Ep. 81: Healing and tequila with friends featuring Brandon Scott.

Join this special convo with Brandon Scott, CEO and Co-Founder of Tequila with Friends, a Dallas-based tequila brand. After a surprising Type 1 diabetes diagnosis during his first semester of college, Brandon discovered that tequila was the only type of liquor that his body metabolized well. Now 15 years later, he ties some of his fondest moments to tequila and the people around him who’ve supported his journey.

WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:

Navigating Diagnosis and Acceptance [0:00]

• Being diagnosed with type one diabetes during the first day at the University of Texas at Austin. 

• The importance of having supportive friends who encourage seeking medical help and providing emotional support during the diagnosis process.

•  Navigating misdiagnosis and quickly learning how to manage the condition. 

• Humor and coping mechanisms help deal with the challenges of living with diabetes.

• Embracing the condition as part of his  life story while refusing to let it define him entirely.

Fostering Inclusivity and Support in Communities [14:35]

• Normalizing health conditions within communities reduce stigma and ostracization.

• Take time to educate oneself and others about managing health conditions.

• The significance of offering support and assistance to individuals with health challenges, creates a welcoming and inclusive environment.

• Promoting a communal mindset where everyone brings their own "baggage," fostering a sense of understanding and solidarity.

The journey of acceptance [19:06]

• Frustration and helplessness are reactions when diagnosed with an illness upon diagnosis, 

• Taking control of the situation and acknowledging the importance of personal support networks.

• Sharing experiences with others and providing encouragement to those facing similar challenges can be helpful. 

• The importance of resilience and perseverance through various stages.

• Pay attention to your body and seek medical attention when necessary.

Nurturing Health with Accountability [33:17]

• How to navigate health challenges and grief without shame.

• Avoiding deprivation and recognizing it as unsustainable and unrealistic. Focus on balance and self-awareness instead.

• Pay attention to how your body responds to alcohol consumption, and consult a doctor if experiencing adverse reactions.

• The possibility of alcohol allergies or intolerances if experiencing discomfort after drinking.

• Drinking responsibly and in moderation. Pay attention to how you feel during and after consumption, and make adjustments accordingly.

THREE WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR MISSION:

1. Rate us on Apple or Spotify, or follow and subscribe to our channel on YouTube.
2. Attend an event in the Atlanta area or sponsor someone to attend.*
3. Purchase our merch— there’s a great selection on our website.*

*A portion of our proceeds goes towards our therapy fund for Black adults.

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:

• Tequilla with Friends website: https://www.tequilawithfriends.com/

• Follow on Ins