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In this episode, I welcome back Dr. Meraj Khan, co-founder and CEO of Digi Bios, to answer a practical question: is AI actually ready for real-world asthma care? We talk about why the biggest barrier is no longer the technology itself. The real gap is translation into care. Many AI tools struggle with workflow integration, real-world validation, and reimbursement models. If it does not fit inside the clinic, it will not be used. Dr. Khan breaks down where AI can help today: continuous monitoring, early screening, triage, risk stratification, and decision support. The goal is not to replace clinicians. It is to empower them and support patients with clearer insights. We also explore his AI readiness framework: define the problem, manage it properly, then operationalize it in real settings. Trust becomes central. That means transparency, explainability, diverse datasets, and ongoing auditing to reduce bias. Using Lung Sense as a case study, we discuss lessons learned from moving beyond controlled research environments into hospital deployment, long-term care, and remote settings. The feedback from clinicians is clear: do not give us more data. Give us clarity. This conversation is about implementation, accountability, and what it will actually take for AI to improve asthma outcomes. 00:30 Welcome Back Dr Khan 01:45 Why Adoption Lags 05:03 What AI Can Do Now 08:13 Clinic Reality Check 12:17 Why Tools Fail 15:10 Patient Expectations 17:44 Lung Sense Lessons 22:22 Refining With Feedback 24:16 What Trustworthy AI Means 28:16 Patients and AI Literacy 29:51 Scaling Adoption for Patients 32:23 Medical Disclaimer and Scope 32:46 Can AI Prevent Attacks 36:07 Where AI Helps Most Today 38:06 Data Bias and Governance 42:55 Myth vs Reality AI Limits 49:00 When AI Is Clinic Ready 50:54 What’s Next for DigiBios 54:01 One Last Breath Message Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I sit down with Jenna Reynolds, Vice President of Mission, Advocacy, and Research at Asthma Canada, to talk about the real gaps in asthma care across the country and what meaningful progress could look like. From diagnosis challenges to medication access, education, and environmental impacts, this conversation explores how systems, policy, and lived experience intersect — and why better coordination could change outcomes for millions of Canadians. We also discuss the role of advocacy, why education must be treated as essential treatment, and how organizations like Asthma Canada are working to make care more equitable and proactive rather than crisis-driven. What we discuss in this episode: • Why asthma is still underestimated despite affecting millions of Canadians • The gaps in diagnosis, follow-up care, and patient education • How geography, income, and community resources shape asthma outcomes • The impact of medication cost and formulary access on patient health • The growing influence of environmental factors like air quality and wildfires • Why integrated, team-based care could redefine asthma management in Canada Resources mentioned in this episode: Asthma Canada: https://asthma.ca Asthma Canada helpline and support resources: https://asthma.ca/get-help/ If you or someone you care about lives with asthma, these resources can help you better understand the condition, access support, and advocate for improved care. Chapters: 00:30 Welcome + What You’ll Learn About Asthma Care in Canada 01:23 Jenna Reynolds’ Personal ‘Why’ Behind Asthma Advocacy 02:24 The Pattern Asthma Canada Hears Most: ‘It’s Just My Asthma’ 03:07 Reality Check: What’s Broken in Asthma Care Right Now 05:30 Spotting the System Gaps: Red Flags & What to Do Next 06:37 Diagnosis Done Right: Spirometry, Misdiagnosis, and the Domino Effect 07:48 Follow-Up & Ongoing Management: Beyond the First Inhaler 09:29 Who Gets Left Behind: Income, Rural Access, and Indigenous Health Gaps 11:13 Education That Changes Outcomes: 3 Things Everyone Should Know 13:25 Inhaler Technique & Action Plans: What ‘Good Education’ Includes 15:13 Asthma at School: Policies, Training, and Ryan’s Law 16:57 Medication Costs & Coverage: How Affordability Drives Outcomes 19:33 When Controllers Aren’t Affordable + Making Biologics Accessible 21:34 The Ideal Asthma Care Pathway (and What’s Realistic in 5–10 Years) 25:02 Myth vs Reality: Common Misconceptions That Put People at Risk 26:38 3 Things Patients Can Do This Week to Improve Control 28:26 Caregivers’ Checklist: Protecting and Supporting Kids with Asthma 29:43 Self-Advocacy Without Burnout: Being Heard in the System 31:09 Environment & Climate: Wildfires, Air Quality, and Asthma Canada’s Work Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Jeremy Saunders, Canadian actor, podcaster, and public speaker, to explore what it truly means to live with cystic fibrosis and how he has used storytelling, humor, and vulnerability to break health stigma. Jeremy shares what day-to-day life with CF looks like, including managing complex treatments, navigating travel, and balancing physical and mental health. We talk about how new medications like Trikafta have changed the landscape of CF care, while also acknowledging the realities that many people still face. Jeremy also discusses his “expiry date” mindset, embracing mortality, and choosing to live fully despite uncertainty. We dive into the origins and evolution of Sick Boy, the role of humor in serious conversations, and why authentic, sometimes uncomfortable dialogue is essential for building understanding and community. Jeremy also reflects on receiving the Meritorious Service Medal, his work with Breathless, and the projects he continues to pursue to raise awareness and support others living with chronic illness. This episode offers honest perspective for anyone living with a chronic condition, supporting someone who is, or interested in how storytelling and openness can change the way we talk about health. 🎧 Sick Boy Podcast: https://www.sickboypodcast.com/ 🎧 Breathless Podcast: https://www.cysticfibrosis.ca/breathless 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast 00:30 – Introduction to Jeremy Saunders 00:32 – Jeremy’s career and achievements 01:17 – Disclaimer and welcome 01:42 – Jeremy’s experience with cystic fibrosis 03:10 – Understanding cystic fibrosis beyond the lungs 06:46 – Daily life with CF 11:37 – Traveling with cystic fibrosis 16:42 – Embracing mortality and living fully 25:11 – Advancements in CF treatment 28:45 – Humor in serious illness 28:54 – The importance of authentic conversations 29:59 – Navigating social interactions during hardship 31:40 – Humor and seriousness in Sick Boy 32:47 – Crossing the line in vulnerable conversations 37:01 – The evolution and impact of Sick Boy 40:33 – Receiving the Meritorious Service Medal 44:12 – The mission behind Breathless 48:27 – Living with uncertainty and optimism 51:55 – The power of open dialogue 56:13 – Upcoming projects and final thoughts Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I sit down with Eric Closs, Founder and CEO of Daily Breath, to explore the powerful (and often overlooked) relationship between outdoor air quality, environmental exposure, and respiratory health — especially asthma. Eric explains how environmental conditions like air pollution, pollen, wildfire smoke, temperature shifts, and weather patterns can quietly increase risk, even before symptoms show up. Through Daily Breath, his mission is to help people anticipate and prevent attacks using personalized, real-time environmental data, rather than relying on generalized forecasts or reacting when it’s already too late. He also shares the “light bulb” moment that sparked the creation of Daily Breath after witnessing his sister’s rheumatoid arthritis flare up due to weather changes. That experience revealed a major gap in modern healthcare: environmental triggers are real, measurable, and highly personal — yet they’re still often ignored in asthma care. Our conversation goes beyond asthma alone, connecting environmental exposure to broader health outcomes like cardiovascular strain, the impact of cumulative exposure over time, and the need for localized, actionable information that helps people make smarter daily choices. 🔗 Learn more: https://www.dailybreathforecast.com/ 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast 00:31 Introduction to Eric Closs and Daily Breath 01:42 The Light Bulb Moment: Inspiration Behind Daily Breath 03:25 Focusing on Asthma: Identifying the Gaps in Care 04:54 The Heartbreaking Story of Diamond Conway 06:39 Understanding Environmental Triggers and Their Impact 12:41 The Role of Weather in Asthma and Respiratory Health 14:47 Cumulative Exposure: Why It Matters 23:57 Personalized Environmental Health Risk Index 29:34 Recognizing Early Symptoms and Environmental Risks 30:34 The Importance of Bedroom Air Quality 30:52 Nasal Rinses and Environmental Oversights 32:40 Health System Failures and Environmental Triggers 34:49 Integrating Environmental Data into Healthcare 38:36 Communicating Air Quality to Asthma Patients 41:50 Practical Outdoor Tips for Asthma Management 45:45 Reframing Asthma Care Around Environmental Risks 49:20 Future of Environmental Awareness in Respiratory Health 53:26 Final Thoughts and Resources Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Annelise Bauer, founder of In-Bodied, to explore how conscious breathing and mindful movement can support people living with asthma and other respiratory conditions. Drawing from her own experience with asthma, Annelise shares how Buteyko breathing, nervous system regulation, and breath awareness can help reduce symptoms, manage anxiety, and improve overall wellbeing. We also walk through a short, safe breathing exercise, discuss how to get started with breathwork, and explore how these practices can be integrated alongside traditional medical care. This episode offers practical insight for anyone living with asthma, managing a chronic respiratory condition, or looking to improve their breathing, mental health, and quality of life. 🔗 Learn more: https://www.in-bodied.com/ 📸 Instagram: @in.bodied 🎧 More episodes: https://beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast 00:31 – Introduction to Annelise Bauer and her work 01:50 – Annelise’s personal journey living with asthma 05:35 – Why conscious breathing matters 08:49 – Understanding Buteyko Breathing 13:02 – Guided breathing exercise demonstration 19:44 – How to get started with breathwork safely 23:00 – Breathwork, mental health, and nervous system regulation 26:25 – Integrating breathwork with traditional medical care 32:42 – Annelise’s programs and final thoughts 37:28 – Final signature question and Annelise’s message Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

Season 2 of Beyond the Wheeze is here. Join host Josh Rheaume, The Asthma Runner, for real stories and expert insights on asthma, fitness, and lung health. This season explores how mindset, movement, and community help people live and breathe beyond their limits. Hear from patients, doctors, and advocates making a difference in respiratory care. Episode 1 drops on Tuesday, October 28th. Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

Season 1 of Beyond the Wheeze has been filled with powerful conversations, lived experiences, and expert insights, all centered around asthma, lung health, and the people who are pushing for better care. In this special highlight episode, we revisit some of the most memorable moments from the season. You’ll hear from patient advocates, leading clinicians, researchers, and innovators who are transforming the way we understand and manage respiratory conditions. In this episode: Breakthroughs in asthma management and digital health toolsReal patient stories of resilience, advocacy, and thriving with chronic lung diseaseInsights from clinicians and researchers driving change in respiratory careA reflection on how far we’ve come and where we’re headed in Season 2This episode is a celebration of community, knowledge, and the power of lived expertise. If you’ve missed an episode or want a quick recap, this is the perfect place to start. Season 2 begins October 28. Additional Resources: Beyondthewheeze.ca to explore past episodes, blog posts, and resourcesAsthma Canada for support, advocacy, and education for people living with asthmaLung Health Foundation for resources on lung disease prevention, research, and supportFollow & Subscribe New episodes of Beyond the Wheeze drop every second Tuesday, with recap blogs every Friday. Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, we explore the world of pediatric asthma education with Dr. Mark Schnellinger, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Children’s Minnesota and the author of The Medicine Stars, an adventure novel that helps middle schoolers understand asthma through storytelling. We explore: The challenges families face during pediatric asthma crises, from medication access to socioeconomic barriersHow The Medicine Stars blends storytelling and medical knowledge to educate children about asthmaThe role of schools, families, and communities in creating supportive environmentsWhy empowerment through knowledge reduces fear and builds confidence for children with asthmaBroader systemic issues and the future of pediatric asthma education and careDr. Schnellinger shares his journey from emergency medicine to creative author, showing how narrative can be a powerful tool to help children and families better understand asthma. Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:24 – Meet Dr. Mark Schnellinger 08:44 – Storytelling as a tool in medicine 15:38 – Helping kids understand asthma 21:40 – Lessons for parents and families 27:33 – Writing The Medicine Stars 33:20 – Final thoughts and reflections Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode The Medicine Stars by Dr. Mark Schnellinger Asthma Canada Helpline Connect with Certified Respiratory Educators for support and guidance: Asthma Canada Helpline American Lung Association – Asthma Resources Access educational tools and asthma management guides: lung.org/asthma Camp Superkids A summer camp that combines fun with asthma education: Camp Superkids – American Lung Association For more episode resources, guest bios, blogs, and previous episodes, visit beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, we delve into the evolving world of digital health and mobile apps for respiratory care with Dr. Shirley Quach, a leading researcher in mHealth for asthma and COPD. We explore: The promises and pitfalls of mobile health apps for chronic respiratory conditionsHow to evaluate app quality, reliability, and privacyWays digital tools can support, but never replace, clinical careThe future of AI and emerging technologies in asthma and COPD managementPractical guidance for patients, families, clinicians, and researchersDr. Quach shares her insights on how digital tools can empower patients to manage their conditions effectively while highlighting the importance of collaboration between patients, families, and healthcare providers. Episode Chapters: 01:18 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:08 Dr. Quach's Career and Research Journey 05:01 The Role of Mobile Health in Respiratory Care 10:40 Evaluating Mobile Health Apps 12:31 Features and Effectiveness of COPD Apps 22:30 Public vs. Controlled Trial Apps 28:59 Privacy, Security, and Regulatory Compliance 32:37 Clinically Viable App Features 38:12 Empowering Patients in Self-Management 39:54 Connecting Digital Health to Patient Care 40:21 Pharmacological Advances and Digital Tools 41:26 The Role of Education in Self-Management 42:23 Non-Pharmacological Techniques and Digital Health 44:39 Stakeholder Insights on Apps and Self-Management 50:40 Facilitators and Barriers to App Use 57:59 Future of Digital Health in Respiratory Care 01:03:38 Advice for Aspiring Clinicians and Researchers 01:06:07 Final Thoughts and Resources 01:10:20 Philosophical Reflections on Health Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Shirley Quach’s Thesis: The State of COPD Apps.Asthma Canada Helpline – Connect with Certified Respiratory Educators for expert support and advice.COPD Foundation Educational Materials – Access a variety of useful booklets, flyers, and tools to help you learn more about living and thriving with COPD.COPD360social – Join an interactive online community for patients, their families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.For more episode resources, guest bios, blogs, and previous episodes, visit beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast. Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode, I sit down with Glenn Kitchener, a passionate COPD advocate who opens up about his journey from smoking-related lung disease to finding new ways to live well with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Glenn was diagnosed in 2010 shortly after quitting smoking. He shares the struggles he faced in the beginning and how education, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes at West Park Healthcare Center’s Respiratory Day Hospital helped him move forward. We also take a closer look at COPD itself, including symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options, while highlighting why early diagnosis and proper management make such a difference. Glenn talks about his advocacy work with the Lung Health Foundation and offers thoughtful advice for people who are newly diagnosed and their families. His story shows how important it is to stay informed, seek out support, and find ways to live well even with a chronic lung condition. You can find additional resources, as well as more information about Glenn and what we discussed in this episode, at beyondthewheeze.ca/episode-22 . Chapters  01:03 Introduction to Glenn Kitchener's Journey  02:06 Understanding COPD: A Quick Overview  04:16 Glenn's Diagnosis and Early Challenges  08:03 The West Park Experience  14:04 Living Well with COPD  21:57 Advocacy and Raising Awareness  23:18 First In-Person Better Breathing Week Experience  23:51 Empowerment Through Advocacy and Support Networks  26:08 Finding Reliable Health Information  31:14 Personal Reflections and Advocacy Journey  34:50 Final Thoughts and Advice for Living with COPD  40:29 The Impact of Smoking and Vaping  42:22 Conclusion and Call to Action Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Neil Maharaj, a respirologist with over 20 years of experience and the Medical Director at Niagara Pulmonary Medicine and Diagnostics. We talked about his journey in respiratory medicine, the importance of pulmonary function testing, and how technology and AI are starting to reshape patient care. Dr. Maharaj shared what inspired him throughout his career, how he built a unique community-based clinic in Niagara, and the barriers patients often face in accessing timely asthma care. We also explored practical advice for clinicians and patients alike, the growing need for respiratory specialists, and how AI could change the future of healthcare. Along the way, Dr. Maharaj highlighted the importance of integrity, collaboration, and open communication in medicine, and reminded us that kindness and consistency matter both professionally and personally. For more resources, links to Dr. Maharaj’s clinic, and additional episode materials, check out https://www.beyondthewheeze.ca/podcast. Chapters 01:19 Introduction and Guest Welcome  03:01 Dr. Maharaj's Career and Inspirations  05:18 Founding Niagara Pulmonary Medicine  09:32 The Role of Pulmonary Function Testing  14:26 AI and the Future of Pulmonary Medicine  22:12 Introduction to Niagara Pulmonary Medicine  24:01 Unique Challenges in Niagara  26:38 Advice for Clinicians in Smaller Communities  29:08 Empowering Patients and Caregivers  31:34 Personal Reflections and Leadership  36:39 Final Thoughts and Future Projects  38:30 Philosophical Reflections Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Dr. Teresa To, a senior scientist at the Hospital for Sick Children and one of Canada’s leading voices in pediatric asthma and population health research. Dr. To shares her insights on how early life exposures like air pollution, secondhand smoke, and socioeconomic factors can shape a child’s risk of developing asthma. We explore how early intervention, improved access to care, and data-driven research are essential to changing outcomes. Dr. To also walks us through her work with the OASIS Research Program and how she uses ICES Big Data to inform everything from clinical practice to public health policy. She talks openly about mentorship, the importance of gender equity in science, and the promise of AI and digital tools in helping deliver more personalized asthma treatment. This conversation is packed with both heart and science. Whether you’re living with asthma, treating it, or researching it, there's something here for you. You can also learn more about Dr. To’s lifelong commitment to asthma research in her profile from Asthma Canada, by clicking here. Chapter Markers: 01:24 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:42 Dr. To’s Journey into Asthma Research 05:07 Early Life Exposures and Asthma 08:46 Air Pollution and Public Health 12:53 Early Intervention and Personalized Treatment 16:33 Barriers in Asthma Care 27:26 Research Highlights and Big Data Insights 39:50 Mentorship, Equity, and Collaboration 46:12 Guest Final Thoughts and Plugs Additional Resources: Asthma Canada’s Asthma & Allergy Helpline Get support from a Certified Respiratory Educator: https://asthma.ca/get-help/asthma-and-allergy-help/ OASIS Research Program https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/research/initiatives/oasis ICES (Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences) https://www.ices.on.ca/ Health Canada: Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index.html WHO – Asthma and Air Pollution Facts https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this emotionally charged episode, we welcome Christine Fader, a caregiver advocate, author, and cancer widow. Christine shares her profound journey following her husband Michael's diagnosis and battle with two separate cancers. With moving honesty, she reflects on personal loss, the challenges of navigating trauma-informed cancer care, and her mission to improve support for caregivers. This discussion highlights the often-overlooked issues faced by cancer patients and their families, emphasizing the need for better awareness and funding for lung cancer. Christine's story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the importance of advocacy in transforming healthcare. Visit Christine Fader's website to find more information on her free workshops and other available resources at https://www.christinefader.com. Be sure to visit https://www.lunghealth.ca to learn how you can help those affected by lung cancer. 01:04 Introduction to Christine Fader's Journey 02:43 Michael's First Cancer Diagnosis 04:14 The Second Cancer Diagnosis 08:14 The Battle with Pain and Palliative Care 11:48 Christine's Advocacy and Reflections 15:11 Challenges in Rural Health and Trauma-Informed Care 24:20 Michael's Childhood Trauma and Its Impact 31:37 The Hidden Struggles of Cancer 32:28 Michael's Resilience and Positivity 33:10 Lung Cancer Awareness and Misconceptions 35:32 Challenges in Lung Cancer Screening 37:44 Supporting Caregivers and Grieving 47:49 Personal Reflections and Moving Forward 53:59 Final Thoughts and Advocacy Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode, I’m joined by Fahreen Walimohamed, a health informatics professional and Implementation Manager at OnCall Health. We dig into her career journey, her passion for using health tech to improve care, and how she’s working to empower patients in a system that can be tough to navigate. Fahreen shares stories from projects she’s proud of — like improving home oxygen care — and we talk about how digital health tools are changing the game, especially for people managing chronic respiratory conditions. We also dive into patient data access, the importance of health equity, and the often-overlooked role of caregivers. Fahreen opens up about her leadership style, advocacy work, and her platform, Empower Speaks, where she’s creating space for tough but needed conversations in healthcare. This one’s packed with practical insights about trusting your gut, speaking up for what matters, and using digital tools to better manage your health. Chapters: 01:10 Introduction to Fahreen Walimohamed  02:46 Podcast Takeover and Recent Meeting  03:43 Reflecting on a Distinguished Career  04:00 Home Oxygen Project and Quality of Life  11:18 Digital Health and Patient Empowerment  15:51 Digital Health in Chronic Disease Care  20:41 Virtual Care and Patient Portals  26:55 Challenges in Patient Data Access  31:54 Equity in Digital Health Tools  33:58 Addressing Language Barriers in Healthcare  34:20 Equity and Social Determinants of Health  37:43 The Role of AI in Healthcare  38:41 Leadership, Advocacy, and Empowerment  51:10 Personal Reflections and Motivations  57:60 Final Thoughts and Future Projects Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I’m joined by Dr. Meraj Khan, a clinical research scientist and CEO of DigiBiomics. We dive into how AI is changing the landscape of respiratory health and what it could mean for people living with asthma. Dr. Khan walks me through his career journey, the story behind DigiBiomics, and how their AI-driven diagnostics — including a tool called LungSense — are helping detect lung disease earlier and personalize care for patients. We get into the potential of AI in asthma management, what advancements might be around the corner, and how collaborations across healthcare and tech are moving the field forward. We also talk about the ethical challenges that come with AI in medicine, and Dr. Khan shares some solid advice for anyone looking to work at the intersection of healthcare and technology. If you’re curious about where asthma care is headed or how AI might fit into future treatment plans, this is a conversation worth hearing. Visit DigiBiomics website by clicking here, or connect with Dr. Khan on LinkedIn, here. Timestamps: 01:25 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:22 Dr. Khan’s Career Journey 04:16 The Mission Behind DigiBiomics 06:37 AI’s Role in Respiratory Health 07:25 Future of AI in Asthma Care 09:33 DigiBiomics Services and Personalized Care 13:29 Collaborations and Global Impact 18:43 Ethics and Challenges in AI Adoption 28:21 Personal Reflections and Advice 34:18 Final Thoughts and Conclusion Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze): Check us out on InstagramFollow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedInConnect with us on TikTokFollow us on FacebookSpeaking services, media, blog & news on our websiteEmail Josh directly at [email protected] video podcasts more your thing? Check us out on YouTube! Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.