Join us for a compelling conversation with Gary Boyle, who lives with young-onset Parkinson's, and his wife, Joan Duffy, a speech-language therapist and LSVT LOUD clinician.

This episode delves into their unique journey, from Gary's diagnosis and his proactive approach to living well with Parkinson's, to Joan's dual role as a care partner and professional expert.

They share candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of navigating Parkinson's, offering a powerful testament to resilience and the impact of communication.

Discover their personal experience with LSVT LOUD therapy, as Gary recounts his voice and speech changes and breakthrough moments, while Joan highlights improvements in confidence and participation she observed.

The discussion also explores their advocacy efforts for Parkinson's care in Ireland and Europe. Gary and Joan provide invaluable advice for those newly diagnosed and for care partners, sharing what inspires hope in their ongoing journey.

Show Notes:

Special Guests: Gary Boyle and Joan DuffyHost: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP

Organizations Close to Gary and Joan:

Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease Ireland: ⁠https://eopd.ie/⁠Parkinsons’ Europe: ⁠https://parkinsonseurope.org/⁠Parkinson’s Ireland: ⁠https://www.parkinsons.ie/⁠The Irish Association of Speech + Language Therapists: ⁠https://www.iaslt.ie/⁠

Theme song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide.

Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc⁠

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios ⁠https://www.csdesignstudios.com/⁠

Get Certified: ⁠⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠⁠LSVT Global Website: ⁠⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com⁠⁠Find LSVT Clinicians: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

In this heartfelt conversation, we sit down with Dr. George Ackerman, founder of Together for Sharon, to explore how the journey of caring for his mother, Sharon, through Parkinson’s and dementia became the foundation for a global advocacy movement.

George shares what it was like to be both a son and a caregiver, how storytelling helped him process grief, and why he believes lived experience is one of the most powerful tools for changing awareness and reducing stigma around Parkinson’s and dementia.

We also talk about how Together for Sharon has grown into an international community that connects patients, caregivers, clinicians, and advocates, and what gives George hope for the future of Parkinson’s care.

This episode is for anyone who has loved someone with Parkinson’s, anyone living with Parkinson’s themselves, or anyone who wants to understand what that journey really looks like behind the diagnosis.

SHOW NOTES

Special Guest: George Ackerman, PhD, JD, MBA, Police Ofc. Rsv.Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP

TOGETHER FOR SHARON LINKS

Website: https://togetherforsharon.com/All Socials: https://linktr.ee/togetherforsharonTogetherForSharon® Shop: https://www.togetherforsharon.com/shop/Email: [email protected]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ackerman-ph-d-esq-mba-00871a82/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/togetherforsha1Instagram & Threads: https://www.instagram.com/togetherforsharon/The Parkinson’s Connection YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheParkinsonsConnection/playlistsThe TogetherForSharon® Podcast: https://www.togetherforsharon.com/podcast-interviews/Q&A with Sharon’s Son: https://www.togetherforsharon.com/qa-with-sharons-son-george/Interview Index: https://www.togetherforsharon.com/interview-index/Blog (Tackling Tough Topics): https://www.togetherforsharon.com/tackling-tough-topics/YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIeBLOelhaLQNvgeNMzu-5g

THEME SONG

"Think LOUD for Parkinson’s" by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer. Inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment to raise global awareness. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s.Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios: https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

LSVT GLOBAL RESOURCES

Get Certified: https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/Website: https://www.lsvtglobal.comFind LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

Join occupational therapist (OT) Erica Vitek as she shares her journey at the intersection of Parkinson’s (PD) rehabilitation and pelvic floor therapy. Erica recounts her path from general OT practice to specializing in PD and pelvic health, shaped by her roles at LSVT Global and the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute, and discusses powerful patient stories where addressing bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction restored dignity and independence.

Listeners will explore how PD disrupts pelvic function, top myths related to receiving healthcare for pelvic function, communication tools for sensitive topics, collaboration strategies with specialists, and actionable self-management tips.

She also introduces her new self-paced course, Foundations of Pelvic Rehabilitation for Parkinson’s Disease, as a resource touching on PD neuroanatomy, pelvic floor function, evidence-based strategies, and self-management for therapy professionals and PD families. Perfect for OTs, PTs, neuro rehab clinicians, patients with PD, and caregivers seeking practical hope and awareness.

SHOW NOTES:

Special Guest: Erica Vitek, MOT, OTR, BCB-PMD, PRPCHost: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP

RESOURCES:

Erica’s New Online Course (Open to everyone): Foundations of Pelvic Rehabilitation for Parkinson’s Disease: https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/foundations-of-pelvic-rehabilitation-for-parkinson-s-disease-a-guide-for-therapy-professionals/

Advanced Course for Rehab Professionals: Parkinson Disease and Pelvic Rehabilitation: https://hermanwallace.com/continuing-education-courses/parkinson-disease-and-pelvic-rehabilitation

Directory of APTA Women’s Pelvic Health Specialists: https://www.aptapelvichealth.org/wcs-directory

Directory of Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioners (PRPC): https://pelvicrehab.com/?utm_source=hermanwallace.com&utm_medium=referrral&utm_content=findapractitioner

THEME SONG:

"Think LOUD for Parkinson’s" by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer. A song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment, developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide. Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s.

Watch the Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

CONNECT WITH US:

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get Certified: https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/

LSVT Global Website: https://www.lsvtglobal.com

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

Last October, we celebrated National Physical Therapy Month and the one-year anniversary of Sean Bulanda’s journey of self-renewal. Sean, a physical therapist and the Proud Parkinson’s Ninja, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in early 2025. Since then, he’s rebuilt his health, earned LSVT BIG certification, launched a support group and fundraiser, and even begun exploring comedy and songwriting.

Sean’s story shows that Parkinson’s is not the end, but a new chapter filled with purpose and possibility. With his belief that “anyone can be a ninja,” he shares inspiration and practical wisdom for living fully, no matter the challenges.

Connect & Learn More:

• Facebook Support Group: Parkinson’s Support – Got Dopamine?

• LSVT Certification & Info: lsvtglobal.com

In this episode, we dive deep into LSVT BIG, an occupational and physical therapy approach designed to improve movement amplitude and daily function for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Join researchers and occupational therapists Dr. Barbara Doucet, Dr. Mark Blanchard, and Dr. Ingrid Franc as they discuss their pivotal study on how LSVT BIG impacts the speed and quality of everyday tasks. Discover what bradykinesia really feels like, hear patient stories, and explore practical applications of this therapy from the perspectives of both science and lived experience. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, researcher, or someone affected by Parkinson’s, this conversation offers valuable insights into the power of targeted occupational therapy to enhance independence and quality of life.

Show Notes:

Special Guests: Barbara M. Doucet, PhD, OTR

  Mark Blanchard, OTD, OTR/L, ATP

  Ingrid Franc, PhD, OTR/L

Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP

Publication Citation:

Doucet, B. M., Blanchard, M., & Franc, I. (2025). Effects of LSVT BIG® on Bradykinesia During Activities of Daily Living. OTJR: occupation, participation and health, 15394492251367275. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/15394492251367275

Theme song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide.

Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get Certified: ⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠  

LSVT Global Website: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com⁠

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

In this episode, we explore the innovative "Coach Approach" to Parkinson’s voice therapy with Leanne Smith, one of the speech clinicians behind the successful technology-supported LSVT LOUD® program with NHS Scotland. Facing challenges like waiting list pressures and limited resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, this small team integrated the LSVT Coach® software to blend in-person and independent LSVT Coach led sessions — maintaining treatment intensity without compromise.

Join us as Leanne shares insights on how this hybrid model addresses real-world clinical demands, patient experiences adjusting to the technology, and the significant clinician time savings that have enhanced their speech therapy delivery, while still achieving targeted outcomes. We’ll dive into the practicalities of balancing therapy sessions, key features that make the software accessible and effective, and how the team envisions expanding this approach to benefit more people with Parkinson’s disease.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional, caregiver, or someone living with a neurological condition, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how technology and therapy can work hand in hand to improve communication and quality of life.

Show Notes:

Special Guest: Leanne Smith, SLT

Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP

Link to “Coach Approach” Poster: https://bit.ly/CoachApproachPoster

Link to “Coach Approach” Presentation: https://bit.ly/CoachApproachPresentation

Link to LSVT Coach: https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/categories/merchandise/lsvt-coach.html/

Theme song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide.

Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get Certified: ⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠

LSVT Global Website: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com⁠

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

This October, we celebrate both National Physical Therapy Month and the one-year anniversary of the start of Sean Bulanda’s inspiring journey of self-renewal. Sean, a physical therapist and the Proud Parkinson’s Ninja, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in early 2025 after years of battling anxiety and depression. With the support of his family and friends, he experienced a powerful awakening in October 2024 that set him on a new path forward.

Since then, Sean has rebuilt his health, earned LSVT BIG certification, launched a support group and fundraiser, and even begun exploring comedy and songwriting. His story shows that Parkinson’s is not the end of life as you know it, but the beginning of a new chapter filled with purpose and possibility.

With his belief that “anyone can be a ninja,” Sean offers inspiration and practical wisdom for living fully, no matter the challenges.

Show Notes:

Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP            

Special Guest: Sean Bulanda, PT

Online Support Group (Facebook): Parkinson’s Support - Got Dopamine?

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1EzApEPuh6/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Facebook 

https://facebook.com/Sean.Bulanda

https://facebook.com/proud.parkinson.s.ninja

Instagram

https://instagram.com/proud_parkinsons_ninja%C2%A0

YouTube Channel 

http://www.youtube.com/@ProudParkinsonsNinja 

YouTube Music Channel

https://youtube.com/channel/UCzbW6Aurf8XsbUeg-Hd81eQ?si=b1UbjkkkANAYFltD  

Apple Music Artist Page 

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/proud-parkinsons-ninja/1826034031

Spotify Channel 

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5FL3uHdBCRZrrs7uPRA2sg?si=_ZzThordSVi5SjF9iHQLCg

Theme song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide.

Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get Certified: ⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠

LSVT Global Website: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com⁠

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

Join us for an inspiring and science-driven conversation with Dr. Ray Dorsey and Dr. Michael Okun, renowned neurologists and authors of the New York Times bestselling book, The Parkinson’s Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment. Discover how their latest research uncovers environmental causes of Parkinson’s disease, challenges long-held assumptions, and presents practical strategies to prevent, slow, and treat the condition. Learn about the “Parkinson’s 25” checklist, the links between toxins and risk, and the urgent next steps toward a future where Parkinson’s is increasingly rare. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or advocate, this podcast offers clarity, hope, and actionable steps for families and communities everywhere.

Show Notes:

Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP            

Special Guests: Ray Dorsey, MD and Michael Okun, MD

The Parkinson’s Plan Website: https://pdplan.org/

Purchase The Parkinson’s Plan: Available now from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1541705386 and wherever books are sold.

Win The Parkinson’s Plan! Tell someone about this podcast episode and complete our quick listener survey to be entered for a chance to win the book! Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WinTheParkinsonsPlanwithLSVTGlobal

PD Avengers Website: https://www.pdavengers.com/

Theme song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide.

Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get LSVT LOUD and LSVT BIG Certified: ⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

LSVT Global Website: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com

Step inside the world of Impact Physical Therapy as founders Dr. Tamara Hefferon and  Dr. Eric Hefferon share the story behind their clinic’s decade-long journey of excellence and innovation in patient care. In this special episode, you’ll hear how their Arizona-based practice has become a beacon for those seeking personalized, compassionate healing - rejecting quick fixes in favor of hands-on expertise and empowering patients to reclaim active, healthy lives.

Hear how they’ve helped people with a wide range of conditions - including those living with Parkinson’s - achieve remarkable outcomes through LSVT BIG and a ‘train like an athlete’ approach that pushes each patient to reach their fullest potential. Discover how their unwavering commitment to treating people, not just symptoms, has shaped a practice renowned for genuine connections and customized exercise programs. We’ll also explore how they’ve built a culture rooted in integrity, service, and continuous learning.

Whether you’re passionate about healthcare, searching for inspiration in entrepreneurship, or want to know what makes a regional leader in physical therapy thrive, this episode provides insights into building a clinic - and a culture - that makes a lasting impact every day.

Show Notes:

Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP            

Special Guests: Tamara Hefferon, PT, DPT and Eric Hefferon, PT, DPT

Impact PT Website: https://impactptaz.com/

Impact PT Social Media

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impact_pt_az/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@impactptaz

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz8SJucAk66u4tW8DH1XKtA

Theme song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide.

Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get Certified: ⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠

LSVT Global Website: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com⁠

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with Adrienne Singletary, a trailblazing corporate speech-language pathologist (SLP) and founder of Transcendent Accents, LLC. Adrienne has made it her mission to help professionals unlock their full communication potential, guiding clients and fellow SLPs beyond traditional settings and into the dynamic world of corporate speech therapy. As an entrepreneur, she’s not only refined executive communication for countless clients, but also empowers SLPs to reimagine their careers and impact.

In this episode, we’re taking a unique detour from our usual focus on Parkinson’s and neurorehabilitation. Instead, we’ll explore Adrienne’s journey from school-based SLP burnout to building a thriving business that bridges speech science and corporate success. We’ll dive into her insights on navigating career pivots, the distinct challenges and rewards of corporate speech therapy, and how she’s helping shape the next generation of SLP entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a clinician, a business leader, or just curious about the intersection of communication and professional growth, you won’t want to miss Adrienne’s story and practical advice.

Show Notes:

Host: Elizabeth Peterson, MA, CCC-SLP            

Guest: Adrienne Singletary, Corporate Speech-Language Pathologist, Founder/CEO, Transcendent Accents, LLC

Transcendent Accents Website: https://transcendentaccents.com/

Transcendent Accents Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/transcendent_accents/

Theme Song: Think LOUD for Parkinson’s by Kindred Spirit and Leo Sayer, a song and video inspired by LSVT LOUD® speech treatment. Developed to raise awareness for Parkinson’s worldwide. Available for download and streaming on all major music platforms. Proceeds benefit the UK charity Cure Parkinson’s. The video can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=li1sfIXnrpc

Podcast Production Team: CS Design Studios https://www.csdesignstudios.com/

Get Certified: ⁠https://lsvtstore.mybigcommerce.com/⁠

LSVT Global Website: ⁠https://www.lsvtglobal.com⁠

Find LSVT Clinicians: https://www.lsvtglobal.com/LSVTFindClinicians