I've Got Guts!

I've Got Guts!

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. The Power of Friendship: Why Community Is Essential for Your Mental Health

    -1 ДН.

    The Power of Friendship: Why Community Is Essential for Your Mental Health

    Friendship isn’t just something we have…it’s something we have to nurture. In today’s episode, we’re talking about community, connection, and the powerful impact friendships have on your mental health and overall well-being. Because let’s be real..life gets busy, and friendships can quietly fade without us even realizing it. We’re diving into: • Why adult friendships can feel harder to maintain • The impact of loneliness on mental and physical health • The science behind connection (and why it’s essential) • What real friendship actually looks like (hint: it’s not perfect) • Simple ways to stay connected, even when life feels overwhelming We also share our own experiences with friendship and what it means to have a supportive “village” that shows up in every season. Because those small moments…texts, coffee dates, quick check-ins…they’re not just extras. They’re the things that hold you together when life feels heavy. If you’ve been feeling disconnected or craving deeper friendships, this episode is your reminder: you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to reach out or start again. At the end of the day…life is just better when you don’t have to do it alone. You can donate to Stef and Anthony here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/stef-strong-fighting-breast-cancer-together-3s9k2 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

    34 мин.
  2. The Conversation That Could Save Your Life: Breast Cancer, Genetic Testing & Early Detection

    20 АПР.

    The Conversation That Could Save Your Life: Breast Cancer, Genetic Testing & Early Detection

    After an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis, Stef shares the story that changed everything…from early warning signs and ignored screening, to the role of genetic testing in understanding her diagnosis. While Lauren shares her testing journey as well. We break down what genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and BARD1 mean, how family history plays a role, and why early detection matters more than ever. This episode is your reminder: being proactive isn’t fear, it’s self-love. Action steps you can take today: • Perform regular self-breast exams • Schedule yearly mammograms • Ask about dense breast tissue • Talk to your doctor about your family history • Consider genetic testing if recommended If you’ve been putting something off…this is your sign to check. You can donate to Stef and Anthony here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/stef-strong-fighting-breast-cancer-together-3s9k2 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

    29 мин.
  3. Stef’s Breast Cancer Diagnosis: The Story Behind the Silence

    13 АПР.

    Stef’s Breast Cancer Diagnosis: The Story Behind the Silence

    After an unexpected break, this episode explains why. Stef shares her breast cancer diagnosis, walking through the full timeline...from finding the lump, to testing, biopsies, and mammograms, to the call that changed everything. She also opens up about what came next, including putting a pause on her and Anthony's IVF Journey, port placement, starting chemotherapy, and what the first weeks of treatment have been like physically and emotionally. This is a deeply personal “thorn & rose” episode...honest about the shock, grief, and uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis, while also highlighting the incredible support, love, and community that has shown up along the way. You can donate to Stef and Anthony here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/stef-strong-fighting-breast-cancer-together-3s9k2 Get your Stef Strong shirt here (deadline 4/17): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8Gcw-mxesgUZs5PphCtfoWDBrzTa5vXsy3jK2_PRYqNbBoA/viewform Stef's Amazon Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3S3UIOXHPLYVT?ref=cm_sw_sm_r_un_un_t4jSaxtQHpyeL 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

    51 мин.
  4. Endometriosis Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis Delays, Excision Surgery & the Gut Connection

    9 МАР.

    Endometriosis Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis Delays, Excision Surgery & the Gut Connection

    March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and in this episode of I've Got Guts, Stef and Lauren break down what endometriosis actually is…and why it’s still so misunderstood. Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 people worldwide, yet the average diagnosis takes 7–10 years. We talk about why diagnosis takes so long, common misconceptions doctors still have, and how symptoms can go far beyond painful periods. In this episode we cover: • Endometriosis symptoms many people don’t expect • The gut health connection (IBS, bloating, constipation, diarrhea) • Why imaging often doesn’t detect endometriosis • Excision vs ablation surgery and why the difference matters • Insurance barriers and access to proper care • Stef’s personal diagnosis and fertility journey The more we talk about endometriosis, the more people can recognize symptoms, seek answers sooner, and advocate for proper care. Endometriosis Foundation of America - https://www.endofound.org Endometriosis Association - https://endometriosisassn.org 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

    39 мин.
  5. Chiropractic Care for Chronic Illness: Our CBCT Imaging Results & Nervous System Breakthroughs

    2 МАР.

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

    23 ФЕВР.

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

    16 ФЕВР.

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

    9 ФЕВР.

    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 мин.
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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.