Editor’s note: This episode was recorded prior to the 2025 fires that ravaged Los Angeles, including Gary Hall Jr.’s home in the Pacific Palisades: you can donate to his go fund me at this link and support additional efforts to support those affected in Los Angeles here.

Doing Well with Diabetes is a podcast series collaboration between the International Diabetes Federation and the Diabetics Doing Things podcast. During this series, host Rob Howe interviews athletes living with diabetes from around the globe to help inspire the next generation of athletes with diabetes to continue to work towards their dreams while doing well with diabetes. 

Doing Well with Diabetes is part of the Kids and Diabetes in Schools program. Diabetics Doing Things has donated all production and promotion in-kind.

In this episode of ‘Doing Well with Diabetes,’ host Rob Howe interviews Gary Hall Jr., the most decorated Olympian with type 1 diabetes. Gary shares his experiences leading up to and following his diagnosis in 1999, discussing the challenges and triumphs of managing diabetes as a top-level athlete.

They delve into the nuances of diabetes management, the importance of perseverance, and the critical support systems that aided Gary in his career. The conversation also addresses broader topics such as advocacy, the role of sports in diabetes management, and the future of diabetes care.

Resources:

Kids IDF

Content Warning: Diabetes Complications, Diabulimia

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob interviews Sarah Camrie, a TikTok influencer who shares her unique journey of living with type 1 diabetes for 31 years and experiencing a cure through a Simultaneous Kidney and Pancreas (SPK) Transplant in October 2024. Sarah discusses her life with diabetes from a young age, her struggles with diabulimia, meeting her supportive husband, and the onset of chronic kidney disease triggered by her second pregnancy. She elaborates on the complex decision to undergo SPK, the benefits and challenges post-transplant, and her new life without diabetes. The conversation touches on the importance of sharing her story to educate and inspire others, tackling misconceptions about the procedure and the trade-offs she's faced. Sarah's openness and positive outlook provide a profound insight into living without type 1 diabetes and the realities of organ transplants.

Diabetics Doing Things 2024 Wrapped: Achievements, Reflections, and Future Plans

In this episode, Rob Howe reflects on the accomplishments of 'Diabetics Doing Things' in 2024. He highlights major milestones, including publishing 52 podcast episodes, hosting and speaking at numerous events, and achieving personal milestones like 20 years with diabetes and six months of sobriety. He also discusses the future plans for 2025, focusing on improving podcast content, securing bigger guests, and launching the Diabetes Legends Foundation for youth and adult events. Rob emphasizes the importance of community and looks forward to continued growth and success in the new year.

00:00 Introduction and 2024 Recap Overview

01:14 Reflecting on 20 Years with Diabetes

03:48 Achievements and Events of 2024

08:44 Podcast Highlights and Listener Stats

12:34 Looking Ahead to 2025

17:13 Diabetes Legends Nonprofit Announcement and Conclusion

Doing Well with Diabetes is a podcast series collaboration between the International Diabetes Federation and the Diabetics Doing Things podcast. During this series, host Rob Howe interviews athletes living with diabetes from around the globe to help inspire the next generation of athletes with diabetes to continue to work towards their dreams while doing well with diabetes. 

Doing Well with Diabetes is part of the Kids and Diabetes in Schools program. Diabetics Doing Things has donated all production and promotion in-kind. 

In this episode of Doing Well with Diabetes, host Rob Howe interviews professional basketball player Lara McSpadden. Lara shares her experiences of living with diabetes for nearly 18 years and how it intersects with her career as an athlete.

They discuss the challenges of managing diabetes while maintaining a rigorous training and playing schedule, the importance of a strong support system, and mental health. Lara also provides insights into her routines, favorite diabetes management tips, and advice for young athletes with diabetes.

This inspiring conversation aims to encourage those living with diabetes to pursue their dreams while effectively managing their condition.

Resources:

Kids IDF

Doing Well with Diabetes is a podcast series collaboration between the International Diabetes Federation and the Diabetics Doing Things podcast. During this series, host Rob Howe interviews athletes living with diabetes from around the globe to help inspire the next generation of athletes with diabetes to continue to work towards their dreams while doing well with diabetes. 

Doing Well with Diabetes is part of the Kids and Diabetes in Schools programme. Diabetics Doing Things has donated all production and promotion in-kind. 

In this episode of Doing Well with Diabetes, host Rob Howe interviews Stephanie Ratcliffe, an Olympic hammer thrower living with type 1 diabetes who was recently part of Australia’s 2024 Olympic Team. Stephanie shares her journey of managing diabetes while excelling in athletics and academics, including her experiences at the University of Georgia and Harvard University.  

Stephanie and Rob discuss the unrealistic expectation of maintaining perfect blood sugar levels for people with type 1 diabetes. They highlight the dangers of striving for perfection, likening it to general life pressures that can bring about stress and negativity. They emphasize the importance of managing diabetes to the best of one’s ability without demanding perfection. 

Stephanie also discusses the challenges and strategies for managing diabetes in high-pressure situations, the importance of a positive mindset, and her hopes of inspiring the next generation of athletes with diabetes. The episode highlights Stephanie growth in embracing her diabetes identity and connecting with the type 1 community. 

Resources:

Kids IDF

While you’re listening to this episode, be sure to check out Matt’s new book "The Blood Sugar Freedom Formula" which just launched and is available on Amazon. It is currently listed as a best seller, so don't miss out on Matt's breakdowns of the complex management of insulin-dependent diabetes into a simple manner to make it not only manageable, but finally possible to master.

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob reconnects with Matt Vande Vegte, also known as FTF Warrior, who shares his incredible journey from training for triathlons to completing his first full Ironman. Matt discusses the lifestyle changes and mental resilience required to balance diabetes management with rigorous athletic training. He shares insights on proactive and reactive blood sugar management strategies, lessons learned from his experience, and the importance of community support. His story emphasizes the power of adaptability, the value of mental health, and the inspirational possibilities for those living with diabetes.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction
00:41 Matt's Triathlon Journey Begins
02:41 Lifestyle Changes and Sacrifices
04:51 The Power of Hard Challenges
10:44 Diabetes Management Strategies
15:49 Lessons from Ironman Training
21:52 Faith and Learning from Blood Sugars
23:53 Connecting with Fellow Type 1 Diabetics
24:07 Challenges During the Swim
24:47 Managing Insulin on the Bike Ride
25:38 Unexpected Obstacles and Adaptations
32:45 The Marathon and Final Push
35:06 Reflecting on the Ironman Experience
37:26 Balancing Mental Health and Diabetes Management
43:55 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Resources:

Matt’s Instagram
FTF Warrior
Youtube Channel

In this episode of 'Diabetics Doing Things, Rob reflects on the 10-year anniversary of the podcast and welcomes guest Ethan Lewis, founder of Transcend Foods. They explore Ethan's journey, from his diagnosis of type 1 diabetes at age 12 to becoming an entrepreneur. Ethan talks about the challenges and stigmas people with diabetes face and how his company, Transcend Foods, aims to provide accessible, effective, and non-clinical solutions for helping navigate highs and lows. They discuss the importance of mental health, the role of innovation, and the evolving landscape of diabetes management. The conversation also touches on new product developments like hydration drink mixes and highlights the significance of normalizing life with diabetes.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:40 Meeting Ethan Lewis from Transcend Foods
01:45 Ethan's Diagnosis and Early Life with Diabetes
05:45 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 08:30 Founding Transcend Foods
12:53 Making Diabetes Management Easier
16:27 Challenges of Living with Diabetes
18:59 Embracing Vulnerability in Business
19:36 Normalizing Diabetes Management
21:28 Mental Health and Diabetes
22:14 Daily Routines for Managing Diabetes
24:24 The Importance of Hydration
25:33 Innovations in Diabetes Care
32:10 The Reality of Living with Diabetes
35:54 Inspiration and Gratitude
37:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources:

Transcend Foods

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Shaina Kasper, the newly appointed executive director of T1 International, joins the podcast to discuss the organization's ongoing and future initiatives. Shaina elaborates on key topics such as the transition of leadership, the global fight for affordable insulin, the role of policy in diabetes advocacy, and why T1 International refuses pharmaceutical funding. The conversation also touches on the impact of climate disasters, conflict zones, and political actions on insulin access. Additionally, Shaina emphasizes the importance of community and patient-led research and how listeners can contribute to the cause through surveys, petitions, and grassroots support. The episode calls for voters to be informed about the implications of policy changes and to participate actively in advocacy efforts for systemic change.

00:00 Introduction and Recap of Part One
00:16 Welcoming Shaina Kasper
01:48 Global Challenges and Human Rights
03:57 T1 International's Policy Focus
07:20 Personal Stories and Advocacy
09:36 Survey and Research Initiatives
10:58 Policy Priorities and Legislative Actions
14:22 Challenges in the Pharmaceutical Industry
30:07 The Importance of Independent Advocacy
35:41 Call to Action and Conclusion

Resources:

Public Citizen Report: Mapping the Phrma Grant Universe
T1 International - How to Get Involved

Transition in Leadership: Liz Pfeister Reflects on a Decade of Advocacy with T1 International In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, host Rob Howe interviews Liz Pfeister, the founder and outgoing Executive Director of T1 International. They discuss Liz's journey from founding the organization to advocating for insulin access and addressing overwhelming challenges in conflict zones. Liz shares insights on the emotional and logistical difficulties of stepping down and the vital importance of community in advocacy work. They also explore the future of T1 International under the new leadership of Shaina Kasper and emphasize the enduring fight for global insulin access.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
01:46 Meet Liz Pfeister: Founder of T1 International
02:59 The Journey of T1 International
07:01 The Highs and Lows of Advocacy
16:08 Future of T1 International
19:28 Global South and Conflict Zones
27:28 Reflections on Advocacy and Independence
32:54 Advice for Aspiring Advocates
38:10 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Embecta disclaims any control over, relationship with, or endorsement of, or the accuracy, truthfulness or completeness of the content or view expressed in this Podcast, which are solely those of the speaker and not necessarily those of embecta.  embecta does not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information provided therein.  Any and all comments and post are from members of the public community and do not necessarily reflect the views of embecta.

This episode of Diabeteics Doing Things features Antoinette Watkins, the founder of Diabaddie Org. She discusses her personal journey with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), from being diagnosed at a young age to her extensive dance career and eventual pivot to healthcare to better support the T1D community. Antoinette highlights the importance of diabetes camps in normalizing the experience for young diabetics and her efforts to make these opportunities more accessible to minority communities. She also delves into the stigmas faced by minority diabetics and the need for representation and role models in the diabetes community. Sponsored by Embecta, this episode is a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for anyone affected by diabetes.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:35 Meet Antoinette Watkins
02:42 Antoinette's Diabetes Journey
06:52 Living with Diabetes: Challenges and Triumphs
13:55 Diabaddie Org and Community Impact
20:41 Starting Diabaddie: The Inspiration and Mission
22:07 The Importance of Diabetes Camp
23:16 Challenges and Triumphs of Diabetic Kids at Camp
25:20 Expanding Horizons: Chris Dudley Basketball Camp
32:57 Personal Journey and Stigma in Minority Communities
37:13 The Power of Representation and Role Models
42:51 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

The Diabaddie Organization

Diabaddie Instagram

In this episode, Rob interviews Keith Crear, who shares personal narratives and professional insights about managing type 2 diabetes. The featured guest, a photographer contributing to NFL and MLS, recounts his diagnosis in 2017 following an incident of heat exhaustion and his journey from confusion to effective management through self-research and specialized counseling. Emphasizing personalized care and community support, he discusses the benefits of diet and exercise over insulin and reflects on balancing his creative career with diabetes management. The episode explores significant milestones in his profession, covering major soccer events and aspirations for the 2028 Olympics and highlighting how diabetes has shaped his perspective and growth. Additionally, the conversation tackles the stigma and misinformation surrounding diabetes, particularly in cultural contexts, and underscores the need for individualized care, the role of a supportive medical team, and the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire and educate others.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:36 Welcome and Guest Introduction

01:27 Diagnosis Story and Initial Reactions

03:05 Navigating Life with Diabetes

06:01 Finding the Right Support

09:34 Life as a Sports Photographer with Diabetes

11:41 Creating Diabetes Awareness in the Community

17:02 Living with Diabetes: The Struggle and Perspective

17:50 Transformative Journey: Weight Loss and Self-Discovery

18:59 The Importance of Mental Health and Community Support

20:22 Debunking Myths and Building a Strong Medical Team

20:51 Sharing Personal Stories: Impact and Misconceptions

22:11 Navigating Life with Diabetes: Challenges and Stigmas

26:33 Breaking Barriers: Food, Culture, and Stigma

29:44 Type 1 vs. Type 2: Understanding the Differences

33:49 Connecting with the Diabetes Community

33:58 Final Thoughts and Staying Connected

In this episode of Diabetics Doing Things, Rob speaks with Renee Rayles, the creator of Hey T1D, about her journey with Type 1 Diabetes. Renee shares how her diagnosis impacted her career in communications, acting, and broadcasting, underscoring the significance of preparation and informed decision-making.

The discussion highlights the challenges of misdiagnosis and the importance of being proactive in healthcare. Renee also shares her advocacy work for affordable insulin and raising diabetes awareness through public events and social media.

Emphasizing community support, the conversation covers overcoming stigma, misinformation, and the unique challenges faced by adults diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, particularly during the pandemic. Listeners are inspired by personal anecdotes and practical advice on managing diabetes, fostering community, and empowering both adults and children living with the condition.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:36 Meet Our Guest: Renee Rayles

00:55 Balancing a Career and Diabetes 0

2:59 Renee's Diagnosis Journey

03:55 Advocacy and Transparency

06:53 Misdiagnosis and Self-Advocacy

12:50 Jumping into Advocacy

18:06 The Early Days of Podcasting

18:23 The Power of Community Advocacy

18:59 Raising Diabetes Awareness

20:10 Personal Stories and Connections

25:15 Challenges and Misconceptions

27:52 Bullying and Body Image

30:36 Navigating Life with Diabetes

34:21 Resources and Support

35:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode 300: Lessons from Diabetics Doing Things - Rob Howe's Podcasting Journey This episode celebrates the 300th milestone of 'Diabetics Doing Things', and sharing stories about diabetes since 2016.

Host Rob Howe reflects on the journey of producing 341 episodes, highlighting the challenges and achievements faced along the way. The episode is filled with insights on starting a podcast, embracing risks, maintaining passion, and the impact of community.

Rob shares eight pieces of advice for aspiring podcasters and expresses gratitude to those who have supported the podcast over the years.

The episode underscores the significance of connections within the diabetes community and the ongoing commitment to tell diverse diabetes stories.

00:00 Introduction and Milestones

01:38 Reflecting on the Journey

02:00 Why Start a Diabetes Podcast?

02:12 The Power of Taking Action

02:55 Building a Community

04:16 Gratitude and Achievements

05:40 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters

06:52 The Importance of Persistence

08:58 Dream Big and Find Your Space

11:28 Content Creation and Future Plans

12:45 The Value of Diabetic Friendships

13:51 Acknowledgements and Thank You

15:20 Closing Remarks

Embecta disclaims any control over, relationship with, or endorsement of, or the accuracy, truthfulness or completeness of the content or view expressed in this Podcast, which are solely those of the speaker and not necessarily those of embecta.  embecta does not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information provided therein.  Any and all comments and post are from members of the public community and do not necessarily reflect the views of embecta.

Simplifying Diabetes fitness and weight loss while finding balance with Dex Geralds

In this episode, Rob interviews Dex Geralds, a fitness trainer and social media personality living with Type 1 diabetes. Sponsored by Embecta, the episode delves into Dex's journey from being misdiagnosed with Type 2 diabetes to living with Type 1 diabetes and LADA. They discuss strategies for managing blood sugar with physical activities, the impact of genetics and diet on diabetes, and debunk common misconceptions about fitness and diabetes. Dex also shares insights into balancing life, content creation, and maintaining mental health. The episode underscores the importance of patience, empathy, and small steps in achieving a healthy lifestyle with diabetes.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message
00:35 Welcoming Dex Geralds
01:22 Dex's Diabetes Journey
02:08 Managing Diabetes with Fitness
04:08 Challenges and Adaptations
06:53 Fitness Misconceptions and Diabetes
20:25 Content Creation and Burnout
25:20 Encouragement and Impact
27:07 Exploring Personal Interests
28:50 Connecting Diabetes with Daily Life
31:29 Addressing Diabetes Stigma
35:09 Health Equity and Information Access
36:15 Fitness and Nutrition Basics
37:48 Dopamine and Mental Health
40:54 Fashion and Personal Expression
45:01 Final Thoughts and Advice