A Gluten Free Podcast

Your Coeliac Stories: Living with Coeliac Disease – Diagnosis, Travel, Work Challenges & Gluten Free Life with Listener Stephen

• Season 1 • Episode 180

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A Gluten Free Podcast
Episode 180

Today’s episode is a special one. I’m joined by Stephen, a long-time listener and passionate supporter of A Gluten Free Podcast. Stephen first reached out after connecting with me on Instagram and feeling our coeliac disease diagnosis stories were similar. Since then, we’ve stayed in touch, sharing messages, stories, and updates about life with coeliac disease. It’s been so encouraging to connect over this shared journey—and now, we’re finally having a face-to-face chat on the pod! 

Stephen opens up about his personal diagnosis story and how his daughter’s coeliac diagnosis soon followed. We talk about the emotional and practical impact that had on their family, and how they’ve navigated it together. Stephen also speaks candidly about some frustrating challenges at work—especially dealing with colleagues who struggle to understand the seriousness of coeliac disease and the need for a strict gluten free diet.

Despite being relatively new to his diagnosis, Stephen hasn’t let it slow him down. He’s already travelled overseas multiple times and shares what he learned through those experiences—the wins, the tough moments, and how to better prepare for gluten free travel. We also talk about what it’s like living with coeliac disease as a guy, especially in social settings, and how those dynamics can sometimes feel isolating or misunderstood.

One of the things I admire most about Stephen is his love for the outdoors. He regularly shares his hiking adventures on Instagram, and in this chat, he explains how staying active and being in nature has helped him both physically and mentally as he adapts to life with coeliac disease.

🎧 Whether you’re newly diagnosed, navigating social pressures, or looking for ways to stay active and positive while living gluten free, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and lots of heart.

🔍 What We Cover:

  • Stephen’s journey as a long-time listener and why the show struck a chord with him
  • The lead-up to his coeliac diagnosis and how it changed his life
  • His daughter’s diagnosis
  • Mental health impacts of coeliac disease 
  • Ongoing workplace challenges and standing up for his health
  • Daily gluten free living and small wins along the way
  • Travelling overseas with coeliac disease: tips, challenges, and learnings
  • Navigating male friendships and social situations post-diagnosis
  • How hiking and time in nature supports his gluten free lifestyle

📱 Follow Stephen:
Want to connect with Stephen or follow his gluten free outdoor adventures? Find him on Instagram @thecoeliachiker 

🙏 Thank You!
Stephen, thank you for not only being a guest but for being such a steady and genuine supporter of this show. Conversations like this are exactly why A Gluten Free Podcast exists—to connect, uplift, and support one another. I know your story will resonate with so many.

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Disclaimer

The content on this podcast is not a substitution for professional medical advice. It is the opinion and experience of the show host or guests. Please seek professional medical advice from a medically qualified professional before making any decisions about your health or diet.

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