Two Disabled Dudes - Living with Urgency
The 2DD podcast is about setting sights beyond the challenges in your life and dreaming big, making a plan, and then executing like mad. You are guaranteed an emotional rollercoaster, and practical thoughts that you can apply to your life with this podcast. Hosts Sean and Kyle are both affected by a rare disease called Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). FA affects their balance and coordination, significantly limiting their physical abilities. However both dudes have completed several long distance bike rides including “The World’s Toughest Bike Race” - Race Across America (RAAM). Their RAAM journey is the subject of an award winning documentary called The Ataxian. Kyle rode his trike to the top of the highest paved road in North America and Sean ran with the Olympic Torch. Join us, subscribe, and tell a friend!
Episodes
In the final episode of season 11, The Dudes discuss their major upcoming event: a challenging 200-mile bike ride in the Himalayas - to the top of the world’s highest paved road - over 19,000’. They talk about the logistics, the elevation challenges, and their preparation, including the use of altitude training masks. They also address concerns about food, accessibility, and health, highlighting the need to adapt to un...
This episode (254) features an interview with John Crowley, who shares his journey into the rare disease space. John's involvement started in 1998 when his daughter Megan was diagnosed with Pompe disease, a rare form of muscular dystrophy. Determined to find a cure, John and his family embarked on a journey of research and entrepreneurship, ultimately founding a biotech company that developed a life-saving enzyme thera...
Rob Long shares his journey with Uplifting Athletes, an organization dedicated to leveraging the influence of athletes to support those impacted by rare diseases. Rob and Brett Brackett took over leadership in 2018, revitalizing the organization's mission. They have several powerful initiatives including The Young Investigator Draft, Lift for Life, Leadership Development, and Uplifting Experiences.
Rob reflects on the organization'...
In episode 252, Rob Long, executive director of Uplifting Athletes, revisits his rare disease journey. He recounts his college football days at Syracuse University and the abrupt onset of symptoms during his senior year. Rob shares the initial confusion and fear surrounding his diagnosis of a brain tumor, leading to surgery and a challenging recovery process. He reflects on the emotional toll of accepting his diagnosis...
In episode 251 we welcome our dear friend Linda Snyder! Linda shares her personal journey living with a rare genetic type of ataxia and discusses how she discovered the benefits of having a mobility service dog named Cedric. She talks about the rigorous process of applying for a service dog, the extensive training Cedric underwent, and the various tasks he assists her with, including laundry!
Our friends at Jett Foundation invited us into their community once again for a conversation with 5 panelists on Rare Disease Day.
We were honored to moderate the discussion with these friends:
- Race Martinez - Architecture Student, living with Duchenne
- Kris Napper - Graphic Designer/Illustrator, Business Owner, living with SMA
- Chris Schlechty - Software Engin...
This episode delves into the journey of Skyclarys, the first FDA-approved treatment for Friedreich's ataxia (FA), a rare genetic disorder. The discussion features Dr. Colin Meyer, former executive at Reata Pharmaceuticals, who shares his experiences from the inception of Reata to the acquisition by Biogen.
The conversation offers a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and collaboration in the p...
In this insightful interview with Jen Farmer, CEO of the Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), we explore the evolving landscape of rare disease research and the journey towards treatments for Friedreich's ataxia (FA). Jen shares her experiences and challenges as a leader in the field, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and collaboration.
Also in this episode:
In this episode, Sean and Kyle discuss the importance of maintaining discipline and focus, particularly in the face of distractions and competing priorities.
The conversation delves into the concept of knowing what one wants and being clear about goals to stay motivated and driven. They reflect on the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive people who encourage and uplift in the pursuit of thos...
In this episode, we discuss the groundbreaking work of Roll Mobility, a platform revolutionizing accessibility for people with disabilities. Roll Mobility functions as a Yelp-like app, providing users with vital information on the accessibility of restaurants, destinations, and sightseeing locations. By ranking establishments based on their accessibility features, Roll Mobility empowers individuals to plan ahead and en...
The Dudes talk about life changes and the significance of pursuing growth and opportunities, even in the face of uncertainty. Reflecting on personal anecdotes and advice, they underscore the value of acceptance, adaptation, and gratitude in embracing life's journey.
Also in his episode:
- Kyle's most recent challenging experience with airline travel
- Newsworthy - 'Go On, Be Brave' documentary captures perseverance in face of ALS
- ...
In Episode 244, the Dudes delve into the topic of change and consistency, particularly in the context of living with progressive diseases like Friedreich's ataxia (FA). They discuss the challenges of navigating constant change, setting expectations, and managing the desire for both fast and slow change.
Also in this episode:
- Emergency haircuts and curbcut confusion
- Newsworthy: FOX 5 Las Vegas Surprise Squad
- Thank you notes: A ...
In this episode, Dr. David Fajgenbaum shares his journey of discovering a drug that saved his own life. He emphasizes the importance of repurposing existing drugs for new uses and highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in identifying such opportunities.
Dr. Fajgenbaum discusses his nonprofit organization, EveryCure, which aims to unlock new uses for existing FDA-approved drugs. The organizatio...
Dave (Dr. Lynch), a seasoned clinician and researcher specializing in Friedreich's ataxia (FA), sheds light on his nearly three-decade journey at the forefront of FA care. Throughout the conversation, Dave emphasizes the indispensable role of patient participation in research, underscoring the collaborative spirit driving advancements in FA drug development.
Also in this episode:
- Sean's Sleep-talking escapades.
- Kyle Finally to...
For Rare Disease Patients, the drug development process can feel huge and overwhelming. It seems like everyone has a role to play; Doctors, researchers, advocacy organizations, pharma industry...we can see how they all fit in the process. What about the patient's role? Listen as The Dudes discuss 4 of the many ways patients can have an impact.
Also in this episode:
- Ever received a mysterious t...
Adapting to changes is a big part of life for everyone. Listen as The Dudes discuss their approach to adapting.
In this episode:
- Kyle uses a voided ID to get past TSA on his way to North Carolina and back.
- Newsworthy from Instagram: Young man paralyzed from the shoulders down after a spinal cord injury in 2020 Read more
Listener Brian lets the Dudes know that Kyle has in fact been driving illegally for 10 years. Does Kyle have a plan to address this dilema?
In the Season 11 premiere, Kyle and Sean dive into the challenges and triumphs of pursuing dreams, overcoming fears, and embracing new opportunities. The Dudes also discuss the power of setting goals, the fear of failure, and the importance of discipline in achieving success. With inspiring st...
In episode 238, The Dudes delve into the theme of friendship, highlighting the significance of chosen family and exploring the dynamics of their own unique bond. They draw inspiration from questions curated by MindPath Health, leading to an unscripted and genuine conversation. From childhood influences like movies to bucket list aspirations, The Dudes share personal stories, providing insight into their lives. The epis...
We are thrilled to have Effie Parks and Daniel DeFabio in this powerful episode! Together, we discuss the pivotal role of the caregiver’s voice in the realm of healthcare, particularly in the context of rare disease. Our dialogue revolves around the essential role of caregivers, whether they are parents, aunts, uncles, or other family members, in advocating for those who may not have the ability to communicate at all, ...
Sean and Kyle engage in a heartfelt conversation with Caley Caroll, a mother, caregiver, and fierce advocate for her son Whitten John and his health challenges. Whitten John was diagnosed with Diabetes Insipidus and Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, two rare diseases. Caley shares the emotional journey of receiving the diagnoses, the difficulties of caregiving, and the impact on her family. She recounts the challenges of treatments, i...
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