🌬️ Episode 17: Pulmonary Function Testing – Know Your Numbers 🌬️ Release Date: July 20, 2025

Welcome to Episode 17 of The Cozy Lung Lounge, your go-to podcast for respiratory health—brought to you by BluZone Health. In this episode, we dive into the essential topic of Pulmonary Function Testing (PFTs) and why knowing your numbers can be a game-changer for managing your lung health. 📊🫁

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with a chronic lung condition for years, understanding your test results—like FEV1, FVC, DLCO, and more—can help you better navigate your care and advocate for your needs.

🎙️ Podcast Hosts: Amy Sheldon | Gina Hoots | Kelly Welton-Lewis

🫁 Topics Covered:

• The basics of PFTs: what they are and how they work
• Spirometry: the “speed test” for your lungs
• Key measurements explained (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, lung volumes, DLCO, and more)
• Specialized tests: methacholine challenge, FENO, ECO
• Interpreting your MyChart results: normal vs. abnormal patterns
• What your numbers can tell you about obstructive, restrictive, and mixed lung diseases
• When to follow up with your primary doctor or a lung specialist
• How to improve lung function through medication, rehab, and lifestyle changes
• Why tracking your numbers over time is essential for long-term care

💡 Why Listen? Understanding your pulmonary test results helps you take control of your health. This episode breaks down complex numbers into clear insights—empowering you to be an informed and confident part of your care team.

📣 Key Takeaway: “No matter where you are in your lung health journey, understanding your numbers gives you power over your care.”

🔔 Subscribe for more episodes packed with tools, insights, and encouragement to help you breathe better and live stronger.

📲 Connect with BluZone Health: Website: https://bluzone.health Instagram: @bluzone_health Facebook: @respiratoryrehab LinkedIn: BluZone Health X/Twitter: @bluzonehealth

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #PulmonaryFunctionTesting #KnowYourNumbers #LungHealthEducation #BluZoneHealth #SpirometryExplained #RespiratoryWellness #PulmonaryRehab #TrackYourHealth #BreatheBetterLiveBetter

🌬️ Episode 16: Taking a Stand (and a Breath): Life and Advocacy with COPD - With Guest Phyllis DiLorenzo 🌬️ Release Date: July 6, 2025

Welcome back to The Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast, proudly sponsored by BluZone Health. In Episode 16, we welcome the inspiring Phyllis DiLorenzo—a retired social worker, devoted family woman, and passionate COPD advocate. 🫁💛

Diagnosed with COPD nine years ago, Phyllis has become a powerful voice within the COPD Foundation community, working tirelessly alongside fellow patients and staff to drive awareness, support, and change.

🎙️ Podcast Hosts: Amy Sheldon | Gina Hoots | Kelly Welton-Lewis

🫁 Topics Covered:

• Phyllis’s personal health journey—from first symptoms to her life today
• The impact of COPD on her relationships and daily life
• What she wishes she’d known at the start of her diagnosis
• The tools and people that helped her most
• Insightful advice for others living with COPD and chronic lung conditions

💡 Why Listen? Whether you're navigating your own COPD diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or advocating for better care, Phyllis’s story will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to take action. Her warmth, honesty, and determination shine through every word.

🙏 Thank you, Phyllis, for sharing your story and for your unwavering commitment to the COPD community.

🔔 Subscribe for more real-life stories, breathing tips, and resources for pulmonary wellness.

📲 Connect with BluZone Health: Website: https://bluzone.health Instagram: @bluzone_health Facebook: @respiratoryrehab LinkedIn: BluZone Health X/Twitter: @bluzonehealth

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #COPDJourney #PhyllisDiLorenzo #COPDAdvocate #BluZoneHealth #PulmonarySupport #BreatheBetterLiveBetter #LungHealthMatters #COPDFoundation #ChronicLungDisease

🫁 Episode 15: Exercise Essentials – Your Guide to Moving Safely with a Lung Condition 🫁 Release Date: June 20, 2025

Welcome back to The Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast, brought to you by BluZone Health. In Episode 15, we’re diving into the essential role exercise plays in managing chronic lung conditions—and how to do it safely and confidently. 💪🏽🫁

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just looking to stay active, this episode is packed with clear guidance on how to get moving without compromising your health. And if you’re wondering how much is too much, or what types of exercise matter most, we’ve got you covered.

🎙️ Hosted by: Kelly Welton-Lewis | Gina Hoots | Amy Sheldon (Plus: Kelly’s got some thoughts on making balance training way cooler than it sounds.)

🫁 What We Cover in This Episode:

🔹 First Things First: Talk to Your Doctor Just diagnosed? Ask about an in-person, Phase 2 Pulmonary Rehab program. Only a small percentage of patients are referred—so be proactive! If a program isn’t available, get medical clearance before starting any exercise routine.

🔹 Why Exercise Matters: • Strengthens your heart and improves circulation • Boosts lung function and reduces breathlessness • Builds muscle, balance, and flexibility • Supports metabolic health and weight management • Improves mood, focus, and emotional well-being

🔹 The Big 4: Exercise Types that Matter 🏃‍♀️ Aerobic (Cardio) – 150 minutes/week of walking, cycling, swimming 🏋️ Strength Training – 2–3x/week with light weights or bands 🧘 Flexibility Training – Stretch or do yoga daily 🧍 Balance Training – Crucial for fall prevention, especially with age

💬 Thinking About Exercising at Home? • Get physician approval for your plan • Create a safe, functional space (resistance bands, weights, treadmill, or even milk jugs!) • Find a workout/accountability partner • Plan for emergencies • Consider your oxygen needs—know how to tell if you need more O2 and what steps to take • Explore online support like Right2Breathe for connection and motivation

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #ExerciseEssentials #LungHealthFitness #PulmonaryRehabSupport #BluZoneHealth #COPDExercise #AsthmaActivity #BreatheMoveThrive #OxygenAndExercise #Right2Breathe #StayActiveStayStrong

Welcome back to The Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast, brought to you by BluZone Health. In Episode 14, we’re breaking down one of the most powerful tools in lung health recovery: Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

Whether you're newly diagnosed with a chronic lung condition, managing long-term symptoms, or supporting a loved one, this episode offers a clear and compassionate look at what pulmonary rehab is—and why it matters.

🎙️ Hosted by: Kelly Welton-Lewis | Gina Hoots | Amy Sheldon (Spoiler: Kelly might even toss out a few new name ideas for pulmonary rehab—we’re all ears!)

🫁 What We Cover in This Episode:

• What is Pulmonary Rehab, Really? It’s not just exercise—pulmonary rehab is a comprehensive, medically supervised program designed to boost lung function, energy, and quality of life.
• Why Do It? From reducing breathlessness to improving fitness and confidence, PR helps people live better with chronic lung diseases like COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and more.
• Who’s on Your Side: Respiratory therapists (RTs), exercise physiologists (EPs), nurses, dietitians, and medical supervisors—all there to guide you every step of the way.
• What to Expect: • Supervised exercise tailored to your needs • Breathing techniques & medication guidance • Nutrition tips for lung health • Stress management, group support, and mental wellness
• Major Benefits Include: ✅ More stamina for daily activities ✅ Less shortness of breath and fatigue ✅ Fewer hospital visits ✅ A stronger sense of control over your health

💬 Let’s Talk Access:

• Who qualifies? If you have a chronic lung condition, chances are—you do!
• How do you start? Don’t ask—TELL your doctor you want that referral.
• What if it’s too far, or at the wrong time? Let’s get creative. There are alternatives, and BluZone Health is working on expanding options. Your health deserves options that work for YOU.

💡 Don't Forget the Follow-Through: Pulmonary rehab doesn’t end after 6–12 weeks. Maintenance matters. Whether it’s an in-person Phase 3 program or remote support through BluZone Health, staying active is key to long-term lung wellness.

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #PulmonaryRehabBasics #LungWellnessJourney #BluZoneHealth #RespiratorySupport #LungHealthAwareness #COPDCommunity #AsthmaCare #InterstitialLungDisease #PulmonaryFibrosis #BreatheBetterLiveBetter

Welcome to Episode 13 of the Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast, where we sit down with lung transplant recipient and tireless lung health advocate Bob Rawlins, affectionately known as “Cowboy Bob.” 🎙️🤠 In this deeply moving episode, Bob shares the highs and lows of his journey—from the first signs of illness to the life-changing moment he received a double lung transplant. As a board member of The Right2Breathe Foundation, active supporter with Cleveland Clinic groups, and contributor to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF), Bob brings both experience and heart to the conversation. 💬 Podcast Hosts: Amy Sheldon | Gina Hoots | Kelly Welton-Lewis 🫁 Topics Covered: The moment Bob realized something was wrong and his path to diagnosis How his health journey reshaped his relationships with family and friends The things he wished he had known at the beginning The most helpful support tools during his journey—equipment, doctors, medications, and more Heartfelt advice for others facing similar health challenges 💡 Why Listen? Whether you're newly diagnosed, considering transplant, or supporting someone with lung disease, Bob's story offers hope, insight, and real-world guidance from someone who’s walked the path—and continues to lift others up along the way. 🙏 Thank you, Bob, for sharing your powerful journey and for your continued advocacy in the respiratory community. 🔔 Subscribe for more powerful stories, breathing tips, and pulmonary wellness strategies. 📲 Website: https://bluzone.health Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluzone_health Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/respiratoryrehab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluzone-health X/Twitter: https://x.com/bluzonehealth @bluzonehealth 🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #LungTransplantJourney #BobRawlins #PulmonaryFibrosis #Right2Breathe #BluZoneHealth #RespiratorySupport #LungHealthAwareness #COPDCommunity #PulmonaryRehab #BreatheBetterLiveBetter

Welcome back to the Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast! In Episode 12, we’re unpacking the buzz around natural herbs and supplements that claim to support lung health, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. But do they really work? And are they safe? Your hosts Gina Hoots, Kelly Welton-Lewis, and Amy Sheldon walk you through the most talked-about herbs on the market—with a big dose of evidence, honesty, and caution.

💡 Why It Matters Many people with chronic lung disease are turning to alternative remedies—but not all supplements are created equal. Some have promising benefits, while others can interact with medications or worsen symptoms. This episode gives you the facts so you can make informed decisions with your healthcare provider.

🔹 Here’s What We’ll Cover: ✅ Tiger Milk Mushroom (Lignosus) – A Southeast Asian remedy now gaining attention. Can it really rejuvenate the lungs and immune system? ✅ Elecampane – Ancient Greek herb for cough and water retention… but does it hold up to modern science? ✅ Mullein – The go-to herb for respiratory issues in early America. Can it still help today? ✅ N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) – A supplement with solid research behind it. We’ll explain how it thins mucus and fights oxidative stress. ✅ Quercetin – Found in apples and onions, this antioxidant may calm airways and reduce allergy symptoms. ✅ Ginseng & Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory powerhouses or marketing hype? We dig into what’s real.

🎙️ Why Listen? If you’ve ever browsed the supplement aisle or searched the internet for natural remedies for COPD, asthma, or chronic bronchitis—this episode is for you. We cut through the noise and share what works, what doesn’t, and how to stay safe on your wellness journey.

⚠️ Important Note: Always talk with your doctor before starting any supplement. Some can interfere with medications or cause side effects.

🔗 Coming Up Next: Episode 13 – Breathing Retraining Basics Learn how to breathe better, feel better, and regain control with simple, science-backed breathing techniques.

Website: https://bluzone.health

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluzone_health

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/respiratoryrehab

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluzone-health

X/Twitter: https://x.com/bluzonehealth

@bluzonehealth

#NaturalRemedies #LungHealth #ChronicLungDisease #SupplementsAndSafety #BluZoneHealth #CozyLungLounge #HerbsForHealing #PulmonaryRehab #RespiratorySupport #NAC #Quercetin #TigerMilkMushroom #BreatheBetterLiveBetter

Welcome back to the Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast! In Episode 11, we’re diving into one of the most important—but often overlooked—parts of chronic lung disease management: caregiving. Whether you’re a patient who needs help or a caregiver supporting a loved one, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest conversations, and valuable resources. Your hosts Gina Hoots, Kelly Welton-Lewis, and Amy Sheldon break it all down with warmth, humor, and real-life wisdom. 💡 Why It Matters Behind every patient is a team—and caregivers are often the unsung heroes. They help with everything from medications to meals, from navigating appointments to offering emotional support. But caregivers need care too. That’s why we created this guide—for both sides of the caregiving relationship. 🔹 Here’s What We’ll Cover: ✅ What Is a Caregiver? – And why they’re vital for patients with chronic lung conditions. ✅ Daily Duties – Medication and symptom management, doctor visits, physical activity, and even hygiene and nutrition. ✅ How to Choose One – Great options include Care.com, Home Instead, and Aging Care. Don't be afraid to make a change if it’s not the right fit. ✅ For Caregivers – How to stay connected, set boundaries, and build your support network. ✅ Community Support – Learn how groups like the American Lung Association and the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation can help. ✅ Family Caregiving Tips – Designate roles, set routines, and use tools like Google Calendar to stay organized. 🎙️ Why Listen? Whether you’re receiving care or providing it, this episode is for you. We’ll help you feel less alone and more empowered with tips and resources to make the caregiving journey smoother, healthier, and more sustainable for everyone involved. Website: https://bluzone.health Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluzone_health Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/respiratoryrehab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bluzone-health X/Twitter: https://x.com/bluzonehealth @bluzonehealth 🔗 Coming Up Next: Episode 12 – Exercise Essentials Get ready to move! In our next episode, we’re breaking down the best exercises for people living with chronic respiratory conditions. We’ll cover how to get started safely, gear recommendations, and confidence-building tips. #Caregivers101 #ChronicLungDisease #PulmonarySupport #CaregivingJourney #BluZoneHealth #CozyLungLounge #PulmonaryRehab #LungHealth #CaregiverSupport

🌟 Episode 10: Emergency Preparedness for Life with Chronic Lung Disease 🌟 Welcome back to the Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast! In Episode 10, we're getting real about something we hope you’ll never need—but absolutely should have in place: a solid emergency plan. Your hosts Amy Sheldon, Kelly Welton-Lewis, and Gina Hoots are here to walk you through how to prepare for the unexpected—whether it's a sudden health scare, a natural disaster, or anything in between.

💡 Why It Matters When you live with a chronic lung condition, being prepared isn't just smart—it's essential. Emergencies can take many forms, and knowing exactly what to do can help protect your health and give you peace of mind.

🔹 Here’s What We’ll Cover: ✅ Make a Plan – From shortness of breath episodes to natural disasters, learn how to identify what “emergency” looks like for you and your family. ✅ Emergency Contacts – Who should be on your list? Think doctor, pharmacy, nearby family or friends—and make sure it’s easy to find. ✅ Teach the Kids – Simple steps they can follow, like dialing 911 or alerting a neighbor. ✅ Tell Someone You Trust – Share your plan with a friend or loved one, and make sure they know where to find your supplies. ✅ Include Your Pets – Don’t forget food, crates, and care instructions for your furry companions. ✅ Stock Up on Essentials – Keep an extra supply of medications, portable oxygen (if needed), and a basic first-aid kit at home and in your car. ✅ Pack a ‘Go Bag’ – Include snacks, water, a phone charger, important documents, and comfort items—especially if you have children.

🎙️ Why Listen? Emergencies don’t wait for a convenient time. This episode will help you take simple, doable steps to prepare for the “what-ifs” so you can respond with confidence—not panic. Whether it’s a fall, a health flare-up, or an evacuation order, having a plan means you and your loved ones will be ready.

🔗 Coming Up Next: Episode 11 – Exercise Essentials Wondering what you really need to get moving safely with a chronic lung condition? We’ll cover smart gear, safe routines, and tips for building confidence with every breath. Don’t miss it!

#EmergencyPreparedness #ChronicLungDisease #StaySafe #PulmonaryHealth #CozyLungLounge #BluZoneHealth