Explore every episode of the podcast Hope Survives | Brain Injury Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fighting for Global Brain Injury Recognition - The New TBI Resolution for the World Health Organization (with Paul Dubetz) | 07 May 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 Apr 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 | |||
| 125. Understanding Neuro Fatigue in Brain Injury Recovery (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 06 Dec 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 | |||
| 33. Life is Not a Highlight Reel | 24 Dec 2021 | 00:47:50 | |
There is a trend to post highlights of the year on social media. But do you find that actually hard to do, or even see from others? Living with brain injury, it is easy to feel discouraged from setbacks, or a recovery timeline you had in mind, or comparing to the "old you" and grieving the life before, as well as coping with symptoms on a daily basis. Listen as Cristabelle discusses all of this, while also sharing some of her personal journey through TBI. Life is not a highlight reel. And that is okay. Let's talk about it! Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year! 0:00 Intro 9:44 Life is Not a Highlight Reel 13:56 My First TBI 19:58 Feeling like a Failure 21:47 Improving Little by Little 23:47 Re-Injuries & Setbacks 26:39 Most Recent Concussion Setback 30:14 It Can Be Hard to Look Back 32:14 Celebrating Steps 35:31 Reasons for Discouragement 38:59 You Don’t Need a New Years Resolution 39:41 You Don’t Need Highlights 40:56 You are More 44:34 Different Ways to Reflect 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 32. Victory through Visible & Invisible Disability (Lisa’s Story) | 17 Dec 2021 | 00:49:07 | |
Lisa is a fighter, living with both an invisible injury (TBI) and physical disability. She was born with Spina Bifida and hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain), contracted spinal meningitis as an infant, and has been an advocate for disabilities her entire life. Then, in 2011 she sustained a traumatic brain injury from an accident playing wheelchair basketball. This is an episode that is sure to inspire and encourage all who listen, as Lisa Pubantz eloquently shares her story of victory. She joins Cristabelle to discuss the tension between the invisible injury and the physical disability, how society treats people with disabilities, and how the TBI symptoms are often misunderstood. 0:00 Intro 6:13 Introducing Lisa’s Story 15:03 Wheelchair Basketball & Races 16:27 Adjusting after TBI 19:53 Surviving the Injury 22:14 Symptoms & Challenges 25:45 Visible vs. Invisible Disability 28:37 Misunderstood TBI Symptoms 31:38 Mental Health 34:49 How Others Treat People with Disabilities 42:58 Claiming Victory 46:28 Words of Hope 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 31. Hormones after Brain Injury (with Dr. Meaghan Kirschling) | 10 Dec 2021 | 00:56:48 | |
Did you know that hormones can be affected by a brain injury? Hormonal imbalances can actually be a contributing factor to persistent symptoms, along with affecting sleep, stress response, and reproductive systems. Today, Dr. Meaghan Kirschling is here to talk about some of these potential hormonal changes, and how it could potentially affect a brain injury survivor. We also including variables in age, differences between male and female, and sex drive. NOTES 0:00 Intro 4:29 Introducing Dr. Meaghan 10:18 Brain Injury Affects Hormones 14:14 What if it goes untreated? 15:22 Stress Response 16:32 Hormones & Persistent Symptoms 17:25 Pituitary Gland 21:58 Cortisol & Adrenal Glands 25:28 Variables (Age, etc.) 27:59 Oxytocin, Emotional Connection 31:19 Male vs. Female Differences 34:59 Birth Control & Menstrual Cycle 37:38 Testosterone & Estrogen Balance 40:03 Sex Drive 43:47 Sleep & Melatonin 45:25 Recommendations 51:43 Words of Hope Connect with Dr. Meaghan Kirschling: @drmeaghankirschling on instagram or through www.oneagorahealth.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 30. Emotional Responses after Brain Injury + How it Affects Relationships | 09 Dec 2021 | 00:23:15 | |
Emotions after brain injury can come in extremes - highs, lows, outbursts - or you can end up just feeling "blank" or nothing at all. Survivors also could have a hard time expressing their emotions and verbalizing it. Emotions also affect our identity, how we view ourselves, and directly impact our relationships. Today, Cristabelle leads us through all of this, sharing some personal examples along with encouragement for listeners. 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 29. Emotional Dysregulation (with Rebecca Quinn & Carly Endres from NDBIN) | 03 Dec 2021 | 00:52:05 | |
"A brain injury is the only time that we ask the injured body part to regulate itself..." How do you handle emotions after brain injury? What are some ways to help? Let's talk about it! Today Cristabelle is joined by Rebecca Quinn & Carly Endres from the North Dakota Brain Injury Network for a conversation about emotional dysregulation as it relates to brain injury. We cover some common "tells" including outbursts and overstimulation, the cognitive behavioral spiral, the importance of mindfulness, and encouragement for both caregivers and survivors. Episode Info & Tip Sheet Download: https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/644/emotional-dysregulation-with-ndbin/ NOTES 0:00 Intro 2:21 Why this topic? 7:50 Introducing Rebecca & Carly 14:35 Emotions after Brain Injury 16:23 Cognitive Symptom Inventory Info 20:40 Emotional Dysregulation 26:20 “Tells” - Outbursts & Overstimulation 32:35 Cognitive Behavioral Spiral 34:06 Mindfulness 37:03 Giving Permission to Yourself 43:27 Healing is Physical and Emotional 49:55 Little Steps for Improvement Connect with Rebecca & Carly through the North Dakota Brain Injury Network: https://www.ndbin.org/ 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 28. Developing a Balanced Life Post-Injury (with Marlene Rivera, CBIS) | 26 Nov 2021 | 00:49:36 | |
How do you realistically implement medical recommendations into your lifestyle? Let's talk about it. Today Cristabelle is joined by Marlene Rivera, CBIS, to learn about how to develop a balanced life post-injury. We discuss some of the barriers that people might encounter, and also strategies such as how to communicate with medical professionals, the importance of a routine, prioritizing, and community. More Info on Re-Discover U: https://www.councilonbraininjury.com/rediscoveru Cristabelle will be sharing on Monday December 6, join via zoom at the link above! NOTES 0:00 Intro 1:46 Why this topic? 7:24 Introducing Marlene 10:12 Identifying Barriers 17:14 Communicating with Medical Professionals 18:59 How to Better Follow Through 21:44 Connection with Others 23:17 Examine your Season of Life 24:36 Schedule & Routine 33:05 Prioritizing 39:16 Perspective 45:14 Words of Hope 46:38 ReDiscoverU Info Connect with Marlene through CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 27. Surviving the Holidays with Brain Injury | 25 Nov 2021 | 00:18:03 | |
The Holidays are upon us - and that can be overwhelming for brain injury survivors! For the first shorter "minisode" (mini+episode!) of Season 2, Cristabelle will walk us through some strategies and practical tips to manage symptoms and get the most out of your holiday gatherings. 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com Email: cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 26. Finding Confidence After Concussions (with Allison Cook, Miss Oregon USA) | 19 Nov 2021 | 00:47:31 | |
Today we're kicking off Season 2 with five time concussion survivor and Miss Oregon USA, Allison Cook, on finding confidence and knowing your worth. We talk about coping with symptoms, overcoming imposter syndrome, the invisible injury, and more! NOTES 0:00 Intro 1:41 Welcome to Season 2 9:24 Introducing Allison 12:39 Allison’s Concussion Journey 15:59 Coping with Symptoms 19:18 Invisible Injury 23:07 Imposter Syndrome Post-TBI 26:24 Confidence in Sharing Your Story 30:05 Dealing with Criticism & Misunderstandings 34:06 Comparison 39:16 You Matter 43:33 Words of Hope Connect with Allison: @allisonecook | @missorusa | allisoncook.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. | |||
| 25. Out of the Darkness - Mental Health, Depression, Inspiring Survivor Story (with Tracy Yatsko) | 28 Apr 2021 | 00:46:46 | |
Today is an inspiring episode all about finding hope, featuring survivor and Emmy Award winning host Tracy Yatsko. In 2005, she sustained a serious traumatic brain injury from playing basketball that completely derailed her life. From dealing with the invisible injury, grieving the old self, debilitating symptoms, and deep depression, she candidly shares her story. This episode is all about encouragement to anyone listening - survivors, caregivers, family members - it is possible to find your way out of the darkness. Season 1 - Episode 25 Thank you for being a part of Hope Survives Podcast for 25 episodes! This is the Season 1 Finale, as we take a short break to prepare for Season 2 - which will have even more education, awareness, and support! If there are any topics you would like to hear covered in Season 2, please email me: cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com - as I would love to hear from you! -Cristabelle Watch Tracy's Out of the Darkness Brain Injury Awareness PBS39 special (featuring Cristabelle as one of the guests!) | https://www.wlvt.org/television/out-of-the-darkness/ 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: Tracy Yatsko is a brain injury warrior and activist. She currently serves on the board of the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania and manages its social media platforms. Tracy also co-leads a monthly virtual support group for survivors and caregivers. In 2005, Tracy sustained a concussion that completely shifted her life… from having hopes and dreams of getting a Division 1 scholarship in track and field to fighting daily for hope and survival. Tracy became the voice of the Pennsylvania Concussion Bill, Safety in Youth Sports Act in 2011, and continues to raise her voice surrounding concussion awareness and all things hope, healing and happiness. Tracy is an Emmy Award winning host, receiving her award for a sports feature in 2020. She is a former talk show host, producer and multimedia journalist at PBS39. Tracy unashamedly loves Jesus and uses her faith and relationship with God to help people get out of the darkness and into the Light. IG: @tracyyatsko | Email: tracylynnyatsko@gmail.com ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 24. Fatigue Management + Strategies (with Natalie Mackenzie) | 20 Apr 2021 | 00:47:58 | |
After a brain injury, fatigue can become one of the most draining and difficult parts of getting through the day or week. Today we going to talk about some strategies and tips on how to manage that fatigue with Natalie Mackenzie, who has worked in the field of Neuro Rehabilitation for 20 years. Part of this is learning about what Natalie calls the 3 P’s: Planning, Prioritization, and Pacing. Season 1 - Episode 24 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: Natalie Mackenzie has worked in the field of Neuro Rehabilitation for nearly 20 years. As a Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist and Certified Brain Injury Trainer, she has worked with hundreds of families and clients as Founder and Director of a Community Cognitive Rehabilitation service in the UK. Natalie is also known as The Cognitive Rehab Coach, providing online support and education, blog writing, and contributions to the industry magazine, The NR Times. Natalie has trained a huge number of employees, as well as other industry professionals and spoken at conferences, whilst holding board positions for charities. She strives to increase standards in long term brain injury rehabilitation in the UK and providing more support to those struggling with any level of brain injury. Natalie holds a BSc in Psychology and MSc in Cognitive Neuropsychology, and is currently completing her ADHD Coaching qualification with IACT. Natalie has a wealth of experience and training in the field both with adults and children, across severities of TBI from concussions to severe injuries. Natalie focus on a large range of goals, identified with the client, from day to day functional skills to return to work or education settings. Natalie works closely with clients and families to educate and provide support with understanding the challenges of living with a hidden disability. Strategies, insights and training is provided to help navigate the pathway, with a holistic approach. As a qualified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Natalie also provides sessions to deal with anxiety, stress, adjustment and general relaxation to all ages. Areas of expertise include fatigue management, insight and awareness, adjustment and formation of self and strategy implementation. As well as enjoying some geek level brain education to explain in simple why the brain doesn’t quite work the way we want it to sometimes! But with huge emphasis on the strengths of strategy implementation and adjustment to change of roles and formulation of changed values post injury. Find out more at Facebook and IG follow The Cognitive Rehab Coach for more information. https://www.facebook.com/thecognitiverehabcoach ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 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 | |||
| 23. Brain Health - Strategies to Optimize your Brain for Healing (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 14 Apr 2021 | 00:29:22 | |
Let’s talk about brain health after sustaining a brain injury with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe. These are some simple strategies that you can begin to incorporate into your routine to help optimize your brain for healing. Season 1 - Episode 23 Mentioned by Dr. Schmoe: Brain Exercises in Experience Life Article: https://experiencelife.lifetime.life/article/the-neurobic-workout/ ProloGel: prologel.com The Brain Health Online Summit: https://www.thebrainhealthonlinesummit.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, DC DACNB FACFN FABBIR, is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. He enjoys seeing the most complex cases Integrating neuro-rehab, manual therapy, lab work and nutrition. He has worked with many professional NHL and KHL hockey players and has been highlighted in Minnesota Hockey Magazine. He has also been in The Huffington Post, Experience Life Magazine and WCCO for his work. He specializes in working with post concussion syndrome and vestibular symptoms, which is his passion. He has lectured Nationally and Internationally in Canada and England for the Carrick Institute of Clinical Neuroscience. He is a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board DACNB, passed the FACFN examination and was the valedictorian of the 2015 FABBIR Carrick Institute TBI program. He has presented at the Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance Annual Conference, North Dakota TBI Network and in Washington DC at the Federal Interagency TBI Conference. He has been a guest on numerous podcasts and has presented at the University of Minnesota annual sports symposium as well as the Minnesota Chiropractic Association Concussion Conference and annual conference. He enjoys educating other providers and patients on functional neurology. He is an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. He lives and practices in MN. His wife Erin is also a chiropractor and they have a daughter named Willow and a dog named Burrberry who likes to hang at the clinic. His center in Minnesota has seen thousands of patients in an intensive care model helping with Post Concussion, Dizziness, Vertigo, Dysautonomia, TBI and ABI. Website: https://theFNC.com/ Email: drschmoe@thefnc.com ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 22. Not Giving Up - Encouragement for Survivors, Caregivers, Families (with Cyndie Braden) | 07 Apr 2021 | 00:30:02 | |
What does it mean to “not give up” on the brain injury? Let’s talk about it. Cristabelle shares encouragement for survivors and her mother Cyndie Braden offers support for caregivers and families. We talk about different aspects of choosing to not give up, including family dynamics, the day-to-day things, and how to give yourself grace for the hard days. Season 1 - Episode 22 *Check out the "Not Giving Up" Brain Injury Awareness Music Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAjpyM81jsw 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: - Cyndie Braden has over 20 years experience teaching and developing educational curriculum, and she holds a Master of Science. After being thrown into the world of brain injury by her daughter’s injury, Cyndie has been passionately learning about brain injury research and finding resources while supporting the brain injury survivors and families. She has been invited to speak at brain injury conferences and events. She also has advocated with the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania at the State Capitol in Harrisburg and in Washington D.C. and works alongside her daughter Cristabelle to support the community of Hope After Head Injury. IG: @cyndiebraden ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 21. How to Be a Brain Injury Advocate + Tips for Sharing Your Story (with Monica Vaccaro from BIAPA) | 30 Mar 2021 | 00:43:45 | |
Hands down, one of the questions I am asked most frequently is something like, “how do I become a brain injury advocate” or “how do you get started sharing your story?” On today’s episode, I’m sharing a lot of what I have learned about advocacy through the years - joined by Monica Vaccaro, director of programs at the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania, to share her perspective and insight! We are talking about being a self-advocate for brain injury, tips for sharing your story, and also how to get involved with advocacy on a larger scale if it’s something you are interested in! Brain Injury Awareness Month might be almost over, but the advocacy goes on all year long! :) Let’s continue to use our voices together to make a difference! Xo, Cristabelle Season 1 - Episode 21 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: - Monica Vaccaro has been working in the field of brain injury for over 30 years. She is currently the Director of Programs for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania. She is very passionate about advocacy and doing everything she can to bring more awareness to this hidden injury. We have a conversation about brain injury symptoms, how they affect survivors on a practical and emotional level, and some strategies and tips for how to manage them. Website: biapa.org | IG: @braininjurypa ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 20. Concussion Awareness + Safety in Sports (with Protect Your Skull) | 24 Mar 2021 | 00:47:07 | |
Bringing a fresh perspective to sports concussions, Tracey Suggs and Foster Wilkins are the founders of Protect Your Skull - the world’s first and only concussion awareness brand creating quality performance apparel for today’s athlete. They are amazing advocates as they work hard to educate for safety in sports- today’s conversation is one you don’t want to miss! Season 1 - Episode 20 March is Brain Injury Awareness Month! MEET OUR GUESTS: Protect Your Skull, LLC is the world’s first concussion awareness, performance, and lifestyle brand. It was established in 2013 by former athletes Tracey Suggs and Foster Wilkins. This is a brand that promotes the overall well-being of athletes. It’s the quality of life culture that PYS is pioneering. The game has evolved. Quality of life after the game matters most. Website: protectyourskull.com - Tracey Suggs is the Protect Your Skull, LLC Creative Director and co–founder. He currently lives in Charlotte, NC with his beautiful wife of 20 years and their 3 beautiful children. Promoting concussion awareness and safety in all sports to the next generation of athletes through his work with universities, youth sports camps, sports leagues, and organizations across the country is a primary focus. Suggs played football as a defensive back for Fayetteville State University of the CIAA Conference. He believes that winning now has to incorporate playing the game safer and smarter through a higher level of awareness both mentally and physically.Suggs is committed to creating a quality of life culture beginning with the next generation youth athletes and leaders. He believes that by using his power to empower the youth to achieve greatness in life that the world becomes a better place for the future. -Foster Wilkins is the co-founder of Protect Your Skull. Wilkins’ success as an athlete and devoted alumni earned his 2007 induction in the Fayetteville State Football Hall of Fame. Through several years of playing football, Wilkins experienced concussions and minor injuries that led to the concept of providing athletes with knowledge to play sports with your health as the leading factor. As a collegiate football coach, Wilkins was highly impacted to become an advocate for an athlete’s health when he encounter his own players suffering from serious injuries and concussions, he knew that in order to pursue a successful athletic career a person’s health will have to be top priority. After coaching, Wilkins cultivated a philosophy of sustaining a healthy lifestyle to increase the quality and longevity of life. Among the Fayetteville State University’s community, he is known as an avid donor to the athletic program to ensure current players have access to safe and efficient equipment. Wilkins is instrumental in connecting the brand with local high schools and colleges to ensure players are proactively thinking about Life After the Game. 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! 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 19. Brain Injury Association of America - Advocacy + Resources (with Susan H. Connors, BIAA President and CEO) | 17 Mar 2021 | 00:33:45 | |
Susan H. Connors, president and CEO of the Brain Injury Association of America, is here today for a special Brain Injury Awareness Month Episode. Listen as she shares about what the BIAA does, including help and resources that are available to survivors. Susan is a champion for brain injury, and today she also shares some of her personal journey as to how she got involved in the BIAA and what she has seen in brain injury awareness over the last 25 years. The discussion closes with encouragement and tips for those who may want to get involved with advocating on a broader scale. Season 1 - Episode 19 March is Brain Injury Awareness Month! Get involved in the BIAA's campaign: #MoreThanMyBrainInjury MEET OUR GUEST: Susan Connors is president and chief executive officer of the Brain Injury Association of America. She was executive director of the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators from 2001 to 2005 and BIAA’s national director of state affairs from 1995 to 2001. Ms. Connors has served in advisory capacities and on expert panels for several federal agencies, universities, and nonprofit organizations and has authored numerous publications, position statements and articles. She has a bachelor’s degree in public communication from George Mason University. She is a non-voting member of the board. BIAA Mission: To advance awareness, research, treatment, and education and to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury. Website: biausa.org | IG: @bia_usa 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 18. PINK Concussions - Female Brain Injury Awareness + Gaps in Research (with Katherine Snedaker) | 10 Mar 2021 | 00:47:17 | |
How is female brain injury different? Today we are talking about awareness centered on female brain injury and concussions. Cristabelle is joined by Katherine Snedaker, founder of PINK Concussions. She offers some insight into the gaps in research when it comes to brain injury in women for this episode for Brain Injury Awareness Month. Season 1 - Episode 18 MEET OUR GUEST: Katherine Snedaker is the Executive Director and Founder of PINK Concussions, a non-profit focused on female brain injury including concussion from sports, violence, accidents, and military service. She earned her Masters in Social Work from Fordham University. IG: @katherine_snedaker | @pinkconcussions PINK Concussions is the first ever non-profit organization to focus on pre-injury education and post-injury medical care for women and girls with brain injury including concussion incurred from sport, violence, accidents or military service. Website: pinkconcussions.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 17. Understanding the Invisible Injury (with Cyndie Braden) | 03 Mar 2021 | 00:24:33 | |
Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there. For the first week of Brain Injury Awareness Month, we are discussing how brain injury is an invisible injury, and how this affects survivors and families on a daily basis. Today, Cristabelle is joined once again by her mother, Cyndie Braden, for this special awareness month episode of Hope Survives! Season 1 - Episode 17 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: - Cyndie Braden has over 20 years experience teaching and developing educational curriculum, and she holds a Master of Science. After being thrown into the world of brain injury by her daughter’s injury, Cyndie has been passionately learning about brain injury research and finding resources while supporting the brain injury survivors and families. She has been invited to speak at brain injury conferences and events. She also has advocated with the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania at the State Capitol in Harrisburg and in Washington D.C. and works alongside her daughter Cristabelle to support the community of Hope After Head Injury. IG: @cyndiebraden ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 16. Ways to Help Calm Brain Injury Symptoms (with Natasha Wilch) | 24 Feb 2021 | 00:31:36 | |
If you've ever been overwhelmed or overstimulated with brain injury symptoms, you are not alone. Today, Natasha Wilch is here to share some ways to help us calm down symptoms. We discuss some simple strategies along with encouragement for survivors. Season 1 - Episode 16 MEET OUR GUEST: - Natasha Wilch is a Registered Physical Therapist based in Western Canada whom had dedicated her career to working with individuals with concussion. Her passion in learning has led her to training in vestibular rehab, acupuncture, clinical neuroscience and more. She is the owner of Symphony Rehabilitation and Co-Founder of Concussion Compass. Always looking for ways to better serve her clients, she was one of the first clincians in Canada to offer virtual care. Natasha has won the Canada Entrepreneur of the year award in 2017, Vancouver Island’s top 20 under 40 business & community achievement award in 2018 and this year she won the 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award for Physical Therapy. symphony-rehab.com Concussion Compass: concussioncompass.com Get Natasha's Free PDF - "3 Ways to Calm Your Concussion Symptoms": https://www.concussioncompass.com/3-ways-to-calm-your-concussion-symptoms-opt-in 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 15. Resilience - through Stroke & Brain Abscess (with Don't Count Me Out! hosts Jo Ann and Brad) | 17 Feb 2021 | 00:44:20 | |
Resilience: we can come back stronger than we ever realized through brain injury! Today, Cristabelle hosts a delightful conversation with survivors Brad Neufeld and Jo Ann Glim. They share their stories, what resilience means, and encouragement to listeners to never give up. Season 1 - Episode 15 Jo Ann and Brad are the hosts of Don’t Count Me Out: A weekly program that offers stroke survivors tools, tips, interviews and hope. 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUESTS: - Brad Neufeld is the Founder and CEO of the Resilience Talk Network and Co-Host of the “Don’t Count Me Out” Podcast, a podcast for Stroke Survivors. Brad has more than 30 years of experience working in the mental health industry as a mentor. Back in December of 2008, Brad was diagnosed with a Brain Abscess and has experienced a total of 7 TIA’s, which are transient ischemic attacks or “Mini Strokes”. His passion is assisting others with overcoming the challenges of life. - Jo Ann Glim is an author, podcaster, motivational speaker, and stoke survivor. Jo Ann Glim was born in Chicago, Illinois to a military family and raised in Anacortes, Washington in the far reaches of the Pacific Northwest. It was an ideal place to raise a precocious child, especially one that’s inquisitive and daring. Tragically, her mother passed away from a stroke when Glim was fourteen. This was the beginning of a life-path plotted with many dark events. In her own words, “Instead of consuming me, they made me stronger, and I’m here to tell you, darkness can be replaced with light.” Glim’s three-pronged career of broadcast and print media, freelance writing, and business management formed her into the indie author she is today. Her 5-Star books, the award-winning “Begotten With Love,” and her newest release “Trapped Within,” are both non-fiction, life-stories filled with challenges, hope, and humor. Glim now lives in Florida with her husband Bill and their Scottish terrier, Lucy. Her passions are writing, photography, travel, handbells, and hiking. A paralyzing stroke nearly twenty-four years ago left her most of all, grateful for life itself! Jo Ann’s Book: https://amazon.com/-/e/B00IOQF83Q ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, she began to write music. Since then, she has surpassed medical expectations and thrived in her newfound gift of music; she has come from re-learning daily life tasks in brain injury rehabilitation to setting her feet firmly on the ground as a songwriter, speaker, and artist with a message of hope. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 14. Keep Going! - Inspiring TBI Survivor Story (with Tanya Gauthier, TBIncredible) | 10 Feb 2021 | 00:39:54 | |
How do we keep going on the brain injury journey? Sometimes it can be a struggle just to get through the day. Today Cristabelle keeps it real, sharing that it is not always easy, but we can choose to never give up. Next, Tanya Gauthier, founder of the nonprofit TBIncredible, joins to share her inspirational story through her own traumatic brain injury and encouragement to listeners on how to keep going! Season 1 - Episode 14 MEET OUR GUEST: As the youngest of three children growing up in New Jersey, Tanya Gauthier understands the importance of family and strong community values. From ballet classes to extra tutoring sessions, she learned to appreciate the value of hard work at a very young age. In 2009, while in her junior year at West Point, Tanya survived a near fatal car accident that left her with a traumatic brain injury. Instead of feeling sorry for herself, Tanya was determined to complete her education. In 2011, she earned her degree in psychology and environmental engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Tanya’s mantra, ‘Keep Going!’ serves as her rallying cry when faced with adversity. While 2020 has been a challenging year for nearly everyone, Tanya persevered and founded TBIncredible nonprofit for fellow brain injury survivors. The organization, TBIncredible provides free recreational therapy through therapeutic photography. Through her love for photography, she found a wonderful way to share her passion with other TBI survivors to aid in their recovery. Always thinking of others, more than herself, Tanya uses therapeutic photography to bring back happiness to those that need it the most. Website: tbincredible.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 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. | |||
| 13. Brain Injury Motivation: Staying Determined (Survivor Stories) | 03 Feb 2021 | 00:45:10 | |
Today we are talking about what it means to be determined and stay motivated on our journey through brain injury! First, Cristabelle will share some encouragement from her own journey with brain injury, and how staying determined doesn’t always mean pushing through. It’s so important to be kind to yourself! Next, Steven Thompson will share about his decades long journey through brain injury and how he continued to stay determined to achieve his goals. Finally, Shane Warner will share his story through TBI, how he stayed motivated, and how the mindset he learned from being in the National Guard helped him in his recovery journey. Season 1 - Episode 13 EPISODE GUIDE: 0.00 Intro | 1:00 Cristabelle/Determination | 12:36 Steven Thompson | 24:08 Shane Warner 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 26 Jan 2021 | 00:30:35 | |
What is dysautonomia? How is it related to brain injury? How do you know if you have it? How is it treated? Today, Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is back for a follow-up on last week’s episode on the vestibular system, to dig even further into some of the ways that autonomics can be affected by brain injury. Season 1 - Episode 12 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, DC DACNB FACFN FABBIR, is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. He enjoys seeing the most complex cases Integrating neuro-rehab, manual therapy, lab work and nutrition. He has worked with many professional NHL and KHL hockey players and has been highlighted in Minnesota Hockey Magazine. He has also been in The Huffington Post, Experience Life Magazine and WCCO for his work. He specializes in working with post concussion syndrome and vestibular symptoms, which is his passion. He has lectured Nationally and Internationally in Canada and England for the Carrick Institute of Clinical Neuroscience. He is a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board DACNB, passed the FACFN examination and was the valedictorian of the 2015 FABBIR Carrick Institute TBI program. He has presented at the Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance Annual Conference, North Dakota TBI Network and in Washington DC at the Federal Interagency TBI Conference. He has been a guest on numerous podcasts and has presented at the University of Minnesota annual sports symposium as well as the Minnesota Chiropractic Association Concussion Conference and annual conference. He enjoys educating other providers and patients on functional neurology. He is an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. He lives and practices in MN. His wife Erin is also a chiropractor and they have a daughter named Willow and a dog named Burrberry who likes to hang at the clinic. His center in Minnesota has seen thousands of patients in an intensive care model helping with Post Concussion, Dizziness, Vertigo, Dysautonomia, TBI and ABI. Website: https://theFNC.com/Email: drschmoe@thefnc.com ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 11. The Vestibular System and Brain Injury (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 19 Jan 2021 | 00:32:47 | |
What is the vestibular system? How does it affect brain injury survivors? What symptoms can be caused by dysfunction of this system? Today, Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is here to answer these questions and so much more. Next week, Dr. Schmoe will be back to continue this conversation & talk about Dysautonomia. Season 1 - Episode 11 MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, DC DACNB FACFN FABBIR, is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. He enjoys seeing the most complex cases Integrating neuro-rehab, manual therapy, lab work and nutrition. He has worked with many professional NHL and KHL hockey players and has been highlighted in Minnesota Hockey Magazine. He has also been in The Huffington Post, Experience Life Magazine and WCCO for his work. He specializes in working with post concussion syndrome and vestibular symptoms, which is his passion. He has lectured Nationally and Internationally in Canada and England for the Carrick Institute of Clinical Neuroscience. He is a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board DACNB, passed the FACFN examination and was the valedictorian of the 2015 FABBIR Carrick Institute TBI program. He has presented at the Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance Annual Conference, North Dakota TBI Network and in Washington DC at the Federal Interagency TBI Conference. He has been a guest on numerous podcasts and has presented at the University of Minnesota annual sports symposium as well as the Minnesota Chiropractic Association Concussion Conference and annual conference. He enjoys educating other providers and patients on functional neurology. He is an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. He lives and practices in MN. His wife Erin is also a chiropractor and they have a daughter named Willow and a dog named Burrberry who likes to hang at the clinic. His center in Minnesota has seen thousands of patients in an intensive care model helping with Post Concussion, Dizziness, Vertigo, Dysautonomia, TBI and ABI. 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 10. Emotional Changes - Coping Strategies + How to Work Through Complex Emotions (with Dr. Ann Marie McLaughlin) | 12 Jan 2021 | 00:36:27 | |
Emotional changes after brain injury are common. The way that the brain is physically affected can cause changes in emotional response. Also, dealing with a major life change can lead to complicated feelings and trauma responses. If you have experienced a wide range of confusing emotions, know that you are not alone! Today, Dr. Ann Marie McLaughlin joins Cristabelle to share her expertise. Let’s talk about some of the ways that emotional changes affect survivors, common root causes, and some coping strategies and tips on how to work through the complex emotions that can happen after brain injury. Season 1 - Episode 10 MEET OUR GUEST: Dr. Ann Marie McLaughlin is the current president of the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania (https://biapa.org). She developed her interest in brain injury and cognitive rehabilitation while training in the neuropsychology lab at the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. From there, she moved on to a nationally recognized rehabilitation hospital and helped support their expanding brain injury unit. Dr. McLaughlin worked for 20 years in this acute rehabilitation hospital where she held positions including Director of Psychology and Program Manager for the Stroke, Chronic Pain and Brain Injury programs. She was responsible for start up of a 45 bed brain injury unit; focusing on program development, staffing and program outcomes of the inpatient unit as well as outpatient services, including a mild head injury program. In 2001, she brought her wealth of experience and skills to ReMed, as the Clinical Director of ReMed’s Outpatient, Home and Community Based Services. There she has championed creative interdisciplinary treatment approaches to serve a range of clients who have sustained mild to severe brain injuries. Dr. McLaughlin is a hands on Clinical Director and works directly with the clients and the team to develop the best possible treatment plans for achieving desired goals in their homes and communities. Clients and staff rely on her ability to listen, support and problem solve. She is known for her quick wit as well as her ability to remain calm in the midst of a crisis; essential skills in the constantly changing and challenging world of brain injury rehabilitation. Through her years working in acute and post acute brain injury rehabilitation, Dr. McLaughlin has also focused on the needs of caregivers. She developed programs to support brain injury survivors as well as their families through an education series and group therapy. Dr. McLaughlin continues to share her talents to improve the lives of the people who have sustained brain injuries and their families. She is an active member of the Brain Injury Special Interest Group of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, focusing on issues of cognitive rehabilitation and community integration. She has published articles on topics related to brain injury, chronic pain, staff stress and family coping, and has presented on these topics at numerous conferences. 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! 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 9. Re-Injuries, Symptom Flare-Ups, and Combatting Fear (with Ali Rheaume + Natasha Wilch) | 05 Jan 2021 | 00:52:29 | |
The journey of living with brain injury comes with ups and downs. Today, you will hear from two guests: - Survivor Perspective: Ali Rheaume has been living with a TBI for 5 years, and just sustained a re-injury concussion a few months ago. She shares some of her journey and tips for dealing with re-injuries, along with encouragement on how to combat fear. - Professional Perspective: Natasha Wilch is here to share some of the medical reasons that survivors might fa ll or hit their heads more often, advice for how to prevent re-injuries, the difference between a new injury and a flare-up, and more. Setbacks might happen, but we can get through them. I hope this episode provides some encouragement and hope that healing is possible. You are not alone! Season 1 - Episode 9 GUIDE: 0:00 INTRO | 0:36 Cristabelle | 7:07 Ali | 22:32 Natasha MEET OUR GUESTS: - Ali Rheaume is an encouraging light in the journey of overcoming brain injury. She writes microblogs to help spread hope, provide new perspectives, and apply her gift of teaching to educate and advocate. Ali is an ambassador for Concussion Compass and an involved member of the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts. She is passionate about people and bringing community together. Ali also started the brand "embracing unique" to share her art, while reminding individuals to honor who they are and what they b ring to world. IG: @alison.rheaume | Art IG: @embracingunique - Natasha Wilch is a Registered Physical Therapist based in Western Canada whom had dedicated her career to working with individuals with concussion. Her passion in learning has led her to training in vestibular rehab, acupuncture, clinical neuroscience and more. She is the owner of Symphony Rehabilitation and Co-Founder of Concussion Compass. Always looking for ways to better serve her clients, she was one of the first clincians in Canada to offer virtual care. Natasha has won the Canada Entrepreneur of the year award in 2017, Vancouver Island’s top 20 under 40 business & community achievement award in 2018 and this year she won the 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award for Physical Therapy. symphony-rehab.com Concussion Compass: concussioncompass.com 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! | |||
| 8. Residential Programs, Community Living, Post-Acute Rehab (with Success Rehabilitation) | 29 Dec 2020 | 00:29:27 | |
There are many different options to help survivors to grow in independence. Did you know there are residential programs for brain injury that are different from the inpatient hospital setting? In fact, Success Rehab is just one example of what a community living program can look like. They provide post-acute rehabilitation for both residential and outpatients, but also do so much more to empower brain injury survivors to grow in confidence, find employment, and simply enjoy life! Season 1 - Episode 8 Listen to previous "Resources & Treatment Options" episodes 3 & 4 for more! MEET OUR GUESTS: For 30 years, Success Rehabilitation has specialized in post-acute brain injury rehabilitation. “We create new opportunities for those who have experienced brain injury: one individual, one family, one success at a time.” Website: https://www.successrehab.com/ -Joanne Tangney, MSW, LSW, CBIS, Co-Founder, President & CEO Joanne P. Tangney graduated from the University of Maryland with an Undergraduate Degree in Social Work and obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Temple University. In 1990, she Co-Founded Success Rehabilitation, Inc. and currently resides as the President & CEO of the organization. Ms. Tangney has dedicated her entire professional career to working with individuals who have an acquired brain injury. Ms. Tangney sits on the Board of Director’s for the Rehabilitation Community Providers Service Organization (RCPSO) and RCPA Board of Directors (Rehabilitation Community Providers Association) and is an active member of this organization to ensure that the needs of individuals with brain injuries are addressed at the State level. Ms. Tangney was named Lehigh Valley Business’s 25 Women of Influence Award Winners 2018. The Women of Influence awards honors women business leaders for their contributions to their companies, industries, and communities. -Stefanie Bauman, BA, CBIS, Director of Admissions & Clinical Services Stefanie Bauman graduated from Muhlenberg College with Undergraduate Degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education. After teaching elementary school, she worked in various social services agencies including the National MS Society and then transitioned to working for about 17 years in the mental health field. In 2012, Stefanie began working at Success Rehabilitation as the Director of Admissions. In 2013, she earned her certification as a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and maintains this certification. She has been and continues to be an active participant in the RCPA Brain Injury Committee, is an attendee of the Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board, and is co-chair of the Brain Injury Association of PA Annual Conference. Having experienced being a family member of a TBI survivor since July 2000 gives Stefanie a unique perspective when working with new clients and family members. She is honored to do the work she does at Success Rehabilitation and loves to have the opportunity to blend her professional work with her passion for supporting those who have experienced a traumatic brain injury. 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! 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. | |||
| 7. Nutrition - The Relationship between Food and Brain Health (with Brigid Titgemeier @beingbrigid) | 23 Dec 2020 | 00:39:22 | |
Did you know that the foods we eat can have a huge impact on improvement and healing after a brain injury? Today, nutrition expert Brigid Titgemeier (@beingbrigid) is here to share all about the relationship between food and brain health. Specifically, we are going to be talking about the brain/gut connection, how the food we eat can actually help to improve brain injury symptoms, and some simple meal ideas and tips on how to incorporate brain healthy foods into your routine. Learning that there is a way to help my brain injury symptoms simply by the foods I choose to eat has brought me so much hope - which is why I am so excited to share this interview with Brigid! I hope it empowers you to know that there is always something else you can do that can help to make a difference in your recovery. Xo, Cristabelle Season 1 - Episode 7 Highlights: -The food we eat can help to reduce neuro-inflammation and consequently improve brain injury symptoms. -The gut lining and the blood/brain barrier have similarities and are deeply connected; leaky gut can lead to leaky brain. -There are simple ways to incorporate better food options to help improve brain health. -“When you heal your gut you’re better able to heal your brain, and when you start to focus on the nutrients that heal your brain, it helps to improve the health of your gut.” MEET OUR GUEST: Brigid Titgemeier, MS, RDN, LD, IFNCP is a Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and health advocate, on a mission to transform your health and change your life through personalized nutrition. With a Masters degree in Public Health Nutrition and Board Certification in Integrative and Functional Nutrition, Brigid was a founding dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, under Dr. Mark Hyman. Website: beingbrigid.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 6. Adapting + Adjusting to Life After Brain Injury (Survivor Stories) | 16 Dec 2020 | 00:43:31 | |
Simply put… life is different after brain injury. So what is it like adjusting and adapting to living with symptoms and everything else that comes with having a brain injury? Today you’ll hear from two survivors sharing their stories, and how they have been learning to live in the “new normal”. My hope is that this episode brings you some encouragement that you are not alone and provides some tips that you might be able to apply to your own journey. Season 1 - Episode 6 GUIDE: Intro 0:00 | Adapting 0:37 | Rachel 6:05 | JR 24:50 MEET OUR GUESTS: - Rachel Rose Dombeck is a brain injury survivor, wellness enthusiast and entrepreneur. After having a brain injury in January 2016, her busy, active and outgoing life came to a screeching halt. Battling loss, isolation and loneliness, depression and anxiety she learned to rebuild her life through ultimate faith in God and the support of doctors, family and friends. Rachel knows that living with a brain injury is anything but easy, and that learning to live with, navigate and have a full life while managing brain injury symptoms requires community and support from other survivors. She hopes to be just that to others in her journey, whether they have a TBI or not. She believes that while we do not choose what happens to us, we can choose what we do with it and still build a meaningful life. IG: @rachelrosedombeck - JR Copeland is a brain injury survivor who has chosen to never give up. He sustained his TBI from a DUI incident and has now been sober for 9 years since his accident! He is a proud member of Side by Side Brain Injury Clubhouse and loves attending Camp BIAG, which is put on by the Brain Injury Association of Georgia. 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! 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. Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, she began to write music. Since then, she has surpassed medical expectations and thrived in her newfound gift of music; she has come from re-learning daily life tasks in brain injury rehabilitation to setting her feet firmly on the ground as a songwriter, speaker, and artist with a message of hope. Releasing multiple albums of original music and touring all over the United States, she brings her powerful testimony and a message of freedom, healing, and love wherever she goes. Cristabelle has continually persevered through the daily challenges that come with living with a brain injury, and through her setbacks, re-injuries, and struggles, discovered a stronger and clearer voice and message. She is a sought after speaker, both in brain injury and Christian ministry events. She is also a graduate-level Biblical scholar, currently working on a Masters in Theological Studies. In 2020 she launched an inspirational and uplifting podcast called Declaration Life. Her journey has inspired her to become a passionate advocate for brain injury, lobbying on a statewide and national level with the Brain Injury Association of America, as well as personally working hard to provide support and encouragement to brain injury survivors and their families through her online community Hope Survives. | |||
| 5. Coping with Brain Injury Anniversary Dates - Survivor, Caregiver, Spouse, & Mother Perspectives | 09 Dec 2020 | 00:57:51 | |
How do we approach brain injury anniversaries? That day can bring up a weird feeling, it can be painful, it can be hard to get through. Each of us will have different experiences with it. Today we will have perspectives from survivors as well as family members. Wherever you are on your journey, my hope is that this episode helps you to know know you’re not alone, and gives you tools and practical tips for dealing with your anniversary. Xo, Cristabelle Season 1 - Episode 5 You'll hear from: 1) Cristabelle & her mother Cyndie Braden 2) Survivor: Jessica Karnes 3) Couple: David & Gretchen Christenson 4) Mother: Nicole Bingaman GUIDE: 0:00 - Intro | 0:36 - Cristabelle & Cyndie Braden | 13:03 - Survivor, Jessica Karnes | 24:20 - Couple, David & Gretchen Christenson | 42:07 - Mother, Nicole Bingaman MEET OUR GUESTS: - Jessica Karnes is a brain injury and chronic illness warrior. She has persevered through multiple head injuries which has impacted her life and her family in a multitude of ways. She has had to learn how to do things over again after each injury, but she never gives up! She studied social work and obtained a bachelor’s degree at Spring Arbor University. She enjoys spending time with her family and watching Disney movies! - David and Gretchen Christenson are small town South Dakota residents. David is a crop insurance agent, and Gretchen is a teacher. David suffered a TBI in a vehicle versus pedestrian hit and run 8 blocks from their home on November 14, 2009. They now refer to that date as David's "Alive Day" and are thankful for a recovery that many call a miracle. Book: https://amzn.to/36YmRpr - Nicole Bingaman became acquainted with TBI in 2012 when her adult son had an accident resulting in a catastrophic traumatic brain injury. She has worked for over 20 years in the human service field, but is most passionate about raising brain injury awareness. Her book, Falling Away from You, was published in 2015. The book was written from the depths of Nicole’s grief. She is a blogger for BrainLine.org, and a contributing writer for the Mighty and TBI HOPE magazine. Her story, Love Wins, was featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Kind America. Nicole serves on the Board of Directors for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania and was named a TBI Hope Hero in 2019. Nicole is a certified yoga instructor, who has been trained with the LoveYourBrain foundation. Book: https://amzn.to/33WZs5X | nicolebingaman.com - Cyndie Braden has over 20 years experience teaching and developing educational curriculum, and she holds a Master of Science. After being thrown into the world of brain injury by her daughter’s injury, Cyndie has been passionately learning about brain injury research and finding resources while supporting the brain injury survivors and families. She has been invited to speak at brain injury conferences. She also has advocated with the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania at the State Capitol in Harrisburg and in Washington D.C. and works alongside her daughter Cristabelle to support the community of Hope Survives. 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! 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 4. Music Therapy, Physical Therapy Benefits + info on Concussion Compass & Camp Cranium (with Lexi Campbell and Natasha Wilch) | 02 Dec 2020 | 00:38:56 | |
This week we explore the benefits of music therapy and physical therapy in relation to brain injury - along with some great information about Concussion Compass (online membership for post concussion syndrome) and Camp Cranium (summer camp for kids with brain injury). Season 1 - Episode 4 HIGHLIGHTS: -Music Therapy can help with speech, coordination, rhythm, processing trauma, emotions, memory, and so much more. Music can access so many different parts of the brain and is helpful in creating new pathways. -Physical Therapy can help brain injury survivors improve in many areas including gait, dizziness, neck pain, the vestibular system, sensory issues, spacial awareness, and more. -Concussion Compass is an online membership community for people living with post concussion syndrome to help members understand how to move forward with mini-courses, resources, and mentorship. -Camp Cranium is a non-profit summer camp that empowers kids and teens with brain injury. GUIDE: 0:00 - Intro | 3:08 - Music Therapy | 15:53 - Camp Cranium | 21:53 - Physical Therapy | 31:45 - Concussion Compass MEET OUR GUESTS: - Lexi Campbell has a masters in music therapy from Drexel University, and her BSN (nursing) from University of Pittsburgh. She has been a pediatric nurse since 2013, and in 2008 she started Camp Cranium, a non-profit camp empowering children with brain injury. Her work has been recognized by numerous awards, receiving awards from the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania (BIAPA) and the Council on Brain Injury (CoBI), along with KDKA’s Hometown Hero award in Pittsburgh. She was also nominated for the Jaffee award and has twice been selected as a finalist for the Philly Magazine Health Hero. - Natasha Wilch is a Registered Physical Therapist based in Western Canada whom had dedicated her career to working with individuals with concussion. Her passion in learning has led her to training in vestibular rehab, acupuncture, clinical neuroscience and more. She is the owner of Symphony Rehabilitation and Co-Founder of Concussion Compass. Always looking for ways to better serve her clients, she was one of the first clincians in Canada to offer virtual care. Natasha has won the Canada Entrepreneur of the year award in 2017, Vancouver Island’s top 20 under 40 business & community achievement award in 2018 and this year she won the 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award for Physical Therapy. Concussion Compass: concussioncompass.com Holiday Call (Dec 9) Registration: concussioncompass.com/navigating-the-holiday-season-xmas-call 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! 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 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. | |||
| 3. Functional Neurology, Speech Pathology, Clubhouses & Camps (with Kyle Sloan, Nan Kennelly, Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 25 Nov 2020 | 00:59:17 | |
Ever wanted to learn more of the options out there to help with brain injury? Listen for some great information about clubhouses, camps, speech language pathology, and functional neurology. HIGHLIGHTS: Season 1 - Episode 3 GUIDE: 0:00 - Intro | 1:33 - Clubhouses & Camps | 16:30 - Speech Language Pathology | 35:29 - Functional Neurology MEET OUR GUESTS: - Kyle Sloan is on staff at Beacon House brain injury clubhouse in Va. Beach, VA, and has recently joined the board of directors for the International Brain Injury Clubhouse Alliance (IBICA). Kyle was first introduced to the brain injury community in 2003 at Camp Bruce McCoy in Chesapeake VA, where he has now been involved every year for the last 17 years. Kyle’s goal is to always serve survivors and provide the opportunities that they need in order to be a part of a community. - Nan Kennelly has over 26 years of experience treating cognitive-communication disorders related to brain injury. She is both owner and treating speech-language pathologist at Onword Therapy, a private practice in Fargo ND that specializes in treatment of brain injury related difficulties. Nan is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and Trainer and serves as chair of the ND Brain Injury Advisory Council. Nan has a passion to both educate and advocate for individuals living with brain injury. - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, she began to write music. Since then, she has surpassed medical expectations and thrived in her newfound gift of music; she has come from re-learning daily life tasks in brain injury rehabilitation to setting her feet firmly on the ground as a songwriter, speaker, and artist with a message of hope. cristabellebraden.com | |||
| 2. Common Challenges, Strategies, + The Science Behind Why Symptoms Happen (with Monica Vaccaro and Dr. Jeremy Schmoe) | 18 Nov 2020 | 00:46:57 | |
Today’s episode is all about common challenges brain injury survivors face! Let’s talk about how survivors are affected every day, strategies and tips to help, and some of the science behind why symptoms happen. Cristabelle is joined today by two special guests, Monica Vaccaro (Director of Programs for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania), and Dr. Jeremy Schmoe (Founder and Director of The Functional Neurology Center). Together, they bring a well rounded view to this topic. Season 1 - Episode MEET OUR GUESTS: - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. Today, he shares some of the science behind brain injury symptoms. He talks about autonomics, vision and eye movements, the vestibular system, and more. He explains how a brain injury can affect the way that these systems integrate which can then cause difficulties and symptoms that affect survivors every day. https://thefnc.com 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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. ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| 1. Finding Hope: Life with Brain Injury | 11 Nov 2020 | 00:41:43 | |
Let’s talk about the real-life struggles of this invisible injury, and the reason why hope is so important. On this episode, Cristabelle invites her mother, Cyndie Braden, to join for a conversation sharing some of their family’s journey on finding hope through brain injury, the symptoms and struggles they have faced, and encouragement to fellow survivors and caregivers. Season 1 - Episode 1 ABOUT THIS PODCAST: 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! Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com 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 MENTIONED: MORE: ABOUT CRISTABELLE: | |||
| Welcome to Hope Survives (Trailer) | 04 Nov 2020 | 00:01:29 | |
Welcome to Hope Survives, a podcast from the Hope Survives nonprofit supporting individuals & families navigating life with brain injury. On this show, we explore the realities of life with brain injury through encouragement, thoughtful conversations, expert insights, & real stories. Hope Survives also offers virtual support groups, learning sessions (including workshops & webinars) and resources for people & families seeking connection & encouragement . We’d love for you to join us, learn more at HopeSurvives.org No matter where you are on your journey, remember: you are never alone, and hope survives. | |||
| 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 Sep 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 Sep 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 Sep 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 | |||
| What Gets Missed: The Hidden Tension Between Brain Injury and Mental Health (with Dr. Edie Zusman) | 23 Apr 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 | |||
| 115. Hope For Couples: Communication after TBI | 29 Aug 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 Aug 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 Aug 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 | |||