Let's Talk MS

Season 3 of Let's Talk MS is here, and we could not be more excited to be back.

Two seasons in, this podcast has become a space where young people living with MS, NMOSD and MOGAD sit down with experts and talk honestly about the things that actually matter: nutrition, mental health, family planning, stigma and so much more. The conversations have been open, generous and often moving.

We are kicking things off with a brand-new episode on Diversity and Inclusion in Research. Hosts Anna Revilla and Elisabeth Kasilingam are joined by Dr Vanessa Apea and Natalie Busari for a conversation about why representation matters in research, the barriers that keep underrepresented communities out of it, and how researchers, patient organisations and communities can build something genuinely more inclusive and equitable together.

Because research that reflects everyone leads to better health outcomes for everyone living with MS, NMOSD and MOGAD.

Press play on Season 3 and tell us in the comments what you want us to cover this season

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:08) - Inclusion and Diversity in Research
(00:02:11) - Black people with MS
(00:03:18) - The issue of inclusion and diversity in research
(00:05:19) - The lack of representation in science and sustainability
(00:06:24) - Asian-American perspectives on the issues
(00:08:33) - The Network of My MSD
(00:14:14) - Black Muscular Dystrophy 1,
(00:16:24) - The barriers to participation in research
(00:20:01) - Black scientists on science equality
(00:24:33) - Wonders of the World: translating the science towards the communities
(00:29:45) - MSP Young People Network
(00:31:10) - The challenge of reaching out to the patient community
(00:33:02) - Let's Talk Ms. Inclusion in Research

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

In this episode, we will be exploring the impact of nutrition on the lives of people with MS, NMOSD or MOGAD. You will hear about the ways in which nutrition can affect your health, learn from personal experiences and gain practical tips, among other insights!

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests: 

Sophie Pratt: Dietitian and a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute. Based in Ireland, she works with a diverse range of clients and contributes to media platforms such as radio and television. She is an expert in weight management, fertility health and eating disorders, and also designs specialised dietary interventions for individuals, including those with MS.

Marjolijn Oranje: From the Netherlands and member of the Young People’s Network. She works in banking and discovered that she had MS 5 years ago while living and working my for the first time abroad. Ever since, she has tried adapting to life with MS as best as she can, whilst continuing traveling and working in different countries.

 

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.
 
Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:01) - Healthy diets for people with MS
(00:02:21) - The role of nutrition in MS and health
(00:06:54) - Mixed messages on nutrition and people with MS
(00:08:27) - Fatigue and inflammation
(00:11:00) - How to manage constipation?
(00:12:33) - Diet and energy management after Ms. Mayoline
(00:17:14) - How to manage a chronic condition with a diet?
(00:22:33) - The importance of nutrition for patients with Parkinson's
(00:29:19) - Specific guidelines for diet and health in Ireland
(00:31:21) - 5 tips for young people with chronic conditions
(00:33:21) - A Week in the Life with Mario
(00:34:23) - A Quick and Dirty Talk About Food
(00:36:00) - Rapid Fire Q & A
(00:38:44) - Uncovering nutrition for people with multiple sclerosis (MSY)

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

In this episode, we are excited to talk about the fantastic adventure of moving abroad and all the challenges that arise when taking this step while living with a chronic condition such as MS, NMOSD or MOGAD.  We will learn about the first steps you can take to access support in your new country, hear personal stories, and reflect on the importance of the process.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests: 

Annick Van Merhaegen is a dedicated MS Nurse Specialist with over 15 years of experience at University Hospital in Brussels. Her practice is centered on patient consultation, nurse-led care, and collaboration with neurologists, always with a focus on a holistic approach. She is deeply committed to understanding and addressing the lived experience of individuals with MS, advocating for comprehensive and patient-centered care.

Cornelia Pauna is a EMSP Young People’s Network member, from Romania, diagnosed with MS almost 10 years ago. Her diagnosis occurred shortly before the final year of her bachelor’s studies and significantly influenced her early career decisions, leading her to prioritize employment stability. In 2025, she made the decision to return to academia in order to redirect her professional path, so today we will hear what this decision meant for her and her MS.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.
 
Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

 

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:28) - YPN Member Cornelia Pauna on her battle with MS
(00:02:02) - The challenges of moving abroad
(00:03:02) - Why to move with a chronic condition?
(00:03:54) - The challenges of moving from one country to another
(00:06:27) - Continuity of care in the EU
(00:07:30) - First step in the healthcare system
(00:09:56) - Return to academia and its impact on MS
(00:13:21) - What kind of support systems or accommodations can students or employees with Ms
(00:15:16) - The language barrier in medical treatment
(00:18:55) - In the Elevator With Chronic fatigue
(00:21:51) - Anique on Leaving Their Home Country
(00:23:31) - How living abroad can help empower people with Ms. Hodgkin's
(00:24:49) - What did Living With the World Teach You About Your MS?
(00:25:52) - MOVING ALONE: Advice for Young People
(00:28:37) - MS patients and their routines
(00:29:24) - Taste Comfort Food or Try New Food?
(00:30:00) - DW: Tips to explain your condition to a person you have recently
(00:32:11) - Let's Talk Ms. GAD

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

Today's conversation is a hot topic for young people living with MS and related conditions. According to the 2020 MS Barometer, only 48% of the estimated number of people living with MS were in employment across the 32 responding countries. This figure highlights the significant employment-related challenges faced by people with MS. NMOSD and MOGAD are also relevant to the topic of employment.

For this reason, we are excited to share more useful information with you on this topic, including good practices, how to deal with disclosure and other interesting questions and topics.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

• Graham Halsey, founder of Well Working Matters in the UK, a consultancy company in the area of absence management and return to work.

• Jade Bourion, a Young People's Network member, a consultant by profession, and a sports enthusiast.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions.

Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon. Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:20) - What It's Really Like to Work with MS, NMOSD
(00:02:06) - Working with a disability
(00:05:25) - Are we leading the way in disability inclusion?
(00:07:49) - Disclosure of disabilities in the hiring process
(00:15:53) - The role of chronic conditions in the workplace
(00:19:45) - Working From Home
(00:22:36) - Disclosing a disability on the job application
(00:26:45) - The social rights of people with chronic conditions
(00:28:34) - Sparkling Water or Still Water
(00:29:22) - What Makes a Workplace Inclusive?
(00:30:45) - Let's Talk Ms. in the Workplace

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

The MS Awareness Run is taking place the 2nd November in the framework of the 20th Edition of Brussels Airport Marathon and Half Marathon, a great opportunity to come together, raise awareness, run and celebrate the strength and resilience of the MS community. 

That’s why we’re excited to discuss about sports and their impact on Multiple Sclerosis and related conditions. Today, we’ll explore how physical activity can support you throughout your diagnosis journey, its key benefits, and share some practical tips and insights along the way.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests: 

Felipe Balisteiri, 32, from Brazil, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 10 years ago while studying physical education. The diagnosis inspired him to research the disease, leading him to complete a master’s in movement science. Since 2021, he has been pursuing a PhD in rehabilitation science at the University of Hasselt, Belgium, focusing on how people with multiple sclerosis control their movements and walking through brain activity analysis.

Eline-Sofie, 24, from Norway, is a qualified nurse and a digital marketing student. She was diagnosed with MS at the age of 23, last year. Since then she has been a vocal advocate for raising awareness about MS and the needs of young people with the condition as an active member of YPN. She documents her journey as a person with MS on TikTok.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.
 
Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

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You can find all the resources and documents mentioned in this episode below:

Webinar about Movement with MS

Information MS Awareness Run. Thanks for supporting our fundrasing efforts! 

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.