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Welcome to The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, a dedicated platform where we explore the unique needs and concerns of solo aging with a focus on empowerment, connection, and proactive planning. As a trusted healthcare advocate and national expert in solo aging, I am thrilled to launch this podcast to provide valuable insights, practical advice, and supportive resources for solo agers navigating the complexities and opportunities of aging independently. The Navigating Solo™ Podcast aims to: - Highlight innovative strategies and best practices for creating a fulfilling and secure future as a solo ager. - Equip solo agers with the knowledge and tools to thrive in their later years. - Foster a supportive community where listeners can share experiences and learn from and with one another. - Offer allied professionals interested in learning more about the unique needs and concerns of solo agers in-depth understanding, expert perspectives, and practical advice to help meet the needs of their clients and community members. 30 - 45 minute episodes will be released one the first and third Wednesdays of each month! Join Our Mailing List and more: https://navigatingsolo.com/navsolopodcast
Episodes
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Wednesday May 21, 2025
In this deeply personal solo episode of The Navigating Solo™ Podcast, host Ailene Gerhardt, board-certified patient advocate and founder of the Navigating Solo™ Network, shares what it’s been like to shift from supporting others through health challenges to facing a health challenges of her own.
Ailene reflects on the emotional and physical toll of multiple diagnoses, hospitalizations, and ongoing treatments—all while living independently. She speaks candidly about the loss of routine, the disruption to her work, and the vulnerability of stepping into the role of patient after years of advocating for others.
Through sharing her story, Ailene explores:
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The blurred line between professional advocate and patient
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How illness can challenge identity and sense of control
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The critical importance of compassionate, person-centered care
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What it means to be present for yourself when your life feels upended
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How asking for help and acknowledging limitations can be acts of strength
This episode is a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a whole person—and that even those who guide others through healthcare systems need support too.
Resources & Links:
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Learn more about the Navigating Solo™ Network: https://navigatingsolo.com
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Listen to past episodes of the podcast: https://navigatingsolo.com/navsolopodcast
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Connect on Instagram: @navigatingsolo
Connect with Host Ailene Gerhardt, BCPA, CSA:
- Beacon Patient Solutions LLC: BeaconPatientSolutions.com, Email: info@beaconpatientsolutions.com
- The Navigating Solo Network™: NavigatingSolo.com Email: info@navigatingsolo.com
- The Navigating Solo™ Podcast: podcast@navigatingsolo.com
View this discussion on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@navigatingsolonetwork/videos
Subscribe and follow us for more insightful episodes, and don’t forget to visit navigatingsolo.com for resources, updates, and more!
© 2025, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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