KidneyTalk - An Online Radio Show By Renal Support Network
402 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 days ago - ★★★★★ - 42 ratingsRSN’s KidneyTalk™ is an informative, inspirational, and entertaining online, half-hour radio talk show that launched in June of 2006 with host RSN Founder & President Lori Hartwell.
With Lori Hartwell’s, a renal disease survivor since 1958, KidneyTalk™ provides the audience with practical advice on how to live a full and productive life despite CKD. The show features healthcare professionals and people living successfully with kidney disease who share personal experiences in inspirational, thought-provoking interviews.
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Episodes
4/9/2024 - Access to Innovation in Dialysis Care has its Ups and Downs
April 09, 2024 20:00 - 118 MBBarriers to innovation for people who are on dialysis is a hot issue. While Medicare is a great source of comfort and provides access to necessary treatments, it does face challenges with its existing payment structure that hinder access to new, innovative treatments. Dr. Jeffrey Silberzweig, a nephrologist, and Lori discuss recent breakthroughs and delve into the advantages and disadvantages of the current payment system, while also exploring potential solutions. This show promises to ignite...
2/22/2024 - Clinical Quality - How CMS Measures Quality Care for People on Dialysis
February 22, 2024 20:00 - 118 MBCenters for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) implements quality initiatives for Medicare beneficiaries on dialysis. CMS uses these measures to see how the dialysis facility is performing. Dawn Curtis, VP of Clinical Quality, Fresenius Medical Care and Lori discuss the measures dialysis clinics look at and how the kidney care team uses them as a benchmark to provide adequate care for people on dialysis.
2/8/2024 - Expressions of Joy
February 08, 2024 20:00 - 118 MBJoy Araujo, a source of inspiration for her peers, has won the RSN annual essay contest on multiple occasions. Through her heartfelt and insightful essays, Joy has touched the hearts of readers, sharing her life experiences and imparting wisdom as only she can. Lori, too, has faced her own set of challenges growing up with kidney disease. Together, these seasoned warriors offer insights on how they have conquered kidney disease, how writing helps cope with emotions and the opportunity to gain...
1/12/2024 - Little Things Lead to Big Changes
January 12, 2024 20:00 - 118 MBJennifer McClung was diagnosed with kidney disease at a young age. After receiving a kidney transplant Jennifer started to put on extra weight and needed to make a change. She managed to lose the weight and along the way developed lifestyle changes to keep it off. Listen in to hear what worked for her and tips that can help make your own weight loss journey a success.
12/13/2023 - Resilience and Strength in the Face of Adversity
December 13, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBThe journey of a single mom with kidney disease is a testament to unwavering determination as they navigate a career, medical appointments, treatments and the emotional toll, all the while nurturing and supporting their family. Mauricia Ambrose is a mother, a real estate investor and an author. Mauricia is also on peritoneal dialysis and shares how she gets things done, introduced her illness and treatment to her son and includes him in the process.
12/5/2023 - Changes Happening to the Dialysis Payment Bundle and How it Can Impact Care
December 05, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBThe inclusion of oral phosphate lowering drugs in the dialysis payment bundle starting in January 2025 is a significant change that has sparked debates and discussions within the kidney community. Lori and Jeffrey Silberzweig, MD delve into this topic along with a brief history and evolution of the bundled payment system. They discuss the pros and cons of this action and potential limitations on medication choices for patients. While bundling care encourages healthcare providers to consider o...
11/8/2023 - Recycling Medication & Dialysis Supplies
November 08, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBLori and Cher, both kidney transplant recipients, have dealt with kidney disease for the majority of their lives. They also share a deep respect for the environment. Listen in to hear some tips, and what they have learned from their experiences with recycling medical and dialysis supplies and medications.
10/27/2023 - An Unexpected Diagnosis at a Young Age
October 27, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBWhen you are in high school the list of things to worry about usually include getting good grades and getting the chance to talk to your crush, not kidney disease. Lori sits down with the RSN Administrative Coordinator, Isela King, who was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy while in high school to talk about what it was like to be diagnosed at a young age, her experience volunteering at the Renal Teen Prom, and how her experience with RSN influenced both her educational and career path.
9/11/2023 - Hope for People Suffering from Itchy Skin
September 11, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBIf itching is causing you discomfort or keeping you up a night, this show is for you! Itchy skin, medically referred to as pruritus, is a common and often distressing condition. The uncomfortable sensation can range from a mild annoyance to a severe, incessant itch, leading to scratching that may exacerbate the issue. Managing pruritus often involves identifying the underlying cause before finding a treatment that works. Listen in to hear Nidhi Sukul, MD and Lori discuss what might be the cau...
8/29/2023 - Dealing with Surprise Medical Bills
August 29, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBHave you ever had a surprise medical bill? One where you do not even recognize the name of the doctor? The No Surprises Act is here to protect you. Patricia Kelmar, a consumer protection advocate, explains what you need to know about unexpected medical bills and steps you can take to protect yourself. Listen in to hear what to look out for, how to respond and who to call if you need help.
7/25/2023 - Beyond the Scratch: Exploring Pruritus
July 25, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBPeople who have kidney disease often complain about itching. This can be a medical condition called Pruritus. Some people have a such a severe itch that it keeps them up at night. If this sounds like you or someone you love, listen in to this show to hear Nephrology Nurse Practitioner Kristin Larson MSN, RN, AGNP-BC, CNN talk about what might be causing it what treatments exist to get some relief.
6/27/2023 - David Rush: Balancing Work and Play while on the Go
June 27, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBMusic Producer, artist David Rush was diagnosed with kidney failure and doctors told him that he would need a kidney transplant or dialysis to survive. That is when he decided to take matters into his own hands and use his platform as a music artist and producer to raise awareness for kidney disease, home dialysis and organ donation. Rush teamed up with Pitbull to create a song called All Night which became a viral hit and helped raise awareness for kidney disease and organ donation. Today w...
5/15/2023 - Choosing a Treatment for Kidney Failure
May 15, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBMaking decisions about kidney failure treatment options can be daunting. Your lifestyle and other considerations play a huge part in the evaluation process. Where do you start? In this podcast, Lori and Dori Schatell, Executive Director at Medical Education Institute (MEI), discuss a new tool that can help you decide which treatment best suits your needs.
5/2/2023 - Animal-assisted Therapy: Does this Benefit People on Dialysis?
May 02, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBIn this episode, Lori is joined by Dr. Meredith Stensland, Assistant Professor of Research in Psychology at The University of Texas Health Science at San Antonio. Dr. Stensland talks about her research on pet therapy in dialysis centers and the benefits that both patients and staff can experience with this service. Puppy love is contagious, so cuddle up with your furry friend and listen along!
4/17/2023 - Navigating a Kidney Transplant: How Your Dialysis Social Worker Can Help
April 17, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBPeople on dialysis spend a lot of time interacting with their social workers. These professionals are in the perfect position to help people learn more about kidney transplantation and the evaluation process at a transplant center. Anna Rutherford, MSW, a dialysis social worker, and Lori discuss what is involved and clue you in on things you may want and need to know.
4/4/2023 - Living Donor Circle of Excellence
April 04, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBDeciding to be a living kidney donor comes with considerations like job stability and earning a paycheck, yet they shouldnt be obstacles. Dr. John Gill, MS, shares how the American Society of Transplantations Living Donor Circle of Excellence can remove this barrier by educating companies on how they play a role in this decision. Their unique program paves the way for corporate discussions and pledges to support employees who choose to give the gift of life.
3/21/2023 - Dawn Edwards: Wisdom from a Warrior
March 21, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBDawn Edwards is a 31-year kidney-disease survivor who has served her peers and the community as a mentor and educator for more than 25 years. Today she talks to Lori Hartwell, also a long-time kidney-disease survivor, about her journey from her diagnosis to the current day as she works toward undergoing a kidney transplant. Listen in to learn how kidney care has evolved and how both of these powerful women have learned to cope and thrive in spite of chronic kidney disease.
3/21/2023 - Overcoming Obstacles to Live Your Best Life
March 21, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBNathan Gutierrez was born with the physical disability spina bifida. He has been restricted to a wheelchair since birth. The disease led to kidney failure to transplantation, yet he never let his disability interfere with his amazing accomplishments. He shares with Lori how he came to understand how his challenges are not who he is and how he has been able to live the life he was meant to live. Listen and be inspired to overcome your obstacles and live your best life.
2/24/2023 - Overcoming Obstacles to Live Your Best Life
February 24, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBNathan Gutierrez was born with the physical disability spina bifida. He has been restricted to a wheelchair since birth. The disease led to kidney failure to transplantation, yet he never let his disability interfere with his amazing accomplishments. He shares with Lori how he came to understand how his challenges are not who he is and how he has been able to live the life he was meant to live. Listen and be inspired to overcome your obstacles and live your best life.
1/30/2023 - Anyssa Dang: Helping Kids Who Are Diagnosed With Kidney Disease
January 30, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBAnyssa Dang authored the book so her younger brother could understand what he is going through. Kidneys for Kids helps kids who are diagnosed with kidney disease (and their siblings) understand what the doctors are telling them about their condition and helps them process their feelings. Listen in to learn how this book can empower children living with kidney disease diagnoses.
1/11/2023 - Life as a Home Dialysis Nurse
January 11, 2023 20:00 - 118 MBHome dialysis nurses educate their patients about how to safely do their treatments at home and overcome the barriers and fears associated with taking on their own care. Learn what the day is like for a nurse and why their job is so rewarding. Casey Shuler, RN, talks about what inspired her to pursue a career in the field of kidney care and why she is so passionate about it. You may just want to join her!
12/8/2022 - Life as a Dialysis Social Worker
December 08, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBDialysis social workers are the lifeline to those dealing with the emotional, financial, and transportation demands of kidney disease. Anna Rutherford, LMSW, is Senior Manager of Social Work Services at Fresenius Kidney Care. She is dedicated to helping her patients cope, adjust, and reach the goals they set for themselves to realize their best quality of life. Listen in as she talks about her role working in a dialysis clinic as she helps her patients thrive.
11/30/2022 - Life as a Renal Dietitian
November 30, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBFor everyone, food is the number one topic! What to eat? The renal diet is complicated, and it changes throughout the different stages of kidney disease. A renal dietitian can make a big difference to people who are either struggling with, or are new to a renal diet. Anne Moselle, MS, RD, CHWC, shares how she helps people get excited about the foods that can help them have good outcomes and maintain good health. Listen in to hear renal-recipe-adjustment tips for go-to dishes for people on dia...
10/11/2022 - Life as a Patient Care Technician
October 11, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBThirty years ago, John Larsen entered the dialysis healthcare field and never looked back. As a Patient Care Technician (PCT), John lives on the front lines at the dialysis clinic where he works. From start to finish, PCTs play an essential role at dialysis treatment centers. They spend a great deal of quality time with their patients and have a unique opportunity to develop special relationships with them. Listen in to what motivates John and keeps him engaged in his rewarding career.
8/17/2022 - Life as a Dialysis Nurse
August 17, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBFor Molly Reehl, CDN, working as a technician was the first step in a career in dialysis. She loved caring for patients and felt valued by them, and she wanted to provide them with more care. To fulfill her dream to become a dialysis nurse, Molly worked full-time while attending school and raising a family. She remains passionate about providing care for patients, and her future has no limits. Listen in to hear Mollys inspiring story. We are so grateful for her dedication.
7/26/2022 - Life as a Nephrologist
July 26, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBWhen caring for patients over the course of several years, nephrologists often get the opportunity to develop relationships with them. The experience is a lot like family, says Michael Kraus, MD, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Fresenius Kidney Care. Tune in as he talks with Lori about what attracted him to the rewarding career of kidney care. He will share the details of the typical workday of a nephrologist and offer insight into day-to-day responsibilities. He will also give advice to m...
7/6/2022 - Ouch, Urine Trouble!
July 06, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBDiscussion about transplants and urinary tract infections.
5/2/2022 - How to Think About the Stages of Kidney Disease
May 02, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBLori and Dr. Kam Kalantar-Zadeh, Professor of Medicine and Public Health at UC Irvine School of Medicine, discuss each stage and what you can to help delay the progression of the illness.
3/30/2022 - The First Spark for Kidney Transplant Science
March 30, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBListen in as Edmund Lawler, a journalism teacher and author, tells Lori the story of one extraordinary visionary in the world of medical science. More than seven decades ago, Edmunds great uncle, Dr. Richard Lawler, reached beyond the science of his time to perform the first human kidney transplant ever in this country. It was June 17, 1950, when Dr. Lawler performed the groundbreaking surgery. Learn why the doctors effort was criticized, the outcome of the transplant and how the medical comm...
3/15/2022 - How to Fight the Whats for Dinner Blues
March 15, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBDoes thinking about dinner make you want to turn and run to the nearest greasy spoon? Lori and Caitlin Harris, RD, know cooking can be daunting when you have kidney disease. Let them give you the scoop on how they make cooking fun, fast and fabulous! Their joy is contagious as they share how making even small changes in how you think about food can mean big payoffs for your taste buds and your health too! Listen in, and soon you will be on your way to serving up some of their favorite renal-f...
2/9/2022 - Kidney Transplant Before and After: Staying listed and keeping your gift of life healthy
February 09, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBWhen you have kidney disease people who stay ahead of the game do the best. At any given time, close to 40 percent of people on the UNOS kidney transplant list are inactive. Lori and Lazaro Cherem, MD, discuss why patients become inactive and what you need to do to make sure your status is current, so you do not miss a kidney offer. A kidney transplant is not a cure and requires ongoing monitoring to ensure the kidneys health, so you never have to end up back on the transplant list. Listen to...
2/1/2022 - The Danger of Bloodstream Infections
February 01, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBGerms seize every opportunity to invade your body. The infections that follow can endanger your life, especially if you have kidney disease. Bloodstream Infections are one of the leading causes of death for people on dialysis. Listen in as Lori and Crystal Grate, RN, CNN, Director of Infection Prevention at Fresenius Medical Care, discuss the warning signs and what actions to take if you suspect you have an infection.
1/10/2022 - Dialysis in a Skilled Nursing Facility
January 10, 2022 20:00 - 118 MBPeople on dialysis sometimes require rehabilitation in a skilled nursing home as they recuperate from surgery, medical emergencies or are unable to care for themselves. When this happens, they have to travel from their nursing facility to a dialysis clinic which can interrupt their recovery. Lori and Alice Hellebrand, RN, Chief Nursing Officer at Dialyze Direct, discuss the option of dialyzing in a skilled nursing facility with trained personnel. Learn how this benefits all people involved an...
12/13/2021 - A Transplant Recipients Cure for a Bad Day
December 13, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBWhen you are an infant, the last thing you need is a new heart. But that is exactly what Trent Sullivan, aka, Sully, needed when he was just 5 months old. He got one, but it would not be his only transplant. At age 18, he needed a new kidney, as well. Lori sits down with this Walking Miracle to find out what kept him going throughout his early years and what he does now to enjoy the life he was given.
12/6/2021 - Addressing Innovation in Kidney Disease Treatments
December 06, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBIt is important to incentivize new therapies so companies will invest and bring products to market. Kathy Lester, JD, MPH, talks with Lori about how Medicare is working to create policies to spark innovation. About 90 percent of people on dialysis have access to Medicare. But ESRD treatment options only become available when payment is available to support them. When funding is not available, new innovations, even those approved by the FDA, will not become available to patients. Tune in to l...
12/6/2021 - What Gifts Will CKD Survivors Like This Year?
December 06, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBWalk into a store this time of year and you can bet you will see the glittering holiday dcor on display. But how long will you have to search to find the gifts that your friends with kidney disease will truly appreciate? Sit back and relax as your personal shopping guides Lori Hartwell and Cher Thomas discuss what items they would like to see wrapped up this holiday season just waiting to please those special people in your life.
11/12/2021 - Can Diet Changes Slow the Progression of Kidney Disease?
November 12, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBShould you change your diet when you are first diagnosed with any early stage of kidney disease? What foods can contribute to kidney disease or help maintain your existing kidney function? How can understanding your lab values help? Registered dietitian Beth Shanaman and nutrition and fitness manager Katy Wilkens, MS, RD, share insights into these issues and their diet recommendations when you are diagnosed with kidney disease.
10/15/2021 - Improving Innovations: The CKD Improvement and Treatment Act of 2021
October 15, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBElizabeth Barnett is a partner and public policy expert for Avenue Solutions. She represents Kidney Care Partners, an advocacy coalition dedicated to improving care for people who have kidney disease. Elizabeth discusses with Lori the CKD Improvement and Treatment Act of 2021 S1971/HR 4065 that was introduced last year by both the House and the Senate. Listen in to learn how the bill will improve innovations and the quality of care for those with kidney disease.
9/14/2021 - Nephrology Nurses: The Lifeline of Kidney Care
September 14, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBFor Gail Dewald, RN, CNN, passion for her work is evident as she explains a day in her life as a nephrology nurse working with people who have kidney disease. Many things have changed throughout her career, but her dedication to those with kidney disease remains the same. Listen in to hear about innovations in kidney care and the insight she has gained during her 30-plus years in the field.
9/7/2021 - How to Prepare for a Disaster
September 07, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBDo you know what to do when disaster strikes? Depending on the damage your community sustains, your local dialysis clinic can be closed for a day or two to a couple of months. You have a lot of support available around you, but do you know who to call for help? Listen in as Bob Loeper, Vice President of Disaster Response Fresenius Medical Care, North America, shares what patients and caregivers can do to be prepared and ensure that the needs of people who require dialysis to live are met.
8/17/2021 - The Unbreakable Jessie Frysz
August 17, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBJessica Frysz is a young woman who has beat a lifetime of odds. She has learned to flourish despite having dealt with kidney disease since she was a baby. While on dialysis for 28 years and having a kidney transplant, Jessica focused on her ambitions and dreams. Listen in to be inspired by this courageous young woman.
7/28/2021 - 45 Years and Counting: George Franklins Transplanted Kidney Remains Strong
July 28, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBGeorge Franklin III is president of the Transplant Quarter Century Club and a contributing writer of Because of Organ Donation, a book by Brenda E. Cortez. George had a kidney transplant more than 45 years ago. Listen in to learn his secret for keeping his gift of life healthy and strong.
7/21/2021 - Spotlight on Innovation: Wearable Dialysis System
July 21, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBDr. Victor Gura is an associate clinical professor of medicine at the Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. He and his company, Wearable Artificial Organs, Inc., were issued a patent for "combination wearable and stationary dialysis systems." Dr. Gura has worked 21 years in Italy and London, and finally in the United States to develop the devices. Initial clinical trials have already been conducted in Seattle, Washington. Tune in to this show to learn about the results of the trials and what the...
7/6/2021 - Pain Meds: How They Work and Safe Alternatives
July 06, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBKidney disease is difficult enough without suffering needlessly. Many over-the-counter medications are harmful to the kidneys. What can you do to take control of pain without causing more damage? If you, or someone you know has kidney disease, it is especially important to be in the know about options to relieve pain. Lori and nephrologist Dr. Mary J. Godinich discuss the side effects of medications and the differences between over-the-counter pain relievers and some safe alternatives.
6/22/2021 - Preparing for a Kidney Transplant
June 22, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBGetting listed for a kidney transplant can be a daunting process. Do you know your dialysis social worker can help with the process and prepare you for what is to come? Felicia Speed, Vice President of Social Work Services for Fresenius Kidney Care, shares tips to help you prepare for your kidney transplant. Listen in to learn how to overcome difficulties and barriers.
6/9/2021 - Understanding Your Dialysis Labs
June 09, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBTricia McCarley, a nurse practitioner with Fresenius Kidney Care, sits down with Lori to discuss dialysis lab values and why you should care. Listen in to learn what the different tests show, how your own body processes may affect the results, and which lab values you may be able to control.
4/28/2021 - Understanding the Five Stages of Kidney Disease
April 28, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBInnovations in treating kidney disease were just beginning when Dr. Steven Rosansky, aka "Dr. Ro, a nephrology specialist in Columbia, SC, first started his practice. He was drawn to this medical specialty because it gave him the opportunity to really do something to help his patients. In this interview, Lori and Dr. Ro put a kidney disease diagnosis into perspective. Listen in to learn the differences between each of the five stages of kidney disease, plus what you might be able to do to slo...
4/7/2021 - The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Kidney Care
April 07, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBWhat is artificial intelligence (AI), and does it apply to kidney care? Dr. George Aronoff, Chief Medical Officer and Co-inventor at Dosis, has over 30 years of experience in nephrology. He explains how AI-based anemia medication dosing is personalized and precisely based on the patients own demonstrated response. This can potentially lead to maintaining or improving a patients outcome. Be in the know about AI and take part in your anemia management.
3/29/2021 - New Hope for a Calciphylaxis Diagnosis
March 29, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBCalciphylaxis is a bone and mineral condition that can occur in people who have kidney disease or are on dialysis. Kidneys regulate many things including minerals which can cause the buildup of calcium causing painful wounds that are very susceptible to infections. Dr. Smeeta Sinha and Dr. Sagar Nigwekar explain the warning signs of calciphylaxis, ways to manage phosphorus and what treatments are currently available. Listen in to this show to learn more and about a new clinical trial to find ...
3/18/2021 - The Benefits of Art Therapy for Children
March 18, 2021 20:00 - 118 MBArt therapy has been shown to be an effective way to help children and their families cope with having a chronic illness such as kidney disease. It helps to ease the mental and emotional stress that often accompanies their battle with illness. Plus, it allows them to forget about the pain, even for a while, and just relax. Board Certified Art Therapists Raja Aossey and Kathy Peal explain the process, its benefits and how parents can connect with an art therapist or child life specialist for t...