Parkinson's Disease Education Podcast

Dr. Michael Hyland, DPT, CEEAA
  • 4.2 (34)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Semimonthly

Have you ever wished there was a source of information about Parkinson's Disease, and resources for persons with PD, that were concise and easy to digest? Look no further than the Parkinson's Disease Education Podcast. In this podcast we attempt to demystify the disease and to empower you to reach your true potential as a person with PD.

  1. Sep 30 ·  Video

    Understanding Parkinson's Incontinence & Bladder Issues

    Incontinence is a sensitive topic, but for those living with Parkinson's, it's a critical conversation for both quality of life and physical safety. In this episode (watch on YouTube), I break down why Parkinson's affects the bladder—from dopamine loss to autonomic nervous system changes—and how these issues can lead to increased fall risks. We explore the different types of incontinence, the impact of "wearing off" periods on nighttime urgency (nocturia), and why constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction shouldn't be overlooked. Most importantly, I share actionable solutions, including pelvic floor therapy and high-absorbency products like LivDry, which can help you stay safe and get a full night's rest. Check out LivDry here: https://lvnta.com/lv_SONCqj7iCh1kLVv08z 0:00 - Introduction: Why we need to talk about incontinence 1:05 - The link between incontinence and safety 1:52 - Cause 1: Dopamine loss and bladder "spasms" 3:30 - Cause 2: Autonomic nervous system breakdown 4:45 - Functional Incontinence: Why mobility makes it harder 5:45 - Nocturia: Managing nighttime urgency and "wearing off" 7:09 - How constipation impacts your bladder 7:46 - Pelvic floor dysfunction in Parkinson's 8:55 - Medications that can worsen bladder issues 9:38 - Cognitive changes and bathroom awareness 10:03 - The hidden danger: Falling while rushing 11:18 - Solutions: Pelvic floor therapy & medication reviews 11:44 - Choosing the right incontinence products (LivDry) 13:08 - Real-life success story: How better sleep transforms days 14:45 - Key takeaways and final thoughts For more members-first content, early access, and to help support this channel sign up for memberships here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join  https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation  Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION(15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use #parkinson #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #incontinencecare #incontinence

    Understanding Parkinson's Incontinence & Bladder Issues

  2. Sep 16

    The Hidden Connection Between Your Gut and Parkinson's

    Does Parkinson's disease actually start in the gut? In this episode, I am joined by Martha Carlin, founder of The BioCollective and BiotiQuest (https://biotiquest.com/), to explore the powerful "hidden link" between the microbiome and Parkinson's. From the discovery of "concrete-like" stool in Parkinson's patients to the role of chronic inflammation and endotoxins, we dive deep into how our digestive health influences brain function. Martha shares her personal journey of seeking answers for her husband's young-onset diagnosis, leading to groundbreaking research on the "gut glycocalyx" and molecules like mannitol. In this episode (watch on YouTube) you'll learn: -Why the "gut-brain axis" is central to understanding Parkinson's progression. -The impact of environmental toxins, antibiotics, and cleaning compounds on our microbes. -How certain bacterial strains can help manage symptoms like severe constipation and anxiety. -The potential of systems-based approaches, including supplementation and lifestyle changes. Parkinson's is a whole-body condition. By looking beyond dopamine and focusing on metabolic health, we can discover new ways to empower our daily lives and maintain our sense of adventure. Here are subjects time stamped for this episode: 00:00 - Introduction to the Gut-Brain Axis and Microbiome 01:10 - Martha Carlin's Personal Connection to Parkinson's 03:12 - Examining the Evidence: Food, Water, and Chemicals 04:52 - Founding The BioCollective: Collecting Microbiome Data 05:51 - Explaining the Glycocalyx and Its Role in Parkinson's 07:55 - How Vascular Damage and Blood Pressure Link to PD 09:25 - The Impact of COVID-19 and Cleaning Compounds 12:10 - Pathogenic Bacteria and the "Concrete" Stool Mystery 15:15 - Endotoxins and Chronic Inflammation in the Gut 19:15 - Discovering Mannitol: A Potential Breakthrough Molecule 21:55 - Real-World Results: UPDR Score Improvements 23:45 - Clinical Trials: Blood Sugar and Insulin Resistance 32:30 - Managing Stress and Anxiety with Probiotics 34:10 - The Connection Between Trapped Emotions and Trauma 42:50 - Future Research: Light Therapy and Focused Ultrasound 46:15 - Closing Thoughts: Adventure After a Diagnosis This interview was sponsored by our channel members, who viewed this first as a livestream. For more members-first content, early access, and to help support this channel sign up for memberships here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join  https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation  Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION(15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.  Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use.  #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #microbiome #guthealth #gutbrainaxis #parkinsonsresearch

    The Hidden Connection Between Your Gut and Parkinson's

  3. Sep 2

    Fasudil: A New Approach to Parkinson's Beyond Dopamine

    Most Parkinson's treatments focus on replacing dopamine—but what if a medication could target some of the underlying disease processes instead? In this episode, we take a closer look at Fasudil, an experimental therapy that is generating interest in the Parkinson's research community. Originally developed for a completely different neurological condition, Fasudil is now being studied for its potential effects on neuroinflammation, alpha-synuclein accumulation, cellular repair mechanisms, and other pathways involved in Parkinson's disease. We'll discuss: What Fasudil is and how it works The role of ROCK inhibition in Parkinson's research Potential effects on inflammation and alpha-synuclein What animal studies have shown so far The current status of human clinical trials What people with Parkinson's should know right now While Fasudil is not currently an approved treatment for Parkinson's disease, it represents an exciting example of how researchers are looking beyond dopamine to develop future therapies that may one day slow disease progression. Help to support this channel and our efforts to educate the world about Parkinson's Disease and get access to personalized content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION (15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use

    Fasudil: A New Approach to Parkinson's Beyond Dopamine

  4. Aug 19

    How a Perplexing Prescription for My Parkinson's Patient Performed Poorly

    Many people with Parkinson's disease experience dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, and even falls when standing up. One possible cause is neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH), a condition related to autonomic nervous system dysfunction. In this episode (watch on YouTube), we explore Droxidopa (Northera), a medication designed to help improve symptoms of nOH by increasing norepinephrine levels. We'll discuss how it works, who may benefit, what the research shows, and important safety considerations. Episode chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:25 What is Droxidopa and how does it work? 03:00 Why nOH matters in PD 03:30 Physiology of blood pressure regulation 05:15 How Droxidopa helps with nOH 06:10 What the research shows 06:50 Practical management strategies for Parkinson's disease 08:41 How to check if you have OH 10:00 Tying in with patient case and Conclusion For members-first content, early access, and to help to support this channel sign up for memberships here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join  https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION(15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use #parkinson #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsonsawareness #orthostatichypotension #droxidopa

    How a Perplexing Prescription for My Parkinson's Patient Performed Poorly

  5. Aug 5

    20 Things Parkinson's Patients Taught Me as a Physical Therapist

    Welcome to the 20,000 Subscriber Special! The sponsor of today's episode is Contour Design and the tremor-friendly RollerMouse Red. Be sure to use the code PDEDUCATION at checkout to receive a discount: https://lvnta.com/lv_ipnUBU2K33mzi8eRd4 In this episode (watch on YouTube), I share 20 of the most important things I've learned from working with people living with Parkinson's Disease as a physical therapist. Some are clinical observations. Some are misconceptions that need to be challenged. Others are lessons about resilience, humanity, and the incredible strength of the Parkinson's community. We talk about: • Why Parkinson's is far more than a movement disorder • The hidden world of non-motor symptoms • Tremors, freezing, festination, dystonia, and dyskinesia • Why stress and emotion can worsen physical symptoms • The complicated relationship between medication and symptom management • The neuroprotective role of exercise and physical therapy • Why Parkinson's remains misunderstood — even within healthcare • And why the people living with Parkinson's continue to inspire me every single day This episode is not meant to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is a conversation shaped by years of clinical experience, evidence-based rehabilitation, and most importantly, the people who trusted me to be part of their journey. Whether you are living with Parkinson's, caring for someone who is, or simply trying to understand the disease better, I hope this episode helps you feel more informed, more seen, and more hopeful. For members-first content, early access, and to help to support this channel sign up for memberships here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join  https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation  Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION(15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #physicaltherapy #neurology #lsvtbig #neurorehabilitation

  6. Jul 22

    How to Make Parkinson's Voice Practice Part of Daily Life

    Knowing what to do is only part of the challenge in Parkinson's disease. The harder part? Staying consistent. In this final episode (watch on YouTube) of our Parkinson's Communication Roadmap series, we focus on practical ways to make speech, voice, and communication exercises part of everyday life—without feeling overwhelmed.  We cover: • How to stay consistent with voice and speech practice • Building therapy into daily routines • Habit stacking and "mini therapeutic moments" (See Atomic Habits by James Clear 👉 https://amzn.to/4dZhJDV) • Functional carryover strategies that work in real life • Using music and singing as therapy • Parkinson's choirs and music-based activities • Motivation, accountability, and sustainable routines We also discuss how programs like Get LOUD! Stay LOUD! help people stay engaged through guided practice, community support, and short, manageable daily exercises. This episode is all about shifting from: 👉 "I should do my exercises" to 👉 "This is simply part of how I live." Because long-term success in Parkinson's communication doesn't come from perfection—it comes from consistency. 👥 Featuring collaboration with Sarah Awde, M.Cl.Sc. Speech Language Pathology (Get LOUD! Stay LOUD!) Sign up for Get LOUD Stay LOUD using the link. Try FREE for 30 days, and use code HYLAND50 to get 50% off your first paid month 👉 http://getloudstayloud.mn.co/users/onboarding/plans?via=michael Not sure which classes are the best fit for you? Take the class finder survey here: https://form.jotform.com/253162339857364 📌 Subscribe for more Parkinson's education, therapy strategies, and practical tools for everyday life. For members-first content, early access, and to help to support this channel sign up for memberships here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join  https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION (15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use #parkinson #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #voicetherapy #habitstacking #speechtherapy

    How to Make Parkinson's Voice Practice Part of Daily Life

  7. Jul 8

    How Parkinson's Affects Breathing, Voice, and Cough Strength

    Breathing changes in Parkinson's disease can affect much more than people realize. In this episode (watch here on YouTube!), we break down how Parkinson's impacts breathing, posture, voice support, cough strength, and airway protection—and why these changes matter for both communication and overall health. We cover: • Why breathing changes happen in Parkinson's • Posture and rib cage restriction • Reduced respiratory muscle recruitment • Breath support for speech and voice • Why cough strength matters • RMT (Respiratory Muscle Training) • EMST (Expiratory Muscle Strength Training) • Anxiety, breathlessness, and breathing patterns We also discuss how breathing connects directly to speech clarity, swallowing safety, and airway protection—and why respiratory training can be an important part of Parkinson's care. If you've noticed shortness of breath, reduced vocal strength, weaker coughing, or difficulty projecting your voice, this episode will help explain why these changes happen and what can help. 👉 And this is where most people get stuck—not because they don't know what to do, but because it's hard to stay consistent on your own. In the next episode, we'll show you how to stay motivated, build habits, and make these strategies part of everyday life. 👥 Featuring collaboration with Sarah Awde, M. Cl. Sc. Speech Language Pathhology (Get LOUD! Stay LOUD!) Explore Get LOUD Stay Loud today! Use this link and use code HYLAND50 at checkout for 50% off your first month (PLUS your first month is already FREE!): http://getloudstayloud.mn.co/users/onboarding/plans?via=michael 📌 Subscribe to follow the full Parkinson's Communication Roadmap series. For members-first content, early access, and to help to support this channel sign up for memberships here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join            https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation  Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION(15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation' Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use #parkinson #parkinsonsawareness #breathingexercises #speechtherapy #respiration #dyspnea

    How Parkinson's Affects Breathing, Voice, and Cough Strength

  8. Jun 17

    Drooling and Dry Mouth in Parkinson's: What's Really Happening

    Dry mouth and drooling can both happen in Parkinson's disease—and surprisingly, they're often connected. By the way, Biotene rinse can be a great tool to use with dry mouth. Here is a link to Biotene on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4tuKAoj In this episode (watch here on YouTube), we break down why saliva problems occur in Parkinson's, how they affect speech, swallowing, comfort, and confidence, and why oral health matters far more than most people realize. We cover: • Dry mouth vs. drooling in Parkinson's • Why both problems can happen at the same time • How saliva issues affect communication and swallowing • Oral bacteria, dental health, and aspiration risk • Why oral care is so important in Parkinson's • Practical strategies to help manage these symptoms safely We also explain the important connection between oral health and aspiration pneumonia risk, one of the most serious complications associated with swallowing difficulties. If you or someone you care about is dealing with drooling, dry mouth, coughing during meals, or frequent throat clearing, this episode will help connect the dots and provide practical next steps.  👉 But here's the piece most people don't think about… Your ability to protect your airway doesn't just depend on swallowing—it also depends on your breathing and your cough. In the next episode, we'll explain why breathing strength matters in Parkinson's and how respiratory training can improve airway protection, communication, and overall function. 👥 Featuring collaboration with Sarah Awde, M.Cl.Sc. Speech Language Pathology (Get LOUD! Stay LOUD!) These educational topics and classes to help are included as part of Get LOUD! Stay LOUD! Use this link and use code HYLAND50 at checkout for 50% off your first month (PLUS your first month is already FREE!): http://getloudstayloud.mn.co/users/onboarding/plans?via=michael 📌 Subscribe to follow the full Parkinson's Communication Roadmap series. #Parkinsons #Dysphagia #SwallowingDisorders #ParkinsonsDisease #SpeechTherapy #Neurology For members-first content, early access, and to help to support this channel sign up for memberships here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0g3abv8hkaqZbGD8y1dfYQ/join https://www.patreon.com/pdeducation Please be sure to give support to our channel sponsors: Comfort Linen: https://comfortlinen.com/PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION(15% off entire order when applying the code PARKINSONSDISEASEEDUCATION at checkout) Kizik Shoes: https://kizik.sjv.io/pdeducation Cure Hydration: https://lvnta.com/lv_XG06Rho8SSlXEq3qlV If you have products that you would like for me to review on the channel please send them here: Parkinson's Disease Education P.O. Box 1678 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this video is for informational purposes only and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. Affiliate disclaimer: Keep in mind that links used for recommended products may earn me a commission when you make purchases. However, this does not impact what products I recommend. If I recommend a specific product it is because it has been vetted by myself or based on personal use #parkinson #parkinsonsawareness #parkinsonsdisease #parkinsons #aspirationpneumonia #drooling #drymouth #speechtherapy

    Drooling and Dry Mouth in Parkinson's: What's Really Happening
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4.2
out of 5
34 Ratings

About

Have you ever wished there was a source of information about Parkinson's Disease, and resources for persons with PD, that were concise and easy to digest? Look no further than the Parkinson's Disease Education Podcast. In this podcast we attempt to demystify the disease and to empower you to reach your true potential as a person with PD.

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