Advertise on podcast: Arthritis Life

They explore why there’s no single “perfect” diet for rheumatoid arthritis, what “plant-forward” eating really means, and why lifestyle changes should complement, rather than replace, appropriate medical treatment.  Dr. Bhanusali also breaks down common concerns about gluten, dairy, nightshades, beans, and supplements, while emphasizing that individual responses to food can vary widely. Most importantly, she shares a realistic, flexible approach to nutrition that focuses on adding nourishing foods, paying attention to your own body, and letting go of perfection.  Episode at a glance:Why there is no single “best” diet for rheumatoid arthritis or other rheumatic diseasesWhat research, including the Plants for Joints study, suggests about plant-based nutrition, exercise, and stress managementWhy medications and lifestyle changes are partners, not competitors, in managing inflammatory rheumatic diseaseWhat “plant-based, plant-predominant, and plant-forward” actually mean, and why eating plant-forward doesn’t necessarily mean going veganDo you really need to eliminate gluten, dairy, nightshades, beans, or other commonly blamed foods?How to distinguish a food that simply doesn’t agree with you from assumptions that it is increasing systemic inflammationThe truth about supplements for arthritis, including why “natural” doesn’t automatically mean safe or effectiveWhy nutrition matters even if you don’t notice specific food-related flares, including its role in overall and cardiovascular healthNutrition considerations for people taking GLP-1 medications, including protein intake, exercise, and preserving muscleHow to make nourishing choices on high-pain, high-fatigue days without falling into an all-or-nothing mindset Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lauren shares practical insights on adapting meaningful activities (including caring for and training dogs!), conserving energy, finding realistic hope, and building a life around what matters to you. Plus, Lauren shares why she’s excited to bring this perspective to her newest role as a Rheum to THRIVE certified facilitator. Episode at a glance:How occupational therapy shaped Lauren’s approach to life with ankylosing spondylitisWays to make dog care and training more accessibleTips for pacing, energy conservation, and joint protectionCoping with the uncertainty of inflammatory arthritisThe value of community and evidence-based supportAdvice for people newly diagnosed with inflammatory arthritisWhat it means to thrive with ASWhy Lauren became a Rheum to THRIVE facilitatorMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl, Marisa, Alice, Gittel, Meg and Annette reflect on the profound impact of community, the invaluable educational components of the Rheum to THRIVE program, and the collective wisdom that has helped them cope and thrive.  The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, shared humor, and the supportive environment of the Rheum to THRIVE group, which empowers members to navigate their health challenges and advocate for themselves. This episode first appeared as episode 172 in June 2025. Since then, Cheryl has trained 4 additional Rheum to THRIVE Certified facilitators to continue offering more support to those living with rheumatic disease and inflammatory forms of arthritis.  Episode at a glance: Celebrating 5 Years of Thrive: Cheryl reflects on the origins of the Rheum to THRIVE program and members share how they found the group and what drew them in. Support Group as Lifeline: Members describe Rheum to THRIVE as a uniquely supportive and safe space that offers emotional validation, practical advice, and deep connection. Power of Peer Support & Representation: Cheryl and Rheum to Thrive members share how hearing others share similar stories helps members feel less alone and seeing others thrive with chronic illness is empowering and inspiring. Tools for Thriving: Members reference helpful resources like the THRIVE Framework, webinars, and guest speakers. The Joy of Community & Shared Identity: Cheryl and the Rheum to Thrive members discuss how inside jokes, celebrations, and shared experiences strengthen group bonds. Lasting Impact of the Program: The Rheum to Thrive members tell Cheryl that they pursued careers in counseling or advocacy inspired by their journey and that Rheum to Thrive supports lifelong learning and personal growth. They also reflect on how the group has helped members through isolation and uncertainty. Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this encore episode, Dr. Liew  shares her personal journey to becoming a rheumatologist inspired by a friend's diagnosis. She then discusses the condition in detail, addressing common misconceptions such as it being exclusive to white men and always showing up on imaging.  Listeners will gain invaluable insights into the challenges of diagnosing this condition, social determinants affecting diagnosis, and reliable resources for further information. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the labyrinth of rheumatic diseases, providing hope and knowledge to help you thrive. Episode at a glance: 00:00 Introduction to Rheumer Has It Podcast 00:26 Meet Dr. Jean Liew: Expert on Axial Spondyloarthritis 00:40 Understanding Axial Spondyloarthritis 01:41 Dr. Liew's Journey into Rheumatology 04:16 Busting Myths: Axial Spondyloarthritis and Demographics (it’s not just men!) 06:50 Challenges in Diagnosing Axial Spondyloarthritis 10:27 The Role of HLAB 27 in Axial Spondyloarthritis 12:26 Imaging and Axial Spondyloarthritis 14:38 Final Thoughts and Resources Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Along the way, they talk about the comfort of pets, the importance of finding friends who truly understand, why kids with invisible illnesses deserve to be believed, and the hope they've found through the Arthritis Foundation community. Whether you're raising a child with JIA, living with arthritis yourself, or simply want to better understand what these young patients experience, this conversation is a powerful reminder that no one has to face arthritis alone.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome and JIA Basics 01:05 Meet the Kids 02:38 Diagnosis Stories 06:49 Treatments and Trial Error 11:05 School Friends and Uveitis 15:41 Coping on Hard Days 20:26 Advice for Newly Diagnosed 23:33 What Adults Should Know 26:42 Final Thoughts and Foundation 29:51 Rapid Fire Favorite Books 33:41 Wrap Up and Goodbye Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Drawing from their own lived experiences, they discuss everything from when to disclose a diagnosis while dating to navigating rejection, communicating with partners, managing physical intimacy, and recognizing relationship red flags. They also share practical advice for building healthy partnerships rooted in honesty, empathy, and mutual support. Along the way, Cheryl and Eileen examine what research tells us about chronic illness, loneliness, and relationship outcomes, while challenging the myth that arthritis inevitably harms romantic relationships. Instead, they argue that although chronic illness can create real challenges, it can also deepen connection, vulnerability, and resilience with the right partner. Above all, they emphasize that the strongest foundation for any relationship is cultivating self-compassion, self-worth, and a healthy relationship with yourself first. Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome and Premise 00:33 Why This Topic Matters 01:02 Eileen and Cheryl Backgrounds 03:05 When to Disclose Illness 06:26 Cheryl Dating Lessons 10:36 Myth vs Fact Impact 12:56 Self Love and Breaks 18:34 Sex and Intimacy Tips 27:28 Relationship Styles That Work 30:30 Loneliness and Health Research 34:19 Key Takeaways and Wrap Up Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this updated introduction, I share how my response to this question has changed, the importance of exploring internalized ableism, and why I think a better question is: Can I build a joyful, meaningful life with rheumatoid arthritis along for the ride? After these reflections, you'll hear the original 2021 episode and see what has changed, and what has stayed the same in my thinking over the years. This is very much informed by the rich discussions I’ve had with people in the Rheum to THRIVE communities and the Arthritis Life community at large, whether on social media, email or in person. I would love to hear your thoughts on this question after listening to the episode!  Episode at a Glance 2026 updated thoughts: 00:00 Why Revisit Normal 02:16 Redefining Normal Life 06:05 Ableism And New Goals 08:50 Acceptance Not Giving Up 17:24 Thriving Without Remission 19:28 Toolboxes Fixing And Adapting 22:22 Community And Imperfection 2021 original audio:  26:08 Origins Of The Question 29:43 “Normal Compared To What?” 33:25 Uncertainty And Remission Paths 34:44 Truth Bombs And New Normal 41:43 Pain Versus Suffering 44:34 ACT In Practice 50:43 Rheum To THRIVE Framework 53:22 Final Takeaways Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Hazelwood emphasizes the importance of balancing risks and benefits and provides insights into how modern treatments can significantly improve quality of life. The episode emphasizes the safety and necessity of these medications and highlights the benefits of starting treatment early to prevent long-term complications.  This episode is particularly valuable for anyone newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who is navigating the complexities and concerns surrounding medication. Episode at a glance: Meet Rheumatologist & Researcher Dr. Glenn Hazelwood: Busting Myths About Medications Challenging Stigmas Around Advanced Treatments Addressing Misconceptions About Medication Use Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl Crow, OT created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this empowering conversation, Cheryl  and Dr. Kara Wada explore what it means to take charge of your health with conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Dr Kara shares how her experience as a patient with Sjogren’s taught her things she never learned as a allergist-immunologist doctor. They discuss practical strategies for rebuilding trust in your body, the critical role of understanding your core values, and how to find the right support — whether through programs like Rheum to Thrive or events like the Virtual Sjögren’s Summit.  Together, they show how education, advocacy, and mindset shifts can help patients move from fear to confidence in managing their immune health. Episode at a glance: Sjogren’s and MCAS 101: what is Sjogren’s and MCAS? Dr. Kara Wada’s personal journey: Sjögren’s and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and how it shaped her mission to empower patients. Understanding "Immune Confidence": learning to trust your body again after autoimmune and allergic disease diagnoses. The importance of patient advocacy and education: how Dr. Wada supports patients across multiple states through educational visits. Healthcare system issues: why are complex patients being given the short end of the stick, and what are some creative solutions? Upcoming events and opportunities: the Virtual Sjögren’s Summit and Cheryl’s evolving focus with Rheum to THRIVE. Finding balance between personal life and professional advocacy while living with chronic illness. Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They also explore exciting new therapies like CAR T-cell treatment, along with practical advice on self-advocacy, building the right healthcare team, and what it truly means to thrive while living with a rheumatic disease. Episode at a glance: Why Dr. Singh became a rheumatologist after watching her grandmother struggle with osteoarthritis What current research shows about biologics and cancer risk Why most cancer fears surrounding arthritis medications are often more complicated than they seem How cancer immunotherapy can sometimes trigger inflammatory arthritis The importance of communication between rheumatologists, oncologists, and other specialists What patients should know about skin cancer, lymphoma, and other cancer risks The emerging role of CAR-T cell therapy in autoimmune diseases Why researchers are increasingly optimistic about long-term remission and potential cures Advice for newly diagnosed patients navigating inflammatory arthritis What it means to truly "thrive" while living with rheumatic disease Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They explain how occupational therapists, physical therapists, mental health professionals, pharmacists, and others can help you manage fatigue, pain, anxiety, daily routines, and life after diagnosis, while also sharing practical tips for advocating for referrals and support.  Episode at a glance: Why autoimmune arthritis care involves more than a rheumatologist and medications The surprising evidence behind occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy, and mental health support How OT can help with fatigue, pacing, daily routines, parenting, work, and mental health, not just hand pain Why anxiety, grief, and depression are common after diagnosis, and why getting support early matters Real-life strategies for managing fatigue and adapting daily tasks without “giving up” The hidden barriers that prevent patients from accessing multidisciplinary care Tips for advocating for referrals and building a supportive care team Cheryl and Eileen’s personal experiences navigating rheumatoid arthritis, fatigue, anxiety, and self-management   Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE,  an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.  See all the details  and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl and Mariah discuss everything from medication decisions during pregnancy to adapting family life, traveling with chronic illness, managing expectations, and finding “micro moments” of joy along the way.  If you’ve ever worried that chronic illness might prevent you from building the life or family you want, this episode offers compassionate, practical encouragement that you do not have to give up on your goals, even if you have to adapt the path forward.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome Mariah Leach 02:18 Mariah’s Diagnosis Story Recap 04:00 Why She Started the Mamas Facing Forward Group 13:41 Hive Mind Parenting Tips 17:51 Writing The Pregnancy Book 20:46 Medication Risk Tradeoffs 24:51 Pregnancy Remission Options 27:24 Book Research and Purpose 28:17 Parenting With Arthritis 31:43 Adapting Dreams and Grief 37:17 Tools and Book Picks Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.  See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

She shares her complex diagnostic journey across multiple autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, highlighting the uncertainty and overlap many patients experience. Cheryl and Lorraine discuss shifting from a “cure” mindset to one focused on management, the role of community (including Rheum to THRIVE), and how writing can be a powerful tool for processing and meaning-making. Together, they explore how reframing expectations, finding connection, and letting go of the illusion of control can help people feel less alone and more capable. If you’re newly diagnosed, this conversation offers both validation and a gentle reminder that, over time, navigating your health and your life can become more manageable. Episode at a glance: 00:00–03:00 Introduction + Lorraine’s background 03:00–08:30 Diagnostic journey across multiple conditions 08:30–12:30 Coping, loss of identity, and community support 12:30–16:00 The “acceptance paradox” and letting go of cure culture 16:00–20:00 Writing as a processing tool 20:00–28:00 The concept of “body weather” and chaotic systems 28:00–33:00 Environmental parallels and climate connections 33:00–41:00 Inside the book’s metaphors and structure 41:00–50:00 Writing advice and creative process 50:00–54:00 Advice for newly diagnosed patients 54:00–58:00 Tools, quotes, and recommendations 58:00–End Thriving with chronic illness + closing thoughts Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE,  an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.  See all the details  and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eileen and Gittel talk about why they’re passionate about leading support spaces, what those groups are really like (spoiler: welcoming, not intimidating), and how connection can make a huge difference. You’ll also hear gentle, practical advice for those early days like pacing yourself, adapting as you go, and redefining what it means to thrive. It’s a comforting reminder that even with chronic illness, you can still build a full, meaningful life and you don’t have to figure it out alone. And if you’d like to join one of the latest Rheum to THRIVE groups, you can do so here.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Meet the New Facilitators 01:13 Diagnoses and Comorbidities 04:35 Why Eileen Facilitates 08:06 Why Gittel (GT) Facilitates 12:09 Why Support Groups Matter 15:27 Program Structure Highlights 22:43 GT’s Teaching Style 23:32 Creating Safe Space 24:28 Alumni Group Exploration 25:46 Eileen’s Facilitation Style 33:42 Common Support Group Worries Addressed 37:48 Importance of Diversity In Groups 41:41 Reflections on Thriving With Arthritis Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The conversation also dives into the emotional side of chronic illness, including fear of movement, the importance of interoception (body awareness), and how to avoid the boom–bust cycle of overdoing it. Cheryl and Jamie reflect on the shift from a “warrior” mindset to one rooted in acceptance, adaptability, and long-term self-care. Ultimately, this episode offers a hopeful, realistic perspective: that thriving with arthritis isn’t about pushing harder, it’s about finding what works for your body and building a life alongside it, not in spite of it.  Episode at a glance: 01:27 Jamie’s Diagnosis Journey 05:41 Processing The Reality Online 07:05 Gender And Community Support 11:50 From Isolation To Teaching 19:12 Why Accessibility Matters 22:59 Adaptations And Safer Strength 31:58 Interoception Explained 33:23 Proprioception and Arthritis 36:02 When Awareness Becomes Sensitivity 36:57 Progression Beyond Rehab Sheets 39:55 Progressive Overload in Flares 42:45 Just Right Challenge 43:09 Accessible Training Tools 45:47 Acceptance and Thriving 48:58 Community and Uncertainty Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.