In this episode of The Health Advocates, Steven Newmark sits down with Jon Erlichman — founder of Ticker Take and a well-known financial journalist whose videos have reached nearly a billion views across platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and X. Jon shares his personal journey of living with Crohn’s disease and what inspired him to open up about it publicly. He also talks about the importance of family support, how he manages daily life in the spotlight, and why he’s optimistic about the future of IBD research and care.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the power of sharing your story.
Among the highlights in this episode:
00:58: Jon Erlichman describes his initial Crohn’s diagnosis while working at Bloomberg in NYC and managing new parenthood at the same time
04:29: Jon recalls the whirlwind of juggling work, a newborn, and worsening health symptoms before being properly diagnosed
06:34: Steven asks Jon about deciding to share his condition publicly despite having a highly visible career
06:48: Jon explains how family encouragement and growing confidence led him to speak up — and how going public lifted a weight and connected him with community support
10:12: Jon opens up about managing Crohn’s daily as a journalist: planning around TV schedules, live events, and knowing “where every bathroom is”
12:38: Jon shares advice for others who want to talk more openly about chronic illness: the reward of community and the mental health benefits of being vulnerable
14:21: Jon reflects on his family’s support and how caregiving and family impact are vital parts of any chronic illness story
16:45: Jon and Steven close with optimism for the future of IBD research and improved treatments, and gratitude for patient advocacy communities
Contact Our Host
Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org
A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.
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