Advertise on podcast: Patient Advocacy Voices

How do we rebuild trust in vaccines when fear and misinformation stand in the way, especially for autistic individuals and their families? In this episode of Patient Advocacy Voices, host Eric Racine is joined by co-host Heather Entenmann, U.S. Public Health Engagement Lead at Sanofi, for a thoughtful conversation on vaccine confidence, trust, and inclusion. Together, they welcome two leading voices in public health and advocacy: Danielle Hall, former Vaccine Education Lead at the Autism Society of America, and Dr. Kelly Moore, President and CEO of Immunize.org. Drawing on lived experience, decades of public health leadership, and frontline advocacy work, the conversation explores why the long-debunked myth linking vaccines and autism continues to persist, and why rebuilding trust requires more than facts alone. The discussion highlights how healthcare experiences, sensory needs, anxiety, and empathy all play critical roles in shaping vaccine decisions, and what advocacy leaders and providers can do differently to better support autistic individuals and their families. In this episode, you’ll gain insights on: Why misinformation about vaccines and autism endures, and how to address it with empathy, not judgmentHow healthcare experiences and sensory needs influence vaccine confidence in the autism communityPractical ways providers and vaccination sites can reduce anxiety and create more inclusive, respectful experiences for immunizations in any disease areaHow advocacy organizations, healthcare professionals, and trusted messengers can counter misinformation by leading with empathy and authenticityThis conversation is a powerful reminder that rebuilding trust in public health starts with listening, understanding lived experiences, and meeting people where they are, because confidence is built not just through evidence, but also through empathy.

2025 was a year of transformative change and opportunity across the patient advocacy community, Sanofi, and for patients.  In this special year-end episode, host Eric Racine, joined by Adam Gluck, Head of U.S. & Global Specialty Care Corporate Affairs, and all Sanofi Season 2 co-hosts, revisit the most powerful conversations and lessons from the 2025 season while exploring the year’s defining theme, transformation. We are living through an unprecedented moment where sweeping shifts in healthcare policy, groundbreaking AI capabilities, and breakthrough scientific advances are unfolding at the same time, creating both extraordinary opportunity and profound responsibility to ensure these developments truly improve patients’ lives.  Eric and the team surface insights on how patient advocacy organizations and Sanofi are rising up to meet this incredible moment. Together they recall key lessons from advocacy leaders across immunology, lung health, vaccines, mental health, rare diseases, maternal health, and more. Learn how collaboration, co-creation, and patient integration can help organizations transform capabilities and deliver more impact for patients. In this episode, you’ll gain insights to: Uncover transformation opportunities during this time of rapid shifts in healthcare, policy, technology, and scienceAdapt new tools and engagement models to better meet the needs of patient communitiesScale community-centered programs creatively, from helplines to peer networks and proactive outreachStrengthen collaborations across advocacy groups, policymakers, and industry to drive meaningful changeAccelerate the “last mile” between scientific breakthroughs and real-world patient accessEmbrace continuous learning and mindset shifts that are essential for organizational transformation that delivers resultsAs we close out the year, we’re grateful to every patient advocacy leader whose insights helped us renew our commitments and elevate our performance for patients moving forward into 2026. Looking ahead, the pace of change will only accelerate, but so will our collective ability to anticipate and respond, guided by the advocates who inspire and inform this work. We’re excited to build on this momentum next season with new conversations, fresh discoveries, and more lessons that move us closer to a healthcare system that truly works for every patient.

What does it take to move from patient-centric talk to patient-driven action? In this episode, we go inside Sanofi’s Patient Community Promise, a commitment to truly integrate patients throughout every part of its global organization.  Host Eric Racine is joined by Sanofi co-hosts from around the world: Kersten Sharrock, Amy Akers-Teets, Catherine Coulouvrat, and Nick Taylor. They share how the Patient Community Promise was co-created with more than 80 patient advocacy leaders, how Sanofi is both measuring and publicly reporting the ways this promise is reshaping its culture, decision-making, and actions for patients. They are also joined by special guest Michael Osso, President & CEO of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, who returns to the podcast to provide an external perspective on what true patient partnership looks like, and why it’s urgently needed as the healthcare landscape evolves. You’ll hear examples of integrating patients throughout every stage of the scientific innovation lifecycle, from R&D to patient access to people-centered healthcare systems. Across the conversation, the group reflects on the cultural transformation required to meaningfully share the table with patients, the power of real-world data, and how patient-informed insights can accelerate medical innovation for all patient communities.  This episode is packed with insights on how to: Co-create commitments with patient leaders that are actionable and transparentIntegrate patient engagement throughout your organization to drive ideas and decisions Accelerate patient-driven innovation through real-world data, lived experience, and continuous listeningStrengthen partnerships with patient leaders and organizations to close gaps in research, access, and careSimplify processes and make partnerships easier and more impactfulSustain culture change by aligning behaviors, metrics, and accountability to what matters to patientsThis episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how bold commitments become lived behaviors, and why partnering differently with patients is essential for the future of healthcare.

How does an advocacy organization with a historic legacy transform and lead on the most pressing issues facing its constituents today?  Host Eric Racine and co-host Robin Johnson sit down with Cindy Rahman, President & CEO, and Erin Jones, Senior Director Legislative & Strategic Counsel, at March of Dimes. From its historic role in eradicating polio to its modern fight for the health of all moms and babies, March of Dimes evolves by mobilizing data, storytelling, and collaboration to drive meaningful change in maternal and infant care. In this episode you’ll gain insights on how to: Stay mission-driven in a rapidly changing environment by empowering your teams to engage in the community and share ideas Activate and sustain a nationwide network of advocates and volunteers whose voice and efforts make a differenceDeploy partnerships and hyper-local collaborations to build trust and address healthcare gaps Leverage data and patient storytelling for effective advocacy and policy changeTune in to hear how March of Dimes turned its deep-rooted history into forward-looking advocacy and solutions, and learn about capabilities to help your organization make an impact in this dynamic healthcare environment.

When patients are living with a misunderstood condition, and healthcare providers may not always have the answers, advocacy organizations have the power to step in and help close the gaps. In this episode, host Eric Racine and co-host Elizabeth Franklin sit down with Caroline Kruse, President & CEO of the Platelet Disorder Support Association (PDSA), whose personal experience with ITP, a rare autoimmune disease, profoundly shapes how she leads. From helping patients and clinicians recognize ITP sooner, to connecting patients, engaging in R&D, and advocating for patient-focused policies, PDSA is powered by a team of people with lived experience.   In this episode you’ll hear insights on how to:  Amplify disease awareness through storytelling and creative outreach Overcome the challenge of educating healthcare providers about a misjudged diseaseBuild connections that transform patient isolation into patient empowermentContribute to the leading edge of innovation by generating patient data and bringing patients’ perspectives directly to the scientific communityWhether you work in a rare disease area or any underserved patient community, this conversation offers fresh ideas and practical approaches for expanding your organization’s reach and impact.

Successful patient advocacy groups often start with a simple but powerful question: What do our patients need that no one else is delivering? The CHES Foundation took this approach head on, turning gaps in care, education, and belonging into innovative, measurable programs for the rare bleeding disorders community. In this episode, host Eric Racine and co-host Jane Smith sit down with Janet Brewer, Co-Founder & Executive Director of the CHES Foundation, to explore how CHES builds solutions that address true unmet needs of patients and caregivers. Janet shares how her personal journey shaped an approach to meet people where they are, listen deeply, and create programs they’ll never forget. From launching a unique camp for inhibitor patients and families, to making learning fun through disco bingo trivia at conferences, CHES reimagines how advocacy organizations can educate and empower communities. In this episode you’ll find practical insights on how to:  Listen to what patients and families really need and turn it into creative, data-driven programs Design experiential education that is memorable and measurableDeliver impact for populations that lack solutions – learning from CHES solutions for children with inhibiters, women and girls with bleeding disorders, and people with ultra rare bleeding disordersContinually improve by acting on program data and community feedback This episode is a powerful look at what happens when education and support is designed not just for patients but with them, offering relevant takeaways for leaders working in any therapeutic area. 

In this episode of Patient Advocacy Voices, host Eric Racine and co-host Marco DeThomasis, People Business Partner, Specialty Care at Sanofi, sit down with Schroeder Stribling, President & CEO of Mental Health America (MHA). Together, they explore how data, early intervention, and workplace culture can help address America’s growing mental health crisis. From national trends to practical tools, this conversation blends strategy with humanity – offering advocacy and business leaders insights they can apply to help improve mental health in their organizations and communities. Listeners will gain valuable insights on: The importance of screening and tools used by MHA for early identification of mental health concernsWays to reduce stigma and create a culture that promotes trust, authenticity, and wellbeingWhat employees expect and how it leads to a safer and more productive workplaceExamples of how leaders can role model mental wellnessThis episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to rethink ways to advance mental health and wellbeing, whether you're leading an organization, managing a team, serving a community, or advocating for better health policies.  Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of sensitive mental health topics. Listener discretion is advised.

Why do life-changing medical innovations often struggle to reach the patients who need them most? In this episode of Patient Advocacy Voices, Esther Krofah of the Milken Institute moderates a powerful conversation with senior Sanofi leaders across immunology, vaccines, diabetes, and policy on the systemic barriers that stand between scientific breakthroughs and ensuring access for patients in need. The conversation was recorded in February 2025 at the Sanofi Patient Advocacy Council. You’ll hear candid insights on: The "last mile" problem in getting therapies to patientsReal-world examples of how insurance hurdles delay or deny carePolicy shifts that could better reward innovation while reducing patient burdenThe urgent need for representative clinical trial recruitmentHow collaboration across advocacy, industry, and government can drive changeThis episode offers both a frank view of patient access challenges and a clear call to action for working together, boldly and specifically, to make the system work better for patients.

How do you drive awareness for a rare disease with a name that’s difficult to even pronounce and a wide range of symptoms that mimic other conditions? In this episode, host Eric Racine and co-host Preeya George-Guiser sit down with Mary Jo Strobel, Executive Director of the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED), about the organization’s strategic approach to rare disease advocacy. Mary Jo shares how APFED blends creativity, strategy, and a patient-centered approach to raise awareness and improve lives for patients living with eosinophil-associated diseases.  From creative targeted awareness campaigns to evidence-based initiatives, this conversation highlights how cross-sector collaboration can accelerate correct diagnosis and treatment and create lasting change in rare disease communities.

How will the shifting U.S. healthcare policy landscape impact patients? It’s an important topic that many patient advocates are thinking about today. This month’s special episode features a thought-provoking panel discussion recorded during the Sanofi Patient Advocacy Council meeting in Washington, D.C., where panelists dove into this topic. Adam Gluck, SVP and Head, U.S. and Specialty Care Corporate Affairs at Sanofi moderated the panel, which featured Randy Rutta, CEO of the National Health Council (NHC) and Matt Eyles, former President and CEO of America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP). Tune in to hear the discussion, where the panelists shared insights around the biggest risks and opportunities for patient access and affordability in the current shifting policy landscape. They also emphasized the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders across the healthcare sector to drive truly meaningful changes for patients. 

Get ready for an inspiring conversation about the power of passion, purpose, and partnerships in evolving patient advocacy to meet the changing needs of a community! In this episode, Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, shares insights from his incredible 46-year journey with the organization. Harold reveals how the American Lung Association grew successful regional initiatives into powerful, national programs that deliver critical resources and support to lung patients across the country.    Join host Eric Racine and co-host Lisa Schmitt, US Public Affairs and Patient Advocacy Lead for Immunology at Sanofi, as they dive into the innovative programs that have defined the American Lung Association's success. Discover how the American Lung Association HelpLine, which began as a statewide service in Illinois 25 years ago, has become a lifeline for patients nationwide. Learn how the American Lung Association adapts to meet the evolving needs of its community through digital platforms, personalized support services, and bold advocacy for cleaner air.    Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable lessons on driving scalable, long-term success in patient advocacy. Tune in to uncover Harold’s blueprint for building meaningful partnerships and empowering patient communities like never before! 

Patient Advocacy Voices is dedicated to helping US advocacy groups strengthen capabilities in service to patients and their mission. Season 2 continues and will provide deeper insights and more pragmatic tips from patient advocacy leaders and visionaries.  In this special episode to start the new season, host Eric Racine is joined by all his Sanofi co-hosts from Season 1 to recall the powerful stories and lessons learned from advocacy leader guests. Insights are recapped on vital topics such as ways to build trust and empower patients in local communities to act for better health, and how to collaborate on patient-centered policies. You’ll hear how advocacy groups are generating evidence on patient value, bringing the lived experiences of patients into R&D, charting strategic paths to grow their organizations, and measuring and communicating outcomes. Adam Gluck, Sanofi’s Senior Vice President of US and Global Specialty Care Corporate Affairs, joins to provide unique perspectives on the US health policy landscape and the critical role of patients’ voices.  It's a great way to learn about the many ways US patient advocacy organizations are making a difference for patients, science, and policy. After listening, you’ll be ready for more incredible stories and inspiration from Patient Advocacy Voices in Season 2. 

With more than 100 years of experience, the National Health Council knows how to bring patient advocacy groups and other organizations together to advocate for patients’ interests. How do they stay at the forefront of a patient-focused US healthcare system? They innovate and collaborate.     In this episode, Sanofi host Eric Racine and cohost, Demi Anastasiades, lead of US Public Affairs and Patient Advocacy for Immunology at Sanofi, are joined by Randy Rutta, CEO of the National Health Council. You’ll hear about NHC Connect, a dynamic resource hub for the patient advocacy community to share insights and collaborate on patient focused policies, and how NHC develops a matrix of policy priorities on behalf of its nearly 200 members. NHC collaborates to drive equitable patient access, bring patients’ perspectives into health technology assessments, and ensure artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is deployed responsibly and in the best interests of patients, among other priorities. Listen to learn from one of the best how to amplify the voice of patients to improve health policies and access to care. 

When it comes to meeting healthcare’s biggest challenges, sometimes the best approach begins with curiosity. Dr. Jean Wright, MD, MPH, Chief Executive Officer of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Foundation, has made an immense impact on the COPD community and knows firsthand how to bring new solutions that move the needle for poorly understood patient communities.    In this episode, Sanofi host Eric Racine is joined by Kate Tighe, Head of US Public Affairs and Patient Advocacy, Immunology at Sanofi, to discuss with Dr. Wright how shifting perspectives and sparking innovation can change outcomes for patients with historically overlooked conditions. Dr. Wright describes her straightforward yet creative approach to tackling seemingly inscrutable problems, how she handles the most difficult aspects of leadership, and why charting a path toward refreshing solutions can accelerate progress.

From leveraging existing resources to filling gaps with innovative tools, partnerships throughout the healthcare industry can help meet the needs of more patients and drive impact in an accelerated way.  In this episode, Eric Racine is joined by Vicky DiBiaso, Global Head of Patient Informed Development and Health Value Translation at Sanofi, and Sara Loud from the Accelerated Cure Project, to discuss the transformative efforts of the Patient Advocacy Leaders in Drug Development Industry Network, also known as Paladin. Paladin is driving collaboration across biopharmaceutical companies and patient advocacy groups to help advance the development of life-saving treatments. They examine the challenges and opportunities in transforming healthcare innovation, with an emphasis on speed, inclusivity and collaboration.