

The POTScast
Standing Up to POTS, Inc.
Learn about Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and more by joining us each week for a new episode. If you are living with POTS, MCAS or other chronic illnesses, you are not alone! Our goal is to raise awareness, nurture community, and empower patients with information and practical skills for living better with this chronic invisible illness.
Each month, we feature episodes with top POTS physicians as well as POTS patients. Because many POTS patients are eventually diagnosed with MCAS, the first Tuesday of every month we feature a new series called Mast Cell Matters, in which top MCAS practitioners share their experiences in better treating patients. You can learn more by listening to our groundbreaking POTScast anywhere, anytime. Visit our website at www.standinguptopots.org and follow our social media accounts @standinguptopots.
Each month, we feature episodes with top POTS physicians as well as POTS patients. Because many POTS patients are eventually diagnosed with MCAS, the first Tuesday of every month we feature a new series called Mast Cell Matters, in which top MCAS practitioners share their experiences in better treating patients. You can learn more by listening to our groundbreaking POTScast anywhere, anytime. Visit our website at www.standinguptopots.org and follow our social media accounts @standinguptopots.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 27, 2024 • 37min
E195: Kelley from Maryland
Meet Kelley from Maryland, a driven student who loves to read, plays the guitar and has plans to pursue neuroscience so she can study the intersection between the brain, one's mindset and POTS.
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast195
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Feb 20, 2024 • 25min
E194: Podcasts as a Form of Social Support with Dr. Melanie Finney and Kate Pederson
POTScast listeners took a survey on podcasts and social support. Here are the results - podcasts can help individuals feel less socially isolated and provide them with informational and emotional support. Parasocial relationships between podcast listeners and hosts are also important.
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast194
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Feb 13, 2024 • 41min
E193: Psychological Experiences of POTS Patients with Dr. Alissa Sheldon
Learn about the psychological experiences of POTS patients in this episode with Dr. Alissa Sheldon. Understand how to trust your symptoms and navigate through life despite challenges.
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast193
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Feb 10, 2024 • 39min
E192: POTS Diary with Erin from Connecticut, who loves to write
Erin is working on her Master's degree in English, and loves to write. She's written stories about her journey with both lupus and POTS, which started in her late teens and early 20s, but her first love is fiction.
You can find her stories at https://vocal.media/fiction/waiting-room-lv3wu40jdv and https://www.artwifemag.com/short-stories/chinchilly
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Feb 6, 2024 • 57min
E191: Dr. Jeffrey Boris on MCAS, POTS, hypermobility and pediatric cardiology as part of the Mast Cell Matters Series with Dr. Tania Dempsey
Dr. Dempsey interviews pediatric cardiologist Dr. Jeffrey Boris about the Triad (MCAS, POTS and hypermobility syndromes) in his pediatric population. As an avid researcher and data analyst, Dr. Boris is always a wealth of knowledge on latest findings and yet-unpublished trends and hypotheses. The doctors also exchange interesting observations about MCAS and cholesterol, PCOS, and much more.
You can learn more about Dr. Boris and his practice here.
You can learn more about Dr. Dempsey and her practice here.
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast191
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

23 snips
Jan 30, 2024 • 44min
E190: Possible Causes of Brain Fog, Dizziness and Nausea in POTS with Dr. Cathy Pederson
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Cathy Pederson, a neurobiology professor and POTS expert, dives deep into the complexities of POTS symptoms. She unpacks the enigma of brain fog, explaining how inflammation and hormone levels can contribute to cognitive issues. Dizziness and lightheadedness are tackled through the lens of poor cerebral blood flow. Practical management tips, including dietary adjustments and behavioral tricks, provide listeners with actionable insights. Plus, Dr. Pederson touches on the nuanced reasons behind nausea and fainting in POTS patients.

Jan 23, 2024 • 50min
E189: Functional Medicine Nutrition with Megan Barnett
This is a conversation between Jill Brook and Megan Barnett discussing the relationship between nutrition, gut health, and complex health conditions like POTS and mast cell disorders. They delve into topics like food sensitivities, the importance of micronutrients, and the role of functional medicine in managing these conditions.
Megan's website is: https://bioloungepdx.com
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast189
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Jan 20, 2024 • 27min
E188: POTS Diary with Erica from California, an actress and dancer
Erica really can't remember life without POTS symptoms and anxiety was blamed for many years. She currently attends school and lives bicoastally as she pursues a career as an actress and dancer. Her diagnosis brought relief, and learning how to control her symptoms have helped her follow her dreams.
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast188
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Jan 16, 2024 • 42min
E187: Dr. Anjali Agarwal, Consulting Physiotherapist and Awareness Beacon in India
Dr. Anjali Agarwal - consulting physiotherapist trained in UK, located in India, and consulting via telemed around the world - is a wealth of information on POTS and related conditions, describing how "everything is connected", which also presents many treatment opportunities. She shares numerous lifestyle strategies to manage POTS/dysautonomia, MCAS, hypermobility and related conditions, and she also shares her international perspective. You can follow Dr. Anjali on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast187
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.

Jan 11, 2024 • 53min
E186:Behind the Scenes of The Triad Film on POTS/MCAS/hypermobility: A Crossover Episode
We have the entire medical/production team of 5 physician/researchers to give us an update and behind-the-scenes look at the documentary they are making about the trifecta of dysautonomia/POTS, MCAS and hypermobility spectrum disorders. We hear from doctors Tania Dempsey, Larry Afrin, Linda Bluestein, Lawrence Kinsella and Leonard Weinstock, along with patient Jill Brook, to hear how filming is going so far and how we can all help support the film. This is a crossover episode with Bendy Bodies with Hypermobility MD, Dr. Linda Bluestein. You can learn more about the documentary at MCASfund.org.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:37 Creating Awareness and Increasing Treatment Options
03:09 The Birth of the Documentary Project
05:20 Filming in New York
07:19 Filming in St. Louis
10:32 The Motivation to Work with Complex Patients
15:49 The Journey of Recognizing MCAS
17:34 The Impact of MCAS Treatment
21:00 Personal Experiences and Incorporating MCAS Treatment
22:42 The Need for an Educational Library
25:29 The Challenge of Condensing Information
26:21 Describing MCAS in Sound Bites
31:10 The Importance of Raising Awareness
34:42 Growth and Development Abnormalities in MCAS
40:03 Main Points about Hypermobility Syndromes and Dysautonomia
44:48 Partnership with LDN Research Trust
51:47 Final Words and Call for Support
54:26 Recognition and Treatment of Unrecognized Patients
55:44 Importance of Learning and Trying
56:13 Gratitude for Dedicated Doctors
56:47 Closing Remarks and Resources
You can learn more about the physicians in this episode at:
https://aimcenterpm.com/ for Dr. Tania Dempsey and Dr. Lawrence Afrin
https://www.gidoctor.net/leonard-weinstock-md for Dr. Leonard Weinstock
https://www.ssmhealth.com/find-a-doctor/doctor-details/laurence-j-kinsella-md for Dr. Laurence Kinsella
https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/ for Dr. Linda Bluestein
You can read the transcript for this episode here: http://tinyurl.com/potscast186
If you liked this episode, we hope you will click subscribe so that you don't miss an episode. If you are so moved, donations are accepted to help to support our production costs https://www.standinguptopots.org/donate
Tell us what you think of The POTScast or send us your idea at info@standinguptopots.org!
Find out more about Standing Up to POTS! Check us out on our Website: www.standinguptopots.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/standinguptopots/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/standinguptopots/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/POTSActivist Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheStandingUpToPOTS/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have health related issues, please contact a qualified health professional to get the personalized assessment, advice, and treatment that you need. Standing Up to POTS will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising from the use of this podcast.


