In Season 2, Episode 6 of HS Brotherhood, hosts Parish and Joey get real about what it means to be an HS warrior both in and out of the workforce. This honest, vulnerable, and deeply relatable conversation explores the challenges men face when trying to balance chronic illness, work responsibilities, financial pressures, and personal identity.

Joey shares what it’s like to continue working full-time while managing unpredictable HS flares, the mental load of staying focused in a public safety role, and how supportive coworkers and accommodations have helped him keep going. Parish opens up about the emotional and financial reality of having to leave the workforce due to HS—and what it took to rebuild his confidence, rediscover purpose, and transition into advocacy.

Together, they unpack:
– The pressure men face to “push through” even when their bodies are struggling
– Embarrassing moments, stigma, and the fear of being misunderstood at work
– How to communicate with supervisors and advocate for accommodations
– The mental health toll of lost income, isolation, and identity changes
– The hope found in community, purpose, and reclaiming your story

This episode is for every man who has ever felt torn between showing up for others and taking care of himself, and for anyone who wants to better understand the reality of HS in everyday life.

🔗 Listen, share, and find community resources at: hsconnect.org

This podcast was made possible by Moonlake.