A wildfire can take your house in minutes. What it can’t take—if you fight for it—is your ability to choose what comes next. We open up about losing our Altadena home in the Eaton Fire, the chaotic evacuation with two poodles and two cats, and the gritty, unglamorous path to rebuilding when Parkinson’s is part of daily life. From “well begun is half done” to letting go of what can burn, this conversation moves from shock to action, and from paperwork to purpose.

We break down the steps that turned grief into motion: hiring an architect and contractor within weeks, surviving a nine-month “fast-tracked” permit maze, and navigating two rounds of temporary housing that taught us what accessibility really means. The details matter—no-step entries, wide halls, curbless showers, reachable storage, induction cooking, and lighting that respects tired eyes. These choices aren’t luxuries; they’re the difference between conserving strength for what you love and spending it on doorways and drawers.

There’s a human core to all of it: what you grab when time collapses, how you forgive yourself for what stays behind, and why presence beats perfection. Along the way, there’s real joy—road trips to reconnect, an Iceland photo that placed in a juried show, and the launch of Faces of Parkinson’s, Volume Two. Community shows up too, from neighbors repurposing historic homes to friends who keep asking the right questions.

If you’re staring down big change, here’s a roadmap built from fire and faith: start sooner than you feel ready, design for the body you have and the future you can’t predict, and keep space for art, pets, and laughter. If this story helps you breathe easier or plan smarter, tap follow, share it with someone who needs resilience today, and leave a review so others can find the show.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

A slipper, a sudden freeze, and a screen that reads “DBS unit failed.” That’s how our morning began—and how years of carefully managed Parkinson’s symptoms vanished in seconds. What follows is an unvarnished look at life when a single device holds up half your world, and what it takes to stand it back up when that device goes dark during the holidays.

We walk through the cascade: dystonia locking all four limbs, a voice reshaped by stimulation, and the way DBS can both give back a life and complicate it. Travis shares how he balanced programming across device manufacturers and a movement disorder team, then layered in a subcutaneous levodopa pump to reclaim smoother movement without sacrificing communication. The tradeoffs are real, but so is the agency—adjust, test, iterate, and prioritize the parts of life that matter most.

Then we get tactical. With surgeons on vacation and insurance ticking over, we mobilized a network: neurology, neurosurgery, device reps, and a primary care fast-pass to complete pre-op in 24 hours. We pulled caregiving into a 40-hour schedule, leaned on friends for the gaps, and kept day jobs and a home rebuild moving after the Eaton Fire. The playbook is simple and hard: be known by your providers, deliver what they need quickly, and never hesitate to ask for help.

Finally, we zoom out to resilience planning. What happens when the internet drops and your phone depends on Wi-Fi? When you rely on a charger you can’t reach? When supply chains squeeze medication access? We share practical steps to eliminate single points of failure—phone trees, battery backups, accessible home design, and written plans—so a flare-up becomes a solvable problem, not a crisis.

If this story resonates, subscribe, share it with someone navigating Parkinson’s or DBS, and leave a review with one contingency you plan to add this week. Your ideas might be the lifeline someone else needs tomorrow.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What would you save if a fire threatened to consume everything you hold dear? Join me, Travis Robinson, alongside my co-host Judy Yarris, as we recount the harrowing moments when flames forced Sarah and me from our home in Altadena. From the heart-wrenching choices on what to rescue—my priceless photography gear and Sarah's cherished handmade furniture—to navigating the chaos of evacuation, our story is one of loss, resilience, and gratitude. With Judy's steadfast support, we also tackle the practical challenges that arise, like securing medication and documenting losses for insurance, and find solace in the immense outpouring of support from our community.

As we navigate this challenging chapter of our lives, we’re overwhelmed by the love and assistance we’ve received from friends both near and far. In this episode, we shine a light on the incredible solidarity that has uplifted us, driven by the very connections we have nurtured through our work with individuals living with Parkinson's. A GoFundMe page stands as a testament to this collective kindness, rallying contributions to help us rebuild. Judy and I share our profound gratitude and reflect on how the spirit of giving and solidarity can help us all rise from the ashes, stronger and more united than ever.

LINK To GFM page: https://gofund.me/e3c2cee4

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

In this episode Judy and Travis talk to Charles Schiell, who’s father had Parkinson's Disease. As his father's health declined he would visit and offer a "fresh set of eyes" to observe his father and help to determine where and what kinds of changes his parents could make to their home that would really benefit his father. Through the different levels of care his dad needed, Charles was able to fully adapt their living space to eventually provide full at home hospice care. We hope you enjoy our conversation with Charles as much as we did.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Ever experience the feeling that you'd like to start a project but feel overwhelmed when you start thinking about all the steps involved in it? For someone living with a neurological disease that project could be "eat breakfast" or "get dressed to leave the house."
    This episode Judy and Travis discuss how by removing all frivolous brainwidth costs from your daily life you will then have more to spend on things you really care about.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

In this episode Judy and Travis talk about clearing the physical clutter around your home as a way to not only ensure safety for the PWP (person with Parkinson’s) but also as a way to help clear the mind of clutter so that energy isn't spent looking for stuff in the piles of your mind. 

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What is it like to climb a mountain with PD? Or with a climbing partner with PD? This episode Judy and Travis have a conversation with Matt MacAller; Travis' friend and partner on his climb of "San G." the tallest mountain in  southern California. At 11,504 ft above sea level San G. stands well above the tree line making it a true alpine climbing experience.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

The conclusion: In this episode we hear about a day after the horrible, terrible, no good, very bad, day that Travis had. This one ends on a much brighter note. Thank you all for listening. 

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What happens when you do everything that you are supposed to and your day still goes pearshaped? Listen to Travis describe just such a day. Be sure you tune in next week for part 2 which concludes this story .

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

On this episode Judy and Travis discuss a new photography award that Travis won fir new work and how important it is to keep learning new stuff.

Enjoy!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis discuss off time, what it is & how to recognize it, and what you can do about it.  They also talk about some of the mind traps you can fall into when attempting to track your PD symptoms, Mark Twain and more.

Enjoy!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What does the weather in New England have to do with Parkinson's Disease symptoms? Listen to find out. Judy and Travis discuss gratitude & the mercurial l nature of PD symptoms .

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

 On this episode Judy and Travis talk about traveling compromises and Travis shares what his PD symptoms are like when he gets dehydrated, how he recognizes it and how to remedy it.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What if maintaining a positive mindset could change your life, even in the face of Parkinson's? Join Judy and Travis as they share stories of gratitude and resilience from 2024, while eagerly anticipating the new year. Experience the power of positivity and creativity as Travis embraces watercolor painting and authors two photography books, showcasing how art and mindfulness can enrich lives regardless of challenges. Tune in to hear how moments of sadness are natural, but focusing on joy and what can be controlled is transformative.

As we look forward to 2025, this episode celebrates personal achievements and highlights the importance of communication and planning, especially when managing specific needs. Travis offers practical tips for preparing for outings, ensuring comfort and enjoyment amid potential challenges. Judy and Travis emphasize the value of having things to look forward to, such as art shows and social visits, maintaining hope and motivation. Wrap up with us as we celebrate accomplishments, and share our excitement for future episodes in the new year, wishing everyone a Happy New Year filled with possibilities.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis talk about planning a trip with PD. What you need to keep in mind and how the success of a trip is largely dependent on how well thought out it is. Travis shares some of his experience in planning for an upcoming climbing trip.

Enjoy!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis launch a new series: Life skills, where we talk about specific strategies that you can employ to do the things that make life worth living to you, even if you have a neurological disease. Today's show is about cooking. Learn what Travis does to help him make a scrumptious breakfast.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis speak with 3 very promising undergraduates at UCLA who are members of a very special club: High Tech And Neurological Disorders or HAND.

What is HAND and what are they all about? Listen to find out more.

Link for you to learn more: https://handucla.org

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Sleep problems affect more than 75% of Parkinson's patients.* Judy and Travis discuss some of the ways that PD and sleep affect each other 


*Parkinson's Foundation website as of 10/18/21

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Hello Listeners,

This week's episode Judy and Travis talk about the I'm Not Dead Yet! Sniff therapy contest. Five lucky winners will receive a package with the SCENTinal smell test developed by Monell Center and a 4 jar smell training kit from Abscent.

Listen to this weeks episode to find out how you could win!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

How much do you know about your sense of smell? Do you still have it? What if there was a way to restore it?

In this episode Judy and Travis interview doctors Hong Wang & Nancy Rawson, researchers from Monell Chemical Senses Center. Monell was the first center in the US dedicated to  studying the senses of smell and taste. You can learn more about their amazing research at www.monell.org

Enjoy!                           

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode, Judy and Travis have the privilege of speaking with Mike Weinman. Mike is an "early onset" he was diagnosed at age 36. With a wife and three young children Mike had to adapt. He shares a part of his story with us.

Enjoy!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What is the PD community doing to move their brains forward? is the full title of this episode. Judy and Travis discuss a range of topics from defining Parkinson's Disease to sniff therapy. Travis share what he discovered about al forms of therapy (physical, speech, swallow, etc.)

Enjoy!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy & Travis discuss a range of topics including Organic, what the term means & Travis shares some of his experience working in the organic food industry. Judy shares about a webinar she attended & introduces a new book "This is your brain on food" by Uma Naidoo.

Enjoy!

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis talk about the importance of clinical research and how you can participate. Then they start a conversation about some of the benefits of eating organically.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Discover the groundbreaking world of Magnes, the Swiss innovators reshaping Parkinson's care with their state-of-the-art shoe technology. Join co-founder/CEO Olgac Ergeneman and Business Development Manager Chinouk Van Nijen as they unveil how their sensor-equipped sneaker changes the walking game for Parkinson's patients. Hear about the journey from the clinical setting to your living room, where these shoes act as personal gait coaches, providing real-time feedback to combat symptoms such as freezing and shuffling. The duo shares the shoe's seamless blend of technology and style, ensuring users feel both empowered and discreet in their everyday lives.

Peek behind the curtain at the smart cueing system that uniquely adapts to each wearer's walking pattern, distinct from traditional methods. Uncover how continuous feedback from patients and clinicians drives innovation at Magnes, resulting in enhanced features and new activity modes. With exciting plans on the horizon, including a line designed for children, Magnes is committed to evolving and meeting the diverse needs of its users. Subscribe to stay informed about upcoming trials and events, and see how these ingenious shoes are stepping up to redefine mobility for Parkinson's patients.


More info can be found at magnes.ch

Sign up for their newsletter here: https://www.magnes.ch/contact/

or by emailing info@magnes.ch

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Judy and Travis discuss personal responsibility and the role it plays in PD treatment. Also this episode has some music! We hope that you enjoy.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Judy and Travis interview the amazing Dr. John Ball, marathon runner and one of the founders of Team Parkinson's. Team Parkinson's is a charity of the L.A. Marathon that has raised over $3M for Parkinson's research.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

You remember that anti-drug abuse program that they used to have in public schools, D.A.R.E.? I always figured it stood for Drugs Are Really Expensive... Little did I know what I'd end up paying for prescriptions. 
Today's episode Judy and Travis discuss the impacts of these kinds of medical bills on a person with Parkinson's and share some of their strategies for not getting crushed under the weight of the pill bills.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Therapeutic as opposed to compensatory strategies as discussed in a previous episode. This episode Judy and Travis discuss one of the symptoms of PD that Travis wasn't willing to settle for a compensation on, rather chose to keep working with his doctors to find a therapeutic solution for.

This episode we start a new segment Fuck, I Have PD.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

On this episode Judy and Travis share some thoughts for those friends, kids and other members of the "greater care team". What do you do when your friend or co-worker is diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease?

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis discuss some of the financial impacts of Parkinson's on your life and share some tips how to best prepare for them.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

No, we're not talking about ways to make money of be "compensation for having Parkinson's Disease". In this episode Judy and Travis discuss some of the ways you can compensate for having PD. Even more importantly when it's best to not compensate for having PD.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Getting the support that you need can make the world of difference in your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. In this episode Judy and Travis discuss some of the options available to PD patients and their care partners and share a little of their own experiences in the world of PD support groups.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

In this week's episode Judy & Travis interview Bill Meyer and Derek Torry from Pass to Pass, an all volunteer organization that takes folks with Parkinson's Disease out hiking on multi-day backing trips. Bill and Derek are both avid hikers and both have been living with PD for several years. Listen to them share part of their story.

Find out more about Pass to Pass at passtopass.org

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

In this episode Judy and Travis discuss the very exciting news that yes, it IS possible to restore sense of smell loss caused by Parkinson's Disease. Have a listen as Travis describes his sniff therapy & what he is doing to validate the results thereof.

Please note: Your individual results may very. Nothing is this episode is meant to guarantee any particular results nor is it intended to take the place of qualified medical advice.*


*Our lawyers insisted in us putting this in.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

What if the silent heroes of Parkinson's care aren't the patients themselves but the dedicated partners standing beside them? Join us as we uncover the vital, yet often overshadowed, role of care partners in navigating the Parkinson's journey. Hosts Travis Robinson and Judy Yarris, bring our personal experiences to light, highlighting the emotional and physical hurdles faced by those supporting someone with Parkinson's. Our conversation delves into the reality of denial in newly diagnosed individuals and how this can ripple through their support networks, emphasizing the imperative need for community support and the unsung resources that can make all the difference.

We also explore the evolving landscape of independence, where modern transportation options like Uber and Waymo are reshaping the dynamics of care. The episode sheds light on the importance of self-care and open communication for care partners, especially in a world still reeling from the isolation of the COVID era. Through personal stories, we touch on the unique challenges faced by families dealing with young-onset Parkinson's, offering a message of strength and unity. By sharing both struggles and triumphs, we aim to foster a sense of community and inspire listeners to connect, support, and empower each other through the Parkinson's journey.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

In this episode Judy and Travis speak with the indomitable Jennifer Parkinson, who is the co-founder of Neuroboxing. Jennifer was diagnosed with PD some 16 years ago and shares a bit of her story.

Please note: We had some technical difficulties that resulted in less than perfect audio, but I am sure you'll agree that Jennifer's message is worth it.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Most people say "Better the devil you know, than the one you don't." as a way of expressing that they'd rather stick with a known problem no matter how bad than to face an unknown.
In this episode Judy and Travis discuss just the opposite, "the devil you don't know" and how that lifestyle philosophy has helped Travis navigate his treatment choices for his Parkinson's disease. They also do a brief follow up on the "sniff therapy" experiment discussed in episode #2 and more.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Heads up! This episode is a rough listen. Judy and Travis talk about the difficulty one can face when changing their medication. Travis' speech is very strained and difficult to understand in this one. If this is your first episode, we encourage you to also check out our other episodes where Travis is much easier to listen to.

That said, we felt that it was worthwhile to publish this one to let you all know that some days it's difficult but also to remind you that this too shall pass.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

On this episode Judy and Travis discuss that magical moment when the neurologist tells you the big news - "Hey you've got Parkinson's Disease". How it felt from the perspective of the care partners as well as the person with PD.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis talk about camping and travel in general & share a few tips and tricks for having a successful trip when you have a neurological disease.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

This episode Judy and Travis talk with Garth McLean. Garth has MS & has been using yoga to keep his symptoms under control, successfully - for the last 25 years.

You can learn more about Garth at yogarth.com

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

On this episode Judy and Travis discuss swallowing issues & strategies to deal with them. If you have trouble swallowing or frequently choke on your food, then this episode is for you.

We'd love to hear from you. Send us your feedback & suggestions for subjects that you'd like us to cover. show@indypodcast.net

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

In this episode Judy and Travis discuss the loss of sense of smell caused by Parkinson's Disease & what Travis is doing to restore his sense of smell.

Have you lost your sense of smell from PD? Would you like to know how to get it back?
We'd love to hear your feedback. Send us your comments: show@indypodcast.net

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Judy & Travis discuss some of the issues with sleep & PD.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Ever experienced a day where everything seems to go wrong? Travis shares his story of a challenging day that began with a fall and spiraled into a series of frustrating mishaps, including an unexpected demand from his doctor. Judy, drawing from her own experiences as a care partner, offers valuable advice on how to mentally reset and manage the compounding frustrations that come with living with Parkinson's. Together, they emphasize the importance of mindset in overcoming the daily hurdles and finding resilience amidst adversity.

We also dive into practical tips for staying cool and hydrated during scorching hot weather, from the benefits of sparkling mineral water to low-sugar electrolyte options. Our conversation extends to the joys and challenges of gardening in extreme heat and the innovative strategies for managing shade and humidity. Plus, we invite you to share your own experiences with focused ultrasound by reaching out to the show.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Learn how Botox isn't just for wrinkles but can be a game-changer for Parkinson's symptoms like dystonia, toe curling, and drooling. Discover Sandy's transformative experience with Botox for long-term relief and hear the inspiring story of Mike Wyman, who used Botox to regain his speech and reduce drooling after a stroke. Mike's proactive approach, combining speech pathology and boxing, offers a hopeful blueprint for anyone navigating the complexities of living with Parkinson's.

Falls are no joke, especially when dealing with Parkinson's. We'll walk you through practical steps for fall prevention and injury management. From leveraging modern technology like the Apple Watch and Google Pixel Watch for fall detection to real-life experiences involving slips and trips, we emphasize the importance of safety measures. Listen as we share anecdotes and essential tips, particularly about the hazards of bathrooms, and hear about the importance of using good judgment to ensure your well-being. Plus, we invite you to share your own stories and stay engaged with your health journey.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Hello Dear Listeners,

Did you miss us? We've been on break for the summer holidays. We're back now and in this episode, Judy and I talk about some of the summer adventures that we've each had, and hint at some exciting things to come both in our lives personally and in the world of PD.

Please note: I was coughing throughout this recording, hence why my voice was cutting in and out. I'm better now.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Have you ever wondered about what its like to climb a  big mountain? With Parkinson's disease? Judy and I discuss my upcoming trip to the Sierra Nevadas.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net
  
  
  

Hello Dear Listeners,

In this episode Judy and I  talk about resilience, what it is and how we both apply it in our lives. I want to warn you, the audio on this on is rough. I had a hell of a time speaking on this episode. As our regular listeners will note, I make it a point to not hide this symptom of my PD. If you're new to our show, please consider listening to a couple of other episodes before making a final judgment. My voice goes in and out from time to time and I feel that our listeners deserve authenticity above audio aesthetics.

I'd love to hear your take on this episode. Did you find the audio distracting from the content? Please send us your thoughts: indypodcastshow@gmail.com

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• www.INDYpodcast.net