Beyond the Wheeze

Josh Rheaume
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Beyond the Wheeze is a podcast that brings together voices from across the respiratory community — from clinicians and advocates to patients, caregivers, innovators, and business leaders. Hosted by asthma advocate Josh Rheaume, the show opens up honest conversations about the realities of asthma and lung health, exploring how collaboration and understanding can help close the gaps in care. Each episode dives into the stories, insights, and ideas shaping the future of respiratory health. Because when we bridge the conversation, we move closer to a world where every breath counts. Listen and learn more at beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast

  1. E28. Inside Cystic Fibrosis: Jeremie Saunders on Life, Humor, and Changing the Story

    3 FEB

    E28. Inside Cystic Fibrosis: Jeremie Saunders on Life, Humor, and Changing the Story

    In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Jeremy Saunders, Canadian actor, podcaster, and public speaker, to explore what it truly means to live with cystic fibrosis and how he has used storytelling, humor, and vulnerability to break health stigma. Jeremy shares what day-to-day life with CF looks like, including managing complex treatments, navigating travel, and balancing physical and mental health. We talk about how new medications like Trikafta have changed the landscape of CF care, while also acknowledging the realities that many people still face. Jeremy also discusses his “expiry date” mindset, embracing mortality, and choosing to live fully despite uncertainty. We dive into the origins and evolution of Sick Boy, the role of humor in serious conversations, and why authentic, sometimes uncomfortable dialogue is essential for building understanding and community. Jeremy also reflects on receiving the Meritorious Service Medal, his work with Breathless, and the projects he continues to pursue to raise awareness and support others living with chronic illness. This episode offers honest perspective for anyone living with a chronic condition, supporting someone who is, or interested in how storytelling and openness can change the way we talk about health. 🎧 Sick Boy Podcast: https://www.sickboypodcast.com/ 🎧 Breathless Podcast: https://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/breathless 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast 00:30 – Introduction to Jeremy Saunders 00:32 – Jeremy’s career and achievements 01:17 – Disclaimer and welcome 01:42 – Jeremy’s experience with cystic fibrosis 03:10 – Understanding cystic fibrosis beyond the lungs 06:46 – Daily life with CF 11:37 – Traveling with cystic fibrosis 16:42 – Embracing mortality and living fully 25:11 – Advancements in CF treatment 28:45 – Humor in serious illness 28:54 – The importance of authentic conversations 29:59 – Navigating social interactions during hardship 31:40 – Humor and seriousness in Sick Boy 32:47 – Crossing the line in vulnerable conversations 37:01 – The evolution and impact of Sick Boy 40:33 – Receiving the Meritorious Service Medal 44:12 – The mission behind Breathless 48:27 – Living with uncertainty and optimism 51:55 – The power of open dialogue 56:13 – Upcoming projects and final thoughts Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    1 hr
  2. E27. From Reaction to Prevention: Using Environmental Data to Improve Respiratory Care with Eric Klos

    20 JAN

    E27. From Reaction to Prevention: Using Environmental Data to Improve Respiratory Care with Eric Klos

    In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I sit down with Eric Closs, Founder and CEO of Daily Breath, to explore the powerful (and often overlooked) relationship between outdoor air quality, environmental exposure, and respiratory health — especially asthma. Eric explains how environmental conditions like air pollution, pollen, wildfire smoke, temperature shifts, and weather patterns can quietly increase risk, even before symptoms show up. Through Daily Breath, his mission is to help people anticipate and prevent attacks using personalized, real-time environmental data, rather than relying on generalized forecasts or reacting when it’s already too late. He also shares the “light bulb” moment that sparked the creation of Daily Breath after witnessing his sister’s rheumatoid arthritis flare up due to weather changes. That experience revealed a major gap in modern healthcare: environmental triggers are real, measurable, and highly personal — yet they’re still often ignored in asthma care. Our conversation goes beyond asthma alone, connecting environmental exposure to broader health outcomes like cardiovascular strain, the impact of cumulative exposure over time, and the need for localized, actionable information that helps people make smarter daily choices. 🔗 Learn more: https://www.dailybreathforecast.com/ 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast 00:31 Introduction to Eric Closs and Daily Breath 01:42 The Light Bulb Moment: Inspiration Behind Daily Breath 03:25 Focusing on Asthma: Identifying the Gaps in Care 04:54 The Heartbreaking Story of Diamond Conway 06:39 Understanding Environmental Triggers and Their Impact 12:41 The Role of Weather in Asthma and Respiratory Health 14:47 Cumulative Exposure: Why It Matters 23:57 Personalized Environmental Health Risk Index 29:34 Recognizing Early Symptoms and Environmental Risks 30:34 The Importance of Bedroom Air Quality 30:52 Nasal Rinses and Environmental Oversights 32:40 Health System Failures and Environmental Triggers 34:49 Integrating Environmental Data into Healthcare 38:36 Communicating Air Quality to Asthma Patients 41:50 Practical Outdoor Tips for Asthma Management 45:45 Reframing Asthma Care Around Environmental Risks 49:20 Future of Environmental Awareness in Respiratory Health 53:26 Final Thoughts and Resources Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    58 min
  3. E26. The Power of Breath with Annelise Bauer

    6 JAN

    E26. The Power of Breath with Annelise Bauer

    In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Annelise Bauer, founder of In-Bodied, to explore how conscious breathing and mindful movement can support people living with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Drawing from her own experience with asthma, Annelise shares how Buteyko breathing, nervous system regulation, and breath awareness can help reduce symptoms, manage anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing. We also walk through a short, safe breathing exercise, discuss how to get started with breathwork, and explore how these practices can be integrated alongside traditional medical care. This episode offers practical insight for anyone living with asthma, managing a chronic respiratory condition, or looking to improve their breathing, mental health, and quality of life. 🔗 Learn more: https://www.in-bodied.com/ 📸 Instagram: @in.bodied 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast 00:31 – Introduction to Annelise Bauer and her work 01:50 – Annelise’s personal journey living with asthma 05:35 – Why conscious breathing matters 08:49 – Understanding Buteyko Breathing 13:02 – Guided breathing exercise demonstration 19:44 – How to get started with breathwork safely 23:00 – Breathwork, mental health, and nervous system regulation 26:25 – Integrating breathwork with traditional medical care 32:42 – Annelise’s programs and final thoughts 37:28 – Final signature question and Annelise’s message Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    40 min
  4. Beyond the Wheeze Season 2 Trailer | The Asthma & Lung Health Podcast

    SEASON 2 TRAILER

    Beyond the Wheeze Season 2 Trailer | The Asthma & Lung Health Podcast

    Season 2 of Beyond the Wheeze is here. Join host Josh Rheaume, The Asthma Runner, for real stories and expert insights on asthma, fitness, and lung health. This season explores how mindset, movement, and community help people live and breathe beyond their limits. Hear from patients, doctors, and advocates making a difference in respiratory care. Episode 1 drops on Tuesday, October 28th. Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    1 min
  5. E25. Best of Beyond the Wheeze: Season 1 Highlights

    15/10/2025

    E25. Best of Beyond the Wheeze: Season 1 Highlights

    Season 1 of Beyond the Wheeze has been filled with powerful conversations, lived experiences, and expert insights, all centered around asthma, lung health, and the people who are pushing for better care. In this special highlight episode, we revisit some of the most memorable moments from the season. You’ll hear from patient advocates, leading clinicians, researchers, and innovators who are transforming the way we understand and manage respiratory conditions. In this episode: Breakthroughs in asthma management and digital health toolsReal patient stories of resilience, advocacy, and thriving with chronic lung diseaseInsights from clinicians and researchers driving change in respiratory careA reflection on how far we’ve come and where we’re headed in Season 2This episode is a celebration of community, knowledge, and the power of lived expertise. If you’ve missed an episode or want a quick recap, this is the perfect place to start. Season 2 begins October 28. Additional Resources: Beyondthewheeze.ca to explore past episodes, blog posts, and resourcesAsthma Canada for support, advocacy, and education for people living with asthmaLung Health Foundation for resources on lung disease prevention, research, and supportFollow & Subscribe New episodes of Beyond the Wheeze drop every second Tuesday, with recap blogs every Friday. Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    1h 17m
  6. E24. Empowering Kids with Asthma Through Storytelling with Dr. Mark Schnellinger

    01/10/2025

    E24. Empowering Kids with Asthma Through Storytelling with Dr. Mark Schnellinger

    In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, we explore the world of pediatric asthma education with Dr. Mark Schnellinger, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Children’s Minnesota and the author of The Medicine Stars, an adventure novel that helps middle schoolers understand asthma through storytelling. We explore: The challenges families face during pediatric asthma crises, from medication access to socioeconomic barriersHow The Medicine Stars blends storytelling and medical knowledge to educate children about asthmaThe role of schools, families, and communities in creating supportive environmentsWhy empowerment through knowledge reduces fear and builds confidence for children with asthmaBroader systemic issues and the future of pediatric asthma education and careDr. Schnellinger shares his journey from emergency medicine to creative author, showing how narrative can be a powerful tool to help children and families better understand asthma. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:24 – Meet Dr. Mark Schnellinger 08:44 – Storytelling as a tool in medicine 15:38 – Helping kids understand asthma 21:40 – Lessons for parents and families 27:33 – Writing The Medicine Stars 33:20 – Final thoughts and reflections Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode The Medicine Stars by Dr. Mark Schnellinger Asthma Canada Helpline Connect with Certified Respiratory Educators for support and guidance: Asthma Canada Helpline American Lung Association – Asthma Resources Access educational tools and asthma management guides: lung.org/asthma Camp Superkids A summer camp that combines fun with asthma education: Camp Superkids – American Lung Association For more episode resources, guest bios, blogs, and previous episodes, visit beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    42 min
  7. E23. Are Asthma and COPD Apps Reliable? Insights from Dr. Shirley Quach

    16/09/2025

    E23. Are Asthma and COPD Apps Reliable? Insights from Dr. Shirley Quach

    In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, we delve into the evolving world of digital health and mobile apps for respiratory care with Dr. Shirley Quach, a leading researcher in mHealth for asthma and COPD. We explore: The promises and pitfalls of mobile health apps for chronic respiratory conditionsHow to evaluate app quality, reliability, and privacyWays digital tools can support, but never replace, clinical careThe future of AI and emerging technologies in asthma and COPD managementPractical guidance for patients, families, clinicians, and researchersDr. Quach shares her insights on how digital tools can empower patients to manage their conditions effectively while highlighting the importance of collaboration between patients, families, and healthcare providers. Episode Chapters: 01:18 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:08 Dr. Quach's Career and Research Journey 05:01 The Role of Mobile Health in Respiratory Care 10:40 Evaluating Mobile Health Apps 12:31 Features and Effectiveness of COPD Apps 22:30 Public vs. Controlled Trial Apps 28:59 Privacy, Security, and Regulatory Compliance 32:37 Clinically Viable App Features 38:12 Empowering Patients in Self-Management 39:54 Connecting Digital Health to Patient Care 40:21 Pharmacological Advances and Digital Tools 41:26 The Role of Education in Self-Management 42:23 Non-Pharmacological Techniques and Digital Health 44:39 Stakeholder Insights on Apps and Self-Management 50:40 Facilitators and Barriers to App Use 57:59 Future of Digital Health in Respiratory Care 01:03:38 Advice for Aspiring Clinicians and Researchers 01:06:07 Final Thoughts and Resources 01:10:20 Philosophical Reflections on Health Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Shirley Quach’s Thesis: The State of COPD Apps.Asthma Canada Helpline – Connect with Certified Respiratory Educators for expert support and advice.COPD Foundation Educational Materials – Access a variety of useful booklets, flyers, and tools to help you learn more about living and thriving with COPD.COPD360social – Join an interactive online community for patients, their families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.For more episode resources, guest bios, blogs, and previous episodes, visit beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast. Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    1h 15m
  8. E22. Living Well with COPD: Pulmonary Rehab, Self-Advocacy, and the Power of Community with Glenn Kitchener

    02/09/2025

    E22. Living Well with COPD: Pulmonary Rehab, Self-Advocacy, and the Power of Community with Glenn Kitchener

    In this episode, I sit down with Glenn Kitchener, a passionate COPD advocate who opens up about his journey from smoking-related lung disease to finding new ways to live well with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Glenn was diagnosed in 2010 shortly after quitting smoking. He shares the struggles he faced in the beginning and how education, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes at West Park Healthcare Center’s Respiratory Day Hospital helped him move forward. We also take a closer look at COPD itself, including symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options, while highlighting why early diagnosis and proper management make such a difference. Glenn talks about his advocacy work with the Lung Health Foundation and offers thoughtful advice for people who are newly diagnosed and their families. His story shows how important it is to stay informed, seek out support, and find ways to live well even with a chronic lung condition. You can find additional resources, as well as more information about Glenn and what we discussed in this episode, at beyondthewheeze.ca/episode-22 . Chapters  01:03 Introduction to Glenn Kitchener's Journey  02:06 Understanding COPD: A Quick Overview  04:16 Glenn's Diagnosis and Early Challenges  08:03 The West Park Experience  14:04 Living Well with COPD  21:57 Advocacy and Raising Awareness  23:18 First In-Person Better Breathing Week Experience  23:51 Empowerment Through Advocacy and Support Networks  26:08 Finding Reliable Health Information  31:14 Personal Reflections and Advocacy Journey  34:50 Final Thoughts and Advice for Living with COPD  40:29 The Impact of Smoking and Vaping  42:22 Conclusion and Call to Action Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on Instagram Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn Connect with us on TikTok Follow us on Facebook Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website Email Josh directly at Josh@wheezespeak.ca. Are video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

    44 min
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About

Beyond the Wheeze is a podcast that brings together voices from across the respiratory community — from clinicians and advocates to patients, caregivers, innovators, and business leaders. Hosted by asthma advocate Josh Rheaume, the show opens up honest conversations about the realities of asthma and lung health, exploring how collaboration and understanding can help close the gaps in care. Each episode dives into the stories, insights, and ideas shaping the future of respiratory health. Because when we bridge the conversation, we move closer to a world where every breath counts. Listen and learn more at beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast

Information

  • Creator
    Josh Rheaume
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Beyond the Wheeze
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Wheeze