This is an extra special edition of Think Like a Pancreas--The Podcast as fangirl, and fellow Integrated Diabetes Services clinician, Alicia Downs talks to Gary Scheiner, author of Think Like a Pancreas after the release of the book's FOURTH EDITION!

A staple read for anyone who lives with diabetes and uses insulin, Alicia shares how these books changed her life and gets Gary to reveal how the original book came to be. 

Alicia Downs,  RN, MSN, CDCES,  BC-ADM  experienced years of mis-diagnoses and ineffective treatments that gave her the  incentive to take the lead in her own health care and educate those around her. Areas of clinical specialty for Alicia include working with patients through cancer treatment, Type 3C diabetes, Diabetes management along with complex medical challenges, diabetes management in combination with behavioral and mental health challenges, as well as Tandem diabetes device optimization. Alicia is also passionate about providing educated compassionate informed and equitable care to all people. Her specialized experience in gender diverse care, LGBTQ care areas, as well as experience in diverse ethnic and faith backgrounds is Alicia’s greatest pride in her professional career.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Care & Education, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985, Gary was named 2014 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. He trained at the Joslin Diabetes Center and has dedicated his career to helping others live well with diabetes through education, advocacy, and innovation.

✔️ What is new in Think Like a Pancreas 4th Edition.

✔️Why Think Like a Pancreas needs to be updated.

✔️When knowledge and care come together in a book, you get one like “Think Like a Pancreas”.

✔️A good diabetes educator knows how to communicate.

✔️ The impact of technology and new medications on diabetes management.

✔️ The value of old school methods in modern diabetes management.

✔️Reflections on what a cure for diabetes will look like.

00:13 Welcome and Disclaimer

01:30 How the Think Like a Pancreas book impacted Alicia Down's life

03:13 The Evolution of Think Like a Pancreas

04:17 When is it time to update the book?

05:27 Who should read Think Like a Pancreas 4th Edition?

06:15 Now available in an audio version.

08:59 What to expect from Think Like a Pancreas Edition 5?

11:59 The Unique Approach of 'Think Like a Pancreas'

17:18 Writing "Think Like a Pancreas"

20:50 Advice for aspiring health writers

24:25 How to get the most out of "Think Like a Pancreas Edition 4"

31:29 Music plays a key role

38:13 Other diabetes resources

39:25 The future of diabetes management

Think Like a Pancreas (Fourth Edition)

Sugar Surfing by Stephen Ponder

Bright Spots and Landmines by Adam Brown

Pumping Insulin by John Walsh

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ ,  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

In Episode 46 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, host Gary Scheiner, owner and clinical director of Integrated Diabetes Services, welcomes Dr. Inge Van Boxelaer. Dr. Boxelaer is an endocrinologist from Belgium, a diabetes technology expert, and the founder of Diabetotech.

Together they discuss and compare continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and automated insulin delivery (AID) systems available in the US as well as in Europe. They share insights on the rapidly evolving landscape of diabetes tech, the challenges of comparing different systems, and the importance of patients and healthcare providers staying up to date.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Care & Education, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985,

Dr Inge Van Boxelaer, is an endocrinologist in Belgium. She's on a mission to improve the lives of people with diabetes by making sure that both healthcare providers and people with diabetes are up to date on all the latest in diabetes technology. Her platform Diabotech is recognized as a top international resource for insight and education.

✔️ Diabetes technology is rapidly evolving, therefore ongoing education for healthcare providers is crucial for effective diabetes management

✔️Open-source and DIY systems are gaining traction but are not widely used in all regions of the world.

✔️Emerging technologies, such as implanted sensors, are changing diabetes management.

✔️Do not hesitate to try new diabetes technologies available.

✔️Healthcare providers should encourage patients to find the right system that fits their lifestyle.

00:13  Welcome and introduction

01:28 Dr. Inge Boxelaer

04:29  The challenges of health care teams lacking technology knowledge

06:24  How Dr. Inge von Boxelaer helps healthcare providers better help their diabetes patients

8:07  Who Dr. Inge Boxelaer works with.

10:00  What diabetes technology is hot in Europe right now?

18:14  The best pieces of diabetes technology currently available.

22:55  Meeting the challenge of getting people to pre-bolus or bolus

28:13  Which connected insulin pen gets top marks?

29:01  What is the best data software?

31:03 What systems would Dr. Boxelaer use to manage type 1 diabetes?

34:22 What advice would you give for getting the most out of your diabetes technology?

Think Like a Pancreas (Fourth Edition)

https://www.diabetotech.com/

Diabetotech Courses

GlucoTrack https://glucotrack.com/

Ypsomed

Libre 3

https://hellokaleido.com/

https://www.medtrum.com/product/nanopump.html

Dexcom G7

Minimed

Tandem

CLOSE IT Trial

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ ,  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

✔️ATTD Discoveries with Melissa Holloway

✔️Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes--The Book and The Authors

✔️IDS Diabetes Experts, The Trynamic Trio Share Personal Experiences with Open-Source Application

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In Episode 44 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Integrated Diabetes Services nutrition experts Dana Roseman and Jennifer Smith discuss how nutrition guidelines for diabetes have changed since they were both diagnosed almost 30 years ago.

They emphasize the importance of individualized nutrition plans that change as you change. This dynamic duo offers tips and insights on exercise, fasting, new food choices, and the importance of a comprehensive approach to diabetes management.

Dana Roseman, MPH, CDCES, RDN, LDN, is the Director of Technology and Applied Research for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and Registered Dietitian with a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Illinois at Chicago, a Bachelor’s in Science from the University of Texas at Austin, and clinical nutrition training from UT Southwestern Medical Center. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, she has spent nearly 20 years improving diabetes care through technology, research, and patient education—including expertise with insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and hybrid closed-loop systems. Dana serves as Research Information Liaison for the Dallas JDRF, is active on nonprofit boards, and empowers people with diabetes to thrive physically and mentally, making her a leading voice in diabetes innovation.

Jennifer Smith, RD, LD, CDCES is the Director of Lifestyle and Nutrition for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is renowned for her expertise in nutrition, diabetes education, and athletic performance. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Nutrition and Biology from the University of Wisconsin, Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, a certified trainer for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, as well as a published author. Having lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, Jennifer offers unique insight into day-to-day diabetes management, pregnancy, sports nutrition, and technology integration.

✔️Nutrition needs change as you age with diabetes.

✔️The value of the exchange system for eating with diabetes.

✔️Free foods still have nutrients.

✔️Your body’s response to nutrients is your own. No two people are the same.

✔️Your body changes over time and will not process nutrients in the same way as it once did.

✔️There is more to your diet than just the carbs that you eat.

✔️Food is fuel that must be effectively used.

✔️The importance of understanding the timing of your insulin.

00:11 Welcome and introduction.

0:34 Meet Integrated Diabetes Services Licensed and Registered Dietitians Jennifer and Dana.

01:24 How type 1 diabetes nutritional guidelines have changed over the past 30 years.

03:52 Most helpful piece of technology to battle your meals.

05:04 There are no “free” foods.

08:43 Your diabetes may vary.

10:42 Fuel your body. Don't follow a "diet"

14:51  Calories and Carbohydrates

17:53 The liberation of ratios

20:28 The three pillars of diabetes management

24:22 The value of Afrezza for those over 18

25:58 Fiber and net carbs

28:59 Eating for activity

35:52  What else to expect in upcoming episodes

https://integrateddiabetes.com/type-1-diabetes-what-nutrition-macros-should-i-follow/

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team, visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ ,  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

In Episode 43 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, we open pull back the curtain and share the fabulous personalities of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinicians.

In part one of our three part series, meet:

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Care & Education, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985,

Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES is the Director of Intensive Diabetes Management for Integrated Diabetes Services. Tavia is a Registered Nurse, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on most makes/models of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. She was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes over forty years ago.

Kristi Paguio LMSW, CDCES, CSOWM is a licensed clinical social worker, diabetes care and education specialist, and certified specialist in obesity and weight management. Kristi was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2000 and has specialized in the mental and emotional aspects of diabetes since that time

Learn why they became diabetes clinicians, the challenges that they help their clients overcome, who enjoys listening to Boyz II Men, and which team member would first die in a Zombie apocalypse!

✔️The importance of personal experiences in diabetes management.

✔️Mental health plays a significant role in diabetes care.

✔️Teamwork enhances the effectiveness of diabetes education.

✔️Planning is essential to avoid challenges in diabetes management.

✔️All foods can fit into a diabetes-friendly diet.

✔️Support groups provide valuable resources for caregivers.

✔️Continuous learning and adaptation are key in diabetes care.

00:15 Welcome and Introduction

01:36 Kristi's diabetes diagnosis

03:12 Tavia's diabetes diagnosis

08:53 Gary's diabetes diagnosis

10:34 What tools do the IDS team use in their own diabetes care?

14:27 What is the biggest challenge they face in managing their diabetes?

19:33 How do the Integrated Diabetes Clinicians stay in shape?

23:04 Why did you become a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist?

29:15 What challenges do you help your patients overcome?

34:56 What you didn't know about the Integrated Diabetes Services team

45:25 Tavia shares support for parents of children with type 1 diabetes

https://integrateddiabetes.com/time-out-program-for-caregivers-of-kids-or-teens-with-type-1-diabetes/

Glow gummies https://glowgummies.com/

Glucose Melts

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ ,  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

IDS Diabetes Experts, The Trynamic Trio Share Personal Experiences with Open Sourced Insulin Pump Systems

And then there were two! When your child is also diagnosed with diabetes.

3 Moms and a Diabetes Diagnosis:  From “Oh no!” to “Nailed it!”

Coping with Burnout in Diabetes Management: Strategies for Success

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In Episode 42 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Kathryn Alvarez sits down with the “Trynamic Trio” to discuss the innovative Trio Open-Source insulin delivery system. Joining her are Integrated Diabetes Services clinicians Tavia Vital, Jennifer Smith, and Dana Roseman, who share their firsthand experiences beta testing the latest TRIO updates.

This dynamic team highlights several features that have improved their day-to-day diabetes management. They stress the importance of trusting the system’s algorithms once the onboarding process is complete, and delve into the advantages of tools like the cone of uncertainty and the sigmoid feature to name a few.

Throughout their conversation, the IDS clinicians underscore the collaborative approach needed for effective diabetes care and the ongoing learning that comes with adopting advanced technology.

Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez, MS, ACSM-CEP, EIM II, CPT, CSNC, CDCES is the Director of Exercise Physiology, Teen/Young Adult Specialist for Integrated Diabetes Services. As a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and Exercise Physiologist, she specializes in sports performance, technology integration—including open-source and DIY systems—and counseling young people and families affected by type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed herself at age twelve, Kathryn holds degrees in Exercise Physiology from Ave Maria University and West Chester University, and certifications from ACSM and ISSA. Her work focuses on using advanced technology and personalized exercise prescriptions to help people with diabetes manage their health and thrive.

Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES is the Director of Intensive Diabetes Management for Integrated Diabetes Services. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Regis University in Denver, Colorado after receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from the University of Iowa. Tavia is a Registered Nurse, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on most makes/models of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Having lived with type one diabetes for over 40 years, Tavia she understands that each person’s experiences and needs are unique. She strives to be an expert resource on intensive diabetes management options. She enjoys learning about the newest medications, strategies and technologies available that may help her clients reduce the diabetes burden while improving diabetes self-management skills.

Jennifer Smith, RD, LD, CDCES is the Director of Lifestyle and Nutrition for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is renowned for her expertise in nutrition, diabetes education, and athletic performance. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Nutrition and Biology from the University of Wisconsin, Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, a certified trainer for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, as well as a published author. Having lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, Jennifer offers unique insight into day-to-day diabetes management, pregnancy, sports nutrition, and technology integration.

Dana Roseman, MPH, CDCES, RDN, LDN, is the Director of Technology and Applied Research for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and Registered Dietitian with a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Illinois at Chicago, a Bachelor’s in Science from the University of Texas at Austin, and clinical nutrition training from UT Southwestern Medical Center. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, she has spent nearly 20 years improving diabetes care through technology, research, and patient education—including expertise with insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and hybrid closed-loop systems. Dana serves as Research Information Liaison for the Dallas JDRF, is active on nonprofit boards, and empowers people with diabetes to thrive physically and mentally, making her a leading voice in diabetes innovation.

✔️Understanding algorithms is key to optimizing diabetes management.

✔️The onboarding process is essential for new users of Trio.

✔️Adjusting settings can significantly impact glucose control.

✔️The cone of uncertainty provides valuable insights into glucose variability.

✔️Sigmoid feature helps manage insulin resistance effectively.

✔️Shortcuts in Trio can simplify diabetes management tasks.

✔️Continuous learning is necessary for effective use of diabetes technology.

✔️Trust in the system builds confidence in diabetes management.

00:17 Introduction and Disclaimer

00:39 Meet Tavia, Jennifer, and Dana...The Trynamic Trio

2:07 Community and continuous learning with Trio

04:48 How Trio builds confidence in users

06:05 Who should use Trio?

08:27 Why trust in Trio?

11:37 Trio was created just for us

13:40 The value of the open sourced community

18:20 The importance of onboarding with Trio

21:37 Using the shortcuts for Trio

26:07 The Cone of Uncertainty

30:04 Default, Auto sends, log, or Sigmoid?

34:06 Trio highlights

https://integrateddiabetes.com/diy-services-support/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/what-is-a-hybrid-closed-loop-system/hybrid-closed-loop-comparisons-options/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/some-technology-updates-from-the-diabetes-world/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/6-top-tips-for-open-source-diy-diabetes-management/

Email [email protected]

https://triodocs.org/

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ ,  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

In Episode 41 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Ginger Vieira joins host Jennifer Smith to discuss the updated edition of their book, *Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes: Your Month-to-Month Guide to Blood Sugar Management*.

The episode highlights their personal experiences of managing type 1 diabetes during pregnancy, insights from the book’s second edition, and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.

This insightful duo also delves into how advancements in technology and medications are transforming diabetes care for pregnant women.

Jennifer Smith, RD, LD, CDCES is the Director of Lifestyle and Nutrition for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is renowned for her expertise in nutrition, diabetes education, and athletic performance. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Nutrition and Biology from the University of Wisconsin, Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, a certified trainer for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors, as well as a published author. Having lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, Jennifer offers unique insight into day-to-day diabetes management, pregnancy, sports nutrition, and technology integration.

Ginger Vieira is a freelance writer, diabetes content specialist, and owner of The Diabetic Nerd. She is passionate about helping people with diabetes and other chronic illnesses live full lives who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 25 years and counting.

00:15  Welcome and disclaimer

00:40  Meet Jennifer Smith

01:01  Meet Ginger Vieira

02:20  Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes: Your Month-to-Month Guide to Blood Sugar Management 2nd Edition

06:25  What to expect when you are expecting with diabetes

11:14  The importance of being your own health advocate

17:57  The role of advancing diabetes technology in pregnancy

22:36  Can Afrezza or GLP-1s be used in pregnancy?

31:57  Your birthing plan should include natural delivery

35:59  Celebrating your child’s health birth

39:54  What defines a "big baby" when you have diabetes?

43:49  Managing your diabetes care with a child

46:35  Will your child get diabetes?

Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes: Your Month-to-Month Guide to Blood Sugar Management

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

The Quest for a Cure--A Diamyd in the rough

The How and Why of MDI

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In Episode 40 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, Riva Greenberg joins host Gary Scheiner to discuss, what she feels is the illusion of glucose control.

Together, they explore the biological limitations of controlling blood sugar, the psychological impacts of diabetes terminology, and the importance of influencing rather than controlling glucose levels.

Riva, author and person living with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years, shares her personal experiences and strategies for managing diabetes, emphasizing the significance of self-compassion and the acceptance of life's unpredictability in diabetes management.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985, Gary was named 2014 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. He trained at the Joslin Diabetes Center and has dedicated his career to helping others live well with diabetes through education, advocacy, and innovation.

Riva Greenberg is a multi-time author, columnist, and blogger. She has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 50 years and has presented her “Flourishing Approach” to healthcare professionals and people with diabetes all over the world.

00:16 Introduction and disclaimer

01:38 Meet Riva Greenberg

04:21 Why diabetes and blood sugars cannot be controlled

07:46 What influences blood glucose levels

09:34 Why do doctors so often use the terms like "control" with their patients with diabetes?

11:17 How words impact the psychological aspect of diabetes care

14:51 The pitfall of perfection in diabetes management

20:23 How is technology influencing the perception of diabetes management?

25:07 The value of relaxation in your care

26:40 Why Gary feels quality of life is so important in his diabetes care

27:25 The pressure that comes from thinking that diabetes shouldn't stop you

https://diabetesstories.com

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Riva-Greenberg/author/B001TNK2BE?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Bright Spots and Landmines by Adam Brown

The Discovery of Insulin by Michael Bliss

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ , or email [email protected]

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

The How and Why of MDI

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In Episode 39 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, host Kathyrn Alvarez speaks with Austin Sympson who shares his journey of living with type 1diabetes while pursuing a PhD and working in the pharmaceutical industry.  He discusses the challenges of managing diabetes alongside his busy life, his goals for family planning, and his transition to using open-source Android APS for insulin delivery.

Through this conversation, listeners will uncover how Austin balances academic pursuits, a professional career, and an active lifestyle, all while managing diabetes with cutting-edge technology.

Discover actionable tips, personal anecdotes, and valuable insights into diabetes management, family planning, and embracing open-source innovation for better glucose control.

Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez, MS, ACSM-CEP, EIM II, CPT, CSNC, CDCES is the Director of Exercise Physiology, Teen/Young Adult Specialist for Integrated Diabetes Services. As a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist and Exercise Physiologist, she specializes in sports performance, technology integration—including open-source and DIY systems—and counseling young people and families affected by type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed herself at age twelve, Kathryn holds degrees in Exercise Physiology from Ave Maria University and West Chester University, and certifications from ACSM and ISSA. Her work focuses on using advanced technology and personalized exercise prescriptions to help people with diabetes manage their health and thrive.

Austin Sympson is an NSF Graduate Research Fellow, Ph.D. Student at ISU, and Engineering Specialist at Merck Animal Health. He is also an advid cyclist, a husband, and thriving with type 1 diabetes. 

00:18 Welcome and Disclaimer

00:58 Meet Austin Sympson-- PhD student, cyclist, pharmaceutical researcher, and person with diabetes

05:12 Why Austin chose to work with Integrated Diabetes Services

10:14 What made Austin decide to use Android APS over his traditional insulin pump

15:19 Why Austin does NOT use a GLP-1 to help manage his diabetes

19:45 Understanding the AAPS Objectives

27:35 Did you ever have "buyers regret" about moving to an open source system?

30:04 Continuous Glucose Monitors and Open Source Systems

33:36 The Insurance benefits of AAPS

36:35 Kathryn's early thoughts on the Twist insulin pump

39:44 Navigating carb counts in foreign countries

42:41 The AAPS community is a helpful, global community

https://www.type1university.com/diy-open-source-automated-insulin-delivery-aid-systems/

https://loopkit.github.io/loopdocs/

https://www.loopnlearn.org/

http://integrateddiabetes.com/diy-services-support/

🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com

🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook

🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/ ,  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

✔️You can start working with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team  by visiting https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/

✔️AND...Don’t let the complexity of open-source systems deter you from experiencing their benefits. Reach out to Integrated Diabetes Services for expert coaching and start your journey toward better diabetes management today!

In Episode 38 of Think Like a Pancreas—The Podcast, host Gary Scheiner celebrates fathers who have diabetes and those with children diagnosed with the condition.

He is joined by Tom Karlya, Vice President of the Diabetes Research Institute and well-known in the diabetes space as the 'Diabetes Dad.'

In this episode, Tom and Gary explore their personal journeys, the unique challenges fathers face, and effective communication strategies for families dealing with diabetes.

They highlight the importance of being present, supportive, and educated about diabetes, offering valuable insights and resources for all dads navigating this journey.

Gary Scheiner, MS, CDCES, is the award-winning author of Think Like a Pancreas as well as numerous other books that act as guides for people living with diabetes. A Certified Diabetes Educator, Masters-level Exercise Physiologist, and person living with type 1 diabetes since 1985, Gary was named 2014 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. He trained at the Joslin Diabetes Center and has dedicated his career to helping others live well with diabetes through education, advocacy, and innovation.

Tom Karlya is a passionate diabetes advocate, actor, and Vice President at the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation (DRIF). Known in the diabetes community as "Diabetes Dad," Tom is the father of two children living with type 1 diabetes and has dedicated decades to improving the lives of families navigating this condition. His personal mission and professional efforts have made him a powerful voice in diabetes care, research funding, and family support. 

00:18 Welcome and Disclaimer

01:11 Meet Tom Karyla--Diabetes Dad

06:53 Why should we talk about the role of dads in diabetes care?

09:35 How can dads play a bigger role in their child with diabetes' care?

14:00 Are there silverlings to have a child with diabetes?

15:30 Having diabetes is living life with an Asterix

19:15 Understanding the Parent's Perspective

20:47 Resources for Dads with Type 1 Kids

22:22 How do you explain your diabetes to your children?

27:10 How to explain dealing with high or low blood sugars to your children

28:48 The perks of being a dad with diabetes

29:51 Screening and Prevention of Type 1 Diabetes

32:52 Advice for Dads of Children with Type 1 Diabetes

https://diabetesresearch.org/

https://diabetesdad.org/

https://bleedingfinger.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/167718676628352/

Integrated Diabetes Services  or email [email protected]

If you enjoyed this episode subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode.

Also, leave a review to let us know what you think, and share this episode with others who will enjoy it as well!

🎧And then there were two! When you child is also diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

🎧Three Moms and a diabetes diagnosis. From Oh no! to Nailed it!

Disclaimer

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

In this Episode 37 of Think Like a Pancreas, host Gary Scheiner dives deep into the world of open-source diabetes platforms with Kathryn Alvarez, fellow diabetes educator and exercise physiologist who also lives with type 1 diabetes.

Together, they compare the features, advantages, and drawbacks of two prominent open-source insulin delivery systems: Loop and Trio.

Kathryn shares her personal journey using these platforms and provides expert insights into their functionality, customization options, and user experiences.

Whether you’ve been using Loop or are considering Trio, this episode will help you understand what makes these systems unique and how they can transform your diabetes management.

✔️Open-source diabetes platforms offer unparalleled customization and faster updates compared to commercial systems.

✔️Trio provides advanced features like fat and protein tracking, dynamic settings, and the Warsaw method for better control over delayed glucose rises.

✔️While Trio offers more personalization, the complexity of settings requires guidance from experts or community support.

✔️Integrated Diabetes Services provides a dedicated coaching service to help users build and use open-source systems effectively.

https://integrateddiabetes.com/diy-services-support/

00:016 Welcome

00:59 Meet Kathryn Gentile-Alvarez

02:20 What are Open Source Diabetes Platforms?

04:02 Why are open-source diabetes platforms becoming so popular?

06:07 What are the disadvantages to using DIY insulin pump systems?

07:49 How does Trio compare to the Loop system?

11:11 How does the unannounced meal feature work?

14:02 Top three features unique to Trio.

20:05 What new features are coming to the Trio open source insulin delivery system?

21:03 Fatty meal feature helps to conquer pizza and more!

25:20 How well does Kathyrn know the Trio functions?

28:27 Kathyrn explains what SMB or super micro bolus is and why it's helpful.

29:14 Which data reporting programs work with TRIO?

29:58 Summary

32:02 Open Source Disclaimer

https://integrateddiabetes.com/diy-services-support/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/what-is-a-hybrid-closed-loop-system/hybrid-closed-loop-comparisons-options/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/some-technology-updates-from-the-diabetes-world/

https://integrateddiabetes.com/6-top-tips-for-open-source-diy-diabetes-management/

Email [email protected]

https://triodocs.org/

The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.

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Don’t let the complexity of open-source systems deter you from experiencing their benefits. Reach out to Integrated Diabetes Services for expert coaching and start your journey toward better diabetes management today!

https://integrateddiabetes.com/diy-services-support/

Remember... If you would like to book a consultation with a member of the Integrated Diabetes Services Team go to: https://integrateddiabetes.com/how-to-start-the-process/