Imagine choosing public health as your career path… only to be told it’s not a “real” profession. 😳

In this powerful episode of the RTs Share Tea Podcast, host Linda "Thee Asthma Lady" sits down with Dr. Anthony Santella, a nationally recognized public health expert and academic, to unpack a major policy shift that could reshape the future of public health education and the workforce.

This episode was a must for me to cover — because I would not be where I am today as Thee Asthma Lady without my Master of Public Health layered on top of my Respiratory Therapist skills, and without Dr. Santella pulling me deeper into the public health space early in my career. This conversation is both professional and personal.

Dr. Santella breaks down — in plain language — the Federal Department of Education’s reclassification of public health as a non-professional degree, why this decision matters, and how it could impact:

✔️ Public health students

✔️ Higher education programs

✔️ Workforce pipelines

✔️ Community and population health outcomes

We also dive into what inspired Dr. Santella to enter public health, his journey into academia, and what he believes lies ahead for the field if this policy stands. This episode blends expertise, lived experience, and real talk about why public health deserves recognition, protection, and investment — now more than ever.

☕ The tea is hot, the conversation is necessary, and the implications are real.

👇 Join the conversation in the comments and let us know:

How do YOU think this policy could impact the future of public health?

#PublicHealthEducation, #MPHDegree, #DepartmentofEducationPolicy, #PublicHealthWorkforce, #AnthonySantella, #TheeAsthmaLady, #RespiratoryTherapist, #PublicHealthCareers, #Rts #HigherEducationPolicy, #HealthEquity, #CommunityHealth, #teaspills, #asthma,

In this vlog-style episode of RTs Share Tea, I’m taking you with me behind the scenes at AARC Congress 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona — and let me tell you, this conference shifted something in me.

From early-morning sessions to hallway conversations that fed my soul, this year’s AARC experience reminded me why we, as Respiratory Therapists, have to keep investing in ourselves, keep learning, and keep betting on our future selves.

I’m sharing:
✨ How networking at AARC 2025 expanded my vision for my career
✨ What lifelong learning really looks like outside the classroom
✨ Why your professional growth matters just as much as the care you give

This episode is for any Respiratory Therapist who’s ever felt stuck, overlooked, tired, under-inspired, or unsure of what’s next. If you need a sign to keep going, keep growing, and keep showing up — this is it.

Pull up, sip some tea, and let’s talk about how AARC Congress 2025 truly changed the way I see my future as an RT.

#AARCCongress2025 #respiratorytherapists #Respiratorytherapycareergrowth #lifelonglearning #Networking #Respiratorycare #healthcarejobsbesidesnursing #Respiratorytherapyschool

In this episode of the RTs Share Tea Podcast, we’re diving deep into the powerful impact of Community Health Workers (CHWs) with special guest co-host Traci Hardin, MPH, AE-C — a nationally respected asthma educator, CHW ally, and public health champion.

Join us as we share the TEA on how CHWs bridge gaps in care, build trust in underserved communities, and bring asthma education to life in ways that truly change outcomes.

We discuss:

💨 Why CHWs are essential partners in asthma self-management

💨 How education, empathy, and lived experience make CHWs effective

💨 The training and support CHWs need to thrive

💨 Real stories from the field — wins, challenges, and lessons learned

And for all the future asthma educators out there: Traci shares heartfelt advice for CHWs who want to take the Certified Asthma Educator (AE-C) exam but feel intimidated. (Spoiler: She’s your biggest cheerleader!)

If you care about community health, health equity, asthma education, or empowering frontline workers, this episode is your must-listen.

Grab your tea — we’re talking community, compassion, and the kind of care that starts where people live, learn, and breathe. 🍵💙

#RTsShareTeaPodcast #AsthmaEducation #CommunityHealthWorkers #HealthEquity #CHWStrong #TheeAsthmaLady #WHEEZER #AsthmaAwareness #ImpactfulHealthCommunicator

From scrubs to slacks — I had to learn quick! 😅

In this episode of the RTs Share Tea Podcast, host Linda “Thee Asthma Lady” opens up about her transition from night-shift Respiratory Therapist to day-shift healthcare leader and the things she had to learn quickly to adjust.

If you’ve ever made the leap from bedside to the boardroom (or dream of it), this one’s for you. Linda spills the real tea on what it takes to grow into an administrative role — from adjusting your wardrobe and mindset to mastering emotional intelligence, hosting meetings with confidence, and finding your authentic leadership style.

💡 In this episode, you’ll hear about:

✅️ The culture shock of moving from night shift to administration

✅️ How to “dress for the part” and command presence in leadership spaces

✅️ Emotional intelligence, body language, and conflict management tips

✅️ Coaching vs. managing — and how to lead with empathy

✅️ Why delegation and communication are your new superpowers

Whether you’re an RT ready to level up, a new healthcare leader finding your footing, or someone simply curious about what happens beyond the bedside — this episode will give you encouragement, laughs, and lessons learned along the way.

🫶🏾 As always, I’m just here sharing the TEA — because growth, like leadership, starts with showing up.

#RTsShareTeaPodcast #RespiratoryTherapist #HealthcareLeadership #CareerGrowth #TheeAsthmaLady #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipJourney #WHEEZER

What if food was the missing piece in asthma control? 🍎

Let’s talk about how nutrition can transform asthma care in children — especially in communities where access and awareness are often limited.

In this episode of the RTs Share Tea Podcast, host Linda “Thee Asthma Lady” takes a closer look at a conversation we don’t have enough — the powerful role of nutrition in asthma control.

We’re talking directly to parents, caretakers, and community leaders about how food choices, inflammation, and access to healthy meals impact asthma — especially in children.

💨 You’ll learn:

✅️The difference between Type 2 and Non-Type 2 Asthma (and why it matters).

✅️How childhood obesity and inflammation affect asthma control.

✅️Why nutrition and lifestyle changes are key interventions for non–Type 2 asthma.

✅️The benefits of a Mediterranean-style diet for better lung health.

✅️How to overcome food insecurity that creates barriers to timely asthma management.

🚨 Important:

Everyone with asthma should take their prescribed asthma medication as per their treatment plan — regardless of the type of asthma.

Before making major diet or lifestyle changes, always consult your healthcare team.

This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.

As always, I’m just here sharing the TEA 🍵 — because asthma control starts with awareness, action, and access.

💛 If this message resonated with you, support the mission at buymeacoffee.com/TheeAsthmaLady — your digital tip jar to keep the advocacy flowing.

You can also show your support by following us on your favorite podcast streaming platforms. Appreciate you in advance!

#AsthmaEducation #AsthmaAwareness #AsthmaDiet #ChildhoodAsthma #NutritionAndAsthma #NonType2Asthma #RespiratoryTherapist #AsthmaControl #HealthEquity #FoodInsecurity #WHEEZER #AsthmaDisparities #TheeAsthmaLady #ImpactfulHealthCommunicator

In this special 4th year anniversary episode of the Rts Share Tea Podcast, host Linda “Thee Asthma Lady” reflects on the true power of showing up with intention — especially as a Respiratory Therapist, asthma educator, or healthcare communicator.Linda shares practical, real-world strategies to help you stay consistent, build credibility, and create meaningful impact — whether you're at the bedside, leading in the community, or stepping into content creation to educate and empower others.If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your voice strong, stay motivated when no one is clapping yet, or continue showing up as a trusted RT leader — this episode gives you the mindset + momentum to do just that. 

Perfect for:Respiratory Therapists • Asthma Educators • RT students • Caregivers • Aspiring RT podcasters & content creatorsLet’s celebrate Respiratory Care Week — and 4 years of intentional impact — by recommitting to the power of consistency, credibility, and shared purpose.

We always sharing the tea... If you ever learned anything, felt inspired, or informed by the Rts Share Tea podcast you can now support our mission on the continuous fight against asthma disparities by our digital tip jar at buymeacoffee.com/theeasthmalady. Appreciate you in advance!

#RespiratoryTherapist #AsthmaEducation #RespiratoryCareWeek #HealthcarePodcast #RTLeadership #Consistency #Credibility #TheeAsthmaLady #RtsShareTea #WHEEZERS

On RTs Share Tea, we know the difference between sharing the tea and just plain old spilling it! ☕

In this episode, we’re going behind "The SHIFT" with two current Respiratory Therapy students, Brandon Macak and Keven S., as they share the tea on their experiences in this fresh new edutainment reality series all about the Respiratory Therapy profession — created by Joe Lewis, a.k.a. Respiratory Coach.

Get the inside scoop on what it’s really like balancing clinicals, camera time, and authentic storytelling that shines a spotlight on the future of respiratory care.

"The SHIFT" premieres October 16, just in time for Respiratory Care Week, exclusively on the Respiratory Coach YouTube channel — and trust us, this is one show you don’t want to miss!

So grab your favorite cup, tune in, and let’s share the tea… RT-style. 💙

For more content like this follow us on:

IG @theeasthmaladyrt

LinkedIn - Linda Nozart "Thee Asthma Lady"

YouTube - Thee Asthma Lady

TikTok - @theeasthmaladyrt

Episode Description:
 What happens when a Respiratory Therapist takes the leap into entrepreneurship? 

In this episode of RTs Share Tea Podcast, we explore where Respiratory Therapy meets entrepreneurship with special guest co-host Quincy Futrell. From the spark that led him to start his own RT staffing agency to the challenges and triumphs along the way, Quincy shares how passion, standards, and community have shaped his journey.

We talk about the power of networking, the importance of holding yourself to a higher standard, and the blessing of being able to hire friends and former students as part of the solution to staffing challenges.

This episode is a reminder that respiratory therapists are not only clinicians but also innovators and leaders creating new opportunities for the field. 

#WorldNeedsMoreRTs #RTsShareTea #Entrepreneurship #RespiratoryTherapy #Podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by my former supervisor in the Asthma Program, the smart and warm-hearted Desire LaTempa for a thoughtful conversation on how AI tools can change the game for asthma self-management — and how you, yes YOU, as a healthcare professional, could play a meaningful role in shaping the future of care.

We unpack:
🤖 How AI can support patients in better managing their asthma
🩺 Ways healthcare professionals can contribute to AI development
💼 The surprising career and collaboration opportunities emerging in the AI space
💡 Ethical and practical considerations when tech meets human care

This is more than a tech chat — it’s about imagining a future where compassion and innovation walk hand-in-hand. You'll leave this episode feeling informed, inspired, and maybe even a little fuzzy inside knowing your role as a healthcare pro could reach beyond the bedside.

✨ Follow us on IG @theeasthmaladyrt for more behind-the-scenes gems and community convos.
💬 Question of the day: Could you see yourself working with or building AI tools in the healthcare space? Tell us in the comments!

🫶 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe — your support keeps our tea hot and our lungs happy.

Healthcare professionals — are your patients struggling to afford their asthma medications? In this episode, Dr. Damien Fisher, PharmD, explains the impact of Medicaid cuts, the truth about PBM (Pharmacy Benefit Manager) reform, and what healthcare providers can do to help patients access affordable prescriptions.

We cover:

✔️ What PBMs are and why PBM reform affects medication access

✔️ The connection between Medicaid cuts and prescription affordability

✔️ How to help asthma patients when they say “I can’t afford my meds”

✔️ Strategies to guide patients through medication assistance programs

Whether you’re a Respiratory Therapist, pharmacist, nurse, or provider, you’ll gain actionable insights to better serve patients facing cost barriers.

👉 Subscribe for more episodes on asthma care, healthcare advocacy, and respiratory therapy education.

📲 Follow on IG: @theeasthmaladyrt

🗨️ QUESTION FOR YOU: How do you help your patients when they can’t afford their medications? Share your tips in the comments!

#PBMReform #MedicaidCuts #AsthmaCare #PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareAccess #RespiratoryTherapy #PharmacyInsights #RTsShareTea

Thirdhand smoke? Yes, it’s a real thing—and it’s silently impacting your asthma patients more than you think.

In this episode of the RTs Share Tea podcast, we’re breaking down the often-overlooked topic of thirdhand smoke exposure—what it is, why it matters in asthma care, and how respiratory therapists, asthma educators, and healthcare professionals can talk about without losing patient engagement.

💡 You’ll learn:

✅What thirdhand smoke really is (spoiler: it lingers for months or even years!)

✅How it affects asthma symptoms and triggers

✅How to bring it up with patients without shame or judgment

✅Empowering, non-blaming ways to educate families about smoke exposure

✅Why staying informed helps you become a more impactful asthma educator

Whether you're a seasoned RT, CHW, nurse, or new grad, this episode gives you the tools to educate with empathy and protect your patients in a whole new way.

🌬️ Let’s talk lungs, leadership, and leveling up your asthma education game.

📍Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share with those with asthma or work with those with asthma.

What’s the real secret to leveling up your career as a Respiratory Therapist? It’s more than just hard work—it’s having the right people in your corner.

In this inspiring episode of RTs Share Tea, we’re joined by my brilliant confidant Dr. Ellen Becker to unpack one of the most game-changing (yet often misunderstood) career tools: Sponsorship—and how it differs from mentorship.

Together, we spill the tea on:
🤝 The key differences between mentorship and sponsorship—and why you need both
🗣️ How to ask for a mentor or sponsor without feeling awkward or “too early” in your career
🕵🏽‍♀️ Where to find potential mentors and sponsors (they’re closer than you think!)
🌱 How to nurture these relationships so they blossom and open doors
🚀 Real talk on how sponsorship can help you break ceilings, not just climb ladders

Whether you're a new grad, a mid-career RT, or dreaming of leadership, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and ready to take action.

So grab your tea, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about building the relationships that build your future. ☕🌟

Home is where the heart is—but could it also be where your asthma symptoms are coming from? 🤔

In this cozy-yet-clinically-conscious episode of RTs Share Tea, we’re unpacking the invisible troublemakers known as VOCs—Volatile Organic Compounds—and why they matter so much for anyone living with asthma.

🫁 Did you know? Indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air, thanks to VOCs found in things like air fresheners, cleaning supplies, paint, and even furniture!

But don’t worry—we’re not just here to alarm you, we’re here to empower you.

Together, we’ll explore:

✨ What VOCs actually are (in plain language, of course)

🏠 Where these sneaky gases hide in everyday home items

🚩 Signs your wheeze might be more than just allergies

💡 Easy, feel-good steps to reduce VOC exposure and breathe a little freer

Whether you're managing asthma, supporting someone who is, or just trying to create a healthier home, this episode will leave you informed, inspired, and maybe even a little proud of the small changes that make a big difference.

So pour your favorite tea, fluff your throw pillow, and let's clear the air—literally. ☕🌿💛

For more content follow us on IG @theeasthmaladyrt

In this episode of the RTs Share Tea podcast, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my journey as a Respiratory Therapist and Certified Asthma Educator doing advocacy work on Capitol Hill. 🎙️🇺🇸

Three years ago, I stepped into the world of health policy—not just as a clinician, but as a voice for the millions of people living with asthma and allergies. I’ve been returning ever since. Why? Because all our patients deserve better access to care, affordable and effective treatments, and real solutions to the social determinants of health that impact their ability to breathe freely.

Tune in as I share:
✅ Why I chose to get involved in national advocacy
✅ What it's really like to speak with lawmakers and represent patients
✅ The impact Respiratory Therapists can make beyond the bedside
✅ Tips for anyone curious about using their voice to influence change

Whether you’re a fellow RT, healthcare professional, patient advocate, or just someone who cares about public health—this one’s for you.

👉 Follow us on Instagram @theeasthmaladyrt for more behind-the-scenes content, tips, and resources.

🎧 Listen now, and ask yourself: What issue would you show up to Capitol Hill to advocate for?

👇 Drop your answer in the comments or share it with us on social media—we’d love to hear from you!

#AdvocacyInAction #RespiratoryTherapy #AsthmaAwareness #HealthEquity #RTsShareTea

What happens when a Respiratory Therapist follows purpose, pivots boldly, and ends up helping save lives in a whole new way?

In this episode of the Rts Share Tea Podcast, we sip the tea with Terrence Brock, a Respiratory Therapist turned Organ Transplant Coordinator, as he shares the powerful story of his career transformation—and the emotional weight behind every “yes” to organ donation.

From the ICU to the organ procurement process, Terrence breaks down:

• 🔄 How RT skills prepared him for transplant work

• 🧠 What really happens behind the scenes of organ donation

• 💖 Why a family’s “yes” can change the course of multiple lives

• 🚀 Tips for RTs exploring non-traditional roles in healthcare

Whether you're a fellow RT looking to take control of your career or someone curious about the human side of donation, this episode is equal parts insight, inspiration, and heart.

☕ So grab your tea (or coffee!), hit that subscribe button, and tune in for a convo that just might change how you see your career—or your legacy.

Connect with Terrence Brock on LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/terrence-brock-rcp-rrt-cptc-34aa96303

Connect with Linda Nozart on LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-nozart-thee-asthma-lady-2a1bb9122

#RespiratoryTherapist #OrganDonation #TransplantCoordinator #HealthcareCareer #RTsShareTea #CareerPivot #DonorAwareness #FromRTtoCoordinator

In this inspiring episode, we get the tea from Laonis Quinn, MSN, RN, AE-C, Founder and Executive Director of the Breathe Anthony J. Chapman Asthma Foundation, to explore how unimaginable grief sparked a powerful mission of advocacy, healing, and purpose. 💙

After losing her oldest son Tony to a fatal asthma attack, Laonis turned heartbreak into hope—championing asthma awareness, community education, and policy change. From Detroit to Capitol Hill, her voice now helps save lives.

🎙️ Tune in as we talk about:

• Turning grief into a powerful purpose

• Starting a non-profit from the heart

• The impact of community advocacy and education

• Asthma’s hidden toll on families—and how to raise awareness during Asthma Awareness Month

• Tips for those wanting to give back through mission-driven work

With over 25 years as a Critical Care Nurse, a Certified Asthma Educator, and a recent recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Laonis is proof that purpose can rise from pain—and change lives!

✨ Whether you're navigating loss, building something meaningful, or advocating for change, this episode will leave you feeling empowered to make a difference.

🔔 Subscribe for more stories that matter.
👇 Drop a comment to share your thoughts or honor someone impacted by asthma.

Follow the Breathe Anthony J Chapman Asthma Foundation on IG @Breatheajcasthmafoundation1

#GriefToPurpose #LaonisQuinn #AsthmaAdvocate #NonProfitJourney #BlackHealthMatters #AsthmaAwareness #NurseLeader #CommunityHealing #RTsShareTea

What happens when a Respiratory Therapist decides to rewrite the rules and build something of her own? In this episode of RTs Share Tea, we sit down with Pascale Fils-Aimé—Respiratory Therapist turned powerhouse entrepreneur—who shares how she launched and scaled her successful notary and loan signing business… while still working in healthcare!

Pascale keeps it real about taking bold leaps, embracing fear, and trusting yourself through every pivot. Her mantra? “You’re going to be afraid. Do it anyway!” Whether you're dreaming of starting your own side hustle or craving a career transformation, this episode is packed with the inspiration and strategies you need to move forward.

🫁 What You’ll Learn:✅ How Pascale transitioned from bedside care to business ownership
✅ What it really takes to build a notary and loan signing side hustle
✅ The mindset shifts healthcare pros need to thrive as entrepreneurs
✅ Why fear doesn’t mean stop—it means GO
✅ Tips for balancing business and clinical work

💬 Have you ever thought about starting your own business while working in respiratory care? Let us know in the comments—we're cheering you on!

For more related content follow us on:

IG @theeasthmaladyrt

TikToc @Theeasthmaladyrt

Follow Rts Share Tea podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms

For more on this topic follow Pascale:

TikToc @Konnect2all

IG @Konnect2all

Website https://onereal.com/pascale-fils-aime

Are you a healthcare professional looking to level up your patient interactions? In this episode of the Rts Share Tea Podcast, we explore the game-changing concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and how it can revolutionize the way you connect with your patients.

What you’ll discover in this episode:

• Practical strategies to enhance your emotional intelligence for better patient engagement.

• The importance of empathy, active listening, and self-awareness in building trust and rapport with patients.

• How to navigate emotionally charged situations with confidence and care.

• Tips for improving your non-verbal communication to ensure patients feel heard and valued.

Managing asthma isn’t just about having the right medications—it’s about using them correctly and consistently. But let’s be real: patient adherence is one of the biggest challenges in asthma care. So, how can we bridge the gap between prescription and practice?

In this episode of RTs Share Tea Podcast, we’re breaking down five game-changing strategies to help patients stay on track with their asthma management. Whether you're a healthcare provider, caregiver, or someone living with asthma, these practical hacks will make a real difference.

🌬️ What You’ll Learn:
✅ The key barriers to asthma medication adherence
✅ Simple ways to make inhaler use second nature
✅ How to engage patients in asthma self- management education sessions
✅ Tech tools & apps that support daily management
✅ The role of healthcare providers in improving patient follow-through

💬 Which asthma management challenges have you faced? Drop a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Nervous about public speaking? Wondering how to keep your audience engaged from start to finish? In this episode of RTs Share Tea Podcast, we’re breaking down powerful, practical tips to help first-time speakers shine on stage and captivate their listeners! ✨

Whether you're stepping up to speak at a conference, leading a workshop, or sharing your voice in a meeting, this episode will give you the confidence and strategies to make an impact. 🎯

🔹 In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ How to connect with your audience from the start

✅ Simple techniques to manage nerves and boost confidence

✅ The power of storytelling in public speaking

✅ Engaging delivery tips that hold attention

✅ Practical exercises to sharpen your speaking skills

💬 Have a speaking engagement coming up? Drop a comment and let us know what you’re most excited (or nervous) about!

📢 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to help others step into their speaking power!

#PublicSpeaking #FirstTimeSpeaker #RTsShareTea #CommunicationSkills #SpeakingTips #TheeAsthmaLady