The Autoimmune Mom Podcast

Can you have a healthy pregnancy with ulcerative colitis? What happens if you've had J-pouch surgery? And how do you raise children while managing a lifelong autoimmune disease? In this episode of The Autoimmune Mom Podcast , Ali sits down with Amber Tresca , founder of About IBD and host of the About IBD Podcast, to discuss what it's really like living with ulcerative colitis for more than 35 yea...

If you're a mom living with autoimmune disease and searching for natural ways to reduce inflammation, manage fatigue, and support your overall wellness, you've probably wondered whether infrared saunas actually work. In this episode of The Autoimmune Mom Podcast , I share my personal experience using an infrared sauna as part of my autoimmune disease management plan. We discuss the potential benef...

Ali Atwell shares her ongoing health insurance disaster, including denial of insurance coverage for her rheumatologist treatments, missed infusions, and the financial burden on her family. She also discusses upcoming guest Terry Adirim and the broken medical system. Takeaways Health insurance denial can lead to missed treatments and financial burden Bridging the gap in healthcare is essential for...

Jenna Schutt shares her journey of being diagnosed with systemic mastocytosis and the impact it had on her life as a mother. She discusses the challenges of treatment, the role of faith in coping, and the development of a relationship with God. Jenna emphasizes the importance of self-worth and finding joy in the midst of adversity. Jenna Schutt shares her journey of finding true joy and peace thro...

The conversation covers the challenges of parenting with chronic illness, including the impact on pregnancy, postpartum flares, and the importance of modeling self-care for children. It also delves into the experience of early symptoms and diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, as well as the communication of chronic illness to children. The conversation covers the importance of self-care, parenting w...

Can stress and trauma contribute to autoimmune disease? In this episode, Thy Da shares her autoimmune diagnosis journey and the lifestyle changes that transformed her health. We discuss nervous system regulation, stress management, the connection between trauma and chronic illness, and how mindset can influence the healing process. Thy also opens up about how living with autoimmune disease has sha...

Monique shares her journey of growing up with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, the impact on her childhood, challenges in physical activities, motherhood, and the decision to undergo hip replacement surgery. Her resilience and determination shine through as she navigates the complexities of her condition and life experiences. The conversation covers Monique's journey of overcoming physical challenge...

The conversation delves into the fear associated with starting a new medication or treatment, the loss of control and trust, information overload, and the use of mindset shift and affirmations to manage fear. Takeaways Fear of starting a medication or treatment Managing fear through mindset and affirmations Chapters 00:00 The Fear of Starting Medication or Treatment 09:44 Information Overload and...

The conversation explores the experiences of the daughters of a mother with a chronic illness, highlighting the emotional impact, coping mechanisms, and family dynamics. It delves into the challenges, empathy, and personal growth resulting from the mother's health condition, providing valuable insights for families facing similar situations. The conversation delves into the impact of chronic illne...

Many women with autoimmune disease wonder whether stress and trauma have played a role in their health journey. In this episode, we explore the connection between trauma and autoimmune disease, the role of emotional healing, and why self-compassion may be just as important as medication. We also discuss body image struggles, weight gain, microdosing GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, and h...

If you live with autoimmune disease, you've probably wondered how to keep going when fatigue, flares, and changing seasons derail your plans. In this solo episode, I share the practical strategies that help me navigate difficult seasons of chronic illness—from lowering expectations and protecting my energy to setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and finding joy even on the hard days. Takeaw...

The conversation explores the challenges of adapting to motherhood while living with chronic illness, the importance of managing expectations and communication, redefining motherhood and self-care, and the value of connecting with others in similar situations. It provides insights into the experiences of mothers navigating the complexities of chronic illness and parenting, offering valuable perspe...

Can Lyme disease be mistaken for autoimmune disease? In this episode, Penny shares her journey through years of misdiagnoses, the discovery of Lyme disease, and the challenges of navigating a healthcare system that doesn't always provide clear answers. We discuss functional medicine, the overlap between Lyme disease and autoimmune symptoms, the impact of chronic stress on health, and the importanc...

Could your child's sudden behavioral changes be caused by something more than anxiety or OCD? In this episode, CC shares her family's journey through autoimmune encephalitis and PANS/PANDAS, the challenges of getting a diagnosis, and the importance of trusting your instincts when you know something isn't right. We discuss mold exposure, Lyme disease, functional medicine, caregiver burnout, and how...

How do you trust God when chronic illness changes the life you imagined? In this episode, Rebecca shares her journey of living with rheumatoid arthritis, navigating pregnancy complications, and raising children while managing the invisible challenges of autoimmune disease. We talk about faith, stress, isolation, teaching independence to our children, and the hope that can be found even in difficul...

Can chronic stress and trauma affect autoimmune disease? In this episode, Tetyana shares her extraordinary journey of escaping war, immigrating to a new country, and navigating life as a mother living with autoimmune disease. We discuss the impact of stress on the immune system, the challenges of diagnosis and treatment, and the lifestyle changes that helped her find resilience, gratitude, and hop...

Have you ever wondered if your chronic illness is keeping you from being the mom you want to be? In this episode, we talk about the hidden realities of motherhood with autoimmune disease—including the guilt, isolation, and impossible expectations so many women carry in silence. We discuss self-compassion, honest communication, building a support system, and why asking for help doesn't make you a b...

Ali Atwell, a mother living with rheumatoid arthritis, shares her experiences and hopes to provide hope and community for others in similar situations. She discusses her diagnosis, challenges, and the impact of the disease on her life and family. Takeaways Hope and community for mothers with autoimmune diseases The impact of rheumatoid arthritis on motherhood Chapters 00:00 Motherhood and Family S...