263. Health Coaching for MS: Research Shows 85% Feel More Confident Managing Their Symptoms

In this episode, I’m joined by nationally board-certified health and wellness coach Amy Behimer to explore how health coaching can empower people with multiple sclerosis (MS) to take charge of their symptoms and boost quality of life.  We dive into the latest research from the National MS Society showing that 85% of participants felt more confident managing their MS after working with a coach.  Amy Behimer shares her unique perspective as a health coach, pharmacist, and someone living with MS herself. We discuss the differences between types of coaching, how health coaching supports consistency, and strategies for building habits that stick—plus, what to look for when choosing the right coach for your own MS journey.  Whether you’re newly diagnosed, living with progressive MS, or seeking practical tools for improving mobility, strength, and independence, this episode offers research-backed advice and encouragement to help you move forward with confidence! About Amy Behimer:  Amy Behimer brings a unique triple perspective to our conversation. She's a nationally board certified health and wellness coach specializing in autoimmune disease, a doctor of pharmacy, and someone who's been living with primary progressive MS for nearly 14 years. Amy has been a guest expert inside The MSing Link twice now.    Resources Mentioned:Club Habit Hub Sign Up: https://amybehimercoaching.com/joinThe MSing Link Episode 204, How To Stay Consistent with Amy Behimer - Apple | Spotify    Connect with Amy:Website: https://amybehimercoaching.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessway_mountpleasant/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

 In this special solo episode, I’m sharing my top strategies to help you start the new year strong and stay consistent with your MS goals!  As a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis, I’ll walk you through two actionable tips—digging deep to find your true “why” and building proof you can succeed—to boost motivation, stay on track, and improve your mobility, strength, energy, and independence.  Whether you want to exercise more, improve your walking, or stick with a healthy routine, these practical techniques are tailored for the MS community and backed by research-driven insights. Tune in for empowering advice and easy-to-follow MS exercises, plus a quick overview of my Game Changers Course designed just for people with MS. Start your year with confidence and discover how small changes can make a big difference in your MS journey!   Resources Mentioned:The MSing Link, Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Dr. Jenny McMullen, a holistic chiropractor and owner of The Wellness Way in Mount Pleasant, WI to dive into a topic so many in our MS community have been asking about: MS, fertility, and hormone health!  We discuss how autoimmune conditions like multiple sclerosis can impact your ability to conceive, the powerful connection between gut health, hormones, and inflammation, and the best steps you can take to support your fertility journey—whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your hormone balance. Dr. Jenny Mcmullen shares practical strategies for reducing stress, removing inflammatory foods, and understanding your unique body through testing.  Tune in for expert tips, actionable advice, and the empowering message that with the right holistic support, your MS diagnosis doesn’t have to stand in the way of your family-building dreams or well-being.   About Dr. Jenny McMullen:  Dr. Jenny McMullen is a doctor of chiropractic who owns The Wellness Way Mount Pleasant Clinic in Wisconsin. Dr. Jenny takes a whole body holistic approach to health, looking at everything from gut health and hormone balance to toxic stress and nutrition. Resources Mentioned:Complimentary Call with The Wellness Way (Dr. Jenny McMullen’s office): https://thewellnesswaypleasantprairie.janeapp.com/   Connect with The Wellness Way:Website: https://www.twwmountpleasant.com/Email: [email protected]\Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessway_mountpleasant/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@twwmountpleasant   Connect with Dr. Jenny:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennymcmullendc/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m sharing my 2025 MS Holiday Gift Guide—your go-to resource for finding thoughtful, practical, and fun gifts to support life with multiple sclerosis!  I highlight MS-friendly products designed to improve comfort, mobility, independence, and self-care, from cooling towels and weighted pens to vibration therapy tools and accessible fragrances.  Whether you’re searching for MS stocking stuffers, luxury wellness ideas, or meaningful ways to give back, you’ll discover expert recommendations backed by real community feedback. Tune in to learn how these tools can help with MS symptoms like heat sensitivity, fatigue, mobility challenges, and sensory overload. Plus, get details on exclusive discounts and my signature online program, The MSing Link, developed to help people with MS get stronger, walk better, and live with confidence. Find all links and resources in the show notes below! Links and Codes for all items:  ★ Frogg Toggs Chilly Pad https://amzn.to/4mmpmp2   ★ Weighted pens https://amzn.to/4qfko0g   ★ Mobility Towel https://mobilitytowel.com/   ★ Rare Beauty Perfume https://www.sephora.com/product/rare-eau-de-parfum-P517178   ★ Loop Switch 2 Ear Plugs https://amzn.to/4ms8LjI   ★ WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill http://www.walkingpad.com/DOCTORGRETCHEN;  Code: DOCTORGRETCHEN (20% off + free shipping)   ★ RockTape Rock Wave Pro https://rocktape.com/collections/manual-therapy-tools/products/rockwave-pro   ★ Rumblex Lifepro Vibration Plate https://lifepro.therave.co/UMMBVYNUH2WXDLZC 5% off with the link!    ★ The MSing Link + Shirts   ★ Donation to MS4MS https://ms4ms.org/   Watch this Gift Guide on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-iaVJQlxeg   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Ashley Knapp, infusion nurse and co-founder of Local Infusion, to discuss how ambulatory infusion centers are revolutionizing MS treatment.  We explore why infusions for multiple sclerosis (MS) are often easier, more affordable, and more comfortable when done at outpatient infusion centers compared to hospitals.  Ashley shares expert insights on gaining faster access to MS infusion therapies like Tysabri, Ocrevus, and Briumvi, plus how Local Infusion is setting up possibilities for overcoming common barriers like transportation and insurance authorizations.  If you’re seeking practical strategies to improve your MS care, reduce costs, and enjoy a better patient experience, this episode is packed with resources to empower your MS journey, boost your quality of life, and help you stay consistent with your treatment!   About Ashley Knapp:  Ashley Knapp is co-founder of Local Infusion and a registered nurse with over 13 years of experience in the infusion industry. Ashley started her career as an infusion nurse, specifically caring for patients with multiple sclerosis, and has since built local infusion into a rapidly expanding network of over 30 ambulatory infusion centers across nine states.   Resources mentioned in the episode: Getting Started with Local Infusion: https://mylocalinfusion.com/get-started/   Connect with Ashley: Website: https://mylocalinfusion.com/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m excited to share four research-backed strategies for building endurance and stamina with multiple sclerosis (MS).  As a physical therapist specializing in MS, I get asked daily how to improve mobility, strength, energy, and independence—without making fatigue worse. I’ll walk you through evidence-based exercise tips, practical tools, and recent MS research so you can feel confident and empowered on your wellness journey.  Whether your MS goal is to walk farther, stand longer, or simply move more without exhausting yourself, you’ll learn actionable steps to boost your stamina and daily function. Join me for expert advice, real-life success stories, and guidance you can use right away to take control of your MS symptoms and improve your quality of life! Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

 In this episode, I’m thrilled to chat with Aubre Fox, an interior designer with over 16 years of experience specializing in accessible and aging-in-place home design for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other disabilities.  We discuss practical MS home modifications that don’t look medical, including stylish bathroom safety tips, ways to address fatigue and balance issues, and smart accessible design solutions for daily living. Aubre shares expert advice on making homes safer, more functional, and beautiful—covering everything from wider doorways and consistent flooring to the importance of planning ahead for changing mobility needs. What I love about Aubre’s approach is that she truly understands that thoughtful design should adapt to your needs and enhance your quality of life at every stage, which is exactly what we need when living with the unpredictability of multiple sclerosis. And the difference between accessible design that screens medical equipment versus solutions that actually look stylish and feel like home. Whether you’re looking to improve independence, reduce fall risk, or simply make everyday tasks easier, this episode is packed with accessible home design tips to support your MS symptoms and quality of life! About Aubre: Aubre Fox, an interior designer with 16 years of experience who specializes in something that is incredibly relevant for our MS community, aging in place and accessible design.  Aubre has her bachelor's degree in interior design and has worked extensively across both commercial and residential spaces. But what makes her particularly valuable for our conversation is her deep experience working with homeowners, living with various diseases and disabilities to create spaces that are both safe and beautiful. Resources mentioned in the episode: Checklist: https://www.afoxinteriors.com/msinglink Link to book consult for MSing Link listeners: https://aubrefox.next.mydomastudio.com/store/ConsultationServices/MsingLinkConsultationPackage-PodcastListeners--1758236157   Connect with Aubre: Website: https://www.afoxinteriors.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.fox_interiors/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I’m sharing a personal story of powerful mindset shifts that’s helping me navigate a busy, full-plate season. I pull back the curtain on some exciting changes happening behind the scenes with the MSing Link.  Join me as I discuss how choosing calm and shifting focus can improve how you manage stress, fatigue, and overwhelm, whether your challenges are MS-related or not. We’ll dive into practical strategies for building resilience and emotional strength, while I pull back the curtain on some exciting changes happening behind the scenes at The MSing Link.   Resources mentioned in this episode: The MSing Link, Episode 107, Journaling to Uncover Your True Voice - Apple Podcast | Spotify The MSing Link, Episode 237, How to Reduce Performance Anxiety with MS with Samantha Hawley - Apple Podcast | Spotify   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Burhan Chaudhry, MS neurologist and clinical lead at Bristol Myers Squibb, to discuss CAR-T cell therapy which is an innovative treatment currently enrolling in clinical trials for multiple sclerosis (MS).  We dive into how CAR-T cell therapy targets B cells within the central nervous system, offering hope for both relapsing and progressive MS. Dr. Chaudhry explains what sets CAR-T apart from traditional disease modifying therapies, how to get involved in MS clinical trials, and what participants can expect throughout the process.  Whether you’re newly diagnosed or living with MS for years, join us for empowering strategies, expert advice, and the latest updates on breakthroughs in MS treatment!   Bio on Burhan Chaudry:  Dr. Burhan Chaudhry is a MS neurologist and clinical lead at Bristol Myers Squibb. His sister was diagnosed with MS when he was in medical school. This inspired him to pursue Neurology. A few years after Burhan was diagnosed with MS as well. After becoming a MS neurologist, Burhan has treated MS patients both in the US and internationally. He is currently clinical lead for a global clinical trial evaluating a novel cell therapy across the MS spectrum.  Resources mentioned in this episode: Website to view CAR-T info: https://www.cartautoimmune.com/ ECTRIMS 2025 Results/Report: https://distribute.congrex.com/from.storage?image=rqetJOF1YXChDh_STAPoNpjPhysyG76sohBKnHJhR-TsF3Mvxzx13zdmic5t9umH0   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this solo episode, I’m sharing my personal 7-year journey with Hashimoto’s—covering symptoms, testing, and what actually helped me feel better, even alongside my work with multiple sclerosis (MS).  I dive into the ups and downs of being gluten free, navigating food sensitivities, and discovering the critical role of gut health in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s and MS. If you’ve ever wondered how nutrition and leaky gut can impact your fatigue, energy, mobility, and overall quality of life with MS, this episode is for you.  I’ll walk you through the step-by-step testing I did (including the important anti-TPO blood test for thyroid autoimmunity), diet strategies, my own personal story with practitioners, and how to advocate for yourself with your healthcare team.  Tune in for research-backed, real-life tips to help you manage MS symptoms, support thyroid health, and feel empowered in your wellness journey. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Gretchen's blog post on Gluten Free Recipes: https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/blog/gluten-free-for-ms   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink