The Advocacy Blueprint

In this season finale of The Advocacy Blueprint, I’m taking a moment to reflect on everything we’ve talked about—from what it really means to advocate for patients to how empathy, education, and community shape the future of healthcare. I’ll share eight of the biggest lessons that stuck with me, how I’ve grown through these conversations, and a new idea I’m excited to bring to life: a mentorship network for future healthcare advocates. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m so thankful for everyone who’s been part of it. Let’s keep pushing for a more compassionate and equitable healthcare system—together.

Joining me on today’s episode of The Advocacy Blueprint is Marisa Valeras, the dedicated Program Director of MC² at Denver Health. With nearly two decades of experience shaping and supporting future healthcare professionals, Marisa has been an integral part of a program that stands out for its hospital-based, hands-on approach to health career exploration. Through paid internships, mentorship, and robust training for high school students across Denver and Colorado Springs, MC² gives young people the tools and exposure they need to thrive in healthcare. Marisa’s passion lies in walking alongside these students as they grow—from high schoolers to professionals making a difference in the world. I'm thrilled to welcome her to the podcast.

In this episode, I sit down with Anthony, an aspiring MD/PhD student from whose journey bridges cutting-edge research and heartfelt clinical care. A graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in Neuroscience—specializing in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience—Anthony brings a unique perspective shaped by both rigorous scientific training and a deep-rooted commitment to health equity. Join us as we explore his vision for a more inclusive future in healthcare, where research, compassion, and advocacy go hand in hand.

I’m joined by Kaitlyn Steadman—a sophomore nursing student at Grand Canyon University, originally from Littleton, Colorado. She is enrolled in an accelerated BSN program and set to graduate in December 2026, she’s passionate about patient care, resilience, and bringing empathy into every clinical setting.

Manami Hokugo joins our conversation about our experiences and journey at Bellevue Hospital as we delve into the reasons behind our work—the "why" that drives us. Together, we reflect on the challenges, the meaningful moments, and the lessons learned from advocating for patients in a fast-paced emergency setting.

Naina shares her aspirations of obtaining her PhD in neuroscience as we laugh over the life of being a Sarah Lawrence pre-med. We talk about long nights spent studying, the pressure of exams, and the moments of doubt that come with the journey, but also the excitement of research, patient interactions, and the dream of making a difference in the medical field. 

Listen in as we discuss the intersections of patient advocacy, preventative research, and narrative medicine.

Here, I am joined by Dahlia Luongo, the program director for the Patient Advocacy Volunteer Program in Emergency Room Services. She takes us through her experience at Bellevue hospital and what patient advocacy means to her.

Today, I sat down with a fellow pre-med student to discuss what patient advocacy means to her and how she is using this passion to further her educational and career goals.

Because medicine isn’t just about treating patients—it’s about understanding them. Welcome to The Advocacy Blueprint.