31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Sixteen

Divabetic (Divabetic.org) presents a month-long showcase celebrating 10 years of diabetes podcasting. Each of the featured podcasts spotlights our favorite guests, topics, poems, games and/or musical inspiration. Enjoy!

On Day 16, we’re spotlighting Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by the Pointer Sisters from December 2013.

“This podcast was a game changer for Divabetic,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek.”It was the first time we featured music from various SONY music artists on our broadcast.”

The Pointer Sisters began their formal vocal training in their father’s church, The Church of God in West Oakland, California. June, Anita and Ruth Pointer achieved its greatest commercial success in 1983 with their biggest-selling album ever with Break Out. The Break Out album features the hits, Jump (For My Love), Automatic, Baby Come And Get It, I Need You, Neutron Dance and I’m So Excited.

The Pointer Sisters won several Grammy Awards, American Music Awards and have been inducted onto the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic is ‘so excited’ to host this hourlong whirlwind of wellness inspired by the Pointer Sisters with superstar guests including music journalist Christian John Wikane, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Kathy Gold RN, CDE, Neva White MSN, CRNP, CDE, Evetta Petty, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Laura Laria and Lindsay from Baton Rouge, LA living with diabetes. Show highlights include Mr. Divabetic’s ‘Favorite Things’ list of great gift ideas to keep you happy and healthy.

Our monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/15/202007/15/2020

31 Days Of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Fifteen

On Day 15, we’re spotlighting Divabetic’s Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Ricochet from November 2013.

New York Times Best-Selling Author Cherry Adair’s brand new T-FLAC novella, ‘RICOCHET’ features a heroine living with type 1 diabetes.

“This podcast will always have a soft place in my heart,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetc’ Szadek. “Cherry told me that I inspired her to create a smart, sexy heroine living with type 1 diabetes, Hannah Endicott, for her T-FLAC series”

Synopsis: Hannah Endicott’s only purpose for traveling half a world away to Ecuador is to retrieve what her feckless best friend appropriated to invest in yet another bad business venture. Unwillingly drawn into meeting his new associates, she overhears a nefarious plot and instantly goes from irritated to terrified.The right person, in the wrong place, at the worst possible time. . . .

Cherry Adair’s books are just the right mixture of romance and suspense and, whether you are reading one for the first time or the tenth, they will keep you hooked from the beginning. The popular T-FLAC series features the trials and tribulations of an elite antiterrorist task force. In Ricochet, one of the key member of T-FLAC is living with diabetes.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic is joined by the members of the Divabetic Club – Philadelphia and healthcare professionals from the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Special guests include: Cherry Adair, Neva White DNP, CRNP, CDE, Emily Hiriak RD, CDE, David Madison, Pam Harrod-Smith, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Lorraine Brooks, Michelle Foster from the American Diabetes Association in Philadelphia, PA, Mama Rose Marie and special guest, Sharon, who is living with type 2 diabetes.

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/14/2020

31 Days Of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Fourteen

On Day 14, we’re spotlighting tonight’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast inspired by Patti LaBellle. Back in 2003, Patti LaBelle inspired me to coin the phrase ‘Divabetic’ when she said “I have diabetes, diabetes doesn’t have me.” Her outspoken attitude about living with diabetes pierced my heart as I sat in the audience. I wished that Luther had spoken to me about his diabetes and how to help him in case there was an emergency. Of course, you can’t turn back the clock. All I can do is share my experience with you in the hope you will be motivated to involve your family, friends and co-workers in your daily diabetes self-care.

Tonight’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast also signifies a new milestone in diabetes outreach for Divabetic. For the past decade we have produced at least one podcast each month of every year.

“All great achievements require time,” said Dr. Maya Angelou. She added, “Nothing will work unless you do.”

I staged a ‘comeback’ and so can you!

Back in July 2010, I was brokenhearted and discouraged. A full year had passed since Divabetic lost it’s major funding for it’s national outreach program, Divabetic – Makeover Your Diabetes and there was no light in sight. I felt like a failure. I was staring at a pile of rejection letters from numerous foundations and pharmaceutical companies requesting funding and another pile of requests from women with diabetes and/or certified diabetes educators begging us to bring Divabetic – Makeover Your Diabetes to their city. So it’s probably not a shock to learn that I said, “no” when it was suggested that I host a podcast.

Why would I want to do something new when I had just failed so miserably and let so many people down?
Starting over is not easy. However, I’ve had to do it several times in my life. In 2003, when I found my boss, Luther Vandross after he suffered a devastating stroke related to mismanagement of type 2 diabetes. In 2005, when Luther Vandross died and I lost my job (as well as my identity). In 2009, when Divabetic lost it’s major source of funding. Somehow after suffering every one of these ‘soul punches’ I persisted and so can you! That’s the message of this milestone.

Thank you to my team, our guests, SONY Music and you, our listeners for an amazing decade of diabetes podcasting. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for your help in helping me get back my groove. GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS!

We’re celebrating Divabetic’s 10th Year Podcast Anniversary with music from the world’s most famous “Divabetic”– Ms. Patti LaBelle. She has inspired us to adopt and promote a ‘NEW ATTITUDE’ about living with diabetes!

Thank you to our loyal listeners for sharing your stories, questions, concerns, and successes with us over the past decade. Our aim has been and continues to be to broaden the appeal of diabetes education with music, beauty/style, games, real-life stories, cozy mysteries radio dramas, and laughter.

10th Year Podcast Anniversary guests include: Patricia Addie-Gentle, RN, CDE, Lorraine Brooks, Dr. Andrea Chisholm OB-GYN, Luther McRae, Mama Rose Marie, Susan Weiner MS, RDN, CDE, CDN, Dr. Beverly S. Adler PhD, CDE, Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Seveda Williams, Catherine Schuller, Terri Seidman and special guests.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/13/202007/13/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Thirteen

On Day 13, we’re spotlighting Divabetic’s Dabetes Roundtable podcast inspired by 20 Feet From Stardom podcast from 2013.

The compelling Academy Award winning documentary, 20 Feet from Stardom, focuses on the untold true story of the backup singers behind some of the greatest musical legends of the 21st century including Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stone, Bette Midler and Luther Vandross. Triumphant and heartbreaking in equal measure, the film is both a tribute to the unsung voices who brought shape and style to popular music and a reflection on the conflicts, sacrifices and rewards of a career spent harmonizing with others.

The happy healthcare, Mr. Divabetic aims to encourage everyone with diabetes to back up their daily self-care management with a team of professionals. Strive to create a team aka ‘entourage’ to help you perform at your best in the same way your favorite famous ‘diva’ has done. Managing blood sugars can be challenging and overwhelming at times. It’s important to find answers to your questions, connect with others and get the support you need during difficult times.

Tonight’s special guests include: 20 Feet From Stardom star, Lisa Fischer, Actor, Screenwriter and Author of ‘Good Like This’ Peter Arpesella, Authors Ginger Vieira and Riva Greenberg, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Mama Rose Marie, Patricia Addie-Gentle, RN, CDE, Pam Butler MS, CDE, Janice Harris RN, CDE and Asha Brown, the founder of the We Are Diabetes organization (wearediabetes.org) and is living with type 1 diabetes.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/12/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Twelve

On Day 12, we’re spotlighting our Diabetes Fairy Tales podcast from 2013. Fairy tales aren’t just for children. Adults need them too. Fairy tales can teach us about the higher qualities of ourselves and others, make us feel like we can conquer our fears and give us hope for the future. Additionally, we think the ‘Land of Make Believe’ can help you to stay healthy and upbeat about your diabetes self-care.

Joining Mr. Divabetic are Connie Frazier RD, CDE, Lori Bednarz RN, CDE, Makeup Artist and Esthetician Sue Perez, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Lorraine Starsky RN and Neva White CRNP, CDE in celebration of Divabetic’s sixth year of headlining the American Diabetes Association Expo in Pittsburgh, PA.

Mr. Divabetic and his merry band of diabetes educators presented Divabetic’s stage show extravaganza, ‘Diabetes Fairy Tales’ in the Divabetic Pavilion at the American Diabetes Association’s Expo in Pittsburgh, PA. The program is based on nine popular Fairy Tales including Snow White, Cinderella, Pinocchio, Beauty & The Beast, Rapunzel, Hansel & Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood and more! The Diabetes Fairy Tales stage show in Pittsburgh will feature Little Red Riding Hood self-care games, 3 Bears fitness demonstrations, Hansel and Gretel Food Aisle Face-Offs, and diabetes care advice for damsels in distress from the experts.

Poet Lorraine Brooks added a diabetes twist to the popular Beauty & The Beast fairy tale.

‘Beauty & The Beast’ by Lorraine Brooks

A beauty named Belle, says the story,

Was a lovely and humble young lass,

She was regal in all of her glory,

But she had diabetes, alas.

She thought diabetes was just a big beast

READ MORE

Divabetic’s monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/11/2020

31 Days Of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Eleven

On Day 11, we’re spotlighting Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Esther Williams from July 2013.

From “Bathing Beauty” in 1944 to “Jupiter’s Darling” in 1955, Esther Williams swam in Technicolor pools, lakes, lagoons and oceans, cresting onto the list of Top 10 box-office stars in 1949 and 1950.

In a bathing suit, she was a special kind of all-American girl: tall, lithe, breathtakingly attractive and unpretentious. From the beginning, Ms. Williams wrote in her autobiography, “I sensed the water was my natural element.” She estimated that she had swum over 1,250 miles for the cameras.

Esther Williams became one of the most famous swimmers in history without ever participating in an Olympic Games, because she found opportunities that were disguised in many obstacles that she confronted. She spoke of movie stardom as her “consolation prize,” won instead of the Olympic gold medal for which she had yearned.

Swimming is like life with opportunities frequently disguised. When you become disappointed with your present plight, consider how Esther Williams’ disappointment from not participating in the 1940 Olympics led her to opportunities she could have never imagined.

“This podcast was really a game changer for us because of Lorraine Brooks’s poem,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek. “Initially when I asked Lorraine to write a poem about ‘the beach’, she declined. She had an uneasy feeling that I might not like her poem because it wasn’t ‘upbeat’ or ‘happy’ enough to fit in with our typical podcast format. I assured her that I wanted her to write whatever she felt inside her heart. Her ‘Beauty & Beach’ poem is probably the most popular poem she has shared on our podcast. Her words not only captured listeners’ hearts but they also re-shaped our podcast’s format to reflect a more authentic view of diabetes; the good and the bad along with everything in between.

I hope you enjoy Poet Lorraine Brooks’s poem “Beauty & The Beach” from our Diabetes Roundtable podcast inspired by Esther Williams originally broadcast in July 2013.

Beauty and the Beach by Poet Lorraine Brooks

I’m not Esther Williams.

I’m not even close.

My body in bathing suits

Feels clumsy and gross.

I look at the swimmers

And look at the pool,

And suddenly feel

Like a a fat ugly fool.

READ FULL POEM

Esther Williams’ life, legacy and love of swimming inspires Divabetic’s Roundtable podcast from July 2013. The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic talks about the ‘Best Of Summer’ featuring the best in summer reads, swimsuits and diabetes self-care advice. Special Guests include: Author Brenda Novak, Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Mama Rose Marie, Fitness Expert Tiffany Savion, Kathy Gold, RN, CDE, Neva White CRNP, CDE and Leslie living with type 1 diabetes.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/10/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Ten

On Day 10, we’re spotlighting one of our most popular podcasts of all time, Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Chaka Khan from November 2012. The slimmed down superstar diva, Chaka Khan is inspiring Diabetes Roundtable for National Diabetes Awareness Month!

The year before, The Queen of Funk, Chaka Khan was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2011. Her diabetes diagnosis sparked an impressive weight loss.

“I had type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. So I went on a radical change in lifestyle. I was on liquids for a year, and that gave me a good jump-start,” Chaka Khan said in an article on Diabetes.co.uk. “It sort of changed my whole way of thinking. You have to get the mindset.”

Her new diet, combined with regular exercise sessions, has led to a dramatic improvement in health and allowed the singer to ditch her type 2 diabetes medication.

Mr. Divabetic hosts for this thirty minute whirlwind of wellness with superstar guests including Chaka Khan’s former bandmember and producer, Ivan Hampden, Jr., Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Pam Butler MS, CDE, Constance Brown-Riggs MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN, Holly Clegg who is the author of six cookbooks including ‘Kitchen 101’ Mama Rose Marie and real-life diva, Ginger Vieira, who is the author of ‘Your Diabetes Science Experiment’ and record-setting competitive powerlifter living with type 1 diabetes.

“The only downside to this Chaka Khan inspired podcast is that back in 2012 we weren’t playing music between show segments,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek. “On the bright side, we have a great excuse to feature Chaka Khan’s music on an upcoming Diabetes Late Nite podcast!”

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, fun Virtual Scavenger Hunt on Zoom with special guest, Best-Selling Intimacy & Diabetes co-author, Janis Roszler LMFT, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND on Thursday, July 16, 2020, 7 – 7:35 PM, EST.

https://youtu.be/wPSuO-zUHik

This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes.

REGISTER NOW

Thank you to everyone who has taken measures to protect our Divabetic community members and their loved ones by wearing cloth face coverings and social distancing. We are so grateful! Divabetic will continue to provide free Virtual Diabetes Outreach events with qualified health experts to keep you safe, informed a

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/09/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Nine

On Day 9, we’re spotlighting our Studio d: Diabetes Foot Care podcast from April 2012.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic steps in the studio with Dr. Maasi J. Smith (DPM), founder and director of the Rittenhouse Foot and Ankle Associates in Philadelphia (PA) and the website, www.mybadfeet.com, to talk foot care, diabetic wound care and to get general advice for healthy feet.

Bad feet are scary; but Dr. Maasi Smith (DMS) has seen it all and is committed to promoting foot health. This award winning surgical podiatrist admits that our feet are often the most neglected part of our body.

Due to the suppression of the immune response and reduced blood flow to the feet in people with diabetes, the body may be unable to heal wounds you suffer to your feet. As sensation has already been reduced, if you aren’t checking your feet regularly, you may not realize your feet are injured until it’s too late. If left untreated, bacterial infections can lead to gangrene, which may require amputation to ensure that the infection does not spread to other parts of the body.

What Can I Do?

There are some simple precautions you can take to keep your feet healthy as a diabetic.

Check your feet daily.
Keep your diabetes well managed.
Wash your feet daily.
Keep your feet moisturized (but no lotion between the toes, as moisture here can create conditions friendly to fungal infection).
Encourage circulation in your feet by wiggling your toes and changing positions regularly.
Meet regularly with your trusted podiatrist.

If you’re living with diabetes, it is crucial that you ensure foot health by working with your podiatrist to reduce the likelihood of infection and quickly treat any infection that arises.

Many foot conditions can worsen without prompt treatment from a qualified podiatrist. So don’t hesitate – if something feels wrong, call your healthcare team.

Divabetic’s free monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence. All podcasts are available on demand at blogtalkradio and i-Tunes.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

One lucky winner in our random drawing will win Janis Roszler’s best-selling e- book, Intimacy & Diabetes. A second lucky winner in our random drawing will win a Dario Blood Glucose Meter starter kit. This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes.

REGISTER NOW

07/09/2020

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Balls Recipe by Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND

“These chocolate peanut butter balls are so delicious and chocolatey that you’d never guess that fruit is a primary ingredient. For the most health benefits and to get the flavanols in dark chocolate, choose cocoa powder that has not been Dutched or treated with alkali,” says our colleague and frequent Diabetes Late Nite podcast guest, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Balls Recipe by Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND

Ingredients

1 cup pitted medjool or deglet nor dates (4.5 ounces)
1/2 cup raisins
6 tablespoons natural peanut butter, creamy style (3.5 ounces)
1/2 cup rolled oats (2 ounces)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/4 cup chocolate chips, preferably dark chocolate

SEE FULL RECIPE

JILL’S HELPFUL TIP: Eat Mindfully

“My challenge for you is to pick at least two meals or snacks this week to practice eating with intention or mindfulness. Really pay attention to your food – why you chose to eat it; what it looks like; how it smells; what you expect it to taste like; how it actually tastes; and how the taste, texture and temperature change in your mouth as you chew. Notice how it makes you feel, what you like and don’t like, how your hunger and appetite change,”says Jill Weisenberger.

“This is the week-by-week guide that will change your life!”

Diabetes Weight Loss Week by Week takes you on a one-year journey to weight control while managing your blood sugar,cholesterol level and more! This best-selling book includes sample menus, recipes and tricks for the kitchen. Instead of focusing on gimmicks, you will learn the skills you need to be successful long term.

BUY NOW

Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, is a Nutrition, Culinary & Diabetes Expert, Wellcoach®-certified health and wellness coach, Freelance Writer, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. She’s also the author of four books, including a best-seller. She’s a nationally-recognized media expert in high demand for print and online interviews, as well as corporate and one-on-one nutritional counseling. Jill’s philosophy is that nutrition science should be understandable, realistic and oh so delicious.

Listen to Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music from the ‘The Best Of Patti Austin’ album courtesy of SONY Music available on demand. Guests include Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, and Mama Rose Marie.

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

One lucky winner in our random drawing will win Janis Roszler’s best-selling e- book, Intimacy & Diabetes. A second lucky winner will win a Dario Blood Glucose Meter starter kit. This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes.

REGISTER NOW

07/08/202007/08/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Eight

On Day 8, we’re spotlighting our Studio d: Diabetes & Exercise podcast from May 2012. Author of Can I Exercise Sitting Down?, Renee Wiggins joins the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic in the studio to give suggestions for how to exercise in the most ordinary places and how people with every lifestyle can add a fitness component into their routine.

Renee Wiggins’ book, Being Fabulously Fit in God’s Kingdom: A 40-day Journey to Wellness provides a road map to staying healthy, fit spiritually and physically.

Renee Wiggins is also a registered and licensed dietitian (RD/LD), certified physical fitness trainer (CPFT) and owner of Results by Renee, a medical lifestyle spa in Washington, DC (www.resultsbyrenee.com).

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?