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Clinical Research CoachAuthor: Leanne Woehlke
The Clinical Research Coach Podcast bridges conversations between industry, thought leaders and patients. We have vulnerable and real conversations with the goal of impacting the industry in meaningful ways. Language: en Genres: Life Sciences, Science Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Ella Balasa- Cystic Fibrosis Patient Advocate
Sunday, 15 February, 2026
In this episode of the Clinical Research Coach, I sit down with Ella Balasa, a cystic fibrosis patient advocate whose lived experience is shaping how our industry understands trust, transparency, and meaningful patient engagement.Diagnosed in infancy with cystic fibrosis, a progressive genetic lung disease, Ella has spent her life navigating hospital systems, breakthrough therapies, and clinical trials — not as an abstract participant, but as someone whose health and future depend on research progress. Along the way, she has become a powerful voice for improving how industry partners with patients.In this conversation, Ella shares what sponsors, sites, and biotech leaders often overlook:* Patient experience is never one-size-fits-all — even within the same diagnosis.* Patients learn about trials through trusted networks, not just databases or digital ads.* Transparency builds confidence and drives long-term participation in research.* Dropout affects more than timelines — it influences trust and future enrollment decisions.* Technology should support patients, but never replace human connection.Ella’s perspective challenges us to think beyond enrollment metrics and toward something deeper: relational trust. Because sustainable progress in clinical research depends on listening to patients as individuals, partners, and experts in their own lives.To learn more about Ella:Https:/ellabalasa.com
