In this episode of The Diabetes Podcast, Richie and Amber sit down with Stanley Bronstein, founder of the Million Pound Weight Loss Challenge, to discuss his life-changing transformation. Stanley shares how he successfully lost over 200 pounds—dropping from 367 pounds to 145 pounds—without the use of weight loss surgery or medication.

Throughout the conversation, Stanley opens up about overcoming the emotional hurdles of obesity, breaking the habit of late-night eating, and shifting his identity to prioritize long-term health. Listeners will discover actionable strategies for weight loss and Type 2 diabetes management, including the power of visualization to curb cravings and why abstinence from certain trigger foods can sometimes be easier than moderation.

When managing Type 2 diabetes, it is crucial to understand that it is not just one broken thing; it is a whole lot of things. It is a complex system involving the liver, muscles, pancreas, fat tissue, gut, and brain. Elevated blood sugar is simply the output—the fever—not the disease itself. Stanley’s holistic approach to daily movement and whole-food nutrition perfectly illustrates how addressing the entire system can lead to lasting wellness and better blood sugar control.

Whether you are trying to lower your A1C, stop emotional eating, or simply find the motivation to start exercising, Stanley’s "beat yesterday" philosophy proves that small, consistent actions compound over time.

Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode filled with real stories and real science to help you take charge of your health.

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[00:00] Welcome Stanley Bronstein: Losing 200+ lbs Without Surgery

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Are you tired of the narrative that a diabetes diagnosis is simply a failure of willpower? Join Richie and Amber, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist, as they investigate the systemic roots of the modern diabetes epidemic. A century ago, diabetes was a rare condition. Today, impaired glucose metabolism affects nearly half of the adult population in the United States.

In this comprehensive episode of The Diabetes Podcast, we break down the environmental shifts that caused this massive health crisis. We explore the historical timeline, starting with the loss of incidental daily movement and the collapse of dietary fiber intake. We uncover how the dietary fat panic of the 1970s led to a surge in ultra-processed foods and high fructose corn syrup, fundamentally altering human gut microbiomes and driving chronic inflammation.

Type 2 diabetes is a complex, multi-system condition. It’s not one broken thing… it’s a whole lot of things affecting a vast network that includes the liver, muscles, pancreas, fat tissue, gut, and brain. Elevated blood sugar is simply the output—it is the fever, not the disease itself. By understanding how chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and a lack of physical education in schools act as environmental triggers, we can remove the shame associated with metabolic disease and start advocating for real change.

We encourage you to advocate for systemic health policy changes by contacting your local, state, and federal representatives. You can find their contact information at https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials.

Follow the podcast to ensure you never miss an episode as we continue to translate clinical science into actionable, everyday strategies for metabolic health.

Need help NOW? Reach out to our support email at [email protected].

Episode Chapters:

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Welcome to The Diabetes Podcast, where real stories meet real science to help you take charge of your health. In this episode, Richie and Amber sit down with Cheryl Coleman, a mother, grandmother, and lifelong caregiver who spent nearly 20 years living with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes. Cheryl shares her powerful journey from feeling "fine" with an A1C of 18, to battling severe complications like neuropathy, life-threatening infections, vision changes, and a terrifying mini-stroke.

Throughout the conversation, Amber provides expert clinical insights into why Type 2 diabetes is a complex network issue. It is not just one broken thing; it is a whole lot of things affecting the liver, muscles, pancreas, fat tissue, gut, and brain. Because elevated blood sugar is simply the output—the fever of the disease—it requires comprehensive management. We explore the pitfalls of outdated sliding scale insulin regimens and how Cheryl’s transition to an insulin pump, combined with a profound mindset shift, helped her lower her A1C to 6.6 and restore her body's ability to heal.

If you have ever put yourself last or felt overwhelmed by diabetes burnout, Cheryl’s story proves that it is never too late to take control. Follow the podcast to hear more inspiring stories and clinical deep-dives that empower you to live your healthiest life.

Need help NOW? Reach out to our support email at [email protected].

Episode Chapters:

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Welcome to The Diabetes Podcast! If you or a loved one takes insulin for type 2 diabetes, this episode is your ultimate masterclass. Amber and Richie dive deep into the mechanics of insulin dosing, moving beyond the basics to explain how insulin truly works as a medication within your body's complex system. Remember, elevated blood sugar is the output—the fever—not the disease itself.

In this episode, we explore why simply increasing your long-acting insulin might be the wrong move and how the "over-basalization trap" keeps you frustrated. We break down the critical difference between basal (background) and bolus (mealtime) insulin, and why relying on a reactive sliding scale often leaves you chasing high blood sugars. You'll also learn the essential math your doctor might not have taught you, including your Total Daily Insulin (TDI), the 1700 rule, and the 450 rule, so you can walk into your next appointment informed and confident.

Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode!

Need help NOW? Reach out to our support email at [email protected]

Episode Chapters:

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blog

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Marshall Runge, CEO of Michigan Medicine and Dean of the University of Michigan Medical School. He shares his own weight story, two hip replacements, and how a GLP‑1 helped him lose 40+ pounds and keep it off. We explain how GLP‑1 and GIP drugs work on appetite and reward pathways, why they lower A1C, and how they cut heart attacks and strokes. We also cover why compounded GLP‑1s are not the same as FDA‑approved meds. Dr. Marshall Runge talks muscle health, strength training, and protein. We dig into prevention, food environments, PBMs, drug costs, and why a trusted primary care provider matters. Clear, candid, and full of hope.

Books: The Great Healthcare Distruption and Coded to Kill

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marschallsrunge/

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blog

In this episode, we say it plain: pre diabetes is diabetes. It’s the same process, just earlier. We explain what A1C 5.7–6.4 means, why waiting a year is risky, and how insulin resistance starts before diagnosis. You’ll hear the key labs to ask for (A1C, fasting glucose, fasting insulin), why muscle is your “glucose sponge,” and how 150 minutes of brisk movement plus two strength days can change your numbers. We share simple food wins: more fiber (25–35g), beans, whole fruits, intact grains, and fewer ultra‑processed foods. We cover sleep, realistic weight loss (5–10%), and a 7‑day action plan you can start now. This is your most reversible stage. Small steps, done often, lead to remission. Share this with someone who needs hope and a clear plan.

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blog

In this episode, we talk with Dave Jeter, PT, about physical therapy and diabetes. We bust the myth that pain always means damage. Dave explains why a good physical exam often beats an MRI. We dig into knee pain and why hips and ankles matter. We cover frozen shoulder in diabetes and why flexibility is key. Dave shares a simple plan: train mobility, strength, endurance, and balance—especially balance after 60. We discuss neuropathy, why gadgets don’t cure it, and how cardio can help. You’ll learn when to try PT first, when surgery may help, and how small steps now protect your future. Action tips: add a balance snack, plan a weekly flexibility session, and walk most days. PT can help you move better, hurt less, and stay independent.

You can find more information about Dave's clinics at https://accelerationphysicaltherapy.com and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StartwithPT/

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blog

We talk straight about erectile dysfunction and sexual changes in diabetes. This is not about desire. It’s about circulation. ED and reduced arousal/lubrication are often the first sign of endothelial dysfunction—sometimes years before other problems. We cover how nitric oxide works, why diabetes turns that signal down, and why PDE5 drugs help but don’t repair vessels. Good news: blood vessels are living tissue and respond fast. In days to weeks, movement and better glucose habits improve function. We share real steps: a 2–10 minute walk after meals, steady “zone 2” cardio, simple resistance work, and foods that boost nitric oxide (arugula, spinach, beets, berries, olive oil, omega‑3s, seeds). We cover men’s and women’s symptoms, the shame spiral, and why open talk matters. 

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blog

In this episode, Richie and Amber talk with diabetes doctor Dr. Cheri Ogwo. She shares a simple, strong plan: listen first, act fast, and tailor care to you. We go beyond A1C to look at urine protein, creatinine, GFR, cholesterol, and after-meal spikes. We dig into insulin resistance, inflammation, and how low-carb steps can help without going extreme. We cover CGMs (Dexcom, Libre), pump pros and cons, alarm anxiety, and real costs. We talk stress, sleep, and morning highs. We discuss metformin facts, prior authorizations, and how to handle insurance hurdles. Dr. Ogwo explains why two people with the same A1C can have very different risks, and why time-in-range matters. You’ll hear clear wins you can start today: one food swap, one 10-minute walk, and using your data to guide change. Diabetes is not a death sentence. With the right plan and team, you can feel better fast.

You can find Dr. Ogwo on TikTok @cheri.o.md

or her practice at SugarPros.com

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.

Love the podcast but hate taking notes? The Diabetes Podcast Blog compresses every episode into a bulleted, 10 minute read AND has the podcast embedded so you can listen as you read along! Check it out at https://empowereddiabetes.com/diabetes-podcast-blog

In this episode of The Diabetes Podcast®, we focus on healing when life is loud and stressful. Amber opens up about feeling shaken by the world and how chronic stress impacts blood sugar, insulin resistance, cravings, sleep, and mood. We share simple anchors to protect focus: shrink the frame (one meal, one walk, one early bedtime), remove decision fatigue (same breakfast, same grocery list, same movement window), regulate before you learn (protein and fiber first meal, morning light, gentle movement, slow breathing), and treat focus as an act of resistance. We also use the Eisenhower Matrix to redirect time from “urgent but not important” to what truly heals. Whether you’re aiming for type 2 diabetes remission or managing type 1 or other diabetes, you are not alone. Healing is possible—one day at a time.

Disclaimer:

The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or care team before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, supplement, exercise plan, or nutrition plan—especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, heart, liver, or kidney conditions, or take prescription drugs like metformin or insulin.

Results vary from person to person. Examples, statistics, or studies are shared to educate, not to promise outcomes. Any discussion of medications, dosing, or side effects is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your specific situation. Do not ignore professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read or heard here. If you think you are experiencing an emergency or severe side effects (such as persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, signs of dehydration, allergic reaction, or symptoms of lactic acidosis), call your local emergency number or seek urgent care right away.

We strive for accuracy, but health information changes over time. We make no guarantees regarding completeness, timeliness, or suitability of the content and assume no liability for actions taken or not taken based on this material. Use of this content is at your own risk.

Links or references to third-party resources are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement. By reading, listening, or using this information, you agree to these terms and understand that you are responsible for your own health decisions in partnership with your licensed healthcare provider.