Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast

Can diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) detect brain changes after a concussion when a standard MRI or CT scan is normal? In this episode of Life After Impact, I sit down with board-certified neurologist Dr. Rebecca Romero to explore how DTI is moving from the world of concussion and traumatic brain injury research into clinical practice.Dr. Romero explains how DTI brain imaging can evaluate microscopic changes in the brain's white matter pathways following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), including changes that may not be visible on conventional MRI. We discuss fractional anisotropy, white matter tract integrity, susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), hemosiderin deposition, and brain-volume measurements—and why DTI must still be interpreted alongside the patient's symptoms, history, neurological examination, and other objective testing rather than used as a stand-alone concussion test.But DTI is only one part of this conversation.What particularly impressed me about Dr. Romero's approach is how comprehensive and integrative her concussion evaluations are.Rather than relying on a single scan or a brief neurological examination, her clinical network begins gathering objective information before the patient even sits down with her. This can include symptom questionnaires, eye-movement testing, balance and postural stability assessment, EEG/event-related potentials, and cognitive screening. Dr. Romero then spends considerable time reviewing the patient's history, symptoms, test results, and neurological findings to begin putting the pieces together.We discuss why this matters when someone has been told:“Your MRI was normal.”Standard CT and MRI scans are often normal after concussion because they were designed primarily to identify larger structural abnormalities—not necessarily the microscopic changes associated with mild traumatic brain injury.DTI provides another way of looking at the brain by examining the diffusion of water through white matter tracts—the communication highways connecting different regions of the brain. Dr. Romero explains how abnormalities in measures such as fractional anisotropy can contribute additional objective information when interpreted within the larger clinical picture.Importantly, she also explains why DTI isn't appropriate for everyone. Age, previous concussions, hypertension, diabetes, and other medical conditions can complicate interpretation and potentially contribute to false-positive findings. This is not simply a scan that should be ordered for every person who experiences a concussion.Our conversation then expands well beyond imaging.We explore post-concussion brain fog, cognitive impairment, headaches, dizziness and autonomic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, sleep problems, medication-overuse headaches, exercise, nutrition, and women's hormones during perimenopause and menopause.Dr. Romero also explains how rehabilitation is incorporated into her model of care, including oculomotor and balance rehabilitation and emerging cognitive-motor approaches based on the specific deficits identified during testing.In this episode, we discuss:What diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) isHow DTI differs from a conventional MRIWhy CT and MRI scans are often normal after concussionWhite matter tracts and fractional anisotropyMicroscopic changes associated with mild traumatic brain injurySusceptibility-weighted imaging and hemosiderin depositionWhen DTI may—and may not—be appropriateEEG/event-related potentials and the P300 responseEye-movement and balance testing after concussionCognitive testing and executive-function problemsAutonomic dysfunction, dizziness, and orthostatic symptomsPost-traumatic headaches and medication-overuse headacheNeuroinflammation after traumatic brain injurySleep and concussion recoveryPerimenopause, hormones, and female concussion recoveryThe importance of coordinated, comprehensive concussion careOne of the most important messages from this episode is that better concussion diagnosis isn't necessarily about finding one perfect test.It's about combining emerging technologies such as DTI with a careful history, neurological examination, objective functional testing, and thoughtful clinical reasoning to create a more complete picture of what happened to the brain—and what that individual patient may need next.Dr. Romero & ProCare: WebsiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Why do some concussion symptoms last for months—or even years—and what can you do when your recovery seems to plateau? In this episode of Life After Impact, I sit down with neurology nurse practitioner and traumatic brain injury specialist Mandi Swanson, who spent nearly two years recovering from her own TBI after a motor vehicle accident.Mandi went from running half-marathons and practicing neurology to struggling with severe post-traumatic headaches, brain fog, memory loss, balance problems, vision dysfunction, anxiety, PTSD, and an inability to read more than a few sentences at a time. Her CT showed no brain bleed, yet her concussion ultimately changed nearly every aspect of her life.Now back in clinical practice treating patients with concussion and persistent post-concussion symptoms, Mandi brings a rare perspective: she understands concussion recovery from both sides of the exam room. Mandi shares what happened when traditional rehabilitation helped—but only to a point—and why hitting a plateau didn't necessarily mean a therapy had failed. Throughout her recovery, physical therapy, occupational therapy, neuro-optometry, speech therapy, red-light therapy, PEMF, neurofeedback, and eventually work targeting autonomic function each played different roles at different stages.One of the most important lessons she learned was that concussion recovery isn't one-size-fits-all—and sometimes the right therapy delivered at the wrong time may not produce the same results as it does later in recovery.We also dig into post-traumatic headaches, including why persistent headaches after concussion shouldn't automatically be treated as migraines. Mandi explains why understanding the location, quality, timing, and triggers of a headache matters, and we discuss medication-overuse or “rebound” headaches that can develop when medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are used too frequently. Mandi also shares practical lessons she now brings into her own concussion clinic, including the importance of hydration, nutrition, magnesium and vitamin D assessment, vision evaluation, appropriate exercise, sleep, stress management, and looking beyond symptoms to identify the systems that may still be struggling.But some of the most powerful parts of this conversation aren't about treatment at all.Mandi describes losing access to medical knowledge she had accumulated over decades, wondering whether she would ever practice medicine again, and realizing how deeply her identity was tied to being a nurse practitioner. She talks candidly about anxiety, depression, financial stress, PTSD after her car accident, and eventually learning that accepting where she was in that moment did not mean giving up on getting better.We also discuss something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in concussion care: the importance of having a healthcare “quarterback.” Mandi explains why coordinated medical care, thorough documentation, and advocacy can become especially important for people navigating workers' compensation or auto insurance while simultaneously trying to recover from a brain injury. In this episode, we discuss: Why some concussion recoveries take much longer than expected  Brain fog, memory loss, cognitive fatigue, and difficulty reading  Post-traumatic headache versus migraine  Medication-overuse and rebound headaches  Vision problems and neuro-optometry after concussion  Autonomic dysfunction and dysautonomia  Why concussion rehabilitation can plateau  Why a treatment that didn't help before may be worth revisiting  PTSD and emotional recovery after a traumatic accident  Returning to work after a prolonged brain injury  Navigating workers' compensation and auto insurance  The importance of coordinated concussion care  Emerging concussion diagnostics and treatments  Why recovery may require multiple therapies at different stages Perhaps the most important message from Mandi's story is that a plateau does not necessarily mean you've reached the end of your recovery.Sometimes it means it's time to ask a different question, investigate another system, change the timing or combination of therapies, or find a provider who approaches the problem differently.Mandi cannot promise her patients exactly how quickly—or how completely—they will recover. But her experience as both a patient and clinician has given her something equally important to offer:A long recovery is still a recovery.And nearly two years after wondering whether she would ever be able to practice neurology again, Mandi returned to medicine with an entirely new mission: helping other people find their way through the complicated journey she once had to navigate herself. Mandi Swanson LinkedInBrain Wellness PodcastThe Mother's Day EpisodeSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Loss of smell after concussion may be more important than most people realize. Changes in smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch can occur after concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI), yet sensory loss—especially olfactory dysfunction—is often overlooked during concussion evaluation and recovery. In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Michael Leon and Super Senses founder Datar Sahi to explore the connection between the sense of smell, brain health, memory, depression, neuroplasticity, and concussion recovery. They discuss why smell testing may offer an important window into neurological function, how repetitive head impacts and concussion can impair olfaction, and whether olfactory training and sensory enrichment could help support brain recovery. Dr. Leon, Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Irvine, has spent decades studying olfaction and sensory enrichment. He explains why smell is particularly interesting neurologically: the olfactory system has unusually direct connections with brain regions involved in memory and emotion. That may help explain why changes in smell are associated not only with concussion and traumatic brain injury, but also with neurological conditions involving memory and mood. One of the central questions in this conversation is remarkably simple:Why aren't we routinely testing smell after a concussion?We commonly assess balance, eye movements, cognition, symptoms, and sometimes hearing after brain injury. Yet many people may experience changes in smell or taste without recognizing that anything has changed. As Datar points out, it is difficult to notice the absence of sensory information. Without a baseline measurement, someone may simply assume that food doesn't taste as flavorful anymore or that their sense of smell has always been weak. That is why Super Senses is developing an at-home approach to longitudinal sensory testing. Rather than assessing only one sense, its system evaluates smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch, allowing people to establish a baseline and monitor changes over time. For athletes, this raises an intriguing possibility: could sensory testing eventually complement the neurocognitive baseline tests already used in concussion management? The conversation also explores olfactory enrichment, sometimes called smell training. Dr. Leon discusses research using repeated exposure to multiple pleasant odors to stimulate the olfactory system and potentially influence broader brain networks. He describes research examining cognitive function, memory, executive function, sleep, and neurological recovery, as well as his work developing automated overnight olfactory enrichment through Memory Air. The implications are particularly interesting for athletes exposed to repetitive head impacts. Dr. Leon discusses the relationship between repeated head trauma and olfactory decline, as well as his collaboration involving former professional football players and the NFL Players Association. In this episode, you'll learn: Why loss of smell can occur after concussion and traumatic brain injury  Why people may not realize their sense of smell has changed  How smell connects with brain regions involved in memory and emotion  Why sensory testing may provide another window into neurological health  How concussion can affect smell, taste, vision, hearing, and other sensory systems  Why establishing a sensory baseline may be useful for athletes  What olfactory training and sensory enrichment involve  How repetitive head impacts may influence smell and long-term brain health  The emerging connection between smell, memory, depression, and cognitive health  Why researchers are studying sensory enrichment in former NFL players  How overnight olfactory enrichment is being investigated for memory, sleep, and brain health One of the most important messages from this conversation is that our senses aren't simply passive ways of experiencing the world—they are continuous streams of neurological input into the brain.After concussion, we often concentrate on what the brain is struggling to produce: memory, attention, balance, emotional regulation, or clear thinking. This conversation asks us to look in the opposite direction as well:What information is getting into the brain in the first place?Testing and protecting sensory function may eventually become an important part of understanding brain health across the lifespan—and for people recovering from concussion, the sense of smell may deserve far more attention than it currently receives. If you've experienced changes in smell or taste after concussion, struggle with brain fog or memory problems, participate in contact sports, or are simply interested in new ways of measuring and supporting brain health, this is a fascinating conversation about one of neuroscience's most overlooked sensory systems.Super-Senses websiteMemoryAir websiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Can attachment theory influence concussion recovery, chronic pain, dysautonomia, and the success of rehabilitation? In Part 2 of this conversation, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with psychologist, somatic therapist, and Chinese medicine practitioner Dr. Matthew Tolstoy to explore how unconscious nervous system patterns shape the therapeutic relationship, why The Body Keeps the Score is often misunderstood, and how psychotherapy, EMDR, somatic therapy, and physical rehabilitation all work to influence the same underlying autonomic physiology.If Part 1 introduced the foundations of attachment theory and the autonomic nervous system, this episode takes the conversation even deeper—into what actually happens inside the treatment room.Dr. Tolstoy offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the thought process of an experienced psychotherapist, explaining how clinicians create safety, build trust, and recognize when a patient's response to treatment may have less to do with the technique itself and more to do with deeply ingrained patterns of nervous system regulation. Together, we discuss why two patients with the same diagnosis can respond completely differently to the same intervention, how rehabilitation providers can thoughtfully introduce referrals for psychotherapy or somatic therapy, and why the therapeutic relationship itself may be one of the most powerful tools for healing. We also tackle one of the most misunderstood ideas in trauma therapy: "The Body Keeps the Score." Is trauma actually stored in the hips? Can emotions simply be "released" through bodywork? Or is something far more sophisticated happening within the nervous system? Dr. Tolstoy explains how unconscious protective strategies can manifest as chronic muscle tension, pain, and autonomic dysregulation—and why understanding the underlying neuroscience changes the way we think about healing. The conversation concludes with a fascinating discussion on the neuroscience of affect, emotion, and feelings, exploring how the unconscious brain continuously shapes our physiology, attention, and behavior long before we become consciously aware of what's happening.In this episode, you'll learn: How attachment theory influences the therapeutic relationship  Why two patients with the same diagnosis may respond differently to treatment  How to discuss psychotherapy with patients without implying "it's all in your head"  When rehabilitation providers should consider referring for EMDR, somatic therapy, or psychotherapy  What The Body Keeps the Score really means—and what it doesn't  Why chronic muscle tension may represent protective nervous system strategies rather than "stored trauma"  The neuroscience behind affect, emotion, and conscious feelings  How unconscious survival programs shape physical symptoms and emotional regulation  Why the therapeutic alliance is one of the strongest predictors of successful psychotherapy  How awareness helps bridge subconscious autonomic patterns and intentional healing Perhaps the most important message from this conversation is that healing isn't simply about finding the right technique. Whether you're recovering through physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, psychotherapy, vestibular rehabilitation, or functional neurology, lasting change often begins when the nervous system feels safe enough to update the protective patterns it developed long ago. As Dr. Tolstoy explains, awareness doesn't eliminate unconscious programming—but it creates the opportunity for neuroplasticity, healthier autonomic regulation, and meaningful, lasting change.Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with chronic pain, navigating dysautonomia, or you're a healthcare professional interested in the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and rehabilitation, this episode offers a thoughtful and eye-opening perspective on how the therapeutic relationship itself can become part of the healing process. Work with Dr. Tolstoy: websiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

A concussion can turn normal life into a maze overnight and the hardest part is realizing nobody can hand you a perfect map out. I share why I wrote The Art Of Concussion Recovery: Following The Thread after first writing a more science-focused guide. The clinical side helps you understand what’s happening inside the brain, but the lived experience raises different questions about identity, language, acceptance, and how to live while you heal. We talk about making peace with uncertainty, stepping away from constant comparison to your pre-injury self, and finding meaning even when your timeline looks nothing like you planned. We also dig into hope, not the glossy promise that everything will be easy, but the kind that stays with you when healing is messy and nonlinear. If you’re living with a concussion or supporting someone you love, I want this book or audiobook to feel like steady company and a practical thread you can keep hold of. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find supportive concussion recovery tools.The Art of Concussion Recovery: Audible. Learn moreSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Can early childhood experiences influence concussion recovery, dysautonomia, anxiety, and the autonomic nervous system? In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with integrative therapist Dr. Matthew Tolstoy to explore the fascinating connection between attachment theory, autonomic regulation, post-concussion syndrome, and brain injury recovery.They examine how our earliest relationships help shape the brain's unconscious "survival programs"—patterns that influence how we respond to stress, danger, connection, and safety throughout our lives. While these attachment patterns often operate quietly in the background, a concussion can disrupt the brain networks that normally help regulate emotional and autonomic responses, making these deeply ingrained patterns much more apparent.Dr. Tolstoy explains why attachment theory is about far more than romantic relationships. At its core, it is a neurobiological model of survival. From infancy, our nervous system is constantly learning whether the world feels safe, whether other people can be trusted, and how to respond when we experience threat. Those early experiences become deeply embedded within the autonomic nervous system and continue influencing physiology long into adulthood.Together, we explore the four major attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—and discuss how each one may shape autonomic regulation, stress responses, emotional resilience, and even the way patients experience dysautonomia after concussion.In this episode, you'll learn: What attachment theory really is—and why it extends far beyond relationships  How early childhood experiences shape the autonomic nervous system  The neurobiology connecting attachment, stress, and survival  The four attachment styles and their characteristic physiological patterns  Why two people with similar concussions can have very different autonomic responses  The connection between attachment patterns and dysautonomia  How concussion can uncover subconscious nervous system patterns that previously went unnoticed  Why psychology and physiology cannot be separated when treating persistent concussion symptoms  The importance of interdisciplinary care between rehabilitation specialists and mental health professionals  How awareness creates an opportunity to reshape long-standing autonomic patterns through neuroplasticity Perhaps the most empowering message from this conversation is that attachment styles are not life sentences. They are learned patterns of nervous system regulation that developed to help us survive. As Dr. Tolstoy explains, awareness becomes the bridge between unconscious autonomic responses and intentional healing. When we begin to understand why our nervous system reacts the way it does, we also begin creating the possibility for change.Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with dysautonomia, working with patients who have persistent post-concussion symptoms, or simply fascinated by the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and autonomic regulation, this episode offers a powerful new perspective on what it truly means to heal.Work with Dr. Matt Tolstoy: websiteDr. Tolstoy on instagram: @matttolstoySend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Brain fog. Poor concentration. Anxiety. Memory problems. Why do some people recover quickly after a concussion while others continue to struggle with persistent symptoms months—or even years—after a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with neuroscientist, psychotherapist, meditation teacher, and NeuroMatrix founder Dr. Sanjay Manchanda to explore the latest science behind concussion recovery, QEEG brain mapping, neuroplasticity, and photobiomodulation (red and near-infrared light therapy). Together, they discuss how quantitative EEG (QEEG) can identify abnormal brain activity that may persist even when MRI and CT scans appear normal, and how personalized brain stimulation, meditation, and light therapy may support cognitive function, emotional regulation, and brain healing.With a unique background spanning electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, psychotherapy, and contemplative neuroscience, Dr. Manchanda brings an integrative perspective to understanding how the brain heals. He explains how quantitative EEG (QEEG) can identify patterns of slowed brain activity, disrupted communication between brain regions, and inefficient neural processing that often persist after concussion.The conversation also explores how photobiomodulation may support mitochondrial function, reduce inflammation, improve cerebral energy production, and enhance neuroplasticity. Dr. Manchanda shares exciting new research on how different pulsing frequencies of light may influence attention, relaxation, meditation, and higher-order cognitive function, along with emerging work on personalized brain stimulation based on each individual's QEEG findings.In this episode, you'll learn: Why brain fog can persist long after a concussion  What QEEG reveals that standard brain imaging cannot  Common EEG patterns seen after traumatic brain injury  How red and near-infrared light therapy support brain metabolism  The connection between mitochondria, energy production, and cognitive function  Personalized brain stimulation using QEEG-guided photobiomodulation  The science behind meditation and high-frequency brain activity  How meditation may improve emotional regulation and mental clarity  The future of AI in personalized brain rehabilitation  Why healing the brain requires addressing both physiology and psychology One of the most compelling messages from this conversation is that brain recovery isn't simply about repairing damaged tissue—it's about helping the brain become more efficient, better connected, and more resilient. By combining objective measurements like QEEG with emerging technologies such as photobiomodulation and meditation training, clinicians may soon be able to personalize treatment in ways that weren't possible just a few years ago.Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with post-concussion syndrome, struggling with brain fog, or simply fascinated by the future of neuroscience, this episode offers an inspiring look at where brain rehabilitation is headed—and how technology and ancient wisdom may work together to help us heal. Get $350 off a Neuromatrix headset with code LIFEAFTERIMPACT.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

How do you calm a brain that feels stuck in survival mode?For many people recovering from a concussion, the injury isn't just about headaches or dizziness. It's the feeling that your nervous system is constantly "on"—poor sleep, brain fog, anxiety, sensory overload, and the inability to truly relax.In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with Dr. Patrick Porter, founder of BrainTap, to explore the science behind light and sound therapy and how multisensory brainwave entrainment may help regulate the nervous system, improve sleep quality, and support neuroplasticity after concussion. Dr. Porter shares the fascinating history behind BrainTap, from its origins in the 1980s to its use today in thousands of clinics worldwide. Together, they discuss how carefully synchronized light, sound, guided meditation, and breathing exercises work together to encourage the brain to shift from a chronic stress response into a more restorative parasympathetic state. The conversation explores why many concussion patients become trapped in persistent fight-or-flight physiology, why restorative sleep is essential for brain healing, and how improving autonomic regulation may positively influence memory, cognition, mood, and overall recovery. Dr. Porter also shares research on BrainTap's use in concussion rehabilitation, autism, first responders, athletic performance, and stress resilience, along with the growing evidence supporting brainwave entrainment and sensory stimulation as tools for optimizing brain health. In this episode, you'll learn: Why many concussion patients feel stuck in fight-or-flight  The connection between poor sleep, brain fog, and nervous system dysregulation  How BrainTap combines light, sound, guided meditation, and breathing into one multisensory experience  The science of brainwave entrainment and neuroplasticity  Why deep sleep is critical for concussion recovery and glymphatic function  The role of breathing in regulating the autonomic nervous system  Emerging research on BrainTap for concussion, stress, athletic recovery, autism, and cognitive performance  How recovery is often about creating the right environment for the brain to heal itself One of the most powerful messages from this conversation is that healing isn't simply about removing symptoms—it's about helping the brain rediscover balance. When we consistently create opportunities for the nervous system to shift out of chronic stress and into recovery, we allow the brain to do what it was designed to do: adapt, repair, and heal.Dr. Porter Website: https://drpatrickporter.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpatrickporter/TikTok: @braintaptechGet a 14-Day Free Trial of the BrainTap AppSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

If concussion left you with brain fog, anxiety, poor sleep, or a lingering sense that something is “off,” an EEG may reveal the brain changes your normal scans missed. Dr. Ayla Wolf talks with acupuncturist and concussion specialist Jack Fonderwhite about using EEG, eye tracking, and electroacupuncture to measure and improve brain function after head injury. Jack shares his own unexpected concussion story—how years of martial arts, contact sports, and repeated head impacts left him with subtle neurological symptoms he didn't even recognize until an EEG revealed significant changes in his brain activity. After developing an acupuncture protocol for himself, he experienced improvements not only in his brainwave patterns, but also in anxiety, night vision, sense of smell, and overall mental clarity. Inspired by his own recovery, Jack created the Peak Mind program, a comprehensive evaluation and treatment approach that combines objective technology with personalized acupuncture care. Patients undergo advanced assessments including EEG, balance testing, eye movement analysis, cognitive testing, and orthopedic evaluation to create a highly individualized rehabilitation plan designed to improve brain efficiency and support neuroplasticity. Together, we discuss: How repeated head impacts can cause concussion without loss of consciousness  Jack's personal journey from martial artist to concussion specialist  What EEG testing can reveal about brain function after concussion  Electroacupuncture and its potential effects on brain activity and neuroplasticity  Why objective measurements help patients better understand their symptoms  The role of balance, eye movements, and cognition in recovery  Anxiety, brain fog, night vision, and smell loss after concussion  Integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern neuroscience  The future of concussion care and training more acupuncturists to treat brain injury One of the most inspiring messages from this conversation is that some concussion symptoms become so familiar that people stop recognizing them as symptoms at all. Sometimes it's only after the brain begins to heal that patients realize how much they had been compensating every single day.Whether you're recovering from a concussion, you're a healthcare provider looking to expand your understanding of brain rehabilitation, or you're simply fascinated by the intersection of ancient medicine and modern neuroscience, this episode offers an exciting look at what's possible when objective technology and personalized care come together. Jack Fonderwhite - Jackupuncture: websiteEmail: [email protected]: @JackupuncturehiSend us a Message!Pre-Order the E-Book on Kindle here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H8F7PHGWAudiobook, paperback and hardcover Available Soon!Follow the show to stay up to date. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical professional for any and all health related issues. 

Persistent dizziness, headaches, and dysautonomia after a concussion may be coming from your neck — not just your brain. Dr. Ayla Wolf and Dr. John McClaren explore how deep neck muscle dysfunction, breathing mechanics, and the vagus nerve drive stubborn post-concussion symptoms. Together, they explore why so many people experience dizziness when bending over, standing up, or looking overhead—and why these seemingly simple movements may reveal much deeper dysfunction within the autonomic nervous system.Dr. McClaren shares emerging clinical observations suggesting that deep neck flexor dysfunction, restricted mobility of the anterior neck, and impaired sensory integration may play a much larger role in concussion recovery than previously recognized. The discussion also explores how breathing mechanics, vagus nerve function, glymphatic drainage, visual processing, smell, and auditory localization all interact to influence brain function and autonomic regulation.Together, they discuss:Why dysautonomia has become increasingly common after concussionThe surprising role of the deep neck flexor muscles in headaches and autonomic dysfunctionHow manual therapy may improve brain function beyond simply reducing neck painThe connection between breathing mechanics, airway function, and nervous system regulationThe glymphatic system and why the neck may be critical for clearing metabolic waste from the brainWhy visual overload, bright lights, and busy environments overwhelm the injured brainNew approaches to visual rehabilitation using color perception and peripheral visionSmell retraining, auditory localization, and sensory mapping as tools for neurorehabilitationWhy effective concussion rehabilitation requires treating the brain as an interconnected sensory networkOne of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation is that concussion recovery isn't about fixing one isolated symptom. It's about helping the brain rebuild efficient communication across multiple sensory systems so that everyday activities once again become automatic instead of exhausting.Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with dysautonomia, or simply interested in the latest developments in functional neurology, this episode offers practical insights and exciting new ideas that may change the way you think about brain rehabilitation.If this resonates, subscribe for more concussion recovery tools, share this with someone stuck in symptoms, and leave a review so more people can find it. What’s the most reliable trigger for your dizziness or symptom flare ups?Dr. McClaren can be found at: Advanced Chiropractic & Neurology in Omaha NebraskaAdvanced Chiropractic & Neurology Facebook PageSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Waking up exhausted after a concussion can feel like betrayal: you “slept,” but the brain fog, head pressure, and headaches show up anyway. I sit down with physical therapist and nasal release technique instructor Cynthia Stein to explore a different lens on post-concussion syndrome, one that connects airway restriction, cranial sutures, and eye movement limitations to the symptoms that refuse to budge. We talk through what nasal release actually is, how a small inflatable device placed in specific nasal pathways aims to mobilize cranial restrictions, and why Cynthia believes it can be a game-changer for chronic headaches and breathing problems. Then we connect it to vestibular rehab in a practical way: testing eye strain in different gaze directions, re-testing after treatment, and pairing targeted eye drills with tongue clicking to support healthier mechanics and myofunctional strength. One of the most compelling threads is sleep. If eye movements are restricted or painful, Cynthia explains how REM sleep can be disrupted, stress hormones can spike, and restorative sleep can collapse, leaving the brain without the nightly “clearing” it depends on. We also dig into why concussion can be cumulative, why airway issues are so common, and how to find trained providers. If you’re navigating concussion recovery, share this with someone who’s stuck, and subscribe, and please leave a review so more people can find real help.Find a practitioner offering the Nasal Release Technique: websiteWatch a demonstration video: VideoSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

In Part 2 of my conversation with Jordan J. Adams, founder of the United Fight Alliance and longtime combat sports commentator, we move beyond the problem of concussion and into the search for solutions.After experiencing multiple concussions, a family history of Alzheimer's disease, and growing concerns about his own cognitive health, Jordan began what he describes as a mission to "save his brain." Over the past decade, he has explored countless therapies, lifestyle changes, and recovery strategies in an effort to improve brain function, reduce brain fog, and protect his long-term neurological health.Together, we discuss the interventions that Jordan believes have moved the needle most in his recovery, including photobiomodulation, intermittent fasting, exercise, cold exposure, nutrition, sleep, and the importance of developing a daily practice that supports both brain and body.We also explore the science of neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, the gut-brain connection, inflammation, and why recovery often requires addressing many different factors simultaneously rather than searching for a single magic solution.Topics discussed include:• Photobiomodulation and brain health• Neuroplasticity and neurogenesis• Exercise as medicine for the brain• Fasting, metabolism, and cognitive function• Brain fog and the gut-brain connection• Smell loss, memory, and neurological health• The role of inflammation in concussion recovery• Building sustainable habits that support long-term brain function• Hope after concussion and traumatic brain injury• Why recovery is ultimately a daily practicePerhaps the most powerful message from this conversation is that healing is rarely about finding one breakthrough treatment. Instead, it is often the cumulative effect of small actions repeated consistently over time.Whether you're recovering from a concussion, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in protecting your brain as you age, this episode offers an honest and inspiring look at the mindset, habits, and strategies that can help move recovery forward.If you haven't yet listened to Part 1, be sure to go back and check out Episode #62, where Jordan shares his personal concussion history and discusses the ongoing challenges surrounding concussion care in combat sports.Save 10% on a VieLight with code: HEALINGRESPONSEhttps://www.vielight.com/Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Combat sports make brain injury impossible to ignore, but the most dangerous part might be what happens after everyone goes home. We’re joined by Jordan J. Adams, founder and CEO of United Fight Alliance and an Emmy Award-winning combat sports commentator, to talk about concussions, post-concussion syndrome and the real gaps he still sees in concussion protocols across athletics. We dig into the difference between “knowing” head trauma is serious and actually acting fast with coordinated care. Jordan shares what he has witnessed behind the scenes with athletic commissions, how referees have improved some in-fight checks and why follow-up care often collapses into guesswork. We also talk about the heartbreaking long arc of repeated hits, including short-term memory issues, working memory problems and speech changes that can show up years later. Jordan opens up about his own concussion history from a motorcycle crash, a severe shallow-pool diving accident and military artillery exposure, plus the added pressure of a family Alzheimer’s history. From there, we get into hopeful science and practical habits: neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, strength training and BDNF, and Jordan’s top “needle movers” like transcranial photobiomodulation, intermittent fasting, cold plunges and methylene blue, along with why tracking tiny functional changes matters. Subscribe, share this with someone navigating concussion recovery and leave a review, then tell us what topic you want us to tackle next?Save 10% on VieLight with code: HEALINGRESPONSEhttps://www.vielight.com/Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

For decades, patients with persistent post-concussion symptoms have been told that their imaging is normal, their brain has healed, and there is nothing more that can be done. But what if we've been asking the wrong questions?In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with functional neurologist Dr. Matt Antonucci to discuss his groundbreaking new paper published in Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, introducing the Network Entrapment by Reflex Dysfunction (NERD) Model. Together, they explore a new framework for understanding why concussion symptoms can persist long after the initial injury has healed. Dr. Antonucci explains how the brain functions as an interconnected network rather than a collection of isolated structures, and how disrupted sensory processing, maladaptive feedback loops, and altered neuroplasticity can cause symptoms to spiral over time. The conversation dives into predictive processing, cerebellar function, autonomic regulation, postural instability, chronic headaches, neck pain, light sensitivity, dysautonomia, and why many patients feel trapped in patterns that conventional medicine struggles to explain. Topics discussed include: The difference between structural neurology and functional neurology  Why normal MRI and CT scans don't mean the brain is functioning normally  The NERD model and persistent post-concussion syndrome  How the brain becomes trapped in maladaptive feedback loops  Predictive processing and the role of the cerebellum  Why symptoms often worsen under cognitive, physical, or sensory load  Neuroplasticity: when adaptation helps and when it hurts  Dysautonomia, POTS, headaches, neck pain, and sensory sensitivity  The importance of identifying the true source of dysfunction  How this model may apply beyond concussion to conditions such as ADHD, autism, migraine, and chronic neurological disorders Whether you're a patient struggling to understand persistent symptoms or a clinician seeking a deeper framework for neurological rehabilitation, this episode offers a fascinating look into what may become one of the most influential models in functional neurology. If you’re a patient feeling stuck, or a clinician looking for a clearer concussion recovery model, this is a practical, hopeful listen. Subscribe, share with someone navigating post-concussion symptoms, and leave a review. What “load” situation reliably sets off your symptoms?The NERD model: reflex circuit dysfunction as a systems-level driver of persistent post-concussion symptoms - Read the paper! Dr. Antonucci's WebsiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What if healing isn’t just physical?In this deeply thought-provoking episode, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with somatic practitioner and Inner Space Technique regression therapist Bre Hibbs to explore the fascinating relationship between trauma, the nervous system, body memory, and healing beyond the physical body.Together, they discuss the idea that our bodies may store not only physical trauma, but also emotional experiences, subconscious conditioning, stress patterns, and even energetic imprints that continue influencing our health, behavior, pain, and recovery long after an event has passed. The conversation explores: How trauma can become “stored” in the body  The connection between chronic pain and emotional stress  Somatic awareness and nervous system regulation  Dissociation and feeling disconnected from the body  Why some people remain “stuck” despite trying many therapies  The role of subconscious conditioning in health and behavior  Meditation, energy awareness, and subtle body practices  How slowing down and reconnecting with the body may support healing Bre also shares insights from her work in somatic healing, meditation-based regression therapy, and yoga, including practical ways people can begin developing a deeper awareness of their own body and nervous system.This episode offers a compassionate and expansive perspective on healing—one that bridges neuroscience, somatics, consciousness, and the wisdom of the body.If you’re navigating post-concussion syndrome, chronic symptoms, or trauma stored in the body, listen through and see what lands. Subscribe for more concussion recovery conversations, share this with someone who feels stuck, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Prana Maya Resort Wellness RetreatsBreyn Hibbs: LinkedIn - updates to workshops and coursesSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Brain fog, mood swings, dizziness, sleep problems, carb cravings, that awful midday crash. If you’ve lived through concussion recovery or post-concussion syndrome, you know how quickly symptoms can become a full-time job. We sit down with Dr. Ashkan Jalili to make a different kind of case: many stubborn concussion symptoms track back to a metabolic dysfunction, especially dysregulated glucose delivery in the brain, and until you address fuel, neurotransmitters can’t “do their job” the way you need them to. Dr. Jalili shares his own story, from being hit by a car as a pedestrian to years of headaches, fainting, seizures, and an identity crisis after losing soccer. We talk about why some cases are missed when imaging looks normal, how cervicogenic vasovagal syncope and dysautonomia can show up after whiplash, and why a purely symptom-based approach often leaves people stuck. From there, we dig into functional neurology and functional medicine basics, including metabolic flexibility, ketones, glucose regulation, and why massive supplement stacks can turn into expensive urine if the underlying fuel system is failing. We also break down the thinking behind CereFlex AM/PM, designed as separate morning performance and nighttime recovery support. You’ll hear specifics on acetylcholine support (including why sage matters), dopamine and serotonin pathways, GABA support, and why sleep quality and deep sleep can be the “winner” that changes everything the next day. We cover timing, ramping doses, and real contraindications, including SSRIs and blood thinners, because safety matters as much as hope. If this helped you think differently about concussion recovery, subscribe, share the episode with someone who’s struggling, and leave a review so more people can find practical, evidence-informed support.Canadian Brain Performance & Neuroplasticity Center: websiteCereFlex AM/PM and the NeuroSync Protocol: websiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Your autonomic nervous system isn’t “just stressed,” and dysautonomia isn’t a single, one-size-fits-all box. We zoom out from symptom labels and zoom in on mechanisms: how the brain senses the body, builds an internal map, and then uses that map to regulate heart rate, blood flow, digestion, sweating, temperature, and even hormone feedback loops.We talk neurocardiology in plain language, including why the brain controls the heart beat by beat, how the cerebellum helps automate autonomic function, and why a disconnect can show up as tachycardia or rhythm issues. We also dig into the insular cortex and interoception, including why some people feel a pounding heartbeat even when their heart rate is normal and what that can reveal about nervous system signaling.From there, we connect functional neurology with acupuncture and Chinese medicine concepts, focusing on objective feedback like pulse shifts, sensory tingling, motor twitches, and vasomotor changes. We also get real about treatment: why “try this medication” is common, how paradoxical responses can happen (even when blood pressure looks better), and why measuring outcomes like cerebral blood flow can change the entire plan. If you’re dealing with POTS, post-concussion syndrome, or chronic autonomic symptoms, you’ll leave with a clearer way to organize your timeline, ask sharper questions, and pursue strategies that match your physiology.Subscribe for more neuroscience-informed recovery conversations, share this with someone stuck in the trial-and-error loop and a huge thank you for leaving us a review!Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What if the missing piece in concussion recovery isn’t just the brain—but blood flow to the brain?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nate Keiser to explore how real-time measurement of brain blood flow is changing the way we understand persistent post-concussion symptoms, dysautonomia, and neurological recovery. Using advanced tools like transcranial Doppler ultrasound and CO₂ monitoring, we break down how the brain regulates circulation—and why that system often fails after injury.We dive into the role of carbon dioxide as a key driver of blood flow, why breathing patterns matter more than you think, and how subtle dysfunctions in these reflexes can leave patients stuck, despite doing “all the right things.”If you’ve been struggling with dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained crashes after activity, this episode will give you a completely new lens on what may be happening—and what can actually help.If you’re navigating concussion recovery, dysautonomia, or exercise intolerance, subscribe for part two, share this with someone who feels stuck, and leave a review so more patients can find it. Dr. Keiser: websiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

In this episode of Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast, I sit down with trauma surgeon and researcher Dr. Vishal Bansal to explore what may become the first-ever FDA-approved pharmaceutical treatment for concussion.Despite how common concussions are, there is currently no approved medical treatment—leaving patients with rest, symptom management, and uncertainty. But what if that’s about to change?Dr. Bansal shares the fascinating story behind a groundbreaking discovery: a gut-derived hormone called ghrelin, traditionally known as the “hunger hormone,” may play a powerful role in brain repair, neuroplasticity, memory, and recovery after traumatic brain injury .Together, we explore: Why concussion has been so difficult to treat  The connection between the ghrelin hormone and brain injury How ghrelin supports mitochondrial function, reduces oxidative stress, and promotes neuron repair The potential for a treatment that works in both the acute and subacute phases of concussion Why current clinical trials focus on symptoms—not just biomarkers The future of concussion care and what this could mean for patients, athletes, and clinicians This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how a scientific insight evolves into a potential life-changing therapy—and what it takes to bring a new brain treatment to market.🔬 About Dr. Vishal BansalDr. Bansal is a trauma surgeon, researcher, and co-founder of Oxeia Biopharmaceuticals. His work focuses on the physiological response to brain injury and developing innovative treatments to improve outcomes after concussion.Oxeia Biopharmaceuticals: websiteINVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY in Oxeia Biopharmaceuticals: startengine.comIf you or someone you love is struggling with concussion or post-concussion syndrome, this conversation will give you hope, clarity, and a glimpse into the future of recovery.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

A “mild” hearing loss sounds harmless until you hear the data: it can raise the risk of cognitive decline and dementia by 200%. I sit down with Dr. Keith Darrow PhD, CCC-A, neuroscientist and clinical audiologist, to connect the dots between hearing loss and brain health and to explain why treating hearing loss shows up again and again as a top modifiable dementia risk factor in major research reviews.We also get practical about what good care actually looks like. Dr. Darrow breaks down why so many people struggle with speech in background noise, why basic beep-only tests can miss real problems, and how prescription-grade hearing aids differ from over-the-counter devices when you care about outcomes like cognitive performance, fall risk, and tinnitus relief. If you or a loved one has ever seemed “withdrawn” or “down,” we talk through how hearing loss can mimic depression and early cognitive decline and why a thorough evaluation can clarify what’s really going on.If you’re navigating concussion recovery or traumatic brain injury, this conversation gets even more relevant. We cover extended high-frequency hearing loss after TBI, tinnitus as a neurologic “phantom sound,” anxiety and sleep disruption, and hyperacusis (sound sensitivity) plus how gradual sound exposure can rebuild tolerance. We also touch on emerging tinnitus research, including where transcranial magnetic stimulation stands today.If this helped you, subscribe for more evidence-based concussion and brain health conversations, share it with someone who keeps saying “I hear fine,” and leave a review so more people can find the show. Dr. Keith Darrow's Resources and Links:https://mytinnitusnumber.org/https://excellenceinaudiology.org/Free Book: Preventing DeclineFree Book: Silenced. The Medical Treatment of TinnitusDr. Darrow's YouTube ChannelDr. Darrow LinkedInSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Pain isn’t a simple “damage equals symptoms” equation. Sometimes your nervous system turns the volume down so far you barely notice serious wear and tear, and other times it turns the volume up until every small sensation feels like an alarm. That difference matters if you’re living with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or persistent symptoms after a concussion, because the right treatment depends on how your brain is regulating threat and sensation.I sit down with Dr. Norm Hoffman to unpack the neuroscience of chronic pain in plain language, including the two common patterns he sees: persistent local pain that never fully resolves and chronic widespread pain that spreads with fatigue, headaches, and sensory overload. We talk about top-down pain inhibition from the brainstem, why cortical body maps can shrink or distort, and how changes in pain receptors can leave people feeling like their natural pain relief system is no longer doing its job. If you’ve ever wondered why pain can “move around” or why one big injury can temporarily mask another, this conversation connects the dots.From there we get practical. Dr. Hoffman explains how he looks for hidden local drivers that often get written off, and why addressing nerve sensitivity, mobility restrictions, and other subtle inputs can reduce the overall noise in an amplified system. We also cover options like PRP and focused shockwave therapy, plus supportive nutrition and supplements that can improve tissue repair. For widespread pain, we dig into why graded exercise is so important and how tools like whole body vibration, music, and gentle dance can help you move without triggering days of flare-ups. Finally, we layer concussion and post-concussion syndrome on top of all of it, including how brain injury can disrupt pain control and how dual-task testing can guide rehab.If this helped you think differently about chronic pain and concussion recovery, subscribe, share this with someone who feels stuck, and leave a review so more people can find the show. Dr. Norm Hoffman: website. Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

A concussion can change your life in a second, but what happens when the people around you treat it like an excuse? Sarah Wuebbolt joins us to share what it’s really like navigating multiple concussions as a teenager while trying to keep up with school, sports, friendships, and the pressure to “be fine” on a timeline that doesn’t match reality.We talk about the first concussion that came with old-school advice to hide in a dark room, how isolation can spiral into depression, and why the emotional side of concussion recovery and post-concussion syndrome deserves the same attention as headaches and dizziness. Sarah also explains a surprising cognitive challenge she noticed after later concussions: how holding eye contact during high-effort conversations can trigger symptoms and be misunderstood as not listening.From vestibular therapy and counseling to meditation, walking, and simple nervous system resets like stepping outside into cold air, we break down tools that helped her build a “new normal” and keep setbacks from defining her progress. We also go deep on school accommodations for concussion recovery, including what to do when a teacher doubts you, how to loop in support staff, and why return-to-learn plans matter. Finally, we zoom out to prevention: Rowan’s Law, baseline concussion testing gaps, and why concussion education should start earlier for every kid, not just contact-sport athletes.If this conversation helps you feel seen, please subscribe, share it with someone navigating a brain injury, and leave a review so more people can find real-world concussion support.Sarah's Instagram: @hopepostinjury. Website. LinkedInSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

A childhood head-on collision. A life shaped by traumatic brain injury. A moment of waking up after a suicide attempt and deciding, with total clarity, to choose life. Cameron Scott joins me for a raw, grounded conversation about what concussion recovery can really look like when the symptoms are not just physical, but emotional, relational, and spiritual too. (This conversation includes reference to suicide. Listener discretion is advised.)We talk through the long arc: multiple TBIs, missing memories from “before,” the overwhelm that makes crowds feel unbearable, and the way alcohol can become a shortcut to numb the nervous system until it turns into its own injury. Cameron shares what helped him rebuild, including sobriety, daily meditation, journaling, yoga, and a simple hand-on-heart practice that brought him out of self-judgment and back into his body. We also explore a powerful reframe for mental health after brain injury: the “dark” part of you may not be the enemy, and integration can quiet the fight inside.Then we go deep on transformational and holotropic breathwork, why it can feel like years of talk therapy compressed into minutes, and how breath can clear stored stress before closing with love and gratitude. We also connect healing to modern work, including Cameron’s emotionally intelligent AI project for wellness coaches and his Coherence Codex custom GPT designed to help you pause, regain clarity, and make better decisions when you are triggered or overwhelmed.If you know someone dealing with post-concussion syndrome, TBI mental health, anxiety, or burnout, share this with them. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what small daily practice helps you come back to center?EQ Intelligence: www.eqintelligenceai.comCameron Scott: LinkedIn   CoachingSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Your brain doesn’t heal on your appointment schedule. It heals in the messy middle of real life, the mornings where you can’t think straight, the afternoons where your energy falls off a cliff, and the nights when you wonder if you’ll ever feel like yourself again.I sit down with Alex Lombardi, founder of The Brain Edit, to talk about lifestyle-based concussion recovery and post-concussion syndrome through a lens most people miss: the 23 hours a day outside the doctor’s office. Alex shares what she learned after three traumatic brain injuries, including the grief of realizing some old paths won’t reopen, and the relief that comes from building new ones that actually support your nervous system, hormones, and brain energy.Then we get practical. We unpack decision fatigue after brain injury and how tiny systems can remove dozens of draining choices. We dig into nutrition for brain health, including a surprisingly simple glucose strategy: eat greens first, protein and fat next, and carbs last to reduce blood sugar spikes that can worsen brain fog, fatigue, and irritability. We also talk about “optimized rest” (not doom-scrolling), hydration without sugar-loaded electrolytes, sunlight in the morning to support circadian rhythm, and why high achievers sometimes need fewer therapies, not more, so the brain can integrate.If you’re looking for actionable concussion recovery tips, non-toxic living edits, and a realistic way to move forward without blaming yourself for needing rest, this conversation is for you. Subscribe, share this with someone navigating an invisible injury, and leave a review with the one lifestyle edit you’re trying this week.Alex Lombardi: website: https://alexlombardiofficial.com/Instagram: @alexlombardiofficialSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

We talk with registered dietitian Natalie Gavi about how to use simple, evidence-led nutrition to support concussion recovery and long-term brain health. We trade myths for practical steps, from Mediterranean staples to smart supplements and steady meal timing.• the acute energy mismatch after concussion and what to eat first• practical meals when appetite is low• mediterranean and MIND diet foundations• omega-3s, polyphenols, and fermented foods• pitfalls of overusing supplements and how to choose safely• meal timing for cognition and headaches• targeted picks: magnesium, riboflavin, creatine• add-in mindset instead of restrictionFind Natalie: Instagram @NatalieGavi.nutrition • Email: [email protected] • Website: Gavinutrition.comSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

I sit down with Navy veteran and transformational trauma coach Lorna Sturchio to unpack how medically supervised ibogaine can catalyze rapid change for PTSD, addiction, and traumatic brain injury. Lorna’s story moves from combat trauma and MST to overprescription and crisis, then into carefully prepared plant medicine work that helped her taper off meds, restore sleep, and rebuild a future. Together, we demystify what ibogaine is, how it differs from ayahuasca or psilocybin, and why its metabolite noribogaine may extend neuroplastic gains for months.Safety takes center stage. You’ll hear about labs, urinalysis, serial 12-lead EKGs, QT monitoring, magnesium support, and 24/7 clinical oversight during dosing and the demanding “grace day.” We walk through the two-phase experience—an acute wakeful-dream period followed by deep introspection where insights become practical steps. That practicality matters for recovery: improved REM and deep sleep, steadier mood, fewer tremors, and better balance can anchor a comeback for people with TBI and post-concussion syndrome. Lorna’s coaching framework adds the scaffolding—preparation sessions, onsite workshops, community support, and multi-week integration so the window of change stays open.We also confront fears and myths head-on: concerns about faith, reliving trauma, and unrealistic “magic pill” expectations. Many clients find the medicine’s “loving intelligence” reframes memories without re-wounding and strengthens personal beliefs rather than challenging them. On access and policy, we explore Texas’s major research funding, standard-setting efforts, and a realistic runway for U.S. availability, all while prioritizing intentional growth and dedicated cohorts for veterans, first responders, spouses, and women veterans who are too often underserved.If you or someone you love is wrestling with trauma, dependency, or brain injury symptoms that won’t budge, this conversation offers clarity, hope, and a roadmap. Subscribe, share with someone who needs it, and leave a review with the one question you’d ask if your brain could start fresh tomorrow.Beond Ibogaine: websiteBeond Service - Mental health programs for veterans: websiteAthletes journey Home: website Lorna Sturchio Instagram:  @experienced_by_lornaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorna-sturchio-85a93a338/Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What if five minutes of the right breathing could calm a racing heart, clear morning fog, and steady your balance after a concussion? Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with chiropractic neurologist Dr. Jonathan Chung to unpack the science and the how-to of using breath as a lever for healing. We dig into why the brainstem’s respiratory centers are vulnerable in acceleration-deceleration injuries like concussions, how dysautonomia and anxiety reshape breathing patterns, and where slow, resonance-frequency breathing fits into a practical recovery plan.You’ll hear how breathing can be assessed in the clinic—spotting neck-driven, shallow mechanics, rib asymmetry, and diaphragm tension. Dr. Chung explains why he often starts care with HRV biofeedback and a simple 4–6 pacing strategy, then builds tolerance gently for POTS patients or anyone prone to overstimulation. The focus is on the exhale: longer, controlled exhales increase vagal tone, reduce resting tachycardia, and give patients an immediate tool to interrupt spiraling anxiety.We also explore nasal breathing’s cognitive advantages, the role of CO2 tolerance in air hunger, and how mindful breath practices enhance cortical entrainment and neuroplasticity. From manual care to improve rib motion, to five-minute daily routines that create durable habits, the theme is empowerment. Control your breath to influence your physiology, stabilize your autonomics, and unlock clearer thinking and calmer days during concussion recovery.If this conversation helps, subscribe, share it with someone navigating post-concussion symptoms, and leave a review so others can find these tools too.Dr. Jonathan Chung: websiteInstagram: @drjonathanchungTik Tok: @drjonathanchungFor healthcare providers - continuing education course: The Neuroscience of BreathworkSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

This is Part 2 of my conversation with Nate Pope from NCX Brain Recovery. Recovery stalls when life gets smaller. We’ve all seen it: light hurts, noise overwhelms, screens drain, so routines narrow and the brain doubles down on workarounds. We open up a different route—structured, supportive challenges that reengage vision, balance, attention, and memory together. Instead of chasing one symptom at a time, we train the whole system to find easier, more efficient pathways.We talk through the surprising number of career pivots after concussion and the practical ways others adapt their existing roles: short movement breaks, fresh air, and task rhythms that reset the nervous system. We also explore where AI can actually help—offloading busywork and cognitive clutter so people can focus on the tasks that matter. Along the way, we address a common pitfall: labeling new attention problems as ADHD. True ADHD starts in childhood; post-concussion attention issues are different, and stimulants can amplify anxiety and dysautonomia. By coordinating with prescribers, prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and targeted cardio, and using intensive therapy, many patients regain focus without medication.The heart of our approach is multi-sensory integration and cognitive flexibility. We layer eye movements, vestibular input, executive tasks, and conversation, then change the rules to build adaptability. That steady stream of achievable wins releases dopamine, rebuilds confidence, and breaks rigid patterns. Sound exposure enters when ready: mechanic shop clatter, playground chaos, crying infants—whatever mirrors real life. It’s not about flooding; it’s about training selective attention under realistic stress. fMRI findings back it up: underactive regions normalize after two weeks, and memory improves as the brain stops detouring.If you’ve been dealing with symptoms for months or years, there’s real hope. We offer free virtual consults to map your history, goals, and fit for our two‑week intensives and eight weeks of aftercare. Subscribe, share with someone who needs a path forward, and leave a review to help others find these tools. Your brain can do this—one smart step at a time.Nate Pope and NCX Brain Recovery: https://www.ncxbrainrecovery.com/Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Your brain isn’t broken; it’s rerouting. We sit down with neuro‑occupational therapist Nate Pope to unpack why so many people with post‑concussion syndrome get stuck despite doing “all the right therapies.” Nate explains how functional MRI reveals a network problem—under-fueled pathways and overworked compensations—and why isolated sessions can accidentally train the detours instead of restoring efficient routes. If headaches spike during vision drills or screen time wipes you out, this conversation will reframe what effective rehab looks like.We walk through a practical model of whole‑brain, multi‑sensory integration that engages visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, auditory, and executive systems at once. Picture standing balance work while tracking targets and answering questions—tasks that block unhealthy shortcuts and demand true coordination. Nate  shows how intensity and variety drive neuroplastic change that holds up outside the clinic. You’ll hear why once‑a‑week tune‑ups fall short and how a two‑week intensive plus eight weeks of aftercare creates momentum.The toughest bridge is getting back to work. We outline a smarter ramp that prevents relapse: simulate job tasks in therapy, expand screen time and cognitive load only when symptoms stay stable, and follow the golden rule that slow is fast. For many, the difference comes down to advocacy—clear communication with employers about reduced hours, planned breaks, moderated visual demand, and why that approach gets employees back to full capacity sooner. If you’ve felt unseen because your symptoms are invisible, this episode offers language, tools, and a roadmap for real progress.If this helped, follow the show, share it with someone navigating concussion recovery, and leave a review so others can find these strategies. Got topics you want us to tackle next? Email lifeafterimpact at gmail.com.Nate Pope and NCX Brain Recovery: https://www.ncxbrainrecovery.com/Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What if the most powerful medicine after a brain injury is feeling truly seen? We sit down with Kyla Pearce, Senior Director of Programs and Research at the Love Your Brain foundation, to explore how connection, mind‑body practices, and practical education can restore confidence, calm, and everyday momentum for people with TBI and their caregivers.Kyla shares the story behind the foundation, launched after pro snowboarder Kevin Pearce’s traumatic brain injury, and the gap they set out to close: the lonely, confusing stretch after acute care. We unpack how free programs—delivered in person, online, and in hospital settings—blend yoga, mindfulness, brain health nutrition, and resilience education to address mental, physical, and social needs. You’ll hear how groups are designed to be both trauma‑informed and TBI‑informed, with predictable structure, sensory‑aware cueing, and space for honest conversation. We also break down the core class arc: targeted breathwork, chair‑based movement for balance and mobility, guided meditation, and a resilience lesson like realistic optimism that ties skills to daily life.Evidence matters here. Kyla walks through their large pre‑post studies showing significant gains in quality of life, mood, cognition, resilience, and behavioral regulation among community participants. That real‑world data helps clinicians refer with confidence and gives families a bridge from discharge to long‑term living. We also look ahead to March 20–22, 2026, when Love Your Brain hosts a three‑day online summit featuring leaders in functional neurology, mindfulness science, habit formation, and photobiomodulation. Expect candid, research‑grounded conversations about what works, what’s emerging, and how to navigate device hype, dosing, and trade‑offs without getting lost.If you or someone you love is recovering from concussion or TBI, this conversation offers clarity, hope, and concrete next steps—from nature‑based retreats and caregiver programming to accessible online groups you can join from home. Explore the lineup and join the community at loveyourbrain.com/summit, then subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help others find the show.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

We share practical ways to enjoy the holidays while protecting a healing brain, focusing on blood sugar, hydration, sleep, and realistic boundaries. We reframe FOMO, practice gentle resets, and stack small wins so recovery feels doable and meaningful.• stabilizing blood sugar with planned meals and snacks• hydration strategies with minerals and travel tips• pre-event resets, breathing, and transition time• scouting quiet zones and setting exit plans• honoring sleep schedules over social pressure• scripts for showing up differently and saying no• mindset shifts away from FOMO toward self-respect• win stacking, gratitude, and tracking progress• using cues and lists to manage overloadEmail us at [email protected] with your tips for self-care during the holidays. Connect with Chaandani at www.returntolife.ca and discover how her work is helping bridge the gap between patients and practitioners in the concussion recovery journey.Email Chaandani: [email protected] us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Holidays can feel like a sensory obstacle course when you’re healing from a concussion or navigating post-concussion syndrome. We unpack a clear, compassionate plan to trade overwhelm for ease—without opting out of the moments that matter. With returning guest Chaandani Khan, we explore how to choose fewer, more meaningful events, set time limits that prevent crashes, and skip the infamous "Minnesota goodbye" by aligning expectations with your host. You’ll get practical boundary scripts that don’t feel awkward, plus mindset shifts that protect identity and fuel progress.We go deep on managing sensory load in real time. Learn how to claim the best seat in the room and use casual strategies to reach quieter corners without missing out.  If masking drains you, we talk through honest check-ins and how to leave before your system tips into a multi-day setback.Food and drink play a bigger role than most realize. We break down how gut permeability and a stressed blood-brain barrier can turn sugar and alcohol into headache and brain fog triggers. Get solutions you can use immediately: eat before you go, bring safe snacks and non-alcoholic options, and answer dietary questions simply—no long explanations needed. By combining sensory smarts, recovery-day buffers, and steady nutrition, you’ll keep your energy for connection, not recovery spirals.If this conversation helps, tap follow, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a quick review—it’s the best holiday gift you can give our show. What strategy will you try first?Connect with Chaandani at www.returntolife.ca and discover how her work is helping bridge the gap between patients and practitioners in the concussion recovery journey.Email Chaandani: [email protected] us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

A faster return isn’t always a safer one. We sit down with physiotherapist Kosta Ikonomou to unpack why musculoskeletal injuries spike two to three times after a concussion and how to build a recovery plan that restores performance, not just symptom reduction. From elite level athletes to everyday patients navigating concussion rehab, Kosta shares hard-earned lessons on testing, training, and the psychology of change.Kosta is a clinical specialist physiotherapist with over a decade of experience in sports medicine and concussion. He has worked in acute neuro hospitals and specialized concussion clinics, treating persistent symptoms. In sports, Kosta collaborated with Chelsea Football Club Academy, Olympic GB diving, Vancouver Bandits Basketball (CEBL), CIS rugby, and ice hockey teams.Beyond a Physiotherapy degree, Kosta holds a Master's in Sports Medicine from University College London, a FIFA Sports Medicine Diploma, and certifications in Vestibular Rehabilitation and visual-vestibular postgraduate training for concussion rehabilitation from Duke University. His research findings on the effects of fatigue on the vestibular oculomotor screen was presented at BASEM in Leeds in 2018 and the 2023 Concussion Consensus statement in Amsterdam.We break down the modern assessment toolkit—VOMS, force plates, reaction time training, neurocognitive scores, and cervical motion mapping—and why baselines matter when pressure mounts. You’ll hear how to test under fatigue to expose hidden deficits in reaction time and visual motor speed, and why neck strength is a keystone that only works when vestibular and ocular systems are trained alongside it. We get practical about exercise timing too: relative rest for 24–48 hours, then progressive aerobic work that raises brain-derived neurtrophic factor (BDNF), stabilizes the autonomic system, and reduces fear-based immobility. For sedentary listeners, microdosing workouts and “never miss twice” habits create momentum without flare-ups.We also zoom out to the culture of concussion care: the gap between North America and Europe in awareness and access, the role of rule changes in rugby, and how youth and grassroots programs need better education. Throughout, the theme is consistent—return to performance requires objective data, deliberate progressions, and a team approach that meets people where they are. If you’re an athlete, a parent, a clinician, or someone rebuilding life after impact, this conversation gives you clear steps and smarter standards for safer returns.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a teammate or friend, and leave a quick review to help more people find evidence-based concussion care. Got a question or a story to share? Send us a message—we’d love to hear it.Kosta's clinic website: Akeso Sports MedicineNewsletter Kosta Ikonomou LinkedIn pageSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

If “migraine” meds aren’t touching your headaches after a concussion, you might be chasing the wrong problem. Dr. Wolf sits down with Dr. Adam Harcourt, a board-certified functional neurologist and fourth-generation chiropractor, to unpack why post-traumatic headaches so often get mislabeled as migraine—and how objective neuro exams flip the outcome. From eye movement control and gaze stabilization to neck proprioception and autonomic integrity, Dr. Harcourt explains the tests that reveal brainstem dysfunction you can actually measure rather than guess.  You’ll hear a powerful case: a 10-year-old with “intractable migraine” that failed multiple hospital treatments until one overlooked detail surfaced—a basketball to the face the day before symptoms began. With targeted visual-vestibular and cervical work, her pain cleared within days and she returned to school and dance. That theme of foundations-first threads through the hour: build basic stability before intensity, or great rehab stalls. We share simple, surprising tools too—like rhythmic ear insufflation that can abort some migraines in minutes; sublingual ginger oil (Migraine Ginger Relief - MGR) that reduces reliance on triptans; and MQ7, a comprehensive migraine nutrient formula that streamlines evidence-based prevention without a cupboard full of bottles.  We also tackle the big lifestyle levers without fluff. Caffeine: cutting down rarely helps; going to zero often does, because caffeine raises neuronal hyperexcitability. Diet: most people have sensitivities, not instant triggers, and a short, structured reset—including high-histamine foods—clarifies the few that matter. For medication overuse, we map a path out of rebound by lowering allostatic load and widening the “bucket” so weather swings, hormones, and daily stress don’t overflow into attacks. And if your symptoms look like vestibular migraine, hemiplegic migraine, or even “abdominal migraine,” you’ll learn how the same hyperexcitability model guides customized rehab for balance, facial motor, and lower brainstem pathways.  If you’ve felt dismissed, bounced between triptans, Botox, and endless supplements, this conversation gives you a practical framework, specific tests to request, and at-home strategies to try now. Subscribe, share with someone stuck in the migraine maze, and leave a review to help more people find clear, evidence-informed care.Dr. Adam Harcourt: Clinic WebsiteInstagram: @migrainedoctorsBiogenic Nutrition: websiteFor Clinicians: Master Migraine Course with the Carrick InstituteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Do you still feel dizzy, off-balance, or disoriented months—or even years—after your concussion? You’re not imagining it. In this episode, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with Dr. Helena Esmonde, founder of Vestibular First and creator of the innovative infrared goggles that are changing how clinicians diagnose and treat vestibular disorders.Together, they uncover what your eye movements can reveal about your inner-ear and brain connection, why symptoms alone rarely tell the full story, and how new diagnostic tools are helping patients finally understand why they’re dizzy—and what to do about it.💡 You’ll learn:The difference between central vs. peripheral vestibular issues—and why it matters for treatment.How infrared goggles reveal hidden patterns of nystagmus and help pinpoint the true cause of dizziness.Why some patients develop “learned dizziness” even after their BPPV has resolved.Practical, creative balance and sensory-integration exercises.How to find a qualified vestibular therapist and what red flags to watch for when seeking help.Whether you’ve been told “everything looks normal” or you’ve just learned about vestibular rehab for the first time, this conversation will give you hope, clarity, and practical next steps for your healing journey.Vestibular First: websiteHelena Esmonde: LinkedIn, email: [email protected]: @vestibularfirstSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

A motorcycle crash in Ecuador set off a chain reaction Kevin Donahue couldn’t name at first: anger out of nowhere, brain fog, exhaustion, and a life that stopped making sense. When a friend connected the dots to concussion, everything changed—awareness unlocked a roadmap to real recovery.We explore how Kevin turned survival into transformation with several practical pillars: awareness, listening to his body, sharing honestly to open the doors for helpful people, eating for brain healing, prioritizing rest, creating meaningful goals, and serving others. He details the therapies that moved the needle—functional neurology, targeted neuro-rehab, and Cereset. We also discuss the confusing overlap between post-concussion syndrome and PTSD, especially for veterans, and why accurate assessment matters more than quick prescriptions.This is a story about momentum and meaning: journaling a future you can’t yet see, booking a date that pulls you forward, and letting community carry what you can’t hold alone. Kevin’s path—through openness, clean nutrition, deep rest, and service—shows how to rebuild identity and capacity after a concussion. Kevin Donahue is the author of If this conversation helped you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs it, and leave a review so others can find these recovery tools too.Kevin Donahue:Book: Concussion Transformation: Overcoming the #1 Silent Secret Killer of Relationships, Careers, and LivesLinkedInFacebookInstagram: @donahuekmStealth Family WebsiteAeriel Recovery Amen Clinics Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What if the fastest path to fewer concussions and better performance starts with how we train the neck? We sit down with physiotherapist, inventor, and researcher Dr. Theo Versteegh to unpack a novel training device that targets rapid, eccentric stabilization—the exact kind of control impact sports demand. Instead of slow, single-plane moves, his device builds rate of force development in rotational and multiplanar directions, then tracks progress with clear metrics. The results are hard to ignore: multiple teams across genders report zero head and neck injury seasons after adoption, and many go on to win their conference within three years. On the clinical side, a randomized trial in persistent post-concussion syndrome shows 70%+ symptom reduction, alongside big gains in headache and neck disability scores.We break down why Type II fast-twitch recruitment and proprioception are the missing links in concussion prevention, balance, and visual stability. You’ll hear how a simple, two-minute, twice-weekly protocol can raise resilience without adding grind to already packed schedules, and why more isn’t better—especially for those with headaches or dizziness. We also talk safety screening, learning curves, and how the self-limiting design only spins as fast as your system can control. The NFL granted Topspin Technologies the First and Future Innovations to Advance Athlete Health and Safety Award in 2019. The Detroit Lions took the charge, adopting this technology, and went on to win their division for the first time in 31 years. In this conversation we connect the dots between neck readiness, better awareness on the field, and fewer neck and head injuries per season.Want to reduce injuries, calm chronic headaches, and sharpen performance with just four minutes a week? Hit play, share this with your team, and subscribe for more brain-savvy training. Your podcast review helps more people find tools that actually move the needle.TopSpin360 websiteDr. Theo Versteegh LinkedInNeck rehab consulting for clinicians: Neck RevolutionSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Think your “sinus headache,” tight hamstring, or random insomnia is unrelated to your head? We trace surprising symptom chains back to the nervous system and show how hidden concussions often sit at the center of stubborn pain, sleep issues, tinnitus, and gut flare‑ups. With returning guest Dr. Clayton Shiu, we unpack real cases where elbow or knee pain turned out to be brain-driven—and why delayed symptoms after a fall or car crash are more physiology than mystery.We walk through the moment-to-moment clues that shift a diagnosis: eyes that won’t track smoothly at check‑in, speech that slips into transient aphasia, a neck moving like a bobblehead, or balance that subtly lags on stairs. You’ll hear how adrenaline masks pain for days, why the autonomic system can scramble circadian rhythms, and how vestibular-ocular issues make braking at a stoplight feel like your body keeps going. Then we get practical: document every accident even if you feel “fine,” recognize the pattern when “allergies” don’t behave like allergies, and understand when rehab stalls because the system—not just the sore part—needs care.If you’re stuck chasing symptoms, this conversation offers a new map: test what matters, treat the mechanism, and let the nervous system lead your plan. Subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs clarity, and leave a review to help others find their path forward.Dr. Clayton Shiu Instagram: @jadeshaman, @the_shiu_clinicClinic WebsiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What if the missing element in your health isn't another supplement or diet change, but something as fundamental as light? In this illuminating conversation, Sarah Turner reveals how our modern indoor lifestyle has created a profound deficiency in specific wavelengths of light that our bodies evolved to require.Turner, founder of CeraThrive and creator of an innovative red light therapy device, explains the fascinating science behind photobiomodulation – how red and near-infrared light penetrate human tissue to activate cellular healing mechanisms. Her journey from pharmaceutical research to developing light therapy technology highlights a crucial insight: our bodies function optimally when they receive the natural light patterns they evolved with over thousands of years.The most compelling aspect of this discussion centers on the gut-brain connection. Turner's device uniquely targets both ends of this axis, recognizing that true brain health begins with gut health. She shares surprising observations about how many people have normalized their gut dysfunction, not realizing these issues directly impact their brain function, energy levels, and mood regulation.With the precision of a scientist and the accessibility of a skilled communicator, Turner breaks down complex concepts around wavelengths, mitochondrial function, and the emerging field of "photobiomics" – how light affects our microbiome. She offers practical guidance for navigating the confusing world of light therapy devices, helping listeners understand what to look for and what questions to ask before investing.This conversation expands our understanding of what constitutes essential nutrition. Beyond food, water, and supplements, specific wavelengths of light emerge as critical nutrients our bodies require for optimal functioning. Turner's work represents a fascinating frontier where ancient wisdom about sunrise and sunset meets cutting-edge technology to address modern health challenges.Whether you're dealing with brain fog, fatigue, mood issues, or gut problems, this episode offers fresh perspective on a therapeutic approach that works with your body's natural processes. Discover how reintroducing the right light into your life might illuminate your path to better health.Get 10% off your CeraThrive CeraSystem with this link and code: Recovery10https://www.cerathrive.com/recoveryInstagram: @_rebel_scientistPodcast: Rebel ScientistSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Have you ever wondered why your digestion seems to have gone haywire after a concussion? You're not alone, and there's a neurological explanation behind those new food sensitivities and stomach troubles.The brain-gut connection is far more profound than most of us realize. Through the vagus nerve—a critical communication pathway—your brain and digestive system maintain constant dialogue. When a concussion disrupts this delicate system, the consequences ripple throughout your entire digestive process. Your vagal nerve signaling weakens, stomach acid production falters, and gut motility becomes irregular. What's particularly fascinating is how brain inflammation can directly alter your gut microbiome, creating a cascade of digestive symptoms that seem disconnected from your head injury.The mechanisms behind this connection are multifaceted. First, concussions often trigger autonomic nervous system imbalances that shift your body into fight-or-flight mode, diverting blood away from digestion. Second, inflammatory messengers produced in your injured brain enter circulation and increase gut permeability. Third, the protective barriers in both your brain and gut begin to leak in tandem, allowing harmful substances to cross where they shouldn't. Finally, the stress hormones and sleep disruption that follow concussions further compromise your digestive health by thinning the gut lining and disrupting your microbiome.If you've developed mysterious food sensitivities, especially to gluten, dairy, or histamine-rich foods, understanding these connections is crucial. Standard elimination diets might not work as expected because many foods cross-react with gluten, including oats, corn, and rice. Additionally, the glyphosate residue in non-organic grains may be exacerbating your symptoms, which explains why some people can tolerate bread in Europe but not at home. Healing requires patience—sometimes 3-6 months rather than just weeks—and a comprehensive approach that addresses both brain and gut simultaneously. By supporting your digestive health, you're also creating the optimal environment for your brain to recover, turning a vicious cycle of inflammation into a virtuous cycle of healing.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

The quest to understand persistent brain symptoms after concussion has puzzled doctors and researchers for decades. What happens when the brain doesn't heal as expected? Why do some patients develop long-term problems while others recover completely?Dr. Mavroudis, consultant neurologist and pioneering researcher, pulls back the curtain on these mysteries by revealing surprising connections between post-concussion syndrome, functional neurological disorders, and even long COVID. At the heart of his research is a revolutionary perspective: these seemingly different conditions share fundamental mechanisms related to neuroplasticity – the brain's ability to adapt and form new connections. When this process breaks down at the synaptic level, where neurons communicate, symptoms persist despite normal-appearing brain scans.The conversation takes us deep into the cutting-edge world of brain biomarkers – molecular messengers that could revolutionize how we diagnose and treat concussions. Dr. Mavroudis explains how his team is developing cloud applications and machine learning algorithms to interpret patterns in these biomarkers, potentially allowing doctors to predict which patients will develop serious problems and tailor treatments accordingly. Particularly promising is his work on CGRP biomarkers for post-traumatic headaches, offering hope to many patients dissatisfied with current treatments.But perhaps most refreshing is Dr. Mavroudis' holistic approach to treatment. Rather than reaching first for medications, he emphasizes behavioral therapies, appropriate exercise, stress management, and addressing cervical injuries that invariably accompany concussions. "The brain doesn't exist in isolation," he reminds us, highlighting how liver function, kidney health, and even gut activity significantly impact brain recovery.Whether you're struggling with persistent symptoms after a concussion, caring for someone who is, or simply fascinated by the frontiers of neuroscience, this episode offers a roadmap to understanding the complex interconnections of brain injury and recovery. Dr. Mavroudis: WebsiteLinkedIn: ProfileSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

The nervous system after concussion often remains stuck in fight-or-flight, making traditional rehabilitation challenging at best. Melissa Biscardi, an osteopathic therapist, registered nurse, and PhD candidate, reveals why gentle manual therapy creates a critical foundation for healing visual dysfunction after brain injury.Drawing from over a decade of clinical experience, Biscardi explains how cranial work can release tension patterns affecting the extraocular muscles and create a parasympathetic shift that prepares the brain for more active rehabilitation. She shares fascinating insights into the subtle nuances of visual dysfunction that standard assessments often miss - from saccade accuracy problems to vergence issues that only appear when the head is in certain positions. These seemingly minor impairments can significantly impact daily function, much like "driving with a spare tire on" - you'll still get there, but with increased strain and decreased performance.Her groundbreaking PhD research explores virtual reality applications for ocular motor rehabilitation, comparing traditional care with a six-week VR intervention combined with home exercises via her Brain Toolkit app. This innovative approach makes specialized rehabilitation more accessible and engaging for patients outside major medical centers. Biscardi also discusses her pioneering investigation into how concussions affect hormonal function in women, particularly anti-Müllerian hormone levels, which may impact reproductive health.From her personal journey with medication-induced memory issues to her martial arts background and multiple concussions, Biscardi brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. Join us for this enlightening conversation about cutting-edge approaches to visual rehabilitation and discover practical strategies you can implement today for improved brain health and concussion recovery.Melissa Biscardi:Website: www.concussionrehab.caInstagram: @concussionrehab.caYouTube: @concussionrehabBrain Tool Kit: https://www.instagram.com/braintoolkitCarrick Institute:W.E.S.H.I.N.E. virtual woman-led neurology conference: Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

What happens when a decorated Navy commander and world-record holder for living underwater becomes a traumatic brain injury patient himself? Dr. Joe Dituri's extraordinary journey from elite military diver to pioneering hyperbaric medicine researcher offers groundbreaking insights into brain injury recovery that challenge everything we thought we knew.Having spent 100 days living at pressure beneath the ocean's surface for Project Neptune 100, Dr. Dituri was already studying the effects of hyperbaric conditions on human physiology. Then life delivered a devastating blow – a car accident that left him with a severe TBI, unable to read, write, or control his emotions. Faced with suicidal thoughts, he tried everything to heal his broken brain. The result? A revolutionary understanding that effective brain recovery requires simultaneous physical, physiological, and psychological intervention.Now part of a team leading the world's largest hyperbaric oxygen therapy study for veterans with TBI, Dr. Dituri reveals fascinating discoveries about how different pressure levels trigger distinct healing mechanisms. Want to reduce inflammation? Lower pressures around 1.3-1.4 atmospheres work best. Need to inhibit toxin production? Higher pressures up to 3.0 atmospheres are required. This nuanced understanding explains why personalized protocols matter tremendously.What makes Dr. Dituri's research particularly groundbreaking is its comprehensive approach. His team isn't just measuring one or two outcomes – they're collecting blood, urine, saliva, EEGs, and advanced brain imaging before and after treatment. And unlike most medical studies, they've ensured nearly half the participants are women, acknowledging the importance of including females in brain injury research.Whether you're struggling with concussion symptoms, supporting someone with TBI, or simply fascinated by cutting-edge neuroscience, this episode offers rare insight from someone who's lived the journey from both sides – as researcher and patient. Subscribe now to hear how underwater pressure might hold the key to healing our most complex organ.Dr. Dituri:Email: [email protected]: https://drdeepsea.com/Instagram: @drdeepseaLinkedIn: Dr. DituriSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Contact Dr. Antonucci: WebsiteDr. Antonucci's Neurobytes Blog - (totally worth reading in IMO)Eliminate your hiccoughs in seconds! Blog post as promised :)Carrick InstituteShow Description:Ever wonder why your concussion symptoms persist despite seeing multiple specialists and undergoing countless tests? In this illuminating conversation, Dr. Matthew Antonucci reveals the systematic approach that's transformed the lives of thousands of patients with complex neurological conditions.Dr. Antonucci approaches each patient like a detective, meticulously gathering clues without contaminating the evidence or jumping to conclusions. This data-driven method allows him to identify precisely where dysfunctions overlap across multiple neurological systems. As he explains, "It becomes like hundreds, if not thousands, of Venn diagrams, circles that overlap with each other. If you can figure out where all somebody's findings overlap, fixing that one thing fixes all the circles."The discussion delves into the hierarchical nature of our nervous system, beginning with the bedrock of metabolic function and the often-overlooked autonomic nervous system. Dr. Antonucci emphasizes the critical role of the vestibular system - one of our oldest sensory systems - which is uniquely integrated throughout the entire brain. Unlike our visual or auditory systems that occupy specific regions, vestibular processing influences everything from eye movements to posture, hormones, and sleep cycles.What makes concussion patients so challenging? "They are depression patients, headache patients, movement disorder patients, dysautonomia patients, chronic pain patients... take all the different patients you would have in a neurology practice and pop them together in one person," Dr. Antonucci explains. Yet with his structured framework, these complex cases become opportunities rather than overwhelming challenges.Perhaps most powerful is his emphasis on patient education and empowerment. By helping patients understand what's happening in their nervous systems, he transforms their experience from one filled with "I can't do's" to one where they control their own recovery journey.Whether you're a healthcare provider seeking to enhance your approach or someone struggling with persistent symptoms, this episode offers invaluable insights into how the brain heals and what it truly needs to recover from impact. Visit drantonucci.com to learn more about his work and approach to complex neurological cases.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Dr. Glen Zielinski from Northwest Functional Neurology explores commonly missed vestibular lesions that can develop after head impacts, focusing on Superior Canal Dehiscence (SCD) as a frequently overlooked cause of debilitating hyperacusis and other post-concussion symptoms. He shares diagnostic insights including a simple tuning fork test that can identify potential SCD cases.• SCD creates a resonant cavity near hearing apparatus when the thin bone covering semicircular canals is damaged• Simple tuning fork test on the knee can identify SCD when patients hear rather than just feel the vibration• Proper diagnosis requires high-resolution temporal bone CT imaging• Midbrain dysfunction often presents with combined symptoms of light/sound sensitivity, anxiety, and vestibular issues• Hear the story of how Dr. Zielinski's clinic won architectural awards for its therapeutic design specifically engineered for brain injury patients• Special features include specific shades of green for photophobia and felt materials that absorb aggravating sound frequencies• The physical environment itself becomes part of the treatment approachYou can learn more about Dr. Zielinski's clinic at northwestfunctionalneurology.com or email [email protected] us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Dr. Glen Zielinski from Northwest Functional Neurology in Lake Oswego, OR, joins us to talk about how he’s using cutting-edge, image-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technology to treat more than just depression. With neuro-navigated TMS, he's able to target specific brain regions with millimeter precision—and he's not stopping there.Dr. Zielinski walks us through how he customizes every treatment using detailed neurodiagnostic testing, identifying exactly where and why the brain isn't functioning properly. Instead of using generic protocols, he fine-tunes TMS treatment plans based on individual brain mapping.We also dive into:How the default mode network and salience network are key players in emotional dysregulation after concussionWhy combining TMS with targeted neurological rehab exercises leads to stunning outcomes—like a 96% response rate and remission rates in the high 80sThe use of TMS for dystonias, dysautonomia, movement disorders, and moreKey contraindications you need to know before considering TMSWhether you’re a patient exploring new treatment options or a clinician wanting to deepen your understanding of brain-targeted therapies, this episode is packed with insight you won’t want to miss.Dr. Zielinski's Website: Northwest Functional NeurologyYoutube channel: @northwestfunctionalneurolo5250Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Navigating the complex world of inner ear disorders, Dr. Ayla Wolf and Sophia Bouwens discuss the mechanics and causes of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and what contributes to re-occurring BPPV.• Difference between true vertigo and general dizziness • How the semicircular canals and otolithic organs in our inner ear detect all head movements• Infrared goggles essential for accurate BPPV diagnosis • Vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and B vitamin deficiencies linked to recurring BPPV• Thyroid disorders, hormonal fluctuations, and certain antibiotics can trigger vestibular problems• COVID infections associated with increased vestibular symptoms• Chinese medicine perspective on "dampness" and its relationship to dizzinessWe'd love to hear what specific topics you want to hear more about, and you can do that by clicking the send us a text link that's at the top of the show notes. Video clips from previous episodes are now available on the Life After Impact YouTube channel, which you can find by searching for @LifeAfterImpact.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Dr. Brody Miller, PhD, is a 2x best selling, author, researcher, speaker, and pioneer in brain health recovery. Having recovered from severe brain trauma, drug and epileptic seizures, he created a unique, and holistic approach, called the REBOUND method (TM) with his Mind Gym Starter Course. He focuses on helping high-level, heart led, athletes and leaders from all around the world overcome brain injuries so that they can get back to their life's mission.The invisible nature of brain injuries creates a unique kind of suffering. When Dr. Brody Miller was knocked unconscious in a street fight, his life spiraled into seizures, medication side effects, and cognitive challenges that left him feeling broken and hopeless. But what followed was a remarkable transformation that defies conventional wisdom about brain injury recovery.From the depths of this struggle emerged a profound journey of healing through neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Dr. Miller takes us through his evolution from "seven-year dropout senior" to PhD neuroscientist specializing in traumatic brain injury recovery, now completely free from medications and seizures that once plagued his daily life.This conversation unveils practical, accessible strategies anyone can implement to enhance brain function and recovery. From the surprising benefits of juggling to simple "mind gym" finger exercises that stimulate the motor cortex, Dr. Miller offers tools that cost nothing but yield profound results. His emphasis on breathwork—particularly nitric oxide breathing through the nose—reveals how something as fundamental as how we breathe can strengthen neural pathways and boost healing.Dr. Brody:Website: https://dr-bro.comDr. Brody's Mind Gym: https://dr-bro.com/mindgym2025Podcast on Spotify: Rebound Your Brain Podcast ~ Dr. Brody MillerBook: Brain Rescue: A 90 Day Blueprint to Reclaim Your Memory After a Brain Injury or ConcussionYouTube: @drbrodymillerInstagram: @drbrodymillerTikTok: @drbrodymillerSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Dr. Ayla Wolf interviews Dr. Ala Lysyk about Cereset technology, an innovative approach using acoustic feedback to help the brain reset itself after concussion or trauma. They discuss how this engineering-based technology creates a real-time acoustic mirror therapy that allows the brain to recognize and correct harmful patterns causing persistent fatigue and other symptoms.• Dr. Ala's journey from chiropractor to functional neurologist after being inspired by Dr. Carrick's paradigm-shifting approach• How persistent post-concussion fatigue led Dr. Ala to search for better solutions for her patients • The development of Cereset by Lee Gerdes, an electrical engineer who suffered a TBI and discovered sound could help heal his brain• How Cereset measures emotional and stress fitness in the brain using EEG sensors• The difference between fight/flight (right-sided dominance) and freeze (left-sided dominance) brain patterns• The standard five-session protocol and how it creates lasting changes in brain function• Real patient experiences and transformations after using the technology• Why this approach works well for visual-sensitive concussion patients as it relies only on sound.Find more information about Cereset technology at Cereset.com and look for locations near you.Dr. Ala Lysyk: websiteSend us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...

Dr. Ayla Wolf and Sophia Bouwens dive deep into the complexities of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), explaining how this autonomic dysfunction manifests and why proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Dr. Wolf breaks down the different subtypes, testing methods, and treatment approaches while emphasizing the importance of looking beyond symptoms to find root causes.• Different subtypes include hyperadrenergic POTS, hypovolemic POTS, and POTS with mast cell activation• Approximately 70% of POTS cases occur in females between ages 15-45• Many POTS patients have interoception issues, feeling disconnected from bodily sensations or experiencing heightened awareness• Potential underlying causes include concussions, mold exposure, viral infections, autoimmune conditions, and cervical instability• Exercise therapy is beneficial but must be customized to the patient's specific condition and symptomsFor more information about concussion recovery and autonomic dysfunction, check out Dr. Wolf's new book, "The Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces to Recovery," now available on Amazon.Send us a Message!My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon.  Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein:  https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACTThe Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on AmazonConcussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon!Follow us on YouTube & Instagram @lifeafterimpactWebsite: lifeafterimpact.comMedical disclaimer: this video or podcast is for general informational purposes only, and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. No doctor patient relationship is formed. The use of this information and materials included is at the user's own risk. The content of this video or podcast is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. Consumers of this information should seek the advice of a medical p...