In this episode, I sit down once again with returning guest and college athlete Jaci Carpenter for an honest conversation about the realities of navigating diabetes care as a young adult. From frustrating endocrinology visits and inflated medical costs to learning how to advocate for yourself and manage nutrition beyond “just taking insulin for what you eat,” this episode shines a light on what so many people with diabetes face every day.
Our Deep Dive Includes:
- Why Jaci’s recent endocrinology experience left her classified as a “high-risk diabetic” — and what that really means
- How the healthcare and insurance systems often fail those who are doing everything right
- The emotional and financial weight of affording insulin, CGMs, and pump supplies
- Learning to question outdated medical advice and advocate for your own care
- The difference between textbook diabetes management and real-life diabetes management as an athlete
- Why nutrition is more than carb counting — and how to make food choices that support long-term health and stability
- Finding balance between discipline, mental health, and living your life freely with diabetes
💡 Key Takeaways:
- You have the right to question your doctors and find a provider who listens.
- Managing diabetes goes far beyond insulin and carbs — it’s about awareness, flexibility, and sustainability.
- Don’t let diabetes dictate your dreams or limit your career choices.
- Positivity isn’t about ignoring the hard days; it’s about finding control in what you can manage.
- “Everything in moderation” applies to both food and mindset.
About the Host - Coach Ken
I’m Coach Ken Kniss, founder of Simplifying Life With Diabetes and host of The Healthy Diabetic Podcast. I help people living with T1D cut through the overwhelm, confusion, fear, and distrust in their daily decisions, so they can feel confident and live without consistently worrying about lows, their body image, or long term complications.
🌐 Website: SimplifyingDiabetes.com
📚 The Diabetes Nutrition Master Course: Start Learning
💪 Work with me: More Than A1C - 1on1 Coaching
📩 Join my newsletter: Subscribe
📞 Schedule a Free Call: Book Now
🎙 Donate to the Podcast: Contribute Here
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review—it helps more people living with diabetes discover the podcast. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement and a reminder that they’re not alone in their diabetes journey.
Ways to Support the Show
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- Follow me on Instagram: @TheHealthyDiabeticPod | @CoachK3n
Podcast Disclaimer: Nothing that you hear on The Healthy Diabetic Podcast should be considered medical advice or otherwise; please always consult your medical TEAM befo
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