Living Well with Multiple Sclerosis

Overcoming MS
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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.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Ask Jack: plant-based recipe substitutions | S7E23

    Welcome to Living Well with MS, the podcast that empowers you to take control of your health and wellbeing.  In this episode we welcome Jack McNulty, professional cook and longtime follower of the Overcoming MS Program. Jack tackles plant-based recipe substitutions, answering community questions and sharing practical advice to help you adapt your favourite recipes while following the Overcoming MS diet. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps. Topics and timestamps 01:00 Introduction to cooking with MS 01:44 Understanding the Overcoming MS diet pillar 03:47 Substituting dairy: a functional approach 10:33 Exploring vegan butter alternatives 15:35 The complexity of egg substitutes 25:09 Meat alternatives: flavour and texture 37:12 Replacing coconut milk in recipes 39:48 Buttermilk substitutes and cooking oils 45:15 Using cashew cream and final thoughts More info and links Listen to the other Ask Jack episodes Connect with Jack at Vegan Weekly Read the Overcoming MS books including the cookbook and handbook Listen to Karen Lee’s episodes on the Overcoming MS diet/li 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, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    47 min

  2. 22 OCT

    Thriving through 40 years with MS with David Peimer | S7E22

    What does it take to live well with MS for more than 40 years? For professor and theatre maker David Peimer, the answer lies in resilience, curiosity, and transforming anger into creative energy. In this powerful and deeply reflective episode of Living Well with MS, David shares how he went from being given just four years to live to building a successful global career – teaching, directing, and writing award-winning plays – while following the Overcoming MS Program. With honesty and humour, David explores how diet, stress management, and self-understanding helped him rebuild his health and his life. His story is a testament to hope, perseverance, and the belief that, even when faced with MS, we can learn to surf the wave rather than be swept away by it. Watch this episode on YouTube here. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps and David’s bio. Topics and timestamps 02:02  David’s early MS journey and life-changing diagnosis 06:09  Facing paralysis, fear, and the turning point that sparked hope 11:48  How reading Judy Graham and following the Swank diet changed everything 17:43  Managing stress and anger: finding calm in chaos 23:16  Inside the Copaxone trial: early experiences with MS treatment 29:19  Rebuilding purpose through creativity and compassion 34:51  The power of community and connection 40:10  David’s advice for anyone newly diagnosed More info and links Learn about Judy Graham and her books The history of Copaxone, the first DMT for MS Learn more about David’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, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    33 min

  3. 15 OCT

    Bonus from the archives: Overcoming MS is possible with Professor George Jelinek | S7 bonus

    Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Living Well with MS podcast, where we are pleased to welcome Professor George Jelinek as our guest! Professor Jelinek is the founder of the Overcoming MS program and was, until recently, the head of the Neuroepidemiology Unit at the University of Melbourne. In this episode, he discusses how extensive scientific research is illuminating new ways to help people with MS live better and healthier lives through changes made to their diets and lifestyles.  Watch this episode on YouTube here. Topics and timestamps 00:10 Geoff’s journey with MS  01:15 Starting The Living Well with MS podcast  01:48 Introduction of Professor Jelinek  03:22 Professor Jelinek’s MS diagnosis  05:22 Roy Swank’s research paper on diet and MS  11:45 Overview of Overcoming MS  14:30 Mindfulness based meditation, is there any science to it?  22:12 Prevention tips for people with MS who have children  27:55 Will lifestyle factors enter the mainstream treatment?  31:15 Impact of diet on multiple sclerosis  More info and links: 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. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    32 min

  4. 8 OCT

    Poetry and MS with Nurse Educator Josie Crawley | S7E21

    In this episode of Living Well with MS, we’re excited to welcome Josie Crawley – poet, professor of nursing, and Overcoming MS community member. Josie has been living with MS for over 20 years, and she shares how poetry, exercise, honesty and joy help her navigate life with resilience and humour. From the challenges of walking to the meditative calm of swimming, from embracing “JOYMO” (the joy of missing out) to choosing self-kindness over comparison, Josie’s reflections are moving, practical and full of wisdom for anyone on their own MS journey. If you’d like to read any of Josie’s poems mentioned in this episode, you can find them here: A collection of poems by Josie Crawley You can watch this episode on YouTube here.  Topics and timestamps 00:00 Meet Josie Crawley and discover her journey with MS 05:42 The healing role of poetry in life with MS 09:09 Family, career and adapting to life with MS 16:03 How Josie discovered the Overcoming MS Program 18:46 Ageing with MS: acceptance and challenges 21:25 Why swimming and walking are Josie’s meditations 25:24 Finding joy and (challenge) in walking 28:15 Finding balance in life with MS 31:22 Navigating medication and treatment options 35:10 Balancing privacy and disclosure in work More info and links Read Josie’s scientific research on Research Gate or by using her Orchid ID 0000-0003-1011-3335    This PDF contains a selection of Josie’s poetry referred to or about content discussed in this episode. You are welcome to share these poems, but please acknowledge Josie as the author, and the source if published.  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. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    40 min

  5. 24 SEPT

    Webinar highlights – Physical activity with Dr Robert Motl | S7E20

    In this episode of Living Well with MS, we’re sharing highlights from a popular webinar on physical activity. Overcoming MS Program Facilitator Heather O’Neil hosts a fascinating conversation with renowned researcher Dr Robert Motl and community members Francis Loye and Duarte Valente. Together, they explore the science and lived experience behind why moving your body matters when you live with MS. Watch this episode on YouTube.  Topics and Timestamps: 02:46 Why exercise is ‘medicine’ for MS 05:50 Cells to society: how activity helps at every level 11:55 Personal experiences: community members share their stories 17:38 Overcoming challenges: motivation and mindset 23:38 Q&A: including questions on fatigue and the best types of exercise 29:25 Practical tips for starting and maintaining an exercise program 35:35 Final thoughts and encouragement to get started and keep going More info and links: Listen to S6E18 The latest research in exercise for MS with Dr Robert Motl Listen to S7E10 A quick guide to the Overcoming MS Program with Heather O’Neil Learn more about the exercise pillar of the Overcoming MS program 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. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    48 min

  6. 17 SEPT

    Bonus from the archives: The Overcoming MS guide to getting fit with Véronique Gauthier-Simmons | S7 bonus

    In this episode of the Living Well with MS podcast we are pleased to have Véronique Gauthier-Simmons as our guest! Originally from France and now residing in Portugal, Véronique was diagnosed with MS at the age of 34, but through the Overcoming MS Program and her love of exercise found a way to make staying fit a meaningful part of her life. She now helps others do the same as an Overcoming MS facilitator and qualified yoga instructor and yoga therapist.  Watch this episode on YouTube here.  Topics and timestamps 05:30 Véronique’s yoga business, Taming the Walrus  07:22 How do you decide which exercise is right for you?  12:54 Should one stay within their comfort zone, or push their boundaries?  16:25 What kind of exercises can you do if not fully mobile?  18:59 Between watching exercise videos or taking a fitness class, which is better?  More info and links: You can learn more about Véronique’s professional background here. 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. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    20 min

  7. 10 SEPT

    Dance for MS with Tiffany Stott and Emily Davis of the Scottish Ballet | S7E19

    In this episode of Living Well with MS – the podcast where we explore how lifestyle choices and evidence-based approaches can help people live full and healthy lives with multiple sclerosis – we look at the surprising benefits of dance with Tiffany Stott and Emily Davis from Scottish Ballet.   Tiffany leads Scottish Ballet’s Dance Health Programmes, and Emily recently completed her PhD on Elevate – a dance programme created specifically for people with MS. What makes Elevate stand out is its inclusivity: whether you’re seated, standing, brand new to dance or have years of experience, the classes are adapted so everyone can take part.   Join us as we explore how the arts and science come together to support people with MS, and why dance might be one of the most uplifting ways to live well.  Topics and Timestamps: 01:00 Introduction to Dance for MS  01:57 Scottish Ballet’s health programmes  05:47 How the Elevate programme was developed  10:52 The research and evidence for Dance and MS  15:02 What a class looks and feels like  20:49 Emily’s PhD findings on Elevate  24:48 Overcoming barriers to participation  27:45 Benefits of dance for MS  30:48 How to get involved with Elevate More info and links: Learn more and join an Elevate Dance for MS class  Read Emily Davis’ research on Dance for MS  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. Support us: If you enjoy this podcast, please support the ongoing work and podcasts from Overcoming MS by leaving 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.

    33 min

  8. 27 AUG

    The Essential Guide to Navigating the Patient’s Journey with Brenda Snow | S7E18

    In this inspiring episode of Living Well with MS, we’re joined by the incredible Brenda Snow. Brenda is a business leader, patient advocate, and the author of Diagnosed: The Essential Guide to Navigating the Patient’s Journey. Living with multiple sclerosis herself, Brenda opens up about the realities of life with a chronic condition – from the early phases of grief and anger to ultimately finding acceptance and purpose. She shares how patients can stay connected to their identity, seek support, and even turn anger into positive action.  Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years into your MS journey, Brenda’s insights will leave you feeling understood, supported, and empowered.  Watch this episode on YouTube here. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps. Topics and timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Brenda Snow and her journey with MS.  08:28 Writing her book, ‘Diagnosed’: How Brenda turned personal experience into a guide for others.  15:30 Before the diagnosis: understanding the confusion and challenges of the early phase.  22:57 How to channel anger into action.  28:48 Supporting the supporters, why care partners need care too.  More info and links: BrendaSnow.com Snow Companies  Brenda’s LinkedIn  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. 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.

    34 min
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About

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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