Karin Wagner And Chris Burton

Shows

Invisible StrengthEXHAUSTED From Hiding? ADHD Truths No One Talks AboutFeeling drained from constantly pretending to be someone you’re not?This episode explores the emotional toll of masking ADHD, featuring guest Keren Butcher, also known as The ADHD Alchemist. You’ll uncover the hidden truths about ADHD that no one talks about—but everyone living it needs to hear.You’ll not only hear Keren’s raw, relatable story of burnout, belief rewiring, and late diagnosis, but you’ll also get access to a FREE guided EFT tapping session for emotional healing right inside the episode. 🧘‍♀️💥If you’ve ever felt like you're faking your way through life just to be accepted, this...2025-06-1846 min

Invisible StrengthHow to Protect Your Peace After a Lupus Diagnosis | Boundaries, Healing & Empowerment Tips“This doesn’t have to kill you.” Those were the words that helped Kim, diagnosed with Lupus just two months ago, start fighting back against the fear that nearly consumed her.In this raw and unfiltered conversation on the Invisible Strength Podcast, hosts Karin Wagner and Chris Burton ⁨talk with Kim about the emotional minefield of receiving an incurable diagnosis—and how she’s learning to reclaim her life one day at a time.👉 You’ll hear how she’s:💥 Setting firm boundaries, even with family members and unsupportive people, to protect her precious energy💥 Coping with the reality that Lupus has no cure—and...2025-06-1126 min

Invisible StrengthLiving Boldly with Lupus: How Brittni Hills Turned Pain into PurposeWhat if your biggest challenge could become your greatest strength? 💜In this empowering episode, hosts Karin Wagner and Chris Burton sit down with Brittni Hills, lupus warrior and founder of Well Lupus, to uncover how she turned her diagnosis into a mission—and a movement.Diagnosed with an incurable autoimmune illness in her 20s, Brittni faced despair, fatigue, and the overwhelming unknown. But through faith, five-minute habits, and community connection, she reclaimed her wellness and now helps others do the same.Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a parent managing chronic illness, or simply tired o...2025-06-0432 min

Invisible StrengthLiving with Sjogren’s: Hacks for Parenting, Work & Symptom Relief | Sjogren's Girl's GuideIn this episode of the Invisible Strength Podcast, host Karin Wagner sits down with Courtney Whitney, creator of @SjogrensGirlsGuide explore what it really means to live—parent, work full time, and manage symptoms—with Sjogren's Syndrome.🌿 Courtney opens up about her emotional journey to diagnosis, her favorite daily symptom hacks (like coconut oil, probiotics, and eye misters!), and the power of finding joy in small moments while navigating chronic illness.👩‍👧‍👦 Whether you’re a fellow Spoonie, a parent with autoimmune challenges, or someone seeking real talk about health and self-care, this conversation offers practical tips, heartfelt honesty, and inspiration.🔍 Highlights Include:+Courtne...2025-05-2846 min

Invisible StrengthHiding Cystic Fibrosis to Chase My Dreams | Ava's ClimbHow do you chase your biggest dreams when living with a chronic illness like cystic fibrosis? Ava Dennis shares her journey as a pre-physical therapy major and college athlete balancing life, school, and health challenges. From hiding her diagnosis to fearing being seen as a liability, Ava’s story is one of resilience, grit, and self-advocacy.🎧 What you'll learn in this episode:+Ava’s childhood and how CF shaped her early years+The struggle of telling coaches and peers about her illness+The importance of having a strong support system+How Ava stays disciplined with medication, sleep, and nutrition+Overcom...2025-05-2129 min

Invisible Strength4 Real Questions from Autoimmune Warriors—Answered (Plus a Bonus!)In today’s episode of Invisible Strength, we’re answering your real, unfiltered questions about life with autoimmune illness — from grief and boundaries to joy and self-worth. This isn’t your average wellness chat. 🔥 Featuring listener-submitted questions like: • “What’s one thing you refuse to let your condition take from you?” • “How do you set boundaries without guilt?” • “What’s something that someone said or did that actually helped?” • “What does self-care actually look like on low-energy days?”Chris Burton joins us for a no-holds-barred conversation about unlearning toxic productivity, protecting your peace, and why joy is a revolutionary act when living with chronic illness. 2025-05-1420 min

Invisible StrengthThe Truth About Lupus No One Told Me | Diagnosed at 19: Rekha’s Story of Advocacy & Community💜 Lupus Awareness Month Special 💜What happens when your body betrays you—and no one around you understands?In this raw and eye-opening episode, Rekha Sreedhara reflects on the early days of her lupus diagnosis at just 19 years old, the overwhelming isolation she faced, and the turning point that came when she found community and claimed her voice as a self-advocate. From misunderstood symptoms to lifestyle shifts, Rekha’s story sheds light on what it's really like to live with a chronic autoimmune disease as a young woman today.🎙️ What You'll Learn:✅ Why self-advocacy can be lifesaving when navigating complex healthcare system...2025-05-0736 min

Invisible Strength🥇 From Pain to Podium: Ernest Reyna’s Battle with RA & Fibromyalgia 💥 | His Athletic Comeback 🚀🎙️In this powerful episode, collegiate athlete Ernest Reyna opens up about battling rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia—two chronic autoimmune conditions that could’ve sidelined his dreams but instead fueled his fight. From diagnosis struggles to mental health hurdles and the power of community support, Ernest shares what it truly means to be resilient in the face of invisible illness.Whether you're an athlete, advocate, or someone navigating chronic conditions, this conversation is a must-watch! 💪Takeaways➡️Ernest faced significant challenges with his health, including weight gain and fatigue, before being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.➡️The journey to diagnosis involved numerous te...2025-04-2342 min

Invisible StrengthAmy Dixon: Paralympic Athlete & Autoimmune Warrior | Overcoming Vision Loss & Inspiring MillionsJoin us for a powerful conversation with Paralympic triathlete Amy Dixon, a 4-time national champion who represented Team USA at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games. Amy shares her deeply personal story of navigating a rare autoimmune disease that led to vision loss, and how she transformed unimaginable challenges into an opportunity to inspire others. Discover Amy's strategies for building resilience, redefining victory, and empowering the next generation of Paralympians through her 'No Sight, No Limits' camp. Whether facing health challenges, seeking motivation, or simply looking for an extraordinary story, Amy's insights on overcoming adversity...2025-04-1648 min

Invisible StrengthSupporting Loved Ones Through Chronic Illness Challenges🎙️ Welcome to the Invisible Strength Podcast – Where Resilience Meets RealityIn this episode, we meet Savanna Solomon, a Division I soccer player at Creighton University, who opens up about life as a student-athlete and a big sister to Tess, who’s living with Cystic Fibrosis.💬 Real Talk:From hospital visits to college life, Savanna shares what it means to be strong when no one’s watching. Whether you're living with a chronic illness or supporting someone who is, this convo will leave you feeling seen, heard, and hella inspired.⚡ Why Watch?✔️ First-hand insight on balancing sports, school, and sisterhood✔️ Tips on managing mental healt...2025-04-0927 min

Invisible StrengthMinor League Red Sox Player to Lupus Warrior: Francisco Tellez on Resilience & Overcoming AdversityIn this episode of the Invisible Strength Podcast, former Boston Red Sox minor league player Francisco Tellez shares his inspiring journey of battling lupus nephritis after his athletic career. Francisco opens up about the raw realities of living with an autoimmune disease as a man, tackling the unique challenges and misconceptions that come with it.If you’re fighting lupus or any chronic illness, this episode is packed with valuable insights . Francisco discusses how resilience, mental toughness, and the right support can help you overcome the toughest challenges, both physically and mentally. He also talks about the importance of se...2025-04-0249 min

Invisible StrengthEllie Zagel: Overcoming Autoimmune Challenges & Thriving in Athletics | Invisible StrengthIn this powerful episode, track & field athlete Ellie Zagel from Purdue Fort Wayne opens up about her journey of excelling in athletics and pursuing a degree in construction management while managing Graves' disease, celiac disease, and hypothyroidism. Ellie shares how she’s redefined success, faced adversity head-on, and become a fierce advocate for her health.✨ Key Takeaways:Redefining success while navigating health challengesBuilding resilience in athletics and academicsAdvocating for your health and self-empowermentManaging autoimmune conditions in daily life and sports👉 Join the Movemen...2025-03-2633 min

Invisible Strength🎙️Living with Lupus & Chasing Dreams: Maya Rogers' Inspiring Story (Athlete to Entrepreneur)In this powerful episode of the Invigorate Your Journey Podcast's "Invisible Strength Series," we welcome the incredible Maya Rogers! Join us as Maya shares her inspiring journey of navigating life with lupus while excelling as a former standout softball player at Harris-Stowe State University, a graduate student at the Morehouse School of Medicine, and a dedicated high school softball coach.But that's not all – Maya has channeled her experiences into purpose by founding MochaaBeauty, a thriving business specializing in wigs and facials.In this episode, you'll hear Maya discuss:* Her journey of living with lupus and the challenges she ha...2025-03-1920 min

Invisible StrengthMisty’s Unstoppable Journey with RA & Lupus from D1 Field Hockey to CoachingOverviewIn this powerful episode of the Invigorate Your Journey Podcast, we speak with Misty, a former field hockey player at Davidson College and now the Head Coach at Loyola Academy. Misty opens up about her journey navigating life with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), from misdiagnosis in college to facing the harsh reality of losing the ability to walk.Misty shares how she’s redefined success, the mindset shifts that helped her persevere, and the everyday habits that make a big difference in her health and coaching career. With her au...2025-03-1248 min

Invisible StrengthYou’re Stronger than Setbacks | Thriving as a D1 Athlete with Hashimoto’s🏐 Let’s dive into a powerful journey of resilience, health, and high-performance sports. Together, we explore how Ella Stroehmann manages the demands of Division One volleyball at UNC Asheville while living with Hashimoto’s disease. From training and nutrition to recovery and mindset, we uncover strategies that help us all push past limits, prioritize well-being, and embrace our paths.💡 What We’ll Take Away Together:✅ Facing an early Hashimoto’s diagnosis & rising above 🏥✅ Fueling performance with nutrition & smart recovery 🥗✅ Finding strength in community & support 💙✅ Growing by stepping outside comfort zones 🚀⏱ Let’s Explore t...2025-03-0531 min

Invisible Strength🔥 Unseen Yet Unstoppable: The Invisible Strength Series Begins (Ep. 31)🌟 What does Invisible Strength really mean?In this empowering new series, we’re unveiling the resilience, perseverance, and self-compassion it takes to chase your dreams while managing autoimmune diseases.From student-athletes to career warriors, we’re spotlighting those who refuse to let their diagnosis hold them back.🔥 In Episode 31, hosts Karin Wagner and Chris Burton (@baddestchaplain) kick off the Invisible Strength Series with a rapid-fire Q&A. Expect raw, real stories of personal triumph, mindset shifts, and the invisible battles that make us stronger.Topics We’re Diving Into:✨ The real meaning o...2025-02-2625 min

Invisible Strength🎙️ Finding Your Flow: Fun Fitness Facts for Life with Chronic Illness or Autoimmune ChallengesTired of hearing "just exercise more" when you're already battling daily health challenges? 🤔 Let’s rethink movement in a way that worksfor you. 💪In this episode ofInvigorate Your Journey, we’re breaking down surprising fitness facts that’ll shift your perspective—like how you might spend more time on the toilet than working out 🪑➡️🏋️‍♀️ (no shame, we’ve all been there).Join Karin and Chris as they share:✨Game-changing research showing how just 10 minutes of movement can make a difference✨ How "non-exercise" activities (yes, even fidgeting!) can transform your health✨ Tips for incorporating movementwithout o...2025-02-1225 min

Invisible StrengthGeri's Inspiring Journey Proves You're Stronger than Lupus!What does it take to navigate life with multiple autoimmune diagnoses? Geri Rodriguez opens up about her journey with Lupus, Sjogren’s, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, sharing the emotional challenges of diagnosis, the power of resilience, and why self-advocacy is a game-changer in healthcare. In this episode, Geri gets real about: ✔️ The stages of acceptance—from denial to empowerment ✔️ How community support makes a difference ✔️ Lifestyle changes that transformed her health (like cutting out alcohol) ✔️ The hidden strength it takes to live with chronic illness. Expect practic...2025-02-0423 min

Invisible StrengthManaging Health Anxiety and the Weight of 'What Ifs' with Autoimmune and Chronic ConditionsRESOURCES: https://linktr.ee/invigorateyourjourney www.invigorateyourjourney.com Chapters 00:00 Understanding Health Anxiety 02:36 Managing Daily Stress and Health 05:20 The Impact of Trauma on Health Anxiety 09:45 Finding Community and Support 14:34 Evolving Perspectives on Health and Wellness 16:40 Navigating Social Media and Comparison 20:57 Cultivating Invisible Strength and Resilience Takeaways Health anxiety often revolves around the 'what ifs' that can keep us up at night. Anxiety can exacerbate health issues, creating a vicious cycle. Finding balance in daily...2025-01-2825 min

Invisible StrengthRecently Diagnosed with an Autoimmune Disease? From Campus to Diagnosis: Navigating Life with Lupus After College with Special Guest Lily CoyleQuick Summary! In this conversation, Karin, Chris, and guest Lily Coyle discuss living with lupus, focusing on the early stages of the autoimmune journey, managing habits and boundaries, coping with the emotional impact, balancing work, and redefining ambitions. They highlight the importance of self-care, open communication, support from loved ones, dealing with fatigue, flexible schedules, and making gradual changes to manage daily life with a chronic illness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:12 Guest Background and Lupus Diagnosis 05:31 Finding a New Normal: Adjusting Expectations and Being Open-Minded 2024-08-1440 min

Invisible StrengthNew to Autoimmune Diseases? An Insightful Q&A Session with Chris and KarinQUICK SUMMARY Karin and Chris answer four questions from newly diagnosed individuals, offering practical advice on building a supportive community and creating a management plan for autoimmune diseases. 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:31 Question 1: Managing Symptoms While Waiting for Specialist Appointment 10:41 Question 2: Communicating with Family and Friends About Limitations 19:49 Question 3: Dealing with Brain Fog and Fatigue 24:25 Question 4: Empowering Yourself in Doctor-Patient Relationships RESOURCES Check out Tips and Tools to Manage Symptoms Get more Rest & Sleep with our c...2024-08-0428 min

Invisible StrengthHow to Navigate Overwhelming Health Challenges with Functional MedicineSummary Join Invigorate Your Journey host Karin Wagner in this insightful episode as she welcomes Meredith Orlowski, AFMC, functional medicine practitioner and Founder of Root to Leaf Wellness. Meredith shares her journey with autoimmune disease, her challenges with conventional medicine, and how functional medicine transformed her health and career. Discover the importance of examining illness's root causes, personalized care's power, and practical tips for managing stress and environmental toxins. This episode is a must-listen for everyone seeking holistic and effective approaches to autoimmune wellness. 🔄💚🌟 #AutoimmuneJourney #FunctionalMedicine #HolisticHealth #Podcast #Wellness #invigorateyo...2024-08-0149 min

Invisible StrengthSummer Survival: Managing Autoimmune Diseases in High Temperatures, Precautions and Self-CareTakeaways Extreme heat and sun can exacerbate symptoms for individuals with lupus and other autoimmune diseases Managing symptoms in extreme weather conditions requires balancing staying cool indoors and enjoying the benefits of natural light and elements Incorporating nature into indoor spaces, such as through plants and natural light, can uplift mood and decrease stress levels Taking precautions, such as wearing UPF clothing and using accessories for outdoor activities, can help protect against the sun's harmful effects Protective clothing, such as hats and sunshirts, can help shield against extreme temperatures and UV rays Staying hydrated is crucial for managing...2024-07-1435 min

Invisible StrengthCreating Calm: The Science and Soul of Breathwork with Elizabeth Soto-BaezElizabeth Soto-Baez shares her journey of personal transformation and the power of breathwork in healing and empowerment. She discusses the impact of divorce, coaching, and breathwork on her life and the lives of her clients. The conversation delves into the benefits of breathwork for anxiety, trauma, pain relief, and stress management, highlighting the profound impact of conscious breathing on the mind-body connection. The conversation explores the connection between breathwork, anxiety, and autoimmune disorders, highlighting its potential as a tool for regulating the nervous system and promoting healing. It also delves into the impact of...2024-07-0944 min

Invisible StrengthFrom Chaos to Cohesion: Streamlining Your Life to Create an Ecosystem of Wellness for People with Autoimmune DiseasesIn today's episode, we dive deeper into a topic that sparked much discussion last week: creating a cohesive ecosystem in our lives. Chris and I discuss how to avoid having siloed priorities that compete for our time and energy. Instead, we explore ways to integrate our responsibilities and interests to support each other and enhance our well-being. We address the importance of understanding our internal and external ecosystems, prioritizing collaboration, and finding sustainable ways to manage our energy. We also tackle a community member's question about balancing self-care with a demanding schedule, especially in the...2024-06-3027 min

Invisible StrengthThe Invisible Battle: Men Managing Symptoms of Autoimmune DiseasesSummary: In this impactful episode of "Invigorate Your Autoimmune Journey," hosts Karin and Chris delve into the crucial topic of Men’s Health Month, focusing on the unique challenges men face with autoimmune diseases. Despite constituting 20% of all autoimmune patients, men’s experiences with diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Addison’s Disease, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease are often overshadowed by societal stigmas and a predominant focus on female patients. Karin and Chris discuss the profound impact of stigma and societal expectations on men’s willingness to seek medical help and share insights...2024-06-2434 min

Invisible StrengthFather's Day Special: Raising Kids with Autoimmune Diseases: Honest Conversations and Practical TipsSummary Karin Wagner and Chris Burton discuss parenting with autoimmune diseases in this conversation. They share their experiences and offer advice on Deciding to have children, Managing parenting responsibilities, Dealing with flare-ups Maintaining a nutritious diet with kids They emphasize the importance of understanding, communication, and self-care in navigating the challenges of parenting with autoimmune diseases. Takeaways Deciding to have children while dealing with autoimmune diseases can be a difficult decision, but many parents find joy and fulfillment in raising their children. Managing parenting responsibilities during flare-ups requires understanding and...2024-06-1641 min

Invisible StrengthHealthy Eating Simplified: A Nutritionist's Practical Tips & Advice for Busy PeopleWe're thrilled to welcome two special guests. First, we have Chloe Schweinshaut, a registered dietitian (RD), LDN, CLT, and the Founder of Riverside Nutrition. Chloe champions a holistic approach to nutrition, emphasizing that it impacts every aspect of our lives—from stress and sleep to energy levels. Chloe also specializes in family nutrition and understands the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle despite busy schedules. Cristelle Badaoui joins us. She holds a master's in nutrition and is completing her dietetic internship at Massachusetts General Hospital. We get clear on when and what we should eat and share pr...2024-05-2637 min

Invisible StrengthNavigating the Seasons of Autoimmune Disease from Pre-Diagnosis to Remission in Honor of Lupus Awareness MonthIn this episode, hosts Karin Wagner and Chris Burton share insights on self-care and self-compassion, emphasizing the importance of celebrating small wins and making incremental improvements to optimize health and well-being. This episode is packed with practical daily management advice, realistic goals, and streamlining routines to conserve energy and enhance efficiency. Takeaways: Living with lupus involves navigating different phases, each presenting its challenges. Self-awareness and self-compassion are crucial for managing lupus and other autoimmune diseases. Making small, manageable changes can significantly improve health and well-being. Celebrating small wins and setting achievable...2024-05-1641 min

Invisible StrengthStrategies for Improving Sleep with Autoimmune DiseasesSummary This conversation explores sleep, rest, and fatigue in the context of autoimmune diseases. The hosts share their experiences with sleep and fatigue, highlighting the challenges and importance of rest and recovery. In this conversation, Chris and Karin discuss the importance of natural rhythms and intentional routines for better sleep and overall well-being. They explore the impact of technology on sleep patterns and stress levels, emphasizing the need to start the day with intention and avoid information overload. They also share tips for creating a bedtime routine, including reading and aromatherapy. The conversation hi...2024-04-0544 min

Invisible StrengthAutoimmune Awareness Month - Navigating Autoimmune Diseases through Science, Lifestyle, and HopeIn this conversation, Chris and Karin discuss the connection between autoimmune diseases and environmental factors and the impact of stress and trauma on health. They highlight the need for urgent funding and research to understand better and support those living with autoimmune diseases. They also touch on epigenetics and how historical traumas can be passed down through generations. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing the social, environmental, and genetic factors contributing to autoimmune diseases. In this conversation, Chris discusses the importance of balancing Western medicine and alternative approaches when...2024-03-2447 min

Invisible StrengthEpisode 15. Spring Offers a Fresh Start to the Comfort CrisisSummary In this conversation, Chris Burton and Karin Wagner discuss strategies for overcoming the comfort crisis and embracing personal growth. They emphasize the importance of starting small and being kind to oneself rather than striving for perfection. They also explore the fear of failure and the comparison mindset, highlighting the need to focus on individual progress and embrace an abundance mindset. The conversation touches on the impact of social media and the importance of creating space for healthier changes. They conclude by discussing the joy of the process and the value of streamlining one's life to focus on what...2024-03-1849 min

Invisible StrengthUnveiling Your Journey: From Challenges to Triumphs with Development Coach Sarah CharlandStep into a warm and engaging episode as Invigorate Founder Karin Wagner welcomes certified personal development coach Sarah Charland to delve into the challenges of transforming habits and the powerful journey of overcoming them. Join us in discovering the keys to change, including identifying "your why" and nurturing self-worth. Community Q&A: Your Burning Questions Answered The episode takes an interactive turn as Sarah responds to questions from the Invigorate community, providing insightful guidance and practical suggestions on navigating challenges. From breaking them down into manageable action items to carving out small increments of time...2023-12-1747 min

Invisible StrengthThriving Through the Holidays: Stress Management for Autoimmune WarriorsIn this insightful episode, our hosts, Karin Wagner and Chris Burton, delve into the art of stress management, which is specially tailored for individuals navigating autoimmune conditions. Unpacking the unique challenges of holiday stress, they champion the importance of setting boundaries, redefining priorities, and challenging the cultural norm that glorifies stress as a badge of honor. Key Highlights: Redefining boundaries and priorities during the holidays. Challenging the culture of stress as a status symbol. The transformative power of morning routines and empowerment in stress management. The impact of phone...2023-12-1047 min

Invisible StrengthStructure Your Life to Live Intentionally with an Autoimmune DiseaseIn this empowering episode, we delve into the art of optimizing life with autoimmune disease, exploring the pivotal role habits play in achieving balance and well-being. Join us as we uncover the keys to success, focusing on the core of your values and leading with intention. Discover the transformative impact of intentional living as we discuss the significance of prioritizing and planning out your week to stay ahead of potential disrupters. Learn how creating flexibility in your schedule allows you to reassess priorities, aligning with your energy levels and overall well-being. Our conversation extends to...2023-12-0645 min

Invisible StrengthHope Unveiled: Navigating Autoimmune Journeys with Authentic OptimismIn this episode, Karin and Chris discuss the importance of hope in living with autoimmune diseases. They explore the difference between hope and blind optimism and how hope serves as fuel during difficult times. They also discuss the dangers of toxic positivity and the importance of being realistic while maintaining a sense of optimism. The conversation highlights the role of hope in finding strength and resilience and the power of community support in fostering hope. They emphasize celebrating small victories and finding hope in everyday moments. The...2023-12-0644 min

Invisible StrengthGratitude Unveiled: Slowing Down, Shifting Perspectives, and Finding Joy in the Everyday with Autoimmune DiseasesIn this episode, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and mindfulness as we explore the transformative power of gratitude. Join us as we discuss the profound impact of allowing ourselves the latitude to slow down, unveiling a world of appreciation that often goes unnoticed in our fast-paced lives. Discover the magic of shifting perspectives from "I have to do this" to "I get to do this" as we reframe daily tasks as opportunities for growth and fulfillment. We delve into the concept of 'landing the plane,' emphasizing the importance of proper rest and recognizing that...2023-11-2741 min

Invisible StrengthNavigating the Unknown: Understanding Autoimmune Disease Symptoms and Getting a DiagnosisIn this episode, we delve into the early stages of grappling with autoimmune diseases, where the fear of the unknown can be a daunting experience. Our discussion extends to the diverse symptoms and experiences associated with autoimmune diseases, ranging from fatigue to joint pain, muscle soreness, unexpected weight changes, skin problems like the infamous "Butterfly rash," and tingling sensations in limbs. Karin opens up about her initial struggles with joint pain, shedding light on the personal aspect of these conditions. The journey to diagnosis is often complex, as symptoms vary widely, and there's no one-size-fits-all t...2023-11-1248 min

Invisible StrengthYou Got This, Kid! Leadership Foundation Week of Wellness, Special Guest Chuck Saia provides perspective on Leadership, Lupus, and Life.In this inspiring episode of the Invigorate Your Autoimmune Journey podcast, we're joined by an extraordinary guest, Chuck Saia. Chuck is a Senior Partner at Deloitte, Chairman of the Board at Quinnipiac University, and a passionate advocate for leadership development and mentorship. He's also the author of two remarkable books, YOU GOT THIS, KID! Words of Advice for Young Leaders and YOU GOT THIS KID! Leadership Advice for Children, both of which support people with lupus and promote environmental sustainability. At the outset, Chuck shares the motivation behind his books, delving into why he felt compelled to...2023-11-0451 min

Invisible StrengthTransforming Your Mindset in the Face of Autoimmune Disease and Chronic IllnessIn this episode, we delve into the transformative power of mindset in facing these challenges head-on. Join us as we explore the importance of introspection, taking small steps, one at a time, and the powerful practice of gratitude and hope in navigating the complex world of autoimmune conditions. Host Karin Wagner and the Baddest Chaplain Chris Burton, seasoned autoimmune strivers, uncover how developing the right mindset can make all the difference in living a fulfilling and empowered life despite chronic health issues. In this heartwarming episode, we discuss: The Power of Introspection: Discover how...2023-10-2940 min

Invisible StrengthReducing Joint Pain & Inflammation with Autoimmune Diseases Discover the path to a life with less pain and more vitality on Episode 7 of the "Invigorate Your Autoimmune Journey" podcast. This episode, hosted by Karin Wagner, who has been living with Lupus for 15 years, and the Baddest Chaplain, Chris Burton, delves into the common yet excruciating symptom of autoimmune diseases – joint pain. Karin and Chris share personal stories and strategies to help you manage pain and inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases. They emphasize the link between inflammation and joint pain, highlighting how autoimmune diseases trigger inflammation without injury or infection. Learn how ch...2023-10-2244 min

Invisible StrengthMaking the Most of Medical Appointments - Preparing for Your Appointment & Questions to Ask Your Care Team Welcome back to the Invigorate podcast, where we delve into the challenges of living with autoimmune diseases. In this episode, we tackle the crucial topic of optimizing your medical appointments, given the dwindling time providers spend with each patient. We'll equip you with the tools you need to ensure your visits to your Rheumatologist are as productive as possible, including: **Effective Appointment Preparation:** Learn how to get ready for your appointments so you can make the most of your time. **Key Questions to Consider:** Discover the essential questions to ask before a...2023-10-1539 min

Invisible Strength🎙️ Medication challenges, patient-provider trust, and managing our health with special guest Meredith LiCalzi, future MD and Sjogren's striverMeredith LiCalzi, future MD, and Invigorate Co-hosts Chris Burton and Karin Wagner discuss the logistical challenges of prescriptions, improving patient-provider trust, prioritizing our health, and more! Listen to this unique discussion from both patient and clinical perspectives. Medical Student and Sjogren's fighter Meredith is researching medication adherence to hydroxychloroquine – a common medication to suppress autoimmune disease symptoms. We explore the concept of medications working together in a delicate balance, where removing even one pill can cause a noticeable shift. Determining whether symptoms arise from diseases or side effects add another layer of complexity. Bu...2023-10-0943 min

Invisible StrengthCoping with Hair Loss and Alopecia with Autoimmune Diseases - Special Guest Heather KnoxWelcome back to the Invigorate podcast, where we dive into the realities of living with autoimmune diseases and explore ways to cope with ongoing challenges. Join hosts Chris and Karin, along with special guest Heather Knox, as they delve into the topic of alopecia in today's episode. Often misunderstood as solely hair loss, alopecia is actually connected to autoimmune disease and chronic illness. Conditions such as psoriasis, thyroid disease, diabetes, lupus, and vitiligo also increase the risk of alopecia. Furthermore, medications for autoimmune diseases can contribute to hair thinning and loss. Alopecia areata is the...2023-10-0124 min

Invisible Strength🎙️Autoimmune Disease Flares UnraveledIn this episode, we explore the complexities of living with autoimmune diseases and navigating the challenges of flares. Join us as we dive into practical strategies to cope with flare-ups and manage symptoms effectively. First, we discuss the importance of keeping a symptom log and documenting specific times and days when communicating with your healthcare provider. By maintaining accurate records, you empower yourself to understand your condition better and advocate for appropriate care. Resource: Medical Planner Building a strong relationship with your doctor is crucial during flares. We share tips on establishing open communication channels, fostering trust, and...2023-09-2530 min

Invisible StrengthLiving Life with Lupus and other Autoimmune DiseasesWe're excited to announce our first Invigorate Your Autoimmune Journey podcast with Karin Wagner, Founder of Invigorate, and Co-host Chris Burton, Baddest Chaplain Diversity Consulting and Chris Burton Speaks. We discuss today’s challenges in managing autoimmune diseases, the latest information, and most importantly, the latest resources and solutions to improve the quality of life for those living with autoimmune disease. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: High-level challenges living with Lupus and other autoimmune diseases Turning point in taking control of our health Spoon Theory as it relates to managing autoimmune diseases The pos...2023-09-1829 min