The Healthy Diabetic

Coach Ken Kniss

Welcome to The healthy Diabetic Podcast, each week I talk about how to navigate the complexities of diabetes. I interview doctors, Endo's, dietitians, CDE's, technology leaders, caregivers, and of course anybody who is affected by diabetes. This show is for you if you're looking for safe, educational, and engaging conversations. I promise to brighten your day, and you'll be sure to leave educated, supported, and guided on your way to a healthier and happier life with diabetes. Remember, your only job as a diabetic is to figure out what works for you! See you inside!Coach Ken.

  1. #349: “#349: "I Didn’t Think This Was My Life.." Rebuilding Your Life After Diagnosis - Stephanie Selena

    2D AGO

    #349: “#349: "I Didn’t Think This Was My Life.." Rebuilding Your Life After Diagnosis - Stephanie Selena

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. In this episode, Coach Ken sits down with Stephanie for a real and honest conversation about what it’s like to be newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes—and how quickly life can change. Stephanie shares her story of diagnosis, the emotional weight that came with it, and the early challenges of trying to understand what living with diabetes actually looks like day to day. From confusion and overwhelm to slowly building confidence, this episode highlights the mental and emotional journey that often gets overlooked. This conversation goes beyond numbers and management strategies. It dives into identity, acceptance, and the process of learning how to live your life again—with diabetes, not controlled by it. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or like your life changed overnight after diagnosis, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that there is a path forward. 🔑 Key Takeaways What the early days after a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis really feel likeThe emotional impact of being diagnosed later in lifeWhy confusion and overwhelm are completely normal in the beginningHow to start building confidence with your decisionsThe importance of support, guidance, and communityHow to begin shifting your identity after diagnosisWhy diabetes doesn’t have to define your futureA diabetes diagnosis may change your life—but it doesn’t take it away. Additional Resources: Watch our LIVE episodes Mondays & Wednesdays @2pm EST - Tune in Here🎯 Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational experience - Apply HERE 🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management. Support the show

    53 min
  2. #348: Does Diabetes Control You... Or Do You Control Diabetes? - (LIVE-017)

    5D AGO

    #348: Does Diabetes Control You... Or Do You Control Diabetes? - (LIVE-017)

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. Are you driving your diabetes… or is diabetes driving you? In this episode, Coach Ken and Graham Ken unpack what it means to live with diabetes mentally, emotionally, and practically every single day. They talk about prescription fatigue, the mental load of staying stocked on supplies, how early diagnosis shapes your mindset, and the difference between living your life with diabetes versus feeling like diabetes controls your entire life.  This episode also explores how identity, confidence, self-perception, and how the stories you tell yourself can shape the way we manage diabetes. It is an honest conversation about fear, control, resilience, and learning how to reframe the condition so it does not take over your mental health. If you have ever felt mentally exhausted by diabetes, frustrated by the constant logistics, or caught between wanting control and wanting freedom, this episode will hit home. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why the way you think about diabetes matters just as much as the numbersThe difference between living with diabetes and letting diabetes run your lifeHow early diagnosis versus adult diagnosis can shape mindset differentlyWhy prescriptions, supplies, and everyday diabetes logistics can create mental fatigueHow confidence, self-image, and identity affect diabetes managementWhy reframing your relationship with diabetes can reduce stress and anxietyThe value of hearing perspectives from both people with diabetes and caregiversDiabetes doesn't drive your life and decisions - YOU DO!  Additional Resources: Watch our LIVE episodes Mondays & Wednesdays @2pm EST - Tune in Here🎯 Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational experience - Apply HERE 🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes ma Support the show

    59 min
  3. #347: What If Your Body Isn’t the Problem - Lisa Katzenberger

    APR 17

    #347: What If Your Body Isn’t the Problem - Lisa Katzenberger

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. In this episode, Coach Ken sits down with Lisa Katzenberger to explore what it really looks like to rebuild trust as a T1D parent.  Lisa shares her personal journey navigating the emotional challenges that come with being a diabetes caregiver, and her perspective of navigating motherhood to a T1D child. Lisa is also an author and shares her journey in telling the story of how insulin was created - It Belongs to the World: Frederick Banting and the Discovery of Insulin. 🔑 Key Takeaways How mental health not being in alignment can hold you backHow to rebuild trust within yourselfWhat it means to be a diabetes caregiver and the challenges it bringsWhy slowing down can improve your diabetes decisionsHow emotions influence blood sugar managementHow support as a caregiver can help you accept this conditionHow to approach diabetes with more confidence and less frustrationAdditional Resources: It Belongs To The World - The Discovery Of Insulin🎯 Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational experience - Apply HERE 🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management. Support the show

    47 min
  4. #346 - Trying Harder Isn’t Fixing Your Diabetes… - (LIVE-016)

    APR 15

    #346 - Trying Harder Isn’t Fixing Your Diabetes… - (LIVE-016)

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. In this episode, Coach Ken and Graham unpack a common but frustrating experience for people living with diabetes—feeling like you just need to “try harder” to get better results. They dive into why effort alone isn’t the solution, and how your mindset can actually lead to more frustration, burnout, and inconsistency over time. This conversation highlights the difference between working harder vs. working smarter, and why many people feel stuck even when they’re putting in effort with their nutrition, insulin dosing, or routines. Ken breaks down how progress in diabetes comes from awareness, strategy, and consistency, not just motivation or discipline. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything you can but still not seeing results, this episode will help you shift your perspective and focus on what actually moves the needle. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why “trying harder” often doesn’t lead to better resultsThe difference between effort and effective strategyHow burnout shows up in diabetes managementWhy awareness is more powerful than motivationHow to simplify your approach to see better resultsThe role of consistency over intensityHow to build a system that actually supports your lifeProgress in diabetes comes from building a system that works for you—not from pushing harder every time things don’t go as planned. Additional Resources: Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational journey - Pre-Register HERE - The best part it will be FREE for the first 30-days.🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here 🎯 5 Lessons You Can’t Learn From Your Doctor: Start Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management. Support the show

    56 min
  5. #345: They Told You This Would Happen… But Is It Actually True? - (LIVE 015)

    APR 10

    #345: They Told You This Would Happen… But Is It Actually True? - (LIVE 015)

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. In this episode, Coach Ken and Graham kick things off with a lifestyle update—including a new live show schedule—before diving into a powerful and honest conversation about diabetes management, fear, and long-term risk. What starts as a light discussion around everyday challenges (yes… even pockets and carrying supplies) quickly evolves into a deeper conversation around diabetes complications, scare tactics, and the reality behind the numbers. They unpack commonly misunderstood topics like amputation risk, long-term complications, and how statistics are often presented without context—especially when comparing type 1 and type 2 diabetes  More importantly, Ken shares a strong perspective on why fear-based messaging doesn’t work for most people—and what actually does: education, support, and real-life application. This episode is a reminder that while risks exist, your daily decisions—and the support you surround yourself with—are what truly shape your future. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why diabetes scare tactics often do more harm than goodThe truth behind amputation risk and diabetes statisticsThe difference between type 1 and type 2 risk factorsHow to think about long-term complications without fearWhy support and education matter more than short doctor visitsThe role of lifestyle (exercise, nutrition, consistency) in reducing riskHow mindset impacts your ability to manage diabetes long-termFear doesn’t create long-term change—support and understanding do. Additional Resources: Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational journey - Pre-Register HERE - The best part it will be FREE for the first 30-days.🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management. Support the show

    29 min
  6. #344: The New Diabetes Rules (And What They’re Not Telling You) - (LIVE - 014)

    APR 1

    #344: The New Diabetes Rules (And What They’re Not Telling You) - (LIVE - 014)

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. In this episode, Coach Ken and Graham dive into a real, unfiltered conversation that blends everyday life with powerful updates in diabetes care. From late-night home disasters to frustrating CGM issues, this episode starts off relatable—but quickly shifts into something much bigger: what’s changing in diabetes management and access to care in 2026. They break down new updates from the American Diabetes Association, including recommendations around CGMs at diagnosis, reduced barriers to insulin pumps, and evolving treatment approaches. More importantly, Ken shares a strong perspective on what truly matters—balancing education with real-life support, especially for those newly diagnosed or caregivers navigating the early stages of diabetes. This episode is a reminder that while technology is improving, the real challenge is still learning how to apply it confidently in your everyday life. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why CGMs are now being recommended earlier in diagnosisThe truth about “requirements” for insulin pumps and technologyHow diabetes care is evolving in 2026The balance between learning the fundamentals vs. relying on technologyWhy mental and emotional support matters just as much as educationCommon frustrations with CGMs (and how to navigate them)Real-life insight into managing unpredictable blood sugarsAccess to better tools is improving—but tools alone don’t create confidence. The real goal is learning how to use those tools in a way that fits your life, reduces overwhelm, and helps you stay consistent. Additional Resources: Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational journey - Pre-Register HERE - The best part it will be FREE for the first 30-days.🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management. Support the show

    31 min
  7. #343: Why You Keep Starting Over With Diabetes (And How to Break the Cycle) - (LIVE-013)

    MAR 28

    #343: Why You Keep Starting Over With Diabetes (And How to Break the Cycle) - (LIVE-013)

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. Do you feel like you’re constantly starting over with your diabetes? In this episode, Coach Ken and Graham unpack a frustrating pattern that so many people living with diabetes experience—the cycle of getting on track, falling off, and starting again. Whether it’s nutrition, blood sugar control, or routines, this “reset” mentality can leave you feeling stuck, discouraged, and questioning your ability to manage your diabetes long-term. Ken and Graham explore why this cycle happens and how it’s often rooted in all-or-nothing thinking, unrealistic expectations, and trying to do too much at once. They break down how small disruptions—like a high blood sugar, missed workout, or off-plan meal—can spiral into completely abandoning your routine. More importantly, they offer a different approach: learning how to stay in the game, adjust in real time, and build consistency without needing to “start over.” This episode is a powerful reminder that progress in diabetes isn’t about being perfect—it’s about staying consistent through the ups and downs. The people who succeed in managing their diabetes long-term aren’t the ones who are perfect… they’re the ones who learn how to adjust and stay consistent no matter what. Why the “starting over” cycle happens in diabetesHow all-or-nothing thinking sabotages progressThe impact of perfectionism on consistencyWhy small setbacks don’t need a full resetHow to build flexible routines that work in real lifeThe importance of staying engaged, even when things aren’t perfectHow to create momentum through small, repeatable actions"You don’t need to start over—you just need a new STRATEGY." Additional Resources: Coming Soon: "The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational journey - Pre-Register HERE - The best part it will be FREE for the first 30-days.🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any chang Support the show

    59 min
  8. #342: Why Diabetes Feels So Complicated & How to Simplify It - (LIVE-012)

    MAR 25

    #342: Why Diabetes Feels So Complicated & How to Simplify It - (LIVE-012)

    Hey Diabuddy thank you for listening to show, send me some positive vibes with your favorite part of this episode. Why does managing diabetes feel so overwhelming—even when you’re doing your best? In this episode, Coach Ken and Graham break down one of the biggest challenges people living with diabetes face: complexity. From constant decision-making to managing food, insulin, activity, and unexpected variables, diabetes can quickly feel like too much. But is it actually complicated… or are we just approaching it the wrong way? Ken and Graham explore how overthinking, information overload, and trying to control everything at once can make diabetes harder than it needs to be. They discuss the importance of simplifying your approach, focusing on what actually matters, and building systems that are repeatable in real life. This episode also dives into how confidence is built through action—not perfection—and why simplifying your decisions can lead to more consistent blood sugar outcomes. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why diabetes can feel overwhelming and difficult to manageThe difference between complexity and overcomplicationHow information overload impacts decision-makingWhy trying to control everything leads to frustrationThe importance of simplifying your routines and habitsHow to build confidence through consistent actionWhy repetition creates better blood sugar outcomesDiabetes doesn’t need to be perfect to be effective. "When you simplify your approach and focus on consistent, repeatable actions, you create clarity, confidence, and better long-term outcomes." Additional Resources: 🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com 📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning 💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching 📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now 🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey. Ways to Support the Show Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts & SpotifyShare this episode with a diabuddyFollow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3nWatch on YouTube 🎧Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management. Support the show

    57 min
4.8
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Welcome to The healthy Diabetic Podcast, each week I talk about how to navigate the complexities of diabetes. I interview doctors, Endo's, dietitians, CDE's, technology leaders, caregivers, and of course anybody who is affected by diabetes. This show is for you if you're looking for safe, educational, and engaging conversations. I promise to brighten your day, and you'll be sure to leave educated, supported, and guided on your way to a healthier and happier life with diabetes. Remember, your only job as a diabetic is to figure out what works for you! See you inside!Coach Ken.

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