Diabetes Nerd

The Real Story Behind Automated Insulin Pumps: Patients Built It First

Diabetes Nerd Season 1

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What if diabetes technology could do most of the work for you?

In this episode, Chris Wilson shares how the DIY diabetes community has spent years pushing insulin-delivery technology beyond its limits, helping to shape the future of automated diabetes management.

From early CGM hacks to advanced algorithms that can learn insulin needs with minimal input, Chris explains how grassroots innovation continues to influence the tools people with type 1 diabetes use today.

We discuss:
• The origins of the "We Are Not Waiting" movement
• How DIY systems evolved into today's advanced algorithms
• The role of open-source communities in accelerating innovation
• The risks and rewards of testing new technology
• What the future could hold for pumps, CGMs, and automated insulin delivery

Whether you're curious about DIY looping, diabetes technology, or where diabetes care is headed next, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the people driving progress.

Guest Chris Wilson is a programmer, advocate, and longtime contributor to the DIY diabetes community who has helped develop and test some of the most innovative insulin delivery systems available today.

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Thanks to Eversense for sponsoring the Diabetes Nerd Podcast. Eversense is home to the world's only 365-Day CGM. See if it's right for you at eversensecgm.com.

DISCLAIMER: This video is not medical advice. Ginger Vieira is not a doctor. Please consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your healthcare regimen.

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