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
28episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
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/
Transcribe →127 Warriors Not Worriers -The InMotion Wellness Program
Dec 1900:45:25Tap to summarizeThis year I have been highlighting some of local areas in the U.S. where people with Parkinson's take classes designed for their needs, provide social support, and community. It is truly magical to have this kind of central location just focused on your needs as a person with Parkinson's. Just last month we highlighted Parkinson's Body & Mind in Connecticut. They have done and continue to provide spaces where PWP can gather for exercise, wellness and community programs – all for free. If you didn't listen to that episode, check it out soon. In this episode, we talk with the co-founders of InMotion, which offers community-based wellness programs for people with Parkinson's disease. They provide this service free of charge in the greater Cleveland area and online. They talk about giving People with Parkinson's the "power to change the script "and to "feel better every day." This is a true success story, and they continue to learn and grow. Learn more by listening to this conversation with Dr. Karen Jaffe and Ben Rossi of In Motion. How might you form a similar organization in your part of the country to provide valuable wellness programs and a greater sense of community? 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://beinmotion.org/
Transcribe →126 Dystonia Explained
Dec 1000:38:22Tap to summarizeWhile often overshadowed by better known movement disorders, dystonia affects thousands and can dramatically affect quality of life. This episode explains what dystonia is, why it frequently appears alongside Parkinson's, and what therapies - from medications to DBS to physical therapy – are helping people regain control. So, listen on as a movement disorder specialist, Dr. Niemann, breaks down dystonia. He helps us understand symptoms, treatment options and everyday strategies for living your best life with dystonia. https://www.barrowneuro.org/person/nicki-niemann-md/ https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches 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 →125 From Vision to Impact: Growing a Parkinson's Wellness Network
Nov 2000:29:26Tap to summarizeThis year I have been highlighting some of local areas in the U.S. where people with Parkinson's take classes designed for their needs, provide social support, and community. It is truly magical to have this kind of central location just focused on your needs as a person with Parkinson's. If this exist in your area, like Power for Parkinson's in Austin and my guest today from Parkinson's Body & Mind in Connecticut, please take advantage of it. Exercise is the only proven way to slow the progression of the disease. Let's exercise and build a community together. Lynn Hagerbrant is the co-founder of Parkinson's Body & Mind. It is a not-for-profit organization that provides exercise classes in partnership with local YMCAs and now offer them virtually. They have a speaker series, support groups and mentorships. It is a one stop shop for PwP and their care partners. Most this is free for the PWP and their care partner removing a barrier for some to access these kinds of wellness programs. Learn more by listening to this conversation with Lynn. How might you form a similar organization in your part of the country to provide valuable classes and a greater sense of community? https://www.parkinsonsbodyandmind.org/ https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches 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 →124 Magic with a Parkinson's Sleight of Hand
Nov 1300:22:24Tap to summarizeWho doesn't like magic tricks? I love watching magicians trying to surprise the audience with their slight of hand tricks. Always fascinates me and asking how do they do that. What does this have to do with the Parkinson's Experience? Well, my guest today turned to learning magic after he was diagnosed with PD and could no longer work as a nurse. Although his main symptom is bradykinesia or slowness of movement, he is able to perform magic with a little help from getting Deep Brain Stimulation surgery. He performs and has recruited a community of magicians to join him is raising awareness of Parkinson's and fundraise for PD research. His organization is called Slow Motion Magic, and his book and fundraiser is called Conjuring for a Cure. This is an inspirational, positive story you don't want to miss. 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://www.amazon.com/s?k=conjuring+for+a+cure&crid=4BAMLO9ZLUWQ&sprefix=conjuring+for+%2Caps%2C229&ref=nb_sb_ss_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker_1_14 https://slowmotionmagic.org/
Transcribe →123 Fall Prevention and Safety
Sep 2400:29:33Tap to summarizeSeptember is Fall Prevention month. As we age, falling—or even the fear of falling—becomes increasingly common. For people with Parkinson's, the risk is often higher due to specific changes in the body that affect balance, strength, and coordination. Almost all of us will experience a fall at some point, which is why it's so important to understand your abilities, recognize your tendencies, and keep open communication with your neurologist and care team. The good news is that there are effective ways to improve balance, manage dizziness, and build strength. Prevention truly is key. Today, I have two special guests joining me: · Dr. Ospina, a Movement Disorder Specialist (MDS), who explains why people with Parkinson's are more likely to face fall risks as part of the disease process—and what's happening in the body that leads to falls. She also shares strategies and treatments that can help reduce those risks. · A home safety expert, whose company evaluates living spaces and provides personalized recommendations to make your home safer. Their process is clinically guided, ensuring that the solutions fit your individual needs. This service is incredibly valuable for anyone looking to prevent falls at home. As we recognize Fall Prevention Month, I'd love to hear from you. Do you have a personal story about a fall, or tips you've used to reduce your ownl risk? Please share your experiences in the comments section or email at info@17branches.org. 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://www.dbsandme.com/17branches https://measurabilities.com/ https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html
Transcribe →122 PPMI - How You Can Help Find a Cure
Sep 1000:34:51Tap to summarizeI've been eager to share with all of you in podcast land some important information and history about what I believe is one of the key drivers in helping fulfill the Michael J. Fox Foundation's mission to cure Parkinson's disease. The Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), launched in 2010, is a groundbreaking study involving people both with and without Parkinson's. It gathers data over time to help researchers better understand how Parkinson's starts, how it progresses, and — most importantly — how to stop it. Sound important? It absolutely is. And it's still going strong, continually recruiting new participants to join its large and growing community of volunteers. The more data we collect through PPMI, the faster we can accelerate the path to a cure. Maggie Kuhl and Alyssa O'Grady are at the heart of this effort — overseeing the data, bringing in new participants, and tracking the initiative's progress every step of the way. Listen to what the experts say about how you can contribute to the solution to the Parkinson's puzzle. 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://www.michaeljfox.org/ppmi https://www.ppmi-info.org/
Transcribe →120 Vestibular Therapy - Your Inner Ear and You
Aug 5, 202500:44:58Tap to summarizeThe range of symptoms and affected body systems in Parkinson’s disease is extensive. One area that is less frequently discussed is the vestibular system—the inner ear structure directly connected to the brain, responsible for balance and spatial orientation. When this system malfunctions, individuals may experience dizziness, balance problems and an increased risk of falls, highlighting its importance in your overall health. With aging, the inner ear naturally becomes less robust. Although current research has not yet identified a definitive cause for the higher incidence of vestibular dysfunction in people with Parkinson's disease, effective interventions are available. In this episode, Christopher Taylor, Occupational Therapist at Mayo Clinic, will provide insights into the diagnosis and treatment options—namely vestibular therapy—that can assist with symptoms such as dizziness, gait disturbances, freezing, and postural instability. This discussion aims to enhance our understanding of the crucial role played by the inner ear and its connections. 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://vestibular.org/
Transcribe →119 Driving Advice for Parkinson's
Jul 22, 202500:30:39Tap to summarizeOne of the possibilities along the Parkinson’s journey is losing the ability to drive safely. This possibility is a scary one. For many, driving equals independence. So, it means more than just the hassle of getting around. It means losing your independence. It can lead to depression and anxiety. However, it is important to be safe on the road while driving a multi-ton vehicle. We must protect ourselves, our family, and others on the road. So, we are talking today with an Occupational Therapist who is so passionate about this topic that she started a business focused on helping people keep their independence if possible. She will take us through the when, why, how of driving while diagnosed with Parkinson’s. OTs are the professionals trained to assess patients on activities of daily living which includes testing people on their driving skills. We discuss the testing process and the legal implications. There are many options for people once it is determined there is a driving defiicit. So, don't give up. Ask an Occupational Therapist for suggestions. Listen in to learn everything about driving with PD. https://drivingtoindependence.com/ https://www.aded.net/? https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches 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
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