Welcome to Season 4 of On The Move, the official podcast of the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University.

In this episode, host Chelsea Reber sits down with Madison Weinrich, a fifth-year PhD student whose research bridges neuroscience, motor control, Parkinson’s disease, and rehabilitation science. Madison shares her academic journey into kinesiology, her work in the Neuromuscular Coordination Lab, and how personal experiences shaped her commitment to improving quality of life for individuals with neurological conditions.

The conversation explores non-invasive brain stimulation, community-based Parkinson’s research, horse-riding (hippotherapy) interventions, and how movement, cognition, and emotion intersect in powerful ways. Madison also reflects on the importance of teaching excellence, mentorship, and professional development, offering practical advice for graduate students navigating demanding academic paths.

This episode highlights how research at Texas A&M extends beyond the lab, creating meaningful impact through collaboration, compassion, and innovation.

Learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University:

https://knsm.tamu.edu/

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guest: Madison Weinrich, PhD student, Kinesiology & Sport Management, Texas A&M University

Timestamps

(00:00–00:51) Welcome to On The Move

(00:52–01:30) Madison’s Academic Journey

(01:31–03:29) Life in the Neuromuscular Coordination Lab

(03:30–06:55) Connecting with the Parkinson’s Community

(06:56–11:07) Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Explained

(11:08–15:51) Horse-Riding Therapy and Balance

(15:52–18:22) Research That Changes Lives

(18:23–23:04) Teaching, Mentorship, and Growth

(23:05–24:14) Advice for Graduate Students