Podcast
What the Ef?!
Hosted by What the EF · EN
What the Ef?! is the podcast that says out loud what everyone else with epilepsy is thinking: WTF is happening right now?! Hosted by Landis Wiedner, this show unpacks the unfiltered, often hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking realities of life with epilepsy. Each week, Landis brings together neurologists, advocates, celebrities, caregivers, and everyday people to share raw stories, expert insights, and those “you-can’t-make-this-up” epilepsy moments no one talks about—but everyone should.
It’s equal parts education, community, and comic relief. Whether you’re living with seizures, supporting someone who is, or just curious to learn more, this show creates an approachable, stigma-busting space where laughter and real talk fuel change.
⚡ Epilepsy • Seizures • Awareness • Advocacy • WTF moments ⚡
Special thanks to SK Life Science and Neurelis for sponsoring 2024 and supporting conversations that matter.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nothing shared here should be taken as medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
27episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Seizure training for first responders with Duane & Jessica Chappell and Steve Paluck
Oct 15, 202401:02:29Tap to summarizeGear up for a double date you’ve never seen on Netflix: one police officer, one firefighter, each married to an epilepsy advocate. Illinois State Police Officer, Duane Chappell, and Chicago firefighter/EMT, Steve Paluck, share eye-opening insights about seizures in the field and the necessity of seizure safety training for first responders. Jessica Chappell (Duane’s better half) rejoins the podcast to share her experience as a Law Enforcement Seizure Safety Trainer and how to implement training in your community. Currently, seizure recognition and response training is not mandated for first responders. Let’s make some noise and change this! Seizure training for law enforcement in your community: https://www.epilepsy.com/programs/training-education/law-enforcement Ask your representatives to support the National Plan! Takes 2 minutes! https://www.epilepsiescaucus.org/takection Learn more about the National Plan here: https://www.epilepsiesactionnetwork.org/thenationalplan What happened to Rhyker Earl: https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/28/us/video/rhyker-earl-handcuffed-by-police-following-medical-emergency-digvid Jessica's other bad ass episode! Climbing the corporate ladder with Jessica Chappell: https://youtu.be/JaQfHLCRkJ4?si=AfUPuSEgp-2gHwPk Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and sponsors Neurelis and SK life science for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
Transcribe →From secrecy to strength with Melanee Stovall
Oct 8, 202400:53:51Tap to summarizeLike many of us, Melanee Stovall felt overwhelmed and isolated after her daughter was diagnosed with epilepsy. Navigating the complexities of healthcare and education, Melanee chose to keep her daughter’s condition a secret, hoping to protect her from stigma. But as she learned more, she discovered her voice and began advocating for fair treatment both in the classroom and in medical care. In this inspiring episode, Melanee shares her journey from silent struggle to fierce advocacy and how it led to the creation of her nonprofit, which now connects families to vital epilepsy resources. Tune in for a dose of hope, humor, and the power of connection. Check out Legacy Bridges Foundation! https://www.legacybridgesfoundation.org/ Get yourself a Daijah Hair Bow! https://www.instagram.com/daijahshairbows/ Order a copy of "Life Heist: Journey of a Childhood Robbed by the Unknown" on Amazon! T-shirt giveaway! Take this 90-second survey, enter your email address, and you're entered to win! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WTEF Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and sponsors SK life science and Neurelis for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
Transcribe →Changing the plan in family planning with Alison Kukla & Preston Reilly
Oct 1, 202401:03:38Tap to summarizeReady for the sweetest, most non-traditional love story? Alison Kukla and Preston Reilly share their Meet Cute, Zoom wedding, and when “family planning” doesn’t go as planned. These two should legit have their own Hallmark movie that rewrites the script for happy endings. Tune in to hear how this powerhouse couple is changing the narrative of managing epilepsy in marriage, careers, and support systems. Wanna win some funny epilepsy merch? Take this 90-second survey about rescue meds, include your email, and you're entered to win! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WTEF Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and sponsors Neurelis and SK life science for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
Transcribe →Turning trauma into triumph with JenVon Cherry
Sep 24, 202400:44:05Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode, JenVon opens up about the raw realities of living with epilepsy, from the cognitive challenges and isolation to the struggles with depression, anxiety, and dating. She bravely shares her escape from an abusive relationship, highlighting the critical importance of self-care and a supportive network. As the founder of Epitome of Epilepsy, JenVon discusses the mission of her nonprofit and the power of creating a truly inclusive work environment. Tune in for an unfiltered look at resilience, hope, and the fight for a better life with epilepsy. Click here to register for the Jewels of Epilepsy Gala on 11/9/24! https://www.epitomeofepilepsy.org/event-details/jewels-of-epilepsy-gala-1 Available on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, Amazon Music, and Audible! Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and Sponsors SK life science and Neurelis for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
Transcribe →Calling all outsiders with Mark Slater
Sep 17, 202400:48:54Tap to summarizeEver felt like an outsider, even within your own community? You’re not alone! After Mark Slater hid his epilepsy for years, becoming an advocate didn't erase that feeling. But then came a pivotal moment that changed everything—Mark realized he succeeds because of his epilepsy, not despite it. Now we’re teaming up to create a space where people with epilepsy can truly connect. Tune in for the exclusive on the Otherside Lounge—a sanctuary for Outsiders like us! Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and sponsors SK life science and Neurelis for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
Transcribe →What the ef is a rescue med? with Dr. Danielle Becker
Sep 10, 202400:46:36Tap to summarizeEver heard of a rescue med but not sure wtf it really means? Join Dr. Becker, a top epileptologist at Ohio State’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, as she explains rescue meds, how to use them, and how to talk to your doctor about them. And check out how Dr. Becker and her team are revolutionizing epilepsy treatment through cutting-edge research and compassionate care. Take this survey about rescue meds, enter your email, and you'll be entered to win epilepsy merch! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WTEF Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and sponsors Neurelis and SK life science for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
Transcribe →Better Than the Bullies with Anna Rasque
Sep 3, 202400:47:14Tap to summarizeGrowing up, Anna faced relentless bullying and doubt from both peers and teachers because of her seizures. But instead of letting the stigma define her, she transformed her pain into power. Now a Community Outreach Specialist for her local Epilepsy Foundation of Wisconsin, Anna is a source of inspiration 🌟 and support 🤝, ensuring that no one feels alone on their epilepsy journey. Tune in to hear how Anna flipped the script, owned her epilepsy, and became a beacon of hope (and hilarity). 💪 Thank you to our Community Partner Epilepsy Foundation of America and Sponsors SK life science and Neurelis for making conversations like this possible. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wtefpodcast/support
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