The Concussion Nerds Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Have you ever wondered if your healthcare provider is truly recognizing all aspects of your concussion? Could there be critical symptoms overlooked, delaying your recovery?

Too often, concussions go undiagnosed in emergency rooms, orthopedic offices, and general practices. Providers might focus solely on the immediate trauma and miss the underlying concussion. This can leave patients confused, scared, and without a proper recovery plan. The good news? Awareness is the first step to ensuring no one gets left behind.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 Why motor vehicle accidents and falls are leading causes of undiagnosed concussions

👉 The importance of early concussion screening, even in orthopedic settings

👉 How patient feedback can teach clinicians to improve care

👉 Why a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for full recovery

This episode is all about raising awareness—among both clinicians and patients—so that together we can improve the concussion diagnosis and treatment process. Ready to learn more? Tune in and take that next step in your concussion journey!

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Join us for our upcoming CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT this fall: https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

What if the root cause of your lingering symptoms isn’t what you think it is?

For those living with a brain injury or concussion, it’s easy to assume that all the symptoms—headaches, dizziness, fatigue—stem directly from the injury itself. After all, isn’t that what most of us have been told?

But what if this belief is actually keeping you from healing? In this episode, our guest, Cristabelle Braden, reveals how she spent years chasing treatments and medications for her traumatic brain injury (TBI), only to discover that some of her most debilitating symptoms had a different root cause entirely. Through a transformative journey of self-advocacy, she learned that finding the real issue is the first step to lasting relief.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 How Christabellel’s 12-year journey through brain injury treatments led her to the discovery of a hidden condition affecting her daily life.

👉 The importance of understanding root causes versus symptoms in brain injury recovery.

👉 Practical strategies for advocating for yourself when traditional medicine falls short.

👉 The surprising dietary and lifestyle changes that brought Christabelle newfound freedom and relief from chronic symptoms.

Join us as we explore the importance of digging deeper for answers, empowering you to take control of your recovery journey and find hope beyond the diagnosis.

Connect with Cristabelle Braden:

Website: https://cristabellebraden.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cristabellebraden

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Be the FIRST to know all the information for our upcoming CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT this fall by joining the waitlist HERE https://www.natashawilch.com/summit-waitlist

Are you unknowingly falling into unhealthy habits?

In today’s episode, we delve into how easy it is to unintentionally adopt an unhealthy lifestyle and how to purposefully shift towards healthier living.

Ever wonder why despite your best intentions, you still struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Dr. Mark, a licensed naturopathic doctor in Arizona and Washington, joins us today to share his expertise on overcoming these challenges. Dr. Mark integrates functional medicine, metabolic training, and physical medicine to help his patients navigate their health journeys effectively. He’s passionate about helping people become "healthy on purpose."

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 The concept of "Bare Ass Minimums" (BAMs) and how they can keep you on track.

👉 Simple, everyday habits that make a big difference in your overall health.

👉 The importance of hydration and intentional breathing.

👉 How to adjust your health goals according to different life chapters.

Learn how to integrate small, consistent changes into your daily life and become healthy on purpose with insights from Dr. Mark. Join us for an enlightening discussion that can transform your approach to health and wellness.

Episode Sponsor: Neck Care

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Visit their website to know more: https://neckcare.com/

Use the code: “NERDS” for exclusive savings!

Connect with Dr. Mark Heisig:

Instagram:@drmarkheisig
Email: hinfo@drheisig.com
Website: https://www.drheisig.com

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

SIGN UP FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT:
https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

Are you ready to unlock the final piece of your healing journey?

Many of us have faced the frustration of hitting a plateau in our health and wellness. We follow the protocols, eat right, take supplements, yet something always feels... incomplete.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your healing process despite doing everything right, this episode is for you.

In today's episode of The Concussion Nerds Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Jaclyn Renee, a transformational health coach, and founder of the Release Method. Jaclyn, also known as Jax, will be leading a live workshop at our upcoming summit, and she’s here to share her incredible journey and insights into holistic healing.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 The true meaning of holistic health and why it’s crucial to consider mind, body, and spirit in your healing journey.

👉 The importance of addressing trapped emotions and how they might be the missing piece in your health puzzle.

👉 An introduction to the Release Method, a transformative practice combining movement, meditation, and emotional release.

👉 How to incorporate the Release Method into your own life and the profound impact it can have on your overall well-being.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to dive deep into the world of holistic healing and discover how to break through the barriers holding you back.

Connect with Jaclyn:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjaclynrenee/ 

https://www.instagram.com/release.method/

Episode Sponsor: REFLEX 

Discover the future of neurological assessment with Reflex, the premier app-based tool for measuring pupillary vitals. Reflex provides unparalleled accuracy, with an efficacy rate of 97%, making it the preferred choice for professionals and trusted by the Department of Defense for clinical trials. To learn more about how Reflex can help, head to their website.

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

SIGN UP FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT:
https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

Have you ever wondered how mastering your nervous system can be the key to overcoming anxiety and improving your overall well-being?

Many people struggle with persistent anxiety and nervous system dysregulation, especially those recovering from concussions. This constant state of hyper-vigilance can be exhausting and detrimental to your healing process.

Imagine being able to calm your nervous system and reprogram those anxiety triggers that seem to control your life. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Scotty Butcher, a former physical therapist turned psychophysiologist who is pioneering the field of brain working recursive therapy (BWRT) in Canada.

Scotty has been a physical therapist for years and recently transitioned into his new role to better address anxiety and nervous system dysregulation. He is particularly passionate about helping those recovering from persistent concussions.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 The difference between good and bad anxiety, and how to harness anxiety for positive outcomes.

👉 The concept of brain working recursive therapy (BWRT) and how it can help you manage anxiety and other triggers.

👉 The science behind psychophysiology and the mind-body connection.

👉 Practical tools and techniques to regulate your nervous system and build resilience.

Join us as we explore groundbreaking techniques to transform anxiety from a hindrance into a powerful tool for personal growth and success. Tune in to discover how you can take control of your mental and physical health today!

Connect with Dr. Scotty:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestoictiger/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thestoictiger

Episode Sponsor: REFLEX 

Discover the future of neurological assessment with Reflex, the premier app-based tool for measuring pupillary vitals. Reflex provides unparalleled accuracy, with an efficacy rate of 97%, making it the preferred choice for professionals and trusted by the Department of Defense for clinical trials. To learn more about how Reflex can help, head to their website.

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

SIGN UP FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT:
https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

It's frustrating when you're on a healing journey, and despite your best efforts, you can't shake off that lingering dizziness or imbalance. You might even be told that it's "all in your head" or that "this is as good as it gets." But what if there's an underlying issue that's been overlooked?

In this episode, we delve deep into the complexities of chronic dizziness and vertigo, especially in concussion patients, with Dr. Rachel Frontaine, a leading expert in functional neurology and the owner and founder of Anew Chiropractic in Calgary, Alberta.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 The critical differences between dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance.

👉 How undiagnosed BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) can be a hidden obstacle in your recovery.

👉 The impact of vestibular system dysfunction on overall health and chronic pain.

👉 Effective strategies and treatments to overcome these issues and regain stability and confidence in your movement.

Connect with Dr. Rachel:

Website: http://Www.anewchiroclinic.com

Email: dr.rachel@anewchiroclinic.com

IG Handle: @anewchiroclinic

Episode Sponsor: REFLEX 

Discover the future of neurological assessment with Reflex, the premier app-based tool for measuring pupillary vitals. Reflex provides unparalleled accuracy, with an efficacy rate of 97%, making it the preferred choice for professionals and trusted by the Department of Defense for clinical trials. To learn more about how Reflex can help, head to their website.

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

SIGN UP FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT:
https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

Have you ever wondered how you can bridge the gap between clinical rehabilitation and real-life experiences?

Many people recovering from concussions find themselves stuck in a cycle of clinic visits and home exercises, often missing the real-world application of their rehab. This episode dives into an innovative approach to concussion recovery that takes therapy beyond the clinic walls.

Discover how OT Shelly uses holistic occupational therapy to empower concussion patients in real-world settings.

In this episode, our guest OT Shelly shares her unique approach to occupational therapy that combines her extensive knowledge as a yoga instructor, health coach, and concussion survivor. She discusses how incorporating nature and real-life environments into therapy can significantly enhance the recovery process for concussion patients.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 How holistic occupational therapy can address the whole person, not just isolated symptoms.

👉 The benefits of integrating yoga and nature into concussion rehabilitation.

👉 The importance of creating a safe and consistent routine for effective concussion recovery.

👉 Practical insights into how real-life environments can accelerate the healing process.

Connect with OT Shelley:

Website: https://www.otshelley.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ot_shelley

Let’s connect!

Instagram: @natasha.wilch

Email: hello@natashawilch.com 

Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

SIGN UP FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT: 

https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

Have you ever wondered if there's more to healing from trauma than just talking about it?

Trauma recovery can be a complex and daunting process, especially if traditional talk therapy methods have left you feeling stuck or frustrated. If you've ever felt like you're not making progress despite knowing the root causes of your trauma, you're not alone.

Many individuals struggle with the misconception that trauma can be fully healed through verbal expression alone. However, the reality is that trauma often resides in the deeper parts of our brain and body, beyond the reach of words. This can leave you feeling like you're spinning your wheels without making real progress.

Today, we are joined by Lauren, a licensed clinical professional counselor with a focus on trauma-related modalities. Lauren is one of our esteemed speakers for the upcoming Concussion Nerds Virtual Summit this fall, and I am so excited to have her with us.She is the owner of Steadfast Counseling, a private practice specializing in comprehensive trauma care. Lauren is trained in EMDR and is a certified Brainspotting practitioner. Through these advanced modalities, she offers clients a holistic approach to healing, encompassing body, mind, and nervous system recovery, facilitating their journey beyond areas of stagnation towards profound liberation.

Before establishing her private practice, Lauren gained experience across diverse roles within mental health agencies. This journey granted her a comprehensive vantage point on the intricate impacts of trauma across various populations, age groups, developmental stages, and roles. Her background encompasses collaborative work with both offenders and victims, uniquely shaping her insight into the lived experience of trauma and its path to healing.

Lauren also has extensive experience conducting training sessions on critical subjects such as vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue. Her audience ranges from mental health practitioners and school personnel to law enforcement, military personnel, and medical staff. This breadth of experience underscores her commitment to empowering and equipping fellow professionals with the tools needed to address and mitigate the pervasive effects of trauma.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 Why talk therapy alone might not be enough to heal trauma.

👉 The significance of engaging the whole brain and body in trauma recovery.

👉 How modalities like EMDR and brainspotting work on a neurological level.

👉 Practical steps to take if you're afraid of opening the door to trauma therapy.

Connect with Lauren:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/steadfastcounseling

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

SIGN UP FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT:
https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

Are you struggling with lingering symptoms from a brain injury or feeling unexplained fatigue and cognitive decline? Do you feel misunderstood by the medical system or overwhelmed by a lack of effective treatment options? You're not alone, and today’s episode might just have the answers you’ve been looking for.

Doc Jacque’s story is a testament to overcoming severe health challenges through holistic and functional medicine. His experiences with brain injury and mold toxicity have not only shaped his practice but also his empathetic approach to patient care. Discover how understanding and addressing the root causes of your symptoms can lead to genuine healing and a better quality of life.

Dr. Jacque holds a doctorate in chiropractic with a specialization in naturopathic health, traditional Chinese herbs, holistic healing, and functional medicine. After surviving a severe brain injury and later facing mold toxicity, Dr. Jacque turned his challenges into a mission to help others. He has dedicated his career to providing empathetic and effective care to those who feel lost and overlooked by the conventional medical system. With his virtual practice, he helps patients worldwide on their journey to better health.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 The profound impact of brain injuries and how to navigate the healing process.

👉 The hidden dangers of mold toxicity and how it can affect your health.

👉 Practical steps and holistic approaches to recover from severe health issues.

👉 How personal experiences and empathy can enhance patient care and treatment outcomes.

Connect with Dr. Jacque:

Instagram: @doc_jacque

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

REGISTER FOR THE CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT:
https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

Have you ever wondered if there’s a more precise, affordable way to assess neurological health in your clinic?

Many clinicians struggle with the high costs and subjectivity of traditional neurological assessment tools, leading to inconsistent and potentially inaccurate patient evaluations.

 Imagine having a tool that's not only accessible but also incredibly accurate, eliminating the guesswork and providing clear, objective data on your patients' autonomic nervous systems. Enter Reflex – an innovative app that transforms your iPhone or iPad into a powerful pupillometer, revolutionizing concussion management and beyond. Today, we are joined by Kurtis and Matthew to discuss everything you need to know about this amazing app. 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

👉 How Reflex offers a cost-effective solution for pupillometry using mobile devices.

👉 The science behind pupillometry and its significance in assessing brain function.

👉 Practical applications of Reflex in various clinical settings, from concussion management to stroke recovery.

👉 The benefits of using Reflex for both acute and persistent concussions, including remote assessments.

Don’t miss out on discovering how Reflex can enhance your clinical practice with cutting-edge technology that's as simple as using your mobile device. Tune in now and take your patient care to the next level.

Let’s connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilch
Email: hello@natashawilch.com
Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

SIGN UP FOR MINI-SCHOOL HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

Be the FIRST to know all the information for our upcoming CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT this fall by joining the waitlist HERE https://www.natashawilch.com/summit-waitlist

Checkout Reflex App here: https://reflexapp.io/