"the chronic life": presented by Arachnoiditis Unfiltered

Steve
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Arachnoiditis Unfiltered, founded by Steve Lovelace, an x-ray tech & sports pioneer in triathlon & paratriathlon. Medically retired & disabled, Steve spent nearly two decades in the medical device industry in the clinic & also in the medical device industry, before being forced to retire due to constant pain from Arachnoiditis. His professional experience and that of being a patient, has made Steve a powerful patient advocate with a mission to Education, Advocate & Entertain those living with chronic pain and chronic disease & beyond. Steve Lovelace is a pioneer in triathlon & paratriathlon who, after surviving a catastrophic accident that left him temporarily paralyzed, refused to let his injuries define his future, pushing the boundaries of endurance sport for athletes with disabilities & a grad of The Oklahoma University as a BSRT Radiological Technologist.  This isn’t just a podcast, it’s a movement!

  1. 6d ago

    How a Personal Loss Launched a Purpose-Driven Public Speaking Journey

    Cystic fibrosis does not have to mean giving up your life, your voice, or your future. Nick Kelly - registered dietitian, CF ambassador, speaker, and author, shares the mindset, systems, and hard-won perspective that help him thrive while living with a chronic illness. Nick and host Steve Lovelace unpack what it really takes to manage CF day to day, from a medication routine that once reached 56 pills a day to the practical habits that keep life moving when your body has other plans. They also get into the deeper story behind Nick's diagnosis, including the family detective work that revealed symptoms doctors missed, the racial bias that delayed answers, and why his experience now drives his advocacy. You'll discover how Nick bridges the gap between clinicians and patients, why palliative care can be a game changer for chronic illness, and how his framework of passion, purpose, and productivity turns adversity into action. Steve brings his own lived experience as a chronic patient and former clinician, creating a conversation that feels honest, useful, and deeply human. We break down the reality of CF beyond the textbook definition, including the lung, GI, and nutritional challenges that affect the entire body, the importance of thick skin and adaptability, and why hope is still the most powerful tool for newly diagnosed patients in the era of triple modulator therapies. Nick also shares how he uses books, public speaking, and minority health advocacy to push for better understanding and better care. If you or someone you love is living with cystic fibrosis, another chronic condition, or the daily burden of being underestimated, this conversation offers both practical insight and a serious boost of perspective. Essential listening for anyone who needs proof that resilience is not just survival, but a way forward.

  2. Sep 2

    S2E29: Axay Shah: Advice from "THE" Raw Food Guru, Life Improvements Through Diet

    The Chronic Life: Raw Food, Longevity, and Listening to Your BodyIn this episode of "the chronic life" presented by Arachnoiditis Unfiltered, Steve Lovelace sits down with Axay Shah, the “raw food guru,” to explore how nutrition, energy, and self-awareness can shape health outcomes for people living with chronic illness and inflammatory disease. Axay shares how a personal experiment with raw food in 2009 changed his life, helping him move from low energy and brain fog to feeling stronger, lighter, and more energized. He explains his belief that the human body thrives on plant-based raw foods, and he uses everyday analogies to describe inflammation, energy system dysfunction, and the importance of giving your body the fuel it actually needs.Steve brings his own perspective as a former athlete and someone living with chronic illness, creating a candid, practical conversation about performance, recovery, mindset, and the small daily choices that can either support or sabotage long-term health. Key topics covered Why nutrition matters so much in chronic illnessHow Axay transitioned to raw foodThe role of mindset and self-discipline in lifestyle changeInflammation, acidity, and “unhappy cells”Energy system dysfunction and ATPWhy listening to your body matters more than following trendsFueling for endurance and marathon trainingPractical raw-food habits, including nuts, fruit, vegetables, and condiments Notable takeawaysChange works best when it comes from self-conviction, not outside pressure.The body gives signals: fatigue, cravings, pain, thirst, sleepiness, and those signals matter.Energy, not just calories, is central to how the body repairs and functions.Even small changes in food choices can shift your relationship with health and wellness. Guest Axay Shah: author of In Nature We Trust, marathoner, public speaker, and advocate for natural health and longevity. Mentioned in this episode In Nature We Trust by Axay ShahKirkus Review recognitionPublisher’s Weekly / BookLife reviewDr. Michael GregerDr. Dean OrnishWhere to find the guest Axay Shah’s book In Nature We Trust is available on Amazon in digital, paperback, and hardcover formats.

  3. Aug 26

    S2E28: How Food Became the Fuel Behind Chronic Disease: Cherie Calbom, George Forman Nutristionist

    Health is not just about living longer - it is about reclaiming the energy, clarity, and resilience to actually live your life. Nutrition expert Cherie Calbom, the Juice Lady, joins Steve Lovelace to reveal the food choices that quietly fuel inflammation, chronic illness, and fatigue, and the simple swaps that can help turn things around.Cherie brings decades of hard-earned expertise to this conversation, including her own recovery from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. She explains why she wrote 36 books, how she rebuilt her health with food and juicing, and why so many people are suffering needlessly because the basics of nutrition are being ignored. You will discover: Why seed oils are one of the biggest hidden drivers of inflammationWhich fats actually support your heart, brain, and metabolismHow omega-3s, magnesium, and hydration fit into a healthier daily routineWhy eggs, avocado oil, coconut oil, ghee, and olive oil deserve a second lookHow to read labels and spot the packaged foods that are working against youWhat Cherie recommends if you want to start making changes without overcomplicating itSteve brings a chronic illness and real-life caregiving perspective to the discussion, including the daily realities of pain, heart health, and watching a loved one navigate Alzheimer’s. That personal lens makes the conversation especially practical for anyone trying to eat better while managing a demanding body, a busy life, or a long health history.The result is a conversation that cuts through food fear and marketing noise with common sense, science, and lived experience. If you are tired of feeling inflamed, depleted, or confused by nutrition advice, this episode gives you a clear place to start. Perfect for anyone ready to make one small change that can lead to a much healthier life.

  4. Aug 19

    S2E27: VINCENT VAN DEN BROECK: Survive Against The Odds / "the chronic life"

    A one split-second crash turned into a coma, a 1-in-10 survival outlook, and a story that still defies logic. Vincent Van den Broeck sits down with Steve Lovelace to unpack what happens when life hits you at full speed and how resilience becomes the difference between breaking and coming back stronger. After being struck by a car, Vincent wakes to a reality no one expected him to survive. Steve, who has lived through his own devastating cycling accident, connects the dots between physical trauma, mental toughness, and the stubborn mindset it takes to keep moving when everyone else is telling you to give up. You'll discover: Why Vincent calls resilience a muscle and how you train it before crisis hits The mindset shift that helps you stop negotiating with fear and start moving forward How adversity can rebuild your priorities, relationships, and sense of purpose Why mindset and body are not separate battles, but one system working together What it looks like to recover from debt, business collapse, COVID fallout, and a life-threatening accident without losing yourself Steve also shares how his own accidents, chronic pain, and recovery changed the way he sees life, success, and happiness. Together, the conversation becomes more than survival, it becomes a blueprint for anyone trying to rebuild after the kind of setback that can define, or destroy, a life. Vincent is a hospitality entrepreneur and author of Everything Feels Impossible Until It's Done, a book shaped by business setbacks, personal loss, and his near-fatal accident. Steve brings the perspective of a survivor, podcaster, and lifelong competitor who knows firsthand what it means to fight back from the edge. If you need proof that your worst moment is not your final chapter, this episode delivers it. Essential listening for anyone facing injury, burnout, reinvention, or the kind of adversity that makes you wonder if you can keep going. #alzheimerscaregiver #alzheimerssucks💜 #dysautonomia #dysautonomiatrigger #thechroniclife #chronicpain #arachnoiditis #healthadvocate #spoontheory #FamilySupport #mindsetshift #dysautonomiasymptoms #mentalclarity #cognitivehealth #HealthAdvocate #flareup #brainfog #everydayheroes #findhumorineverything #chronicillness

  5. Aug 12

    S2E26: Dr. Sean Altman & the Altman Method For Chronic Pain: "the chronic life"

    EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publishChronic pain is not always a surgical problem. Dr. Sean Altman explains why so many treatments miss the real source of pain, and how a precision-based functional medicine approach can help people with arachnoiditis, cauda equina syndrome, migraines, long COVID, dysautonomia, TMJ, and stubborn orthopedic injuries finally move forward. If you live with pain that keeps coming back, this conversation will change how you think about healing.Steve Lovelace opens up about life with chronic pain and the frustration of being handed procedures, prescriptions, and partial answers while the underlying problem keeps getting louder. Dr. Altman breaks down why pain is often a signaling issue, not just a structural one, and why the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and tissue all have to be considered together if you want lasting change.You'll discover: Why chronic pain can persist even when imaging looks "not that bad"How orthopedic functional medicine combines imaging, labs, movement patterns, and root-cause analysisWhy scar tissue, nerve sensitivity, and energy deficits can keep the body stuckHow modalities like shockwave, laser, light, and frequency-specific microcurrent are used to support healingWhy some procedures and implants lose effectiveness over time, and what that means for patients who are still searching for reliefDr. Altman also explains the importance of collaboration with dentists, specialists, and other providers when a case is more complex than one office can solve alone. From jaw instability to spinal issues to lingering post-injury pain, he shows how the right plan is often less about forcing the body and more about giving it what it needs to heal itself.This episode is especially valuable if you've been told to just live with it, if you've tried one intervention after another without lasting relief, or if you're newly diagnosed and want a smarter path before things get worse. For anyone looking for practical hope, clearer direction, and a more precise way to think about chronic pain, this is essential listening.

  6. Jul 22 ·  Bonus

    S2E25: Arachnoiditis Unfiltered 2.0: Comparing a Kidney Stone & Pyelonephritis Just Months Apart

    Most people misunderstand the urgent warning signs of kidney infections, and how quickly they can escalate into life-threatening situations. In this deeply personal episode, host Steve Lovelace shares his recent harrowing experience with kidney infection and sepsis, revealing what often gets missed or dismissed until it’s too late. If you or someone you care about has a chronic illness or faces sudden, severe health crises, this story offers critical lessons in recognizing warning signs and advocating for yourself before the situation spirals. You’ll discover the subtle early symptoms that can mask serious infections, like the back pain, fever, and nausea Steve initially dismissed as kidney stones. We break down the medical emergency he faced: how sepsis develops, why fever and high blood pressure are red flags, and the importance of timely intervention. Steve also shares the overlooked struggles of navigating emergency care alone and what the healthcare system often misses when patients are in agony. This episode dives into the vital importance of listening to your body and understanding when pain or symptoms demand urgent attention. Steve’s story isn’t just about a health scare, it's a wake-up call for anyone living with chronic conditions to stay vigilant, ask the right questions, and advocate fiercely for their care. In a healthcare world that often leaves patients stranded, knowing the signs that mean 'go now' can save your life. Perfect for patients, caregivers, and anyone seeking to decode medical emergencies, this episode equips you with not only awareness but the confidence to act decisively in moments that matter. Be prepared, stay informed, and transform fear into action with these crucial insights.Why this works: The opening hook immediately captures attention by revealing a relatable, real-life emergency that many feel unprepared for. The detailed storytelling builds curiosity about the medical complexities, while practical insights give listeners actionable knowledge. It appeals to those who want to take control of their health, especially within the lived experience of chronic illness, fostering a sense of urgency and empowerment. 3,147/4,000

  7. Jul 15

    S2E24: One Man’s Journey w/ Male Breast Cancer Disrupted a Pink Ribbon Paradigm & Started a Movement

    Most people believe breast cancer only affects women, but the truth is far more complex, and devastatingly unfamiliar. Jake Messier, a military veteran and one of just 1% of men to develop male breast cancer, shares his raw, unfiltered journey from diagnosis to advocacy. His story is a powerful reminder that cancer doesn’t discriminate by gender and that awareness, research, and inclusion are more urgent than ever. In this episode, you’ll discover how a routine mammogram revealed a life-changing diagnosis, and the emotional obstacles that come with being a man with a “women’s disease.” Jake dives deep into the disparities in research funding, the social stigma of masculinity, and the urgent need for greater awareness of male breast cancer. He highlights the staggering statistic: only about 3,000 men are diagnosed each year, yet no dedicated research funding existed for decades, until recently.We break down the barriers of silence and stigma that prevent men from seeking help, and how social media is transforming the conversation. Jake shares his innovative advocacy approach, using storytelling, social media, and strategic partnerships, to push male breast cancer into the national spotlight. He emphasizes the importance of community, education, and breaking down gender stereotypes to save lives.Why should you care? Because the current system leaves men under diagnosed, under treated, and overlooked. The opportunity now exists to rewrite the narrative, through targeted research, support, and awareness. This episode is essential listening for health advocates, caregivers, and men who need to know that help, hope, and change start with awareness. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a survivor, or simply curious about the real stories behind the statistics, Jake’s experience highlights a broader truth: every life matters, and diversity in medical research is the key to truly ending this disease. It’s time to expand the conversation, and your perspective.

  8. Jul 8

    S2E23: United Theranostics & Dr. Munir Ghesani are Changing The Way Cancer is Treated!

    Most cancer treatments are brutal, often sacrificing quality of life for a chance at survival. But what if there was a smarter, targeted way to fight cancer, one that kills with fewer side effects and more precision? Dr. Munir Ghesani reveals the groundbreaking technology behind Theranostics, an innovative approach that promises to revolutionize how we diagnose and treat cancer. Imagine treatments that see exactly where they’re going, confirm efficacy in real-time, and spare healthy tissue, all while being personalized to each patient’s unique biology. This episode breaks down how United Theranostics is pioneering the future of nuclear medicine, aiming to bring cutting-edge therapies to all 50 states. You’ll discover how Theranostics combines advanced imaging with targeted radiotherapy, dramatically improving outcomes for prostate, neuroendocrine, thyroid, and even many other cancers. We delve into the science behind crossing the blood-brain barrier, the multi-session treatment strategies, and the safety protocols that make these therapies not just effective but also remarkably well-tolerated. If you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, don’t miss the insights into how this technology could change prognosis and quality of life. With a vision to make personalized cancer care accessible nationwide, United Theranostics is shaping a future where fewer suffer needlessly, where treatment is smarter, safer, and more effective. Join us to understand the potential of Theranostics for battling cancer, and the hope it offers for lives yet to be saved. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the future of cancer treatment, medical innovation, or seeking hope beyond traditional options. Be part of the revolution in healthcare—because sometimes, seeing is curing. #dysautonomia #dysautonomiatrigger #thechroniclife #chronicpain #arachnoiditis #healthadvocate #spoontheory #FamilySupport #mindsetshift #dysautonomiasymptoms #mentalclarity #cognitivehealth #HealthAdvocate #flareup #brainfog #everydayheroes #findhumorineverything #chronicillness #arthritisawarenessmonth #goldendoodle #cancer #theranostics

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About

Arachnoiditis Unfiltered, founded by Steve Lovelace, an x-ray tech & sports pioneer in triathlon & paratriathlon. Medically retired & disabled, Steve spent nearly two decades in the medical device industry in the clinic & also in the medical device industry, before being forced to retire due to constant pain from Arachnoiditis. His professional experience and that of being a patient, has made Steve a powerful patient advocate with a mission to Education, Advocate & Entertain those living with chronic pain and chronic disease & beyond. Steve Lovelace is a pioneer in triathlon & paratriathlon who, after surviving a catastrophic accident that left him temporarily paralyzed, refused to let his injuries define his future, pushing the boundaries of endurance sport for athletes with disabilities & a grad of The Oklahoma University as a BSRT Radiological Technologist.  This isn’t just a podcast, it’s a movement!

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