Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Hope Survives | Brain Injury Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ways to Strengthen Resilience on the Brain Recovery Journey (with Wendy Ellmo, CCC-SLP) | 13 oct. 2026 | 00:33:30 | |
Recovering from any type of concussion or brain injury can feel like a really long journey. But what if you have been developing a resilience you didn’t know you had all along? Whether you’ve had the injury yourself, or if you are a loved one - join us in this episode for some encouragement. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden interviews Speech-Language Pathologist Wendy Ellmo, who shares both her professional expertise and personal insight after sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury at age 17. Wendy breaks down the foundations of cognitive recovery, offering practical tools to reframe accommodations and strategies as empowering safety nets rather than limitations. Listen for practical ways to foster resilience and find purpose along the journey. We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center on neurological resilience and neuroplasticity. Dr. Schmoe shares how intentional stimulation, including quick eye movements, visualization, breath mechanics, and cognitive dual-tasking, helps neurons fire and wire together while calming microglial neuro-inflammation. 🧠 In this episode:
The Hope Collective: read and share reflections on life after brain injury: hopesurvives.org/thehopecollective CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:55 Welcome with Cristabelle 2:50 Neuroplasticity & Brain Resilience - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 7:07 Introducing Wendy 11:45 How Personal TBI Experience Helped in SLP Practice 13:15 Common Changes after Brain Injury 16:48 Ways to Strengthen Resilience 25:04 Small, Practical Steps 29:08 Encouragement for Family Members 31:18 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Finding Peace in the Uncertainty of Post-Concussion (with Tara L. Banks) | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:34:23 | |
Living with post-concussion syndrome often means navigating a disorienting loss of identity, unpredictable symptoms, and the frustration of feeling like a stranger to yourself. When a good day is suddenly followed by an overwhelming crash, the uncertainty of recovery can make finding a clear path forward feel impossible. Today, we are exploring how to navigate the emotional and physical toll of lingering symptoms, adapt to an invisible injury, and discover true peace in the midst of life's chaos. Today, host Cristabelle Braden interviews author and speaker Tara L. Banks, who candidly shares her personal experience recovering from multiple concussions. Listen as Tara opens up about grappling with a shifted sense of self, managing light and sound sensitivity, dizziness, and brain fog, and learning to advocate for herself when her struggles aren't visible to others. We also discuss redefining victory through the "little wins" of daily life, leaning on faith and supportive community, and cultivating internal peace when external circumstances remain uncertain. We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center on hope for post-concussion syndrome. Dr. Schmoe shares the importance of looking beyond traditional rehab to explore blood chemistry, gut health, neuro-inflammation, and supporting the brain's glymphatic system. 🧠 In this episode:
The Hope Collective: read and share reflections on life after brain injury: hopesurvives.org/thehopecollective CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Tara:.taralbanks.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:05 Welcome with Cristabelle 4:24 Hope for PCS - Spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 8:26 Tara’s Concussion Story 15:14 “Looking Fine” - Not Feeling Fine 20:18 Finding Peace in Post-Concussion 23:25 Sense of Self & Not Giving Up 31:10 Finding Everyday Fruit - Tara’s Book 32:22 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| How the 6 Pillars of Brain Health Transform TBI Recovery (with Luke Bohnenberger) | 29 sept. 2026 | 00:34:09 | |
Have you ever felt stuck and unsure how to move forward in your recovery journey? Today, as we kick off Season 6, we are talking about how learning about brain health can make a huge impact - and giving you some practical tools to take with you. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden interviews Luke Bohnenberger, known as Luke Speaks TBI, who shares his powerful journey from a severe car accident and mental health struggles to becoming an advocate for others. Listen to discover how understanding your brain’s needs on a neurological level can remove shame, empower recovery, and help you regain a sense of control over your life and recovery journey. We also feature a spotlight on brain health with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center. Dr. Schmoe explains practical, daily habits for supporting your neurology, focusing on blood sugar regulation, hydration, and simple ways to activate your brain through movement, visualization, and stress reduction. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Luke: lukespeakstbi.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:45 Welcome with Cristabelle 2:59 Brain Health - Spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 6:02 Introducing Luke 8:45 The TBI Journey 14:35 Foundation of Brain Health 23:00 Understanding Safety in Nervous System 26:45 Takeaways and Small Steps 31:35 Final Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Hope through Life with Brain Injury | Season 6 First Look | 26 sept. 2026 | 00:05:20 | |
At Hope Survives, we know that life with brain injury isn’t easy - so we're here to talk all about the ups, downs, and in-betweens, and offer some encouragement and practical tools to help you on your journey. Today we're sharing a preview of where we're going in Season 6. This season, we’re having thoughtful conversations with clinicians and individuals impacted by brain injury: connecting expert insight with the real-life, day-to-day experience of life after brain injury. Today’s preview episode includes a first look at some of our conversations. Subscribe and stay tuned for the official premiere! CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| How to Regulate Your Nervous System after Brain Injury with Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques (with Shelley Latendresse) | 02 juil. 2026 | 00:43:19 | |
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed after a brain injury, with the mix of symptoms, daily stress, and simply coping with how your life has changed. It’s also common after brain injury to end up in survival mode, feeling disconnected from your body, and pushing yourself - which may be okay short term, but can add to long term stress and chronic symptoms. Today, we are diving into the topics of grounding, mindfulness, and how learning to regulate your nervous system can help you to move forward with healing after a brain injury. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden interviews Occupational Therapist Shelley Latendresse, who shares practical insights on how mindfulness and grounding techniques can aid recovery from a brain injury. Listen to discover how simple daily practices can help manage symptoms, reduce cognitive load, and promote healing. We also talk about coexisting with pain, symptoms, and the ways that we can acknowledge where we are at while also moving forward. We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center. Dr. Schmoe explains how to bring your nervous system out of a hyper-sympathetic "fight-or-flight" state using targeted neurological stimulation as well as ways to do it at home. This is also our Season 5 finale! We are so grateful for the conversations we've had this season and we look forward to staying connected as we enter a break to prepare for the next season. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:53 Welcome with Cristabelle 3:00 Season 5 Finale 7:15 Nervous System Regulation - Spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 13:00 Introducing Shelley Latendresse, OT 17:51 Why Mindfulness Matters 19:55 Feeling Disconnected from Your Body & Mind 21:40 Ways to Connect to the Moment 31:30 Grounding for Coexisting with Pain and Symptoms 40:44 Finding Beauty in the Everyday 42:22 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| How to Actually Complete Tasks after Brain Injury (with Stacia Bissell and Katya Bowen) | 25 juin 2026 | 00:38:28 | |
When you are recovering from a brain injury, simply trying to get through a daily task can feel like an absolute mountain to climb. Executive dysfunction can make it incredibly frustrating to finish what you start: you might find yourself losing your place mid-task, getting easily distracted, or completely forgetting what you were doing in the first place, leaving behind a trail of half-finished projects and not knowing how to continue. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden sits down for a full interview with Stacia Bissell and Katya Bowen to discuss the ins and outs of task completion after brain injury - and how you can map out a plan to get your focus back. We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center all about some of the neurological and metabolic reasons behind executive dysfunction. *Join the Maps for Task Completion Live Virtual Workshop - coming up on September 18 - register now! https://hopesurvives.org/maps-workshop 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:10 Welcome with Cristabelle 5:00 Executive Dysfunction - Spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 8:45 Introducing Stacia & Katya 16:55 Task Completion 19:25 Creating Your Map 26:00 Setting Yourself Up for Success 34:35 Encouragement 36:25 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| The Future of Healing: How Cutting-Edge Tech is Redefining Brain Injury Rehab (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 18 juin 2026 | 00:29:37 | |
Imagine a world where brain injury recovery isn't a frustrating game of trial and error, but a precisely mapped, tech-driven path designed for how your unique brain heals. The future of neuro-rehabilitation is no longer a distant dream - it is happening right now, and it brings so much hope. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden sits down with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center to unpack some of the recent groundbreaking technology advancements reshaping rehabilitation. If you or a loved one has ever been stuck in survival mode or told your scans look "normal" despite a daily battle with brain fog and fatigue, this conversation is an exciting look at the advanced care happening across the globe. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:47 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:05 Introducing Dr. Schmoe 12:25 New Visual Tablet Tech - REMOBI 21:20 New VR Assessment Tech - NESPLORA 24:52 New Brain Imaging Tech - NIRSIT 28:20 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| The Power of Music in Brain Injury Recovery (with Serenna Wagner and Alice Collier) | 11 juin 2026 | 00:37:50 | |
Music has a unique ability to reach parts of the brain that regular speech or traditional therapies sometimes cannot. For those who have experienced a brain injury, the rhythmic and multi-sensory nature of music can bridge neurological gaps and provide a distinct pathway toward healing. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden sits down with neurologic music therapist Serenna Wagner and her client, Alice Collier, who has experienced a brain injury to talk about the profound impact of music therapy on recovery. We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center. Dr. Harvey explains the mechanics of auditory stimulation and music, breaking down how it triggers multi-sensory integration to stimulate neural pathways without overloading a recovering patient's sensory system. 🧠 In this episode:
Connect with Serenna: https://thisinnervoice.com/ CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:53 Music on Cristabelle’s Journey 6:10 Music and Multi-Sensory Integration in Brain Injury Rehabilitation with Dr. Harvey - Spotlight 9:43 Introducing Alice and Serenna 15:05 Finding New Life after Brain Injury 18:15 Understanding Music Therapy 23:05 How Music Brings Growth after Brain Injury 27:27 Creativity in Brain Injury Recovery 32:45 Playing “The Drunken Sailor” 35:28 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Concussion Phenotypes: Unpacking the Multi-System Reality of Brain Injuries (with Dr. Melissa Biscardi) | 04 juin 2026 | 00:36:05 | |
Concussions are incredibly complex, and because they can disrupt up several systems in your body at once, recovery never looks the same for any two people. If you have ever felt like your (or your loved one’s) symptoms are completely overlapping, today we are going to help you understand why - and what to do about it. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden is joined by neuro-rehabilitation specialist and clinician Dr. Melissa Biscardi to break down "concussion phenotypes,” which are the distinct categories of symptoms that can present in concussion. From visual and vestibular disruptions to autonomic and cervical triggers, Melissa offers a path forward in reading the body's post-injury baseline and creating an order of operations for physical, cognitive, and emotional recovery. We also feature an expert clinical spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center. Dr. Schmoe helps us understand concussion rehabilitation, including explaining why pairing multi-system tasks (such as combining cognitive tracking with physical movement) drives neuroplasticity and can safely accelerate healing. 🧠 In this episode:
Melissa's previous episodes with us: 57- Female Hormones after TBI/Concussion: https://hopesurvives.org/podcast/57 54- Pillars of Concussion Care + Holistic Approach: https://hopesurvives.org/podcast/54 CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:55 Welcome with Cristabelle 3:10 How to Treat Concussion with Dr. Schmoe - Spotlight 8:00 Introducing Dr. Melissa Biscardi 12:12 Breaking Down Concussion Phenotypes 20:50 How Symptoms Show Up in Everyday Life 27:18 Intentional Movement 29:24 Metabolic Factors 33:25 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Writing with Courage and Hope - Small Steps for Sharing Your Brain Injury Story (with Laura Conaway) | 28 mai 2026 | 00:37:45 | |
Have you ever wanted to share more about your story, but weren’t sure how to start? The hidden realities of living with brain injury can feel overwhelming to explain, especially to people in your life - and it can feel daunting to know where to start with sharing. In this episode, our host Cristabelle sits down with bestselling author Laura Conaway to explore the vulnerable journey of living with POTS and dysautonomia following a childhood concussion. Laura shares personal insights on breaking the cycle of shame, the struggle with sharing symptoms with people around you, learning to give yourself grace during unpredictable flare-ups, and how the act of writing can become a powerful vehicle for healing. We are also introducing The Hope Collective: a space on the Hope Survives website that gathers the voices and creative expressions of our community reflecting the complexity and resilience of life after brain injury.This space is designed specifically for you to read and share your own reflections, stories, and triumphs whenever you feel ready. Whether you want to process your own healing, provide comfort to someone else walking a similar path, or take advantage of the opportunity to be officially published on Hope Survives, The Hope Collective is here for you. Learn more: hopesurvives.org/thehopecollective *FREE ACCESS to Laura’s Writing With Hope On-Demand Course: https://hopesurvives.org/writingwithhope Plus, we feature a spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center. Dr. Harvey explains the fascinating relationship between creative writing, fine motor skills, and neuroplasticity, showing how putting your thoughts on paper actively re-wires the cerebellum and strengthens emotional control. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:20 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:40 The Value of Writing after Brain Injury - Spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey 9:30 Introducing Laura 12:56 Managing Symptoms 16:04 Processing Shame & Sharing with Others 20:50 Courage to Start Writing 26:33 Encouragement to Try Writing & Sharing 34:30 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Turning Trauma into Purpose - from TBI to Ironman (with Jackson Davis) | 21 mai 2026 | 00:31:54 | |
When you are dealing with the overwhelming changes of a brain injury, it can easily feel like you are stuck in constant survival mode. There are so many changes in identity, dreams, and goals. So how do you move forward and find purpose? In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Jackson Davis, who shares his powerful story of turning trauma into a deeper purpose. After surviving a catastrophic car accident that left him in a multi-month coma with severe physical and brain injuries, Jackson had to completely rebuild his life, reframe his goals, and discover what it truly means to endure - even becoming an ultra-endurance Ironman athlete. We also feature a special spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center on finding meaning during recovery. Dr. Harvey discusses the vital psychological shift from focusing on feeling "broken" to intentionally making yourself whole again, and how a purpose-driven perspective can actively build your neurological resilience. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:00 Welcome with Cristabelle 4:55 Spotlight - Finding Purpose within Recovery - Dr. Ryan Harvey 7:55 Introducing Jackson Davis 9:30 Jackson’s TBI Story 19:30 Emotional & Physical Recovery 21:50 Finding New Dreams & Goals 23:13 Defining Purpose 25:05 Journey to Ironman 27:45 Encouragement in Walking in Purpose 30:10 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Mindset, Learning, and Return to School after Brain Injury / Concussion (with Jenny Traver) | 14 mai 2026 | 00:37:50 | |
When facing cognitive challenges after a brain injury, your mindset has a massive impact on your overall recovery. Today, Cristabelle talks with speech-language pathologist Jenny Traver about mindset, learning, emotional recovery, and returning to school after a brain injury. Whether you are a student trying to go back to a busy school, a parent figuring out how to guide your child, or anyone navigating a unique path to wellness, this episode offers practical tips for your journey. We also have a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center on learning and neuroplasticity. He explains how the brain rewires itself when you learn new tasks, especially when you mix brain exercises with simple body movements to get blood flowing. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:10 Welcome with Cristabelle 3:45 Spotlight with Dr. Schmoe 6:35 Introducing Jenny Traver 11:55 The Intertwined Picture of Recovery 13:15 Cognitive Challenges of Returning to School 18:30 Mindset Shifts & Gentle Reframing 25:20 Importance of the Right Support 29:55 Self-Advocacy and Executive Functioning 33:30 Asking for Help 35:40 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Fighting for Global Brain Injury Recognition - The New TBI Resolution for the World Health Organization (with Paul Dubetz) | 07 mai 2026 | 00:34:53 | |
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of death and disability globally, yet it has never received distinct, individualized attention from the world’s largest health policy bodies. For years, TBI has been treated as a "footnote" in broader neurological discussions, but that is about to change. In this episode, our host Cristabelle is joined by Paul Dubetz, whose lived experience with traumatic brain injury eventually led to working with a global coalition to bring a historic resolution before the World Health Organization (WHO). Paul also shares his story of survival after a catastrophic accident in Italy, and explains why reclassifying brain injury as a chronic condition is the key to unlocking global standards of care. 🌏 This conversation arrives at a pivotal moment as the 79th World Health Assembly convenes in Geneva, Switzerland, this May 2026. As the supreme decision-making body of the WHO, this Assembly has the power to approve programs and set the international health policies that will define the future of neurological care. Paul is part of leading a critical effort at a side event during the Assembly, where a panel of individuals with lived experience will advocate directly to member states to ensure that TBI is officially recognized as a chronic and notifiable condition on the world stage in 2027. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:53 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:34 Introducing Paul Dubetz 8:50 The Life Changing Accident 18:05 Effects of the TBI 22:32 Involvement with the World Health Organization 26:10 Resolution for TBI Recognition 32:58 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Dysautonomia Explained - Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction Post-Brain Injury (with Dr. Ryan Harvey) | 30 avr. 2026 | 00:31:49 | |
Recovery after a brain injury can feel like solving a puzzle, uncovering the pieces and trying to put it all together. For many, dysautonomia is the missing piece of the puzzle that explains why symptoms like brain fog, lightheadedness, and extreme fatigue persist long after the initial impact. In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center to pull back the curtain on the autonomic nervous system and explain why a problem with the autonomic nervous system and blood flow might be the real reason you’re struggling to find stability. Dr. Harvey also shares his powerful personal journey from a child experiencing mysterious fainting episodes to becoming a lead clinician helping others navigate the same complex neurological dysfunctions. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:00 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:20 Introducing Dr. Harvey 11:40 Explaining Dysautonomia 15:50 POTS & Other Forms 18:20 What to Look Out For 20:50 Exercise Intolerance 23:18 Where to Start to Regulate Nervous System 27:07 Dysautonomia vs. Post-Injury Dysfunction 30:20 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| What Gets Missed: The Hidden Tension Between Brain Injury and Mental Health (with Dr. Edie Zusman) | 23 avr. 2026 | 00:36:36 | |
Navigating life after brain injury often means managing a complex overlap of symptoms where the lines between neurological changes and mental health can become blurred. Too often, individuals find their very real neurological symptoms misdiagnosed as purely psychological issues, leaving them without the comprehensive care they need. Or there can be mental health needs that go overlooked due to the brain injury, leading to things getting missed. In this episode, we sit down with trauma neurosurgeon Dr. Edie Zusman to discuss the often-overlooked mental health aspects of brain injury and the necessity of a holistic approach that integrates both neurological and psychological support. Dr. Zusman is also the Founder and CEO of Safe Living Space, a nonprofit organization dedicated to brain injury awareness, education, and advancing brain injury research where it is most frequently overlooked. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:58 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:45 Introducing Dr. Zusman 10:15 Common Gaps with Brain Injury 15:00 When Symptoms Get Missed or Misdiagnosed 20:00 The Effect on Sense of Self and Relationships 22:40 Understanding Brings Empowerment 33:20 Takeaways 34:45 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| The Wide Reaching Impact of Brain Injury | 16 avr. 2026 | 00:33:58 | |
One moment can alter the course of a lifetime, but no one should have to navigate that new reality alone. Brain injury is a journey that impacts the entire family, often requiring a level of patience and resilience that must be discovered along the way. In this special episode, Cristabelle leads us on a look back on Brain Injury Awareness Month by sharing a diverse range of perspectives- including an introduction to the conversations happening on a broader scale in the current landscape of brain injury as well as deeply personal stories shared during our recent virtual concert. Hear from Chrys Dolcé (Daughter Perspective of Father’s Stroke), David Colby (Story of Multiple Concussions), Lindy Boone Michaelis (Parent Perspective of Son’s TBI), and Tameka Wolfe (Spouse Perspective + VP of Board). We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center on the neurological basics of brain injury and how understanding the underlying physical changes can lead to more targeted and effective recovery. 🧠 In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:19 Why it Matters 11:58 Neurological Basics of Brain Injury - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 17:29 Daughter Perspective of Father’s Stroke - Chrys Dolcé 20:47 Story of Multiple Concussions - David Colby 23:09 Parent Perspective of Son’s TBI - Lindy Boone Michaelis 29:06 Spouse Perspective + VP of Board - Tameka Wolfe 32:26 The Journey Continues ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Navigating Aphasia and Loss of Language after Brain Injury & Stroke (with Tawni Ballinger, CCC-SLP) | 09 avr. 2026 | 00:30:38 | |
When words feel out of reach, the frustration and isolation of aphasia can become one of the most challenging parts of the recovery journey, especially because maintaining communication is essential for the social connections that fuel our healing. So how do we navigate this? In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Tawni Ballinger (M.A., CCC-SLP), a speech-language pathologist specializing in aphasia, to explore the deep impact of language challenges on individuals and families and to share practical strategies for finding your voice again. We also feature a special spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center, about the neurological explanation of aphasia. 🧠 In this episode:
*REGISTER FOR APHASIA VIRTUAL WORKSHOP - May 19, 2026 - https://hopesurvives.org/aphasia-workshop CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:54 Welcome with Cristabelle 4:04 The Neurological Side of Aphasia - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 7:47 Introducing Tawni Ballinger 12:39 Impact of Loss of Language 16:24 Strategies to Help 21:28 Advice for Loved Ones 24:54 Understanding SLP for Aphasia 28:06 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Communication Strategies to Increase Connection after Brain Injury (with Roberta Brooks - CCC-SLP) | 02 avr. 2026 | 00:35:41 | |
Navigating conversation after a brain injury can often feel like a series of constant roadblocks, but rebuilding connection starts with understanding the "why" behind these challenges. In this episode, we sit down with Roberta Brooks (M.A. CCC/SLP (ret), CBIS), a neuro resource facilitator and retired speech-language pathologist who has spent her entire career spanning 40 years in the field of brain injury. This episode explores the complexities of communication that can happen with brain injury, along with encouragement and strategies to help you have better conversations - both for the person with the injury and their loved ones. We also feature a special spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center on understanding how to communicate about your brain injury, including some tips to effectively communicate your needs to your medical providers. 🧠In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:14 Welcome with Cristabelle 4:50 Communicating about your Brain Injury - Dr. Ryan Harvey 8:42 Introducing Roberta Brooks 13:58 Defining Communication Breakdown 16:25 Strategies to Help Connection 24:15 The Impact of Emotional Regulation 28:35 Approaching with Curiosity & Intentionality 34:40 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Invisible Injury and Self-Advocacy after Brain Injury / Stroke (with Judy Kim Cage) | 26 mars 2026 | 00:33:00 | |
Even when they are not immediately obvious to outsiders, the symptoms of a brain injury are valid and real- yet it can be so frustrating to feel misunderstood while navigating these invisible effects. Today, we’re discussing the reality of living with an invisible injury with Judy Kim Cage, who has experienced a hemorrhagic stroke and brain surgeries due to MoyaMoya, and also lives with hypermobile EDS. We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center to explore the science behind what is happening in the brain when symptoms aren't visible. There are very real neurological reasons for these challenges that simply can’t be seen from the outside - and if you can relate, you’re not alone! 🧠In this episode:
CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 1:55 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:23 Neurological Side of Invisible Effects of Brain Injury - Dr. Ryan Harvey 10:58 Introducing Judy Kim Cage 18:55 Hope in the Tension of “You Look Fine” 23:55 Advocating for Yourself 31:00 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Understanding Nutrition for Brain Injury Recovery (with Dr. Karen Carpenter) | 19 mars 2026 | 00:32:43 | |
Nutrition is one of the most overlooked, yet most powerful tools for healing from brain injury. Let’s dive into how what we choose to eat can actually help our brains to recover in this conversation with Dr. Karen Carpenter, a clinician with over 30 years of experience in Chiropractic Neurology and Functional Medicine. 🧠In this episode:
***FREE Downloadable Resource Guides: 🥗Small Steps Towards Better Brain Nutrition: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/small-steps-toward-better-brain-nutrition 🥑Fueling the Brain For Recovery: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/fueling-the-brain-for-recovery 💙Nutrition Workshop with Dr. Carpenter coming on April 24 - sign up: hopesurvives.org/nutrition CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:00 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:23 Introducing Dr. Carpenter 8:44 Why should we care about nutrition in brain injury? 15:25 Small steps to get started 17:00 Understanding Inflammation 20:15 Practical tips for brain injury 23:40 The Gut-Brain Connection 26:50 Impact on Hormones 30:55 Words of Hope ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| Broadening the Brain Injury Conversation | Season 5 First Look | 27 févr. 2026 | 00:04:24 | |
At Hope Survives, we know there is no one-size-fits-all path to recovery. Today we’re sharing a preview of where we are going in Season 5. This season, we’re having thoughtful conversations with clinicians and individuals impacted by brain injury: connecting expert insight with the real-life, day-to-day experience of life after brain injury. Today’s preview episode includes a first look at some of our conversations. Subscribe and stay tuned for the official premiere coming on March 19! CONNECT Follow @hopesurvives Visit hopesurvives.org Join a support group at hopesurvives.org/community Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Sponsor Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- Disclaimer This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 126. Hope for the Holidays after Brain Injury + Strategies for Sensory Overwhelm & More | 20 déc. 2025 | 00:29:07 | |
It's okay if your holidays feel different this year... there is hope to find comfort and joy this holiday season, even while navigating brain injury. Today, Cristabelle offers encouragement and practical tools to help you move through this season with grace - and beyond - because these strategies work anytime of year! We’ll discuss sensory regulation strategies, graceful social "scripts" for setting boundaries, and brain-healthy ways to find joy. Join us as we learn to redefine what celebration may look like, and it's okay if the holidays feel different this year. ***FREE Downloadable Resource Guides: 🎄Seeking Comfort & Joy this Holiday Season: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/seeking-comfort-and-joy-holidays 🎄Harvesting Hope for the Holidays: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/harvesting-hope-for-the-holidays This is the Season 4 finale! Stay connected between podcast seasons by joining our support groups and workshops, & reach out to us anytime at: hi@hopesurvives.org CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:42 Welcome with Cristabelle 12:00 Encouragement if your holidays feel different… 14:40 Sensory Regulation to Decrease Overwhelm 18:10 Strategies to help with Overstimulation 22:15 Navigating Social Situations 25:09 Finding Brain Healthy Alternatives 26:45 Gratitude Crafts and Activities 27:25 Give Yourself Grace in Redefining Celebration ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 125. Understanding Neuro Fatigue in Brain Injury Recovery (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 06 déc. 2025 | 00:34:24 | |
Have you ever wondered why the healing brain’s battery seems to drain so quickly, even after simple tasks? Today, we’re diving into the complex and often misunderstood topic of neuro fatigue after brain injury. In this informative episode, host Cristabelle Braden welcomes back Dr. Jeremy Schmoe of the Functional Neurology Center to uncover the science behind this exhausting symptom. Dr. Schmoe explains exactly what happens when neurons become unstable and lack the oxygen, activation, and nutrition they need to communicate effectively. Listen as they distinguish the difference between general physical tiredness and true neurological fatigue, validating the "rollercoaster" of energy crashes that so many survivors experience. Tune in for practical strategies to identify your limits, advice for loved ones on spotting the physical signs of a crash, and a powerful reminder that there is always help and hope for improving your function. 🧠*FREE Downloadable Resource: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/understanding-neuro-fatigue 💙 *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:00 Introducing Dr. Schmoe 9:25 What is Neuro Fatigue? 15:10 Distinguishing Neuro Fatigue vs General Fatigue 17:30 Identify Neuro Fatigue & Strategies 20:45 Simple Practical Tools 28:30 What Families and Loved Ones Can Look For 30:20 Final Thoughts 32:30 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 124. Reframing the Journey: Finding Gratitude in a Life You Didn’t Expect - Brain Injury Community Panel | 21 nov. 2025 | 00:55:40 | |
How do you hold on to thankfulness when you’re navigating symptoms, setbacks, or the emotional weight of daily challenges? Together we’ll explore how gratitude can coexist with grief, struggle, and healing - along with a podcast spotlight on the power of gratitude from Dr. Jeremy Schmoe. In this heartfelt panel, host Cristabelle Braden invites Holly Kostrzewski, Joi Kue, and Robin Luftig for an honest conversation about gratitude, reflection, and resilience. Each panelist brings a unique story: Robin’s sudden medical crisis and brain tumor; Holly’s traumatic injury at 18 and decades of ongoing symptoms & reinjury; and Joi’s lifelong journey with hydrocephalus, childhood surgeries, and the emotional impact of growing up with a TBI. Together, they share the first emotions they faced, from hopelessness and confusion to loneliness, depression, and fear, and how each learned to find gratitude through difficulty. Their stories highlight the power of small celebrations, community, acceptance, and learning to reframe setbacks with compassion. You are not alone! Connect with panelists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/124 Let’s make a difference together! 🌎 Millions of people are living with brain injury and struggling to find support… and at Hope Survives, we’re here to change that. 💙 Join us for GivingTuesday: HopeSurvives.org/givingtuesday CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- *PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: The Power of Gratitude with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:14 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:04 The Power of Gratitude with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 8:27 Introducing Panelists 14:35 Emotional Impact of Injury 19:35 How did you find gratitude during hardest times? 25:45 Hope through Setbacks 36:45 Challenges with Connection and Communication 41:15 Reframing Perspective with Gratitude 46:15 For the Dark Times 49:55 Advice for those Struggling with Gratitude 53:55 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 123. Brain Injury in Veterans (Part 2): Courage through Invisible Wounds - PTSD & TBI | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:56:13 | |
Unseen struggles, PTSD, and the mental battle… how do you keep moving forward? In this two part series we’re sitting down with veterans as they share the “necessary conversations” that need to be had in our communities. Stay tuned to hear once in a lifetime stories filled with raw emotion and genuineness. Let’s discover how the heroes of our country beat the odds in the service and how they found hope after hanging up the uniform. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden and special co-host Jeremiah Griffin sit down with Army veteran Vinnie Morales and Marine Corps veteran Scottie Williamson. Together, we explore what it’s really like to overcome brain injury and PTSD, the role of community in recovery, and why embracing your journey can be an act of hope. Tune in for an authentic look at what it takes for veterans to find courage in the face of a changed life. *Sensitive Topics: this episode discusses topics including mental health and suicide prevention in the veteran community. Hope survives when you take action. Connect with panlists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/123 CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Jeremiah - Navy Corpsman 5:15 Jeremiah on Brain Injury Awareness 9:20 Jeremiah on Veteran Conversations 12:20 Meet Army Veteran Vinnie Morales 14:42 Meet Marine Corps Veteran Scottie Williamson 19:30 Navigating Emotions like Anger, Fear, Survivors Guilt 25:45 Unique Struggles to Veterans with TBI 37:50 Importance of these Conversations 41:30 Lessons Learned from Time in Service 46:15 What Hope Would You Give? 54:15 Closing Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed here belong solely to the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the DoW or it's components. Any mention of products or services does not imply DoW endorsement. Additionally, the presence of external hyperlinks does not signify DoW approval of the linked websites or their content, products, or services. | |||
| 122. Brain Injury in Veterans (Part 1): Rebuilding and Resilience | 07 nov. 2025 | 00:51:49 | |
Combat Deployments, Brain Injury, and Healing..?! Where does your help come from? In this two part series we’re sitting down with veterans as they share the “necessary conversations” that need to be had in our communities. Stay tuned to hear once in a lifetime stories filled with raw emotion and genuineness. Let’s discover how the heroes of our country beat the odds in the service and how they found hope after hanging up the uniform. In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden and special co-host Jeremiah Griffin invite listeners to peek into the lives of Army Veterans: Joie Wehr and Todd Strader as they share deeply personal stories of resilience, rebuilding, and hope. Along with sharing their stories, we talk about the importance of education on brain injury, awareness of TBI and mental health in veterans, having a place to heal, and rebuilding your identity. *Sensitive Topics: this episode discusses topics including mental health and suicide prevention in the veteran community. Hope survives when you take action. Connect with panlists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/122 CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:25 Meet Jeremiah - Navy Corpsman 10:15 Meet Joie - Army Veteran - TBI 13:10 Mental Health in TBI & Military 17:55 Persevering through Setbacks 20:30 Finding Grace for Mistakes 22:50 Staying Resilient 23:50 Words of Hope 27:30 Meet Todd - Army Veteran - Blast Overpressure 33:25 Frustration for Recognition of TBI 42:30 Importance of Awareness for Veterans ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed here belong solely to the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the DoW or it's components. Any mention of products or services does not imply DoW endorsement. Additionally, the presence of external hyperlinks does not signify DoW approval of the linked websites or their content, products, or services. | |||
| 121. The Search for Hope: Overcoming Fear and Anxiety Post TBI/Stroke - Brain Injury Community Panel | 31 oct. 2025 | 00:58:12 | |
When you first realized that this brain injury would impact you or your family’s life, what thoughts or emotions came up for you? Today, we’re asking questions about the emotional side of brain injury. We want you to know you’re not alone, and it’s natural to have these feelings… but it’s what you do with them that matters. So let’s explore these very real feelings and talk about how to find hope - together. In this powerful panel episode, host Cristabelle Braden invites listeners into a real conversation with three inspiring survivors: Gary Brennan, Didi Green, and Ashleigh Mackey. Together, they open up about the emotional side of recovery, sharing honestly about the uncertainties, setbacks, and the search for hope. Through heartfelt stories and practical advice, the panel highlights the value of acceptance, reaching out for help, and creating new meaning after trauma. Listeners are encouraged to find community, embrace their feelings, and remember that no one walks this road alone. Connect with panlists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/121 Register for upcoming programs: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:35 Welcome with Cristabelle 8:25 Introducing Panelists 17:30 Emotional Impact of Injury 21:40 Mental Health Journey 31:00 Handling Feelings of Fear and Anxiety for the Future 39:55 Tools or Practices that Help 48:00 Regaining Hope 52:35 Words of Hope & Encouragement ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 120. Hope For Family: It's Not a Wasted Life (with Lindy Boone Michaelis) | 25 oct. 2025 | 00:47:03 | |
Brain injury affects every single person in the family - so how do we move forward, together? In this heartfelt episode, Cristabelle sits down with Lindy Boone Michaelis to explore the journey of hope, heartbreak, and healing after her family's life-changing experience with traumatic brain injury. Lindy is the daughter of beloved singer/entertainer Pat Boone and the founder of Ryan’s Reach, a nonprofit organization providing group homes for TBI in Orange County, CA. Lindy’s son had a severe TBI, and in this conversation she opens up about the reality of walking through long-term uncertainty, family upheaval, and the unexpected ways faith and love can anchor us in stormy seasons. You’ll hear honest emotions and the lessons learned from years of recovery and resilience - reminding us that pain can transform, compassion can multiply, and every story matters. This powerful conversation also highlights the inspiration behind Lindy’s new song (co-written with Cristabelle) called, "It's Not a Wasted Life," revealing that even in our deepest struggles, hope for families can grow. Listen to “It’s Not a Wasted Life” by Lindy Boone wherever you listen to music, or see the lyric video here: https://youtu.be/dOnNytRPT7I?si=InWWmyW1tsOCsTdc CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:50 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:13 Introducing Lindy’s Story 10:15 TBI Impact on Whole Family 19:00 Complex Emotions 21:10 Perspective and Growth 25:13 Inspired to Help Others 30:38 It’s Not a Wasted Life 36:45 Heartbreak to Compassion 42:50 Words of Hope for Families ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 119. Fear Does Not Define You + Hope For Brain Injury Recovery | 10 oct. 2025 | 00:37:20 | |
Have you ever had days that felt like hope is just out of reach? You wake up already exhausted, feeling anxious, foggy, and afraid of what the day might bring? If you can relate, you’re not alone. In this episode, Cristabelle is sharing honestly about the fears she faced through her brain injury recovery, and how she has learned to acknowledge them without letting them take over. We’ll talk about the balance between being real about what you’re feeling and choosing faith one small step at a time - because healing starts with honesty, community, and the courage to believe that light still breaks through the darkness. We also have a podcast spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe sharing the neurological side of fear & anxiety, reasons why our brain can get stuck in loops, and hope for recovery. *Upcoming workshops: hopesurvives.org/workshops CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- *PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: Neurological Side of Fear & Anxiety + Hope for Recovery with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:50 Welcome with Cristabelle 5:45 Desperate for Hope 7:18 Fears and Struggles 13:15 Hope for Overcoming 15:45 Anxiety and Identity 21:05 Dr. Schmoe - Neurological Side of Fear & Anxiety 27:10 Dr. Schmoe - Hope for Recovery 30:45 You are Not Alone ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 118. The Truth About Boundaries in Brain Injury Recovery - Community Panel | 27 sept. 2025 | 00:57:59 | |
Brain injury can affect every part of your life - so it’s important to understand what your personal boundaries are, both with yourself and others. But it’s a lot easier said than done… let’s talk about navigating boundaries in the recovery process! Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 3 panelists: Chaandani Khan, Alfinie Mayes, and Farook Outhmani. This panel of brain injury survivors opens up about their personal journeys and the importance of setting boundaries in recovery, including their experiences with empathy, resilience, and the challenges of communicating needs to others. We talk about the significance of self-care, the necessity of saying no, and the hope that exists in the recovery process. Through real-life stories, they provide insights into navigating the complexities of brain injury and the emotional changes that accompany it. Connect with panelists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/118 Register for upcoming programs: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:20 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:55 Introducing Panelists 15:10 Why Set Boundaries in Recovery? 22:35 Boundaries with Self 32:15 Boundaries with Others 43:30 How to Navigate when Someone Pushes Your Boundaries 54:30 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 117. What We Wish People Knew About Concussions | 19 sept. 2025 | 00:45:48 | |
There are so many misunderstandings about concussion - and today we’re here to clear them up. Did you know that 81% of U.S. adults don’t know concussions are traumatic brain injuries, according to a recent study by the BIAA? That might sound shocking to those of us who understand TBI, but unfortunately, it’s representative of the general public’s perception of concussions. So let’s bring awareness together for National Concussion Awareness Day! In this episode, you’ll hear:
Our host Cristabelle Braden shares some of her experiences, common misconceptions, and important facts about concussion in a relatable way. We also have input from some of our incredible Hope Survives volunteers who have experienced concussions themselves: Didi, Emily, Frank, Hunter, Christine, Ayana, Holly, and Shaun share what they wish people understood about concussions. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Check out some of our previous concussion episodes with more education and resources - find them at hopesurvives.org/podcast : 85. CONCUSSIONS: Common Misconceptions, Symptoms, & My Experiences 81. The Road to Concussion Recovery (Dr. Brittni Charle) 73. I have a concussion… now what? (Dr. Mark Heisig) 57. Female Hormones after TBI/Concussion (Melissa Biscardi) 54. Pillars of Concussion Care + Holistic Approach (Melissa Biscardi) 20. Concussion Awareness + Safety in Sports (Protect Your Skull) 18. PINK Concussions - Female Brain Injury Awareness + Gaps in Research (Katherine Snedaker) 12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions (Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Why Concussion Awareness Matters 4:35 What’s Beneath - Invisible Injury 7:30 Mild does not mean Mild Effect on Life 10:30 Why it Doesn’t Usually Show on Brain Scans 12:15 Doesn’t Need a Direct Head Hit 13:15 Every Concussion is Different 17:00 Misdiagnosed as Mental Health 18:30 Why we Share Awareness 21:00 Common Signs & Symptoms 25:00 What We Wish People Understood - Volunteer Voices 44:00 Support and Connection ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 116. Care, Support, and Boundaries for Brain Healing (Cristabelle Braden + Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 05 sept. 2025 | 00:34:52 | |
Have you ever felt like you were pushing so hard, that you ended up in cycles of burnout, overwhelm, and exhaustion? Life with brain injury is… a lot. But there is hope to get out of those loops of symptom cycles. Today, we’re diving into the topic of care, support, and boundaries. We also have a podcast spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe sharing the importance of boundaries and what can help your brain be in a better environment to heal. Let’s talk about the importance of:
You are not alone! *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- *PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: Boundaries for Brain Healing with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle 4:00 Cycles of Overwhelm 6:48 Why I Couldn’t Keep Burning Out 9:45 Care, Support, and Boundaries 13:41 Dr. Schmoe - Boundaries for Brain Healing 17:00 Dr. Schmoe - Sample Boundaries to Set 21:10 Screen Time and Social Media 22:25 Taking Brain Healing Seriously 25:35 Grace to Pivot and Shift as Needed 27:00 Finding the Right Support 30:00 Identifying Care Needs ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 115. Hope For Couples: Communication after TBI | 29 août 2025 | 00:58:32 | |
Communication can become a big challenge after a brain injury - which affects all relationships, but especially the ones that are closest to us. So let’s talk about communication in relationships & marriage after brain injury! We also have a podcast spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe sharing some of the neurological reasons why communication can be hard after a brain injury. Whether you are a survivor, family member, single, or married, there is something in this episode to encourage and uplift you, and practical communication tips that can help us all to maintain better relationships post-injury. You are not alone! Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 2 panelists: Tameka Wolfe and Rob Baugh. Tameka not only is the leader of Hope For Couples support group, but also currently serves as Vice President of the Hope Survives Board of Directors. Rob is a member of our Brain Injury Advisory Council and serves as a team lead for the Hope Ambassador Team. They each bring a unique perspective to marriage after brain injury - Tameka will share from the spouse’s perspective, and Rob will share from the survivor’s perspective. They will share their experiences with how communication changed in their respective relationships after the brain injury, as well as practical tips and strategies that have helped them. We also dive into the balance of navigating ambiguous loss and grief for relationship changes, while also maintaining hope and embracing the journey with your partner. Hope For Couples group: https://www.hopesurvives.org/couples *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.comRead Tameka & Rob’s bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/115 ------- *PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: Neurological Reasons for Communication Struggles with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle 9:10 Neurological Reasons for Communication Struggles with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 13:05 Hope For Couples - Introducing Panelists 19:30 Communication Challenges after TBI 26:00 Connection with One Another after TBI 34:43 Navigating Misunderstandings 39:50 Ambiguous Loss and the Hard Times 48:45 Encouragement for Spouses 51:15 Encouragement for Survivors 55:20 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 114. Social Cues, Relationships & Communication Challenges - Brain Injury Community Panel | 15 août 2025 | 01:03:09 | |
If relationships have been hard post-concussion / brain injury, you are not alone. Our ability to connect with others is an important part of life - so what do you do when your communication skills and ability to read social cues becomes affected after a brain injury? Let’s talk about it! Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 2 panelists: Elayne Masters and Hunter Schulz. This panel of brain injury survivors opens up about the challenges of staying connected and the need for understanding support while navigating cognitive overload, shifting relationships, and the struggle to communicate. We’ll share some strategies for adapting communication, maintaining real friendships, and finding hope for new ways to connect. Register for our upcoming workshops: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Hunter - IG: @huntervpageantry Connect with Elayne - IG @brainiactivist Read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/114 ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:18 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:05 Introducing Panelists 11:45 Communication Challenges 28:05 Social Challenges 35:00 Strategies for Maintaining Relationships 47:10 Finding New Ways to Connect 56:15 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 113. The Struggles of Social Communication after Brain Injury (Cristabelle Braden) | 07 août 2025 | 00:30:11 | |
Brain injury impacts how we express ourselves, how we connect with others, and how we're understood. In this heartfelt episode, Cristabelle Braden shares her personal journey through the communication challenges that follow brain injury. Through real-life examples, she opens up about the emotional toll of feeling misunderstood, how memory and social difficulties can impact relationships, and the ongoing process of rebuilding confidence in social situations. The struggles of communication often impact connection with others, but this isn’t always seen on the outside - let’s talk about it! Register for our upcoming workshops: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Importance of Connection 7:40 Struggles with Communication 10:58 Practical Examples 25:25 Growth and Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 112. Learning to Care For a Post-Injury Brain: Mindset, Habits, What Worked, What Didn’t - Brain Injury Community Panel | 25 juil. 2025 | 00:57:19 | |
After a brain injury, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, unsure how to truly care for your brain in the day-to-day. What habits actually help? What mindsets make a difference? And how do you know when something just isn’t working? Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 3 panelists: Stefanie Beeney, Charlotte Endorf, and Farook Outhmani. Each of our panelists has lived experience with brain injury, and shares openly about their personal journeys: what has helped them, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way. You’ll hear honest insights about shifting mindsets, learning to rest, building healthy habits, and the importance of listening to your body. Through stories of trial and error, the panelists highlight the value of self-advocacy and support systems, while offering practical ideas and gentle encouragement for others navigating recovery. Register for our upcoming workshops: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops (on Pacing Your Plans, Functional Neurology with Dr. Schmoe, Nervous System, and more!) *New Hope Survives Online Store - podcast listeners discount code: PODCAST10 for 10% off your entire order through July 31, 2025! https://www.hopesurvives.org/store CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Read bios & more on panelists on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast ------- *PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle 5:00 Brain Health Small Steps with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 11:18 Introducing Panelists 15:40 Process of Learning to Care for Brain after TBI 20:55 Adjusting Pre-Injury to Post-Injury Habits 26:40 Practical Things that Have Helped 35:25 Things that Did NOT Work - and How to Pivot 47:10 Advice on Staying Consistent 52:25 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 111. From Survival Mode to Gentle Healing - Brain Health Rhythms (Cristabelle Braden) | 12 juil. 2025 | 00:35:20 | |
We often feel like we are in “survival mode” after a brain injury - our lives have changed so much, and it’s all we can do to get through each day. But what if healing could feel gentle, and less overwhelming? In this relatable episode, Cristabelle Braden opens up about her own journey through multiple traumatic brain injuries - moving from survival mode to embracing small, powerful brain health rhythms that foster true recovery. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or family member, you’ll find hope, practical tips, and heartfelt encouragement, reminding you that progress is possible, and you’re never alone on this journey. Listen to discover how gentle rhythms and community support can help you take the next hopeful step forward. *New Hope Survives Online Store - podcast listeners discount code: PODCAST10 for 10% off your entire order through July 31, 2025! - hopesurvives.org/store *Register for our upcoming workshops: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops (on Nutrition, Pacing, Nervous System, and more!) CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com ------- *PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:33 Survival Mode 9:00 Invitation to Gentle Healing 11:05 Importance of Brain Health Lifestyle with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe 13:52 Struggles of Stress 17:15 Recognizing Your Symptoms 20:00 Finding Rhythms 28:15 Small Steps to Brain Health ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 110. Everyday Resilience: Finding Strength in the Struggle - Brain Injury Community Panel | 27 juin 2025 | 01:01:49 | |
Everyday resilience after brain injury isn’t always big or loud - sometimes it’s a quiet determination to keep going, or simply getting out of bed. Today, through the voices of our Brain Injury Community Panel, we will bring you some tools to recognize your own resilience, and how to continue to move forward and find strength in the struggle. Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces our 3 panelists: Rob Baugh, Christine Lawrence, and Angie Weber - and they courageously share their personal journeys through the challenges of brain injury. Each panelist opens up about navigating setbacks, learning from challenges, advice for when you feel in survival mode, and the practical tools that have guided them toward healing and hope. CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com *New Hope Survives Online Store - podcast listeners discount code: PODCAST10 for 10% off your entire order through July 31, 2025! - hopesurvives.org/store More on the panelists & this episode: https://hopesurvives.org/podcast/110 ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:24 Welcome with Cristabelle 10:00 Introducing TBI Survivor Panelists 14:30 How do you define Resilience? 18:00 How do you recognize Resilience? 27:30 Tools for Resilience 31:10 Embracing New Dreams while Grieving Old Life 38:50 Lessons Learned from Challenges 43:20 Navigating Setbacks 50:30 When In Survival Mode 56:55 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 109. How to Support Neuroplasticity after Brain Injury (with Dr. Michelle Eisenmann) | 19 juin 2025 | 00:54:24 | |
Did you know that our brains are resilient? Today, we’re exploring neuroplasticity - the brain’s ability to rewire and form new pathways - as it relates to brain injury! In this uplifting episode, host Cristabelle Braden welcomes Dr. Michelle Eisenmann, a passionate advocate, Functional Neurology doctor, and expert in brain resiliency. Dr. Eisenmann brings both professional insight and personal experience with traumatic brain injury, offering a compassionate perspective that resonates with survivors and their families alike. Listen as we explore the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt and heal, debunking common myths about recovery timelines and empowering listeners to take an active role in their healing process. You’ll learn how lifestyle factors like nutrition, sleep, and movement can make a real difference, why small changes matter, and how resilience is built through consistency and self-compassion. Tune in for practical tips, encouragement, and a reminder that every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating on the lifelong journey of recovery. CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Dr. Michelle Eisenmann: @thebrainfluencer | resiliencybh.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:40 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:40 Introducing Dr. Eisenmann 9:25 Neuroplasticity and Brain Injury 11:55 Is there a Time Limit for Neuroplasticity? 17:45 Brain Rewiring & Adapting after Injury 22:40 Lifestyle for Brain Resiliency 29:45 Consistency, Predictability, and Novelty 32:10 Stress and Trauma Impact on Brain Resiliency 36:55 Need for Individualized Care 42:05 Dr. Eisenmann’s Personal TBI Recovery 48:05 Small Steps Forward in Resilience 51:40 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 108. Cristabelle's Story: Finding Hope Through Multiple TBIs (Interview from The Concussion Coach) | 13 juin 2025 | 01:05:47 | |
Cristabelle Braden has fought through multiple traumatic brain injuries to come out on the other side carrying a strong message of resilience, hope, and healing. She is the host of this podcast - the founder of Hope Survives - and today, in something much different than our usual episodes - she shares her story! Listen for practical advice, takeaways, and lessons learned from her over 15 years of living with TBI and working with so many survivors & their families through her online support groups, as well as in the brain injury community. We hope you’ll be encouraged and uplifted by hearing her story. This episode features an interview that originally aired on The Concussion Coach podcast with Bethany Lewis. Thank you to Bethany for allowing us to share this with our community! CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Bethany Lewis, The Concussion Coach - neurological occupational therapist and certified life coach - and check out her podcast: @the_concussion_coach | theconcussioncoach.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:15 Concussion Coach Intro 8:35 Cristabelle’s Interview Start 12:20 TBI Journey & Symptoms 21:45 Re-Injuries and Recovery 28:25 What is Hope for TBI 34:45 Brain Injury Affecting Other Systems in Body 44:25 Flare Ups & Calming Symptoms 50:45 Finding Hope through Setbacks 57:30 Pacing & Daily Life with Brain Injury 62:45 Connecting with Hope Survives ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 107. The Identity Journey: Self-Rediscovery after TBI - Brain Injury Community Panel | 03 juin 2025 | 01:03:09 | |
There is a common phrase, “new you” after brain injury - but what if it’s more nuanced than that? There are parts of ourselves that feel new and unfamiliar, but there are other parts of ourselves that have been there all along… how do we piece it all together? How do we find ourselves again? What does “identity” mean anyway? Why does society define us by what we do - and how can we get to a deeper understanding of who we really are? Get ready to explore all this and more with our second Brain Injury Community Panel. Today’s panel features 3 brain injury survivors, each with their own unique journey: Bobby Apgar, Lynda Douge, and Chelsea Tuttle. Our conversation will help you to learn more about the journey of identity after brain injury, ways that these survivors have learned to re-discover themselves, and encouragement and advice on how to get to know yourself again. FREE Resources available for Instant Download:
CLICK HERE: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub ------- CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Join the online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Learn more about volunteering, sharing your story, or becoming a Hope Ambassador: https://www.hopesurvives.org/getinvolved ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:34 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:20 Introducing Panelists - Survivor Stories 15:15 Identity Changes post-TBI 21:20 Sense of Self 34:50 Society Defines by What We Do 40:30 Self-Perception - Who We Are 45:35 Getting to Know Yourself Again 55:50 Brain Injury Identity Journey 57:55 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 106. Identity Shifts after Brain Injury + Ways to Find Yourself Again (with Bethany Lewis, OT) | 20 mai 2025 | 01:03:34 | |
Sense of self is often affected after brain injury - you just don’t feel like “you” anymore. This happens for both survivors and family members, and today we are exploring these identity shifts, and how to find yourself again even in the midst of brain injury recovery. In this episode, Cristabelle is joined by Bethany Lewis, a Neurological Occupational Therapist passionate about combining occupational therapy, brain health, and mental and emotional well being, to explore the profound impact of brain injuries on identity. Let’s dig into why these identity shifts may happen, what could be going on beneath the surface, and how to move forward with a renewed sense of identity post brain injury - both for survivors and their loved ones. It's okay to feel lost and to take time to rediscover yourself. Embracing the messiness of life is part of the human experience. Finding identity post-injury is a journey that requires intentionality, and it’s a process that you can work a little towards each day. *** FREE Identity Resources available for Instant Download:
CLICK HERE: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub ------- CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Bethany - neurological occupational therapist and certified life coach - and check out her podcast: @the_concussion_coach | theconcussioncoach.com ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:20 Welcome with Cristabelle 9:30 Introducing Bethany Lewis 14:15 Why talk about Identity and Brain Injury? 17:30 Describing Identity Shifts 26:30 When You Don’t Feel Like “You” 30:45 Help for Family Members 39:50 Feeling Defined by Injury 42:40 The Power of Language and Self-Perception 51:30 Tools for Reconnecting with Identity 57:15 Tools for Loved Ones to Help Survivors 60:00 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 105. Hope through Ambiguous Loss + Tools for Processing Emotions after Brain Injury (with Dr. Daniel Ignacio) | 06 mai 2025 | 00:59:13 | |
Navigating life after brain injury often leaves survivors and families facing a sense of loss that lacks clear answers or closure - with emotions that are overwhelming and hard to describe. Today, we’re discussing some tools to help process these big emotions - there is hope! In this episode, Cristabelle welcomes Dr. Daniel Ignacio, a clinical neuropsychologist and TBI survivor himself, to explore the concept of ambiguous loss and the unique grief that follows brain injury. We discuss how these emotional challenges can deeply affect identity, relationships, and the journey to healing. Our conversation also dives into the impact of stress on the nervous system and offers insights for coping and finding hope. Dr. Ignacio brings both professional expertise and personal experience, making this discussion especially inspiring, relatable and helpful for anyone navigating life after brain injury. Whether you're navigating big changes in your identity or processing your emotions, we know it takes courage to listen and explore this. So if you're processing emotions like grief or anger, or you're still trying to make sense of what healing looks like, we want you to know that we're here for you - you do not have to process this alone. Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community ------- CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Dr. Daniel Ignacio: @tbioc - St Jude Brain Injury Network: https://www.sjbin.org/ ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:40 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:15 Introducing Dr. Daniel Ignacio 14:30 Dr. Ignacio’s Personal TBI Journey 19:15 Neuropsychologist Explaining Ambiguous Loss 28:45 Identifying Persisting Symptoms Affect on Emotions 31:30 Navigating Tension of Hope and Grief 36:45 Impact of Nervous System Dysregulation + Chronic Stress 44:00 Tools for Processing Emotions + Healing 49:45 Advice for Survivors & Families 55:20 Words of Hope ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 104. Ambiguous Loss & Grief Processing - Brain Injury Community Panel | 18 avr. 2025 | 01:05:14 | |
A brain injury can bring unexpected changes in identity, abilities, and relationships… and when things feel different, grief is a natural response. Today, we are exploring the concept of “ambiguous loss” - a type of loss that remains unclear, unresolved, or without closure - with our first Brain Injury Community Panel. Today’s panel features 3 brain injury survivors, each with their own unique journey: Helena Jacobson, Stefanie Beeney, and Scott Tribble. Our conversation will help you to learn more about the concept of ambiguous loss, the impact on identity and social relationships for survivors, and tools to help navigate grief and move toward healing. You do not have to process this alone: if you can relate to any of this, we are here for you. We invite you to join our online support groups, and feel free to reach out any time at hi@hopesurvives.org. We also have some grief processing resources available for both survivors & family members at our resource hub: hopesurvives.org/resource ------- CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Join the online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Connect with Helena on IG: @healingwithhelz Connect with Stefanie on IG: @evolving.stef Learn more about volunteering, sharing your story, or becoming a Hope Ambassador: https://www.hopesurvives.org/getinvolved ------- Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: https://www.thefnc.com ------- 0:00 Intro 2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle 6:45 Introducing Panelists - Survivor Stories 10:25 Ambiguous Loss after Brain Injury 16:00 Internal Loss of Self and Identity 23:30 External Loss of Life and Relationships 30:00 Navigating Grief & Loss 37:40 Strategies for Processing Grief 48:45 Maintaining Hope and Motivation 58:45 Advice through Ambiguous Loss ------- Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 103. Building the Future - Hope for Brain Injury Survivors & Families (with Cyndie Braden) | 27 mars 2025 | 00:43:28 | |
Healing is a journey, and we’re here for the long haul. As Brain Injury Awareness Month is drawing to a close, this remains true: brain injury doesn’t just impact survivors and families for a month—it’s every day, all year long. In this episode, Cristabelle Braden sits down with her mother and Hope Survives board member, Cyndie Braden, to share personal experiences through more than a decade of navigating Cristabelle’s brain injuries, along with insights into the impact of brain injuries on families and the need for better support systems. This is an encouraging conversation for anyone on the journey of healing, or who would like to learn more about brain injury. We'll also explore the profound impact of support groups on individuals dealing with brain injuries, the importance of recognizing changed family dynamics, and ongoing efforts to raise awareness and build a brighter future for survivors. CONNECT Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Join the online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: thefnc.com 0:00 Intro 3:35 Welcome with Cristabelle 8:48 Introducing Cyndie 12:20 Early Symptoms and Recovery Challenges 21:00 The Impact of Support Groups 29:51 Building Hope After Head Injury 32:40 Changes in Family Dynamics Post-Injury 34:30 The Future of Hope Survives 40:55 Words of Hope Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 102. Tools For Healing - Integrative Care for Lasting Results (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 20 mars 2025 | 00:40:34 | |
Have you ever felt “stuck” in brain injury rehabilitation, unsure where to go next? Finding the right care and tools for brain injury recovery can be confusing and frustrating, leaving many feeling lost and unsure where to turn. But you're not alone, and there is hope for continued healing. In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center, to explore the power of integrative care in achieving lasting results for brain injury recovery. Dr. Schmoe shares his expertise on the importance of a holistic approach that combines functional neurology, metabolic health, and structural care. They discuss the critical need to understand root causes beyond the initial injury, the significance of proper sequencing in therapeutic interventions, basic metabolic tests that can uncover ways to help move forward, and practical tools that individuals can implement at home. This conversation offers invaluable insights into the brain's adaptability and the potential for recovery, providing hope and actionable strategies for those affected by brain injuries. Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation will help to illuminate the path towards more effective and comprehensive brain injury care. Join us as we uncover the tools for healing that can lead to lasting results and improved quality of life for brain injury survivors. CONNECT Connect with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe at thefnc.com Connect with Hope Survives & our global online community, programs, workshops, and zoom groups: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: thefnc.com Previous Episodes with Dr. Schmoe (worth going back and listening to!): 73. Hope in Neuroplasticity + New Research and Technologies in Rehabilitation 64. How to Improve Symptoms on Hard Days 23. Brain Health - Strategies to Optimize your Brain for Healing 12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions 11. The Vestibular System and Brain Injury 2. Common Challenges, Strategies, + The Science Behind Why Symptoms Happen 0:00 Intro 2:34 Welcome with Cristabelle 7:20 Intro to Dr. Schmoe and Tools for Healing 12:50 The Role of Comprehensive Care in Brain Recovery 17:15 The Importance of the Right Order of Therapies 22:30 Identifying Root Causes Underneath Brain Injury 27:00 Practical Tools for Healing 32:30 Finding the Reason Behind Symptoms 34:30 The Need for Different Therapeutic Approaches 38:10 Words of Hope Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: hopesurvives.org/podcast | |||
| 101. The Power of Connection - You Are Not Alone (with Jasmine Balignasay-Chavez) | 14 mars 2025 | 00:37:41 | |
Brain injury survivors and their families often feel isolated and disconnected from others while navigating the challenges of a “new normal”. If you can relate, you’re not alone - and we are here to encourage you to know there is hope. In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Jasmine Balignasay-Chavez, managing director of Hope Survives, to discuss the profound impact of brain injuries, the isolation many survivors face, and the transformative power of connection. Jasmine shares her personal journey through brain injury, and some of her own experiences with isolation and the importance of knowing you’re not alone. We explore the importance of support groups, finding purpose in helping others, and choosing hope as an active part of healing. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or simply seeking inspiration, this podcast reminds you that recovery is possible and you are never alone. Let’s heal together: one step at a time. CONNECT Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: hopesurvives.org | @hopesurvives Email us: hi@hopesurvives.org Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: thefnc.com 0:00 Intro 3:00 Welcome with Cristabelle 10:40 Introducing Jasmine 13:15 Jasmine’s Brain Injury Journey 15:00 The Impact of Isolation and Disconnection 20:15 Finding Support and Community 25:30 Purpose in Helping Others 28:30 Building Community and Resources 32:30 Words of Hope Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. | |||
| 100. Voices of Hope - From the Heart of a Caregiver (with Tameka Wolfe) | 08 mars 2025 | 00:34:30 | |
Join us for a conversation of hope for the first week of Brain Injury Awareness Month! In today’s episode, Cristabelle is joined by Tameka Wolfe, vice president of the board at Hope Survives, who shares her personal experience as a caregiver after her husband's traumatic head injury. Tameka discusses the challenges faced during her husband's recovery, the daily routines they've established, and the importance of offering grace to oneself as a caregiver. She shares how they have learned that every small step in the recovery journey matters, with encouragement for survivors & family members. Their story is one of resilience, faith, love, and most importantly - hope. CONNECT Connect with Tameka in “Hope For Couples” – hopesurvives.org/couples Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: hopesurvives.org | @hopesurvives Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more: thefnc.com 00:00 Intro 03:13 Welcome with Cristabelle 10:40 Introducing Tameka’s Story 13:13 The Importance of Community and Support 15:52 Strategies and Hope for Navigating Recovery 18:57 Hope for Couples: Strengthening Relationships 21:46 Final Words of Encouragement Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. | |||
| 99. Season 4 Premiere: Nonprofit Launch Celebration! | 03 mars 2025 | 01:23:47 | |
Big announcements today - listen to this special episode of our livestream celebration for our newly launched nonprofit organization, Hope Survives! Our vision: a world in which every survivor of brain injury and every member of their family are seen, loved, heard, valued, supported, uplifted, and never alone. We are excited to share our newly expanded support groups, new programs, new workshops, new volunteer opportunities, and more! CONNECT Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: hopesurvives.org | @hopesurvives Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! You are not alone! Host: Cristabelle Braden (Founder & Executive Director) Guests: Tameka Wolfe (Board Vice President), Patti Shutt (Board Secretary) 0:00 Intro 1:45 Cristabelle’s TBI journey 6:15 Nonprofit journey 9:00 Our Mission & Vision 15:40 Impact of Support Community 21:00 Importance of Accessibility 23:30 Board & Leadership Team 27:45 New Community Support Groups 35:20 New Workshops & Programs 43:00 Our Volunteers 50:00 Q&A Session 65:00 Hope Sustainers 70:00 Website & Concert Announcement 75:00 Words of Hope 80:00 Final Thoughts | |||
| 98. Redefining Wellness after Brain Injury (with Taryn Barlow) | 24 janv. 2025 | 00:54:01 | |
When every day is a challenge through symptoms, it can be hard to feel even any sort of “well.” Today we are talking about how to redefine the concept of wellness on our brain injury journey to help us uncover our own path of recovery! After a brain injury, wellness can feel distant. In this episode, Cristabelle invites Taryn Barlow, a speech language pathologist and cognitive health coach who owns a private practice called The Well Brain, for a conversation to encourage survivors & families to explore how to redefine wellness. We dig into finding your own path of what wellness means to you, including what neuro goals are significant to your personal recovery and a holistic perspective of spiritual wellness. It’s so important to learn how to connect with your values in a personal way, and redefine what wellness means to you - which will ultimately help us to move forward with hope! Connect with Taryn - IG: Taryn_TheWellBrain | https://thewellbrainslp.com/ We are launching a new nonprofit - Hope Survives! 🩵Get involved: https://www.hopesurvives.org/getinvolved --- CONNECT Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: hopesurvives.org | @hopesurvives Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms! 0:00 Intro 1:52 Welcome with Cristabelle 10:25 Introducing Taryn and The Well Brain 20:15 Making Sense of Symptom Experience 27:45 Redefining Personal Wellness 33:00 Finding Your Why - Process towards Holistic Wellness 38:20 Take the First Step 41:15 It is Well with My Soul 44:45 Pursuing Wellness in Your Own Way 51:00 Words of Hope This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. | |||