Diabetics Doing Things Podcast Diabetics Doing Things

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  Naviga

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
Impor