Man 2 Man, Brother 2 Brother | Men, Kidney Disease & Breaking the Silence

What happens when two Black men sit down and have an honest conversation about kidney disease, mental health, and the struggles we rarely talk about?** In this powerful inaugural edition of "Man to Man, Brother to Brother," The Kidney Korner Podcast host Craig Merritt welcomes back rare kidney disease patient and advocate *Joshua Albright* for a heartfelt, unfiltered conversation about brotherhood, vulnerability, healthcare experiences, and the importance of taking control of our health. Diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) at just 17 years old, Joshua shares how an unexpected blood pressure reading changed his life, how his brother Jordan was also diagnosed with kidney disease, and how early detection, genetic testing, and participation in a clinical trial helped shape his journey. Together, Craig and Joshua challenge a mindset that has existed in our communities for generations: *Men are supposed to be strong, keep their struggles to themselves, and simply say, "I'm good."* But what happens when we're NOT good? In this episode, we discuss: Why Black men need to normalize conversations about their physical and mental health. The warning signs of kidney disease that are often overlooked or misunderstood. FSGS, genetics, and the importance of understanding your diagnosis. Healthcare mistrust, medical bias, and the importance of building relationships with healthcare providers. Why patients should never settle for simply hearing, "Your labs look good." Joshua's personal experience with clinical trials and the importance of informed decision-making. Why vulnerability is not weakness, but a demonstration of strength. How sharing your personal testimony could change someone else's life. One of the most powerful messages from this conversation comes from Joshua, who gives the letters FSGS a personal meaning: "Facing Struggles, Gaining Strength." This episode is more than a conversation about kidney disease. It's a call for men of all generations to break down barriers, check on one another, ask questions, and become active participants in their healthcare. Brothers, it's time to have the conversations we've been avoiding. Your health matters. Your voice matters. Your story matters. Whether you're living with kidney disease, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to become more informed about your health, this conversation is for YOU. 🎙️ *Hosted by:* Craig Merritt, Founder & Executive Director, The Get In Position Foundation, Inc. (GIPF) 🎙️ Special Guest: Joshua Albright, Rare Kidney Disease Patient Advocate Special Thanks & Production Credits: Episode Sponsor: Travere Therapeutics Producer: Alan Walton Director of Photography: CJ Merritt Studio: Tenderfoot TV Special appreciation to the Albright family Connect with The Get In Position Foundation: 🌐 Website: www.getinposition21.org ▶️ YouTube: @getinposition21 Our mission is to empower individuals living with kidney disease in underserved communities through education, counseling, and personalized support. This podcast shares personal experiences and educational information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team regarding your individual health needs. GET IN POSITION AS IT RELATES TO YOUR HEALTH! #TheKidneyKornerPodcast #ManToMan #BrotherToBrother #KidneyDisease #FSGS #BlackMensHealth #KidneyHealthAwareness #RareKidneyDisease #MensMentalHealth #PatientAdvocacy #GetInPosition