Season 2, Episode 23: Can You Hear Me Now?

The 2002 Verizon advertising campaign launched the slogan: Can you hear me now? The phrase resonated not only because of the universal experience of poor reception quality of cellular networks, but due to an emerging zeitgeist of disaffection with modernity, technology, impersonal communication, and isolation. Healthcare consumers embody this frustration, propelling them to call in to “The Weekly Check-Up Podcast.” The pain points are myriad: poor provider communication, confusing insurance benefits, fear, vulnerability, and feelings of being dismissed or unheard. It all results in dissatisfaction with care and a significant emotional toll.