Gluconfidence's Podcast: People with Diabetes Share their Inspiring Story

In today's interview, we talk with Roger Leasure and his four children, two of which have T1D - Roger and Olivia.  We also hear from Ava and Grant, their two siblings who do not have T1D.  We get insights from the parent, sibling and patient perspective in this episode.  Additionally, Roger is heavily involved with T1D philanthropic efforts and the NorCal JDRF chapter.

Mandy is a professional cyclist, member of the USA Cycling National Team and Team Novo Nordisk.  She's vying for a spot on the 2021 Olympic Team to compete in Tokyo. We learn about Mandy's T1 diagnosis as a teenager, rigorous training schedule, and preparation to compete at the highest level.  Inspiring stuff!

In Episode 17, we hear from Aaron Sherman, and his Diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes just before leaving home to go off to College.  The Diagnosis changed Aaron's life, and his ultimate College destination, but through a positive attitude and spirit, Aaron successfully navigated the changes, gained perspective, and is currently pursuing a career as an EMT.  I enjoyed our conversation!

In Episode 16 of the Gluconfidence Podcast, we interview Justin McQuerry from Austin, TX.   Justin was Diagnosed with T1 Diabetes at age 2, and is now a Professional Cyclist racing across the USA and Internationally.  In this episode, we hear about how Justin was able to excel in competitive cycling while managing his day to day blood glucose levels.  Just also shares his personal recommendations on taking on demanding physical exercise, and the importance of staying patient as you learn about what works best for you, as you balance exercise and Diabetes.  I really enjoyed these insights, and our conversation!

In Episode #15 of the Gluconfidence Podcast, we interview John Roth, one of the first Type 1 Diabetic Commercial Airline Pilots to apply to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for approval to fly Commercial Aircraft in the United States. John has been involved in flying for his entire life, and when a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes ended his flying career, he successfully pushed for change with the FAA and a historic policy change was implemented in late 2019. This is great story of perseverance and improving opportunities for the Diabetes community!

Today we have the unique opportunity to hear from two guests and two perspectives of Type 1.   We have Peter Friedfeld share his story of being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes later in life,  how he adjusted and adapted to his diagnosis, while maintaining a positive outlook.  We also have ESPN's Adam Schefter share his perspective of living with a Spouse with T1 Diabetes, and his approach to being supportive.  These are both topics we hear about from our listeners, and its great to discuss these two topics today with Peter and Adam!

Today we had an opportunity to have both Maggie and Haleigh on the Gluconfidence Podcast to share their story about being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 12, balancing life with blood sugar, their perspective on technology as it relates to diabetes management, and their busy lives while living with T1.  Maggie and Haleigh maintain great attitudes and outlook while pursuing their goals and active lifestyles, and also share their advice for those who are newly diagnosed.

This week we are excited to interview Cory Conacher, a professional NHL hockey player with the Tampa Bay Lightning, and living with Type 1 Diabetes.  Cory was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 8, and has pursued his passion of Ice Hockey his entire life. Cory has played professional Hockey for over 10 years.  In 2012, Cory  won the Les Cunningham award, the AHL's League MVP, becoming just the 4th Rookie in league history to earn this award.  I really enjoyed our conversation, and Cory's story is an example of Grit and never losing focus on your goals.   He has successfully leveraged Type 1 Diabetes as a motivator, and continues to push through obstacles.  Enjoy!

In episode 11 of the Gluconfidence Podcast, we interview Jacob Gosk, founder of Dunking for Diabetes Canada.  Jacab shares his experience of living with Type 1 Diabetes and playing college basketball.  He also shares how he stays focused and positive, while pushing himself to achieve more in basketball and his life.  He believes that while his pancreas may have given up, his heart and his mind never will.  We hope you enjoy this interview, as we really enjoyed speaking with Jacob. 

In this Gluconfidence Podcast, we interview Lakota Phippen and learn about his journey from being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 24, and setting his goal of becoming a professional cyclist on Team Novo Nordisk.