Podcasts about Cystic fibrosis

Anthony Mantha is now officially gone, and what FA moves does Kyle Dubas have left to make?Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

In this explainer episode, we've asked Ella Davyson, Genomics Data Scientist, to explain the meaning of the term genomics. You can also find a series of short videos explaining some of the common terms you might encounter about genomics on our YouTube channel. If you've got any questions, or have any other topics you'd like us to explain, let us know on podcast@genomicsengland.co.uk. You can download the transcript or read it below. [00:00:00] Florence: What is genomics? My name is Florence Cornish, and today I'm joined by Ella Davyson, who is a genomics data scientist here at Genomics England, and she is here to explain the topic in much more detail So, Ella, we obviously both work at Genomics England. This podcast is called Genomics 101, so I guess it's fitting that we have an episode dedicated to explaining the term 'genomics'. [00:00:26] But before we get into that, I think it would be good if you could first explain what we mean by the term 'genome'. [00:00:32] Ella: Thanks, Florence. The genome is, essentially you can think of it like a manual booklet, or instructions that the body uses in how to grow, survive, and function, and this is a manual that's in every single cell within our body, and it tells our cells exactly how to divide, how to survive. [00:00:54] For example, the genome in the pancreas, in pancreatic cells will tell those cells how to produce proteins such as insulin that we need to control our blood sugar. And also, the genome within our eye cells will tell the cells how to generate photoreceptors to enable us to see. So the genome is essentially like the ultimate guide that our body uses to tell it how to create everything that we need to survive going forwards. [00:01:25] Florence: So then, what do we mean by the term 'genomics'? [00:01:30] Ella: So, genomics is essentially the study of the entire human genome. So we study its structure and also how it functions, in terms of how is this instruction manual being read by the body, and how does that result in healthy human beings that we see today. [00:01:48] Florence: So when we're talking about studying DNA, lots of our listeners might have heard the term 'genetics', which kind of also refers to the study of DNA and genes, so it might be a little bit confusing. [00:01:58] So what's the difference between the two? What's the difference between genetics and genomics? [00:02:04] Ella: So genetics is specifically the study of genes in the genome, and genes are part of the instruction manual, that specifically tell the body to produce a certain thing. So, in our insulin example, there is an INS gene, so, which is the gene in the genome or the instruction manual that specifically tells the cells to make insulin and to produce this product. [00:02:30] There are many different genes in our genome, and genetics is the study of all of these. In contrast, genomics is the study of the entire instruction manual altogether, so that includes all of the genes in genetics and also everything else in the manual. So, genetics is limited to the study of these parts of the manual that clearly encode certain proteins or products such as insulin. Genomics is the study of everything all at once, everything under the bathroom sink. So yeah, the confusion I think can arise a lot because historically when we first started looking at DNA and researching genetics, we didn't have the technology to look at the whole genome all at once, and with older sequencing technologies we would focus on particular genes that we knew important for certain diseases. [00:03:19] So in diabetes, for example, they would instead specifically look at the insulin gene and see how does this influence diabetes, rather than looking at the entire instruction manual at once. Nowadays, we do have that technology, and that is what we do here at Genomics England, just use that to look at the entire genome rather than specific subsets of the genome, so specific genes. [00:03:45] We can look at everything in its entirety. So, you can kind of think of genomics as a much broader, more complete study of genetics. [00:03:56] Florence: So speaking of genomic testing, I don't know if you saw, but in the government's 10-year Health Plan that they published last year, they predicted that genomics could play a role in up to 50% of healthcare interactions. [00:04:08] Could you tell me a bit about why genomics is important in healthcare? [00:04:12] Ella: So that's a really exciting point, and I think one that we should be all striving towards. So, genomics can play a role in healthcare in so many different ways. I think before going into each of them, it's kind of maybe important just to illustrate that our genomes between two, two people are 99.9% the same. [00:04:38] So we're both humans. We are both the same species. There is 0.1% difference between two people's genomes, and those differences underlie all the uniqueness that makes a person a unique individual. [00:04:54] So personality, appearance and also risk to different health and disease outcomes. So that is where the role of genomics can come in, is to understand how the differences between people and their genetic makeup can influence maybe their risk for being more predisposed to developing a condition. Conditions such as Cystic Fibrosis or Huntington's disease that are specifically caused by genetic variants or mutations in genes that directly cause the condition. So it's a bit more maybe obvious, if you like, about how studying genetics in those, in those conditions can directly inform on how they arise, potential ways that we can better treat them. [00:05:52] So another way that genomics can be used in healthcare is through screening. So this is being piloted at the moment in the Generation Study by Genomics England which is applying whole genome sequencing to newborn babies to look for a range of conditions which are caused by genetic changes, all of which are treatable. [00:06:13] But importantly, screening will enable clinicians and families to know about these conditions much earlier and start life-changing treatment much, much sooner. So this is kind of already beginning to be, I think it will be showcased with this study in the next couple of years and the power of this in healthcare, I think can't really be overestimated. [00:06:40] Florence: And finally, just to finish off, is there anything coming up in the field of genomics that you're especially excited about? [00:06:48] Ella: There are loads of different things that I'm excited about in the field of genomics. I think probably maybe one that's most kind of relevant to clinical care is the possibility of doing more personalised medicine with treatments. [00:07:05] Often, at the moment, we majority have kind of one treatment for all when treating certain conditions, and sometimes these treatments aren't tolerated well by some people, and also some of these treatments just don't work well in some people as well. Sometimes there's a clear reason for these things, but more often than not, it's not entirely clear why some people might benefit more for some treatments or some people don't respond or don't react well to some treatments as well. [00:07:35] And understanding more, so there's a whole field about how genomics interacts with drugs and medicines, which is called pharmacogenomics, and its aim is to understand which medicine might be most effective or well-tolerated in certain people based on their genetics. And I think that will be kind of life-changing as well for some people, who are suffering from diseases where the medication is either not effective enough or is also affecting their quality of life. [00:08:10] Florence: Mm-hmm. [00:08:10] Ella: Because that is a whole other part of it as well is that sometimes these treatments for certain conditions are really hard to tolerate. [00:08:19] Other things that I'm excited about are just the technologies that are coming out at the moment mean that we can measure and understand a whole lot more about genomics than we used to be. So now we can say this gene is influencing this disease, but sometimes, you know, it's more complicated, and we now have the technology to measure all sorts of different things, so how our environment can influence our genes and how our genes react with each other. [00:08:57] So we're just getting, we're getting able to look at more and more, and I think we'll expand our understanding in a lot of conditions that unfortunately aren't very simple. [00:09:12] Florence: Well, I think we'll finish there. Thank you so much, Ella, for coming on and for taking the time to explain genomics to us. [00:09:18] Ella: Thank you, Florence. Thanks so much for inviting me, and it was a pleasure to be on the podcast today. [00:09:23] Florence: If you want to hear more explainer episodes like this, you can find them on our website at www.genomicsengland.co.uk or wherever you get your podcasts. Thank you for listening.

Dreams and Determination: Meet four Inspiring students, Living with cystic fibrosis. One of the greatest joys of The Bonnell Foundation is helping young adults living with cystic fibrosis pursue their educational dreams. Every year, we award scholarships to students attending universities, trade schools, and community colleges. While these scholarships help with tuition and expenses, they also send an important message: we believe in these students and in the futures they are building. Living with cystic fibrosis often means balancing classes, careers, friendships, and family life alongside daily treatments, medications, and frequent medical appointments. For many families, the financial burden of CF can make the cost of higher education even more challenging. That's why our scholarship program is so meaningful. Each year, our top recipients receive $2,500 to help them continue their education and pursue their goals. The thank-you notes we receive from recipients are heartfelt reminders that a scholarship is about much more than money. It is about hope, opportunity, and encouragement. On this week's podcast, we are honored to introduce four remarkable scholarship recipients whose determination and resilience inspire us. Serena Scillia is a 20-year-old from Westerville, Ohio, attending Bowling Green State University. Serena is studying Early Childhood Education and hopes to become a teacher. When she's not focused on her studies, she enjoys coaching volleyball, reading, and spending time with her family and beloved dog. Serena's passion for helping others shines through in her career choice, and she's determined to make a difference in the lives of children. Jayla Jacobs has been living with cystic fibrosis since she was diagnosed at age five. Now 18 years old, she has already become a powerful advocate for the CF community. Jayla has spoken at multiple fundraising and awareness events, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Guys and Dolls Auction Gala, where she helped raise an incredible $2.2 million for CF research. This fall, she will begin studying English at North Carolina State University. Jayla loves outdoor adventures, drawing, and writing stories. She also understands the impact of CF on families, with two of her brothers living with the disease as well. Isabella Banaszynski is preparing for an exciting new chapter as she heads to Drexel University in Philadelphia this fall. An accomplished club wrestler and aspiring architect, Isabella has already demonstrated the discipline and determination needed to succeed in demanding environments. She plans to major in Architecture while continuing to pursue her athletic interests. Isabella's journey is proof that living with CF does not define what is possible. Ben Ferguson attends Taylor University and is majoring in Finance. Originally from Columbus, Indiana, Ben comes from a large family with four brothers and one sister. While he is the only member of his family living with cystic fibrosis, he has never allowed the disease to limit his ambitions. Ben is focused on building a successful future while managing the daily challenges that come with CF. These four young adults represent the strength, perseverance, and optimism that define so many people in the cystic fibrosis community. Their stories remind us that while CF can create obstacles, it does not determine a person's potential. Join us on this week's podcast as Serena, Jayla, Isabella, and Ben share their experiences living with cystic fibrosis, pursuing higher education, and what receiving a Bonnell Foundation scholarship means to them. Their stories are inspiring, their goals are ambitious, and their futures are bright. This is exactly why The Bonnell Foundation continues its scholarship program year after year: to invest in dreams, support determination, and help the next generation of leaders living with cystic fibrosis reach their full potential. Like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredNew: Shop our merchandise! https://thebonnellfoundation.org/product-shop/Thanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

#ultramarathon #cysticfibrosis #sophiegraceholmes #storytimepodcast #marathon Joshua sits down with Sophie Grace Holmes — ultra-endurance athlete, world record holder, fitness coach, and public speaker.Living with cystic fibrosis, Sophie was once told she had only a few years to live. Today, she's completed 36 marathons in 36 days, summited Kilimanjaro, and continues to push the limits of human endurance.From overcoming adversity to chasing world-class challenges, this is a powerful conversation about resilience, mindset, and refusing to accept limitations.

Free agency might be shedding some light on the Penguins' plans for the near and short term.Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

Good morning from Pharma Daily: the podcast that brings you the most important developments in the pharmaceutical and biotech world. Today, we're diving into a series of compelling stories that showcase the dynamic nature of this industry. In a landmark development, Vertex Pharmaceuticals has made headlines with its acquisition of Crinetics Pharmaceuticals for a staggering $10 billion. This move marks Vertex's strategic expansion into the endocrine disease sector, a significant shift from its traditional focus on cystic fibrosis. Crinetics' innovative approach to treating rare endocrine disorders will allow Vertex to address unmet needs in this area, highlighting a broader industry trend where mergers and acquisitions serve as key strategies for adapting to the evolving scientific landscape and patient demands. While Vertex makes bold moves, Kalohexis is preparing for a confidential initial public offering (IPO), focusing on treatments based on the melanocortin system for obesity and cancer cachexia. The melanocortin system is crucial in regulating energy homeostasis and inflammation, making it a promising target for therapeutic interventions. This development underscores the growing interest in peptide-based therapies and innovative scientific approaches to address complex metabolic disorders, further emphasizing the industry's shift towards tackling significant health challenges such as obesity. Clinical trials continue to be at the forefront of medical advancements. Compass Pathways has reported promising Phase III trial results for COMP360, its psilocybin-based therapy for treatment-resistant depression. These findings indicate a potential breakthrough in psychedelic therapy, offering new hope for patients who haven't benefited from existing antidepressant treatments. The exploration of psychedelics in mental health treatment represents a paradigm shift that could introduce novel therapeutic options and significantly impact patient care. Turning to regulatory news, AbbVie's Tepkinly (epcoritamab) has received European Commission approval for treating relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma. This approval is based on robust Phase III data, underscoring the potential of bispecific antibodies as effective cancer therapies. Similarly, PharmaEssentia's Besremi (ropeginterferon alfa-2b) has obtained Health Canada approval for polycythemia vera treatment, highlighting the continued relevance of protein and interferon therapies in managing myeloproliferative neoplasms. In business development news, Novo Nordisk and Vivani Medical have partnered to develop an ultra-long-acting semaglutide implant for chronic weight management. This collaboration showcases advancements in drug delivery systems aimed at improving patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes. Meanwhile, Boehringer Ingelheim's licensing agreement with Prime Vector Technologies involves harnessing viral vectors for cancer vaccine development, emphasizing ongoing efforts to innovate within oncology. Despite these advancements, challenges persist within the industry. Notably, Bristol Myers Squibb's Krazati (adagrasib) failed its Phase III confirmatory trial in metastatic colorectal cancer with KRAS G12C mutations. This outcome highlights the complexities involved in developing targeted cancer therapies and underscores the need for continued innovation and exploration of combination treatments. The financial landscape also reflects strategic adjustments with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals reporting a $127 million charge impacting its earnings due to an in-process research and development expense. Additionally, Novartis is undergoing organizational restructuring with workforce reductions aimed at cost management within large pharmaceutical enterprises. On another front, China's recent approval of the world's first CAR-T therapy for solid tumors marks a significant leap forward from its traditional success in hematological malignancies. This development highlights the potential for CAR-T therapies to address complex challenges posed by solid tumors and could have profound implications for global cancer treatment paradigms. AstraZeneca's partnership with CSPC Pharmaceutical represents another strategic collaboration aimed at co-developing kidney disease drugs, reflecting Western pharmaceutical companies' efforts to leverage Chinese biotechnological capabilities. As companies navigate these complexities through strategic acquisitions, partnerships, and groundbreaking research, their ability to adapt will be crucial in shaping future patient care and therapeutic landscapes. The pharmaceutical and biotech industries remain at the forefront of scientific advancement, continually seeking solutions to complex medical needs while adapting to an ever-evolving global landscape.Support the show

FIVEAA's Kate Collins joined Tom & Ned to discuss her fundraising goal for the City-Bay Run this year to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Garza sits down in-person with Illinois-based metalcore band VCTMS. Their new album "Pain Processing II” out now! https://instagram.com/vctmsilCheck out the merch here: https://garzapodcast.myshopify.com00:00 - Favorite Drinks03:16 - clip my wings06:26 - Meredith Writing Lyrics10:13 - How John Doesn't Get Mad12:34 - Favorite Pokemon15:46 - Power Rangers & Buckethead Myth19:18 - Decade-Plus Journey24:44 - Vol. IV Numb the Ache26:06 - Breakups30:52 - Addiction35:30 - Leaving Bad Relationships45:26 - Streamwood & Cook County, Illinois46:15 - Writing Music Together57:13 - Drumming w/ a Broken Ankle58:43 - Having C.F. (Cystic Fibrosis)1:05:35 - New Found Glory1:07:03 - Leaving College to Tour1:12:47 - Pain Processing II: Gear, Guitars & Tone1:18:13 - Working at Sam Ash1:28:26 - 9 Albums to Check Out

NHL Free Agency begins, and we take a look at the Penguins Draft.Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

Send us Fan MailMost people don't need more nutrition information.They already know many of the basics.They know protein matters.They know vegetables are good.They know extreme diets don't work long term.They know eating at night is often not really about hunger.But knowing what to do is not the same as doing it in real life.In this episode, I'm joined by Nicholas Kelly, a registered dietitian, public speaker, TEDx speaker, patient advocate, and someone who has lived with cystic fibrosis since he was three months old.Nicholas brings a unique perspective because he understands nutrition from both sides: as a clinician and as a patient. He knows what it means to apply health advice in real life, with real challenges.We talk about:Why nutrition advice often fails in real lifeWhy people try to change too much too fastHow to make nutrition habits more practical and sustainableWhy behavior matters more than just having more informationHow to reduce all-or-nothing thinking around foodWhy emotional eating starts with awareness, not shameHow to make meals easier when life is busyWhy breakfast, water, fruit, and simple meal structure can make a big differenceWhy carbs are not the enemyHow to stay patient when progress feels slowThis episode is for you if you've ever said:“I know what to do, but I still can't seem to do it.”Because maybe you don't need a stricter plan.Maybe you need a more realistic one.Learn more about Nicholas at nicholaskellyrd.com or find him on social media at @NicholasKellyRD.If you want help building a training and nutrition routine that fits your real life, check my coaching options here:personaltrainerturo.itTry The Consistency ResetMy new personalized coaching app for women 35–55 who are tired of starting over with diets, workouts, and healthy habits.Get simple daily actions, realistic workouts, practical nutrition habits, and Reset Mode to help you keep going when life gets busy.Take the quiz and build your personalized plan here: studio.com/turo/consistency-reset

The Penguins sale is going down today, plus the NHL Draft is on the horizon.Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

Some people teach us about life through their words. Others teach us through the way they choose to live.In this episode of Leaders With a Mission, we sit down with Stacy Levy to talk about her daughter Ellie, a young woman born with cystic fibrosis who somehow carried a kind of wisdom, humor, courage, and light that reached far beyond her years.Ellie knew life was fragile. She knew her body had limits. But she also knew something many of us forget when life gets busy, comfortable, or overwhelming: being alive is still a gift worth showing up for.Through Stacy's eyes, we get to meet a daughter who refused to let illness become the whole story. Ellie found joy in hospital rooms, built deep relationships with the people around her, laughed with a sense of humor that made others feel alive, and taught her family that hope is not a small thing. Hope is what keeps us in the game. Hope is what helps us take one more step. Hope is what reminds us that even in the hardest chapters, love can still be present.This conversation is about grief, but it is also about life. It is about what happens when a mother carries her daughter's light forward and turns pain into service. Through Ellie's Army Foundation, Stacy continues to support families walking through difficult medical journeys, giving them practical help, emotional support, and the reminder that they are not alone.There is something deeply powerful about a life that continues to bless people even after it has ended. Ellie's story does that. It makes you pause. It makes you ask better questions. Am I really living? Am I loving fully? Am I waiting for life to be easier before I allow myself to be happy? Am I using what I have been through to bring light to someone else?This is the kind of conversation that stays with you.Watch and listen to Leaders With a Mission on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, and join us for an episode about courage, hope, leadership, and the kind of love that becomes a mission.If Ellie's story moves you, visit elliesarmy.org to learn more and support the work Stacy continues to carry forward.

Some people teach us about life through their words. Others teach us through the way they choose to live.In this episode of Leaders With a Mission, we sit down with Stacy Levy to talk about her daughter Ellie, a young woman born with cystic fibrosis who somehow carried a kind of wisdom, humor, courage, and light that reached far beyond her years.Ellie knew life was fragile. She knew her body had limits. But she also knew something many of us forget when life gets busy, comfortable, or overwhelming: being alive is still a gift worth showing up for.Through Stacy's eyes, we get to meet a daughter who refused to let illness become the whole story. Ellie found joy in hospital rooms, built deep relationships with the people around her, laughed with a sense of humor that made others feel alive, and taught her family that hope is not a small thing. Hope is what keeps us in the game. Hope is what helps us take one more step. Hope is what reminds us that even in the hardest chapters, love can still be present.This conversation is about grief, but it is also about life. It is about what happens when a mother carries her daughter's light forward and turns pain into service. Through Ellie's Army Foundation, Stacy continues to support families walking through difficult medical journeys, giving them practical help, emotional support, and the reminder that they are not alone.There is something deeply powerful about a life that continues to bless people even after it has ended. Ellie's story does that. It makes you pause. It makes you ask better questions. Am I really living? Am I loving fully? Am I waiting for life to be easier before I allow myself to be happy? Am I using what I have been through to bring light to someone else?This is the kind of conversation that stays with you.Watch and listen to Leaders With a Mission on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, and join us for an episode about courage, hope, leadership, and the kind of love that becomes a mission.If Ellie's story moves you, visit elliesarmy.org to learn more and support the work Stacy continues to carry forward.

In this special Father's Day episode, host Jason Blitman sits down with Colton Underwood to talk fatherhood and learn about his new book, a letter he wrote (and read) to his son, Dear Bishop. Colton Underwood is an American TV personality, executive producer, philanthropist, entrepreneur and NY Times Best Seller. During his time in the NFL, Colton was inspired by his young cousin Harper to launch the Legacy Foundation and bring awareness to Cystic Fibrosis- a genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system.In recent years he has become a Mental Health Advocate, speaking on his own experience in hopes to help others. Because of this and the mental health side effects of CF treatment modalities, Colton transitioned the foundation to mental health awareness. Most recently he has been in Washington DC to introduce new legislation that would provide mental health resources to student athletes and he's just getting started!Sign up for the Gays Reading Book Club HERESUBSTACK! MERCH! WATCH! CONTACT! hello@gaysreading.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Sickboy we bring you the first episode of the latest season of Breathless. We're proud as heck with how this panned out and feel like you will dig it! The Season 2 premiere of Breathless explores a biological and existential revolution. For decades, Cystic Fibrosis was defined by a "physical perimeter"—a list of things that were simply impossible. But with the advent of transformative drugs like Trikafta, those walls are vanishing. Host Jeremie opens with a visceral comparison between a 2017 spiritual "holotropic breathing" experience and the 2021 pharmaceutical miracle of his first dose of Trikafta. We then hear from elite athletes who shattered expectations long before the "miracle drug" existed, and we look at how Cystic Fibrosis Canada is pivoting its entire mission from "extending life" to supporting a life "without limits."

This week on Sickboy we bring you the first episode of the latest season of Breathless. We're proud as heck with how this panned out and feel like you will dig it! The Season 2 premiere of Breathless explores a biological and existential revolution. For decades, Cystic Fibrosis was defined by a "physical perimeter"—a list of things that were simply impossible. But with the advent of transformative drugs like Trikafta, those walls are vanishing. Host Jeremie opens with a visceral comparison between a 2017 spiritual "holotropic breathing" experience and the 2021 pharmaceutical miracle of his first dose of Trikafta. We then hear from elite athletes who shattered expectations long before the "miracle drug" existed, and we look at how Cystic Fibrosis Canada is pivoting its entire mission from "extending life" to supporting a life "without limits."

The fallout from Carolina's Stanley Cup Championship, Jordan Staal wins the Conn Smythe, and more.Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

“Take in your final breath before your first new one.”  Those were the words Jillian heard before her double lung transplant—words that would mark the end of one life chapter and the beginning of another. Jillian is 34 years old, living with cystic fibrosis, and a double lung transplant recipient. Her story is one of resilience, loss, hope, and purpose. From being diagnosed at birth to navigating adulthood, Jillian has faced more than most, but she continues to show up for her life and for others in the cystic fibrosis community. Jillian shares what it was like growing up with CF, supported by family and shaped by early connections within the community. She reflects on how advocates like Emily Schaller and the Rock CF Foundation influenced her outlook and helped her feel less alone. We also talk about her college years, what it meant to pursue independence while managing a complex disease, and how life shifted as her health declined into end-stage lung failure. Jillian walks us through the transplant process, not just medically, but emotionally—the fear, the uncertainty, and the strength it takes to keep going. One of the most profound parts of Jillian's story is the loss of her twin brother. She opens up about that grief and how it continues to shape her perspective, her resilience, and her compassion for others. Throughout it all, Jillian emphasizes the importance of support systems and mental health—especially during the transplant journey. No one goes through something like this alone, and her story is a reminder of how critical connection and care truly are. Today, Jillian looks toward the future with hope. She shares her dreams of building a family, continuing her advocacy work, and expanding the impact of the nonprofit she founded, Jillian's Jay Walkers Organization. Her story is not just about survival—it's about living with intention, honoring loss, and creating something meaningful from it all.

Jordan Staal is on fire as the Stanley Cup Final rolls on.Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

What do you do when a life-saving medical breakthrough saves almost everyone in your chronic illness community—except you? If you're new to the show, Cystic Fibrosis is traditionally known as a genetic disease that heavily impacts the lungs. But this week, the fellas sit down with Nicholas Kelly, a registered dietitian who playfully calls himself a "unicorn" because he's a Black man living with a condition stereotypically labeled as a pasty white person's illness. (Oh, and Taylor passed out right before we hit record, so he's currently sleeping off-set while Brian stands by with his historically rib-shattering CPR skills) . Nick opens up about his mother bucking the 1980s medical establishment to diagnose him at three months old , outliving a massive string of childhood expiration dates , and surviving an actual "code blue" post-surgery nightmare. He also drops a beautifully perspective-shifting bomb on the room about what it truly feels like to watch his closest friends get saved by the miracle drug Trikafta while his own rare genetic mutations leave him completely ineligible for the club. From highly inappropriate anatomy questions to a profound psychological transition from chasing the clock to building a legacy , this episode is an incredible look at what it means to live life with absolute passion.Follow Sickboy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sickboypodcastTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sickboypodcastDiscord: https://discord.gg/expeUDN

We discuss how Mario is going to be involved in the new ownership group, and preview the Stanley Cup Finals.Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

Matters Microbial #131: What Cystic Fibrosis Reveals About Hidden Microbial Lives June 3, 2026 Today Dr. Sam Brown, Professor of Biological Sciences at Georgia Tech University, joins the quality quorum today to discuss the social lives of bacterial pathogens. He will also discuss VERY recent research from his lab group exploring the specialist/generalist problem in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and thoughts on cryptic convergent specialization! Host: Mark O. Martin Guest: Sam Brown Subscribe: Apple Podcasts, Spotify Become a patron of Matters Microbial! Links for this episode An overview of behavioral ecology. An article describing evolutionary trade offs and game theory. A video describing Tinbergen's "Four Whys" involving behavioral ecology. A wonderful essay by Carl Zimmer relating lake ecology and microbial ecology in humans.  A Pseudomonas plush toy from Giant Microbes. The Pseudomonas contaminated eyedrops story told by Dr. Brown, as summarized by the CDC. An essay about sociomicrobiology. An overview of quorum sensing. An overview of biofilms. An article describing specialization versus generalism in ecology.  A description of a "confusion matrix" in data analysis. A somewhat dated overview of PCA (principle component analysis). The article about convergent cryptic specialization under discussion today on this podcast from Dr. Brown's research group (first author Mehlferber). A VERY interesting article from Dr. Brown's research team describing eco-evolutionary aspects of polymicrobial infections. Dr. Brown's faculty website. Dr. Brown's laboratory group website. Intro music is by Reber Clark Send your questions and comments to mattersmicrobial@gmail.com

What do you do when a life-saving medical breakthrough saves almost everyone in your chronic illness community—except you? If you're new to the show, Cystic Fibrosis is traditionally known as a genetic disease that heavily impacts the lungs. But this week, the fellas sit down with Nicholas Kelly, a registered dietitian who playfully calls himself a "unicorn" because he's a Black man living with a condition stereotypically labeled as a pasty white person's illness. (Oh, and Taylor passed out right before we hit record, so he's currently sleeping off-set while Brian stands by with his historically rib-shattering CPR skills) . Nick opens up about his mother bucking the 1980s medical establishment to diagnose him at three months old , outliving a massive string of childhood expiration dates , and surviving an actual "code blue" post-surgery nightmare. He also drops a beautifully perspective-shifting bomb on the room about what it truly feels like to watch his closest friends get saved by the miracle drug Trikafta while his own rare genetic mutations leave him completely ineligible for the club. From highly inappropriate anatomy questions to a profound psychological transition from chasing the clock to building a legacy , this episode is an incredible look at what it means to live life with absolute passion.Follow Sickboy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sickboypodcastTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sickboypodcastDiscord: https://discord.gg/expeUDN

Shota Yamamoto, MD, PhD; Takayuki Niitsu, MD; and Kenneth N. Olivier, MD, MPH, join CHEST® Journal Podcast Moderator Gretchen Winter, MD, to discuss their research into the current efficacy and safety profile of antiinflammatory therapies for bronchiectasis.   DOI: 10.1016/j.chest.2025.12.035 Disclaimer: The purpose of this activity is to expand the reach of CHEST content through awareness, critique, and discussion. All articles have undergone peer review for methodologic rigor and audience relevance. Any views asserted are those of the speakers and are not endorsed by CHEST. Listeners should be aware that speakers' opinions may vary and are advised to read the full corresponding journal article(s) for complete context. This content should not be used as a basis for medical advice or treatment, nor should it substitute the judgment used by clinicians in the practice of evidence-based medicine.  

Now that Evgeni Malkin has signed, what does Kyle Dubas do next?Help Danny's Pizza and Hoagies raise money for Cystic Fibrosis at the link below:https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/AlexHvizdosEmail the show: contact@2fortalking.comFollow us:⁠https://x.com/joshyohe_⁠⁠pgh⁠⁠https://x.com/joebartnick⁠⁠https://x.com/cory_tucek⁠

Join us for an “In The Know” special edition where our experts discuss our Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-accredited program that is co-directed by a pediatric pulmonologist and a pediatric gastroenterologist, enabling our team of experts to provide all the services a child needs in one location. Learn more about our Cystic Fibrosis Program. 

My friend Shana Reif suffered from Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disease that primarily affects the lungs and other organs. It causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the airways, leading to repeated infections, inflammation, and progressive lung damage. In many cases, the disease can advance until the lungs can no longer do what God created them to dobring oxygen into the body and sustain life. Cystic Fibrosis is a horrible and incurable disease, and it was the disease Shana endured all her life. When she was born, her parents were told she would not live much past her twentieth birthday. But Shana lived to be thirty-two. I came to know Shana in high school, not long after I became a follower of Jesus. After high school, we became very close friends. She edited my Bible college papers, and I visited her often during her many hospital stays. I also visited her at home as she recovered from the latest infection. By 2003, her lungs had been so damaged by chronic infections that she was placed on the waiting list for new lungs. She received a double lung transplant in 2004, but even then, her suffering did not fully end. Her body remained fragile. Her fight continued. But Shana loved Jesus. Though she struggled deeply with her disease, she held onto the hope of the gospel. One of the last emails I received from her was signed with words from her favorite hymn: Great is Thy faithfulness. In 2007, Shana died from complications after a procedure to reopen a constricted airway. When someone you love suffers like that, the question How long? is not theoretical. How long will disease ravage bodies? How long will death take those we love? How long will Gods people suffer in a world still broken by sin? How long before Christ makes all things new? Revelation 6:911 brings us to that question. But here, the cry comes specifically from those who have been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they maintained. The Martyrs: The Cost of Their Witness (v. 9) There are three cycles of judgment in Revelation: the seals, the trumpets, and the bowls. These cycles do not unfold in strict linear successionseals, then trumpets, then bowlsbut recapitulate the same period of history with increasing intensity, like birth pains. For our purposes, I simply want you to notice one pattern that helps us understand what is happening in this passage. In each cyclethe seals, trumpets, and bowlsthe first four judgments affect the world in broad, visible ways, but the fifth shifts the focus. The fifth seal shows the saints crying out for justice (Rev. 6:911). The fifth trumpet shows judgment beginning to fall on the enemies of Godthose who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads (Rev. 9:112; especially 9:4). The fifth bowl shows judgment reaching the very throne of the beast, whose kingdom wages war against all who refuse to worship him (Rev. 16:1011; cf. Rev. 13:78, 15). This is why the first four seals show us the horsemen riding across the earth. But when the fifth seal is opened, the focus shifts from what is happening on earth to what heaven sees when Gods people suffer because of the word of God and the testimony they maintain. These martyrs are not beneath the altar because they were victims of history. They are there because they belonged to the Lamb and remained faithful to the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. Their witness cost them their lives. John is showing us what Jesus had already told His disciples: If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me (Matt. 16:24; NASB). The fifth seal reminds us that following Jesus is not merely a call to believe certain truths about Him; it is a call to bear faithful witness to those truths, even when obedience is costly. Polycarp is said to have been a disciple of the apostle John and later became the bishop of Smyrna. Smyrna, you may remember, was one of the seven churches Jesus addressed in Revelation. Jesus told that suffering church, Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life (Rev. 2:10). Years later, Polycarp was arrested and ordered to deny Christ. When pressed to renounce Jesus, he replied, Eighty and six years have I served Him, and He never did me any injury: how then can I blaspheme my King and my Saviour? Polycarps witness cost him his life, but heaven did not see his death as Rome did. Rome saw a criminal to be silenced. Heaven saw a faithful witness beneath the altar. And we do not have to go back to Polycarp to see this kind of witness. You may remember the twenty-one Coptic Christians who were taken by ISIS in Libya and led onto a beach in orange jumpsuits. They were ordinary men who refused to renounce their faith in Jesus. Their blood was shed on earth, but Revelation 6 reminds us that heaven did not miss a drop. The world saw men being led to execution. Heaven saw faithful witnesses beneath the altar. Since 2015, conservative estimates suggest that more than 50,000 Christians have been killed for faith-related reasons around the world. According to Open Doors 2026 World Watch List, North Korea remains the most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian, while Nigeria is the deadliest, accounting for 3,490 of the 4,849 Christians killed for their faith during the latest reporting period. The seals describe the birth pains that mark this present age. The first four seals show us a world marked by conquest, war, famine, and death. But when the fifth seal is opened, we are shown what heaven sees when Gods people suffer because of the word of God and the testimony they maintain. The Altar: The Cry Before God (v. 10) Notice that John not only tells us that these faithful Christ-followers suffered and died for their faith, but also tells us where he saw these Christians. They are under the altar. This is a crucial detail that you can only understand if you know something about the Old Testament tabernacle that God told Moses to build. Scripture tells us that the earthly tabernacle was a copy and shadow of the one in heaven (Heb. 8:4-5; Exod. 25-31; 35-40). So when John sees an altar in heaven, he is not seeing something new, but the heavenly reality to which Israels worship had always pointed. Within the tabernacle, there were two primary altars. The bronze altar stood in the courtyard, where sacrifices were offered. The altar of incense stood near the Most Holy Place, close to the ark of the covenant, which represented the throne of God. Both altars help us understand what John sees. The blood of the sacrifice was poured at the altars base, and the incense rising before the Lord symbolized the prayers of Gods people ascending into His presence. So when John sees the souls of the martyrs beneath the altar, he sees their lives as precious before God and their prayers as heard before His throne. In the earthly tabernacle, a veil stood between the priests and God's immediate presence. But in heaven, no curtain hides His throne from His redeemed people. The martyrs are not far from God. They are beneath the altar, before the throne, and in the presence of the Lord God Almighty. Now, picture what is happening before Johns eyes. Those who suffered the ultimate cost for following Jesus are not behind the altar, nor are they on top of the altar. These saints are under the altar, which tells us that they are closest to the throne. Also, the martyrs are not passive, but are actively pleading for vindication in Gods heavenly court. There is no magical language here, for their cries are raw and honest. There is no anger hurled before God, but cries of vindication in light of their understanding of who God is! Notice what these dear saints include in their prayer: O Sovereign Lord, holy and true... Now lets stop there for a moment. The ESV translates the word well asSovereign Lord.The Greek word used here is not the most common term for Lord,kyrios, butdespotēs, and this is the only time it appears in the entire book of Revelation. The word these martyred saints use conveys absolute ownership, supreme authority, and sovereign mastery. We get our English worddespotfrom this word, but whiledespotusually carries a negative meaning in English, that is not the case whendespotēs is used of God in the New Testament. When used of God, it emphasizes His complete authority over creation, His servants, history, judgment, and justice. This matters because these Christians are not merely crying out to God as sufferers, asking whether He cares. They are crying out to the One they know to be the Sovereign Master over all things. They are appealing to the One who has the authority to judge, avenge, vindicate, and bring history to its appointed end. They are not crying out in doubt. They are crying out in faith. They know He is able. They know He is holy. They know He is true. And they know that the Sovereign Lord will do what is right. Notice what the saints attribute to God next. Not only is He the Sovereign Master, but He is holy. These saints who have suffered much understand that their God is utterly set apart from all evil, corruption, compromise, and injustice. He is not like the kingdoms and the kings of this world. He is not indifferent to injustice and the bloodshed at the hands of the wicked. He is not morally conflicted. He is pure in all His judgments, righteous in all His ways, and completely opposed to everything wicked. He is holy and these saints know it! God is not only holy; He is also true. When these saints plead their case before the throne of God, they do so knowing that He is faithful to all He has promised. He does not forget. He does not make empty threats or hollow promises. What He has spoken, He will do (Num. 23:19; Josh. 21:45; Isa. 55:1011; Titus 1:2; Heb. 10:23). So when these martyrs cry, How long? they are not questioning Gods goodness, nor are they doubting that He will keep His word. They are asking when the God who is holy and true will act in perfect faithfulness to His word and to those He has promised never to forsake (Deut. 31:6; Heb. 13:5; Rev). The breaking of the fifth seal and the prayer of these suffering saints teach us an important truth about how we can and should pray. They pray from their understanding of who God truly is. This is the kind of thing we read about in Daniel 11:32: ...the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action. These saints know their God, and so they cry out, O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth? This prayer is not a contradiction of Jesus command to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matt. 5:44). It is a plea to the holy and true God to judge evil, vindicate His people, and set the world right. Their cry is rooted in the justice of God, knowing that His Word teaches that vengeance belongs to Him and not to His people (Deut. 32:35; Rom. 12:19). The martyrs beneath the altar are asking God to do what only God has the right and authority to do. The Throne: The Completion of Gods Purpose (v. 11) Now, notice what happens next. God responds, meaning He heard their prayer. But He does not respond as we might initially expect. The God who is sovereign, holy, and true responds by giving these Christians white robes as a sign of honor, purity, and vindication. These robes signify the righteousness that is theirs because of Jesus. When we see this great multitude again in Revelation 7, we are told, They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb (Rev. 7:14). These martyred saints represent every faithful witness who has been slain for the word of God and the testimony they upheldfrom the earliest martyrs of the church to our brothers and sisters suffering for Christ today. They are not treated as victims of random violence but as saints who belong to Christ and whose witness is precious before God. God responds by giving them white robes and telling them to do the thing we all hate: wait. Verse 11 says they were told to rest a little longer. That word, rest, matters. God is not dismissing their cry. He is not ignoring their suffering. He is calling them to rest in His presence, assured that perfect justice will come in His appointed time and in His sovereign way. Why must they wait? Because other Christians will suffer as they did, and they must wait until their number is complete. This means Gods justice is not delayed because He is indifferent. It is delayed because His purpose is not yet complete. There are still more witnesses to be gathered, more saints to be strengthened, and more glory to be given to Christ through the faithful endurance of His people. Gods answer to their prayer was to wait a little while longer. Conclusion My friend Shana frequently asked the same question you may have asked more than you can count: How long O Sovereign Lord, holy and true... It is the plea of the suffering. Shana was not a martyr, she was not killed by persecutors because of the word of God. She died on the operating table due to complications at the hands of surgeons who were trying to ease her suffering. Let me tell you what Shana did know. She knew what it meant to suffer in a world that is still waiting for Christ to make all things new. She knew what it meant to groan. She knew what it meant to wait. She knew what it meant to hope. I know that God used her life to encourage and strengthen the faith of others. Revelation 6:9-11 teaches us that we need not pretend the pain we experience is small. We need not pretend injustice does not matter. We need not pretend that death is natural. We can cry How long and do so in faith, not despair. We can cry it to the Sovereign Lord, who is holy and true. The Lamb who opens the fifth seal, is the Lamb who sees the suffering of His people. He honors the witness of His redeemed. He gives those who follow Him rest. The Lamb who died for you, is the Lord who will bring His purpose to completion for His glory and for your good! So, my dear brothers and sisters, we wait. But we do not wait as people forgotten by the One who sits upon the throne. We wait as those who belong to the Lamb. We wait as those whose lives are precious before the One on the throne. And we wait with confidence that the One who is sovereign, holy, and true will do exactly what He has promised. We can trust Him to do what is good and right because that is who He is.

The Ebola virus outbreak in the DRC and Uganda is still unfolding, and we're bringing you the latest news and updates on Dr. Frita LIVE! Join us as we break down the current Ebola spread concerns, what a global health emergency really means for you and your family, and how Ebola symptoms spread through direct contact.We'll also cover Keke Palmer's Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) diagnosis. She finally got answers after years of doctors dismissing her acne, and hormones were behind it the whole time.You don't want to miss this heartwarming story about a 28-year-old Chicagoan who received four new organs in 36 hours, and her story will stop you in your tracks. Then we'll talk about YouTube influencer Funky Dineva's prostate cancer journey, and why early detection matters.Plus, we're busting soul food and blood pressure myths just in time for your Memorial Day cookout. It's the latest trending medical headlines and celebrity health news, all in one place. Set your reminders and come join us for another live medical conversation. See you in the chat!#HealthHappyLifePodcast #DrFrita #DrFritaLIVE! #CelebrityHealthNewsHere are a few helpful resources to help on your journey to wellness:▶️ Subscribe so you will never miss a YouTube video.

Living Fully with CF: Christopher Cornejo's Journey from Diagnosis to Avatar This fast-moving and deeply engaging conversation features Christopher Cornejo, who brings a fresh and powerful voice to the cystic fibrosis community. Diagnosed with CF as an adult just three years ago, Christopher has quickly become an advocate, sharing his story on stage at a UCLA CF symposium and being honored by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as one of Southern California's Finest. What makes Christopher's story especially compelling is his perspective, shaped not only by his diagnosis, but by his career in film, including his work as a technical director on Avatar 2 and 3. In this heartfelt interview, Christopher opens up about his late diagnosis, navigating medical challenges, and how openness, community, and resilience have shaped his journey. We talk about his later diagnosis, balancing his health and his demanding film career, the importance of community and support along with his mental health and resilience.    Like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredNew: Shop our merchandise! https://thebonnellfoundation.org/product-shop/Thanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

A mother, advocate and one woman's global fight for access. Beth Vanstone is working to ensure rare disease patients don't have to wait for the treatments they need to survive. Sometimes the most powerful friendships begin in the most unexpected places.  Beth Vanstone and I first connected on social media. At the time, we were simply two moms navigating the complicated, emotional, and relentless world of cystic fibrosis. But eventually the online messages turned into something more meaningful. Then, Beth attended one of The Bonnell Foundation's Gala events. That's when we finally met in person.  And from that moment on, we became dear friends.  It's proof that social media, when used for connection and purpose, can build incredible relationships. But what inspires me most about Beth isn't just our friendship. It's her relentless determination. Beth is the mother of Madi, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just eight months old. Suddenly Beth was navigating a healthcare system, researching treatments, learning medical language, and fighting for her daughter's future. Beth didn't stop there. Instead of focusing only on her own family, she chose to fight for every family. Today, Beth is a powerful advocate in Canada and a member of the Ontario Rare Action Group, where she works to improve access to life-saving therapies for people living with rare diseases like Cystic Fibrosis. And the reality she's fighting against is one many people don't understand. Most healthcare systems, not just in Canada but around the world were built to treat common diseases. They weren't designed for rare conditions that affect smaller populations. Because of that, patients with rare diseases often face enormous barriers: long approval timelines, delayed access to medications, and exhausting advocacy battles just to receive treatments that already exist. In some cases, patients wait months — even years — for medications that could dramatically improve or extend their lives. Beth is working to change that. Through her advocacy, she's pushing for reforms that could make a real difference for patients across Canada and beyond: • Faster access to innovative therapies • Improved newborn screening programs • Better diagnostic pathways • Centers of excellence for rare diseases • Removing financial barriers like deductibles that prevent families from accessing public programs And she's also raising an important global conversation. Here in the United States, lawmakers have debated policies like the Most Favored Nation Model, which look to international drug pricing systems like those in Canada and Europe as a model. But Beth reminds us that every system has challenges, and for rare disease patients, those challenges can be life-changing. Because when access to medication is delayed… Access is denied. And that's why advocacy across borders matters. She's not just advocating for her daughter. She's advocating for every patient still waiting for their breakthrough. And today, we're talking about what needs to change and how all of us can help make it happen. Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

While the gut microbiome often steals the spotlight, the microorganisms residing in our respiratory tract play a vital role in our health and immunity. In this episode, Dr. Sheena Fraser sits down with microbial ecologist Dr. Michael Cox to explore the fascinating, complex, and relatively uncharted territory of the lung microbiome.They discuss how the lung microbiome fundamentally differs from the gut, the daily flux of bacteria entering and leaving our airways, and the profound impacts of environmental factors like air pollution, smoking, vaping, and household cleaning products. Plus, Dr. Cox shares the massive challenges scientists face when studying these deep-tissue microbes and what the future of respiratory medicine might look like.What We Cover:From Seawater to Sputum: Using marine ecology techniques to decode human respiratory biology.Exploring the lungs' dynamic balance of microaspiration and mucociliary clearance.Meet the core lung bacteria (Streptococcus, Prevotella, Veillonella) and the puzzle of anaerobes in an oxygen-rich space.Environmental Disruptors: How pollution, smoking, and vaping inflame and alter the lung microbiome.Hidden Dangers of VOCs: The silent impact of everyday cleaning sprays and aerosols on respiratory health.Diet, Exercise, & Epigenetics: The systemic benefits of a high-fiber diet and fitness for chronic lung conditions like COPD and asthma.About Dr. Michael Cox is a microbial ecologist and the PGR Lead for the Institute of Microbiology and Infection at the University of Birmingham. His research focuses on the bacteria that reside in the respiratory tract in the context of respiratory diseases (such as COPD and Cystic Fibrosis). His lab works to understand the function of the respiratory microbiome, translate these findings for clinical benefit, and expand our understanding of the respiratory ecosystem beyond just bacteria.Connect with Dr Michael Cox:University of BirminghamScientific References & Further Reading:Cumming, K. J. (2018). "Long term effects of cleaning on the lungs." American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 197(9):1099-1101.Hussain, S., et al. (2024). "Unlocking the secrets: VOCs and their devastating effects on lung cancer." Pathology - Research and Practice, 255:155157.Welsh, H. A., et al. (2026). "The effect of vaping on the human lung microbiota." Inhalation Toxicology, Vol 38, Iss 1.This podcast is brought to you in collaboration with the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine.Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

Bridging Two Countries, One Mission: Cesar and Nora Hernandez Fight for Spanish-Speaking CF Families “When Alex was diagnosed, we felt fear and responsibility. If we had access to information in Spanish, other families should too. No one should feel lost because of language.” Nora Hernandez From Mexico to Mission: How Cesar and Nora Hernandez Are Closing the CF Information Gap for Hispanic Families. “I came to this country to build a better future for my family. I never imagined that future would include fighting for awareness about cystic fibrosis, but now it's part of our mission.” Cesar Hernandez Cesar and Nora Hernandez were both born in Mexico, where accurate and accessible information about cystic fibrosis has not always been readily available. While progress is being made, with more experienced physicians and improving CF care, there is still significant work to do. In the United States, members of the Hispanic community are often underdiagnosed or diagnosed later than others. That gap in awareness and access is one of the reasons The Bonnell Foundation launched its CF Familia page, offering reliable information in both English and Spanish to help families navigate the complexities of cystic fibrosis. Cesar and Nora serve as ambassadors for this effort, creating videos that provide education, updates, and reassurance to Spanish-speaking families. Cesar also serves as a board member of The Bonnell Foundation, and we are deeply grateful for his leadership and heart for this community. Cesar originally came to the United States to build a better life and financially support his family in Mexico. After meeting Nora, he made the decision to stay and make the U.S. his permanent home. Together, they are raising two children, Scarlett and Alex, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Their story is one of resilience, faith, cultural pride, and advocacy. Transcript is also available on this podcast.     Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder causing digestive and breathing problems. Learn about testing before or during pregnancy, diagnosis and treatment for a baby born with CF. Learn more at yourpregnancyweekbyweek.com.

Some people with cystic fibrosis have seen life-changing results from Trikafta, but not every patient responds to the treatment. The University of Kansas Health System looks at the research helping the group of CF patients who have been left behind by current therapies. Dr. Steve Stites is joined by cystic fibrosis patient Jason White, pulmonologist and critical care specialist Dr. Joel Mermis, and Dr. Matthias Salathe, Chief Research Officer for the University of Kansas and Chief Science Officer of The University of Kansas Health System. Together, they explain how CFTR mutations, theratyping, swab testing, and gene therapy clinical trials may help identify new treatment options for people living with cystic fibrosis and those with the common F508del mutation.

Education, connection, and community are at the heart  of our CF community. On Saturday, April 18th from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. we gathered at the Next Step Gallery in Ferndale. Set in a bright gallery space surrounded by art, the event offered a welcoming environment for meaningful conversation, learning, and connection. It was pure joy with the smell of great food in the air. Food from my sister in laws restaurant, Bangkok Cuisine (in Royal Oak) filled the air, it smelled amazing and filled the air. Education Day is more than a traditional event. It's an opportunity for people living with cystic fibrosis, parents, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates to gather in one space to share experiences and support one another. A highlight of the afternoon was our “live” podcast recording, offering attendees a chance to hear authentic conversations about life with cystic fibrosis, advocacy, and the challenges and hopes shaping the community today. We all talked about education, advocacy, and what lies ahead for the CF community. The relaxed setting allowed people to connect not just through information, but through shared experiences. Events like Education Day help strengthen the bonds within the CF community by reminding everyone that they are not alone in their journey. Whether you are living with CF, raising a child with the disease, working in healthcare, or supporting someone you love, this gathering is meant to inform, inspire, and bring people together. Every story matters. Every voice matters. And every person who attends becomes part of the conversation. To watch the the premiere of our Embracing Egypt podcast enjoy it here:  https://youtu.be/SlMscQ6Spjg   Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

“Being a CF aunt has shaped so much of my life. Now I get the opportunity to turn that love and connection into helping even more people at Breathe Strong CF."  Julie Dunn Eichenberg didn't just find the cystic fibrosis community, she's been part of it for more than 30 years as a proud CF aunt. That personal connection is what makes this next chapter so meaningful. Julie recently stepped into the role of Executive Director at BreatheStrong CF, where the focus is on helping people with cystic fibrosis live stronger, healthier lives through exercise, education, and empowerment. And while she brings decades of experience in leadership, fundraising, and relationship-building, she's honest about getting used to the role. She's learning. Listening. Figuring out the day-to-day. And really taking the time to understand how she can best serve the community in this new position. Before this, Julie spent 20 years at Turner Broadcasting System (now part of Warner Bros. Discovery), and later held leadership roles at Florida State University and Fan Data Insights. But no matter where her career took her, the CF community was always part of her life. She's also been deeply involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, serving as Chair of the Georgia Chapter and contributing at the national level. We talk about what it feels like to step into a leadership role that's so personal. The excitement, the pressure, and the responsibility that comes with it. Julie shares what she's learning, what's surprised her, and why her connection as a CF aunt continues to guide every decision she makes. Because for Julie, this isn't just a job,  it's personal. Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

Men with CF and Infertility: The Science, The Options, The Hope. Pete Proimos is an entrepreneur, a chronic illness advocate, and the founder of the Filotimo Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis. Diagnosed with CF as an infant, Pete kept his diagnosis private for decades. It wasn't until his forties that he chose to speak publicly about living with the disease, and that brave decision has changed lives. Pete is married to Annie, and together they are raising three children. His journey into fatherhood is part of what fuels his passion to make sure others with CF understand their options when it comes to building a family. Joining him in this important conversation is Colin Thomas, who leads the Family-Building Program at the Filotimo Foundation. Colin also lives with CF and became a father of five through IVF. In addition to his advocacy work, he serves as Vice President of Operations at IVY Fertility. He brings both professional expertise and deeply personal experience to this discussion, sharing honestly about the challenges and triumphs of becoming a parent with CF. One critical truth we discuss: Men with cystic fibrosis are not infertile because they don't produce sperm. Most are born without a connected vas deferens — the tube that carries sperm — which makes natural conception difficult. But with medical support, including sperm retrieval and IVF, biological fatherhood is often absolutely possible. This episode dives into the mission behind the Filotimo Foundation and the powerful work being done through its infertility and family-building program, work that is giving hope, clarity, and real options to families navigating CF. Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

Three decades caring for patients with CF, that's Dr. Alan H. Cohen. His experience continues to shape everything he does today. As a pediatric pulmonologist (board-certified) , he has walked alongside patients through some of their hardest moments, including advanced lung disease and transplantation. Dr. Cohen was previously co-director of the largest pediatric lung transplant program in North America.Those years at the bedside are what ultimately led Dr. Cohen into drug development, where he has spent more than 25 years working to turn scientific innovation into real-world therapies for people who are still waiting for better options. As the Chief Medical Officer of Arcturus Therapeutics, he brings both clinical perspective and urgency to the company's work in mRNA-based therapies for cystic fibrosis and other rare diseases.“Clinical trials aren't just about science, they're about people who are willing to help move the field forward.”In this thoughtful and engaging conversation, Dr. Cohen reflects on how cystic fibrosis care has evolved over the past 35 years, from symptom management to breakthroughs in gene therapy and mRNA technology. Dr. Cohen discusses why clinical trials are essential to progress, especially for rare diseases, and why patient participation plays such a critical role in moving new therapies forward. Dr. Cohen also shares how the strength of the CF community continues to inspire his work, offering both realism and hope for the future of CF research.You'll also hear more about the personal side of this wonderful scientist! The Arcturus team packed Bonnell Foundation Hospital Bags with comfort products for caregivers, and CF adults for California CF Clinics. #teamworkClinical trials are an important step to understand whether a medicine works for its intended purpose.  Please see our active clinical trials below. For any questions email:  Community@ArcturusRx.com. Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

On this episode of The Mark White Show, I'm talking with Coleman Drew, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just two years old. For most of his life, Coleman has faced daily treatments, hospital stays, and the quiet strength required to manage a chronic illness. Now, transplant has entered the conversation, and his family has partnered with COTA, the Children's Organ Transplant Association, to help with transplant-related expenses. This is not just a story about illness. It's a story about perseverance, faith, family, & the power of community support. Join us as Coleman shares what it has been like to grow up with CF, what this season looks like, & how you can stand with him in the fight. Learn how to support Coleman at: cota.org/cotaforcolemansfight/

“What if a blood draw didn't have to feel terrifying, Abby Rose is a child life specialist. And if you have never taken advantage of all they have to offer when your child is hospitalized, you're going to want to connect with them after you listen or watch this podcast!The North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference is one of those places you attend to learn—but it's also a place where you meet people who quietly leave a lasting mark. One of those people is Certified Child Life Specialist Abby Rose.Abby works at Seattle Children's Hospital, supporting both the Cystic Fibrosis program and Pediatric Hemodialysis. Originally from Wisconsin, she earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology and Family Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, followed by a master's degree in Child Life from Edgewood College.In her role, Abby focuses on outpatient care, working closely with children and families to create individualized coping plans. She supports kids through procedures many of us take for granted—blood draws, throat swabs, vaccinations, while also helping families navigate pill swallowing, treatment tolerance, sibling support, and the everyday challenges that can feel overwhelming in CF care.People like Abby made a profound difference for kids like one of my daughters—children who are frightened by procedures or don't fully understand what's about to happen to them. Child Life Specialists play a critical role in hospital settings, helping children feel safer, more informed, and more in control during some of their most vulnerable moments.Today, I'm excited to talk with Abby about the work she does—and why it matters so deeply.In our conversation, we'll explore:The Beads of Courage program and why it's so meaningful to children and familiesWhy Abby is such a strong advocate for transparency, open communication, and the rights of patients and familiesWhat draws her personally to Child Life work, and why she believes in it so deeplyAnd some of the “tricks of the trade”—the practical tools and techniques she uses to help kids feel calmer and more cooperative during procedures like blood drawsThis is a conversation about care, trust, and the people who help make hard moments just a little bit easier. Please like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredThanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

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Tom opens this week's livestream with a reminder about the New Biology Experience at Polyface Farm (June 2026).-Registration is still open, and Tom invites viewers to join for a weekend of talks, music, good food, and reconnecting with friends and community.New Biology Experience link here.Highlights from this session include:-Tom revisits a widely shared “photograph of an atom” and presents it as an audience intelligence test, pointing out a contradiction: if the nucleus were the size of a pinhead, electrons should be about a mile away, not the inch-scale distance depicted in the image.-A discussion on how mathematics is often used to imply the existence of things that have never been directly demonstrated, illustrated with his analogy of a hypothetical “bucket made of fairy dust.”-Tom examines a case where DNA testing suggested a woman was not the mother of children she had given birth to, using the example to question the idea that DNA testing is “100% foolproof” and to discuss how scientific claims can become unfalsifiable.-A deep dive into the claim that cystic fibrosis is a proven genetic disease, including a review of foundational literature and the assumptions behind the idea that genes code for specific proteins.-A critique of research on human metapneumovirus (HMPV), focusing on how viruses are said to be “isolated” in cell culture and highlighting logical contradictions when cytopathic effects are rarely observed.-Tom reflects on a recent interview discussing HPV vaccination campaigns, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing intentions from strategies when debating health policies. He argues that discussions should focus on evidence and factual claims, rather than accusations about motives.Tom closes the session by encouraging viewers to stay focused on clear reasoning, evidence, and careful questioning of scientific claims. Support the showWebsites:https://drtomcowan.com/https://www.drcowansgarden.com/https://newbiologyclinic.com/https://newbiologycurriculum.com/Instagram: @TalkinTurkeywithTomFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrTomCowan/Bitchute: https://www.bitchute.com/channel/CivTSuEjw6Qp/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzxdc2o0Q_XZIPwo07XCrNg

A Kiwi woman has made history becoming the first New Zealander with Cystic Fibrosis to complete an Ironman. Kirsty Parsons spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Michael Welsh has seen cystic fibrosis transform from terminal to highly treatable. On this episode of Talk of Iowa, we listen back to Charity Nebbe's conversation with Dr. Welsh of the Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa, who has been studying and treating Cystic Fibrosis for nearly 50 years. Dr. Welsh was awarded the 2025 Canada Gairdner International Award for his work on cystic fibrosis. Then, we hear about the Homestead Folk Art Museum in the Amana Colonies. (This show was originally produced on June 5, 2025.)

In this episode of the HR Like a Boss podcast, John interviews HR leader Tammy Luby, who shares her journey in human resources, her impactful experiences, and her unique presentation titled 'Stop Flicking Chickens.' Tammy discusses the purpose of HR, the importance of making a difference in people's lives, and her aspirations to turn her presentation into a book. The conversation emphasizes the need for positivity and mentorship in HR, as well as the importance of looking beyond daily challenges to create a meaningful impact.ABOUT TAMMY LUBYTammy Luby, MBA, SPHR, AI+HI, & SHRM-SCP Director of Human Resources, Riverhead Building Supply Adjunct Professor & Faculty Team lead, Southern New Hampshire University. Meet Tammy Luby, a dynamic HR professional with over 25 years of experience in the field. With an MBA and certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), Tammy is a powerhouse of knowledge and expertise. She is fluent in the entire lifecycle of the employment process, including multi-state and union environments. Tammy is not just an HR generalist; she is a proactive agent of change, certified in AI+HI, and known for her support of HR initiatives on Long Island. Often referred to as the HR ambassador of the East End, Tammy is deeply involved in professional groups to advance the HR profession and ethics. She is passionate about building the workforce of the future by engaging students in high schools, colleges, and technical/trade schools through presentations, tours, and workshops. In addition to her role at Riverhead Building Supply, Tammy co-founded and chairs The HR East End Circle, a Human Resource round table based out of Eastern Long Island, NY. She is also a newly appointed member of the Board of Directors with the Long Island Chapter of The Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). Tammy's volunteer work includes contributions to the United Way, Cystic Fibrosis, American Heart Association, and The American Cancer Society. She is proud to be part of a company committed to a respectful workplace, honesty, and integrity. When she's not shaping the future of HR, you can find Tammy sharing her knowledge as an adjunct professor at Southern New Hampshire University or leading the HR faculty.

I have spent my career around some of the world's most focused individuals, but Kristan Hawkins brings a level of grittiness and fearlessness that is truly in a league of its own. As the president of Students for Life, Kristan isn't just an activist; she is a mother of four and a "revolutionary" for the most vulnerable among us. In this powerful episode, we go far beyond the viral debate clips to discuss the heart of her mission. Kristan gets incredibly real about: Her "total crap day" in San Antonio that led to saving a life—and meeting Baby Mercer. The psychology of conflict and why she believes change only happens when you produce friction. The shocking truth about eugenics in modern medical systems and the "billion-dollar pharmaceutical industry". Raising a family with Cystic Fibrosis and the radical choice to choose life even when the numbers are against you. Whether you agree with her or not, you cannot deny the passion and the "grittiness" Kristan brings to this conversation. We discuss why she refuses to be a people-pleaser and how she finds the strength to keep standing tall—even when the threats and vitriol come from both sides of the aisle. Connect with Kristan Hawkins: Instagram: @kristan_hawkins Website: studentsforlife.org Sponsors: PreBorn: Provide one life-saving ultrasound for just $28 at https://preborn.com/sage Cowboy Colostrum: Get 25% Off Cowboy Colostrum with code SAGE at https://www.cowboycolostrum.com/SAGE

We're going deep today, Slushies. Kathy and Tobi school us on the origin of the word “podcast” with its roots in both early Apple technology and agricultural lingo (think broadcast of seeds). In this episode we're broadcasting our appreciation for poems by Erin Evans. We admire Evans' sound work and her ability to craft powerful lines with plain language. In the first poem, the poet's confrontation of medical jargon reminds Marion of Whitman's poem When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer. An encounter between patient and doctor in Evans' poem underscores the difference between learning and knowing that recalls Leslie Jamison's book of essays, The Empathy Exams.    The second poem's Japanese title evokes the film Rashomon for Jason, who takes issue with the notion that our writerly imaginations are limited only to the words available in our own language. Schadenfreude, anyone? We're digging the close focus on language in these poems. Marion appreciates that the poem elevates a term she initially passed off as one from pop culture wellness. Meanwhile we conflate our Wabi-sabi with our kintsugi and poet Ross Gay with the poet Ross White (who is the actual originator of the gas station sushi theory). But don't let our mistakes keep you from experiencing Evans' powerful endings.   Slushies, if you're attending AWP in March, please stop by and see us at the book fair. We'll be at table 1272. We'd love to see you in person. Thanks, as always, for listening!   At the table: Tobi Kassim, Jason Schneiderman, Kathleen Volk Miller, Marion Wrenn, Lisa Zerkle, and Lillie Volpe (sound engineer)  Author Photo:    Author Bio: Erin Evans was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was one year old. Her work is greatly influenced by her experience living with chronic illness. She has had poems published in Defunct, Revel, A Mouthful of Salt, and Nimrod-International Journal, which awarded her its Francine Ringold Award for New Writers. Her work was chosen by Kwame Dawes for his American Life in Poetry column. She lives in Vermont with her beautiful and brilliant kids. Exacerbation She says the word quickly looking down at my file   then back at the x-ray clipped against the glowing box.   My scarred and patchy lungs, and all their flaws  on display, almost make me blush.   Embarrassed that I couldn't do any better, have been better. I focus instead    on the soft ribbons of my ribcage that fan like ghost hands   lit up for Halloween. Again, she says it,   looking at me now  as she sits on the round rolling chair   and reaches for her stethoscope. Exacerbation, which I finally looked up   after years and years of hearing it, simply means a worsening.   But she was taught not to state  the obvious, to disguise the truth   in the language of textbooks, and lectures, years of learning   how best to look right through someone. And I was taught to breathe in when I was told,   to push past that pain in my chest  that has no name, nor chapter in any book.   Komorebi Scott nudges my kayak away from the shore.   The yellow plastic scrapes the sand and seashell bottom  until it glides to the open water, over deep-green seaweed that waves its version of goodbye.    A soft pushing away  a departing of one world, only to enter another,  so vast there are no names for things:   When I die  let it be like this.   Some languages have words for words we never even thought to speak.   In Japanese, for instance, there is a word  for the sunlight filtering through the leaves of a tree.   Tell me, why isn't there a name for this: The ocean's soft  pull, the gentle begging it does,      like a child tugging  at the tail of your shirt,    reminding you it's time to go.   Riches  As I cradle my morning tea I watch her from the window.   Crouched down in the yard, with her hand outstretched. Even   from here I see the arthritis knot and bend her fingers   from years of knitting intricate sweaters and working late-night shifts at the hospital.   The chickens come to her  hesitantly, to peck the scratch from her warm hand.   She told me once that even when  she has nothing to give them   they still peck softly at her wedding band.   They surround her now, their bobbing and dipping beaks   and as they take the seeds she offers,  she smooths the long yellow feathers   that in the right light turn golden.   If I could inherit a single thing from her it would be this patience,   this trust that life will come to you even when your body    is leaving this world slowly, one cell at a time.

Sure, it's court-mandated...but we still give it our best shot! It's Feel Good Friday!

In this episode of the Clinical Research Coach, I sit down with Ella Balasa, a cystic fibrosis patient advocate whose lived experience is shaping how our industry understands trust, transparency, and meaningful patient engagement.Diagnosed in infancy with cystic fibrosis, a progressive genetic lung disease, Ella has spent her life navigating hospital systems, breakthrough therapies, and clinical trials — not as an abstract participant, but as someone whose health and future depend on research progress. Along the way, she has become a powerful voice for improving how industry partners with patients.In this conversation, Ella shares what sponsors, sites, and biotech leaders often overlook:* Patient experience is never one-size-fits-all — even within the same diagnosis.* Patients learn about trials through trusted networks, not just databases or digital ads.* Transparency builds confidence and drives long-term participation in research.* Dropout affects more than timelines — it influences trust and future enrollment decisions.* Technology should support patients, but never replace human connection.Ella's perspective challenges us to think beyond enrollment metrics and toward something deeper: relational trust. Because sustainable progress in clinical research depends on listening to patients as individuals, partners, and experts in their own lives.To learn more about Ella:Https:/ellabalasa.com

Send us a textJoin Alex Rutledge and Red Bone for an in-depth exploration of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) - America's greatest conservation success story. In this special episode, we dive into the fascinating history of how one man's vision in 1972 transformed wild turkey populations from near extinction to thriving across all 50 states.We discuss the upcoming NWTF National Convention in Nashville, featuring over 80,000 attendees, celebrity appearances including Craig Morgan, and the historic 50th anniversary exhibit. Plus, we share personal turkey hunting stories, discuss current weather impacts on wildlife, cover local sports updates, and wrap up with delicious wild turkey recipes you can try at home.Whether you're a seasoned turkey hunter or just curious about conservation, this episode celebrates the heritage, community, and passion that makes turkey hunting a cherished American tradition.Chapter Markers:[0:00] Introduction & Weather UpdateSnow and ice conditions in the OzarksSafety reminders for winter weatherMDC tree stand regulations and spring turkey hunt applications[7:30] Current Events: Sports RoundupHigh school basketball updates (Liberty, Van Buren, Bunker Eagles)College basketball highlights and faith testimoniesNFL playoff predictions and Super Bowl preview[15:45] Craig Morgan Concert AnnouncementMarch 21st Cystic Fibrosis fundraiser at West Plains Civic CenterTicket information and Craig Morgan's military promotion[18:20] NWTF National Convention PreviewNashville convention details (February)80,000+ attendees expectedHistoric 50th anniversary exhibitCelebrity appearances and Grand National Turkey Calling Competition[22:15] The Beginning: NWTF History (Part 1)Wild turkey population crisis (1.3 million birds in 1972)Federal legislation: Lacy Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, Pittman-Robertson ActCannon net technology revolutionTom Rogers' vision for a national organization[32:40] The Founding: NWTF History (Part 2)Tom Rogers meets key supporters (Frank Piper, Jerry Ones, John Lewis)March 28, 1973: NWTF chartered in Fredericksburg, VirginiaMove to Edgefield, South Carolina with "$10,000 and a cigar box of membership cards"First headquarters established[40:25] NWTF Impact & MissionResearch and conservation effortsDisease prevention and wildlife managementImportance of membership and chapter involvementCurrent River Callers chapter raises over $40,000[48:50] Personal Stories & Convention ExperienceAlex's introduction to NWTF in 1981 by Glen CadeHistory of turkey calling evolutionWhy families should attend the Nashville conventionMeeting celebrities and professional hunters[56:30] Conservation PhilosophyGetting kids involved in the outdoorsEthical hunting and land stewardshipSupporting NRA, Sportsman's Alliance, and conservation organizationsPassing heritage to future generations[1:02:15] Bonus Segment: Wild Turkey RecipesRed Bone's smoked turkey breast technique (with moisture pan method)Alex's turkey nuggets with buttermilk marinadeTurkey salad sandwich spread from dark meatTips for using the entire bird[1:08:30] Closing ThoughtsTurkey hunting camp opportunities in Ohio, Missouri, and AlabamaFinal message: "Love one another, teach your boys to become men, teach your girls to become ladies"