The Lung Health Champion

COPD Foundation
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Biweekly

The Lung Health Champion is for anyone with lungs, which means you! In this podcast, we’ll show you how to breathe better, protect your lungs, and keep them healthy for as long as possible. From COPD and Alpha-1 to bronchiectasis and beyond, we’ll bring you expert insights, real stories, and practical tips that address the realities of living with a chronic lung condition. It’s fun, easy to follow, and will give you tools that can change how you breathe and how you live.

Episodes

  1. Jul 30

    When to Reassess Inhalers and Consider Nebulizer Therapy

    If your patients with COPD are still symptomatic despite prescribed inhaled therapy, this episode will help you rethink whether the device—not just the medication—may be part of the problem. In this episode of The Lung Health Champion, Tralisa Willis speaks with Dr. Isaac Biney and Dr. Jill Ohar about choosing the right inhaled medication device for people living with COPD. The discussion examines common inhaler technique mistakes, how inspiratory flow impacts medication delivery, and when clinicians should reassess whether handheld inhalers are still the best option. Dr. Biney and Dr. Ohar also address misconceptions surrounding nebulizers and explain how personalized device selection can improve symptom control, reduce exacerbations, and support better quality of life. The conversation highlights the importance of evaluating inhaler technique regularly and tailoring treatment approaches to each individual’s needs, lifestyle, dexterity, cognition, and breathing ability. Key Points From This Episode [00:00:00] Highlights & Show Intro [00:01:34] Reassessing Inhaler Effectiveness [00:20:35] Nebulizers as an EvidenceBased Option [00:33:13] Listener Takeaway This episode is proudly supported by The COPD Foundation Nebulizer Consortium. Learn more. COPD Foundation:
https://www.copdfoundation.org Check out Inhaler Technique in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Patient Impairments and Bronchodilation: https://doi.org/10.1093/annalsats/aaoag140 Check out Understanding Nebulizer Utilization by Patients and Healthcare Providers: A COPD Foundation Nebulizer Consortium Survey Study: https://doi.org/10.2147/COPD.S552041 Download our Nebulizer Guide: https://www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/Educational-Materials-Resources/Downloads.aspx#Nebulizers-Guide Dr. Isaac Biney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-noble-biney-45937155/ Dr. Jill Ohar on LinkedIn: ​​https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-ohar-a687124/ Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant:
https://thepodcastconsultant.com Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter:
https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    When to Reassess Inhalers and Consider Nebulizer Therapy

  2. Jul 15

    Why Nebulizers Matter: Real-Life COPD Experience and Expert Guidance

    If you’ve ever wondered whether a nebulizer might be right for you or someone you care about, this episode provides practical insights from both a patient and a respiratory therapist. They discuss how nebulizers can significantly improve daily treatment and enhance quality of life. In this episode of Lung Health Champion, Arnelle and Jonnie Korinko are joined by Bonnie, a person living with COPD, and Matthew Dartt, a respiratory therapist, for a conversation about nebulizers and their role in managing chronic lung conditions. Matthew explains how nebulizers work, how they differ from inhalers, and why they can be an effective option for people who struggle with inhaler technique, coordination, or worsening symptoms. Bonnie shares her personal journey from initially feeling overwhelmed by her diagnosis and nebulizer treatment to relying on nebulized medications as an important part of her daily routine. Together, they discuss practical benefits, common challenges, the importance of education, proper maintenance, and questions people should ask their healthcare team to get the most from their treatment.  Key Points From This Episode  [00:00:00] Highlights & Show Intro [00:01:18] How Nebulizers Work [00:08:47] How Nebulizers Help with Symptoms [00:14:34] Questions to Ask Your Doctor [00:18:07] Listener Takeaway This episode is proudly supported by The COPD Foundation Nebulizer Consortium. Learn more. COPD Foundation:https://www.copdfoundation.org COPD Foundation Inhaler Educational Video SeriesStep-by-step inhaler technique videos covering multiple inhaler devices used in COPD treatment. Helpful for patients, caregivers, and clinicians.https://copdf.co/videos Download our Nebulizer Guide: https://www.copdfoundation.org/Portals/0/CNC/Patients-Accessing-Nebulizers-and-Nebulized-Medications_Final_2025.pdf Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant:https://thepodcastconsultant.comSign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter:https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletterThe podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

  3. Jun 30

    Reframing Oxygen Care Through a Person-Centered Approach

    For clinicians who order oxygen, this episode is a must-listen guide to overcoming today’s oxygen therapy barriers and delivering care that truly improves patients’ quality of life. In this episode of the Lung Health Champion, guest host Mike Hess is joined by Mary Kitlowski, Dr. Angela Suen, Dr. Anand Iyer, and Susan Jacobs, RN, MS, to examine the challenges surrounding supplemental oxygen therapy in the United States. Drawing on their recent JAMA review article, the group discusses the barriers people living with chronic lung disease face in accessing oxygen equipment, education, and ongoing support. The conversation explores the importance of person-centered oxygen care, clinician education, mobility considerations, and the emotional and physical burdens tied to oxygen use. They also discuss reimbursement gaps, the decline in access to liquid oxygen, and policy efforts to improve care delivery and quality of life for people living with chronic lung conditions. Key Points From This Episode  [00:00:00] Highlights & Show Intro [00:01:34] Scoping the Issues – The Current State of Oxygen [00:14:04] Considering Unique Pulmonary Populations [00:23:49] Moving to a Person-Centered Approach [00:27:32] The Chronic Care Model and the 5 Ms Framework [00:35:58] Final Takeaways This episode is proudly supported by Inogen. Learn more. Read the Review article: doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2025.0279  Learn more about World Oxygen Day: WorldOxygenDay.org  Download the Oxygen Therapy Basics booklet for your patients: https://copdf.co/Oxygen-Booklet-COPD  Running On Air: https://runningonair.org/  Dr. Iyer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anandiyermd/  Dr. Suen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-suen-24791719/  Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com Sign up for the COPD Foundation’s Newsletter:https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    Reframing Oxygen Care Through a Person-Centered Approach

  4. Jun 15

    Listening to Your Lungs: Recognizing COPD Warning Signs Early

    If you’ve ever wondered whether a COPD symptom is ‘just a bad day’ or a warning sign that your COPD may be getting worse, this episode is one you don’t want to miss. In this episode of The Lung Health Champion, Arnelle is joined by Dr. MeiLan Han, Chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care at the University of Michigan Health, and Dave, a person living with COPD, to discuss the importance of recognizing changes in symptoms and taking action early. Dave shares his personal experience with COPD, including a hospitalization that changed the way he manages his health, while Dr. Han explains how flare-ups can develop and why early intervention matters. Together, they explore common reasons people delay care, the value of having an action plan, strategies to prevent exacerbations, and practical steps for maintaining lung health and quality of life. Key Points From This Episode  [00:00:00] Highlights & Show Intro [00:02:50] Listening to Your Lungs and Understanding Symptoms [00:07:54] Why Do We Wait? The Impact of Delayed Care [00:18:32] Putting Your Action Plan into Practice [00:22:00] Advice to Listeners [00:25:40] AirMail – Listener Letters This episode is proudly supported by Sanofi and Regeneron. Download your own COPD Action Plan: http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan Learn more about Severe and Worsening COPD: IsThisYouCOPD.orgDr. MeiLan Han on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meilan-han-03753133/ GOLD COPD Resources: https://goldcopd.orgUpToDate Patient Education: https://www.uptodate.com/patients Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant:https://thepodcastconsultant.comSign up for the COPD Foundation's Newsletter:https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletterThe podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

  5. May 30

    From Genotype to Action: Managing Dual-Deficient Alpha-1

    In this episode of Lung Health Champion, host Amanda Atkinson speaks with Dr. Kyle Hogarth about what happens after identifying a severe genotype in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. They outline a practical approach to patient care, including establishing baselines, determining disease risk, and guiding treatment decisions. The discussion covers monitoring strategies, recognizing signs of disease progression, and when to consider augmentation therapy or specialist referral. Dr. Hogarth also addresses common gaps in diagnosis and emphasizes the importance of routine testing and structured follow-up to improve patient outcomes.  This episode is proudly supported by Grifols. Find out more here.  COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org  Alpha-1 Foundation: https://www.alpha1.org  Dr. Kyle Hogarth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-kyle-hogarth-md-fccp-5a093b1/  Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com  Order free Alpha-1 testing kits: https://www.alphaid.com/en/hcp/order-free-alphaid-screening-test-kits The receipt of this free testing service does not create any expectation or obligation on your part to purchase or use any product or service offered by any manufacturer.  Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter  The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

    From Genotype to Action: Managing Dual-Deficient Alpha-1

  6. May 15

    Recognizing Worsening COPD and Taking Action

    In this episode of Lung Health Champion, Dr. Jean Wright speaks with Dr. Jessica Bon, a pulmonary specialist at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, alongside Tom Krueger, who is living with COPD. Together, they discuss what worsening COPD can look and feel like in daily life, from increased shortness of breath and fatigue to anxiety and changing activity levels. Dr. Bon explains how healthcare providers assess disease progression, the role of inflammation in COPD, and why it’s important for people living with COPD to communicate even subtle changes in symptoms. Tom shares his lived experience with oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, flare-ups, and staying active while managing advanced disease. The conversation also highlights treatment advances, emotional health, and the importance of support systems and movement in maintaining quality of life.    Key Points From This Episode  [00:00:00] Dr. Jessica Bon explains how anxiety and shortness of breath can create a cycle for people living with COPD.  [00:00:37] Dr. Jean Wright introduces the episode and discusses worsening COPD symptoms and inflammation.  [00:03:23] Dr. Jessica Bon explains what worsening COPD means from a clinical perspective.  [00:04:52] Discussion on how physicians identify subtle symptom progression through activity-based questions.  [00:06:24] Why recognizing worsening symptoms early can help improve treatment options and outcomes.  [00:08:42] Tom Krueger shares how COPD and oxygen therapy have changed his daily life.  [00:11:22] Common ways worsening COPD impacts quality of life and daily activities.  [00:12:40] Changes in cough and mucus production as signs of worsening disease.  [00:14:19] Tom discusses his recent COPD flare-up and emergency room visit.  [00:16:09] Discussion about anxiety, breathing patterns, and air trapping in COPD.  [00:17:31] Dr. Bon explains why worsening COPD is not the fault of the person living with the disease.  [00:18:41] Overview of neutrophilic and eosinophilic inflammation in COPD.  [00:20:34] How blood work helps identify type two inflammation in COPD.  [00:22:13] Tom emphasizes the importance of movement and avoiding inactivity.  [00:24:23] Tom reflects on smoking cessation, support systems, and respiratory therapy.  [00:26:16] Dr. Bon explains challenges in treating neutrophilic inflammation in COPD.  [00:27:38] Tom discusses medication adjustments and side effects from nebulizer treatments.  [00:28:49] Conversation about lung transplant evaluation and advanced treatment considerations.  [00:31:26] Tom shares the value of pulmonary rehabilitation and exercise tracking.  [00:33:00] Dr. Bon encourages people living with COPD to communicate worsening symptoms with their healthcare providers.  [00:33:45] Dr. Jean Wright highlights the importance of trusted resources and community support.    Links  COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org Download Tips for Living Well with COPD: https://copdf.co/2S2PHAs  Learn more about Severe and Worsening COPD: https://www.isthisyoucopd.org  Dr. Jessica Bon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-bon-50599916  Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com  Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter  The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

  7. Apr 15

    Understanding Exacerbations: Signs, Triggers, and Taking Action

    In this episode of the Lung Health Champion, host Arnelle Konde speaks with Dr. Stephanie Christenson, a pulmonologist, and Caroline Gainer, who is living with COPD, about exacerbations, also known as flare-ups. They examine what an exacerbation is, how it differs from a bad day, and why early recognition is critical.   Caroline shares her personal experience learning to identify symptoms, while Dr. Christenson explains the role of inflammation, common triggers, and the importance of understanding baseline symptoms. The discussion also highlights warning signs, action plans, and when to seek medical care, helping listeners better manage changes in their condition. This episode is proudly supported by Sanofi and Regeneron. Links Download your own COPD Action Plan: http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan Learn more about Severe and Worsening COPD: https://www.isthisyoucopd.org COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org Dr. Stephanie Christenson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-christenson-901943238 Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

  8. Apr 15

    From Fear to Action: Understanding Life After a COPD Diagnosis

    In this premiere episode of Lung Health Champion, host Arnelle Konde speaks with Dr. Barbara Yawn, a primary care physician and clinical researcher, alongside Tina Moyer, who is living with COPD. The conversation focuses on the emotional and practical realities following an initial COPD diagnosis. Dr. Yawn explains how clinicians can support patients through early misunderstandings, while Tina shares her personal experience of fear, acceptance, and learning to move forward. Together, they examine common misconceptions, the importance of ongoing communication, and how patients, families, and care teams can work together to improve quality of life. Links Download your own COPD Action Plan: http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan Download the Basics of COPD Booklet: https://copdf.co/31pwvkt COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org Dr. Barbara Yawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-yawn-42ab83b Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

  9. Trailer

    The Lung Health Champion: A COPD Foundation Podcast (TRAILER)

    Lung Health Champion is the podcast for anyone with lungs, which means you! We talk about how breathing works, why your lungs are so important, and simple ways to take good care of them. You’ll learn helpful tips, hear interesting stories, and discover things about your body you may have never thought about before. It’s fun, easy to follow, and made for anyone who wants to breathe a little easier every day. The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition.  Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen.  Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Find out more about our work here: ⁠https://www.copdfoundation.org Sign up for our newsletter here: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

The Lung Health Champion is for anyone with lungs, which means you! In this podcast, we’ll show you how to breathe better, protect your lungs, and keep them healthy for as long as possible. From COPD and Alpha-1 to bronchiectasis and beyond, we’ll bring you expert insights, real stories, and practical tips that address the realities of living with a chronic lung condition. It’s fun, easy to follow, and will give you tools that can change how you breathe and how you live.

Information

  • Creator
    COPD Foundation
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © COPD Foundation
  • Show Website
    The Lung Health Champion

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