Ask The Patient Advocate

Elena Borrelli
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Are you tired of feeling lost and overwhelmed in the healthcare system? Do you want to regain control of your health journey and make informed decisions with confidence? If so, then this podcast is for you.  I am a Doctor of Medical Science, author, a mother and a Board Certified Patient Advocate who has worked in healthcare for over 25 years. I have been the provider, the patient, the daughter, the sister, and the parent facing the overwhelming healthcare system; and left feeling alone and confused. Navigating your health and managing your healthcare is challenging, but it's a lot better when we go through it together.  Are you ready to take charge of your healthcare journey? It's time to Ask the Patient Advocate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 12h ago

    Finding the Root Cause of Chronic Illness with Karen Zuzu

    Are you treating symptoms without ever finding the root cause? Could small lifestyle changes make a bigger difference than you realize? What if your health journey is only one chapter—not the whole story? For many people living with chronic illness, the search for answers doesn't end with a diagnosis. It often sparks deeper questions about nutrition, lifestyle, environmental factors, and how the body heals as a whole. In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Karen Zuzu, holistic health educator, speaker, and founder of Holistic Health Educators. After being diagnosed with epilepsy as a child, Karen spent decades researching natural health approaches that ultimately transformed her own life and inspired her mission to educate others about whole-body wellness. Whether you're navigating a chronic condition, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for a more holistic perspective on wellness, this conversation offers thoughtful insights, practical tools, and hope for the road ahead. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395  Connect with Karen Zuzu Ziemer Armes  www.lillyfieldscenter.com  www.zuzuunleashed.com https://www.facebook.com/karen.ziemer.8 https://www.facebook.com/LillyFieldsWC https://www.instagram.com/zuzu_unleashed/ https://www.youtube.com/@holistichealtheducators Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Finding the Root Cause of Chronic Illness with Karen Zuzu

  2. Jul 17

    Can You Reduce Chronic Pain Without Surgery or Medication? With Eileen Kopsaftis

    What if chronic pain isn't something you simply have to live with? Could aging without decline actually be possible? And what if small, intentional changes could help you regain strength, function, and hope? In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Eileen Kapsaftis, a chronic pain consultant with more than 30 years of experience helping people reduce—and often eliminate—chronic pain while restoring function and improving long-term health. Her whole-person approach challenges many of the common beliefs surrounding aging, pain, and recovery. Together, they explore why so many people remain stuck despite seeking treatment, how conventional healthcare often overlooks the bigger picture, and why movement, nutrition, and personalized care play a critical role in healing. Eileen also shares the surprising myth behind "age-related decline," explains her unique four-pronged approach to chronic pain, and offers simple, practical strategies that listeners can begin using today. Whether you're living with chronic pain, pelvic pain, endometriosis, mobility challenges, or simply want to stay healthier as you age, this conversation offers actionable insights, encouragement, and a refreshing perspective on what's possible. Healing isn't always about finding another procedure or prescription. Sometimes, it's about understanding your body differently, taking the first small step forward, and realizing that a healthier, stronger future may be more achievable than you ever imagined. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Eileen Kopsaftis https://havelifelongwellbeing.com/ https://www.facebook.com/EileenKopsaftisOfficial https://www.youtube.com/@EileenKopsaftis Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can You Reduce Chronic Pain Without Surgery or Medication? With Eileen Kopsaftis

  3. Jul 10

    ME/CFS, Long COVID & the Fight to Be Heard with Emily Taylor

    Have you ever felt like your symptoms were dismissed because your tests looked "normal"? Have you or someone you love been searching for answers about ME/CFS, Long COVID, or another infection-associated chronic condition? What happens when patients refuse to stay silent—and their voices begin changing healthcare? In this powerful episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Emily Taylor, President and CEO of Solve M.E., for an eye-opening conversation about ME/CFS, Long COVID, and the challenges faced by millions living with invisible illnesses. Emily shares her deeply personal journey from caregiver to nationally recognized advocate, explaining how her mother's battle with ME/CFS inspired a career dedicated to transforming healthcare through research, policy, and patient advocacy. Together, they discuss why these conditions have historically been misunderstood, why so many patients feel dismissed, and how gaps in medical education continue to impact diagnosis and care. You'll also hear how patient stories have helped secure more than $1.5 billion in Long COVID research funding, why community and advocacy are so powerful, and what newly diagnosed patients can do to find hope, support, and compassionate medical partners. Whether you're living with a chronic condition, caring for someone who is, or simply want to better understand these complex illnesses, this conversation offers insight, validation, and encouragement. Because every patient deserves to be heard—and every story has the power to create change. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Emily Taylor https://solvecfs.org/ https://www.instagram.com/solve_cfs/ https://www.facebook.com/SolveMECFSInitiative/ https://x.com/PlzSolveCFS https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilytaylorca/ Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    ME/CFS, Long COVID & the Fight to Be Heard with Emily Taylor

  4. Jul 3

    Can You Really Heal from Trauma? Finding Hope Through Forgiveness and Healing with Teri Wellbrock

    Have you ever wondered if emotional wounds can affect your physical health? Have you been carrying pain from the past and questioned whether true healing is really possible? What if forgiveness wasn't about excusing what happened—but about setting yourself free? In this deeply moving episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Teri Wellbrock—author, motivational speaker, forgiveness mentor, audiobook producer, and host of the internationally ranked The Healing Place Podcast—to explore the powerful connection between trauma, healing, forgiveness, and hope. In this episode, you'll learn: How unresolved trauma can impact both physical and mental healthWhat EMDR therapy is and why it can be life-changing for trauma survivorsThe connection between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and chronic diseaseA healthy, empowering perspective on forgivenessSimple mindfulness and self-care practices to begin your healing journeyWhy building your own "healing toolbox" can make all the difference This heartfelt conversation reminds us that while healing isn't always easy, we don't have to walk the journey alone—and with the right support, hope is always within reach. If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Connect with Teri Wellbrock         https://teriwellbrock.com/ https://www.facebook.com/TheHealingPlacePodcast https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-wellbrock/ https://www.youtube.com/teriwellbrock https://www.instagram.com/healingplacepodcast Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Can You Really Heal from Trauma? Finding Hope Through Forgiveness and Healing with Teri Wellbrock

  5. Jun 26

    Why Teen and Young Adults Need Real Mental Health Support with Dr. Rachel Hyman

    Why are so many older teens and young adults silently struggling? Why does anxiety feel louder than ever in this generation? And why do so many young people fall through the cracks during one of the most formative stages of life? In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Dr. Rachel Hyman, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with teens, young adults, and families. Emerging adulthood is a season of exploration, transition, and identity formation — but it can also be a time of intense uncertainty. Academic pressure. Social comparison. Relationship challenges. Chronic health conditions. A rapidly changing world. It’s no surprise that anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem struggles are increasingly common. Dr. Hyman shares why anxiety — especially social anxiety — is one of the most prevalent concerns she sees today, and how social media has amplified the pressure young people feel. At the same time, she highlights a hopeful shift: the stigma around mental health is decreasing, and more young adults are seeking support. We also explore: • What therapy actually looks like (and why it’s not a quick fix) • Why readiness and willingness matter in the therapeutic process • How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help • The emotional toll of managing chronic health conditions at a young age • Why mental health support is a critical piece of medical advocacy • The benefits and accessibility of tele-mental health services If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395. Connect with Rachel Hyman https://www.drrachelhyman.com/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/08/02/diabetes-colorblindness-genetic-testing/ Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Why Teen and Young Adults Need Real Mental Health Support with Dr. Rachel Hyman

  6. Jun 19

    Help! Is Anyone Listening? Feeling Stuck With Your Condition

    Have you ever left a medical appointment wondering if anyone truly heard what you said? Have you explained your symptoms again and again, only to feel like progress isn’t happening? Or quietly ask yourself: Is anyone actually listening? In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine explore a deeply important and often unspoken experience in healthcare: the feeling of not being heard. Modern healthcare is incredibly complex. Specialists focus on specific areas, appointment times are often limited, and communication gaps can easily occur. When care becomes fragmented, patients often find themselves carrying the responsibility of connecting the dots between providers, tests, and treatment plans — all while managing their own health challenges. Over time, this can lead to frustration, exhaustion, and even self-doubt. In this thoughtful conversation, Dr. Borrelli discusses: • Why so many patients feel “stuck” in the healthcare system • How fragmented care can make progress feel slow or unclear • Why patients often blame themselves when answers don’t come • The emotional impact of repeatedly feeling dismissed or misunderstood • Why being heard is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence. ✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care or your loved one’s. 👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started. Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  7. Jun 5

    How Am I Still Struggling With My Chronic Condition?

    Have you done everything your doctors recommended… yet you’re still struggling with your chronic condition? Do you ever wonder why progress feels so slow — or why you still feel overwhelmed despite trying so hard? Have you asked yourself, “Why am I still dealing with this?” If these questions sound familiar, you’re not alone. In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli and Christine tackle a deeply relatable and often unspoken reality for people living with chronic illness: the frustration of doing everything “right” and still feeling stuck. Managing a chronic condition is rarely simple. It often involves multiple specialists, changing medications, evolving symptoms, and a healthcare system that tends to focus on individual problems rather than the full picture. Over time, patients can find themselves juggling appointments, tracking symptoms, managing records, and advocating for themselves — all while trying to function in daily life. That level of responsibility can become exhausting. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why chronic conditions rarely improve in a straight line • Why patients can feel “stuck” even when they are following treatment plans carefully • The emotional toll of long-term illness and uncertainty • How fragmented care between multiple specialists can make progress harder • Why coordination and communication are critical in chronic disease management If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395 Take control of your healthcare journey with confidence. ✨ Enroll today in our Patient Advocacy Course and learn how to speak up, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your care or your loved one’s. 👉 Visit https://pathwaypa.com/pathwaycourses/ to get started. Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  8. May 29

    Survivorship Starts Day One: Why Nutrition Matters with Sammy Peterson

    Why does nutrition suddenly feel so overwhelming the moment you need it most? Why are patients told “just eat whatever you want” during cancer treatment — when clearly, it’s not that simple? And what if wellness didn’t have to feel restrictive, rigid, or exhausting… but instead supportive and sustainable? In this episode of Ask the Patient Advocate Podcast, Dr. Elena Borrelli sits down with Sammy Peterson, RD, founder and CEO of Simply Wellness and a former clinical oncology dietitian, to unpack one of the most misunderstood pillars of healthcare: nutrition. Sammy began her career in a rare hospital setting where conventional oncology care and complementary wellness lived under one roof — even operating as a farm-to-table hospital. That experience reshaped her philosophy entirely. She saw firsthand that when patients were supported emotionally, nutritionally, physically, and mentally — not just medically — they didn’t just survive treatment… they felt stronger moving through it. In this episode, we explore: • Why wellness feels so complicated — and how to simplify it • The problem with one-size-fits-all health advice • Why nutrition should be integrated into cancer care from day one • Practical strategies for managing nausea, taste changes, fatigue, and appetite loss • The power of small, consistent habits over perfection • Why survivorship truly starts at diagnosis • How to support both the patient and the family during treatment If you have questions or topics you'd like us to explore, don't hesitate to reach out to us at advocate@pathwaypa.com. Remember, with the right advocate by your side, managing your health becomes a journey of empowerment and clarity. For personalized assistance and support, reach out to us and discover how we can help you navigate your path to better health. Call us at (947) 517-8395. Connect with Sammy Peterson, RD, CSO: https://simplywellnessllc.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-peterson-825899358/ https://www.instagram.com/sammypetersonrd/ https://www.facebook.com/SimplyWellnessllc Connect with Dr. Elena Borrelli: Instagram: @pathwaypadvocates Facebook: Pathway Patient Advocates Youtube: Pathway Patient Advocates Tiktok: Pathway Patient Advocates LinkedIn: Pathway Patient Advocates pathwaypa.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Survivorship Starts Day One: Why Nutrition Matters with Sammy Peterson
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About

Are you tired of feeling lost and overwhelmed in the healthcare system? Do you want to regain control of your health journey and make informed decisions with confidence? If so, then this podcast is for you.  I am a Doctor of Medical Science, author, a mother and a Board Certified Patient Advocate who has worked in healthcare for over 25 years. I have been the provider, the patient, the daughter, the sister, and the parent facing the overwhelming healthcare system; and left feeling alone and confused. Navigating your health and managing your healthcare is challenging, but it's a lot better when we go through it together.  Are you ready to take charge of your healthcare journey? It's time to Ask the Patient Advocate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Elena Borrelli
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    105
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Elena Borrelli
  • Show Website
    Ask The Patient Advocate