Talk Healing To Me | Stories for Women with Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Forget the food pyramid and bootcamp burnout. What if the real reason you're tired, stuck, and gaining weight has nothing to do with willpower — and everything to do with your hormones?In this episode of Talk Healing to Me, Karen Dwyer sits down with hormone and weight loss coach Valeria Lopez, founder of Wise Food Choices, to unpack the truth about metabolism, energy, and why women have been sold an outdated formula.Together, they explore why calorie counting and restriction don't work for women with chronic fatigue, autoimmune issues, or hormonal imbalances — and what to do instead. If you've ever felt like you're doing everything right but still feeling awful, this one's for you.

Most rehab plans focus on movement — but what if the real transformation begins in the mind?In this minisode, host Karen Dwyer shares her biggest takeaways from her conversation with Barry Moore, founder of Vitality Neuro Rehab and a movement practitioner on the MS to Success team.From movement snacks to nervous system resets, Karen unpacks what it really means to reconnect with your body – no matter how long it's been. If you've ever been told to “just adapt,” this episode is your invitation to believe again.In This Minisode, You'll Learn:

How do you move again when your body says you can't? This week on Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer speaks with Barry Moore, founder of Vitality Neuro Rehab, about the breakthrough brain-first approach that's helping people with MS, stroke, and other chronic conditions reconnect to movement and rebuild confidence — even after years of being told it's “too late.”Barry shares how he's shifting the rehab conversation from muscle power to neural rewiring, and why empowering people with practical tools and belief is just as important as any therapy.If you've ever been told to just “adapt” to a diagnosis or that progress isn't possible — this episode will change your perspective.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What happens when you stop trying to “fix” your body — and start listening to it instead?In this powerful minisode, Karen Dwyer reflects on her moving conversation with Sarah Griffiths (@wheelie.momma), a mother of four, speaker, author, and member of the MS to Success team. After years of fighting chronic pain and internalised pressure, Sarah made one decision that changed everything: she stopped resisting and started working with her body.Karen shares her top takeaways from their conversation, from the emotional weight of mobility aids to the freedom of asking for help. This episode is packed with real-life insight, gentle challenges, and empowering reframes for anyone living with chronic illness, burnout, or fatigue.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

She was told she wouldn't live past infancy. Now she's a mum of four, an author, speaker, MBA recipient — and living proof that disability does not define your destiny.In this powerful and moving episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer sits down with Sarah Griffiths (@wheelie.momma) to unpack what it really means to live a full life in a world that wasn't built for you.From battling chronic pain and depression, to choosing her wheelchair as a tool of empowerment, Sarah shares her journey of self-acceptance, advocacy, and building a life that works for her. Whether you've feared losing mobility, struggle with invisible illness, or just need a reminder that healing doesn't have one look — this conversation will shift the way you see strength, motherhood, and success.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What if “living wild” wasn't about escaping your life — but about coming home to it?In this powerful minisode, host Karen Dwyer shares her reflections on her conversation with actress and podcast host Hilary Rose, diving deep into what it really means to reclaim your power, especially as a woman navigating burnout, chronic illness or just feeling off.Karen breaks down what Hilary calls “sovereignty” — the art of listening in, setting boundaries, and making micro-choices that lead to big healing. From walking away from what no longer fits, to reconnecting with what grounds you (like a walk in the woods or a quiet cup of tea), this episode is your reminder that healing doesn't have to be loud or dramatic.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

When burnout and misalignment pushed her to her edge, actress and podcast host Hilary Rose didn't numb it out - she asked deeper questions. The result? A new way of living.In this episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer sits down with the brilliant Hilary Rose to explore what it means to live in alignment, govern yourself, and start making conscious choices on your own terms. From walking away from roles that drain her to building her podcast Live Wild, Hilary shares how she's turned a deep inner shift into an inspiring lifestyle.If you've ever felt stuck in a life that looks "fine" but doesn't feel like you anymore - this episode is your permission slip to question it all and make it yours again.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

Did you know music can change your nervous system in under 30 seconds?In this vibrant and soulful minisode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer reflects on her uplifting conversation with music therapist and neuroscientist Dr. Shane Cassidy. From reducing stress and reconnecting with your identity, to supporting walking, mood, memory and more — music may be one of the most powerful, underused healing tools we have.Karen breaks down the 10 most surprising and powerful takeaways from their chat — including how tempo influences your stress response, why group singing raises your oxytocin, and how personal playlists can be therapeutic. Whether you're navigating chronic illness, feeling disconnected from yourself, or simply looking to heal with more joy — this episode will hit the right note.In This Episode, We Cover:

"Where words fail, music speaks." - Hans Christian AndersenWelcome to the Talk Healing to Me Podcast, where we explore wellness, resilience, and the transformative power of self-expression. In this episode, host Karen Dwyer dives into the profound impact of music therapy with Dr. Shane Cassidy, the founder of Neurolinks, an accredited music therapist, and an expert in neurological conditions and mental health. Dr. Cassidy shares insights from his 13+ years of clinical and research experience, and his passion for music as a tool for healing.

When your child says they're “fine,” are they really?In this raw and personal minisode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer shares her 10 biggest takeaways from her powerful in-person conversation with Gen Z mental health mentor Livi Redden. After growing up around a terminally ill parent, Livi now teaches teens and young adults how to process emotions, regulate their nervous systems, and find their voice in the chaos.This episode is part reflection, part gentle wake-up call for anyone who's raised or cared for children while navigating illness, stress, or simply trying to hold it all together. It's for the strong ones. The quiet ones. The ones who never say how heavy it really feels.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What happens when you grow up helping to keep your dad alive — and try to stay a “normal” teenager at the same time?In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer sits down with speaker, podcast host and Gen Z mental health mentor Livi Redden. Livi opens up about growing up with a terminally ill parent, how it shaped her mental health, and how she's now helping other teens and 20-somethings build emotional skills, resilience, and the courage to be themselves.From unlearning survival mode to healing your nervous system, this conversation is packed with truth, tools, and stories that will stay with you — whether you're navigating chronic illness, caregiving, or just trying to figure out who you are.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What happens when your body forces you to stop? In this solo minisode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer shares the 10 biggest takeaways from her powerful conversation with journalist and wellness advocate Kerrie Lee Brown.From people pleasing and perfectionism to redefining success, setting boundaries, and learning how to rest - this is a deeply personal reflection on what it takes to heal as a woman who's spent too long doing "all the things."Whether you're navigating chronic illness, burnout, or the pressure to keep performing, this minisode is your permission slip to do things differently.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What happens when your body forces you to stop? At the peak of her career, raising two young kids, Kerrie Lee Brown was doing it all — until a heart attack at just 39 turned everything upside down — despite being fit, active, and a non-smoker.Together, they unpack the realities so many women face: people pleasing, perfectionism, and pushing through pain. Kerrie Lee opens up about why she stayed silent about her heart attack for months, what she's learned about boundaries, and how she's redefining success after burnout. This is an honest, deeply relatable conversation for anyone doing "all the things" while quietly burning out.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

"Breathe light to breathe right. It's not about taking big breaths — it's about breathing less, through your nose." – Patrick McKeownIn this solo episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer shares her top 10 takeaways from her life-changing conversation with world-renowned breathing expert Patrick McKeown. From anxiety and panic to fatigue, brain fog and chronic pain, breathwork is the tool many of us overlook — and it's free.Karen unpacks simple but powerful techniques Patrick shared that can immediately shift your nervous system, improve sleep, and calm your mind. Whether you're living with MS or simply overwhelmed by stress, this episode will teach you how to breathe better so you can feel better.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

"Your mouth might be sabotaging your health - and you don't even know it." - Karen DwyerIn this solo episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer recaps her fascinating conversation with biological dentist Dr. Kelly Blodgett. If you've ever thought dental health was just about brushing and flossing, think again. Karen shares 10 powerful lessons that completely changed the way she looks at oral health - and how it's connected to fatigue, brain fog, autoimmune conditions, and more.From the toxic impact of mercury fillings and the risks of aggressive dental work, to how joy and nervous system regulation affect your mouth, this episode is a wake-up call for anyone living with chronic illness or navigating invisible symptoms.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

What if grief wasn't just about loss, but a powerful part of healing?In this heartfelt solo reflection on Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer revisits her moving conversation with clinical psychologist and grief expert Dr. Sherry Walling. This solo recap dives into the emotional truths that surfaced in their conversation — including the kind of grief that comes with a chronic illness diagnosis, and the deep healing that happens when we honour what we've lost.Karen shares her top 10 takeaways from the episode, from the unspoken grief of letting go of the life you imagined, to the importance of movement, ritual, creativity, and co-regulation. Whether you're grieving, healing, or supporting someone with MS, this episode is packed with compassionate wisdom and practical tools to help you feel a little more grounded in your journey.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

Grief isn't just about loss—it's also about becoming.In this powerful episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer sits down with clinical psychologist, author, and mental health expert Dr. Sherry Walling. Together, they explore how grief can transform us, how to support children when living with MS, and why movement and creativity are vital to emotional healing.Dr. Walling offers compassionate insights drawn from her own personal and professional experiences—including her family's MS journey—and discusses how rituals, emotional honesty, and even aerial movement can support processing deep grief and navigating uncertainty.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

Welcome to this special solo episode of the Talk Healing to Me Podcast, hosted by Karen Dwyer. In this episode, Karen recaps the biggest takeaways from her powerful conversation with Dr. Michael Breus, The Sleep Doctor. She also shares actionable insights to help you apply these lessons in your daily life to take control of your well-being and build healthier habits.In This Episode, You'll Learn:✨ The key insights from Dr. Michael Breus on sleep and wellness.

"Sleep that soothes away all worries. Sleep that puts each day to rest. Sleep that relieves the weary laborer and heals hurt minds. Sleep is the main course in life's feast, and the most nourishing." - William ShakespeareWelcome to the Talk Healing to Me Podcast, hosted by Karen Dwyer. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Michael Breus, also known as The Sleep Doctor, a clinical psychologist, four-time bestselling author, and sleep expert. From understanding the science of chronotypes to practical tips for perfecting your sleep routine, Dr. Breus shares invaluable insights to help you reclaim your nights and energize your days.In This Episode, You'll Learn:✨ Why sleep is the foundation of health and wellness. 

Feeling scattered, stuck or stretched too thin? In this solo minisode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer reflects on her game-changing conversation with productivity and habit coach Ciara Conlon. Packed with practical wisdom and compassionate reminders, this episode offers a powerful follow-up with insights you can apply today.Karen weaves in her own experiences alongside Ciara's advice—from learning how to plan ahead without stress, to giving yourself permission to ask for help and say no without guilt. This minisode is your reminder that small shifts lead to big changes, and the best place to start is with just one core habit.In This Episode, You'll Learn:

Struggling to stay on top of your to-do list? Feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks? In this episode of Talk Healing to Me, host Karen Dwyer sits down with productivity powerhouse Ciara Conlon, a leadership and habit coach, and the author of Rise Before Your Bull. Ciara helps people simplify their lives, get unstuck, and take back control of their time, energy, and focus. In this powerful conversation, Ciara shares practical strategies to break free from overwhelm, set boundaries that actually work, and create habits that last.In This Episode, You'll Learn:✨ How to manage time effectively without burnout.

Welcome to this solo episode of the Talk Healing to Me Podcast with your host, Karen Dwyer. Today, Karen reflects on her recent conversation with James Whittaker and shares powerful strategies to "win your day" inspired by his insights. From the power of visualization to leaning into discomfort, Karen offers actionable advice to help you take control of your day, build resilience, and make progress - one step at a time.In This Episode, You'll Learn:✨ Why your brain doesn't distinguish between real memories and imagined futures - and how to use this to your advantage.

Dr. Kelly J. Blodgett is a Naturopathic Medical Dentist and Integrative Biological Dental Medicine practitioner as well as a General Dentist. is one of the most unique dentists in the world. He is a member of the International Academy of oral medicine and toxicology Dr. Blodgett's approach is connecting with the human being first and focusing on their health goals as the guideposts to treatment is a refreshing shift from the “doctor knows best” dogma of other practices. Dr. Blodgett is committed to investing his energy to help all dental practices adopt biological practices and develop communication skills that respect the autonomy of the patient. In this episode we will talk about

“The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease” William Olser Daniel Matterson, better known as The MS Doctor, was working as a radiographer in University of Edinburgh, he was a good sport and volunteered to be an MRI test case, but there was a plot twist. They discovered a lesion on Daniel's brain leading to a confirmed Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis. Fueled by this, Daniel decided to change career & become a doctor instead. He is finding his way through his own diagnosis, sharing his experience and being a light for others. It's important for me to say, this is not medical advice from Daniel nor I. This Is personal opinion and conversation Should you require medical opinion, please do so with your medical practitioner. In this episode, we talk about: Tips for keeping in remission MRI's - do we need them? Ways to manage MS in daily life The challenges even medical professionals face with Multiple Sclerosis Where to find Daniel

Through our breath, we can influence the autonomic nervous system, stress response and manage daily life better. Who doesn't want that? Today, Patrick Mc Known, Director of Education and Training at Oxygen Advantage®, Director of Education and Training at Buteyko Clinic International and President of Buteyko Professionals International talks to us about the simple abut HUGELY effective breathing methods that can improve energy, concentration, and ability to deal with stress, with a better quality of life. Join the 'Talk Healing To Me' group on Facebook: ✌️ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1762234574108436/ Subscribe on YouTube:

As much as I love talking to global experts in health & MS and sharing with you all, I believe it's crucial to hear directly from people like Laura Enache, who has MS and how she went from upset and in pain to confident and strong. Right before we recorded the episide we were having a catch up and we both ended up crying with joy from some great breakthroughs Laura shared about her hearlth and how she is doing. I can't wait for you to hear all about Laura Enache, I am one of her (many) big fans! "I used to worry about everything but I have learned to lift those burdens from my shoulders. I am striving constatnly to improve"

Hello and welcome to 'The Talk Healing to Me Podcast | Stories for Women with MS.' I am your host and partner in health Karen Dwyer. From being told the number of lesions on my brain would be normal for an 80 year old at the age of 31; to reversing all the symptoms and my neurologist telling me that my MS had burned out. I've created a formula to have success with MS which has been recognized globally with three awards, most recently including Best Health and Well Being Coach for the Republic of Ireland 2021/22. This podcast gives you a front row seat to conversations with the best health experts around the world, as well as other women with MS that have transformed their health. You will get the best tips, tools and strategies to make your own and bring into your daily life so that you too can have success with Ms. Welcome to the 'Talk Healing to Me Podcast | Stories for Women with MS' sponsored by The Raw Juice Company.

“I can be changed by what happens, but I refuse to be reduced by it.” Maya Angelou Hey there, welcome to the 'Talk Healing to Me Podcast' - This is our very first episode. What you can expect is front row seats of conversations with some of the world's true leaders in health and wellbeing as well as some people with MS who have transformed their health. I will be sharing with you all the tips, tools, and strategies to have Success with MS. In this episode, we talk about: How to create resilience & confidence in yourself What to focus on when things feel brutal Ways to win your day everyday Daily rituals Before we begin, the right bit of inspiration can completely change the trajectory of someone's life, so if there's a friend or loved one who needs to hear this episode or could use some help, please share it with them right now. James has been a fantastic mentor to me as well as possibly the most kind hearted, generous and genuinley caring person I have EVER met. You know those people that send you a message saying "I was thinking about you and wanted to check in, see hw you're doing and how I can support you?" I feel very lucky to have this man in my corner rooting for me and he was generous enough to let me interview him for my first ever podcast episode. Let's WIN THE DAY with James Whittaker! James is obsessed with what separates ordinary people from extraordinary achievers and has interviewed over 300+ of the worlds most revered change makers to unlock their secrets to success. James was very gracious and kind with his interview for this newbie over here. Sharing the best of the best from his book ‘Think & Grow Rich - The Legacy' and Co-produced the movie based on Napoleon Hills classic. Todays sponsor is The Raw Juice Company: Special Podcast Listener Discount Code is KDPOD10 and can be found here https://raw.ie/juices/the-raw-juice-company/ I love this company, I have bought them for myself as well as clients and they are all DELISH. They even have yum little shots (beetroot, ginger, lemon & black pepper is my fave). All the taste, and no hangover ha! Their juices are all 'Cold Pressed' maintaining as much of the nutritional benefits as possible. Their juices are made by hand from carefully selected fruits and vegetables from local markets in Ireland. Go check them out and use discount code KDPOD10 for a 10% discount ❤️ Resources / links mentioned: ⚡ James website: https://jameswhitt.com