Bridging the Gap: The Role of Patient Advocacy

What if you could get paid to do what you already do for your family — advocate, coordinate, and navigate the healthcare system?In this episode, we sit down with Lori Schellenberg, RN, a nurse with over 40 years of experience across bedside care, occupational health, workers’ comp, and now independent patient advocacy. Lori shares her inspiring journey from traditional roles to launching her own advocacy practice, helping patients and families bridge critical gaps in care.You’ll learn:✅ What independent patient advocates actually do✅ How nurses are uniquely positioned for this work✅ Tips for getting started — even with no business background✅ Why this path offers meaningful, flexible, and mission-driven work✅ What makes advocacy different from case management or discharge planningWhether you’re burned out at the bedside, looking for more autonomy, or simply curious about nontraditional roles for nurses — this conversation is full of insight, encouragement, and practical advice.