How Podcasts Are Shaping Conversations About Epilepsy

For young adults with epilepsy, finding relatable content—especially in the podcast world—isn’t easy. Out of more than 3 million podcasts globally, only an estimated 30 to 50 focus on epilepsy. That’s less than 0.002% of all shows.

Let’s put that in perspective: epilepsy affects 1 in 26 people, or about 4% of the population. If podcast topics reflected real-life prevalence, there’d be over 115,000 podcasts about epilepsy.

Instead, we’re working with just a few dozen—and only a handful are updated regularly or created by people who actually live with the condition, especially young adults. In fact, we submit, we may be one and only???

That gap is exactly why Carpe Seizen exists. It's a space for young adults to speak freely, laugh, vent, and connect over the shared experience of life with epilepsy. Because when the stories we need aren’t out there, we create them ourselves.

How Podcasts Are Impacting Conversations About Epilepsy — Like Ours!

Carpe Seizen' is celebrating our 1 year anniversary and is in the top 20% of Spotify Podcasts!

Introducing the Carpe Seizen Podcast

One standout example is Carpe Seizen, a podcast created by Young Adults with Epilepsy (YAWE), specifically for and by young adults living with epilepsy. Hosted by Jordan, a passionate advocate and YAWE team member, the show features guests who open up about their journeys — from mental health and stigma to dating, independence, and personal growth.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice, or just want to hear from people who get it, Carpe Seizen offers a safe, empowering space to listen, learn, and feel seen, as we say a Podcast FOR Young Adults BY Young Adults.

Carpe Seizen features a variety of guests & topics, like Jessie Mae Lambert from the UK!

Top Epilepsy Podcasts to Check Out

In addition to Carpe Seizen', here are some other incredible podcasts that are breaking down barriers and amplifying voices in the epilepsy community:

• Seizing Life by CURE Epilepsy: Personal stories and expert interviews aimed at education, research, and hope.

• What the EF: Hosted by Landis, this podcast blends humor, honesty, and unfiltered conversations about the ups and downs of life with seizures.

• Talk About It!: Created by actor Greg Grunberg (whose son has epilepsy), this podcast invites celebrities, doctors, and families to talk openly about epilepsy.

• Sharp Waves by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), offers in-depth conversations with global epilepsy researchers and clinicians.

• Epilepsy Sparks Insights Torie Robinson offers expert insights and lived experiences with epilepsy and associated co-morbidities.

How to Engage With Epilepsy Podcasts

Here are some easy ways to get involved:

• Start Listening: Begin with Carpe Seizen and check out a few others from the list above.

• Share What Resonates: If an episode moves you or opens your eyes, share it with friends, family, or your support group.

• Send in Ideas: Podcast hosts love feedback. Got a question, story idea, or want to be on Carpe Seizen? Email us at contact@yawecc.org.

• Support Awareness: Many of these shows promote epilepsy events, awareness days, and advocacy efforts. Be part of it!

  
  

  

  Various perspective are explored, including a parent's perspective with Jordan's Mom, Mary

  
  

Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep Talking

Podcasts are changing the way we talk about epilepsy — and for young adults, these conversations matter more than ever. They normalize our experiences, break down stigma, and create a vibrant community that’s informed, empowered, and never alone.

Let’s seize the mic — and the moment — together.