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
Episode 29: Hope in a Broken Digestive System [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:07
Gastroparesis isn’t just about digestion — it’s about identity, grief, resilience, and learning how to fight for yourself. In this episode, Sam and Dr. Eva Alsheik unpack the science behind gastroparesis, the mental heal…
Episode 28: When Voices Become a Movement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:10
In this final episode of the year, Sam pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to grow a chronic illness community. From the early days of G-PACT to the powerful network it’s become today, she reflects on the wins…
Episode 27: The Missing Piece in GI Treatment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:16
In this week's episode, Megan Riehl joins the show to break down the brain–gut connection and why it’s a physiological process, not a dismissal. We explore how stress and nervous system dysregulation directly affect GI f…
Episode 26: When Fitness isn't Built for Us [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:31
In this episode, Sam sits down with Kate Bochnewetch, a physical therapist and running/strength coach, for a conversation about living, moving and thriving with chronic illness. Drawing from her own journey with hEDS syn…
Episode 25: Empowering Patients through Nutrition [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 48:23
In this episode, we’re joined by Jennifer Akimoto. She’s a registered dietitian with 20 years of clinical nutrition experience, and today, we are talking about the world of blended tube feeding. Inspired by a patient’s d…