The Michael J. Fox Foundation Parkinson's Podcast

Faith and science are not often discussed together, but science requires a leap of faith. A few years ago, MJFF staff scientists, Samantha Hutten, PhD and Katie Kopil, PhD never would have guessed that a leap of faith and a cold call to a researcher in Texas would lead to a tool that, for the first time, can detect Parkinson’s in people who have not yet shown symptoms. With the help of the countle...

In April, The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) announced a major biomarker breakthrough, opening a new chapter for Parkinson’s research — with the promise of better drug development and care for all people and families living with the disease. With the new test, validated by MJFF’s Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), researchers can objectively define and monitor this pathology for...

Some people act out their dreams while asleep. They may punch, kick, yell or even fall out of bed. This sleep problem can be linked to Parkinson’s and other brain diseases. In this episode, experts share why sleep issues happen and what you can do to manage them.  If you or your bed partner have sleep issues — whether you have Parkinson’s or not — you can play a critical role in research. Join the...

Did you know that RBD – REM sleep behavior disorder, or acting out dreams -- can be an early indicator of Parkinson’s? Many people develop sleep issues as they age — with and without PD. Join host Larry Gifford in a rich discussion with expert Stephen Joza, MD, PhD; Allen Dance, recently diagnosed with RBD; and Richie Rothenberg, patient advisor to The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF), with his ca...

From freezing to shuffling and everything in between, gait and balance issues can impact people with Parkinson’s at all stages of their journey. In this episode, listen as experts discuss emerging research and tips for people and care partners to improve mobility, prevent falls and maintain independence day to day. The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s landmark research study is focused on learning more...

For many, the word “diet” has negative associations: cutting out the foods you love, not enjoying what you eat or following strict rules about what you can or can’t eat. But diet is a way of life. And you can still boost brain health or manage Parkinson’s with your favorite family recipes, dinner out with friends and even the salty or sweet snacks you crave most. The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Ra...

What foods are best for you? Whether you have Parkinson’s disease, or are concerned you might develop it, food and nutrition play a critical role in brain health. Our expert panel of Parkinson’s physicians and nutritionists shares effective ways to manage symptoms through nutrition and mobility modifications to make food preparation and eating easier. Learn more about diet and nutrition in our new...

There are social, emotional and physical changes you may notice after living with Parkinson’s for some time. In this episode replay, experts discuss tips for managing symptoms, finding support and living well with Parkinson’s disease. Our landmark Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative is open to anyone over age 18 in the U.S. Join the study that could change everything at michaeljfox.org/podc...

Un diagnóstico de Parkinson puede traer muchas emociones diferentes: negación, ira, tristeza, frustración. Es importante saber que no importa qué emociones sientas, no estás solo. Escuche a los expertos, personas con Parkinson y un especialista en trastornos del movimiento, hablar sobre cómo navegar por las emociones y el viaje viviendo con la enfermedad. Este episodio es de nuestro último seminar...

The Parkinson’s community often asks, “What new treatments are in the pipeline?” In this episode, experts discuss the latest approaches in treating the spectrum of Parkinson’s, from early diagnosis to advancing disease. They also highlight the latest tools to predict and measure Parkinson’s and critical steps toward prevention. Recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s? You can play a critical role in t...

Many people and families with Parkinson’s wonder if deep brain stimulation (DBS) — a surgical procedure for Parkinson’s — is a possible treatment option for them. In this episode replay, experts discuss who should consider DBS; potential benefits and risks; and the latest advancements in DBS research. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you can play a critical role in our landmark...

A Parkinson’s diagnosis can bring many different emotions — denial, anger, sadness, frustration. It’s important to know that no matter what emotions you feel, you’re not alone. Listen as people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones discuss how they’ve navigated emotions in the early years with Parkinson’s disease. This podcast episode offers personal reflections on steps people can take toward acc...

Public policy plays an important role in speeding a cure for Parkinson’s. In this episode, experts discuss ways to become a Parkinson’s advocate and how you can reach out to your elected officials to help influence change on behalf of the Parkinson’s community. Experts also highlight the first-ever legislation solely dedicated to ending Parkinson’s disease. Ask your Representative to support The N...

Many people with Parkinson’s consider telehealth a useful tool for getting care. But for some, the technology or visit may be tough to navigate. In this episode, experts discuss how to make the most of a virtual visit with a doctor and the impact of telehealth on research and care. Recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s? You can play a critical role in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (...

Walking is a complex skill. So, shares Catherine Kopil, PhD, in the third episode of our “Parkinson’s Science POV” podcast series. Gait requires a symphony of connections between the brain and body, which makes it one of the hardest Parkinson’s symptoms to treat. Kopil, MJFF Senior Vice President of Clinical Research, and Chief Scientific Officer Mark Frasier, PhD, discuss progress toward understa...

Parkinson’s can affect the automatic and involuntary functions our bodies perform, like heartbeat and digestion. In this episode, experts discuss common but lesser-known Parkinson’s symptoms — including bladder problems, constipation, low blood pressure and sweating — and what you can do to treat them. Recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s? You can play a critical role in the Parkinson’s Progression...

In honor of Father’s Day, The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) is sharing a special podcast episode between three adult children who discuss how they each have navigated having a father with Parkinson’s disease. This Father’s Day and beyond, MJFF celebrates the experiences of patients, loved ones, researchers, advocates and supporters — speeding progress toward a cure. The Foundation’s landmark st...

What is the science behind genetic inheritance that increases the chance of getting Parkinson’s disease (PD) later in life? In this episode, experts explain what genetic mutations are, those that are mostly seen in people with PD and the benefits of genetic testing. Join the study that could change everything at michaeljfox.org/podcast-ppmi. Like our podcasts? Please consider leaving a rating or r...

Did you know the government plays an important role in helping find a cure for Parkinson’s, and in caring for those living with the disease? In this episode, Michael J. Fox Foundation policy experts and grassroots advocates discuss the importance of telling your story and building relationships with elected officials who represent you in the halls of power across the United States. You can help la...

Navigating a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be challenging, but you’re not alone. In this episode replay, experts share practical tips for managing the early years of Parkinson’s disease. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you can play a critical role in our landmark Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) study. Connect with the study team today at michaeljfox.org/podcast-pp...

How is Parkinson’s diagnosed? Tracked? Importantly, predicted? In the second episode of our “Parkinson’s Science POV” podcast series, MJFF Chief Scientific Officers discuss progress toward better tests for Parkinson’s disease, including a recent report of a brain scan of a key Parkinson’s protein. They discuss imaging, fluid measures and wearable devices and how these objective tools could speed n...

We all dream when we sleep. Some don’t remember dreams. Others clearly recall what they did, how they felt, and who else was there. Still others unintentionally act out their dreams. They may imagine catching a touchdown pass, running from a wild animal, or fending off an enemy. In this episode, our on-staff movement disorder specialist speaks with a couple about their experience with acting out d...

Sexual problems are common in people with Parkinson's, but they can be difficult to talk about. In this episode, experts discuss how Parkinson’s and associated symptoms like sleep changes impact relationships and they share strategies for improving physical and emotional intimacy. A deeper understanding of Parkinson’s disease biology could improve every available treatment. You can help us achieve...

People with Parkinson's often ask how diet and exercise fit into their overall care plan. In this episode, experts share what you can do today to eat healthier, exercise, boost brain health and live well as you age. Our landmark Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative is open to anyone over age 18 in the U.S. Join the study that could change everything at michaeljfox.org/podcast-ppmi Like our p...

Parkinson’s disease changes: its biology and symptoms start even before the cardinal movement issues and evolve decades after diagnosis. In the first episode of our new podcast series “Parkinson’s Science POV,” MJFF Chief Scientific Officers discuss strategies to stop disease progression at every stage. This episode covers our Foundation’s approach to preventing cognitive changes and falls and to...