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Can your Apple Watch help you and your neurologist manage Parkinson's disease more precisely? In this episode of Live Parkinson's – Live an Exceptional Life, host Chris Kustanbauter sits down with Amy Gordon Franzen - CEO of Rune Labs to unpack StrivePD — the FDA-cleared app that's changing how people with Parkinson's track symptoms, share data with their care team, and take control of their disease.
Amy brings a rare dual perspective: a background in oncology precision medicine and a personal connection to Parkinson's after a genetic test revealed she carries the LRRK2 mutation. In this conversation, she explains why Parkinson's treatment has lagged behind cancer care's precision-medicine model — and how patient-generated data is starting to close that gap.
In this episode, you'll learn:
Whether you're newly diagnosed, a longtime caregiver, or simply curious about how technology is reshaping neurological care, this episode offers a practical, hopeful look at what's possible when patients, data, and doctors work together.
Resources mentioned:
Subscribe for new episodes on exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, and community for people living with Parkinson's.
👉 Visit liveparkinsons.com for resources, and more, and subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for the latest Parkinson's research, tools, and stories of resilience — delivered straight to your inbox.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your neurologist or movement disorder specialist before making changes to your care plan.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Does your morning coffee actually matter for Parkinson's disease? In this episode of Live Parkinson's – Live an Exceptional Life, we dig into decades of research on caffeine and Parkinson's — from what caffeine actually is and where it hides in your diet, to what it does inside your brain and body, to what clinical studies really show about its effect on Parkinson's risk and symptoms.
You'll learn:
Whether you're managing a Parkinson's diagnosis or simply curious about the science behind your daily cup, this episode breaks down real, peer-reviewed research in a way that's easy to understand — and genuinely fun to listen to.
📩 Enjoyed this episode? Head to liveparkinsons.com and subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for more research-backed tips on living an exceptional life with Parkinson's — delivered straight to your inbox.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Before making any changes to your diet, including your caffeine intake, please consult your healthcare professional first. They will be able to determine whether these changes are appropriate for your specific health needs.
Ascherio A, et al. "Prospective study of caffeine consumption and risk of Parkinson's disease in men and women." Annals of Neurology, 2001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11456310/
Hong CT, Chan L, Bai CH. "The Effect of Caffeine on the Risk and Progression of Parkinson's Disease: A Meta-Analysis." Nutrients, 2020;12(6):1860. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7353179/
"Association of Coffee Consumption and Prediagnostic Caffeine Metabolites With Incident Parkinson Disease in a Population-Based Cohort." Neurology, 2024. https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000209201
"Interaction between caffeine consumption & genetic susceptibility in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review." ScienceDirect. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1568163724001995
Postuma RB, et al. "Caffeine for Motor Manifestations of Parkinson's Disease" (CafePD Trial). ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01190735. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01190735
"Caffeine Consumption and Risk of Dyskinesia in CALM-PD." https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3608707
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Struggling with a shorter stride, forward posture, or feeling unsteady on your feet? Discover how Nordic Walking is transforming mobility for people living with Parkinson’s. In this episode of the Live Parkinson’s Podcast, we break down the clinical science behind Nordic walking, explore how fitness poles act as external sensory cues to improve gait and stability, and share step-by-step technique tips. Plus, learn why consulting a physical therapist or certified instructor experienced in Parkinson's is the best way to dial in your equipment, pole sizing, and form.
Visit liveparkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter for more practical tools and resources to help you live well with Parkinson’s.
Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat Parkinson's disease. Always seek approval from your neurologist or Movement Disorder Specialist prior to initiating any new exercise program, including Nordic walking, to make sure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Can exercise actually slow Parkinson's disease progression? In this episode, we break down the game-changing clinical findings from the landmark CYCLE-II trial and the newly updated joint guidelines from the Parkinson’s Foundation and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
Discover how to shift exercise from a simple lifestyle habit into a targeted, disease-modifying prescription. We explore the science of high-cadence cycling (> 75 RPMs), the four pillars of Parkinson's fitness (Aerobic, Strength, Flexibility, and BAM), and how to safely weave activities like indoor spin, boxing, swimming, dumbbell and machine workouts, daily stretching, and dual-tasking balance drills into your weekly routine.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
Resources & Links Mentioned:
Take the Next Step with Live Parkinson’s:
Medical Disclaimer:
Disclaimer: The content provided on the Live Parkinson’s Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician, neurologist, or healthcare professional prior to initiating any new exercise program, diet, or lifestyle change to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs. Always work with a certified fitness professional or licensed physical therapist specializing in Parkinson’s care to help design and execute your approved exercise plan safely.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Does a quiet hesitation keep you from stepping down a hallway, or does the fear of losing your balance make your world feel a little bit smaller? You are not alone. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, I tackle one of the most common yet rarely discussed challenges of living with Parkinson’s disease: the fear of falling and the physical instability that feeds it.
Discover clinical statistics on Parkinson's falls and learn actionable, science-backed strategies—from dual-task training and external cueing to highly challenging balance drills and cognitive reframing—designed to help you retrain your nervous system, quiet anxiety, and step forward with absolute confidence.
What You Will Learn in This Episode:
Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Important Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this podcast and show notes is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Parkinson's disease affects everyone differently. Always consult with a qualified, certified healthcare professional—such as your neurologist or a licensed physical therapist—before starting any new exercise program, balance routine, or physical activity. Your safety comes first, and a professional can help tailor these techniques safely to your individual needs.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Pain is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. In this episode, we break down the surprising truth about Parkinson’s pain and the under‑recognized sensory symptoms that affect millions but rarely get talked about.
Listeners will learn why these symptoms happen and practical, science‑backed strategies to manage pain and improve daily quality of life.
The five types of Parkinson’s pain identified in clinical research
Why dopamine loss affects pain processing and sensory interpretation
The surprising sensory symptoms many people experience, including:
How OFF periods can intensify pain and sensory symptoms
10 actionable strategies to reduce pain and improve comfort, including:
Visit LiveParkinsons.com to explore free resources, exercise tools, and community support designed to help you live an exceptional life with Parkinson’s.
👉 Subscribe to the free monthly newsletter for research updates, practical tips, and empowering stories delivered straight to your inbox.
Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is for Informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat Parkinson's and Parkinson's symptoms. Before starting any new treatments, exercises, or strategies to manage pain or sensory symptoms, consult with your healthcare professional. They will develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific medical needs and health conditions.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Supporting dopamine isn’t just about medication — it’s also about what you put on your plate. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we explore clinically researched foods that help nourish your brain, protect dopamine‑producing neurons, and improve daily function.
You’ll learn how dopamine is made, which foods support each step of the process, and simple ways to add them to your daily routine so you can feel stronger, clearer, and more energized.
This episode is packed with actionable nutrition strategies, expanded research insights, and easy meal ideas designed to help you live exceptionally every day.
⭐ In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
If you’re looking for a science‑backed, practical guide to eating in a way that supports dopamine function and enhances your quality of life, this episode is for you.
Visit liveparkinsons.com
Explore more resources, articles, and tools designed to help you live your best life with Parkinson’s.
📨 Subscribe to the Free Monthly Newsletter
Get research‑backed tips, exercise strategies, nutrition guidance, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox every month.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Before starting any new diet, supplement, or eating plan, please review it with your healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for your specific medical needs and health conditions.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Stress doesn’t just feel overwhelming when you’re living with Parkinson’s — it has a measurable, biological impact on tremor, movement, cognition, and overall quality of life. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down the powerful connection between stress and Parkinson’s using major clinical studies, real‑world insights, and practical tools you can start using today.
You’ll learn why stress makes symptoms worse, how it affects dopamine and neuroinflammation, and what research‑backed strategies can help you regain calm, confidence, and control.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
📚 The Science Behind Stress & Parkinson’s
Practical, Research‑Backed Stress Reduction Tools
Explore More Free Resources
Visit LiveParkinsons.com to subscribe to the free monthly newsletter, access free articles, and explore helpful tools and resources designed to support you in living your most exceptional life.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
Always consult your movement disorder specialist or healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine or stress‑management program to ensure it is appropriate for your personal needs.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
Maintaining strong cognitive health is one of the most important parts of living well with Parkinson’s. In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down clinically researched strategies to protect memory, sharpen focus, and build long‑term brain reserve.
You’ll learn what the science actually says about cognitive changes in Parkinson’s — and more importantly, what you can do every day to strengthen your brain.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
For more resources, research‑backed strategies, and monthly cognitive‑health tools, visit LiveParkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter. Stay informed, stay empowered, and keep living an exceptional life.
Medical Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only. Before starting any new exercise, nutrition plan, or lifestyle change, please consult your healthcare professional to ensure it meets your specific medical needs.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of Live Parkinson’s – Live an Exceptional Life, we break down one of the most overlooked — and most powerful — tools for fall prevention in Parkinson’s: proprioception, your body’s “inner GPS.”
While strength training is important, research shows that proprioceptive and sensory‑based training has a far greater impact on balance, stability, and real‑world fall reduction. We explore the science behind proprioception, why it becomes impaired in Parkinson’s, and how targeted training can help recalibrate the brain’s internal map of the body.
You’ll hear insights from key clinical studies, including:
We also share simple, research‑backed proprioceptive exercises you can start using today to improve balance, confidence, and movement control.
⚠️ Safety Disclosure
The exercises discussed in this episode may not be appropriate for everyone.
Always consult your healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise program to ensure it meets your specific health needs.
If you try any of the balance or proprioceptive exercises mentioned, make sure someone is with you for support and safety.
For more research‑backed tools, exercise strategies, and monthly inspiration, visit LiveParkinsons.com and subscribe to the free monthly newsletter. Stay informed. Stay empowered. Live exceptionally.
Support the show
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only is not intended to treat or diagnose Parkinson's Disease. Please ensure that you are following the treatment plan developed by your doctor. Please ensure before starting anything new you get approval from your doctor. The information being provided is based on my own personal experiences and does not guarantee that it will benefit everyone.
Disclosure: I discuss and promote products in this podcast that pay me a small commission at no cost to you. I use the commissions to help support this podcast and my website Liveparkinsons.com. I make you aware of any affiliate links by adding AFFLIATE Link right beside the link. Thank you for supporting this podcast.
To help support the podcast please visit me on my Ko-fi page and buy a cup of coffee if you feel that I am providing information that is relevant and actionable to help you live a better quality of life.
Please visit me at Liveparkinsons.com
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Essential Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness
From the publisher's feed
Live Parkinson's - Live an Exceptional Life
Discover hope, resilience, and practical tools for living an exceptional life with Parkinson’s. Hosted by Chris Kustanbauter, this…
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a seasoned warrior, or a caregiver, Live Parkinson’s, Live an Exceptional Life brings you evidence-based strategies and inspiring stories to help you overcome challenges and stay motivated on your journey. Let’s embrace each day with strength, laughter, and community – and live life on your terms.
Subscribe now to join our supportive community, and never miss an episode as we tackle Parkinson’s together – one exceptional day at a time!
Subscribe on YouTube - Live Parkinson's Live an Exceptional Life - From Tremors to Triumph
Visit: https://www.liveparkinsons.com/
#Parkinsons #LiveExceptional #QualityofLife #Inspiration #Community #LiveParkinsons, #Tremorstotriumph #ParkinsonsWarriors #SpectacularLife
Get my book - Spectacular Life - 4 Strategies for Living with Parkinson's - My Journey to Happiness - available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle (e-book)
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