Beyond the Wheeze

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

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):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

In this episode, Josh speaks with Katie Hulan, a remarkable individual who was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer at the age of 33 in February of 2021. Given only six months to live, Katie defied the odds thanks to groundbreaking research and innovative treatments. She has used her journey to move across Canada, advocate for better lung health, and share her story with the Lung Health Foundation. Katie discusses the initial shock of her diagnosis, the treatments she underwent, the importance of hope, and how her move to Victoria provided a fresh perspective on living with cancer. She also talks about the importance of community and support systems, balancing work and health, breaking the stigma around lung cancer, and finding personal empowerment through advocacy.

Visit lunghealth.ca for free resources.

Visit https://linktr.ee/BeyondTheWheeze for podcast links.

00:00 Introduction to Katie Hulen's Inspiring Journey

00:55 Meeting at Better Breathing Week

02:09 Katie's Diagnosis and Initial Reactions

06:42 Navigating Treatment Options

12:56 Finding Hope and Support

15:50 Personal Reflections and Experiences

18:24 Understanding Patient Expertise

22:32 Understanding Lung Cancer Symptoms

24:24 The Impact of Moving to Victoria

28:34 Balancing Work and Health

32:18 Breaking the Stigma Around Lung Cancer

39:43 The Role of Community and Shared Experiences

42:07 Advice for Living Boldly with a Diagnosis

43:42 Final Thoughts and Messages of Hope

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, host Josh sits down with Jeff Beach, CEO of Asthma Canada. They discuss the state of asthma care in Canada, the unique challenges faced by asthma patients, and Asthma Canada's ongoing efforts to improve awareness, care, and policy. Jeff shares his journey in the nonprofit health sector, highlighting his advocacy work and the importance of patient education and proper asthma management. Key initiatives, gaps in respiratory care, and the potential impact of policy changes are also addressed. Jeff emphasizes the power of patient stories in driving change and encourages listeners to get involved in advocacy efforts.

00:00 Introduction to Asthma in Canada

00:10 Meet Jeff Beach: CEO of Asthma Canada

00:33 Jeff's Journey in Non-Profit Sector

00:51 The State of Asthma Care in Canada

01:27 Personal Stories and Advocacy

03:01 Jeff's Path to Asthma Canada

06:06 Challenges and Rewards of Leading Asthma Canada

07:52 Biggest Challenges for Asthma Patients

10:09 Bridging Gaps in Respiratory Care

13:16 Advocacy and Policy Changes

18:36 Asthma Canada's Key Initiatives

25:30 Raising Awareness and Changing Perceptions

29:14 How You Can Advocate for Better Care

31:13 Queen's Park Advocacy Day

31:54 The Power of Personal Stories

32:39 Different Levels of Storytelling

33:30 The Importance of People in Advocacy

35:02 Vision for the Future of Asthma Care

36:27 Challenges in Accessing Care

37:59 The Role of Respiratory Educators

42:10 Empowering Patients

46:27 Advice for Young Advocates

50:44 Connecting with Asthma Canada

57:54 Final Thoughts and Inspiration

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.

In this episode of Beyond the Wheeze, we had the privilege of speaking with Scott Bailey, a dedicated advocate and COPD patient who has turned his personal journey into a mission to raise awareness and support others living with respiratory conditions. Scott’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of community.

Scott opened up about his diagnosis and the impact COPD has had on his daily life. Like many others, he faced challenges in maintaining his routine, but rather than letting the condition define him, he sought ways to take control of his health. He candidly shared the mental and emotional struggles that often accompany chronic illnesses, emphasizing the importance of having a strong support system.

One of the key highlights of our discussion was the Lung Health Foundation’s Fitness for Breath program, which has played a significant role in Scott’s journey. He spoke passionately about how structured exercise, guided by lung health coaches, has helped him maintain mobility and improve his overall well-being. This program, designed specifically for individuals with respiratory conditions, is a testament to how movement and community support can make a real difference in managing lung disease.

Scott also took the time to address common misconceptions about COPD, particularly the stigma surrounding it. Many assume that COPD is solely a smoker’s disease, but as Scott pointed out, numerous factors contribute to its development. He underscored the need for better education, earlier diagnosis, and increased support for those affected by the condition.

Despite the challenges, Scott remains committed to advocating for improved care and resources for people with COPD. His advice to others facing similar struggles? Don’t give up. Seek out community programs, find a support network, and take small, manageable steps to improve your health. His story is a reminder that even in the face of chronic illness, there is hope, and every effort counts.

If you're struggling with COPD or would like to learn more about the condition, I encourage you to check out the Lung Health Foundation's free resources, by following the link here: https://lunghealth.ca/support-resources/.

00:00 Introduction to Scott Bailey and COPD

01:47 Scott's Diagnosis and Early Experiences

07:55 Daily Life with COPD

10:11 Fitness for Breath and Staying Active

16:21 Challenges in Healthcare and Advocacy

16:29 Misconceptions and Awareness

28:32 Future Goals and Final Thoughts

Connect with us (@BeyondTheWheeze):

• Check us out on Instagram
• Follow Beyond the Wheeze on LinkedIn
• 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.