—and found herself fast-tracked into surgery and chemotherapy before the shock had even worn off. She shares what it took to reclaim her autonomy, advocate for herself, and find her place in a healthcare system that didn’t always make space for integrative care or informed 'pause'. From rushed chemotherapy decisions to unspoken menopause side effects, she opens up about what she learned, what she’d do differently—and what she wants others to know. Whether you're mid-treatment, supporting a loved one, or reflecting on your own diagnosis, this conversation is full of real talk, practical wisdom, and the reminder that you know you—and that matters. In this episode: What Gill wishes she could tell her newly diagnosed selfWhy it’s OK to pause and ask for more time before starting treatmentHow to advocate for personalised careThe challenges of talking about menopause, intimacy and side effects in gynae cancer carePractical ways to approach complementary therapies safely and responsiblyWhy open dialogue with your medical team is key—and how to start it If you are on active treatment for cancer, please check all supplements with your oncologist, oncology pharmacist and/or integrative medicine physician. Listen to Luan's episode with Liz O'Riordan where they talk about how important it is to talk to your healhcare team about complementary therapies your considering. For links to the resources in this show - visit the episode blog page. Follow the podcast and share it with someone who needs to know: you can advocate for your health. Rate & review—your feedback helps more women find this empowering content! Follow & join the conversation on Instagram: @luanlawriewoods Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free SSASy guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

49 min

6 DAYS AGO

This Isn’t Just Me: The Power of Community, Connection and Speaking Up

In this deeply moving and powerful conversation, Luan speaks with Rena Patel, who was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at 40—just after her daughter turned four. Rena felt isolated, unsure where to turn, as she didn’t know anyone in her community who’d been through something similar. On top of that, she often felt unseen and unheard within a healthcare system that doesn’t always account for the diverse needs of women from ethnic minority backgrounds, or understand the different cultural perspectives of their communities. From not being shown how to identify radiotherapy burns on non-white skin to struggling to find wigs that matched her hair, these gaps added to the emotional weight of her treatment. Connections can help change our experiences. Rena shares how finding Black Women Rising—a UK-based cancer support project for women of colour—opened the door to community, confidence, and self-advocacy. It helped her feel less alone and more empowered to ask for the care that truly met her needs. In this episode: • Why self-trust and speaking up are essential in healthcare • The importance of culturally inclusive supportive care • How shared stories and visibility reduce isolation • The role of connection and community in building self-advocacy skills • How openness can turn silence into strength—for you and those around you As an Ambassador of Black Women Rising Rena is helping to build a future where all women—regardless of background—feel seen, heard, and supported. For herself, for her community, and for her beautiful daughter. For links to the resources in this show - visit the episode blog page. Rate & review—your feedback helps more women find this empowering content! Follow & join the conversation on Instagram: @luanlawriewoods Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free SSASy guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

54 min

24 MAR

Dr Liz O’Riordan on Self-Advocacy and Spotting BS Cancer Info Online

What does it really mean to advocate for your healthcare—especially when you’re the expert? In this powerful episode, Luan speaks with Dr. Liz O’Riordan—former breast cancer surgeon, patient, author, and award-winning advocate. Diagnosed with the very disease she once treated, Liz quickly realised that clinical knowledge doesn’t prepare you for the lived experience of being a cancer patient—or how hard it can be to find the right information and support. When she turned to the internet for answers, she was shocked by the sheer volume of misinformation—that don’t just fuel confusion and anxiety, but can have devastating consequences when patients are swayed to abandon evidence-based treatments in favour of unproven alternatives. Since retiring as a surgeon, Liz has made it her mission to counter online BS with research-based, accessible education—so patients can make informed, confident decisions as part of their self-health advocacy. In this episode, she shares her tips so that you can make decisions that are right for you! This conversation is packed with practical wisdom and honest reflections that every woman facing a cancer diagnosis—or any health challenge—deserves to hear. For all the resources in this show - including where to find Liz's books - visit the episode blog page. Rate & review—your feedback helps more women find this empowering content! Follow & join the conversation on Instagram: @luanlawriewoods Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free SSASy guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

55 min

17 MAR

Pausing Life-Saving Treatment to Regain Femininity—How Do You Decide?

Self-advocacy isn’t necessarily about standing up to your medical team—it’s about speaking up so they understand what matters to you and working with them to make informed, shared decisions about your treatment and care. That’s exactly what Kate Hardman did. Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer while pregnant, Kate faced unimaginable challenges, complex decisions, and a treatment path filled with uncertainty. Now, she’s facing another major decision: Should she have DIEP flap breast reconstruction, even though it means pausing life-saving medication? In this episode, Kate shares: How she worked with her team to explore her options, not against themWhy self-advocacy isn’t about fighting—it’s about finding the right people who listenThe emotional and physical factors she considered when choosing reconstructionThe role of trust, communication, and collaboration in making complex health decisions Self-advocacy isn’t about going it alone—it’s about having the right support behind you. Kate’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of a metastatic diagnosis, your choices still matter. Rate & review—your feedback helps more women find this empowering content! Follow & join the conversation on Instagram: @luanlawriewoods For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode blog page. Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free SSASy guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

45 min

10 MAR

Saying No in Social Situations—Without Guilt or Pressure

Advocating for yourself can feel uncomfortable—especially when your choices go against social norms. If you’ve ever felt pressured to justify a lifestyle change or struggled to hold your boundaries with family, friends, or colleagues, this episode is for you. Today, I chat with Kath Elliott, an alcohol mindset coach who reassessed her relationship with alcohol after a breast cancer diagnosis. Kath shares simple, practical strategies to help you confidently communicate your choices, set boundaries without guilt, and handle social pressure with ease. This conversation goes beyond alcohol—these self-advocacy skills apply to any situation where you need to stand firm in your choices. Whether you’re setting new boundaries or facing difficult conversations, Kath’s insights will help you advocate for yourself with confidence, certainty, and self-belief. Because self-advocacy isn’t just about healthcare decisions—it’s about standing up for what’s right for you in every part of life. In this episode: How to confidently communicate your choices—without over-explainingThe power of owning your decision to shut down pushbackSimple phrases for responding to social pressure with easeHow to hold boundaries with kindness—even when others push backWhy self-advocacy in everyday life builds confidence for bigger health decisions Rate & review—your feedback helps more women find this empowering content! Follow & join the conversation on Instagram: @luanlawriewoods For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode blog page. Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

43 min

3 MAR

Biology and Biography: Shared Decision-Making in Your Healthcare

How do you make healthcare decisions that balance the biology of a diagnosis—the research-based facts and figures—with the biography of what matters to you and how you want to live your life? Today, I talk with Dr. Susannah Graham, a leading breast surgeon who champions patient-centred care. She shares her insights on empowering patients to communicate their wants and needs effectively, fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare that respects your autonomy, values, and life priorities. Join us as we unpack how shared decision-making improves patient satisfaction and well-being, empowering you to shape your healthcare—not just as a patient, but as a person. Together, we discuss: · What shared decision-making is and why it matters, particularly for women. · How to actively participate in healthcare decisions to feel more informed, confident, and in control. · Your role as a patient and the role of the healthcare professional in shared decision-making. · Strategies to communicate openly and feel confident in your choices, even when discussing complex topics. · Real-life examples of shared decision-making in breast cancer care, including navigating reconstruction options after a mastectomy. · Balancing medical recommendations with your personal values, lifestyle, and preferences. Self-health advocacy is about knowing what’s important to you and confidently communicating it with your healthcare team, so together, you can make an informed shared decision that honours your values, needs, and the life you want to live. Want to learn more about decision-making? Listen to Marilyn Barefoot's episode 'How Creative Thinking (and a Rubber Chicken) Can Help you Make Health Decisions'. For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode blog page. Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

53 min

24 FEB

How Creative Thinking (and a Rubber Chicken) Can Help You Make Health Decisions

Feeling stuck in your healthcare decisions? Need to figure out what’s right for you but feeling overwhelmed? This episode of Regarding Me is here to help! Today, I’m joined by Marilyn Barefoot, an award-winning creative strategist and expert in problem-solving. Marilyn shares how the principles she’s used with global brands can help you get unstuck so you can make confident decisions that align with what matters most to you—even when things get complicated. Whether it's navigating medical appointments, making tough treatment decisions, or simply regaining a sense of control, Marilyn’s insights will empower you to approach your healthcare with clarity, confidence – and creativity! In This Episode: How creativity can unlock solutions when you feel stuck in your health decisionsThe power of a binder to help you stay organised and confidently advocate for yourself!Why writing by hand improves information retention and understandingHow tactile tools (like Play-Doh or a rubber chicken!) activate more of your brain for better decision-makingWhy self-advocacy doesn’t have to be big and bold—sometimes it’s as simple as asking for help or requesting your favourite music during treatment Self-advocacy isn’t just about standing up for yourself—it’s about creatively shaping your healthcare experience so it truly reflects who you are. And this episodes helps you do just that! For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode blog page. Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 hr

17 FEB

You've Got You: Trust Your Wise Inner Advocate

How can you stay calm and make clear decisions when facing unexpected medical news? What happens to your brain in a health scare? And can you shift your mind from fear to clarity? In today’s episode Luan speaks with Josie Thomson, a neuroscience expert, and award-winning mindset coach who’s faced cancer twice, to explore how you can calm your mind in a health crisis and advocate for yourself with confidence. In this episode we talk about: The brain’s automatic response to a critical health moment —and how to take back controlWhy we default to fear (and how to move into calm clarity)The hand-on-heart technique to instantly reduce anxietyThe way to ‘prime’ yourself and cultivate a sense of calmThe inner critic vs. the wise advocate—which one are you listening to?Why self-awareness and self-trust are your greatest tools in a medical crisis When you’re in fight-or-flight mode, it’s hard to process information or make clear decisions. This episode is packed with science-backed strategies to help you self-regulate, stay calm, and advocate for healthcare that’s right for you. For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode blog page. Connect with Luan: Follow Luan on Instagram Get Luan's free guide to Self-Advocacy Sign up for Luan's Newsletter Check out Luan's website Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

58 min

9 FEB

Menopause, Gaslighting, and the Power of Self-Advocacy

What do you do when you’re gaslit by your doctor? This episode is part one of your guide to reclaiming agency in your healthcare. Today, Luan sits down with Sonya Lovell, host of the Dear Menopause podcast, to discuss the critical role of self-advocacy, especially when navigating menopause and cancer treatment. Sonya opens up about her experience with breast cancer, the life-changing treatment decisions she had to make on her own, and the lack of support and information surrounding treatment-induced menopause. From facing knowledge and power imbalances with her medical team to finding the courage to challenge advice that didn’t feel right—Sonya’s story highlights why self-health advocacy is essential. Together, Luan and Sonya explore how trusting your intuition, seeking second opinions, and building a strong support network can lead to better health outcomes and greater emotional resilience. Sonya’s candid insights provide a roadmap for building confidence and ensuring your healthcare reflects your needs and choices. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help us empower more women to advocate for their health! For the resources mentioned in this show, visit the episode page: https://www.luanlawriewoods.com.au/podcasts Connect with Luan: Instagram: @luanlawriewoods Newsletter sign-up. Website: luanlawriewoods.com.au Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) DISCLAIMER The Regarding Me podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. While we strive to feature knowledgeable guests, their opinions and experiences are their own and may not reflect the views of all professionals in their field or the host. The information provided on this podcast should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is provided in good faith but without any guarantees of accuracy or applicability to individual circumstances. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any decisions or actions you take based on the content discussed. If you have specific health concerns, consult a licensed healthcare professional. The Regarding Me podcast and Luan Lawrenson-Woods disclaim any liability for activities carried out based on the provided information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 17m

4 FEB

Why Self-Advocacy is a Game-Changer

In the very first episode of Regarding Me, Luan breaks down what self-advocacy really means and why it’s essential to receiving the healthcare that truly fits your needs—backed by research! Luan shares her deeply personal experience of navigating the healthcare system after her breast cancer diagnosis and the 'aha moment' that changed everything for her. And she talks about the common anxiety points women have shared with her during her work as a patient advocate and how those experiences inspired the creation of Regarding Me and the self-health advocacy movement. Because Regarding Me is for you. Whether you’re facing a health challenge or want to future-proof your wellbeing, Regarding Me is about your voice, your needs and your care. After listening to this episode you’ll know: What’s at the core of proactive self-health advocacy.Why self-health advocacy is more important than ever.A sneak peek at some of the topics in future episodes.How you already have what it takes to advocate for yourself.One small, actionable step you can take today to start self-advocating! Listen and join the self-health advocacy movement! Join the Conversation: Let us know what resonated with you in today’s episode! DM us or comment on our latest post on Instagram. Share your self-advocacy story using #RegardingMePodcast. Subscribe & Follow: Subscribe so you never miss an episode! CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy from Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) LINKS & THINGS Email me: luan@luanlawriewoods.com.au Follow me: Instagram, LinkedIn, or check out my website. Disclaimer. DISCLAIMER The Regarding Me podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. While we strive to feature knowledgeable guests, their opinions and experiences are their own and may not reflect the views of all professionals in their field or the host. The information provided on this podcast should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is provided in good faith but without any guarantees of accuracy or applicability to individual circumstances. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any decisions or actions you take based on the content discussed. If you have specific health concerns, consult a licensed healthcare professional. Me podcast and Luan Lawrenson-Woods disclaim any liability for activities carried out based on the provided information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

23 min

TRAILER

Introducing: Regarding Me

Have you ever left a doctor’s office with more questions than answers? Have you ever felt lost in the maze of medical jargon or overwhelmed by decisions you need to make about your health? Do you break out in a sweat at the mere thought of asking for a 2nd opinion? My name’s Luan and I’m a women’s health advocate with a personal history of breast cancer. I learned the hard way that navigating the healthcare system requires more than just showing up – it’s about speaking up and advocating for yourself. The Regarding Me podcast is all about empowering women to take control of their health and proactively advocate for the healthcare care that’s right for them - because your voice and your choices matter. From understanding your options to building confidence in difficult discussions with your team, Regarding Me is your space for honest conversations, relatable advice and a supportive community of women who understand what you’re going through. Together we’ll make sure your voice is heard and your care reflects what matters to you most. Think TED talk meets support group, when you’re 6 weeks in and you know how everyone likes their tea (or coffee!). Listen in and join me and the growing community of women who are transforming their health through self-advocacy. Let’s do this! Luan x This podcast was recorded on the Traditional Lands of the Wangal people of the Eora Nation. I pay my respects to Elders past and present. Disclaimer CREDITS: Host: Luan Lawrenson-Woods, Self-Health Advocate Post-production: Paddy at Goosewing Sounds Ltd (UK) LINKS & THINGS Email me: luan@luanlawriewoods.com.au Follow me: Instagram LinkedIn or check out my website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

3 min

Regarding Me

Episodes

You Have a PhD in You: Self-Advocacy, Ovarian Cancer & Integrative Care

This Isn’t Just Me: The Power of Community, Connection and Speaking Up

Dr Liz O’Riordan on Self-Advocacy and Spotting BS Cancer Info Online

Pausing Life-Saving Treatment to Regain Femininity—How Do You Decide?

Saying No in Social Situations—Without Guilt or Pressure

Biology and Biography: Shared Decision-Making in Your Healthcare

How Creative Thinking (and a Rubber Chicken) Can Help You Make Health Decisions

You've Got You: Trust Your Wise Inner Advocate

Menopause, Gaslighting, and the Power of Self-Advocacy

Why Self-Advocacy is a Game-Changer

Introducing: Regarding Me

Trailer

Introducing: Regarding Me

Ratings & Reviews

A much needed podcast

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