SpoonFull of Strength: A Chronic Illness Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

 Bonus Episode: The Diagnosis Struggle – Medical Gaslighting & Patient Power

Between Season 3 and 4, we're bringing you a powerful bonus two-part episode that dives deep into the real-life chaos of the diagnostic journey.

In Part 1, Rachel and Tina get real about medical gaslighting—the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways patients are dismissed, misheard, or told "it's all in your head." From endless referrals to the emotional exhaustion of chasing answers, they unpack the frustration of being bounced between specialists, handed vague explanations, and constantly fighting to prove their pain is real.

In Part 2, we welcome our fellow Spoonie and special guest Tilly Rose, author of Be Patient. Tilly spent over 20 years as a so-called "medical mystery" before receiving diagnoses like Addison’s Disease and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Her memoir is a raw, witty, and powerful look at what happens when the healthcare system forgets the human behind the patient chart. Be Patient pulls the curtain back on the inner workings of the healthcare system—highlighting both its failings and its heroes—and makes a bold call for change. Through storytelling and advocacy, Tilly is using her voice to speak up for patients everywhere.

Follow Tilly's journey on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thattillyrose/

Use these links to purchase Tilly's book:

Order BE PATIENT (free worldwide shipping): https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Be-Patient-by-Tilly-Rose/9781780726229

Order BE PATIENT UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-Patient-Laughter-Hospital-Curtain/dp/B0CXK6XDNG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=1FGRBU999UI33&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5Dks7Y1UNnyBacVhgUlrrw.Ke1Cd6DNaQvJVIfp8jVqFpPn7GtlOiRVPfa8l5I4Cns&dib_tag=se&keywords=be+patient+tilly+rose&qid=1747329860&sprefix=be+patient%2Caps%2C163&sr=8-1

Visit Tilly's website, That Patient Collective:  https://www.thatpatientcollective.com/

Tilly Rose's website is a platform dedicated to sharing patient stories and experiences, offering a perspective of life behind the hospital curtain. It serves as a space for individuals to connect, share their journeys, and advocate for change in the healthcare systemis a platform dedicated to sharing patient stories and experiences, offering a perspective of life behind the hospital curtain. It serves as a space for individuals to connect, share their journeys, and advocate for change in the healthcare system

 We’ll be announcing Season 4 soon, so make sure you’re following us on Instagram @spoonfulofstrength for updates and sneak peeks!

Season 3 Finale: Reflecting, Re-Capping, and Soul Healing

In the first half of our Season 3 finale, Rachel and Tina celebrate their first full year of the SpoonFull of Strength podcast! We look back at some of our favorite moments, highlight a few unforgettable Spoonies we've had the honor to meet, and share the biggest lessons we've learned over the past year. Plus, we re-cap the Top 5 most popular episodes from our very first year!

In the second half, Rachel leans on Tina to dive into her journey with soul healing — the practice of aligning your body, mind, and spirit to promote better overall health. Tina shares what she's learned, how it’s helped her chronic illness journey, and how anyone can start their own path toward deeper healing.

As we wrap up Season 3, we want to say a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners, our fellow Spoonies, and our amazing Instagram community. Your strength, support, and stories inspire us every single day. We can’t wait to see where Season 4 takes us — but for now, we’re sending love and spoons your way! 💙🥄

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY SALTY PROVISIONS: Salty Provisions was created to bring clean, high-quality sea salts and seasoning blends to those who care about real ingredients, inspired by a love for Norwegian Sea Salt and a mission to make gourmet cooking accessible. Their handcrafted, award-winning salts are free from artificial additives, fillers, and anti-caking agents, making them perfect for anyone—including those with POTS who need to increase their sodium intake. POTS warriors love our Norwegian Sea Salt Capsules, Savory Electrolyte Broth, and Salted Maple Electrolyte Latte, helping them manage symptoms without relying on processed foods. Find them at WWW.DOYOULOVESALT.COM and on Instagram/Facebook ⁠@saltyprovisions⁠. Use code SPOONFULL for 20% off your order!

In this two-part episode, we dive into the emotional journey of grieving your old self when chronic illness or sudden health changes turn life upside down.

InPart 1, Rachel and Tina open up about the rollercoaster of emotions that come with physical progression or receiving a new diagnosis. They share their personal experiences, the challenges of adjusting to a new reality, and the ways they’ve learned to navigate loss while finding hope.

InPart 2, we welcomeEmily, who at just 26 years old suffered a massive ischemic stroke that left her left side paralyzed. Now 28 and still on her recovery journey, Emily shares her story of relearning to walk, the ongoing rehab process, and how she’s finding purpose after life as she knew it changed overnight.

This episode is all about resilience, healing, and learning to honor both the past and present versions of yourself. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion on grief, adaptation, and growth. 🎧💙

Follow Emily's journey at: https://www.instagram.com/ems.stroke.of.lightning/

In this two-part episode ofSpoonFull of Strength, we take a deep dive into the portrayal of chronic illness in Hollywood. In Part 1, we explore how TV shows and films depict chronic illness—what they get right, what they get wrong, and the impact of these portrayals on public perception. We also highlight celebrities who use their platform to raise awareness and advocate for those with chronic conditions. Plus, stick around for a list of must-watch movies and shows featuring chronic illness.

In Part 2, we sit down withMaggie Bushway—a writer, filmmaker, and journalist from North Mississippi. After surviving childhood brain cancer and living with seizures and autoimmune diseases, Maggie has turned her pain into powerful storytelling. Through short films, documentaries, writing, and content creation, she shares stories that inspire hope. Her bookPearls brings her journey to life through three perspectives: her father’s, her 8-year-old self’s, and her present-day self’s. Maggie’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and advocacy—don’t miss this powerful conversation.

You can follow Maggie's story in Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/mkbushway/

Maggie's book is available here: https://a.co/d/0m8km4L

Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on Hollywood’s impact and an inspiring interview with a storyteller who knows firsthand what it means to fight for representation. 🎬✨

Here is a list of some Chronic Illness related movies and shows and where to find them. https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTw9bzrHDJPHQBetDSeovzkM1zyh3O1k4havDYNf_3HzP0K9w21_XIbtaWvhFjG__AVgSwZJvHym6Oj/pub

This podcast is sponsored by Blue Sky and Water Adventures—your go-to for stress-free travel planning and accessible adventures. Whether you're looking for customized travel arrangements that fit your needs or want to start your own flexible travel business, Blue Sky helps you explore the world on your terms!

Contact Kim on Instagram @blueskyandwateradventures for more information!

In this special two-part episode, we dive into the crucial role of nutrition for the chronic illness community.

🌿 Part 1: Rachel and Tina explore the impact of nutrition on managing chronic conditions, sharing their personal experiences and insights on how food choices can support overall well-being.

🧘‍♀️ Part 2: We welcome Roxanne, a certified yoga teacher and holistic nutrition health coach who has been living with lupus for 14 years. She shares her mindfulness-based approach to health, offering science-backed tips and tricks that have been instrumental in her healing journey. Roxanne also introduces RL Wellness, her virtual yoga studio designed specifically for those with chronic illnesses, where she fosters a supportive and empowering community.

Don’t miss this conversation filled with practical strategies, inspiration, and encouragement for your wellness journey!

🔗 Learn more about Roxanne at www.roxannelerner.com or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/rlwellnessdc/

🎙 Season 3 of SpoonFull of Strength is almost here! 🌟 Premiering February 4, 2025, this season dives deeper into the challenges, triumphs, and untold stories of life with chronic illness. This season, we’re bringing you real conversations and expert insights.

This season, you’ll meet incredible guests who'll share their journeys with resilience and humor. Plus, we’re tackling topics like romantic relationships, addiction, nutrition and more.

Tune in for a season full of inspiration, laughter, and a reminder that you’re never alone on this journey. 💙

📅 Mark your calendars and join us for a new episode every week starting 2/4!

In the final episode of Season 2 and 2024, we wrap up the year with laughter and resilience. In Part 1, Rachel and Tina share how humor can bring light to the challenges of living with chronic illness. From embarrassing moments to laugh-out-loud jokes, we explore the healing power of laughter. In

Part 2, we talk with Christie, a resilient warrior who faced a breast cancer diagnosis while navigating life with multiple sclerosis. Christie shares her journey using stem cell therapy for her MS and alternative medicine for cancer. Join us for an uplifting and inspiring end to the season!

Follow Christie here: https://www.instagram.com/christiesproba/ Read one of Christie's Blogs here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PT_mnm9n6HFMk5LkdkM2cKth1HJ3DeTn3qbYfbTLFmM/edit?usp=sharing

In our penultimate episode of Season 2, Rachel and Tina dive into the journey of finding purpose after a chronic illness diagnosis. Whether you're still working or unable to work due to your condition, this episode explores the profound question: "Why did this happen to me?" In part two, we speak with Tim, a Crohn's warrior who has transformed his experience with chronic illness into purpose through his website, InvisibleCondition.com. Tim shares how he built a platform where people can find support, community, and connection. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, redefinition, and the power of turning struggles into strength. Find Tim here: Website: https://www.invisiblecondition.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timreitsma/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/ Newsletter: https://www.invisiblecondition.com/subscribe Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW?si=508fb250e5e547c9 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition Other: https://theinvisibleconditionpodcast.buzzsprout.com

This special two-part episode dives into the challenges and strategies for traveling and living with chronic illness. In Part 1, Rachel and Tina share valuable tips and tricks for traveling safely while prioritizing your physical health. In Part 2, we meet Chloe, who opens up about her journey with multiple chronic illnesses, both physical and mental. Residing in Australia, Chloe offers a unique perspective on the differences in healthcare systems between Australia and the U.S. She shares her daily experience of managing debilitating pain and the mental load that comes with it. Follow Chloe's journey here: https://www.instagram.com/chronicallychloeabigael/

In this two-part episode, we explore the healing power of hobbies and their role in providing an outlet for those living with chronic illness. In Part 1, we discuss how hobbies can improve mental well-being, reduce stress, and create a sense of purpose. In Part 2, we’re joined by Abe, a neurodivergent therapist who shares his journey with ADHD and mental illness. Abe dives into how his personal medical history has shaped his approach to therapy and how he helps others navigate their challenges. Follow Abe's Journey Here: https://www.instagram.com/zesquid7/