Episode 302 - Type 2 Stigmas & Managing Diabetes as a Sports Photographer with Keith Crear

In this episode, Rob interviews Keith Crear, who shares personal narratives and professional insights about managing type 2 diabetes. The featured guest, a photographer contributing to NFL and MLS, recounts his diagnosis in 2017 following an incident of heat exhaustion and his journey from confusion to effective management through self-research and specialized counseling. Emphasizing personalized care and community support, he discusses the benefits of diet and exercise over insulin and reflects on balancing his creative career with diabetes management. The episode explores significant milestones in his profession, covering major soccer events and aspirations for the 2028 Olympics and highlighting how diabetes has shaped his perspective and growth. Additionally, the conversation tackles the stigma and misinformation surrounding diabetes, particularly in cultural contexts, and underscores the need for individualized care, the role of a supportive medical team, and the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire and educate others. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:36 Welcome and Guest Introduction 01:27 Diagnosis Story and Initial Reactions 03:05 Navigating Life with Diabetes 06:01 Finding the Right Support 09:34 Life as a Sports Photographer with Diabetes 11:41 Creating Diabetes Awareness in the Community 17:02 Living with Diabetes: The Struggle and Perspective 17:50 Transformative Journey: Weight Loss and Self-Discovery 18:59 The Importance of Mental Health and Community Support 20:22 Debunking Myths and Building a Strong Medical Team 20:51 Sharing Personal Stories: Impact and Misconceptions 22:11 Navigating Life with Diabetes: Challenges and Stigmas 26:33 Breaking Barriers: Food, Culture, and Stigma 29:44 Type 1 vs. Type 2: Understanding the Differences 33:49 Connecting with the Diabetes Community 33:58 Final Thoughts and Staying Connected