In this powerful episode, personal trainer and father of three daughters (all under the age of 5), Adam Newton shares his journey of being diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis while pursuing extreme endurance goals, including training for a 100-mile ultramarathon. His symptoms began with psoriasis and escalated following a 24-hour charity cycling event. Although quickly referred to rheumatology and diagnosed, Adam initially downplayed the seriousness of the condition, pushing through pain and keeping it mostly to himself.

He opens up about the emotional and physical adjustments he’s had to make, from stepping back from sports like football and tennis to managing family life during painful flare-ups. Adam was diagnosed when his second daughter was just a few months old, and he speaks candidly about the crucial support he's received from his wife throughout his journey. He also reflects on how he talks to his daughters about his condition in an age-appropriate way, and how he eventually opened up to friends, helping them understand the reality of living with arthritis.

Through trial and error, Adam has found ways to cope, emphasising the power of good nutrition, gentle movement, and a consistent routine. His transparency with personal training clients has helped build stronger relationships and foster empathy.

Adam also hosts the podcast Through the Eyes of Adversity, where he speaks with others about how movement supports both physical and mental health through life’s challenges. He encourages anyone facing a new diagnosis to seek support, do their own research, and know they’re not alone.

Find Adam on Instagram at @adam_c_newton, and listen to his podcast on YouTube and Spotify.

Please do donate to our urgent appeal to keep the podcast going, https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/inflammatory

Do follow the podcast as it is easiest way to get updates on the podcast.

Sign up to our newsletter at inflammatoryarthritis.org for more resources.

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Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Debbie and Katy explore the powerful role of volunteering, especially for people living with inflammatory arthritis and chronic conditions, to coincide with volunteer’s week. The hosts share personal stories, practical advice, and inspiration on how giving back, even in small ways, can help you reclaim purpose and build a sense of community.

They stress that meaningful volunteering is about using your strengths and passions, not about forced or physically demanding tasks e.g. clearing grave yards! Through anecdotes and humour, they illustrate the many forms volunteering can take, from peer support to admin roles, and emphasize the impact it can have on both the individual and the wider community.

They also share that Inflammatory Arthritis UK is looking for volunteers and whether you're an expert in social media, admin, fundraising, grant writers, or would like to join the board of trustees or the expert advisory board, there's a place for you. If you would like to volunteer for IAUK, please do email info@inflammatoryarthritis.org

🔑 What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• How volunteering helped us rediscover confidence and connection after diagnosis
• Ways to get involved; without needing physical activity or prior experience
• Behind the scenes of starting a new charity: strategy, structure, and passion
• The power of small contributions (yes, even sweeping counts!)
• How you can join our Trustee Board or Expert Advisory Group
• Volunteer opportunities in admin, social media, grant writing, and more

📣 Get Involved:

We’re actively looking for volunteers to support Inflammatory Arthritis UK. Whether you can give one hour a month or a little more, your skills and lived experience are invaluable.

✅ Interested in volunteering, becoming a trustee, or joining our advisory group?

📩 Contact us via: inflammatoryarthritis.org

💬 Or reach out on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | BlueSky

For more information about being a trustee and what it entails please see here.

📝 Quote of the Episode:

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi

📬 Stay Connected:

Sign up to our newsletter for updates, guest announcements, and more at inflammatoryarthritis.org.

🎧 See you next week for another inspiring guest episode!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inflammatory! is making a real difference, helping people feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey with inflammatory arthritis. If you’ve found value in what we do, please consider donating to help us continue creating meaningful content. Every contribution, big or small, makes a huge impact.

👉 Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/inflammatory

In this heartfelt and humorous Q&A episode, Debbie and Katy discuss the lighter and often hilarious side of living with Inflammatory Arthritis (IA). From hospital mishaps to dodging duty-free trolleys on long-haul flights, they share real-life stories that bring warmth and authenticity to chronic illness.

The episode kicks off with Katy sharing how her hospital appointments are never simple, this time, a burst water pipe added to the chaos. Despite the disruption, she still managed to get her blood test done and even turned it into a teaching moment for her son, explaining why regular tests are so important. Meanwhile, Debbie talks about the charity’s ongoing work, from ensuring the voices of those living with inflammatory arthritis are heard in NHS service improvements, to awaiting clarity on how the NHS’s 10-year plan will involve the charity sector. She also highlights meaningful discussions with researchers focused on making research truly inclusive and accessible at every stage.

They then go on to answer questions from listeners:

· What side effects have you had with medication?

· Pregnancy, medication and parenting

· What is the most obscure cure you have been told that would cure your IA?

· Do you have a funny story about inflammatory arthritis?

· How do you support a partner who lives with IA?

They end on thoughtful advice to partners supporting loved ones with IA and remind us that laughter and communication are powerful tools for navigating the ups and downs.

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Urgent appeal for donations to help keep the podcast running until their planned summer break. Donate here https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/inflammatory

Send us your questions for next week’s Q&A session, especially voice notes: https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/contact-us/

In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy firstly reflect on the first Inflammatory Arthritis UK virtual community event, where they connected with the IA community and received helpful feedback on future topics. Katy shares touching moments of how the podcast has helped others, including family members who have a better understand life with IA.

They then explore the vital role of research in improving care for people with inflammatory arthritis (IA). Katy shares her experiences participating in a range of studies, from surveys and focus groups to serving on research committees. The conversation highlights the importance of Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement (PPIE), showing how those with lived experience are essential in shaping research that truly matters.

They discuss being involved in steering groups and helping to design digital health apps, while also reflecting on the real-world challenges of integrating new technology into clinical care, illustrated with a humorous story about handwritten notes on a napkin after a system failure.

The episode also explores exciting areas of current research, including genetics, machine learning, and the MAPJAGstudy, which investigates what’s happening inside the joints by analysing biopsy samples from joint injections. Debbie and Katy emphasise how digital innovation and AI could transform diagnosis and treatment, while also urging caution around data privacy and the need for ethical use.

A key theme is ensuring research remains inclusive and accessible—including fair compensation that doesn’t impact benefits. Finally, the hosts encourage listeners to find ways to get involved in research, whether through clinical studies, reviewing patient information, or sharing their voices to guide future priorities.

Resources:

· Research page: https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/research/

· Link to Map-JAG Study here

· Tax implications from HMRC

“There will be no tax or NIC liability arising on the individual if the sums received do no more than reimburse the individual’s reasonable costs of participating in the trial or research, including costs of travel and subsistence. However, should the sums paid exceed those reasonable expenses then the excess may fall to be chargeable to tax as Miscellaneous Income, potentially giving rise to personal tax liabilities of the individuals which should be notified to the HMRC under Self Assessment”.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Inflammatory with Debbie and Katy, the hosts celebrate the important role nurses play in supporting people with inflammatory arthritis, particularly in the context of International Nurses Day and Mental Health Awareness Week.

They begin with a light-hearted catch-up about their weekends and segue into a candid discussion about mental health, personal experiences with stress, and the emotional impact of living with a fluctuating condition. Both hosts reflect on how weather and social environments affect their wellbeing, and the importance of being honest about mental health despite the British habit of saying “I’m fine.” They emphasise the need to normalise vulnerability and discuss how mental health and inflammatory arthritis are deeply connected.

They share personal experiences of how nurses often offer more empathetic and practical care compared to consultants, although their roles can sometimes feel limited to administrative tasks. Debbie shares a moving story about her daughter’s struggle with medication and how a nurse’s insight transformed her daughter’s quality of life, underscoring the critical role of compassionate healthcare professionals.

The conversation also highlights disparities in care due to regional differences and digital system inefficiencies within the NHS. The hosts praise the positive impact of nurse-led helplines and advocate for better integration and digital communication between services. The episode closes with an invitation to their first online community event to mark World Autoimmune and Auto-Inflammatory Arthritis Day.

🔗 Resources & Mentions:

Research paper: I’m Fine presentation is based on: ‘The current mental health status of children and young people with JIA, and their wider family’: a charity partner collaboration survey

📧 To attend the event, email: info@inflammatoryarthritis.org

🌐 Visit: inflammatoryarthritis.org

📱 Follow on: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | BlueSky

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, hosts Debbie and Katy welcome their first guest, Rachell Smith, a leading portrait and fashion photographer who lives with axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) and is behind the new national campaign “Faces of Axial SpA”. Rachell opens up about her deeply personal journey, from experiencing symptoms as a teenager to finally being diagnosed over a decade later.

She discusses the vital role of family support, including her sister who also lives with axial SpA, and how the condition has brought her even closer to her husband. Rachell also shares how she navigates motherhood with a young daughter, emphasising the power of honest communication and emotional connection.

Rachell speaks candidly about how her diagnosis has increased her empathy, for others and for herself, and how this has come across in her photography. She also explains she is open with her clients about living with inflammatory arthritis and unashamed of her condition.

Most importantly, she talks about her impactful collaboration with NASS (National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society) on a national awareness campaign. Her mission: to empower others, shorten diagnostic delays, and break the silence around axial SpA.

Rachell’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. Tune in for a moving conversation that highlights strength, vulnerability, and the importance of raising awareness.

🔗 Resources & Mentions:

· For more information about “Faces of Axial SpA” please visit: Faces of Axial SpA

· NASS website NASS.co.uk

• Learn more about axial SpA and access the symptom checker: symptom checker
• Follow Rachell on Instagram: @rachell_photo

This podcast is in collaboration with National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inflammatory Arthritis UK are hosting their first ever online event on the 20 May at 6-7pm to raise awareness of World Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Arthritis Day. Please do join us and a chance to meet Debbie and Katy online to hear more about the charity and be part of our community. More information and full agenda will follow. Please do join us and to sign up email us at: info@inflammatoryarthritis.org

In this lively and heartfelt episode, Debbie and Katy reflect on a busy week and preview next week's exciting guest — acclaimed photographer Rachell Smith, who lives with axial spondyloarthritis. Please make sure you don’t miss it.

Debbie covers how she did a Katy, and went to the wrong hospital for an Xray, and they kick off their fourth Q&A session by answering a question about traveling while taking biologic medications. The hosts share their own travel tips, stress the importance of medical guidance, and offer reassurance for those navigating similar journeys.

Next, the conversation turns to sleep and inflammatory arthritis. From bedtime routines and positioning to gadgets and frustrations, Debbie and Katy talk openly about what helps — and what doesn’t — when it comes to getting quality rest with a chronic condition.

They also tackle the question of whether inflammatory arthritis is more common in females, exploring key differences between RA, axial SpA, PsA, and juvenile arthritis. They address what frustrates them most about living with IA and they cover widespread misconceptions, including the confusion between inflammatory and osteoarthritis, and highlight the need for more male representation in arthritis narratives.

The episode wraps up on a fun note with each host sharing their go-to feel-good songs and how music brings moments of joy amid daily challenges.

💬 Topics Covered:

• Traveling with biologic medications
• Sleep challenges and hacks
• Gender and arthritis prevalence
• Inflammatory vs. osteoarthritis
• Personal reflections and musical cheer

Join us next week for our special guest, Rachell Smith!

Follow us on social media:

• BlueSky, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook:Search for Inflammatory Arthritis UK
• Sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates and resources
• Leave a review & rating on your favourite podcast platform!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Inflammatory!, Debbie and Katy kick things off with a light-hearted chat about springtime chaos, parenting, and the never-ending battle with household cleaning, offering a humorous but relatable peek into how daily life intersects with chronic illness. The conversation then dives into a powerful and personal discussion about exercise and inflammatory arthritis, challenging outdated fitness ideology of "no pain, no gain."

Katy opens up about her journey training for marathons post-diagnosis, including a dramatic fall at mile 20 of the Edinburgh Marathon and her later attempt at the Brighton Marathon, complete with new injuries and mid-race regrets (sausage roll, anyone?). Through these stories, she highlights the emotional highs and lows of pushing her limits and adapting workouts to suit her body.

The hosts reflect on how chronic illness shape how they move, underscoring that exercise doesn't have to be extreme to be effective. Whether it’s swimming, strength training, or simply taking a short walk, finding what works for you is key. They also touch on the mental and emotional benefits of movement, the value of physiotherapy, and how changing the narrative from "can't" to "can" empowers people living with inflammatory arthritis.

Key Topics:

• Redefining exercise with chronic illness

• Katy’s marathon stories: Edinburgh disaster & Brighton comeback

• How age and parenting shift fitness goals

• Mental health benefits of movement

• Making peace with low-impact, feel-good movement

• Physiotherapy: importance and asking how it can fit it into your daily routine

• Encouragement to focus on what you can do

Follow us on social media:

• BlueSky, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook: Search for Inflammatory Arthritis UK

• Sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates and resources

• Leave a review & rating on your favourite podcast platform!

Disclaimer: The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. We talk about our personal health journeys and the podcast is not intended to provide professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical professionals and in no way claim to be medically trained. The podcast does not take responsibility for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of the podcast. The podcast does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of third-party content.

For more information, head to https://inflammatoryarthritis.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.