In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Mila Clarke shares her personal journey of significant life changes, including career shifts, personal challenges, a re-diagnosis of LADA, and the passing of her mother due to diabetes-related complications. She discusses finding herself, managing diabetes, and embracing a new path forward. The episode also delves into the challenges of burnout, building a support system, navigating changes in diabetes diagnosis, and the importance of representation in the diabetes community. Topics discussed: 1. Mila's Personal Journey including leaving her job to focus on Hangry Woman full-time 2. Career Shift and Health Coaching: Transition from a marketer to a health coach 3. Bridging the gap between fear of eating and enjoying meals 4. Importance of Self-Care and Boundaries: Prioritizing self-care to avoid burnout 5. Support System in Content Creation: Managing overwhelm by acknowledging limitations 6. The role of support team members in providing feedback and managing projects 7. Navigating Changes in Diabetes Diagnosis: Transition from type 2 to type 1 diabetes diagnosis 8. Representing Diverse Voices in the Diabetes Community: Importance of diversity representation and transparency in collaborations 9. Kindness, Respect, and Accountability: Impact of chronic illness on behavior and comparison culture 10. Addressing misconceptions about online personas and supporting creators 11. Building a Supportive Diabetes App Key takeaways: * Embracing personal growth amidst challenges and life changes * Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and recognizing emotional well-being * Navigating career shifts and advocating for representation in the diabetes community * Building a supportive community and offering personalized health support through technology * Upholding kindness, respect, and accountability in online interactions and content creation References: * The Hangry Woman * Glucose Guide App 00:00  Celebrating Diabetes Stories Worldwide 00:02  The Evolution of Mila Clarke: Navigating Life Changes and Diabetes Management 04:15  From Marketer to Health Coach: A Journey of Personal and Professional Growth 08:16  Learning to Set Boundaries and Prioritize Self-Care: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth 12:16  Navigating Burnout and Building a Support System in Content Creation 17:26  Navigating a Diabetes Diagnosis Change: Impact on Community, Relationships, and Advocacy 23:49  Navigating a New Diagnosis and its Impact on Personal Branding 28:04  Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges in the Diabetes Community 32:36  Debunking Myths and Realities of Being a Successful Black Woman Entrepreneur 42:36  Embracing Kindness and Abundance in a World of Competition 52:36  Navigating Social Media Etiquette and Misconceptions as a Creator 55:53  Navigating Online Criticism and Embracing the Journey to Success in Content Creation 01:02:49  Revolutionizing Diabetes Support with a Unique Pocket Guide App 01:06:10  Empowering Diabetes Management through Personalized Support and Community Connection 01:09:21  Building a Supportive Community Beyond Social Media Platforms 01:14:05  Empowering Health and Support Through a Unique Approach 01:17:12  The Value of Ads and Support in Providing Free Content and Services

In this podcast episode, Rob, Eritrea, and guest, Sam Tullman, discuss the transformative power of mindfulness, meditation, and resilience in the face of chronic illnesses like diabetes and mast cell activation syndrome. The conversation delves into personal experiences, coping mechanisms, the impact of support systems, and the importance of self-awareness in navigating health challenges. Trigger Warning: psychedelic drug use Topics discussed: 1. Sam Tolman's Journey with Chronic Illnesses 2. Reflection on challenges and benefits of facing a new diagnosis after 20 years of living with diabetes. 3. Importance of therapy, self-awareness, and familial support in managing chronic illnesses. 4. Managing Expectations and Finding Resilience 5. Coping with fragmented realities and embracing change. 6. Utilizing mindfulness practices in managing chronic illness. 7. Addressing the impact of chronic stressors, trauma, and social media addiction on mental health. 8. Transition from focusing on physical health (football) to mental health (research, meditation). 9. Experiences with psychedelics, emphasizing safety, supervision, and managing expectations. 10. Momentum in the scientific community regarding psychedelics for treating conditions like depression. 11. Benefits of mindfulness and meditation in healing trauma and personal growth. 12. Exploring how mindfulness and meditation can help individuals with diabetes cope with anxiety and stress. 13. Importance of setting realistic expectations and navigating discomfort in meditation. 14. Cyclical nature of meditation experiences and finding calmness in challenging moments. 15. Embracing mindfulness as a journey of self-awareness and acceptance. 16. Introduction to the Diabetes Sangha community and upcoming course on mindfulness and diabetes. 17. Exploring the connection between mindfulness, diabetes, and transforming suffering into joy and compassion. 18. Importance of gratitude and resilience in facing challenging situations. 19. Personal story of shifting perspectives through gratitude. 20. Impact of childhood experiences, karate, and vulnerability in personal growth. Key takeaways: * Mindfulness and meditation can aid in coping with chronic illnesses by promoting self-awareness and managing stress. * Support systems, therapy, and self-awareness play crucial roles in navigating health challenges. * Embracing mindfulness as a personal journey can lead to personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity. * Gratitude and resilience are powerful tools in shifting perspectives and facing life's challenges with strength. References: * Thich Nhat Hanh: Vietnamese Buddhist monk, mindfulness teacher, author. * Diabetes Sangha Community: Community focusing on mindfulness practices for individuals with diabetes. 00:00  Exploring the Power of Mindfulness and Meditation 00:04  Navigating Chronic Illness: A Journey of Resilience and Growth 06:26  Navigating Life with Diabetes: Self-awareness, Support, and Mindfulness 16:26  Unpacking the Mind-Body Connection and the Impact of Stress on Mental Health 26:26  Exploring the Intersection of Meditation, Psychedelics, and Healing Trauma 32:28  Exploring the Relationship Between Mindfulness, Meditation, and Diabetes 35:59  Navigating Life's Ups and Downs through Mindfulness and Investigation 39:00  Unlocking Mindfulness: Intention, Attention, and Retention 49:00  The Importance of Tuning into Yourself and Deep Self-Reflection 50:53  Transforming Suffering into Joy: Mindfulness and Diabetes 57:40  The Power of Gratitude and Resilience: A Conversation with Sam

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob and Eritrea interview Phyllis Kaplan, who has been living with type 1 diabetes for 50 years. They talk about various aspects of Phyllis's journey with diabetes, including her early diagnosis, managing diabetes in childhood, attending diabetes camp, dealing with diabetes-related complications, and the impact of technology on her diabetes management. Topics discussed: 1. Introduction to Phyllis Kaplan and her 50-year journey with type 1 diabetes 2. Early memories of being diagnosed with diabetes at a young age 3. Childhood experiences of managing diabetes, including testing sugars with rudimentary methods 4. Attending diabetes camp and the importance of the diabetes community 5. Transitioning to insulin pump therapy to gain flexibility in diabetes management 6. Coping with diabetes-related complications, such as retinopathy 7. The psychological impact of living with diabetes and dealing with guilt and self-blame 8. The importance of accepting the uncontrollable aspects of diabetes and seeking support from healthcare providers 9. The relief and normalcy brought by modern diabetes technology, such as hybrid closed-loop systems 10. Gratitude for waking up in range and the shift in perspective over time Key takeaways: * Acceptance and Perspective: Phyllis emphasizes the importance of accepting the uncontrollable aspects of living with diabetes and shifting perspectives to avoid self-blame and guilt for complications or high/low blood sugars. * Community and Support: Being part of the diabetes community and connecting with others who understand the challenges of diabetes can provide comfort, understanding, and a sense of belonging. * Adaptation to Technology: The advancement of technology in diabetes management, such as insulin pumps and CGMs, can bring relief, normalcy, and added flexibility to daily life. * Growth and Resilience: Over time, individuals with diabetes learn to navigate the challenges, adapt to new circumstances, and find ways to thrive despite the ups and downs of living with a chronic condition. * Gratitude and Reflection: Reflecting on the journey with diabetes, celebrating milestones, and finding gratitude in waking up in range can bring a sense of accomplishment and appreciation for progress made. References: * Medtronic * JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) 00:00  Celebrating 50 Years with Type 1 Diabetes: A Journey with Phyllis Kaplan 00:31  Celebrating 50 Years with Type 1 Diabetes: A Journey of Resilience and Community 04:57  The Impact and Nostalgia of Diabetes Camp: A Journey of Empowerment and Friendship 14:57  Evolution of Diabetes Management: From Manual Checks to Advanced Automated Systems 19:37  Navigating Stigma and Building Connections Through Diabetes Advocacy 29:37  Navigating Diabetes Conversations and Reflecting on Milestones 31:40  Celebrating a Life with Diabetes: Reflections on Surviving and Thriving 35:37  Empowering Advice for Living with Type 1 Diabetes for 50 Years 39:06  Navigating Complications and Control in Life with Diabetes 48:36  Finding Relief and Normalcy with Technology in Managing Diabetes: A Personal Journey

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob welcomes Jon Jensen back to the podcast. They discuss the challenges of running a business, dealing with stress, and how being active impacts blood sugar levels. They emphasize the importance of movement, hydration, and clean supplements for overall health. Topics discussed: 1. Challenges of running a business as a person with diabetes 2. Impact of stress on blood sugar levels and business decisions 3. Importance of movement for physical and mental well-being 4. Clean supplements and their role in maintaining health 5. Positive effects of simple activities like walking and hydration 6. Support for diabetes-owned businesses 7. Personal experiences with fitness, mindset, and health Key takeaways: * Stress and lifestyle factors can significantly impact blood sugar levels and overall health. * Movement, hydration, and clean supplements play a crucial role in managing diabetes and promoting well-being. * Small actions like going for a walk or staying hydrated can have a significant positive impact on mood and health. * Supporting diabetes-owned businesses and sharing feedback can create a positive loop of motivation and satisfaction. References: * Type Zero Health * Catalina Crunch * The Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy Gallwey 00:00  Exploring Inspiring Stories of People with Diabetes Worldwide 00:03  Exploring the Intersection of Diabetes, Entrepreneurship, and Stress with Type 0 Health Founder 03:27  Managing Chronic Stress and Diabetes in Today's Information Overload World. 06:37  The Impact of Information Overload on Blood Sugar Management. 09:49  The Power of Visualization and Confidence in Performance 12:59  From Visualization to Growth: A Founder's Journey with Type 0 Products 22:59  Revolutionizing Fitness with Type 0: From Mindset to New Products 25:05  Struggles of Creating Clean and Effective Supplements in the Health Industry 30:23  Empowering and Supporting Diabetes-Owned Businesses and Athletes in the Community 33:48  Revolutionizing Health with Type 0: A Passion for Movement and Clean Supplements 39:10  The Power of Walking: Simple Yet Impactful Health Benefits and Overcoming Gym Anxiety 42:32  The Power of Small Habits for Mental Health and Well-being. 46:35  The Impact of Entrepreneurship and Paying It Forward: A Conversation with Rob Howe

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob and Eritrea interview Jeremy Robertson, a pilot and doctor with type 1 diabetes. They discuss Jeremy's journey from losing his pilot license due to diabetes to regaining it and pursuing a career as a commercial pilot. They delve into the requirements and challenges of managing diabetes while flying and reflect on the advancements in diabetes management technology. The conversation highlights the resilience, determination, and inspiration found in Jeremy's story. Topics discussed: 1. Jeremy Robertson's journey from losing his pilot license to regaining it 2. Requirements for managing diabetes while flying commercially 3. Reflections on advancements in diabetes management technology 4. The emotional journey of overcoming setbacks and pursuing dreams 5. The impact of Jeremy's story on inspiring others with diabetes to pursue their goals 6. The intersection of being a pilot and a doctor with diabetes 7. The importance of perseverance and long-term goals in managing diabetes Key takeaways: * Long-term goals and perseverance are key in overcoming setbacks and achieving dreams. * Advancements in diabetes management technology have opened up new possibilities for individuals with diabetes to pursue diverse careers and activities. * The story of resilience and determination in Jeremy's journey serves as an inspiration for others facing challenges with diabetes management. 00:00 Exciting Interview on Diabetics Doing Things Podcast 00:03  Heartwarming Friendship and Global Connections: A Special Interview in Dallas 04:46  Emotional Journey of a Type 1 Diabetic Pilot: From Diagnosis to Returning to the Cockpit 08:31  A Rollercoaster Journey of Challenges and Triumphs: A Story of Persistence and Resilience 15:11  The Intersection of Medicine and Personal Experience with Diabetes: A Healthcare Provider's Journey 20:58  Shifting Conversations on Diabetes and Piloting, Inspiring Young Pilots with Diabetes, and a Random Condorman Story 25:16  Requirements and Guidelines for Pilots with Diabetes 30:09  Exploring the Intersection of Aviation and Medical Regulations 33:56  Journey to Becoming an Airline Pilot: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Inspiration 37:53  Inspiring Stories of Overcoming Obstacles in the Pilot Community 42:27  The T1D Renaissance: A Decade of Progress in Diabetes Technology 45:57  Exploring the T1D Renaissance and Friendship in a Podcast

Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this interview reflect the personal opinions of Jonathan Tijerina and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute or the University of Miami Health. Medical decisions should be made with the collaboration of a licensed healthcare provider. Thank you!  In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob and Eritrea are joined by Dr. Jonathan David Tijerina, a former athlete turned medical resident, shares valuable insights on diabetic eye complications, focusing on retinopathy and macular edema. The conversation delves into the importance of lifestyle factors, regular eye check-ups, and advancements in treatment options for preserving vision in diabetic patients. Topics discussed: 1. Dr. Jonathan David Tijerina's Journey and Expertise o Former athlete turned medical resident specializing in treating diabetic eye complications. o Career progression, including being appointed as the 1st interior segment chief resident at Baskin Palmer Eye Institute. 2. Understanding Diabetic Eye Complications o Fear of retinopathy among diabetics and its correlation with glucose control. o Impact of physiology and health conditions on susceptibility to complications. o Importance of addressing systemic issues along with localized eye problems. o Significance of lifestyle factors like diet and exercise in managing diabetic eye issues. 3. Prevention and Early Detection o Importance of regular eye exams for early detection and prevention of complications. o Guidelines recommending annual eye exams for type 2 diabetics within the first five years of diagnosis. o Managing blood sugar, exercise, sleep, high cholesterol, and blood pressure for preventing eye damage. 4. Treatment Options and Progression o Treatments including injections and laser therapy to preserve vision and prevent irreversible damage. o Early detection through routine screenings for better outcomes and prevention of serious complications like blindness. o Evolution of examination processes and data collection in ophthalmology. 5. Advancements in Imaging Technologies o Improved screening and imaging methods leading to more diagnoses and early detection. o Implications of advanced technologies like at-home retina photo-taking and cell phone attachments. o Correlation between risk factors for diabetic eye complications and overall diabetes control. 6. Challenges in Patient Education and Communication o Educating patients about diabetic eye disease without blame or shame. o Importance of clear communication, continuity clinics, and early screening. o Emotional burden faced by healthcare providers in delivering difficult news to patients. 7. Balancing Health and Quality of Life o Importance of regular screenings, following medical advice, and managing conditions like diabetes effectively. o Prioritizing eye health and establishing personalized vision goals with ophthalmologists. o Balancing quality of life with diabetes management, especially during personal and career changes. Key takeaways: * Prioritize health, listen to medical professionals, and take proactive steps to manage diabetes effectively. * Seek immediate medical attention for eye issues and establish personalized care plans with ophthalmologists. * Educate patients without blame, communicate effectively, and emphasize the importance of early screening and treatment for diabetic eye complications. 00:00  Navigating Personal Opinions in Medical Podcasts 00:20  Uncovering the Success Story of Dr. Jonathan David Tijerina: From Athlete to Chief Resident in Miami 03:48  Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy and Its Relationship to Diabetes Control 10:18  Understanding the Importance of Regular Eye Exams for Diabetes Patients 18:50  Understanding the Progression and Treatment of Diabetic Eye Disease: A Personal Experience and Medical Insights 28:50  Unveiling the Evolution of Eye Health Examination and Data Collection in Diabetes Treatments 28:54  Evolution of Diabetic Eye Exams: From Old School to High-Tech 32:32  The Impact of Advanced Imaging on Early Detection of Diabetic Retinopathy 36:09  Understanding the Impact of Pregnancy on Diabetes Complications and Eye Health 39:18  Navigating Patient Education and Awareness in Diabetic Eye Disease 43:17  Understanding the Emotional and Practical Challenges of Diabetes Complications 46:42  Importance of Immediate Eye Care for Floaters and Establishing Vision Goals with Your Ophthalmologist 50:20  Balancing Diabetes Management with Life Changes: A Doctor's Perspective 54:14  Inspiring Stories of Overcoming Challenges in Ophthalmology and Aviation Mentioned in this Episode: Eritrea’s Article, “Diabetic Macular Edema: How I Almost Went Blind”

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob, Eritrea, and guest, Neil Greathouse, reflect on the journey of the podcast, challenges in the diabetes community, the evolution of content creation, and the importance of authenticity and vulnerability. They delve into topics like creating daily TikTok videos about diabetes, analyzing content performance, managing type 1 diabetes in everyday life, the impact of ethnic food on blood sugar levels, and addressing stigma surrounding diabetes. Topics discussed: 1. Challenges and Rewards of Sustaining a Podcast in the Diabetes Community o Importance of long-term dedication o Building trust in the diabetes community o Challenges such as burnout and sustainability o Fulfillment from connecting and helping others 2. Transformation of the Podcast and Personal Journeys o Transition from a one-man show to a collaborative effort o Guest's career shift to full-time content creator and diabetes advocate o Importance of building relationships and staying connected in the industry 3. Content Creation and Engagement in the Diabetes Community o Commitment to consistency and connection o Authenticity and vulnerability in content creation o Analyzing content performance and focusing on positive impact 4. Managing Type 1 Diabetes in Everyday Life o Practical demonstration over verbal instructions o Balancing accommodations and self-expectations o Addressing misconceptions and stigma surrounding diabetes 5. Dosage Challenges for Different Foods o Estimating carb counts for challenging foods like pizza, pasta, and ethnic dishes o Importance of timing insulin doses and considering hidden ingredients o Personal anecdotes and tips for navigating tricky food situations 6. Cultural Influences on Blood Sugar Levels o Impact of lifestyle choices, traditional diets, and activity levels o Understanding individual responses to carbs and influences of sleep and exercise o Balancing modern sedentary lifestyles with dietary needs 7. Addressing Stigma and Sharing Stories o Encouraging listeners to open up about encounters with stigma o Discussing trauma related to diabetes and promoting unity within the community Key takeaways: * Long-term dedication and authenticity are crucial in sustaining a podcast and building trust within the diabetes community. * Consistency, connection, and vulnerability are key elements in content creation that resonate with audiences. * Managing type 1 diabetes requires a balance between accommodations and self-expectations, with a focus on honesty and self-assessment. * Understanding individual responses to different foods and cultural influences is essential in managing blood sugar levels effectively. * Addressing stigma surrounding diabetes through open conversations and shared experiences can help foster unity and understanding within the community. 00:00  Celebrating Friendship and Longevity in the Diabetic Community 01:25  Building Trust and Longevity in the Diabetes Community 08:21  From Computer Science to Diabetes Advocacy: A Journey of Transformation 11:47  The Journey of Consistent Content Creation and Connection in the Diabetes Community 21:47  Navigating Vulnerability and Transparency in Social Media Content Creation 24:05  Insights on Content Strategy and Audience Engagement in the Diabetes Community 28:07  Unpacking the Impact of Content Creation and the Journey of Self-Discovery 31:36  The Importance of Showing vs. Telling in Managing Type 1 Diabetes 35:27  Challenging Misuse of Type 1 Diabetes for Personal Gain and the Importance of Honesty in Self-Assessment 40:15  Breaking the Stigma: Courage and Honesty in Living with Diabetes 50:15  Heartfelt Gratitude and Mailbag Fun on Diabetics Podcast 52:24  Cracking the Code: Dosing Insulin for Tricky Foods 57:19  Exploring the Impact of Ethnic Food and Lifestyle on Blood Sugar Levels 01:00:54  Breaking the Stigma: Sharing Diabetes Trauma

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob goes solo to discuss various upcoming events, including a diabetes meetup at Pax and Beneficia, where there will be a pour-over class and discussions on automated insulin delivery systems. He also delves into his experience at the Advanced Technologies and Therapies for Diabetes (ATTD) conference in Florence, highlighting key topics like access, adherence, and automation in diabetes care. Rob also shares personal updates on his diabetes treatment, goals for 2024, and insights from his Goldman Sachs program. The episode concludes with a quick discussion on Ramadan, upcoming events, and a call for mailbag submissions. Topics discussed: 1. Announcement of upcoming events, including a diabetes meetup at Pax and Beneficia with a pour-over class and discussions on automated insulin delivery systems. 2. Recap of Rob's experience at the ATTD conference in Florence, focusing on access, adherence, and automation in diabetes care. 3. Personal updates on Rob's diabetes treatment, goals for 2024, and insights from his Goldman Sachs program. 4. Mention of Ramadan, fasting with diabetes, and upcoming events like a diabetes legends basketball clinic in Dallas and Denver. 5. Call for mailbag submissions and updates on the podcast's content and goals. Key takeaways: * Events like meetups and conferences provide valuable insights and networking opportunities in the diabetes community. * Access to technology, adherence to treatment, and automation play crucial roles in improving diabetes management. * Patient voices are essential in shaping decisions in diabetes care and should be valued and compensated. * Personal accountability and structured programs can aid in achieving goals and personal growth. * Fasting with diabetes during events like Ramadan can present unique challenges, highlighting the importance of advanced diabetes management systems. * Engagement with the community through mailbag submissions and social media interactions helps in sharing experiences and raising awareness about diabetes. 00:00  Exciting Updates and Announcements for Diabetics Doing Things Podcast 00:26  Exciting Diabetes Meetup Event Announcement and Thriveable Partnership Details 03:38  March Madness, T1D Ballers, Clinical Trials, and ATTD Highlights: A Recap of the Diabetes World 13:38  Empowering Patient Voices at International Diabetes Conferences 18:10  Struggles with Insulin Access, 2024 Goals, and Ramadan Observance: A Personal Update 22:44  Exciting Updates on Diabetics Doing Things Events and Podcast Content Resources mentioned in this episode: * Pax and Beneficia Spring Meetup  * Thriveable * DCB and Tide Pool Clinical Trial * Rob’s Blog Post about ATTD * Dr. Addala’s Episode on DDT * #dedoc°

In this podcast episode, Rob and Eritrea talk with returning guest Basma Adams, discussing their experiences within the diabetes online community. They touch on topics such as the growth of their friendship, the importance of empathy and support, transitioning to healthcare careers, embracing cultural identities, and the challenges faced by people of color in online spaces. Topics discussed: 1. The power of empathy and support within the diabetes community 2. Transitioning from different career paths to healthcare, particularly in diabetes care 3. Embracing one's cultural identity and the significance of familial support 4. Challenges faced by individuals of color in online communities and advocacy efforts 5. Importance of representation, support, and inclusivity in online spaces Key takeaways: * Empathy and Support: The importance of genuine connections, understanding, and support within the diabetes community. * Career Transitions: Stories of transitioning to healthcare careers, emphasizing the importance of personal experiences in shaping patient care. * Cultural Identity: Embracing cultural backgrounds and personal identities while advocating for diabetes awareness. * Challenges Faced by People of Color: Highlighting instances of discrimination, lack of inclusivity, and the need for representation in online communities. * Resilience and Advocacy: Encouraging perseverance, support, and the creation of inclusive spaces for marginalized groups in the face of adversity. 00:00  The Return of Diabetics Doing Things Podcast 00:04  Heartwarming Stories of Connection and Friendship in the Diabetes Community 03:16  From a 19-Year-Old Podcaster to a Frontline Nurse: A Journey Through the Pandemic 07:02  From Pediatric ICU to Diabetes Care: A Nurse's Journey of Personal Growth and Career Transition 17:02  Unveiling the Concept of Chronic Intuition: A Personal Journey with Diabetes 17:11  Unveiling the Power of Chronic Intuition and Self-Discovery in Healthcare Journeys 24:18  The Power of Parental Support and Identity in Shaping Confidence and Belonging 30:12  Embracing Heritage and Self-Discovery: A Journey of Self-Acceptance on Social Media 33:26  Embracing Cultural Identity and Diabetes Advocacy: A Journey of Self-Acceptance and Empathy 36:47  Understanding the Perspective of Healthcare Providers in Diabetes Care 40:14  The Importance of Personalized Patient Care in Healthcare and Finding Balance as a Healthcare Worker 44:01  Navigating Self-Care and Burnout as a Healthcare Provider Living with Diabetes 50:20  Embracing Change and Diversity in the Diabetes Online Community 53:45  Navigating Discrimination and Gatekeeping in Diabetes Online Communities 58:46  Breaking the Loop: Advocacy, Inequity, and Resilience in Communities of Color

This episode is supported by Thrivable. Thrivable’s mission is to create a better future together. They achieve this by making it easy for healthcare companies to include the patient's voice in their decisions so they can create transformative treatments and products for you.  And for listeners of Diabetics Doing Things, Thrivable has multiple opportunities for you to earn money for sharing your story, your insights and your lived experience for companies who produce and design products for people with diabetes. You can participate in online surveys and earn up to $75 per hour and join in-person studies to earn up to $800 per study. To sign up, just go to thrivable.app/rob and create a profile. It only takes a few minutes. Then, just wait for study invitations, participate in a paid diabetes research study and get compensated for your time. ————— In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob, Eritrea, and guest Santiago Paulos share their experiences and stories about living with diabetes from different perspectives. Santiago talks about his journey of being diagnosed with diabetes, his work in the diabetes community, and his recent experience of becoming a new dad. Their conversation delves into topics like encountering the diabetes stigma, using humor to navigate diabetes challenges, and balancing life as a new parent with diabetes. This episode also includes the opening of the Mailbag! If you want to submit your question, email [email protected]. Topics discussed: 1. Meeting Santiago and their initial interaction at a diabetes conference in Abu Dhabi. 2. Santiago's diabetes diagnosis story and how he was diagnosed during a road trip to Argentina. 3. Santiago's journey in creating the persona of The Diabetic Survivor and his background in art and design. 4. Collaborations with organizations like T1International and creating designs for diabetes awareness campaigns. 5. Exploring the intersection of art, design, and diabetes advocacy. 6. Addressing the diabetes stigma, challenges faced in public settings, and the importance of communication in relationships. 7. Santiago's experience as a new dad with type 1 diabetes, the impact of diabetes management on parenting, and finding a balance in routine. 8. Using humor and the "diabetes card" to navigate diabetes-related situations and advocating for self-care in relationships. Key takeaways: * Navigating the diabetes stigma: Santiago shared experiences of encountering the diabetes stigma, particularly through jokes and comments made in social settings, highlighting the importance of addressing and standing up against such behavior. * Balancing diabetes management with parenting: Santiago's journey as a new dad with diabetes showcases the challenges and adjustments required to manage diabetes effectively while caring for a newborn, emphasizing the need for open communication and support. * Using humor and communication: Humor can be a coping mechanism in dealing with diabetes challenges, and effective communication, both in personal relationships and professional settings, plays a significant role in raising awareness and advocating for diabetes rights. * Awareness and cultural considerations: Being mindful of cultural differences and digital literacy challenges can help in creating inclusive content and messaging that resonates with diverse audiences, fostering a more understanding and supportive environment for people with diabetes. 00:00  Exciting Opportunities for People with Diabetes to Earn Money and Inspiring Stories from International Guests on Diabetics Doing Things Podcast 03:31  Unveiling a Multicultural Friendship and a Diabetic Survivor's Journey 06:34  From Scooter Crash to Diabetic Survivor: A Unique Diagnosis Story and Artistic Journey 16:34  Exploring the Intersection of Diabetes, Art, and Community through Design and Advocacy 26:34  Navigating the Complexities of Working with Diabetes and Stigma in the Industry 36:34  Navigating Age-Related Content Preferences in a Diverse Audience 37:13  Breaking the Stigma: Navigating Diabetes Conversations and Digital Literacy 41:06  Navigating Parenthood and Diabetes: Santiago's Journey 45:57  Diabetic Dads' Secrets and Challenges: A Candid Conversation on Balancing Parenthood and Diabetes 49:40  Inspiring Conversation with a Diabetes Dad

This episode is supported by Thrivable. Thrivable’s mission is to create a better future together. They achieve this by making it easy for healthcare companies to include the patient's voice in their decisions so they can create transformative treatments and products for you.  And for listeners of Diabetics Doing Things, Thrivable has multiple opportunities for you to earn money for sharing your story, your insights and your lived experience for companies who produce and design products for people with diabetes. You can participate in online surveys and earn up to $75 per hour and join in-person studies to earn up to $800 per study. To sign up, just go to thrivable.app/rob and create a profile. It only takes a few minutes. Then, just wait for study invitations, participate in a paid diabetes research study and get compensated for your time. ——— In this podcast episode, Dr. Charles Loftis, a type 1 diabetic and sports performance therapist for the Portland Trail Blazers, shares his diagnosis story and the challenges of living with diabetes. The conversation covers topics such as diabetes diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, emotional struggles, the impact of technology in diabetes management, community support, managing diabetes in a sports team, traveling with diabetes, and balancing a career in sports performance coaching while dealing with diabetes. This episode also includes the opening of the Mailbag! If you want to submit your question, email [email protected]. Topics discussed: 1. Diabetes Diagnosis and Lifestyle Adjustments o Doc shares his diagnosis story and the challenges he faced despite being fit and health-conscious. o Importance of nuanced diabetes diagnosis and understanding insulin dosing and carb counting post-diagnosis. o Emotional and practical challenges of accepting the diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and educational aspects of managing the condition. 2. Community Support and Awareness o Sharing a diabetes diagnosis publicly and receiving support from the community. o Importance of connections within the diabetes community, using personal experiences to educate and raise awareness. o Impact of technology in diabetes management and societal perceptions of wearing devices. 3. Managing Diabetes in Sports Performance o Challenges of managing blood sugar levels during physical activities. o Recognizing symptoms, handling medical emergencies, and communicating about diabetes within a sports team. o Strategies for managing diabetes while traveling with a professional sports team. 4. Career in Sports Performance Coaching with Diabetes o Balancing a demanding lifestyle as a sports performance coach for elite athletes. o Importance of personal routines, sacrifices made for success, and advice for individuals with diabetes pursuing careers in sports. o Understanding the individuality of athletes and the impact of personal experiences on inspiring others. 5. Perspectives and Empathy o Reflections on how living with diabetes has shaped perspectives and empathy. o Valuable life lessons learned from dealing with a chronic condition. o Gratitude for growth and insight gained through unique experiences with diabetes. Key takeaways: * Acceptance and positivity are crucial in facing the challenges of living with diabetes. * Community support and connections within the diabetes community play a significant role in managing the condition. * Understanding the individuality of athletes and the importance of communication in sports teams are essential for diabetes management. * Personal experiences with diabetes can inspire and support others facing similar struggles. * Gratitude and growth can be found in the unique experiences and challenges posed by living with diabetes. 00:00  Unlocking the Story of a Type 1 Diabetic NBA Sports Performance Therapist 09:05  Navigating the Emotional and Practical Challenges of Living with Type 1 Diabetes 14:33  Embracing the Diabetes Community: A Journey of Support and Inspiration 20:43  Navigating Life with Diabetes: Challenges, Awareness, and Acceptance 28:38  Navigating Diabetes in a Sports Performance Team 31:45  Managing Diabetes and NBA Travel: A Pro's Guide 36:57  Navigating Life as a Sports Performance Coach Working with Elite Athletes and Diabetes 46:57  Exciting Basketball Clinics and Heartfelt Conversations: A Peek into Diabetes Community Connections 48:33  Rob & Eritrea Open the Mailbag