Episodes

  • The Mind-Body Connection in IBS and IBD Featuring Ali Navidi, PsyD
    Jul 8 2025
    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.
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    44 mins
  • Better Health With Breathwork for IBD Featuring Elizabeth Coldrick of Wildly Brave Wellness
    Jun 17 2025
    Elizabeth Coldrick, a nutritional therapist and breathwork facilitator living with IBD and a permanent ostomy shares her experiences living in Bali, the challenges and benefits of managing IBD abroad, and the importance of nutrition and breathwork for mental and physical health. She explains how breathwork can reduce stress and inflammation, offers a simple breathing exercise, and discusses her new nutrition e-book for people with ostomies. The episode highlights self-care, community, and practical strategies for living well with IBD. Episode highlights
    • The connection between breathwork and mental health, particularly for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
    • The significance of breathwork in managing stress and promoting overall well-being.
    • Personal experiences of living with IBD and an ostomy, including challenges faced while living abroad.
    • The impact of lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, on health while living in a different country.
    • The physiological effects of breathwork, including its ability to lower cortisol levels and reduce inflammation.
    • Different types of breathwork practices and their emotional and physical effects.
    • The importance of finding qualified breathwork practitioners and creating a safe environment for participants.
    • The role of nutrition in managing IBD and the development of resources tailored for individuals with ostomies.
    • The benefits of community support for individuals living with chronic health conditions.
    • A simple breathing exercise to encourage listeners to incorporate breathwork into their daily routines.
    Find Elizabeth Coldrick and Wildly Brave Wellness at:
    • Web: https://wildlybravewellness.com/
    • Instagram: @wildlybravewellness_
    • Free Happy Gut Guide: https://go.wildlybravewellness.com/happy-gut-guide
    • Stoma Recipe eBook: https://wildlybravewellness.com/delicious-stoma-ibd-recipe-nutrition-ebook
    • Sound Healing Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62yWpuNrSgI
    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/AIBD177 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.
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    48 mins
  • Getting Outdoors With IBD Featuring Jonathan Stewart of EverGreen Adventures
    Jun 3 2025
    Jonathan Stewart, co-founder of Evergreen Adventures, a nonprofit focused on connecting the chronic illness community with outdoor activities, shares his journey with type one diabetes, ulcerative colitis, and sarcoidosis. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of staying active despite health challenges, describes the need for planning outdoor adventures, and encourages everyone to find joy in nature, no matter the circumstances. Concepts discussed on this episode: Personal experiences with chronic illnesses, including ulcerative colitis and type one diabetes. The journey of misdiagnosis and the challenges of managing chronic conditions. The emotional impact of surgical decisions, such as colectomy and living with an ileostomy. The importance of community support and advocacy for individuals with chronic illnesses. The significance of restroom access and related laws for those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The role of outdoor activities in promoting physical and mental well-being for people with chronic conditions. The founding and mission of Evergreen Adventures to facilitate outdoor experiences for the chronic illness community. The complexities of living with multiple overlapping health conditions. The importance of self-advocacy and collaboration with healthcare providers. Encouragement to redefine personal adventures and find joy in small moments despite health challenges. Information on Restroom Access Laws: Digital I Can't Wait Card via Bladder and Bowel Support Company I Can't Wait Card with membership via the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation This Can’t Wait card via Guts UK Charity What is The Restroom Access Act? via United Ostomy Associations of America Help Pass a Local Restroom Access Law in Your Community via the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation State Legislature Websites Find Jonathan Stewart and EverGreen Adventures at: Web: https://www.egadventures.org/ Instagram: @evergreen_adventures_mt 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/AIBD176 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.
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    41 mins
  • GetYourBellyOut: Picturing Hope for IBD Featuring Victoria Marie
    May 20 2025
    In this episode, Victoria, founder of GetYourBellyOut, shares her journey with ulcerative colitis and the importance of community support for those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). She discusses her diagnosis experience, the challenges of navigating healthcare, and the need for better patient advocacy. Victoria highlights the organization's growth, its initiatives like the IBD Nurse Helpline leaflets, and the significance of connecting patients with healthcare providers. She emphasizes the importance of funding to expand their services and create more opportunities for support, while also reflecting on the personal connections that drive her passion for this work. Topics covered on this episode:
    • Personal journey with ulcerative colitis and diagnosis experience
    • Emotional and physical challenges of living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
    • Importance of community support and connection for individuals with chronic illnesses
    • Founding and evolution of the organization "GetYourBellyOut"
    • Advocacy and awareness efforts for IBD and its impact on patients
    • Family dynamics and the effects of IBD on relationships
    • Role of social media in connecting individuals with IBD
    • Challenges of being a public figure in the IBD community
    • Importance of patient feedback in improving care and resources
    • Future goals and initiatives for expanding support and resources for those affected by IBD
    Find GetYourBellyOut on:
    • Web: https://getyourbellyout.org.uk/
    • Facebook: @getyourbellyout
    • Twitter: @getyourbellyout
    • Instagram: @getyourbellyout_official
    • LinkedIn: @getyourbellyout-cic
    • Tik Tok: @getyourbellyout_official
    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/AIBD175 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.
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    53 mins
  • How Tech is Changing Gastroenterology
    May 6 2025
    Amber and gastroenterologist Dr Neil Parikh discuss technology’s impact on IBD management. Dr Parikh emphasizes the importance of patient diaries and open communication between patients and providers. They also address concerns about data privacy, integrating holistic approaches in patient care, and the potential of wearable technology in gastroenterology. Find Neil D. Parikh, MD at:
    • Web: Connecticut GI
    • LinkedIn: Neil D. Parikh, MD
    Find The Gut Doctor Podcast at:
    • RSS feed
    • Apple Podcasts
    • Spotify
    • All other podcast apps
    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/AIBD174 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.
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    27 mins
  • Reclaiming Joy in Eating with IBD Featuring Stacey Collins, MA, RDN/LDN
    Apr 22 2025
    People with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (forms of inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD) were told for many decades that diet didn't affect the disease. Even today, some patients are still told this, even though there is now significant evidence that diet absolutely matters in IBD. Stacey Collins, MA, RDN/LDN describes how her journey with ulcerative colitis led to j-pouch surgery. Her philosophy as a registered dietician is one of “nutrition by addition" rather than by dietary restriction. Stacey also focuses on the emotional aspects of eating with IBD, including the understandable fear and anxiety around food. Topics discussed: The role of diet in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Personal experiences with ulcerative colitis and dietary management. The misconception that diet does not impact IBD management. The philosophy of "nutrition by addition" versus dietary restrictions. The importance of individualized dietary approaches for IBD patients. The impact of food on gut health and bacterial diversity. Emotional aspects of eating with IBD, including fear and anxiety around food. The significance of finding joy in cooking and eating. Practical dietary recommendations for IBD patients, including the Mediterranean diet. The importance of community support and connection in managing IBD. Find Stacey Collins, MA, RDN/LDN at: Stacey Collins Nutrition: https://www.staceycollinsnutrition.com/ Twitter: @staceynellc_rd Instagram: @staceynellc_rd LinkedIn: @stacey-cutler-collins Publications from Stacey Collins, MA, RDN/LDN: Scarlata K, Zickgraf HF, Satherley RM, et al. A Call to Action: Unraveling the Nuance of Adapted Eating Behaviors in Individuals with GI Conditions. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. Published online December 14, 2024. doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2024.11.010 Collins S, DIGID Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Workgroup. Iron in GI conditions. Patient.Gastro.org. 2024. https://patient.gastro.org/iron-in-gi-conditions/ Collins S, Castelan VC, Wernick R, et al. Effects of nutrition status and perioperative nutrition supplement completion on postoperative outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease undergoing surgery. Gastroenterology. 2024;166(3):S22-S23. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2023.11.081 Collins S. Surgery and Nutrition. Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. 2024. https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/patientsandcaregivers/diet-and-nutrition/surgery-and-nutrition. Nishioka H, Hasegawa Y. Addressing sarcopenia in people with disabilities: definition, assessment, and nutritional care. Medical Nutrition Matters. Reviewed by Collins S. October 1, 2024. https://www.eatrightstore.org/dpg-and-mig-products/dmnt/addressing-sarcopenia-in-people-with-disabilities-definition-assessment-and-nutritional-care. 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/AIBD 173 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.
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    58 mins
  • Infusion Hero: Stylish Hoodies for Young Patients Featuring Rachel Bee
    Apr 8 2025
    IBD patients are innovative, resilient, and powerful. My guest, Rachel Bee, is an incredible example of all these virtues. Rachel is a remarkable 17-year-old entrepreneur who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at just 13 years old. She turned her experiences with IBD into a mission to help others by founding Infusion Hero, a company that designs innovative hoodies specifically for young patients receiving infusions. Infusion Hero hoodies provide comfort and feature a unique design that allows for easy access during medical treatments. Rachel shares her story of navigating the challenges of her diagnosis, balancing high school, and running a business—all while maintaining her health and staying connected with friends. Don't miss Rachel's insights on how to turn personal challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation. Discussion points include:
    • Personal health journeys related to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
    • Experiences of living with Crohn's disease as a teenager
    • The impact of chronic illness on daily life and activities
    • The importance of education and support for young patients with IBD
    • The creation and purpose of Infusion Hero, a clothing line for infusion patients
    • Balancing health, school, and entrepreneurial endeavors
    • The role of mentorship and resources for young entrepreneurs
    • Emotional aspects of managing chronic illness during adolescence
    • The significance of community support and relationships with peers and teachers
    • Future aspirations and educational goals for young patients and entrepreneurs
    Find Rachel Bee of Infusion Hero at:
    • Web: https://www.infusionhero.com/
    • LinkedIn: Rachel Bee
    • Facebook: Infusion Hero
    • Instagram: @infusion_hero
    • Tik Tok: @infusion.hero
    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/AIBD172 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.
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    33 mins
  • Freelancing Freedom: Crafting Your Career While Caring for Your Health
    Mar 25 2025
    It's not easy to manage both a career and chronic illness like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis). We need tools and tips in order to keep everything moving and succeed at work while caring for ourselves. I talk with Jen Hubley Luckwaldt about how freelancing can be a valid way of meeting both goals. Jen shares her journey from traditional employment to freelancing, including how it offers her flexibility in balancing work, health, and family. We talk about the importance of setting boundaries with clients, how to identify your marketable skills, and building a supportive community. Jen emphasizes the value of an abundance mindset in freelancing and offers practical tips for finding work and managing time effectively. If you've ever wondered how you can manage to work while still making it to infusions and appointments: we have a roadmap for you. Episode highlights:
    • Managing a career while living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
    • Challenges of maintaining traditional full-time employment with chronic illness
    • Advantages of freelancing, including flexibility and work-life balance
    • Importance of setting boundaries with clients
    • Identifying marketable skills for freelancing
    • The role of community and support in a freelance career
    • Strategies for effective communication and feedback in professional settings
    • Tools and resources for freelancers to enhance productivity
    • The concept of an abundance mindset in freelancing
    Find Jen Hubley Luckwaldt and The Job Hopper at:
    • The Job Hopper: https://thejobhopper.substack.com
    • Bluesky: @jenlucky.bsky.social
    • Old Mom Things: https://oldmomthings.substack.com/
    • LinkedIn: @jen-hubley-luckwaldt
    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/AIBD 171 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.
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    46 mins