I've Got Guts!

I've Got Guts!
  • 5.0 (25)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to I’ve Got Guts! A podcast about living, surviving, and thriving with chronic illness. Hosted by Stefanie and Lauren, two friends who understand that navigating life with chronic health issues can be challenging, isolating, and sometimes just plain exhausting. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be. I’ve Got Guts! is a space for community, honesty, and laughter, a place to talk about the tough stuff without leaving you feeling more overwhelmed.

  1. Chiropractic Care for Chronic Illness: Our CBCT Imaging Results & Nervous System Breakthroughs

    1D AGO

    Chiropractic Care for Chronic Illness: Our CBCT Imaging Results & Nervous System Breakthroughs

    Earlier this season, we interviewed Dr. Maggie Benham from Chosen Spot Chiropractic Care, and then we did something unexpected…we booked appointments ourselves. In this follow-up episode, we’re sharing our real experiences with upper cervical chiropractic care, muscle testing, and CBCT (Cone Beam CT) imaging…and how it connects to chronic illness, vagus nerve function, swallowing issues, and nervous system regulation. We talk about: • What our first chiropractic appointments were actually like • The muscle testing that left us speechless • Why we chose to get CBCT 3D imaging • What our scans revealed • How this relates to vagus nerve dysfunction, swallowing issues, motility problems, and chronic illness • Why this felt validating…not scary This isn’t about being “fixed.” It’s about understanding structure, supporting nervous system communication, and breaking chronic patterns from a place of empowerment. As always, this is our lived experience, not medical advice, ust two women navigating complex health out loud. Sponsor: Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 21 percent off with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast Follow us on social media to stay up to date: https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the podcast worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5 Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    45 min
  2. From Spoon Theory to Energy Economics: Chronic Illness & Why Pushing Through Backfires

    FEB 23

    From Spoon Theory to Energy Economics: Chronic Illness & Why Pushing Through Backfires

    If you’ve used spoon theory to explain your energy, this episode explores what comes next. We’re talking about the shift to energy economics: a physiological lens on chronic illness that looks at nervous system load, immune demand, hormones, inflammation, GI function, and pain as real energy costs. Because this isn’t just fatigue. It’s biology. We break down how energy economics shows up in gastroparesis, celiac disease, endometriosis, fertility treatment, and chronic inflammation…and why pushing through often leads to flares, crashes, and longer recovery. This episode covers: • The biology behind chronic illness fatigue • Why pushing through backfires • Nervous system and immune energy demand • GI symptoms as an energy budgeting issue • The emotional identity shift of living with limits • What pacing actually looks like in real life • How to explain your energy (spoons vs energy scale) Your energy isn’t laziness. It’s physiology, and learning to work with it may be one of the most powerful forms of advocacy there is. Sponsor: Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 41 percent off (Only until February 28, 2026) with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast Follow us on social media to stay up to date: https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the podcast worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5 Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    30 min
  3. Why Surgery Recovery Is Harder With Chronic Illness (And Why That’s Normal)

    FEB 16

    Why Surgery Recovery Is Harder With Chronic Illness (And Why That’s Normal)

    In this episode, we break down the science and lived experience behind surgery recovery with chronic illness. From immune suppression and autoimmune responses to stress, inflammation, and emotional support, healing doesn’t look the same when your body is already working overtime. We talk about: • Why surgery is trauma to the body…even when it’s considered “minor” • How chronic illness, autoimmune disease, and fatigue impact healing timelines • The role of inflammation, immune dysfunction, and nervous system stress • Why some people take longer to recover…and why that’s not a failure • The emotional toll of comparing your healing to others • How caregivers and support systems directly affect recovery outcomes • What it means to trust your body’s timeline instead of rushing it This conversation blends medical insight with real-life experience to validate what so many people feel after surgery: recovery with chronic illness is different. Slower. More layered. More complex. But still real healing. If your body hasn’t “bounced back” the way people expected…this episode is for you. Recovery isn’t a race. Your timeline is valid. And needing more time doesn’t mean your body is failing, it means it’s working harder than most people can see. When Things Feel Heavy/A Place to Land: http://Laurenoreilly.org/register Sponsor: Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 41 percent off with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast Follow us on social media to stay up to date: https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the podcast worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5 Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    30 min
  4. From Doctor’s Offices to HR: The Hidden Struggles of Invisible Illness

    FEB 9

    From Doctor’s Offices to HR: The Hidden Struggles of Invisible Illness

    Living with chronic or invisible illness often means constantly having to prove you’re “sick enough” to be believed…by doctors, workplaces, and even the people around you. In this episode, we talk about medical gaslighting, delayed diagnoses, workplace challenges, and the emotional toll of navigating life in a body that doesn’t always cooperate. We share real experiences with gastroparesis, endometriosis, IVF, and intermittent flares, and why invisible doesn’t mean imaginary. In this episode, we cover: • Chronic illness and the pressure to prove symptoms • Medical gaslighting and delayed diagnosis in women • Invisible illness in the workplace and accommodations • The gut–brain connection without minimizing physical illness • Navigating gastroparesis, endometriosis, and IVF while working • Why intermittent illness is still real, and deserving of support You’re not exaggerating. You’re not alone. And you deserve to be believed. Sponsor: Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 41 percent off with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast Follow us on social media to stay up to date: https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the podcast worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5 Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    41 min
  5. How to Prepare for Surgery: Mental, Emotional & Physical Support for Healing

    FEB 2

    How to Prepare for Surgery: Mental, Emotional & Physical Support for Healing

    Surgery isn’t just physical…it’s emotional, mental, and deeply personal. In this episode, we talk honestly about how to prepare for surgery when fear, anxiety, and medical trauma are part of the experience. Whether you’re facing surgery yourself, supporting someone who is, or carrying past medical experiences in your body, this conversation is for you. We cover: • How medical trauma and chronic illness affect the nervous system • Why “rare complications” still leave real emotional scars • Preparing for surgery mentally, emotionally, and physically • The pressure to “bounce back” and why rest is part of healing • Practical pre-op tips for calming anxiety and creating safety • Mind–body tools for surgery (breathing, grounding, visualization) • How therapy and mental health support can improve recovery • Creating routines and small wins after surgery This episode is a reminder that fear doesn’t mean you’re weak…it means your body is trying to protect you. And healing isn’t about being brave. It’s about being supported. Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 41 percent off with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast Follow us on social media to stay up to date: https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the podcast worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5 Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    42 min
  6. The Gut–Bladder Connection: Hormones, Urology & Whole-Body Health with Dr. Jason B. Carter

    JAN 26

    The Gut–Bladder Connection: Hormones, Urology & Whole-Body Health with Dr. Jason B. Carter

    In this episode of Ive Got Guts!, Stef and Lauren sit down with Dr. Jason B. Carter, a board-certified urologist, to explore the powerful connection between gut health, bladder function, and hormone balance and why so many people struggle when these systems are not looked at together. We dive into: How the gut and bladder connection worksWhy hormone balance is essential, especially for womenThe role of hormone therapy in overall well-beingWhat gets missed when medicine only looks at one systemLifestyle habits that make the biggest difference long-termYou can find out more information about Dr. Jason B. Carter at the links below: https://aeroflowurology.com/ https://aeroflowurology.com/jason-b-carter https://www.facebook.com/AeroflowUrology/ https://www.instagram.com/aeroflow_urology/ If you are navigating chronic symptoms or want a more complete view of your health, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight. Sponsor: Cozy Earth has our hearts. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are ultra-soft luxury comfort. Get 41 percent off with code IGG at CozyEarth.com, plus free shipping over 50 dollars, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast Follow us on social media to stay up to date: https://www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the podcast worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5 Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/ive-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    44 min
  7. Toxic Positivity Explained: Why “Good Vibes Only” Can Harm Healing & Emotional Health

    JAN 19

    Toxic Positivity Explained: Why “Good Vibes Only” Can Harm Healing & Emotional Health

    Have you ever opened up about how hard things really are, only to hear, “Just stay positive” or “At least it’s not worse” , and walked away feeling shut down or guilty? In this episode, we break down toxic positivity…what it is, why it shows up so often in chronic illness, healing, and personal growth spaces, and how it can quietly block emotional regulation and real healing. We’re not here to cancel positivity. We’re here to make it real. In this episode, we cover: • What toxic positivity actually looks like • How “good vibes only” can feel emotionally dismissive • Why suppressing emotions creates shame, guilt, and anxiety • Why pain doesn’t need to be “the worst” to be valid • Healthier ways to support others…and yourself • Simple tools to process hard emotions safely Because real healing isn’t about pretending everything is fine…it’s about honesty, safety, and support. 💛 We are officially Cozy Earth obsessed. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are next-level soft — true luxury comfort. ✨ Get 41% off (their biggest discount anywhere!) with code IGG at CozyEarth.com. Plus: free shipping over $50, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, make sure to join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast. Please Make sure to follow us on our social media pages to stay up to date: www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the Podcast Worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5?si=eCtax030QY-qTxqu92Sx3w Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/i've-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    36 min
  8. From Late Diagnosis to Lifelong Resilience: Tori’s Cystic Fibrosis Journey, Motherhood & Finding Strength Through Chronic Illness

    JAN 12

    From Late Diagnosis to Lifelong Resilience: Tori’s Cystic Fibrosis Journey, Motherhood & Finding Strength Through Chronic Illness

    In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Tori (@toritriesit on TikTok), whose medical journey began before she was even born…and who wasn’t diagnosed with cystic fibrosis until her twenties. Tori shares what it was like growing up sick without answers, finally receiving a life-changing diagnosis, and navigating chronic illness while raising two children with their own medical challenges. You may also recognize Tori from The Weakest Link, The Perfect Line (which she won!), and The Drew Barrymore Show…moments that reflect her humor, strength, and resilience. This conversation is for anyone navigating: • chronic illness • late or missed diagnosis • medical gaslighting • motherhood and caregiving • feeling overwhelmed, dismissed, or alone in their health journey Tori’s story is a reminder that showing up, even when it’s hard, is its own kind of courage. 💛 We are officially Cozy Earth obsessed. Their bamboo sheets, towels, and loungewear are next-level soft — true luxury comfort. ✨ Get 41% off (their biggest discount anywhere!) with code IGG at CozyEarth.com. Plus: free shipping over $50, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty. If you want even more behind-the-scenes moments, early announcements, or fun extras, make sure to join our email list here: https://balanced-brook-47113.myflodesk.com/ivegotgutspodcast. Please Make sure to follow us on our social media pages to stay up to date: www.facebook.com/ivegotgutspodcast www.instagram.com/ivegotgutspodcast https://www.youtube.com/@IveGotGutsPodcast Listen to the Podcast Worldwide: iHeart Radio https://iheart.com/podcast/238278766/ Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/SO0cSiSBvP Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/31w8bdwasutxCGCMhhYYh5?si=eCtax030QY-qTxqu92Sx3w Amazon Music https://music.amazon.it/podcasts/cd898f42-ddbf-4411-ad15-3a5c1a44d4f5/i've-got-guts RSS https://rss.com/podcasts/ivegotguts Deezer https://deezer.com/show/1001406291 Pandora https://www.pandora.com/podcast/ive-got-guts/PC:1001094893

    58 min
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5
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25 Ratings

About

Welcome to I’ve Got Guts! A podcast about living, surviving, and thriving with chronic illness. Hosted by Stefanie and Lauren, two friends who understand that navigating life with chronic health issues can be challenging, isolating, and sometimes just plain exhausting. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be. I’ve Got Guts! is a space for community, honesty, and laughter, a place to talk about the tough stuff without leaving you feeling more overwhelmed.

Information

  • Creator
    I've Got Guts!
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    64
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    I've Got Guts!