Episodes

What to Know About MS Cognitive Screenings – Episode 208 In this episode, we explore neuropsychology and its role in understanding cognitive changes associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Learn about common cognitive challenges, factors that can affect brain function, what to expect during a neuropsychological evaluation, and how evaluation results can guide treatment and support. We’ll also share practical tips for advocating for your cognitive health and overall well-being. Disclaimer: Thi...

Dating with MS: Disclosure, Boundaries, and Finding the Right Person – Episode 207 Dating can be vulnerable enough without having to navigate MS along the way. In this episode, Crystal shares her personal experience dating with MS from a young age, deciding when to disclose her diagnosis and handling rejection to planning dates around fatigue, mobility, heat sensitivity, and changing symptoms. She also talks about choosing yourself, recognizing healthy relationships, and finding a partner who s...

CAR T Cell Therapy for MS: What We Know So Far– Episode 207 Stephanie Buxhoeveden talks with neurologist and MS specialist Dr. Krupa Pandey about the emerging research into CAR T therapy for multiple sclerosis. They discuss how CAR T works, how it differs from current treatments, what clinical trial participation involves, and whether an immune system “reset” could one day change the way MS is treated. Thank you to the generous support of Bristol Myers Squibb of this podcast episode. Disclaim...

Using Data to Understand MS – Episode 204 In this episode we explore how biomarkers, blood tests, and wearable devices are changing the way MS is monitored and treated. Our host Stephanie Buxhoeveden and Dr. Leorah Freeman discuss disease activity, progression, digital biomarkers, and how personalized data could lead to more comprehensive MS care. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general educational information. Can Do MS does not endorse, promote, or recommend any product or service associat...

A Proactive Approach to Prehabilitation for MS – Episode 203 In this episode, we explore the power of prehabilitation (prehab) for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Learn how starting exercise, building healthy habits, and working with your care team early can help preserve function, boost resilience, and support long-term independence. Tune in for practical tips on creating a personalized prehab plan and why taking action before symptoms worsen can make a meaningful difference. Disc...

Why Anxiety Is So Common in MS – Episode 202 In this episode, Meghan Beier explores the connection between multiple sclerosis (MS) and anxiety. Learn why anxiety is so common in MS, how it can overlap with MS symptoms, and practical, evidence-based strategies to help manage it. Join us for an important conversation about prioritizing mental health alongside physical health. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general educational information. Can Do MS does not endorse, promote, or recommend any ...

Men and MS: Navigating Identity, Resilience, and Hope – Episode 201 In this episode we chat with Luis who will share his journey of living with multiple sclerosis and how the disease challenged his identity, career, relationships, and sense of control. Together, Luis and Stephanie explore the unique pressures many men face when living with a chronic illness, including isolation, vulnerability, and redefining strength. Luis also discusses how he learned to embrace life fully despite the challen...

Redefining Balance with MS – Episode 200 What does balance really look like with MS? Stephanie meets with Lisa Doggett to share honest insights on managing health, work, and family. Also getting into the hidden effort behind staying stable, and why balance is about constant adjustment, not perfection. Thank you to the generous support of our sponsors of this podcast episode, including Kathleen C Moore Foundation and Novartis. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general educational information. ...

MS & Motherhood: Planning a Family Through Uncertainty – Episode 199 What does family planning look like with MS? Stephanie talks with Emily about her journey from diagnosis and meeting her husband through the MS community to navigating infertility, pregnancy loss, and treatment decisions. They explore what research says about MS, fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum, along with the real-life challenges of new motherhood including fatigue, support, and finding what works for you. Disclaimer: ...

The Puzzle of Progression – Episode 198 Multiple sclerosis (MS) is evolving—and so is the way we understand it. In this episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden sits down with physician’s assistant Lisa Fox to unpack one of the most important shifts in MS care: recognizing progression beyond relapses. They explore the concept of PIRA (progression independent of relapse activity), why patients may feel worse even when MRIs look stable, and how new research, biomarkers, and diagnostic tools are changi...

Trust Your Body: MS, Menopause, and Speaking Up – Episode 197 When MS symptoms don’t feel like MS anymore, hormones may be part of the story. Dawn shares her 25-year MS journey, how perimenopause complicated her symptoms, and how lived experience led her from patient to research collaborator with iConquerMS. This episode is a powerful reminder that women’s voices belong in science. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general educational information. Can Do MS does not endorse, promote, or recomm...

Cognition and the Science of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation in MS – Episode 196 Cognitive changes in MS are often misunderstood. In this episode, Stephanie talks with Dr. Leigh Charvet about what cognition in MS really looks like—why processing speed, not memory loss, is the most common challenge, and why symptoms can fluctuate day to day. They break down what non-invasive brain stimulators are, how it boosts the effects of cognitive rehab, and what research shows about its impact on cognition...

MS Beyond the City: Living With MS in Rural and Underserved Communities – Episode 195 Living with multiple sclerosis is shaped not only by the disease, but by where you live. In this episode, we explore what “rural” and “underserved” truly mean in real life for people with MS. Moving beyond ZIP codes and statistics, the conversation centers on lived experience: long drives to care, delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialists, and the quiet emotional weight many carry. Disclaimer: This po...

Unpacking MS Progression and BTK Inhibitors – Episode 194 In this episode, we will have honest and hopeful conversation about two of the biggest topics in multiple sclerosis today, progression and the next major frontier in treatment: BTK inhibitors. They unpack what makes BTK inhibitors so unique, how they work inside immune cells and the brain, and why they could represent a game-changing step in the MS community. We will also explore how to recognize signs of MS progression, tell the differe...

MS, Mindset & the Power of Daily Choices – Episode 193 Why are new habits so hard? Health coach Amy Behimer joins host Stephanie to share practical, compassionate tools for building habits that stick, especially while living with MS. From mindset to movement, learn how to start small, listen to your body, and take action that lasts. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general educational information. Can Do MS does not endorse, promote, or recommend any product or service associated with the con...

Speech-Language Pathology and MS: Support for Thinking, Communication, and Daily Life – Episode 192 Think speech therapy is just for slurred speech or swallowing? Think again. In this episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden chats with Speech Language Pathologist Lauren Schwabish about how speech-language pathologists support people with MS in managing thinking, memory, planning, and communication. They explore real-life strategies like the “Four P’s,” talk workplace tips, and explain why proactive ...

Navigating MS Together: A Patient’s Journey and Her Neurologist’s Insight – Episode 191 – Transcript In this episode, we explore what it’s really like to be newly diagnosed with MS through the personal story of Fran Peed, who went from MS advocate to MS patient. Fran reflects on the first two years of living with MS — a period of uncertainty, adjustment, and learning how to manage both the medical and emotional sides of the diagnosis. Joining her is Dr. Michelle Betz, Fran’s neurologist and a s...

Addressing Swallowing Difficulties and Nutritional Deficiencies in MS – Episode 190 Swallowing issues and nutrition changes are common in MS but often overlooked. Host Stephanie Buxhoeveden is joined by speech-language pathologist Dr. Corinne Jones and dietitian Carla Cos to explore how MS affects eating—and what you can do about it. Learn practical strategies to stay safe, eat well, and adapt to changing symptoms without giving up the joy of food. Thank you to the generous support of our spon...

Weight Loss Drugs and MS: What You Should Know – Episode 189 Weight-loss medications are gaining attention—but how do they fit into life with MS? In this episode, host Dr. Stephanie Buxhoeveden talks with Dr. Alise Carlson from the Cleveland Clinic about how these medications work, their potential benefits and risks for people with MS, and what to consider when it comes to hormones, bone health, and access. You’ll walk away with practical insights and questions to bring to your healthcare provi...

Disclosing MS: One Advocate’s Journey from Private to Public – Episode 188 In this episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden talks with Kenneth Bandler, a longtime communications professional and MS advocate, about his deeply personal journey with multiple sclerosis and the decision to disclose his diagnosis—first to close family, and years later, to his workplace. Ken shares how he kept his MS private for over a decade, the emotional and professional considerations behind his decision, and the pivot...

Taking the Next Step With Confidence: Navigating Foot Drop and Mobility with MS – Episode 187 – Transcript In this episode, we are joined by physical therapist Samantha Balistreri and orthotist Spencer Van Wagenen to break down what foot drop is, what devices like AFOs and FES can do for you. Then we will deep dive into how PTs and orthotists work together to find the right support—without sacrificing style or independence. From early signs to energy-saving tips, supportive shoes and where to g...

Facing MS: From First Symptoms to First Steps– Episode 186 – Transcript In this episode, we explore how the landscape of being newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) has transformed over the last decade. Thanks to advances in MRI technology, biomarkers, and updated diagnostic criteria, more people are being diagnosed earlier. We break down how diagnosis and treatment options have improved across the board. We also dive into why getting a diagnosis can still take time, and why accuracy is s...

Finding Your Calm: Mindfulness and MS– Episode 185 – Transcript In this powerful and insightful episode, host Stephanie welcomes mindfulness expert Robert Simpson to explore the vital connection between stress, mindfulness, and multiple sclerosis. They also dive into self-compassion, the stress care partners face, and how mindfulness can foster empowerment and deeper connection. Whether you’re new to mindfulness or looking for fresh insights, this episode offers practical takeaways and hope for ...

Living Well With MS While Managing Pain– Episode 184 – Transcript In this episode, we explore how to manage the different types of pain associated with multiple sclerosis. We discuss the role of behavioral interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and behavioral activation in reducing pain’s impact and improving quality of life. We also share practical tips for people who don’t have access to a CBT therapist and offer a brief relaxation exercise to try together. Tune in to le...