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Diabetes Nerd

Seriously? Another diabetes podcast? Yup. I couldn't help myself. In this podcast, we are breaking down diabetes cure research, insulin management tips, pump and CGM technology, other meds like GLP-1s, burnout, and inspiring stories.

These are real conversations about life with diabetes.

ABOUT THE HOST:
Ginger Vieira has lived with type 1 diabetes since 1999. She is an author, advocate, journalist, content creator, and diabetes content marketing specialist. Over the years, she's published many books, including Every Day with Diabetes, Exercise with Type 1 Diabetes, Dealing with Diabetes Burnout, Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes, and more!

Find more from Ginger at DiabetesNerd.com.

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30 episodes
weekly
Avg 50 min
English

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June 11 · 44 min
Parenting a T1D Teen Without Becoming the ‘Blood Sugar Police’
Send us Fan Mail Managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) during the teen years can feel like a constant balancing act. In this episode, Yale pediatric endocrinologist and person living with T1D, Dr. Laura Nally, shares practical strategies to help parents support their teens with more confidence and less conflict. Learn why blood sugar responses to exercise aren't one-size-fits-all, how nutrition and physical activity work together, and what parents can do to help teens build independence while staying safe. Dr. Nally discusses her research on exercise and diabetes, including how identifying individual patterns can lead to smarter management decisions. We also explore common challenges such as preventing lows during sports, using protein to support blood sugar stability, and avoiding the "blood sugar police" approach that can damage trust and communication. Plus, hear how diabetes technology can reduce mental burden while still encouraging teens to develop essential self-management skills. Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, or someone supporting a teen with type 1 diabetes, this episode offers practical insights to help young people thrive—both physically and emotionally. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS 🔥 NEW RELEASE: Every Day with Diabetes Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
June 4 · 43 min
Do GLP-1s Actually Make Sense for Type 1 Diabetes?!
Send us Fan Mail Most people think managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) is just about insulin and carbs, but what if there's a powerful tool you're missing that could reduce your insulin needs and stabilize blood sugar? Amy Wolk, a longtime pediatric diabetes educator and a person living with T1D for nearly 57 years, shares her surprising journey with microdosing GLP-1s, including Ozempic and Mounjaro. Her experience might just revolutionize how you think about insulin resistance, weight management, and the future of diabetes care. Amy shares real-world stories from her decades navigating the evolving diabetes landscape, from early research with closed-loop systems to witnessing today's rapid device advancements. But the game-changer? Using microdosed GLP-1s to buffer blood sugar spikes, curb appetite, and reduce insulin requirements without the typical weight gain. In this episode, you'll discover... How low-dose GLP-1 therapy can bring the digestive system into better balance, even for those not seeking weight loss. The intricacies of microdosing, including practical tips, syringe hacks, and why customization is crucial for effectiveness. Why the current FDA-approval process and insurance coverage slow down access to potentially life-changing options for people with T1D. The potential for GLP-1s to address long-standing issues like food noise, insulin resistance, and weight gain, beyond just blood sugar management. In a landscape where off-label use is common and research is rapidly evolving, understanding how and why microdosing GLP-1s could transform your diabetes management is essential. Amy's candid insights as both a clinician and patient shed light on an exciting frontier—one that could help you manage your condition more naturally, reduce medication dependence, and perhaps even improve quality of life. If you're tired of feeling stuck with outdated therapies and want to stay ahead of the latest breakthroughs, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to rethink what’s possible in T1D care! Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
May 28 · 50 min
Award-winning Bluegrass Musician Talks T1D Craziness on Tour
Send us Fan Mail Join the Diabetes Nerd Network! Most people don't realize how much physical and emotional resilience it takes to perform with type 1 diabetes, especially on the road. Carolyn Routh, award-winning bluegrass musician and longtime T1D warrior, reveals the raw truths behind managing blood sugar levels during a live show, amid unpredictable travel schedules, and the emotional toll of lows and highs in the spotlight. During this Diabetes Nerd Podcast episode, you’ll discover the surprising ways she keeps her blood sugar in check during performances, how her support system and technology make all the difference, and why her story is a powerful reminder that living fully with type 1 isn't just about numbers—it’s about resilience, passion, and authenticity. In this episode, Carolyn shares what it was like to be diagnosed in the late 70s with limited tools, how her lifestyle on tour complicates diabetes management, and the emotional rollercoaster of low blood sugars that can turn a stage moment into a fight for survival. We'll break down her on-the-road insulin strategies, from deliberately running higher during shows to using vibratory CGMs and emergency glucagon kits. She talks candidly about how her experience with her son’s diagnosis has deepened her understanding and empathy—and how her band’s support makes all the difference when lows hit mid-performance. We also explore the hidden toll of emotional highs and lows, the physical symptoms of hypoglycemia that most people never see, and why managing diabetes as a touring musician is a constant battle of adaptation and mental toughness. Carolyn’s story highlights the importance of support, technology, and mindset, proving that even in the chaos of life on tour, you can thrive with the right tools and attitude. Perfect for anyone navigating diabetes in demanding, unpredictable environments—whether you're on stage, traveling, or simply living life to the fullest—this episode is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the unbreakable spirit of living with type 1. Gain new perspective, practical tips, and a little inspiration to face your own daily battles with courage and humor. Thanks for joining us, Nu Blu! Thanks to Eversense Diabetes for sponsoring. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. AND thanks to YOU for tuning in! 🎶 DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
May 21 · 53 min
Diabetes Burnout? No, We Have Diabetes Disgust.
Send us Fan Mail Content creators who only show their best moments with type 1 diabetes (T1D)? Unhelpful. Healthcare systems that mistakenly diagnose you with type 2 diabetes (T2D) because you're older or live in a bigger body? Horrifying. Having to get up in the middle of the night to treat a low? Over it. We are so, so over it. Living with type 1, that is. How do you navigate burnout when the world of diabetes or your world with diabetes just feels like it's too much? In this conversation with Neil Greathouse (one of our favorite people in the world), we chat about this and more. And we're inviting you to be a part of our circle! Because we're guessing there's a lot you need to get off your chest, too. Check out what Neil's up to: Instagram Website Podcast Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast! Eversense is home to the world's only 365-day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
May 14 · 45 min
Will This New Short Film Finally Get T1D Right in the Movies?!
Send us Fan Mail In this special episode of the Diabetes Nerd Podcast, I sit down with the creators of the short film "My Type," which shines a spotlight on a romance involving type 1 diabetes (T1D). Could this short film finally get what "Steel Magnolias" got oh-so-wrong about T1D? This film creator's later-in-life diagnosis may have just inspired a movement... Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
May 7 · 35 min
He Ran an Ultra-marathon with T1D
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Diabetes Nerd Podcast, we chat with Brian Foster as he shatters the myth that type 1 diabetes (T1D) limits ultra-distance running. Discover his strategies for managing blood sugars during grueling events and learn how he conquers endurance challenges. This episode is a can't-miss for T1D athletes and adventurers eager to redefine what's possible with diabetes! Thanks for tuning in. Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if Eversense is right for you at eversensecgm.com. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
April 30 · 42 min
He's Been Cured After 36 Years with T1D
Send us Fan Mail Can you imagine waking up one day and no longer needing insulin? No longer worrying about how many carbs are in a meal? No longer fretting over whether you'll go low during exercise? No longer overthinking every little thing because of type 1 diabetes (T1D)? It sounds nice, but it also feels unimaginable to most people. But not Chris Pacheco—he's living proof that a cure is on its way. (It might already be here!) After 36 years of living with T1D, Chris no longer has to live the same way because of his participation in the Eledon Clinical Trial. Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at EversenseCGM.com. Editor's note: In the Eledon trial, low blood sugars are not dangerous for islet cells after a few weeks. Learn more about the Eledon Clinical Trial here. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
April 23 · 37 min
Truth About Upgrading to the Twiist Sequel
Send us Fan Mail Most people with diabetes don’t realize how dramatically technology can improve blood sugar management until they experience it firsthand. Sami Parker, a pediatric registered nurse (RN) living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for 13 years, shares how switching to the Sequel Twiist insulin pump and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), such as the Freestyle Libre 3+, has transformed her daily life and improved her blood sugar stability. In this episode, Sami recounts her journey from being anti-pumper to loving her Twiist insulin pump, thanks to its unmatched accuracy, occlusion detection, and customizable features that fit her spontaneous lifestyle and intense work schedule. She explains how these tools help her maintain over 90% time-in-range (TIR), even during night shifts and demanding days, and why she finally feels she has power over her diabetes. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
April 16 · 1 hr
3 Months Later: Is She Still Cured of Type 1 Diabetes?
Send us Fan Mail Before Katie Beth Hand was cured of type 1 diabetes (T1D), she carefully evaluated everything before each meal. Over the course of 13 years living with T1D, she had to make at least 200 extra decisions per day about simple tasks like eating, exercising, and sleeping. But today, the only thing she has to worry about at mealtime is "what looks good?" This feels unimaginable to people with T1D—a true mic drop moment—but Katie is charting new territory. In this episode of the Diabetes Nerd Podcast, she shares her current A1C, how she manages her daily life, which checkups are needed, and the process of "becoming undiabetic" after participating in Eledon's clinical trial to cure T1D. One unexpected benefit? People have even started telling her she looks better! You would too if your body controlled your A1C for you. Thanks to Eversense Diabetes for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. Thanks for tuning in! Join the Diabetes Nerd Network. DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Enjoy Donuts Guilt-free with Good Journey Support the show
April 9 · 43 min
How an Abusive Relationship Wrecked My Blood Sugars
Send us Fan Mail Join the Diabetes Nerd Network! Topic Sensitivity Warning: This episode shares a story of surviving an abusive relationship and how it affected diabetes management. If this topic feels close to home, please take care of yourself while listening. Managing type 1 diabetes is hard enough on its own. But when you’re surviving an emotionally abusive relationship, the stress doesn’t stay neatly tucked away in the background. It spills into everything—including your blood sugars. In this episode, I share what it was like trying to manage my diabetes while living in a relationship that was slowly tearing me down. My A1C didn’t spike because I “wasn’t trying hard enough.” My blood sugars reflected the constant stress, fear, and exhaustion I was living with every day. If you’ve ever been in a relationship like this, or you’re still finding your way out, you are not alone. I hope this episode helps you feel seen, understood, and maybe a little less alone in the mess of it. 💛 Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. Learn if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com. Thanks for tuning in! DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen. FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA YOUTUBE BOOKS ARTICLES INSTAGRAM LINKEDIN GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS Stop Overeating During Lows Exercise with Diabetes Dealing with Diabetes Burnout Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes Emotional Eating with Diabetes When I Go Low Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D GET DISCOUNTS ON DIABETES PRODUCTS Treat Lows Fast with Glow Gummies Support the show

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