Spondycast
Spondycast is a podcast dedicated to providing information and inspiration for people with spondyloarthritis. Each week, it features in-depth conversations with leading experts on diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition. The podcast is produced by the Spondylitis Association of America (SAA) and is supported by donations from members and corporate partners.
Episodes
From Storyteller to Host: Vince Gagliardi on Living with axSpA and the Strength of Community
Vince Gagliardi shares his journey living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), from navigating diagnosis and daily challenges to becoming an advocate through storytelling.
Could It Be Axial Spondyloarthritis? Inside the A-Tool Screening Survey
Rheumatologist Abhijeet Danve, MD, MHS, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Yale University, and developer of the Axial Spondyloarthritis Screening Tool (A-Tool) discusses why diagnostic delays happen, how the A-Tool screening survey was designed to help identify patterns of inflammatory back pain, and how it may support earlier referral to a rheumatologist.
Family Planning with Spondyloarthritis: What Partners and Fathers Need to Know
Alfred N. Romeo, BA, BSN, RN, MS, PhD, a MotherToBaby expert, joins Spondycast to discuss family planning when spondyloarthritis is part of the picture.
The Truth About Drug Prices: Who Really Determines the Cost of Your Medications?
Chuck Melendi, founder of Disruptive Dialogue, joins Spondycast to unpack the complex system behind prescription drug pricing and explain why medications can be so expensive for patients.
Redefining Self-Care: How Personal Wellness Influences Family Dynamics
Adrine Avetyan, MA, LMFT, and founder of Scalp Sanctuary, a wellness space designed to promote relaxation and restoration, joins us to explore what self-care really means.
Living Well with SpA: Adapting Daily Activities Without Giving Them Up
Janet Poole, PhD, OTR/L, an occupational therapist, shares practical strategies to help people with SpA adapt how they approach everyday tasks at home, work, and in leisure activities to reduce pain, stiffness, and fatigue while maintaining independence and quality of life.
Late-Onset AS: Insights from the PSOAS Study
Dr. Mark Hwang, MD joins us to discuss findings from his recent study on late-onset radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (AS), and how late-onset AS differs from early-onset disease in its presentation, radiographic findings, genetic markers, and treatment considerations.
Understanding Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy: A Clinical and Ethical Perspective
Jana Bolduan Lomax, PsyD discusses psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy examined through a clinical and ethical lens.
Energy Conservation Isn’t Giving Up: Managing Fatigue in Spondyloarthritis
Janet Poole, PhD, OTR/L, shares an occupational therapy perspective on fatigue and reframes energy conservation as a practical, empowering skill.
Pregnancy and Family Planning in Spondyloarthritis: What Patients Need to Know
Dr. Dharini Mahendira, MD, FRCPC, MScCH, discusses what patients need to know when planning a family while managing SpA. From pre-conception planning and disease control to medication considerations and coordinated care during pregnancy, this conversation provides evidence-based guidance and reassurance to help patients feel informed, prepared, and supported in making decisions alongside their hea
Inside the Immune System: Uncovering the Triggers Behind Spondyloarthritis
Kristen Mengwasser, MD, PhD, physician-scientist and Assistant Adjunct Professor of Rheumatology at UCSF — and SAA’s 2025 Early Career Investigator Award winner — joins us to discuss her research on how the immune system triggers axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).
RENEW Your Energy: Inside a New Research Study on Fatigue and Resilience in Spondyloarthritis
Susan Murphy, ScD, OTR, introduces the SAA-funded RENEW Study, a new University of Michigan research initiative focused on fatigue, energy management, and resilience in people living with spondyloarthritis.
Spotting the Signs Early: How CT scans Could Help Detect Spondyloarthritis in People with IBD
Adam Seth Mayer, MD, Assistant Professor of Adult and Pediatric Rheumatology at Hackensack University Medical Center and the Center for Discovery and Innovation — and SAA’s 2025 Jane Bruckel Early Career Investigator Award winner — joins us to discuss his research on using existing abdominal and pelvic CT scans to help detect axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) earlier in people living with inflammato
Professional Success with Chronic Illness: Practical Strategies for Advancing Your Destiny with Spondyloarthritis
Leadership expert Donzel Leggett, Author of Make Your Destiny Happen, joins Spondycast to share practical approaches for building confidence and advancing both personally and professionally while managing a chronic illness.
When Pain Persists: Understanding the Brain’s Role in Spondyloarthritis
Dr. Mohamad Bittar, MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University — and SAA’s 2025 Early Career Investigator Award winner — discusses his research on pain mechanisms and brain connectivity in people living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).
Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine: Evidence-Based Strategies to Support SpA
Dr. Heidi Prather returns to Spondycast to explore the six pillars of lifestyle medicine and how each can support people living with axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).
Cancer, Immunotherapy, and Spondyloarthritis: Balancing Cancer Care with Joint Health
Dr. Sang Taek Kim, MD, PhD of Yale Medicine discusses the complex overlap between cancer, immunotherapy, and spondyloarthritis.
Closing the Diagnosis Delay in Spondyloarthritis
Dr. Norma Biln, Norma Biln, PhD, MBA, BSc, NACD.DC, one of the founders of Augurex, explains how new biomarkers, patient questionnaires, and tools like SPINEstat aim to shorten the long diagnostic delay in spondyloarthritis by improving early detection and referral accuracy, especially in primary care settings.
Fact vs. Fiction: The Truth About Functional Nutrition
Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) Laurane Chemenda, RWP, AIP Coach returns to Spondycast to debunk common myths about functional nutrition—such as supplement overload and miracle diets—while explaining how integrative, evidence-based nutrition can complement conventional rheumatology care and empower people with spondyloarthritis to take charge of their health.
Biologic Tapering in axSpA: What Research Says and What it Means for Patients
Rheumatologist Dr. Marina Magrey discusses her latest research on biologic DMARD dose tapering in axial spondyloarthritis, outlining when it may be appropriate, its risks and benefits, and key considerations for patients.
The Heart of Inflammation: Cardiovascular Health in Psoriatic Arthritis
Dr. Michael Lucke discusses the important connection between inflammation and cardiovascular health as he breaks down why people with PsA face higher risks, what warning signs to look for, and how screenings, treatments, and lifestyle steps can protect the heart.
Lifestyle Medicine for Musculoskeletal Health: A Whole-Person Approach to Spondyloarthritis
Dr. Heidi Prather, Founder of the HSS Lifestyle Medicine Program, shares how lifestyle medicine, through movement, sleep, stress management, and nutrition, can help people with spondyloarthritis reduce pain, improve function, and enhance their overall well-being.
Managing AS from the Inside Out: A Functional Approach to Whole-Body Healing
Laurane Chemenda, Laurane Chemenda, RWP, AIP Coach, and a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP), shares her personal and professional journey with ankylosing spondylitis and how nutrition, gut health, and sustainable lifestyle changes can support whole-body healing and complement conventional care.
Beyond Pain Relief: Conscious Bodywork and Mobility Training for Long-Term Wellness
David Smith, FRCms, FR, FRA, LMT, founder of Manta Massage, discusses how conscious bodywork and mobility training can help people with chronic conditions like spondyloarthritis reconnect with their bodies, reduce pain, and restore movement.
Finding Strength Together: Inside Pain Connection’s Men’s Support Group
This episode explores the importance of safe, supportive spaces for men living with chronic pain, as guests Sarah Gehrig and Ryan Drozd share their personal journeys, the creation of the US Pain Foundation’s Pain Connection Men’s Support Group, and how community can foster vulnerability, healing, and empowerment.
Thriving in Later Life: A Guide to Senior Resources, Benefits, and Support Services
AgingNext CEO Abigail Pascua shares how compassionate guidance, proactive planning, and accessible resources empower older adults, caregivers, and individuals with chronic conditions to live well, age well, and stay connected, regardless of where they call home.
Part 2: Mind-Gut Connection in Spondyloarthritis: Understanding Stress’s Role in Gut and Joint Inflammation
In Part 2, Dr. Antonia Repollet explores how chronic stress impacts the gut-brain axis and inflammation in spondyloarthritis, and shares practical, evidence-based mind-body therapies, like clinical hypnosis and ACT, to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Part 1: Mind-Gut Connection in Spondyloarthritis: Rethinking Chronic Pain Through a Psychological Lens
Dr. Antonia Repollet explores how the gut-brain connection, trauma, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) shape the experience of chronic pain and offers practical strategies to help people with spondyloarthritis build resilience and regain control.
Your Stories: A Father’s Perspective - Kyle Settles on Navigating Life and Parenting with Spondyloarthritis
Kyle Settles, an educator and father living with spondylitis, shares his journey of advocating for his health, balancing fatherhood and chronic illness, and cultivating joy, empathy, and resilience while navigating life in rural Alaska.
Part 2: Your Stories: Jenifer Forbes, Team USA Rower, and Her Journey with SpA
In Part 2 of her conversation, Jenifer Forbes, former Team USA rower, reflects on life after elite rowing, sharing how she navigates spondyloarthritis, comorbidities, and personal transformation with resilience, self-compassion, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Your Stories: Jenifer Forbes, Team USA Rower, and Her Journey to Diagnosis
Jenifer Forbes, former Team USA rower, talks about her difficult journey to a diagnosis of spondyloarthritis and how it impacted her athletic career.
Spondyloarthritis and the Gut: The Role of Diet on the Gut Microbiome and Its Potential to Improve Inflammation
Gastroenterologists Drs. Allen Lee, MD and Prashant Singh, MD discuss how specific dietary choices can shape the gut microbiome and, in turn, influence inflammation in people living with spondyloarthritis.
Rewiring Chronic Pain: How Pain Reprocessing Therapy Can Transform Spondyloarthritis Care
Eileen Filliben, JD/MBA, shares how Pain Reprocessing Therapy helped transform her health, and how it may help people with spondyloarthritis change the way their brain responds to pain.
Part 2: A Deeper Dive into Dao Needle Therapy: Bridging Ancient Wisdom with Modern Biomechanics
Acupuncturist and integrative health expert, Brian Bowen, LAc, CMT, PAS, CES, CPT, CHPC, Power MBA, discusses Dao Needle Therapy and how it may benefit individuals with chronic pain.
Part 1: Exploring the Healing Power of Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, and Corrective Exercise for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Acupuncturist and integrative health expert Brian Bowen, LAc, CMT, PAS, CES, CPT, CHPC, Power MBA, shares how combining acupuncture, massage therapy, and corrective exercise can help manage chronic musculoskeletal pain—including conditions like spondyloarthritis—through a holistic and personalized approach.
Exploring the Impact of Spondyloarthritis on Respiratory Function
Dr. Tristan Huie, pulmonologist and expert in interstitial lung disease, explains how spondyloarthritis can impact lung function, what symptoms to watch for, and how early detection, treatment, and multidisciplinary care can help protect respiratory health.
Negotiating Life: Turning Advocacy and Adversity into Empowerment, Resilience, and Inner Peace
Lousin Mehrabi, a globally recognized negotiation expert, shares how the principles of negotiation, emotional intelligence, and inner peace can empower people, especially those with chronic illness, to advocate for their needs, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges confidently.
Part 2: MotherToBaby: A Deep Dive into Pregnancy Studies, Patient Participation and The Impact of Spondyloarthritis Research with Dr. Christina Chambers
Dr. Christina Chambers, a leading expert in prenatal and lactation research, discusses how MotherToBaby studies help evaluate the safety of medications and treatments - like those used for spondyloarthritis - during pregnancy, and how patients can get involved in this vital research.
From Host to Guest: Celebrating 100 Spondycast Episodes with Jill Miller
In this special 100th episode, Spondycast host Jill Miller becomes the guest, sharing her personal journey with spondyloarthritis, favorite moments from the show, and her vision for an empowered patient community.
Navigating the Patient-Nurse Relationship: Insights from the Rheumatology Nurses Society
Gwen Robinson, RNS Historian Supervisor & Infusion Nurse Specialist, shares valuable insights on how nurses support SpA patients, improve communication, and strengthen the patient-care team relationship.
Part 1: MotherToBaby: Supporting Pregnant Patients with Evidence-Based Answers
Robert Felix, a senior information specialist at MotherToBaby California, discusses MTB's evidence-based information about medications and other exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Navigating Spondyloarthritis in the Workplace: Balancing Work, Health, and Wellness
Patricia Ewa Grabarek, PhD, and Katina Brynn Sawyer, PhD, co-founders of Workr Beeing and authors of the book “Leading for Wellness”, discuss strategies for navigating the workplace while managing a chronic illness.
Navigating Menopause with Spondyloarthritis: Managing Symptoms and Maintaining Health
Dr. Camile Moreno, an expert in midlife women’s health, discusses how perimenopause and menopause impact women’s health, including those women who manage a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease.
Power of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT): Stress Management in Spondyloarthritis
Brad and Pamela Thompson, certified EFT practitioners, discuss how emotional freedom techniques, also known as tapping, can help reduce symptoms of stress.
Holistic Healing and Community Support: Navigating Spondyloarthritis with Limitless Ladies Network
Tammy Dungan, Founder of Limitless Ladies Network and Women's Wellness Coach, shares her personal journey with spondyloarthritis and Lyme disease, highlighting the power of holistic healing and community support.
Take a Pain Check: Empowering Youth with Arthritis Through Advocacy and Action
Natasha Trehan, Founder and Executive Director of Take a Pain Check, and Maggie Douglas, the organization's Global Development Coordinator, share their personal stories and discuss their mission to empower youth and young adults living with a rheumatic disease.
Exploring the Role of Regenerative Medicine in Musculoskeletal Health
Dr. Naimish Baxi, an expert in sports medicine, spine care, pain management, and musculoskeletal medicine, discusses the role of regenerative medicine in musculoskeletal health.
Sonoran Odyssey: Helgi Olafson’s Mission of Movement as Medicine
Helgi Olafson, endurance athlete and ultra runner, discusses his latest project including the Arizona Monster 300 Endurance Run and a film documenting his 7-day journey while increasing awareness about ankylosing spondylitis.
Personalized Medicine in Spondyloarthritis: The Role of Biomarkers
Dr. Walter Maksymowych, Rheumatologist and Researcher, discusses the role of biomarkers in revolutionizing diagnosis, treatment, and personalized care for people living with SpA.
The Role of Imaging in Diagnosing and Managing Spondyloarthritis
Dr. Walter Maksymowych, Rheumatologist and Researcher, discusses the role of imaging in the diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and long-term management of spondyloarthritis.
Notes of Hope: Fighting AS One Song at a Time with Jess Robbins
Musician Jess Robbins shares her journey with spondylitis and how she channeled her pain, uncertainty, and resilience into her new album.
Managing Medication-Nutrient Depletion in Spondyloarthritis
Dr. Lara Zakaria, PharmD, MS, CDN, CNS, IFMCP, a pharmacist and nutritionist, discusses how medications can cause nutrient depletion, the signs and symptoms to watch for, and ways to address these deficiencies.
Your Stories: Raising the Bar with Derek Sherlock
Powerlifter Derek Sherlock talks about his journey with spondylitis and how he became a world-champion level with a powerlifter.
Your Stories: Author Lisa See’s Journey with AS
Lisa See, New York Times bestselling author, discusses her journey with spondylitis.
An Introduction to Zero Balancing and Benefits for Chronic Conditions
Dr. Michelle Doucette, Board Chair of the Zero Balancing Health Association, explains zero balancing and how it can benefit people with spondylitis.
Incorporating Pranayama (Yogic Breathing) to Promote Well-Being and Management of Spondyloarthritis
Dr. Balasubramanian, integrative health researcher, discusses how breathing practices, such as yogic breathing, can promote well-being in health and chronic illness.
Part 2 - Transitioning to Adult Rheumatology Care: For Young Adults with Spondyloarthritis
In Part 2 of this 2-part episode, Drs. Sadun and Cintron continue their discussion about how young people can successfully transition to adult rheumatology care, including how family can assist with this transition.
Part 1 - Transitioning to Adult Rheumatology Care: For Young Adults with Spondyloarthritis
In Part 1 of this 2-part episode, Drs. Sadun and Cintron discuss the differences between pediatric and adult rheumatology care to help young adults transition successfully to adult rheumatology care.
Grounding Your Health: The Benefits of Earthing
Dr. Gaetan Chevalier, PhD, Director of the Earthing Institute, introduces listeners to earthing, also known as grounding, and how this technique has benefits for health and well-being.
The Role of Occupational Therapy to Maximize Functionality with SpA and Improve Quality of Life
Jeanne Drennan, OT/L, CNMT, an occupational therapist living with spondylitis, discusses how occupational therapy can help improve outcomes and quality of life for people living with spondyloarthritis.
Part 2 of Medicare and Medi-Cal: What You Need to Know
In Part 2 of this episode, Stephanie Fajuri, Program Director for the Center for Health Care Rights, discusses Medicare, supplemental insurance, and Medi-Cal benefits.
Part 1 of Medicare and Medi-Cal: What You Need to Know
In Part 1 of this episode, Stepanie Fajuri, Program Director for the Center for Health Care Rights, explains Medicare and Medi-Cal benefits.
Optimizing Mobility and Functionality: Physical Therapy Strategies for Spondyloarthritis
Physical therapist Nicole Mozafari, PT, DPT, OCS, CMT, discusses how physical therapy can improve mobility and function.
Overcoming Obstacles: American Ninja Warrior Lisa Hair’s Journey with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Lisa Hair, a physician assistant, and American Ninja Warrior competitor discusses her journey with spondylitis and how she has overcome the challenges.
The Negative Impacts of Alcohol on the Gut-Brain-Immune Systems
Dr. Melissa Mondala discusses the impact alcohol consumption can have on your body and mind.
Teeing Up for Spondylitis: Curt and Grant Rocca’s Journey to Raise Awareness
Curt and Grant Rocca, father and son, discuss their journey to Grant’s diagnosis and their mission to raise awareness about spondylitis through their annual charity golf tournament.
Daily Routines and Rituals for Mental Endurance in Managing Spondyloarthritis
Michael Leach, author, motivational speaker, and coach, discusses his personal experience with AS and how daily routines can improve mental health.
What to Do If Your Treatment Is Denied: A Guide to Self-Advocacy
Victoria Killian, a member of SAA’s Advocacy Committee, discusses steps to take if your treatment is denied.
Navigating the Path to SSDI Benefits for Spondylitis Patients
TJ Geist, an SSDI benefits advocate, discusses the process to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Pilates for Spondyloarthritis: Flexibility and Strengthening Through Movement
Shane Keith Rhoads, MS, CSCS,a professional trainer, discusses how pilates can improve flexibility and strength for people managing SpA.
Juvenile Spondyloarthritis: Research and Advocacy Efforts with Dr. Pam Weiss and Parent Advocate Emily Neu
Pediatric rheumatologist Pam Weiss, MD, and Parent Advocate Emily Neu discuss juvenile spondyloarthritis and its treatment, and the Back Off JSpA research study.
Navigating the Health Care System, Access to Treatment and Insurance Companies: The Patient’s Role
Robin Dore, MD, rheumatologist and member of SAA’s Advocacy Committee, discusses how patients can advocate for themselves while working with their physicians and health insurance to get needed healthcare.
Ayurvedic Concepts of Food and Nutrition
Loribeth Cohen, PT, CAP, IMT-C, NET Practitioner, provides an overview of the Ayurvedic guidelines for nutrition and food.
Podiatric Care: Enhancing Foot Health for Spondyloarthritis Patients
Dr. Lindsey Cherry, Specialist Podiatrist in Rheumatology, discusses how spondyloarthritis can impact your feet and how a podiatrist can help.
Your Stories: A Conversation with Dancer Alicia Graf Mack
Alicia Graf Mack, Dean and Director of Juilliard Dance, discusses her journey with spondyloarthritis and her career as a professional dancer.
Spondyloarthritis and Aging: Navigating Changes in Later Years
Rheumatologist Raymond Yung, MD, specializing in geriatric medicine and rheumatology, discusses how spondyloarthritis impacts people as they age.
The Spondyloarthritis Athlete: Overcoming Obstacles and Leading Advocacy Efforts
Ultramarathon runners and endurance athletes Helgi Olafson and Brandon Robert Hozack discuss their journey with spondyloarthritis, their advocacy and awareness efforts, and how they overcome their challenges with AS.
An Introduction to Ayurveda with Loribeth Cohen
Loribeth Cohen, PT, CAP, IMT-C, NET Practitioner, provides an introduction to Ayurveda and how this practice strives to move people from a state of “dis-ease” or imbalance to more wholeness.
Speak Up with Author Stephen Shedletzky
Stephen Shedletzky, author of Speak Up Culture, discusses how people living with spondyloarthritis can find their voice to advocate for their needs.
From World Traveler to Warrior Advocate: A Conversation with Carrie Kellenberger
Carrie Kellenberger, SpA advocate and award-winning blogger of myseveralworlds.com discusses her journey with spondyloarthritis while being a Canadian living in Taiwan.
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