Doing Well with Diabetes is a podcast series collaboration between the International Diabetes Federation and the Diabetics Doing Things podcast. During this series, host Rob Howe interviews athletes living with diabetes from around the globe to help inspire the next generation of athletes with diabetes to continue to work towards their dreams while doing well with diabetes.
Doing Well with Diabetes is part of the Kids and Diabetes in Schools programme. Diabetics Doing Things has donated all production and promotion in-kind.
Episode 1 – Perfection is a Myth, with guest Stephanie Ratcliffe
In this episode of Doing Well with Diabetes, host Rob Howe interviews Stephanie Ratcliffe, an Olympic hammer thrower living with type 1 diabetes who was recently part of Australia’s 2024 Olympic Team. Stephanie shares her journey of managing diabetes while excelling in athletics and academics, including her experiences at the University of Georgia and Harvard University. Stephanie and Rob discuss the unrealistic expectation of maintaining perfect blood sugar levels for people with type 1 diabetes. They highlight the dangers of striving for perfection, likening it to general life pressures that can bring about stress and negativity. They emphasize the importance of managing diabetes to the best of one’s ability without demanding perfection.
Stephanie also discusses the challenges and strategies for managing diabetes in high-pressure situations, the importance of a positive mindset, and her hopes of inspiring the next generation of athletes with diabetes. The episode highlights Stephanie growth in embracing her diabetes identity and connecting with the type 1 community.
Episode 2 – Lara McSpadden on Balancing Professional Basketball and Diabetes Management
In this episode of Doing Well with Diabetes, host Rob Howe interviews professional basketball player Lara McSpadden. Lara shares her experiences of living with diabetes for nearly 18 years and how it intersects with her career as an athlete.
They discuss the challenges of managing diabetes while maintaining a rigorous training and playing schedule, the importance of a strong support system, and mental health. Lara also provides insights into her routines, favorite diabetes management tips, and advice for young athletes with diabetes. This inspiring conversation aims to encourage those living with diabetes to pursue their dreams while effectively managing their condition.
Episode 3 – Gary Hall Jr.’s Journey with Diabetes: Olympian Insights
In this episode of ‘Doing Well with Diabetes,’ host Rob Howe interviews Gary Hall Jr., the most decorated Olympian with type 1 diabetes. Gary shares his experiences leading up to and following his diagnosis in 1999, discussing the challenges and triumphs of managing diabetes as a top-level athlete.
They delve into the nuances of diabetes management, the importance of perseverance, and the critical support systems that aided Gary in his career. The conversation also addresses broader topics such as advocacy, the role of sports in diabetes management, and the future of diabetes care.