KidneyTalk - An Online Radio Show By Renal Support Network
Health, Fitness & Longevity
About
RSN's KidneyTalk is an informative, inspirational, and entertaining online, half-hour radio talk show that launched in June of 2006 with host RSN Founder and President Lori Hartwell. With Lori Hartwell, a renal disease survivor since 1958, KidneyTalk provides the audience with practical advice on how to live a full and productive life despite CKD. The show features healthcare professionals and people living successfully with kidney disease who share personal experiences in inspirational, thought-provoking interviews.
Episodes
- 4/24/2026 - A New Beat: Eddie Z on Music, Love, and Kidney Transplant
Eddie Z, is a talented musician and producer who has been the driving force behind some of Charlotte, North Carolinas most iconic music venues. But his conversation with Lori is more than just music talk. Eddie opens about his personal jou…
- 3/30/2026 - The Fluid Factor and Hemodialysis: What is missing to improve patient experience? - Part 2
In this two-part conversation, Lori Hartwell and nephrologist Jim McCabe, MD dig into one of the most challenging parts of hemodialysis: fluid management. Why is it still so difficult to get it right and what is missing that could make the…
- 3/30/2026 - The Fluid Factor and Hemodialysis: What is missing to improve patient experience? - Part 1
In this two-part conversation, Lori Hartwell and nephrologist Jim McCabe, MD dig into one of the most challenging parts of hemodialysis: fluid management. Why is it still so difficult to get it right and what is missing that could make the…
- 1/16/2026 - Gut Health and Kidneys
Could your gut be quietly shaping the future of your kidney health? On this episode of Kidney Talk, host Lori Hartwell welcomes renowned kidney specialist Dr. Johnson and kidney disease survivor Bettye Mashack for a fascinating conversatio…
- 12/12/2025 - Anemia and Kidney Disease: The Connection You Cannot Ignore
Feeling tired and washed out? It could be more than fatigue. Lori Hartwell and Dr. Todd Minga, Vice-President of Clinical Research and Medical Affairs at Akebia Therapeutics uncover how anemia and kidney disease intertwine"and why understa…
- 11/17/2025 - Thankful Through It All: Dr. Ken Sutha™s Journey with Kidney Disease
On this episode of KidneyTalk, Lori Hartwell chats with Dr. Ken Sutha, a pediatric nephrologist who understands kidney disease in a way few doctors can"because he has lived it.
- 10/29/2025 - Freedom, Love and Life on Dialysis: a Conversation with Ridisanae Shaw
What if the key to freedom was not found in a cure, but in a choice? Ridishanae (Nae) Shaw shares how she redefined life, love, and independence in her kidney journey. Hear her story in the latest KidneyTalk® podcast episode.
- 7/14/2025 - Shelbys Journey: Navigating Home Dialysis and Embracing Transplant Life
On this episode of KidneyTalk, Lori Hartwell chats with Shelby McClure, whose kidney journey is anything but ordinary. Shelby has experienced nearly every form of dialysis"each with its own challenges, breakthroughs, and life lessons. From…
- 5/8/2025 - Exploring Gut Health & Chronic Kidney Disease
In this episode of Kidney Talk, Lori welcomes Dr. Richard Johnson - renowned nephrologist, author of Comprehensive Clinical Nephrology, and a pioneer in kidney disease research. Together, they dive into the fascinating connection between g…
- 4/30/2025 - Understanding High Potassium and Kidney Disease
In this episode, Lori talks with nephrologist Dr. Arun Malhotra about what inspired him to pursue nephrology and dives into an important discussion about the connection between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and high potassium, also known as…
- 2/9/2025 - From Adversity to Advocacy: A Journey to Finding Your Tribe
Austin Lees journey with kidney disease began before he was even born. Lori first met Austin when he traveled from DC as a teenager to attend the Renal Teen Prom. Overcoming anxiety and depression, Austin has transformed into a powerful ad…
- 2/5/2025 - Resilience Through Adversity: Reflections on Growing Up with Kidney Disease
Much like our host Lori, Michael Jiuliano faced the challenges of kidney disease from a young age. In a spirited and heartfelt conversation, they delve into their childhood experiences"navigating numerous treatments and hospital stays, and…
- 12/10/2024 - Kidneys - The Body's Keepers: A Conversation with Dr. Paul Kimmel
In this podcast, Lori Hartwell chats with Dr. Paul Kimmel, a prominent nephrologist, to explore the valuable insights found in his book, The Bodys Keepers: A Social History of Kidney Failure and Its Treatments. Together, they examine the h…
- 12/2/2024 - Fluid Management, Sodium and Food Choices for People on Home Dialysis
In a joint interview, Krystal Bilodeau, a Home Therapies RN at FMCNA, and Brian Hutchinson, who is currently undergoing peritoneal dialysis, talk with Lori about fluid management, sodium intake, and dietary choices. Brian shares his person…
- 10/28/2024 - Managing Phosphorus Levels in People with Kidney Disease: Treatments, Challenges and Emerging Solutions
Dr. Frita Fisher, who is triple board-certified in Nephrology, Internal Medicine, and Pediatrics, engages in a discussion with Lori Hartwell about the role of phosphorus and its impact on overall health. Join them as they explore what phos…
- 9/5/2024 - Believing in Possibilities
Living with kidney disease is not easy, but its a journey shared by many. In a compelling exchange between KidneyTalk® host Lori Hartwell and Jennifer Cramer Miller, author of Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope, strik…
- 7/26/2024 - Understanding and Avoiding Internet Scams
Have you ever encountered a financial or healthcare internet scam? Advocate Karol Franks and Lori discuss the latest trending scams, key signs to identify potential scams, what to do if you believe you have been a victim, and most importan…
- 5/2/2024 - The Impact of Living with Kidney Disease on Your Mental and Emotional Well-being
Kidney disease is a chronic condition, in addition there are five stages. How you are going to feel from day to day and through each of the stages can have a negative impact your mental wellness. Felicia Speed, PhD, LMSW, VP of Social Work…
- 4/9/2024 - Access to Innovation in Dialysis Care has its Ups and Downs
Barriers to innovation for people who are on dialysis is a hot issue. While Medicare is a great source of comfort and provides access to necessary treatments, it does face challenges with its existing payment structure that hinder access t…
- 2/22/2024 - Clinical Quality - How CMS Measures Quality Care for People on Dialysis
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) implements quality initiatives for Medicare beneficiaries on dialysis. CMS uses these measures to see how the dialysis facility is performing. Dawn Curtis, VP of Clinical Quality, Fresenius…
- 2/8/2024 - Expressions of Joy
Joy Araujo, a source of inspiration for her peers, has won the RSN annual essay contest on multiple occasions. Through her heartfelt and insightful essays, Joy has touched the hearts of readers, sharing her life experiences and imparting w…
- 1/12/2024 - Little Things Lead to Big Changes
Jennifer McClung was diagnosed with kidney disease at a young age. After receiving a kidney transplant Jennifer started to put on extra weight and needed to make a change. She managed to lose the weight and along the way developed lifestyl…
- 12/13/2023 - Resilience and Strength in the Face of Adversity
The journey of a single mom with kidney disease is a testament to unwavering determination as they navigate a career, medical appointments, treatments and the emotional toll, all the while nurturing and supporting their family. Mauricia Am…
- 12/5/2023 - Changes Happening to the Dialysis Payment Bundle and How it Can Impact Care
The inclusion of oral phosphate lowering drugs in the dialysis payment bundle starting in January 2025 is a significant change that has sparked debates and discussions within the kidney community. Lori and Jeffrey Silberzweig, MD delve int…
- 11/8/2023 - Recycling Medication & Dialysis Supplies
Lori and Cher, both kidney transplant recipients, have dealt with kidney disease for the majority of their lives. They also share a deep respect for the environment. Listen in to hear some tips, and what they have learned from their experi…
- 10/27/2023 - An Unexpected Diagnosis at a Young Age
When you are in high school the list of things to worry about usually include getting good grades and getting the chance to talk to your crush, not kidney disease. Lori sits down with the RSN Administrative Coordinator, Isela King, who was…
- 9/11/2023 - Hope for People Suffering from Itchy Skin
If itching is causing you discomfort or keeping you up a night, this show is for you! Itchy skin, medically referred to as pruritus, is a common and often distressing condition. The uncomfortable sensation can range from a mild annoyance t…
- 8/29/2023 - Dealing with Surprise Medical Bills
Have you ever had a surprise medical bill? One where you do not even recognize the name of the doctor? The No Surprises Act is here to protect you. Patricia Kelmar, a consumer protection advocate, explains what you need to know about unexp…
- 7/25/2023 - Beyond the Scratch: Exploring Pruritus
People who have kidney disease often complain about itching. This can be a medical condition called Pruritus. Some people have a such a severe itch that it keeps them up at night. If this sounds like you or someone you love, listen in to t…
- 6/27/2023 - David Rush: Balancing Work and Play while on the Go
Music Producer, artist David Rush was diagnosed with kidney failure and doctors told him that he would need a kidney transplant or dialysis to survive. That is when he decided to take matters into his own hands and use his platform as a mu…
- 5/15/2023 - Choosing a Treatment for Kidney Failure
Making decisions about kidney failure treatment options can be daunting. Your lifestyle and other considerations play a huge part in the evaluation process. Where do you start? In this podcast, Lori and Dori Schatell, Executive Director at…
- 5/2/2023 - Animal-assisted Therapy: Does this Benefit People on Dialysis?
In this episode, Lori is joined by Dr. Meredith Stensland, Assistant Professor of Research in Psychology at The University of Texas Health Science at San Antonio. Dr. Stensland talks about her research on pet therapy in dialysis centers an…
- 4/17/2023 - Navigating a Kidney Transplant: How Your Dialysis Social Worker Can Help
People on dialysis spend a lot of time interacting with their social workers. These professionals are in the perfect position to help people learn more about kidney transplantation and the evaluation process at a transplant center. Anna Ru…
- 4/4/2023 - Living Donor Circle of Excellence
Deciding to be a living kidney donor comes with considerations like job stability and earning a paycheck, yet they shouldn™t be obstacles. Dr. John Gill, MS, shares how the American Society of Transplantations Living Donor Circle of Excell…
- 3/21/2023 - Dawn Edwards: Wisdom from a Warrior
Dawn Edwards is a 31-year kidney-disease survivor who has served her peers and the community as a mentor and educator for more than 25 years. Today she talks to Lori Hartwell, also a long-time kidney-disease survivor, about her journey fro…
- 2/24/2023 - Overcoming Obstacles to Live Your Best Life
Nathan Gutierrez was born with the physical disability spina bifida. He has been restricted to a wheelchair since birth. The disease led to kidney failure to transplantation, yet he never let his disability interfere with his amazing accom…
- 1/30/2023 - Anyssa Dang: Helping Kids Who Are Diagnosed With Kidney Disease
Anyssa Dang authored the book so her younger brother could understand what he is going through. Kidneys for Kids helps kids who are diagnosed with kidney disease (and their siblings) understand what the doctors are telling them about their…
- 1/11/2023 - Life as a Home Dialysis Nurse
Home dialysis nurses educate their patients about how to safely do their treatments at home and overcome the barriers and fears associated with taking on their own care. Learn what the day is like for a nurse and why their job is so reward…
- 12/8/2022 - Life as a Dialysis Social Worker
Dialysis social workers are the lifeline to those dealing with the emotional, financial, and transportation demands of kidney disease. Anna Rutherford, LMSW, is Senior Manager of Social Work Services at Fresenius Kidney Care. She is dedica…
- 11/30/2022 - Life as a Renal Dietitian
For everyone, food is the number one topic! What to eat? The renal diet is complicated, and it changes throughout the different stages of kidney disease. A renal dietitian can make a big difference to people who are either struggling with,…
- 10/11/2022 - Life as a Patient Care Technician
Thirty years ago, John Larsen entered the dialysis healthcare field and never looked back. As a Patient Care Technician (PCT), John lives on the front lines at the dialysis clinic where he works. From start to finish, PCTs play an essentia…
- 8/17/2022 - Life as a Dialysis Nurse
For Molly Reehl, CDN, working as a technician was the first step in a career in dialysis. She loved caring for patients and felt valued by them, and she wanted to provide them with more care. To fulfill her dream to become a dialysis nurse…
- 7/26/2022 - Life as a Nephrologist
When caring for patients over the course of several years, nephrologists often get the opportunity to develop relationships with them. The experience is a lot like family, says Michael Kraus, MD, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Freseniu…
- 7/6/2022 - Ouch, Urine Trouble!
Discussion about transplants and urinary tract infections.
- 5/2/2022 - How to Think About the Stages of Kidney Disease
Lori and Dr. Kam Kalantar-Zadeh, Professor of Medicine and Public Health at UC Irvine School of Medicine, discuss each stage and what you can to help delay the progression of the illness.
- 3/30/2022 - The First Spark for Kidney Transplant Science
Listen in as Edmund Lawler, a journalism teacher and author, tells Lori the story of one extraordinary visionary in the world of medical science. More than seven decades ago, Edmunds great uncle, Dr. Richard Lawler, reached beyond the scie…
- 3/15/2022 - How to Fight the Whats for Dinner Blues
Does thinking about dinner make you want to turn and run to the nearest greasy spoon? Lori and Caitlin Harris, RD, know cooking can be daunting when you have kidney disease. Let them give you the scoop on how they make cooking fun, fast an…
- 2/9/2022 - Kidney Transplant Before and After: Staying listed and keeping your gift of life healthy
When you have kidney disease people who stay ahead of the game do the best. At any given time, close to 40 percent of people on the UNOS kidney transplant list are inactive. Lori and Lazaro Cherem, MD, discuss why patients become inactive…
- 2/1/2022 - The Danger of Bloodstream Infections
Germs seize every opportunity to invade your body. The infections that follow can endanger your life, especially if you have kidney disease. Bloodstream Infections are one of the leading causes of death for people on dialysis. Listen in as…
- 1/10/2022 - Dialysis in a Skilled Nursing Facility
People on dialysis sometimes require rehabilitation in a skilled nursing home as they recuperate from surgery, medical emergencies or are unable to care for themselves. When this happens, they have to travel from their nursing facility to…