Invisible Strength

Karin Wagner and Chris Burton
  • 5.0 (1)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We discuss the realities of living with autoimmune and chronic conditions while exploring realistic solutions to improve our lives. We discuss helpful tips and tricks to manage symptoms and proactively improve our health trajectory. We're here for support, laughs, and grace as we figure out these diseases together! www.invigorateyourjourney.com

  1. 1D AGO

    From Devastated Freshman Athlete to Thriving Lupus Warrior | Invisible Strength Podcast

    Faith Ring was a driven college swimmer when lupus turned her world upside down. Faith shares how she adapted her training, diet, and mindset — including lessons from Katie Ledecky — and learned to put her health first without quitting her dreams. Raw, honest, and full of practical tips for anyone navigating autoimmune disease while chasing big goals.This episode is for anyone living with autoimmune disease, chronic illness, or navigating life after a life-changing diagnosis.Chapters:00:00 – Intro: Minnesota Lupus Warrior & College Swimmer01:52 – Life before diagnosis as a Type-A athlete02:15 – Massive 180: Diet changes (less dairy/red meat, frequent small meals)04:39 – Katie Ledecky POTS inspiration + internal vs external health07:05 – Military family mindset: Learning to put yourself first10:47 – Letting go of control + back injury crisis13:51 – Journaling advice for high-achievers with chronic illness17:48 – How support networks actually help (not just “have people”)22:22 – Practical routines: Prepping for events, gradual changes, naps33:47 – Faith, 1 Corinthians 13, and reframing anger at God39:57 – What “Invisible Strength” really meansDon't Forget to Show Your Support:👍 Like this video if it resonated💬 Comment your biggest takeaway or share your story🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations on chronic illness & living well🌿 Connection, Guidance, & Supportive Resources:Explore free workbooks and workshops, coaching, and tools to help you live well with chronic illness: ➡️ https://www.invigorateyourjourney.com#RheumatoidArthritis #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicIllness #GymnastLife #InvisibleStrengthPodcast #RAAwareness #MentalHealth #athletestories Special thanks to co-hosts Karin Wagner and Chris Burton,  @baddestchaplain  ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education and shared experiences only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes.

    42 min

  2. APR 22

    Alabama Gymnast Paityn Walker on Competing with Rheumatoid Arthritis | Invisible Strength Podcast Ep. 72

    🌟NEW INVISIBLE STRENGTH EPISODE!🌟 In this episode of the Invisible Strength Podcast, host Karin Wagner sits down with University of Alabama gymnast Paityn Walker to share her powerful story of competing at an elite level while living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Paityn opens up about the sudden onset of severe joint pain, her diagnosis at just 19, and what it’s been like navigating a chronic autoimmune disease while training and competing in Division I gymnastics. From being unable to walk during preseason to learning how to manage flare-ups, rebuild her mindset, and redefine success, her story is a raw look at resilience, identity, and invisible strength. In this episode, we cover: ➡Competing as a Division I gymnast with RA ➡Sudden diagnosis and early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis➡Flare-ups, treatment, and daily physical challenges ➡Mental health, grief, and identity after diagnosis ➡Nutrition and lifestyle shifts for inflammation management ➡Learning to listen to the body and rebuild confidence This episode is for anyone living with autoimmune disease, chronic illness, or navigating life after a life-changing diagnosis. Don't Forget to Show Your Support:👍 Like this video if it resonated 💬 Comment your biggest takeaway or share your story 🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations on chronic illness & living well 🌿 Connection, Guidance, & Supportive Resources: Explore support groups, coaching, and tools to help you live well with chronic illness: ➡️ www.invigorateyourjourney.com Invisible Strength isn’t just something you feel—it’s something you live every day. Now you can wear it as a reminder of everything you’ve overcome.➡️ Shop the collection here! #ChronicIllness #CerebralPalsy #InvisibleStrength #ChronicIllnessWarrior #DisabilityAwareness #AutoimmuneSupport #Resilience #MentalHealthMatters #chronicillnesssupport ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education and shared experiences only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes.

    42 min

  3. APR 15

    Living with Cerebral Palsy: Independence, Resilience & Invisible Strength

    What does it really mean to live with cerebral palsy—and build a life rooted in independence, resilience, and self-worth? In this episode of the Invisible Strength Podcast, Karin Wagner and Chris Burton sit down with Shelly to share her powerful journey of growing up with cerebral palsy, navigating bullying and anxiety, and learning how to advocate for herself in a world that often underestimates people with disabilities. From early medical challenges and multiple surgeries to redefining independence on her own terms, Shelly opens up about the mindset that helped her keep going—even through setbacks. This episode is for anyone living with chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or learning how to navigate life’s unexpected challenges with strength and self-compassion. 💬 In This Episode, We Cover: Living with cerebral palsy and navigating daily lifeBuilding independence while knowing when to ask for helpOvercoming bullying, anxiety, and self-doubtThe importance of self-advocacy with chronic illnessWhy your worth is not something you have to earn❤️ Key Takeaway: Your strength is real—even when it’s invisible. 👍 Like this video if it resonated 💬 Comment your biggest takeaway or share your story 🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations on chronic illness & living well 🌿 More Support & Resources: Explore resources, coaching, and tools to help you live well with chronic illness: 👉 www.invigorateyourjourney.com 🌿 JOIN OUR FREE MONTHLY SUPPORT GROUPS Living with chronic illness is hard. You don’t have to do it alone. ➡️ Save your spot here: https://calendly.com/invigorateyourjourney/new-meeting Invisible Strength isn’t just something you feel—it’s something you live every day. Now you can wear it as a reminder of everything you’ve overcome. 👉 Shop the collection: https://invigorate.secure-decoration.com/ 🎧 Listen on Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more #ChronicIllness #CerebralPalsy #InvisibleStrength #ChronicIllnessWarrior #DisabilityAwareness #AutoimmuneSupport #Resilience #MentalHealthMatters #chronicillnesssupport  ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education and shared experiences only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes.

    27 min

  4. APR 8

    Her Dad Was Diagnosed with Lupus… This Is How She Fought Back 💜 | Invisible Strength

    What happens when someone you love is diagnosed with lupus? In this powerful episode of the Invisible Strength Podcast, Tanisha shares her journey as a former football captain turned lupus advocate—navigating fear, uncertainty, and strength as her dad battles this autoimmune disease. From watching a parent struggle… to finding purpose through pain… this conversation is for anyone living with lupus, supporting someone who is, or trying to understand what it really means to face an invisible illness. 💜 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✨What it’s like to support a loved one with lupus ✨The emotional toll of caregiving and uncertainty ✨How community and communication change everything ✨Finding purpose through pain and showing up anyway If you or someone you love is living with lupus or another autoimmune disease—you are not alone. 🌿 READY FOR MORE SUPPORT? If you're navigating autoimmune disease, trauma, or burnout and want clarity, steadiness, and real hope: ➡️ Invigorate resources: https://www.invigorateyourjourney.com 🎧 JOIN THE COMMUNITY Subscribe for real, honest conversations about invisible illness, resilience, and thriving 👉 Hit the 🔔 so you never miss an episode 💙 Like if this resonated 💬 Comment your biggest takeaway 📤 Share this with someone who needs encouragement today 🌿 JOIN OUR FREE MONTHLY SUPPORT GROUPS Living with chronic illness is hard. You don’t have to do it alone. ➡️ Save your spot here: https://calendly.com/invigorateyourjourney/new-meeting Whether you're dealing with flares, fear, burnout, or feeling stuck—this is your space to be seen, heard, and supported. Special thanks to co-hosts Chris Burton, ‪@baddestchaplain, & Karin Wagner! #LupusAwareness #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicIllnessSupport ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for education and shared experiences only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes.

    47 min

  5. APR 1

    How to Live Fully with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Grief, Energy & Invisible Strength | Keri Pratt

    Living with rheumatoid arthritis or an autoimmune disease can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting—but it doesn’t mean your life can’t still be meaningful. In this episode of Invisible Strength, Keri Pratt shares her journey navigating RA, Hashimoto’s, seizures, and more—and how she’s learning to grieve who she was while becoming someone new with purpose, resilience, and hope. If you’ve ever wondered: “I miss who I used to be.” “Why is my body fighting me?” “Can I still live a full life like this?” This conversation will meet you where you are. We talk about redefining what a “full life” looks like, adapting without giving up what you love, and finding strength in the middle of uncertainty. 🌿 Join our FREE monthly support groups:https://calendly.com/invigorateyourjourney/new-meeting You don’t have to navigate chronic illness alone. This is a space for support, encouragement, and real connection. 💙 In this episode, you’ll learn: • How to process grief without letting it define you • What “living fully” actually looks like with chronic illness • How to manage energy, flares, and recovery • Simple ways to adapt your lifestyle and still do what you love • How to rebuild identity, strength, and hope 🌿 More support & resources:https://www.invigorateyourjourney.com ⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider before making changes.

    40 min

  6. MAR 25

    From House Fire & Domestic Abuse to Thriving: Bethany Stone's Invisible Strength Story

    From house fire at 16 + abusive marriage to unbreakable strength: Bethany Stone's raw story of trauma recovery & thriving.➡️ JOIN OUR FREE MONTHLY SUPPORT GROUPSLiving with chronic illness is hard. You don't have to do it alone.🔗 Book your spot here🌿 Struggling with autoimmune, flares, fear, or overwhelm? Invigorate helps you move to clarity, steadiness & a life that feels like YOU again.✅ https://www.invigorateyourjourney.comTimestamps:00:00 Intro & welcome01:19 Bethany today: Montessori → mindset coach02:25 Montessori philosophy explained05:19 Embodied learning for adults07:49 The 5 self-care buckets (emotional → intellectual)13:52 Control what you can in chaos19:41 Rewire your inner voice21:37 House fire at 16: life-changing shift31:25 Kindness received & given back36:34 Break the negativity cycle43:02 Invisible strength = the seed inside44:14 Connect with BethanyBethany shares:✅Surviving domestic violence & rebuilding worth✅5 buckets for balance & resilience✅Grace on hard days, boundaries, reframing stories✅Montessori tools for emotional awareness & growthPerfect if you're healing trauma, burnout, autoimmune challenges or seeking real hope. Connect & Grow🌿 Bethany's site: https://www.thrivingbynature.com➡️ Invigorate resources: https://www.invigorateyourjourney.com🎧 Subscribe for honest talks on invisible illness, resilience & thriving. Hit 🔔!Like if this hit home 💙Comment on your biggest takeawayShare with someone who needs thisSpecial thanks to co-hosts Chris Burton & Karin Wagner!#InvisibleStrength #TraumaRecovery #DomesticViolenceSurvivor #ChronicIllness #AutoimmuneWarrior #SelfCare #MontessoriMindset #Resilience #ThrivingByNature #InvisibleIllness #EmotionalHealing #supportgroups ⚠️ Disclaimer: This is general education & shared experiences only—not medical advice. Consult your healthcare team before changes.

    37 min

  7. MAR 18

    Graves' Disease to AIP Success: Nicole Charles Makes Healthy Eating Delicious & Family-Friendly

    Discover how Nicole Charles turned her Graves' disease diagnosis into a superpower with Heal Me Delicious! In this inspiring Invisible Strength podcast episode, Nicole shares her raw journey: from being overworked and over-caffeinated in grad school, rapid weight loss, heart palpitations, and a lightning-fast diagnosis... to finding resilience through creativity in the kitchen during the pandemic. Learn how she made the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) feel nourishing and joyful instead of restrictive: Reconnecting with her Trinidadian roots using cassava, plantains, yams & flavorful Caribbean techniques (without nightshades!)Creative ways to include nutrient-dense foods like liverSimple, affordable, one-pot & sheet-pan meals the whole family will actually eatHer realistic reintroduction process, pregnancy insights, and overcoming food fearPractical hacks: ground meat meals, meal planning, eating leftovers/soup for breakfast, and batch cookingWhether you're dealing with Graves', Hashimoto's, or any autoimmune condition, this conversation is packed with hope, real-talk resilience, and delicious inspiration that proves healthy eating doesn't have to feel like deprivation. 🔗 Find all of Nicole’s gluten-free, AIP-friendly recipes: https://healmedelicious.com/ Follow on Instagram: @healmedelicious Timestamps: 00:00 Intro & Nicole’s story before diagnosis 03:48 Food & fast-paced life in grad school 05:44 Slowing down & starting AIP during the pandemic 10:34 Making AIP creative & cultural 18:17 Reintroduction journey & lessons learned 23:23 Listening to your body & motherhood insights 31:55 Affordable & quick cooking hacks for busy families 40:15 What “Invisible Strength” means to Nicole 42:44 Rapid fire: favorite ingredient, go-to meals & dessert If this resonates, drop a comment: What’s one food or habit that’s helped your autoimmune journey? ❤️ ➡️ JOIN OUR FREE MONTHLY SUPPORT GROUPS: Living with chronic illness is hard. You don't have to do it alone. 🔗 Save your spot now! 🌿 Looking for Support Living With Chronic Illness? Invigorate helps people with chronic conditions move from fear & overwhelm → to clarity, steadiness, and a life that feels like YOU again. ➡️Discover resources, connections, and support here! 🎧 Subscribe for MoreHonest conversations about invisible illness, resilience, and thriving despite the hard days. Hit the 🔔 so you never miss an episode! #GravesDisease #AIPDiet #AutoimmuneProtocol #HealMeDelicious #ThyroidHealth #InvisibleIllness #ChronicIllness #GlutenFreeRecipes #FamilyMeals #AutoimmuneRecipes ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for general education and shared lived experiences only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes to your treatment or lifestyle.

    43 min
  8. Crohn’s in Kids: A Mom Shares the Hard Truth About Symptoms, Dismissal & Advocacy

    MAR 11

    Crohn’s in Kids: A Mom Shares the Hard Truth About Symptoms, Dismissal & Advocacy

    Imagine your child saying, “Eating hurts… but I still have to try.” That was Bridget’s daily reality as she navigated years of unexplained symptoms, medical dismissal, and the overwhelming fear of not knowing what was wrong. Eventually, her daughter was diagnosed with Crohn’s — but the journey to get there was anything but straightforward. In this powerful episode of the Invisible Strength Podcast, Bridget shares: ✨The earliest signs something wasn’t right — starting at 18 months ✨Why kids with chronic illness are often missed or misdiagnosed ✨What parents can do when doctors don’t listen The emotional toll of advocacy and how she avoided caregiver burnout ✨How she teaches her daughter confidence, boundaries & self-advocacy ✨The surprising silver linings that grew from their family’s hardest season This conversation is for anyone raising, loving, or supporting a child with chronic illness — or anyone who’s ever been dismissed in a medical setting. Bridget’s story is raw, real, and filled with hope. You’ll leave feeling seen… and reminded of your own invisible strength. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:35 – Early symptoms at 18 months 04:08 – When everything fell apart 07:40 – Medical dismissal & trusting your intuition 14:00 – The emotional toll of advocating 18:30 – Knowing when to seek a second opinion 22:00 – Caregiver burnout & rebuilding resilience 24:30 – Helping kids find their voice 29:10 – Balancing it all with siblings 32:00 – Navigating food, school, and lifestyle changes 38:30 – The power of flexibility and homeschooling 44:20 – Understanding anxiety & the gut-brain connection 47:10 – Advice for parents still in the thick of it 52:00 – What “Invisible Strength” means to Bridget ➡️ JOIN OUR FREE MONTHLY SUPPORT GROUPS: Living with chronic illness is hard. You don't have to do it alone. 🔗 Save your spot here! 🌿 Looking for Support Living With Chronic Illness? Invigorate helps people with chronic conditions move from fear & overwhelm → to clarity, steadiness, and a life that feels like YOU again. ➡️Invisible Strength 🎧 Subscribe for MoreHonest conversations about invisible illness, resilience, and thriving despite the hard days. Hit the 🔔 so you never miss an episode. 📲 Connect with Bridget on Instagram @Life with Pediatric Crohn’s📲 Follow us on Instagram @unseenyetunstoppable ⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for general education and shared lived experiences only. It is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making changes to your treatment or lifestyle.

    47 min
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About

We discuss the realities of living with autoimmune and chronic conditions while exploring realistic solutions to improve our lives. We discuss helpful tips and tricks to manage symptoms and proactively improve our health trajectory. We're here for support, laughs, and grace as we figure out these diseases together! www.invigorateyourjourney.com

Information

  • Creator
    Karin Wagner and Chris Burton
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Karin Wagner and Chris Burton
  • Show Website
    Invisible Strength