I've Got Guts!

This week on I've Got Guts!, we're joined by Erica Ebert. Erica’s presence, wisdom, and the way she holds space is nothing short of transformative. In this episode, we dive deep into mindfulness and its power to shift how we relate to our bodies, our pain, and our inner dialogue. Erica shares insights from her work as a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) teacher through Brown Univ...

***TRIGGER WARNING: Sensitive IVF Update*** In this episode of I’ve Got Guts! , we talk about a remarkable woman whose journey through unexplained digestive symptoms left even the experts scratching their heads. For years, she battled a chronic cough and difficulty swallowing—symptoms that mimicked achalasia. After seeing countless doctors and undergoing multiple tests, she finally received Botox...

In this episode, Stefanie and Lauren dive deep into the role of inflammation in chronic illness. From gut health to autoimmune conditions, they break down what inflammation actually is, why it happens, and how it becomes a driving force behind so many chronic symptoms. Whether you’re living with a diagnosis or just trying to understand your body better, this episode sheds light on the “fire within...

In this episode, Stef shares her deeply personal journey with Reiki—explaining how energy healing has become a cornerstone of her path to wellness and transformation. Meanwhile, Lauren unpacks Dr. Emeran Mayer’s compelling insights on the mind-gut connection, revealing how our gut health is intertwined with our everyday lives. Together, they explore the intersection of spiritual energy and practic...

Did you know that nearly 80% of autoimmune diseases affect women? In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren and Stef dive into the latest research uncovering why women are more susceptible to autoimmune conditions like lupus, Hashimoto’s, and rheumatoid arthritis. From hormonal influences to genetic factors and immune system differences, they break down the science in a way that actually makes sen...

Traveling is stressful enough, but add in a chronic digestive illness, and it can feel like an Olympic sport! In this episode, Stef and Lauren share their best tips and tricks for traveling with gut issues—how to plan ahead, navigate tricky food situations, and avoid (or at least manage) those inevitable travel mishaps. Plus, they swap some hilarious personal stories about what really happens when...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, we sit down with Jessica Maldoff to discuss her experience living with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA), formerly known as Wegener’s Disease. Jessica shares her journey from diagnosis to treatment, the challenges of managing a rare autoimmune disease, and how she continues to navigate life despite the obstacles. Tune in as we explore the impact of GPA on da...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren breaks down ovarian cysts—what they are, why they happen, and when to be concerned. Meanwhile, Stef shares an IVF update and dives into the big question: Is chronic illness forever? We explore the realities of living with long-term health conditions, managing symptoms, and finding hope in the journey. Tune in for an honest, informative, and relatable conve...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren dives deep into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for stomach and esophageal ulcers, shedding light on how they affect digestion and overall health. Stef then takes the mic to discuss the complexities of IBS-C (irritable bowel syndrome with constipation), offering insights on managing symptoms and living with this challenging condition. Tune in f...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren dives into the differences between diverticulitis and diverticulosis, breaking down the symptoms, causes, and how to manage each condition. Meanwhile, Stef unpacks the mysteries of vasovagal syncope, exploring why sudden dizziness and fainting spells happen and what you can do to prevent them. Tune in for insights, personal stories, and practical tips on n...

In this special follow-up episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Stef and Lauren bring their biggest supporters to the mic—their husbands, Anthony and Sean. Living with a spouse with a chronic illness comes with its own challenges, sacrifices, and resilience. Join us as Anthony and Sean share their unfiltered experiences—the highs and the lows, the lessons learned, and the unwavering commitment to their partn...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren dives into the painful reality of kidney stones—what causes them, how they’re managed, and what it’s like to experience them firsthand. Meanwhile, Stef tackles an equally important topic: the role of spouses in supporting a partner with chronic illness. From emotional encouragement to practical assistance, we discuss what true partnership looks like when h...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, we sit down with Martin Mueller IV, founder of the Achalasia Awareness Foundation, Inc. Martin shares his journey with achalasia, a rare esophageal motility disorder, and discusses the foundation’s mission to provide education, resources, and support for those living with this condition. From personal experiences to advancements in treatment and community outreac...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren dives into her journey of managing chronic migraines, sharing the emotional and physical toll they take and the strategies she uses to find relief. Meanwhile, Stef opens up about her experience with abdominal migraines, a condition that bridges the gap between gut health and neurology. Together, they explore how migraines manifest differently in the head a...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren dives into the connection between autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation, sharing her personal journey of navigating both. Meanwhile, Stef opens up about her IUI experience and sheds light on the Spoon Theory—a powerful way to understand life with chronic illness. Whether you’re curious about health, fertility, or finding strength in the face of chal...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts, we’re continuing to dive into Lauren’s achalasia journey. She shares the results of her surgery, the challenges she faced, and how she’s found a new normal while staying positive. Meanwhile, Stef tackles your burning listener questions, offering personal insights and practical advice for navigating life with chronic digestive conditions. Whether you’re here for th...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, we dive into the first stages of Lauren’s journey with achalasia, a rare esophageal motility disorder that has reshaped her approach to eating and living. This two-part series begins with Lauren’s diagnosis and the emotional and physical adjustments that followed. Meanwhile, Stef shares an update on her fertility journey, reflecting on the ups and downs of trying...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, Lauren dives into her battle with the parasite cryptosporidium, sharing insights into how it impacted her daily life and the challenges of managing a rare and persistent infection. Meanwhile, Stef opens up about her experience preparing for a tonsillectomy as an adult living with a chronic illness, revealing the unique hurdles of navigating surgery with an alread...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts! , Lauren shares her journey of living with a spastic colon and the chaos of dealing with a broken appendix , shedding light on how these challenges have shaped her life. Stefanie opens up about her experiences with ineffective motility disorder (IMO) , the struggles of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) , and the battle to overcome C. diff . But that’s not all—our fav...

In this episode of I’ve Got Guts!, we dive into two deeply personal health journeys that highlight resilience, advocacy, and determination. Stefanie shares her experience managing thrush and ineffective esophageal motility, delving into the challenges of living with a condition that impacts swallowing, digestion, and overall quality of life. From navigating treatment options to adapting her diet,...

In this episode, we dive deep into what it's like managing not one but two chronic conditions - pericarditis and Gastroparesis. Living with these diagnoses comes with unique challenges, but it also brings unexpected lessons in resilience, self-care, and finding balance in the chaos. What to expect: Understanding pericarditis and Gastroparesis Navigating triggers: how diet, stress, and lifestyle ad...

In this episode of I've Got Guts!, we're diving into the realities of managing both Hashimoto's thyroiditis and gallbladder disease. From balancing hormone levels to navigating disease flare-ups, we'll explore the overlap, challenges, and practical strategies for thriving with these conditions (or at least how we found ways to do so). We share personal experiences, tips, and actionable advice for...

Welcome to the very first episode of I've Got Guts! In this debut, we're introducing you to your hosts, Stefanie and Lauren, two friends brought together by shared experiences and their journeys with chronic illness. Stefanie and Lauren share a little bit about their backgrounds, the chronic conditions they live with, and how these challenges have shaped their lives From navigating daily struggles...

In this episode, Stefanie and Lauren take a deep dive into their "origin stories" - the chronic illnesses that have been pivotal in shaping their lives. Stefanie shares her journey with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), detailing the ups , downs and everything in between of living with a condition that so many experience but few talk about openly. Meanwhile, Lauren opens up about her life with Celia...

Welcome to I’ve Got Guts! - a podcast about living, surviving, and thriving with chronic illness. Hosted by Stefanie and Lauren, two friends who understand that navigating life with chronic health issues can be challenging, isolating, and sometimes just plain exhausting. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be. I’ve Got Guts! is a space for community, honesty, and laughter—a place to talk abou...