What happens after a serious diagnosis—but before hospice care begins?

In this compelling conversation, host Chris Comeaux sits down with Sonya Dolan, Co-Founder of Mettle Health, and Bridget Sumser, Director of Counseling & Programs, to explore one of healthcare’s most overlooked challenges: the “missing middle.”

Drawing from decades of experience in hospice, palliative care, caregiving, and serious illness support, Sonya and Bridget discuss the critical gaps patients and families face as they navigate life-altering diagnoses, caregiving responsibilities, grief, and uncertainty. Together, they unpack why traditional healthcare systems often struggle to address the emotional, relational, practical, and existential realities of serious illness—and how Mettle Health is working to fill that gap through compassionate accompaniment and human-centered care.

This episode offers valuable insights for healthcare leaders, hospice professionals, nonprofit executives, caregivers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of what it means to truly support people through life’s most difficult transitions.

🔹 In this episode:
• What inspired the creation of Mettle Health
• Understanding the “missing middle” in healthcare
• Why caregivers need support in their own right
• The limitations of traditional healthcare and reimbursement models
• The role of accompaniment versus treatment
• Building resilience and coping skills during serious illness
• The evolution of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary care

Whether you’re leading a healthcare organization, caring for a loved one, or simply interested in improving the human experience of healthcare, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.

🎧 Don’t miss Part Two, where the discussion continues with deeper insights into caregiving, grief, communication, and the future of compassionate care.

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Guest:
Sonya Dolan Co-Founder, Mettle Health
Bridget Sumser, LCSW; Director of Counseling and Programs, Mettle Health

Host:
Chris Comeaux, President | CEO of TELEIOS and author of The Anatomy of Leadership

The Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact.

https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership