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Diabetes Doesn’t Define You: Mindset, Motivation & the Power to Take Control

In this powerful episode of Man: A Quest to Find Meaning, we dive deep into the emotional and physical journey of living with type 1 diabetes. Our guest, Simon McKee, shares how one journal entry transformed his mindset, leading him from denial and self-destruction to clarity, discipline, and empowerment.

Diagnosed at just three years old, Simon spent decades battling anger, shame, and neglect of his condition. But everything changed when a red flag moment forced him to face reality—and find a new way forward. From struggling with alcohol and avoidance to embracing radical discipline, Simon’s journey reveals how mindset can literally save your life.

We talk about the importance of deep motivation, emotional release, and self-compassion. Simon opens up about how journaling, therapy, and a life-changing consultation with Dr. Bernstein in the US led him to adopt a strict but life-giving lifestyle—proving that healing, and even reversal of damage, is possible.

Whether you’re living with a chronic illness, stuck in a self-sabotaging pattern, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical mindset tools, and a powerful reminder: You are not your diagnosis—you are your decisions.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• How to shift from “I can’t” to “What if I can?”
• The surprising link between emotion and physical health
• Why setting intentions and daily rituals are non-negotiables
• How to find your personal “why” to stay consistent

Join us on Man: A Quest to Find Meaning as we explore what it truly means to reclaim your health, identity, and purpose—one mindset shift at a time.

About Simon:

Born in Dublin and based in London since 1997, Simon McKee has lived with Type 1 diabetes for over 50 years — and hasn’t let it hold him back for a moment. A qualified accountant and change management specialist with over two decades in investment banking, Simon is also the founder of Diabetes Take Control, an initiative championing the emotional and psychological side of diabetes management.
Simon’s life reads like a highlight reel of resilience: he’s sailed two legs of an around-the-world yacht race — from Qingdao to San Francisco and then on to Jamaica. He’s trekked to Everest Base Camp, and ventured deep into the Arctic Circle with a team of huskies and a sledge. His passion for challenge and growth fuels his work, whether he’s delivering talks, mentoring others, or climbing literal and figurative mountains.
A keen traveller, rugby fanatic, climber, and active Toastmaster, Simon brings humour, insight, and lived experience to every conversation