The UpTic
New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders
The UpTic is a podcast that provides an opportunity for the eclectic voices of the TS community to be heard. The topics covered will be as diverse as this neurodivergent population. You will hear personal stories, learn more about Tourette Syndrome and be inspired to live fully. Wherever you are on your TS journey this podcast will inform and engage listeners and offer new insights and perspectives for self-reflection and action.
Why Listen?
- Explore the Iceberg: TS is more than tics. Discover the talents, challenges, and experiences that lie beneath the surface.
- Expert Takes: Stay updated with insights from therapists, psychologists, and neurodiversity professionals. Learn about cutting-edge TS therapies and research.
- Real Stories: Hear from diverse voices within the TS community, including LGBTQ+ and ethnic perspectives.
- Practical Tips: Get actionable strategies for managing TS in daily life.
Our Mission
We're not just here to educate; we aim to inspire action. Subscribe to join a movement committed to breaking down stereotypes and fostering inclusivity.
Tune In
Our first episode drops on November 7, with new episodes every other Tuesday. Subscribe now to never miss an episode and be part of a more inclusive world.
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Top 10 The UpTic Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The UpTic episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The UpTic for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The UpTic episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
10/01/24 • 29 min
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lori Rockmore and Dr. Daniela Colognori, two clinical psychologists with extensive experience treating individuals with Tourette syndrome (TS) and related conditions. Both have a rich history of working at the Rutgers TS Clinic, where they gained invaluable insights into providing holistic, family-focused care. Throughout our conversation, we discuss their personal journeys into the field, how their practice has evolved, and the incredible strengths they see in their patients.
We discuss what it means to offer holistic treatment, going beyond the tics themselves to address broader issues like school performance, family dynamics, and other comorbid conditions such as OCD and anxiety. Dr. Rockmore and Dr. Colognori share stories of resilience, the importance of seeing the whole person, and how families play a crucial role in supporting individuals with TS.
Episode Highlights:
[01:17] – Dr. Rockmore shares how her work in Tourette began, sparked by her collaboration with Dr. Kathy Budman.
[03:57] – Dr. Colognori recounts how she was "randomly" placed in the Rutgers TS program and ended up working alongside Dr. Rockmore.
[06:49] – Holistic care explained: Addressing the patient as a whole, including family, school challenges, and comorbidities like OCD and anxiety.
[09:34] – Dr. Rockmore and Dr. Colognori discuss the strengths of children with TS, emphasizing their talents beyond their tics.
[12:45] – Exploring the challenges and rewards of training students to treat TS, and how the Rutgers program equips them for treating complex conditions.
[20:17] – Practical advice: Dr. Rockmore and Dr. Colognori outline how they prioritize interventions based on functional impairments and patient input.
[24:20] – Advice to patients with Tourette’s: "Tics are just one part of who you are—pursue your passions and live your life to the fullest."
Links & Resources:
Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.
02/11/25 • 42 min
Ever wondered what it’s like to be part of a life-changing leadership program designed specifically for teens with Tourette Syndrome? In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Fowler, director of the Tim Howard Leadership Academy, to explore how this immersive four-day experience at Rutgers University helps young adults develop self-advocacy, resilience, and leadership skills. We dive into the evolution of the program, the powerful mentorship provided by coaches, and the deep sense of community that makes this academy so unique.
If you or someone you know is a teen with Tourette Syndrome looking for a supportive and empowering experience, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Melissa also shares insights on what to expect at this year’s academy, the application process, and why this free program is truly a game-changer.
Episode Highlights:
[00:38] What the Tim Howard Leadership Academy is all about and why it’s such a big part of the NJCTS community.
[02:52] The Academy’s Origin Story – How the program started in 2014 and how it’s evolved to better serve participants.
[08:52] Team Talk & Mentorship – The unique peer-led discussions that foster deep connections and support among participants.
[12:33] Why Coaches Love It Too – How the Academy benefits not just the teens, but the young adult mentors who return year after year.
[17:18] Living on Campus at Rutgers – What it’s like staying in dorms, eating in the dining hall, and getting a taste of college life.
[21:39] How to Apply – Breaking down the simple, stress-free application process for both participants and coaches.
[27:05] A Thoughtfully Designed Program – The mix of expert-led discussions, advocacy training, and real-world scenarios to help teens navigate life with Tourette’s.
[33:28] Recreation & Community Building – From quiet spaces to outdoor sports, the Academy ensures there’s something for everyone.
[40:31] A Global, Free Program – Teens from around the world can apply, and the Academy is free (excluding travel expenses).
Information about Tim Howard Leadership Academy:
📅 Application Deadline: February 15 (official), but applications are accepted through February 28, 2025.
📅 2025 Academy Dates: July 31 – August 3, 2025 at Rutgers University.
🔗 Learn More About the Academy: njcts.org/academy
📝 Apply Here: njcts.org/academy/application
📧 Contact Melissa Fowler (Academy Director) with Questions: [email protected]
Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.
02/25/25 • 46 min
What does it take to overcome barriers and achieve your dreams? In this episode of The Uptick, I sit down with Jenna Smith, a senior at Duke University and a newly awarded Rhodes Scholar, to talk about her journey navigating Tourette Syndrome while excelling academically and pursuing a career in law and criminal justice. From her early struggles with tics in the classroom to standing on some of the world’s biggest academic stages, Jenna shares how she built confidence, found community, and learned to embrace her unique path.
Jenna Smith is a senior at Duke University originally from Scotch Plains, New Jersey. She will be graduating this May with a major in International Comparative Studies and a minor in journalism and media. Jenna was among the 32 recipients selected for the Rhodes Scholarship, where she will be going to the University of Oxford in the UK for 2 years of study
Episode Highlights:
[2:38] The moment Jenna found out she was awarded the Rhodes Scholarship.
[4:59] How a documentary project in Mississippi shaped her passion for criminal justice.
[7:06] Her dream of using restorative justice to create meaningful change.
[9:23] Struggling with math, tic attacks during exams, and the pressure of academic performance.
[13:47] The challenge of navigating Tourette’s in middle school and how self-awareness helped.
[17:44] Learning to self-advocate—why early diagnosis and accommodations made a difference.
[23:04] How humor and openness helped Jenna shape how others respond to her tics.
[28:01] Growing up with a sibling who also has Tourette’s—lessons in support and resilience.
[32:30] Taking on challenges: How Brazilian Jiu Jitsu became a confidence-building hobby.
[37:05] Building confidence from within—why competence, community, and self-trust matter.
Links & Resources:
- Duke UniversityPress Release about Jenna Smith: https://today.duke.edu/2024/11/duke-senior-jenna-smith-wins-rhodes-scholarship
- The Rhodes Scholarship: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/
- Restorative Justice Durham: www.restorativejusticedurham.org
- Duke Justice Project: www.duke.edu
Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.
04/09/24 • 41 min
Today I am joined by Slayton Cooper, a high school senior valedictorian and youth ambassador for the Tourette Association of America. Slayton is a passionate advocate for Tourette Syndrome, neurodiversity, and related conditions. We explore what it means to truly embrace our unique neural landscapes in school and at work.
We explore the positives and negatives of labels, the importance of advocating for your needs, and finding your most authentic self. Slayton offers profound wisdom well beyond his years on self-acceptance, resisting judgments, and seeing the beauty in our differences. His message of empowerment for those with Tourette Syndrome and similar conditions is truly uplifting.
From personal struggles to triumphant advocacy, this conversation unveils the importance of understanding, acceptance, and empowerment within the neurodiverse community and beyond. Don't miss this insightful journey into the heart of neurodiversity.
Timeline Highlights:
[01:20] What does neurodiversity mean?
[04:29] Advocating for inclusion.
[07:39] Challenges in employment.
[11:30] Stigmas in the workplace.
[16:43] Navigating standardized tests.
[20:23] Balancing goals and ambitions with neurodiversity.
[23:00] Tools and resources
[31:54] Suppressing tics.
Links & Resources:
New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS): https://njcts.org/
Thank you for tuning into this enlightening conversation on neurodiversity. If you've found resonance or inspiration in our discussion, I encourage you to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us bring more stories like this to light, empowering others to embrace their unique selves fully.
This episode is dedicated to and in memory of, Patricia Phillips. Rest in peace, Pat. May your memory be a blessing, always.
01/16/24 • 34 min
In this episode, I have an illuminating discussion with Callum deQuevedo about his life-changing experience undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery to treat his severe Tourette Syndrome (TS). Callum shares the incredible story of his journey to DBS, from exhausting medications and therapy options, to making the decision for surgery, going through the procedure and recovery, to the transformative impact it has had on reducing his tics and self-injurious behaviors. While not a cure, DBS has given Callum a new lease on life. This powerful testimony sheds light on an emerging treatment option that could help others find relief.
Episode Highlights:
[01:27] Callum emphasizes DBS is not a cure but has significantly reduced his tics.
[02:37] Callum details the lengthy DBS candidacy process.
[05:30] Mental health criteria for getting DBS.
[07:06] The process of DBS surgery.
[09:27] Remote monitoring of Callum's DBS device.
[10:58] Follow-up surgeries required.
[12:38] DBS reduced Callum’s motor tics by 70%.
[14:15] How DBS has lessened the burden of TS.
[15:30] DBS has saved money caused from severe tic episodes.
[16:25] How Callum enjoys going to the movies.
[18:10] Being triggered by each other’s tics.
[19:30] DBS has improved Callum's hand tremors and handwriting.
[20:23] Mental health benefits of DBS.
[21:33] Limitations after DBS, including high-contact sports and metal detectors.
[23:54] Callum’s future college and career plans.
[25:04] Impressed by Callum's deep knowledge of tic blockers.
[28:54] Finding a TS therapist.
[30:00] Callum’s one piece of advice for people with TS.
[31:40] Post-DBS, Callum needs less accommodation at school now.
Links & Resources:
New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS): https://njcts.org/
Remember, your story is powerful, and sharing your experiences can be the guiding light for someone else's journey. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share 'The Uptick' with others.
Intersectional Identity
The UpTic
01/02/24 • 33 min
I had an enlightening discussion with Mason, a fellow advocate in the Tourette's community, about the complex intersectionality between TS and other identities. We explored the stigma surrounding coprolalia, the financial barriers to Tourette’s advocacy, and the dangers of gatekeeping Tourette’s diagnoses. Our conversation shed light on the diversity within the TS experience.
Episode Highlights:
[02:22] Kicking people with coprolalia out of the Tourette's community.
[04:16] The camp video that emphasized Tourette’s is not about swearing.
[06:12] Navigating intersectional identities beyond just having Tourette’s.
[07:39] The heavy financial burden of Tourette’s advocacy.
[10:08] Unpaid labor expected in disability advocacy communities.
[12:53] Respecting gender diversity at Tourette’s summer camps.
[14:31] The problem with accusing people of “faking” their tics.
[15:56] Tourette’s manifestations viewed differently across gender.
[17:53] Pretty privilege when it comes to tics being seen as “cute”.
[19:32] Who is really behind the Tourette’s police?
[21:01] Supporting conflicting access needs in the TS community.
[22:50] Barriers to medical transition for trans people with disabilities.
[25:00] Mason’s experience when coprolalia tics first emerged.
[31:32] The importance of visible TS role models across the spectrum.
Links & Resources:
New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS): https://njcts.org/
Remember, your story is powerful, and sharing your experiences can be the guiding light for someone else's journey. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share 'The Uptic' with others.
Diverse Voices of Tourette Syndrome
The UpTic
12/19/23 • 32 min
Join me as we explore the diverse intersection of Tourette Syndrome, culture, and identity with Michael Chichioco, a Filipino American medical student with a powerful story. In this episode, Michael opens up about his life with Tourette's, shedding light on the unique cultural challenges and the journey to understanding and acceptance. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that delves into the heart of living with Tourette's in a multicultural setting.
Episode Highlights:
[01:11] - Meet Michael Chichioco and discover the pivotal role of culture in his Tourette Syndrome journey.
[01:53] - Michael's personal battle with Tourette's – the early signs, diagnosis struggles, and cultural barriers.
[04:20] - A deep dive into childhood memories, understanding Tourette's, and family dynamics in different cultures.
[08:43] - Exploring the diverse reactions to Tourette Syndrome and the complexities within families.
[14:29] - The challenge of support and advocacy in varied communities and the significance of cultural awareness.
[17:35] - Discussing the urgent need for more diverse voices and perspectives in the Tourette community.
[23:41] - The power of representation: How diverse role models can reshape Tourette advocacy.
[28:07] - Uncovering the geographical and cultural diversity in the Tourette world – why understanding matters.
[30:14] - Michael's heartfelt advice for those living with Tourette Syndrome: Embrace and trust yourself.
Links & Resources:
● Tourette Association of America, Northern California & Hawaii Chapter: https://tourette.org/chapter/ca-no/
● New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS): https://njcts.org/
Remember, your story is powerful, and sharing your experiences can be the guiding light for someone else's journey. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share 'The Uptick' with others.
11/20/23 • 43 min
Today we dig into the world of Tourette Syndrome (TS) and its management through Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT). Our guest, Dr. Jeremy Lichtman, a licensed psychologist specializing in Tourette patients, sheds light on the myths and truths surrounding TS. We explore the intricacies of CBIT, debunking common misconceptions, and understanding its role as a transformative tool rather than a cure. Whether you're directly affected by TS, a caregiver, or just curious, this episode offers valuable insights and hope for managing Tourette Syndrome.
Key Moments:
- [00:00] Dr. Lichtman discusses the common misconception of CBIT as a cure for TS.
- [01:17] Dr. Lichtman simplifies CBIT as a 'tool, not cure' for TS.
- [04:48] Deep dive into CBIT: the principles, components, and how it functions.
- [10:38] Real-life examples and success stories in managing TS with CBIT.
- [17:02] Understanding the unique challenges of vocal tics and adult patients in CBIT.
- [24:06] The journey of a patient mastering CBIT and its long-term impact.
- [30:14] Addressing misconceptions about CBIT and identifying ideal candidates.
- [35:20] Differentiating between TS and its comorbidities for effective treatment.
- [42:28] Dr. Lichtman reflects on the power of conversation and education in TS management.
Links & Resources
- New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders: https://njcts.org/
- Dr. Jeremy Lichtman's Practice Information: [Website Link]
- Comprehensive Overview of CBIT: [Resource Link]
Thank you for tuning into The UpTic. If you found this episode insightful, please consider rating, following, and sharing our podcast. Your support helps us reach and empower more individuals. Remember, you're not alone in your journey with TS. Let's continue to stretch the boundaries and live our best lives!
11/07/23 • 41 min
In today's episode, I sit down with the incredible Aidy Smith to discuss our personal experiences with Tourette syndrome. From the challenges of getting diagnosed at a young age to confronting the stigmas we've encountered, we share our most personal stories and insights. Listen in as we unravel the complexities of living with Tourette and explore why some of us even view it as a superpower.
Links & Resources:
- NJCTS: https://njcts.org/
If this episode resonated with you, I'd be grateful if you could rate, follow, and share it. Your feedback means the world to me, so please leave a review. Together, let's foster understanding and compassion in our community.
04/23/24 • 32 min
In this episode, I had a compelling conversation with Dr. Angie Landeros-Weisenberger, an Associate Research Scientist at the Yale Child Study Center. We discuss the current state of research and the latest breakthroughs in treating tics and co-occurring conditions such as OCD and depression. Dr. Angie's expertise and passion for research left me both inspired and hopeful for what's on the horizon in patient care.
Episode Highlights:
[01:30] - Dr. Angie’s history of research.
[02:39] - Innovative treatments on the horizon.
[06:10] - Exploring genetic mysteries of tics.
[09:37] - Breaking the habit loop.
[13:33] - The future of wearables.
[16:18] - Trichotillomania research and why it’s not a tic disorder.
[18:48] - Gender bias in tic diagnosis.
[20:46] - A lifetime with OCD and tics.
[24:33] - Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) treatment for OCD.
[27:09] - Science is not set in stone, changes will occur with more research.
[27:25] - Advances in research of tools, such as ketamine, for treatment-resistant depression.
[31:34] - Very promising things are coming through research and studies.
Links & Resources:
Yale Child Study Center: https://medicine.yale.edu/childstudy/
New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS): https://njcts.org/
I want to remind all our listeners that each episode we share is a stepping stone to better understanding the intricate world of Tourette Syndrome and related disorders. If you've enjoyed today's episode, rate us and leave a review. Your feedback not only supports the show but also helps us reach and educate more people like you.
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FAQ
How many episodes does The UpTic have?
The UpTic currently has 37 episodes available.
What topics does The UpTic cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Mental Health, Podcasts, Self-Improvement, Education and Neurodiversity.
What is the most popular episode on The UpTic?
The episode title 'Intersectional Identity' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The UpTic?
The average episode length on The UpTic is 35 minutes.
How often are episodes of The UpTic released?
Episodes of The UpTic are typically released every 14 days.
When was the first episode of The UpTic?
The first episode of The UpTic was released on Oct 27, 2023.
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