The MSing Link

Latest Episodes:

245. Why Small MS Progress Matters More Than Big Goals (Real Examples Inside) Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m sharing a personal story that reminded me just how crucial it is to focus on small progress—especially when living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Drawing from both my own recent experience and real success stories from my MSing Link community, I’ll show you why those micro improvements matter much more than you think. We’ll talk about how looking for and celebrating tiny wins—like walking a few more steps or lifting your leg an inch higher—can keep you motivated, help with MS symptom management, and even spark neuroplasticity for lasting change.

Whether you’re working toward better strength, balance, or independence, you’ll learn practical strategies and exercises to notice improvements each day. Join me for actionable MS physical therapy tips, inspirational examples, and a new mindset for tracking MS progress, so you feel empowered and hopeful on your wellness journey!

Resources mentioned in the episode:

The MSing Link, Episode 144, How to Measure Progress & Stay Motivated - Apple | Spotify

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

244. Feel Less Stiff in the Morning With MS: 3 Quick Exercises to Wake Up Your Muscles Aug 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I share three quick and easy exercises you can do to help reduce morning stiffness and improve balance with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Learn how activating your neural pathways before standing up can make a big difference in how steady and confident you feel—whether you’ve been resting in bed, sitting on the couch, or even out at a restaurant.

I’ll walk you through the simple steps of marching, leg kicks, and toe lifts, all designed to wake up your muscles and boost your mobility in 5 minutes or less. These MS-friendly morning exercises are perfect for anyone looking to improve walking, decrease stiffness, and feel more in control of their daily routine.

Join me for evidence-based tips and practical MS physical therapy strategies that empower you to start your day strong and move with greater ease!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

MS Conference Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

243. MS Red Light Therapy for Nerve Repair & Inflammation – Chiropractor + PhD Explains Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Genevieve Newton, chiropractor, PhD, and Scientific Director at Fringe, to dive deep into the science of red light therapy for multiple sclerosis (MS).

We discuss how red and near-infrared light therapy can help with nerve repair, reduce inflammation, boost energy, and improve common MS symptoms like fatigue, pain, and drop foot.

Dr. Newton explains the benefits of using evidence-based red light therapy routines, what to look for in quality red light therapy devices, and shares an easy-to-follow protocol specifically for people living with MS.

Whether you’re curious about complementary MS therapies or want to optimize your daily routine, this episode is packed with practical advice, proven strategies, and empowering tools to help you get stronger and walk better. Tune in for insights that can make a difference in your MS journey and enhance your quality of life!

About Dr. Genevieve Newton, DC, PhD:

Dr. Genevieve Newton, DC, PhD spent close to 20 years as a researcher and educator in the field of nutritional sciences before joining Fringe as its Scientific Director. Gen’s job is to “bring the science” that supports Fringe’s products and education. She is passionate about all things Fringe, and is a deep believer in healing body, mind and spirit using the gifts of the natural world.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The MSing Link Episode 165, Red Light Theraphy for Multiple Sclerosis w/ Dr. Alyson Evans - Apple Podcast || Spotify

Fringe Red Light Therapy: https://fringeheals.com/?ref=GRETCHENHAWLEY, DISCOUNT CODE: DrGretchen10 for 10% off

Red Light Therapy Research & Education: https://fringeheals.com/blog/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

MS Conference Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

242. How to NOT Overdo Exercise with MS: 7 Strategies by an MS Physical Therapist Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m sharing my top 7 strategies as a Multiple Sclerosis Physical Therapist to help you avoid overdoing exercise with MS. We’ll dive into how to recognize the signs of overexertion, ways to modify your workout routine, and practical tips you can use right away to manage fatigue and prevent symptom flare-ups. You’ll learn how to build smart exercise plans for good, average, and tough days, and discover simple ways to adapt your MS exercise routine for lasting strength and energy.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with MS for years, these MS exercise tips, modifications, and fatigue management strategies will empower you to stay active without overdoing it. Join me for evidence-backed advice and MS exercise guidance to help you get stronger and walk better—while protecting your quality of life with MS!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

MS Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

241. The Rule of 2: How to Stop Compensating and Use Your Real Strength With MS Jul 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m sharing my “Rule of 2” method—a powerful strategy to help you stop overcompensating and start using your real strength with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you often find yourself relying on your arms to lift your leg or pushing off armrests to stand up, you’re not alone! I’ll walk you through how to become more aware of these habits and give you practical tips so you can retrain your brain and body for better mobility and functional strength.

Join me as I explain why just getting stronger in your exercises isn’t enough, and how the Rule of 2 bridges the gap between strength training and everyday movement. Whether you’re working on walking better, gaining independence, or improving your quality of life with MS, these strategies are designed for you.

Tune in for expert advice, MS-specific exercises, and tools you can use right away to build confidence in your body and break the cycle of compensation!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

240. 10 Common Triggers That Worsen MS Symptoms: A Physical Therapist's Guide Jul 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m diving into the 10 most common triggers that can worsen MS symptoms and sharing practical tips on how to manage them! As a physical therapist who specializes in helping people with multiple sclerosis (MS) get stronger and walk better, I break down factors like heat, fatigue, stress, infections, diet, and more.

You’ll discover actionable strategies to identify your own MS symptom triggers, plus expert advice for improving mobility, strength, and energy. If you want to take control of your MS, boost your quality of life, and learn how to minimize flare-ups, this episode is for you! Join me for an empowering conversation packed with research-driven insights to help you live your best life with multiple sclerosis.

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

MS Conference Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

239. MS Nerve Pain and Menopause: Neurologist Dr. Boster on Mechanisms, Treatment Options and Hormone Therapy Jul 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Dr. Aaron Boster, a renowned MS neurologist, to dive deep into MS nerve pain and the impact of menopause on multiple sclerosis. We break down the different types of MS pain, including neuropathic pain, the infamous “MS hug,” and even symptoms like pathologic itching and formication.

Dr. Boster also shares expert strategies and treatment options for managing MS nerve pain, including physical therapy, medications, topical creams, and non-pharmacological approaches. Plus, we discuss how hormonal changes during menopause can influence MS symptoms and progression, and what MS warriors need to know about hormone therapy.

This episode offers actionable tips, practical advice, and hope for those navigating pain and menopause with MS. Whether you’re looking for ways to reduce pain, manage menopause symptoms, or improve your quality of life with MS, you’ll find valuable insights here!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

The MSing Link Episode 10, Live Your Life, Not Your Diagnosis with Dr. Aaron Boster - Apple Podcast || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 33, MS Neurology Assessment with Dr. Boster - Apple Podcast || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 34, Sexual & Bladder Dysfunction with Dr. Boster - Apple Podcast || Spotify

The MSing Link Episode 233, Dr. Boster's 5 for 5 MS Management Framework: Evidence-Based Strategies to Slow Multiple Sclerosis Progression - Apple Podcast || Spotify

Connect with Dr. Aaron Boster:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/aaronbostermd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AaronBosterMD

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AaronBosterMD/

Website: https://bosterms.com/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

238. MS Conference Diaries: My Real Experience (Spoiler: I Was Sick the Whole Time!) Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my recent experience at the annual MS Conference in Phoenix, Arizona! Even though I was sick the whole time (yes, really!), I couldn’t miss the chance to learn about the latest in multiple sclerosis research, mobility breakthroughs, and MS exercise strategies.

If you’re looking for new ways to improve your strength, mobility, and quality of life with MS, you’ll love this inside look! Join me for expert insights, practical tips, and a few travel mishaps as I recap everything you need to know from this jam-packed MS conference.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

MS Conference Research Made Simple Course Waitlist - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/cmsc-2025-waitlist

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

237. How to Reduce Performance Anxiety with MS with Samantha Hawley Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m joined again by my twin sister, Samantha Hawley, a mindset and clarity coach, as we dive deep into the topic of performance anxiety for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

We discuss the emotional and mental struggles that can come from worrying about how you walk in public and what others might be thinking.

Samantha shares practical journaling and mindset strategies you can use before, during, and after challenging situations—helping you shift your focus away from potential judgment and toward self-compassion, confidence, and inner peace.

If you’ve ever felt anxious about your MS symptoms being visible, this conversation is filled with actionable MS tips, exercises, and mindset tools that will empower you to manage anxiety, overcome self-doubt, and improve your quality of life with MS.

About Samantha:

Samantha Hawley is a journaling coach who guides women through challenging transitions to help them feel hopeful and validated. She brings her personal experiences and professional insights to the conversation, providing valuable tips on how to recognize and disrupt self-sabotaging patterns.

Connect with Samantha:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samantha.s.says/

Website: https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/

Email: hello@samantha-says.com

Samantha's Podcast - Journal Entries Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/3mpi2ClLG6T7xtlUs274O0?si=4d353a9a4a1744e8
Journal Entries

Samantha's Podcast - Journal Entries Podcast (Apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/journal-entries/id1651843607

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Calm Mind Blueprint - https://www.samanthapenkoff.com/calm-mind

The MSing Link, Episode 107, Journaling to Uncover Your True Voice - Apple | Spotify

The MSing Link, Episode 219, How Self-Sabotage Is Impacting your MS (And How To Stop) With Samantha Hawley - Apple | Spotify

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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

236. MS Mobility Aid Exercises: How to Get Stronger With Your Cane, Walker or Rollator Jun 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, I’m sharing how your cane, trekking poles, or rollator can actually make you stronger—not weaker!

As a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis (MS), I often hear concerns about becoming dependent on mobility aids. But with the right exercises for MS and strength-building strategies, these aids can help improve mobility, balance, and confidence while walking with MS.

Tune in as I break down four specific MS-friendly exercises you can do with your mobility aid, tips for transitioning between devices, and adaptive modifications for all abilities—including seated options. If you’re looking for expert MS physical therapy advice, practical movement tips, and resources on using canes, rollators, or trekking poles for MS, this episode will empower you to use your mobility equipment as a tool for independence. Let’s debunk the myths together and help you get stronger with MS, one step at a time!

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:

The MSing Link, Episode 146, How to Transition to a Different Mobility Aid - Apple / Spotify

The MSing Link, Episode 189, Exercises for MS: Wheelchair/Seated Edition - Apple / Spotify

MS Mobility Guide - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/ms-mobility-equipment-guide-podcast

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com

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