Best Unsolicited Therapy Podcasts (2025)

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Rheumer Has it: Sleep with Dr. Deb Da Costa 17:16

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5d ago17:16

17:16

On this episode, Cheryl & Eileen talk with sleep expert and researcher D. Deborah Da Costa about evidence based interventions to improve sleep in people with rheumatic conditions. Dr. Da Costa explores how sleep challenges are deeply entangled with social and emotional wellbeing as well as pain, fatigue and cognition for those living with rheumatoi…

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Brooklyn to Vegas. Culture Shock, Concrete, and Cactuses. 18:35

8d ago18:35

18:35

Complain here. What happens when you trade corner stores for cacti? In this episode of Existential Static, I’m spiraling about the culture shock of moving from Brooklyn to Las Vegas because apparently, I wanted to know what overstimulation feels like when it’s surrounded by mountains and drive-thrus. We’re talking about: East Coast hustle vs West C…

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Why Does Everything Have a Membership Now? 18:01

11d ago18:01

18:01

Complain here. Remember when you could just buy something? Like, walk into a store, grab your stuff, pay, and leave? Yeah. That’s over. Now you need a membership, subscription, rewards card, login, and a free trial you’ll forget to cancel. You can’t even pump gas without being asked to join a loyalty program. Coffee? Membership. Dog food? Subscript…

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Test Subjects. The Dark History of Birth Control Trials in Puerto Rico. 20:22

13d ago20:22

20:22

Complain here. Before the pill was approved for women in the U.S., it was tested on poor Puerto Rican women. In the 1950s, researchers ran large scale trials of the first birth control pill on women in Puerto Rico. They were told it would prevent pregnancy. What they weren’t told? The pill was experimental. It came with dangerously high doses of ho…

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Never Give In, Never Give up, Never Let Go, and Just Keep Fighting: Estela Mata’s Story 1:02:28

12d ago1:02:28

1:02:28

She and Cheryl also discuss the complexities of symptom tracking and diagnosis, challenges of treatment, and the importance of self-advocacy and support groups. Estela also highlights her nonprofit organization, Looms for Lupus, which she co-founded with her sisters to provide advocacy, support, and educational resources for those affected by lupus…

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Classrooms Without Futures. Puerto Rico’s Broken Education System 22:02

17d ago22:02

22:02

Complain here. Puerto Rico’s education system is collapsing, and it’s not an accident. In this episode of Existential Static, we break down the brutal truth of what’s happening inside classrooms across the island. We talk about shuttered schools, underpaid teachers, rising tuition at the University of Puerto Rico, and the emotional toll of watching…

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Rheumer Has It: 6 Types of Unsolicited Advice and How We Respond 23:15

19d ago23:15

23:15

Eileen and Cheryl break down six types of unsolicited advice, including lifestyle interventions, toxic positivity, unqualified medical advice, predatory marketing, wild suggestions, and even well-meaning but unsolicited solid advice. They share their personal experiences and offer practical strategies for responding to these unsolicited suggestions…

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Lights Out, Power Up. Puerto Rico’s Energy Crisis and the Fight for Control. 20:29

20d ago20:29

20:29

Complain here. In this episode of Existential Static, we dig deep into Puerto Rico’s ongoing power crisis and the people who are taking the light back. We unpack the decades long neglect of the island’s electrical grid, the devastation of Hurricane María, and the highly controversial privatization under LUMA Energy. From rising bills to deadly blac…

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When Silence Feels Unsafe. Growing Up in Chaos. 8:46

21d ago8:46

8:46

Complain here. Welcome to one of my many random mini rants. Some of us weren’t raised on calm. We were raised on chaos. On background noise. On yelling that didn’t always mean anger and silence that almost always meant something was wrong. So now? Silence doesn’t feel peaceful. It feels… suspicious. This mini episode of Existential Static is about …

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From Taíno Roots to The Young Lords to Act 60. Resistance Isn’t New. 23:39

24d ago23:39

23:39

Complain here. Link to Pa'Lante Newspapers - https://dlib.nyu.edu/palante/ This episode isn’t soft. It isn’t curated. It’s real. Because what's happening in Puerto Rico is nothing new, it's just wearing new clothes. We talk about the Taíno people, the original caretakers of the land, and how their culture, language, and resistance still live in us.…

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Born here, tied there. Puerto Rico, Identity and What's Being Taken. Part 1. 11:59

26d ago11:59

11:59

Complain here. In this episode of Existential Static, we’re talking about Puerto Rico, beyond the beaches and beyond the branding. What does it mean to grow up Puerto Rican in the States? To be raised with culture, music, and pride, but still feel like a guest when you visit the island? We get into the complicated identity of being raised away from…

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Navigating Psoriatic Arthritis in Alaska: Dawn’s Story 44:30

26d ago44:30

44:30

From navigating a complicated healthcare system to managing symptoms in a remote location, Dawn opens up about the real challenges she’s faced, and the tools that help her cope. Together, Dawn and Cheryl explore what it takes to live well with arthritis, from finding the right medications and building an exercise routine, to advocating for yourself…

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From Corner Stores to Condos: Growing Up in Bushwick Before the Rebrand. 23:43

28d ago23:43

23:43

Complain here. New episode just dropped. This one’s different. It’s about Bushwick. It’s about Brooklyn. And it’s about what happens when the place that raised you gets rewritten by money and marketing. We’re talking: – Corner stores before they sold kombucha – Block parties that didn’t need permits – Sitting on milk crates – Gentrification that pu…

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I Need a Script for Everything. Why Casual Conversation Feels Like an Audition. 14:41

29d ago14:41

14:41

Complain here. If you’ve ever spent 45 minutes drafting a two-line text or rehearsed saying “here for pickup” on loop in your head, this episode is for you. In this spiral, we unpack the daily emotional labor of speaking like a normal human. Texting anxiety, accidental “you too” moments, email sign-off panic, and the crushing shame of a voice note …

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Rheumer Has It: Busting Medication Myths with Dr. Hazelwood 24:23

1M ago24:23

24:23

The discussion addresses concerns about medication side effects, the importance of treating rheumatic diseases early, and the false stigma that using advanced treatments indicates more severe disease or personal failure. Dr. Hazelwood emphasizes the importance of balancing risks and benefits and provides insights into how modern treatments can sign…

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Oh. That Wasn't for Me? Awkward Everyday Moments We Just Don’t Talk About. 13:17

1M ago13:17

13:17

Complain here. In this episode of Existential Static, we spiral through the unspoken, awkward chaos of daily life, those moments that aren’t exactly traumatic but still haunt your soul at 2 a.m. From waving at someone who wasn’t waving at you… to saying “you too” when it absolutely does not apply, we’re talking hallway standoffs, door-holding Olymp…

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ICE, Vegas, and What You Need to Know. 22:26

1M ago22:26

22:26

Complain here. ILRC Cards - https://www.ilrc.org/red-cards-tarjetas-rojas Immigration Resources - https://www.cortezmasto.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/media/doc/Immigration%20Resources_English.pdf In this special episode of Existential Static, we step away from sarcasm and talk about something serious: ICE enforcement and how it’s affecting commun…

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You ain't a man unless you're Keith Hernandez 9:20

1M ago9:20

9:20

Complain here. In this episode of Existential Static, we unravel the chaos of outdated masculinity, starting with a single statement from my grandmother: “Now Keith Hernandez… he was a real man.” From there, we spiral beautifully into society’s weirdest, most irrational takes on what “makes” a man. Flip-flops? Cringe. Asking for directions? Weak. I…

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Don't Touch Me, I'm Just Trying to Exist. Also, the Mets lost again. 13:43

1M ago13:43

13:43

Complain here. In this episode of Existential Static, we continue spiraling! this time through the sensory horrors of everyday life. We’re talking aggressive vacuuming, betrayal by wet things, and the absolute psychological warfare of paper straws.By Kawfee Cowboy

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Advocacy, Humor and Purpose: Seth’s Spondyloarthritis Story 1:01:06

1M ago1:01:06

1:01:06

Seth discusses the challenges and lessons learned from his condition, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and humor as coping mechanisms. He also reflects on the 25-year journey of Creaky Joints, which began as a simple idea to connect arthritis sufferers and has grown into a significant patient advocacy and support organization. Cheryl and…

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Too Loud, Too Bright, Too Cilantro: A Sensory Nightmare 16:10

1M ago16:10

16:10

Complain here. Send us a text In this premiere episode of Existential Static, we spiral gracefully into the chaotic abyss of life's most pointless annoyances, especially the ones that hit hard when you're already on sensory overload. From the lone 3 a.m. fire alarm beep that ruins your will to live, to the self-checkout machine loudly announcing yo…

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Turning Pain into Purpose, with RA Warrior Cristina Schaefer 53:51

2M ago53:51

53:51

Cristina and Cheryl reflect on how RA has shaped their lives, and the deep sense of purpose they’ve found in supporting others on a similar path. They highlight the power of self-advocacy, the comfort of community, and the resilience it takes to live well with RA. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or alone in your diagnosis, this honest and empowering …

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Redefining Thriving: Celebrating 5 Years of Rheum to THRIVE 40:07

2M ago40:07

40:07

Cheryl, Marisa, Alice, Gittel, Meg and Annette reflect on the profound impact of community, the invaluable educational components, and the collective wisdom that has helped them cope and thrive. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, shared humor, and the supportive environment of the Rheum to THRIVE group, which empowers memb…

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Rheumer Has it: Arthritis Myths, Stigmas, and Misconceptions 22:32

2M ago22:32

22:32

They clarify the differences between these terms and provide examples, such as the myth that only elderly people get arthritis, the stigma that people with arthritis are lazy, and the misconception that arthritis is merely mild joint pain. Eileen and Cheryl also emphasize the importance of education and self-advocacy and share personal experiences …

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Finding Joy Amidst the Flare-Ups: Riley’s Journey with Multiple Conditions 1:15:15

2M ago1:15:15

1:15:15

Riley details her complex and often delayed diagnostic journey, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, and which treatments have worked best for her. She also shares how she navigates daily life while living almost exclusively at home due to limited mobility and energy. Cheryl and Riley also discuss the adaptations and strategies Riley…

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Introducing Rheumer Has It: Busting Myths and Highlighting Evidence for Rheumatic Diseases 14:05

3M ago14:05

14:05

In this candid intro episode, you’ll hear how they met online, bonded over the challenges of living with RA, and teamed up to make science-backed info more relatable and easier to understand. Their mission? To bust myths, share real stories, and offer practical tips to help you feel more in control of your health. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, su…

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Biohacking, Weight Loss & Semen Retention with Dave Asprey 1:13:00

3M ago1:13:00

1:13:00

On this episode of Unlicensed Therapy, Ari sits down with biohacking pioneer Dave Asprey to discuss his upcoming book, his latest ventures, and the science behind optimizing your body and mind. Dave shares his insights on weight loss, longevity, and why ejaculating less might just be the key to unlocking peak performance. Tune in for an unfiltered …

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From Marriage to Friendships: Reflections on Support Systems with Alice Getchell 29:07

3M ago29:07

29:07

They discuss the complexities of managing overlapping conditions and the importance of a strong support system. Alice highlights the invaluable support she receives from her family, friends, church community, and online groups. They also talk about the challenges of explaining chronic illness to others, dealing with unsolicited advice, and finding …

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Becoming Immune Confident with Sjogren’s & MCAS, with Dr. Kara Wada 1:07:46

3M ago1:07:46

1:07:46

They discuss practical strategies for rebuilding trust in your body, the critical role of understanding your core values, and how to find the right support — whether through programs like Rheum to Thrive or events like the Virtual Sjögren’s Summit. Together, they show how education, advocacy, and mindset shifts can help patients move from fear to c…

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Rheum Champions Tell All, with My Spoonie Sisters 36:35

3M ago36:35

36:35

Jenni and Cheryl share the research highlights that stood out the most for them, from new research on POTS and Covid to the importance of sleep and fatigue management. We also shine a light on recent advancements in lupus treatment and managing stress and activity through "positive activity scheduling." Cheryl and Jennifer also share personal stori…

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Navigating the Shift: From Pediatric to Adult Rheumatology with Dr. Jenna Thomason 1:00:53

3M ago1:00:53

1:00:53

Dr. Jenna breaks down the key differences between pediatric and adult care, and shares practical tips to help you feel more confident and prepared—whether it’s learning how to speak up during appointments, track your symptoms, or build a support system that really gets it. They also get real about mindset, movement, rest, and how to keep living a f…

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Managing Gout, Osteoporosis, and Arthritis: Insights from Dr. Arinola Dada 54:39

4M ago54:39

54:39

Additionally, Cheryl & Dr Dada also explore how strength training—not to "bulk up," but to boost energy, focus, and joint stability—can be a game-changer for these diseases. Dr. Dada reassures newly diagnosed individuals to avoid the anxiety of worst-case scenarios online and instead focus on reliable information and gradual, sustainable lifestyle …

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Mediterranean Diet, Gut Microbiome & More, with Arthritis Dietitian Cristina Montoya 1:16:04

4M ago1:16:04

1:16:04

Together, they break down the latest research from the 2024 American College of Rheumatology conference, unpacking the science behind the gut microbiome and the Mediterranean diet. Cristina explains how these can impact inflammatory diseases like RA and Sjogren’s—and why it’s about more than just what’s on your plate. They also tackle the big quest…

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Finding Peace with Your Body: A Self-Compassionate Approach to RA 59:06

4M ago59:06

59:06

They explore the tricky balance between wanting to “fix” your body and learning to accept where you are right now. Lindsay introduces a powerful framework for becoming your own loving companion—especially when flare-ups and uncertainty make life feel overwhelming. You’ll also walk away with practical, everyday strategies, like how a simple tool lik…

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Why are Integrative Approaches (like nutrition and exercise) so important for RA? Insights from Dr. Diana Girnita 1:08:37

5M ago1:08:37

1:08:37

Together, they break down the science behind why nutrition, exercise, and sleep play a crucial role in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Plus, they share practical tips on incorporating these key habits—along with stress management and social connection—into your treatment plan. Dr. Girnita also highlights the importance of medication in arthritis man…

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Finding Music Again with RA and Sjogrens: Alice’s Story 47:40

5M ago47:40

47:40

From singing to trying nine different medications in five years, to embracing the THRIVE framework from Cheryl’s Rheum to Thrive Program, Alice shares the ups and downs of life with rheumatoid arthritis. Ultimately, Alice reminds us that living fully with RA doesn’t mean giving up on what matters—it means finding new ways to engage, and finding a w…

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Progress Over Perfection: Helen Jones on Thriving with Ankylosing Spondylitis 1:08:21

5M ago1:08:21

1:08:21

Cheryl and Helen dive into the often-overlooked mental challenges of inflammatory arthritis, which can sometimes feel harder to navigate than the physical symptoms. They explore mindset strategies and mental tools that have helped them, including approaches from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The conversation also highlights the importanc…

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Comedy, Growth & Dating Advice with Francisco Ramos 1:31:50

5M ago1:31:50

1:31:50

On this episode of Unlicensed Therapy, Ari is joined by the hilarious Francisco Ramos to dive into the world of stand-up, personal growth, and relationships. They take advice from listeners, share insights on the comedy grind, and get real about dating and women. A mix of laughs, wisdom, and unfiltered conversation—don’t miss it!…

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How to Improve your Communication, Connection and Confidence, with Rheumatologist Dr. Ortiz 1:23:23

5M ago1:23:23

1:23:23

Together, Cheryl and Dr. Ortiz debunk common myths about RA and tackle important topics like medication hesitancy, lifestyle interventions, and the balance between the two. Dr. Ortiz reassures listeners that while factors like nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress management can help, “just because lifestyle can help doesn’t mean lifestyle caused …

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The Power of Creativity and Storytelling in Alison’s Chronic Illness Journey 54:17

6M ago54:17

54:17

Alison and Cheryl also explore the impact of the pandemic on rediscovering creative passions and the power of storytelling in raising awareness. Alison’s new children’s book, Kenzie’s Little Tree, is not only a meaningful read but also a way to support arthritis and chronic illness foundations. If you're newly diagnosed, this conversation offers re…

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Tina’s Voice: Raising Awareness and Overcoming Stigmas with IBD and Inflammatory Arthritis 40:12

6M ago40:12

40:12

Cheryl and Tina emphasize the need for increased education, representation, and awareness about autoimmune conditions and treatment options to reduce stigma and support patients globally. Cheryl and Tina also discuss Tina’s advocacy work, including her blog Own Your Crohn’s and contributions to South Asian IBD Alliance (SAIA), focused on creating c…

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Best Advice for People Newly Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Encore Episode 47:44

6M ago47:44

47:44

A new RA diagnosis can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of emotions and uncertainty. In this episode, I share my best advice for navigating this new reality—offering practical tips on mindset, building a strong support system, and avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation. You'll also hear from fellow RA patients who share their p…

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Advocacy, Mindset and More: Chrissy’s Rheumatoid Arthritis Journey 1:28:44

6M ago1:28:44

1:28:44

Chrissy recounts the challenges she faced seeking medical care for persistent swelling and joint pain. Despite visiting multiple doctors, she was repeatedly told she “wasn’t sick” before ultimately receiving her RA diagnosis. She reflects on the mix of emotions she felt—relief at finally having a treatment plan and the hope it brought, alongside fe…

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Navigating College and Chronic Illness: Tips from Gabi’s Spondyloarthritis Journey 55:25

6M ago55:25

55:25

Gabi highlights the accommodations that have been instrumental during her college experience, including adaptive tools and flexible scheduling. She shares how other young people with chronic illness can advocate for the accommodations they need to succeed in school. Cheryl and Gabi also discuss the vital role of peer support groups, such as Cheryl’…

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Riding the Chronic Illness Roller Coaster with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Endometriosis and Cancer: Stephanie’s Story 1:10:01

7M ago1:10:01

1:10:01

Stephanie and Cheryl also reflect on the “roller coaster of acceptance,” or their journeys towards self compassion and acceptance in the face of fluctuating, unpredictable conditions. They also delve into the challenges of living with cognitive dysfunction or “brain fog” and Stephanie shares how she copes with this while serving as an adjunct profe…

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What’s it like to be a Counselor with Psoriatic Arthritis? Amber’s Story 1:09:53

7M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

They also discuss the importance of support and community, and Amber shares her experience in Cheryl’s Rheum to THRIVE program. Cheryl and Amber emphasize the importance of adaptability, finding joy in everyday activities like cooking and cheering for their favorite sports teams, and embracing flexibility in the face of unpredictability. Episode at…

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Comedy, Chaos, and Fatherhood with Mo Mandel 1:14:09

7M ago1:14:09

1:14:09

In this engaging episode of Unlicensed Therapy, host Ari Mannis sits down with comedian Mo Mandel for a candid conversation. They delve into the challenges of handling angry audience members, share personal stories about Mo's journey into fatherhood, and offer unfiltered advice to listener-submitted questions. Additionally, Mo promotes his latest c…

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Art, Advocacy, and Adaptation: Carrie’s Journey with Difficult to Treat Axial Spondyloarthritis 1:11:05

7M ago1:11:05

1:11:05

She discusses how she’s learned to adapt to life’s changes, uncover tools to improve her quality of life, and embrace creativity as a way to thrive. For instance, she shares how her power wheelchair allows her to explore her surroundings while conserving energy, and how her Spoonie Coloring Book brings joy and meaning to her daily life through art.…

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Holiday Break, See You Next Year 12:36

7M ago12:36

12:36

By Morgan Williams & Stacey Williams-Seiss

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The 6 Ingredients to THRIVE with Rheumatoid Arthritis: a Peek Behind the Rheum to THRIVE Curtain 52:13

8M ago52:13

52:13

Cheryl shares how the program has evolved based on participant feedback, offering flexible learning options including self-paced options for those who would like to learn the self management tools without the support group. Cheryl and Lauren also discuss the ways in which the program has offered essential education, community and realistic hope for…