Living Chronic

Brandy Schantz
  • 5.0 (9)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • WEEKLY SERIES

Welcome to the Living Chronic Podcast, where we have real, raw, and honest conversations about life with chronic illness and disability. Hosted by Brandy Schantz, a disabled veteran and chronic illness advocate, this podcast explores the realities of navigating work, healthcare, and everyday life while managing a disability or chronic condition. Each episode features insightful discussions with medical professionals, disability advocates, and individuals sharing their personal journeys. We tackle topics such as workplace accommodations, navigating the healthcare system, mental health, and breaking down societal barriers that often hold disabled individuals back. Whether you're living with a chronic condition, supporting a loved one, or looking to create a more inclusive world, Living Chronic is here to provide knowledge, inspiration, and a sense of community. Join us as we change the conversation around chronic illness—because thriving with a disability is not only possible but powerful. Subscribe now and be part of the movement!

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Mentorship and Support for Chronic Patients

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with Matt Reed about his journey with Crohn's disease, the challenges of navigating work while managing a chronic illness, and the importance of mentorship and support systems for those living with chronic conditions. They discuss the need for greater awareness and understanding of invisible illnesses, the difficulties in balancing work and health, and the role of organizations like the Crohn's Colitis Foundation in providing resources and community support. Get your award winning Omorpho Vest!Don't forget to use your special discount code: Brandy15I LOVE using Base Salt for my POTS!I love using Base Salt for my POTS. No stevia, no problems! Use the discount code: LivingChronicDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    44 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Advocacy in Action: Raising Awareness for Lupus

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with Mamello, a lupus patient and advocate from South Africa. They discuss the challenging journey to diagnosis, the importance of self-advocacy, and the role of support networks in managing chronic illness. Mamello shares her experiences with lupus, the misconceptions surrounding chronic illness, and her efforts to raise awareness through social media. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and support from friends, family, and the medical community, as well as practical advice for those newly diagnosed with chronic conditions. Be sure to follow Mamello on Instagram and Tiktok @blackgirlwithlupus Support the show

    23 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    Navigating Life After Cancer: Amy McClelland's Story

    Send us a text In this conversation, Brandy Schantz speaks with Amy McClelland, a breast cancer survivor and tech leader, about her journey navigating the job market after her diagnosis. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses, the importance of sharing experiences, and the unique strengths that chronically ill employees bring to the workforce. Amy shares her insights on resilience, the impact of social media, and the difficulties of disclosing health issues in job applications. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in the workplace, particularly for those who have faced significant health challenges. In this conversation, Amy McClelland and Brandy Schantz discuss the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the job market, particularly in the tech industry. They explore the nuances of discrimination, the impact of disclosing a disability, and the importance of education and awareness in fostering a more inclusive workplace. The discussion highlights the need for genuine diversity and inclusion efforts in companies, as well as the empowerment that comes from sharing personal experiences. Get your award winning Omorpho Vest!Don't forget to use your special discount code: Brandy15I LOVE using Base Salt for my POTS!I love using Base Salt for my POTS. No stevia, no problems! Use the discount code: LivingChronicDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

    44 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Understanding Your Rights: ADA, FMLA, & when to call an attorney

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with attorney Gary Martoccio about the intersection of employment law and disability rights. They discuss the importance of disclosing disabilities, navigating workplace accommodations, and the impact of remote work on disabled employees. The conversation also addresses the challenges of resume gaps for those with chronic illnesses and the legal protections available under the ADA and FMLA. Gary emphasizes the need for documentation and understanding one's rights, while also providing guidance on seeking legal support. The episode concludes with a call to action for advocacy in the workplace to support disabled individuals. https://martocciofirm.com/ Support the show

    23 min

  5. EPISODE 8

    Breaking the Silence on Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) and Medical Trauma

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with Vanessa Abram, author of 'Speechless' and a chronic illness warrior. They discuss Vanessa's traumatic journey from being a speech therapist to becoming a patient who lost her ability to speak. The conversation delves into the profound impact of medical trauma, the struggles of recovery, and the misunderstandings faced in mental health treatment. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing medical trauma, the challenges of living with chronic illness, and the need for greater awareness and empathy in society. In this conversation, Brandy Schantz and Vanessa Abram delve into the complexities of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) and the profound impact it has on individuals and their families. They discuss the varied experiences of trauma survivors, the importance of community support, and the challenges of navigating chronic illness. The conversation emphasizes the need for greater awareness and understanding among medical professionals and the necessity of advocating for resources and support for those affected by PICS. Support the show

    1h 5m
  6. Living with MS: A Journey of Resilience

    EPISODE 9

    Living with MS: A Journey of Resilience

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with actress Siana Smith, who shares her journey living with multiple sclerosis (MS). They discuss the challenges of getting a diagnosis, the importance of community support, navigating work with a chronic illness, and the lifestyle changes that have helped Shana manage her health. They also touch on the role of therapy, mental health, and the power of sharing stories to uplift others in similar situations. Support the show

    34 min

  7. EPISODE 10

    The Power of Advocacy in Caregiving

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with Mindy Uhrlaub, an author and caregiver, about her experiences navigating the challenges of chronic illness, caregiving, and mental health. Mindy shares her personal journey, including her advocacy work, the importance of community support, and the therapeutic power of writing. The conversation emphasizes the need for mental health awareness, the role of activism in coping with adversity, and the lessons learned from global experiences. Mindy's insights provide hope and encouragement for those facing similar struggles. Support the show

    34 min
  8. Advocating for Disability Rights with Robert Stack

    EPISODE 11

    Advocating for Disability Rights with Robert Stack

    Send us a text In this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz interviews Robert Stack, a veteran advocate for disability rights. They discuss Stack's 40-year career, the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, and the disparities in services based on geographic location. The conversation highlights the importance of caregiver support, the impact of private equity on disability care, and the need for advocacy at the state level. Stack emphasizes the underutilization of disabled individuals in the workforce and the necessity for systemic change to improve their quality of life. Support the show

    38 min
See All Season 4 (28)

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Living Chronic Podcast, where we have real, raw, and honest conversations about life with chronic illness and disability. Hosted by Brandy Schantz, a disabled veteran and chronic illness advocate, this podcast explores the realities of navigating work, healthcare, and everyday life while managing a disability or chronic condition. Each episode features insightful discussions with medical professionals, disability advocates, and individuals sharing their personal journeys. We tackle topics such as workplace accommodations, navigating the healthcare system, mental health, and breaking down societal barriers that often hold disabled individuals back. Whether you're living with a chronic condition, supporting a loved one, or looking to create a more inclusive world, Living Chronic is here to provide knowledge, inspiration, and a sense of community. Join us as we change the conversation around chronic illness—because thriving with a disability is not only possible but powerful. Subscribe now and be part of the movement!

Information

  • Creator
    Brandy Schantz
  • Episodes
    95
  • Seasons
    4
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Living Chronic
  • Show Website
    Living Chronic