Let's Talk MS

S02E05 | Nutrition: Finding balance in what we eat

Young People's Network — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

In this episode, we will be exploring the impact of nutrition on the lives of people with MS, NMOSD or MOGAD. You will hear about the ways in which nutrition can affect your health, learn from personal experiences and gain practical tips, among other insights!

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Sophie Pratt: Dietitian and a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute. Based in Ireland, she works with a diverse range of clients and contributes to media platforms such as radio and television. She is an expert in weight management, fertility health and eating disorders, and also designs specialised dietary interventions for individuals, including those with MS.
Marjolijn Oranje: From the Netherlands and member of the Young People’s Network. She works in banking and discovered that she had MS 5 years ago while living and working my for the first time abroad. Ever since, she has tried adapting to life with MS as best as she can, whilst continuing traveling and working in different countries.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:01) - Healthy diets for people with MS
(00:02:21) - The role of nutrition in MS and health
(00:06:54) - Mixed messages on nutrition and people with MS
(00:08:27) - Fatigue and inflammation
(00:11:00) - How to manage constipation?
(00:12:33) - Diet and energy management after Ms. Mayoline
(00:17:14) - How to manage a chronic condition with a diet?
(00:22:33) - The importance of nutrition for patients with Parkinson's
(00:29:19) - Specific guidelines for diet and health in Ireland
(00:31:21) - 5 tips for young people with chronic conditions
(00:33:21) - A Week in the Life with Mario
(00:34:23) - A Quick and Dirty Talk About Food
(00:36:00) - Rapid Fire Q & A
(00:38:44) - Uncovering nutrition for people with multiple sclerosis (MSY)

S02E04 | MS, NMOSD and MOGAD on the Move: Studying and Working Abroad

Young People's Network — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:11:00 +0000

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

In this episode, we are excited to talk about the fantastic adventure of moving abroad and all the challenges that arise when taking this step while living with a chronic condition such as MS, NMOSD or MOGAD. We will learn about the first steps you can take to access support in your new country, hear personal stories, and reflect on the importance of the process.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Annick Van Merhaegen is a dedicated MS Nurse Specialist with over 15 years of experience at University Hospital in Brussels. Her practice is centered on patient consultation, nurse-led care, and collaboration with neurologists, always with a focus on a holistic approach. She is deeply committed to understanding and addressing the lived experience of individuals with MS, advocating for comprehensive and patient-centered care.
Cornelia Pauna is a EMSP Young People’s Network member, from Romania, diagnosed with MS almost 10 years ago. Her diagnosis occurred shortly before the final year of her bachelor’s studies and significantly influenced her early career decisions, leading her to prioritize employment stability. In 2025, she made the decision to return to academia in order to redirect her professional path, so today we will hear what this decision meant for her and her MS.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:28) - YPN Member Cornelia Pauna on her battle with MS
(00:02:02) - The challenges of moving abroad
(00:03:02) - Why to move with a chronic condition?
(00:03:54) - The challenges of moving from one country to another
(00:06:27) - Continuity of care in the EU
(00:07:30) - First step in the healthcare system
(00:09:56) - Return to academia and its impact on MS
(00:13:21) - What kind of support systems or accommodations can students or employees with Ms
(00:15:16) - The language barrier in medical treatment
(00:18:55) - In the Elevator With Chronic fatigue
(00:21:51) - Anique on Leaving Their Home Country
(00:23:31) - How living abroad can help empower people with Ms. Hodgkin's
(00:24:49) - What did Living With the World Teach You About Your MS?
(00:25:52) - MOVING ALONE: Advice for Young People
(00:28:37) - MS patients and their routines
(00:29:24) - Taste Comfort Food or Try New Food?
(00:30:00) - DW: Tips to explain your condition to a person you have recently
(00:32:11) - Let's Talk Ms. GAD

S02E03 | Working with MS: challenges, resilience and practical tips

Young People's Network — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

Today's conversation is a hot topic for young people living with MS and related conditions. According to the 2020 MS Barometer, only 48% of the estimated number of people living with MS were in employment across the 32 responding countries. This figure highlights the significant employment-related challenges faced by people with MS. NMOSD and MOGAD are also relevant to the topic of employment.

For this reason, we are excited to share more useful information with you on this topic, including good practices, how to deal with disclosure and other interesting questions and topics.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

• Graham Halsey, founder of Well Working Matters in the UK, a consultancy company in the area of absence management and return to work.

• Jade Bourion, a Young People's Network member, a consultant by profession, and a sports enthusiast.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions.

Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon. Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - Let's Talk MS
(00:01:20) - What It's Really Like to Work with MS, NMOSD
(00:02:06) - Working with a disability
(00:05:25) - Are we leading the way in disability inclusion?
(00:07:49) - Disclosure of disabilities in the hiring process
(00:15:53) - The role of chronic conditions in the workplace
(00:19:45) - Working From Home
(00:22:36) - Disclosing a disability on the job application
(00:26:45) - The social rights of people with chronic conditions
(00:28:34) - Sparkling Water or Still Water
(00:29:22) - What Makes a Workplace Inclusive?
(00:30:45) - Let's Talk Ms. in the Workplace

S02E02 | Keep Moving: The Power of Sport with MS and related conditions

Young People's Network — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

The MS Awareness Run is taking place the 2nd November in the framework of the 20^th Edition of Brussels Airport Marathon and Half Marathon, a great opportunity to come together, raise awareness, run and celebrate the strength and resilience of the MS community.

That’s why we’re excited to discuss about sports and their impact on Multiple Sclerosis and related conditions. Today, we’ll explore how physical activity can support you throughout your diagnosis journey, its key benefits, and share some practical tips and insights along the way.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Felipe Balisteiri, 32, from Brazil, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 10 years ago while studying physical education. The diagnosis inspired him to research the disease, leading him to complete a master’s in movement science. Since 2021, he has been pursuing a PhD in rehabilitation science at the University of Hasselt, Belgium, focusing on how people with multiple sclerosis control their movements and walking through brain activity analysis.

Eline-Sofie, 24, from Norway, is a qualified nurse and a digital marketing student. She was diagnosed with MS at the age of 23, last year. Since then she has been a vocal advocate for raising awareness about MS and the needs of young people with the condition as an active member of YPN. She documents her journey as a person with MS on TikTok.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

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You can find all the resources and documents mentioned in this episode below:

Webinar about Movement with MS
Information MS Awareness Run. Thanks for supporting our fundrasing efforts!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S02E01 | Paediatric MS: Growing, learning and adapting

Young People's Network — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the new season of Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP).

We’re excited to be back and to open this season with a special episode focusing on children with MS and their families as they go back to school. In this episode, we explore the unique challenges that paediatric MS brings, from school life and friendships to health and family relationships.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Emily Blosberg is the founder of Mr Oscar Monkey, an NGO that helps children living with MS. After being diagnosed with MS herself at the age of 15, Emily discovered her passion for helping children, teenagers and young adults with MS to connect with each other.
Eleanor Kitson, a graphic designer from the UK, was also diagnosed with MS at 15. She is a member of the EMSP Young People's Network. Her MS journey has taught her resilience and creativity, and has shown her the importance of finding her voice and showing that life with MS can still be full of colour, purpose and possibility.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E08 | Aida's Story: Strength, Positivity, Challenges and NMOSD

Young People's Network — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). After introducing NMOSD and MOGAD in our previous episode, today we take a more personal approach. We’ll hear a real-life story, learn more about the symptoms, and reflect on the power of positivity and mindset when navigating health challenges.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Aida Fuentes is back in our podcast, journalist, teacher, and the first person with NMOSD to join EMSP’s Young People’s Network (YPN).

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.
If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E07 | Facing NMOSD and MOGAD: More than a diagnosis

Young People's Network — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Let's Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). In this episode, we explore what it truly means to live with NMOSD and MOGAD, explaining what these conditions are and the vital role that community plays in the journey.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Souad Mazari, patient advocate and founder of NGO Rare Mais Ensemble in France.
Aida Fuentes, journalist, teacher, and the first person with NMOSD to join EMSP’s Young People’s Network (YPN).

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E06 | Life with MS: Overcoming Stigma & Discrimination

Young People's Network — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to Let’s Talk MS, proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). In this episode, we discuss the stigma and discrimination faced by people with multiple sclerosis and related conditions, as well as the misjudgement of symptoms when they are both visible and invisible. Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests: Elizabeth Cunningham, a health communications consultant and Senior Communications Manager at the European Federation of Neurological Associations (EFNA). Emma Rogan, a brain health campaigner who has worked at EMSP for over a decade. She has spent her career addressing employment issues, job retention and returning to work for people diagnosed with MS and/or living with a disability.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E05 | Living with MS: Navigating Mental Health Challenges

Young People's Network — Thu, 08 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to "Let’s Talk MS," proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). In this episode, we discuss the emotional impact of an MS diagnosis on young people. Our guests share personal experiences, tips on asking for help, the importance of small daily victories and support, and much more.

Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests: Yolanda Higueras, a PhD neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience who has collaborated with EMSP on several occasions, including the previous edition of the Young People’s Festival. Janneke Knol is a member of the Young People’s Network (YPN) from the Netherlands, where she also coordinates the Youth Group within the national MS society.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E04 | Parenting with MS: Pregnancy and Family Planning

Young People's Network — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to "Let’s Talk MS," proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). In this episode we'll talk about family planning, pregnancy and what comes after when you have the baby, learning the importance of expressing your self and don’t be afraid to talk and ask your questions to healthcare specialists. Alongside hosts Elisabeth Kasilingam and Anna Revilla, we are excited to introduce our guests:

Vicki Mathews, a nurse from the UK who has dedicated her career to the care of MS, as well as two members of the Young People’s Network:
Iris Magnúsdóttir from Iceland, who has recently become a mom
Nik Miskovic from Slovenia, a father of two.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E03 | MS & The Power of Community

Young People's Network — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 09:09:27 +0000

Welcome to "Let’s Talk MS," proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). In this episode we'll explore the power of community and why people with MS need each other to foster a sense of resilience, advocate for change and create a sense of belonging.

Alongside host Simina Peterfi, we introduce our guests Tania Pilz: a youth advocate, member of the EMSP’s Young People’s Network, content creator and the founder of the first International Multiple Sclerosis Community in Austria. She will be joined by Amy Thompson, founder & CEO of MS Together, winner of National Diveristy Award, freelance content creator and disability advocate.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E02 | Heart-to-Heart: MS, Communication, and Relationships

Young People's Network — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:11:20 +0000

Welcome to "Let’s Talk MS," proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform (EMSP). In our latest episode, "Heart-to-Heart: MS, Communication, and Relationships" we continue our exploration into life with MS and related disorders.

Join host Simina Peterfi and guests Moira Tzitzik, Nadja Stanojevic, and Viivi Vesala as we discuss the intricacies of communication and relationships. From navigating intimate conversations to dating and disclosure, this episode sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced by those living with MS. Through expert insights and personal stories, this podcast offers a space to openly address the complexities of relationships.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more enriching discussions. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.

S01E01 | Unveiling Intimacy: How MS Impacts Sexuality

Young People's Network — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:09:55 +0000

Welcome to "Let’s Talk MS," proudly presented by the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform. In our debut episode, "Unveiling Intimacy: How MS Impacts Sexuality," we navigate the complexities of MS and its effects on intimacy.

Join host Simina Peterfi and guests Moira Tzitzik, Nadja Stanojevic, and Viivi Vesala as we delve into topics ranging from physical changes to coping mechanisms and building positive body image. Through expert insights and personal narratives, this podcast provides a safe space to tackle intimate aspects of life with MS and other related disorders.

Follow the project on Instagram and Twitter @eumsyouth for more engaging conversations. Follow the European Multiple Sclerosis Platform on Instagram and Twitter @eumsplatform for more about MS.

If you enjoy our podcast and want to support our work, you can do so on Patreon.

Stay tuned, and thank you for being part of our community!

This episode if co-funded by Sanofi, Merck, Roche, Novartis, Alexion and Amgen.