Tag: Catherine Schuller

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Leslie, Divabetic, Living Well with Type 1 Diabetes

I had a wonderful time running into my dear friend, Divabetic type 1, Leslie, at Martha Redbone‘s brilliant tribute to author bell hooks and her inspiring poetry, featuring my friend, Keith Anthony Fluitt at the Apollo Theater. It brought back fond memories of Leslie attending our free monthly Divabetic Club meetings at the McBurney YMCA in New York two decades ago.

Leslie has been navigating life with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years now, and seeing her again filled my heart with joy. It really transported me back to those vibrant days when Leslie would join our free Divabetic Club meetings at the McBurney YMCA in New York nearly two decades ago.

Seeing her again was such a joy! Leslie has always been a beacon of light and comfort for others living with diabetes, sharing her wisdom and positivity at our gatherings. I fondly remember the impact of Divabetic’s outreach, especially when we hosted ongoing free meetings for women affected by diabetes across New York, Philadelphia, and Cleveland.

This year has been a whirlwind as I balance running Divabetic, supporting Luther Vandross‘s legacy and documentary, creating my art, and managing various commitments while touring with Itzhak Perlman.

Catching up with Leslie was a refreshing reminder to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey.

On a wonderful note, I’m thrilled to share that I’m teaming up with Dr. Neva White and Catherine Schuller to bring a fantastic, free, and fashionable Divabetic outreach event to life with the Frazier Family Coalition. Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 8, at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital! I couldn’t be more excited about what we have planned!

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Diabetes And Menopause

Enjoy highlights from Divabetic’s World Menopause Day Panel discussion on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Our panel was moderated by Divabetic Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller and featured Dr. Julianne Arena, Donna Rice, and Amparo. Dr Julianne Arena is a double board-certified physician, a board-certified OBGYN who applies traditional, integrative methods and a multi-layered approach to helping women with sexual health and intimacy issues. She’s also a practitioner of Cliovana, the only treatment available that improves long-term clitoral stimulation with proven sound wave technology. Her goal is to help women create optimal and vibrant lives.

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Catherine Schuller is the go-to person in the image industry for all things style and fashion for the plus-size woman. She began as a former Ford Model and became a spokesperson for the industry, a retail editor for Mode magazine, and wrote the highly acclaimed how-to guide The Ultimate Plus Size Modeling Guide, which has helped thousands of young women who want to enter the plus size modeling field. She is a frequently quoted media expert on the puls-size market and has appeared five times on The View, The Today Show, The Early Show, eight times on Neal Cavuto’s Your World, and many television and radio shows across the United States.

Donna Rice is a registered nurse and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is a national and international thought leader and author of four books, including Divabetic’s ebook Sweet Romance: A Woman’s Guide To Love And Intimacy With Diabetes. She is a Past President of the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists and the Past President of the Diabetes Health and Wellness Institute for Baylor Health Care Systems in Dallas, Texas. Donna is the Chief Operating Officer for DiabetesSisters and The Chief Evangelist for Call-ai, working on voice-driven AI for diabetes care and education.

According to research, hormone levels (most notably estrogen and progesterone) fall dramatically during menopause. Changes to our hormones can affect our blood sugar levels and make managing diabetes more difficult.


Co-authors of Divabetic’s ebook, Sweet Romance: A Woman’s Guide To Love & Intimacy With Diabetes, Dr. Janis Roszler PhD, LMFT, CDCES, LD/N, FAND, and Donna Rice MBA, BSN, RN, CDCES, FADCES offer advice on discussing your diabetes diagnosis as well as issues related to intimacy, fertility, and menopause with the people you care about the most. 

Romantic relationships play an important role in our everyday lives. But when diabetes enters the picture, it can complicate even the most loving and open relationships. Many people don’t know that diabetes can impact physical and emotional intimacy. And intimacy-related issues can be especially difficult to discuss with a partner or a health care provider. But don’t let diabetes hinder the romance.


Sweet Romance: A Woman’s Guide to Love and Intimacy with Diabetes, book one in the series, is your key to a happy, healthy intimate life with diabetes.

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Divabetic Mysteries: Tomorrow Is Not On The Menu

Divabetic’s 9th Annual Mystery podcast, Tomorrow Is Not On The Menu, is packed with loads of diabetes information and self-care tips wrapped up in a cozy mystery radio drama.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic, lands his to-die-for job as a caterer for the nation’s hottest health guru, Wendy Wattage’s Wellness Retreat on the Jersey Shore.

Everything seems low pressure and low calorie until the body of the nasty food critic, Marilyn Macaroni, is found stabbed to death with one of Max’s new chef knives. Now he’s the prime suspect in a big, fat murder investigation!

Can he and his team of friends, diabetes educators, and his nosey Italian mother, Mama Rose Marie, find the killer before the police arrive? Or will he be trading his fruit suit for coveralls with stripes? Weight loss murder never tasted so good.

Starring Mr. Divabetic, Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Mama Rose Marie, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDCES, Maryann Horst Nicolay MEd, NTDR, Kathie Dolgin aka ‘High Voltage,’ Seveda Williams, Catherine Schuller, Dave Jones, and Lorraine Brooks. Produced by Leisa Chester Weir. Special thanks to our colleague, the multi-talented Wendy Radford.

Divabetic Mystery Podcast’s goals are: Encourage people with diabetes to problem-solve issues related to their self-care, like their favorite TV detectives (ie. write things down, search for clues and share information with your healthcare collaborators and ask questions) Manage diabetes as a team rather than go it alone.

Divabetic’s 9th Annual Mystery podcast, Tomorrow Is Not On The Menu, is packed with loads of diabetes information and self-care tips wrapped up in a cozy mystery radio drama.

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A Christmas Peril: Divabetic Mysteries Podcast

Enjoy Divabetic’s 8th Annual Mystery podcast, A Christmas Peril, packed with holiday tips for people living with, at risk, and affected by diabetes.

The Holidays are full of surprises— especially after Mr. Divabetic gets a new job as the pastry chef at the St. Nicholas Nursing Home nestled in a cozy Christmas Village. But adjusting to life in a Christmas Village is not all sugarplums and candy canes. Especially when a cantankerous resident, a real-life Ebenezer Scrooge named Mr. Pincher, almost dies——shortly after eating one of Max’s peanut butter swirl brownies. Despite all of the ingredients for danger, Mr. Divabetic and our team of amateur sleuths and his overly protective mother — set out to find the real culprit in the hopes that his name isn’t on a lethal naughty list.

Our story was inspired by Kevin Houdeshell’s tragic true-life story. Thanks to the Houdeshell family for their advocacy efforts on behalf of the Emergency Insulin Act of 2019 and the emergency prescription refill legislation.

Known as Kevin’s or Howdy’s Law, it allows pharmacists to dispense an emergency supply of chronic maintenance medication if the doctor cannot be reached – a common-sense act that could save a life.

Starring Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, USA Best Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Mama Rose Marie, Patricia Addie Gentle, Terri Seidman, MaryAnn Nicolay, Trisha Artman, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis, Seveda Williams, and Wendy Radford.

Special thanks to the Houdeshell family and Pharmacist Mandy Reece. Original music by Ivan Hampden Jr., Celine Dion‘s vocals courtesy of SONY Music. Produced by Leisa Chester Weir.

In the spirit of Scrooge’s awakening at the end of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, we encourage you to honor Christmas in your heart by living in the Past, The Present, and the Future. Try to embrace the Spirits of all Three and the lessons that they teach.

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My Visit To Santaland in Herald Square

Yesterday, I had the absolute joy of visiting Santaland at Macy’s, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of magical!

This enchanting wonderland is a delight for kids and adults alike, bringing holiday cheer to everyone.

Did you know that children first met Santa at Macy’s way back in 1862?

For decades, Macy’s was known as “The Headquarters of Santa Claus” and later dubbed “The Home of Santa Claus.”

Most of us always look forward to Santa’s arrival during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade—it’s a tradition that started in 1924 and charmed its way onto our screens in 1948!

This year, my friend Nolan is lending a helping hand to Santa by keeping track of all the good boys and girls, snapping photos, and listening to their wish lists right in Santaland on the 8th Floor of Macy’s in Herald Square.

Nolan is the perfect helper, bringing his big heart and creative spirit to life, thanks to his background as a former Cruise Ship entertainer!

While we waited in line, we were completely mesmerized by the sights and sounds of Magicland.

The dancing ballerina pigs, the twinkling toy trains, the festive scenery, and the cheerful elves (not to mention Mrs. Claus) made the wait fly by in the most delightful way!

Thanks to the beloved 1947 film “Miracle on 34th Street” featuring the fabulous Natalie Wood, Macy’s is now the second most popular spot for Santa, right after the North Pole!

If you’re thinking about visiting Santaland, just a little heads up—be sure to make your reservation online in advance. You won’t want to miss this holiday adventure!

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Estogren Levels And Insulin Resistance

Yesterday, I spoke to a Divabetic community member with menopause who is struggling with high blood sugar levels. Sadly, some healthcare collaborators don’t discuss the link between estrogen levels and insulin resistance.

If this topic strikes a chord, research and discuss it with your healthcare collaborator. You’re not alone. We believe in you!

Enjoy highlights from Divabetic’s World Menopause Day Panel discussion on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

Our panel was moderated by Divabetic Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller and featured Dr. Julianne Arena, Donna Rice, and Amparo.

Dr Julianne Arena is a double board-certified physician, a board-certified OBGYN who applies traditional, integrative methods and a multi-layered approach to helping women with sexual health and intimacy issues. She’s also a practitioner of Cliovana, the only treatment available that improves long-term clitoral stimulation with proven sound wave technology. Her goal is to help women create optimal and vibrant lives.

Donna Rice is a registered nurse and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. She is a national and international thought leader and author of four books, including Divabetic’s ebook Sweet Romance: A Woman’s Guide To Love And Intimacy With Diabetes. She is a Past President of the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists and the Past President of the  Diabetes Health and Wellness Institute for Baylor Health Care Systems in Dallas, Texas.   Donna is the Chief Operating Officer for DiabetesSisters and The Chief  Evangelist for Call-ai, working on voice-driven AI for diabetes care and education.  According to research, hormone levels (most notably estrogen and progesterone) fall dramatically during menopause. Changes to our hormones can affect our blood sugar levels and make managing diabetes more difficult.

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Divabetic Mysteries Podcast: Kill Me Madam

Divabetic’s Mysteries podcast, Kill Me Madam, is packed with loads of diabetes information and self-care tips wrapped up in a cozy mystery radio drama.

There’s a good indication that murder might be part of the recipe when Nantucket’s ten-time reigning Baking Champion’s last name is ‘Coffin.’

But resentment, greed, and Britannia’s bad dealings turn everyone into a suspect when she’s found dead in the parking lot just before the Annual Decadents on Deck! Bake Off competition is about to kick off.

Delusional baker and amateur sleuth Mr. Divabetic is even shocked to find himself being treated as a suspect in the case by the local police after meeting her just once!

As if his life wasn’t crazy enough before, escaping a murderous mishap in New York and attempting a fresh start in Nantucket has become a complete and utter baking disaster.

Max, along with his friends and nosy mother, have to add tracking down a murderer to his To-Do list, too.

Can our team hunt down the real murderer before they strike again? Will he become the next victim? Can Max ever manage to bake an edible cake?

Stevia, acesulfame K, and sucralose are low-calorie sweeteners that can be 200–600 times sweeter than sugar. Our friend, Stacey Harris known as the The Diabetic Pastry Chef recommends using multiple sugar substance rather than just one substitute in your best recipes for the best results.

Almond or coconut flour are lower in carbohydrates and higher in fiber, which can help slow down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream.

For more baking tips and a captivating murder mystery, tune in to Divabetic’s Mysteries podcast: Kill Me Madam on YouTube, Blog Talk Radio, iTunes and Spotify.

FEATURING
Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, USA Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst-Nicolay MEd, NDRT, Lorraine Brooks, Catherine Schuller, Wendy Radford, CoachThe Cure‘s Trisha Artman, Mama Rose Marie, and Seveda Williams.

Carb Kitty make carbohydrate counting fun! Carbohydrate counting, or “carb counting,” can help you manage your blood glucose levels. Foods that contain carbohydrates raise your blood glucose values. By monitoring the amount of carbohydrates you eat can help to better understand your blood glucose levels.

Carbohydrates (“carbs”) can be counted 2 ways: by grams or by carb choices. Remember: 1 carb choice = 15 grams of carbohydrate. Mr. Divabetic’s new educational game, Carb Kitty, makes counting carbs fun.

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Divabetic Mysteries: Gypsies, Tramps & Peas

Check out this delightful scene from Divabetic’s Gypsies, Tramps, and Peas murder mystery podcast, available on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, and BlogTalkRadio!

This isn’t just for the mystery enthusiasts; it’s a fun and engaging way to learn about diabetes and self-care. Between the vibrant characters, wild adventures, and intriguing settings, we sneak in health and wellness tips to help you take charge of your diabetes.

Next time you find yourself facing unexpected blood sugar changes, think like a detective! Look for clues, jot down your observations, chat with your support system, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for solutions.

A collaborative approach to managing diabetes can work wonders!

Synopsis: Meet Mr. Divabetic, a diabetes advocate turned amateur sleuth, as he takes a leap into his new role as a healthy caterer. With the help of his quirky co-workers and his nosy Italian mother, he heads to Coney Island to cater a party on a yacht for his old swim coach, Ted Rockow.

But things take a dark turn when the guest of honor turns up dead! Was it just an unfortunate accident, or is something more sinister at play?

Now, Mr. Divabetic is grilling a colorful cast of characters—a lively group of Burlesque dancers, a charming lifeguard, a mystical gypsy fortune teller, and even a few sparkling mermaids—each trying to keep their secrets hidden beneath the waves.

Can Mr. Divabetic conquer his fear of green peas and uncover the truth about his coach’s death: murder or mishap? Will he float to safety or sink into despair?

Tune in to see if he can crack the case with a bit of help from his loving Italian mother and his friends. Along the journey to unveil the murderer, he’ll share valuable diabetes self-care tips perfect for those sunny summer days!

Starring Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, best-selling author Tonya Kappes, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst-Nicolay MEd, NDRT, Lorraine Brooks, Catherine Schuller, Asha Brown of We Are Diabetes, Chef Robert Lewis aka The Happy Diabetic, Mama Rose Marie, and Seveda Williams.

Enjoy the adventure!

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Diabetes Murder Mystery: Murder Plain As Vanilla

Enjoy Divabetic’s animated 10th Annual Original Mystery podcast, “Murder Plain As Vanilla,” streaming on Spotify, iTunes, and BlogTalkRadio.

Our mystery podcast is not just for mystery lovers. It’s an engaging way to learn about diabetes and self-care. Amidst colorful characters, thrilling adventures, and delightful settings, we offer health and wellness tips to help you take charge of your diabetes self-care.

We also promote the idea of thinking like a detective when you experience unexpected blood sugar fluctuations. Look for clues, gather data, talk to witnesses (friends, co-workers, and family members ), and present your ideas to healthcare professionals for solutions.

A team approach to managing your diabetes is also a great idea.

Here is a summary of Divabetic’s 10th Annual Original Mystery podcast, “Murder Plan As Vanilla.” Mr. Divabetic, a baking enthusiast, is invited by his arch-nemesis, Renata Whisk, to participate in the Visions of Vanilla baking competition.

The competition will feature renowned culinary giants such as Best-Selling Cookbook Author Lily Frost, Green Thumb Gourmet, Hazel Honeywell, and the Cannoli Countess. Max, who owes his mother a debt, accepts the invitation.

However, before Max can start baking, he discovers the dead body of the Vanilla King of Madagascar. As luck would have it, Max was the last person to see the Vanilla King alive.

To prove his innocence, he seeks help from his team, USA Today’s best-selling author Tonya Kappes, health educator MaryAnn Nicolay MEd, NDTR, former FBI Agent Pauline, and his mother, Mama Rose Marie.

Things take a turn for the worse when another baker is found dead near Max’s station, raising suspicions about his involvement in the murders. Even Max’s mother is at risk.

Now, with only Renata Whisk’s Puffed Pastry recipe, a rolling pin, and his team’s expertise in solving murders and providing diabetes health information, Max must solve the mystery or die trying.

Divabetic Mysteries: “Murder Plain As Vanilla” features Lorraine Brooks, Catherine Schuller, Dave Jones, Seveda Williams, Leisa Chester Weir, and Amparo Peterkin. Written by Max Szadek and Wendy Radford. Produced by Leisa Chester Weir. Animated by Max Szadek.

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Wonder Woman Day


Today is Wonder Woman Day! It has been 83 years since her debut appearance in 1941. American writer William Moulton Marston and artist Harry G. Peter created this empowering global icon. She is always seen with her Lasso of Truth, indestructible bracelets, and iconic tiara.

Wonder Woman first appeared in All Star Comics #8 on October 21, 1941, in a back-up story meant to test her appeal. She became an instant favorite and soon started headlining her title less than a year later. Her popular 1970s television series introduced her to a new legion of fans, and she has since appeared in animated shows and movies.

The groundbreaking 2017 film “Wonder Woman,” directed by Patty Jenkins and starring Gal Gadot, was the highest-grossing live-action film ever for a female director at the time of its release. The sequel, “Wonder Woman 1984,” premiered on HBO Max and in theaters globally on December 25, 2020.

My Princess Frog version of this iconic character will soon make her debut on West 69th Street, one of New York City’s iconic Halloween streets.

Divavbetic Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller spotlighted her new jewelry line of heroic adornment, Power Pieces, created to help you shine your inner gifts. Catherine’s passion for sustainability is evident in her creation of power bracelets and trinkets using original comic book scraps and resin.

To meet the growing demand, she collaborates with local artists and interns. Power Pieces honors Catherine”s late husband, Mark Gruenwald’s legacy. Mark was an American comic book writer, editor, and occasional penciler known for his long association with Marvel Comics. Mark wrote, drew, and/or edited many books featuring characters like Quasar, Spider-Woman, the Avengers, Hawkeye, Iron Man, and Captain America, which he wrote for ten years! He was also instrumental in creating “the Official Handbook to the Marvel Universe,” which is the ultimate guide to Marvel’s characters, including their story history, first appearances, and lists of their powers.

Without Mark, these handbooks wouldn’t exist because no one knew more about Marvel’s characters and their history than Mark. Mark eventually became Marvel’s Executive Editor in 1987 and held that position until his untimely death from a heart attack in 1996.

Mark’s legacy continues to live on through his work, the characters he created, and now, through this comic book creation challenge. Mark proved that big dreams can come true even if you’re from a small place. Catherine’s plans include designing power pieces for the cowboy community in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and inviting visiting artist Steven Carrero to contribute to her collection.

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