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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Alan Kaplan — a family doctor who specializes in respiratory medicine and has spent years working to improve asthma care in Canada. Dr. Kaplan is the chair of the Family Physician Airways Group of Canada and works closely with Asthma Canada. Together, we unpack what it takes to manage asthma well, the role regular physical activity plays in lung health, and how people with asthma can exercise safely and confidently.

We cover a lot of ground in this conversation — from the difference between exercise-induced asthma and exercise-induced bronchospasm to why using your inhaler before exercise matters. Dr. Kaplan shares practical advice on medication management, trigger awareness, and how to build up your fitness when you live with asthma, even if it’s severe.

We also talk about his career in respiratory care, what’s changed over the years, and why education and a clear plan are key for better asthma control. Whether you live with asthma or care for someone who does, you’ll take away real, useful strategies to help improve quality of life and stay active.

If you ever need extra support managing asthma or allergies, Asthma Canada has an excellent Asthma and Allergy Helpline you can reach out to for free. Learn more at https://asthma.ca/get-help/asthma-and-allergy-helpline/.

Episode Chapters
01:00 Introduction to Dr. Alan Kaplan
02:16 Asthma and Exercise: The Basics
03:28 Understanding Exercise-Induced Asthma
05:15 Managing Asthma Symptoms During Exercise
10:30 Building Confidence in Exercising with Asthma
14:38 Choosing the Right Exercise for Asthma
16:04 Medications and Asthma Management During Exercise
20:50 The Importance of Exercise for Asthma Management
21:14 Weight Loss and Asthma Control
22:23 Using Peak Flow Meters
22:57 Listener Questions: Natural Therapies and Triggers
26:20 Listener Questions: Exercise and Asthma Control
28:11 Dr. Kaplan's Career and Motivation
31:57 A Life-Changing Asthma Story
36:23 Final Thoughts and Advice

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

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Visit Asthma Canada, or the Lung Health Foundation, to see how you can get involved today.

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In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I sit down with Liz Radinovic, a personal trainer, health coach, and asthma athlete from Columbus, Ohio. Liz opens up about what it was like living with severe asthma for 15 years, how a breakthrough with biologic medication changed everything, and how she found her way back to long-distance running — including finishing a half marathon.

We get into her advocacy work for better asthma care, how she approaches coaching with a focus on sustainable health and fitness, and the growth she’s experienced as a public speaker. It’s a conversation about what it takes to keep going through tough health challenges, how resilience is built one step at a time, and why it matters to take responsibility for your health.

Liz shares powerful lessons about owning your story and using it to inspire others to take charge of their own.

Follow Liz on Instagram @liz_radinovic and follow Josh @the.asthma.runner.

Visit Liz Health Coaching at https://www.facebook.com/fithub.

Check out Liz's S-T-R-I-D-E (Strength, Resilience, Injury-Defence, Elevation) Method — a complimentary, runner-focused training resource for our podcast listeners. If you're looking for tips to get started, visit https://www.wheezespeak.ca/stride.

Chapters:

01:03 Introduction to Liz Radanovich's Journey
02:20 Connecting with Liz
03:18 Overcoming Asthma Challenges
08:56 Turning Point in Asthma Management
18:15 Running and Resilience
22:42 Unexpected Challenges in Marathon Training
22:51 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Resilience
23:43 Coaching Philosophy and Client Success
27:59 Navigating Professional Growth and Public Speaking
33:34 Health Coaching and Sustainable Habits
38:59 Future Goals and Expanding Opportunities
44:37 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Message

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
• Connect with us on TikTok
• Follow us on Facebook
• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

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In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Buckley, president and CEO of the Lung Health Foundation. We talk about where lung health stands in Canada right now and why it deserves far more attention, funding, and advocacy than it’s getting. Jessica shares her perspective on issues like youth vaping, COPD, lung cancer, and how air quality affects our health. We also dive into why early diagnosis, bold research, and strong government policy are essential for building a smoke-free future. This conversation is a reminder that real change starts with advocacy — both at the community level and across the country.

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
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• Follow us on Facebook
• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

Send us a text

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, I dive into the inspiring journey of Adrienne Lam—an asthma advocate, runner, researcher, and educator.

Adrienne shares her personal experiences growing up with poorly controlled asthma, from sitting out of school activities to frequent ER visits. Through resilience and determination, she’s transformed her life—becoming a half marathon runner and a powerful voice for asthma education and health equity.

We talk about her work with Asthma Canada, including her contributions to the 2024 National Asthma Survey, and the importance of education, empowerment, and improving access to care.

This episode is full of insights into the challenges and triumphs of living with asthma—and how we can move past perceived limitations to build something stronger.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Adrienne Lam’s Inspiring Journey
00:49 – Connecting Over Shared Experiences
03:10 – Challenges of Living with Asthma as a Child
06:55 – Asthma Management and Education
10:27 – Discovering Running During the Pandemic
13:11 – Joining the University Run Club and Achievements
14:30 – Running for a Cause: The Half Marathon Experience
20:05 – Reflecting on Personal Injuries and Running
20:33 – Asthma Canada and National Asthma Survey Insights
23:29 – Financial Strain and Access to Asthma Care
29:19 – Empowerment and Self-Advocacy for Kids with Asthma
30:53 – Personal Goals and Overcoming Challenges
34:40 – Mindset and Overcoming Limitations
36:13 – Final Reflections and Motivations
38:10 – Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Message

Read Adrienne's story on Asthma Canada's website by clicking here. To read Asthma Canada's National Survey (2024) click here.

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
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• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

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In this special episode of 'Beyond the Wheeze,' host Josh swaps roles and becomes the guest, interviewed by his friend and healthcare professional, Joël Lachance-Artindale. They delve into Josh's personal journey with asthma, highlighting how he transformed his life from struggling to run 100 meters to completing marathons. Josh discusses the importance of bridging gaps between asthma patients, caregivers, and the medical community. The conversation covers a range of topics including Josh's weight loss journey, the benefits of exercise for lung health, mental health, the significance of early asthma diagnosis, and the need for Certified Respiratory Educators in emergency rooms. Tune in to hear valuable insights on overcoming limitations, the role of fitness in asthma management, and tips for those looking to start their own fitness journey despite respiratory challenges.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:51 Guest Host Introduction and Personal Stories

04:55 Diving into Asthma and Running Journeys

09:25 Challenges and Misconceptions about Asthma

22:12 Training and Fitness Tips for Asthma Patients

26:53 Don't Compare Your Journey

27:03 The Importance of Walking

28:37 Breathing Techniques for Runners

29:39 Inspiration Behind Beyond the Wheeze

31:18 Memorable Guests and Moments

33:33 Balancing Life and Passion

37:47 Running and Mental Health

41:19 Challenges in Asthma Care

46:19 Fitness and Lifestyle in Asthma Management

48:23 Rapid Fire Questions

50:48 Final Thoughts and Message

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
• Connect with us on TikTok
• Follow us on Facebook
• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

Send us a text

In this episode, we are joined by Stetson Childress, a collegiate runner and coach, who shares his journey from Bethel University to pursuing an MBA and competing at Northern Kentucky University. Stetson discusses overcoming asthma, motivating athletes, and his coaching philosophy centered around enjoying the sport and achieving personal records. He also highlights his impressive achievements and his goal to inspire others through his experiences. Listen in as Stetson provides valuable insights on balancing passion with discipline, managing asthma, and the importance of turning obstacles into opportunities.

Follow Stetson on Instagram @Stetson_Chil, and the host, Josh @The.Asthma.Runner.

00:00 Introduction to Stetson Childress

00:38 Early Athletic Journey and Overcoming Asthma

00:56 Inspirational Rules and Realistic Training

04:53 From Basketball Dreams to Running Success

07:09 Collegiate Achievements and Influences

14:00 Transition to Northern Kentucky University

16:40 Coaching Philosophy and Impact

20:27 Managing Asthma as an Athlete

21:41 Taking Control of Life with Asthma

22:57 Breaking Down Challenges into Small Steps

24:08 Weather and Running Conditions

26:08 Coaching Asthmatic Athletes

27:47 Personal Running Journey and Achievements

31:31 Balancing Passion and Obsession in Training

33:40 Creating and Sharing Motivational Rules

36:11 Future Goals and Coaching Aspirations

40:17 Impact of Online Engagement

42:58 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Message

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
• Connect with us on TikTok
• Follow us on Facebook
• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

Send us a text

In this episode, we explore the multifaceted world of asthma care with Dr. Mika Nonoyama, a leading researcher and clinician specializing in cardio respiratory health. Dr. Nonoyama, an Associate Professor at Ontario Tech University and a registered respiratory therapist, discusses her career dedicated to improving care for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. The conversation delves into the importance of bridging gaps between research and real-world treatment, the role of respiratory therapists, advancements in asthma management, and the potential of emerging technologies like AI and biologics. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of respiratory therapy and practical advice for living with asthma. Dr. Nonoyama also emphasizes the critical role of personalized medicine, pulmonary rehabilitation, and the impact of climate change on respiratory health. Tune in to learn how cutting-edge research is shaping the future of asthma care and empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

Follow Dr. Mika Nonoyama and her work on Instagram @mikacheezu, and the host @the.asthma.runner.

00:00 Introduction to Asthma Management

00:08 Meet Dr. Mika Nonoyama

01:41 Dr. Nonoyama's Career Journey

02:51 Research and Real-World Impact

07:12 Challenges in Asthma Care

08:56 The Role of AI and Biologics

19:58 Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Exercise

24:35 The Importance of Respiratory Therapists

28:29 Carbon Dioxide Levels and Respiratory Assessment

31:15 Asthma Misconceptions and Personal Experiences

33:29 Improving Asthma Communication and Care

34:59 Future of Asthma Therapies and Technologies

38:29 Personalized Medicine and Digital Health Tools

42:54 Career Reflections and Patient Stories

49:55 Advice for Asthma Patients and Closing Thoughts

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
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• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

Send us a text

In this episode, the host interviews Mia Fritsch-Anderson, a multi-talented advocate for asthma awareness. Mia, an accomplished social media influencer, dancer, athlete, mechanical engineering student, and former Miss Illinois Teen 2022, uses her platforms on Instagram and TikTok to bring engaging and educational content about asthma. Mia shares her journey, starting from her diagnosis at a young age, her inspiration to create content, and how she has battled the stigma surrounding asthma. She also discusses her impactful collaborations, particularly with organizations like Respiratory Health Association and AstraZeneca, and her initiative in creating and distributing inhaler covers. Mia emphasizes the importance of reinforcing the fact that asthma does not have to be a limitation, and encourages young people to manage their condition confidently. The episode provides insights into Mia’s advocacy work, her aspirations in mechanical engineering, and how she balances her diverse interests and commitments.

Be sure to follow along with Mia on Instagram @Miarosefa_Choosetobreathe, and TikTok @Choosetobreathe!

00:00 Introduction to Today's Guest: Mia Fritch Anderson

02:16 Mia's Journey and Social Media Impact

09:31 Challenges and Misconceptions in Asthma Advocacy

13:45 Living with Asthma: Personal Experiences

26:31 Balancing Life: Advocacy, Education, and Personal Interests

31:50 Future Goals and Closing Thoughts

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
• Connect with us on TikTok
• Follow us on Facebook
• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

Send us a text

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, Josh welcomes two esteemed guests: Sahil Manjania, Director of DIA Labs Canada, and Pavankumar Yechem, Chief Scientific Officer at DIA Labs Canada. Together, they discuss their groundbreaking work in asthma care and respiratory health through their innovative technology, AirSense. This wearable device offers real-time lung function monitoring and signifies a breakthrough in personalized asthma management. Tune in as they explore the intricacies of developing medical devices, the impact of AI in respiratory health, and the broader implications for the future of asthma care. They also share personal experiences and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in medical technology. Don't miss this insightful conversation!

Be sure to keep up with the innovating work DIA Labs Canada is doing by visiting their website, at https://dialabscanada.com/.

00:00 Introduction to Special Guests and Their Work

00:19 The AirSense Technology: Revolutionizing Asthma Care

01:51 Challenges in Asthma Management and AI Integration

04:41 Sahil's Journey into Respiratory Health Innovation

09:23 Pavan's Transition from Neuroscience to Respiratory Health

15:36 Inspiration Behind DIA Labs and AirSense Development

19:50 Personal Experiences and the Importance of Asthma Education

26:54 The Journey of Medical Device Innovation

28:34 Key Roles in Medical Device Development

30:18 Introducing AirSense: Real-Time Lung Monitoring

31:46 Predicting and Preventing Asthma Episodes with AirSense

32:53 Wearable Technology in Asthma Care

38:13 Challenges in Developing AirSense

40:58 AI in Asthma Management

43:21 Future of Respiratory Health and Innovation

50:11 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

52:45 Closing Thoughts and Final Messages

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
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• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.

Send us a text

In this episode, we sit down with Maggie Mac Neil, an Olympic gold medalist and world record holder, recognized for her exceptional career in swimming despite battling asthma. Maggie shares her inspirational journey, from being diagnosed with asthma at 17 to her historic victories and advocacy for lung health. She discusses her emphasis on focusing on the process, highlights the importance of reflecting on accomplishments, and explains her new direction towards studying sports law to combat corruption and doping in sports. Maggie’s story is a testament to resilience and determination, offering valuable insights for aspiring athletes facing similar challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Maggie McNeil

01:31 Early Career and Achievements

03:35 Olympic Experience and Challenges

07:28 Navigating Asthma as an Elite Athlete

23:37 Advocacy and Future Plans

35:35 Final Thoughts and Advice

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Join our new Substack!
• Check us out on Instagram
• Connect with us on TikTok
• Follow us on Facebook
• Speaking services, media, blog & news on our website
• Email Josh directly at [email protected].

Are 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.