Living Well with Multiple Sclerosis

Overcoming MS

Welcome to Living Well with MS, the podcast from the Overcoming MS charity. In each episode, your host Geoff Allix explores a different aspect of the Overcoming MS Program in greater depth by talking with experts and people with MS about health lifestyle changes. New episodes are published on Wednesdays and feature interviews with scientists, neurologists, fitness specialists, diet experts, stress reduction professionals. The podcast also features inspirational, real-life stories from people with multiple sclerosis following the Overcoming MS program, about the challenges and victories of managing symptoms through lifestyle modification.

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S2 · E7
Wednesday · 23 min
Bonus from the Archives: Journaling as a path to healing with Mari McCarthy | S8 Bonus
Mari L. McCarthy is an award-winning and international bestselling author whose books Journaling Power: How to Create the Happy, Healthy Life You Want to Live and Heal Yourself with Journaling Power have introduced people around the world to the power journaling has to help heal the body. After losing feeling and function in the right side of her body in 1998, Mari was diagnosed with MS. Undaunted, she took up a daily journaling practice which over time helped improve her MS symptoms to the extent that she is now an accomplished recording artist with three full-length albums. Mari’s website, CreateWriteNow.com, is the platform she runs to share her methods, expertise and passion for journaling. Originally broadcast in 2020, this episode has been edited to remove out-of-date content and reuploaded in 2026 to ensure it remains relevant and useful.
S8 · E30
September 30 · 52 min
Webinar highlights ECTRIMS highlights 2025 with Brett Drummond and Karen Campbell | S8E30
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Brett Drummond and Karen Campbell. Brett is from MSTranslate and hosts the European Committee for Treatment and Research In Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) patient day and podcast. Karen is a nurse and MS researcher who lives with MS and attended the conference this year. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 00:00 Introduction to ECTRIMS 2025 and Speakers 02:02 Overview of ECTRIMS Conference Highlights 02:41 Brett's Insights on MS Research 09:07 Emerging Treatments and Therapies for MS 15:10 The Role of Viruses in MS 18:28 Lifestyle Modifications and Rehabilitation in MS 20:03 Biomarkers and Their Importance in MS 24:24 Engaging the MS Community in Research 28:24 Karen's Perspective as a Patient and Researcher 33:55 Q&A Session: Addressing Community Questions Watch the original presentation here Connect with Ciara on LinkedIn New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E29
September 23 · 42 min
Ageing with MS with Veronique Gauhier Simmons | S8E29
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Véronique Gauthier-Simmons as our guest! Véronique is a yoga and breathwork teacher who lives with MS and the author of Taming the Walrus: Inner Intelligence, Yoga, and the Science of Healthy Ageing. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 02:05 Journey with MS: Reluctance, Learning, and Transformation 05:25 The Unexpected Love for Yoga 07:16 Taming the Walrus: Insights from the Book 15:25 The Importance of Interoception 19:55 Movement for Healthy Aging: Strength, Stretching, and Speed 26:08 Breathwork: A Tool for Wellbeing 32:09 The Necessity of Deep Rest 34:42 Longevity: Quality of Life Over Quantity 37:38 Healing: Wholeness and Inner Alignment 39:54 Final Thoughts for Those Recently Diagnosed with MS Check out other Living Well with MS episodes featuring Veronique S6E10 Webinar Highlights: Accessible Movement for the Overcoming MS Community with Véronique Gauthier-Simmons S6E18 The latest research in exercise for MS with Dr Robert Motl S5E31 Webinar Highlights Breathwork with Véronique Gauthier-Simmons S5E11 Exercise at home with Véronique Gauthier-Simmons S1E6 The Overcoming MS guide to getting fit with Véronique Gauthier-Simmons Read the study on arm strengthening as diabetes prevention Read the study on yoga rats and inflammation Download a Free Sample of Taming the Walrus: Inner Intelligence, Yoga, and the Science of Healthy Ageing New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E28
September 16 · 37 min
Webinar Highlights Expert Insights Physical Activity with Heather O'Neil and Lyndsey Housden | S8E28
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Healther O’Neil and Lyndsey Housden as our guests! Heather and Lyndsey live with MS and are program facilitators for the Overcoming MS charity. Keep reading for the key episode takeaways and Dr Brayer’s bio. 00:55 Understanding MS and Its Impact on Physical Activity 06:18 Physical Activity's Impact on Brain Health 08:36 Exercise as a Disease Modifying Intervention 15:36 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity 18:29 Practical Guidelines for Exercise 24:57 Tailoring Exercise for MS: Personalization is Key 25:50 Balance Training: Tools and Techniques 32:22 Assistive Devices for Exercise: What Works? 34:42 Increasing Heart Rate with Limited Mobility Learn more about exercise and MS View all our past webinars New to Overcoming MS? Visit our introductory page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to support the ongoing work of Overcoming MS, you can leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E27
September 9 · 42 min
Making healthy choices sustainable with Zillah Smart | S8E27
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Zillah Smart as our guest! Zillah is a nutritional therapist and trainee facilitator for Overcoming MS who lives with MS and follows the program. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 00:58 Introduction to Zilla Smart and Her Journey 04:04 Zilla's Diagnosis and Initial Reactions 08:30 Discovering Lifestyle Changes and Overcoming MS 13:43 Implementing Lifestyle Changes: Diet, Stress, and Exercise 17:16 Balancing Family Life with Overcoming MS 21:12 Encouraging Healthy Choices in Children 26:03 Adapting Lifestyle Changes Through Life Stages 30:07 The Importance of Sleep for MS Management 38:18 Final Tips for Sustainable Lifestyle Changes zillahsmartnutrition.com New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S2 · E29
September 2 · 36 min
Bonus from the archives: Pilates and MS - Building strength for everyone with Rachel Changer | S8 Bonus
Welcome to the Living Well with MS podcast, where we are joined by Rachel Changer. Rachel is a Pilates instructor and neurological physiotherapist with a master’s diploma in neurological rehabilitation. Originally broadcast in 2020, this episode has been edited to remove out-of-date content and reuploaded in 2026 to ensure it remains relevant and useful. 01:05 Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, your background, and your experience working with people with MS? 03:03 What is Pilates? And what are the differences between Pilates and other practices? 08:49 What are the benefits of Pilates for people with MS? 13:11 What are the downsides? 14:17 How do you choose the right Pilates instructor or class? Can you do it on your own? 17:17 How can you modify Pilates for all levels of ability? 20:23 Does Pilates work as an online activity? Can you do it without much equipment? 29:35 Do you have any other thoughts to encourage or inspire people for their fitness and exercise regime for people with MS? 32:04 When following an exercise regime, when do you think that you should also check in with a medical provider, if you've got any symptoms that might be exercise related? 34:32 Can you share a final thought with our audience on what motivates or inspires you as a human being?
S8 · E26
August 26 · 32 min
Culture, community and MS with Kebba Jow | S8E26
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Kebba Jow as our guest! Kebba is an author and motivational speaker with MS who uses Overcoming MS pillars to live will. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 00:00 Introduction to Keba Jow's Journey 06:09 Living Well with MS: A New Perspective 07:42 The Overlooked Mental Health Aspect of MS 11:44 Cultural Beliefs and the Struggle with Western Medicine 14:13 The Role of Faith in Overcoming Challenges 17:08 Finding Purpose Through Speaking and Writing 21:19 Facing Life's Challenges with MS 23:29 The Importance of Community Support 26:41 Reaching Out: Overcoming Isolation 27:50 Finding Hope and Positivity 30:04 Advice for the Newly Diagnosed Learn more about Kebba’s work Follow Kebba on TikTok Follow Kebba on Instagram New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E25
August 19 · 1 hr 2 min
Webinar Highlights – Medication with Dr Jonny White | S8E25
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Dr Jonny White as our guest! Jonny lives with MS and is an Overcoming MS Facilitator and the charity’s medical advisor. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 01:13 Understanding Steroids and Their Role in MS Relapses 03:55 Disease Modifying Therapies: An Overview 05:51 First Generation DMTs: Interferons and Copaxone 09:49 Second Generation DMTs: Advancements and Efficacy 15:34 High Efficacy DMTs: Tysabri and Beyond 20:15 Emerging Treatments and Their Implications 25:37 Symptom Management: Addressing Fatigue and Spasticity 29:48 The Role of Lifestyle in MS Management 34:45 Future Directions in MS Treatment 36:11 Understanding Myelination and Remyelination 41:11 Exploring the Role of Epstein-Barr Virus in MS 44:02 Navigating Treatment Options and Clinical Trials 51:29 Making Informed Decisions Post-Diagnosis New to Overcoming MS? Visit our introductory page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E24
August 12 · 20 min
Taboo Symptoms of MS: Bladder, Bowels, and Sexuality with Ciara O’Meara | S8E24
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Ciara O’Meara as our guest! Ciara is a professor of nursing who lives with MS and has research interests in taboo MS symptoms such as bladder and bowel issues and sexual issues related to the condition. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 00:00 Introduction to Ciara O'Meara and Her Journey 03:53 Balancing Professional Life and Personal Well-being 05:50 Addressing Bladder Issues in MS 10:01 Understanding Bowel Symptoms in MS 13:29 Exploring Sexual Health and MS 18:09 Advocacy and Communication in MS Care Follow Ciara on Instagram Connect with Ciara on LinkedIn Learn more about Noreen Barker’s work New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S2 · E17
August 5 · 31 min
Bonus from the Archives: Overcoming MS from a Neurologist's POV with Dr Brandon Beaber | S8 Bonus
Welcome to Living Well with MS podcast. We’re proud to welcome back Dr Brandon Beaber to the guest seat. Dr. Beaber is an American neurologist specialising in multiple sclerosis. He offers a neurologist’s point of view on the Overcoming MS program, and how to achieve better health through lifestyle intervention approaches. Originally broadcast in 2020, this episode has been edited to remove out-of-date content and reuploaded in 2026 to ensure it remains relevant and useful. 01:25 What’s your specific clinical philosophy as a neurologist for treating patients with MS? 02:00 How important is lifestyle modification in managing your MS? 06:24 Can you walk us through your thoughts on the main pillars of the Overcoming MS approach? 30:41 Is there anything critical you think the Overcoming MS program leaves out? 34:37 Are there any downside risks to following a diet and lifestyle modification program like Overcoming MS? 38:38 The MS research space is evolving rapidly. What, in your opinion, are the most promising areas on the horizon that we should be monitoring most closely? 41:00 Dr Beaber’s book on resilience and multiple sclerosis
S8 · E23
July 29 · 40 min
Webinar Highlights — Psychological – what it really means to live with MS with Laura Crowder | S8E23
In this episode of Living Well with MS -- where we explore topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis -- we are pleased to welcome Laura Crowder as our guest! Laura is a health coach and Overcoming MS facilitator. In this webinar replay she unpacks the psychological impact of an MS diagnosis and practical strategies for improving mental wellbeing. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio 01:06 Introduction to Living with MS 01:07 Mental Health Strategies for MS 02:14 Understanding the Psychological Impact of MS 07:15 Navigating Emotions After Diagnosis 11:26 Understanding Multiple Sclerosis 13:05 Mind-Body Connection and Its Importance 20:49 Practical Strategies for Mental Wellbeing 28:41 Community Support and Resources 36:06 Q&A Session and Closing Remarks Check out other episodes featuring Laura New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E22
July 22 · 27 min
MS diagnosis: how facing fear changed my life with MS | S8E22
An MS diagnosis can bring fear, uncertainty and difficult questions about the future. In this episode of Living Well with MS, Geoff Allix speaks with Patrick Bevan, who spent 16 years hiding from his multiple sclerosis diagnosis before embracing a lifestyle approach that transformed how he thinks about living with MS. Patrick shares how fear, anxiety and denial shaped his decisions for years, why a relapse became the catalyst for change, and how exercise, healthy eating, community and self-compassion helped him regain a sense of control. They also discuss living with ADHD alongside MS, the challenges of building sustainable habits, and why connecting with others can make such a difference after diagnosis. Whether you're newly diagnosed with MS or have been living with it for many years, Patrick's honest reflections offer hope, practical encouragement and a reminder that a diagnosis does not define your future. Keep reading for the key episode takeaways and Patrick’s bio. 00:00 Patrick's MS diagnosis and the beginning of his journey 03:34 Living with hidden fear for sixteen years 05:18 Why fear delayed lifestyle changes and treatment 07:02 The turning point that changed everything 10:19 Challenging public perceptions of living with MS 11:39 How fear shaped work, confidence and relationships 13:18 Living with both ADHD and multiple sclerosis 15:00 Finding motivation through the Overcoming MS Exercise Circle 18:03 Which lifestyle changes were easiest—and hardest—to sustain 21:11 Balancing entrepreneurship with protecting long-term health 25:02 Patrick's advice for anyone newly diagnosed with MS Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn Learn more about Change Alchemy New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E21
July 15 · 29 min
Supporting someone with MS: a physiotherapist's perspective | S8E21
Supporting someone with MS can be rewarding, but it also brings challenges. In this episode of Living Well with MS, Geoff Allix speaks with physiotherapist, mindfulness teacher, coach and Overcoming MS Program Facilitator-in-training Susan Czyzo about supporting people living with multiple sclerosis while also looking after your own wellbeing. Drawing on both her professional experience and her personal perspective as a family supporter, Susan explores why sustainable lifestyle habits matter, how coaching can help people make lasting changes, and why movement, mindfulness and self-compassion all have a place in living well with MS. They also discuss the growing evidence for lifestyle approaches alongside MS treatment, the importance of personalised care, and why healthcare professionals should remain open to conversations about healthy lifestyle choices. Whether you're living with MS yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers thoughtful, practical insights into building resilience, hope and wellbeing over the long term. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 01:49 Meet Susan and her holistic approach to wellbeing 06:25 Why the Overcoming MS programme stood out 08:29 Lessons from becoming an Overcoming MS Program Facilitator 11:16 Lifestyle, evidence and conversations with healthcare professionals 12:21 Moving beyond fixing towards empowering people 16:15 How coaching helps people create lasting healthy habits 19:50 Supporting a loved one through an MS diagnosis 23:09 What living well with MS really means 27:50 Looking ahead as part of the Overcoming MS community Listen to Stories of Hope from the Overcoming MS community New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E20
July 8 · 22 min
Stress reduction for MS: can tapping calm the nervous system? | S8E20
Can tapping help calm MS stress and anxiety? In this episode of Living Well with MS, host Geoff Allix speaks with Lauren Fonvielle, an Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT, Trainer, about tapping as a tool for stress reduction, emotional awareness and nervous system regulation. Lauren explains what EFT is, why it is sometimes called tapping, and how it combines gentle pressure on acupressure points with acknowledging thoughts and emotions out loud. She shares how tapping helped her manage anxiety and panic attacks, and discusses how the practice may help people feel calmer, more grounded and better able to process difficult emotions. The conversation also explores the science behind EFT, how it may fit into the Overcoming MS stress reduction pillar, when to seek support from a trained practitioner, and why tuning into your own words and feelings matters. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 01:54 Lauren and her path to EFT 03:24 What EFT tapping is, and why emotions matter 05:44 The science of tapping and calming the nervous system 08:42 Starting EFT and finding the right words 09:49 How quickly tapping may help you feel calmer 10:39 Longer-term benefits and processing past emotional experiences 12:08 Using EFT daily or in stressful moments 12:40 When to seek support from a practitioner 13:21 How tapping fits with mindfulness and meditation 14:41 EFT, physical pain and emotional contributors 16:24 Research into EFT, stress and PTSD 17:55 Client breakthroughs and emotional shifts through tapping 20:29 Lauren’s advice for anyone curious about tapping Read about the evidence for tapping Learn more about the Mindshift Community Connect with Lauren on Instagram Follow Lauren’s YouTube Channel New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S2 · E4
July 1 · 25 min
Bonus from the Archives: Using exercise to build neuroplasticity with Dr Gretchen Hawley | S8 Bonus
Can exercise help your brain and body adapt when you’re living with MS? In this episode of Living Well with MS, host Geoff Allix speaks with Dr Gretchen Hawley, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist, about movement, neuroplasticity and living well with MS. Dr Hawley explains how exercise can support strength, balance, walking and everyday confidence. She shares why movement quality, repetition and rest all matter, and how functional exercises can help with daily activities such as stairs, getting into a car or standing up from the floor. The episode also explores fatigue, heat sensitivity and how to adapt exercise to your own symptoms and energy levels. Originally broadcast in 2020, this episode has been edited to remove out-of-date content and reuploaded in 2026 to ensure it remains relevant and useful.
S8 · E19
June 24 · 42 min
MS, race and representation: why inclusive support matters | S8E19
MS is not a “white person disease”. In this episode of Living Well with MS, host Geoff Allix speaks with Minnie St. Claire, a Canadian entrepreneur, digital content creator and advocate living with multiple sclerosis and bipolar disorder. Minnie shares her MS journey, including early symptoms, years of denial, relapse, treatment decisions and learning to take her health seriously. She also talks about managing more than one chronic condition, building resilience, using therapy tools, finding BIPOC peer support, and creating routines that protect her mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. The conversation explores Canada’s disability benefits system, financial independence while receiving support, working from home with MS, meal planning, movement, hormonal changes, healthcare gaps for people of colour, and why inclusive research and representation matter. Minnie’s perspective is honest, practical and rooted in lived experience. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 01:59 Minnie’s first MS symptoms and diagnosis journey 03:00 Denial, relapse and learning to take MS seriously 06:22 Navigating Canada’s complicated disability benefits system 09:23 Managing MS, bipolar disorder and mental health needs 12:39 Choosing self-care, rest and boundaries without guilt 14:42 Why ten minutes of movement can still count 17:51 Meal planning, vegetables and making healthy food easier 20:11 Adding fish and trying new plant-based options 21:25 Therapy tools, peer support and stress management 23:40 Scheduling stillness, faith and creative self-care 24:57 Building an online business while managing MS 27:41 Turning transferable skills into flexible income streams 28:56 Hormones, mood changes, sleep and symptom tracking 31:41 Healthcare trust, race and choosing the right doctor 35:02 Why inclusive MS research and resources matter 36:57 Finding friendship, mentorship and support online 39:50 Education, confidence and advocating for your body Connect with Minni Most active on youtube.com/minnieoncam New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E18
June 17 · 48 min
MS questions you’ve always wanted to ask a neurologist with Dr Aaron Boster | S8E18
Dr Aaron Boster, an award-winning, board-certified MS neurologist, answers practical questions from the Overcoming MS community on symptoms, treatment and living well with multiple sclerosis. The conversation covers supplements, fatigue, menopause and HRT, gut health, inflammation, DMTs, stable MRI scans with worsening symptoms, weather sensitivity, bladder and bowel issues, swallowing problems, Epstein-Barr virus and cancer risks linked to MS medications. With warmth, clarity and energy, Dr Boster explains complex topics in a way that feels useful and reassuring, while encouraging people with MS to work closely with their healthcare team and take an active role in their care. This episode is a webinar highlights special – originally recorded as a live Overcoming MS webinar and now edited for the podcast to bring you the key insights, questions and takeaways in one place. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 02:52 Supplements, food quality and MS health 05:42 When symptom-specific supplements may be useful 07:18 Six practical ways to reduce MS fatigue 10:06 What the Octave MS test may show 13:23 Menopause, HRT and MS progression risk 17:18 How inflammation works in multiple sclerosis 20:24 Gut health, microbiome changes and MS symptoms 24:41 Practical bowel strategies for constipation in MS 27:07 Do DMTs still help older people with MS? 27:55 Stable MRI scans but worsening MS symptoms 31:23 Objective tests neurologists can use to track MS 35:28 DMT myths, pharma concerns and clinical trials 40:35 Why heat and cold can worsen MS symptoms 43:17 Bladder symptoms and practical treatment options 43:52 Swallowing problems and when to seek help 44:20 Epstein-Barr virus and future MS prevention research 45:22 Cancer risk, Ocrevus, Mavenclad and context Listen to other Living Well with MS episodes featuring Dr Boster New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S8 · E17
June 10 · 26 min
Beyond lesions: what advanced MRI may reveal about MS | S8E17
MRI scans are a familiar part of MS care – but what are they actually showing, and what might future scans reveal? In this episode of Living Well with MS, host Geoff Allix speaks with MRI physicist Bhavana Solanky from the Queen Square MS Centre at University College London, where she develops advanced MRI markers to better understand multiple sclerosis. Bhavana explains how MRI is used to diagnose and monitor MS, from spotting new lesions to helping clinicians understand disease activity over time. She also explores how different types of MRI scans work, why the same scanner can produce several kinds of images, and how advanced techniques such as sodium MRI and spectroscopy are helping researchers look beyond visible lesions. The conversation also covers why research volunteers are so important and how future scans could become faster and more comfortable. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 01:20 Meet MRI physicist Bhavana Solanky 01:57 Using MRI like a giant camera 02:46 Why MRI shows more than an x-ray 03:33 From astrophysics to MS research 05:17 How MRI scans create brain images 07:48 How active MS lesions can appear 08:25 Why MRI matters for MS diagnosis 09:50 The main MRI scans used in MS 12:35 One scanner, several different image types 13:28 Advanced MRI, sodium scans and spectroscopy 16:51 Why volunteers are vital to MS research 18:39 What sodium MRI research is finding 20:39 Why sodium MRI is not about dietary salt 22:10 Faster scans and future MS research 24:33 Why monitoring scans remain important Learn more about Bhavana’s work and career New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.
S2 · E9
June 3 · 39 min
Bonus from the Archive: Gut health and your microbiome with Kim Venter | S8 bonus
What does your gut have to do with your immune system, your brain and the way you feel day to day with MS? In this episode of Living Well with MS, host Geoff Allix speaks with Kim Venter about gut health, the microbiome and why food may play an important role in supporting overall wellbeing with multiple sclerosis. Kim, who lives with MS herself, is a trained teacher, professional psychological counsellor and nutritional consultant. She shares how certain foods have affected her digestion, energy and symptoms, and why gut health has become central to her approach to living well. The conversation explores what the gut microbiome is, how diet can affect the immune system, and why people with MS may want to pay attention to digestion, food sensitivities and overall gut health. Kim also discusses practical ways to support the microbiome, from eating a wide variety of plant-based foods to trying fermented foods, prebiotics and probiotics. Originally broadcast in 2020, this episode has been edited to remove out-of-date content and reuploaded in 2026 to ensure it remains relevant and useful. 01:53 What is the gut microbiome and why is it so important? 03:15 How does what we eat affect our immune system? 09:01 Is it worth keeping a food diary if you’re having GI symptoms? 10:15 What is the low FODMAPs diet? 11:53 What is Leaky Gut Syndrome and how does it effect people with MS? 19:00 The gut–brain axis: does the blood-brain barrier stop foreign substances from injuring the brain? 22:12 For people living with MS, what can be done to help the gut and keep it healthy? 22:51 What are probiotics and prebiotics? 27:02 What can we to increase both probiotics and prebiotics? 30:50 How does gut health or lack thereof impact MS? 39:01 How does intermittent fasting affect gut health? FODMAP Food Database App New to Overcoming MS? Visit our introductory page  Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS.
#40
May 27 · 36 min
Running Across America with MS, Betsy Mueller’s story | S8E16
After her MS diagnosis, Betsy Mueller ran across America. In this episode of Living Well with MS, Betsy shares how she went from fear and uncertainty after her diagnosis to completing a 3,000-mile run from Santa Monica to Central Park to raise awareness of MS. Betsy shares the early symptoms that led to her diagnosis, the emotional weight of living with invisible symptoms, and how fear and uncertainty affected her mental health. She also talks about the role of a plant-based diet, exercise, treatment decisions and community support in helping her move forward. From training in Flagstaff to managing heat sensitivity, fatigue, DMT deliveries and long days on the road, Betsy reflects on what it took to complete her run from Santa Monica to Central Park. She also discusses Active with MS, the nonprofit she founded to help people with MS take part in races and reconnect with movement in a way that works for them. Keep reading for the key episode takeaways and Betsy’s bio. 02:56 How plant-based eating supports Betsy’s health 05:51 Invisible symptoms, fatigue and the emotional weight of MS 10:46 Cognitive symptoms and the impact of poor sleep 12:03 Steroids, plasma exchange and finding effective relapse support 15:27 Moving from fear towards a more hopeful mindset 17:30 Why Betsy decided to run across America 20:49 The 3,000-mile route from California to New York 24:00 RV life, logistics and support on the road 26:12 How Betsy’s body adapted during the run 28:48 Managing heat sensitivity and DMTs while travelling 30:58 Powerful connections with people along the route 33:59 Active with MS and helping others join races 37:20 Betsy’s advice for people newly diagnosed with MS 39:15 Why MS community support can make such a difference Connect with Betsy on Instagram Learn more about Betsy’s work and run New to Overcoming MS? Learn why lifestyle matters in MS - begin your journey at our 'Get started' page Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Visit the Overcoming MS website Follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram YouTube Pinterest Don’t miss out: Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS here. Make sure you sign up to our newsletter to hear our latest tips and news about living a full and happy life with MS. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast and want to help us continue creating future podcasts, please leave a donation here. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions for future guests and episode topics by emailing podcast@overcomingms.org. If you like Living Well with MS, please leave a 5-star review.

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