Arthritis Life

Cheryl Crow
  • 5.0 (54)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Arthritis life features real patient stories, expert advice, life hacks and more to help you feel more empowered and less alone. Host Cheryl Crow shares her insights from both as a rheumatoid arthritis patient for over twenty years and as an occupational therapist, a health profession that focuses on empowering people with health challenges to function in their daily lives. This podcast also includes reflections on how you can have the best quality of life possible despite chronic pain, anxiety and other challenging parts of chronic illness. My goal is to help you manage REAL life with arthritis, beyond joint pain. Let's get started!

  1. Body Weather: Making Sense of Chronic Illness in an Unpredictable Body

    5D AGO

    Body Weather: Making Sense of Chronic Illness in an Unpredictable Body

    She shares her complex diagnostic journey across multiple autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, highlighting the uncertainty and overlap many patients experience. Cheryl and Lorraine discuss shifting from a “cure” mindset to one focused on management, the role of community (including Rheum to THRIVE), and how writing can be a powerful tool for processing and meaning-making. Together, they explore how reframing expectations, finding connection, and letting go of the illusion of control can help people feel less alone and more capable. If you’re newly diagnosed, this conversation offers both validation and a gentle reminder that, over time, navigating your health and your life can become more manageable. Episode at a glance: 00:00–03:00 Introduction + Lorraine’s background 03:00–08:30 Diagnostic journey across multiple conditions 08:30–12:30 Coping, loss of identity, and community support 12:30–16:00 The “acceptance paradox” and letting go of cure culture 16:00–20:00 Writing as a processing tool 20:00–28:00 The concept of “body weather” and chaotic systems 28:00–33:00 Environmental parallels and climate connections 33:00–41:00 Inside the book’s metaphors and structure 41:00–50:00 Writing advice and creative process 50:00–54:00 Advice for newly diagnosed patients 54:00–58:00 Tools, quotes, and recommendations 58:00–End Thriving with chronic illness + closing thoughts Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE,  an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.  See all the details  and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 4m
  2. Introducing New Rheum to THRIVE Facilitators Gittel Aguilar & Eileen!

    APR 15

    Introducing New Rheum to THRIVE Facilitators Gittel Aguilar & Eileen!

    Eileen and Gittel talk about why they’re passionate about leading support spaces, what those groups are really like (spoiler: welcoming, not intimidating), and how connection can make a huge difference. You’ll also hear gentle, practical advice for those early days like pacing yourself, adapting as you go, and redefining what it means to thrive. It’s a comforting reminder that even with chronic illness, you can still build a full, meaningful life and you don’t have to figure it out alone. And if you’d like to join one of the latest Rheum to THRIVE groups, you can do so here.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Meet the New Facilitators 01:13 Diagnoses and Comorbidities 04:35 Why Eileen Facilitates 08:06 Why Gittel (GT) Facilitates 12:09 Why Support Groups Matter 15:27 Program Structure Highlights 22:43 GT’s Teaching Style 23:32 Creating Safe Space 24:28 Alumni Group Exploration 25:46 Eileen’s Facilitation Style 33:42 Common Support Group Worries Addressed 37:48 Importance of Diversity In Groups 41:41 Reflections on Thriving With Arthritis Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    46 min
  3. Making Movement Accessible with Inflammatory Arthritis, with Jamie Boder

    APR 2

    Making Movement Accessible with Inflammatory Arthritis, with Jamie Boder

    The conversation also dives into the emotional side of chronic illness, including fear of movement, the importance of interoception (body awareness), and how to avoid the boom–bust cycle of overdoing it. Cheryl and Jamie reflect on the shift from a “warrior” mindset to one rooted in acceptance, adaptability, and long-term self-care. Ultimately, this episode offers a hopeful, realistic perspective: that thriving with arthritis isn’t about pushing harder, it’s about finding what works for your body and building a life alongside it, not in spite of it.  Episode at a glance: 01:27 Jamie’s Diagnosis Journey 05:41 Processing The Reality Online 07:05 Gender And Community Support 11:50 From Isolation To Teaching 19:12 Why Accessibility Matters 22:59 Adaptations And Safer Strength 31:58 Interoception Explained 33:23 Proprioception and Arthritis 36:02 When Awareness Becomes Sensitivity 36:57 Progression Beyond Rehab Sheets 39:55 Progressive Overload in Flares 42:45 Just Right Challenge 43:09 Accessible Training Tools 45:47 Acceptance and Thriving 48:58 Community and Uncertainty Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    59 min
  4. Rheumer Has It: Myths and Misconceptions About Arthritis Research: What Patients Should Know

    MAR 26

    Rheumer Has It: Myths and Misconceptions About Arthritis Research: What Patients Should Know

    Together, we walk through how to find reputable research, what “peer-reviewed” really means, and why one exciting study doesn’t equal a proven treatment. Dr. Li also explains key concepts like plain language summaries, the hierarchy of evidence, and how to spot common traps like cherry-picking data or misleading headlines. Our goal on this episode is to give you some practical tools so you can feel more confident, informed, and supported in your health decisions. Because learning how to interpret research helps you build realistic, evidence-based hope that actually serves you long-term.  Episode at a glance: Why “doing your own research” can feel empowering, but also confusing without the right tools Trusted places to start when looking for arthritis information (so you’re not relying on random posts or headlines) What “peer-reviewed research” means in plain language How plain language summaries make research more accessible (and why to look for them) Why not everything published in a journal is high-quality (and what “predatory journals” are) The truth about “one study says…” and why science is built over time What cherry-picking data looks like—and how it can lead to misleading conclusions The difference between correlation and causation (and why it matters for treatment decisions) Red flags to watch for when you see bold claims online Simple ways to feel more confident evaluating research, without necessarily needing a science degree Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    34 min
  5. What’s it Like to be on Methotrexate for Autoimmune Arthritis? (Encore Episode)

    MAR 19

    What’s it Like to be on Methotrexate for Autoimmune Arthritis? (Encore Episode)

    They also  reflect on how they’ve navigated the ups and downs of chronic illness life and share how grief and joy can co-exist. They also highlight the importance of  finding a supportive community with shared experiences. They also discuss their choices around how much to share on social media about their experiences. Paulina, Jenny, Ali, and Ananthi each share wisdom that has guided them along this nonlinear journey; encouraging self-care, advocating, celebrating small victories, and approaching life one day at a time. They conclude with a discussion about how to balance acceptance and adapting with a “fixing” mindset. Episode at a glance: Methotrexate and treatment plans: what’s changed and what’s stayed the same? Pregnancy and medication decisions: Jenny and Cheryl discuss how their pregnancies affected their treatments, as methotrexate is unsafe during pregnancy The impact of a supportive community: the panel reflects on how important it’s been to find others who “get it” The coexistence of joy and grief: the panel reflects on how important it is to make space for both joy and grief Coping toolbox: each panelists shares what’s in her coping toolbox, including reflections on how living “one day at a time” helps cope with unpredictability Balancing Chronic Illness and Identity: Some participants share the challenge of balancing their identity with chronic illness. They expressed the importance of finding a balance between addressing health needs and living a full life. Social Media and Mental Health: The discussion touched on the impact of social media on mental health. Participants shared their experiences of navigating online spaces, stressing the need to set boundaries and avoid being consumed by the negativity that can sometimes arise. Acceptance and Adaptation: The conversation delved into the journey of acceptance and adaptation to life with chronic illness. Participants shared personal strategies for navigating challenges, such as making choices that enable a better quality of life and adjusting plans based on energy levels Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 15m
  6. Building a Healthier Relationship with Food while Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (with Dietitian Cristina Montoya)

    MAR 12

    Building a Healthier Relationship with Food while Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (with Dietitian Cristina Montoya)

    Cristina and Cheryl also discuss Cristina’s new GLOW framework: Grow gut diversity, Lower inflammation, Optimize energy, and Work with your body compassionately. The conversation also covers gut health, the risks of overly restrictive diets, mindful eating, and how to aim for progress over perfection, even on flare days. Episode at a glance: 02:02 Diagnosis and Acceptance 05:25 Medications Plus Lifestyle 06:48 Why Cristina Became a Dietitian 13:59 GLOW Framework Explained 29:16 Defining Gut Health 36:10 Healing Your Food Relationship 38:20 Why Restriction Backfires 40:05 Mindful Treats and Less Stress 41:37 Sustainable Habits Over Time 43:01 Progress Over Perfection 43:49 Shifting Priorities with Illness 49:12 Living a Good Life with RA 51:43 Where to Find Cristina’s Spanish Podcast Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    55 min
  7. RA, Cancer, and Starting Over: Yasmin’s Story of Resilience

    MAR 5

    RA, Cancer, and Starting Over: Yasmin’s Story of Resilience

    Yasmin also shares what it was like to navigate multiple major health crises at once, including serious GI symptoms and an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis, and how it all impacted her mental health and anxiety. Together, Cheryl and Yasmin explore the tools that helped her cope and rebuild: therapy (CBT/talking therapy), journaling, poetry, mindfulness, support groups, pacing, and learning to advocate for herself. Yasmin’s message is clear and hopeful: life may change after diagnosis, but it doesn’t end. You can still pursue dreams, create meaning, and build a full, beautiful life. Episode at a glance: 01:43 Misdiagnosis Then RA 03:32 Lockdown Flare And Meds 04:34 Why Early Treatment Matters 09:55 Breast Cancer Diagnosis 15:46 Therapy Journaling And Art 21:02 Support Groups And Pacing 24:52 Self Compassion And Boundaries 26:56 Learning Self Advocacy 30:24 Pushing for Imaging 33:48 Handling Dismissal Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE,  an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.  See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    49 min
  8. Introducing Chrissy, the newest Rheum to THRIVE Certified Facilitator!

    FEB 26

    Introducing Chrissy, the newest Rheum to THRIVE Certified Facilitator!

    Cheryl and Chrissy also do a deep dive into the Rheum to THRIVE program and discuss their excitement over Chrissy taking on a new role as the lead facilitator of an upcoming cohort.  Chrissy’s facilitation style is flexible and responsive, letting the group’s needs guide the conversation while keeping it grounded in the weekly theme. If you want a supportive, stigma-free space that helps you feel less alone, more informed, and more capable of building a full life with arthritis, Chrissy’s Rheum to THRIVE group might be just right for you - learn more here.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome Back, Chrissy! Quick Catch-Up & Arthritis Background 11:23 Big Announcement: Training New Rheum to Thrive Facilitators 12:13 Why Chrissy Wanted to Facilitate (and What Participants Gain) 18:40 What a Typical Rheum to Thrive Meeting Looks Like (THRIVE Breakdown) 35:26 Rheum to Thrive Explained: Cohort Learning + Alumni Support (and Why Topics Help) 39:41 On the Fence About Support Groups? Privacy, Intimidation & Finding the Right Fit 42:30 Myths, Doom Spirals & Misinformation: What Good Facilitation Looks Like 45:45 Participation Your Way: Cameras Off, Chat-Only, Discord, and Asking for Help 51:34 Words of Wisdom: “Life Is Different, But It’s Not Over” + Acceptance & Adapting Goals Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 hr
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5
out of 5
54 Ratings

About

Arthritis life features real patient stories, expert advice, life hacks and more to help you feel more empowered and less alone. Host Cheryl Crow shares her insights from both as a rheumatoid arthritis patient for over twenty years and as an occupational therapist, a health profession that focuses on empowering people with health challenges to function in their daily lives. This podcast also includes reflections on how you can have the best quality of life possible despite chronic pain, anxiety and other challenging parts of chronic illness. My goal is to help you manage REAL life with arthritis, beyond joint pain. Let's get started!

Information

  • Creator
    Cheryl Crow
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    213
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2020, Cheryl Crow & Arthritis Life
  • Show Website
    Arthritis Life

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