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 ac

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 disc

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 st

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 M

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 Exer

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.