The Healthy Diabetic
Welcome to The healthy Diabetic Podcast, each week I talk about how to navigate the complexities of diabetes. I interview doctors, Endo's, dietitians, CDE's, technology leaders, caregivers, and of course anybody who is affected by diabetes. This show is for you if you're looking for safe, educational, and engaging conversations. I promise to brighten your day, and you'll be sure to leave educated, supported, and guided on your way to a healthier and happier life with diabetes.
Remember, your only job as a diabetic is to figure out what works for you!
See you inside!
Coach Ken.
The Healthy Diabetic
#355: Why We Avoid the Diabetes Decisions We Know We Should Make - (LIVE-023)
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In this episode, Ken and Graham dive into one of the most overlooked parts of living with diabetes: the stories, beliefs, and identity patterns we create over time.
What starts as a conversation about childhood experiences, sports, discipline, and self-worth evolves into a much deeper discussion about how people approach diabetes management—and why so many struggle with consistency, burnout, and decision-making.
Ken opens up about growing up without a strong male role model, feeling like he had to figure everything out alone, and how those experiences shaped the way he approached school, sports, and eventually diabetes. The conversation connects these personal experiences directly back to Type 1 diabetes and the reality that most people naturally gravitate toward what feels easiest, most enjoyable, or least mentally exhausting.
Ken and Graham also unpack:
- why people avoid pre-bolusing even when they know it helps
- the frustration with pumps and CGMs not being “perfect”
- how people pick and choose where they spend mental energy
- and why diabetes management has to fit into real life—not replace it
The episode finishes with a powerful hypothetical conversation:
What if Ken had been diagnosed with diabetes in high school instead of adulthood?
That leads into a raw and honest discussion around denial, immaturity, identity, athletics, mental health, and how different life experiences shape the way people respond to diabetes.
This episode is deeply personal, reflective, and relatable for anyone who has ever struggled to balance diabetes with actually wanting to live life.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- How childhood experiences shape behavior and self-belief
- Why people avoid diabetes tasks they know would help them
- The psychology behind pre-bolusing and decision fatigue
- Why technology helps—but still creates frustration
- How diabetes competes with “real life” priorities
- The connection between identity, maturity, and diabetes management
- Why many people stay in denial after diagnosis
- How the Five Pillars help simplify priorities and reduce overwhelm
Additional Resources:
- Watch our LIVE episodes Mondays & Wednesdays @2pm EST - Tune in Here
- 🎯 The 5-Lessons You Can't Learn From Your Doctor" - A 5-day all-encompassing educational experience - ITS-FREE
🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com
📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning
💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching
📞 Simplify Your Diabetes - Free Call: Book Now
🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here
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Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM before making any changes to your Diabetes management.
