In this Heart to Heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo welcomes special guest Dr. Matthew Carmody, a seasoned internist and associate professor at Harvard Medical School, to explore the evolving understanding of lipedema and the latest medical guidelines.

Dr. Carmody shares his journey in researching and treating lipedema, emphasizing the critical role of patient advocacy and collaboration in achieving accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. He discusses the challenges of differentiating lipedema from obesity, the importance of understanding inflammation and fluid retention, and how medical systems can improve their approach to this often misunderstood condition.

Catherine and Dr. Carmody delve into the recently updated German guidelines on lipedema, which set new standards for diagnosis and treatment. They explore the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, and dietary interventions in managing symptoms. Additionally, they highlight the importance of mobility, whether through walking or water-based exercises, to help improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

With decades of experience, Dr. Carmody underscores the need for physicians to trust patients’ lived experiences and for individuals with lipedema to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system. This conversation sheds light on the complexities of lipedema and offers actionable insights for those navigating their own medical journeys.

Tune in to learn from Dr. Carmody’s expertise and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in lipedema care.

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 dive into the realities of unexpected medical setbacks, resilience, and the power of reframing adversity.

Lisa had spent years preparing for lipedema reduction surgery in Germany, only to have it postponed at the last moment due to medical concerns. In this deeply personal conversation, she opens up about the shock, grief, and disappointment of having her plans abruptly halted—and how she’s finding the strength to move forward.

Catherine and Lisa explore the intersection of obesity, lipedema, and systemic medical biases, discussing the emotional and financial toll of seeking treatment. Lisa reflects on the extensive preparation she undertook, from mental and physical conditioning to financial planning, and how she’s now focusing on optimizing her health for future surgery.

Through candid reflections and heartfelt moments, Lisa reframes this delay as a 'not now' rather than a definitive 'no.' She shares her new strategy, which includes starting GLP-1 injections, intensifying her physiotherapy and manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) routine, and incorporating compression therapies. Most importantly, she emphasizes the role of self-compassion and the need to challenge outdated narratives around weight, health, and self-worth.

Lisa’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and the unwavering support of the lipedema community. Whether you’ve faced a similar obstacle or are looking for inspiration in the face of adversity, this episode offers powerful insights and encouragement.

Tune in to hear Lisa’s story and gain insights on navigating medical setbacks with strength and self-compassion.

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 once again by Nina Manolson, Body-Peace Coach and poet, for part two of a deep dive into transforming our relationship with our bodies. This episode continues exploring how to shift from managing and controlling our bodies to cultivating a compassionate, nurturing relationship with them.

In this follow-up episode, Nina Manolson shares her insights on the cultural expectations that lead many women to feel the need to “master” their relationship with their bodies. Lisa and Catherine discuss how this controlling mindset can create a disconnect between oneself and their body, leading to shame, self-criticism, and feelings of inadequacy. Nina reframes this concept by introducing the idea of building a "relationship" with our bodies that is grounded in kindness, care, and self-acceptance.

Throughout the episode, Catherine, Lisa and Nina dive into the power of words and how language can shift our self-perception. Nina encourages listeners to replace negative, judgmental words with those that honor and appreciate our bodies. Lisa shares a personal story of embracing her needs with a client, and how expressing her challenges with Lipedema led to a transformative moment of support and allyship.

Nina also shares her poem, "I Need to Bathe in These Words," inviting listeners to consider words that nurture their bodies rather than tear it down. Her poetic reflections encourage women to explore the language they use about themselves and create a vocabulary that promotes healing and self-compassion.

This episode offers an inspiring and compassionate dialogue that will leave you thinking differently about how you relate to your body. Tune in to gain insights on body peace, advocacy, and nurturing self-compassion. If you or someone you know is on a journey with lipedema or other chronic conditions, this conversation is a must-listen!

Mentioned in this episode:

Nina Manolson's Freebies

Body Poems by Nina Manolson

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 episode of Heart to Heart: Navigating Lipedema Together, Dr. Catherine Seo engages in a profound conversation with special guest Nina Manolson, a renowned Body-Peace coach, speaker, and nutrition therapist. Nina brings over 30 years of experience helping women cultivate a positive relationship with their bodies, and in this episode, she shares her expertise in transforming body-shame into Body-Peace. The discussion focuses on how individuals living with chronic conditions like Lipedema and Lymphedema can practice body compassion, shifting away from the control and frustration often associated with body management.

Nina's unique Body-Peace approach empowers listeners to step into a compassionate, nourishing, and trusting relationship with their bodies. Together, Catherine and Nina explore the importance of body awareness, creating a self-care practice rooted in kindness, and listening to your body’s needs without judgment.

Key Highlights:

• Discover the power of Body-Peace and how it can transform the relationship you have with your body.
• Learn practical steps for shifting from body-shame to compassion, especially when managing chronic conditions.
• Gain insights from Nina's decades of experience in nutrition therapy, coaching, and her deeply feminist, anti-diet approach.
• Understand the role of body mapping and self-awareness in promoting peace with your body.

Tune in to this episode to learn how to practice self-compassion and create a more nourishing relationship with your body. Share this episode with others who may benefit, and explore Nina's free resources to deepen your connection with your body.

Mentioned in this episode:

Nina Manolson's Freebies

Body Poems by Nina Manolson

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. 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/