show episodes
 
Ending the stigma of invisible disabilities, chronic illness, conditions and diseases one story at a time. This podcast exists to elevate voices, educate others, and encourage people to get curious. To end the stigma, we share openly, vulnerably, and intentionally. Host Tim Reitsma invites guests to share what they live with publically to break down stigmas. Stigmas of shame and fear. Stigmas of "being different" when we are all normal. Every week we unpack a story to educate, encourage, emp ...
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Welcome to Beneath Vancouver Radio! My name is Aaron and in this podcast I have open and authentic conversations with creatives, entrepreneurs and business owners within the Vancouver area. My goal with this podcast is to hopefully inspire the future generation of our community and spark the passion that we all have inside of us. I hope you enjoy!
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show series
 
Monica Michelle is joined by artist Kyrianna Bolles. Kyrianna lives with chronic pain. In this episode, Monica and Kyrianna discuss: Kyrianna’s struggle to be accommodated for her pain throughout school years How Kyrianna uses her portraits to help represent other’s chronic conditions The communities Kyrianna has built, from a college support group…
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Send us a text Imagine going through life without the ability to burp. You might think it’s no big deal but did you know, on average, we burp 10-20 times a day to release the air we take in? In this episode, Henry shares his life with no-burp syndrome, also known as R-CPD. Henry talks about the physical and social challenges he faced, including cou…
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Send us a text Imagine travelling halfway across the globe to learn about a treatment that would benefit your child. Endless research, countless unanswered questions, and the frustration of feeling like you're the only one fighting for solutions. How do you keep going when the healthcare system falls short? In this episode, Jess Dove London, founde…
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Monica Michelle is interviewed by consultant and content creator Nick Clemmons. Nick recently started the blog Dory’s Corner with Invisible Not Broken. A companion podcast hosted by Nick will be released soon. Nick lives with Sickle Cell Disease. Monica lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, POTS, MCAS, and Fibromyalgia. In this episode, Nick and Monic…
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Send us a text What advice would you offer someone who is struggling to advocate for themself? What does it truly mean to advocate for yourself, and why is it often such a challenging journey? Living with Crohn's and arthritis has taught me the critical importance of self-advocacy, and through this journey, I've come to understand that demanding wh…
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Send us a text Have you ever wondered how to successfully navigate the workplace with an invisible disability? Join us as we chat with Debbie Pearmain, an HR expert and leadership development coach, who shares her invaluable insights on self-advocacy and building trust with your manager. Learn practical strategies to communicate your challenges and…
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Send us a text What happens when the medical system fails to acknowledge your pain, and how do you find the strength to keep advocating for yourself? This episode promises an intimate and powerful conversation with Katie, founder of Revive and Thrive Coaching and host of "My Chronic Illness and Me" podcast. Katie takes us through her journey with e…
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Send us a text Hey, it's Tim! Just wanted to share a bit about my recent adventures with Crohn's disease. So, I had a scope done recently and, surprise! Mild inflammation in multiple spots. Yeah, it's a bit frustrating, but I'm choosing to stay hopeful. After all, it’s not severe, and that's a win! In this short episode, I talk about hope, scopes, …
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Send us a text Imagine being an elite athlete, outwardly thriving but internally battling major depression, generalized anxiety, and social anxiety. That’s the reality for our guest, Sophia Lim-Metz, an 18-year-old who courageously opens up about her mental health journey. Sophia's story begins with an identity crisis after stepping away from hocke…
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Send us a text Can chronic migraines and concussions be as debilitating as severe strokes or daily dialysis? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Briar Sexton, a dedicated physician from British Columbia, to dive into the profound impact these invisible conditions have on quality of life. We explore the tough realities of diagnosing and managing ch…
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Send us a text You have your first few seizures and people tell you not to share your diagnosis of epilepsy because they are afraid for you. Afraid of the potential shame and discrimination you will face. While this is well-intentioned, you do the opposite. In this podcast episode, we hear from Jon Tuteur, who shares his experiences of living with …
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Monica Michelle is joined by consultant and podcast host Nick Clemmons. Nick lives with Sickle Cell Disease. In this episode, Monica and Nick discuss: The ways disabled folks are often forgotten in education infrastructure How Nick navigates societal limitations to achieve his goals Disability representation in the media Knowing how to realisticall…
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Send us a text When was the last time you had a conversation with your colleagues, friends or family about suicide awareness and prevention? Today’s episode has a content warning as my guest and I talk about a complex and serious topic - Suicide awareness and prevention. CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains some sensitive content as we talk about…
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Send us a text In this episode, I'm joined by Ally, who shares her firsthand experience with long COVID. Since her diagnosis, Ally has faced numerous challenges, from persistent symptoms that just won’t go away to major life changes that have reshaped her daily routine and long-term plans. We talk about the impact of long COVID on her life, includi…
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Send us a text Have you ever felt like the world just doesn't see you for who you truly are? In this episode, Lindsay shares her experience living with autism. Lindsay explains how she navigated the challenges of being misunderstood and misdiagnosed until she found acceptance and began advocating for herself and others with autism. Her story is a p…
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Monica Michelle is joined by consultant and podcast host Tim Reitma. Tim lives with Crohn's Disease. In this episode, Monica and Tim discuss: Tim’s resiliency through managing his Crohn’s The importance of self-advocacy, especially in the workplace Tim’s podcast why he shares stories of those with invisible illness TIMESTAMPS 00:47 - Tim's diagnosi…
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Send us a text Are you someone who turns your toughest challenges into a force for positive change, not just for yourself but for others too? How do you find the strength to advocate for yourself and a more inclusive world, even when facing your invisible struggles? Manpreet lives with multiple concussions, Lyme disease and other invisible conditio…
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Send us a text Nick Koschnik, a physicist and business founder didn't let dyslexia hold him back. Instead, he turned it into his strength, creating StoriedWork.com to help others communicate their thoughts and ideas. We discuss how important it is to get help early on for dyslexia, and how great it is when people understand and accept everyone's un…
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Send us a text When Sydney Elaine Butler speaks, you can't help but be drawn into the raw and transformative power of their voice. As the founder of Accessible Creates, Sydney lives with autism, CPTSD, and fibromyalgia. Their conditions are not just a backdrop but a driving force behind their commitment to fostering disability-inclusive spaces. The…
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Monica Michelle is joined by artist and disability advocate Sunny Ammerman Sunny lives with Septo-optic dysplasia, panhypopituitarism, Optic Nerve Hypoplasia, and is missing a membrane in the brain called the "septum pellucidum". In this episode, Monica and Sunny discuss: Sunny’s complex disorders and how she copes with them Everything VR provides …
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Send us a text When the world demands high-speed living, can taking a moment to slow down help us speed up? Is there a root cause of anxiety and if so, what does that look like? Dr. Natasha Ghosh, a clinical counsellor, shares how the pressures of society can amplify our stress and how recognizing what's in our control can ultimately support our me…
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Send us a text Grief is a journey that many of us face, making us feel alone even though it's a common experience. This week, Deanne shares her deeply personal story of dealing with major losses: the death of her aunt, a miscarriage, her child's hospital stay, and changing jobs, all happening in just 45 days. She opens up about the unique way she f…
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Send us a text When Martin opened up about his late-recognized inattentive ADHD, it wasn't just a personal revelation—it was a story that resonated with many of us flying under the radar with our struggles. Our latest episode takes you through the ups and downs of his journey, from the draining work project to his diagnosis at 38, and the impact it…
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Monica Michelle is joined by Journalist Julia Metraux. Julia lives with vasculitis, mild to moderate hearing loss, and has experienced long COVID. In this episode, Monica and Julia discuss: Julia's diagnosis with vasculitis and how it influences her journalistic lens How community impacts the mental health of those with chronic illness How Julia an…
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Send us a text Consider donating today: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma Summary: In this episode, Tim Reitsma talks with Joshua Peterson about the realities of living with Crohn's disease, spotlighting the crucial role of advocacy and the need for tailored workplace accommodations. They share personal stories that underscore the strength fo…
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Send us a text Consider donating today: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/timreitsma Summary: In this episode of the "Invisible Condition" podcast, host Tim Reitsma talks with Angel, a registered nurse from British Columbia, who courageously shares her journey through recurrent pregnancy loss. Angel opens up about the emotional rollercoaster and physica…
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Send us a text Summary: Dr. Maureen Michele Petersen discusses her book 'Reclaiming Life, A Guide for Parents of Chronically Ill Children' and the motivation behind writing it. She shares her personal experiences as a mother advocating for her chronically ill child and the importance of effectively disagreeing with medical professionals. We talk ab…
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Monica Michelle is joined by author & physiotherapist Kevin Hunt. Kevin lives with chronic pain. In this episode, Monica and Kevin discuss: Kevin’s philosophy of pain management as a physiotherapist who experiences chronic pain. The Hexagon Model, a life-management tool for focusing on what’s important to you. Kevin’s idea behind his new book. Usin…
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Send us a text 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 …
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Send us a Text Message. 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 sti…
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Monica Michelle is joined by author & personal trainer John K. Frazier. John lives with ankylosing spondylitis. In this episode, Monica and John discuss: John’s work as a physical trainer and author Chronic pain comparisons Personal triumph TIMESTAMPS 00:50 - John’s business & diagnosis 07:19 - Chronic pain olympics 09:31 - Talking about & hiding a…
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Send us a text 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…
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Send us a text 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 may…
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Send us a text ** 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…
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Monica Michelle is joined by musician Laura Mustard. Laura lives with VATER syndrome. In this episode, Monica and Laura discuss: Laura’s inspiration for her upcoming musical EP. How Laura’s illness impacted her recent relationship & self-image. Laura’s creative process, new music, and social media pressure. TIMESTAMPS 00:30 - Laura’s new EP / Monic…
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Send us a text 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…
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Monica Michelle is joined by author Amanda Chay. Amanda lives with Sjögren’s and Lupus. In this episode, Monica and Amanda discuss: Amanda’s book & diagnosis Outlooking on work & writing Navigating chronic illness with kids & family TIMESTAMPS 00:26 - Intro + The Girlfriend’s Guide to Lupus 02:17 - Amanda’s diagnosis 10:09 - Amanda’s outlook on wri…
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Send us a text 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 …
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Monica Michelle is joined by author Alexis Kline. Alexis lives with Dysautonomia. In this episode, Monica and Alexis discuss: Being a sick teenager Having an isolated diagnosis Productivity workflows TIMESTAMPS 00:28 - Alexis’s diagnosis & dog 07:18 - Sick teenager road map 10:00 - Alexis’s book & workflow 16:25 - Having an isolated diagnosis 20:50…
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Send us a text 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. …
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Send us a text 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 liv…
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Monica Michelle is joined by author Emily Falcon. Emily lives with ALCAPA. In this episode, Monica and Emily discuss: Growing up sick Post-surgery support Having a public body Self-motivation and adventuring TIMESTAMPS 00:28 - Being a sick kid & Emily’s book title 07:28 - Mortality 10:16 - Portrayal of disability in media 12:21 - Post-surgery suppo…
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Send us a text 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! Revi…
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Send us a text You are taking a shower, wash yourself down there and notice a lump so you go to your doctor. The doctor isn't concerned but decides to send you for some tests. Next thing you realize, at 32, you have testicular cancer and are now in a battle for your life. Chris Ho has battled testicular cancer not once, but twice. In this episode, …
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Send us a text Resilience is the ability to work through a crisis and return to a pre-crisis state. That’s a simple definition, but what does resilience really mean in a world full of complexity? The American Psychological Association defines Resilience as "the process and outcome of successfully adapting to difficult or challenging life experience…
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Send us a text When you are 17 and live with Type 1 Diabeties, what do you do? You aim to change the world and bring an end to the stigma that surrounds invisible disabilities, illnesses, diseases and conditions. Jenna Shares openly how her invisible condition doesn't define who she is. Sure there are limits to what she can do but that hasn't stopp…
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Monica Michelle is joined by writer and entrepreneur Micaela Hoo. Micaela lives with Lyme disease, bartonella, babesia, mold toxicity, parasite overgrowth, candida overgrowth, Hashimoto's disease, and Morgellons disease. In this episode, Monica and Micaela discuss: Micaela's diagnosis story Healthcare insurance TIMESTAMPS 00:24 - The start of Micae…
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Send us a text Every Wednesday, I release an episode with a guest. Someone who lives with an invisible condition, a caregiver, or a medical professional. We share stories, give insights, and create opportunities to get real, vulnerable, and make connections. On Fridays, I plan to release a short (10-minute) solo episode where I share some of the ma…
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Send us a text What do you do when you lose trust in your bowels? Jodi Ekk, diagnosed with Colitis talks about how her faith has allowed her to let go of one career and pursue something completely different. A change in identity, making an impact. And the freedom to say, “Excuse me, I need to run.” Resources https://crohnsandcolitis.ca/ https://www…
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Monica Michelle is joined by physical therapist Rita White. Rita lives with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Mast Cell Activation syndrome, and POTS. In this episode, Monica and Rita discuss: Rita’s work as a physical therapist Toxic productivity mentality Happiness from self-understanding and patience TIMESTAMPS 00:38 - Rita’s diagnosis and job 04:58 - “pu…
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