The Living Well Pod

In this episode, we’re joined by Living Well Pod listener, Vanessa. Vanessa discusses the winding road to her gastroparesis diagnosis, the biases she’s faced as someone navigating the medical system with a disability, and how she’s learned to keep showing up and moving forward, even when it feels difficult. We talk about creating boundaries around illness, finding joy in everyday moments, and embracing rest without guilt. Vanessa also shares the story behind Girl With Guts — her platform for authentic advocacy and community — and reminds us that thriving doesn’t mean having it all figured out.Whether you live with chronic illness, disability, or both, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, uplifted, and encouraged.Episode Links:* Girl with Guts* Join Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community* Subscribe on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In this minisode, we respond to a question about navigating the financial stress that often comes with chronic illness. Rather than focus on the particulars, which vary so much from person to person, we explore the inner experience of financial strain—how our thoughts and state of mind shape how we feel about our circumstances.We talk about how frantic thinking can narrow our perspective and make solutions feel out of reach, while a quieter mind often opens the door to clarity, creative problem-solving, and even unexpected sources of support.If you’re feeling stressed about making ends meet, we hope this short discussion offers a bit of breathing room and maybe a fresh perspective. We’ll see you on Thursday for another full-length episode! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In this episode, Crystal discusses what finally brought clarity after two years of unexplained breathing symptoms. Not through more tests or treatments, but by stepping back and looking at the full picture — with help from an unexpected source.We explore:* How it feels when the answer isn’t as complex or dramatic as we expected* The difference between anxious problem-solving and true insight* What it looks like to trust your gut even when experts disagree — and how we can innocently get in the way of our own intuition* How letting go of assumptions and “over-doing” can open the door to reliefThis conversation is for anyone who’s been told one thing but sensed something different. It’s a reminder that our inner knowing is worth listening to—and that clarity often comes when we’re willing to see things in a new light.Episode Links:* Ep. 7: When There Are No Answers* Join Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community* Subscribe on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In this episode, we’re joined by Living Well Pod listener Hannah as she shares her powerful story of navigating the ups and downs of gastroparesis, mental health struggles, and an eating disorder shaped by years of illness. Hannah reflects on what healing has meant for her, not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually, as well.Together, we explore:* Why recovery from illness doesn’t always bring the relief we expect* The impact of pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood on the healing journey* The overlap of chronic illness, mental health, and disordered eating—especially in digestive disorders* The daily practice of self-compassion, rest, and letting go of “shoulds”* How discomfort can be a doorway to growthThis conversation invites us to rethink what healing really looks like and to make space for the messy but meaningful middle between “sick” and “not sick.”Episode Links:* Join Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community* Subscribe on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

We’re back with another minisode, and this time we’re talking about what we do when our thoughts are swirling and the overwhelm sets in.There’s nothing you have to do in those moments—your thinking will settle on its own. But sometimes, certain things do feel helpful or supportive. Whether it’s music, movement, or just taking a breath, these small acts can create space and help us stay grounded while the mental snow settles.There’s no right or wrong way to move through overwhelm, but we hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not alone—and that it’s okay to simply do what occurs to you (even if it’s singing poorly at the top of your lungs 🙈).We’ll see you on Thursday with a full-length episode! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

When Samantha was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis, her mind immediately jumped to the future. What would this mean for her mobility? Her travel dreams? The next several decades of her life?In this honest and deeply relatable conversation, we talk about how quickly fearful thinking can take hold after a new diagnosis, and how noticing the feelings of uncertainty and unease can gently bring us back to the present. We also explore the difference between practical next steps and mental spiraling, the role of self-care (especially for those who tend to do it all), and the clarity that comes from simply letting our thoughts settle.If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsettled by a new diagnosis, this episode is a reminder that peace is never as far away as it seems.Episode Links:* Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community* Subscribe on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

This week we’re joined by Megan Laubacker. After struggling with gastroparesis for many years, Megan’s symptoms gradually disappeared. But several months ago, those symptoms began to return—something her brain insisted wasn’t supposed to happen.We talk about the initial disappointment and disbelief Megan felt, the relief of letting go of trying to figure out why her symptoms came back, and the quiet strength she’s discovered in meeting each day as it comes, with less resistance, more presence, and fewer rules than before.Megan’s story is a reminder that our physical health will ebb and flow but we can always meet those ups and downs with a fresh perspective. If you’ve ever struggled with the thought that things shouldn’t be this way, this conversation is for you.Episode Links:* Megan’s Gastroparesis Story (YouTube video)* Last day to join Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community at the special rate!* Subscribe on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In our first-ever minisode, we’re answering the question: What books have been the most impactful for you when it comes to living well with chronic illness?We each picked two personal favorites: one that completely shifted our perspective and one that brought us a deep sense of peace and possibility. Listen in to hear who picked what—and why these books felt so impactful and stayed with us over time.Whether you're just starting to explore the connection between thought and experience or you’ve been on this path for a while, one of these books might be the thing that sparks a new insight for you, too.We’ll be back on Thursday with a full episode — see you then!Reminder: This Thursday, April 17th is the last day to join Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community at the special launch price! You’ll get three months of coaching and community support for the price of two. Join now or email Samantha to find out if it’s right for you. Episode Links: * Being Human by Dr. Amy Johnson* * The Little Book of Big Change by Dr. Amy Johnson** Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle** The Enlightened Gardener by Sydney Banks** Have a question you'd like us to answer on a future minisode? Email us at livingwellpod@gmail.com.*These links are part of the Amazon Affiliate program. We receive a small commission if you buy products through these links, at no additional cost to you. Theme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

Today we’re bringing you a conversation about Samantha’s recent seven-week trip with her family. From the outside, it might sound like an impossible undertaking: traveling around the world while managing chronic illness and recovering from surgery — not to mention the unexpected health challenges that popped up along the way. But somehow, this trip didn’t just happen, it was full of peaceful moments and incredible memories.In this episode, Samantha shares what it really takes to travel when you're never symptom-free. We explore the preparation, flexibility, and presence that made it possible—and why Samantha came home from a challenging trip that didn’t go according to plan eager to travel more, not less.If you’re waiting to travel “when things settle down” or “when you feel better,” we hope this conversation invites you to reconsider. There might never be a perfect time to take that trip, but there’s so much joy to be found in doing it anyway.Episode Links:* Join Samantha’s Thriving With Gastroparesis Community* Subscribe on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

Welcome to Season 2 of The Living Well Pod! We're thrilled to have Lily Sais, one of our most-loved guests from last season, back to kick things off with a conversation about the sometimes blurry line between self-advocacy and anxious thinking.How do you know if you’re advocating for your health or just stuck in an anxiety loop? What if your doctor isn’t listening, and you know something’s wrong—but you’ve also been down the rabbit hole of endless research and racing thoughts?In this episode, we shift the focus to the energy behind our actions. We discuss how urgency and fear can fuel our need for answers and control, and how that’s very different from grounded, effective self-advocacy. We dive into topics like:* What it feels like when you're advocating from love vs. fear* Why symptom spirals and obsessive researching can actually cloud clarity* Why hope tied to outcomes (“I’ll only be okay if…”) leaves us feeling burnt out and overwhelmed* What to do when it feels like doctors aren’t listening* Real-life examples from our own experiences with anxiety and self-advocacyIf you’ve ever found yourself questioning whether you're doing enough or wondering if you’re making things worse by worrying too much—this conversation is for you. It's a compassionate and practical look at how to care for yourself and speak up for your needs with clarity and confidence.Resources Mentioned:* Thriving in the Eye of the Hurricane by Joseph Bailey (Amazon affiliate link)* Lily’s Peace From Within Community* Samantha’s TWGP (Thriving with Gastroparesis) Community* Subscribe to Living Well Pod on SubstackTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In our season one finale, we sit down with musician and actress Emily Ricks to hear her incredible journey of self-advocacy and healing. Emily had been diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome, colonic paralysis, MCAS, POTS, and more before finally finding an innovative treatment that changed her life. In this episode, she shares how she navigated biases in the healthcare system, trusted her intuition, and advocated for her own well-being -- all at only 18 years old. Emily’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, resilience, and consistently taking the next right step.This is one of our favorite our episodes to date! That’s a Wrap on Season One 🎉We’ve wrapped up the first season of The Living Well Pod and we’re taking a short break to rest, reflect, and plan for an even better season two. Thank you for being such an important part of this community. We’ll be back soon with a new batch of episodes to inspire and empower you to live well — whatever your circumstances. Episode Links:* Emily Ricks’ website* Private & Group Coaching with Samantha* Join our Substack communityTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In this week's episode, we're talking about "hidden agreements"— the stories we believe about what needs to happen in order for us to be happy, okay, or fulfilled in life. While they often go unnoticed, these made-up requirements can weigh us down and create a lot of unnecessary suffering.We discuss:* What "hidden agreements" are and how they show up in our lives* Why tying our happiness to specific outcomes leads to unnecessary suffering* How to start recognizing and letting go of the unhelpful "agreements" we’ve made with ourselvesIf you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I can only be happy if…” or “I won’t be okay until…” — this episode is for you! Call in to our SpeakPipe line to suggest topics or guests for the show, share insights you've gained while listening, or let us know if you're interested in receiving free coaching from Crystal & Samantha on an upcoming episode.Episode Links:* Caffeine for the Soul: Would You Sign that Contract?* Private & Group Coaching with Samantha* Join our Substack communityTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

This week, we welcome Christine McGarvey, a rare disease advocate and Living Well Pod listener, to share her inspiring journey of living well despite significant health challenges. Christine talks about her decade-long search for a diagnosis, the meaning she’s found through advocacy, and lessons on resilience, compassion, and staying present.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:* How Christine turned her pain into purpose.* The role of compassion in navigating chronic illness.* Finding fulfillment in the face of uncertainty.* Insights on parenting children with similar health challenges.* The power of community and connection for those with rare or undiagnosed conditions.We now have a SpeakPipe line where you can leave us short audio messages. Call in to suggest topics or guests for the show, share insights you've gained while listening, or let us know if you're interested in receiving free coaching from Crystal & Samantha on an upcoming episode.Episode Links:* Undiagnosed Diseases Network Foundation* National Organization for Rare Disorders* Private & Group Coaching with Samantha* Join our Substack communityTheme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In this episode, we’re discussing something we’ve all felt at one time or another: that uneasy sense of waiting for the other shoe to drop. Whether it’s the return of symptoms, a new diagnosis, or something completely unexpected, our minds often spin stories about why we need to stay on high alert—worried, vigilant, and constantly “prepared.”We share how this pattern has played out in our own lives, unpack the roles of control, responsibility, and self-blame, and explore what helps ease the tension despite life’s inherent uncertainties. Whatever your worries, we hope this conversation brings you a fresh perspective and a little relief. Note: We’re taking a short holiday break, so there won’t be a new episode next week. We’ll be back on January 2nd with a bit of a refresh and the first in a series of amazing new guests. Wishing you a joyful holiday — we can’t wait to see you in the new year!Episode Links:Coaching with Samantha: https://transformative-psych.comJoin our Substack communitySend us your thoughts or questions: livingwellpod@gmail.comPlease rate and review the podcast wherever you listen—it helps us reach more people!Theme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com

In this episode, Crystal shares a recent insight about how often—and how quickly—we can turn helpful health tools into rigid, must-follow rules, making life feel harder and more limiting than it needs to be. Together, we explore why we (innocently!) do this and how getting curious and leaning into flexibility can help us navigate life with chronic illness with more freedom and ease.If you’ve ever felt weighed down or overwhelmed by all of the rules surrounding your health, this episode is for you.Episode Links:Coaching with Samantha: https://transformative-psych.comJoin our Substack communitySend us your thoughts or questions: livingwellpod@gmail.comPlease rate and review the podcast wherever you listen—it helps us reach more people!Theme music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/ben-johnson/cant-stop-chasing-youLicense code: LTNISOMTFHZIIXYY This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit livingwellpod.substack.com