Kate Stratton - Executive Director, Lipodystrophy United

What does it look like to truly amplify the voices of those suffering from a rare disease, especially when you yourself have such a personal connection? On this episode of Impactful Breakthroughs, Zach Gobst sits down with Kate Stratton, Executive Director of Lipodystrophy United, a patient-driven global community dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by lipodystrophy through advocacy, community, and research. Kate shares how her empathetic approach to patient advocacy was shaped. From her own mother’s experience navigating a 37-year diagnostic odyssey, to her experiences working with Planned Parenthood and asylum seekers, she emphasizes the importance of direct conversations rather than assumptions. You’ll also hear Kate’s journey navigating imposter syndrome and her advice for any young entrepreneurs out there looking to make their ideas a reality.  This conversation is a testament to what happens when personal experience, genuine empathy, and a refusal to wait for permission all come together in one person. Timestamps 00:00 Episode Start 01:55 Kate's personal path into patient advocacy 04:15 Lipodystrophy and how it affects the body 07:00 The common thread across all advocacy work 09:25 Patient voices matter most 12:15 Ensuring no one gets put in the wrong box 14:45 Being a young leader and navigating imposter syndrome 16:20 What Kate has learned from openness and collaboration 19:15 What's next for Lipodistrophy Untied 21:45 Kate’s advice for younger generations Key Takeaways One patient's experience is not a population. Kate is emphatic that true patient-centricity means continuously expanding the network of voices you listen to rather than relying on a single story or a token representative. After two years leading Lipodystrophy United, she still learns something new every time she speaks with a community member. Amplify, don't replace. Kate's approach to advocacy across immigration, health policy, and now rare disease, has always been the same: listen deeply, then lift others' voices rather than substituting your own. It's a philosophy that builds trust and creates lasting change. Just decide to do it. If you believe you can do something, you probably can. Surrounding yourself with people who are doing unconventional things and not waiting for external validation is what separates those who make an impact from those who talk about it. Age is not a barrier to impact. Kate has seen firsthand how quickly change can be made. At 23 she’s already expanded her team, published research, raised over $250,000 for the organization, and secured an FDA meeting for patients. Guest Shoutouts Andra Stratton, President and Co-Founder of Lipodystophy United Sabine Tilp, Journalist, Patient Advocate and leader of the German Lipodystrophy Network Resources Connect with guest Kate Stratton on LinkedIn Check out Lipodystrophy United Connect with host Zach Gobst on LinkedIn Check out Leapcure