Mike Golic and Hope Warshaw on Taking Control of Type 2 Diabetes Through Teamwork and Technology

Former NFL player and sports analyst Mike Golic joins diabetes education specialist Hope Warshaw to discuss the realities of living with type 2 diabetes and the importance of building a support system for managing the condition. Golic, who was diagnosed approximately 10 years after retiring from professional football, shares how his athletic background shaped his approach to diabetes management—treating his doctor as a coach, his wife as a teammate, and creating a comprehensive game plan for his new lifestyle.The conversation reveals a critical insight about type 2 diabetes that many people don't realize: unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 often presents without obvious warning signs. Warshaw emphasizes that regular screening is essential since people frequently don't experience the classic symptoms of tiredness or frequent urination. This makes annual checkups crucial for early detection, a practice that helped Golic discover his own diagnosis before symptoms became apparent.Golic candidly discusses the lifestyle transformation required after diagnosis, moving beyond the eating habits of his athletic career when he could consume anything and work it off through intense training. He stresses that managing diabetes isn't about going on a diet—it's about adopting a complete lifestyle change encompassing nutrition, sleep, hydration, and exercise. His approach leverages modern technology, including OneTouch glucose meters integrated with programs like Fitbit, Noom, WellDoc, and Cecilia Health, which provide personalized feedback and even allow live consultations with specialists.A key theme throughout the discussion is the individuality of diabetes management. With 34 million Americans dealing with type 2 diabetes—equivalent to 485 filled football stadiums—Golic emphasizes that everyone's journey is different. What works for one person may not work for another, which is why he advocates for the TalkingTypeU.com campaign that shares diverse stories from former professional athletes like Kyle Love and John Crockett, alongside everyday people navigating their own paths with the condition.Both guests stress that managing diabetes successfully requires assembling a support team rather than going it alone. Warshaw encourages people to seek out certified diabetes care and education specialists who can provide the skills and knowledge needed to integrate diabetes management into daily life. Golic adds that support can come from family, friends, healthcare professionals, and modern technology platforms. He maintains an 85-15 philosophy—being disciplined 85% of the time while allowing himself occasional indulgences—and uses his various programs to understand when he can have treats and what adjustments to make afterward. The overarching message is one of empowerment: diabetes is manageable with the right team, tools, and mindset.