Explore every episode of the podcast Diabetes Squad

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr Partha Kar for a refreshingly honest chat about Type 1 diabetes and the journey to motherhood, minus the fear, fluff, and scary Google searches.We talk about why now is actually one of the best times to think about pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes, how technology has changed the game, what really happens in pregnancy clinics, and why you’re never meant to do this alone. From pumps and closed loops to birth plans and a few “oh wow, that makes sense” moments.

This episode is for anyone with Type 1 diabetes thinking about having a baby, already on the journey, or just needing a calm, confidence-boosting reminder that motherhood is possible and you deserve the very best care while you get there.

* This episode was recorded earlier this year, from everyone at Diabetes Squad our deepest sympathies go to Dr Partha all his family.

In this episode, I’m joined by Virginia for a real, open chat about the postpartum period with Type 1 diabetes — the highs, the hard bits, and everything in between (including the moments where you’re running on snacks and very little sleep).

We talk about panic, hormones, wonky blood sugars, and the pressure to “do it all,” but also about laughter, learning as you go, and giving yourself a bit more grace. It’s an honest reminder that postpartum life with Type 1 diabetes is messy, human, and definitely not meant to be done alone.

This episode is for anyone navigating life after birth with Type 1 diabetes — especially if you need reassurance that you’re doing better than you think.

In this episode, we talk honestly about pregnancy, birth, and life after birth with Type 1 diabetes — and why informed, compassionate care matters.

I’m joined by Nina Willer, Specialist Diabetes Midwife at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals, as we explore advocacy, birth choices, breastfeeding, and the emotional load many women carry but rarely say out loud.

This episode is for anyone with Type 1 diabetes navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or planning their next steps.

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Chukwuma Uduku (Dr Chucks) — my consultant at Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea Hospital and one of the people who truly held my hand through pregnancy with Type 1 diabetes. We chat about all the things: showing up to appointments with a million questions, the magic of good tech, why blood sugars don’t define you, and how having the right doctor in your corner can make everything feel a little less overwhelming (and a lot more possible). 

This episode is for anyone with Type 1 diabetes thinking about motherhood, currently on the journey, or just needing a reassuring, no-judgement reminder that you don’t have to do this alone — and that doctors really aren’t as scary as we think. 

Motherhood changed me in ways I never expected. As a T1D mum, I’ve learned quickly that this journey comes with constant learning, advocating, and holding both fear and hope at the same time.

In this episode, I share an honest conversation about navigating motherhood alongside Type 1 diabetes — the emotional load, the strength you find along the way, and the deep love that carries you through. This one’s for the Type 1 mums, the parents figuring it out day by day, and anyone learning that motherhood isn’t just about raising a child, but becoming someone new.

 When Lisa’s son was diagnosed with Type 1 at age seven, she did what any parent would do: she searched for answers. But when she couldn’t find the book she needed — one that explained the history of insulin to kids and grown-ups, she decided to write it herself. That book became It 'Belongs to the World', a stunning picture book biography of Frederick Banting, co-creator of insulin, who sold the patent for $1. Lisa teamed up with Miss Diabetes to bring his story to life, turning a complex scientific breakthrough into something vibrant, human, and full of heart.  We talk about their collaboration, the emotional layers behind Banting’s legacy, and why the fight for insulin access still matters, maybe more now than ever before. This one’s for the teachers, the parents, the curious kids… and anyone who’s ever felt the weight (and wonder) of living with Type 1. @lisakatz17 @missdiabetes

Imagine being told you’re Type 1 - and finding out years later… you’re not. That’s exactly what happened to Uma. When I first met Uma on a DAFNE course all those years ago, I assumed - like me - she was living with Type 1. Turns out, things were more complex. Uma was diagnosed at 17, labelled T1, then re-labelled, misdiagnosed, and finally told she had early-onset Type 2. What followed was confusion, medication trial-and-error, stigma, and eventually… clarity. In this episode, we revisit that DAFNE room where it all started, and trace Uma’s journey through lifestyle changes, veganism, and a radical career shift. We talk about cultural food habits, fitness as healing, emotional eating, hypos that derail your day, and why sharing your load - especially as a South Asian woman - can be life-saving. This one’s about misdiagnosis, transformation, and learning to listen to your body - even when the world tells you not to trust it. 

@bodyandbeyonduk 

What if eating out didn’t have to mean guesswork, panic stations, or playing carb-count roulette? This week I’m joined by Chris Cheyette - the dietitian behind Carbs & Cals, aka the holy grail of visual carb counting. We talk about how a simple idea (snapping photos of real food) turned into books, an app, and a resource that’s helped thousands of us feel more in control, less restricted, and way less alone. Chris shares how it all began - DIY shoots in home kitchens,  and the lightbulb moment that changed everything. We dive into diabetes tech, food habits, cultural representation, fast food menus, subscription models, and the realities of building something that’s not just for Type 1s, but for anyone who wants to understand food better. This one’s about inclusion, confidence, and designing tools that meet us where we are... whether that’s a McDonald’s or a Michelin-starred restaurant. If you’ve ever panicked over pasta, this one’s for you.  

@carbsandcals

What if diabetes burnout could be softened by art - or better yet, a clever print that makes you look twice? I finally got to chat with Alex, a graphic designer and fellow Type 1, whose bold prints tackle diabetes with wit, colour, and soul. She was diagnosed in her thirties, right before a flight to New York. What followed? Denial, depression, and a creative rebellion against the isolation so many of us know too well. We get into propaganda, CGMs, mental health, and why diabetes feels more like a relationship than a condition (complete with shouting matches). Alex’s work doesn’t scream - it invites you in. And then flips everything you thought you knew. Her new project, Companion Cards, is something special: part game, part toolkit, all heart. If you’ve ever felt alone with Type 1 or needed help finding the words, these cards are pure gold. This one’s about burnout, design, and finding your people - even in the weirdest places. 

@diabetesbydesign

What if your insulin pump had a name, a voice… and a bit of attitude?In this episode, I chat with Amy — the brilliant mind behind Steven the Insulin Pump, a children’s book that somehow manages to make diabetes tech feel funny, emotional, and full of heart.Amy’s daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 at seven. What followed was fear, overwhelm — and eventually, a talking pump called Steven who beeps, nags, and does his best to keep her alive. We talk about how Steven became part of the family (even earning a seat at the dinner table), why tech isn’t just tech when it’s helping you survive, and how humour can carry you through even the hardest days.This one’s about parenting, resilience, and making peace with the relentless demands of Type 1. It's also about shouting "Did you cover that?" across the room — and meaning it with love.If you've ever sworn at your CGM, laughed through the chaos, or wanted to hug another T1D parent… this one’s for you. 

@_amychristie

In this episode, I speak with an extraordinary individual called Pete, who has lived with Type 1 diabetes for 69 years and hasn't let it stop him from achieving amazing feats, from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to speaking in the House of Commons. We discuss the importance of offering hope and encouragement to others managing Type 1 diabetes, the advancements in diabetes management technology like the CGM and Omnipod, and the impact of sharing personal experiences on newly diagnosed individuals and their families. Join us as we explore how determination, community, and the right technology can help anyone with Type 1 diabetes lead a full and active life.

@petesdw1

In this final season 4 episode of the Diabetes Squad podcast, Princess Padmaja shares her inspiring journey with Type 1 diabetes, focusing on the advancements in diabetes management since her childhood diagnosis in 1985 in Udaipur, India. The conversation delves into her advocacy efforts, her commitment to supporting newly diagnosed individuals, and the role of her family's support, particularly highlighting her mother's resilience. Princess Padmaja discusses the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding diabetes and emphasises the importance of self-reliance among diabetics. Her work with organisations like Breakthrough T1D and UNICEF aims to enhance awareness and access to insulin, driving a collective impact on the community. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of living with diabetes while maintaining a positive outlook and determination.  

In this episode we meet Jish, who has lived with Type 1 diabetes since a young age, diagnosed at two in Mozambique. She explores their personal journey, emphasizing the challenges faced due to lack of healthcare access, contrasting with her subsequent experiences in the UK. She shares her transition to using advanced diabetes management devices and details their passionate pursuit of a career in science and technology, inspired by her condition. She has co-founded a startup, 'HAEMA', developing an app to ease diabetes management by integrating science and technology. This narrative reflects her  ambition to help others with similar conditions, demonstrating resilience and innovation. The conversation touches on the societal and cultural challenges faced, particularly within the South Asian community, and provides encouragement to Type 1 diabetics to live life to the fullest, pursuing dreams and breaking barriers. 

In this episode we meet Katie, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 18. Despite her fears of blood and needles, Katie has shown incredible resilience and ambition. She shares her personal journey, from the shock of her initial diagnosis to her determination to continue living life to the fullest. Katie talks about her experience participating in fundraising activities, such as running a 5K race and walking over 100 miles for Diabetes UK. She also discusses her studies in primary education, her supportive healthcare team, particularly her nurse Kerry, and plans for future challenges like skydiving to raise awareness and funds for diabetes. Katie's story is a testament to overcoming fears, building a supportive community, and redefining what it means to live ambitiously with diabetes.

@katiedunwoody12

In this episode, we talk to George, a passionate traveller and surfer who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes just six months ago. George shares his journey from diagnosis, the challenges he faced, and how he continues to live actively and adventurously, even while managing his diabetes. He talks about his lifestyle changes, the support he has received from friends, and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. George also discusses how he manages his diabetes while traveling and his ambitions to continue exploring the world. Along the way, he shares his insights about insulin management and the various devices he uses to help manage his diabetes, offering inspiration to listeners who might be facing similar challenges.
@nomabetic

This heartfelt episode we speaks with Bella, a newly diagnosed type 1 diabetic, who shares her personal journey from initial diagnosis to finding strength and support in community. Bella, a chocolate buying assistant, describes how she missed the telltale signs of diabetes and her subsequent experience of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). She appreciates the overwhelming support from her boyfriend and medical team, which has been pivotal in her acceptance and management of the condition. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, mental health awareness, and the role of social media in connecting with others facing similar challenges. As Bella continues to navigate her new reality, she emphasizes the significance of kindness towards oneself and the realization that life can still be full and ambitious. This episode encourages listeners to reach out for support and share their experiences to foster a sense of community and understanding.

@Isabella.wolsey

In this episode, I speak to Professor Partha Kar, a prominent diabetes consultant and NHS England's diabetes policy lead. We discuss recent innovations in type 1 diabetes management, including the hybrid closed loop systems, continuous glucose monitors, and exciting advancements in technology aimed at fully automating diabetes care. Professor Kar shares insights on his journey in diabetes care, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and education about type 1 diabetes. The conversation spans global disparities in diabetes management, the role of social media in breaking down barriers, and the incredible potential of current research to transform lives. Professor Kar passionately advocates for bringing accessibility to life-saving diabetes technology and medication across the world, while also encouraging a hopeful and ambitious outlook for those living with type 1 diabetes.

@nhssugardoc   

www.talkingaboutdiabetes.co.uk

I'm baaackk!! I'm so excited to share a brand new series with you.  And trust me, this one is not one to miss!

Get ready to join the Diabetes Squad for an unforgettable Season 4! 🎉🌟

If you're living with Type 1 Diabetes and chasing your dreams, this is the podcast for you. We're diving deep into the theme of AMBITION, and the challenges and triumphs of managing T1D while pursuing your passions.

We've got an incredible lineup of guests,  from NHS England's T1D lead Professor Partha Kar, to newly diagnosed Bella and adventurous George, who refuses to let diabetes hold him back.

We're also tackling the tough stuff with Jish, who's taking on societies stigma head-on.

And get ready to be inspired by Katie's epic plans for extreme sports fundraising!

Pus – we've got royalty in the house people! 👑 Princess Padmaja Kumar Parmar is here to share her global advocacy efforts and show us how to make a difference. 

So, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your T1D journey, join the Diabetes Squad for a wild ride filled with laughter, tears, and everything in between. 

WOW SEASON 3 IS OVER... AND SO IS 2023!! 

I am so grateful to everyone that has supported Diabetes Squad for the last few years.  Have a listen to my highlights aka my Hypers & Hypos of 2023.

These are all the wonderful people that took part, woop woop!
EP1 Sugar Coated Love - @typeltoucan
EP2 Education, Education, Education - @hannah2310
EP3 Finding inner peace with T1 - @type1gitotheo
EP4 Fashion, darling - @hid_in
EP5 Type 1 & Showbiz anyone? - @graceshushh

I am so pumped with what's to come for 2024... in the mean time you could listens to season 1 & 2 or any of the episodes from season 3 that you may have missed until SEASON 4!!!

Mucho love as always xx  

In this episode we talk to Grace Shushh,  managing sugars is hard enough but doing it whilst performing on stage is next level.   What an absolute inspiration!!! Also, after we had this chat I actually went to see Grace perform a solo show in London and WOW. They were incredible.  What a singing voice! I really do recommend either seeing them in a solo show or at a drag brunch.  And if you go up to them and say you’re type 1 I'm  sure your libra or Dexcom are on display, I’m sure you’ll end up having a great Type 1 chat...  check them out on instagram  @graceshushh ……..to see when they are performing next.

Funny how types 1’s have a way of meeting and getting contacted. Katie is the brains behind the fantastic brand Hid-In. She single-handedly saw a design problem and created a brilliant solution to help fellow type 1 diabetics. Listen to how she navigated through the fashion industry whist coming to terms with her own type 1 diabetes diagnosis ... check Katie's amazing products here @hid_in

This seasons international guest, a motivated, creative and centred person with kindness at the core of his social media content. Looking at his our Type 1 management with a centred and black to ‘’Mother Earth’ approach. Check out his wisdom via @type1gitotheo

Let’s continue this season by talking to an outstanding and dedicated secondary school teacher. Hannah has learnt to navigate through the role and manage a hybrid loop system. I really hope this episodes inspired a generation of young types 1’s to be ambitious when it comes to their career.

I've always wondered, what would it be like to have a Type 1 boyfriend?  It's already exhausting managing T1 diabetes as an individual, but I guess the biggest perk is they understand every thought, every feeling, and all the frustration.

Emma and Mike got in touch with me to share their love story, and how type 1 diabetes brought them together.  

You won't believe where they met... clue, think the most unlikely place for a pair of diabetics to come together.

I'm back with a brand new season that I'm so excited to share with you!

There are loads of empowering conversations about Type 1 diabetes with our amazing community coming up.

Here's a sneak peak as to what's coming over the next few weeks...

It's summer time and schools are out.. gosh I’ve had a lot of time to reflect during my time off too. This time a year ago Diabetes Squad podcast didn't even exist, but the in-school programme had just finished another year. 

The podcast was not meant to be a thing, I never envisioned it. I remember speaking to the Head of School, wanting to launch the termly meetings for all nine Type 1 diabetes children in the school, and he said 'Yes go for it'.

... and it kinda took off. This summer special episode for Season 2 will tell the story of the roots of Diabetes Squad.

Oh my days what an absolute ray of sunshine Juliette is, in this episode we get talking about her creative process when designing and making stickers for her brand Type 1 Untangled. 

We discover that Type 1 diabetes are the most creative people as we have to make smart choices all the time.. 24/7. 

Fun fact, Juliette is a twin and her sister does not have Type 1, we talk about the highs and lows… also if you have few minutes check out her page via Instagram, and watch the video of her sister repacking her libra sensor… brilliant! 

Also this is the last episode of Season 2. I am so proud of it and very grateful for all my guest for making the time in their busy lives to be apart of it! 

Spoiler alert - a one off summer holiday episode will be arrived very soon!

Be sure to follow Juliet - @type1untangled

We’ve heard so much from other Type 1's but I wonder what’s the whole diagnosis thing is like for parents. Through the Diabetes Squad Instagram page I connected with Rachel, a mum from the USA. In fact I ordered a few stickers from her Etsy page and we got talking about how she started her business… as she's a mum of a Type 1 son, Liam. 

Join us and listen to the raw and honest account of her journey so far… maybe you're a Type 1 parent and feel like the only one at the school gates.

Maybe this episode will help you in so many ways, for me I think I need to have a honest chat with my mum very soon.

@DiabetesSticks

These days representation is so important, seeing and meeting other Type 1's is my favourite hobby… Matt says I’m the number one Libre  spotter  when we are out and about. I can’t help it! But I do wonder what  it's like for Type 1 children and teenagers, who might feel isolated wearing devices. Well I came across this brand called Type 1 style, they have created a range of soft toys that have devices attached to them on all the common places…. So Omnipod on tummy and Libre on arm. This blow my mind....it's literally the change I want to see -  design that is inclusive.

Please check out Type One Style’s fab range here https://www.typeonestyle.com/

Fitness is word that was taboo for a longtime in my childhood.  I simply hated PE! 

I found it really uncomfortable and self-conscious doing PE with my form group... the thought of group fitness classes was simply overwhelming. And now that people can see my devices and hear the occasional beep beep, even more so.  

But here I am talking to an inspiring human - Vanessa,  a Type 1 fitness coach. 

It was so great to hear about what works for her when managing her sugars, and the realisation she had a few years ago that it was time to become friends with her type 1.

Fitness could be going for a walk, or busting a gut at the gym - don’t do this! The key is to do whatever works for you. So lets get physical and take stock of our fitness.

Make sure you follow Vanessa on Instagram if you don't already - @diabetic_health_coach

And of course, who could forget my favourite circuits class PT... @trainwithmagicmike 

Ryan from Maryand, Virginia USA is our special guest for Episode 2 of Series 2. He’s our first international guest on the podcast, which is super exciting. 

Once I got my head around the time zone we found a Sunday afternoon (my time) to have a chat about all things Type 1. It’s been so enlightening hearing about his diagnosis and the health care over the pond. 

I really loved comparing devices and learning about the T Slim, which I  really hope arrives in the UK / London soon, maybe even in my postcode. 

Finding a community to be a part of can be rewarding in so many ways - even if we’re in two different countries it’s been so fab making a new friend for life.

Make sure you give Ryan a follow on Instagram - @type_one_ryan22

This is the first episode of Season two and we are kicking off with a conversation with professional therapist Merisha.

For me seeking the help and having talking therapy has been invaluable when dealing with all of life’s ups and downs - not to mention the management of my Type 1 diabetes.

We talk about the stigma surrounding mental health and also mention how massively important it is to be kind to yourself.

It's been so great to have a professional in this field on, to give us tips and a well needed sense of perspective. I hope you find some comfort and relief in this episode.

For more advise here is a link to the NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/

Also Mind, the mental health charity: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/talking-therapy-and-counselling/how-to-find-a-therapist/

By popular demand (no, actually just because I love doing it) the Diabetes Squad podcast is back with season 2!

I have loads of super exciting and empowering conversations about Type 1 diabetes that I can't wait to share with you.

Here’s a little cheeky insight as to what’s to come in our new season...

Big thank you to everyone in this season:
Rachel @DiabetesSticks
Charlie @typeonestyle
Vanessa @diabetic_health_coach_
Juliet @type1untangled
Ryan @type_one_ryan22
Merisha Mistry

What a year for diabetes! At the end of 2022, and coincidentally the end of the first series of this podcast, I'm reflecting on all the things that have happened in the world of diabetes over the last 12 months.

From representation on TV and in films, to new technology, to the NHS making more technology available to so many more people, this year has felt like a real turning point.

But as well as the highs, there have been lows too (pun intended!).  I reflect on the things that haven't gone so well, and the frustrations I've had along the way.

It's certainly been an eventful few weeks in the world of diabetes.

I’ll be sharing three top stories with you, from the new immunotherapy available in the states, to Twitter wars with Eli Lilly, and finally I debate whether I should  think about a new type of glucose monitor - we're chatting Libre vs Dexcom.

Joining me this week will be my diabetes nurse Latchmi…. she's the expert on this kind of stuff!

Gosh, dating and relationships… how long do we have?! I guess in a nutshell dating is tricky already, what with the influx of dating apps and countless wedding invites with plus one. 

For me being a Type 1 Diabetic and wearing devices has definitely had its challenging moments…. months and years. 

Join me in conversation with Lottie and Matt, both non-diabetic with fully functioning pancreases, as we delve into my past and present.

I've always referred to my T1 diabetes as an unseen illness, because I do sometimes think that people don’t understand my pain when I'm having a hypo, especially on the London Underground!  I get quite self-conscious and I'm sure other commuters wonder why I’m inhaling fruit pastels.

Today I’ll be speaking to Emily, a friend who also understands this pain, but not as a T1 diabetic.   I've asked Emily to come on to talk about her crohn's disease diagnosis and how she manages it day to day.  It's a really eye-opening window into another condition and I think there are some shared experiences that are useful to diabetics too. 

Learn more and see advice by visiting https://crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/  

Fitness can feel like such a minefield when you have to manage your diabetes as well, so for the first of this two part special you get to join my boyfriend and I on the Cancer Research Shine Walk, which we did a few weeks ago.

Thirteen miles of walking takes around five hours, and that's a long time to be keeping active for anyone.  With sore feet, aching thighs, and some all round tiredness, checking my sugars regularly and having a constant supply of carbs ready was my tactic for at least keeping the diabetes in check.  But could I go all that way without a hypo? 

Having a best friend that also has diabetes (aka a diabestie!) has been a huge help to me over the years. 

Whether you have people around you who are understanding and supportive or not, type 1 diabetes can feel really isolating, so just being able to have a conversation with someone who totally gets it is so valuable.

When Julie and I met on a diabetes course (DAFNE) at Central Middlesex Hospital we instantly clicked, and she's been my diabestie ever since.

I'm so happy that I'm able to have these honest open conversations about diabetes, and I'd love to hear from you about your T1 experience too.  Please send a DM or, even better, a voice note on Instagram with anything you'd like to share.  My handle is @diabetessquad.

On 10 February 2007 Manisha's world changed forever.  

This episode is about the lead up to my diagnosis, the time itself, and how that fateful day over 15 years ago completely changed my outlook on life.

I wanted to start this series by sharing my story so you can hear where I'm coming from.  But this squad is all about creating a conversation, and I'd love to hear from you too.  Please send a DM or, even better, a voice note on Instagram with any thoughts or experiences you'd like to share.  My handle is @diabetessquad.

A fresh new podcast for everyone to learn something about type 1 diabetes.

This is the place where we can be united, share experiences and tips, and work together to build confidence.  Hosted by Manisha, a type 1 diabetic for the last 15 years, nothing is off limits.Food, fitness, dating... the list goes on and Manisha is on a journey to share and learn.  Jargon free, and away from the textbook, this podcast is about having honest chats with both other type 1's and non-diabetics.

Host: Manisha Vadgama
Producer: Matt Wareham

A Depictar production for Diabetes Squad