IBD patients are innovative, resilient, and powerful. My guest, Rachel Bee, is an incredible example of all these virtues. Rachel is a remarkable 17-year-old entrepreneur who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at just 13 years old. She turned her experiences with IBD into a mission to help others by founding Infusion Hero, a company that designs innovative hoodies specifically for young patients receiving infusions. Infusion Hero hoodies provide comfort and feature a unique design that allows for easy access during medical treatments. Rachel shares her story of navigating the challenges of her diagnosis, balancing high school, and running a business—all while maintaining her health and staying connected with friends. Don't miss Rachel's insights on how to turn personal challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Discussion points include:

• Personal health journeys related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Experiences of living with Crohn's disease as a teenager
• The impact of chronic illness on daily life and activities
• The importance of education and support for young patients with IBD
• The creation and purpose of Infusion Hero, a clothing line for infusion patients
• Balancing health, school, and entrepreneurial endeavors
• The role of mentorship and resources for young entrepreneurs
• Emotional aspects of managing chronic illness during adolescence
• The significance of community support and relationships with peers and teachers
• Future aspirations and educational goals for young patients and entrepreneurs

Find Rachel Bee of Infusion Hero at:

• Web: https://www.infusionhero.com/
• LinkedIn: Rachel Bee
• Facebook: Infusion Hero
• Instagram: @infusion_hero
• Tik Tok: @infusion.hero

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD172 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.

It's not easy to manage both a career and chronic illness like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis). We need tools and tips in order to keep everything moving and succeed at work while caring for ourselves. I talk with Jen Hubley Luckwaldt about how freelancing can be a valid way of meeting both goals. Jen shares her journey from traditional employment to freelancing, including how it offers her flexibility in balancing work, health, and family. We talk about the importance of setting boundaries with clients, how to identify your marketable skills, and building a supportive community. Jen emphasizes the value of an abundance mindset in freelancing and offers practical tips for finding work and managing time effectively. If you've ever wondered how you can manage to work while still making it to infusions and appointments: we have a roadmap for you. Episode highlights:

• Managing a career while living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Challenges of maintaining traditional full-time employment with chronic illness
• Advantages of freelancing, including flexibility and work-life balance
• Importance of setting boundaries with clients
• Identifying marketable skills for freelancing
• The role of community and support in a freelance career
• Strategies for effective communication and feedback in professional settings
• Tools and resources for freelancers to enhance productivity
• The concept of an abundance mindset in freelancing

Find Jen Hubley Luckwaldt and The Job Hopper at:

• The Job Hopper: https://thejobhopper.substack.com
• Bluesky: @jenlucky.bsky.social
• Old Mom Things: https://oldmomthings.substack.com/
• LinkedIn: @jen-hubley-luckwaldt

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD 171 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.

Do you find it difficult to find the time and energy to deal with mental or physical clutter? Lisa Zawrotny, a productivity coach and founder of Positively Productive Systems, helps us learn how to manage clutter, even when flaring. We discuss practical strategies for decluttering both your physical space and mental load, and how to celebrate even the smallest victories in your day-to-day life. Plus, Lisa reveals her insights on creating systems that work for you, no matter your circumstances. If you've ever felt weighed down by expectations or struggled to find balance, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that can help you reclaim your time and energy. Key points:

• Intersection of productivity and chronic illness
• Challenges faced by caregivers and individuals with chronic conditions
• Personal journey of caregiving and its impact on productivity coaching
• Importance of compassion and realistic approaches to productivity
• Strategies for managing stress and clutter
• Prioritization of tasks and setting boundaries
• Techniques for decluttering and energy management
• Celebrating small wins and acknowledging achievements
• The role of journaling in emotional healing and reflection
• Building community and support for individuals with chronic illnesses

Episode sponsored by Connecting to Cure Crohn's and Colitis. Find Lisa Zawrotny of Positively Productive Systems at:

• Web: www.positivelyproductive.com
• LinkedIn: @positivelyproductive
• Facebook: @positivelyproductive
• Twitter: @positively_lisa
• Instagram: @positively_lisa
• YouTube: @positively_lisa
• Tik Tok: @positivelylivingpodcast
• Pinterest: @positivelyproductive

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD170 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.

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD169

There's a need for more research addressing social determinants of health in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) community. Cass Condray, an IBD researcher who also lives with an IBD, points out the lack of information and resources focused on the unique experiences of LGBTQ patients. Cass also talks about the significance of representation in research, and the impact that intersecting identities have on people's health outcomes. Plus, we talk about Cass' web site, PrideAndPoop.com, what his hopes are for the future, and what there is to do in Oklahoma. Find Cass Condray at:

• Web: Pride and Poop
• Bluesky: @cdalecondray.bsky.social
• LinkedIn: Cass Condray
• Google Scholar: Cass Dale Condray

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD168 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 hands over hosting duties to Jamie Holland, a patient advocate with Crohn's disease. They discuss their personal experiences with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They focus on Amber's decision to have j-pouch surgery after being diagnosed with dysplasia and the effects it had on her fertility. Jamie asks Amber to share about the emotional and physical challenges of motherhood with IBD, including fatigue and guilt. They also touch on the possibility of passing IBD on to children and the importance of community and support. Concepts discussed on this episode:

• Xue M, Leibovitzh H, Jingcheng S, et al. Environmental Factors Associated With Risk of Crohn's Disease Development in the Crohn's and Colitis Canada - Genetic, Environmental, Microbial Project. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2024;22(9):1889-1897.e12. doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2024.03.049.
• Singh N, Bernstein CN. Environmental risk factors for inflammatory bowel disease. United European Gastroenterol J. 2022;10(10):1047-1053. doi:10.1002/ueg2.12319.
• Oh SJ, Kim HJ, Lee CK; Big Data Research Group (BDRG) of the Korean Society of Gastroenterology. A dose-dependent increase in the risk of inflammatory bowel disease after exposure to broad-spectrum antibiotics: A national population study in Korea. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2023;58(2):191-206. doi:10.1111/apt.17542
• Growing Up With a Dog Might Lower Crohn's Risk
• My IBD Life Parenthood Project
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Everything You Need to Know

Find Jaime Holland at:

• Facebook: @prettyrottenguts
• Instagram: @prettyrottenguts
• Tik Tok: @prettyrottenguts
• Bluesky: @prettyrottenguts.bsky.social

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD167 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 is joined by her husband, Mike, who recently underwent robotic hernia surgery. In this candid conversation, they explore the entire experience—from the initial discovery of the hernia to the surgery itself and the recovery process that followed. Mike shares his insights on the challenges he faced, including unexpected pain, dietary adjustments, and the importance of having a supportive caregiver. They also discuss the nuances of patient-provider communication and how to navigate the complexities of post-surgery life. Whether you're considering surgery or simply curious about the process, this episode offers valuable lessons and firsthand experiences that might resonate with you. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD166 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.

Amber shares some of the books she read over the previous year including biographies, young adult fiction, bestsellers, and romance. Hear about Amber's reading list from 2024, which was truly a mixed bag. The good news is that it contains something for everyone. Plus: learn about how you can read or listen to books for free using your local library — maybe without even leaving your house. Library apps mentioned in this episode:

• Libby
• Hoopla
• Freegal Music

Books mentioned in this episode:

• Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam
• The Giver by Lois Lowry
• Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley
• The Woman in Me by Britney Spears
• My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
• Yellowface by R. F. Kuang
• Everyone Here Is Lying by Shari Lapena
• The Cloisters by Katy Hays
• Rebel Rising by Rebel Wilson
• I am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sanchez
• Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy
• Hello, Molly! by Molly Shannon
• Leslie F*cking Jones by Leslie Jones
• Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
• Funny Story by Emily Henry
• Snowglobe by Soyoung Park

Find Katie Connelly and the Chronically Ch(ill) Book Club at:

• Instagram
• Discord Server

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD165 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.

What's the difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease? We talk about them like they're two distinct sides of a spectrum, but there are people who don't have a firm place on that continuum. Amber Tresca talks with Michael Ornelas, host of the "Fine" Dining podcast, about his journey with IBD. Michael was first diagnosed with proctitis, then Crohn's disease, and later, maybe, with ulcerative colitis. Michael shares his experiences with symptoms, treatments, and the impact IBD has on life. But it's not all serious! Michael also talks about his comedy podcast, "Fine" Dining, which encompasses the search for mediocrity in chain restaurants. Maybe an unexpected choice for a project for person with IBD, so they also discuss Michael's unique perspectives on food. Find Michael Ornelas and the "Fine" Dining Podcast at:

• Web: https://www.finediningpodcast.com/
• Tik Tok: @finediningpodcast
• Instagram: @finediningpodcast
• YouTube: @finediningpodcast
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YQGBigjvjtme7rYqrHZRw?
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fine-dining/id1649646224

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD164 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.

For people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the path to pursuing our dreams can look different from that of our peers. Stand-up comedian Dave Piontkowski, lives with not only ulcerative colitis, but also chronic kidney disease. He developed a one-man show called "Three Kidneys, No Colon," which describes his journey with both of these conditions. Dave talks about how and why his comedy actually improved while he was fighting for his life with kidney disease. He also tells us how his comedy is connecting the chronic illness community, but there are some audience members who find it can be too much.

Find Dave Piontkowski at:

• YouTube: @dpcomedy
• Instagram (check his bio for show tickets): @davepcomedy
• Get tickets to 3 Kidneys No Colon in Tampa, FL on December 7 at 8:00 p.m (The Commodore, 811 E. 7th Ave. Tampa, FL 33602)

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.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD163

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.