The Story Behind Training for Life | A Chronic Illness Documentary

The Story Behind Training for Life | A Chronic Illness Documentary

Author: G-PACT non profit July 29, 2026 Duration: 43:17

What does it really take to tell an authentic story about chronic illness?

In this behind-the-scenes conversation, Sam sits down with Joe Keenan to discuss the creation of Chronic Life Media and the documentary that captures the realities, resilience, and humanity of people living with chronic illness. From the first concept to filming, editing, and planning for film festivals, they share what audiences don't see, and why authentic storytelling matters.

Living with a chronic illness is about so much more than symptoms. This episode explores how powerful stories can help break stereotypes, build empathy, and remind the world that patients are complex individuals with dreams, goals, relationships, and lives beyond their diagnoses.

Whether you're living with gastroparesis, a different chronic illness, or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers an honest look at the power of sharing our stories and the impact authentic representation can have.

If you've ever wondered what goes into creating a documentary about chronic illness, or why these stories matter, this episode is for you.



Hosted by two people navigating life with gastroparesis, Surviving out of Spite is a raw and real conversation from the G-PACT non-profit. This isn't a clinical lecture; it's the sound of two friends unpacking the daily reality of a chronic condition, finding humor in the absurd moments and solidarity in the shared struggles. You'll hear candid personal stories that range from frustrating to triumphant, alongside practical tips forged from lived experience. The dialogue covers everything from managing health and relationships to simply preserving your identity beyond a diagnosis. Tuning into this podcast feels like pulling up a chair to a kitchen table conversation where no topic is off-limits and laughter is considered essential medicine. It builds a community through audio, reminding anyone facing a similar journey that they are understood. Each episode explores the complex patient experience with honesty, aiming to inform, connect, and affirm that navigating life with gastroparesis is a story of resilience, often fueled by a bit of defiant spirit.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

Surviving out of Spite
Podcast Episodes
Living with Gastroparesis & Building a Podcast [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:22
One year ago, Surviving Out of Spite launched to share stories, insights, and real-life experiences living with gastroparesis. In this special episode, Sam reflects on the journey of building the podcast, the lessons lea…
Gastroparesis, Gut Health & Everything in between [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:50
Gut health is complicated, especially when you’re living with gastroparesis. In this episode, Sam sits down with Liz Roman to unpack the complex systems involved in digestive health and how they impact people with chroni…
What a Panic Attack Feels Like | Anxiety & Chronic Illness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:11
What does a panic attack actually feel like, especially when you're already living with gastroparesis and chronic illness?In this raw and unplanned episode of Surviving Out of Spite, Sam shares a deeply vulnerable moment…
Chronic Illness Might Be Your Superpower [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:36
Living with a chronic illness is often framed as a limitation—but what if it could also be a strength?In this episode, Lilly Stairs joins us to share the concept of your “secret sauce”: the powerful combination of your n…
Resilient Body, Fragile System: Living a Full Life on TPN [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:33
What does it look like to grow up managing central lines and still build a life full of strength, independence, and purpose?In this inspiring episode, Vincent shares his journey of growing up with complex chronic illness…
What Doctors Miss: HCM, Women’s Health, and Patient Voices [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:30
What does it mean to be diagnosed with a serious heart condition at a young age, and then have to fight to be believed?In this powerful conversation, Hannah shares her journey as a heart patient diagnosed with HCM and th…
Gut-Immune Connection Explained [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:55
#ChronicIllness #GutHealth #DigestiveHealth #gastroparesis In this week’s episode, Sam sits down with Dahlia and James Marin, co-founders of Married to Health, where they unpack the gut-immune connection and why food is…