The Invisible Condition Podcast

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Summary:

Katherine McCord discusses the power of vulnerability and the impact of sharing your story. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for vulnerability in the workplace and the need for accommodations to be standard options. Katherine also highlights the challenges of dealing with nosy questions and unsolicited advice. She shares her personal experiences with invisible conditions and the frustration of body changes. Finally, she discusses the unique perspective of individuals with chronic conditions in navigating the medical system. 

Katherine shares her experiences living with multiple chronic conditions, including Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and anaphylaxis. She emphasizes the importance of finding the right doctor and building a strong relationship with them. Katherine also discusses the challenges of living with MCAS and the unpredictable nature of triggers. The conversation concludes with a discussion on ending the stigma surrounding invisible conditions and embracing vulnerability and curiosity.

Katherine lives with:

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Bipolar Disorder 
• Misophonia: A condition where certain sounds can trigger emotional or physiological responses.
• A Neurological Condition: a condition where her neurons don't function well, leading to drum solo heartbeats and seizure activities that are like mini-strokes or Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs).
• Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): an anaphylactic response to various triggers.
• Bladder Disorder: limiting the size of the bladder
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): developed COPD after having COVID-19 twice.

Takeaways:

• Vulnerability can lead to personal growth, improved relationships, and psychological safety.
• Creating a safe space for vulnerability in the workplace can lead to better communication, understanding, and support.
• Respect boundaries and avoid asking nosy questions or giving unsolicited advice about someone's invisible condition.
• Living with invisible conditions can be challenging and may involve body changes and navigating the medical system.
• Accommodations for individuals with invisible conditions should be standard options to promote inclusivity and accessibility. Finding the right doctor is crucial for managing chronic conditions effectively.
• Living with MCAS can be challenging due to the unpredictable nature of triggers.
• Ending the stigma surrounding invisible conditions requires universal design, flexibility, and responding with curiosity instead of ego.
• Embracing vulnerability and sharing our stories can help break down barriers and create understanding.

Kathrine McCord - Bio

From being the little girl who played HR (even firing her own mother!) to the travelling People Operations entrepreneur and international speaker that she is no

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Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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Summary:
Tisha Foster shares her journey with Stiff Person Syndrome and how she has overcome the challenges it presents. She discusses her determination to live life to the fullest and not let her condition define her. Tisha emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and sharing one's story to raise awareness and end the stigma surrounding invisible conditions. In this conversation, Tim Reitsma and Tisha discuss Tisha's experience with Stiff Person Syndrome and her journey with God. They emphasize the importance of understanding and accommodating individuals with chronic conditions, challenging the notion of what is considered 'normal.' They also highlight the need for education to combat stigma and provide resources for learning about Stiff Person Syndrome. The conversation concludes with Tisha sharing her plans for future books and Tim expressing gratitude for the support and encouraging listeners to continue spreading awareness.

Takeaways:

• Living with an invisible condition requires strength and determination.
• Sharing one's story and being vulnerable can help raise awareness and end the stigma surrounding invisible conditions.
• Support and understanding from others are crucial for individuals living with invisible conditions.
• Education and advocacy are key to improving the lives of those with invisible conditions. Normalcy is subjective and can vary from person to person, especially when living with a chronic condition.
• Education is crucial in combating stigma and promoting understanding of rare conditions like Stiff Person Syndrome.
• Advocacy and sharing personal stories can help raise awareness and support for individuals with chronic conditions.
• Continued support and engagement from listeners are essential in spreading awareness and ending the stigma surrounding chronic illnesses.

Stiff Person Syndrome Defined:
Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by fluctuating muscle rigidity and spasms, predominantly affecting the trunk and limbs. This condition is marked by heightened sensitivity to stimuli such as noise, touch, and emotional distress, which can trigger muscle spasms. SPS is believed to be autoimmune in nature, involving an abnormal immune response that may target specific proteins in the brain and spinal cord. The syndrome often leads to significant impairment in movement and can be associated with debilitating pain and anxiety, profoundly impacting the quality of life. Diagnosis is complex, involving clinical evaluation, antibody testing, and response to treatment, as there is no definitive diagnostic test. Management of SPS typically includes a combination of medication, physical therapy, and stress-reduction techniques, tailored to the individual's symptoms and needs.

Tisha Foster - Bio
Tisha Foster AKA The Bullhorn in Stilettos is a mother, author, ex-model and avid speaker for

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Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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Hiring someone with a disability is a risk and a liability so we try not to go there. People with disabilities don’t perform as well so we avoid hiring someone with a disability.

Guess what? You most likely have people in your organization who live with a disability, you just can’t see it. It’s invisible or non-apparent. 

So, today we dive into the often unexplored and undervalued world of employment for people with disabilities. Myles Wallace is a disability inclusion partner at Peak Performers and a passionate board game designer. 

Myles brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to our conversation, offering valuable insights into the intersection of disability and employment. 

His journey, marked by profound hearing loss since infancy, is a testament to overcoming barriers and finding fulfillment both in a career and personal passions. This episode is going to challenge perceptions and inspire as we explore the nuances of creating inclusive work environments and the transformative power of acknowledging and accommodating disabilities in the professional world. 

Whether you're an employer, a job seeker, or simply someone looking to understand more about this vital topic, this conversation with Myles is a must-listen.

Summary

Myle and Tim’s conversation explores the topic of employment for people with disabilities. Our guest, Myles Wallace, shares his personal experience with disability and his work as a disability inclusion partner. The conversation covers bias and discrimination in the workplace and the benefits of hiring people with disabilities. It also provides advice for job seekers with disabilities and encourages businesses to create inclusive environments and hire people with disabilities.

Takeaways

• Creating an inclusive workplace environment benefits both employees and businesses.
• Bias and discrimination can be overcome through education, open communication, and a willingness to learn.
• Hiring people with disabilities can lead to increased profitability, productivity, and employee retention.
• Job seekers with disabilities should feel empowered to disclose their disability and ask for accommodations.
• Businesses should actively seek to hire people with disabilities and create inclusive hiring practices.

Contact Links:

Website - peakperformers.org

LinkedIn - Myles Wallace

Resources:

Peak Performers - A nonprofit staffing agency where every job is an opportunity.

NEARLY HALF OF ACCOMMODATIONS FOR DISABLED WORKERS HAVE NO COST

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Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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I have a lot of thoughts swirling around my mind. 

While there are many ways to release these thoughts, I thought to myself, “Why not record them and share them publicly.” It already feels like someone is about to find my journal, and my private thoughts, and start reading. But I decided, that’s alright! 

These are my thoughts, and maybe, perhaps, they resonate with you. Maybe they drive you to action or perhaps they make you stop and think. Or, maybe you dismiss them because they are nonsense! 

My goal is to release a mini-podcast (and eventually a video) every Friday. These journal entries will be less than 10 minutes. I have to time-box things because I know I can ramble on!

Let me know your feedback! And perhaps if you have random thoughts about invisible conditions, send me your audio and I can publish it!

Donate today, please! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

Summary

In this episode, I discuss the fear I’ve been experiencing while working on the Invisible Condition podcast. I acknowledge the fear of discrimination and rejection that many people with invisible conditions face when sharing their stories. Despite my fears, I am determined to bring more stories into the world and end the stigma surrounding invisible conditions. Reflecting on my past tendency to quit and run from difficult situations, I express hope for a future where it is okay to talk about the challenges of living with invisible conditions. Let’s overcome fear and reach out for support.

Takeaways

• Fear of discrimination and rejection often prevents people with invisible conditions from sharing their stories.
• It is important to push through fear and continue to bring awareness to invisible conditions.
• Creating a future where it is okay to talk about the challenges of living with invisible conditions is crucial.
• Overcoming fear requires determination, hope, and support from others.

Let me know your feedback! And perhaps if you have random thoughts about invisible conditions, send me your audio and I can publish it!

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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** Please consider donating to keep the show going** Head to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma to learn more!

Summary:

In this episode, Alicia shares her journey of living with OCD and seeking a diagnosis. She discusses the lack of awareness and recognition of mental illness in the past, as well as the importance of sharing her story to break down stigmas. Alicia also addresses the misunderstanding of OCD and the misuse of the term 'OCD' in everyday language. She emphasizes the need for education and advocacy to end the stigma surrounding invisible conditions. Alicia encourages individuals who suspect they may have a mental illness to seek professional help and shares her hope for a more accepting and understanding society.

Takeaways:

• Seek professional help if you suspect you may have a mental illness.
• Educate yourself and others about the realities of living with OCD and other invisible conditions.
• Challenge and correct language that perpetuates stigma and misunderstanding.
• Share your story to break down stigmas and create a more accepting and understanding society. 

 
Thank you for listening to the Invisible Condition podcast, a show where we talk about unusually normal things to end the stigma and empower voices. The term invisible condition is inclusive of non-apparent disabilities, diseases, and illnesses. I’m Tim Reitsma.

I wanted to say thank you to everyone who has donated to keep the invisible condition going. If you love what we are doing, and would like to support, please give the podcast a rating and comment, share with friends and family and if you have the means, please consider donating. Head to www.invisiblecondition.com to learn more.

Alicia's Contact Links:

Website - 38andkip.com

LinkedIn - Alicia Disantis

Instagram - @38andkip

YouTube - 33 & Kip

Resources:
International OCD Federation

Learn about OCD

BeyondOCD.org

Alicia Disantis - Bio
Alicia Disantis is a traditional fine artist turned brand strategist, graphic designer, and writer. Her studio, 38th & Kip, helps companies who are doing good in the world connect with their customers through

powerful words and memorable images.

Alicia is inspired by retro design, Scandinavian minimalism, and bold colors. She is an active participant in the fine arts and exhibits her photos and illustrations in galleries across the United States. 

In addition, A

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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Summary

Tim reflects on the purpose and vision of the Invisible Condition podcast, which aims to elevate voices and end the stigma surrounding invisible conditions. He shares his journey of overcoming health challenges and the birth of the podcast. The importance of reflection and the power of sharing stories are emphasized. The host envisions building Invisible Condition as a nonprofit and bringing conversations about inclusion and accommodations into workplaces and schools. The goal is to create a society where invisible conditions are embraced and met with empathy and compassion.

Takeaways

• Reflection is a powerful tool for personal growth and envisioning the future.
• Sharing stories can create meaningful connections and drive social change.
• Building Invisible Condition as a nonprofit aims to bring conversations about inclusion and accommodations into workplaces and schools.
• The goal is to create a society where invisible conditions are embraced and met with empathy and compassion.

About
Invisible Condition is a non-profit digital media company empowering voices to remove the stigma attached to Invisible Conditions and drive social change.

What is an “invisible condition”?

An invisible condition is a non-apparent illness or health condition (physical or mental) that isn’t seen from the outside. This may include, but is not limited to autoimmune disorders, mental illness, neurodiverse conditions, chronic pain or fatigue, trauma, cancers, and brain injuries.

Invisible condition is inclusive of invisible illness, invisible disability, and invisible disease.

Yes, it really is! 

I bet you know someone who lives with an invisible condition. Or perhaps you do.

Dealing with an invisible condition (or multiple ones) can often feel lonely and isolating.

You might prefer to keep your problems hidden, especially if you have experienced discrimination or judgment in the past when you have tried to talk about the condition you live with.

As a caregiver, you might experience anxiety, anger or exhaustion—but feel guilty about expressing that to the people around you.

If you are a friend, co-worker, or relative of someone who lives with an invisible condition, you might feel uncomfortable about asking questions.

When you listen to this podcast, you’ll see that the guests really do “get it”.

They are everyday people who have overcome their fear of sharing, in order to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered. By sharing their stories, they hope to create a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Each episode will leave you encouraged, hopeful, and inspired to step out of fear and embrace your normal.

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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Summary

In this episode, Felix Chan shares his journey of being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia after a routine eye exam. He discusses the shock of the diagnosis, the challenges of living with the disease, and the importance of vulnerability and community support. Felix emphasizes the power of choice and encourages listeners to be proactive in their own lives. He also highlights the importance of empathy and understanding, as everyone is fighting a battle that others may not know about. Overall, Felix's story is a testament to the resilience and hope that can be found in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• Vulnerability unlocks vulnerability, and sharing our stories can lead to deeper connections and support.
• Living with an invisible condition requires being intentional with our choices and not just doing things because we feel we should.
• Everyone is fighting a battle that others may not know about, so it's important to approach others with empathy and compassion.
• Seeking counseling and support groups can be helpful in navigating the challenges of living with an invisible condition.
• Sharing our stories and experiences can inspire and provide hope to others who may be going through similar struggles.

Felix Chan - Bio
Felix has spent over a decade in the non-profit sector with a specific focus on mentoring, leadership coaching and spiritual development for university students. He currently leads a team serving students at UBC and SFU with faith-based organization Power to Change. 

He is a cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia at the age of 27. In remission since 2017, he is grateful to volunteer as a peer mentor with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society by providing encouragement, care and coping strategies to fellow patients at all stages of their cancer journey. 

Felix’s leadership experience and health challenges have shown him the importance of empathy, pursuing faith in community, and the value of being led by a strong “why”. He is passionate about creating space for honest conversations, having seen countless times how leading with vulnerability unlocks vulnerability in others.  

Felix is incredibly grateful for his wife Jessica who has been steadfast by his side through all his health challenges. He enjoys playing Lego and Pokemon with their sweet daughters Abby, Ellie and Naomi. Felix’s hobbies include training jiu-jitsu and all things Lord of the Rings.

Links:

Website - Felix and Jessica with Power to Change
LinkedIn - Felix Chan
Instagram -  Felix Chan

Resources:

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

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What does it mean to be a caregiver to someone who lives with an Invisible Condition? 

What happens when both you and your partner live with an invisible condition and are needed as each other's caregiver?

Without support, it's incredibly hard to navigate life, both as a caregiver and as someone who lives with an invisible condition.

In this episode, Tim and Tania Reitsma share personal stories of how they have cared for each other, how they see themselves as a caregiver, and how they have supported themselves when life is out of control.

You will hear how Tania navigated three years of Tim's out-of-control Crohn's Disease, how prednisone affected not only Tim but Tania as well, and how she supported herself in this strenuous time.

The advice Tania and Tim give is impactful! 

• Make sure you have a network of people you can count on
• Find out what grounds you and lean into that
• Vent to people who listen
• Focus on today, tomorrow will worry about itself
• Prednisone is no joke!

Related articles:
Resilience Article

Tania's contact info:
Website - Steveston People
Instagram -  Steveston People
Podcast - Spotify & Apple

Episode Topics

• Tania’s diagnosis journey with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Tim found out he was too sick for surgery
• How Tania wasn’t surprised as Tim was so sick
• Tania’s arthritis flared shortly after giving birth and that affected her physically and mentally
• How Tim cared for Tania and their newborn
• Tim’s manic state and how Tania remained calm
• The importance of having someone to vent to and not give advice
• Finding a community of support
• Opening up even when you don’t want to admit you need help and support
• As a caregiver, finding the support you need is equally or more important

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

Send us Fan Mail

Self-Compassion Defined: “Self-compassion is simply the process of turning compassion inward. We are kind and understanding rather than harshly self-critical when we fail, make mistakes or feel inadequate. We give ourselves support and encouragement rather than being cold and judgmental when challenges and difficulty arise in our lives”. - self-compassion.org

Contact Links:

Website - Find that Pause

LinkedIn

Instagram

Resources:

5-minute meditation journal

Three R’s of Resilience

I am joined by the wonderful Miranda Lee, who teaches meditation techniques to busy people like myself so that we can find that much-needed pause in our lives. Now, when you hear that phrase pause, do you actually take a pause in your life? And if so, what do you do? Is it?

Locking yourself in a room to escape your children. Maybe it's going to the gym. Maybe it's tuning out life and drowning yourself in Netflix or whatever streaming service you're using. But in today's episode, we talk about how self-compassion builds empathy. Now, self-compassion is simply defined as self-kindness rather than judgment.

You know, we all have that inner critic, that voice that comes out that says, you're not doing good. You're not good enough. You're failing. Well, self-compassion is putting that voice to rest. And in this episode, we talk about the importance of how building that self-compassion leads us to empathy. Miranda also gives us a few little tools and techniques at the end of the episode to really

practice that technique of building self-compassion. You know, empathy is putting yourself in someone else's shoes. I think we've all been there, we've all done that, but compassion is different. It's the element of wanting to help. However, it's not putting yourself in that other person's shoes. It's that understanding that you are human.

And all humans suffer, and I want to do something to help. That's what compassion means. And we're gonna turn that inward to self-compassion. So stay tuned. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did with Miranda. And as always, what really helps the show and helps us grow is if you head to Instagram and check out Invisible Condition there.

What we talk about:

• The difference between empathy and self-compassion
• Resilience
• The importance of taking a pause, for ou

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition

Send us Fan Mail

How do you deal with Anxiety? I am really curious! For me, it manifests itself in a few ways. One of the biggest ways - I want to give up on things. Like this project, this week, I am overwhelmed, anxious and full of fear so I want to give up. But I won't let anxiety win!

Support the show

Thanks for listening, I appreciate you!
 
Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma

• Website: invisiblecondition.com
• Subscribe: invisiblecondition.com/subscribe
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4kDTQ9eTFpWFDID9vsXFxW
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-invisible-condition-podcast/id1703432562

Social Media

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invisible_condition/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Invisible_Condition