About IBD

After a devastating Crohn's disease flare, marketing executive Bari Gratton traded a high-stress career for the healing path of yoga therapy in California. Bari joins Amber Tresca to discuss the "Five Layers of Being," the toxicity of "pushing through," and how she is building community for the next generation of IBD patients. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD201 Key Chapters & Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Welcome to About IBD with Amber Tresca [00:04:40] – Diagnosis in the late 90s: Life as a teen with Crohn's [00:12:35] – The 2017 Crisis: Three surgeries and a temporary ostomy [00:19:40] – The Barn Door Moment: Finding safety in a yoga studio [00:23:00] – Healing the Next Generation: Camp Oasis and teen advocacy [00:30:30] – Intro to the Pancha Maya Kosha (The 5 Layers of Being) [00:32:15] – Layer 1: Annamaya Kosha (The Physical Body) [00:34:10] – Layer 2: Pranamaya Kosha (The Energy/Breath Body) [00:36:45] – Layer 3: Manomaya Kosha (The Mental/Emotional Body) [00:39:50] – Layer 4: Vijnanamaya Kosha (The Wisdom/Witness Body) [00:42:30] – Layer 5: Anandamaya Kosha (The Bliss/True Nature Body) [00:52:00] – Why "Pushing Through" is a toxic practice for chronic illness [01:03:00] – Girls with Guts and the "Om My Guts" community What you'll learn: Why the "pushing through" mentality can exacerbate IBD and how to shift toward acceptance. Bari's journey from a high-stress NYC marketing career to becoming a yoga instructor. The profound impact of the Pancha Maya Kosha (Five Layers of Being) on managing chronic pain and anxiety. How a devastating flare led Bari to overhaul her life and work towards remission. The unique benefits of clinical yoga therapy for those with IBD. The importance of community through organizations like Girls with Guts and the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Resources mentioned in this episode: Team Om My Guts Bari Gratton Take Steps Greater Los Angeles/Orange County Chapter of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation Find Girls With Guts at: Facebook: @IBDgirls Web: https://girlswithguts.org/ LinkedIn: @ibdgirls Instagram: @ibdgirls Annual Retreat: October 23 - October 26 Find the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Los Angeles/Orange County Chapter at: Web: Greater Los Angeles/Orange County Chapter of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation Instagram: @crohnscolitisfoundationla_oc Facebook: @ccflaoc Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Did you know that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) isn't only a digestive condition? It can also attack your vision. Your host, Amber J Tresca, breaks down some of the most common eye-related extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Learn how to identify the warning signs of episcleritis, uveitis, and scleritis, and find out when you need to see an ophthalmologist right away to protect your eyesight. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD200 Key Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction: Protecting your vision with IBD 02:07 - What are Extra-Intestinal Manifestations (EIMs)? 04:21 - How common is eye disease in IBD patients? 05:43 - Condition 1: Episcleritis (Symptoms and treatments) 07:15 - Why episcleritis often tracks with IBD flares 10:14 - Condition 2: Uveitis (Red flags and risks of vision loss) 13:58 - Condition 3: Scleritis (Rare but severe complications) 16:51 - Condition 4: Dry Eyes 18:23 - Risk Factors: Who is most likely to develop IBD eye issues? 20:10 - When to call your doctor and why you need an ophthalmologist 23:25 - Practical tips: Keeping eye drops in the fridge Sources: Vavricka SR, Schoepfer A, Scharl M, Lakatos PL, Navarini A, Rogler G. Extraintestinal Manifestations of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2015;21(8):1982-1992. doi:10.1097/MIB.0000000000000392 Mintz R, Feller ER, Bahr RL, Shah SA. Ocular manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2004;10(2):135-139. doi:10.1097/00054725-200403000-00012 Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Eye complications in IBD. Rosenbaum JT, Bodaghi B, Couto C, et al. New observations and emerging ideas in diagnosis and management of non-infectious uveitis: A review. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2019;49(3):438-445. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2019.06.004 World Health Organization. Vitamin A deficiency and ocular health. Rufo PA, Denson LA, Sylvester FA, et al. Health supervision in the management of children and adolescents with IBD: NASPGHAN recommendations. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2012;55(1):93-108. doi:10.1097/MPG.0b013e31825959b8 Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD198 What does a pregnant woman do when they need a biologic medication, but pregnancy isn't included in drug trials? Dr. Sonia Grandi and Dr. Christina Longo talk to Amber Tresca about the BIONIC study, a groundbreaking project using decades of real-world data to understand how biologics affect a pregnant woman and her baby. The BIONIC study is designed to empower patients to make confident, evidence-based decisions about their own health and their children's future. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Sonia Grandi and Dr. Christina Longo. 04:14 – What exactly is an Epidemiologist? 06:33 – Why childhood asthma research led to the BIONIC Study. 11:05 – Why children and pregnant women are historically excluded from trials. 13:00 – Defining "Remission" in children: Why it's more than just labs. 17:01 – The BIONIC Study explained: Safety and biologics in pregnancy. 22:04 – The Patient Advisory Committee: Why lived experience matters. 25:52 – The "Grind" of Research Funding: How projects actually get built. 32:21 – Fun & Hobbies: Puzzles, running, and the "BIONIC" spirit. Find Sonia Grandi, MSc, PhD at: The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids): Sonia Grandi, MSc, PhD Dalla Lana School of Public Health: Sonia Grandi, MSc, PhD Lab: IMPOWER Lab at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) LinkedIn: @sonia-grandi Find Cristina Longo , PhD at: Université de Montréal: Cristina Longo , PhD CHU Sainte-Justine: Cristina Longo , PhD LinkedIn: @cristina-longo-67656040 Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is being utilized in healthcare for many purposes. Patients are wondering how they can safely and effectively use AI tools to educate themselves and to manage their health. Amber and guest Michael Tresca discuss what AI is, how it works, and why skepticism and source verification are essential. They highlight practical, lower-risk ways patients might use AI, such as organizing personal health data, drafting appointment questions, and explaining medical terms. The emphasis is on ongoing education, privacy concerns, responsible use, and the importance of "trust but verify" when using AI for critical health decisions without professional input. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD196 Sign up for Mike's AI newsletter: AI Unplugged on LinkedIn Timestamps: 00:05 — Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:20 — Recap of Previous Episode and Relationship Disclosure 02:16 — Defining AI and Common Misconceptions 04:14 — AI in Clinical and Patient Use 05:11 — AI in Everyday Search and Unintentional Use 06:39 — AI Hallucinations: What They Are and Why They Happen 10:13 — Importance of AI Showing Its Work and Sources 10:58 — Challenges in Understanding AI's Reasoning 14:33 — AI Training Data and Source Reliability 15:31 — Risks of Outdated or Inaccurate Health Information 21:35 — AI's Responsibility in Providing Answers 23:13 — Tolerance for Error and Regulation in AI 24:02 — Transition to Patient Use Cases 24:19 — Using AI to Organize Medical Information 26:23 — Drafting Questions for Appointments with AI 27:19 — Tracking Symptoms or Diet with AI 28:22 — AI for Coping with Brain Fog or Fatigue 31:10 — Listener Feedback: Avoiding AI 32:31 — Listener Feedback: Privacy, Data Breaches, and Environmental Concerns 34:45 — Listener Feedback: Worry About Errors 36:29 — Listener Feedback: Using AI for Definitions and Basic Research 37:24 — Listener Feedback: Using AI to Explain Test Results 40:31 — Listener Feedback: Healthcare Providers Using AI for Notetaking 43:30 — Ethics of Recording Medical Visits 44:42 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts 46:25 — Outro and Credits Find Michael Tresca at World of Welstar: Twitter: @WorldofWelstar Instagram: @world_of_welstar Facebook: @worldofwelstar MeWe: http://tinyurl.com/MeWeTRPG Threads: http://tinyurl.com/threadsWOW Bluesky: https://blskyl.ink/worldofwelstar Amazon: http://amzn.to/41jMn5h EN World: http://tinyurl.com/ENWRPG Drive Through RPG: http://tinyurl.com/DTRPGMNT Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talien Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_IBD Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer Web: Cooney Studio YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. How can we approach AI with both curiosity and caution, especially as it becomes more integrated into daily life? If we're not aware of it and looking for it, AI could become inserted into spaces where we aren't comfortable with it. Amber talks with her son Brenden, a computer science student, about recognizing AI-generated content, the importance of media literacy, and the ethical challenges technology brings. This conversation offers some practical uses for AI, such as learning new skills or automating mundane tasks, while pointing out that creativity and critical thinking are human pursuits. We stress how AI isn't a replacement for expertise and that we should all question what we see online to encourage the responsible use of AI tools. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD194 Find Brenden Tresca at: LinkedIn: Brenden Tresca WHNU 88.7: Tech Fest radio show Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Looking for your next great read? Host of About IBD, Amber Tresca, gives her year-end roundup of books, with brief summaries and her reflections on each. The selections cover a mix of genres, from speculative fiction and psychological thrillers to memoir and dark fantasy, often touching on themes of trauma, community, self-acceptance, and chronic illness. Amber shares how the stories resonated with her experience as a GenX mom living with a chronic illness, offering both recommendations and caveats. She also discusses practical tips for accessing books affordably through libraries and apps, and encourages exploring local bookstores or thrift shops to boost your reading journey and sense of community. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD192 Find Amber's 2025 books at Bookshop.org Chapters: 00:05 — Introduction and Episode Overview — Amber introduces herself, the podcast, and the year-end book review episode. 01:08 — Book 1: Beautyland by Marie Helene Bertino — Summary, themes, and reflections on the coming-of-age story of an alien observing human life. 03:35 Book 2: The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult — Summary, dual timelines, ancient Egypt, and personal frustrations with the main character. 06:10 — Book 3: Doctor Sleep by Stephen King — Summary, differences between book and movie, trauma, and post-Shining life for Danny Torrance. 09:57 — Book 4: We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer — Summary, psychological horror, reality distortion, and the challenges of ambiguous endings. 12:23 — Book 5: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig — Summary, alternate lives, regret, self-acceptance, and critique of the book's premise. 16:07 — Library Resources and Digital Media Tips — Amber shares how she accesses books via library apps and encourages listeners to use library resources. 17:36 — Book 6: A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher — Summary, dark fantasy, abuse, coming of age, and resilience in a retelling of Goose Girl. 20:40 — Book 7: Death Valley by Melissa Broder — Summary, magical realism, chronic illness depiction, and reflections on escapism and coping. 24:21 — Book 8: One of Us Knows by Alyssa Cole — Summary, dissociative identity disorder, pandemic context, and a unique take on the locked-room thriller. 27:07— Book 9: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman — Summary, community, connection, and critique of the book's tone and humor. 31:06 — Book 10: A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost — Summary, comedic memoir, personal anecdotes, and recommendation of the audiobook version. 33:44 — Book Shopping, Thrifting, and Community Reflections — Amber discusses supporting bookstores, thrifting, and the importance of reading for community and personal growth. 36:07 — Closing Remarks and Call to Action — Amber wraps up, encourages listener engagement, and provides information about show notes and future book clubs. Books Amber Contributed to in 2025: Living with Fire: A Patient's Guide to Thriving with Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases Wellness Through Words: A Multivocal Anthology on Healthcare, Patient Safety, and Wellness Library apps mentioned in this episode: Libby Hoopla Freegal Music Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @AboutIBD Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Katryna Loewen, a registered nurse diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2020, shares her journey through severe flare-ups, incontinence, and her decision to have a colectomy and ileostomy in 2024. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges of living with IBD, the stigma of ostomies, and how these experiences shaped her life, relationships, and career. Katryna also describes managing her mental health, planning her wedding, and preparing for motherhood, offering hope and practical advice to others with IBD. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD190 Chapters: 00:04 Introduction and Guest Background 02:09 Katrina's Nursing Career 03:08 Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis 04:48 Remission and Flare-Ups 05:09 Severe Flare in 2023 07:08 Decision for Surgery 10:36 Facing Ostomy Surgery 14:08 Acceptance and Life with an Ostomy 16:08 Impact of IBD on Mental Health 17:18 Incontinence Experiences 23:31 Tracking Symptoms and Advocacy 26:23 Wedding with IBD 28:45 Therapy and Emotional Recovery 32:06 Pregnancy After Ostomy Surgery 37:50 Preparing Pets for Baby 41:54 Support Networks and Advice 43:32 Where to Find Katrina 43:38 Closing Remarks Find Katryna Loewen at: Instagram: @goingpains88 Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Amber and Mariah discuss how women with chronic illnesses cope with advice on medication use in pregnancy—especially in light of the confusion around acetaminophen. Mariah shares her experiences with rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy, focusing on changes in medication safety data. They talk about the pressure, stigma, and lack of support for pregnant women, the need for nuanced guidance, and provide resources. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD188 This episode sponsored by Fathom Care! Fathom is an AI-powered wellness companion made for patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Over 2.4M people in the United States are navigating IBD alone, and Fathom is here to change that. Learn more at: https://fathom.care/ Chapters: 00:04 Intro & Guest Introduction 01:26 FDA Statement on Acetaminophen & Pregnancy 02:55 Concerns About Acetaminophen Guidance 04:03 Mariah's RA & Pregnancy Experience 07:13 Impact of Medication Decisions 07:33 Biologics & Medication Safety 09:45 Pressure to Avoid Medications 10:05 Balancing Risks: Medication vs. Flare 12:06 Stigma & Judgment Around Medication Use 13:19 Authority Statements & Social Stigma 15:10 "Tough It Out" Mentality 17:11 Societal Judgment & Pregnancy Experiences 17:53 Infusion Appointments While Pregnant 19:09 Sponsor: Fathom Care App 20:59 History of Blaming Mothers & Autism 22:17 Societal Support & Pregnancy Discrimination 24:04 Expectations vs. Realities of Pregnancy 25:58 Reframing Autism & Neurodiversity 28:15 Resources for Pregnancy & Chronic Illness 30:01 Importance of Up-to-Date Data & Planning 33:20 Medication Changes & Specialist Involvement 34:49 Changing Data & Continuing Education 36:25 Mamas Facing Forward: Community & Support 38:48 Peer Support & Parenting with Chronic Illness 40:08 Mariah's Background & Expertise 41:19 Personal Updates & Closing 42:42 Final Thoughts & Outro Concepts discussed on this episode: About IBD Podcast Episode 71- I Evaluated What Was Really Important to Me Screaming on the Inside: The Unsustainability of American Motherhood — Jessica Grose Notice to Physicians on the Use of Acetaminophen During Pregnancy — US FDA The IBD Parenthood Project Does taking Tylenol during pregnancy cause autism? The evidence says 'no.' — UCHealth MotherToBaby, a service of the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) PIANO (Pregnancy Inflammatory bowel disease And Neonatal Outcomes) Study Find Mariah Leach, JD, MS at: Web: MamasFacingForward.com Instagram: @mamasforward Facebook: @mamasfacingforward LinkedIn: @mariahzebrowski Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Every person living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can help change public policy by sharing their story and participating in advocacy events, such as visiting legislators in Washington, D.C. Amber talks to Kelly E. Dwyer, who teaches us how to prepare an elevator speech and gives us practical tips for Hill Day logistics, working within teams, staying emotionally resilient, and following up with staffers. Advocacy is for everyone, and persistence and collaboration can lead to real policy changes to benefit the IBD and chronic illness communities. By the end of the episode, you'll have the real resources you can use to do this work as a patient advocate both locally and nationally. This episode is sponsored by Connecting to Cure. Transcript and more information: https://bit.ly/AIBD186 Chapters: 00:05 Introduction and Guest Background 01:23 The Role and Nature of Patient Advocacy 02:37 The Long Game of Advocacy: Successes and Challenges 04:37 Advocacy vs. Activism and Personal Motivation 06:05 The Importance of Patient Stories in Advocacy 06:52 Crafting and Delivering Your Elevator Speech 11:46 Managing Emotions and Practicing Your Story 15:42 Preparing for Advocacy Day: Research and Teamwork 18:07 Training and Building Confidence for Hill Visits 20:58 Coordinating with Your Advocacy Team 22:38 Practical Logistics: What to Wear and Security 24:42 Navigating Capitol Hill: Accessibility and Facilities 29:26 Managing the Day: Scheduling and Flexibility 32:17 During the Meeting: Structure and Communication 36:04 Group Dynamics and Respectful Storytelling 40:29 Building Relationships and Following Up 42:12 How to Get Involved with Advocacy Groups 44:42 Financial Considerations and Accessibility 45:17 Encouragement and Closing Thoughts on Advocacy 47:12 Lessons Learned the Hard Way 50:33 Closing Remarks and Gratitude 51:22 Outro and Credits Topics on this episode: Overview of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Personal experiences of living with IBD and the impact on daily life. The role of patient advocacy in improving healthcare policies and patient rights. Challenges faced by patients regarding insurance barriers and treatment access. Importance of sharing personal stories with legislators to influence policy change. Distinction between activism and advocacy in the context of healthcare. Strategies for effective communication and preparation for advocacy efforts. The significance of teamwork and collaboration in advocacy initiatives. Resources and organizations that support IBD advocacy and patient education. Emotional aspects of sharing health experiences and the importance of building relationships with legislative staff. Find Kelly E. Dwyer at: Web: https://www.keepingmyshittogether.com Twitter: @keepingmyshitTG Instagram: @keepingmyshittogether Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_IBD Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer Web: Cooney Studio YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD184 Amber talks with Aaron Blocker, a Crohn's disease patient and advocate, about the importance of finding and creating community for people touched by IBD. Online and in-person groups offer support and serve as platforms to share practical tips and counter misinformation. Aaron points out that it's important to find a balance between advocacy, health, and personal life when offering support to others. Both emphasize the value of authenticity and learning from mistakes. The conversation stresses the importance of caring for mental health, the power of connection, and staying true to one's own reasons for taking part in community. Topics discussed on this episode: Importance of community for people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Challenges and rewards of sharing disease experiences online Navigating negative comments and misinformation in online communities Strategies for engaging with IBD communities and providing support Balancing community involvement with personal health and family life Mental health considerations when participating in online discussions Importance of authenticity and passion in advocacy work Addressing misinformation and promoting accurate health information within the community Chapters: 0:05 Intro & Sponsor 1:23 Aaron's Background & Group Origin 5:30 Power of Community 8:08 Support in Community 11:44 Getting Involved in IBD Communities 15:16 Before Sharing Online 16:15 Motivation & Authenticity 19:10 Combating Misinformation 25:20 Boundaries & Balance 31:52 Mental Health & Selective Sharing 34:55 Handling Criticism & Mistakes 38:11 Referring Out & Collaboration 39:18 Responding to Criticism 40:13 Aaron's Socials & Closing 41:53 Outro & Credits Find Aaron Blocker at: Facebook: @SupportIBD YouTube: @aaronblocker Instagram: @AaronBlocker_ Web: https://www.aaronblocker.com Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell Health: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_ibd Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Web: Cooney Studio Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Stress is a huge problem for people who live with immune-mediated conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. The condition causes tension in all the parts of our lives. We can't get rid of it, so we need to find ways to either minimize it or manage it. I talk to Dr. Jin Lee, neuropsychologist and CEO of IMIdeology, about managing stress while living with chronic inflammatory diseases like IBD and lupus. We discuss the impact of chronic stress on health, the challenges of fragmented care, and the benefits of a multidisciplinary, holistic approach. Dr. Lee shares practical, easy-to-implement stress management tips that you can do even when sitting at a stoplight! Plus, we tell you about the upcoming "Bridging Autoimmunity: Patient Forum" taking place on September 13th in Dobbs Ferry, NY. You'll come away from this episode understanding how integrated care, community support, and small daily habits can improve quality of life with chronic illness. Episode transcript and more: https://bit.ly/AIBD182 ***Register for the Bridging Autoimmunity: Patient Forum on September 13th, 2025!*** 0:04 Intro & Guest Background 2:55 Motivation & Clinic Model 4:53 Illness & Stress 5:16 Stress in Chronic Illness 7:28 Invisible Illness & Advocacy 8:38 Stress Management & Pilot Program 10:40 Wearables & Health Coaching 12:18 Research vs. Real Life 16:13 Building Habits 18:43 Autoimmunity Forum 22:34 About the Clinic 24:49 Connect & Learn More 26:20 Closing & Resources Topics in this episode include: ✨ Managing stress while living with chronic illness ✨ Impact of chronic inflammatory conditions on physical and emotional health ✨ Importance of a multidisciplinary care approach for chronic illnesses ✨ Challenges of fragmented healthcare and communication among specialists ✨ Stress management strategies for patients with chronic pain ✨ Role of small, manageable habits in building resilience ✨ Addressing the gap between research and real-life patient experiences ✨ Upcoming Bridging Autoimmunity Patient Forum and its offerings ✨ Integrated, patient-centered care for chronic inflammatory diseases ✨ Community support and resources for individuals with autoimmune conditions Find IMIDeology at: Web: https://www.imideology.com/ Instagram: @imideology1 Facebook: @IMIDeology Tik Tok: @imideology LinkedIn: IMIDeology Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_IBD Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer Web: Cooney Studio YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD180 Grassroots organizations are an important part of the IBD landscape, helping fill in the many gaps in our underserved community. Amber talks with Angela Clark, president and CEO of Propel a Cure, a grassroots nonprofit that funds research projects looking for the causes of Crohn's disease. They discuss the challenges of finding cures for IBD and the importance of supporting innovative, early-stage research. Angela explains their grant selection process, highlights current research they fund, and shares how the organization communicates complex science to the IBD community. Topics in this episode include: Origins and mission of Propel a Cure, a nonprofit organization focused on Crohn's disease research. Angela Clark's personal connection to Crohn's disease and her role in Propel a Cure. The grassroots nature of Propel a Cure and its all-volunteer structure. Challenges and rewards of running a nonprofit organization dedicated to IBD research. Funding strategies for innovative research projects related to Crohn's disease. Importance of raising awareness and combating misconceptions about Crohn's disease. Overview of current research projects funded by Propel a Cure and their scientific approaches. The role of a scientific advisory board in evaluating research proposals. Communication strategies for making complex scientific research accessible to the IBD community. Future goals for expanding funding capacity and building partnerships within the IBD space. More information: Propel a Cure Videos (interviews with leading IBD researchers) Propel a Cure Newsletter Donate to Propel a Cure Find Propel a Cure at: Web: PropelACure.org Twitter: @propelacure Instagram: @propelacure Facebook: @propelacure LinkedIn: @propel-a-cure-for-crohn-s-disease YouTube: @propelacure Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_IBD Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer Web: Cooney Studio YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio

Amber interviews Dr. Ali Navidi, a gastropsychologist specializing in mental health for people with gastrointestinal disorders. They discuss the importance of addressing mental health alongside conditions like IBD and IBS, highlighting the stigma surrounding these issues. Dr. Navidi explains cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and clinical hypnosis, emphasizing their effectiveness in managing symptoms. He also shares insights on the challenges of accessing mental health care and introduces a new therapeutic group program for IBD patients developed in collaboration with the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, aimed at making treatment more accessible and affordable. Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD178 Mental health challenges associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Stigma surrounding mental health in gastrointestinal disorders The connection between mental and physical health in digestive disorders Disorders of gut-brain interaction and their implications Importance of seeking support and building a network for mental health Role of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating GI disorders Use of clinical hypnosis for managing pain and anxiety Access to specialized mental health care for patients with GI disorders Development of therapeutic groups for IBD patients Need for specialized training for mental health professionals in GI disorders Find Dr. Ali Navidi and GI Psychology at: Web: https://www.gipsychology.com/ Facebook: @GIPsychology Instagram: @gipsychusa More information on the topics we discussed: IBD Psychotherapy Group: https://www.gipsychology.com/ibdgroup/ PsyPact: https://psypact.gov/ Dr. Navidi's discussion with Dr. Mark Mattar (Medstar Georgetown) and Kate Wheeling of The Atlantic about the impact of Clinical Hypnosis on IBS: https://www.gipsychology.com/2023/11/30/gi-psychology-and-the-atlantic-discuss-clinical-hypnosis-for-ibs/ Dr. Navidi's interview with Elizabeth Chang of the Washington Post to talk Clinical Hypnosis and IBS: https://www.gipsychology.com/2022/10/04/gi-psychology-director-dr-ali-navidi-talks-to-the-washington-post/ Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @AboutIBD Threads: @about_IBD Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at: Facebook: @maccooneycomposer Instagram: @maccooneycomposer Web: Cooney Studio YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio. These show notes may contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.