Explore every episode of the podcast Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dizziness After Concussion: Resetting an Overactive Vestibular System with Dr. Cedrick Noel | E82 | 27 Oct 2026 | 00:56:26 | |
Why does dizziness persist after a concussion, even when you're sitting completely still? Chronic dizziness, vertigo, balance problems, motion sensitivity, and disequilibrium are common symptoms of post-concussion syndrome and traumatic brain injury (TBI). But what if the problem isn't simply a weakened vestibular system? What if certain parts of the brain's balance system are actually overactive? In this episode of Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast, I am joined by Dr. Cedrick Noel, a chiropractic neurologist and developer of the Gravity Reset Method, to explore the neurological mechanisms behind persistent dizziness after concussion, vestibular dysfunction, and the relationship between the inner ear, eye movements, balance, and autonomic nervous system. Together, we discuss his method and approach to vestibular rehabilitation and how identifying abnormal patterns of vestibular activity may open new possibilities for individualized concussion rehabilitation. Why Does Dizziness Persist After Concussion? The vestibular system does much more than help us maintain balance. It continuously communicates with the brain about head movement, gravity, and our position in space. Following a concussion, some individuals experience persistent sensations of rocking, swaying, spinning, or being pulled in a particular direction—even when they're not moving. Dr. Noel explains how the brain normally integrates information from the semicircular canals, otolith organs, visual system, and proprioceptive system to create a stable sense of orientation. He also introduces an important clinical distinction: Is the vestibular system underactive, or could certain aspects be overactive? Understanding that difference may influence how clinicians approach assessment and rehabilitation. When the Brain Doesn't Recognize That You've Stopped Moving One particularly fascinating topic in this conversation is velocity storage, a neurological mechanism that helps the brain process and maintain information about motion. Normally, when we stop moving, our perception of motion gradually resolves. But when vestibular processing becomes dysregulated, some individuals may continue feeling as though they're turning, drifting, or swaying long after movement has stopped. Dr. Noel describes how he evaluates these symptoms using clinical observations, balance testing, controlled chair rotations, and video-based eye movement assessments. The discussion explores how differences in vestibular signaling may contribute to persistent dizziness, difficulty maintaining visual stability, and a sense of being disconnected from one's surroundings. Can Vestibular Dysfunction Keep the Nervous System in Fight-or-Flight? Dizziness is rarely the only symptom people experience after concussion. Many individuals also struggle with headaches, neck tension, visual disturbances, nausea, fatigue, sleep problems, and heightened sensitivity to their environment. Dr. Noel explores the connections between vestibular processing and the autonomic nervous system, particularly the possibility that persistent vestibular disturbances may contribute to increased sympathetic nervous system activity. He uses a memorable analogy: We spend so much time trying to strengthen the nervous system's brakes that we sometimes forget to take our foot off the gas. This raises an intriguing question: Could addressing certain vestibular abnormalities also help reduce the physiological stress associated with persistent post-concussion symptoms? The Gravity Reset Method: A Different Approach to Vestibular Rehabilitation Dr. Noel developed the Gravity Reset Method through years of clinical work with patients experiencing dizziness, balance disorders, and complex neurological symptoms. His approach emphasizes the relationship between two components of the vestibular system:
Rather than beginning with repetitive head movements or habituation exercises, Dr. Noel describes using carefully directed linear movements, visual fixation, and proprioceptive input to influence how the brain integrates vestibular information. What If Dizziness Isn't Your Only Symptom? One of the most interesting aspects of this conversation is the possibility that vestibular dysfunction may contribute to symptoms patients don't immediately associate with their balance system. We discuss connections between vestibular processing, eye movements, postural control, muscle tension, and autonomic regulation. For someone experiencing persistent neck tightness, visual fatigue, headaches, or a constant sense of being off-balance, understanding how these systems interact may reveal important clues about why symptoms continue. The larger message is that successful concussion rehabilitation requires identifying the specific neurological dysfunction contributing to a person's symptoms—not simply treating every patient with the same exercises. If you've been struggling with chronic dizziness, vertigo, balance problems, or persistent post-concussion symptoms despite previous treatment, this conversation offers a fascinating look at vestibular neuroscience and the importance of individualized neurological assessment. Learn More About Dr. Cedrick Noel Brain and Body Rehabilitation Specialists: https://yourbbrs.com Gravity Reset Method and NEURD Solutions: https://neurdsolutions.com My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| CTE Is Not a Concussion: What Athletes and Parents Need to Know with Dr. Reece Granger | E81 | 19 Oct 2026 | 00:47:01 | |
Does having multiple concussions mean you're at risk for CTE? What is the difference between a concussion, repetitive head impacts, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)? In this episode of Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast, I welcome Dr. Reece Granger, host of Headfirst: The Concussion Podcast, chiropractor, and PhD researcher studying sports-related concussions in Australia's National Rugby League. We cover the science of concussion versus CTE, repeated head injuries, subconcussive impacts, long-term brain health, and concussion prevention in professional and youth sports. We examine how media coverage of NFL concussions and CTE can create confusion and unnecessary fear, why concussion protocols and return-to-play guidelines continue to evolve, and what athletes, parents, and healthcare professionals need to understand about the long-term risks of contact sports. CTE Is Not the Same Thing as a Concussion One of the most important discussions in this episode addresses a widespread misconception: having a concussion does not mean someone will develop CTE. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a neurodegenerative condition associated with prolonged exposure to repetitive head impacts, including impacts that may never produce recognizable concussion symptoms. We examine how the media has shaped public understanding of CTE, a topic that Dr. Granger has been analyzing as part of his PhD, including the influence of the movie Concussion, starring Will Smith. Are Changes to Sports Rules Actually Preventing Concussions? Drawing on his research into Australia's National Rugby League, Dr. Granger discusses the evolution of concussion protocols and the unintended consequences of certain rule changes. While some modifications have successfully reduced dangerous head impacts, others may shift the risk from one athlete to another. The conversation explores the challenges of protecting athletes without fundamentally changing the sports they love, including:
Concussion Myths That Still Influence Medical Care Despite decades of research, outdated concussion advice continues to circulate. Dr. Granger and I discuss several misconceptions that can interfere with appropriate concussion management, including the belief that someone must lose consciousness to sustain a concussion, outdated concussion grading systems, and the recommendation to remain in a dark room until symptoms disappear. Another fascinating discussion focuses on why concussion symptoms sometimes appear hours or days after an injury. Could adrenaline temporarily mask symptoms? Or are neurological changes continuing to unfold during the first 24–48 hours? The conversation highlights why concussion assessment and recovery are more complicated than a single examination or symptom checklist. Who Is Responsible for Protecting Professional Athletes? Professional athletes are trained to push through pain, compete under pressure, and prioritize performance. But what happens when the injury affects the very organ responsible for judgment, awareness, and decision-making? Dr. Granger challenges the expectation that athletes should always recognize and report their own concussion symptoms. He also raises important questions about the responsibilities of professional sports organizations, the long-term consequences of repetitive head trauma, and what happens to athletes and their families after retirement. Moving Beyond Fear Toward Better Concussion Education For individuals recovering from a concussion, headlines about CTE can be frightening. But understanding the distinction between concussion, persistent post-concussion symptoms, repetitive head-impact exposure, and neurodegenerative disease is essential. A history of concussion is not a diagnosis of CTE, and persistent concussion symptoms do not mean someone is developing a neurodegenerative condition. This conversation emphasizes the importance of interpreting emerging research carefully, challenging outdated medical advice, and providing athletes and patients with accurate information that supports informed decisions rather than unnecessary fear. Dr. Granger and I reflect on the role of podcasts in making concussion research accessible, allowing scientists and clinicians to explain the nuances that are often lost in sensationalized headlines. If you're an athlete, parent, coach, healthcare professional, or someone concerned about the long-term effects of multiple concussions, this episode offers an important perspective on what we know, what remains uncertain, and where concussion research is headed. Headfirst: A Concussion Podcast: Apple Spotify Instagram: @headfirst_concussion Ayla Wolf - Interview on Headfirst - September 14, 2026: Apple Spotify My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Can Flying Make a Concussion Worse? Oxygen, Brain Injury, HBOT & Longevity Research with Dr. DeepSea | E80 | 12 Oct 2026 | 01:01:25 | |
FREE COPY of SHATTERED TO STRONG for veterans and active-duty military personnel. To request a copy, simply email info@ibum.org and include your branch of military service and how long you served. Can hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) help the brain recover after a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI)? And is it safe to fly after a concussion? Dr. Joseph Dituri, better known as Dr. DeepSea, returns to Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast to discuss groundbreaking research into hyperbaric oxygen therapy for brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, neuroinflammation, brain healing, and longevity. A retired U.S. Navy commander, biomedical engineer, neuroscience researcher, and Guinness World Record holder, Dr. Dituri is involved in a major clinical trial at the University of South Florida investigating HBOT for traumatic brain injury. In this second interview with Dr. Ayla Wolf, he shares updates on the ongoing research, explains how changes in oxygen levels and atmospheric pressure affect human physiology, and explores whether alternating between high-oxygen and low-oxygen environments could improve brain function and healthy aging. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Where Does the Research Stand? Dr. Dituri provides an update on the University of South Florida's ongoing clinical trial investigating hyperbaric oxygen therapy in people with traumatic brain injury, including military veterans. While HBOT has demonstrated biological effects relevant to inflammation, tissue repair, and neuroplasticity, its effectiveness as a treatment for persistent post-concussion symptoms remains an active area of investigation. The research team is collecting extensive data, including EEG measurements, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), blood biomarkers, and patient-reported symptoms. One of the biggest challenges? How do researchers objectively measure recovery from a traumatic brain injury when there is no universally accepted biological marker of recovery? Dr. Dituri discusses the difficulty of establishing meaningful clinical trial endpoints and why combining objective neurological measurements with patient-reported improvements may be essential for advancing concussion research. Is It Safe to Fly After a Concussion? One of the most interesting parts of this conversation addresses a question frequently raised by people recovering from concussion: Can flying make post-concussion symptoms worse? Commercial aircraft cabins are typically pressurized to the equivalent of approximately 6,000–8,000 feet above sea level. This means passengers experience changes in atmospheric pressure and oxygen availability, even while sitting comfortably inside an airplane. I ask Dr. Dituri about how these environmental changes might affect someone experiencing headaches, brain fog, dizziness, vestibular dysfunction, or other persistent concussion symptoms. We also discuss why the effects of a short domestic flight may differ from those of a long international flight—and why more research is needed to understand how recent brain injuries interact with altitude and cabin pressure. Importantly, there is not enough evidence to establish a universal waiting period before flying after an uncomplicated concussion. Individual medical circumstances and symptoms matter. Can Alternating Oxygen Levels Improve Brain Health and Longevity? Dr. Dituri has spent much of his career studying human physiology under extreme environmental conditions. Now, his research is expanding beyond brain injury recovery into healthy aging and longevity. As part of the XPRIZE Healthspan competition, his team is investigating a fascinating concept called hormesis—the idea that carefully controlled physiological stress may stimulate beneficial adaptations. Their research combines several interventions, including:
The goal is not simply to extend lifespan, but to improve healthspan—the years people maintain cognitive function, physical strength, balance, and independence. Dr. Dituri discusses the team's progress in the XPRIZE competition and why he believes the relationship between oxygen, physiological stress, and adaptation deserves further investigation. These combined interventions remain experimental, and their benefits for longevity have not yet been established. From Shattered to Strong: Finding a Path Forward After Brain Injury Dr. Dituri also introduces his new book, Shattered to Strong, inspired by his personal experience recovering from traumatic brain injury. His goal is to help people better understand the treatment options they may encounter, the research behind those interventions, and the questions they should ask before pursuing them. The conversation explores the importance of informed decision-making, lifestyle factors that support general brain health, and the challenge of navigating emerging treatments when the science is still evolving. Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Dituri reflects on how his understanding of traumatic brain injury has changed over the past decade. What once appeared to be a relatively straightforward neurological problem has revealed itself to be far more complicated. Brain injury recovery is not one-size-fits-all, and the more we learn about the brain, the more questions we discover. Listen to Our First Conversation If you missed my first interview with Dr. Dituri, I highly recommend listening to Episode 32: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Brain Injuries with Dr. Deepsea. In that conversation, we explore his extraordinary experience living underwater for 100 days, his personal traumatic brain injury recovery, and the science behind hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This second conversation builds on that foundation, bringing new research updates and expanding into the fascinating relationship between oxygen, atmospheric pressure, brain function, and longevity. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| How Many Concussions Are Too Many? Measuring the Cumulative Impact on the Brain with Dr. Joseph Maroon | E79 | 05 Oct 2026 | 00:57:48 | |
How many concussions are too many—and could we someday measure the cumulative effect of every hit to the head? Dr. Joseph Maroon, longtime team neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers and a pioneer in concussion and traumatic brain injury research, joins Life After Impact to discuss multiple concussions, repetitive head impacts, subconcussive exposure, CTE, and the future of concussion testing. Dr. Maroon helped develop ImPACT, the neurocognitive test that transformed how the NFL, NHL, and other contact sports evaluate athletes after concussion. Now, his attention has turned to the next major problem in sports concussion research: determining the accumulated burden of head impacts over a lifetime. From sensor-equipped mouthguards that measure impacts in real time to advanced MRI, brain spectroscopy, and research involving former NFL players, Dr. Maroon explains how scientists are moving beyond simply counting concussions toward understanding the actual dose of impact the brain has received. The question of “How many concussions have you had?” may eventually prove to be far too simplistic. A player may experience hundreds or thousands of head impacts during years of football, hockey, rugby, MMA, military service, or other high-risk activities without every impact producing a diagnosed concussion. Dr. Maroon believes concussion research needs something analogous to the “pack-years” physicians use to quantify lifetime cigarette exposure: a way to measure the cumulative dose of repetitive head impacts to the brain. In this episode, he explains how researchers are getting closer. One of the most fascinating developments is the use of instrumented mouthguards containing accelerometers. Unlike helmet sensors, the mouthguard is coupled more closely to the skull and can measure the location, magnitude, linear acceleration, and rotational acceleration associated with a head impact. In rugby, these technologies have already been used to monitor enormous numbers of impacts. Some systems can even produce a visible alert following a sufficiently large impact—essentially creating a neurological version of the “check engine” light. An alert doesn't diagnose a concussion. Instead, it tells the medical team: this athlete experienced a significant impact and should be evaluated. But Dr. Maroon is interested in going even further. Rather than simply measuring the G-force of individual hits, researchers are investigating whether they can calculate the energy transferred during repeated head impacts and accumulate that exposure over time. Could an athlete eventually have a lifetime “dosimeter” for head impacts—similar to the radiation badges worn by people who work around X-rays? And could that information help answer one of the hardest questions in sports medicine: When has a brain had too much? Dr. Maroon also shares the story behind the development of ImPACT testing. Decades ago, while working with the Pittsburgh Steelers, head coach Chuck Noll challenged him to provide objective evidence for why a concussed quarterback should remain out for a specific period of time. That challenge helped lead Dr. Maroon and neuropsychologist Dr. Mark Lovell to develop baseline neurocognitive testing, allowing clinicians to measure processing speed, memory, and other cognitive functions before injury and compare them with performance after concussion. Today, Dr. Maroon sees impact dosimetry as another potential step forward: moving from measuring how the brain performs after an injury toward quantifying what the brain has actually been exposed to. The conversation extends beyond professional sports. Dr. Maroon discusses research involving Navy Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crewmen, who can experience thousands of repetitive impacts from high-speed boats slamming against waves, as well as ongoing research involving former NFL and NHL players and other individuals with histories of repetitive head impacts. He also describes research combining instrumented mouthguards with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to investigate whether accumulated impact exposure across a football season corresponds with measurable changes in the brain's white-matter pathways. Later in the episode, the conversation turns toward what may happen biologically after years of repetitive brain stress—including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, glutathione depletion, and neurodegeneration. Dr. Maroon explains his current research using magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure chemicals such as glutathione directly in the brain and discusses why his team is studying strategies intended to support the brain's antioxidant defenses. You'll also hear about:
Perhaps the biggest idea in this conversation is that the future of concussion science may require us to stop thinking about brain injury as a series of isolated events. The number of diagnosed concussions matters—but the accumulated burden of everything the brain has experienced may matter even more. Have you had repetitive head impacts? Take part in Dr. Maroons research on glutathione precursors. Email maroonjc@gmail.com My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Brain Injury Recovery at Home: Making Everyday Life Part of Rehabilitation | E78 | 28 Sep 2026 | 00:44:18 | |
Brain injury and concussion recovery don't happen only in a rehabilitation clinic—they happen at home, at work, in the grocery store, in the kitchen, and in the hundreds of everyday tasks that can suddenly become harder after a traumatic brain injury. In this episode of Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast, I talk with cognitive-motor neuroscientist and neurological occupational therapist Dr. Christopher Gaskins about practical brain injury rehabilitation, cognitive fatigue, memory problems, executive dysfunction, mental workload, neuroplasticity, and rebuilding independence after TBI or concussion. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in neurological rehabilitation—including working with wounded warriors and veterans at Walter Reed—Dr. Gaskins explains why effective neurorehabilitation must go beyond exercises performed in a clinic and address the real-life environments where people actually need their brains to function. Dr. Gaskins describes his philosophy simply: “The home is a therapy gym.” Walking into someone's home can reveal challenges that may never become apparent during a traditional office visit. Is clutter creating visual and cognitive overload? Is the refrigerator so disorganized that preparing a healthy meal becomes overwhelming? Can the person safely navigate the bathroom? Are bills and mail piling up because executive function has become difficult? Even something as seemingly simple as repeatedly losing your keys can create unnecessary cognitive demand when the brain is already working harder to accomplish everyday tasks. The goal is not simply to perform better on a rehabilitation exercise. The goal is to make life easier. Dr. Gaskins explains how occupational therapy can use the activities people actually care about—cooking, shopping, dressing, gardening, using technology, returning to work, or even taking a spouse on a date—as opportunities to promote neuroplasticity and rebuild function. The conversation also explores one of Dr. Gaskins's areas of neuroscience research: mental workload. After brain injury, activities that were once automatic can suddenly require enormous amounts of conscious attention. That makes reducing unnecessary cognitive demand an important part of recovery. Sometimes the solution isn't another brain exercise. It may be creating a better calendar system, organizing a phone, setting location-based reminders, simplifying a morning routine, reducing clutter, or using technology as an external memory aid. Dr. Gaskins also discusses how he is beginning to incorporate AI tools to help some brain injury survivors organize information, support memory, and complete meaningful tasks—while teaching clients how to use these tools responsibly. You'll also hear about Dr. Gaskins's years working with wounded warriors at Walter Reed, including rehabilitation after TBI, blast injuries, stroke, polytrauma, vision loss, amputations, PTSD, and other complex neurological injuries. Those experiences ultimately motivated him to earn a PhD in neuroscience and cognitive science to better understand why some people respond to rehabilitation differently than others. The conversation looks toward the future as well, including electrical stimulation, vagus nerve stimulation, robotics, brain-computer interfaces, and technologies designed to translate a person's intended movement into meaningful action. But through all of the neuroscience and emerging technology, Dr. Gaskins returns to something remarkably simple: Rehabilitation should help people do the things that make their lives meaningful. Sometimes brain injury recovery isn't about adding more therapy. Sometimes it's about reducing the mental workload, changing the environment, creating better systems, and helping the brain use its limited resources for the things that matter most. Neurosuite: website Dr. Gaskins LinkedIn My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Why Your Eyes Still Hurt After a Concussion with Dr. Melissa Biscardi | E77 | 21 Sep 2026 | 00:53:41 | |
Your eyes can be the bottleneck in concussion recovery, and they can also be the missing piece when someone still has headaches years later despite doing “all the right things.” We sit down with Dr. Melissa Biscardi to unpack her PhD work on eye movements and concussion, including a virtual reality (VR) eye training intervention that adapts week by week based on how each person performs and what symptoms show up. We talk through what clinicians can actually measure, why near point of convergence is so central to daily function, and how to think about huge sets of eye movement data without cherry-picking a single metric. Dr. Melissa Biscardi: website Instagram: @concussionrehab.ca YouTube: @concussionrehab Brain Tool Kit: https://www.instagram.com/braintoolkit My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Can We Measure Concussion Recovery? Brain Vital Signs, NeuroCatch & Neuroplasticity with Dr. Ryan D'Arcy | E76 | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:54:14 | |
What if we could objectively measure how the brain is functioning after a concussion—in just six minutes? Concussion and post-concussion syndrome can affect attention, cognitive processing, reaction time, and brain function even when conventional imaging does not provide the answers patients are looking for. In this episode of Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast, Dr. Ayla Wolf talks with neuroscientist Dr. Ryan D’Arcy, co-founder, President, and Chief Scientific Officer of HealthTech Connex and a pioneer of brain vital signs and NeuroCatch, an EEG-based technology designed to objectively measure cognitive brain function. They explore how NeuroCatch measures the brain's response to auditory information, what the N100, P300, and N400 can reveal about sensory processing, attention, and cognition, and how researchers are using these measurements to study concussion, traumatic brain injury, subconcussive impacts, neuroplasticity, and brain recovery. Dr. D’Arcy explains why he began asking a deceptively simple question: We routinely measure vital signs for the heart and body—so why don't we have a vital sign for the brain? That question ultimately helped lead to NeuroCatch, a portable system that condenses technology once largely confined to neuroscience laboratories into an assessment that takes just over six minutes. Rather than asking someone how their cognition feels, the system measures electrical responses generated as the brain processes sounds and language. The conversation takes an especially fascinating turn when Dr. D’Arcy describes what researchers have observed immediately after concussion. In the first 24 hours, the brain may actually recruit more cortical activity while processing information more slowly—a physiological pattern that changes as the brain moves through recovery. They also explore emerging research into subconcussive impacts in football, hockey, MMA, rugby, and other contact sports. NeuroCatch measurements have detected changes in cognitive processing associated with accumulated impact exposure—even in athletes who were not diagnosed with a concussion. Dr. D’Arcy also shares preliminary findings from ongoing research examining what happens when athletes are given time away from repetitive impacts and whether objective measures of brain function return toward baseline. But this episode isn't only about detecting injury. It's also about neuroplasticity and possibility. Dr. D’Arcy describes neuroplasticity as the brain's innate ability to rewire itself—and explains why those changes can sometimes become maladaptive after concussion. Recovery may therefore involve more than simply restoring a neurological function. It may require deliberately creating new pathways that help the brain translate its recovered capacity back into everyday life. You'll also hear about the remarkable case of a soldier who sustained an extraordinary penetrating brain injury and continued making functional gains 20 years later—a powerful reminder that the brain's capacity for change does not necessarily disappear simply because an injury is considered chronic. The conversation also explores how brain vital signs are moving beyond concussion assessment into treatment monitoring and human performance optimization. Professional athletes, military populations, clinicians, and researchers are beginning to ask not only whether brain function is impaired—but whether cognitive processing can be measured, trained, and optimized. If we can measure how the brain is functioning, can we make better decisions about recovery? And if neuroplasticity remains possible years after an injury, how much human potential have we been underestimating? This episode offers a fascinating look at the emerging intersection of concussion science, objective brain testing, neurotechnology, neuroplasticity, sports performance, and the future of brain health. NeuroCatch: website Dr. D'Arcy LinkedIn Intagram: @dr.ryandarcy TikTok: @dr.ryanddarcy My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| When Brain Injury Changes Who You Are: Grief, Identity & Finding Purpose Again | E75 | 08 Sep 2026 | 00:47:14 | |
A brain injury can change far more than memory, balance, headaches, or cognition. It can change your career, your relationships, your independence—and sometimes your entire sense of who you are. In this episode of Life After Impact, I sit down with Jamie Arber, a licensed professional counselor, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, brain injury survivor, and Executive Director of the Supported Living Group in Connecticut, to explore a part of brain injury recovery that doesn't receive nearly enough attention: grieving the life you had while learning how to build a meaningful life after injury. Jamie works with people living with acquired and traumatic brain injuries, including individuals who require significant long-term support. He describes what happens when someone who was once completely independent suddenly cannot return to work, live alone, manage the same responsibilities, or fulfill the roles that once defined them. That loss of identity can create grief—not only for the person with the brain injury, but for spouses, parents, children, caregivers, and other family members. Jamie explains how he uses the five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—as a framework for understanding brain injury recovery. Importantly, recovery doesn't move neatly through these stages. Someone may experience acceptance one day and anger or grief the next. Jamie and I also discuss something many people with persistent post-concussion symptoms may recognize: bargaining. It can look like desperately searching for the next treatment, supplement, device, or “miracle cure” that promises to make everything go back to the way it was before the injury. But acceptance doesn't mean giving up on recovery. It can mean acknowledging what has changed while continuing to discover what is still possible. Jamie shares remarkable examples of brain injury survivors finding purpose through art, relationships, work, gardening, community, and new forms of independence. He also explains why adults with significant brain injuries still deserve autonomy, relationships, sexuality, meaningful work, and the opportunity to make choices about their own lives—not to be infantilized simply because they need support. The conversation also explores the enormous burden carried by families and caregivers, including guilt, anger, exhaustion, and the painful realization that loving someone does not necessarily mean being capable of providing 24-hour care. You'll also hear about:
Perhaps the most important message in this conversation is that accepting that life has changed does not mean accepting that growth is over. The brain remains capable of learning and adapting. People remain capable of creating meaning, relationships, purpose, and joy—even when the life they are building looks different from the one they had imagined. Brain injury recovery isn't always about getting your old life back. Sometimes it is about discovering how to build a meaningful life from where you are now. Jamie Arber: Linkedin Supported Living Group website Neurospark Counseling website Instagram: @thesupportedlivinggroup @neurospark2026 My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Sensitive Nervous System: Rethinking How We Treat Complex Patients with Dr. David Traster | E74 | 31 Aug 2026 | 01:18:31 | |
Have we become so focused on what a treatment can do that we've stopped asking who it should—and shouldn't—be used on? Why do some people seem to tolerate almost anything, while others react strongly to medications, supplements, foods, sensory stimulation, exercise—or even therapies intended to help them? In this episode of Life After Impact, I sit down with Dr. David Traster to explore the sensitive nervous system and why recognizing that sensitivity may be an important part of caring for people with complex neurological and chronic health conditions. Dr. Traster describes a shift he began noticing after COVID. Patients who previously responded predictably to neurological rehabilitation were becoming more complicated. Underlying issues that may once have been relatively quiet—immune dysfunction, chronic infections, mold exposure, inflammation, histamine and mast-cell responses, or autonomic dysfunction—seemed to become more clinically significant. In some patients, neurological testing would improve while they still didn't feel substantially better. It forced him to reconsider what else might be limiting their capacity to recover. That realization gradually changed the way he practices. For some highly reactive patients, the first step may not be a more powerful treatment. It may be less: slowing down, looking at the larger physiological picture, and beginning with interventions the person's system can comfortably tolerate before progressing to more intensive care. Dr. Traster discusses his use of biofeedback, nutrition, herbs, homeopathy, autonomic support, and neurological rehabilitation—and why the appropriate starting point can look very different from one person to another. The conversation also raises an important question about our rapidly expanding world of biohacking, supplements, neuromodulation, and medical devices. A therapy can be beneficial and still not be appropriate for every person, at every dose, or at every stage of recovery. More treatment is not necessarily better treatment. Perhaps most importantly, sensitivity itself deserves to be respected. When someone's symptoms increase in response to a therapy, that response shouldn't automatically be dismissed or interpreted as a reason to push harder. It may be valuable information about what that person's nervous system can handle right now. Good clinical care requires listening to those responses, measuring change, adjusting course, and recognizing when the body may need a gentler approach. We also explore the importance of accurate diagnosis, the limitations of one-size-fits-all protocols, the risks of treating a presumed “root cause” without considering the larger physiology, and why even promising therapies can have unintended consequences when applied to the wrong person at the wrong time. This episode offers a different way of thinking about complex recovery: The goal isn't to make a sensitive nervous system behave like everyone else's. It's to understand what that sensitivity is telling us—and build care around the person who is actually in front of us. The Neurological Wellness Institute The Neurological Wellness Podcast Instagram: @neurologicwellnessinstitute My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| DTI: A New Era in Concussion Diagnostics with Dr. Rebecca Romero | E73 | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:47:12 | |
Can diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) detect brain changes after a concussion when a standard MRI or CT scan is normal? In this episode of Life After Impact, I sit down with board-certified neurologist Dr. Rebecca Romero to explore how DTI is moving from the world of concussion and traumatic brain injury research into clinical practice. Dr. Romero explains how DTI brain imaging can evaluate microscopic changes in the brain's white matter pathways following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), including changes that may not be visible on conventional MRI. We discuss fractional anisotropy, white matter tract integrity, susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), hemosiderin deposition, and brain-volume measurements—and why DTI must still be interpreted alongside the patient's symptoms, history, neurological examination, and other objective testing rather than used as a stand-alone concussion test. But DTI is only one part of this conversation. What particularly impressed me about Dr. Romero's approach is how comprehensive and integrative her concussion evaluations are. Rather than relying on a single scan or a brief neurological examination, her clinical network begins gathering objective information before the patient even sits down with her. This can include symptom questionnaires, eye-movement testing, balance and postural stability assessment, EEG/event-related potentials, and cognitive screening. Dr. Romero then spends considerable time reviewing the patient's history, symptoms, test results, and neurological findings to begin putting the pieces together. We discuss why this matters when someone has been told: “Your MRI was normal.” Standard CT and MRI scans are often normal after concussion because they were designed primarily to identify larger structural abnormalities—not necessarily the microscopic changes associated with mild traumatic brain injury. DTI provides another way of looking at the brain by examining the diffusion of water through white matter tracts—the communication highways connecting different regions of the brain. Dr. Romero explains how abnormalities in measures such as fractional anisotropy can contribute additional objective information when interpreted within the larger clinical picture. Importantly, she also explains why DTI isn't appropriate for everyone. Age, previous concussions, hypertension, diabetes, and other medical conditions can complicate interpretation and potentially contribute to false-positive findings. This is not simply a scan that should be ordered for every person who experiences a concussion. Our conversation then expands well beyond imaging. We explore post-concussion brain fog, cognitive impairment, headaches, dizziness and autonomic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, sleep problems, medication-overuse headaches, exercise, nutrition, and women's hormones during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Romero also explains how rehabilitation is incorporated into her model of care, including oculomotor and balance rehabilitation and emerging cognitive-motor approaches based on the specific deficits identified during testing. In this episode, we discuss:
One of the most important messages from this episode is that better concussion diagnosis isn't necessarily about finding one perfect test. It's about combining emerging technologies such as DTI with a careful history, neurological examination, objective functional testing, and thoughtful clinical reasoning to create a more complete picture of what happened to the brain—and what that individual patient may need next. Dr. Romero & ProCare: Website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Post-Concussion Syndrome: A Neurology Provider’s 2-Year Road Back | E72 | 20 Aug 2026 | 00:57:05 | |
Why do some concussion symptoms last for months—or even years—and what can you do when your recovery seems to plateau? In this episode of Life After Impact, I sit down with neurology nurse practitioner and traumatic brain injury specialist Mandi Swanson, who spent nearly two years recovering from her own TBI after a motor vehicle accident. Mandi went from running half-marathons and practicing neurology to struggling with severe post-traumatic headaches, brain fog, memory loss, balance problems, vision dysfunction, anxiety, PTSD, and an inability to read more than a few sentences at a time. Her CT showed no brain bleed, yet her concussion ultimately changed nearly every aspect of her life. Now back in clinical practice treating patients with concussion and persistent post-concussion symptoms, Mandi brings a rare perspective: she understands concussion recovery from both sides of the exam room. Mandi shares what happened when traditional rehabilitation helped—but only to a point—and why hitting a plateau didn't necessarily mean a therapy had failed. Throughout her recovery, physical therapy, occupational therapy, neuro-optometry, speech therapy, red-light therapy, PEMF, neurofeedback, and eventually work targeting autonomic function each played different roles at different stages. One of the most important lessons she learned was that concussion recovery isn't one-size-fits-all—and sometimes the right therapy delivered at the wrong time may not produce the same results as it does later in recovery. We also dig into post-traumatic headaches, including why persistent headaches after concussion shouldn't automatically be treated as migraines. Mandi explains why understanding the location, quality, timing, and triggers of a headache matters, and we discuss medication-overuse or “rebound” headaches that can develop when medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are used too frequently. Mandi also shares practical lessons she now brings into her own concussion clinic, including the importance of hydration, nutrition, magnesium and vitamin D assessment, vision evaluation, appropriate exercise, sleep, stress management, and looking beyond symptoms to identify the systems that may still be struggling. But some of the most powerful parts of this conversation aren't about treatment at all. Mandi describes losing access to medical knowledge she had accumulated over decades, wondering whether she would ever practice medicine again, and realizing how deeply her identity was tied to being a nurse practitioner. She talks candidly about anxiety, depression, financial stress, PTSD after her car accident, and eventually learning that accepting where she was in that moment did not mean giving up on getting better. We also discuss something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in concussion care: the importance of having a healthcare “quarterback.” Mandi explains why coordinated medical care, thorough documentation, and advocacy can become especially important for people navigating workers' compensation or auto insurance while simultaneously trying to recover from a brain injury. In this episode, we discuss:
Perhaps the most important message from Mandi's story is that a plateau does not necessarily mean you've reached the end of your recovery. Sometimes it means it's time to ask a different question, investigate another system, change the timing or combination of therapies, or find a provider who approaches the problem differently. Mandi cannot promise her patients exactly how quickly—or how completely—they will recover. But her experience as both a patient and clinician has given her something equally important to offer: A long recovery is still a recovery. And nearly two years after wondering whether she would ever be able to practice neurology again, Mandi returned to medicine with an entirely new mission: helping other people find their way through the complicated journey she once had to navigate herself. Mandi Swanson LinkedIn Brain Wellness Podcast The Mother's Day Episode My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Concussion and Loss of Smell: Why This Sense Matters More Than You Think | E71 | 11 Aug 2026 | 00:54:16 | |
Loss of smell after concussion may be more important than most people realize. Changes in smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch can occur after concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI), yet sensory loss—especially olfactory dysfunction—is often overlooked during concussion evaluation and recovery. In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Michael Leon and Super Senses founder Datar Sahi to explore the connection between the sense of smell, brain health, memory, depression, neuroplasticity, and concussion recovery. They discuss why smell testing may offer an important window into neurological function, how repetitive head impacts and concussion can impair olfaction, and whether olfactory training and sensory enrichment could help support brain recovery. Dr. Leon, Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Irvine, has spent decades studying olfaction and sensory enrichment. He explains why smell is particularly interesting neurologically: the olfactory system has unusually direct connections with brain regions involved in memory and emotion. That may help explain why changes in smell are associated not only with concussion and traumatic brain injury, but also with neurological conditions involving memory and mood. One of the central questions in this conversation is remarkably simple: Why aren't we routinely testing smell after a concussion? We commonly assess balance, eye movements, cognition, symptoms, and sometimes hearing after brain injury. Yet many people may experience changes in smell or taste without recognizing that anything has changed. As Datar points out, it is difficult to notice the absence of sensory information. Without a baseline measurement, someone may simply assume that food doesn't taste as flavorful anymore or that their sense of smell has always been weak. That is why Super Senses is developing an at-home approach to longitudinal sensory testing. Rather than assessing only one sense, its system evaluates smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch, allowing people to establish a baseline and monitor changes over time. For athletes, this raises an intriguing possibility: could sensory testing eventually complement the neurocognitive baseline tests already used in concussion management? The conversation also explores olfactory enrichment, sometimes called smell training. Dr. Leon discusses research using repeated exposure to multiple pleasant odors to stimulate the olfactory system and potentially influence broader brain networks. He describes research examining cognitive function, memory, executive function, sleep, and neurological recovery, as well as his work developing automated overnight olfactory enrichment through Memory Air. The implications are particularly interesting for athletes exposed to repetitive head impacts. Dr. Leon discusses the relationship between repeated head trauma and olfactory decline, as well as his collaboration involving former professional football players and the NFL Players Association. In this episode, you'll learn:
One of the most important messages from this conversation is that our senses aren't simply passive ways of experiencing the world—they are continuous streams of neurological input into the brain. After concussion, we often concentrate on what the brain is struggling to produce: memory, attention, balance, emotional regulation, or clear thinking. This conversation asks us to look in the opposite direction as well: What information is getting into the brain in the first place? Testing and protecting sensory function may eventually become an important part of understanding brain health across the lifespan—and for people recovering from concussion, the sense of smell may deserve far more attention than it currently receives. If you've experienced changes in smell or taste after concussion, struggle with brain fog or memory problems, participate in contact sports, or are simply interested in new ways of measuring and supporting brain health, this is a fascinating conversation about one of neuroscience's most overlooked sensory systems. Super-Senses website MemoryAir website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| A Functional Neurology Perspective on the Concept of Stored Trauma with Dr. Matthew Tolstoy (Part 2) | E70 | 05 Aug 2026 | 00:48:48 | |
Can attachment theory influence concussion recovery, chronic pain, dysautonomia, and the success of rehabilitation? In Part 2 of this conversation, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with psychologist, somatic therapist, and Chinese medicine practitioner Dr. Matthew Tolstoy to explore how unconscious nervous system patterns shape the therapeutic relationship, why The Body Keeps the Score is often misunderstood, and how psychotherapy, EMDR, somatic therapy, and physical rehabilitation all work to influence the same underlying autonomic physiology. If Part 1 introduced the foundations of attachment theory and the autonomic nervous system, this episode takes the conversation even deeper—into what actually happens inside the treatment room. Dr. Tolstoy offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the thought process of an experienced psychotherapist, explaining how clinicians create safety, build trust, and recognize when a patient's response to treatment may have less to do with the technique itself and more to do with deeply ingrained patterns of nervous system regulation. Together, we discuss why two patients with the same diagnosis can respond completely differently to the same intervention, how rehabilitation providers can thoughtfully introduce referrals for psychotherapy or somatic therapy, and why the therapeutic relationship itself may be one of the most powerful tools for healing. We also tackle one of the most misunderstood ideas in trauma therapy: "The Body Keeps the Score." Is trauma actually stored in the hips? Can emotions simply be "released" through bodywork? Or is something far more sophisticated happening within the nervous system? Dr. Tolstoy explains how unconscious protective strategies can manifest as chronic muscle tension, pain, and autonomic dysregulation—and why understanding the underlying neuroscience changes the way we think about healing. The conversation concludes with a fascinating discussion on the neuroscience of affect, emotion, and feelings, exploring how the unconscious brain continuously shapes our physiology, attention, and behavior long before we become consciously aware of what's happening. In this episode, you'll learn:
Perhaps the most important message from this conversation is that healing isn't simply about finding the right technique. Whether you're recovering through physical therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, psychotherapy, vestibular rehabilitation, or functional neurology, lasting change often begins when the nervous system feels safe enough to update the protective patterns it developed long ago. As Dr. Tolstoy explains, awareness doesn't eliminate unconscious programming—but it creates the opportunity for neuroplasticity, healthier autonomic regulation, and meaningful, lasting change. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with chronic pain, navigating dysautonomia, or you're a healthcare professional interested in the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and rehabilitation, this episode offers a thoughtful and eye-opening perspective on how the therapeutic relationship itself can become part of the healing process. Work with Dr. Tolstoy: website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following The Thread - A New Audiobook by Ayla Wolf | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:07:35 | |
A concussion can turn normal life into a maze overnight and the hardest part is realizing nobody can hand you a perfect map out. The Art of Concussion Recovery: Audible. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| How Early Attachment Shapes Dysautonomia And Stress Responses with Dr. Matthew Tolstoy (Part 1) | E69 | 27 Jul 2026 | 00:39:40 | |
Can early childhood experiences influence concussion recovery, dysautonomia, anxiety, and the autonomic nervous system? In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with integrative therapist Dr. Matthew Tolstoy to explore the fascinating connection between attachment theory, autonomic regulation, post-concussion syndrome, and brain injury recovery. They examine how our earliest relationships help shape the brain's unconscious "survival programs"—patterns that influence how we respond to stress, danger, connection, and safety throughout our lives. While these attachment patterns often operate quietly in the background, a concussion can disrupt the brain networks that normally help regulate emotional and autonomic responses, making these deeply ingrained patterns much more apparent. Dr. Tolstoy explains why attachment theory is about far more than romantic relationships. At its core, it is a neurobiological model of survival. From infancy, our nervous system is constantly learning whether the world feels safe, whether other people can be trusted, and how to respond when we experience threat. Those early experiences become deeply embedded within the autonomic nervous system and continue influencing physiology long into adulthood. Together, we explore the four major attachment styles—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—and discuss how each one may shape autonomic regulation, stress responses, emotional resilience, and even the way patients experience dysautonomia after concussion. In this episode, you'll learn:
Perhaps the most empowering message from this conversation is that attachment styles are not life sentences. They are learned patterns of nervous system regulation that developed to help us survive. As Dr. Tolstoy explains, awareness becomes the bridge between unconscious autonomic responses and intentional healing. When we begin to understand why our nervous system reacts the way it does, we also begin creating the possibility for change. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with dysautonomia, working with patients who have persistent post-concussion symptoms, or simply fascinated by the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and autonomic regulation, this episode offers a powerful new perspective on what it truly means to heal. Work with Dr. Matt Tolstoy: website Dr. Tolstoy on instagram: @matttolstoy My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Calm Your Brain After Concussion with Dr. Sanjay Manchanda | E68 | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:39:18 | |
Brain fog. Poor concentration. Anxiety. Memory problems. Why do some people recover quickly after a concussion while others continue to struggle with persistent symptoms months—or even years—after a traumatic brain injury (TBI)? In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with neuroscientist, psychotherapist, meditation teacher, and NeuroMatrix founder Dr. Sanjay Manchanda to explore the latest science behind concussion recovery, QEEG brain mapping, neuroplasticity, and photobiomodulation (red and near-infrared light therapy). Together, they discuss how quantitative EEG (QEEG) can identify abnormal brain activity that may persist even when MRI and CT scans appear normal, and how personalized brain stimulation, meditation, and light therapy may support cognitive function, emotional regulation, and brain healing. With a unique background spanning electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, psychotherapy, and contemplative neuroscience, Dr. Manchanda brings an integrative perspective to understanding how the brain heals. He explains how quantitative EEG (QEEG) can identify patterns of slowed brain activity, disrupted communication between brain regions, and inefficient neural processing that often persist after concussion. The conversation also explores how photobiomodulation may support mitochondrial function, reduce inflammation, improve cerebral energy production, and enhance neuroplasticity. Dr. Manchanda shares exciting new research on how different pulsing frequencies of light may influence attention, relaxation, meditation, and higher-order cognitive function, along with emerging work on personalized brain stimulation based on each individual's QEEG findings. In this episode, you'll learn:
One of the most compelling messages from this conversation is that brain recovery isn't simply about repairing damaged tissue—it's about helping the brain become more efficient, better connected, and more resilient. By combining objective measurements like QEEG with emerging technologies such as photobiomodulation and meditation training, clinicians may soon be able to personalize treatment in ways that weren't possible just a few years ago. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with post-concussion syndrome, struggling with brain fog, or simply fascinated by the future of neuroscience, this episode offers an inspiring look at where brain rehabilitation is headed—and how technology and ancient wisdom may work together to help us heal. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Brain Fog, Poor Sleep & Fight-or-Flight After Concussion: Can BrainTap Help? | E67 | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:57:39 | |
How do you calm a brain that feels stuck in survival mode? For many people recovering from a concussion, the injury isn't just about headaches or dizziness. It's the feeling that your nervous system is constantly "on"—poor sleep, brain fog, anxiety, sensory overload, and the inability to truly relax. In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with Dr. Patrick Porter, founder of BrainTap, to explore the science behind light and sound therapy and how multisensory brainwave entrainment may help regulate the nervous system, improve sleep quality, and support neuroplasticity after concussion. Dr. Porter shares the fascinating history behind BrainTap, from its origins in the 1980s to its use today in thousands of clinics worldwide. Together, they discuss how carefully synchronized light, sound, guided meditation, and breathing exercises work together to encourage the brain to shift from a chronic stress response into a more restorative parasympathetic state. The conversation explores why many concussion patients become trapped in persistent fight-or-flight physiology, why restorative sleep is essential for brain healing, and how improving autonomic regulation may positively influence memory, cognition, mood, and overall recovery. Dr. Porter also shares research on BrainTap's use in concussion rehabilitation, autism, first responders, athletic performance, and stress resilience, along with the growing evidence supporting brainwave entrainment and sensory stimulation as tools for optimizing brain health. In this episode, you'll learn:
One of the most powerful messages from this conversation is that healing isn't simply about removing symptoms—it's about helping the brain rediscover balance. When we consistently create opportunities for the nervous system to shift out of chronic stress and into recovery, we allow the brain to do what it was designed to do: adapt, repair, and heal. Dr. Porter Website: https://drpatrickporter.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpatrickporter/ TikTok: @braintaptech Get a 14-Day Free Trial of the BrainTap App My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Hidden Brain Changes After Concussion (And How to Measure Them) with Jack Fonderwhite | E66 | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:31:12 | |
If concussion left you with brain fog, anxiety, poor sleep, or a lingering sense that something is “off,” an EEG may reveal the brain changes your normal scans missed. Dr. Ayla Wolf talks with acupuncturist and concussion specialist Jack Fonderwhite about using EEG, eye tracking, and electroacupuncture to measure and improve brain function after head injury. Jack shares his own unexpected concussion story—how years of martial arts, contact sports, and repeated head impacts left him with subtle neurological symptoms he didn't even recognize until an EEG revealed significant changes in his brain activity. After developing an acupuncture protocol for himself, he experienced improvements not only in his brainwave patterns, but also in anxiety, night vision, sense of smell, and overall mental clarity. Inspired by his own recovery, Jack created the Peak Mind program, a comprehensive evaluation and treatment approach that combines objective technology with personalized acupuncture care. Patients undergo advanced assessments including EEG, balance testing, eye movement analysis, cognitive testing, and orthopedic evaluation to create a highly individualized rehabilitation plan designed to improve brain efficiency and support neuroplasticity. Together, we discuss:
One of the most inspiring messages from this conversation is that some concussion symptoms become so familiar that people stop recognizing them as symptoms at all. Sometimes it's only after the brain begins to heal that patients realize how much they had been compensating every single day. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, you're a healthcare provider looking to expand your understanding of brain rehabilitation, or you're simply fascinated by the intersection of ancient medicine and modern neuroscience, this episode offers an exciting look at what's possible when objective technology and personalized care come together. Jack Fonderwhite - Jackupuncture: website Email: info@jackupuncture.com Instagram: @Jackupuncturehi My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Concussions and Hidden Anterior Neck Pathology with Dr. John McClaren | E65 | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:47:03 | |
Persistent dizziness, headaches, and dysautonomia after a concussion may be coming from your neck — not just your brain. Dr. Ayla Wolf and Dr. John McClaren explore how deep neck muscle dysfunction, breathing mechanics, and the vagus nerve drive stubborn post-concussion symptoms. Together, they explore why so many people experience dizziness when bending over, standing up, or looking overhead—and why these seemingly simple movements may reveal much deeper dysfunction within the autonomic nervous system. Dr. McClaren shares emerging clinical observations suggesting that deep neck flexor dysfunction, restricted mobility of the anterior neck, and impaired sensory integration may play a much larger role in concussion recovery than previously recognized. The discussion also explores how breathing mechanics, vagus nerve function, glymphatic drainage, visual processing, smell, and auditory localization all interact to influence brain function and autonomic regulation. Together, they discuss:
One of the most powerful takeaways from this conversation is that concussion recovery isn't about fixing one isolated symptom. It's about helping the brain rebuild efficient communication across multiple sensory systems so that everyday activities once again become automatic instead of exhausting. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, living with dysautonomia, or simply interested in the latest developments in functional neurology, this episode offers practical insights and exciting new ideas that may change the way you think about brain rehabilitation. If this resonates, subscribe for more concussion recovery tools, share this with someone stuck in symptoms, and leave a review so more people can find it. What’s the most reliable trigger for your dizziness or symptom flare ups? Dr. McClaren can be found at: Advanced Chiropractic & Neurology in Omaha Nebraska Advanced Chiropractic & Neurology Facebook Page My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Nasal Release Technique for Post-Concussion Headaches, Brain Fog, and Sleep | E64 | 22 Jun 2026 | 00:31:09 | |
Waking up exhausted after a concussion can feel like betrayal: you “slept,” but the brain fog, head pressure, and headaches show up anyway. I sit down with physical therapist and nasal release technique instructor Cynthia Stein to explore a different lens on post-concussion syndrome, one that connects airway restriction, cranial sutures, and eye movement limitations to the symptoms that refuse to budge. Find a practitioner offering the Nasal Release Technique: website Watch a demonstration video: Video My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Clear Mind After Concussion: Recovery, Neuroplasticity, and the Search for What Works with Jordan Jay Adams (Part 2) | E63 | 16 Jun 2026 | 00:33:16 | |
In Part 2 of my conversation with Jordan J. Adams, founder of the United Fight Alliance and longtime combat sports commentator, we move beyond the problem of concussion and into the search for solutions. After experiencing multiple concussions, a family history of Alzheimer's disease, and growing concerns about his own cognitive health, Jordan began what he describes as a mission to "save his brain." Over the past decade, he has explored countless therapies, lifestyle changes, and recovery strategies in an effort to improve brain function, reduce brain fog, and protect his long-term neurological health. Together, we discuss the interventions that Jordan believes have moved the needle most in his recovery, including photobiomodulation, intermittent fasting, exercise, cold exposure, nutrition, sleep, and the importance of developing a daily practice that supports both brain and body. We also explore the science of neuroplasticity, neurogenesis, the gut-brain connection, inflammation, and why recovery often requires addressing many different factors simultaneously rather than searching for a single magic solution. Topics discussed include: • Photobiomodulation and brain health Perhaps the most powerful message from this conversation is that healing is rarely about finding one breakthrough treatment. Instead, it is often the cumulative effect of small actions repeated consistently over time. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in protecting your brain as you age, this episode offers an honest and inspiring look at the mindset, habits, and strategies that can help move recovery forward. If you haven't yet listened to Part 1, be sure to go back and check out Episode #62, where Jordan shares his personal concussion history and discusses the ongoing challenges surrounding concussion care in combat sports. Save 10% on a VieLight with code: HEALINGRESPONSE My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Fighters Are Still Falling Through the Cracks After Concussion - With Jordan Jay Adams (Part 1) | E62 | 12 Jun 2026 | 00:36:30 | |
Combat sports make brain injury impossible to ignore, but the most dangerous part might be what happens after everyone goes home. We’re joined by Jordan J. Adams, founder and CEO of United Fight Alliance and an Emmy Award-winning combat sports commentator, to talk about concussions, post-concussion syndrome and the real gaps he still sees in concussion protocols across athletics. Save 10% on VieLight with code: HEALINGRESPONSE https://www.vielight.com/ My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Functional Neurology Explains Why Concussion Symptoms Spiral with Dr. Matt Antonucci | E61 | 01 Jun 2026 | 01:03:10 | |
For decades, patients with persistent post-concussion symptoms have been told that their imaging is normal, their brain has healed, and there is nothing more that can be done. But what if we've been asking the wrong questions? In this episode of Life After Impact, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with functional neurologist Dr. Matt Antonucci to discuss his groundbreaking new paper published in Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, introducing the Network Entrapment by Reflex Dysfunction (NERD) Model. Together, they explore a new framework for understanding why concussion symptoms can persist long after the initial injury has healed. Dr. Antonucci explains how the brain functions as an interconnected network rather than a collection of isolated structures, and how disrupted sensory processing, maladaptive feedback loops, and altered neuroplasticity can cause symptoms to spiral over time. The conversation dives into predictive processing, cerebellar function, autonomic regulation, postural instability, chronic headaches, neck pain, light sensitivity, dysautonomia, and why many patients feel trapped in patterns that conventional medicine struggles to explain. Topics discussed include:
Whether you're a patient struggling to understand persistent symptoms or a clinician seeking a deeper framework for neurological rehabilitation, this episode offers a fascinating look into what may become one of the most influential models in functional neurology. If you’re a patient feeling stuck, or a clinician looking for a clearer concussion recovery model, this is a practical, hopeful listen. Subscribe, share with someone navigating post-concussion symptoms, and leave a review. What “load” situation reliably sets off your symptoms? The NERD model: reflex circuit dysfunction as a systems-level driver of persistent post-concussion symptoms - Read the paper! Dr. Antonucci's Website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Hidden Imprints of Trauma in the Body and Nervous System | E60 | 26 May 2026 | 01:05:57 | |
What if healing isn’t just physical? In this deeply thought-provoking episode, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with somatic practitioner and Inner Space Technique regression therapist Bre Hibbs to explore the fascinating relationship between trauma, the nervous system, body memory, and healing beyond the physical body. Together, they discuss the idea that our bodies may store not only physical trauma, but also emotional experiences, subconscious conditioning, stress patterns, and even energetic imprints that continue influencing our health, behavior, pain, and recovery long after an event has passed. The conversation explores:
Bre also shares insights from her work in somatic healing, meditation-based regression therapy, and yoga, including practical ways people can begin developing a deeper awareness of their own body and nervous system. This episode offers a compassionate and expansive perspective on healing—one that bridges neuroscience, somatics, consciousness, and the wisdom of the body.
Prana Maya Resort Wellness Retreats Breyn Hibbs: LinkedIn - updates to workshops and courses My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Right Kind of Fuel for Daytime Energy and Masterful Sleep with Dr. Ashkan Jalili | E59 | 18 May 2026 | 01:02:24 | |
Brain fog, mood swings, dizziness, sleep problems, carb cravings, that awful midday crash. If you’ve lived through concussion recovery or post-concussion syndrome, you know how quickly symptoms can become a full-time job. We sit down with Dr. Ashkan Jalili to make a different kind of case: many stubborn concussion symptoms track back to a metabolic dysfunction, especially dysregulated glucose delivery in the brain, and until you address fuel, neurotransmitters can’t “do their job” the way you need them to. Canadian Brain Performance & Neuroplasticity Center: website CereFlex AM/PM and the NeuroSync Protocol: website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Measuring Brain Blood Flow and CO2 in Real Time—Why This Changes Concussion Recovery with Dr. Nate Keiser (Part 2) | E58 | 11 May 2026 | 00:35:40 | |
Your autonomic nervous system isn’t “just stressed,” and dysautonomia isn’t a single, one-size-fits-all box. We zoom out from symptom labels and zoom in on mechanisms: how the brain senses the body, builds an internal map, and then uses that map to regulate heart rate, blood flow, digestion, sweating, temperature, and even hormone feedback loops. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Measuring Brain Blood Flow and CO2 in Real Time—Why This Changes Concussion Recovery with Dr. Nate Keiser (Part 1) | E57 | 04 May 2026 | 00:38:42 | |
What if the missing piece in concussion recovery isn’t just the brain—but blood flow to the brain? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nate Keiser to explore how real-time measurement of brain blood flow is changing the way we understand persistent post-concussion symptoms, dysautonomia, and neurological recovery. Using advanced tools like transcranial Doppler ultrasound and CO₂ monitoring, we break down how the brain regulates circulation—and why that system often fails after injury. We dive into the role of carbon dioxide as a key driver of blood flow, why breathing patterns matter more than you think, and how subtle dysfunctions in these reflexes can leave patients stuck, despite doing “all the right things.” If you’ve been struggling with dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained crashes after activity, this episode will give you a completely new lens on what may be happening—and what can actually help. If you’re navigating concussion recovery, dysautonomia, or exercise intolerance, subscribe for part two, share this with someone who feels stuck, and leave a review so more patients can find it. Dr. Keiser: website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| A Path to the First FDA Drug for Concussion? How Ghrelin Could Change Brain Injury Recovery with Dr. Vishal Bansal | E56 | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:31:47 | |
In this episode of Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast, I sit down with trauma surgeon and researcher Dr. Vishal Bansal to explore what may become the first-ever FDA-approved pharmaceutical treatment for concussion. Despite how common concussions are, there is currently no approved medical treatment—leaving patients with rest, symptom management, and uncertainty. But what if that’s about to change? Dr. Bansal shares the fascinating story behind a groundbreaking discovery: a gut-derived hormone called ghrelin, traditionally known as the “hunger hormone,” may play a powerful role in brain repair, neuroplasticity, memory, and recovery after traumatic brain injury . Together, we explore:
This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how a scientific insight evolves into a potential life-changing therapy—and what it takes to bring a new brain treatment to market. 🔬 About Dr. Vishal Bansal Dr. Bansal is a trauma surgeon, researcher, and co-founder of Oxeia Biopharmaceuticals. His work focuses on the physiological response to brain injury and developing innovative treatments to improve outcomes after concussion. Oxeia Biopharmaceuticals: website INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY in Oxeia Biopharmaceuticals: startengine.com If you or someone you love is struggling with concussion or post-concussion syndrome, this conversation will give you hope, clarity, and a glimpse into the future of recovery. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Hearing Loss, Tinnitus, & Hyperacusis: Treat Your Hearing, Protect Your Brain with Dr. Keith Darrow | E55 | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:55:42 | |
A “mild” hearing loss sounds harmless until you hear the data: it can raise the risk of cognitive decline and dementia by 200%. I sit down with Dr. Keith Darrow PhD, CCC-A, neuroscientist and clinical audiologist, to connect the dots between hearing loss and brain health and to explain why treating hearing loss shows up again and again as a top modifiable dementia risk factor in major research reviews. Dr. Keith Darrow's Resources and Links: https://mytinnitusnumber.org/ https://excellenceinaudiology.org/ Free Book: Preventing Decline Free Book: Silenced. The Medical Treatment of Tinnitus Dr. Darrow's YouTube Channel Dr. Darrow LinkedIn My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Why Pain Doesn’t Always Match the Injury | Chronic Pain & Concussion Explained | E54 | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:54:39 | |
Pain isn’t a simple “damage equals symptoms” equation. Sometimes your nervous system turns the volume down so far you barely notice serious wear and tear, and other times it turns the volume up until every small sensation feels like an alarm. That difference matters if you’re living with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or persistent symptoms after a concussion, because the right treatment depends on how your brain is regulating threat and sensation. Dr. Norm Hoffman: website. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| When Concussion Symptoms Don’t End After Two Weeks | E53 | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:37:15 | |
A concussion can change your life in a second, but what happens when the people around you treat it like an excuse? Sarah Wuebbolt joins us to share what it’s really like navigating multiple concussions as a teenager while trying to keep up with school, sports, friendships, and the pressure to “be fine” on a timeline that doesn’t match reality. Sarah's Instagram: @hopepostinjury. Website. LinkedIn My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| From TBI to The River Why to Empathic AI: Cameron Scott's Epic Journey | E52 | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:59:00 | |
A childhood head-on collision. A life shaped by traumatic brain injury. A moment of waking up after a suicide attempt and deciding, with total clarity, to choose life. Cameron Scott joins me for a raw, grounded conversation about what concussion recovery can really look like when the symptoms are not just physical, but emotional, relational, and spiritual too. (This conversation includes reference to suicide. Listener discretion is advised.) EQ Intelligence: www.eqintelligenceai.com Cameron Scott: LinkedIn Coaching My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Hidden Habits That Can Speed Up — or Sabotage — Brain Recovery with Alex Lombardi | E51 | 17 Mar 2026 | 01:09:49 | |
Your brain doesn’t heal on your appointment schedule. It heals in the messy middle of real life, the mornings where you can’t think straight, the afternoons where your energy falls off a cliff, and the nights when you wonder if you’ll ever feel like yourself again. Alex Lombardi: website: https://alexlombardiofficial.com/ Instagram: @alexlombardiofficial My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Fueling A Healing Brain with Natalie Gavi | E50 | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:27:29 | |
We talk with registered dietitian Natalie Gavi about how to use simple, evidence-led nutrition to support concussion recovery and long-term brain health. We trade myths for practical steps, from Mediterranean staples to smart supplements and steady meal timing. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Ibogaine For Brain Injury Recovery with Navy Veteran Lorna Sturchio | E49 | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:46:43 | |
I sit down with Navy veteran and transformational trauma coach Lorna Sturchio to unpack how medically supervised ibogaine can catalyze rapid change for PTSD, addiction, and traumatic brain injury. Lorna’s story moves from combat trauma and MST to overprescription and crisis, then into carefully prepared plant medicine work that helped her taper off meds, restore sleep, and rebuild a future. Together, we demystify what ibogaine is, how it differs from ayahuasca or psilocybin, and why its metabolite noribogaine may extend neuroplastic gains for months. Beond Ibogaine: website Beond Service - Mental health programs for veterans: website Athletes journey Home: website Lorna Sturchio My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Breathwork After Concussion: How 5 Minutes of Breathing Can Calm Your Nervous System | E48 | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:52:47 | |
What if five minutes of the right breathing could calm a racing heart, clear morning fog, and steady your balance after a concussion? Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with chiropractic neurologist Dr. Jonathan Chung to unpack the science and the how-to of using breath as a lever for healing. We dig into why the brainstem’s respiratory centers are vulnerable in acceleration-deceleration injuries like concussions, how dysautonomia and anxiety reshape breathing patterns, and where slow, resonance-frequency breathing fits into a practical recovery plan. Dr. Jonathan Chung: website Instagram: @drjonathanchung Tik Tok: @drjonathanchung For healthcare providers - continuing education course: The Neuroscience of Breathwork My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Path Back To Work After a Concussion with Nate Pope (Part 2) | E47 | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:28:01 | |
This is Part 2 of my conversation with Nate Pope from NCX Brain Recovery. Recovery stalls when life gets smaller. We’ve all seen it: light hurts, noise overwhelms, screens drain, so routines narrow and the brain doubles down on workarounds. We open up a different route—structured, supportive challenges that reengage vision, balance, attention, and memory together. Instead of chasing one symptom at a time, we train the whole system to find easier, more efficient pathways. Nate Pope and NCX Brain Recovery: https://www.ncxbrainrecovery.com/ My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Path Back To Work After a Concussion with Nate Pope (Part 1) | E46 | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:31:55 | |
Your brain isn’t broken; it’s rerouting. We sit down with neuro‑occupational therapist Nate Pope to unpack why so many people with post‑concussion syndrome get stuck despite doing “all the right therapies.” Nate explains how functional MRI reveals a network problem—under-fueled pathways and overworked compensations—and why isolated sessions can accidentally train the detours instead of restoring efficient routes. If headaches spike during vision drills or screen time wipes you out, this conversation will reframe what effective rehab looks like. Nate Pope and NCX Brain Recovery: https://www.ncxbrainrecovery.com/ My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| How the Love Your Brain Foundation Turns Isolation Into Community For TBI Survivors And Caregivers | E45 | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:47:06 | |
What if the most powerful medicine after a brain injury is feeling truly seen? We sit down with Kyla Pearce, Senior Director of Programs and Research at the Love Your Brain foundation, to explore how connection, mind‑body practices, and practical education can restore confidence, calm, and everyday momentum for people with TBI and their caregivers. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Parties, Noise, and Family Gatherings After a Concussion: A Survival Guide (Part 2) | E44 | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:43:37 | |
We share practical ways to enjoy the holidays while protecting a healing brain, focusing on blood sugar, hydration, sleep, and realistic boundaries. We reframe FOMO, practice gentle resets, and stack small wins so recovery feels doable and meaningful. Email Chaandani: hello@returntolife.ca My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Sensory Overload at Social Events: Getting Through Gatherings After Concussion (Part1) | E43 | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:47:48 | |
Holidays can feel like a sensory obstacle course when you’re healing from a concussion or navigating post-concussion syndrome. We unpack a clear, compassionate plan to trade overwhelm for ease—without opting out of the moments that matter. With returning guest Chaandani Khan, we explore how to choose fewer, more meaningful events, set time limits that prevent crashes, and skip the infamous "Minnesota goodbye" by aligning expectations with your host. You’ll get practical boundary scripts that don’t feel awkward, plus mindset shifts that protect identity and fuel progress. Connect with Chaandani at www.returntolife.ca and discover how her work is helping bridge the gap between patients and practitioners in the concussion recovery journey. Email Chaandani: hello@returntolife.ca My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| From Sidelines To Success: Concussion Rehab That Reduces Reinjury Risk | E42 | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:45:51 | |
A faster return isn’t always a safer one. We sit down with physiotherapist Kosta Ikonomou to unpack why musculoskeletal injuries spike two to three times after a concussion and how to build a recovery plan that restores performance, not just symptom reduction. From elite level athletes to everyday patients navigating concussion rehab, Kosta shares hard-earned lessons on testing, training, and the psychology of change. Kosta is a clinical specialist physiotherapist with over a decade of experience in sports medicine and concussion. He has worked in acute neuro hospitals and specialized concussion clinics, treating persistent symptoms. In sports, Kosta collaborated with Chelsea Football Club Academy, Olympic GB diving, Vancouver Bandits Basketball (CEBL), CIS rugby, and ice hockey teams. Kosta's clinic website: Akeso Sports Medicine Kosta Ikonomou LinkedIn page My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Dr. Adam Harcourt Explains Why Migraine Treatments Fail After Head Injury | E41 | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:55:47 | |
If “migraine” meds aren’t touching your headaches after a concussion, you might be chasing the wrong problem. Dr. Wolf sits down with Dr. Adam Harcourt, a board-certified functional neurologist and fourth-generation chiropractor, to unpack why post-traumatic headaches so often get mislabeled as migraine—and how objective neuro exams flip the outcome. From eye movement control and gaze stabilization to neck proprioception and autonomic integrity, Dr. Harcourt explains the tests that reveal brainstem dysfunction you can actually measure rather than guess. Dr. Adam Harcourt: Clinic Website Instagram: @migrainedoctors Biogenic Nutrition: website For Clinicians: Master Migraine Course with the Carrick Institute My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Seeing the Unseen: How Vestibular Rehab Can Transform Your Recovery w/ Dr. Helena Esmonde (Vestibular First) | E40 | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:58:15 | |
Do you still feel dizzy, off-balance, or disoriented months—or even years—after your concussion? You’re not imagining it. In this episode, Dr. Ayla Wolf sits down with Dr. Helena Esmonde, founder of Vestibular First and creator of the innovative infrared goggles that are changing how clinicians diagnose and treat vestibular disorders. Together, they uncover what your eye movements can reveal about your inner-ear and brain connection, why symptoms alone rarely tell the full story, and how new diagnostic tools are helping patients finally understand why they’re dizzy—and what to do about it. 💡 You’ll learn:
Whether you’ve been told “everything looks normal” or you’ve just learned about vestibular rehab for the first time, this conversation will give you hope, clarity, and practical next steps for your healing journey. Vestibular First: website Helena Esmonde: LinkedIn, email: helena@vestibularfirst.com Instagram: @vestibularfirst My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Transformation is the Therapy: Rewriting Life After Concussion with Kevin Donahue | E39 | 27 Oct 2025 | 01:01:12 | |
A motorcycle crash in Ecuador set off a chain reaction Kevin Donahue couldn’t name at first: anger out of nowhere, brain fog, exhaustion, and a life that stopped making sense. When a friend connected the dots to concussion, everything changed—awareness unlocked a roadmap to real recovery. Kevin Donahue: Instagram: @donahuekm Stealth Family Website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Neck Strength: The Missing Piece in Concussion with Dr. Theo Versteegh | E38 | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:55:56 | |
What if the fastest path to fewer concussions and better performance starts with how we train the neck? We sit down with physiotherapist, inventor, and researcher Dr. Theo Versteegh to unpack a novel training device that targets rapid, eccentric stabilization—the exact kind of control impact sports demand. Instead of slow, single-plane moves, his device builds rate of force development in rotational and multiplanar directions, then tracks progress with clear metrics. The results are hard to ignore: multiple teams across genders report zero head and neck injury seasons after adoption, and many go on to win their conference within three years. On the clinical side, a randomized trial in persistent post-concussion syndrome shows 70%+ symptom reduction, alongside big gains in headache and neck disability scores. The NFL granted Topspin Technologies the First and Future Innovations to Advance Athlete Health and Safety Award in 2019. The Detroit Lions took the charge, adopting this technology, and went on to win their division for the first time in 31 years. In this conversation we connect the dots between neck readiness, better awareness on the field, and fewer neck and head injuries per season. TopSpin360 website Dr. Theo Versteegh LinkedIn Neck rehab consulting for clinicians: Neck Revolution My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Body Keeps the Score—of Concussions: How the Nervous System Reveals Hidden Trauma | E37 | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:29:20 | |
Think your “sinus headache,” tight hamstring, or random insomnia is unrelated to your head? We trace surprising symptom chains back to the nervous system and show how hidden concussions often sit at the center of stubborn pain, sleep issues, tinnitus, and gut flare‑ups. With returning guest Dr. Clayton Shiu, we unpack real cases where elbow or knee pain turned out to be brain-driven—and why delayed symptoms after a fall or car crash are more physiology than mystery. Dr. Clayton Shiu Instagram: @jadeshaman, @the_shiu_clinic Clinic Website My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| The Gut-Brain Connection After Concussion with Sarah Turner | E36 | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:47:53 | |
What if the missing element in your health isn't another supplement or diet change, but something as fundamental as light? In this illuminating conversation, Sarah Turner reveals how our modern indoor lifestyle has created a profound deficiency in specific wavelengths of light that our bodies evolved to require. Get 10% off your CeraThrive CeraSystem with this link and code: Recovery10 https://www.cerathrive.com/recovery Instagram: @_rebel_scientist Podcast: Rebel Scientist My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| Gut Feelings: How Concussions Affect Your Digestion | E35 | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:27:14 | |
Have you ever wondered why your digestion seems to have gone haywire after a concussion? You're not alone, and there's a neurological explanation behind those new food sensitivities and stomach troubles. My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||
| New Frontiers in Concussion Research with Dr. Ioannis Mavroudis | E34 | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:48:01 | |
The quest to understand persistent brain symptoms after concussion has puzzled doctors and researchers for decades. What happens when the brain doesn't heal as expected? Why do some patients develop long-term problems while others recover completely? Dr. Mavroudis: Website LinkedIn: Profile My new book The Art of Concussion Recovery: Following the Thread is available as an audiobook, paperback, hardcover, and Kindle on Amazon. Save $30 on Brain Ritual - A daily brain energy-support drink like none other. https://www.brainritual.com/AYLA94359 Save 20% on your first order of Puori Protein: https://affiliate.puori.com/LIFEAFTERIMPACT The Art of Concussion Recovery - Audiobook Available on Audible and Apple Books, Paperback and Hardcover on Amazon Concussion Breakthrough: Discover the Missing Pieces of Concussion Recovery is now available on Amazon! Website: lifeafterimpact.com | |||