Amber's Year in Books 2023

We get back to the basics of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including the differences between Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and how IBD is different than irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBDologist Dr Katie Dunleavy explains common symptoms, the diagnostic process, and treatment options, focusing on patient advocacy, regular screenings, and open communication with physicians and other healthcare providers. Also included is the importance of diet, stress management, second opinions, and multidisciplinary care in managing IBD. If you or your loved one lives with IBD, you will learn something new, and if there's someone in your life who could use help in understanding IBD, this is the episode to share with them.   Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD183   Topics discussed on this episode: Definition and overview of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Differences between IBD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Types of IBD: Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, indeterminate colitis, and microscopic colitis Common symptoms associated with IBD Diagnostic processes and tests for IBD Treatment options and the importance of personalized care Role of diet and lifestyle changes in managing IBD Importance of mental health and stress management in IBD care Ongoing monitoring and screening for colorectal cancer in IBD patients Advocacy for patient-centered care and the need for multidisciplinary approaches in IBD management More information on the topics discussed: Understanding Toxic Megacolon: https://www.verywellhealth.com/toxic-megacolon-1943111 How Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Is Diagnosed: https://www.verywellhealth.com/ibd-diagnosis-1942637 IBD vs. IBS: Understanding the Differences: https://www.verywellhealth.com/ibd-vs-ibs-11714235 Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Medications & Treatment: https://www.verywellhealth.com/comparing-biologic-medications-for-ibd-4116127 Understanding Indeterminate Colitis: https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-indeterminate-colitis-4142657 Types of Colitis: Everything You Should Know: https://www.verywellhealth.com/types-of-colitis-5198817 Find Katie Dunleavy, MB, BCh, BAO at: Web: Massachusetts General Hospital Twitter/X: @dunleavy_katie Research Gate: Katie Dunleavy, MB, BCh, BAO 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 Bluesky: @aboutibd.bsky.social 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

3 Sep 41min

Stress is a huge problem for people who live with immune-mediated conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. The condition causes tension in all the parts of our lives. We can't get rid of it, so we need to find ways to either minimize it or manage it. I talk to Dr. Jin Lee, neuropsychologist and CEO of IMIdeology, about managing stress while living with chronic inflammatory diseases like IBD and lupus. We discuss the impact of chronic stress on health, the challenges of fragmented care, and the benefits of a multidisciplinary, holistic approach. Dr. Lee shares practical, easy-to-implement stress management tips that you can do even when sitting at a stoplight! Plus, we tell you about the upcoming "Bridging Autoimmunity: Patient Forum" taking place on September 13th in Dobbs Ferry, NY. You'll come away from this episode understanding how integrated care, community support, and small daily habits can improve quality of life with chronic illness.   Episode transcript and more: https://bit.ly/AIBD182   ***Register for the Bridging Autoimmunity: Patient Forum on September 13th, 2025!***   0:04 Intro & Guest Background 2:55 Motivation & Clinic Model 4:53 Illness & Stress 5:16 Stress in Chronic Illness 7:28 Invisible Illness & Advocacy 8:38 Stress Management & Pilot Program 10:40 Wearables & Health Coaching 12:18 Research vs. Real Life 16:13 Building Habits 18:43 Autoimmunity Forum 22:34 About the Clinic 24:49 Connect & Learn More 26:20 Closing & Resources     Topics in this episode include:   ✨ Managing stress while living with chronic illness ✨ Impact of chronic inflammatory conditions on physical and emotional health ✨ Importance of a multidisciplinary care approach for chronic illnesses ✨ Challenges of fragmented healthcare and communication among specialists ✨ Stress management strategies for patients with chronic pain ✨ Role of small, manageable habits in building resilience ✨ Addressing the gap between research and real-life patient experiences ✨ Upcoming Bridging Autoimmunity Patient Forum and its offerings ✨ Integrated, patient-centered care for chronic inflammatory diseases ✨ Community support and resources for individuals with autoimmune conditions   Find IMIDeology at: Web: https://www.imideology.com/ Instagram: @imideology1 Facebook: @IMIDeology Tik Tok: @imideology LinkedIn: IMIDeology   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

30 Aug 27min

A children's book leads to this conversation, which bridges the worlds of chronic illness, creativity, and connection. I talk with MB (Britt) Mooney, author of "The Mouse Who Couldn't Eat Cheese," a children's book inspired by a young woman named Alex who lived with severe Crohn's disease. MB, a science fiction and fantasy author, stepped outside his usual genre to create a story that helps kids and families understand invisible illnesses and the power of friendship. You'll hear behind-the-scenes insight on MB's creative process, the lessons learned from working with Alex's family, and the message he hopes every reader takes away—whether they live with inflammatory bowel disease or not.   Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD181   Topics in this episode include: 🦉 Representation of chronic illness, specifically Crohn's disease, in children's literature. 🦉 The importance of empathy and understanding in friendships, especially for children with chronic illnesses. 🦉 The challenges faced by children with Crohn's disease and the need for social inclusion. 🦉 The creative process involved in writing a children's book and the balance required in storytelling. 🦉 The role of creativity in problem-solving and fostering community. 🦉 The significance of raising awareness about chronic illnesses through literature. 🦉 The broader themes of connection, support, and validation for children facing health challenges.   Find MB Mooney at: Buy The Mouse Who Couldn't Eat Cheese Web: https://www.mbmooney.com/ Instagram: @authormbmooney Facebook: @MooneyMB LinkedIn: @britt-mooney-89820b52 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.

19 Aug 35min

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD180   Grassroots organizations are an important part of the IBD landscape, helping fill in the many gaps in our underserved community. Amber talks with Angela Clark, president and CEO of Propel a Cure, a grassroots nonprofit that funds research projects looking for the causes of Crohn's disease. They discuss the challenges of finding cures for IBD and the importance of supporting innovative, early-stage research. Angela explains their grant selection process, highlights current research they fund, and shares how the organization communicates complex science to the IBD community.   Topics in this episode include: Origins and mission of Propel a Cure, a nonprofit organization focused on Crohn's disease research. Angela Clark's personal connection to Crohn's disease and her role in Propel a Cure. The grassroots nature of Propel a Cure and its all-volunteer structure. Challenges and rewards of running a nonprofit organization dedicated to IBD research. Funding strategies for innovative research projects related to Crohn's disease. Importance of raising awareness and combating misconceptions about Crohn's disease. Overview of current research projects funded by Propel a Cure and their scientific approaches. The role of a scientific advisory board in evaluating research proposals. Communication strategies for making complex scientific research accessible to the IBD community. Future goals for expanding funding capacity and building partnerships within the IBD space.   More information: Propel a Cure Videos (interviews with leading IBD researchers) Propel a Cure Newsletter Donate to Propel a Cure   Find Propel a Cure at: Web: PropelACure.org Twitter: @propelacure Instagram: @propelacure Facebook: @propelacure LinkedIn: @propel-a-cure-for-crohn-s-disease YouTube: @propelacure   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

5 Aug 39min

Amber speaks with Hindy Klein, a member of the Orthodox Jewish community living with Crohn’s colitis. Hindy shares how she manages IBD while observing Jewish laws, discussing challenges with diet, fasting, and hospital care during Shabbat and holidays. She also talks about overcoming stigma, the importance of community support, and how her faith helps her cope. The episode highlights the need for cultural sensitivity in healthcare and the value of sharing personal stories to support others with chronic illness.   Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD179   ✨ Intersection of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and religious faith ✨ Personal experiences of managing Crohn's colitis within the Orthodox Jewish community ✨ Challenges related to diet, fasting, and hospital care during religious observances ✨ Cultural tendencies towards privacy regarding chronic illness in the Jewish community ✨ Importance of community support and mutual aid in times of health crises ✨ Navigating healthcare communication with providers unfamiliar with religious customs ✨ The role of spirituality and trust in G-d as coping mechanisms for chronic illness ✨ Advocacy and openness about health experiences to combat stigma ✨ Balancing personal health needs with religious obligations ✨ The impact of social media in connecting with others and finding support within the IBD community   Topics discussed in this episode: Ulcerative Colitis vs. Crohn's Disease: What's the Difference? Crohn's Colitis: A Type of Crohn's Disease   Find Hindy (Tauber) Klein at: Instagram: @Hopeinhindy Tik Tok: @hopeinhindy   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.

22 Juli 30min

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.

8 Juli 44min

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.

17 Juni 48min

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.

3 Juni 40min