For young people living with a chronic health condition and/or disability, turning 18 not only represents a momentous leap into a new world of work, higher education and adult administration, but also tackling the adult healthcare system. Joel and Lani talk about tackling all things adulthood in part 1 of this conversation.

Chronic Conundrums has been created by four young people living with chronic illness and/or disability to create a space for conversations about their realities.

Hosted by Joel Brookes and Lani Puse, with writing and research by Charlotte Mckenzie and Charlie Moten, the podcast explores a range of experiences from diagnoses and hospitalisations to treatment and health care transition services.

The podcast invites audiences into the anchors’ imperfect humanities, challenging chronic illness and disability narratives. The team aspires to reach all members of the community, those with lived experience or without; to educate and engage a platform for youth health advocacy in the broader community.

Chronic Conundrums is endorsed by the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network. This podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional mental health advice. If you find any topics explored potentially triggering, please seek help from a local mental health professional or contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 for 24-hour advice.

Chronic Conundrums was funded by a Youth Grant from the NSW Department of Communities and Justice's Youth Opportunities program, with the support of Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation. Thanks to Dr Adam Hulbert and The University of New South Wales for supporting recording and post-production work, to Ethan Puse for writing and producing the music for the podcast, and to Sweeney Interpreting for interpreting services supporting accessibility.