The Diabetic Toolbox

Renee Reid

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox; our mission is to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, are prediabetic, or have a family history of type 2 diabetes, you, my friend, are in the right place. This show will give you tools and tips to help you lose weight naturally, heal your mindset, and strengthen your body through yoga and walking. Hosted by award-winning podcaster, Emotional Eating and Diabetes Lifestyle Coach, and yoga teacher Renee Reid

  1. Sep 8

    The Hardest Part Was Walking Through the Gym Door: How to Start Exercising Again After a Long Break

    Have you stopped exercising and now feel embarrassed, frustrated, or even afraid to start again?  In today's episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, Renee shares how moving, family responsibilities, international travel, and building her coaching business slowly pushed exercise off her daily schedule. After making progress with swimming, walking, and strength training, returning to the gym meant confronting lost strength, reduced endurance, returning knee discomfort, and something she didn't expect to be so powerful: embarrassment. This episode focuses on one simple lesson: you do not have to return at your old fitness level. You simply have to return. Renee talks about walking through the gym door despite feeling uncomfortable, resisting the temptation to compare herself with younger or fitter people, and allowing herself to rebuild instead of trying to make up for lost time. Head over to today's full blog post for more about dealing with the fear and embarrassment of returning to exercise, escaping the comparison trap, and rebuilding your exercise routine after a long break. The blog goes deeper into what happened, what Renee learned, and the changes she is making as she gets back to consistent movement.  Click here to read the full blog post. Download the Reference Guide:  10 Things You Do Not Have to Do to Lose Weight, Lower Your Blood Sugar, or Increase Your Mobility https://payhip.com/b/7BCrp If you're tired of believing that improving your health requires extreme diets, exhausting workouts, or completely changing your life overnight, this guide will help you simplify your next steps.  Join the 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge Where could your blood sugar be in 30 days? The 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge is designed to help you build a consistent walking habit while supporting better blood sugar management, strength, mobility, and everyday movement. Inside, you'll receive a progressive walking plan, a 14-day Mediterranean-style meal plan, pre- and post-walk stretches, a weight-training guide, private community support, and direct access to Renee for encouragement along the way. Join here:  https://payhip.com/b/CBTkWRemember, change happens one habit, one choice, one day at a time. Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.With Peace & Love,Renee Disclaimer: The Diabetic Toolbox content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medication, or fitness routine.  Participation in any program, including our Yoga Audio Series, is at your own risk.  Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we’re honored to walk this journey with you.

  2. Sep 1

    Starting Again Does Not Mean Starting From Zero: Weight Loss, Blood Sugar & Exercise After 40

    Starting Again Does Not Mean Starting From Zero: Weight Loss, Blood Sugar & Exercise After 40 Have you ever stopped exercising, gotten away from your healthy eating routine, or realized that the habits you worked so hard to build have slowly disappeared? Your first instinct may be to make up for lost time by exercising harder, drastically cutting calories, or trying to change everything at once. You don't have to. In today's episode of The Diabetic Toolbox Podcast, Renee talks about why starting again does not mean starting from zero. Every previous attempt has taught you something about your body, habits, schedule, preferences, and the kind of plan you can realistically maintain. Instead of punishing yourself for stopping, this episode encourages you to use what you've learned and focus on your next healthy decision. Whether you're working to lose weight after 40, lower your blood sugar, improve your mobility, become more active with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, or simply return to taking better care of yourself, you don't have to overhaul your entire life today. You just have to begin. In Today's Episode You'll learn why you don't have to punish yourself for needing to restart, how to use previous attempts as useful information, why doing more isn't always the answer, how small daily decisions contribute to lasting habits, and why your next healthy choice matters more than what happened yesterday. Today's podcast is inspired by the new Diabetic Toolbox blog post: 10 Things You Do NOT Have to Do to Lose Weight, Lower Your Blood Sugar, or Increase Your Mobility Head over to the blog for all ten, including why you don't need extreme workouts to get results, why healthy eating doesn't require starving yourself or abandoning your social life, and why expensive supplements, protein powders, gyms, and fitness trends aren't requirements for improving your health. Read Today's Blog:  https://thediabetictoolbox.com/2026/09/01/10-things-you-do-not-have-to-do-to-lose-weight-lower-your-blood-sugar-or-increase-your-mobility/ Download Today's Reference Guide Don't forget to download today's companion reference guide:  10 Things You Do NOT Have to Do to Lose Weight, Lower Your Blood Sugar, or Increase Your Mobility Save it, print it, and use it as a reminder that improving your health doesn't have to mean making your life more complicated. Download the Reference Guide:  REFERENCE GUIDE LINK Ready to Start Again? Join us inside the 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge.  You'll receive a beginner-friendly progressive 30-day walking program, a repeatable 14-day Mediterranean-style food plan, pre- and post-walking stretching routines, a beginner-friendly weight-training guide, email support, access to our private Facebook community, Ask the Coach support, and encouragement from people working toward similar goals. Join the 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge: https://payhip.com/b/CBTkW Remember: change happens one habit. One choice. One day at a time.

  3. Aug 31

    When Creating a Fitness Plan, Start With the Body You Have

    Creating a fitness plan is not about building a routine for the body you used to have, the body you wish you had, or the body you think you should have. It starts with paying attention to the body you have today. In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox Podcast, Renee Reid, Emotional Eating & Diabetes Lifestyle Coach and yoga teacher, talks about creating a realistic exercise plan that considers your current fitness level, mobility, strength, schedule, and limitations. If you are over 40, have been diagnosed with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, or are trying to become active again after a long break, it can be tempting to jump into a demanding workout routine because you want results quickly. But a fitness plan only works when you can actually live with it. We’ll talk about why your starting point matters, how to stop comparing your current abilities to what you could do years ago, and why walking, strength training, flexibility, mobility, and other forms of movement can be built gradually into a routine that fits your life. You don't need to prove anything with your workout. You need a plan that helps you get stronger, improve your mobility, support healthy blood sugar management, and keep moving consistently. In This Episode You'll learn: Why your current fitness level should determine where your exercise plan beginsHow to create a realistic fitness routine after 40Why starting small doesn't mean thinking smallHow walking can become the foundation of a more active lifestyleReady to Start Walking? If you've been telling yourself you need to start exercising but aren't sure where to begin, join the 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge. The program includes a beginner-friendly, progressive walking plan; a repeatable 14-day Mediterranean-style food plan; shopping lists; pre- and post-walking stretches; a beginner weight-training guide; email support; a private Facebook community; Ask the Coach support; and a community of people working toward the same goal. Join the 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge:  [CHALLENGE LINK] Connect with The Diabetic Toolbox: www.thediabetictoolbox.com Follow along for practical information, encouragement, recipes, movement ideas, blood sugar management tips, and resources created for adults over 40 living with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes.

  4. Jul 28

    Why Reflection Is the First Step to Lower Blood Sugar and Better Health

    Have you ever looked up one day and realized you've drifted away from the healthy habits that once helped you feel your best? You're not alone. In this special Day One episode of the Back to Me series, Renee shares why every health comeback should begin with one simple but powerful practice: reflection. Instead of rushing into another diet or exercise plan, learn how taking time to understand where you are, where you want to go, and how you'll get there can reduce overwhelm and help you build lasting habits that support better blood sugar, weight loss, and mobility. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why reflection is the most overlooked step in a wellness journey • How panic can lead to unrealistic health goals • Three questions that can help you build a realistic comeback plan Read today's full blog post for the complete reflection exercise, practical tips for creating your comeback plan, and encouragement to begin again with confidence.  Click this link: https://thediabetictoolbox.com/2026/07/27/back-to-me-day-one-why-reflection-is-the-first-step-to-lower-blood-sugar-and-better-health/ Ready to take your next step? Join the Diabetic Toolbox 30 Day Walking and Blood Sugar Challenge for just $67. Inside you'll receive: • A progressive walking plan • Diabetes friendly nutrition guidance • Accountability and support • Community encouragement • Practical tools to help you lower your blood sugar and build healthier habits Your comeback starts with one step.

  5. Jul 26

    Back to Me: A Coach's Journey Back to Strength, Energy, and Better Blood Sugar

    Are you trying to begin again after a prediabetes diagnosis? In today's episode, Renee shares the personal story behind her new twelve-week series, Back to Me: A Coach's Journey Back to Strength, Energy, and Better Blood Sugar. After successfully improving her health following a prediabetes diagnosis, life gradually became busier.  Between working full-time, coaching clients, creating educational content, and caring for her family, many of the routines that once supported her health slowly faded. Now she's choosing to begin again. In this episode you'll learn:  Why prediabetes is motivating Renee to take action now  How busy schedules can slowly change healthy routines  Why beginning again is possible, even after years away from your healthiest habits  What to expect during the twelve-week Back to Me series Be sure to read today's companion blog post where Renee shares her history with prediabetes, why she's determined to keep it from becoming type 2 diabetes, and her personal health goals through December. Click this link to read today's blog: https://thediabetictoolbox.com/2026/07/26/back-to-me-a-diabetes-coachs-journey-back-to-better-blood-sugar-strength-and-energy/ Ready to Take the Next Step? Join the Diabetic Toolbox 30-Day Walking & Blood Sugar Challenge for just $67 and discover how walking, healthy eating, accountability, and community support can help you improve your blood sugar, increase your energy, and build healthier habits. Your next step starts today.

  6. Jul 17

    Diabetes and Eyesight Myths That Could Put Your Vision at Risk

    Have you ever assumed that because you can see clearly, your eyes must be healthy? If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, that assumption could put your vision at risk. In today's episode of The Diabetic Toolbox Podcast, Renee discusses one of the biggest myths surrounding diabetes and eyesight and explains why many diabetes-related eye conditions develop long before you notice changes in your vision. If you've been diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, protecting your eyesight deserves to be part of your diabetes management plan right alongside healthy eating, physical activity, and managing your blood sugar. In this episode, you'll learn: Why good vision does not always mean healthy eyesHow diabetes can affect your eyesight without causing early symptomsWhy annual comprehensive dilated eye exams are one of the best ways to protect your visionOne simple action you can take today to become a stronger advocate for your eye healthThis episode highlights one of the three myths discussed in today's blog. Click the link to read the complete blog, "Three Myths About Diabetes and Your Eyesight." You'll discover all three common myths, the evidence-based facts that replace them, and practical strategies to help protect your eyesight for years to come. This Month's Featured Resource July is Eye Health Month! If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, protecting your vision is an important part of protecting your overall health. Download The Diabetic Toolbox: 5 Questions to Ask at Your Next Diabetic Eye Exam and walk into your next appointment with confidence. Inside this guide, you'll discover: The five essential questions every person with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes should ask during an eye examWhy annual diabetic eye exams matter, even if your vision seems normalEarly warning signs you should never ignoreSimple lifestyle habits that support healthy eyesightTips to help you become a more confident partner in your healthcareDownload your guide here: https://app.paperbell.com/checkout/packages/226152 Read Today's Blog Connect with The Diabetic Toolbox  Website: www.thediabetictoolbox.com Join our email community for weekly diabetes education, healthy recipes, practical lifestyle tips, and encouragement designed for adults over 40 living with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. If you enjoyed today's episode,  share this podcast with someone you love who could benefit from learning more about protecting their eyesight.  Remember, change happens one habit at a time. One choice. One day at a time. Disclaimer: The Diabetic Toolbox content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medication, or fitness routine. Participation in any program, including our Yoga Audio Series, is at your own risk. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we’re honored to walk this journey with you.

  7. Jul 17

    When Your Blood Sugar Is Up and Down, So Are Your Cravings and Mood

    Do you find yourself craving sweets when you're tired, stressed, or feeling emotional? It may not be a lack of willpower. In this episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, Renee explains how blood sugar fluctuations can influence your mood, energy, and cravings through what she calls the blood sugar-and-emotion loop. Learn why understanding your body's signals can help you make healthier choices, reduce emotional eating, and create more stable blood sugar. You'll also discover simple daily habits that support better energy, improved mood, fewer cravings, and long-term diabetes management. Most importantly, you'll learn how replacing guilt with curiosity can completely change your relationship with food and help you build sustainable habits that last. For even more practical tips, examples, and simple strategies you can begin using today, be sure to read the full blog post at www.thediabetictoolbox.com. July is Eye Health Month! If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, protecting your vision is an important part of protecting your overall health. Download The Diabetic Toolbox: 5 Questions to Ask at Your Next Diabetic Eye Exam and walk into your next appointment with confidence. Inside this practical guide, you'll discover the five essential questions to ask your eye doctor, why annual diabetic eye exams are so important, the early warning signs of diabetic eye disease, and simple steps you can take every day to help protect your eyesight for years to come. Whether you've recently been diagnosed with prediabetes or you've been managing type 2 diabetes for years, this guide will help you become a stronger advocate for your long-term eye health. Visit www.thediabetictoolbox.com to read today's full blog post and download your copy of The Diabetic Toolbox: 5 Questions to Ask at Your Next Diabetic Eye Exam. Alright, my friend, that is all I have for you today. Please share today's episode and blog post with someone you love who could use a little encouragement. Remember, lasting change happens one habit, one choice, and one day at a time. Until next time, take care of yourself and each other. With Peace & Love, Renee Disclaimer: The Diabetic Toolbox content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medication, or fitness routine. Participation in any program, including our Yoga Audio Series, is at your own risk. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we’re honored to walk this journey with you.

  8. Jul 17

    Why Knowing What to Do Isn't Enough to Reverse Prediabetes | The Missing Piece Most People Overlook

    Why Knowing What to Do Isn't Enough to Reverse Prediabetes | The Missing Piece Most People Overlook Have you ever known exactly what you should be doing to lower your blood sugar, yet found yourself struggling to stay consistent? You're not alone. In today's episode of The Diabetic Toolbox, we're talking about one of the biggest reasons people struggle to manage prediabetes and type 2 diabetes: information alone doesn't change behavior. You'll learn why support, planning, and small daily habits matter more than motivation and discover one simple question that can help you begin creating lasting lifestyle changes. If you're ready to stop starting over every Monday and begin building healthy habits that fit your real life, this episode is for you. In today's full blog post, I dive deeper into four practical strategies that help turn knowledge into action. You can read the full blog at   Resource Download The Diabetic Toolbox: 5 Questions to Ask at Your Next Diabetic Eye Appointment. Inside you'll discover the essential questions to ask your eye doctor, learn why annual diabetic eye exams are so important, recognize early warning signs of vision problems, and become a stronger advocate for your long-term eye health.  Remember, managing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes isn't just about lowering your blood sugar; it's about protecting your health for years to come. Disclaimer: The Diabetic Toolbox content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your licensed healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medication, or fitness routine. Participation in any program, including our Yoga Audio Series, is at your own risk. Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we’re honored to walk this journey with you.

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Diabetic Toolbox; our mission is to end type 2 diabetes one family at a time. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, are prediabetic, or have a family history of type 2 diabetes, you, my friend, are in the right place. This show will give you tools and tips to help you lose weight naturally, heal your mindset, and strengthen your body through yoga and walking. Hosted by award-winning podcaster, Emotional Eating and Diabetes Lifestyle Coach, and yoga teacher Renee Reid