Artificial intelligence (AI) is being utilized in healthcare for many purposes. Patients are wondering how they can safely and effectively use AI tools to educate themselves and to manage their health. Amber and guest Michael Tresca discuss what AI is, how it works, and why skepticism and source verification are essential. They highlight practical, lower-risk ways patients might use AI, such as organizing personal health data, drafting appointment questions, and explaining medical terms. The emphasis is on ongoing education, privacy concerns, responsible use, and the importance of "trust but verify" when using AI for critical health decisions without professional input.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD196

Sign up for Mike's AI newsletter: AI Unplugged on LinkedIn

Timestamps:

• 00:05 — Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 01:20 — Recap of Previous Episode and Relationship Disclosure
• 02:16 — Defining AI and Common Misconceptions
• 04:14 — AI in Clinical and Patient Use
• 05:11 — AI in Everyday Search and Unintentional Use
• 06:39 — AI Hallucinations: What They Are and Why They Happen
• 10:13 — Importance of AI Showing Its Work and Sources
• 10:58 — Challenges in Understanding AI's Reasoning
• 14:33 — AI Training Data and Source Reliability
• 15:31 — Risks of Outdated or Inaccurate Health Information
• 21:35 — AI's Responsibility in Providing Answers
• 23:13 — Tolerance for Error and Regulation in AI
• 24:02 — Transition to Patient Use Cases
• 24:19 — Using AI to Organize Medical Information
• 26:23 — Drafting Questions for Appointments with AI
• 27:19 — Tracking Symptoms or Diet with AI
• 28:22 — AI for Coping with Brain Fog or Fatigue
• 31:10 — Listener Feedback: Avoiding AI
• 32:31 — Listener Feedback: Privacy, Data Breaches, and Environmental Concerns
• 34:45 — Listener Feedback: Worry About Errors
• 36:29 — Listener Feedback: Using AI for Definitions and Basic Research
• 37:24 — Listener Feedback: Using AI to Explain Test Results
• 40:31 — Listener Feedback: Healthcare Providers Using AI for Notetaking
• 43:30 — Ethics of Recording Medical Visits
• 44:42 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• 46:25 — Outro and Credits

Find Michael Tresca at World of Welstar:

• Twitter: @WorldofWelstar
• Instagram: @world_of_welstar
• Facebook: @worldofwelstar
• MeWe: http://tinyurl.com/MeWeTRPG
• Threads: http://tinyurl.com/threadsWOW
• Bluesky: https://blskyl.ink/worldofwelstar
• Amazon: http://amzn.to/41jMn5h
• EN World: http://tinyurl.com/ENWRPG
• Drive Through RPG: http://tinyurl.com/DTRPGMNT
• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talien

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

The bedroom can be a place of anxiety for people of all genders living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). How can you boost your confidence and deepen your connection with your partner while living with IBD? Dr. Stacy Friedman is a clinical sexologist and intimacy coach living with ulcerative colitis. She explains how IBD affects intimacy, body image, dating, and relationships. Dr. Stacy shares her personal experiences and professional advice, with a focus on communication, trust, and how to know if a partner will be supportive. In this episode, we talk about why intimacy is more than sex and give tips about how to manage challenges. Dr. Stacy also encourages listeners to seek out support and embrace connection in the ways that work for them. Transcript and more at: https://bit.ly/AIBD195 Get Dr Stacy's book "Confessions & Lessons of a Sexpert: The Ultimate Guide to Intimacy and Better Sex" Timestamps 00:00 — Introduction and Episode Overview 03:10 — Dr. Stacy's IBD Journey 05:30 — Sex and Intimacy Coaching Explained 07:44 — Body Image and IBD 09:59 — Fear, Embarrassment, and Communication 12:26 — Intimacy Beyond Sex 14:32 — Communication and Relationship Dynamics 17:18 — Trust and Emotional Safety in Relationships 17:49 — Embracing Unpredictability 20:38 — Disclosing IBD or Ostomy to Partners 22:53 — Personal Stories of Disclosure 25:12 — Sex Coach vs. Sex Therapist 27:09 — Who Benefits from Sex Coaching 28:51 — Getting Started with Sex Coaching 30:43 — Changing Mindsets About Intimacy 31:32 — What to Expect from Coaching Sessions 33:37 — Resources and The Purple Passion Project 35:13 — Pelvic Floor Therapy and Additional Support 36:54 — Closing Remarks and Appreciation 38:01 — Outro and Credits Key Topics

• Impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on intimacy and relationships
• Personal experiences of living with ulcerative colitis
• Effects of IBD on mental health and body image
• Communication and trust in relationships for individuals with IBD
• Navigating dating and intimacy challenges related to IBD
• Importance of open discussions about medical conditions with partners
• Strategies for building supportive and understanding relationships
• Redefining intimacy beyond sexual intercourse
• Role of sex coaching versus sex therapy in addressing intimacy issues
• Resources and support available for individuals seeking to improve intimacy and relationships while managing IBD

Find Dr Stacy Friedman on:

• Web: DrStacyFriedman.com
• Apple Podcasts: Purple Passion Project
• Spotify: Purple Passion Project
• YouTube: @DrStacyFriedman
• TikTok: @drstacyfriedman
• Facebook: @drstacyfriedman
• Instagram: @drstacyfriedman
• LinkedIn: @drstacyfriedman

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. How can we approach AI with both curiosity and caution, especially as it becomes more integrated into daily life? If we're not aware of it and looking for it, AI could become inserted into spaces where we aren't comfortable with it. Amber talks with her son Brenden, a computer science student, about recognizing AI-generated content, the importance of media literacy, and the ethical challenges technology brings. This conversation offers some practical uses for AI, such as learning new skills or automating mundane tasks, while pointing out that creativity and critical thinking are human pursuits. We stress how AI isn't a replacement for expertise and that we should all question what we see online to encourage the responsible use of AI tools.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD194

Find Brenden Tresca at:

• LinkedIn: Brenden Tresca
• WHNU 88.7: Tech Fest radio show

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

We explore the idea of setting intentions instead of resolutions in the new year, which are more adaptable for people living with IBD. Amber shares clips from guests who explain their intentions, such as prosper, discipline, generosity, consistency, and the importance of taking breaks. Each guest highlights how intentions guide actions and mindset, emphasizing personal growth, resilience, and kindness, despite unpredictability.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD193

Chapters: 00:05 — Introduction to Intentions Clip Show 01:14 — Why Intentions Over Resolutions 02:31 — Lisa: Prosper and Uplift 04:48 — Rachel: Discipline, Accountability, Generosity 06:46 — Stacey: Grounded Goals and Consistency 10:57 — Jen Hubley: Give Yourself a Break 12:06 — Episode Wrap-Up and Call to Action

Find Lisa Zawrotny of Positively Productive Systems at:

• Web: Positively Productive
• LinkedIn: Positively Productive Systems
• Facebook: Positively Productive
• Twitter: Positively Lisa
• Instagram: Positively Lisa
• YouTube: Positively Lisa
• TikTok: Positively Living
• Pinterest: Positively Productive

Find Rachel Bee of Infusion Hero at:

• Web: InfusionHero.com
• LinkedIn: Rachel Bee
• Facebook: @infusionhero
• Instagram: @infusion_hero
• TikTok: @infusion.hero

Find Stacey Collins, MA, RDN/LDN at:

• Web: Stacey Collins Nutrition
• Twitter: @staceynellc_rd
• Instagram: @staceynellc_rd
• LinkedIn: @stacey-cutler-collins

Find Jen Hubley Luckwaldt and The Job Hopper at:

• Web: The Job Hopper
• Bluesky: @jenlucky.bsky.social
• Substack: Old Mom Things
• LinkedIn: @jen-hubley-luckwaldt

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Looking for your next great read? Host of About IBD, Amber Tresca, gives her year-end roundup of books, with brief summaries and her reflections on each. The selections cover a mix of genres, from speculative fiction and psychological thrillers to memoir and dark fantasy, often touching on themes of trauma, community, self-acceptance, and chronic illness. Amber shares how the stories resonated with her experience as a GenX mom living with a chronic illness, offering both recommendations and caveats. She also discusses practical tips for accessing books affordably through libraries and apps, and encourages exploring local bookstores or thrift shops to boost your reading journey and sense of community.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD192

Find Amber's 2025 books at Bookshop.org

Chapters:

• 00:05 — Introduction and Episode Overview — Amber introduces herself, the podcast, and the year-end book review episode.
• 01:08 — Book 1: Beautyland by Marie Helene Bertino — Summary, themes, and reflections on the coming-of-age story of an alien observing human life.
• 03:35 Book 2: The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult — Summary, dual timelines, ancient Egypt, and personal frustrations with the main character.
• 06:10 — Book 3: Doctor Sleep by Stephen King — Summary, differences between book and movie, trauma, and post-Shining life for Danny Torrance.
• 09:57 — Book 4: We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer — Summary, psychological horror, reality distortion, and the challenges of ambiguous endings.
• 12:23 — Book 5: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig — Summary, alternate lives, regret, self-acceptance, and critique of the book's premise.
• 16:07 — Library Resources and Digital Media Tips — Amber shares how she accesses books via library apps and encourages listeners to use library resources.
• 17:36 — Book 6: A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher — Summary, dark fantasy, abuse, coming of age, and resilience in a retelling of Goose Girl.
• 20:40 — Book 7: Death Valley by Melissa Broder — Summary, magical realism, chronic illness depiction, and reflections on escapism and coping.
• 24:21 — Book 8: One of Us Knows by Alyssa Cole — Summary, dissociative identity disorder, pandemic context, and a unique take on the locked-room thriller.
• 27:07— Book 9: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman — Summary, community, connection, and critique of the book's tone and humor.
• 31:06 — Book 10: A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost — Summary, comedic memoir, personal anecdotes, and recommendation of the audiobook version.
• 33:44 — Book Shopping, Thrifting, and Community Reflections — Amber discusses supporting bookstores, thrifting, and the importance of reading for community and personal growth.
• 36:07 — Closing Remarks and Call to Action — Amber wraps up, encourages listener engagement, and provides information about show notes and future book clubs.

Books Amber Contributed to in 2025:

• Living with Fire: A Patient's Guide to Thriving with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases
• Wellness Through Words: A Multivocal Anthology on Healthcare, Patient Safety, and Wellness

Library apps mentioned in this episode:

• Libby
• Hoopla
• Freegal Music

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @AboutIBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD191

Kinsey Beagley, a pediatric medical assistant diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 15, shares about her experiences with IBD, including struggling with symptoms, multiple medication failures, and eventually having J-pouch surgery. Kinsey shares how reframing difficult experiences and adopting a positive mindset—her mantra is "I can do hard things"—has helped her cope.

Chapters

• 00:04 Introduction and Guest Introduction
• 02:05 Kinsey's Diagnosis Story
• 04:42 Initial Treatments and Medication Journey
• 06:06 Decision for Surgery
• 07:09 Emotional Impact of Taking a Gap Year
• 09:05 How and When Surgery Was Discussed
• 10:12 Life After J-Pouch Surgery
• 12:30 Reframing Difficult Experiences
• 14:04 Advice on Positive Mindset
• 15:35 Inspiration for a Healthcare Career
• 17:38 Applying Patient Experience to Her Work
• 18:52 Hiking and Bathroom Anxiety
• 21:19 Managing Hydration and Pouch Function
• 22:29 Coping with Bathroom Anxiety in Daily Life
• 26:24 Practicing Pouch Control and Mental Adjustment
• 27:26 Where to Find Kinsey Online
• 28:07 Closing Remarks and Outro

Some of the topics discussed include:

• Personal journey of living with ulcerative colitis from diagnosis to treatment.
• Decision-making process regarding surgical options and the emotional impact of surgery.
• Experiences and challenges of living with a J-pouch post-surgery.
• Importance of maintaining a positive mindset and reframing difficult experiences.
• Strategies for managing anxiety in social situations and daily activities.
• Tips for outdoor activities and managing bathroom access while hiking.
• The significance of community support and patient-centered care in chronic illness management.

Find Kinsey Beagley at:

• TikTok: @unifyinguc
• Instagram: @unifyinguc

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Katryna Loewen, a registered nurse diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2020, shares her journey through severe flare-ups, incontinence, and her decision to have a colectomy and ileostomy in 2024. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges of living with IBD, the stigma of ostomies, and how these experiences shaped her life, relationships, and career. Katryna also describes managing her mental health, planning her wedding, and preparing for motherhood, offering hope and practical advice to others with IBD.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD190

Chapters:

• 00:04 Introduction and Guest Background
• 02:09 Katrina's Nursing Career
• 03:08 Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis
• 04:48 Remission and Flare-Ups
• 05:09 Severe Flare in 2023
• 07:08 Decision for Surgery
• 10:36 Facing Ostomy Surgery
• 14:08 Acceptance and Life with an Ostomy
• 16:08 Impact of IBD on Mental Health
• 17:18 Incontinence Experiences
• 23:31 Tracking Symptoms and Advocacy
• 26:23 Wedding with IBD
• 28:45 Therapy and Emotional Recovery
• 32:06 Pregnancy After Ostomy Surgery
• 37:50 Preparing Pets for Baby
• 41:54 Support Networks and Advice
• 43:32 Where to Find Katrina
• 43:38 Closing Remarks

Find Katryna Loewen at:

• Instagram: @goingpains88

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Samantha Sauer, BCPA, president of Gastroparesis Patient Association for Cures and Treatments (G-PACT), uncovers the challenges of living with gastroparesis and how it can overlap with IBD or other conditions. Sam shares her personal journey with gastroparesis and gives insights on symptoms, diagnosis, misconceptions, and the daily impact on patients' lives. Topics include the difficulties in getting the right diagnosis, the emotional toll of dietary restriction, and the importance of support communities. Sam also highlights resources offered by G-PACT, including support groups and educational outreach, while encouraging self-advocacy and perseverance for those seeking answers or support for their condition.

Timestamps on this episode:

• 0:04 – Introduction and Guest Background
• 1:25 – Samantha's Diagnosis Journey
• 4:17 – What is Gastroparesis? Symptoms and Diagnosis
• 7:19 – Misdiagnosis and Overlapping Conditions
• 10:50 – Inflammation and Gastroparesis
• 12:18 – Impact on Daily and Social Life
• 16:22 – Social Challenges and Stigma
• 18:47 – Common Myths and Misconceptions
• 22:00 – Gastroparesis and IBD Overlap
• 24:57 – Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges
• 27:32 – GPACT Resources and Support
• 31:32 – Advice for Suspected Gastroparesis Patients
• 33:09 – How to Connect with GPACT
• 36:18 – Samantha's Treadmill and Movement Routine
• 38:42 – Closing Remarks and Gratitude

More information on the topics discussed:

• Surviving Out of Spite Podcast via YouTube
• Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) Is a Procedure to Examine Your GI Tract via Verywell Health
• Metoclopramide: Treatment for Nausea & Vomiting
• Relationship Between Gastroparesis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A United States Nationwide Sized Database Analysis
• Gastroparesis in patients with inactive Crohn's disease: a case series
• Surviving Out of Spite Podcast

Find Samantha Sauer, BCPA and Gastroparesis Patient Association for Cures and Treatments (G-PACT) on:

• Web: www.g-pact.org
• Facebook: @GPACT
• Instagram: @4gpact
• YouTube: @GPACT_nonprofit
• LinkedIn: @gpact

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com
• Verywell: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_IBD

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Theme music: IBD Dance Party, © Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Amber and Mariah discuss how women with chronic illnesses cope with advice on medication use in pregnancy—especially in light of the confusion around acetaminophen. Mariah shares her experiences with rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy, focusing on changes in medication safety data. They talk about the pressure, stigma, and lack of support for pregnant women, the need for nuanced guidance, and provide resources.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD188

This episode sponsored by Fathom Care! Fathom is an AI-powered wellness companion made for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Over 2.4M people in the United States are navigating IBD alone, and Fathom is here to change that. Learn more at: https://fathom.care/

Chapters:

• 00:04 Intro & Guest Introduction
• 01:26 FDA Statement on Acetaminophen & Pregnancy
• 02:55 Concerns About Acetaminophen Guidance
• 04:03 Mariah's RA & Pregnancy Experience
• 07:13 Impact of Medication Decisions
• 07:33 Biologics & Medication Safety
• 09:45 Pressure to Avoid Medications
• 10:05 Balancing Risks: Medication vs. Flare
• 12:06 Stigma & Judgment Around Medication Use
• 13:19 Authority Statements & Social Stigma
• 15:10 "Tough It Out" Mentality
• 17:11 Societal Judgment & Pregnancy Experiences
• 17:53 Infusion Appointments While Pregnant
• 19:09 Sponsor: Fathom Care App
• 20:59 History of Blaming Mothers & Autism
• 22:17 Societal Support & Pregnancy Discrimination
• 24:04 Expectations vs. Realities of Pregnancy
• 25:58 Reframing Autism & Neurodiversity
• 28:15 Resources for Pregnancy & Chronic Illness
• 30:01 Importance of Up-to-Date Data & Planning
• 33:20 Medication Changes & Specialist Involvement
• 34:49 Changing Data & Continuing Education
• 36:25 Mamas Facing Forward: Community & Support
• 38:48 Peer Support & Parenting with Chronic Illness
• 40:08 Mariah's Background & Expertise
• 41:19 Personal Updates & Closing
• 42:42 Final Thoughts & Outro

Concepts discussed on this episode:

• About IBD Podcast Episode 71- I Evaluated What Was Really Important to Me
• Screaming on the Inside: The Unsustainability of American Motherhood — Jessica Grose
• Notice to Physicians on the Use of Acetaminophen During Pregnancy — US FDA
• The IBD Parenthood Project
• Does taking Tylenol during pregnancy cause autism? The evidence says 'no.' — UCHealth
• MotherToBaby, a service of the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists
• Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)
• PIANO (Pregnancy Inflammatory bowel disease And Neonatal Outcomes) Study

Find Mariah Leach, JD, MS at:

• Web: MamasFacingForward.com
• Instagram: @mamasforward
• Facebook: @mamasfacingforward
• LinkedIn: @mariahzebrowski

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Sean Lochran, who lives with IBD and an ileostomy, describes his IBD journey, including complications such as blood clots and adrenal insufficiency. Sean shares advice for staying active on difficult days, including the importance of personalization, hydration, and tracking health data. He debunks misconceptions about exercise with IBD or an ostomy and describes his client-centered approach to fitness coaching, grounded in empathy and lived experience.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD187

This episode sponsored by Fathom Care! Fathom is an AI-powered wellness companion made for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Over 2.4M people in the United States are navigating IBD alone, and Fathom is here to change that. Learn more at: https://fathom.care/

Chapters in this episode:

• 00:04 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 01:20 – Sean's Diagnosis Journey
• 02:59 – Complications: Adrenal Insufficiency and Prednisone
• 04:08 – Living with Adrenal Insufficiency
• 05:34 – Blood Clots and IBD
• 08:36 – Mental Impact of Complications
• 10:20 – Pre-Diagnosis Fitness and Lifestyle
• 12:29 – Managing Fatigue and Flare-Ups
• 14:23 – Sponsor Message: Fathom Care App
• 16:15 – Coaching Clients: Fatigue vs. Tiredness
• 17:32 – Tracking and Adjusting Fitness Plans
• 18:55 – Practical Tips for Staying Active During Flares
• 23:47 – Weekly Averages and Progress Tracking
• 25:21 – Misconceptions About Fitness and IBD
• 26:50 – What It's Like to Work with Sean
• 30:38 – Learning to Understand Your Body
• 31:45 – Visiting Scotland: Local Recommendations
• 34:27 – How to Connect with Sean
• 36:04 – Closing Remarks and Credits

Find Sean Lochran at:

• Instagram: @seanlochrancoaching

Find Amber J Tresca at:

• AboutIBD.com: About IBD
• Verywell Health: Verywell Health
• Facebook: @aboutIBD
• Twitter: @aboutIBD
• Pinterest: @aboutibd
• Instagram: @about_IBD
• YouTube: @AboutIBD
• Threads: @about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

• Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
• Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
• YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
• Web: Cooney Studio
• Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.