In this episode, we dive deep into the emotional and physical rollercoaster of receiving a gastroparesis diagnosis. From the moment you hear those words to the challenges of navigating treatment options, we talk about the highs and lows, the frustrations, and the unexpected moments of strength that come with living with a chronic condition. We also discuss what happens after the diagnosis — how to handle the uncertainty, build resilience, and find a way forward, even when it feels like you're surviving purely out of spite. Tune in for a candid conversation about finding power and purpose, even when everything feels up in the air.

In the very first episode of Surviving out of Spite, hosts Samantha and Levi share their personal journeys with gastroparesis, opening up about the highs, lows, and everything in between. From unexpected diagnoses to daily challenges, they dive into what life with a chronic condition really looks like. Tune in as they explore the emotional and physical side of living with gastroparesis, break it down in simple terms, and explain why they started this podcast—to remind you that you’re never alone in this fight. Get ready for heart, humor, and a whole lot of support as they kick off this journey of survival, out of spite and beyond.

Traveling with gastroparesis can feel overwhelming—but it is possible with the right prep. In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, we’re talking all about how to hit the road (or skies) without leaving your health behind. From planning ahead to knowing what to pack, we’re sharing practical tips and personal insights to help you feel more confident and comfortable while traveling. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, this episode is your travel buddy in podcast form.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: https://hdsunflower.com/us/

Crystal Saltrelli’s Tips and Tricks: https://www.livingwellwithgastroparesis.com/blog/my-gp-travel-must-haves

Living with gastroparesis means navigating a minefield of food fears, medical dismissal, and constant trial-and-error—especially when it feels like nothing works. In this episode, I’m joined by Madi Cheever, a registered dietician and T1D coach to talk about the messy, frustrating, and sometimes hopeful journey of managing life with a broken digestive system.

This is a conversation about persistence, patience, and pushing through—even when your body doesn’t want to play along.

Want to contact Madi?

https://www.typeonetypefun.com

IG: @type.one.type.fun

In this deeply personal episode, Sam & Levi open up about the hidden wounds that come with chronic illness—medical trauma and PTSD. From emergency room flashbacks to the emotional toll of repeated hospitalizations and gaslighting by healthcare professionals, they share raw, unfiltered stories from both sides of the hospital bed. With vulnerability and resilience, they explore how trauma shapes trust, mental health, and even their daily decisions. Whether you’ve been dismissed in a doctor’s office or felt the lingering anxiety of past procedures, this episode is for you. You're not alone—and you're not imagining it.

This week on Surviving out of Spite, Sam is flying solo and getting real about what it means to stay active with gastroparesis. From gut wrenching (literally) symptoms to workouts that don't go as planned, she opens up about how exercise looks different - but still matters. Spoiler alert: it's not about crushing personal records. It's about survival, resilience and doing what you can when your body's being a unpredictable. Sam shares how running, even when it felt impossible, became her lifeline; and how she's learned to move her body with grace, grit and a little bit of spite. Whether you're living with chronic illness or just need permission to pivot, this emotional but powerful episode is your reminder: movement is personal, progress isn't linear and you are absolutely still a badass.

Tune in now - because sometimes doing it anyway is the most radical thing you can do.

Click the link for some information on the benefits of exercise while living with gastroparesis:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGorkRnsJE/xNFGaazS9h4olbDm-stwIA/view?utm_content=DAGorkRnsJE&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h277b0715eb

Living with a chronic illness doesn't just impact your health—it hits your wallet, too. In this episode, Sam and Adam open up about the hidden (and not-so-hidden) financial strain that comes with chronic illness. From endless medical bills and lost work hours to the cost of special accommodations, the financial pressure can be relentless.

Together, they explore how they’ve learned to navigate money stress as a team—through budgeting strategies, dealing with insurance red tape, and planning for an unpredictable future. If you've ever had to choose between rest and a paycheck, or wondered how to make finances work when health keeps getting in the way, this one's for you.

The healthcare system wasn’t built for chronic illness warriors—it was built to test our patience, our wallets, and our will to keep fighting. In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, we’re shining a light on the spiteful side of healthcare: endless insurance denials, gatekeeping around specialists, medication access hurdles, and the mental struggle it takes just to get basic care.

Whether you’re battling prior auth hell or trying to decode your EOB like it’s hieroglyphics, this one’s for you. We’re talking about real experiences, the emotional toll of being your own advocate, and how we survive—out of sheer spite and sometimes, stubbornness—when the system appears to be designed to fail us.

Because when it comes to accessing care with a chronic illness like gastroparesis, sometimes survival is a rebellious act.

In Part 1, we pulled back the curtain on the often-unseen reality of medical trauma; sharing the fear, frustration, and lasting emotional wounds that come from being gaslit, dismissed, or repeatedly hospitalized. In this follow-up episode, Sam & Levi return to dive deeper into what healing looks like when your trauma isn’t behind you, but woven into the fabric of your everyday life.

They open up about the slow, non-linear process of recovery: how PTSD from medical experiences can show up in subtle ways, how it impacts your relationship with your body and care providers, and why healing isn’t about “getting over it,” it’s about learning to live alongside it with more compassion and less shame. Sam & Levi share what’s helped them start to rebuild trust—both in themselves and the system that hurt them.

This episode is a continuation of the hard, honest conversations that too many patients are left to navigate alone. If you’ve ever felt broken by the system or unsure how to move forward, this one's for you. Healing may be messy, but it’s not out of reach.

After years of battling undiagnosed SIBO and feeling dismissed by the healthcare system, Krystyna Houser decided to take matters into her own hands. Her journey led to the creation of mBIOTA, a better-tasting elemental diet designed with patients in mind.

In this conversation, Krystyna shares her personal story, and the challenges of getting a proper diagnosis. We explore why quality of life matters in treatment, the importance of community support for those with GI disorders, and how patient-led solutions can make a lasting difference.

Whether you’re navigating SIBO, gastroparesis, or another chronic GI condition, this episode offers hope, practical insight, and a reminder that patient voices matter.

In this episode, Sam sits down with patient advocate, G-PACT board member and storyteller Jim Sliney to unpack the power of storytelling in the chronic illness and advocacy space. Together, they explore how to craft stories that resonate; starting with understanding your audience, navigating vulnerability, and embracing authenticity. Jim shares practical advice on overcoming the fear of being seen, the art of visual storytelling, and how refining your story can deepen its impact. Whether you're new to sharing your experience or looking to refine your voice, this conversation is a reminder that your story can spark real connection and change.

When you live with a chronic illness, half the battle is getting taken seriously.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Hida to talk all things communication, advocacy, and gastroparesis treatment. From tips on how to talk to your doctor (and what to do when you’re being ignored) to a deep dive into G-POEM—the promising procedure that’s helping many patients find relief—we’re covering it all. We also explore what the future holds for treatment and how patients can stay empowered, even in a broken system.

Because surviving gastroparesis isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about fighting for care that actually helps.

In this inspiring and heartfelt episode, Sam sits down with Andrew Belliveau to talk about his journey with gastroparesis; from a difficult diagnosis at a young age to building a life filled with advocacy, humor, and hope. Andrew opens up about the daily challenges of living with constant nausea and vomiting, how he navigated school with a misunderstood illness, and the strain it placed on friendships and connection at a young age.

He shares how resilience and a strong support system helped carry him through the hardest moments; and how the Gastroparesis Pie Face Challenge became a creative way to raise awareness and build community, gaining traction thanks to viral support from David Price. Now living with a gastric stimulator that has drastically improved his quality of life, Andrew reflects on what it means to find joy in small wins and the power of using your story to make a difference.

This episode is a reminder that advocacy can start with whipped cream, and that healing doesn’t always mean being cured; it means finding purpose, connection, and gratitude along the way.

https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Lynn/dashnsmash

@gppieface 

In this continued conversation, Sam and Madi dive even deeper into the emotional and practical realities of managing food, nutrition, and language around chronic illness. Building on their previous episode, they discuss why the way we talk about food and our bodies can shape not just perception, but experience.

Together, they unpack the fear that often surrounds eating, especially when every bite feels like a gamble. From self-advocacy and understanding dietary tolerances to the role of mindfulness and support systems, this episode emphasizes the importance of individualized care, nutrition education, and compassionate communication in gastrointestinal health.

Whether you're struggling to find balance in your diet, feeling isolated in your food fears, or just need to hear from someone who gets it, this conversation is a reminder that you're not alone and that there’s power in continuing to ask questions, speak up, and find what works for you.

Want to contact Madi? https://www.typeonetypefun.com/

IG: @type.one.type.fun

In this week’s episode, Sam sits down with Crystal Saltrelli to explore the complexities of living with gastroparesis; moving beyond symptoms to talk about survival mode, identity, and what it means to truly live with chronic illness. They reflect on the emotional toll of daily symptom management, the mental fog of constant stress, and those quiet turning points where surviving turns into self-discovery.

Together, they explore how chronic illness forces a redefinition of self-worth beyond productivity, goals, or who you used to be—and what it takes to embrace the version of yourself that exists with illness, not in spite of it. From journaling and rest to mindset shifts and community connection, Crystal offers insight into the tools and truths that helped her move from surviving to becoming.

This episode highlights the need for open conversations about the emotional and psychological weight of gastroparesis, and advocates for a more holistic, compassionate approach to care—one that recognizes the full scope of the patient experience.If you’re tired, discouraged, or feeling stuck in survival mode, this conversation is a reminder: there’s more to your story, and you are allowed to become someone new in the process.

https://www.livingwellwithgastroparesis.com/about

https://livingwellpod.substack.com/podcast

IG: @csaltrelli

What happens when chronic gut issues meet the fast pace of the ER? Dr. Rick Pescatore, an emergency physician, joins us to discuss the rising number of patients facing digestive health challenges and the unique barriers they encounter in acute care. We talk about why patient stories matter just as much as test results, and how digital health tools like BellyMD are giving patients the power to track their symptoms, advocate for themselves, and improve communication with doctors. This episode dives into the future of healthcare—where technology, empathy, and patient empowerment come together to create better outcomes.

https://belly-md.com/

In this episode, Sam and Kristen share an honest conversation about what it means to run with chronic illness and disability. For Kristen, running became a lifeline during a particularly tough health season. Together, they explore the emotional and physical realities of adaptive athletics, from the trial-and-error process of figuring out what works, to the deep mental health benefits that running can offer. Kristen introduces her unique “flag system” for assessing daily readiness, emphasizing how listening to your body is essential in protecting both health and joy.

They also dive into the nuances of language around disability, how the running community can uplift or isolate, and what true inclusion looks like on the course. With insights on nutrition, hydration, gear prep, and pacing, this episode offers practical tips and powerful reminders that healing doesn’t mean returning to your old life—it means building something new, one step at a time.

In this episode, Sam sits down with Dr. Zachary Spiritos, a neurogastroenterologist, to dive into the complex and often overlooked challenges of treating gastroparesis and other GI motility disorders. Dr. Spiritos shares valuable insights on the crucial brain-gut connection and highlights why a holistic, patient-centered approach is essential for managing these conditions effectively.

We get real about the emotional and physical weight gastroparesis drags along; how food anxiety creeps into every meal, the daily juggling act of medications, and how crucial it is to find a doctor you can actually trust. Dr. Spiritos reminds us that no two journeys are the same, and that true healing comes from care that’s tailored to you, not a one-size-fits-all checklist.

The conversation also addresses gaps in current research and clinical guidelines, emphasizing the urgent need for more collaborative and empathetic care models that truly listen to and empower patients.

Disclaimer: This episode includes open and honest conversations about sex and intimacy. Listener discretion is advised, and we encourage you to tune in when you feel comfortable engaging with this topic.

Intimacy is about so much more than sex; but living with a chronic illness can make every part of it complicated. In this episode, Samantha chats with Ali DiGiacomo, where they dive into the unspoken realities of intimacy and chronic illness; from navigating medical challenges that affect sexual health to building confidence, self-love, and connection.

They explore why open communication with partners matters, how self-care practices can help reignite desire, and the importance of normalizing conversations about intimacy in the chronic illness community. Whether it’s emotional closeness, physical intimacy, or self-pleasure, this conversation encourages listeners to see sexual well-being as a vital part of overall health.

Because intimacy isn’t just about what happens in the bedroom; it’s about reclaiming confidence, connection, and joy in every form.

Ali's IG: @anotherdaywithra

In this episode, Samantha Cook opens up about her 15-year journey with gastroparesis and the lessons she’s learned along the way. As both a patient and a psychologist, Samantha offers a unique perspective on the importance of mindset, emotional processing, and self-care in navigating chronic illness. She reflects on the role of community support, evolving medical care, and the impact of illness on identity.

Her story is one of resilience, growth, and finding fulfillment despite the challenges of gastroparesis—reminding us that life with chronic illness is not just about survival, but about creating space for joy, connection, and meaning.

website: www.transformative-psych.com

email: transformativepsychservices@gmail.com

Facebook/Instagram: Living Well Pod

Substack: livingwellpod@substack.com

In this episode, Sam sits down with Izzy; a chronic illness warrior, marathon runner, and fierce self-advocate. Izzy opens up about navigating multiple chronic illnesses while training for endurance events, and what it took to reframe her mindset from limitation to possibility.

She shares the real challenges behind long-distance running with a complex health journey, how she built a supportive network, and why self-advocacy became non-negotiable. Together, Sam and Izzy explore the power of focusing on what is possible, rather than what isn’t, and how determination and mindset can redefine what strength looks like in a chronically ill body.

Izzy’s story is equal parts honest and hopeful; offering inspiration for anyone living with health limitations and reminding us that goals don’t disappear just because the path looks different.

In this episode, Sam sits down with CarmenRose Fiallo to explore the complexities of living with invisible disabilities, with a focus on chronic migraines. They discuss the pressure to appear “normal,” the stigma that often accompanies hidden conditions, and the emotional toll of being misunderstood or dismissed.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive community, leveraging social media for advocacy and connection, and validating both the good and bad days of life with chronic illness. From communication strategies with friends and partners to the mental health impact of invisible disabilities, this episode highlights the need for understanding, connection, and real conversations about the challenges often hidden from view.

In this solo episode, Sam opens up about what it’s like to navigate food-centered holidays while living with gastroparesis. From gatherings built around meals she couldn’t eat to the years when not a single dish felt safe, she shares the emotional weight, the isolation, and the small wins that helped her get through it.

Sam talks candidly about the pressure to “just try a bite,” the guilt of saying no, and the exhaustion of constantly explaining your body to others. She offers real strategies for advocating for yourself with family and friends, setting boundaries without shame, and redefining what participation in the holidays can look like, even when food is off the table.

Whether you’re in a flare, newly diagnosed, or years into your journey, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and you don’t owe anyone a bite to belong.

Support Group Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1WJRQIbkRImHKC-p5sEibA

Cookbooks: https://g-pact.org/resources/cookbooks/

In this episode, Sam sits down with Maisy to unpack what it means to build a life around chronic illness without losing yourself in it. Maisy shares her personal journey through shifting identity, relationships, and the search for community when you exist between able-bodied and chronically ill spaces.

Together, they dive into the emotional and practical realities of asking for accommodations, navigating social media as both connection and comparison, and holding onto self-worth when your body changes the rules. This conversation is an honest look at belonging, resilience, and the power of supportive relationships in the chronic illness world.

In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Akimoto. She’s a registered dietitian with 20 years of clinical nutrition experience, and today, we are talking about the world of blended tube feeding. Inspired by a patient’s daughter, Jennifer shares how blended foods can offer more options than traditional formulas and play a vital role in overall health, especially for those with chronic illnesses. In this episode, she breaks down common myths, discusses food safety, and emphasizes patient empowerment and social inclusion at mealtimes. Whether you’re curious about blended tube feeding or looking for practical resources, Jen provides guidance to help patients and caregivers make informed, confident choices about their nutrition.

Jennifer's website: https://theblendingdietitian.com

Article mentioned about tube feeding during the holidays: https://theblendingdietitian.com/tube-feeding-during-holidays/

link for Jennifer's Blended Tube Feeding Essentials course that she developed in order to help more people get started with blended tube feeds confidently: https://jennifer-s-site-56ba.thinkific.com/courses/blended-tube-feeding-essentials

In this episode, Sam sits down with Kate Bochnewetch, a physical therapist and running/strength coach, for a conversation about living, moving and thriving with chronic illness. Drawing from her own journey with hEDS syndrome, POTS and chronic migraines, Kate breaks down the realities of chronic pain, the emotional toll of navigating the healthcare system and the power of finding people who truly get it.

They explore how to approach exercise when the "rules" of traditional fitness don't apply, what good advocacy from providers actually looks like, and why flexibility, curiosity, and self-kindness are essential tools for managing unpredictable symptoms.

This episode celebrates resilience and reminds listeners that healing isn't linear, and you're allowed to rewrite the plan as many times as you need.

kate's website: www.therunningdpt.com

Kate's Instagram: @the_running_dpt

In this week's episode, Megan Riehl joins the show to break down the brain–gut connection and why it’s a physiological process, not a dismissal. We explore how stress and nervous system dysregulation directly affect GI function, shaping symptoms that too often get misunderstood or minimized.

Megan explains how psychological therapies, including gut-directed hypnotherapy, can be powerful, evidence-based tools for managing GI disorders, and why truly effective care has to be holistic and patient-centered. We also talk about the complicated relationship many patients develop with food, and how chronic digestive illness changes the way people relate to their bodies.

Along the way, Megan shares practical insights and trusted resources for navigating GI care, advocating for yourself, and finding support that treats you as a whole person—not just a set of symptoms.

This episode is for anyone who’s felt dismissed, stuck, or gaslit by the system and wants to understand what’s really been missing in GI treatment.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Megan's Website: https://www.drriehl.com/

Mind Your Gut Book: https://www.drriehl.com/general-8

telehealth clinic: www.gipsychology.com

The Gut Health Podcast: https://www.drriehl.com/podcast

Additional Resources: https://www.drriehl.com/shop

In this final episode of the year, Sam pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to grow a chronic illness community. From the early days of G-PACT to the powerful network it’s become today, she reflects on the wins, the setbacks, and the moments that nearly broke her, and the people who helped her keep going.

This episode is a love letter to every person who has ever felt isolated by illness, unheard by the system, or invisible in their own body. Sam shares why authenticity in advocacy isn’t optional, how real connection changes everything, and why sharing our stories is one of the most radical acts of healing we have.

As we head into 2026, she also gives a glimpse into what’s next for G-PACT and the continued mission to make sure no one has to navigate chronic illness alone.

Because this journey is hard — but it’s a hell of a lot lighter when we carry it together.

Gastroparesis isn’t just about digestion — it’s about identity, grief, resilience, and learning how to fight for yourself.

In this episode, Sam and Dr. Eva Alsheik unpack the science behind gastroparesis, the mental health piece that’s often ignored, and what real treatment looks like beyond a prescription pad. They explore options like G-POEM, gastric stimulators from Enterra therapy, and emerging research; while reminding patients that knowledge is power, and reminding us how community can be everything.

See here for more information on the medical device from Enterra Medical: http://www.enterramedical.com/important-safety-information/

Dating is hard. Dating with chronic illness or disability? That’s a whole different battlefield.

In this episode, Sam sits down with the founders of Dateability, the first dating app built specifically for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Together, they unpack the emotional reality of navigating dating in bodies that don’t always cooperate, the isolation so many experience on mainstream apps, and the power of creating spaces where disability is normalized — not hidden.

The founders share their personal journeys, the inspiration behind Dateability, and how community, inclusivity, and empowerment are at the heart of everything they’re creating. They also reveal what’s next for the app and why fostering real, supportive connections isn’t just a feature, it’s the mission.

https://info.dateabilityapp.com/

#ChronicIllness #GutHealth #DigestiveHealth #gastroparesis In this week’s episode, Sam sits down with Dahlia and James Marin, co-founders of Married to Health, where they unpack the gut-immune connection and why food is so much more than fuel when you live with chronic digestive illness.Together, they explore the concept of “gut debt,” the emotional and psychological weight we carry around eating, and why traditional nutrition advice often falls flat for people whose bodies don’t follow the rules. From pre-digestion techniques and mindful eating to building the right care team and repairing your relationship with food, this conversation offers real-world strategies that meet you where you actually are — not where wellness culture thinks you should be.Because healing your gut isn’t about perfection. It’s about listening, adjusting, and choosing yourself — even on the days your stomach is louder than your dreams.

What does it look like to grow up managing central lines and still build a life full of strength, independence, and purpose?

In this inspiring episode, Vincent shares his journey of growing up with complex chronic illnesses, central lines, and learning line care and medical independence at a young age. He reflects on how his parents supported him in navigating healthcare while still encouraging him to live fully, take risks, and believe in what was possible.

Vincent opens up about discovering the gym as more than just physical training; it became a source of confidence, empowerment, and healing. Through fitness, advocacy, and self-determination, he found ways to travel, pursue his passions, and ultimately train for and compete in a bodybuilding competition, all while managing his chronic conditions.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that chronic illness doesn’t define limits; it demands creativity, resilience, and support. Vincent’s story is both motivation and a roadmap, showing others that thriving with chronic illness is possible.

Whether you’re living with chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or looking for hope that a full life can coexist with medical complexity, this episode delivers exactly that.

Chronic pain isn’t just physical; it affects your mental health, emotions, and daily life. In this powerful conversation, Sam and Alec break down what chronic pain management really looks like when empathy, trust, and communication are at the center of care.

Alec, a primary care provider, shares the personal experience that led him into medicine and shaped his approach to patient-centered care. Sam brings the lived patient perspective, opening up about the frustration and harm that can happen when pain is dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare providers.

Together, they explore why communication breakdowns are so common in healthcare, how validation impacts patient outcomes, and what both patients and providers can do to build stronger, more compassionate relationships, especially when navigating chronic illness and chronic pain.

Whether you’re living with chronic pain, supporting someone who is, or working in healthcare, this conversation offers insight, validation, and practical takeaways.

In this powerful conversation, Donna and Sam explore what it really means to live with chronic illness while navigating a complex and often broken medical system. Through personal stories and lived experience, they discuss patient advocacy, the emotional toll of being dismissed or misunderstood, and why awareness and systemic change in healthcare are so urgently needed.

The episode also reflects on the emotional impact of the film Complicated, using it as a starting point to unpack how chronic illness affects not just the body, but mental health, identity, and everyday life. They highlight the critical role of patient voices, the intersection of physical and mental health, and the collective responsibility; patients, providers, and communities alike to push for better care.

This conversation is for patients, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare professionals who want to better understand the realities of chronic illness, the importance of listening to patient experiences, and how advocacy can drive meaningful change in the healthcare system.

The virtual screening is Sun, Feb 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST

Info on where to watch at the link below:https://gathr.com/events/60654f28/complicated-worldwide-screening-panel-discussion

What does it mean to be diagnosed with a serious heart condition at a young age, and then have to fight to be believed?

In this powerful conversation, Hannah shares her journey as a heart patient diagnosed with HCM and the realities of navigating a healthcare system that often overlooks young patients. She opens up about misdiagnosis, self-advocacy, and the emotional toll of living with a heart condition that doesn’t “look” sick.

Hannah also dives into the mission behind the nonprofit, HeartCharged, which is working to raise awareness about heart conditions in young people and push for better education within the medical community. Together, the conversation explores how social media has become a lifeline for patient connection, why advocacy matters, and what it will take for patient organizations to collaborate more effectively.

This conversation is for patients, advocates, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone passionate about improving care for young people with chronic illnesses. 

https://www.getheartcharged.org/

IG: @heartcharged

Living with a chronic illness is often framed as a limitation—but what if it could also be a strength?In this episode, Lilly Stairs joins us to share the concept of your “secret sauce”: the powerful combination of your natural skills, lived experiences, and the unique strengths developed through navigating chronic health conditions.

Lilly explains how the resilience, problem-solving, adaptability, and empathy that come with chronic illness can become real professional advantages.We talk about how to reframe chronic illness and disability in the workplace, identify the strengths your experiences have built, and start seeing your health journey as part of your value, not something that holds you back.

If you live with a chronic condition and are navigating your career, advocacy work, or creative projects, this conversation offers a powerful mindset shift about turning lived experience into leadership and impact.

https://chronicboss.com/

What does a panic attack actually feel like, especially when you're already living with gastroparesis and chronic illness?

In this raw and unplanned episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam shares a deeply vulnerable moment after experiencing an intense anxiety and panic attack at home. From suddenly struggling to breathe to using grounding techniques to calm her nervous system, Sam walks through what the experience was like in real time.Living with chronic illness often means navigating more than just physical symptoms.

Anxiety, medical trauma, and nervous system dysregulation can become part of the journey too.

This episode is a reminder that you’re not alone if anxiety or panic attacks are part of your life with chronic illness.If you've ever experienced anxiety, panic attacks, or the emotional toll of chronic illness, this conversation is for you.

Join our gastroparesis support group: https://g-pact.org/programs/virtual-support/

One year ago, Surviving Out of Spite launched to share stories, insights, and real-life experiences living with gastroparesis. In this special episode, Sam reflects on the journey of building the podcast, the lessons learned, and the incredible community that has grown along the way. Join us as we celebrate one year of connection, resilience, and storytelling.

Gut health is complicated, especially when you’re living with gastroparesis. In this episode, Sam sits down with Liz Roman to unpack the complex systems involved in digestive health and how they impact people with chronic gastrointestinal conditions.

Together they explore the differences between conventional medicine and functional medicine, and how each approach looks at gut health, digestion, and chronic illness. The conversation dives into the gut-brain connection, the role of the liver and bile flow in digestion, and how thyroid health can influence the way the digestive system functions.

They also discuss why self-advocacy in healthcare is so important, especially for patients navigating chronic digestive diseases like gastroparesis. From asking better questions in medical appointments to understanding how different body systems work together, this episode is all about helping patients feel more informed and empowered in their health journeys.

Whether you’re living with gastroparesis, another digestive disorder, or simply trying to better understand gut health, this conversation offers insight into how interconnected the body truly is.

Want to connect with Liz? Check out the info below!

The www.fitmomsociety.com community also has the labs decoded series for learning more about your bloodwork from an optimal lens. It is a 7 day free trial.

Website: fitmom.co

IG: @thepoopqueen

Podcast: The Health Revival Show - https://open.spotify.com/show/5HUm3k84HHsDNM9FgnBB8J?si=H9zlJYeKQe2NSQwxz3W6EQ

Research links: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nwHHX0kW4yqj3aAAvcVXpEcSmR5Jb6zgrt54M_AScC4/edit?usp=sharing

Navigating the healthcare system with a chronic illness can feel overwhelming, frustrating, and, at times, isolating. In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam sits down with Meredith Mangold for a real and honest conversation about what it truly means to advocate for yourself as a patient.

Meredith shares her journey living with ulcerative colitis and the many challenges she’s faced along the way. Together, Sam and Meredith dive into the realities of chronic illness care; from difficult medical appointments and medical gaslighting to the emotional toll of constantly explaining your symptoms and fighting to be heard.

They explore the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, how to build stronger patient-provider relationships, and why open conversations about chronic illness, digestive health, and invisible illness matter. This episode also highlights the power of community support and storytelling in helping patients feel less alone, and more empowered in their healthcare journey.

Whether you’re living with a chronic illness like gastroparesis or ulcerative colitis, navigating misdiagnosis, or struggling to feel heard by doctors, this conversation is a reminder that your voice matters.

Ty Gipson has been through more than most; juvenile diabetes, multiple organ transplants, and years of fighting just to stay alive. In this episode, Sam and Ty talk about what it actually looks like to keep going when your body keeps throwing the worst at you.

This isn’t a sugarcoated story. It’s about resilience on the hard days, the mental battles no one sees, and the moments where giving up feels easier, but you don’t. Ty shares how he’s learned to hold onto hope, lean on the people around him, and turn everything he’s been through into something that helps others.

They get into the real stuff: choosing growth when life falls apart, letting yourself feel everything, and why being honest about your story matters, especially in the chronic illness community.

If you’re dealing with chronic illness, transplant recovery, or just trying to survive something really heavy, this one is for you.

Living with a chronic GI condition like gastroparesis isn’t just physical; it’s mental, emotional, and deeply personal. In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam chats with Dr. Ali Navidi to break down the powerful (and often overlooked) role of GI psychology in chronic illness care.

Together, they dive into the gut-brain connection and why treating digestive conditions requires more than just medication. From the challenges of accessing specialized care to the gaps in research around gastroparesis, this conversation highlights what’s missing, and what patients truly need.

Dr Navidi shares insights into how GI psychologists work alongside medical teams, why interdisciplinary care matters, and how therapy can be a critical tool in managing symptoms, stress, and quality of life. Sam and Dr. Navidi also explore the emotional weight of chronic illness, the importance of self-advocacy, and how patients can take back a sense of control in their healthcare journey.

This episode is for anyone navigating chronic illness, feeling dismissed in the healthcare system, or looking for a more holistic approach to healing.

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is more than just managing symptoms, it’s navigating a healthcare system that often doesn’t understand you.

In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam sits down with Lara Bloom of the EDS Society to talk about what it really takes to live with and advocate for EDS.

From the long road to diagnosis to the validation that comes with finally being heard, Lara shares her personal journey and the realities so many patients face.

This conversation is honest, unfiltered, and a reminder that patient voices are not just important, they’re necessary.

If you or someone you love is living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a rare disease, or navigating chronic illness, this episode will make you feel seen, and remind you that you’re not alone.

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Sam and Sarah dive deeper into Sarah’s story and how she refused to let gastroparesis define her life.

From the challenges of diagnosis to the daily realities of living with a chronic digestive condition, she opens up about what it truly means to navigate life with gastroparesis. This is not just a story about illness, it’s about resilience, identity, and choosing to keep going even when your body makes it incredibly hard.

We talk about the physical and emotional toll of chronic illness, the isolation that can come with invisible diseases, and how she found strength in the midst of it all. Her journey is a reminder that you are more than your diagnosis.

If you or someone you love is living with gastroparesis, chronic illness, or an invisible disease, this conversation will resonate deeply.

In this episode, Sam sat down with Ruth O’Driscoll to have the kind of conversation most people avoid, but absolutely shouldn’t.They dive into the reality of living with digestive issues, why we need to normalize talking about gut health (yes, even the awkward parts), and how self-tracking can be a powerful tool for understanding your body.Ruthie shares her personal journey with digestive health challenges and how it led her to develop an innovative app, Tuut, designed to make symptom and bowel movement tracking easier, more intuitive, and far less overwhelming than traditional methods. Together, they explore how removing shame and simplifying tracking can help people feel more in control of their health.This conversation also goes deeper, touching on the importance of sleep, self-care, and building a supportive community when navigating chronic digestive conditions. Because managing your health isn’t just about data, it’s about feeling seen, supported, and understood.Meet tuut: the first digestive health app that fits lifestyle tracking into your busy life while providing actionable insights. Log data in seconds and let clinically-informed AI algorithms uncover patterns so you can finally identify triggers and feel better. https://www.tuutapp.net/

In this episode, Casey shares her personal journey living with celiac disease, from diagnosis to the ongoing realities of managing a strict gluten-free diet. She opens up about the challenges of navigating hidden gluten in unexpected foods, the learning curve that comes with dietary restrictions, and the emotional impact that can follow a life-changing diagnosis.

Together, Sam and Casey explore what it really means to live with celiac disease in everyday life; highlighting coping strategies, symptom management, and the importance of self-compassion along the way. They also discuss the emotional weight of food-related guilt, the evolving landscape of gluten-free options, and how access to better products has helped improve quality of life for many in the gluten-free community.

This conversation also emphasizes the power of community support, strong relationships, and self-advocacy when navigating chronic dietary restrictions. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone with celiac disease, or simply wanting to better understand gluten-free living, this episode offers validation, education, and hope.

Instagram & TikTok: @collegeceliackc https://www.glutenfreewithcasey.com 

In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam sits down with Maddie, the voice behind Eosinophilic Chick, to talk about what it’s really like living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE).

Maddie shares her personal journey; from early symptoms and diagnosis to navigating strict dietary restrictions and the reality of starting medication injections. This conversation dives into the physical challenges of managing EOE, as well as the emotional and mental toll that comes with chronic illness.

Together, Sam and Maddie also open up about the fear and frustration surrounding food, and what it looks like to slowly reintroduce foods after periods of restriction. They discuss how these moments can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming, and incredibly meaningful.

Beyond EOE, this episode highlights the importance of advocacy, community, and connection when living with chronic conditions like EOE and gastroparesis. Because no one should have to navigate this alone.

Want to connect with Maddie? Follow her on IG @eosinophilic.chick 

In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam sits down with Dr. Sarah Cohen Solomon for a deeply honest conversation about chronic illness, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and what it really takes to build a more humane healthcare system.

Dr. Solomon brings a unique dual perspective as both a physician and a patient, offering insight into the lived reality of navigating chronic illness while practicing medicine. They talk about the complexities of individualized care, the importance of listening to patient concerns, and why curiosity, not assumptions, should guide clinical decision-making.

This episode is about shifting healthcare toward collaboration, where patients are not dismissed, but believed, supported, and involved in their own care decisions. It’s a call for a more compassionate, responsive, and patient-centered medical system.

If you’re living with chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or working in healthcare, this conversation offers grounded insight into how care can be improved through empathy, advocacy, and listening.

In this episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam chats with Amber Tresca of AboutIBD to discuss the realities of living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), gastroparesis, and other chronic health challenges. Amber shares her personal journey with J-pouch surgery, navigating life after major medical interventions, and learning how to balance work, health, and personal growth.Sam and Amber talk about the emotional and practical aspects of chronic illness, including managing unpredictability, building supportive communities, protecting mental health, and finding resilience during difficult seasons. They discuss the importance of flexibility, radical acceptance, and creating a life that works with your condition rather than constantly fighting against it.Whether you're living with IBD, gastroparesis, a chronic illness, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers honest insights, encouragement, and practical wisdom for navigating the ups and downs of long-term health challenges.Where to find more from Amber? IG: @aboutIBDYT: @aboutIBDWeb: www.aboutIBD.comEmail: amber@aboutibd.com