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 pivota...
Aug 11, 2025•30 min•Ep. 188
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 ge...
Jul 23, 2025•24 min•Ep. 187
Facing MS: From First Symptoms to First Steps – Episode 186 – Tr anscript 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...
Jun 25, 2025•34 min•Ep. 186
Finding Your Calm: Mindfulness and MS – Episode 185 – Tr anscript 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 fo...
May 14, 2025•31 min•Ep. 185
Living Well With MS While Managing Pain – Episode 184 – Tr anscript 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 ...
Apr 23, 2025•29 min•Ep. 184
My MS Story – Episode 183 – Tr anscript In this episode we join our host Stephanie Buxhoeveden and special guest Ashley Ratcliff Lundy as we dive into the personal journeys of living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) as we share unique stories of diagnosis, the emotional rollercoaster that follows, and how perspectives on life have shifted since that moment. From the first signs of MS to the life-changing diagnosis, our guest speaks about challenges, the feelings of uncertainty, fear, and hope, while...
Mar 19, 2025•35 min•Ep. 183
Navigating Pediatric MS – Challenges, Treatment, and Hope for the Future – Episode 182 – Tr anscript In this episode, we join our host Stephanie Buxhoeveden and two special guests Emily Blosberg with Oscar the Monkey and Harvard Neurology professor Tanuja Chitnis. Together we explore the complexities of pediatric multiple sclerosis and how it differs from the adult form of the disease. We’ll dive into when pediatric MS is typically diagnosed and highlight the early signs that parents and what to...
Mar 03, 2025•31 min•Ep. 182
Debunking Myths and Crafting Sleep Strategies for MS – Episode 181 – Tr anscript In this episode we join our host Stephanie Buxhoeveden and special guest Areti Vassilopoulos, we dive into the challenges of managing sleep with multiple sclerosis. From debunking common myths to exploring practical, real-life strategies, we provide insights on how to improve your sleep quality. Whether you’re struggling with fatigue, or simply looking for a routine, we offer tips to help you create a sleep routine ...
Feb 19, 2025•22 min•Ep. 181
Aging with MS: Navigating the Journey – Episode 180 – Tr anscript In this episode we join our host Stephanie Buxhoeveden and special guest Le Hua as we explore the unique experiences of living with multiple sclerosis as we age. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with MS for years, this episode provides the support, inspiration, and knowledge you need to embrace the journey ahead. Tune in as we navigate the road to growing older with MS. Disclaimer: This podcast provides general e...
Jan 15, 2025•34 min•Ep. 180
Transforming Your Mental Health Journey with MS – Episode 179 – Tr anscript Join host Dr. Stephanie Buxhoeveden with guest neuropsychologist Meghan Beier, who joins us to dive deeper into how various therapeutic approaches can transform your mental health journey with MS. Whether you’re living with MS or a care partner, you’ll find helpful explanations of different therapies and actionable insights that can empower you on your journey. If you’re here looking for support, education, or inspiratio...
Dec 04, 2024•24 min•Ep. 179
Care Partners in Action: Celebrating Friendship and Support- Episode 177 - Transcript Join host Stephanie Buxhoeveden, an MS clinician and researcher, as she welcomes Sharon Vaughn and her care friend, Eileen Dubois. In celebration of Caregivers Month, Sharon and Eileen share their inspiring friendship and the unique ways they support one another. Discover the powerful bond between a care partner and friend living with MS, as well as practical insights and heartfelt stories that highlight the im...
Nov 11, 2024•25 min•Ep. 177
Hope in Innovation: Exploring CAR-T Cell Therapy for MS - Episode 178 - Transcript Join host Dr. Stephanie Buxhoeveden, someone living with multiple sclerosis and a dedicated clinician and researcher. In this episode, she welcomes Dr. Gregory Wu, who is making significant strides in MS research, particularly in CAR-T cell therapy. Join us as they dive into an engaging conversation about Dr. Wu's work, his experiences in the field, and what the future may hold for MS treatments. Don't miss this o...
Nov 04, 2024•26 min•Ep. 178
Taking Control: Understanding and Managing MS Progression- Episode 176 - Transcript In this empowering episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden connects with MS advocate and author Julie Stamm. Join us as we explore the complexities of the disease process, unpacking what it means to live with progressive MS. Julie shares her personal journey, insights on smoldering MS, and practical strategies for regaining control. Whether you’re living with MS or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers ...
Oct 15, 2024•28 min•Ep. 176
Occupational Therapy: Redesigning Your Life With MS- Episode 175 - Transcript In this episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden sits down with occupational therapist Rebecca Cunningham to explore the impact of MS on the various aspects of our lives including work, school, and parenting with MS. Together, they will delve into how MS affects daily routines and pursuits and discuss how an occupational therapist can offer support. While we often strive to maximize productivity and efficiency, this episode...
Sep 25, 2024•33 min•Ep. 175
Current Research Updates on Rehabilitation in MS - Episode 174 - Transcript In this episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden sits down with Dr. Kathy Zackowski, who brings two decades of patient care experience and a strong background in MS research. They’ll explore the latest developments in MS rehabilitation, discussing how it can impact various aspects of life, how to choose the right physical therapist, and the exciting opportunities for participating in rehabilitation studies. Disclaimer: This p...
Aug 28, 2024•28 min•Ep. 174
Intermittent Fasting and MS - Episode 170 - Transcript In this episode we host guest Dr. Samantha Roman who is not only a neurologist but also lives with MS. Hear more about the exciting topic of Intermittent Fasting. What is intermittent fasting? Is intermittent fasting safe for people with MS? What do we know about gut health and MS? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. We’ll go into detail on the different methods and benefits of intermittent fasting and tips on how to ...
Aug 07, 2024•26 min•Ep. 170
The National MS Brain Bank: Advancing Research - Episode 173 - Transcript In this episode, host Stephanie Buxhoeveden talks in detail with Dr. Claire Riley about the crucial role of the National MS Brain Bank in unraveling the complexities of Multiple Sclerosis through detailed Central Nervous System tissue research. It highlights the importance of this unique resource in advancing our understanding and treatment of MS.
Jul 17, 2024•30 min•Ep. 173
Health Insurance and MS: Breaking Down Benefits - Episode 172 - Transcript Join host Stephanie Buxhoeveden alongside nurse and certified case manager Judy Gulley as they explore the complexities of health insurance. From different insurance types to managing costs and benefits, it can all be confusing. Nurse Judy breaks it all down and provides insights into which options might work best for you. Stephanie also shares her own experiences navigating insurance while living with MS, providing real-...
Jun 12, 2024•27 min•Ep. 172
Mental Health and MS: Understanding Resilience - Episode 171 - Transcript In this episode we hear from Psychologist, Roz Kalb and host Stephanie Buxhoeveden about Resilience, just in time for Mental Health Month. We talk about the meaning of resilience and being emotionally agile. Also, learning to be flexible with your thoughts and feelings. We will encourage different ways to respond and how to accept different challenges in MS and in life overall.
May 14, 2024•31 min•Ep. 171
Navigating a New MS Diagnosis - Episode 169 - In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Megan Hall who is young, newly diagnosed, a new parent, and a small business owner. Megan and Stephanie talk candidly about what it is like navigating the complexities of a new MS diagnosis. They discuss the importance of finding the right doctor to determine a treatment plan together. Megan shares that it took some trial and error to learn what MS medication was the best fit for her and her lifestyle consid...
Mar 20, 2024•24 min•Ep. 169
Diversity in MS Research and Clinical Trials - Episode 168 - Transcript - In this episode we hear from Neurologist Jacqueline Rosenthal and host Stephanie Buxhoeveden about the need for diversity in MS research and clinical trials. We talk about why diversity is important and what is being done to fill the gaps in care and MS research. And most importantly, we talk about how you can get involved!
Feb 21, 2024•16 min•Ep. 168
Progressive MS Research Update - Episode 167 - Transcript - This episode of the Can Do MS Podcast welcomes guest Dr. Bruce Bebo who is the Executive Vice President of Research at the National MS Society. Bruce and host, Stephanie talk about what’s on the forefront of Progressive MS Research. Learn about the projects, trials, and collaborations that are currently happening around the globe. The sheer amount of research that's being done is cause for optimism.
Jan 24, 2024•40 min•Ep. 167
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 52 – Episode 166– Transcript – I spend time with my soul. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Dec 25, 2023•11 min•Ep. 166
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 51 – Episode 165– Transcript – I feel relieved. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Dec 18, 2023•9 min•Ep. 165
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 50 – Episode 164– Transcript – I notice where emotions go in my body. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Dec 11, 2023•9 min•Ep. 164
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 49 – Episode 163– Transcript – I'll ask for what I need. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Dec 04, 2023•10 min•Ep. 163
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 48 – Episode 162– Transcript – It feels good to let go. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Nov 27, 2023•9 min•Ep. 162
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 47 – Episode 161– Transcript – Gratitude is how you heal. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Nov 20, 2023•6 min•Ep. 161
MS Care From All Angles: Partner and Provider - Episode 160 - Transcript - On this episode on the Can Do MS Podcast, we welcome guest Timothy West who is a neurologist with a unique perspective on MS. His own experiences as an MS care partner have given him insights and a passion for helping his patients with MS. We talk about how far MS treatments have come since his mother’s diagnosis and the hope he has for the next generation of MS patients. Timothy also opens up about his experiences as a c...
Nov 13, 2023•25 min•Ep. 160
2023 Mindful Moments: Week 46 – Episode 159– Transcript – Take the time off. Tap into the power of this mantra with Megan Weigel, Nurse Practitioner and MS-Certified Nurse, and discover a mindful moment for yourself.
Nov 13, 2023•9 min•Ep. 159
