YOPN’s Living Well Starts Here

Alternative Therapies for Parkinson's disease

Join us as we explore alternative therapies for Parkinson's disease and share our experiences researching and trying various approaches and also fads. It's time to debunk the junk and separate fact from fiction.

Ray Dorsey and Michael S. Okun on "A New Path to Prevention and Treatment"

Ray Dorsey and Michael S. Okun join the podcast for an in-depth conversation about their new book, "The Parkinson's Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment." They share groundbreaking new research on Parkinson's disease and outline steps individuals and policymakers can make in advancing prevention, treatment, and ultimately, a cure.

Parkinson’s Clinical Trials, Wearables, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Simon Allard (Audio Only)

In this episode, Simon Allard from Amneal Pharmaceuticals joins the YOPN podcast team to share his journey from neuroscience research to his role as a medical science liaison—and to give listeners a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how Parkinson’s drugs are developed, tested, and refined in real life.
Simon unpacks the science behind preclinical research, the phases of clinical trials, and the differences between extended-release Levodopa formulations. He also explains how real-world feedback from patients and clinicians continues to shape dosing, safety, and access.
Together with the hosts, Simon explores gaps in trial representation, the promise of wearable technology, and why open communication between clinicians, patients, and pharma matters. The episode highlights the vital role of patient advocacy, participation in research, and how the combination of effective symptom management and regular exercise can help people with YOPD live well today—while science pushes toward tomorrow’s disease-modifying therapies.

Parkinson’s Clinical Trials, Wearables, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Simon Allard

In this episode, Simon Allard from Amneal Pharmaceuticals joins the YOPN podcast team to share his journey from neuroscience research to his role as a medical science liaison—and to give listeners a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how Parkinson’s drugs are developed, tested, and refined in real life.
Simon unpacks the science behind preclinical research, the phases of clinical trials, and the differences between extended-release Levodopa formulations. He also explains how real-world feedback from patients and clinicians continues to shape dosing, safety, and access.
Together with the hosts, Simon explores gaps in trial representation, the promise of wearable technology, and why open communication between clinicians, patients, and pharma matters. The episode highlights the vital role of patient advocacy, participation in research, and how the combination of effective symptom management and regular exercise can help people with YOPD live well today—while science pushes toward tomorrow’s disease-modifying therapies.

Travel and Adventure with Young Onset Parkinson's: Journey Tips and Tales (Audio Only)

Explore the challenges and triumphs of traveling with Parkinson's disease in this episode of the Living Well Starts Here podcast by the Young Onset Parkinson's Network. 
Hosts Chris, Mel, and Esther share personal stories and practical tips for both local and international travel. They discuss the challenges posed by airports and transportation systems that are not disability-friendly, and offer strategies such as packing light, carrying medication in multiple places, and allowing extra time for everything.
The conversation also covers the importance of comfort items, managing anxiety, and planning for dietary restrictions during travel. Additionally, Mel shares insights on family adventures and local trips, emphasizing the importance of preparation and adaptability.
The episode also touches upon an upcoming retreat in Arizona and the importance of pushing through anxiety to create valuable memories.

Travel and Adventure with Young Onset Parkinson's: Journey Tips and Tales

Explore the challenges and triumphs of traveling with Parkinson's disease in this episode of the Living Well Starts Here podcast by the Young Onset Parkinson's Network. 
Hosts Chris, Mel, and Esther share personal stories and practical tips for both local and international travel. They discuss the challenges posed by airports and transportation systems that are not disability-friendly, and offer strategies such as packing light, carrying medication in multiple places, and allowing extra time for everything.
The conversation also covers the importance of comfort items, managing anxiety, and planning for dietary restrictions during travel. Additionally, Mel shares insights on family adventures and local trips, emphasizing the importance of preparation and adaptability.
The episode also touches upon an upcoming retreat in Arizona and the importance of pushing through anxiety to create valuable memories.

Facing Mental Health Challenges: Personal Stories and Advocacy (Audio Only)

In this discussion, Mel, Esther and Chris delve into the topic of mental wellness, sharing their personal experiences and challenges with mental health, particularly in relation to Parkinson's disease. They explore their histories with bipolar disorder and depression, the importance of mental health support systems, and coping mechanisms. The conversation touches on the stigma around mental health, the connections between mental health and physical diseases like Parkinson's, and the necessity for more integrated mental health care. The speakers advocate for greater awareness and accessibility to mental health resources, emphasizing the need for early intervention and support for both patients and their families.

Facing Mental Health Challenges: Personal Stories and Advocacy

In this discussion, Mel, Esther and Chris delve into the topic of mental wellness, sharing their personal experiences and challenges with mental health, particularly in relation to Parkinson's disease. They explore their histories with bipolar disorder and depression, the importance of mental health support systems, and coping mechanisms. The conversation touches on the stigma around mental health, the connections between mental health and physical diseases like Parkinson's, and the necessity for more integrated mental health care. The speakers advocate for greater awareness and accessibility to mental health resources, emphasizing the need for early intervention and support for both patients and their families.

Things I Wish I Knew About Parkinson's (Audio Only)

Audio Only
Explore the realities of living with Young Onset Parkinson's through candid discussions as our YOPN podcasters share the things they wish they knew at the time of diagnosis. This episode delves into the personal experiences of managing symptoms, the unexpected challenges such as anxiety, and the importance of exercise. You will gain insights into the emotional and physical challenges faced by those living with Parkinson's and the resilience it necessitates. 
Hear from perspectives at different stages of their Parkinson's journey, discussing everything from advanced treatments like DBS surgery to daily lifestyle adjustments. They open up about their personal coping mechanisms, the role of community support, and the mental fortitude needed to persist.

Things I Wish I Knew About Parkinson's

Explore the realities of living with Young Onset Parkinson's through candid discussions as our YOPN podcasters share the things they wish they knew at the time of diagnosis. This episode delves into the personal experiences of managing symptoms, the unexpected challenges such as anxiety, and the importance of exercise. You will gain insights into the emotional and physical challenges faced by those living with Parkinson's and the resilience it necessitates. 
Hear from perspectives at different stages of their Parkinson's journey, discussing everything from advanced treatments like DBS surgery to daily lifestyle adjustments. They open up about their personal coping mechanisms, the role of community support, and the mental fortitude needed to persist.