The Autoimmune Campfire Podcast

Nona and Helen are delighted to share a dear friend and colleague, Cath Duncan, with you on the Autoimmune Campfire podcast. They recorded a two-part conversation on Cath’s experience with chronic illness and her incredible resilience and creativity and how she has intentionally fueled her ability to thrive in the face of challenges. Cath Duncan is a mixed-media artist living in Utrecht, Netherlands. Her paintings are inspired by her first career as a Grief Therapist and her personal experiences of loss and grief, which include vision and hearing impairments, chronic illness, pregnancy loss, adoption, and immigration. Nature is both her muse and sanctuary, offering sensory experiences and healing metaphors that sustain her, shape her creative process and inspire her explorations of the relationships between inner and outer landscapes. Cath is the author of Untangle Your Grief - Questions and Art After Loss, and she has exhibited her art in South Africa, the Netherlands, and the UK, and sold her original paintings to private collectors around the world.Cath’s art website: https://www.cathduncan.comCath’s Untangle Your Grief book: https://cathduncan.com/untangle-your-grief/Cath’s Insta: https://www.instagram.com/cathd/Cath’s Delight series…https://www.cathduncan.com/delight-practiceCath provided attribution for the indigenous perspective on disability that she talked about. She got it from Indigenous scholars and activists, Dorothy Lonewolf Miller, (Blackfeet) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dorothy_Lonewolf_Miller) and Jennie R. Joe (Navajo) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jennie_R._Joe).We welcome your comments and look forward to hearing from you. What are you taking away from this conversation? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Nona and Helen are delighted to share a dear friend and colleague, Cath Duncan, with you on the Autoimmune Campfire podcast. They recorded a two-part conversation on Cath’s experience with chronic illness and her incredible resilience and creativity and how she has intentionally fueled her ability to thrive in the face of challenges. Cath Duncan is a mixed-media artist living in Utrecht, Netherlands. Her paintings are inspired by her first career as a Grief Therapist and her personal experiences of loss and grief, which include vision and hearing impairments, chronic illness, pregnancy loss, adoption, and immigration. Nature is both her muse and sanctuary, offering sensory experiences and healing metaphors that sustain her, shape her creative process and inspire her explorations of the relationships between inner and outer landscapes. Cath is the author of Untangle Your Grief - Questions and Art After Loss, and she has exhibited her art in South Africa, the Netherlands, and the UK, and sold her original paintings to private collectors around the world.Cath’s art website: https://www.cathduncan.com Cath’s Untangle Your Grief book: https://cathduncan.com/untangle-your-grief/Cath’s Insta: https://www.instagram.com/cathd/Cath’s Delight series…https://www.cathduncan.com/delight-practiceWe welcome your comments and look forward to hearing from you. What are you taking away from this conversation? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Hello there, Nona and I are sharing Bonus Episode 2 in our series of interviews we’ve been having around living well with a chronic condition including guests who have an autoimmune / chronic condition or work with those who have an autoimmune diagnosis.In this episode, Nona and Helen interview Elizabeth Cush. Elizabeth Cush is a licensed clinical professional counselor, a life coach for highly sensitive women, and business owner. She’s also the host of the Awaken Your Wise Woman podcast.  Elizabeth has worked in the mental health field for over 19 years where she incorporates the body, mind, and spirit into her work. You can find her here:https://www.elizabethcushcoaching.com/We talk about Internal Family Systems / Parts Work in this podcast and refer to Richard Schwartz who is the founder of this body of work. You can learn more here or in one of his many books:https://ifs-institute.com/about-us/richard-c-schwartz-phd We share our perspectives, learning and benefits in this podcast. We know it goes without saying, but the information provided on The Autoimmune Campfire is for educational or informational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment plan. The Autoimmune Campfire does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on this site or podcast. What resonated for you in the conversation? We’d love to hear from you in the comments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Hi there, we’re releasing some interviews that Nona and I completed and we wanted to share them with you. We hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed these conversations and we’d love to hear what you think.In this 1st Bonus episode, Nona and Helen talk to Natalie Eslick about her story with chronic conditions and how creativity supports her in flourishing. Natalie Eslick is a wildlife artist and creative guide whose work bridges the gap between humans and the natural world. Through her meticulously rendered portraits in pencil and paint, she invites viewers to recognize themselves in the eyes of our wild kin, while her teaching practice empowers others to forge their own creative connections with nature. As an Associate Member of Artists for Conservation and founder of both Hedgerow and The Wild Sketchbook communities, Natalie's work serves multiple paths toward the same goal: reconnecting wild-hearted humans with the natural world. Her artistic practice, which earned her recognition through works featured in Sharon Blackie's bestselling book 'Hagitude', demonstrates the same core values she teaches - curiosity, compassion, and courage in approaching both art and nature. Whether through her detailed wildlife portraits that bring the wild into homes and hearts, or her gentle, supportive education programs that help artists develop their skills and confidence, Natalie creates spaces for deep connection and recognition of our inherent bonds with the natural world. Her integrated approach to art and teaching emphasizes process and connection over perfection, encouraging both viewers and students to discover their own unique ways of honoring and celebrating our wild kin.You can learn more about Natalie and her programs here: https://www.natalieeslick.com/What resonated for you in the conversation? We’d love to hear from you in the comments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

In this emotional and insightful episode, hosts Helen and Nona of the Autoimmune Campfire podcast welcome their husbands, Rob and Erick, to share their perspectives on living with spouses who have chronic conditions. They discuss the impact on family life, the challenges of diagnosis, and the adjustments required post-diagnosis. Both couples reflect on the hidden gifts and lessons learned through these experiences, emphasizing gratitude, love, and commitment. This episode also marks the season finale, offering heartfelt gratitude to their listeners and teasing an exciting return for season two.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:26 Introducing Our Guests: Rob and Erick00:52 The Spouses' Perspective: Impact on Family02:01 Nona and Erick's Journey Together04:00 Helen and Rob's Story07:34 Challenges and Diagnosis: Erick's Experience21:43 Rob's Reflections on Helen's Diagnosis34:40 Hidden Gifts and Gratitude39:59 Closing ThoughtsThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive episodes straight to your inbox.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thank you for joining us - we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

In episode 13 of The Autoimmune Campfire, coaches Helen and Nona delve into the topic of resilience when faced with unexpected challenges related to chronic conditions. They share personal stories of recent medical issues, Helen's encounter with GI problems and Nona's discovery of a new lesion during an MS follow-up. The conversation highlights the importance of slowing down, recognizing one's habitual responses, and finding ways to disrupt negative patterns by practicing mindfulness, self-kindness, and gratitude. They also discuss how resilience can be cultivated through continuous self-care and embracing change as an inevitable part of life. This heartfelt episode offers insights and practical advice for anyone managing life with a chronic condition.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:18 Catching Up and Personal Updates00:34 Bumps in the Road: Personal Challenges02:29 Navigating Health Setbacks05:12 Understanding Resilience08:44 Personal Stories of Resilience27:58 Lessons Learned and Moving ForwardThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes straight to your inbox.Hey, let’s connect! If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thank you for joining us - we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below.Additional resource: Article on Resilience:https://www.cnbc.com/2017/06/06/adam-grant-how-to-improve-resilience.html This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Navigating Wellbeing with Autoimmune ConditionsIn this episode of the Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona engage in a heartfelt discussion about the complexities of maintaining well-being while living with a chronic condition. They delve into the PERMA model from positive psychology, exploring how Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment can contribute to flourishing despite health challenges. Helen and Nona share personal experiences, tackle the impact of toxic positivity, and emphasize the importance of acknowledging all emotions. Listen in for actionable insights on nurturing wellbeing and finding joy amidst adversity.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:18 Holiday Recap and Personal Updates01:32 Choosing Wellbeing: An Introduction06:07 The Theory of Wellbeing: PERMA08:42 Personal Stories and Practices18:49 Toxic Positivity vs. True Wellbeing25:13 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts29:47 Upcoming Episodes and FarewellResources:An article about the PERMA Well-being Theory:https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/learn-more/perma-theory-well-being-and-perma-workshops#:~:text=what%20enables%20it%3F-,Dr.,are%20strategies%20to%20increase%20each.Thanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes straight to your inbox.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thank you for joining us - we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Nurturing Connections: The Heartbeat of WellbeingIn this episode of the Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona explore the profound impact of connections on living well with a chronic condition. They share personal stories about the value of community and meaningful relationships, emphasize quality over quantity in friendships, and discuss the Harvard study on happiness, highlighting the importance of positive social connections. They also offer insights into maintaining relationships despite the challenges posed by autoimmune diseases and provide three key takeaways on the power of intentional connections. Join Helen and Nona for an enlightening conversation about the joy and necessity of human connection.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:27 Weekend Highlights and Personal Stories04:45 The Importance of Connection06:05 Challenges of Connection with Autoimmune Conditions07:29 Research Insights on Connection and Wellbeing11:12 Personal Experiences and Strategies for Connection25:28 Lessons on Building Meaningful Connections32:11 Closing Thoughts and Next Episode PreviewResources: The definition we used for connection was from the work of Dr Brené Brown. Helen highly recommends her books - The gifts of imperfection, Daring Greatly, Dare to Lead, Rising Strong, Atlas of the Heart.Thanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes straight to your inbox.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thank you for joining us - we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Approaching Pain DifferentlyIn episode 10 of the Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona delve into managing chronic pain through mindfulness and breathwork. They discuss the latest pain science and the role of mindfulness in handling pain, especially for those with autoimmune conditions. They emphasize the importance of breathing techniques and practices like Yoga Nidra to support the nervous system. The episode also explores the value of non-attachment to outcomes, running personal experiments, and being gentle with oneself. Join the conversation for insights and practical tools to enhance your well-being.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:43 Weekend Recap: Art and Gratitude02:22 Understanding Pain and Mindfulness05:57 Exploring Pain Science10:14 The Power of Breathwork and Yoga Nidra14:47 Mindfulness Practices and Personal Stories32:06 Lessons on Mindfulness and Pain Management37:34 Conclusion and Next Week's TopicThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes delivered straight to your inbox.Resources referred to in the episode:Jon Kabat-Zinn books are all recommended, Nona mentioned Full Catastrophe Living.Helen’s favorite mindfulness apps: Calm and Happier Self-compassion mindfulness guided practice resources: https://self-compassion.org/self-compassion-practices/#guided-practicesNona’s Yoga Nidra:https://filedn.com/lF62cTjtorSXJlWX9RcxC6m/Substack%20Yoga%20Nidra%20October%2022.mp3Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thank you for joining us - we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Embracing Movement with Autoimmune ConditionsIn episode nine of 'Autoimmune Campfire,' hosts Helen and Nona discuss the importance of incorporating joy-filled movement into the lives of those with autoimmune conditions. They share personal experiences, shedding light on the mental and physical health benefits of exercise and the unique challenges faced by individuals with chronic illnesses. The episode delves into practical tips for finding exercise types that work for you, balancing different exercise forms, and the importance of compassion and adaptability in your fitness journey. Tune in for heartfelt advice and encouragement on how to move your body joyfully and enhance your health and well-being despite an autoimmune diagnosis.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:38 Weekend Recap and Personal Updates02:53 Episode Introduction: Moving Our Bodies03:13 The Importance of Exercise for Autoimmune Conditions06:14 Personal Experiences with Exercise07:08 Adapting Exercise to Your Body's Needs09:28 Finding Joy in Movement14:06 Relearning Your Body with Autoimmune Conditions27:50 Support Systems and Resources for Exercise33:43 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewResources mentioned in the episode:Best exercises for rheumatoid arthritis:https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/other-activities/best-exercises-for-rheumatoid-arthritishttps://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ss/slideshow-ra-exercisesMS resource - Gretchen Hawley:https://www.drgretchenhawley.comWe welcome hearing your recommendations in the comments.Thanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes in your inbox.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thank you for joining us - we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Embracing Sleep for Better HealthIn Episode 8 of 'Autoimmune Campfire,' hosts Helen and Nona delve into the significance of sleep for individuals living with chronic conditions. They share personal stories, discuss the impact of sleep on health and well-being, and explore methods to achieve better sleep quality. The episode touches on factors that affect sleep, such as pain, anxiety, and lifestyle choices, and offers practical tips for improving sleep hygiene. They also highlight the benefits of practices like Yoga Nidra and meditation. The conversation underscores the necessity of prioritizing rest and self-care for optimal health.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:40 Weekend Recap: Beach and Family Time01:47 The Anxiety of Medical Checkups02:50 The Importance of Sleep04:11 Sleep Issues in Autoimmune Conditions11:08 Personal Sleep Stories19:38 Tips for Better Sleep36:11 Closing Thoughts and Listener AppreciationThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes right to your inbox.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Here are resources that we reference in this episode:Why we sleep by Matthew Walker, PhD.Matthew Walker’s TED talk https://www.ted.com/talks/matt_walker_sleep_is_your_superpower?subtitle=enNona’s yoga nidra:https://filedn.com/lF62cTjtorSXJlWX9RcxC6m/Substack%20Yoga%20Nidra%20October%2022.mp3ImogenRagone’s Alexander Technique:https://imogenragone.com Link to ‘CyCling’ with Ease to Down-regulate Stress and Trauma:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPANejLi24o This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

What the hell do I eat now?In this episode of the Autoimmune Campfire podcast, hosts Helen and Nona discuss the complexities of nourishing oneself while living with autoimmune conditions. They explore personal experiences, such as family visits and dietary adjustments, and delve into the varied, sometimes conflicting medical advice on nutrition. The conversation highlights the emotional and physical challenges of managing autoimmune diseases, including Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Key topics include the impact of avoiding processed foods, dealing with food allergies, the importance of self-compassion, and the role of personal experimentation in finding a sustainable diet. The episode also addresses the broader cultural pressures around food and health, encouraging listeners to find individualized approaches that work best for their bodies. The episode wraps up with a sneak peek into the next discussion, focusing on the importance of rest.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:51 Weekend Adventures and Family Time02:04 Community Connections and Retreats03:43 Nourishment and Breath04:04 The Complexities of Nutrition with Autoimmune Disorders07:28 Personal Journeys with Food and Health13:02 The Impact of Sugar and Flour on Health17:47 Navigating Food Allergies and Restrictions19:07 Understanding Diet Beyond Weight Loss21:02 Exploring Various Way of Eating and Their Impact23:35 The Importance of Self-Compassion25:58 Learning from Personal Experiences34:54 General Nourishment Ideas for Autoimmune Conditions37:38 Conclusion and Next StepsThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe to receive new episodes in your inbox.Resources Mentioned:Article from Gretchen Rubin re abstainer vs moderator: https://gretchenrubin.com/articles/abstainer-vs-moderator/Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

In episode six of the Autoimmune Campfire podcast, hosts Helen and Nona explore the theme of pleasure and its importance for individuals with chronic conditions. They discuss personal experiences and ways to integrate pleasurable moments into daily life to enhance well-being. The episode covers the concept of 'glimmers,' small moments of joy, and challenges the perception that pleasure is solely linked to indulgences or sexuality. They emphasize the power of prioritizing pleasure as a healing practice. Helen shares her newfound joy in drawing, while Nona talks about the rejuvenating effects of artistic pursuits. They encourage listeners to embrace both micro and macro pleasures and stop 'waiting' for enjoyment, highlighting the critical importance of finding joy despite life's challenges.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:31 Helen's Birthday Weekend and Pleasure01:27 Nona's Madrid Adventure02:59 Defining Pleasure Beyond Sex04:40 Pleasure as Healing06:44 Prioritizing Pleasure and Play08:44 Personal Stories of Pleasure13:40 Macro Pivots and Micro Choices20:24 Lube Your Life21:17 Practical Tips for Finding Pleasure31:49 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewThanks for reading The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore at https://www.makeyourdayricher.com/RecommendationsSurf Lessons, Nona’s bookDo you like what you hear on the podcast? If so, like and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. We welcome you to the Campfire. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

In this episode of the Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona engage in an insightful conversation about pacing and managing energy for individuals living with chronic conditions. They share personal stories and experiences, highlighting the challenge of adjusting expectations and managing daily activities in the context of varying energy levels. The discussion introduces concepts like 'spoon theory' and 'units of energy', emphasizing the importance of presence, self-advocacy, and aligning activities with personal values and energy levels. The episode encourages listeners to embrace opportunities by attuning to natural rhythms and taking ownership of their energy management journey. Listeners are invited to self-advocate and find balance despite the unpredictable nature of their conditions.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:18 Weekend Recap and Personal Updates02:51 Advocacy and Pacing14:36 Understanding Energy Management30:57 Spiritual Opportunities and Natural Rhythms36:05 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new podcasts straight to your inbox!Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore athttps://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Additional Resources:https://www.forbes.com/health/wellness/pacing/#:~:text=“Pacing%20involves%20balancing%20activity%20and,Schweig.“All of us could benefit from asking ourselves how much is too much and heeding the call of our bodies to rest. However, people with CFS, fibromyalgia, long COVID, chronic pain, and other conditions are often required to ask that question with much greater urgency as they struggle to find energy to accomplish things the rest of us take for granted—like bathing, cooking a meal, running errands or even carrying on a conversation."In the footnotes of the article was the research in RA Lancet's article on pacing with respect to RA:https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(11)60096-2/fulltextAnd Article on Spoon Theory:https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/mental-health/spoon-theory This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

In this episode of Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona engage in a heartfelt discussion about self-advocacy for individuals living with chronic conditions. They share personal stories and insights on the challenges of advocating for oneself, especially as women, and the importance of clear communication with healthcare providers. The conversation explores the need for setting boundaries, being honest with oneself, and the role of vulnerability in self-advocacy. Helen and Nona emphasize the significance of asking for support, staying curious, and taking someone along to important medical appointments where possible. They conclude with practical tips to empower listeners in their journey of advocating for themselves, encouraging self-compassion and clarity in their healthcare experiences.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:19 Weekend Recap and Personal Stories03:09 Lessons in Advocacy04:14 Defining Self-Advocacy05:18 Challenges in Self-Advocacy08:41 Personal Experiences with Self-Advocacy24:36 Strategies for Effective Advocacy32:20 Final Thoughts and FarewellThanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe to receive new episodes delivered straight to your inbox.Connect with usIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore at https://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Helen’s book recommendations from this episode:Sarah Seidelmann’s Boundaries Make Love Possible: Self-respecting BoundariesBrené Brown Dare to LeadDo you like what you hear on the podcast? If so, like and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. We welcome you to the Campfire. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Today’s show notesStories matter. Stories heal. Stories inspire. We welcome connecting with you in the comments. In this episode of the Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona dive deep into Helen's journey with rheumatoid arthritis. Helen opens up about the challenges and triumphs she experienced from her initial diagnosis in 2017 through her daily life, caregiving, and various treatments. The conversation encompasses Helen's initial resistance to medication, the need for advocacy, and the importance of community support and self-compassion. This episode offers hope, insights, and relatable experiences for those living with chronic conditions.02:50 Helen's Story: The Diagnosis Journey09:30 The Perfect Storm: Life Before and After Diagnosis19:56 Moments of Grace and Synchronicities22:34 Advice for the Newly Diagnosed28:06 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTwo books that Helen mentioned:Radiant Rebellion: Reclaim Aging, Practice Joy, and Raise a Little Hell by Karen Walrond.The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook by Kristin Neff and Christopher GermerIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore at https://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Are you enjoying the podcast? We welcome your reviews on Apple Podcasts or subscribing here!Thanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire podcast! Subscribe for free to receive our latest episodes right to your inbox. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Today’s show notesNavigating MS: Nona's Diagnosis Journey and Embracing Life's SynchronicitiesStories matter. Stories heal. Stories inspire. We welcome connecting with you in the comments. In this episode of The Autoimmune Campfire, hosts Helen and Nona discuss Nona's journey of living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). They delve into Nona’s initial diagnosis, the stressors contributing to her 'perfect storm' of symptoms and the critical role of self-care and community support. Nona shares her path to embracing medication, the significance of support from compassionate healthcare providers, and the impact of yoga and healthy lifestyle choices on her well-being. This heartfelt conversation emphasizes the power of storytelling in creating community and offers valuable insights for anyone navigating an autoimmune condition.01:57 Nona's Diagnosis Journey Begins04:41 Navigating the Medical Maze10:23 Deciding on Medication19:17 Reflections and Advice27:21 Closing Thoughts and CommunityThank you for joining us! Please subscribe here, or on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your comments and your likes mean the world to us.If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore at https://www.makeyourdayricher.com/Thanks for joining Helen and Nona at The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new posts straight to your inbox.. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com

Stories matter. Stories heal. Stories inspire. As Patti Digh said, “The shortest distance between two people is a story." We welcome you to The Autoimmune Campfire: Honest Conversations on Thriving with Chronic Conditions.In this inaugural episode of Autoimmune Campfire, coaches Nona Jordan and Helen Samson Mullen discuss their motivations for starting this podcast, sharing personal stories of their diagnoses with multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, respectively. They explore the importance of connection, authenticity, and intentional care when managing autoimmune conditions. They invite listeners to join the conversation on platforms like Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Substack. Listen in to find support, inspiration, and a community that understands the journey of living well with chronic illnesses.00:00 Welcome to the Autoimmune Campfire00:19 Meet Your Hosts: Helen and Nona00:34 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast01:50 Our Personal Stories and Diagnoses03:20 The Unique Perspective of Coaches04:25 Creating a Supportive Community04:55 What to Expect in Season One06:34 The Importance of Sharing Stories09:56 Join the Campfire Community14:21 Inspiring Stories and Final Thoughts15:25 Disclaimer and CreditsIf you want to learn more about who we are and what we do or to work with us, please check our respective websites:https://www.nonajordan.com/https://www.helensamsonmullen.comWe are delighted to work with our wonderful producer, Richard Wilmore at https://www.makeyourdayricher.com/An informative brochure on autoimmune conditions by the AARDA (The American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association).https://autoimmune.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/1-in-5-Brochure.pdfWe would love to hear from you. Please join us by leaving a comment or subscribing to this podcast. Or both. You could do both! Thanks for listening to The Autoimmune Campfire! Subscribe for free to receive new podcast episodes and special posts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theautoimmunecampfire.substack.com