Revolution From Your Bed

Trigger warning: Trauma, War themes. Surprise! We’ve got an extra episode for you! In this special episode, I am joined by Samah Atout, a Belgian Palestinian advocate and Managing Partner at BIB Partners, to reflect on the incredible insights and experiences shared during the Global Mental Health Community Summit (#GMCS25)!Together, we dive into how lived experiences can be a catalyst for meaningful policy change, and explore the practical steps advocates can take to turn global recommendations into local action. In this episode, Samah reflects on the impactful conversations from Day 3 of the summit, which spotlighted people-centered policy change – highlighting how patient participation can rebuild trust, shape better policies, and redefine mental healthcare systems.We also discuss what’s next—focusing on how to build on the summit’s key takeaways to create lasting, real-world change.For a deeper dive into the Summit’s insights, check out our blog: Driving mental health reform through collective action | Boehringer Ingelheim💬 Join the conversation and be part of the movement that’s putting patients at the heart of progress.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful conversations and inspiring stories!

In this episode, Roi Shternin and Dr. Margret Jaeger delve into the critical role of medical anthropology in addressing contemporary healthcare challenges. They explore the shortcomings of the modern healthcare system, including its lack of a holistic approach, overspecialization, and systemic failures. The discussion advocates for greater cultural sensitivity, long-term strategic planning, and improved patient journeys. Tune in as they propose solutions such as integrating nurse practitioners and medical anthropologists into primary care, enhancing professional training, and establishing community health centers to bolster prevention and patient advocacy.

taken from keynote at the Digital Health Ljubljana conference, we address the invisible crisis at the heart of the healthcare system. You are a reflective achiever, burdened by guilt for resting while navigating a health struggle or life transition. You are trapped between the person you were and the purposeful direction you can’t yet see. This keynote offers the ultimate permission you need to heal while pursuing your purpose: by shifting your perspective. Roi, The Human Advocate, challenges digital health leaders and listeners alike with one core question: Are we truly building patient-centric care, or are we simply using it as a slogan?. more at: roishternin.com

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Aileen Rice Jones, Head of Public Affairs within Mental Health at Boehringer Ingelheim. This will be Aileen’s first time attending the Global Mental Health Community Summit! With deep expertise in corporate and public affairs, Aileen shares fresh insights into mental health innovation, policy, and advocacy—and how we can drive real-world change from high-level discussions. In this episode, we explore key outcomes from the UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health, how to move from global recommendations to local, actionable impact, and why collaboration, equity, and patient-centered approaches matter more than ever! Tune in to our third and final episode of the mini-series to hear all about action and change! This may be the last episode of the series, but it’s only the beginning of what we can achieve together

This is a special series where I explore my journey as a co-host of Boehringer’s Global Mental Health Community Summit In Episode 2, I sat down with the incredible Falk Schuster, a dedicated advocate who brings a vital lived experience perspective as someone living with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). He's also joining us as a speaker on Day 2 of Boehringer’s Global Mental Health Community Summit (GMCS25), where we are discussing #RedefiningMentalHealthcareTogether. And how do we redefine #mentalhealth care together? We start by listening to people’s lived experiences. So, join me in listening to Falk as he shares his personal journey and explains why centering people’s voices is non-negotiable for progress. Plus, Falk attended last year’s inaugural event, so we also catch up about the fun we had last year connecting with everyone! He's got some great stories to share about the experience. Tune in for an inspiring discussion! roishternin.com

New podcast series alert. As you all know I’m co-hosting the Global Mental Health Community Summit (GMCS25) this year again, and I’m so excited about it. This year’s event is focused on #RedefiningMentalHealthcareTogether. Boehringer Ingelheim has invited 60 of the most inspiring and motivated #mentalhealth advocates for three-days of connection, idea-sharing, and action towards meaningful change. It’s exciting! But wait, there’s more! This year I’m bringing you all with me behind the scenes as we plan the #GMCS25. Introducing…. the “Road to the Global Mental Health Community Summit” podcast mini-series! Where you’ll get to see the “magic”, the good, the bad, the ugly. The laughter, the smiles and even sometimes the mistakes. Each episode will feature incredible guests involved in building this event. In this first episode, I sit down with @Vanessa Pott, Head of Global #PatientEngagement at @Boehringer Ingelheim, to reminisce about last year’s event, talk a little about #PatientPoweredProgress and about what makes this year’s event so special. It’s really just a chat with an old friend – tune in! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

We often feel like subjects in our own lives—navigated, tested, and surveyed. We all know that email that arrives after a medical appointment: "How did we do?" We fill out the survey, wondering if our patient feedback truly matters. Today, let's reframe that question. Your feedback isn't just feedback; it's evidence. It's a crucial part of a growing field known as patient experience data, and it's the key to real patient empowerment. Beyond the 1-10 Scale: What is Patient Data? When we think of data, we think of lab results and pain scales. But the most vital patient-reported outcomes (PROs) go far beyond numbers. Real data is the full story of your quality of life. It’s the data point of a waiting room chair being too hard for your back pain. It's the data point of feeling rushed during a consultation. It's the data point of the relief you feel when a doctor finally validates your experience. This qualitative data paints a picture that numbers alone cannot. It measures dignity, feasibility, and compassion within the healthcare system. From Anecdote to Evidence: Driving Systemic Change Your individual story is powerful, but when combined with hundreds of others, it becomes undeniable proof. This collective patient voice is what drives systemic change. It’s how patient advocacy groups can demonstrate the need for better communication protocols, more accessible clinic layouts, or a re-evaluation of a treatment's real-world side effects. Your experience helps build the business case for more compassionate and effective care. Your Self-Advocacy Toolkit: Better Healthcare Communication Improving the quality of patient experience data begins with us. True patient engagement means actively participating in our own care. Here are two simple strategies for effective self-advocacy: * The 30-Second Debrief: After every appointment, take a moment to note one thing that went well and one thing that could have been better. This simple form of symptom tracking and experience logging builds a powerful evidence file over time, making your healthcare communication more precise. * Translate Symptoms into Impact: This is key for shared decision-making. Instead of just saying, "My fatigue is bad," translate it into a functional data point. Say, "My fatigue is so severe that I must choose between taking a shower or making breakfast." This transforms a subjective feeling into a concrete piece of evidence about your quality of life. Your journey with a chronic illness has made you an expert. By consciously documenting and communicating your experience, you shift from being a passive patient to an active research partner in your own care. Your experience is not a byproduct of your illness; it is the evidence that will build a better future for all of us. Learn more about it in my book “What do Patients Want”. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Revolutionizing MedTech: Why Patient Voices are Essential for Innovation In a compelling address, Roy, speaking not as a CEO or medical professional, but as a patient, passionately argued for a fundamental shift in the MedTech industry: the integration of patient voices from the earliest stages of product development. This isn't just about corporate social responsibility; it's about smart business, enhanced user experience, and truly human-centered solutions. The Untapped Goldmine: Lived Experience as Data Roy highlights that current patient involvement in MedTech often stems from regulatory requirements, such as focus groups or clinical trials, rather than a genuine design imperative. However, patients and their caregivers possess an invaluable asset: their "lived experience." This lived experience is a rich "goldmine of data" that remains largely untapped by the industry. By engaging directly with the individuals who will ultimately use their products, MedTech companies can gain profound insights into real-world needs, challenges, and preferences that traditional data sets cannot provide. Learning from Pharma: The Business Case for Patient Engagement The pharmaceutical industry offers a powerful precedent. For many years, pharma has successfully incorporated patient voices throughout their pipelines, and not merely out of altruism. This strategic involvement has led to tangible business benefits, including: Increased Retention: Around 40% higher retention rates. Greater ROI: Improved return on investment. Reduced Redesign: Less need to go back to the drawing board for product modifications. Better Market Access: Smoother entry into target markets. Enhanced Corporate Responsibility: A stronger public image and ethical standing. These benefits demonstrate that integrating patient perspectives is not just a "nice-to-have" but a "must-have" for sustainable growth and success in the healthcare landscape. Beyond Metrics: Addressing Emotions and True Needs While the business case is clear, Roy emphasizes that the core of this movement lies in understanding the "emotions, feelings, and true needs of millions of people" who depend on these technological advancements. Whether the end-user is a patient directly, or a medical professional using a device on a patient, the human element is paramount. Regardless of the business model—B2B, B2B2C, or B2C—the ultimate beneficiaries are people, and their insights are critical for developing solutions that genuinely improve lives. Concrete Steps for MedTech Companies To truly embed patient voices into their operations, Roy urges MedTech companies to consider several actionable steps: Direct Engagement: Move beyond abstract data and engage in direct conversations with the people who will use their products. Patient Experts in Residence: Incorporate "patient experts" or "patients in residence" directly into project teams. These individuals can provide continuous, real-time feedback and perspectives throughout the development cycle. Chief Patient Officer (CPO): Establish a leadership role, such as a Chief Patient Officer or Chief Patient Engagement Officer, to champion patient advocacy and ensure their voices are systematically integrated across the organization. This position would serve as a crucial interface for all patient and caregiver interactions. Strategic Resource Utilization: View patients and caregivers as invaluable resources in product design, process improvement, and business development. A Personal Plea for Humanistic MedTech Roy’s impassioned plea is deeply personal, stemming from his own experience of spending "almost a decade in bed, misdiagnosed," and feeling that healthcare failed him. He insists that MedTech must not repeat these failures. The goal is to create "humanistic at heart" devices and solutions, regardless of how advanced the underlying technology may be. By embracing patient insights, the industry can ensure that innovation truly serves...

In this episode, Roi Shternin chats with Linda, the inspiring force behind "The Mindful Migraine Blog." Linda has battled chronic migraines for years, experiencing the debilitating effects that often left her bedridden. But a year ago, she embarked on a journey of self-healing, embracing mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises. The results? A dramatic reduction in migraines – from 3 days a week to just the occasional bad day! Linda shares her insightful story, offering a beacon of hope for those struggling with chronic pain. You'll hear about the specific mindfulness techniques that helped her regain control, plus the inspiration to start your own healing journey. Don't miss this episode if you're looking for real talk, expert tips, and a supportive community to help you manage your migraines and thrive! Linda's Blog: https://themindfulmigraine.blog/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Welcome to our new podcast! Our first guest, Natasha Punia, is an expert in the science of inflammation. Living with a chronic condition herself and leading a community helping patients deal with inflammation-based illnesses, we talked about acceptance, dealing with our surroundings, invisible illnesses, and life. Join her community: https://inflammed.substack.com/ Join The Chronically tribe: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Tired of waiting for someone to go to the movies with? Don't! Discover the unexpected joy and freedom of going to the cinema alone. It's not lonely, it's liberating. Find out why a solo movie date might just be your new favorite thing. Follow my Journey at roishternin.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Living with a chronic illness is tough enough, but what about the invisible battles you're fighting up top? This NMU podcast dives into the often-overlooked connection between chronic physical conditions and your mental well-being. We're talking real talk about how managing a long-term illness can impact your mood, stress levels, and overall mental health. Tune in to learn why giving your mind some TLC is just as important as managing your physical symptoms, and discover practical tips for staying resilient. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Hey Chronically crew! I'm back from a healthcare conference buzzing with talk about AI and the future of health data.But amidst all the flashy promises, something important is missing from the conversation: patient ownership. And it's making me mad. 😠 The Wild West of Wellness Data: The world of consumer health tech is exploding. We're buying fancy fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health apps left and right. We're shelling out hundreds for the privilege of tracking our own heartbeats, sleep patterns, and menstrual cycles. And then... we're paying again for subscriptions to analyze this data? But here's the kicker: this data isn't just sitting on a server somewhere. It's being sold. Your most personal health information is becoming a commodity, traded behind the scenes while you're left footing the bill. Time for a Revolution: I'm here to say enough is enough. It's time to flip the script on health data ownership. Why should we be paying companies to access and analyze information that belongs to us? Instead, companies should be paying us for the valuable insights our data provides. Just like pharma companies compensate patients for their experiences, tech companies should recognize the gold mine of information we generate. A Call to Action: Next time you're tempted by a shiny new health tracker, take a closer look at the terms and conditions. Do you really want to pay for the privilege of having your data monetized? Let's demand more transparency and fairer practices. I'm not saying we should ditch wearables altogether (I'm a huge fan!). But let's push for a future where patients are empowered partners, not passive data sources. Remember: Your health data is yours. It's time to claim what's rightfully yours. Until next time, stay chronically awesome! Read more in my Book “What Do Patients Want? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chronicallyhealth.substack.com Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment or share this episode. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Living with chronic illness while pursuing a career can feel like an overwhelming challenge. As someone who has walked this path, I understand the unique hurdles you face. That's why I've created resources to help you thrive, both personally and professionally. In this podcast episode, we dive into: * The Emotional Empowerment Map: A powerful tool I developed from my 18-year journey with chronic illness. This map helps you understand and navigate the four emotional stages of chronic illness, allowing you to move forward with confidence. * The Elation Program: Our comprehensive 3-month program designed to realign your confidence and career path. It includes coaching, masterclasses, and practical tools to help you shine in your career while managing your health. Remember, you don't have to choose between your well-being and your professional aspirations. It's possible to create a fulfilling career that aligns with your body's needs. Want to learn more? Download your free Emotional Empowerment Map Guide at michelleirving.com.au/map or explore the Elation Program at careerandchronicillness.com/elation. Your journey to career empowerment starts now. Let's take this step together. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chronicallyhealth.substack.com Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment or share this episode. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

From a cancer researcher to a startup executive and all the way to starting er own Patient community about Inflammation based conditions. Dr. Natasha Punia and I are delving into a personal conversation about stigma, life with a chronic illness, being a chronic entrepreneur and channeling our pain into empowering others. Her community: https://inflammed.substack.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chronicallyhealth.substack.com Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment or share this episode. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

I had the absolute pleasure to host Ursula Mann, a dear friend and colleague who served in senior patient engagement positions in big pharma for many years, to discuss bringing the voice of patients into industry decision-making, technology assessment, and more. Nowadays, Ursula is leading an organisation aimed at bringing patients' voices to the decision-making table. Learn more about it here and sign up if you wish to have the opportunity to share your insights as a patient. https://patientvoicepartners.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chronicallyhealth.substack.com Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment or share this episode. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

From a Flawed Hero to a Healing Soul: A New Journey Begins First, a heartfelt thank you. Your support throughout my initial journey has been a source of immense strength. You listened as I battled a mysterious illness, cheering me on as I faced the healthcare system. However, that story wasn't the whole picture. It painted me as a valiant warrior, but the truth is, I'm human. The experience left its mark, and it's time I address the mental scars, the PTSD I've been carrying. That's why I'm embarking on a new journey – a journey towards healing. This time, I'll be honest, vulnerable, and open about the challenges faced by those serving on the frontlines. Will you join me? This next chapter will be raw, unfiltered, and focused on growth. If you're interested in following along, stay tuned! https://roishternin.substack.com/ Get My book here: https://books2read.com/ap/nOkrbo/Roi-Shternin Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/revolution-from-your-bed/donations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Struggling with chronic illness and want to pursue higher education? This week's bite-sized episode tackles the challenges of online learning for those with chronic conditions. We explore the limitations of traditional online programs and discuss a potential solution: Hybrid model:Local cohorts:This is just the beginning! We want to hear your thoughts. What can we do to make education more accessible for people with chronic illness? Leave a comment and let's start a conversation! #chronicillness #education #highereducation #accessibility #onlinelearning Get My book here: https://books2read.com/ap/nOkrbo/Roi-Shternin Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/revolution-from-your-bed/donations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Unleash your inner speaker from the comfort of your own home! In this episode of Revolution From Your Bed with Roi Shternin, Roi dives deep into his experiences as a public speaker, sharing invaluable lessons learned that will transform you into a confident and captivating speaker. Whether you're facing a small audience or a packed auditorium, Roi's insights will equip you with the tools and techniques to captivate your listeners, conquer your fear, and deliver impactful presentations that will leave a lasting impression. Tune in and discover: Content creation strategiesOvercoming public speaking jittersTips for effective storytellingBonus:This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to elevate their public speaking skills and become a more impactful communicator. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a master himself! My Books: https://books2read.com/ap/nOkrbo/Roi-Shternin My Go to Digital Marketing Agency: https://alttag.digital/kontakt/ Get My book here: https://books2read.com/ap/nOkrbo/Roi-Shternin Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/revolution-from-your-bed/donations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com

Welcome to a very special episode of the "Revolution From Your Bed Podcast," where I have the pleasure of bringing on a guest who's not only incredibly dear to my heart but also a true embodiment of taking the road less traveled. Joining us today is none other than my own sister, Chen, who has carved out a unique and inspiring path in her life. Chen took the unconventional route early on. She followed her passion for culinary arts and attended pastry school, where she honed her skills and indulged in the sweeter side of life. Not content with just creating delectable desserts, she took her drive to the next level by being instrumental in starting a student-led startup. This experience wasn't just about entrepreneurship; it was about leadership, innovation, and the power of collaborative vision. But Chen's journey didn't stop there. At the young age of 25, she made the bold decision to move to Vienna, embracing the expat life with all its challenges and charms. Vienna wasn't just a new city for her; it was a gateway to new cultures, experiences, and perspectives that have enriched her life in countless ways. In this conversation, we'll delve into the essence of fighting for the strength to do what you really want in life. We'll talk about the hurdles and the triumphs, the moments of doubt, and the peaks of clarity. We'll also touch on the complexities of dating in today's world, especially from the lens of someone living abroad, and how these experiences shape our understanding of love and connection. Chen will share her insights on fulfilling dreams and the relentless pursuit of what brings joy and meaning to one's life. We'll discuss the importance of staying true to oneself and the courage it takes to chase after what you believe in, even when it defies conventional expectations. And finally, we'll reflect on what's truly important in life. Through stories, laughter, and perhaps a few tears, we'll explore the values that anchor us, the relationships that sustain us, and the dreams that propel us forward. So, whether you're looking for inspiration to take your own unconventional path, curious about the expat life, or simply in need of a heart-to-heart about life's big questions, this episode promises to be a candid and moving conversation with someone who's living it all firsthand. Join us for this intimate and engaging chat with my sister Chen, right here on the "Revolution From Your Bed Podcast." Get My book here: https://books2read.com/ap/nOkrbo/Roi-Shternin Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/revolution-from-your-bed/donations This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit roishternin.substack.com