Podcast

This episode of This Is Parkinson’s is straight from the heart. Country music star Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town sits down with Lisa Volenec to share her family’s 21-year journey with Parkinson’s disease. Kimberly opens up about recognizing her mother’s early warning signs, how she and her siblings unite as a team to manage daily caregiving, and the emotional reality of anticipatory grief. From finding joy in simple moments to using old church hymns as music therapy, Kimberly offers a warm, inspiring perspective on love, resilience, and holding onto hope.

Molly Stern, a Hollywood makeup artist turned Parkinson’s warrior, shares her raw, inspiring journey from diagnosis to empowerment—and how she found her strength in authenticity, humor, and deep connection. Her story is a masterclass in resilience, revealing the surprising ways she navigates her career, family, and identity while living with Parkinson’s.

This episode is perfect for anyone newly diagnosed, those considering advanced treatments, or caregivers eager to learn about innovative options that go beyond pills. Jennifer’s candid storytelling offers hope, clarity, and a reminder that remarkable quality of life is still possible—even in the face of Parkinson’s.

Lisa has an insightful conversation with Donna Parkhurst about receiving her early onset diagnosis on the heels of her mother’s passing from the same disease. She’s turned her story into one of advocacy, helping others on her growing social media platform with honest and raw videos about what it’s like to live with Parkinson’s.

Dr. Ray Dorsey, a neurologist and leading expert in PD discusses the environmental causes of Parkinson’s, emphasizing that chemicals in our environment, not genetics, are the primary drivers. He highlights the importance of reducing exposure to these chemicals to prevent and slow the disease. The conversation also touches on the need for advocacy and awareness to create a world without Parkinson’s.

Learn about Allison’s journey as she navigates her husband Luke’s Parkinson’s diagnosis and their struggle in finding the right health care. Then as they begin to explore DBS, an experimental treatment puts them on a path with a new hope for their future.

Lisa and her lifelong best friend Dawn—friends since first grade—share a deep, enduring bond as they navigate Lisa’s diagnosis together, with a hilarious best-friend game revealing unexpected sides.

Dr. George Ackerman founded TogetherForSharon after losing his mother to Parkinson’s in 2020. Through 3,000+ interviews, books, and speaking, he amplifies voices and fights for awareness, connection, and a cure.

Angie shares her journey as a long distance caregiver for her father with Parkinson’s, highlighting resilience, family support, and the power of community. Her lessons learned are helpful for any care provider and loved one.

Tim Lockard shares his raw, emotional story of grappling with early-onset Parkinson’s and the struggle to accept a diagnosis no one wants. You’ll discover how he transformed ashes into advocacy, using social media as a lifeline for thousands, creating a movement built on faith, gratitude, and connection. His story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to adapt and thrive against all odds.

Since his diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Pat Voelker struggles to come to terms but lifts the invisible weight with humor and resilience, turning a daunting diagnosis into a fight worth winning.

After a Parkinson’s diagnosis, Cheryl Lowenhart channels science, community, and grit into action—proving resilience can be built, one choice at a time. Her yearly fundraising event is on 4/18 in Phoenix, AZ.