A Year of Progress in MS: What's New and What It Means for You

Brain Chat with the Nerdy Neurologist is a new podcast hosted by Mitzi Joi Williams, MD, designed to bridge clinical neurology with real-world conversations around brain health, wellness, and scientific progress. In each episode, Williams sits down with leading voices across neurology and related fields to unpack complex topics in a way that is both clinically grounded and broadly relevant to everyday life, relationships, and long-term brain health. Filmed at the Joy Life Wellness Complex, the series emphasizes thoughtful, patient-centered discussions that connect evolving science with practical care considerations.

In this episode, Williams is joined by Jacqueline Rosenthal, MD, Medical Director of the MS Institute at Shepherd Center and a fellowship-trained neuroimmunologist, for a comprehensive “year in review” on multiple sclerosis. The discussion spans key developments from the past 12 months, including challenges in progressive MS trials, emerging BTK inhibitor therapies, and the growing role of biomarkers such as neurofilament light chain. They also explore evolving perspectives on MS subtypes, Epstein-Barr virus research, and how a shift toward personalized, comprehensive care is reshaping clinical decision-making and patient quality of life.

EPISODE BREAKDOWN:

• Overview of past year in MS research
• Understanding non-relapsing progressive MS
• BTK inhibitors and emerging treatment strategies
• Role of neurofilament light chain biomarker
• Rethinking MS subtypes and disease classification
• Comprehensive care and personalized treatment approaches

Other formats:

Listen to the show on Apple Podcasts.

Watch the episode on YouTube.