The MSing Link

By Dr. Gretchen Hawley PT, DPT, MSCS

Do you have Multiple Sclerosis and have goals of improving your mobility, energy, and motivation? On this show, you’ll learn MS-specific exercises and symptom management strategies to help you gain co... more

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FAQs about The MSing Link:

How many episodes does The MSing Link have?

The podcast currently has 286 episodes available.

The MSing Link episodes:

May 20, 2026285. How to Activate Neuroplasticity With MS
In this episode, I'm continuing the conversation on neuroplasticity. Or, the way I like to explain it, the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles.
Here's the thing: your brain can keep adapting and building new pathways, even if you've been living with MS for years. That's not wishful thinking. That's real, and it's research-backed.
We'll talk through:
What neuroplasticity actually is (in plain English, I promise)
The MS-specific, functional exercises that help you build strength where it counts
Why repetition and quality of movement matter more than how long you're working out
How sleep, nutrition, and mindset quietly shape your MS symptoms day to day
Simple ways to keep your routine fresh at home so you actually stick with it
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
The MSing Link, Episode 270, Does MS Affect Brain Aging? What the Research Shows with Dr. Kelly Rich - Apple || Spotify

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
29min
May 13, 2026284. What Is Neuroplasticity (And Why It Matters in MS)
What if the key to walking better, feeling stronger, and moving with more confidence isn't just in your muscles… but in your brain?
In this episode, I'm diving into one of my favorite topics as a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist and physical therapist: neuroplasticity and what it really means for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you've ever wondered why generic exercise programs haven't worked for you, or why "just doing more reps" hasn't moved the needle, this conversation is going to connect a lot of dots.
What you'll learn in this episode:
What neuroplasticity actually is, in plain language (think of it as the wifi connection between your brain and your muscles)
Why neuroplasticity is especially important for people with MS, and how it relates to demyelination, lesions, and rebuilding neural pathways
The difference between standard exercise and MS-specific, neuroplasticity-based functional exercise — and why that distinction matters for real progress
How repetition, intention, and specificity train your brain to communicate better with your body
Practical, MS-specific exercise strategies you can start using to support strength, walking, balance, coordination, and stability
Daily activities and small habits (outside of formal workouts) that reinforce change
How neuroplasticity supports not just physical symptoms, but also mindset, confidence, and mental resilience with MS
What the research says about neuroplasticity and MS — and what it does and does not promise
Why progress is still possible, even if you've been living with MS for years and feel like you've tried everything

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
16min
May 06, 2026 283. What People with MS Wish You Knew
In honor of Mother's Day, I'm sharing something I've been sitting with for a while… the real, honest answers to the question, "What do you wish the people in your life understood about living with MS?"
I asked. The MSing Link community answered. And what they shared is something every mom, daughter, sister, and friend with MS deserves to have heard out loud.
We're talking about the fatigue that doesn't go away after a nap. The symptoms no one can see, but you feel every second. The emotional weight of waking up not knowing what your body will do that day. The grief, the guilt, the love, and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up.
If you have MS, I hope this episode makes you feel a little less alone.
If you love someone with MS, I hope it gives you the words you've been searching for.
Either way, you'll walk away with real language, real stories, and real ways to bridge the gap so the people closest to you can finally start to get it.
Press play. Share it with someone who needs to hear it. And let's keep showing the world what life with MS actually looks like… together. 🧡

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
25min
April 29, 2026 282. Balance Exercises for MS: 5 Moves for Real-Life Stability
In this episode, I’m sharing my top five evidence-based balance exercises for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). If you’ve ever felt frustrated by doing balance exercises that don’t translate to real life—like getting out of bed, climbing stairs, or turning around—this episode is for you.
As a physical therapist and MS specialist, I walk you through practical MS balance training strategies and explain exactly how to perform each exercise safely, even with mobility aids. You’ll learn why traditional balance routines often fall short and discover functional exercise ideas to improve your stability, walking, and confidence in daily activities with MS.
Join me on The MSing Link Podcast for expert PT tips, actionable balance drills, and straightforward advice to help you thrive with multiple sclerosis and walk better every day!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
The MSing Link Podcast - Episode 279, MS Balance Tips for Real Life - Apple || Spotify
This episode on YouTube, Balance Exercises for MS: 5 Moves for Real-Life Stability - YouTube

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
22min
April 22, 2026 281. The Science of Nervous System Regulation with Gina Coil
In this episode, I'm diving deep into nervous system regulation with Gina Coil, the creator of NeuroScenes, guided audio experiences designed to help you calm your nervous system, even when you're living with multiple sclerosis (MS) or other chronic conditions. If you've ever tried traditional meditation during an MS flare or when fatigue hits hard and found it just doesn't work, you're not alone. That's exactly why Gina created something different.
We'll talk about what Neuro Scenes actually are, how guided visualization and sensory techniques can make nervous system regulation feel easier and more restorative, and why calming your nervous system can help reduce MS symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing MS for years, this conversation is packed with practical strategies and neuroscience-backed tools you can start using right away, plus exclusive access to Gina's calming audio experiences created specifically for the MS community.

About Gina Coil:
Gina Coil creates tools for people who are overwhelmed and still have to keep living their lives. Her work exists for real moments. The ones where things feel heavy, confusing, or mentally exhausting, and you don’t have the energy to read a whole book, follow a long program, or figure out what’s “wrong” with you.
Gina is deeply interested in how the human brain and nervous system actually function under stress, not how they function when life is calm and ideal. She believes that when someone is struggling, more information usually isn’t what helps first. Feeling a little better is.
NeuroScenes grew out of that belief and her own lived experience. They are guided, imagination‑based experiences designed to help the nervous system regulate in real time, without pressure, performance, or fixing.
Gina meets people where they are and helps things feel more manageable first.
Connect with Gina:
Website: www.ginacoil.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18UG5RQqri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colorfullivingwithgina
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@colorfullivingwithgina?_t=ZP-8uIC7VjKMe7&_r=1
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@colorfullivingwithginacoil?si=Y-z1b3I8QWZnJ-NY

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
39min
April 15, 2026 280. BioNess, Red Light, Vibration Plates: Honest MS Reviews
In this episode, I’m diving into a product review of five popular tools and devices commonly mentioned for managing multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms—vibration plates, Bioness L300 (and other functional electrical stimulation devices), red light therapy, the Pulse device, and Restural foot pad. I break down the evidence behind each product, share my perspective as an MS-specialized physical therapist, and offer expert tips to help you decide what could truly support your MS mobility, walking, and strength goals.

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:
The MSing Link Episode 165, Red Light Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis w/ Dr. Alyson Evans - Spotify | Apple
The MSing Link Episode 243, MS Red Light Therapy for Nerve Repair & Inflammation – Chiropractor + PhD Explains - Spotify | Apple
The MSing Link Episode 273, Ankle Braces vs AFOs for MS: What’s the Difference? - Spotify | Apple
The MSing Link Episode 274, Fake MS Cures on Social Media: How to Tell What’s Real vs. AI Hype - Spotify | Apple

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
37min
April 08, 2026 279. MS Balance Tips for Real Life
In this episode, I’m tackling a topic that frustrates so many of us living with multiple sclerosis (MS): balance training! As an MS-specialized physical therapist and founder of the MSing Link, I break down why traditional balance exercises like tandem stance, feet together, and wobble boards often don’t help with real-life activities—like getting dressed, walking on uneven surfaces, or turning your head.
Instead, I share evidence-based, functional balance exercises that are proven to improve mobility, strength, and confidence in day-to-day life. If you want to discover practical strategies, MS exercises, and personalized tools to tackle balance challenges, this episode is for you!

Resources Mentioned In This Episode:
The MSing Link Online Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
23min
April 01, 2026 278. What New Symptoms Really Mean in MS Rehab
In this episode of The MSing Link Podcast, I share a personal story about falling down the stairs while seven months pregnant, and how my experience relates closely to what so many living with multiple sclerosis (MS) go through when working to get stronger and walk better.
We explore the gate control theory of pain and discuss why new symptoms can pop up during MS exercise routines—and how this often signals progress, not setbacks.
If you’ve ever felt discouraged by changing MS symptoms, tune in for expert insights, practical strategies, and encouragement tailored for your journey. I offer actionable MS exercises, tips for walking better, and guidance for overcoming mobility challenges. Join me as we peel back the layers of MS to empower your quality of life!

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
26min
March 25, 2026 277. Your MS Questions Answered: Walking, Hip Weakness & Leg Pain
In this episode, I’m thrilled to give you a special sneak peek inside The MSing Link with a Q&A session pulled directly from our exclusive member calls! You’ll hear real questions from our MSing Link community—on topics like walking challenges, leg weakness, use of mobility aids, pain management, muscle strength, neuroplasticity, and more—as I offer practical, actionable solutions you can implement today.
This episode is packed with MS-specific exercises, strategies to boost balance and strength, honest product reviews, and the supportive energy of our incredible community.
If you’ve been curious about what The MSing Link membership is really like, this Q&A episode is your chance to experience the expert guidance, hope, and camaraderie we share each month. Whether you’re navigating MS mobility issues, seeking advice on new therapies, or wanting to get stronger and feel more confident in daily life, these tips are for you!

Resources mentioned in the episode:
The MSing Link - https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/the-msing-link-program

Bop It - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09JDMZ8X4?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_V0YPFCHEYEVDMTZ0XGJE

Zeen - https://gozeen.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoofebcqRgVj4ZN5gTNtCrFAq7ak0-uSWeGI5o_PIW6ORI5rUJKM

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
59min
March 18, 2026 276. Neuroplasticity for Mindset: How to Respond Differently When Life Feels Hard with Kelsea Koenreich
In this episode, I’m thrilled to interview my business coach, Kelsea Koenreich, who specializes in neuroplasticity for mindset. Together, we explore how to rewire your brain to overcome negative patterns, build resilience, and empower yourself on your journey with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Kelsea shares practical strategies for challenging unhelpful thoughts, asking for support, and embracing change—tools that can make a real difference for those of us living with MS or any chronic illness.
You’ll learn actionable methods for improving your mental strength, mobility, energy, and independence using research-driven neuroplasticity techniques. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with evidence-based MS tips, mindset exercises, and expert advice to boost your confidence and quality of life with MS!

About Kelsea Koenreich:
Kelsea Koenreich is a business coach for female entrepreneurs. She is my business coach. One of the things that Kelsea specializes in 9s neuroplasticity for mindset. So things like how we can literally rewire our brains through the thoughts that we choose, the questions that we ask ourselves, and the actions that we take.
And while my focus is neuroplasticity for movement and strength and mobility, hers is neuroplasticity for how we respond to life's challenges.
So whether you are navigating a chronic illness or dealing with physical limitations or just feeling stuck in negative thought patterns, the work that Kelsea does applies to all of us because at the core, we are all humans facing change and loss and the need to adapt.

Connect with Kelsea:
Website: https://www.kelseakoenreich.com/
The Mom Founders Table Podcast: https://www.kelseakoenreich.com/mom-founders-table
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseakoenreich/

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider
Reach out to Me: [email protected]
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
...more
47min

FAQs about The MSing Link:

How many episodes does The MSing Link have?

The podcast currently has 286 episodes available.

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