Kristina thought she had the answers, until a diagnosis at 40 brought more questions to the surface. What began as a search for clarity around persistent symptoms became a turning point that redefined her health and her place in the world. In this episode, Kristina shares what it was like to receive a cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosis as an adult, how grief and gratitude shaped her first years post-diagnosis, and why finding community can make all the difference. Drawing from her background in healthcare and her deep commitment to advocacy, Kristina is building bridges for others walking a similar path. Her story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the truth that it’s never too late to begin again.

Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at 18, Ivan brings a powerful story of resilience, identity, and transformation. In this episode, Ivan opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of navigating CF in early adulthood and the discipline it took to reclaim his health and mindset. Now studying exercise science and working in tech sales, he channels his passion for fitness, family, and advocacy into a life of intention. Through grief, growth, and grit, Ivan is redefining what it means to thrive with a chronic illness and why visibility in the CF community matters more than ever.

Maggie, a proud member of the Latino community and business owner, opens up about her experience as a caregiver to her adult daughter with CF. Balancing the demands of caregiving with her love of cooking, family traditions, and entrepreneurship, Maggie shares how her cultural roots and resilience help her navigate life's toughest transitions.

Tune in for a bonus episode with Carissa! She's back, and this time, she's diving even deeper into very relatable topics about caregiving for a loved one with CF. This time, she’ll cover vulnerability, navigating your child’s dating and love life, and tackling negative self-talk as a caregiver.

Raising a little one with cystic fibrosis (CF) is complicated. Carissa gets vulnerable about how she copes through the hardships of caregiving, revels in the joys of being a mother to a child with CF, and makes space for both things to be true at once.

Get to know opera singer, yoga teacher, community leader, and entrepreneur Katie as she explains the unique experiences that led her to where she is today and shares how she incorporates mindfulness and joy into her routine on a daily basis.

Find a quiet space and follow along with this relaxing mindfulness meditation led by yoga teacher, Katie Malik.

From leaving Guatemala with her family in search of crucial CF care to getting her masters and becoming a bilingual speech-language pathologist, Maria shares how her positive outlook and strong support system helped her stay true to herself every step of the way.

Reminisce on highlights from previous podcast episodes and get some hints about future episode topics with host, Julia Rae.

Finding a career you enjoy can be so fulfilling. John and Julia discuss how they’ve each cultivated a work-life balance that fits their lifestyle and HR expert, Susan, gives examples of workplace accommodations and job search tips.