Life in Beta: A Type 1 Diabetes Podcast

Dexcom for Muggles

As Christmas approaches, we dive into the holiday spirit with some type 1 diabetes-inspired Christmas carol parodies. 🎶 Are we going to win an Emmy? Absolutely not, but we had fun trying.
We're also chatting about a new partnership between Dexcom and the makers of the Oura Ring... They're planning to bring new health insights to our diabetes dashboards in the future...
A couple of links to things we mentioned during the show:
The article in The Australian:
https://www.theaustralian.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=TAWEB_WRE170_a&dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theaustralian.com.au%2Fhealth%2Fwhat-its-like-to-get-diagnosed-with-t1-diabetes-in-your-early-20s%2Fnews-story%2F525cda2a5d9960d705329814033b7361&memtype=anonymous&mode=premium&v21=GROUPB-Segment-1-NOSCORE&V21spcbehaviour=append
The Glowcose light: https://glowcose.com
 

An Honourable Mention to Rawdogging

This week, we're diving into the world of type 1 diabetes with a sprinkle of fun and a dash of sarcasm. A new mini pump for folks on injections has been announced, and it's got everyone talking. Picture this: a tiny, disposable pump, about the same size as a Dexcom G6, only meant for use at night to help correct high blood sugars. Intrigued? We'll talk about its pros, cons, and when it might hit Aussie shores.
We'll also rant about the ridiculous holiday gift guide that seems to think people with diabetes want adhesive wipes as stocking stuffers. Seriously, who thought of these?
And oh, prepare for Benjamin's fiery take on recent government funding for cure research. Join us for lots of laughs, real talk, and maybe a touch of insightful data – you've been warned!
Links we promised in the show:
Carly’s diabetes travel bag recommendation: https://one2onediabetes.com
Carb Conscious Cookbook (sponsored): https://www.type1familycentre.org.au/shop

Power In Your Period

Don't you just hate it when your body doesn't follow the rule book? Today we're adding to the ever-growing list of "your diabetes may vary" with the foot-to-floor phenomenon, caffeine and bacon!
We're also diving into the tech troubles with Omnipod controllers (PDMs) — who knew the 3G shutdown could cause so much chaos? Not to worry though, Adam, Carly and Benjamin have a workaround for you.
Then of course there's AI's renderings of our favourite phase "Catch me, algorithm!" Amusing, to say the least!
On a more serious note, we're reflecting on World Diabetes Day's focus on wellness - a bit wanky, or a good reminder?
So, grab a cuppa (or one of Adam's "dirty iced coffees") and join us as we share stories and laughs of life with type 1.

Duck Fiabetes

First up, we're talking about the increasing trend of doctors prescribing Ozempic and similar drugs for people with type 1. Then, we recount a hilarious and slightly terrifying tale of trying to silence a malfunctioning Omnipod by running it over with a Kia Stinger. Spoiler alert: it took more than just a hammer to finally put it to rest. Who knew insulin pumps could be so dramatic?
We also share some real talk about managing sick days with Type 1. From dealing with stubborn high blood sugars to the importance of having a solid plan, we've got some great tips and stories to help you navigate those tricky times.
So grab your favourite beverage, get comfy, and join us for another episode full of laughs, learning, and a few facepalm moments.
 
ADEA Sick Day Management Plans...
... for people on injections: https://www.adea.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/SickDayActionPlan_02_05.pdf
... for people using an insulin pump: https://www.adea.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/SickDayActionPlan_01_05.pdf

Retro Party Mix

This week, we're chatting about some groundbreaking research that might just change the game for us - but don't hold your breath for a miracle cure just yet!
We've also got the latest scoop from Novo Nordisk about Levemir being phased out in Australia - not happy, Jan!
And on a more personal note, we're sharing our tips and tricks for managing diabetes when life gets a little too hectic. It's tempting to just throw in the towel completely and tell diabetes to go "eff itself in a corner", but there's a few things you can try before it gets to that...
So grab a cup of coffee (or your favorite hypo snack), and join us for a fun, honest chat about all things Type 1. We promise you'll leave with a smile!
 
Links we promised in the show:
Statement from the TGA about the cancellation of Levemir: https://www.tga.gov.au/upcoming-changes-supply-some-insulin-products
Strategies for aerobic and non-aerobic exercise: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-10-strategy-people-diabetes-blood-sugar.html
 

We'll Need Pigs... Lots Of Pigs!

Benjamin is putting on his bravest face as he tests out a new pen needle during the show. We’re also getting real about diabetes in the workplace: would you spill the beans about having type 1 during a job interview?
Wand let it never be said that we don't tackle the big question on this podcast, like how to survive the zombie apocalypse if you have type 1. Have you given that much thought? Well if you haven't already documented your personal survival plan in excruciating detail, don't worry, because Adam's been giving it a lot of thought!
Join us for some laughs, insights, and a little bit of chaos as we navigate life with type 1 diabetes. Welcome to another episode of Life in Beta, where we keep it real and a bit wild! 🎉

Secret Squirrel Business - Duncan Read, the Type 1 Adventure Racer

This week on Life in Beta, we're thrilled to bring you the highly anticipated interview with the incredible Duncan Reid. Duncan's story is nothing short of awe-inspiring. From starting adventure racing to setting a goal of running 10 ultramarathons in 10 years, he's done it all while managing type 1 diabetes!
We dive deep into why Duncan began adventure racing, how he balances his blood glucose levels while pushing his body to the limit, and his philosophy on living life to the fullest. You'll hear about his personal experiences, the challenges he's faced, and the triumphs he's celebrated. Trust us, this episode is packed with motivation and practical insights for anyone living with diabetes or looking to take on new challenges.
You can learn more about Duncan's adventures and support his fundraising for type 1 here: https://www.fitterforhavingit.com/support

Writhing All Over The Table

In this episode, Carly gives us the lowdown on how different types of exercise affect blood glucose levels, and shares her tips for keeping them in check. We have a good rant about ketone strips expiring (just when you need them!) and Benjamin hilariously recounts his many misadventures with sharp objects.
Whether you're a fitness fanatic or just trying to stay on top of your numbers, we've got something for you. 
Join us for a fun, informative, and laugh-out-loud episode as we navigate the lived reality of type 1 diabetes. 

Dragged, Kicking and Screaming

This week, we're diving into part two of everything we learned, longed for, loved, and loathed from the Australasian Diabetes Congress (ADC).
In this episode, Benjamin shares his many "prick of the week" candidates from ADC, and we have a special interview with Justine Cain, CEO of Diabetes Australia. Justine talks about their campaign to get insulin pumps and other tech publicly funded, and how you can help (see below). Plus, Benjamin brings us new insights about hypos (and the changes we hope it makes to getting your driver's licence form signed!).
And if ADC has been too much learning and not enough laughing, don't worry! We’ll return to our regular show format next week. For now, enjoy the blend of coffee machine anecdotes, personal experiences, and groundbreaking research that made this ADC unforgettable.
As mentioned in our interview with Justine Cain, you can help advocate for better funding for diabetes technology by sharing how it would improve your diabetes management and quality of life here: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/issue/affordable-access-to-aid/
You can also take to social media and use the hashtag #UniteInTheFightForTech and tag @Diabetes_Australia

Triple Threat - Omnipod 5 and other news from the Australasian Diabetes Congress

This week on Life in Beta, we're diving into the exciting highlights from the Australasian Diabetes Congress. There's so much to unpack that we're splitting it into two episodes.
In this episode, Benjamin gets on his soapbox to share his thoughts on the Type 1 sessions he attended—what got him excited and what got him riled up. Plus, we've got an exclusive chat with Jo Sader, the General Manager of Insulet Australia, who gives us the lowdown on the Omnipod 5, its expected release, and how to transition from Omnipod DASH to Omnipod 5.
Get ready for exciting tech announcements, some nerdy diabetes talk, and a sneak peek into the future of diabetes management.