In this episode, Rob provides an update on various Diabetics Doing Things projects, including the Diabetes Legends basketball clinic, upcoming speaking engagements, the "Doing Well with Diabetes" series, and a new podcast series with the International Diabetes Federation. He also plans to highlight Olympic and national team athletes who have previously appeared on the podcast. While the podcast schedule may be slightly less consistent over the next few weeks due to Rob's busy schedule, he promises to continue delivering high-quality content, including sharing the top 5 things he learned from the ADA 2024 Scientific Sessions.

Main Topics Discussed:

• Diabetes Doing Things Update (00:02:30) - Rob provides updates on the Diabetes Legends basketball clinic in Dallas, upcoming speaking engagements, and the "Doing Well with Diabetes" series in partnership with CenterWell and the North Texas Food Bank.

• International Diabetes Federation Podcast (00:13:01) - Rob shares that he and Erica have been asked by the International Diabetes Federation to host a podcast series featuring athletes with diabetes, which will be a great opportunity to showcase their work.

• Olympic Athlete Highlights (00:14:41) - Rob plans to re-air episodes featuring Olympic and national team athletes, such as Mark White, Mary Markworth, and Lauren Cox, to celebrate the upcoming Olympic games.

• Summer Podcast Schedule (00:16:27) - Rob acknowledges that the podcast may not be as consistent over the next few weeks due to the various projects and events he is involved in, but he promises to continue providing high-quality content.

• Top 5 Learnings from ADA 2024 (00:18:30) - Rob shares the top 5 things he learned from the ADA 2024 Scientific Sessions, focusing on insights from the poster sessions.

• How emerging adults with type 1 diabetes seek self-care information (00:18:30)

• The higher prevalence of psychotherapeutic drug use among adults with diabetes (00:22:36) 

• The association between environmental mastery and reduced diabetes distress (00:24:35)

• The impact of a digital health coaching program on food insecure rural populations with type 2 diabetes (00:28:55)

• The differing glucose responses to moderate vs. high intensity exercise (00:30:57)

Key References:

International Diabetes Federation (IDF) virtual event "The Power of Movement To Tackle Diabetes" 
Breakthrough T1D event in Dallas, TX
Diabetes Legends Basketball Camp in Denver
"Doing Well with Diabetes" series with CenterWell primary care

In this episode, we talk with Frank Westermann, the Co-Founder of 9amHealth, a virtual care platform focused on providing holistic, specialty-level care for people living with cardio-metabolic conditions like prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

Frank shares his personal journey with type 1 diabetes and how that experience led him to co-found 9amHealth, which aims to make it easier for people to access the care and support they need to manage their chronic conditions.

Main Topics Discussed:

• Frank's diagnosis with type 1 diabetes and how it shaped his career path (00:00:57)

• The evolution from Frank's previous company, MySugr, to the launch of 9am Health (00:04:04)

• 9amHealth's approach to providing "complete cardiometabolic care" for patients with type 2 diabetes and related conditions (00:06:56)

• How 9amHealth is working to address barriers to care in underserved communities (00:14:12)

• Patient success stories and the impact of 9amHealth's affordable, accessible care model (00:21:34)

• The role of AI and technology in the future of healthcare (00:24:56)

Where to find Frank:

LinkedIn
9amHealth

June is Pride Month and to celebrate Pride in the Diabetes community, we are highlighting amazing stories from the LGBTQ+ diabetes community to show that diabetes doesn’t stop you from being who you are and living your best life. Please be welcoming and respectful to our guests and if you feel the need to be bigoted, hateful or discriminatory, we will protect our guests and respond in-kind. Happy Pride!

In this episode, we sit down with Angelique Godwin, a Black, trans woman living with type 1 diabetes. Angelique shares her journey to diagnosis, the challenges she faced navigating the healthcare system, and how she's learned to manage her diabetes while embracing her full identity. We discuss the importance of self-advocacy, the impact of diabetes on mental health, and how the LGBTQ+ community can support those with chronic conditions.

Main Topics Discussed:

- Angelique's path to diagnosis and the obstacles she faced (00:00:00 - 00:06:39)
- The importance of self-advocacy in healthcare (00:06:40 - 00:13:30)
- Managing diabetes through diet, exercise, and mindset shifts (00:13:31 - 00:22:27)
- How diabetes has impacted Angelique's life as a Black, trans woman (00:22:28 - 00:38:22)
- Advice for embracing your full identity while living with a chronic condition (00:38:23 - 00:43:35)

Where to Find Angelique:
- Instagram, Facebook: @dncndiva
- Advocacy work with Equality Florida

In this episode of the Diabetics Doing Things podcast, hosts Rob Howe and Eritrea Mussa discuss the challenges of living with diabetes in the United States, including issues around insurance coverage, medication costs, and access to care. They also touch on the importance of self-care, community, and advocacy for people with diabetes.

Topics Covered

- Diabetes check-in and insurance/medication coverage issues (00:00:54 - 00:07:23)

- The high costs of diabetes care and the need for systemic change (00:07:23 - 00:09:21) 

- The importance of self-care, physical activity, and mental health (00:09:21 - 00:14:59)

- Advocating for yourself as a creator and getting fairly compensated (00:14:59 - 00:59:16)

Resources:
4000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman

June is Pride Month and to celebrate Pride in the Diabetes community, we are highlighting amazing stories from the LGBTQ+ diabetes community to show that diabetes doesn’t stop you from being who you are and living your best life. Please be welcoming and respectful to our guests and if you feel the need to be bigoted, hateful or discriminatory, we will protect our guests and respond in-kind. Happy Pride!

Our guest today is Justin Eastzer, the host of the Diabetech podcast and YouTube channel. Justin has become a prominent voice in the diabetes online community, sharing his personal experiences and insights about managing type 1 diabetes.

## Topics Covered

- Justin's diagnosis journey and initial misdiagnosis as type 2 diabetes (00:02:37)

- The power of social media and online communities in finding the right diagnosis and treatment (00:04:04)

- Navigating dating and intimate relationships as a person with diabetes (00:14:51)

- Staying positive and confident while living with a chronic condition (00:15:34)

- Exciting developments in diabetes technology, including smart insulin and faster-acting insulin (00:41:52)

- Announcement of an upcoming diabetes community meetup at ADA in Orlando on June 22nd (00:47:10)

---

Where to Find Justin

- Diabetech Podcast:

- Diabetech YouTube Channel: (https://www.youtube.com/diabe_tech)

- Instagram: [@diabe_tech]

- TikTok: [@diabetech](https://www.tiktok.com/@diabetech)

In this episode of Diabetes Doing Things, Tanner Saunders shares his personal journey of being diagnosed with diabetes at a young age, highlighting the intersection of travel, diabetes management, and finding a supportive community. The conversation also includes stories about him and his partner, who both have diabetes and work in the journalism industry, emphasizing their synchronized approach to managing their health condition. Additionally, the episode explores his experience working in travel while living with diabetes, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in traveling with the condition.

Topics discussed:

• Personal Journey with Diabetes

• Being diagnosed with diabetes at a young age

• Embracing self-reliance and independence in managing insulin injections

• Importance of empowerment and self-care in living with diabetes

• Normalizing diabetes in small-town communities and schools

• Challenges of explaining the condition to peers and adults

• Balancing freedom and support from parents

• Relationship Dynamics with Diabetes

• Couple's experiences: Meeting through work and bonding over diabetes

• Synchronized management using Omnipod and DexCom

• Navigating conflicts and daily life while supporting each other

• Traveling with Diabetes

• Informing airline staff about the condition

• Managing supplies and blood sugar levels during flights

• Travel accessibility regardless of financial status

• Setting goals, utilizing resources like the Points Guy, and using credit cards for travel benefits

• Exploring local and international destinations for personal growth

• Finding joy in travel experiences despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic

  
  References:

  The Points Guy

  Omnipod

  DexCom 

  Tanner Saunders' Instagram

  
  00:00  Exploring the World with Diabetes: A Special Guest on Travel Stories

  00:03  Exploring the Connection Between Travel, Independence, and Diabetes with Tanner Saunders

  03:05  Growing Up with Diabetes: A Journey of Independence and Community Support

  07:53  Navigating Diabetes Advocacy and Independence from a Young Age

  14:58  A Unique Love Story: Navigating a Relationship with Diabetes Together

  18:39  Navigating Independence and Partnership with Diabetes: A Heartfelt Journey

  26:41  Navigating Travel as a Diabetic: Personal Experiences and Tips

  31:43  Navigating Air Travel with Diabetes: Personal Experiences and Precautions

  35:38  Traveling with Diabetes: Tips and Tricks for Staying Prepared

  42:20  Unlocking Travel Experiences: Tips and Inspiration

  50:05  Exploring the Mundane to Find Marvelous Experiences: An Inspiring Conversation with Tanner Saunders

  54:24  Empowering Pride Message with a Call to Action

In this episode of the podcast Rob is solo as he interviews Dr. Anath Shalev, a diabetes researcher turned founder of startup Tiximed. Dr. Shalev discusses the discovery of TixnIP, a protein involved in oxidative stress in beta cells, and its potential for treating diabetes. The conversation covers the development of TIX 100, an oral medication targeting TixnIP, its implications for type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and the differences from existing diabetes treatments like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists.

Topics discussed:

• Dr. Anas Shalev's background in diabetes research and founding of Tiximed

• Discovery of TixnIP and its role in beta cell health

• Potential of TIX 100 as a novel oral medication for diabetes treatment

• Comparison of TIX 100 with existing diabetes treatments like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists

• Research process behind TixnIP inhibition and development of TIX 100

• Future of diabetes care, combination therapies, and impact on patients' lives

• Information about Tiximed, clinical trials, and ways to support the research

  
  00:18  Revolutionizing Diabetes Treatment: From Researcher to Founder
  03:47  Revolutionizing Diabetes Treatment: Targeting Beta Cells and Glucagon Levels
  13:47  Revolutionizing Diabetes Treatment: Targeting Beta Cells in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
  17:35  Revolutionizing Diabetes Treatment with Ticks 100: A Breakthrough in Addressing the Root Cause of the Disease
  27:35  The Limitations and Advantages of Verapamil in Diabetes Care
  29:47  Advancements in Diabetes Technology and Research: A Look into the Future
  33:04  Exploring Diabetes Treatment Innovations with Dr. Shalev

In this episode of Diabetics doing things, Rob interviews Paul Edick from Xeris Biopharma and Sean Saint from Beta Bionics. They discuss the formal partnership announcement between Xeris Biopharma and Beta Bionics, focusing on the development of a bi-hormonal insulin pump for diabetes management. The conversation touches on the challenges and benefits of the partnership, the development process, and the potential impact on diabetes care.

Topics discussed:

1. Partnership between Xeris Biopharma and Beta Bionics

2. The unique challenges faced by a bihormonal pump compared to traditional insulin pumps.

3. The formulation process of the pump and collaboration between Xeris and Beta Bionics.

4. The upcoming phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials.

5. The importance of glucagon in diabetes management and the need for increased awareness and availability of glucagon.

6. The potential for a fully automated diabetes therapy experience.

7. The role of technology in reducing the burden of diabetes management and enhancing quality of life.

8. The journey towards regulatory approval and commercialization.

9. The historical context of glucagon use and the evolving perceptions around its importance.

10. The positive impact of the partnership on advancing diabetes care and glycemic control.

Key takeaways:

• The partnership between Xeris Biopharma and Beta Bionics aims to develop a bihormonal pump for diabetes management.

• The collaboration involves overcoming unique challenges associated with incorporating both insulin and glucagon in the pump.

• The development process includes formulation, clinical trials, and regulatory approval.

• The partnership highlights the importance of increasing awareness and availability of glucagon for diabetes patients.

• The ultimate goal is to provide a hands-off, automated diabetes therapy experience to improve quality of life for individuals with diabetes.

References:

• Xeris Biopharma

• Beta Bionics

00:00  Exploring Inspiring Stories of People with Diabetes and Industry Announcements
00:18  Exciting Partnership Announcement: Xeris Biopharma and Beta Bionics Join Forces for Innovative Diabetes Solution
03:58  Revolutionizing Diabetes Care with Biohormonal Pump and Xerasol Technology
08:52  Exploring the Future of Glucagon Use and Reducing Stigma in Diabetes Management
13:41  Revolutionizing Diabetes Therapy: The Future of Automated Insulin and Glucagon Pump Systems
23:41  Overcoming Fear and Stigma: The Journey with Glucagon and the Future of Insulin Pumps
25:17  Challenges and Partnerships in Developing a Bi-Hormonal Pump for Diabetes Management
30:47  Exciting Innovations in Diabetes Care: A Look into Bi Hormonal Pumps

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