Diabetes Nerd
Seriously? Another diabetes podcast? Yup. I couldn't help myself: I love talking about real life with type 1 and type 2 diabetes with friends, strangers, colleagues, and clinicians. Why not record these chats and share them with you?
We're talking about daily life with diabetes, managing insulin, cure research, new therapies, CGMs and pumps, and our mental health while we juggle it all.
These are real conversations. No scripts.
This podcast is simply a real conversation about life with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
ABOUT THE HOST:
Ginger Vieira has lived with type 1 diabetes since 1999. She is an author, advocate, journalist, content creator, and diabetes content marketing specialist. Over the years, she's published many books, including Exercise with Type 1 Diabetes, Dealing with Diabetes Burnout, Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes, and more!
Find more from Ginger at DiabetesNerd.com.
Diabetes Nerd
Award-winning Bluegrass Musician Talks T1D Craziness on Tour
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Most people don't realize how much physical and emotional resilience it takes to perform with type 1 diabetes, especially on the road. Carolyn Routh, award-winning bluegrass musician and longtime T1D warrior, reveals the raw truths behind managing blood sugar levels during a live show, amid unpredictable travel schedules, and the emotional toll of lows and highs in the spotlight.
During this Diabetes Nerd Podcast episode, you’ll discover the surprising ways she keeps her blood sugar in check during performances, how her support system and technology make all the difference, and why her story is a powerful reminder that living fully with type 1 isn't just about numbers—it’s about resilience, passion, and authenticity.
In this episode, Carolyn shares what it was like to be diagnosed in the late 70s with limited tools, how her lifestyle on tour complicates diabetes management, and the emotional rollercoaster of low blood sugars that can turn a stage moment into a fight for survival. We'll break down her on-the-road insulin strategies, from deliberately running higher during shows to using vibratory CGMs and emergency glucagon kits.
She talks candidly about how her experience with her son’s diagnosis has deepened her understanding and empathy—and how her band’s support makes all the difference when lows hit mid-performance.
We also explore the hidden toll of emotional highs and lows, the physical symptoms of hypoglycemia that most people never see, and why managing diabetes as a touring musician is a constant battle of adaptation and mental toughness. Carolyn’s story highlights the importance of support, technology, and mindset, proving that even in the chaos of life on tour, you can thrive with the right tools and attitude.
Perfect for anyone navigating diabetes in demanding, unpredictable environments—whether you're on stage, traveling, or simply living life to the fullest—this episode is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the unbreakable spirit of living with type 1. Gain new perspective, practical tips, and a little inspiration to face your own daily battles with courage and humor.
Thanks for joining us, Nu Blu!
Thanks to Eversense Diabetes for sponsoring. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com.
AND thanks to YOU for tuning in! 🎶
DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen.
FIND MORE FROM GINGER VIEIRA
GINGER's DIABETES BOOKS
- Stop Overeating During Lows
- Exercise with Diabetes
- Dealing with Diabetes Burnout
- Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes
- Emotional Eating with Diabetes
- When I Go Low
- Ain't Gonna Hide my T1D
GINGER’S FAVE DIABETES-FRIENDLY PRODUCTS