Podcast
The Parkinson's Experience podcast
Hosted by Sheryl Lowenhar · EN
The Parkinson's Experience is a podcast hosted by a Person with Parkinson's (PWP) and based on her daily experiences. Listen in on her journey living with the disease and how she lives her best life with humor, generosity, empathy and knowledge. Her conversations with experts and patients like you are fascinating and authentic. They cover relevant topics from DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) to exercise to diet to medications to much more difficult subjects like personal relationships. Of the few podcasts available on this topic, don't skip this one from the viewpoint of a patient.
Thank you to my sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about Parkinson's treatment options, please visit DBSandMe.com
26episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
137 Learning to Grieve, Learning to Live
3w ago00:33:00Tap to summarizeFor some reason, I've always been fascinated by grief and the grieving process. It seems to be everywhere—in the TV shows I watch, the podcasts I listen to, and the conversations I have with friends. Every one of us experiences grief, yet no two people grieve in exactly the same way. I've become curious about why that is and what we can learn from one another's experiences. That curiosity led me to attend a Support Group Leader session on grief at the World Parkinson Congress last May. One of the presenters was my friend, Karen McIntyre, who introduced an idea that really resonated with me: grief doesn't begin only when someone we love dies. For people living with Parkinson's, grief can occur every time they lose an ability that was once part of everyday life—driving a car, walking long distances, writing by hand, or even enjoying the smell of a favorite meal. What does that kind of grief look like? Is grieving the loss of an ability different from grieving the death of a loved one? Or do they share more similarities than we realize? To explore those questions, I invited Karen, who writes thoughtfully about grief on her Substack, to join me in interviewing an expert in grief and bereavement. Together, we discuss how grief affects all of us, why it takes so many different forms, and how people with Parkinson's and their care partners can better understand and navigate the losses that accompany the disease. This episode is truly for everyone because, at some point in our lives, we all grieve someone or something that has mattered deeply to us. https://clairebidwellsmith.com/ https://www.elegy.co/ https://substack.com/@inmyshoesmemoir Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →136 Intimacy: Staying Connected Through Change
4w ago00:31:47Tap to summarizeIntimacy is one of the most important topics we can discuss, yet it's also one that I've hesitated to bring to this podcast. For many of us, it's still considered a taboo subject. But the reality is that intimacy and relationships are an important part of life for everyone—and they can become even more important, and sometimes more challenging, for people living with Parkinson's disease and their care partners. Since I'm certainly not the expert on this topic—and I'll admit it makes me a little uncomfortable—I've invited someone who is. Dr. Kelly Rees is a licensed sex therapist in private practice who has a remarkable ability to discuss intimacy in an open, approachable, and judgment-free way. In our conversation, she explains why nurturing intimacy is so important throughout the Parkinson's journey, offers practical insights for navigating the changes that can occur, and reminds us that connection comes in many forms. So, whether you're living with Parkinson's, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in strengthening your relationships, I think you'll find this conversation both informative and reassuring. Let's listen https://drkellyrees.com/ https://www.aasect.org/referral-directory Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →135 Improving Balance with Parkinson's: What You Need to Know
Jul 100:41:18Tap to summarizeI have told this story many times. After my diagnosis, my doctor wanted me to learn the "Big and Loud" program or LSVP. The physical therapist at the outpatient clinic saved my life. He told me I was going to live a long life and how to exercise Big. He told me to do something for my brain like play Mahjong. I followed his directions. I go to physical therapy every year to continue to work on balance, posture and gait. I think a good PT is a key member of your medical team. Physical therapy is one of the most powerful tools available for living well with Parkinson's disease, and in this episode, Dr. Jennie Allex explains why movement is truly medicine. As a board-certified neurologic physical therapist and Parkinson's specialist, Jennie shares how targeted exercise can help people maintain mobility, improve balance, reduce fall risk, and preserve independence throughout every stage of the disease. In this episode, we are focused on one issue which is very important to address – balance. It turns out there is a lot going on in your brain and body to keep you upright. Jennie discusses how Parkinson's affects the three systems that work together in order to prevent falls. She emphasizes how important it is to get an assessment from a qualified PT so you get the best treatment to improve your balance. The conversation explores practical strategies for balance while highlighting the importance of consistent exercise between therapy visits. Jennie explains how specialized Parkinson's programs, including evidence-based approaches such as PWR!Moves® and other Parkinson's-specific interventions, help retrain movement and build confidence. Whether you're newly diagnosed, have been living with Parkinson's for years, or care for someone with the disease, this episode provides practical, encouraging guidance on how physical therapy can help you move better, stay stronger, and continue living to the fullest. https://www.dailydosepd.com/ https://theparkinsonsfitnessproject.com/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →134 Pins, Needle and Parkinson's : Understanding Neuropathy
May 100:18:11Tap to summarizeToday we are going to describe and explain neuropathy. What is it? Why am I experience the symptoms? What causes the symptoms to come and go? Is it due to my Parkinson's disease or just old age? This is the second of three episodes in the "Dr. Ospina Explains" series. In this episode, we learn all about neuropathies. So, if you have or had or anticipate having any tingling, numbness, burning, weakness is your feet or elsewhere, this is the episode for you. https://www.apdaparkinson.org/article/peripheral-neuropathy-parkinsons-disease/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →133 Harmonica Can Improve PD Speech
Apr 100:31:01Tap to summarizeI love bringing you innovative ideas that are improving the lives of people with Parkinson's—and this one truly surprised me. I never thought learning to play the harmonica would make the list, but here we are. In this episode, I share the story of an inspirational physical therapist in Hawaii who received a grant to study how learning the harmonica can impact speech in people with Parkinson's disease. Even though it was a small study, the results were encouraging, and he's now expanding his work to bring this creative therapy to more people. It turns out the harmonica isn't just about making music—it's a powerful tool for strengthening breathing, mouth muscles, and coordination, all of which are essential for clear speech. Similar to established speech therapies, this approach helps build vocal strength and breath control, but with a fun and engaging twist that keeps people motivated. To make it accessible, he's even creating a program-in-a-box that includes everything you need: a harmonica, a lesson book, and access to a companion website and YouTube tutorials.You have to listen to this episode—even if you're not musically inclined. This is about so much more than music; it's about discovering creative, effective ways to improve quality of life. https://harmonicaparkinsonsproject.com/ (Lauching soon) kevin.lockette@bsci.com (email address for our guest) https://store.bookbaby.com/Book/the-harmonica-parkinsons-project (purchase book) Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →132 The Benefits of Tai Chi for PD
Mar 1800:41:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode we explore Tai Chi for Parkinson's disease - how this gentle, low-impact mind–body practice can support people living with the condition. As we know, Parkinson's affects movement, balance, and coordination due to changes in the brain's dopamine system. We will highlight how Tai Chi's slow, controlled motions can help counter these challenges. We spoke with a long time Tai Chi instructor who has modified his instructions to include all people with Parkinson's. He focuses on key benefits backed by research, such as improved balance, reduced risk of falls, better posture, and increased flexibility. He describes how Tai Chi emphasizes weight shifting, body awareness, and deliberate movement—skills that are especially valuable for individuals with Parkinson's. Other benefits may be cognitive and emotional, including reduced stress and improved focus. Overall, Tai Chi is a complementary therapy—not a cure—that can be integrated alongside medical treatment to help manage symptoms and promote overall well-being. Box4Bucks fitness challenge fundraiser. To donate click this link. https://give.michaeljfox.org/box4bucks Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →131 Completing World Marathon Challenge to Honor Father and Benefit PD Research
Mar 500:31:13Tap to summarizeAt the Parkinson's Experience podcast, we love a powerful, uplifting story — and this is one you won't forget. After battling Parkinson's disease for nine years, Hank Bode passed away in January 2025. Throughout that journey, Hank and his son Lincoln closely followed the work of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, inspired by its commitment to directing 100% of donations to Parkinson's research and its relentless pursuit of a cure. To honor his father and raise funds for Parkinson's research, Lincoln decided to do something extraordinary. As a member of Team Fox, he took on the World Marathon Challenge — running 7 half marathons in 7 days across 7 continents. Beginning January 31, 2026 in Antarctica, Lincoln raced through Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Madrid, Brazil, and finished in Miami on February 6, 2026. For seven days his life was run, eat, fly, sleep then repeat. He pushed his limits, carried his father's legacy across the globe, and completed the challenge with a story that will inspire anyone facing adversity. You dont want to miss this one. https://give.michaeljfox.org/fundraiser/6877830 https://www.instagram.com/team.fox.777/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →130 Explained Series Part 1 - Botox
Feb 2700:21:23Tap to summarizeThis is the first episode in a three-part series I'm calling Dr. Ospina Explains. In this series, we'll dive into topics many of you have been asking about recently. One of my favorite Movement Disorder Specialists, Dr. Ospina, has a wonderful way of explaining all things Parkinson's in terms that are easy for the rest of us to understand. I hope you'll tune in to all three parts as they're released — I truly believe you'll learn a lot. We're starting with Botox. Like many people, I used to think Botox had only one purpose — cosmetic. But after speaking with Movement Disorder Specialist Dr. Marie Ospina, I learned that Botox can actually help treat several symptoms that occur in people living with Parkinson's. You'll discover exactly what those symptoms are when you listen to my conversation with Dr. Ospina. I think you may be surprised — and you might even find yourself asking your MDS or neurologist whether Botox could help relieve some of your pain or muscle tightness. Stay tuned! Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →129 Non-Medication Treatment for Insomnia
Jan 2700:43:46Tap to summarizeDo you have trouble sleeping? It's a topic you can't avoid once you reach a certain age. And while sleep problems are common in people with Parkinson's disease, they certainly aren't limited to them. Because of that, treatment is often the same as it is for anyone else. Until researchers uncover more specific biological causes in Parkinson's—progress is being made—we rely on standard, evidence-based treatments for insomnia. In this episode, we speak with an expert about one such treatment: a non-medication approach called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, or CBT-I. It helped me tremendously, and I hope you'll listen. It may be something you want to try. https://cbti.directory/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches
Transcribe →128 World Parkinson Congress Comes to Phoenix in 2026
Dec 2900:42:41Tap to summarizeThe World Parkinson Coalition is bringing its triennial World Parkinson Congress to Phoenix in May 2026—the first time the Congress has been hosted in the U.S. since 2016. This is truly a can't-miss event for anyone in the Parkinson's community. The Congress will bring together approximately 4,000 attendees from around the world, including researchers, healthcare professionals, people with Parkinson's, and care partners. It's a unique opportunity to learn about the latest research, emerging therapies, and the global effort to improve care—while also connecting with an incredible community of people and resources. Guest, Eli Pollard, describes the gathering as an opportuntity to cross pollinate ideas with peers around the world - all working to cure the disease. I'm especially excited to share that I've been invited to serve on the local organizing committee and the support group leadership subcommittee. I can confidently say this will be an important and inspiring gathering of the world's Parkinson's experts, with some fun events mixed in as well. 📅 Mark your calendars: May 24–27, 2026 📍 Location: Phoenix, Arizona Don't miss it—add it to your calendar and register using the link below. Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches https://wpc2026.org/
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