Welcome to S.C.I. Chronicles, where I share my real-life journey of life after a spinal cord injury at 29-- the highs, the lows and everything inbetween.
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Jen Grosschadl Podcasts
In this solo episode, I’m sharing my experience attending the Abilities Expo in Chicago for the second year in a row! From exploring the latest in accessible tech and adaptive gear to connecting with people who just get it, this event was an exciting one. I’ll talk about what stood out this year, what’s changed since my last visit and what it means…
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The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “Q” is for Quadriplegia
1:05:56
1:05:56
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1:05:56In this episode, I’m joined by two friends, Sam and Mackenzie, to talk about their experiences living with quadriplegia. Unlike my own spinal cord injury, which affects my lower body (paraplegia), quadriplegia means that all four limbs are impacted in some way. Together, we explore how that difference plays out in daily life, independence, relation…
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The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “L” is for Legislation on SCI Research
58:05
58:05
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58:05In this episode, I’m joined by Jason Stoffer, a research advocate with Unite 2 Fight Paralysis (U2FP), for a dive into Wisconsin’s legislation supporting spinal cord injury (SCI) research - Assembly Bill (AB) 92 and Senate Bill (SB 99). These bills prioritize research into all aspects of SCIs not just mobility. He brings real data to the table, sho…
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The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “M” is for Men with Spinal Cord Injuries
58:30
58:30
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58:30In this episode, I’m joined by Paralympian Jeromie “Romie” Meyer for an honest and empowering conversation about living with a spinal cord injury as a man. Romie shares his personal journey—from the early days of injury to finding purpose through sport and advocacy. We talk about identity, masculinity, and mental health, and how each of these can s…
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The Rogue SCI Alphabet - “C” is for Catheters/Cathing
57:01
57:01
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57:01In this episode, we’re getting real about catheters and cathing. I’m joined by two of my friends from the spinal cord injury community, Connie and Sharon, and we share honest conversations about our personal experiences with cathing—what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how different our journeys have been. From distributor and product choices to the emo…
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The Rogue SCI Alphabet - "A" is for Adaptive Clothing
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44:02In this episode, we're diving into the world of adaptive clothing - because what we wear matters, especially when our bodies and abilities change. I kick things off discussing some personal wins that I found with Victoria's Secret's adaptive bra and underwear line I've been using. Then, I'm joined by Jenny Kraft, creator of Project Awaken and her p…
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The Rogue SCI Alphabet - "I" is for Interabled Relationship
57:20
57:20
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57:20Welcome back to SCI Chronicles! We're kicking off Season 2 with a very special guest: my husband. In this episode, we talk about life in an interabled relationship, what changed after my spinal cord injury and how we navigate everything from daily routines to public perceptions. This season, I'm trying something new: The Rogue SCI Alphabet- where e…
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Season 1 Finale - Reflecting Back & Moving Forward
5:14
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5:14Season 1 has been a journey of sharing my experiences, challenges, and wins in life with an SCI. As we wrap up, I'm reflecting on what I've shared and teasing what's next--broader topics that impact the SCI community and, hopefully, guest interviews. Thanks for being a part of this journey - see you in Season 2!…
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It's my first "Life Day" - the one-year anniversary of my spinal cord injury. In this episode, I reflect on what this day means to me and processing the emotions that comes with it. From grief and gratitude, I dive into the complexities of marking this milestone and what I've learned over the past year. Whether you're navigating your own injury, su…
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In this episode, I dive into what it's really like to balance my spinal cord injury with trying to have a "normal" day - whether that's working, spending time with friends and family, or just handling everyday tasks. From moments where my disability fades into the background to times when it throws a wrench in my plans, I'm sharing a candid look at…
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In this episode, I take you throught my first experience playing an adaptive sport - wheelchair rugby! I joined a practice with WASA (Wisconsin Adaptive Sports Association) and got a firsthand experience with this sport. I share what it was like using a rugby chair for the first time, how it compares to my everyday chair, and the differences betwee…
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The Power of Words: Platitudes and Perspective
28:05
28:05
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28:05In this episode, I turn the focus back to the mental and emotional side of living with a spinal cord injury by breaking down some common platitudes-how they have taken on new meaning, why they don't resonate, and which ones should really be avoided due to their unintended, negative connotations. Words have power, and the way we talk about disabilit…
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Happy Valentine's Day! In this episode, I dive into what it's like being in an inter-abled marriage with my husband and how, while not drastically, my spinal cord injury has changed our relationship. From the ways we've adapted in daily life to the deeper connections we've built, I share and honest look at love after injury. And since no Valentine'…
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In this episode, I'm diving into how my daily life has evolved over the past six months. From changes in my daily care routine to the major shift of converting from a complete to an incomplete injury, I break down what these transitions have meant for me. I'll roll you through what a typical day looks like now--what's easier, what's still a challen…
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On the Road Again: My First Trip Post-Injury
24:14
24:14
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24:14In this episode, I'm sharing all about our first road trip and hotel stay since my injury. From planning the drive to making sure our hotel room was actually accessible; this trip was full of learning experiences. I'll talk about how I managed being in the car for an extended time, the extra equipment we brought to make things easier, and what work…
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Sniffles and Spinal Cord Injuries: Managing My First Cold
21:45
21:45
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21:45Facing a cold is tough for anyone, but as a paraplegic, it comes with unique challenges. In this episode, I share my experience dealing with my first cold post-injury. From managing symptoms with limited mobility to staying on top of potential complications, I discuss the strategies that helped me get through it and critical watch-outs. Whether you…
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In this episode, I dive into Part 2 of my "20 Questions" series, where I answer the final 10 questions about life post-injury, recovery, and everything in between. These questions cover topics like adapting to daily challenges, personal growth, and collaborating with my medical team. Tune in for candid insights and a lot of reflection as i continue…
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In this milestone episode, I'm answering 20 questions about life post-injury and my recovery journey - 10 questions at a time! Theses questions come from family, friends, and ones I've been asked in the past. In this episode, I dive into the moments that have shaped my experience so far. Join me for an honest and insightful conversation as I share …
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Balancing Autonomy and Uncertainty in Early Recovery
24:33
24:33
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24:33In this episode, I explore the paradox of being both new to life with a spinal cord injury and handed significant control over my medical decisions. I dive into the mental energy it takes to navigate unfamiliar scenarios, like choosing whether to get an IUD implant or deciding if antibiotics are necessary for a potential UTI. These decisions aren't…
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Bladder Battles: Navigating Urology and SCI Life
25:50
25:50
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25:50In this episode, I dive into everything I've learned about bladders and bladder management since my spinal cord injury. From navigating urology tests to better understand bladder and kidney function, to the different options for management, I share insights, lessons, and the realities of figuring out a system that works. Whether you're on a similar…
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The Hard Times Matter Too: Why I've Been MIA
26:54
26:54
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26:54After Nearly two months away, I'm back to share what's been going on behind the scenes. Recovery isn't all progress and milestones--it's also about facing the challenges that come along the way. For me, That's meant dealing with persistent bladder issues that have taken over more of my life than I ever anticipated. In this episode, I open up about …
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Finding Purpose in Research and Patience in Recovery
19:43
19:43
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19:43In this episode, I'm sharing my experience participating in a research study at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I took part in a manual wheelchair push test designed to gather valuable data on manual wheelchair users. This study was an opportunity to give back to the wheelchair user community in a meaningful way, knowing that the insig…
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Finding My Voice: A Key Part of Independence
26:27
26:27
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26:27Following lasts episode's update, in this episode, I dive into the importance of self-advocacy--what it means to me and how it plays a vital role in my journey with an spinal cord injury. From navigating conversations with my medical team to making decisions in daily activities, self-advocacy gives me an opportunity to be part of my health and gain…
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In this episode, I'm back after taking a month-long break, and I want to share the reasons behind it. Recovering from a spinal cord injury is anything but straightforward, and sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges. Over the past month, I've been navigating new shifts in my recovery, from physical changes to mental health struggles, and just …
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In this episode, I take you through a day in my life five months after my spinal cord injury. It's been a journey of adaptation and change since I last recorded an episode like this three months ago. I'll share how my routines have evolved, the new challenges I face and the small victories gaining more independence. Whether you're on a similar path…
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In this episode, I share the emotional and physical journey of returning to work in person for the first time since my spinal cord injury. As a newly paraplegic individual, this experience was filled with challenges, accomplishments and a few surprises. I discuss the preparation, the day of and the aftermath of completing an 8-hour-day on site. Joi…
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Rebuilding Life by Climbing Maslow's Ladder
23:37
23:37
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23:37In this episode, I'm diving back into the mental side of a spinal cord injury. I'll talk specifically on how Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs connects to my own journey and learning how to navigate the world around me. I'll share what it's been like to go from the initial shock and vulnerability of my injury and how it's impacted my sense of stability a…
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In this episode, I'll explore the various ways I can still exercise after a spinal cord injury. As a paraplegic, I've discovered unique methods to maintain and improve my physical health. We'll dive into upper body exercises that build strength and endurance, as well as innovative techniques for engaging the lower body. Join me as I share personal …
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In this episode, we'll dive into the current stage of my spinal cord injury recovery, where everything seems to shift at unknown times. Join me as I explore the unpredictable nature of this journey, marked by trial and error in managing health, experiencing returning sensory and motor functions and adapting to daily activities. Through candid refle…
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In this episode, we'll journey through the Abilities Expo in Chicago. I'll share my experiences from the workshop I attended and the diverse range of vendors we encountered, each showcasing innovative products and services designed to enhance the lives of people with disabilities. Get a feel for the overall vibe of the expo, filled with a strong se…
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In this episode, we dive into the continuous process of living with a spinal cord injury. From home renovations tailored to accessibility needs to navigating the recovery process and facing the daily challenges of going out, every aspect requires adjustments and troubleshooting. Additionally, I discuss the upcoming Abilities Expo, a fantastic event…
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In this episode, we delve into the complex emptions that come with life after a spinal cord injury. We explore how even the most positive news in recovery can be both exciting and intimidating, introducing a new set of challenges and a steep learning curve. Join me for a glimpse at navigating the highs and lows of recovery, and the vital role of em…
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In this episode, I'll dive into the various types of therapy available for spinal cord injury patients, exploring the different levels provided in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient settings. I'll share my personal experiences with each therapy type and how therapy evolves as i move through recovery. Whether you're a patient, caregiv…
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In this episode, I'll take you through a typical day in my life living with a spinal cord injury. From morning routines to nighttime preparations, I share the unique challenges and adaptations I navigate daily. Whether you're curious about life with a spinal cord injury or seeking inspiration about a personal situation, this episode offers a candid…
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"So, what else happened?" For me, that was multiple additional broken bones, infections and paying attention to my body in new ways. In this episode, I'll share more information abouth the health issues my body has been helaing from in addition to the S.C.I. and what future health issues I need to pay additional attention to.…
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In this episode of "S.C.I. Chronicles", I delve into the complex world of spinal cord injury (S.C.I.) diagnosis. Join me as I unpack what it means to receive an S.C.I. diagnosis, exploring the various clinical terms that can often feel overwhelming. We'll also walk through the typical timelines and stages of recovery using my experience as the exam…
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The Starting Point: Welcome to the S.C.I. Chronicles
4:52
4:52
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4:52In this first episode fo S.C.I. Chronicles, I introduce mhyself and share the abridged story behind my spinal cord injury. You'll get a glimpse into my current state and the motovation behind starting this podcast. Join me as we kick off this series dedicated to sharing my story of life and the recovery process.…
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