The Secret Life of Parkinson's

The Secret Life of Parkinson's is a podcast created by Parkinson's patients, sharing their stories and interviewing others, on things we deal with on a daily basis. It's hard for people with PD to talk to others about the disease because sometimes it's difficult for the patient themselves to describe what they are feeling. Talking to other PD patients helps us express what we are going through in ways we might not be able to express to family and friends.

The Secret Life of Parkinson's is a health podcast hosted by Jessica Krauser, with 189 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Jessica Krauser hosts The Secret Life of Parkinson's, a health show with 189 episodes published.

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  Episode #196

  Improv vs Parkinson's: A Second City Breakthrough

  Aug 19, 202617 min

  This episode explores how improv and creative programs like those at Northwestern and Second City can help individuals with Parkinson's improve their mental agility, social engagement, and quality of life. Doug Blanchard shares his personal journey with Parkinson's and how participating in improv has made a positive impact. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Doug Blanchard and the podcast 02:23 Details of his DBS surgery and ongoing treatment 05:13 The structure and community of the 10-week improv program 07:54 Getting involved and overcoming nerves in improv 10:19 Using improv scenarios to enhance quick thinking 11:18 The fun and social aspect of improv for Parkinson's 12:45 The impact of improv on cognitive and emotional health 13:43 Other exercises and physical activities for Parkinson's 15:10 Potential for local improv initiatives and community outreach 16:09 Closing thoughts: staying active mentally and physically

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  The Secret Life of Parkinson's

  We Have Parkinson's: Here's How You Can Help

  Aug 14, 20265 min

  If you or someone you love has been moved by an episode or touched by our kit or experienced an exercise class, please consider supporting our efforts!! This is hard for me to ask/share, but we are powered and can do more with support and donors, by Changing Parkinsons nonprofit. Visit www.5KforJK.org for our fundraising walk named after me (Jessica Krauser) that is happening on Oct 4, 2026 or visit www.changingparkinsons.org to learn more about our efforts and how you can support us throughout the year! Either way, consider donating to something that has hopefully made a difference in your journey!

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  Episode #194

  What Makes One Parkinson's Patient Thrive While Another Struggles?

  Aug 12, 202628 min

  In this episode, Dr. Patel is back with us and shares insights on living with Parkinson's, emphasizing the importance of medication adherence, routines, and mental health support for patients and caregivers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Dr. Patel's background 02:09 Initial conversations with newly diagnosed patients 04:01 Importance of medication adherence and timing 06:50 Role of exercise in managing Parkinson's 09:09 Dealing with off periods and early intervention 11:07 Psychological aspects and mental health support 13:01 Impact of routines and lifestyle adjustments 15:48 Supporting caregivers and family dynamics 19:00 Therapy, routines, and mental health strategies 22:06 Travel, vacations, and managing symptoms on the go 23:59 Personality, motivation, and individual differences 25:47 Final advice for newly diagnosed patients

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  Episode #194

  Why Feedback from Others Matters in Parkinson's

  Aug 6, 202617 min

  One of the hardest parts of living with Parkinson's is that you don't always notice the changes happening in yourself—but the people around you often do. In this episode, we talk about why feedback from family, friends, care partners, and even healthcare providers can be one of the most valuable tools for living well with Parkinson's. Brian shares how learning to accept outside observations has helped him recognize subtle changes, adjust medications, improve posture and movement, and stay independent. We also discuss medication timing, exercise, community support, travel, planning for the future, and why conversations about palliative care and hospice shouldn't be feared—they're about living your best life for as long as possible. Whether you're living with Parkinson's or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers practical insights into seeing the disease from a different perspective. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:27 Seeing What Others See 03:13 Everyday Strategies 07:08 Medication & Movement 09:22 Travel Tips 11:43 Independence 13:05 Planning Ahead 15:55 Closing Thoughts

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  Episode #193

  What Every Person with Parkinson's Should Know About Diet

  Jul 30, 202641 min

  Can what you eat really affect Parkinson's disease? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Laurie Mischley to discuss the latest research on diet, lifestyle, and Parkinson's progression. We explore why nutrition may play a bigger role than many people realize, the evidence behind common dietary recommendations, and how researchers are using new tools—from remote monitoring to innovative technology—to better understand Parkinson's over time. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson's for years, this conversation offers practical insights and a fresh perspective on what you can do beyond medication. Chapters 00:00 Welcome & Meet Dr. Mischley 02:00 Why Diet Matters in Parkinson's 08:30 New Ways Researchers Are Studying Parkinson's 15:30 Foods That May Influence Progression 22:30 Dairy, Processed Foods & Nutrition 29:00 B Vitamins & Brain Health 34:30 Lifestyle Beyond Medication 39:00 Small Changes That Can Make a Difference

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