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 diagnosis06:09  Facing paralysis, fear, and the turning point that sparked hope11:48  How reading Judy Graham and following the Swank diet changed everything17:43  Managing stress and anger: finding calm in chaos23:16  Inside the Copaxone trial: early experiences with MS treatment29:19  Rebuilding purpose through creativity and compassion34:51  The power of community and connection40:10  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.

This is a bonus from the archives episode of Living Well with MS. Navigating the range of medication choices for people with MS can be challenging. There are so many factors to consider – from effectiveness to side-effects – so we are fortunate to have Dr. Aaron Boster, an Ohio-based neurologist specializing in MS, as this episode’s guest on Living Well with MS to help demystify the myriad Disease Modifying Drugs that are presently available to manage MS.  Topics and timestamps: 01:30 Introduction to Dr Boster   03:31 Medication levels of efficacy  08:22 Some of the most prescribed disease modifying therapies and how to choose one  09:53 Making the right choice when deciding to start a new medication  17:42 Medium and high efficacy drugs  30:06 Do the most effective medications always have the most side-effects?  33:10 Considering Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)  More info and links: Dr Boster’s YouTube channel  Learn more about Medication for MS  Learn more about 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 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 inspiring episode of Living Well with MS, we’re joined by Kristen Karasek, a passionate advocate, dance teacher, and vibrant force in the MS community. Diagnosed at 24, Kristen has turned her MS journey into a mission to give back, raise awareness, and uplift others through movement and advocacy. Kristen is also the recipient of the Dorothy Corwin ‘Spirit of Life’ Award, a prestigious honour presented by the National MS Society to individuals who exemplify exceptional courage, compassion, and positivity while living with MS. This conversation explores everything from political activism to the healing power of dance, and how to find your voice as an advocate, whether in the doctor’s office or the wider world. Topics and timestamps: 01:54 Kristen’s MS diagnosis and journey 04:33 How healthy lifestyle habits have supported Kristen 06:02 Why therapy and peer connection matter when you’re newly diagnosed 08:07 The personal power of giving back to the MS community 09:10 How to get involved in State Action Days and political advocacy 11:21 The impact of dance and movement on MS symptoms 12:54 Advocating for the right healthcare team 14:32 How to advocate for yourself during appointments 15:33 What winning the Dorothy Corwin Spirit of Life Award meant to her 17:20 Kristen’s advice for those newly diagnosed with MS. More info and links: Kristen’s dance studio Book: Multiple Sclerosis for Dummies The Pacific Neuroscience Institute where Barbara Giesser, MD practices 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.

Welcome to Living Well with MS, the podcast that empowers you to take control of your health and wellbeing. In this episode, we’re sharing highlights from a recent webinar hosted by Overcoming MS Program Facilitator and Nutritional Therapist Karen Lee. Karen is joined by plant-based chef, Jack McNulty, and Overcoming MS community members, Melody Landwehr and Jenna Cox, to explore the diet pillar of the Overcoming MS Program. From practical cooking strategies and understanding fats, to batch cooking, eating out, and overcoming early challenges, our guests share a mix of lived experience and expert insight to help you feel confident and inspired in your approach to eating for MS health.    Topics and Timestamps:  01:17 Karen introduces the Overcoming MS diet pillar and describes what it involves  04:36 Jack shares his story, insights from the Overcoming MS Handbook, and practical cooking tips  19:53 Melody discusses her gradual, realistic journey into adopting the Overcoming MS diet  23:06 Jenna reflects on going dairy-free, shares a free recipe resource, and offers tips for eating out with confidence  28:58 The panel shares their go-to weeknight meals for busy days  31:15 Quick and easy snack ideas that fit the Overcoming MS way of eating  More info and links: The Sensitive Foodie by Karen Lee JennaCox.co.uk  Vegan Weekly by Jack McNulty  Watch other webinars by Karen Lee here  Listen to Jenna’s podcast episode here Listen to podcast episodes by Jack McNulty  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 – exploring topics relating to living a full and healthy life with multiple sclerosis – host  Geoff Allix welcomes Jake Connor, Service Delivery Manager at Overcoming MS, for a deep dive into the charity’s evolving support services and what it means to be part of a global MS community. From his personal connection to MS through his mother’s diagnosis, Jake shares how his journey from the corporate world to the charity sector has been driven by purpose and empathy. Jake talks through the range of Overcoming MS's evidence-informed offerings, including webinars, courses, retreats and the Live Well Hub, and the impact they have on individuals living with MS. He also introduces Living Well Live, Overcoming MS’s brand-new all-day hybrid event, designed to inspire, educate and connect the MS community both in person and around the world. Topics and Timestamps: 01:20 Meet Jake: his role at Overcoming MS and what drives him 02:51 A personal journey: Jake shares his MS connection 04:35 Finding purpose: why Jake joined the Overcoming MS team 07:39 Beyond support: the wide range of services we offer 10:33 All about the Pathway to Overcoming MS course 12:11 Awards, recognition and journal articles 13:13 Transformation at Overcoming MS residential retreats 16:33 Why our Living Well with MS webinars are so popular 18:31 Exploring community in the Live Well Hub 20:36 A new event for 2025: Living Well Live More info and links: Living Well Live Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub Events including Discover Overcoming MS Webinars Replay with Dr Rob Motl Replays with Dr Aaron Boster Replay with Dr Michelle O’Donoghue Overcoming MS Retreats Pathway to Overcoming MS Course New to Overcoming MS?Visit our introductory page   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  Make sure you sign up to our newsletterto 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 the Living Well with MS podcast we are pleased to welcome Sam Josephs as our guest. Sam is a qualified Nutritional Therapist and has worked as a retreat facilitator for Overcoming  Multiple Sclerosis. In this episode, we demystify the Overcoming MS diet and provide helpful tips and tricks on how to hack the food portion of the Overcoming MS lifestyle and make it as scrumptious as possible!  Topics and Timestamps:   01:24 Sam’s journey with Overcoming MS   08:54 Basic recommendations for the Overcoming MS diet  10:26 What type of fish is included in the diet?   15:46 Tips and ideal substitutes for Overcoming MS-recommended foods  26:06 Navigating meals during seasonal holidays with the Overcoming MS diet pillar  29:46 Is chicken breast really a problem?  More info and links: Listen to part 2 of ‘The OMS Diet in a Nutshell’ here Learn more about Sam Josephs’ professional background  Learn more about the Overcoming MS diet recommendations  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 inspiring episode of Living Well with MS, we're joined by Rob Carter, Head of Income Generation at Overcoming MS. With over two decades of experience in the not-for-profit world – including organisations like the MS Trust and Youth Music – Rob brings strategic insight, compassion, and a deeply personal connection to his work.  Rob sits down with CEO Alex Holden to explore the power of community fundraising – and how every challenge, skydive, cake sale, or regular gift fuels the future of Overcoming MS.   Whether you're already fundraising or simply curious, this episode is packed with practical ideas, powerful stories, and motivation to make a difference. Watch this episode on YouTube here. Keep reading for the key episode takeaways.   Topics and Timestamps:  01:44 Rob’s journey into fundraising and his personal connection to MS  06:29 Why fundraising is essential to the Overcoming MS mission  09:35 What is fundraising and how does it work?  14:45 Real life stories from independent Overcoming MS fundraisers   18:26 Big adventures: Overcoming MS organised challenge events  20:07 Fundraising for all: ideas beyond physical challenges  21:41 How to get in touch with the fundraising team  22:30 The huge impact of regular giving  25:42 Non-financial ways to support Overcoming MS    More info and links:   Donate to Overcoming MS  Sign up for Give as you Live   Sign up for Easy Fundraising   Join a fundraising event  Start your own fundraiser  Jane and Ian’s Door to Door Challege podcast episode   New to Overcoming MS? Visit our introductory page    Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub   Visit the Overcoming MS website      Don’t miss out:   Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS 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 inspiring and info-packed episode of Living Well with MS, we welcome the brilliant Heather O’Neil – a social worker, Overcoming MS Program Facilitator, and member of the MS community – to break down the Overcoming MS Program in a clear and relatable way.  Diagnosed with MS in 2020, Heather quickly discovered the Overcoming MS Program and never looked back. With warmth and insight, she walks us through each pillar, from diet and Vitamin D to movement and mindfulness, sharing both evidence and her personal experience.  Whether you're new to Overcoming MS or need a refresher, this episode is your perfect starting point to explore how the Program can empower you to take charge of your health and well-being.  Topics and Timestamps:   01:54 Heather's MS journey  03:56 Discovering Overcoming MS  04:59 Becoming an Overcoming MS Program Facilitator  06:27 The Overcoming MS Diet explained  08:58 Sunlight, vitamin D and why they matter  11:49 The Overcoming MS approach to Physical Activity  14:27 Mindfulness and stress reduction  16:48 Medication as an Overcoming MS Pillar  17:48 Family health matters  19:54 Change your life, for life   21:05 How to connect with the Overcoming MS community  More info and links:  Join a Pathway Program  Learn more about Overcoming MS Retreats  Hear more from Heather on stress management  New to Overcoming MS? Visit our introductory page    Connect with others following Overcoming MS on the Live Well Hub   Visit the Overcoming MS website      Don’t miss out:   Subscribe to this podcast and never miss an episode. Listen to our archive of Living Well with MS 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. 

Most people, regardless of whether or not they have MS, may think running a marathon is, simply put, crazy. While exercise is an important part of the Overcoming MS Program, many people with MS will have symptoms that preclude them from running long distances, or indeed running at all. This Living Well with MS episode’s special guest, Alex Tsirigotis, is someone who not only runs, but has pushed his body to his limits by regularly running marathons. And the fact that he has MS is just a footnote in his story.  Topics and timestamps 01:17 Alex’s symptoms, diagnosis, and experience with MS.  04:20 What lifestyle changes Alex’s diagnosis led to. 06:09 Finding out about Overcoming MS and learnings.  07:25 How long was it after you started following Overcoming MS did you start to see noticeable improvements?   09:40 Tips on implementing the Overcoming MS program.  12:39 Alex’s marathon running.  17:02 Tips for people with symptoms that can affect their ability to run.  20:10 Long-term side effects from running marathons.  21:03 What is the most important piece of advice for anyone contemplating starting the Overcoming MS program?  24:50 Reasons Alex runs marathons and what’s next.  More info and links: Learn more about exercise as a key pillar of the Overcoming MS program Learn more about Alex’s running coach services.  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  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.  

Love, resilience and real talk – that’s what today’s episode of Living Well with MS is all about. We're thrilled to welcome husband-and-wife team Nikoma and Simone Bell, authors of Marriage & MS: Embracing Life and Love Beyond the Diagnosis.  Together, they open up about navigating life, love and MS – sharing practical advice on relationships, caregiving, intimacy, and creating space for honest conversations, especially in underrepresented communities. Whether you're living with MS, supporting a partner, or simply curious about how real connection thrives through life's challenges, you won’t want to miss this heartfelt and inspiring discussion.    Topics and Timestamps:  01:41 Meet Nikoma and Simone.  03:09 Top tips for keeping a marriage strong while living with MS.  05:52 Support for Black men with MS. 08:37 Common struggles among care partners and how to handle them.  10:27 How to talk to young children about MS.  12:15 Keeping intimacy alive in relationships with MS.  13:12 Managing feelings of guilt and being a burden.   14:37 Staying together despite MS – defying the odds.  17:30 Talking about what can’t be seen – invisible symptoms.   More info and links:  Learn more about Nikoma and Simone and their work  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  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.