Living Well with Multiple Sclerosis

How does gut health affect MS – and what role can diet really play in supporting the immune system? In this episode of Living Well with MS, Geoff is joined by Overcoming MS Program Facilitator Karen Lee – retired intensive care nurse, nutritionist, author and recipe developer. Karen shares her MS journey and explains, in clear and accessible terms, how gut health, inflammation and diet are connected in autoimmune conditions such as MS. They explore dysbiosis and “leaky gut”, why fibre and the microbiome matter, and how whole-food plant-based eating fits within the Overcoming MS dietary recommendations. Karen also talks about her new book Healing from the Inside Out and shares practical, fatigue-friendly tips for eating more plants – without overwhelm. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 00:56 Welcome and introduction to Karen 01:49 Karen’s MS journey: diagnosis, optic neuritis and early changes 04:46 From intensive care nursing to nutrition, writing and teaching 09:32 Understanding the Overcoming MS diet recommendations 10:36 Why diet matters for immune health: nutrients, fats, fibre and the microbiome 17:57 Dysbiosis explained – and how it relates to autoimmunity and MS 22:02 “Leaky gut”: what it means and why inflammation matters 23:16 Inside Karen’s new book Healing from the Inside Out 26:46 How whole plant foods support overall health 29:50 Protein and plant-based diets: common concerns addressed 31:39 Practical tips for eating more plants and increasing variety 37:58 Favourite recipes, sauces and simple ways to add flavour 39:41 Batch cooking and freezing for low-energy days 41:26 Running the Taunton Half Marathon and fundraising for Overcoming MS   Order Karen’s latest book Healing from the Inside Out: Managing Autoimmunity with a Whole-Food Plant-Based Diet Support Karen’s fundraiser for Overcoming MS Learn more about Karen’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

This episode of Living Well with MS was recorded at Living Well Live, Overcoming MS’s one-day event held at the University of Warwick in November 2025, with people joining both in person and online. Host Geoff Allix shares conversations with community members, speakers and guests from across the MS sector, exploring what’s new in MS lifestyle research and the practical tools people are using to live well with MS. You’ll hear about the evolving evidence behind the Overcoming MS Program, why personalised approaches matter (including vitamin D), and the role of community connection in building confidence after diagnosis. Together, these conversations capture what makes Overcoming MS so powerful: the combination of evidence-based guidance and genuine community support. You’ll also hear how donations help fund trusted information, courses and spaces where people with MS – and those around them – can feel informed, connected and empowered. Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio. 00:00 Geoff Allix introduces the event and Overcoming MS 03:07 Linda Bloom & Alex Holden on the origins of Overcoming MS, community and purpose 11:21 Dr Jonathan White on MS research, treatment and the role of lifestyle medicine 12:44 Lina Nielsen on elite sport, MS and training at Olympic level 14:51 Lina Nielsen on exercise, mindfulness and neuroplasticity 17:00 Tessa Miles on resilience, preparation and the power of community 22:09 Dr Rachel Hunter on the nervous system, stress and self-management 24:12 Dr Rachel Hunter on how MS self-management has evolved 28:19 Community member Maureen Haith on her top takeaways from the day 33:25 Miriam Jordan Keane on how Overcoming MS is evolving 37:56 Neil Stanley on sleep, MS and practical tips for better rest 43:22 Rabiah Coon on laughter, mental health and coping with MS 49:19 Amy Thompson from MS Together on supporting young adults living with MS 50:54 Holistic MS care – combining medication, lifestyle and community 55:13 Advice for newly diagnosed people with MS – reassurance and practical guidance 57:48 Dominic Shadbolt,The MS Guide, on AI, innovation and the future of MS care 59:43 Eleanor Bate, Shift.MS, on peer-led community support and connection 01:06:31 Sarah-Jane Elliot, MS-UK on accessing support, resources and online activities   Learn more about MS Learn more about MS-UK Learn more about MS Together Learn more about the MS Guide New to Overcoming MS? Visit our introductory page 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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, Alex Holden (Chief Executive of Overcoming MS) is joined by Rachel Johnson, Overcoming MS’s Information and Research Manager, and Dr Jonathan White, the charity’s Medical Advisor and Program Facilitator. Together they explore what the latest evidence says about lifestyle and self-management in MS – and why it’s an increasingly exciting time for MS research and treatment. They also share what Overcoming MS is working on in 2026, including improved evaluation of our programmes, new symptom-focused resources, and progress towards achieving the PIF TICK quality mark for trusted health information.  Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics, timestamps, and our guest’s bio.  01:56 Meet Rachel Johnson: background in psychology, research methods and why she joined Overcoming MS  04:04 Jonny’s role and why sharing research clearly (and credibly) matters  05:33 Rachel’s priorities: improving information quality and evaluating impact  07:16 Supporting healthcare professionals to signpost trusted lifestyle resources  09:06 What’s coming up in 2026: evaluation findings, information strategy and symptom-based resources  11:05 Jonny’s 2026 highlights: Pathways, retreats and the BSLM lifestyle medicine module  14:24 How the Overcoming MS programme aligns with the latest lifestyle research  16:57 Making the programme practical: diet quality, Mediterranean-style eating and “big picture” habits  18:54 Talking to your MS team about lifestyle: confidence, language, and keeping your agenda clear  23:05 Why robust evaluation matters: pre-post surveys, validated measures and long-term follow-up  27:31 Getting involved in research: MS Register, university studies and opportunities shared via the Hub  31:41 What is PIF TICK and why it matters for trustworthy MS lifestyle information  36:04 What’s exciting in MS research right now: treatments, progressive MS, and novel therapies  40:13 Why credibility and clear communication are key to shifting the “no evidence” narrative  More info and links: Listen to the Talking with Skeptics webinar with Jonny and Yasmin Neves   Tell your health team about Overcoming MS resources for healthcare professionals  Sign up for the next free Pathway to Overcoming MS course   Join the MS Register in the UK  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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, we’re joined by Juliet Delattre, a language teacher and digital nomad from the Netherlands who was diagnosed with MS in 2019.   Juliet shares the shock of being diagnosed after relatively mild symptoms, and what it was like searching for answers, navigating uncertainty, and deciding who to tell. We also talk about the role of lifestyle alongside medical care, how Juliet experimented with different approaches over time, and why she ultimately chose to follow the Overcoming MS Program.   Juliet speaks honestly about stress, study, travel and bereavement – and offers a compassionate reminder that there’s no single “perfect” way to live well with MS, only the approach that’s sustainable for you.   Watch this episode on YouTube here. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps. Topics and timestamps 00:00 Juliette's diagnosis and initial shock  03:33 The emotional impact of MS  05:58 The decision to share: who to tell and why  08:30 Choosing a path: medication and lifestyle changes  11:09 Life after diagnosis: changes and adaptations  13:38 Travelling with MS  16:50 Trying different diets and why evidence mattered  19:17 Stress support: drawing, meditation, retreats and finding what’s sustainable  22:41 Studying with MS: a flare-up, disability support and difficult systems  24:24 Discovering Overcoming MS and choosing a path that “clicked”  26:50 Family support: making diet changes feel achievable  29:12 Exercise, confidence and changing mindset  32:05 Bereavement, stress and finding ways to cope  35:36 Embracing creativity and possibilities  More info and links Learn more about Joe Dispenza’s work on placebo and healing  Read Juliet’s blog on her drawings of her sensations in her body  Learn more about Vipassana meditation retreats  Read about the benefits of therapeutic journaling in time of stress  Try one of Juliet’s favorite 30-minute meditations  Read about hypnotherapy for MS  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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, we’re sharing highlights from our Ask Aaron webinar – 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. Our guest is the dynamic and much-loved Dr Aaron Boster, a board-certified neurologist specialising in multiple sclerosis. Dr Boster answers a wide range of thoughtful, practical questions from the OvercomingMS community. From medications and MRI contrast scans to foot drop, vision changes, supplements and the latest research developments, he brings clarity, warmth and energy to every topic. If you’ve ever wished you could sit down with a neurologist who truly understands MS, this episode is for you. Watch this episode on YouTube. Topics and timestamps 05:08 Exciting developments in MS research 10:54 Subcutaneous injections of Ocrevus 14:27 Remyelination drug trials 22:02 Addressing fatigue in MS patients 30:14 Managing fatigue: strategies and treatments 31:04 Navigating disease-modifying therapies 31:04 Supporting loved ones with MS 35:09 Understanding MRI and gadolinium contrast 38:21 B-Cell depletion therapies and MS progression 40:42 Exploring functional mushrooms and supplements 44:35 The importance of vitamins and nutrition 52:15 Understanding neurofilament light chain 58:28 Foot drop solutions 59:29 Finding the right doctor 01:00:29 Hope for the future of MS More info and links Listen to other episodes featuring Dr Boster Check out Dr Boster’s popular YouTube channel covering all aspects of MS 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.

The holidays will soon be upon us, and we all know food is a big part of the fun. This time of year presents the temptation of delicious meals whose ingredients don’t always fit the dietary guidelines Overcoming MS recommends.   On this episode of the Living Well with MS podcast we are pleased to welcome Ashley Madden, a full-time food lover and health enthusiast. She’s also a pharmacist, plant-based chef, certified holistic nutrition consultant and food photographer. Topics and timestamps 02:03 About Ashley and her passion for cooking  03:26 How long have you been following Overcoming MS?   05:20 Has it been challenging to switch to the Overcoming MS diet?   09:14 Best tips for making the transition to the Overcoming MS diet easier  11:53 Tips for making Overcoming MS-friendly holiday meals for large groups and smaller more intimate gatherings?  21:28 Special tips or meal ideas for holidays  31:37 Making Overcoming MS-friendly puddings and desserts  35:14 Top cooking advice when following an Overcoming MS compliant diet  More info and links: Read Ashley Madden’s food blog  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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, we meet adaptive world champion athlete Francis Loye, a Northern Ireland-based father of three who lives with MS.   Francis was diagnosed in 2021 after experiencing symptoms on a cycling holiday. Since then, he has transformed his life: following the Overcoming MS program, connecting deeply with community, and competing at the very highest level in hybrid and adaptive sport. From the Hyrox World Championships to the gruelling Mallorca 312 endurance race, Francis has shown what’s possible when determination meets lifestyle-led wellness.   This conversation is full of honesty and inspiration – whether you’re newly diagnosed, returning to exercise, or curious about what adaptive sport looks like in practice.   Watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps.  Topics and timestamps 00:43 Francis’s MS journey: diagnosis, fear, acceptance and choosing empowerment  04:17 Discovering Overcoming MS: a lifeline of hope  06:23 Discovering the power of community  07:59 Adapting lifestyle: challenges and triumphs  11:04 Family health: balancing MS and parenting  13:40 The Retreat experience: vulnerability and connection  16:32 Understanding hybrid and adaptive athletics  20:01 Training regimen: balancing endurance and strength  25:29 Winning the Hyrox World Championships  29:19 Diet and nutrition: balancing performance and health  31:38 Advice for the newly diagnosed: finding peace and community  More info and links Connect with Francis on Instagram  Francis was on the Overcoming MS Webinar Physical Activity and MS  Learn more about Joe Dispenza’s work  Check out the Hyrox adaptive divisions  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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, Dr Jonathan White is joined by Dr Stephen Simpson-Yap, Senior Research Fellow at the Neuroepidemiology Unit (NEU) in Melbourne, Senior Research Fellow at the Neuroepidemiology Unit (NEU) in Melbourne, focusing on multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune conditions. Together they unpack the complex relationship between diet and MS: why diet research is so challenging, what the current evidence tells us, how different MS diet programmes compare, and where the science is heading next. Steve explains how epidemiologists study diet, what makes high-quality research so difficult, and why large, long-term studies like HOLISM and the UK MS Register are so important to people with MS. 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. You can watch this episode on YouTube. Keep reading for the topics and timestamps. Topics and timestamps 01:53 How diet might influence MS risk, progression and disability 04:24 Why diet research is so hard 07:31 Inside a diet study – what it really takes to measure what people eat 11:27 Comparing MS diets (Overcoming MS, Whals, Best Bet, and more.) 15:06 How researchers actually study diet in MS 24:54 What we know so far Key findings from existing diet studies, 28:02 The future of diet research for MS and how large data sets could change everything 33:35 What this means for people with MS   More info and links Learn more about the NEU Read NEU research papers about MS Hear more research in S3E11 NEU: What’s on the research horizon with Associate Professor Sandra Neate 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.

In this episode of the Living Well with MS podcast we continue the discussion on diet as a key pillar of the Overcoming MS Program, and how to integrate the Overcoming MS diet dos and don’ts into one’s daily routine with nutritional therapist and Overcoming MS Facilitator Sam Josephs as our guest. Topics and timestamps: 01:25 Getting started with the Overcoming MS diet  05:41 Is fasting worth trying?  06:04 The 5:2 diet for fast-mimicking effect   10:54 Is there a connection between gluten and multiple sclerosis?  17:18 Tips on making cooking easier for people following the Overcoming MS diet  More info and links: Part 1 of ‘The OMS Diet in a Nutshell’ is also available here Learn more about diet as a key pillar of the Overcoming MS program  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.

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

In this special episode of Living Well with MS, we’re sharing highlights from our ‘Ask Aaron’ webinar, recorded in front of a global audience. Our guest is the dynamic and much-loved Dr Aaron Boster – a board-certified neurologist specialising in multiple sclerosis. Dr Boster answers a wide range of thoughtful, practical questions submitted by the Overcoming MS community. From medications and MRI scans to functional mushrooms, vitamin D, menopause, and lifestyle changes, he covered it all with his trademark clarity and energy. If you’ve ever wished you could sit down with a neurologist who really understands MS, this episode is for you. Topics and timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and introduction 02:53 Understanding patient support in MS care 05:43 Symptom management and treatment options 08:41 Blood tests and regular health monitoring 11:44 Drug trials, research, and what’s on the horizon 15:52 MRI insights and tracking disease activity 18:46 Remyelination and alternative therapies 21:51 Women’s health, menopause and MS 24:42 Long-term management strategies 27:49 Diet, lifestyle, and the power of habit 30:36 The value of community and support networks 33:47 Final thoughts and closing remarks. More info and links: Listen to other episodes featuring Dr Boster Check out Dr Boster’s popular YouTube channel covering all aspects of MS Learn more about Dr Bove’s work on menopause and 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 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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, we’re joined by Dr Agne Straukiene, a neurologist, researcher and MS specialist who advocates for proactive, lifestyle-based MS management. Dr Straukiene is also the host of the Bee Well with MS podcast, where she shares expert insights to support people living with MS. Together, we explore why understanding your symptoms, using digital self-management tools, and making sustainable lifestyle choices can make a meaningful difference to your wellbeing. Dr Straukiene also shares highlights from the latest research and offers practical tips for preparing for clinical appointments. Topics and Timestamps: 01:59 Dr Straukiene’s journey into MS care 03:57 Why self-management matters 06:41 Using digital tools to track and manage MS 11:21 Recognising and understanding symptom patterns 15:47 How to prepare for clinical consultations 22:33 Lifestyle interventions and their impact on MS 29:47 About the Bee Well with MS podcast 37:06 Latest research into lifestyle and MS outcomes 40:33 Managing progressive MS 43:29 Where MS research is heading next. More info and links: Listen to S6E6 Advanced cell therapy for progressive MS with Dr Stefano Pluchino Listen to Bee Well with MS with Dr Agne Straukiene Learn more about Blue Zones which have the most centenarians per capita 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.

In this episode of Living Well with MS, where we explore ways to live a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis, we’re sharing highlights from the final session of our Refresh with Overcoming MS webinar series – a wide-ranging and engaging Q&A with Dr Jonathan White. Jonny is not only a practising doctor and medical advisor to Overcoming MS but also lives with MS himself. In this lively and informative session, he answers real questions from the Overcoming MS community, covering everything from vitamin D, diet and symptom management to hormone replacement therapy, relapse vs progression, takeaway choices, fatigue and more. Whether you’re just starting out with the Overcoming MS lifestyle or have been following it for years, this episode is full of warmth, relatable insight and practical advice you can use right away. Topics and timestamps: 01:15 Meet Dr Jonathan White and discover his journey with the Overcoming MS Program 02:51 Can HRT help women with PPMS in menopause? 04:55 What takeaway food can you enjoy on the Overcoming MS diet? 06:45 Swollen feet and legs – are they an MS symptom? 07:55 Does MS shorten life expectancy? Let’s look at the facts 09:40 Should gluten and dairy be avoided with MS? 12:20 What are paroxysmal symptoms – and should you worry if they return? 14:29 Tiny amounts of oil in foods: is it okay or a deal-breaker? 16:51 What’s new in MS research? 18:47 Does menopause speed up progression? Exploring relapse vs progression 20:22 Managing progressive MS and the idea of “smouldering MS” 21:17 Is coconut syrup Overcoming MS-friendly? 21:50 What if symptoms never fully go away? Tips for living with incomplete remission 24:44 Could propionic acid help people with MS? Gut health meets cutting-edge science 27:00 Stem cell treatment: cure, hope, or hype? 29:32 Fatigue and MS: can medication help? 31:34 What does it mean to have “inactive” MS – and can it still progress? 35:05 Worried about your children getting MS? What the evidence really says. More info and links: Evidence for HRT for women with MS Menopause and MS Blog Propionic Acid and MS Study of Propionic Acid in 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 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.