Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life!

Chris
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Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional LifeDiscover hope, resilience, and practical tools for living an exceptional life with Parkinson’s. Hosted by Chris Kustanbauter, this podcast is dedicated to empowering those with Parkinson’s to take charge of their lives and thrive through a holistic approach. Each week, tune in for expert interviews, personal stories, and actionable tips covering exercise, nutrition, optimism, and social connection – all proven to improve quality of life. From managing symptoms to staying active and building meaningful relationships, this podcast will equip you with tools and insights to navigate life confidently and positively. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a seasoned warrior, or a caregiver, Live Parkinson’s, Live an Exceptional Life brings you evidence-based strategies and inspiring stories to help you overcome challenges and stay motivated on your journey. Let’s embrace each day with strength, laughter, and community – and live life on your terms. Subscribe now to join our supportive community, and never miss an episode as we tackle Parkinson’s together – one exceptional day at a time! Subscribe on YouTube - Live Parkinson's Live an Exceptional Life - From Tremors to Triumph Visit: https://www.liveparkinsons.com/ #Parkinsons #LiveExceptional #QualityofLife #Inspiration #Community #LiveParkinsons, #Tremorstotriumph #ParkinsonsWarriors #SpectacularLife Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness - available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle (e-book)

  1. 6D AGO

    Parkinson’s Exercise: Why Functional Training is Your Secret Weapon for Independence

    Send a text Stop just "working out" and start training for your life. In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of Functional Strength Training for People with Parkinson's (PWP). If you’ve ever struggled with getting out of a chair, reaching for a shelf, or maintaining balance while walking, this episode is your roadmap to regaining control. We move beyond traditional gym machines to explore research-backed movement patterns that mimic daily activities. Grounded in clinical data, we discuss how functional exercise promotes neuroplasticity and helps combat bradykinesia (slowness of movement). In this episode, you will discover: What Functional Training is: And why it’s different from standard weightlifting.The Science of Neuroplasticity: How complex movements help "rewire" the brain to bypass PD obstacles.Top 5 Functional Exercises: Step-by-step instructions for the Sit-to-Stand, Clock Reach, and more.The Ideal Frequency: How often you should train to see maximum neuroprotective benefits.Whether you are a person living with Parkinson's or a dedicated care partner, this episode provides actionable strategies to improve your quality of life today. 🔗 Resources & Calls to Action Visit LiveParkinsons.comto subscribe to the free monthly newsletter and take advantage of other free resources and articles.If you want to support my mission of helping people live a great quality of life with Parkinson's, click on the SUPPORT THE SHOW link of visit my ko-fi.com/liveparkinsons page to contribute to help me to be able to keep developing resources and content.Subscribe: Never miss an episode! Hit the follow button on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. #Parkinsons #ParkinsonsExercise #FunctionalTraining #Neuroplasticity #ParkinsonsSupport #LiveParkinsons #MobilityTraining #ElderlyFitness #ParkinsonsAwareness #ActiveAging  Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    17 min

  2. FEB 4

    MIND Diet 2.0 for Parkinson’s: New 2026 Research on Neuro-Protection & Medication Timing

    Send us a text Is your diet working as hard as you are to manage Parkinson’s? In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we dive deep into the MIND Diet 2.0—the 2026 gold standard for Parkinson’s nutrition. We aren’t just talking about "eating healthy"; we are exploring the latest clinical breakthroughs that show how specific foods can seal the gut-brain barrier and protect your dopamine-producing neurons. We break down the three "Brain Fuel Pillars" that you can implement today to reduce neuro-inflammation and improve your daily mobility. In this episode, you will learn: The Power of Purple: How anthocyanins in berries act as a "neuro-shield" (2025 Zonulin research).The Green Highway: Why leafy greens are essential nitric oxide boosters for blood flow to the Basal Ganglia.The 30-60 Rule: The vital strategy for timing protein intake to ensure maximum Levodopa absorption and fewer "Off" periods.Gut-Brain Health: New 2026 insights into reducing "leaky gut" to slow PD progression.Take Control of Your Nutrition Don't let Parkinson's dictate your quality of life. Start fueling your brain for an exceptional life! 👉 Visit LiveParkinsons.com to: Subscribe to our FREE Monthly Newsletter for the latest PD research and tips.Access Free Resources and Articles designed to help you thrive.Support the Mission If you find value in this show and want to help us continue providing high-quality, research-backed content for the Parkinson's community, please consider supporting us: Support the Show: Donate via Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/liveparkinsonsImportant Medical Disclaimer The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider, neurologist, or a registered dietician before making significant changes to your diet or medication schedule to ensure it meets your personal health needs and does not interfere with your treatment plan. Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    21 min

  3. JAN 27

    Dual-Task Training for Parkinson’s: Improve Balance, Walking & Reduce Falls with Exercise

    Send us a text Struggling with balance when walking and talking at the same time? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we explore dual-task training for Parkinson’s, a research-backed exercise approach that helps improve balance, gait, walking confidence, and fall prevention. Dual-tasking—doing a physical movement and a mental task at the same time—can be especially challenging with Parkinson’s. But the good news is this skill is trainable. Backed by neuroscience and real-world experience, this episode breaks down why dual-tasking is harder with Parkinson’s and how targeted exercise can retrain the brain through neuroplasticity. In this episode, you’ll learn: What dual-task training is and why it matters for Parkinson’sHow Parkinson’s affects balance, walking, and attentionWhat clinical research says about dual-task exerciseSimple, safe dual-task exercises you can start todayHow to reduce fall risk and improve confidence while movingHow just 5–10 minutes a day can make a differenceWhether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson’s for years, this episode provides practical, actionable strategies to help you move with more confidence and live a better quality of life. 🔔 Take the Next Step 👉 Visit https://liveparkinsons.com for free resources, articles, and programs 👉 Subscribe to the FREE monthly newsletter for research-based tips and encouragement 👉 Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode ❤️ Support the Mission If you’d like to help support our mission of helping people live a great quality of life with Parkinson’s, you can: Click the SUPPORT THE SHOW link, orVisit https://ko-fi.com/liveparkinsons to make a contributionEvery bit of support helps us reach more people around the world. 🎧 Listen, Share & Inspire If this episode helped you, please share it with a friend, support group, or care partner—and leave a review to help others find the show. #Parkinsons, #Parkinson Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    19 min

  4. JAN 21

    Understanding Anxiety in Parkinson’s: Brain Chemistry and Real Solutions

    Send us a text Anxiety affects nearly 40% of people living with Parkinson’s, but most don’t realize why it happens — or what they can do to manage it. In this episode, we break down the real science behind Parkinson’s‑related anxiety, including how changes in dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine reshape the brain’s stress response. You’ll learn the different types of anxiety common in Parkinson’s — from OFF‑period anxiety to rumination and panic — and discover research‑supported strategies that truly help. We explore the role of exercise, CBT, medication timing, and practical daily tools that calm the nervous system and restore confidence. This episode is designed to help you understand that anxiety in Parkinson’s is not a personal failing — it’s a neurological symptom, and there are effective ways to take back control. ⭐ What You’ll Learn Why anxiety is so common in Parkinson’sHow dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine shape emotional regulationThe difference between generalized anxiety, OFF‑period anxiety, panic, and ruminationHow exercise changes brain chemistry and reduces anxietyWhy CBT is one of the most effective non‑medication treatmentsPractical, actionable steps you can start todayImportant Disclaimer If you are experiencing anxiety that is impacting your daily life, please talk with your healthcare provider. They can help you identify the right tools, treatments, and support to manage your anxiety safely and effectively. 🔗 Call to Action Subscribe to the free monthly newsletter at LiveParkinsons.com for research‑backed tips, tools, and inspiration.Support the mission of empowering the Parkinson’s community byclicking the SUPPORT THE SHOW link or visiting ko‑fi.com/liveparkinsons or clicking the Support the Show link.Join the 30‑Day Tip Challenge on the Live Parkinson’s YouTube channel — daily, research‑based strategies to help you live an exceptional life with Parkinson’s.Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    25 min

  5. JAN 13

    2026 Parkinson’s Breakthroughs: Stopping Progression with LRRK2, Stem Cells, and the New Biomarker Revolution

    Send us a text Is 2026 the year we finally stop Parkinson’s in its tracks? In this high-energy,  episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, I’m pulling back the curtain on the most historic year in Parkinson’s clinical research. We are moving beyond just managing symptoms with Levodopa and stepping into the era of Precision Medicine. For decades, we’ve been fighting the "smoke" of Parkinson’s, but today, we talk about how science is finally putting out the fire. In this episode, you’ll discover: The LRRK2 Milestone: Everything you need to know about the LUMA study results and how these new inhibitors are targeting the biological "switch" of PD.The Biomarker Revolution: How the α-Synuclein Seed Amplification Assay (αSyn-SAA) is allowing doctors to diagnose Parkinson’s years before a tremor even starts.Stem Cell Replacement: A deep dive into BlueRock and Aspen Neuroscience—are we finally ready to replace the neurons we’ve lost?AI & Wearables: How 2026 technology is giving you and your neurologist a 24/7 "biological fingerprint" of your symptoms.The rules of Parkinson’s are being rewritten. The future isn't coming—it’s already here. Tune in to learn how you can benefit from these breakthroughs and continue to live your most exceptional life. RESOURCES & WAYS TO SUPPORT THE SHOW JOIN THE COMMUNITY: Get the latest research delivered to your inbox! Visit liveparkinsons.com to subscribe to our Free Monthly Newsletter and join a community dedicated to proactive living.SUPPORT THE MISSION: Help us keep these resources free and accessible to everyone. Use the SUPPORT THE SHOW link or donate directly at ko-fi.com/liveparkinsons. Every bit helps us reach more people!30-DAY TIP CHALLENGE: Ready to take action? Head over to my YouTube Channel [Insert Link Here] to participate in our 30-Day Parkinson’s Tip Challenge for daily strategies to improve your quality of life. #ParkinsonsResearch2026 #LRRK2 #StemCellTherapy #ParkinsonsCure #AlphaSynuclein #PrecisionMedicine #LiveParkinsons #NeurologyBreakthroughs #Cl Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    40 min

  6. JAN 6

    Invisible Injuries & New Hope: How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Transformed a Team USA Bobsledder’s Life with William Person

    Send us a text What happens when your identity, memory, and sense of self are stripped away by an invisible injury? In this episode of Live Parkinson’s Live an Exceptional Life, host Chris Kustanbauter sits down with William Person, a former Team USA bobsledder. William spent nine years hurtling down ice tracks at 90 mph, enduring G-forces that most people will never experience. While it looked like a dream career, the hidden toll of "Sled Head"—a series of micro-concussions and brain inflammation—led William into a dark battle with CTE-like symptoms, severe depression, and a "fog" that lasted for a decade. William shares the raw reality of his journey: from not recognizing his own girlfriend to praying for an end to his suffering. He also reveals the breakthrough that saved his life—Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy  In this episode, we discuss: The "Sled Head" Phenomenon: The brutal reality of high G-forces and "shaking baby syndrome" in professional sports.Invisible Symptoms: Why brain injuries and Parkinson’s often share the same "hidden" struggles, like brain fog, confusion, and memory loss.The Power of HBOT: How oxygen therapy can reduce brain inflammation and potentially help those with various neurological conditions.A Mission of Recovery: William’s journey to open a nonprofit CTE recovery center near St. Louis to provide free restorative care for veterans and athletes.Finding Purpose: Why restoring the spirit is just as vital as restoring brain health.Whether you are living with Parkinson’s, recovering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI), or supporting a loved one through a neurological journey, William’s story is a testament to resilience and possibility . Support the Mission & Stay Connected  If you found value in today’s episode, please consider supporting the show: Subscribe to the Free Newsletter: Get monthly tips, resources, and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Visit LiveParkinsons.com to sign up today.Support the Show: To help us continue sharing stories of hope and resilience, click the "Support the Show" link in your podcast aSupport the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    51 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    How to Create a Daily Routine for Brain Health & Mobility with Parkinson’s

    Send us a text Living with Parkinson’s doesn’t mean giving up your independence, confidence, or quality of life. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down how to create a simple, research-backed daily routine that supports brain health, balance, strength, and mobility with Parkinson’s disease. You’ll learn: Why daily routines are critical for managing Parkinson’s symptomsHow aerobic exercise, strength training, balance, and flexibility improve mobility and gaitThe science behind exercise and brain health, including how movement supports neuroplasticityA practical 10–20 minute daily mobility routine you can start immediatelyHow to structure a weekly exercise plan that fits your energy level and medication scheduleTips for reducing fall risk, improving confidence, and staying consistentThis episode is grounded in clinical research and physical therapy guidelines showing that regular exercise can improve motor symptoms, balance, and overall quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s. 🎯 Free Resources & Support For more practical tools, worksheets, and evidence-based guidance, visit liveparkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter. You’ll get access to free resources, articles, and strategies designed to help you live your best possible life with Parkinson’s. ❤️ Support the Show If this podcast has helped you, please consider supporting our mission of helping people live a great quality of life with Parkinson’s. Your support allows us to continue creating free, high-quality content for the Parkinson’s community. Click the Support the Show link or visit ko-fi.com/liveparkinsons to donate and support. 👉 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could benefit — together, we can help more people live exceptionally with Parkinson’s. Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    21 min

  8. 12/16/2025

    Preserving Memory, Identity, and Legacy with AI: How Autograph Is Becoming Humanity’s Journal | Cristian Cibils Bernardes

    Send us a text What if technology could help preserve your life story, your memories, and your identity—so they’re never lost to time or illness? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, host Chris Kustanbauter sits down with Cristian Cibils Bernardes, Founder and CEO of Autograph AI, a groundbreaking platform designed to help people capture, preserve, and share their personal stories for generations to come. Cristian shares his journey from studying symbolic systems at Stanford to building Autograph—an AI-powered storytelling platform that uses a digital interviewer named Walter to guide users through meaningful life reflections. Together, they explore how storytelling helps people feel seen, valued, and heard, and why preserving personal narratives is especially important for individuals living with Parkinson’s and other life-changing conditions. This conversation dives into memory, identity,  and hope—showing how technology, when designed with humanity at its core, can become a powerful tool for connection, healing, and legacy. Cristian also shares his vision for Autograph to become “humanity’s journal”, connecting generations through shared stories and lived wisdom. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Autograph AI helps people document and preserve their life storiesHow Walter, the digital interviewer, helps users reconnect with their pastWhy storytelling is essential for dignity, identity, and emotional well-beingHow families can create shared libraries of memories across generationsWhy capturing memories is urgent—especially when facing neurological challengesThis episode is especially meaningful for people living with Parkinson’s, caregivers, families, and anyone thinking about legacy, memory, and living a life of purpose. 🔗 Calls to Action 👉 Explore Autograph AI and start preserving your story today: Visit Autograph.ai to experience how AI can help capture your memories, values, and life experiences for future generations. 👉 Join the Live Parkinson’s community: Visit LiveParkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter for evidence-based insights on exercise, nutrition, optimism, mindfulness, and social connection to help you Support the show Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone. Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast. To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life. Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness

    37 min
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Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional LifeDiscover hope, resilience, and practical tools for living an exceptional life with Parkinson’s. Hosted by Chris Kustanbauter, this podcast is dedicated to empowering those with Parkinson’s to take charge of their lives and thrive through a holistic approach. Each week, tune in for expert interviews, personal stories, and actionable tips covering exercise, nutrition, optimism, and social connection – all proven to improve quality of life. From managing symptoms to staying active and building meaningful relationships, this podcast will equip you with tools and insights to navigate life confidently and positively. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a seasoned warrior, or a caregiver, Live Parkinson’s, Live an Exceptional Life brings you evidence-based strategies and inspiring stories to help you overcome challenges and stay motivated on your journey. Let’s embrace each day with strength, laughter, and community – and live life on your terms. Subscribe now to join our supportive community, and never miss an episode as we tackle Parkinson’s together – one exceptional day at a time! Subscribe on YouTube - Live Parkinson's Live an Exceptional Life - From Tremors to Triumph Visit: https://www.liveparkinsons.com/ #Parkinsons #LiveExceptional #QualityofLife #Inspiration #Community #LiveParkinsons, #Tremorstotriumph #ParkinsonsWarriors #SpectacularLife Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness - available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle (e-book)

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