MS Podcasts

Psychotherapist Katie Willard Virant discusses the challenges of chronic illness and the societal pressure to appear well despite having health struggles. We discuss how this can affect daily life for people living with chronic illness, and Katie shares advice on authenticity and taking space despite chronic illness.

Vitamin D has a complex relationship with MS, with links to increased risk of diagnosis, influencing gene expression in immune cells and generally being lower in people living with MS. In this episode, Dr Wei, neurologist and researcher, discusses how much vitamin D people need, how to get it, and the role of supplementation in children of parents with MS.

In this episode of the MS Boost, we talk to Nicola Palfrey, clinical psychologist, about the parenting challenge of talking to teenagers about chronic illness. Nicola shares her expert insights into approaching these difficult conversations sensitively. We also explore the important topic of knowing the signs that your teen may need some mental health support and how to navigate access.

In this episode we chat with neurologist Dr Cassie Nesbitt, one of the principal investigators for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) at the Alfred Hospital in Melbourne. Cassie explains the process of HSCT, risks and considerations for accessing HSCT overseas, as well as the current research on who is likely to benefit and how this is accessed in Australia.

In this episode, we talk to Olivia Wills, a brain health researcher who has been working towards a holistic model of brain health in MS. Olivia outlines why brain health can be seen as a tangible concept that people can control by ensuring regular physical activity, quitting smoking, managing comorbidities, following a balanced diet, and catering to their mental health. Olivia discusses how external factors such as financial security can be a challenge for people in adopting healthy behaviors and that it's never too late for anyone to adopt healthier behaviors and livelihoods.

Linda Rowley, mental health consultant, delves into the complexities of mental health for carers, focusing on the overlooked experience of ambiguous loss. Linda discusses the importance of acknowledging these emotions, how to find meaning and hope, as well as the need for compassion and self-care for carers.

In this episode of the MS Boost, we speak with Rachel Horne, a UK journalist and MS advocate about the phenomena of ‘medical gaslighting’, which is when health care professionals downplay, dismiss, minimize or ignore patient symptoms or blame their concerns on psychological factors rather than having a physical cause. Rachel discusses her own journey with MS and her personal struggle for proper treatment, as well as her own experience with medical gaslighting. Rachel provides tips for self-advocacy and the potential signs of medical gaslighting. We also cover the challenges of diagnosing and treating MS, the systemic issue of gender bias in healthcare, and potential ways forward.

In this episode of the MS Boost, we discuss a new subcutaneous delivery mode for Tysabri, with MS nurse Louise Rath and the things you need to consider when making a switch, including the practical considerations, efficacy, logistics to costs and potential side effects. With thanks to Louise Rath, MS Nurse Louise Rath is the MS neuroimmunology nurse consultant at Alfred Health in Melbourne, Victoria. She has over 20 years’ experience in public neurology services including outpatient appointments. Louise is the nurse clinical lead at the Alfred Multiple Sclerosis & Neuroimmunology Clinic focusing on patient experience, promoting engagement in health care and developing health literacy documents for the service with consumers. For more information about medications, call MS Plus Connect to speak with a Nurse Advisor. Reach out for support: MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email connect@msplus.org.au Get in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing education@ms.org.au

In this podcast episode, Leif Lagesen, an accredited practicing dietitian and habit science practitioner, discusses the mechanisms behind building better habits. He explores the steps involved in building long-lasting habits and shares his tips on how small changes can lead to lasting lifestyle changes. Leif is an accredited practicing dietitian, with dual degrees in Sport and Exercise and Nutrition Dietetics. He is highly energised by the fusion of behavioural change strategies with health technologies. His experience extends from working with national health coaching programs to clinical settings, and includes various collaborations with health tech startups.

Summer brings the risk of natural disasters, and preparing mentally is just as important as preparing physically. In this podcast, Catherine and Michael, MS Social Work Advisors discuss the importance of preparing mentally for crisis, and strategies to help people feel confident this coming summer season.

With the current high cost of living, many households are impacted, and their budgets are tightening. In this podcast, Catherine and Michael, MS Social Work Advisors discuss how to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and how to find some financial relief, with no concession card required.

Nutrition can play an important role for women when trying to conceive, and it can be hard to find evidence-based information when thinking about making changes to your diet. Accredited Practising Dietitian and Certified Fertility Dietitian, Mariam Metwally discuss the impact of nutrition on preconception and fertility, and the specific considerations for women with MS. Mariam, founder of Tayib Nutrition, is passionate about helping women gain relief from conditions like PCOS and supporting women optimise their diet and lifestyle to support fertility and preconception health. She's also passionate about MS and using diet and lifestyle to help improve quality of life, particularly for women in the preconception period.

Dr Francesca Bridge is a Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Fellow at the Alfred Hospital and a PhD Candidate at Monash University.  Clinically, Francesca cares for people with multiple sclerosis and other neuroimmunological conditions.  Her research interests lie in women’s health and multiple sclerosis.  Specifically, the impact of menopause on MS disease activity and the risk of cervical cancer in MS. In this podcast, Dr Bridge discuss the relationship between sex hormones and MS disease activity, and clinical course, particularly around the time of menopause. She discusses treatments for women experiencing menopause and empowering women to talk about their experience, rather than suffer in silence. With thanks to Dr Francesca Bridge.

For someone living with MS, the changes in sensory load and sensations can impact on one’s quality of life. In the Learn from Me series, MS Plus Peer support coordinator Kim chats with Mark who shares his experience of sensory symptoms since being diagnosed with MS. Mark discusses the challenges and offers helpful tips and strategies that help him manage every day. With thanks to Mark Elisha, MS Peer. Read the episode transcript here. Reach out for support: MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email connect@msplus.org.au Feedback? Email us at education@ms.org.au

Good sleep can be hard to get, and it’s vital for wellbeing. Sleep Coach Carla Butler shares tips for good sleep, and why this is so critical for good health.

Anjelo Ratnachandra is the founder of Beyond Pain and an award-winning physiotherapist who established one of the first private chronic pain and fatigue physiotherapy services in Australia. Anjelo has extensive experience having worked with chronic illnesses for almost 2 decades, and also experiences chronic pain himself. Aside from his work at Beyond pain, he is on the board of Chronic Pain Australia. Anjelo discusses his experience with chronic pain and the importance of treating the many complex facets of pain, such as mental health.

Men face greater health risks than women in Australia, they are less likely to seek help from their doctor and often don’t go until an illness is in its later stages. Jeff Lawrance, Senior Delivery Manager and Occupational Therapist with the MS Plus Employment Support Service discusses the barriers that men with MS face in the workplace, and how things such as stereotypical views of masculinity can influence this. Jeff offers invaluable advice and strategies to help you overcome these barriers and assist you in making the changes to feel better at work.

Clinical trials are essential for the development of new medications and interventions, but how are they run and what is involved when you agree to participate in one? Dr Therese Burke AM is working as the Clinical Platform Coordinator at MS Australia to bring adaptive clinical trials to life for people with multiple sclerosis. Therese has been working in clinical trials and research since 1993 and, explains what a clinical trial might involve for participants.

MS Plus Executive Manager and MS Nurse Practitioner, Jodi Haartsen chats with Information Officer at MS Trust UK, Simon Webster about navigating the multitude of information found online. An important discussion around how to differentiate factual, evidence-based information from opinion or lies and strategies on how to navigate the internet safely.

MS Plus Executive Manager and Nurse Practitioner, Jodi Haartsen discusses the stigmatisation of women’s health issues, and the barriers women face to accessing and receiving quality care. Jodi also examines the future of women’s and girls’ health and how this will impact how we think of women’s health needs in MS.

The prospect of having to use a wheelchair can be daunting and frightening for anyone. But it is sometimes necessary to ensure a person’s autonomy and ability to continue enjoying life. Join Mark on the 'Learn from me' podcast series as he shares his experience in adjusting to using a wheelchair to enhance his independence.

As part of the ‘Learn from Me’ series, MS Plus Peer support coordinator, Kim speaks with the inspirational and very honest, Mark Wilson. They chat about the importance of staying connected with friends and how to stop letting things get in the way of catching up with your mates.

Do you find yourself surrounded by stuff, but the idea of decluttering seems overwhelming or impossible? Declutter coach and professional organiser from Space and Time, Julie Cliff is thrilled to share her passion for decluttering and getting organised. Listen in to hear Julie's top tips and tricks for "clearing out stuff" and refreshing your space.

Parenting can be hectic at the best of times. If you’re living with MS, trying to juggle your needs and those of your partner and your children brings additional challenges. Join Silas on this new ‘Learn from Me’ podcast as he shares his experience of being a busy dad living with MS. Silas describes the various strategies he has put in place that support him and his family to enjoy life and live well.

Join Shannan on this ‘Learn from me’ Podcast as she shares her valuable insight into being a teenager with MS. Shannan shares her tips on juggling MS and being a teenager; from telling her friends about her diagnosis to managing her studies.

Join Matt on this new ‘Learn from me’ Podcast. Matt openly discusses the challenges he has faced adjusting to SPMS (Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis). He shares the many ways he has learnt to live well with SPMS through utilising a range of MS Services and additional supports like the NDIS. Matt describes all the various life style factors he has needed to focus on to take charge of his life and enjoy it.

Join Megan on the new ‘Learn from me’ Podcast as she shares her incredible experience and valuable insight into working and managing her MS. Megan describes the various strategies and supports she has used to maintain her health and thrive in her workplace both physically and mentally.

Join Nicola Graham as she chats with Brett Drummond, the co-founder of MStranslate, about the promising topic of remyelination. Remyelination is the process of the myelin sheath on nerve fibres being restored after it has broken down. This is a natural process but does not happen in people with MS. Will remyelination be possible for people with MS in the future? Brett takes listeners through the latest research on remyelination and what this could mean for people living with MS.

Join Melissa Katz on this new ‘Learn from me’ Podcast. Melissa shares her valuable insight into being a Mum with RRMS from pregnancy to teenagehood. Melissa recalls some of the challenges she has faced but also the strategies she has used to enjoy being a Mum with MS.

It’s a confusing world out there in terms of what to include in your diet if you have MS. There are lots of myths and misunderstandings. So let’s clear all that up for you today and give you a food roadmap. To help us do this MS Dietitian, Jady Lam, will share her insights.

In this episode we are looking at the of EBV or Epstein Barr Virus. EBV is currently all over the media as a possible cause of MS, but given 94% of the general population has EBV but most do not go on to develop MS, what’s going on, what does this all mean, what do you need to know so that you can make sure you are getting the best treatment possible? We will answer your questions and concerns with the real science as MS Education and Wellbeing Coordinator, Nicola Graham picks the brains of Brett Drummond from MS Translate. Please note: the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the interviewee and not necessarily those of Multiple Sclerosis Limited.

Join Nicola Graham as she chats with Emeritus Professor Sheila Lennon. Sheila joined Flinders University in 2012 as Foundation Chair of Physiotherapy and has over 40 years experience in physiotherapy. Her area of research and teaching expertise is neurological rehabilitation and she runs regular balance and mobility programs. Sheila offers suggestions to help strengthen and maintain your balance and mobility and strategies to prevent falls. Thanks to Pro Podcast Production for their support in producing the MS Podcast series.

Clare Reilly hosts an international Podcast Series called ‘MS Understood’. Claire interviews over 50 fascinating people from all walks of life including comedian Tim Fergerson and Emily Padfield from the Netflix series Win the Wilderness. As a person living with MS, Clare extracts great tips to overcome the challenges of MS.

Join Nicola Graham as she chats with Ian Heydon about how he manages with his MS, what inspires him and the approach he has taken to living with multiple sclerosis. Ian was diagnosed with MS in 2010. Ian Heydon is an award-winning writer whose credits include radio shows like the Samuel Pepys Show, The Year My Country Broke and How Green Was My Cactus. His television credits include Kingswood Country, Home Sweet Home, Graham Kennedy’s World of Comedy and Howard: The Mild Colonial Boy. Ian recently entered the International Film festival - Focus on Ability with a short film entitled “What’s in a Name”, which is just brilliant.

Join Counsellor and Sex Therapist Mr Darren Radley as he shares his wisdom on managing common sexual concerns and difficulties when you have MS. Topics such as erectile difficulties and continence concerns will be addressed along with great tips for sustaining and enriching your relationships. Join Darren as he shares his wisdom derived from thousands of hours working with many people with the same concerns as you.

Join Nicola Graham as she talks with Brett Drummond, the co-founder of MStranslate. Brett provides a summary of the highlights of ECTRIMs 2021, the largest global congress for MS researchers. Brett shares with us the most exciting and surprising MS research presented. Some topics covered include the latest on re-myelination therapies, COVID and vaccines for people living with MS, Gut Microbiome, Symptom Management and Stem Cell therapies.

Men’s mental health is an often overlooked subject. Nine Australians die every day from suicide and 75% of them are male, and this is preventable! Gus Worland is a well known TV and radio personality, in particular, for his roles on the ABC's Man Up Program, Triple M's Breaky Crew and the Gotchta4Life Foundation. Gus offers some great tips for better men's mental health and how to start those conversations with your mates to build mental resilience.

Dr Yasmine Probst is a Dietitian and an Associate Professor currently based at the University of Wollongong and a Research Fellow with the Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute. Yasmine is also a person living with MS. Listen in to hear which foods are best to eat, and why, when living with MS.

MS Nurse Advisor, Bridie Phillips chats about the important issue of bladder dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. This topic can be overwhelming and often causes social isolation for many people. Bridie offers helpful tips and strategies to help improve your quality of life.

Leah Breninger is the recipient of the Barry Allen Art Award at the 2020 MS Art Show and she is living with multiple sclerosis. Leah discusses where her inspiration comes from and how she taps into her creativity to express herself through art. Leah talks about how art has helped her manage multiple sclerosis.

Join Dr Fatima Kahn, a Menopause specialist who has a holistic approach to women's physical, emotion and mental wellbeing; and Jacqui Perry, MS Physiotherapist as they define menopause and peri-menopause and discuss the management of menopause for women who are going through it.

Once it is confirmed you are having a relapse you may be treated in hospital or at home. This episode steps you through the options available to you, the treatments, durations and tips about how to get through a relapse in the most resilient way. Presenter Executive Manager Client Engagement and Wellbeing Jodi Haartsen is a registered MS Nurse who has helped thousands of patients over her 20 years’ experience at Eastern Health MS service in Australia, in several roles including nurse educator, research nurse and nurse practitioner. Jodi is the 2022 winner of the global MS Brain Health Leader Award in the Independent Healthcare Professionals category.

In this episode we are discussing the “Road to Recovery” after you have had a relapse with MS Nurse Practitioner Jodi Haartsen. We will cover what to expect post relapse, how long your recovery might take, who can help and what aids and supports are available. Presenter Executive Manager Client Engagement and Wellbeing Jodi Haartsen is a registered MS Nurse who has helped thousands of patients over her 20 years’ experience at Eastern Health MS service in Australia, in several roles including nurse educator, research nurse and nurse practitioner. Jodi is the 2022 winner of the global MS Brain Health Leader Award in the Independent Healthcare Professionals category.

MS Nurse Advisor Jane Bridgman talks about what to do if you think you are having a relapse. Who do you call? How urgent is it? What do you need to do? How do you document and communicate effectively what is happening? Lots of great info in 12 short minutes.

For many people diagnosed with MS, relapses will be a part of the MS journey. So, what is a relapse? How do you know you're having one? Join MS Nurse Advisor, Jane as she answers these questions and provides strategies on how to best be prepared in the event of experiencing an MS relapse.

Dr Sally Shaw is a Melbourne based psychologist working in a positive psychology framework with people who have a chronic illness, especially those with multiple sclerosis. Sally herself was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001. Join Sally as she chats about finding joy and living well with multiple sclerosis.

Dr Yvonne Learmonth is an Accredited Physiotherapist who specialises in Physical Activity research in multiple sclerosis. She has a PhD in rehabilitation and currently lectures and conducts research in the discipline of Exercise Science at Murdoch University. Yvonne also leads an exercise and cognition research group based at Murdoch University. Yvonne will offer tips based on research and evidence to help you make positive changes in your life.

Associate Professor Anneke van der Walt, Neurologist at Alfred Health in Melbourne chats with Jodi Haartsen, Executive Manager at MS Plus about the COVID vaccines that have been approved in Australia and their impact on people living with MS.

Jillian Kingsford Smith is an international best selling author, award winning journalist, a Kiss Goodbye to MS Ambassador, a part of the global Strategic Initiative "Stop and Reverse MS" and, she is a person living with multiple sclerosis. Jillian shares her experience of where her life has taken her since her diagnosis.

Dr Lucinda Black, Senior Research Fellow and Nutritional Epidemiologist at Curtin University discusses the nutrition and the risk of onset and progression of multiple sclerosis.

Join University of Sydney Researcher, Dr Ollie Jay and MS Connect Specialist, Emily Austin as they discuss heat intolerance and explore the practical ways of coping with the heat.

Dr Claudia Marck, Senior Research Fellow at the Disability and Health Unit at University of Melbourne; and Dr Sarah White, Director of Quit Victoria discuss the impact of smoking on multiple sclerosis.

Neurologist, Prof.Jeannette Lechner-Scott answers the most common concerns and questions of those newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

MS Education and Wellbeing Program Coordinator Andrea Salmon talks about MS fatigue. Fatigue is often labelled as the most disabling symptom of MS. Andrea will discuss the types of fatigue and will offer management strategies.

MS Social Work Advisor Michael provides strategies for communicating more effectively and assertively.

MS Social Work Advisor Catherine chats about the role of the carer of someone living with multiple sclerosis. Catherine identifies the varied roles of the carer and the key underlying principles that are universal to all carers. She also offers tips for self-care and carer support options.

MS Nurse Advisor, Jane discusses the latest medication for treatment of multiple sclerosis

MS Employment Support Services consultant, Natalie Holland discusses the strategies to working well with multiple sclerosis.

A chat with counsellor, Helen Diamond. Helen shares her wisdom on building better relationships for you and your partner. She covers lots of helpful information, including understanding through "love language". Do you show love by giving gifts or telling people in words? Or are you a person who shows they love someone by acts of service such as filling the car up with petrol of cooking dinner? Understanding the ways we show and give love can really help build positive relationships.

Psychologist Dr Sally Shaw discusses the role of resilience and living well with MS. Dr Sally uses the approach of positive psychology framework and will offer tips around being strategic while moving forward in life.

MS Nurse Advisor Bridie talks about multiple sclerosis pain and offers tips on how to best manage your MS pain symptoms.

Presented by Dr Margaret Redelman, OAM, MBBS (Uni NSW), M Psychotherapy (Uni NSW). Dr Redelman works as a Sex Therapist and a Relationship Therapist. She discusses sex and sexuality for people living with multiple sclerosis.

Sleep is incredibly important to quality of life and many people living with multiple sclerosis do not sleep well for a variety of reasons. MS Education and Wellbeing Program Coordinator, Andrea Salmon will explore sleep issues, its relationship to fatigue and best of all look at strategies to assist you get a better night's sleep.

MS Education and Wellbeing Programs Coordinator, Nicola Graham provides tips and strategies for managing our mental health and building mental resilience during this challenging time.

MS Exercise Physiologist, Caitlin Ireland discusses exercise strategies for people with multiple sclerosis.

MS Nurse Advisor, Bridie Phillips, talks about MS related bowel issues, typical symptoms and lots of tips, strategies and resources to manage bowel issues and live well.

MS Nurse Advisor, Bridie Phillips, discusses bladder issues and what you can do to ensure you can get out and about and continue living your best life.

Eating well is important for everyone; it is particularly important for people living with multiple sclerosis. We interview Nicola Graham, Nutritionist about eating and living well in multiple sclerosis.