Faces of TBI: Recent Episodes
Amy Zellmer
A podcast dedicated to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion awareness. Created by survivors for survivors. Hear from survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, and others!
Dr Cooper’s doctorate is in Chiropractic. He has an advanced degree in Pediatrics, Functional Medicine and Integrative Nutrition and his specialty is Neuro-Science. He is the chief doctor and clinic director of Cooperstown Chiropractic rated in the top 1% of the profession. Dr Cooper was awarded Outstanding Doctor of the year given by the Ultimate Achievers Club (a group of the top 1% in the Chiropractic Profession) in 2022. Dr Ken Cooper has featured on CBS in LA multiple times with miraculous healing stories. He has been a guest on many national and international podcasts. Dr Cooper has just finished writing his first book on Concussion. www.Concussion.solutionsIf you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 at www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Dr. Roger Miller has been the Neuropsychology Team Lead at Aviv Clinics in The Villages since the clinic opened in 2020. In addition to overseeing cognitive rehabilitation services and supervision of Aviv’s neuro technicians, Dr. Miller is responsible for creating personalized cognitive training programs and performing consultations and neuropsychological evaluations of Aviv’s clients. He is also an experienced presenter, offering popular seminars on topics ranging from sleep disorders and stress management to traumatic brain injuries and cognitive decline. Since graduating with his PhD in Clinical Psychology, Dr. Miller has served patients in both inpatient and outpatient hospital settings. He established and owned a private psychiatric practice that specialized in treating veterans with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, working closely with the Department of Veteran Affairs to provide consultations, psychological and neuropsychological testing and evaluations. His broad experience also includes serving chronic pain patients, offering evaluations and evidence-based interventions. Dr. Miller chose the psychology field because of a lifelong fascination with the brain and its effects on cognition, emotion, and personality. He takes great pride in helping Aviv Clinics’ clients transform their physical and cognitive function, maximize their potential, and restore their quality of life. www.aviv-clinics.com If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 at www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
An accomplished IR/PR/Marketing Professional, Patricia Baronowski-Schneider has carved a distinguished career, marked by countless awards and widespread recognition in her field. Her expertise in crafting compelling narratives and strategic communication has not only set industry standards but also catalyzed the growth and success of numerous organizations. Beyond her professional realm, Patricia was a spirited skydiving instructor, a passion that unfortunately led to an accident, resulting in a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This life-altering event opened a new chapter in her life, one that involves a resilient journey of recovery and adaptation. In her personal life, Patricia Baronowski-Schneider embodies the roles of a dedicated wife, a nurturing mother, and a doting grandmother. Her multifaceted life story is a testament to her unwavering strength and versatility. Balancing the demands of her high-profile career, her adventurous spirit, and her familial commitments, Patricia continues to inspire with her resilience and dedication to every facet of her richly woven life tapestry.If you're enjoying this podcast, please considering supporting it for just $5 at www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Dr. Erik Reis is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist at The Neural Connection. He received his Doctorate in Chiropractic from Northwestern Health Sciences University, graduating with magna cum laude honors, and graduated from the University of Minnesota with his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology/Exercise Science, with an emphasis in human motor performance in both athletic and therapeutic settings. Dr. Reis currently holds a Diplomate in Functional Neurology from the American Chiropractic Neurology Board and is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist through the Brain Injury Association of America. He has completed thousands of hours of additional post-graduate coursework utilizing clinical applications and therapeutic interventions in the neurological and nutritional rehabilitation of traumatic brain injuries, concussions, and vestibular disorders through the Carrick Institute of Clinical Neuroscience. https://theneuralconnection.com/Enjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Lindy Boone is the second of four daughters to legendary singer and entertainer Pat Boone and Shirley (Foley) Boone. She has worked in the fitness industry as a group fitness instructor and personal trainer for 25 years. She currently resides in Southern California with her husband of 38 years, attorney Mike Michaelis. She has three adult children: Ryan, Jessica, and Tyler. In 2001, her son Ryan Corbin stepped through a skylight and fell three stories onto a cement floor. Because of this, he had TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and was expected not to survive. However, through the miracle of faith and prayers, Ryan did survive, and Lindy uses her platform to speak on TBI. Since Ryan's fall, Boone has learned a great deal about traumatic brain injury and has come to a new understanding of the faithfulness of God and the power of our words during times of deepest needs. In 2003, the Boone family established a non-profit in Ryan’s name called Ryan’s Reach to help survivors of brain injury and their families and has been providing funds for TBI survivors to receive therapy ever since. The charity has also opened two homes to provide care exclusively for brain injury survivors.If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Kelly is the author of After the Crash: How to Keep Your Job, Stay in School, and Live Life After a Brain Injury. She is a traumatic brain injury survivor and advocate. Her TBI marked the beginning of a new life and a personal journey of self-discovery. As a neurology nurse practitioner, she has had a front-row seat to observe patients struggling with many of the same things she experienced during my recovery. She strives to share her coping strategies and tools to help other brain injury survivors continue to work and study while they heal. www.kellytuttle.orgFind her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3zIT8Bx If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 at www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Barb Dixon, at the time of her head injury was a stay at home mom and professional freelance makeup artist. In May 2016 at the age of 38 she incurred her injury in an unexpected way, a wheelbarrow that was hung up in her garage, fell striking her on the top of her head with the motion of a hammer strike. Knocked unconscious for an unknown period of time before coming to, crawling into the house was all she could manage. She didn’t know it then but that moment would stretch into 7 years of recovery. Barb suffered with PCS and the psychological, physical, mental, and emotional turmoil that PCS entails as well as late diagnosed PTSD. She had to, once again in her life be her own champion and advocate. With the support of her loving family and with dogged determination while enduring a long list of impairments, Barb continued to seek answers and find the help that no one seemed to have for her, and she did. Her journey is, as we know with brain injury recovery, a constant work in progress. Now that she is well through the darkest valleys of her PCS recovery, she wants to share her story with others who find themselves where she once was. Her hope is to offer validation and compassion to those who are still in the thick of it. If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Jack is the founder of Jackupuncture and creator of PeakMIND, an innovative neurostimulation solution for restoring vitality to the human brain, body, and mind. After healing his own persistent chronic concussion symptoms, Jack's mission is to revitalize the health, potential, and competitive edge of other athletes, entrepreneurs, and high performing individuals so they can show up at their very best every day without drugs or surgery.www.jackupuncture.comIf you're enjoying this podcast please consider supporting it for just $5 https://buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Dr. Michael Hennes, a Doctor of Chiropractic and Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist at The Neural Connection, holds a Doctorate in Chiropractic and a Bachelor's in Human Biology from Northwestern Health Sciences University. He is certified in Functional Neurology and a Brain Injury Specialist. Specializing in neurological rehabilitation and nutrition, Dr. Hennes focuses on traumatic brain injury, concussion, vestibular disorders, and migraines. He actively participates in the Minnesota Chiropractic Association Sports Council, providing sideline care and legislative advocacy. In his free time, Dr. Hennes is an enthusiastic DIY'er, particularly in woodworking. He also enjoys traveling, exploring foreign languages, learning about wine, and cherishes family time. www.theneuralconnection.comIf you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Francois, Chief Medical Exercise Specialist, Certified Lymphatic Therapist, Certified Cancer Exercise Specialist, has always dreamed big and empowered people to discover the potential of their health within their body and mind. Francois has over 20 years work experience health and wellness, specializing in chronic health conditions, including headaches, migraines, and concussion/post-concussion. During these years, he used many evidenced-based and evidence-informed protocols to help his clients improve their overall function for activities of daily living, while reducing the intensity and duration of flare-ups. He has done this by integrating manual therapies, medical exercise coaching, and health lifestyle coaching, as well as supportive nutrition coaching. He brings this blend of integrated coaching and therapies together by staying up-to-date on what is happening in research, informed evidence, and clinic best practices. www.theotherpainclinic.comIf you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Paul McMonagle is 42 years old, married with children, avid dog lover, and a 4 time brain inury survivor. He wrote a book in 2021 entitled "Malformation: when bad things happen to the right kind of people" and had it published. Now he's living life and watching my family enjoy their lives to the fullest. www.mymalformation.comIf you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amy
Dr. Barry Sears is a leading authority on the dietary control of inflammation and its resolution. He is the author of more than 50 scientific publications. He holds 14 U.S. Patents in intravenous cancer drug delivery systems and the dietary regulation of hormonal responses for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. He has also written 19 books on dietary modulation of hormonal responses, including the #1 New York Times best-seller, The Zone. His books have sold more than six million copies in the U.S. and have been translated into 23 different languages. Dr. Sears continues his ongoing research as the president of the non-profit Inflammation Research Foundation in Peabody, MA. In addition to his continuing research into the hormonal and epigenetic effects of the diet, he continues to develop innovative dietary technologies used in managing diabetes, cardiovascular, and neurological conditions. www.DrSears.comSave 10% with code TBIZONE at www.zoneliving.comIf you're enjoying this podcast, please consdier supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Dr. Elena is an MD - a graduate of Varna Medical University "Professor Paraskev Stoyanov" and board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation(PM&R) and for 25years has been integrating her knowledge in PM&R with her training in Craniosacral therapy (through Upleger Institute )and Visceral Manipulations (through Barral Institute), LDT through Chikli institute , intuitive healing , herbal medicine and other natural and preformed physical factors. www.elenasti.comIf you're enjoying thi podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Dr. Eric Spencer graduated from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL with his doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) degree in 2013. After attaining his DPT in Miami, he sought residency specialization in orthopedics and sports medicine and became an ABPTS Board-Certified Orthopedic Specialist (OCS) in 2015. He has been working with numerous physicians and orthopedic surgeons in the greater Los Angeles area and also Dallas/Fort Worth regions in order to establish exceptional rehabilitation programs and return-to-sport outcomes for patients undergoing surgical intervention. Eric also specializes in rehabilitation for vestibular dysfunction and patients experiencing dizziness/vertigo as well as patients suffering from concussion and post-concussion syndrome. He is also heavily involved with mentoring and training the future generation of physical therapists as he has established clinical affiliations with doctoral programs across the United States. Eric is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). https://www.prnpt.com/locations/279/Vista-Physical-Therapy-Little-Elm-E-University-Blvd/Little-Elm/location-detailsIf you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Cheryl is a survivor of brain injury, in 1994, and PTSD, in 2012. Her advocacy work has focused on the passing of state and federal legislation that requires law enforcement to be trained to recognize brain injury and PTSD, known as HR 2992, 117th Congressional Session. She is currently expanding her imprint talking about the personal side of that journey.
Dr. Henry Zaremba (or Dr. Z if you like) is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist with over 5 years of experience as the lead clinician at a top brain rehabilitation clinic. With over 500 hours of postdoctoral studies in clinical neuroscience and hundreds of patients treated, Dr. Zaremba is skilled at activating the brain’s ability to recover and become more optimal. Dr. Zaremba’s specialized training includes diagnosing and treating brain, spine, and nervous disorders without medication or surgery. His extensive experience treating patients recovering from traumatic brain injury, addiction, cognitive decline, and those seeking peak performance make him a perfect fit for APEX Brain Centers. As an exercise and sport science graduate and collegiate ice hockey player at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Zaremba’s personal experience with concussions sparked a deep interest in traumatic brain injuries and set him on his career path. He completed his postgraduate training at Palmer Chiropractic College, earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree. When not treating patients, Dr. Zaremba enjoys spending time hiking, rock climbing, or practicing yoga with his wife, daughter, and dogs. https://apexbraincenters.com/Enjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it for just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Carly Cauley is a speech-language-pathologist and group facilitator for MnCAN (Minnesota Connect Aphasia Now), a non-profit providing support and programs for people with aphasia and their families. Aphasia is a language disorder that affects the ability to speak, read, write, and understand what others are saying. It is caused by stroke, brain injury or some progressive neurological disorders. It does not affect intelligence. The inability to communicate can cause devastating isolation. In addition to facilitating conversation groups, she is also MnCAN's Communications and Outreach Coordinator. She has a Masters Degree in Speech Pathology from the University of Minnesota and a BA in Speech and Hearing Science from the University of Iowa. Her areas of interest include aphasia and adult neurogenic communication disorders and AAC. She has supervised and trained graduate students in conducting speech therapy, aphasia conversation groups and cognitive rehabilitation since 2013. As a speech-language pathologist, Carly has worked in a variety of settings including a transitional care unit, outpatient rehabilitation and public schools. Carly facilitates 4 MnCAN aphasia conversation groups (two in-person groups and two virtual group). She also facilitates the PPA Staying Connected Education & Support Program. Carly loves supporting those with communication disorders through a person-centered approach and is thrilled to be part of the MnCAN Team. www.mncan.orghttp://www.mncan.orgEnjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it for just $5 via www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Brisa's story has been featured by several media outlets including; The Doctors TV Show, The Washington Post, Woman's World Magazine, FOX, NBC, CBS, and her #1 International bestselling book "Limitless." She also recently had the opportunity to become a TEDx speaker! However, while she believes that all this recognition is nice, this is NOT why she shares her story. It was nine years ago when she experienced a Brain Stem Stroke. As a result of the stroke she developed “Locked-in Syndrome” at 32 years old. Brisa was locked in her body and unable to communicate while facing the seemingly insurmountable odds of a less than 1% chance to recover. With less than 5 cases of L.I.S. reported each year WORLD WIDE, she was finding it very difficult to to remain hopeful. But through a series of small actionable steps, Brisa was able to defy all expectations and made a full recovery! Now, her passion lies in sharing her story to help others who may also feel stuck or locked in their circumstances. www.pinkymoves.comFind her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47N5hSqEnjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it with $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Cynthia, a skilled psychotherapist and social worker for 45 years, is a survivor of several car accidents over 55 years, causing whiplash and more severe brain injuries. In 2006 a surprise brain surgery at Stanford caused her to experience losses in her professional and personal realms, and she wants to help others to do better than merely cope with the effects of such trauma. Author of "The Courage to Trust" and guided visualizations. www.cynthiawall.comFind her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47W6y9q Enjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it with just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Dr. Michael Hennes is a Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine and Board-Certified Chiropractic Neurologist at The Neural Connection. He received his Doctorate in Chiropractic from Northwestern Health Sciences University, graduating with both his Doctorate and Bachelors’s in Human Biology. Prior to this, he studied Human Biology at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Dr. Hennes currently holds a Diplomate in Functional Neurology from the American Chiropractic Neurology Board and is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist through the Brain Injury Association of America. He has completed thousands of hours of additional post-graduate coursework. He has a special interest in neurological rehabilitation, neurochemistry, and nutrition and working with traumatic brain injury, concussion, vestibular disorders, and migraine disorders. https://theneuralconnection.com/about-us/Enjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it with just $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Leigh Ankrum, the founder and director of the Ankrum Institute, is a craniosacral therapist and bodywork practitioner with 34 years of experience in teaching and private practice. Ankrum’s ability to bring decades of experience and education into a synergistic whole is the basis of the Institute’s curriculum. After training around the world - including studies in Germany, Canada, the United Kingdom and the USA - Ankrum brought together multiple systems and styles into one comprehensive program. Her knowledge of anatomy and physiology is deepened by her holistic understanding of the body’s organizing principles. By teaching manual therapy with myofascial work, visceral manipulation and craniosacral therapy, the Ankrum Institute trains students to become holistic, integrative practitioners. It is a fundamental change in bodywork that brings body systems together, practitioner and client together, and teacher and student together - fostering true partnership that leads to increased wellness. www.AnkrumInstitute.comEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it for $5 through www.buymeacoffee.com/amyz
Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. In her 30+year career working with family members and caregivers, Lisa has taught them how to successfully navigate the many challenges that accompany this heartbreaking disease. Lisa is both a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is also a certified dementia care trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a degree in Human Behavior. Her latest book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces” continues Skinner’s quest of working with dementia-related illnesses and teaching families and caregivers how to better understand the daunting challenges of brain disease. Her #1 Best-seller book “Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost,” was written at their urging. As someone who has had eight family members diagnosed with dementia, Lisa Skinner has found her calling in helping others through the struggle they can have a better-quality relationship with their loved ones through education and offering workshops on counter-intuitive solutions and tools to help people effectively manage the symptoms of brain disease. Lisa Skinner has appeared on many national and regional media broadcasts. Lisa helps explain behaviors caused by dementia, encourages those who feel burdened, and gives practical advice for how to respond. Purchase her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3sEeKf3Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain CentersPlease consider supporting the podcast for just $5 month with a Patreon membership.
Deborah Charnes, one of the first bilingual certified yoga therapists, traveled the world to learn from a diverse group of gurus how to foster optimal well-being. She vowed to never stop learning—or sharing those life lessons. Her book, “From the Boxing Ring to the Ashram,” features some of her favorite, easy and accessible tools. Deborah has lived, worked, and studied in the U.S., Latin America, and Italy. A travel blogger since the early WordPress days, she has published 500 mind/body and lifestyle articles.
Purchase her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3qVy6vJ
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Please consider supporting the podcast for just $5 month with a Patreon membership.
Ethan was facing a mathematical equation of 99% of death vs 1% of life with a high-risk surgery at Lancaster General Hospital. Ethan woke up and was declared a walking living miracle. Ethan graduated from Harrisburg Area Community College & Millersville University with a bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications. He received two Pennsylvania Commonwealth Citations, from Lancaster City Officials. He was Featured Front page of the Lancaster Newspaper (LNP), Inspirational story on WGAL TV, Millersville University the Snapper Newspaper, & The Southeast Times Newspaper of Lancaster, Pa, WiTF radio of Harrisburg, Pa. Ethan is the CEO & Founder of Ethan A. Poetic,LLC to empower people towards overcoming their adversities & hardships. He's currently a keynote speaker, life coach, Two-time college graduate, Self-Published Author, & former member of the International Lions Club. His Autobiography is titled "The Inspirational Story of Ethan A. Poetic: Chronicles of Adversities, Education, Sports, Relationships, & Resiliency." https://ethanspeaks.com/Purchase his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Pm4C3kEpisode brought to you by: Integrated Brain CentersPlease consider supporting the podcast for just $5 month with a Patreon membership.
Elizabeth (“Liz”) Barbin is a Speech-Language Pathologist at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network’s Portsmouth, NH location. Since joining the organization nearly 10 years ago, she has helped thousands of individuals who have experienced changes in their voice, speech, language, cognition and swallowing as a result of an acute acquired brain injury due to traumatic and non-traumatic causes as well as progressive neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease. Liz provides custom care for each individual based on their unique circumstances. She is a contributing member of the organization’s Stroke Core Team and was the lead facilitator for the hospital’s stroke support group for more than five years. Liz earned her Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of New Hampshire, is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist, and is a registered Modified Barium Swallow Study clinician (MBSImP). Before finding her way to Speech Therapy, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from The Hartt School of Music-University of Hartford. https://www.northeastrehab.com
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Please consider supporting the podcast for $5 a month with a Patreon membership
Tricia Desrocher joined Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network in New Hampshire more than 35 years ago. A Physical Therapist by Training, Tricia also has a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration and specialty certification in Stroke Rehabilitation. She has dedicated her career to the organization, its patients and to advancing brain injury care. This included providing patient care and staff mentorship at all four of the Network’s acute inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, serving as the Director of Program Development for the Brain Injury program and overseeing The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Brain Injury. All four hospitals initially achieved this certification in 2013 and have achieved recertification at every review since then. Today, she is the Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Planning for the Network, which also includes 20+ outpatient clinics and a Home Care division. She continues to sit on the Board of the Brain Injury Association of NH and is also a member of the Advisory Council for the Brain Injury Association of Maine. In her free time, Tricia also volunteers in her hometown community and enjoys time with her family. https://www.northeastrehab.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Please consider supporting this podcast for $5 a month with a Patreon membership
Zoe McLean, MS,OTR/L, CSRS, CBIS is an Occupational Therapist at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital, an Inpatient Acute Rehabilitation Hospital with four locations in New Hampshire. Zoe has achieved significant specialty milestones as a Certified Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist (CSRS) and Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS). She works with adults who have experienced life-changing health events such as a Stroke or Brain Injury. She is an active member of the Brain Injury Core Team and a fieldwork educator. She mentors clinical staff members across all disciplines and takes an active role in helping each patient achieve functional milestones and accomplish their goals while also advocating for essential resources to support their continued rehabilitation journey. Zoe is a leader in the area of behavior management and has presented on the topic at local conferences. She is also the New Hampshire Think First State Chapter Director where she focuses on educating youth about brain injury and brain injury prevention. Zoe graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy and a Minor in Psychology. There, she was also a member of the Division I Women’s Gymnastics team. https://www.northeastrehab.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Please consider supporting this podcast for $5 a month with a Patreon membership
Wendy Jeffco MS, RDN, LD, CNSC is currently the Clinical Nutrition Manager for Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network (NRHN). Since joining NRHN in 2012, Wendy has been providing nutrition support and nutrition education to our patients. Her areas of specialty include traditional nutrition support, as well as nutrition education for various conditions, including all types of brain injuries. She has a master’s degree in nutritional science and is certified as a nutrition support clinician. Wendy is also a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and the New Hampshire Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. https://www.northeastrehab.com
This episode is brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it with a Patreon membership for just $5 a month
All of us want to keep our memory and other brain functions as we age. New research offers promise for preventing cognitive decline by suggesting that non-invasive, non-harmful electrical stimulation of different brain centers can enhance short- and long-term memory. Guy is the Co-Founder of CerebralFit Brain, a bioelectric medicine device company that translates the latest medical research into solutions for lifetime optimal brain health. They're taking on chronic conditions like dementia, anxiety, depression, ADHD, macular degeneration, pain, and more and are succeeding where conventional medicine has failed to treat these conditions. Guy is also the Founder of Bhakti Wellness Center, one of the largest, most diverse integrative medicine clinics in the US, and Co-Founder of the first integrative medicine clinic in the university healthcare system at the University of Minnesota. His approach to brain health is informed by 30+ years of clinical experience specializing in treatment-resistant chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, and psycho-emotional trauma and the 14,000+ patients he has treated. https://cerebralfit.com/ https://bhakticlinic.comEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersPlease consider supporting this podcast for just $5 a month via Patreon
John D. Corrigan, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Ohio State University and Director of the Ohio Valley Center for Brain Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation. For the past 40 years he has treated and studied long-term outcomes of persons with traumatic brain injury. Dr. Corrigan is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation. He has been the PI and co-PI of the Ohio Regional Traumatic Brain Injury Model System since 1997 and chaired the Executive Committee of the TBI Model Systems Project Directors from 2007-2017. Since 2013 he has served as the Director of the Ohio Brain Injury Program, which is the designated lead agency in the state of Ohio for policy and planning related to living with brain injury. This position has provided a platform for translation of evidence on long-term outcomes to public policy. Dr. Corrigan is National Research Director for the Brain Injury Association of America and has previously served other national organizations, including CARF, the Injury Control Center at CDC, the Veterans Administration and the U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Health Board.Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersPlease consider supporting this podcast for $5 a month through a Patreon membership
After graduating from the University of Southern California, Sean successfully built two large businesses in public companies. He also found himself in the mixed martial arts world and became one of the first fight managers, representing big names in the field. However, Sean's fast-paced lifestyle took a toll on him, and in 2011, he suffered a massive stroke. He was left with a long road to recovery, but he never gave up. He believed in himself and worked tirelessly, day and night, to get back on his feet. Sean's journey has inspired him to launch Stroke Hacker, a program and community aimed at helping stroke survivors and individuals with traumatic brain injuries. Sean provides one-on-one coaching, encouraging survivors to face new challenges in their lives and helping them plan a recovery road map. www.strokehacker.comEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersConsider supporting this podcast for just $5 a month on Patreon.
Advocate, philanthropist, and writer Kristin Abello has made it her life’s mission to share her story with the world and is passionate about changing the narrative of the TBI community. Although every injury is different, there is a common thread that with faith, prayer and support, proper healing can take place. Kristin and her husband Raul are the parents of two wonderful boys, Jacob and Colin, and they currently reside in the city of Houston, Texas, with their Golden Retriever Lucy. https://www.kristinabello.com/Find Kristin's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3kAGzRBEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying the podcast? Consider supporting it for $5 a month on Patreon.
Dr. Perry Maynard is a board certified chiropractic neurologist that specializes in the management of complex neurological cases, including post concussive syndrome, vertigo, balance disorders, movement disorders, dysautonomia, and a variety of autoimmune conditions. Dr. Maynard also enjoys taking principles from cutting edge neuroscience and applying it to sports rehabilitation and overall human performance.Dr. Maynard first became interested in neurological rehabilitation after playing Division 1 college football for Eastern Illinois University, where he experienced multiple concussions and witnessed friends and teammates suffering without answers or options for treatment. Dr. Maynard began chiropractic school with a strong interest in both clinical neuroscience and sports medicine. Throughout his education, he was fortunate to intern with several neurorehabilitation clinics. this episode is brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it for $5 a month with a Patreon membership: www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
Dr. Perry Maynard is a board certified chiropractic neurologist that specializes in the management of complex neurological cases, including post concussive syndrome, vertigo, balance disorders, movement disorders, dysautonomia, and a variety of autoimmune conditions. Dr. Maynard also enjoys taking principles from cutting edge neuroscience and applying it to sports rehabilitation and overall human performance.Dr. Maynard first became interested in neurological rehabilitation after playing Division 1 college football for Eastern Illinois University, where he experienced multiple concussions and witnessed friends and teammates suffering without answers or options for treatment. Dr. Maynard began chiropractic school with a strong interest in both clinical neuroscience and sports medicine. Throughout his education, he was fortunate to intern with several neurorehabilitation clinics. this episode is brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it for $5 a month with a Patreon membership: www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
Dr. Michael DeStefano is a neuro-developmental optometrist practicing at Visual Symptoms Treatment Center in Arlington Heights, IL. Dr. DeStefano received his Bachelor of Science in biology and his Bachelor of Arts in Italian from Loyola University Chicago, where he graduated with high honors. He received his Doctor of Optometry degree from Midwestern University’s Chicago College of Optometry, where he was valedictorian of the school’s inaugural class, the founder and president of the university’s chapter of College of Optometrists in Vision Development, and a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa honor society. He finds gratification in regularly evaluating and rehabilitating patients who strive to return to their normal lives after a concussion or stroke, as well as in aiding children who have visual issues affecting their learning. Dr. DeStefano is a member of the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association and the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, as well as the Illinois Optometric Association. He is active in his community, having lectured to neuropsychologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and educators. In addition, he belongs to multiple online support groups for those who have suffered a TBI and those with other neurological visual conditions. visualsymptomstreatmentcenter.comEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it for just $5 a month with a Patreon membership: www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
Dr. Shane Steadman became a Chiropractic Neurologist in 2003 and is one of only a small handful of Chiropractic Neurologists in the entire state of Colorado. Dr. Steadman is the owner of Integrated Brain Centers in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Steadman is an expert in treating and supporting “tough cases” such as Concussions, Migraines, Vertigo, Peripheral Neuropathy, Autoimmune Conditions, Thyroid and Hormonal disorders and others.Brought to you by: Integrated Brain CentersSuppor the podcast on Patreon
Chuck Gollop grew up in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. Chuck was a policeman for nearly 25 years, and worked assignments ranging from 911 operator, patrol, SWAT, traffic, motors, and sergeant. After 2 serious on-duty injuries, he medically retired. Chuck became a standup comedian, traveling the country, telling jokes as a feature entertainer for most shows. Chuck sought a more rewarding career, that better leveraged his skill set; he became a realtor, and found a career that was perfect for him; in his first year, he was “Rookie of the Year” in his office of 140 agents, and won sales awards from all 3 brokerages he has worked with. He also volunteers for an organization that helps injured police officers. He loves food, travel, fitness, and pranking online scammers. He splits his time between Minnesota and Florida. www.callupgollup.comEpisode brought to you by: Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying the podcast? Support it for just $5 a month on Patreon.
Barbara Rubin writes this story of joy and sorrow mixed with humor and rage as both mother and advocate for her injured daughter, Jenn. Emotionally invested in this narrative, she had the advantage to write in raw detail about the triumphs and heartbreaks that follow her main character. She witnessed first-hand the battles that come when a person is the most vulnerable, but also saw the gift of human kindness and the difference it can make in another person’s life. She lived the story; it was hers to tell. Barbara hopes that her journey, lived through her daughter’s injury, will help others understand the lessons that can be learned from tolerance and gives hope to families whose path has also been darkened by tragedy. https://barbararubinauthor.comBuy her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TOz7yPEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CenterSupport the podcat on Patreon
Spencer Bishins has a master’s degree from the London School of Economics, and a law degree from Florida State University. After law school, he worked in the private sector for two years prior to joining the Social Security Administration (SSA) in 2010. He worked at the Appeals Council for almost four years, reviewing thousands of disability decisions for compliance with SSA’s complex rules and procedures. He then worked at the hearing level for seven years, where he drafted almost 2,000 decisions for SSA Administrative Law Judges. After working for SSA for more than 10 years, he wanted to help demystify the complicated disability system. His first book, Social Security Disability Revealed: Why it’s so hard to access benefits and what you can do about it, explores the obstacles that disability claimants face as they try to access benefits. https://www.bishinspublishing.com/Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3N8soNsEpisode brought to you by Integrated Brain CentersEnjoying this podcast? Consider supporting for $5/month with a Patreon membership.
Bruce H. Stern is a shareholder and member of the Personal Injury Group of Stark & Stark. He concentrates his practice in the area of trucking and construction litigation, brain and spinal cord injuries, and wrongful death. He graduated cum laude from Duke University in 1977 and from Rutgers School of Law-Camden in 1981. Mr. Stern is a founding member and past chair of the Traumatic Brain Injury Litigation Group of AAJ. He also has served as chair of AAJ’s Motor Vehicle Collision, Highway & Premises Liability Section. He serves as Treasurer of the International Brain Injury Association and the North American Brain Injury Society. In 2009, he was elected president of the Belli Society. Mr. Stern was selected for induction into the International Society of Barristers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Mr. Stern is the author of numerous articles and a frequent lecturer on the subject of traumatic brain injury litigation, evidence and trial techniques. He also co-authored a book entitled Litigating Brain Injuries which is published by Thomson Reuters and a chapter entitled "Brain Injuries" which is included in Association of Trial Lawyers of America’s (ATLA) Litigating Tort Case Series, published by AAJ Press. Mr. Stern is certified as a Certified Civil Trial Attorney by both the New Jersey Supreme Court and the National Board of Trial Advocacy. www.braininjurylawblog.com
Episode brought to you by Integrate Brain Centers
Support this podcast for just $5 a month via Patreon.
Dr. Elamir is an Aviv Clinics physician with over 10 years of experience in Internal Medicine. Prior to joining Aviv Clinics, he spent five years practicing Internal Medicine at the MM Jersey City Breathing Center while owning and running his own medical spa in Jersey City, New Jersey. He graduated from Rutgers University prior to attending St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine. He completed his Internal Medicine Internship and Residency at RWJ-Barnabas: Jersey City Medical Center Program where he was Chief Resident and a member of the ethics committee. He is a Fellow of The American Board of Internal Medicine and The American Board of Aesthetic Medicine. www.aviv-clinics.com
This episode is brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Consider supporting for $5 a month on Patreon.
Kelly Lang, co-author of The Miracle Child: Traumatic Brain Injury and Me is a brain injury survivor and caregiver to her daughter who sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2001. Kelly is a member of the Brain Injury Association of America’s Advisory Council, serves on the Virginia Brain Injury Advisory Council, is co-leader of The TBI Advisory and Leadership Group, and former faculty member of the National Center for Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems (NCAPPS) Brain Injury Learning Collaborative. Kelly has presented at several conferences and webinars including the Administration for Community Living Stakeholder Day, association conferences, universities, and many others. Michael Lang is a vice president of a national association and his work includes written and published articles, guides, and manuals in the fields of transportation and the chemical industry. Michael is a featured speaker and presenter in various associations and organizations in the areas of environment, health, safety, security, and sustainability. He also serves on the board of a financial institution. Michael and Kelly live with their daughters, Olivia and Anya in Northern Virginia, while their eldest daughter Hannah also lives in the metropolitan area. www.themiraclechild.org
Brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Please consider supporting the podcast with a $5 Patreon membership.
Dr. Shaun Gregory Kornfeld is an experienced chiropractic neurologist and functional neurology practitioner. He has completed over 500 hours of postdoctoral training in neurology and hyperbaric medicine that has allowed him to help hundreds of patients from all over the world. He is the lead clinician at Plasticity Centers of Colorado where he manages the care of patients with complex neurological conditions including but not limited to post-concussive syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, mild cognitive impairment, traumatic brain injury, vertigo, hypoxic/anoxic brain injury, and developmental delay. www.plasticitycenters.com
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it for $5/month through our Patreon
Matthew Bennett was already working as an athletic therapist with NHL teams when Sidney Crosby suffered his career altering injury in 2011. Bennett had been treating various athletes, helping them to recover from injuries and began using his background in naturopathic medicine to treat concussion symptoms with very good results. After doing more research, he formulated and patented his own recovery products that have been used by performance nutritionists and individual players across the NHL®, NFL®, NBA® and AHL® as part of their player brain health recovery regimen.
Matthew Bennett continues to treat athletes and the general public at his practice in Vancouver, Active Solutions Medicine Clinic. He’s available for interviews on concussion management and recovery and can give tips on what to do if you think you have a concussion and ways to speed up the recovery process and support cognitive health going forward.
yourhavnlife.com
brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it on Patreon for just $5/month
Sherry is a music journalist and podcaster. In 2011, she was hit head-on in an auto accident and suffered a severe concussion and several injuries. Although she continues to struggle with multiple surgeries, she finds solace in creativity. https://linktr.ee/sherrythomasmusicjournalist
brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Consider supporting it on Patreon for just $5/month
Born and raised in rural Utah, Brandon Wright is a TBI survivor, motorcycle enthusiast and small business owner Brandon suffered a TBI in during his third year of college when he was hit while riding his motorcycle to class. After many years of treatment and countless doctor’s appointments he considers himself mostly recovered. As a marketing strategist and founder of Loud LLC Brandon works with companies of all sizes providing clients with search, social, and guerrilla marketing services. He believes that many TBI survivors can find solace by focussing on the progress that they have made, instead of seeking perfection. https://loudmarketing.co
Brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it on Patreon for just $5/month!
Arianna endured a concussion during her junior year of high school. Through persistence and determination, she recovered during 5 long years. She was 95% back to normal when she contracted coronavirus and everything changed. Today, she is still dealing with long COVID symptoms that are eerily similar to her post-concussion symptoms. While it is hard, She has a hopeful outlook for the future. As she was healing from my concussion, she needed a way to get out her emotions. she turned to writing. she wrote poems nearly every day. After she recovered, she compiled the poems and published her first book, Earthly Thoughts, in November of 2020.
Brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
If you're enjoying this podcast, please consider supporting it for $5/month on Patreon.
A chiropractic neurologist with more than a decade of experiences using gold-standard diagnostics and advanced therapeutics to develop individualized treatment plans for concussion, TBI and ABI. Dr. Hartman sustained a head trauma and herniated discs in high school. Soon after constant headaches impacted his concentration and brain function. Within a few months of non-invasive treatments from a chiropractor, he was back to normal, solidifying his commitment to becoming a healthcare professional. www.TheHartmanCenter.com
Brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
A founding partner of the law firm Bachus Schanker, Kyle Bachus limits his practice to representing individuals and families in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases nationwide.
www.kylebachus.com
Find Kyle's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/36ySisR
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it for just $5 a month on Patreon.
Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, Melissa Meszaros has set the precedent for breaking tropes and forging the way for the modern nomadic. As tenured entertainment industry publicist, Melissa is also the founder of Grrrl Front PDX Music Festival and the comic book publicity firm, Don’t Hide PR. She is a self-proclaimed grunge aficionado, graduate of Antioch University Los Angeles’ MFA in Creative Writing, and proudly shares a birthday with Melvins leader, Buzz Osborne.
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Enjoying this podcast? Please consider supporting it for just $5 a month with a Patreon membership: https://patreon.com/amyzellmer
For more than two decades, Trent McEntire has been helping people gain back their mobility – a story he knows well. Born with a mild form of Cerebral Palsy, Trent experienced pain and stiffness every day from the time he was a child. However, Trent's creative problem-solving abilities kicked in transforming his movement capabilities to participate in his love for sports.
What Trent discovered to repair his own body became the foundation for what would be his life’s work. He attended Western Michigan University where he received a BFA in Dance requiring studies n Movement Science and Training – Feldenkrais, Laban Movement Analysis, Bartenieff Fundamentals, Kinesiology and Anatomy. Trent pursued a career as a professional dancer where he performed on stages throughout the country and abroad.
As a movement professional, Trent saw a path where he could help others who had movement limitations. He opened up his studio as a way to work with clients and train other movement professionals in the work he had been practicing to repair his own limitations. For more than 20 years, Trent has taught his transformational neuro-movement methods and tools to thousands of clients and movement professionals across the globe.
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
DR. ERIC ZIELINSKI is the author of the national bestseller The Healing Power of Essential Oils and The Essential Oils Apothecary Dr. Z has pioneered natural living and biblical health education since 2003. Trained as an aromatherapist, public health researcher, and chiropractor, Dr. Z started NaturalLivingFamily.com in 2014 with his wife to help people learn how to use natural remedies like essential oils safely and effectively. Now visited by more than three million natural health seekers every year, NaturalLivingFamily.com has rapidly become the number one online source for biblical health and non-branded essential oils education. NaturalLivingFamily.com
Purchase his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3CejiYX
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Nikki, a NY state resident, has always been a proud and diligent worker. She’s served as an HVAC filtration salesperson, later starting her own company, then as a casino dealer, and most recently, as a pediatric nurse. She had suffered two traumatic brain injuries during her younger years, but it was the third TBI that suddenly changed everything. In a heartbeat, her life changed from one of optimism, vibrancy, enthusiasm, confidence, and extroversion, to one of constant pain, withdrawal, depression, and hopelessness. While trying to help administer a routine vaccine to a young boy, Nikki was thrown against the wall, suffering a significant TBI and cervical instability in the process in 2016. Nikki’s TBI has caused cognitive deficiencies, confusion, memory loss, anxiety, and pain. She found herself unable to work, unable to interact with others, and in a very dark place. None of the numerous traditional medications she’s tried helped, and if fact, their ghastly side effects left her even worse off.She had long since reached the end of her rope, when, on a whim, figuring she had nothing more to lose, she turned to cannabis. Www.Nikkiandtheplant.org
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Support the podcast on Patreon: www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
REID FORGRAVE has written about sports and other topics for GQ, the New York Times Magazine, and Mother Jones, among other publications. His specialty is long-form, narrative storytelling. He has covered college football and the NFL, as well as college and professional basketball and the Summer Olympics, for Fox Sports and CBS Sports, and he currently writes for the Star Tribune in Minneapolis. The article in which he first wrote about Zac Easter is included in Best American Sports Writing 2018. A past life found him working at The Des Moines Register in Iowa as well as several other metropolitan newspapers. Forgrave lives in Minneapolis with his wife and two sons. www.reidforgrave.com
Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3vSQ8Mm
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Support the podcast on Patreon: www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
In October 2016 while on a surfing holiday overseas, Donna Masing fell off a wave and the tail of her own board collided with her temple. The force of that impact broke bones in her neck and rattled her brain from side to side, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. Upon returning home to Australia, Donna was unable to run her business, a sports massage clinic in Northern NSW where she attended to Australia’s surfing elite and other professional athletes. She had difficulty speaking, walking, coping with groups of people, bright lights, had limited thinking capacity and could not focus on anything for any great deal of time. Doctors assured her that it would all pass and soon life would return to normal. However these things did not pass, in fact many symptoms got worse.
In 2019 Donna was named the Northern Rivers NSW Business Chamber Outstanding Business Leader and went on to be a State Finalist. Donna has consulted for international Doctors, Physical Therapists and Concussion Specialists on how to communicate with their TBI patients, she has presented at medical conferences, been on speaking panels at events and was featured on the front pages of both the Tweed Daily Newspaper and The Tweed Valley Weekly. She is currently writing a book about her experiences on the other side of treatment table and is starting an innovative new company to help more people get access to the therapy that changed her life. https://globalperformancetherapy.com/about-us/
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Support this podcast on Patreon for just $5/month www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
A marathoner and triathlete, in 1990 Dr. Mikal-Flynn survived a sudden-death event requiring twenty-two minutes of CPR to return to life. Already a nurse practitioner and dismayed at the focus of her recovery and what was presented in the aftermath of her trauma, her mind emphasized the negative, painting a bleak future. However, her master’s and doctoral research focused on posttraumatic growth (PTG) and she created a strength-based clinical pathway guiding survivors toward a productive recovery and PTG. A Professor at CSUS, she speaks nationally and internationally on trauma, focusing on resilience and PTG. With multiple publications, her work and research continue to provide strength and hope for those who suffer in the aftermath of trauma.
Dr. Mikal-Flynn received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of San Francisco, a Nurse Practitioner Certificate from the University of California, Davis, and her Master’s of Science in Nursing at Sacramento State University, publishing the thesis: “A Phenomenological Investigation of Near-Death Event Survivors.” She completed her Doctor of Education with a dissertation entitled: “Transforming Life Crisis: Stories of Metahabilitation After Catastrophic Life Events.” Her book: "Anatonmy of a Survivor: Building Resilience, Grit, and Growth After Trauma" is available on Amazon.
Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3gEnIAV
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Kristin Moran is an educator, writer, and concussion-advocate living in Portland, OR. Her work has appeared in Entropy Magazine, Getting Smart, and Scholastic Administrator. She is currently working on a memoir about her concussion recovery. She lives with her husband, daughter, and a slew of rescue animals.
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Support the podcast on Patreon
I am a TBI survivor, stay-at-home mom, author of the blog "Beacon of Hope: A Resource for Holistic Healing from Traumatic Brain Injury," and an avid cyclist with a background in exercise physiology. In 2012, a distracted driver hit me while I was riding my bike. I sustained numerous injuries, including a concussion. The concussion quickly became trigeminal neuralgia and post-concussion syndrome and the symptoms forced me to abandon my Ph.D. program. After almost a year and a half of mismanagement, two surgeries on my head, and countless different injections and medications, I was fortunate to find treatments that led to my recovery. Since then, I sustained three more TBIs, one of which was accompanied by two intracranial hemorrhages. In those cases, I was able to use what I had learned the first time around to fully heal in a short period. Now, I believe I am healthier than I’ve ever been and hope to share what I’ve learned with as many people as possible. https://beaconofhopetbi.com/
Episode brought to you by: wwhttp://www.integratedbraincenters.com
Once you are told you are dying, you can’t help but live a more purposeful life—A life where you take nothing for granted and find the joy in every moment. I have made it my life’s goal to help everyone live their best life. I believe that I can help you find an all-natural supplement to help you reach your health and happiness goals. I also know that with my life coaching certification, I can help you discover your purpose, learn to dream again and move towards those dreams, help you build your business or grow in your career by setting long term goals and daily steps to move you toward your goals, overcome the hurdles that prevent you from achieving continued financial and success growth (hitting a goal and then sliding back to where you started), and truly start living the life of your dreams NOW, not in some far off future. https://www.kristybarkley.com/
Episode sponsored by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Hyla Cass is nationally recognized expert and educator in integrative medicine and psychiatry. She is board-certified in psychiatry and neurology (ABPN) as well as in integrative and holistic medicine (ABIHM), She has appeared on The Dr. Oz Show, The View, numerous radio shows, and podcasts. She is the author of several popular books including: Natural Highs;, The Addicted Brain and How to Break Free;, and 8 Weeks to Vibrant Health. She prescribes specialized nutritional supplements for addiction recovery, tapering off psychiatric medication, and for enhancing mind, mood, memory and energy. Her most recent addition is her specialized line of hemp oil extract/CBD, which works in a variety of ways to enhance brain function. Dr. Cass graduated from the University of Toronto School of Medicine, interned at Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, and completed a psychiatric residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center/UCLA School of Medicine. She is a former Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA School of Medicine, and resides in Los Angeles area. www.cassmd.com.
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
In this episode, Faces of TBI founder and podast host, Amy Zellmer, shares her top 10 concussion misconceptions and myths.
Amy Zellmer is an award-winning author, speaker, and traumatic brain injury survivor. Addtitionally she is Editor-in-chief of The Brain Health Magazine. She is a frequent contributor to the Huffington Post and also produces a podcast series for survivors and caregivers called Faces of TBI (available on iTunes). Her first book, Life With a Traumatic Brain Injury: Finding the Road Back to Normal received a silver medal award at the Midwest Book Awards. She travels the country to help raise awareness about this silent and invisible injury that affects 3.8 Million Americans each year.
Find her book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2gUjU1J
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Bagnell has been in practice for 31 years in South Florida. He has a personal history with a family member who suffered a brain injury in the 70's which is one factors that motivates him to help others recover and families navigate the difficulties of brain injury recovery. He has developed a unique Brain Resilience Camp in which he combines land and water based neuroscience activities with dolphins to enhance brain recovery. www.bagnellbraincenter.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Jodi Sternoff Cohen is a bestselling author, award-winning journalist, functional practitioner and founder of Vibrant Blue Oils, where she has combined her training in nutritional therapy and aromatherapy to create unique proprietary blends of organic and wild-crafted essential oils. She has helped over 50,000 clients heal from brain related challenges, including anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmunity. For the past ten years, she has lectured at wellness centers, conferences, and corporations on brain health, essential oils, stress, and detoxification. She has been seen in The New York Times, Wellness Mama, Elephant Journal and numerous publications. Her website, vibrantblueoils.com, is visited by over 300,000 natural health seekers every year, and she has rapidly become a top resource for essential oils education on the Internet today. https://vibrantblueoils.com/
brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Jennifer is the Founder & CEO of entertainment news platform, Press Pass LA. She also launched PPLA Social + PR to provide clients with services in public relations, social media, branding, digital marketing and experiential events. Jennifer has over 17 years of experience in the entertainment and communications industry. Her career spans work in TV and film development & production, talent management and senior positions at top PR and creative agencies including Jones Social PR and Rogers and Cowan. She has worked with both consumer and B2B clients in entertainment, lifestyle, healthcare, politics, and technology. PPLA offers the combined knowledge of traditional public relations, digital media, content creation and branding under one roof. At her core, Jennifer is a storyteller and seeks clients whose stories resonate with her. https://www.presspassla.com/
episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
JULIANNA HARPINE was a gymnast since she was a child. Several concussions caused severe headaches and pain, such that she was ready to take her own life. She describesthe feeling of two cinder blocks constantly banging on her head. Julianna was able to return to school and finish her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Belmost University in Nashville, Tn.. She nowresides inPA. She is a cast member of Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain available for rent on Amazon.
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
ANDREW MARR, Sergeant First Class & Special Forces Green Beret, is the Co-Founder of the Warrior Angels Foundation, and co-author of Tales from the Blast Factory. His two tours in Afghanistan left him with PTSD and TBI's from the blast trauma, as he was a breacher blowing up buildings with explosives. He is currently off all pharmaceutical medications and is completely sober. He is a cast member of Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain avaiable for rent on Amazon.
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Vanessa is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and best-selling author of the book Bounce Back: Reclaim Your Life After a Concussion. She shifted from a career in education to holistic health and coaching after her own experience with a traumatic brain injury. Vanessa coaches people who are working to rebuild their lives after concussion through her Bounce Back program in which she compassionately guides survivors through the process to feel healthy, whole, capable and confident again. She lives in Toronto, Canada with her husband and three teenagers who are all looking forward to the days when we can travel again! www.vanessawoodburn.ca
Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3e9z8Lw
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
KEVIN FLIKE, Special Forces Engineer assigned to the 1st Special Forces Group and deployed to the Philippines, Thailand and twice to Afghanistan was shot and almost died. The severe pain he endured and the tragedy of not having the use of his leg caused severe PTSD. Kevin went back to school and got his MBA at MIT and Harvard and completely surprised his wife. He now has his life back and resides in Boston, MA. He is a cast member of Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain available for rent on Amazon.
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
JERRI SHER is a 2-time EMMY Award-winning filmmaker. A member of the DGA since 1998, she has completed 22 film and television projects. LIVE LIFE (healing through alternative medicine) the 12-part TV series has just been bought by Discovery Communications and will air in 2020. Her short film STEP UP is part of a presentation SANTA MONICA CARES which she created for City/TV Santa Monica and the Director’s Guild of America and garnered her the EMMYS. She is the director/producer of Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain ... available for rent on Amazon.
Episode brought to you by; Integrated Brain Centers
ALAN SHER was in prolonged surgery at the age of 50, undergoing a quadruple bypass after a severe heart attack. He lost his short term memory and had brain impairment being in surgery for 8+ hours (the brain did not get enough oxygen). He is also a cast member of Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain ... available for rent on Amazon.
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Billy McLaughlin is recognized internationally as a world-class guitarist, Emmy Award winning composer and inspirational keynote speaker who has appeared on Billboard’s Top-Ten Chart. Previously signed to Virgin Records’ Narada label, McLaughlin has 14 CD releases, 3 National Campus Entertainer of the Year Awards, 5 Minnesota Music Awards and his decades of national concert touring earned him the Hall of Fame Achievement Award.
But in 1999 McLaughlin vanished from sight as his career crumbled due to a little-known neuro-muscular disorder called Focal Dystonia. After suffering several years without a cure or even a diagnosis, this right-handed guitarist embarked on an unlikely attempt to regain his career by re-learning his instrument….left-handed!
His remarkable comeback is in the KPBS (San Diego) produced 2013 Emmy Award winning live concert program called Starry Night – Billy McLaughlin with Orchestra Nova highlighting McLaughlin’s extraordinary talent as both guitarist and international inspirational speaker. Now serving as Ambassador for Awareness for the Dystonia Medical Research Foundation, McLaughlin is the winner of the 2010 Public Leadership in Neurology Award** whose previous winners include Paul Allen, Julie Andrews, Leon Fleischer, and Michael J. Fox.
Find Billy's music at: www.billymclaughlin.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
MARK RYPIEN was the Super Bowl XXVI MVP winner and quarterback for the WashingtonRedskins. After a stellar career playing football Rypien suffered severe traumatic brain injury and PTSD. He is one of the cast of the movie Quiet Explosions: Healing the Brain available for rent on Amazon.
Episode sponsored by: Integrated Brain Centers
In September 2012, celebrity Nutrition and Fitness Expert JJ Virgin got the call that every parent dreads: her 16-year-old son, Grant, had been the victim of a horrific hit-and-run. His injuries were so severe and his chances of survival so slim that doctors told his family to let Grant die. JJ decided to stop listening to the odds and start expecting miracles instead.
Warrior Mom tells the moving story of JJ, Grant, and their community as they made the journey from tragedy to healing. This powerful and uplifting memoir offers you an intimate look into the heart and mind of a mother battling for both her son and her own future, plus the lessons she learned that are crucial to a healthy, resilient mindset.
If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety or indecision or wondered how to hold onto hope in the face of a crisis, this inspiring book will help you define what it takes to stay strong and positive. Find out the pivotal moments in JJ’s past that helped her make the tough calls, plus the insight she gained from turning her worst nightmare into an opportunity to grow and thrive. www.jjvirgin.com
Purchase her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3n9iNHU
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Kathryn Bertine built her professional cycling career as a three-time Caribbean Champion, six-time national champion of St. Kitts and Nevis (SKN) and five-year veteran of professional cycling, who rode with UCI domestic and World Tour teams Colavita, Wiggle-Honda, BMW, and Cylance Pro Cycling. Off the bike, she has been an ESPN contributor and senior editor for ESPNW and author of three nonfiction books, All the Sundays Yet to Come (Little, Brown), As Good As Gold (ESPN/RandomHouse), and The Road Less Taken (Triumph Books). As an advocate for equality in women’s sports, Bertine started the social activism movement Le Tour Entier in an effort to bring parity to women’s professional road cycling, starting with the Tour de France. She and her team succeeded, and the women's field was included in 2014 with the addition of La Course by Tour de France. Her award-winning documentary, HALF THE ROAD: The passion, pitfalls and power of women’s professional cycling gives a glimpse into the trials women face in this sport. In 2017, she founded and currently serves as CEO for Homestretch Foundation, a 501c3 which provides free housing to female professional athletes struggling with the gender pay gap. A native of Bronxville, NY she lives in Tucson, AZ. She holds a BA from Colgate University and an MFA from the University of Arizona. https://www.kathrynbertine.com/
Link to her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/389lnJG
episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Mallory Fox is a native Phoenician & business owner of Foxy FIT where she helps busy people make time for self care through mindful movement. Mallory loves to use her educational background as a Doctor of Health Science to bring evidence-based programming to her clients. She is also passionate about giving back to her community, learning new skills, and raising awareness of traumatic brain injury. After experiencing a TBI in 2018, Mallory's life changed completely. Today she strives to help others foster resilience and increase understanding. Most importantly, to bring HOPE. One way that Mallory gives back to her community is through a FREE mindful minute texting service to help people incorporate one minute of mindfulness a day with a daily text to reduce stress and increase resilience. Text MINDFUL to 480-531-9810 to join! https://www.befoxyfit.com
episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Dawn F. Landry is an award-winning and respected business professional. She has spent over half of her 27-year career in Houston's corporate real estate industry, excelling in business development and marketing leadership positions within the region's largest economic development organization, as well as international commercial construction companies. In February 2017, Dawn founded Authentizity, LLC, as an independent B2B growth strategist and a Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths® Coach to provide consulting, training, and coaching services that optimize technical teams' engagement and productivity. www.dawnflandry.com
If you're enjoying the podcast series, consider supporting us on Patreon http://www.patreon.com/amyzellmer
episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Sharik Peck, PT, MRC Founder/CEO Sharik has advanced degrees in physical therapy and counseling. • Over 27 years helping people eliminate pain from their lives. • Sharik experienced several disabling accidents, including a broken neck and back, a stroke, a dislocated shoulder, and years of chronic pain. • Sharik’s wife suffered from chronic neck pain. • Out of these experiences and an intense desire to help many others in chronic pain, it drove him to figure out a natural solution for pain. • His research focused on resonance and its effect on the human nervous system. The Pain Tuner Pro is the result of over 9 years of research and development. • Awarded 3 patents • Our motto: “Tune Out Pain. Tune Into Life.” • 10 preset levels of intensity • 4 continuous play algorithms or pattern programs to tap gently into the nervous system • Fascia blasting wings to wake up and settle down the nervous system, delivering sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue, to eliminate pain, increase blood flow and restore motion. This massaging technique combined with our patent-pending resonance algorithms provides gentle and effective healing frequencies for the CNS. Sharik has 7 children and a happy wife to answer the phone if you have questions. www.rezzimax.com
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Center
Dr. Moore is a cognitive psychologist for LearningRx in Colorado Springs, CO at the headquarters of the largest network of brain training centers in the world. She specializes in cognitive rehabilitation training and cognition assessment for neurodevelopmental disorders, brain injury, learning disabilities, and age-related cognitive decline. Dr. Moore also serves as VP of Research at Gibson Institute of Cognitive Research. Her brain training research has been published in peer-reviewed medical and psychology journals and presented at conferences around the country. She is also Editor-in-Chief of Modern Brain Journal and is a board-certified Christian counselor. www.LearningRx.com and www.amymoorephd.com
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
My name is Sheri mcintyre I’m 56 I had an AVM rupture in my cerebellum. This Happened 4 yrs ago.I a had a craniotomy, (Hemmoragic Stroke,TBI,invisible-illness) now mostly physical. My speach has been effected yet understandable! (I sound southern) constant Dizziness feeling that never goes away. My Equilibrium is way off. I wrote a book titled compassionate snob. This was my recovery project i didn't realize this at the time! It gave me a way to be productive! As I cannot work due to my illness. I HATE Not working so I’m making up my own thing!
Find Sheri's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/38yS1og
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Zimmerman is a Nurse Practitioner and Chiropractor in Meridian Idaho. Over the last 8 years he has helped individuals regain their lives from a variety of neurological and autoimmune conditions and symptoms using integrative therapies. These include but are not limited to concussion, TBI, stroke, learning disabilities, and vertigo. www.IdahoBrainandBody.com
This episode is brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
My name is Jim Masterson, and I am the Director of Sports Medicine, and The Concussion Center at Excela Health in Greensburg, PA. We have an extremely busy concussion program, seeing local high school and collegiate athletes, as well those community members injured in motor vehicle, slip and fall, work related incidents etc. While my initial interest was in sports concussion, I have grown increasingly fond of seeing our adult population with ongoing persistent post concussive symptoms (PPCS). This group of patients is so misunderstood, and so need appropriate medical evaluation, treatment, and compassion. We have a team of athletic trainers, physical therapists, vestibular therapists, speech therapists, vision therapists, counselors, neuro chiropractors, EMDR therapists, yoga/meditation instructors and many more working together to improve outcomes, understanding, and general well-being for these individuals. Over the past several years we have started a well-attended support group for PPCS patients and their significant others, as well as a private face book page. We have nearly completed the process of starting a non-profit organization, The Westmoreland County Concussion Awareness Group. The ultimate goal is to improve the understanding of this invisible injury, and to increase available resources to promote neuroplasticity and healing. https://www.facebook.com/ExcelaHealth
This episode is brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Amanda grew up in Maine and studied archaeology at Boston University before serving eight years in the United States Navy. She later obtained a culinary arts Grand Diplome from Le Cordon Bleu, masters from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism and studied wine while living in France. She is a 2x Ironman triathlete, 19x marathoner and has climbed four of the world’s seven summits. Amanda works in media, is a frequent traveler and having a complex history of TBI, neck injury and post concussion syndrome, raises awareness around recovery and adaptation.
Episode brought to you by; Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Tatiana Habanova is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist practicing in Wellington, Florida. She is the Clinical Director of Palm Beach Brain Center, a premier state of the art NeuroPerformance and Concussion Clinic providing non-invasive Brain-Based healthcare using a Functional Neurology approach. Dr. Habanova is very passionate about female brain health and coaches women in their healing journey from overcoming neuro fatigue to creating better brain health. This stems from her own struggles recovering from three brain injuries (viral meningitis and two concussions) upon which she vowed to set a new standard in female brain health and recovery. www.drhabanova.com
Resources: https://www.drhabanova.com/equestrian-concussion
Cognitive Assesment: https://www.drhabanova.com/cognitive-assessment
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
My name is Kelsey Boyer and I am 27 years young. I am from originally from Pennsylvania and currently reside in Salt Lake City, Utah. I've spent most of my life following my passion of being a slopestyle competitive snowboarder in high hopes of competing in the Olympics. During 2016, I sustained a TBI which resulted in immediate brain surgery. My life drastically changed and I had to find myself & my purpose while dealing with bad post concussion symptoms. This led me to create my new non-profit, Save A Brain. I spend my winters traveling around and following the snow to places like Japan, Canada and all over America. I now coach for an all female progression camp. Yoga, mountain biking, surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding bring me peace because I get to play outside all day. Being in nature truly has been one of my healers. My family & friends mean everything to me and I wouldn't be here today without them. My brain injury truly reassessed how I live my life from sleeping, eating and self-love. At the end of the day, we only get one brain! www.saveabraininc.com
Episode brought to you by Integrated Brain Centers
Kristina Kotlus is the author of "I Quit: Facing Cancer with Faith, Family & Friends" (Morgan James Publishing, 2020) and the host of the "Y'all Should Be Friends" podcast. Kristina is a two-time cancer survivor—she was first diagnosed with brain cancer at age 28 and "relapsed" four years later when it had metastasized to her spine. She has a degree in Comparative Religion from George Mason University by way of Holy Cross College. Her writing has been published in numerous magazines and newspapers, as well as on her own website, PwcMoms. Kristina was recognized as Blogger of the Year in Northern Virginia, 40 Under 40 in Northern Virginia, and an Influential Woman in Prince William County, Virginia. She currently resides in Manassas, Virginia, with her husband and three children, whom she homeschools. www.kristinakotlus.com
Episode brought to you by: www.integratedbraincenters.com
Avivit is the Founder and Clinical Director at Great Speech, Inc, founded in 2014. She trailblazed virtual access to speech therapy, allowing anyone who is committed to improving their communication to receive expert services--regardless of location or scheduling limitations. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, the US News and World Report, the Miami Herald, and more. When Avivit was 14 years old, her family immigrated to the United States. At the time, she didn’t speak English, and she struggled to communicate at school. This inspired her to help other people avoid the frustrations she experienced. However, after working as a speech therapist for over a decade, she saw countless situations where people could not access the therapeutic services they needed. Traditional methods of therapy didn’t integrate easily with modern-day lifestyles. Avivit began experimenting with technology to deliver speech therapy entirely online. Not only did this allow greater convenience, but it also enabled her to hire the best therapists in the country and leverage a highly personalized client-to-therapist pairing process. Now, Great Speech employs over 50 therapists and serves over thousands of clients with varying areas of focus, including Traumatic Brain Injury. www.greatspeech.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
My undergrad degree was in Psychobiology with a minor in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I received my graduate degree with a double major in Clinical and Experimental Psychology. I then worked as a psychologist in a Child and Family Outpatient Clinic in St. Petersburg, Florida for four years. This was followed by medical school and a residency in Family Practice. I've been doing Integrative Medicine for over 30 years. I founded Cincinnati Hyperbarics 20 years ago and have treata wide variety of conditions. www.colecenter.com
episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Holly’s path forever changed, when at the age of 18 she sustained a life-changing traumatic brain injury, as a result of a motor vehicle crash. Significant challenges followed, during her ongoing recovery.
Through faith, determination, tenacity, a positive attitude, and a great sense of humor, Kostrzewski graduated college with honors, went on to earn a Master’s degree in Public Health, and is currently writing her dissertation to complete a PhD in Public Health/Community Health. Ironically, Holly works in traffic safety for the State of Minnesota. In 2014, Holly’s family faced a new challenge.
After taking a break of nearly a decade from public speaking to concentrate on her career and graduate school, Holly is back with a new perspective based on living with a brain injury over time. Through her frank and entertaining presentations, Holly will explain the challenges she has encountered in living with a brain injury including challenges related to working, dating, seizures, and how grief and trauma have affected her life. Holly will also review how she faced the issues and helped herself succeed. In addition, Holly will share the journey she and her family have traveled through her traumatic brain injury and resulting fractured self, and her father’s spinal cord injury, hospitalization, rehab, and associated every day challenges for her father and her family. https://www.hopehumorinspiration.com/
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Shelley Kaplar PhD is the owner of Vitality Optimizer and creator of the Kaplar Method. This method works to break the symptomatic cycle of chronic illness and brain injuries. Her 3 favorite seasons are Summer, golf, and football. www.vitalityoptimizer.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Trinka has studied extensively in the fields of vision and health. After receiving a Bachelor of Science from University of Illinois, he went on to graduate from the Illinois College of Optometry as a Doctor of Optometry. He furthered his education by obtaining a degree as a Certified Nutritionist. In addition, he is a Syntonic optometrist and a member of the College of Syntonic Optometry. This is a group of dedicated doctors who use specific frequencies of light to help many health, learning, brain, and eye conditions. He also has studied with the top clinicians in the country in numerous areas including thyroid dysfunction, autoimmunity, blood chemistry interpretation, and gastro intestinal imbalances. Dr. Trinka is a neurological optometrist and a member of NORA (Neuro Optometric Rehabilitation Organization) who uses his neurological background to help people with concussion and brain injuries. He also is a member of the International Association of Functional Neurology and Rehabilitation. Dr. Trinka is passionate about educating people about the details of the eye-brain connection in order to guide them through the process of balancing and rebuilding vision-brain function. He works with patients in the Denver, Colorado area and around the United States and enjoys hiking with his family and living in the natural beauty of the mountains while still being close enough to Denver to take advantage of its cultural opportunities. www.eyebrainconnection.com
This episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Perry Maynard is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist that specializes in the management of complex neurological cases, including Post Concussive Syndrome, Vertigo, Balance Disorders, Movement disorders, Dysautonomia, and a variety of Autoimmune conditions. Dr. Maynard has extensive education and training in Concussion rehabilitation, vestibular rehabilitation, and Neuro-immunology. He first became interested in neurological rehabilitation after playing Division 1 college football for Eastern Illinois University, where he experienced multiple concussions and witnessed friends and teammates suffering without answers or options for treatment.This is why he has dedicated his professional life to helping those suffering from traumatic brain injuries
episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Eaves is a licensed Chiropractic Physician from Beaumont, TX. Dr. Eaves received his bachelors in Exercise Physiology from the University of Arkansas at Monticello where he played college baseball, and later coached for one year. He received his Chiropractic Degree from Parker University Chiropractic College in Dallas, TX. During his final months in Chiropractic school Dr. Eaves had the opportunity to work at the Dallas VA Medical Hospital where he treated over 600 veterans. Dr. Eaves has several hundred hours of Post Doctoral specialty training in Chiropractic Neurology, and Applied Clinical Neuroscience focusing on rehabilitation of patients with Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries. He also has a Masters Degree in Neuroscience from Parker University. www.swbrainpc.com
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Natalie Forstbauer is a TEDx speaker, award-winning entrepreneur, author, organic/biodynamic farmer and traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor. She is passionate about human potential and seeing people live their best lives. Raised on an organic farm, trained in Polarity Therapy, alternative medicine, Neurofeedback and Transformational Leadership she brings a wealth of knowledge and life experience to her audiences and clients. Gardening and farming with a brain injury showed her healing is not always about "fixing what we perceive to be broken". Compassion and grace can to turn brain injuries and adversity into brain upgrades and new opportunities. Getting dirty in the fields, taking equipment apart and leaning into the powerful wisdoms of nature Natalie learned what it is to nurture and harvest one's gifts and to compost adversity into something meaningful and valuable. Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Heart & Soil Magazine she brings together quality information and advice on regenerative agriculture and global health.
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Kester Nedd is a Board-Certified Neurologist with subspecialty training in treating Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries. He received his medical training from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Bioscience and received his post-graduate training in Neurology, Neurological Rehabilitation, and Neuro-trauma at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
He completed his residency and fellowship at Jackson Memorial Hospital in association with the University of Miami. Later in his career, Dr. Nedd served as the Medical Director of Neurological Rehabilitation and Head of the Intermediate Head Injury Program at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Nedd has been on the forefront of issues related to concussions for over 30 years and is involved in the evaluation and treatment of the most complicated cases of patients with this condition.
He developed the Brain Hierarchical Evaluation and Treatment (BHET) method, a unique multidimensional approach that considers the hierarchical organization of the brain and how this order is impacted by injury and the recovery process, which he discusses in his new book, Concussion: Traumatic Brain Injury from Head to Tail. He currently serves as the Managing Partner of Design Neuroscience Center, and served as an Associate Professor of Neurology and as Medical Director of the Sports Concussion Program at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine until May of 2020. www.concussiontbi.com
Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3j1SWQq
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Titus Chiu is a #1 bestselling author, award-winning international speaker, and Functional Neurologist who is on a mission to transform the face of healthcare for the millions of people around the world struggling with Post-Concussion Syndrome.
Dr. Chiu is the founder and clinical director of BrainSAVE!, an integrative neurology practice located in Northern and Southern California, that specializes in helping people struggling with post-concussion syndrome get well and stay well, through personalized brain wellness programs, online masterclasses, and 5-day brain camps. He has a deep passion for teaching and had the honor to present at the 2017 Institute for Functional Medicine’s Annual International Conference on the Brain.
Dr. Chiu was also featured on Dr. Mark Hyman’s groundbreaking documentary Broken Brain. He is the #1 bestselling author of BrainSAVE! The 6-week Plan to Heal Your Brain from Concussions, Brain Injuries & Trauma. You can learn more about Dr. Chiu and his unique approach to concussion care at www.brainsave.com
Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2BGtcZG
Episode sponsored by: Integrated Brain Centers
I had my first debilitating migraine when I was 17. Since then, I’ve averaged about 100 migraines per year.
My life has been a journey of victory and defeat, despair and hope, faith and doubt. As a complex neurological patient, I lived in a medical purgatory. I saw the best of traditional practitioners to no avail. I explored innovative, alternative healthcare models that also fell short.
Ultimately, I became a doctor because I couldn’t find a good one. Every day I wake up, I am both the patient and the doctor, the believer and the doubter. Being a functional neurologist has shown me that the healing we once thought was impossible is actually possible.
Neuroplasticity tells us that we are capable of change. If we understand the function of the brain, we can improve our way of life. My wife once told me that I had to anchor my life to a deeper truth. The deeper truth I anchor to is that my pain cultivates my faith, and my faith creates the possibility of a healthier future.
As a clinician, I desire nothing more than to ease the pain of those I encounter, educate the families I serve, and connect the dots between unanswered questions and solutions. In my years of practice, after seeing patients improve speech, mobility, and brain function once thought impossible, I know that we have good reason for hope. www.thriveneuro.com
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
My name is Aanya Patel, and I will be a junior in high school. In January 2018, I sustained a non-athletic concussion. As a result, I suffer from Post-Concussion Syndrome and lasting neurological conditions. I am passionate about research and advocacy surrounding the lack of awareness surrounding female TBI. I am the founder of Calming my Storm, a nonprofit, that works to help others in their road to recovery and healing. www.calmingmystorm.com
brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Amanda Evans is passionate about supporting children and families to be their happiest and healthiest selves! Her own healing journey taught her so much about the extraordinary healing powers of play, love and connection. She is dedicated to helping people take their health and happiness into their own hands, believing in their own magic and the power to heal from within.
Amanda has worked with families supporting children and adults who are energetically sensitive and often misunderstood, being given labels like brain injuries, Autism, ADD/ADHD, "empaths", depression, and anxiety. She believes in letting go of the labels and believing in what CAN be to make the impossible POSSIBLE!
Amanda is passionate about sharing her story and allowing her own words to touch someone else’s heart, invoking a sense of hope and belief in what’s possible. When we lean on love and the support of others who see us as a "person" to be loved, rather than a "problem" to be fixed, anything is possible. In her work as a play therapist and coach, she uses her teaching background, experience supporting children with exceptionalities and her personal experience healing from a brain injury to help support others with invisible “disabilities”. www.mindbodysoulmiracles.com
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Sarah earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2007 from Northeastern University and has over 10 years of experience as a physical therapist. She also earned her Master of Science in physical therapy and a Bachelor of Science in rehabilitation science from Northeastern University.
Sarah decided to study physical therapy after experiencing a devastating motor vehicle accident in high school. She sustained several injuries in the accident including a traumatic brain injury with retro and anterograde amnesia, a shattered femur and patella at the left knee joint, seatbelt and airbag injuries, and multiple fractures in her dominant hand. Initially, her treatment focused on restoring function to the knee and hand and her brain injury was largely ignored. It seemed that the doctors and physical therapists she saw at the time did not really have the knowledge to effectively address the brain injury. When she was able to walk again, her treatment was considered a success and she was discharged.
However, years later she continued to experience symptoms ranging from insomnia and mood swings to gut issues and brain fog. Her issues with word retrieval were some of the hardest to deal with. She did not realize at the time that much of what she was dealing with was actually related to her brain injury. It took becoming a physical therapist herself and taking the initiative to study post-concussion syndrome independently and through continuing education courses for Sarah to gain the knowledge she needed to help not only herself but her clients going through the same thing. Post-concussion syndrome is now one of the things Sarah specializes in. www.bodyandmindpt.com
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Alexa Randolph is a Podcast host and blogger of With Love, Alexa. She is an advocate for invisible illness due to understanding what it’s like to be in pain 24/7 from a mild TBI and chronic pain. She's here to help everyone stay Forever Strong. http://alexarandolph.com/
Brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
After the diagnosis of a brain tumour in 2013 and the subsequent surgery and recovery, she was able to gradually move back into her complex role as a Superintendent of Education. It meant finding different ways of communicating, working and coping as she grew to know and understand her new self. Lynn is how driven to help us become self-advocates, learning to make conscious decisions and altering potentially negative outcomes, putting ourselves in the driver’s seat. Lynn is now the host of her inspirational podcast, She is an award-winning author of her first book, "Steering Through It"
Find Lynn's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/36RMruE
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Center
Startled by the sound of two consecutive home runs as they bounced off the concrete walls of San Francisco’s Oracle Park on Christmas Night 2013, she felt the balls colliding with her head. The freakishly loud “Crack! Crack!” reverberated within her skull. Then, a sickening awareness overtook her. One misstep onto a slippery wheelchair ramp at a crosswalk had propelled her into the middle of the street in San Francisco. Prior to her brain injuries, Leslie Gainer had lived two very fulfilling lifestyles/careers. The first, on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. working with nonprofits writing Consumer and Environmental laws and launching creative campaigns to get them passed. Then, living her next dream, of moving to Paso Robles, CA, and joining the wine industry. This excerpt from her journal recounts: I was living that dream, when brain injuries turned my life into chaos and wreckage as I was about to become someone I didn't know - in a matter of seconds. Life as I understood it would start to approach me incrementally, like a Scrabble puzzle that had been hurled into the air and landing with its creative, articulate, and well-ordered linear life reconfigured into a dyslexic and autistic jumble…. expandorcontract.com
This episode is brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
I am a licensed psychologist in California specializing in neuropsychological and forensic evaluations. I have 10 years of education and training in clinical psychology and neuropsychology and extensive experience evaluating adults and adolescents for psychological and neuropsychological conditions. My training and experience have been in psychological and neuropsychological assessment in a variety of clinical settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, psychiatric hospitals, forensic hospitals, and correctional facilities. I specialize in providing comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for a variety of neurological conditions including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, complications from a stroke, traumatic brain injury, concussions, learning disabilities, and ADHD. I also specialize in forensic psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for immigration hearings, civil and criminal competency, and personal injury. https://verdugopsych.com/
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Lynn Julian Crisci wears more hats than a Hydra has heads: Survivor (Boston Marathon Bombing, 4/15/13); Author & Speaker in 6 books & 100s of articles, Boston Actress, pop superhero, and SEO consultant.
Episode brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Dr. Megan Lott is a functional neuro-optometrist in Hattiesburg, MS. She performs visual examinations that go beyond 20/20 eyesight. She performs neuro-optometic rehabilitation for patients who have suffered a brain injury. In 2019 she was awarded the Founders Award by the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi. In 2017 she was awarded the Healthcare Hero award by the MS Business Journal for her work in optometry in the state of MS. www.bellevuesec.com
This episode is brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Claudie Pomares has worked in hospitals, day cares and educational settings in France, Canada and the USA for over 30 years. Her university studies lead her to develop an expertise in sensory stimulation and its impact on brain development. Ms. Pomares has developed a unique program designed to prompt brain regeneration and the rebalancing of neurotransmitters that has benefitted hundreds of individuals. Currently she oversees the Sensory Enrichment Therapy protocol at Mendability. https://www.mendability.com
This episode is brought to you by: Integrated Brain Centers
Eric Hipple is a former National Football League (NFL) quarterback whose ten year career was spent with the Detroit Lions. Born in Lubbock, Texas and raised in Downey California, Eric graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Business administration and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1980. Hipple’s accomplishments include two playoff bids, a divisional championship, and the Detroit Lion’s most valuable player award for the ‘81season. He is currently ranked sixth in career passing yards for Detroit. From 1995-2000 Hipple was color analyst for the FOX NFL pre-game show in Detroit. His book “Real Men Do Cry” received a publisher Presidential Award. After retiring from University of Michigan's Comprehensive Depression Center, where he spent eleven years in outreach, Hipple currently works with the Center for Neurological Studies as a Community Advocate. The Center for Neurological Studies advances scientific research for neurovascular disease through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. CNS hosts people from around the world who seek an accurate diagnosis, especially in cases of mild-to-moderate traumatic brain injury. www.neurologicstudies.com
Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3dus21l
Episode sponsored by: Integrated Brain Centers
Shauna Hahn is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who practices at Framework TMS, which is part of Northwest Functional Neurology. For most of her career, she worked in community mental health and is an alumnus of the National Health Service Corps. She believes passionately in public health: access for all and more client-centered services for those struggling with brain injury recovery. Shauna is on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Brain Injury Alliance (BIAOR) and is brain injury certified. She has spoken on the subject of brain injury for the Nurse Practitioners of Oregon and BIAOR. She runs a support group for brain injury survivors.
www.frameworkTMS.com
Dr. Glen Zielinski is a Chiropractic Physician and Board Certified Functional Neurologist. He received his doctorate in chiropractic from Parker University in Dallas, Texas. He completed his neurology training with the Carrick Institute for Clinical Neuroscience, and became certified by the American Chiropractic Neurology Board in 2003. He became an Assistant Professor of Neurology with the Carrick Institute in 2003, and became a Fellow of the American College of Functional Neurology in 2010. He is fellowship-trained in Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation, Vestibular Rehabilitation, Movement Disorder Rehabilitation, Childhood Neurodevelopmental Disorder Rehabilitation, and Clinical Neurochemistry. He has lectured for thousands of hours on Functional Neurology to medical, chiropractic, osteopathic, and naturopathic physicians throughout the world. He has qualified hundreds of doctors to sit for board examination in Functional Neurology. Dr. Zielinski founded Northwest Functional Neurology in Lake Oswego, Oregon, in 2006. His practice focuses on severe traumatic brain injuries, post-concussion syndrome, movement disorders, disorders of gait and balance, and disorders of childhood neurological development. Patients travel from all over the world to have Dr. Zielinski attend to their care. He has helped celebrity entertainers and musicians, professional athletes, Olympic Gold Medalists, and World Champions recover from neurological injuries and maximize their performance.
northwestfunctionalneurology.com
Dr. Barbakoff is a board-certified Doctor of Chiropractic and a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (DACNB). She is the co-founder of Oculus Brain Centers, a functional neurology clinic in San Diego which provides brain-based and drug-free solutions to neurological dysfunction. "Dr. B" is passionate about empowering and connecting with women through education. She specializes in women's health as it relates to hormones, fatigue, dizziness, and chronic migraines. About 95% of her patients are women and more than 75% of them have been diagnosed with a concussion. Having had a concussion herself, along with hormonal imbalances as a teenager, she hopes to provide you with the tools she wishes she had during her personal health challenges. Originally from New York, Dr. B is happy to have found her forever home in sunny San Diego with her partner Dr. Ben Terrano and their dog, Neuron "Ron". www.oculusbraincenters.com
episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Keiser is a Chiropractic Neurologist specializing in helping people regain function after traumatic brain injuries with a special focus in the integration of the autonomic nervous system. Dr. Keiser practices in Chelsea MI and is an Assistant Professor for The Carrick Institute. www.drkeiser.com
Episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Randall Benson is a globally regarded behavioral neurologist and imaging neuroscientist who is recognized for his advances in the diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders. During fellowship at Mass General Hospital, in the 1990s, he pioneered the use of fMRI to map language in neurosurgical patients with tumors and epilepsy. Then, while faculty at Wayne State University in the 2000s, his research, using electrical and magnetic stimulation of the brain in hemiparetic and aphasic stroke, demonstrated proof of concept for the ability to induce neuroplasticity. More recently, Dr. Benson’s clinical practice and research has focused on more precise diagnosis in head injured patients, leveraging newer functional neuroimaging, neurosensory and pituitary evaluations, culminating in more effective treatments and improved outcomes in patients. Dr. Benson’s research and clinical practice through the Center for Integrated Neurology and the Center for Neurological Studies are strongly focused on disorders of the brain and cognition. Dr. Benson’s commitment to finding novel ways to enhance recovery of function after stroke led to multiple foundation and industry-sponsored investigations into the use of targeted electrical/magnetic stimulation of the brain in motor and language impairment following stroke. Dr. Benson’s research on brain disorders is high impact and cutting edge.www.neurlogicstudies.com
Episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
My practice is designed to use post doctoral clinical neuroscience rehabilitative procedures to care for patients with dizziness, post-concussion syndrome, balance disorders and some neurodegenerative conditions. Programs are designed by the doctor in office or possibly through tele-health and applied by the a patient for an at home program. The functional medicine division has emphasis on blood-brain and brain-gut chemistry and supplementation protocols. Treatments can be effective for neuro-immune, neuro-endocrine function; tailored to metabolic syndromes, tickborne illness, thyroid dysregulation, anxiety and others. The specific individualized treatment procedures with clinical neuroscience research and protocols used in our teamwork approach at Delta S Performance is the perfect fit for many in our community. https://www.deltasperformance.com
Episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Kassie Kaas earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Minnesota-Duluth where she graduated with honors.
After graduating, she spent a year with AmeriCorps developing a community based health and wellness program in rural West Virginia. While completing this project, Dr. Kassie decided that chiropractic care was how she wanted to help people recover from their chronic health issues and achieve a better quality of life.
She earned her Doctorate in Chiropractic degree from Northwestern Health Sciences University, graduating with cum laude honors and has received training through the Carrick Institute of Clinical Neuroscience. Her expertise is working with dizziness, vertigo, brain injury, dysautonomia and chronic pain. Dr. Kassie is passionate about helping people reach true and lasting health.
Episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Frick is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist and emphasizes engaging the “master control system” of your health–your brain and nervous system–for optimal healing and functioning. Constantly expanding his knowledge, he has traveled extensively throughout his career to train in a variety of advanced techniques, integrating his knowledge into his own comprehensive system of diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Frick has been in practice for over 32 years. http://www.neurointegrativehealth.com
Episdoe brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Steadman is the owner of Integrated Brain Centers in Denver Colorado. Over his 16 years in practice, he has been feature or mentioned in 3 books as well as interview on TV, radio and podcasts. He has been lecturing across the country for the last 13 years on topics like migraines, brain chemistry and various topics related to brain function and rehabilitation. His practice consist of helping those suffering from concussions, stroke, vertigo and neurological autoimmune conditions. He clinic integrates neurological rehabilitation with function medicine, immune support as well as counseling. www.Integratedbraincenters.com and www.integratedhealthdenver.com
Episode brought to you by: whttp://ww.thefnc.com
Dr. Erik Reis is an international speaker and educator, with over 6 years of clinical experience as a Doctor of Chiropractic and board-certified Functional Neurologist, working with some of the most complex neurological and metabolic conditions throughout the world. He received his Doctorate in Chiropractic from Northwestern Health Sciences University and graduated from the University of Minnesota with his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology/Exercise Science. He currently holds a diplomate in Functional Neurology from the American Chiropractic Neurology Board, an accredited agency within the American Chiropractic Association.
He believes the connection between optimal neurological function and nutritional status is essential to understanding how to fully maximize brain function and cognitive performance, which is why SHIFT takes a multifaceted approach to working with businesses and employees to optimize workplace productivity and employee engagement by implementing simple solutions and habits that integrate neuroscience, functional nutrition, mindfulness, and holistic coaching practices.www.shifttogreat.com
episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Traster is a globally recognized expert in the field of neurological rehabilitation. He lectures and consults for doctors of all specialties across the world relating to patients with a variety of neurological disorders. He is most noted for working with patients suffering from head injuries, dizziness, balance disorders, and chronic pain. Due to his clinical success, patients travel from around the world to work with Dr. Traster during his 1 or 2-week intensive outpatient rehabilitation programs. www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology center
Dr. Perry Maynard is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist that specializes in the management of complex neurological cases, including Post Concussive Syndrome, Vertigo, Balance Disorders, Movement disorders, Dysautonomia, and a variety of Autoimmune conditions. Dr. Maynard has extensive education and training in Concussion rehabilitation, vestibular rehabilitation, and Neuro-immunology. He first became interested in neurological rehabilitation after playing Division 1 college football for Eastern Illinois University, where he experienced multiple concussions and witnessed friends and teammates suffering without answers or options for treatment.This is why he has dedicated his professional life to helping those suffering from traumatic brain injuries. www.integratedhealthdenver.com
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Little is a northeast Ohio-based chiropractic physician with a focus on working with complex neurological and metabolic conditions. His clinic, Ohio Brain and Pain Center, works with a wide-variety of conditions including - brain injury, mood and mental health disorders, migraine headaches, attentional and behavioral issues, developmental disorders, autoimmune, metabolic and hormonal conditions, chronic pain and injury, vestibular disorders, and dysautonomia. www.thebraincenterohio.com
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Reilly is the founder and CEO of Purposefully Home. She is a licensed occupational therapist and holds an executive certificate in home modifications. Her passion for empowering people that have suffered from or care for those with brain injury has stemmed from both personal and professional experiences. Dr. Reilly helps improve how people function within their home environments by incorporating a holistic analyses of the home, all residents within the space as well as the ability levels and interests of the clients looking to better manage their independence by optimizing their environment. Dr. Reilly has witnessed first hand the direct impact on individuals with brain injury a supportive environment can have on improved organization, concentration, mood and emotional management as well as empowering individual’s in obtaining personal goals such as living independently, obtaining employment, building and maintaining relationships, participating in leisure activities and so much more!
Episode brought to you by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Chung is an upper cervical chiropractor in Wellington, Florida with a practice focused on patients with traumatic head and neck injuries. He's published several scientific papers and abstracts in peer-reviewed journals and is a speaker on the topics of concussion, vestibular disorders, and dysautonomia. Dr. Chung is also trained in functional neurology and clinical neuroscience through the Carrick Institute. www.chiropractorwellington.com
www.protecttheneck.com
Jeffrey M. Heller is a trial attorney with the law firm of Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy Co., L.P.A., in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Heller frequently represents traumatic brain injury survivors in a wide range of cases, including medical malpractice, motor vehicle and truck accidents, premises liability and construction defect cases. Mr. Heller has dedicated his career to understanding and explaining the challenges TBI survivors face, from their significant rehabilitation hurdles, to the malingering myth many insurance companies argue. Mr. Heller has been recognized as a Super Lawyer - Rising Star, an America's Top 100 Personal Injury Attorney, and a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40.
Episode Sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Michael Lovich DC DACNB DACBSP is a Board Certified Chiropractic Functional Neurologist, and Board Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician. He holds a MS in sports medicine with additional training in brain based functional medicine, and functional movement based rehabilitation. He has served as a medical director and on medical staff for various organizations and events in professional, amateur, collegiate and high school athletics. He specializes in integrating the physical aspects of sports medicine and chiropractic care with the neurological and physiological systems that are often overlooked. He is the owner of Delta S Performance, Functional Neurology and Sports Medicine, with clinics in the Denver and Boston metro areas. http://www.deltasperformance.com
Dr. Jacob is a board certified chiropractic neurologist who suffered a head injury when he was ten-months old that left him partially paralyzed. Doctors said that he would never walk or talk. Through regular chiropractic care, Dr. Jacob defied his prognosis and dedicated his life to understanding the human nervous system so that he can deliver the same exceptional care that has allowed him to thrive today. Dr. Jacob’s case has been published in multiple publications, and he has spoken to both professional and lay audiences all over the country about the power of their brain and nervous system to change and heal. www.plaskerchiro.com
Marcia is a poet, musician, presenter, and interdisciplinary artist. Her most recent poetry collection is “A Crown of Hornets” (Four Way Books, 2019), which deals with her experience with and recovery from a mild traumatic brain injury. Based on that collection, she has created a presentation entitled “An Artist’s Journey Through Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, which presents her story along with original poems, music, artwork, and videos to immerse the viewer in one woman’s experience with an MTBI. Marcia has shared her presentation at Walter Reed's National Intrepid Center for Excellence, as well as at Psychiatry Grand Rounds at Montefiore Medical Center in NYC, and at the "Clinician's Ear" series at the Center for Biomedical Ethics and Humanities at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. Marcia holds an MFA from Warren Wilson College Program for Writers, and has taught classes and workshops on creativity and writing at colleges, arts organizations, and other venues. She was a co-founding member of award-winning NYC a cappella group The Accidentals. and is currently a soloist and choir member of First Lutheran Church in NJ.
Find Marcia's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/31P8NdT
Episode sponored by: The Functional Neurology center
Dr. Barry Sears has dedicated the last 35 years of his research career to studying the links between diet, hormones, and health and is dedicated to restoring a state of health that can be controlled by reducing inflammation in your body. In his research, he studies dietary control of hormonal response and develops innovative approaches to help treat and reverse silent inflammation, the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and Type-2 diabetes. His research has led to his best-selling books Enter the Zone, Mastering the Zone, Zone Perfect Meals in Minutes, and had additionally penned The Soy Zone, Anti-Aging Zone, Omega Zone, Toxic Fat, A Week in the Zone, Zone Meals in Seconds, Top 100 Zone Foods, The Mediterranean Zone, and soon to be released, The Resolution Zone.
Dr. Seal's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/37foYlA
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Nneka MacGregor is an advocate who works with government and other organizations to eradicate violence against women. She is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Women’s Centre for Social Justice, also known as the WomenatthecentrE, our unique non-profit organization that was created for women survivors of gender-based violence, by women survivors. Nneka develops and delivers training to various agencies and organizations that promotes better understanding of the issues, and focuses on personal and political advocacy for women survivors, as well as on ways to engage men and boys in the initiatives to eradicate violence against women.
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Kabran Chapek has been a staff physician at Amen Clinics since 2013. As a graduate of Bastyr University in the Seattle area, he is an expert in the use of functional and integrative treatments and collaborates extensively with many of the Amen Clinics physicians. He has a special interest in the assessment and treatment of Alzheimer’s and dementia, traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, and anxiety disorders. Dr. Chapek is the founding president of the Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians, an affiliate group of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
Dr. Chapek's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39keXVD
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Brandon Seigel is the President of Wellness Works Management Partners. Seigel is a published author and brings over fifteen years of executive leadership experience. Throughout his storied career, Seigel has empowered entrepreneurs throughout the United States to streamline operations, build winning teams, implement effective business models, and ultimately transform new ventures for optimum success. Seigel has been supporting private practice owners with an emphasis in the Occupational, Physical, And Speech Therapy industry since 2008. In addition to consulting all over the world, Seigel is a frequent guest lecturer and keynote speaker throughout the world. Seigel’s most recent book, The Private Practice Survival Guide, taps into his passion and drive to support healthcare providers and clinicians in unlocking their freedom from their own success and ultimately empowering the “American Dream.” Through supporting Private Practice owners in optimizing clinical outcomes, streamlining workflow solutions, and implementing leading innovation strategies, Seigel’ has transformed “private practices throughout the world!
Find Brandon's Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/33Gq0p7
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
I am a Licensed Psychotherapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a private practice in Midtown Manhattan where I work with adults and children to address mental health disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Behavioral Disorders and/or challenges. I conduct thorough assessments and utilize Applied and Clinical Behavior Analysis, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to treat identified deficits. I also incorporate mindfulness techniques to increase positive coping mechanisms to stress and anxiety. My focus is to help my clients make meaningful and socially significant behavioral changes to connect with their environment in a positive and productive way. I received my undergraduate degree from UCLA and my Graduate Degree from NYU. I have been in the field of Behavioral Health for 10 years.
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Joseph Hoelscher is an attorney who regularly represents clients with TBI and other disabilities in criminal and civil court. He's a well-recognized and award-winning DUI/DWI lawyer and family lawyer, author of a book and several legal articles, and regular speaker at legal training seminars. He is Managing Attorney of Hoelscher Gebbia Cepeda PLLC law firm in San Antonio, Texas.
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Karen Odell-Barber completed her master’s degree in counseling at San Francisco State University, with post graduate training in addiction treatment from UC Berkeley. Odell-Barber was Milieu Manager, Director of Business Development, and Chief Operating Officer for Belmont Hills Hospital, an 80-bed Neuropsychiatric Center. During her tenure, she led the facility through significant restructuring and a successful JCAHO review and survey, resulting in commendation. She has hands-on management experience within the areas of clinical service, utilization management and review, operations and maintenance and outpatient services.
She has served as Clinical Consultant to numerous organizations, including Lifetime Television. She is an experienced public speaker and has presented at various behavioral health and neuroscience conferences throughout the US. Odell-Barber, a Who’s Who in American Businesswomen, was a volunteer lobbyist for the American Medical Association and separately, in 2004 was the author of legislation impacting US healthcare delivery, which passed with 78 percent bipartisan voter approval.
She served as Adjunct Professor of Medical Economics for Touro University creating the first ever Medical Economics Curriculum, which has been adopted in medical schools nationwide. She is a volunteer for multiple charities related to children and underprivileged youth and serves as a board member for Prayer for Compassion, tasked with international fundraising for over 19,000 orphans.
A member of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, she is the CEO of Treatment Consultants, LLC, a behavioral healthcare concierge case management company specializing in clinical consultation, triage and case management of addiction, eating disorders and co-occurring disorders.
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
I was 28 years old when I had a stroke. I was living an active lifestyle competing in martial arts, Olympic style weightlifting and generally working to be healthy. After an ischemic stroke, I spent time in rehab working in recovering my life skills and improving my mindset. It challenged my relationships and my view of my sense of self and community. The gratitude the having a stroke has shown me has steered me into sharing positivity and perspectives from the view of a stroke thriver.
episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
Ariane Resnick is a special diet chef and certified nutritionist whose private chef clientele has included an array of celebrities. Ariane writes books and articles, and consults for individuals, brands, and chefs on nutrition, recipes, and wellness. She has been featured in media such as Forbes, CBS' The Doctors, ABC News, HuffPost, Cosmopolitan, MindBodyGreen, and ELLE. She lives in Los Angeles, CA.
Find Ariane's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2OsqXLT
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
After 20 years in business, Marcia Moran successfully built Performance Architect & Positive Business DC in 2012. As an in-demand business strategist, Marcia thought she had the world by the tail. Her hard-earned success came to a screeching halt in 2014 when she suffered a stroke. With her ability to walk and talk stripped away, Marcia never gave up. When released from the hospital, Marcia was bothered there were no books on advocacy. This prompted her to author Stroke FORWARD: How to Become Your Own Healthcare Advocate . . . One Step at a Time. A labor of love taking over four years to write, Stroke Forward is the perfect book on how anyone can become a healthcare advocate for a loved one. Marcia holds a B.S. in Political Science with a magna cum laude from the University of North Dakota & an MBA from Chapman University. She attended Skirinssal Folkehoyskole in Norway to study art. She earned a certificate in Well-being Foundations of Personal Transformation from the Personal Transformation and Courage Institute. Marcia became a Toastmasters International Club Officer in 2017, then Area Director in 2019. She volunteers at Brain Injury Services, supporting their Speakers Bureau program.
Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NtJo3P
Episode sponsored by: The Functional Neurology Center
JoAnne Jones is Professor Emeritus at Springfield College in Massachusetts, where she worked for twenty-five years. While at Springfield College, Dr. Jones served as Associate Dean of the School of Human Services and Acting Dean of the School of Social Work. Before Springfield College, she was an Associate Professor at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and an Assistant Professor of Social Welfare at the University of Calgary, School of Social Welfare. Her teaching and research focused primarily on social justice issues. In addition to teaching, she has consulted with public and private organizations in relation to diversity, inclusiveness, and excellence. She is a cofounder of the firm Diversityworks Consulting.
Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/34rWAMb
Vernon Williams, MD, is a board-certified sports neurologist and founding director of the Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, CA and team neurologist for the Los Angeles Rams.
Photographer Martha Hoelzer explores the intersection of art and bodily trauma through “What Lies Beneath Concussion.” In a series of images and video, she considers how multiple concussions have impacted her visual perception of everyday items. Her work asks the viewer to consider the question or how—and if—we can render our experiences so that others can understand what they cannot see.
Hoelzer earned her degree in American Studies and German from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She’s worked as a photographer nationally and internationally since 1998, and has won accolades for her work as part of the 61st, 62nd and 63rd Annual Juried Exhibition Durham Arts Guild show, the Telluride Art + Architecture Tour, and the Carolina Global Photography Contest. You can learn more about her work at marthahoelzer.com
Episode sponsored by: www.TheFunctionalNeurologyCenter.com
Rita has worked extensively with kids and adults suffering loss due to parental and/or spousal completion of suicide, murder and death due to natural causes. She has participated as a member of multiple crisis teams in response to traumatic events involving adolescents from regional communities. Rita Co-Directed a season at Camp Erin for children suffering the loss of a loved one. She created and directed kid’s camps for the Richard Lambert Foundation as well as one-on-one counselling for children, adults and families experiencing relationship loss due to death. Rita also mentors young counselors and practitioners who routinely interact with those experiencing grief. Rita’s thoughts and analysis of the grieving process and its parallels with traumatic brain injury can be found in chapter 7 of the recently published book by Joanne Cohen: Getting Hit, Getting Up, Moving Beyond - My Journey Through Brain Injury. Additionally, Rita delivers workshops for caregivers focusing on compassion fatigue, self-care and emotional validation.
Find the book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/32C0wJX
episode sponsored by: www.TheFunctionalNeurologyCenter.com
Paula Walters is the Founder and President of Standing Courageous, Inc. In her role, Paula has developed and leads the team that provides education and awareness about domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse. Drawing on her experience as a survivor of child abuse, domestic violence with strangulation and sexual assault, Paula specializes in educating about the psychology of an abuser and victim, the impacts of abuse, and the role individuals have in stopping the cycle of violence and aiding in a victim’s recovery. Paula has joined the State of Ohio Attorney Generals Homicide Prevention Team in training on domestic violence and non-fatal strangulation. Paula has been in the fire service and EMS since 1999. She became a Paramedic in 2003 after attending The Medical College of Ohio where she received the Clinical Excellence Award. She became an EMS instructor in 2009. Paula has worked in Ohio, North Carolina and Louisiana as a Paramedic in a variety of EMS and public service capacities.
Paula experienced a traumatic brain injury from being abused that was misdiagnosed for over a decade. She has had a long journey to finally being properly diagnosed. That journey included giving up being a first responder which she loves so much. She is passionate about using her life experiences to inspire others to triumph over trauma and tragedy.
She enjoys painting, poetry, and writing and is currently working on a book of her life, tentatively to be published late 2019. Residing in Toledo, Ohio, Paula enjoys volunteering as a CASA/GAL for abused and neglected children and being a mentor to survivors of abuse.
Episode sponored by: http://www.TheFunctionalNeurologyCenter.com
Today Josh Perry is a happy, healthy 30-year-old man with his whole life ahead of him. Nine years ago, shortly after achieving a lifelong goal of becoming a professional BMX athlete, he received his first brain tumor diagnosis.
Josh had a meningioma, a benign tumor that caused intense headaches and significantly impaired vision. His tumor was successfully removed through an open craniotomy, an invasive surgical procedure that requires opening of the skull. His recovery was slow but within two months Josh was back on the BMX circuit. He felt he’d been given a second chance and took advantage of every opportunity to compete, travel, perform and give back to the community.
As one of a handful of people to have survived three separate brain tumors, Josh believes it is his mission to help educate people with brain tumors about their options. He founded The Josh Perry Foundation as his way of giving back to those with brain tumors, brain injuries, and other brain disorders. Nearly 78,000 new cases of primary brain tumors (including cancerous and non-cancerous tumors) were diagnosed last year, and nearly 700,000 people in the U.S. alone are living with primary brain and central nervous system tumors.
Josh’s goal is to share his story and the importance of prioritizing health and well-being to live a long, full life.
Check out Josh’s blog Daily Brainstorms to read more about his story, see some cool BMX videos and read about his newfound love for sauerkraut and kombucha.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Kathryn Vigness is a speaker, author, and life coach. She is a #boymama, yogi, and lover of all things happy. As an avid writer, Kathryn is a featured contributor to multiple online journals and is the author of her memoir Growing Wild and the inspirational journal #soulprompt.
After spending over a decade trying to find herself and shapeshifting from college graduate to young professional to wife to mother to entrepreneur and being everything to everyone, Kathryn made a conscious decision to stop living in someday and start living today. That is when Kathryn was able to drop all of the hats and masks that she was wearing, meet herself where she was at and move forward in the direction of her dreams. Coincidentally, Kathryn has been writing these life lessons down and sharing them to for others to do the same.
Kathryn’s only goal at the end of her life is to have lived a life serving others. She is a fireproof change agent and a resiliency advocate. She is living proof that life gives us what we always need, not always we’ve envisioned. Keep up with Kathryn on Instagram or Facebook at @kvigness or find her at kathrynvigness.com
Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2vwdZ6O
and her journal: https://amzn.to/2DF9qf0
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Damien Rosen survived a snowboarding accident at the age of 13 which catapulted him into a lifelong struggle with Traumatic Brain Injury.
Through years of persistence and a relentless dedication to personal growth and leadership, Damien became managing partner at a Miami-based software services company, growing the business to over 15,000 business clients across 7 states. Damien is also a strategic advisor for a startup that provides employee safety technology to hotels.
In 2000, Damien graduated Magna Cum Laude from Babson College and lived abroad during a one-year study program at Konan University in Kobe, Japan. He is conversational in Spanish and remembers the days when he was comfortable communicating in Japanese.
He lives in Miami, Florida with his fiancé Ivette, and Hunter, their 80-pound chocolate lab who lounges by his desk as the office mascot. Damien enjoys yoga, loves frisbee and his ultimate passion is motorcycle riding through the mountains of western North Carolina.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Heidi Hill, an audiologist, is an expert in the evaluation and management of hearing disorders. Dr. Hill has owned and operated Hearing Health Clinic, an audiology private practice in Osseo, MN for more than 12 years. Dr. Hill specializes in not just peripheral hearing loss, but also in tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and central auditory processing problems that commonly occur after a head injury.
Episode sponsored by: www.TheFunctionalNeurologyCenter.com
Jamie grew up on the East Coast, USA, skiing since she could walk. By the time Jamie was 18 years old, she had won Junior World Championships in New Zealand and moved to Utah to become a professional slopestyle and halfpipe skier.
Jamie traveled the world competing at world class events like X-Games and Dew Tour. Jamie crashed through glass ceilings by becoming the first women to flip off a rail and double backflip in a competition.
In 2015, Jamie crashed in Whistler and went into a coma. She lived, recovered, went back to skiing and adventuring the world, bringing a unique, inspiring story with her. Jamie was the first patient in North America to receive an oxygen and pressure analyzing brain bolt procedure at Vancouver General Hospital, VGH continues to use the procedure on critical coma patients and their success rate has more then doubled. Her doctors learned about the “brain bolt” procedure one month prior to Jamie’s arrival at VGH.
Jamie is graduating college in May, 2019 and wants to grow her motivational storytelling.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Chuck Rockey is a Princeton-educated engineer turned life coach with a passion for helping clients achieve inner happiness and joy though enriching their personal relationships. These steps forward can be a key factor not only achieving peace of mind but in overcoming heath issues ranging from from depression to anxiety. Chuck also facilitates groups where people build community as well as their capacity for vulnerability and empathy while having a lot of fun!
When not helping people build powerfully nourishing relationships, Chuck can be found in the yoga studio where he assists his students in one-on-one sessions to expand their physical development through various asanas (body postures) and encourages them to hone their inner teacher so they can carry their practice into the world. Chuck also weaves in an in-depth knowledge of Buddhist psychology, Zen and meditation practices to his yoga teachings.
Chuck was a tech leader and entrepreneur in Silicon Valley for 25 years when a stroke left him temporarily unable to speak, see clearly or perform everyday functions. This life-altering experience profoundly changed his outlook giving him a renewed sense of purpose and the knowledge that out of adversity comes strength and the opportunity to help others. Many experiences and evolutions later, Chuck is dedicated to empowering people to live their best lives.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Mimi Hayes is a New York-based comedian and author of the memoir "I'll Be OK, It's Just a Hole in My Head." A former high school teacher, Hayes wrote her first humorous memoir while recovering from a traumatic head injury at the age of twenty-two. She is currently adapting the book into a one-woman show for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival as well as a comedic TV series. Catch her newest show "Mimi and The Brain," a comedic neuroscience podcast, available now on all streaming devices.
Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2KvOHyx
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
In addition to being a Mom, wife, and digital marketing professional, Markelle is a brain injury survivor who hopes to partner with others to turn brain injury awareness into action that helps others during recovery. She has read every book ever published about Brain Injury and refuses to give in to the theory that recovery ends after one year.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Shane Etter is a former high tech sales professional who started writing fiction to improve his brain after suffering a stroke. He has six published novels including a series of supernatural thrillers—Bottom Dwellers, Mind Dwellers and Trail Dwellers, set in north Georgia and New York City and A Brain In Third Person, about a serial killer in Atlanta, A War In The Bronx, about rival drug gangs in NYC and A Brain In Third Person II, The Return of The Bad Penny.
His first novel, Bottom Dwellers, was named the best murder mystery of 2012 by the late publicist/agent/author John Weaver.
Shane was born, raised and educated in Mississippi and has called greater Atlanta home for almost 30 years. His writing has been compared to the greats Jim Thompson and Cornell Woolrich. Known for his surprise endings, his latest, Devil’s Sympathy, about a serial killer who’s a writing professor at England’s Oxford University, raises the bar to new levels.
Shane is a member of Charles Clifford Brooks’ The Southern Collective Experience, an organization supporting artists in music, written word and visual arts, and The Prose Editor Emeritus Of that organization’s cultural journal, The Blue Mountain Review.
Find his books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2URu6pU
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Rachel Butler-Green is a Health Entrepreneur based in Los Angeles, CA. As a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, she spent 10 years growing her business and working with leading physical therapists and chiropractors. At the age of 30, during the height of her career, Rachel suffered a rare stroke due to a brain hemorrhage called an Arterial Ventricular Malformation. She was left paralyzed unable to walk, see, or fend for herself.
Determined to get back to where she was, she spent the next few years of recovery remapping her brain and strengthening her body. Rachel leveraged her philosophy of “fit mind fit body” to create a new framework for her physical training company, while simultaneously learning how to build a startup in technology. She used her therapy dog for regular walking and emotional support, which led to the launch of Good Dog - a gamified dog walking app that rewards dog owners for giving their dogs proper walk times.
Rachel’s overall mission is to help others create and maintain a well-balanced lifestyle with exercise and mindful living.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Shidlofsky completed his Pre-Optometry studies at the University of Texas at Austin in 1984. He then attended Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn. where he received his BS in 1986 and OD in 1988. Upon graduation, he moved back to to the Dallas area to begin his practice.
Dr. S, as he is known around the office, has been very active in Neuro-developmental Optometry for most of his years in practice. He has developed and integrated many unique therapies that have helped thousands of children who have struggled in school due to vision problems often seen in: ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorders as well as some of the classic vision problems related to focusing, eye teaming, eye movement skills, visual spatial skills and vision perception issues. He has expanded his work to include those with traumatic and acquired brain injury, stroke and other neurological processing problems. In addition, he works with several professional sports teams in the Dallas area as well as weekend athletes on developing vision skills. Dr. Shidlofsky is a Clinical Director for the Special Olympics Opening Eyes Program.
Dr. Shidlofsky completed his Fellowship for the College of Optometrists in Vision Development in 2011. In addition, he is an Adjunct Professor of Optometry at: Southern College of Optometry, University of Houston College of Optometry, University of Incarnate Word-Rosenberg College of Optometry and Western University College of Optometry. He is also director of a private practice residency program in pediatrics/vision therapy/sports vision and neuro-vision rehabilitation through Southern College of Optometry.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Brandon Nutt, DC, is a dedicated and compassionate chiropractor helping patients from the Dallas-Fort Worth area at The Wellness Institute of Dallas. Dr. Nutt and his team provide natural and minimally invasive treatment options for musculoskeletal conditions at their office in Dallas. Dr. Nutt specializes in functional medicine and functional neurology and offers chiropractic care, soft tissue therapy, nutritional counseling and supplementation, rehabilitation, GyroStim, lifestyle coaching, and athletic injury recovery and prevention.
Dr. Nutt was raised in Plano, Texas, and holds two bachelor’s degrees in anatomy and health and wellness. While earning his Doctor of Chiropractic at Parker University in Dallas, Dr. Nutt served as class president and tutored fellow students in anatomy, physiology, neurology, and biomechanics. When he graduated, Dr. Nutt was awarded various leadership and service awards due to his commitment to education and patient care.
Throughout his life, Dr. Nutt played hockey and still reaps the benefits of an active lifestyle. As a chiropractor, he enjoys educating patients about healthy lifestyle activities that incorporate proper nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Dr. Nutt is currently pursuing advanced degrees in functional medicine and functional neurology to better serve his patients.
Dr. Shane Steadman, DC, DACNB, DCBCN, FACFN, FAAIM, CNS, CCCN, DCCN is an expert in chiropractic neurology and functional medicine. Dr. Steadman is a leading practitioner in the area of concussions and brain injuries and works with patients in Denver, Colorado and around the United States.
Because of the extensive education, training and success rate Dr. Steadman has achieved, he is one of the most sought after health practitioners for patients dealing with tough conditions, as well as those who have gone to doctor to doctor without answers and solutions.
Dr. Steadman is also speaker, regularly appearing on TV and radio programs, sharing his expertise and advice about concussions, brain injuries and a host of other conditions, such as: nutrition, stress management, vertigo, migraines and other tough cases. Dr. Steadman is also a lecturer for Apex Energetics and has been so since 2006. He teaches and educates other physicians and practitioners about the testing and clinical applications of Functional Endocrinology, Immunology and Blood Chemistry.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology
Joelle Leek is a sophomore at Syracuse University. In her freshman year of high school (2015), she was diagnosed with Post Concussive Syndrome after sustaining a whiplash injury during a basketball game. For the next year, her life was dictated by this injury, and it was during that time that she discovered her passion for Concussion Awareness. Since then, she has been working in her community to bring awareness to an injury that millions of people suffer from every year.
Karley graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Therapeutic Recreation at Grand Valley State University in 2017. She has previous work experience in a physical inpatient sub-acute rehabilitation center for older adults. She loves having the opportunity to positively impact the lives of individuals through their personal leisure and recreation pursuits, goals, and new interests. Thus helping pave the way to the ability and independence to enjoy their hobbies and interests is such an amazing journey. Returning happiness and enjoyment, feelings of empowerment and success, impacting the individual, friends and families. Karley is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), Certified Clinical Love Your Brain Yoga Instructor, and is in the process of becoming a Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS). She is the Co-Chair of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s (ATRA’s) Physical Rehabilitation and Medical Section. She had the opportunity to work as a part of a research team and has published work.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Abby Maslin shares an inspiring story of resilience and commitment in a deeply affecting new memoir. After her husband suffered a traumatic brain injury, the couple worked together as he recovered—and they learned to love again.
When Abby Maslin's husband, TC, didn't make it home on August 18, 2012, she knew something was terribly wrong. Her fears were confirmed when she learned that her husband had been beaten by three men and left for dead mere blocks from home, all for his cell phone and debit card.
The days and months that followed were a grueling test of faith. As TC recovered from a severe traumatic brain injury that left him unable to speak and walk, Abby faced the challenge of caring for—and loving—a husband who now resembled a stranger.
Love You Hard is the raw, unflinchingly honest story of a young love left broken, and the resilience required to mend a life and remake a marriage. Told from the caregiver's perspective, this book is a daring exploration of true love: what it means to love beyond language, beyond abilities, and into the place that reveals who we really are.
At the heart of Abby and TC's unique and captivating story are the universal truths that bind us all. This is a tale of living and loving wholeheartedly, learning to heal after profound grief, and choosing joy in the wake of tragedy.
Find Abby's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2HRIEDV
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology Center
Dr. Uzma Samadani founded Oculogica in 2013, and her laboratory has developed the eye-tracking methodology and published six papers on its utility. She is currently the Rockswold Kaplan Endowed Chair for Traumatic Brain Injury at Hennepin County Medical Center and Associate Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Minnesota. She serves on the American Association of Neurological Surgeons/Congress of Neurological Surgeons Executive Committee for Trauma and Critical Care and is Scientific Program Chair of the AANS/CNS National Neurotrauma Society Joint Satellite Meeting.
Rosina Samadani is the CEO of Oculogica and has 20 years of experience with medical device companies, including 7 years with McKinsey & Company as a leader in their healthcare practice. She holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Northwestern University and BS and MS in Mechanical Engineering from MIT.
Oculogica a medical device company dedicated to developing breakthrough technology to fundamentally transform the diagnosis of concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries with its non-invasive, fast, patent-protected and peer-reviewed technology.
www.oculogica.com
A licensed physical therapist with a Master’s degree in counseling, Sharik has dedicated his career to finding natural ways to heal the brain and body. His passion for natural healing developed out of his own journey and recovery from breaking his neck and back and sustaining brain injuries including a vertebral artery dissection stroke in 1986.
Sharik’s personal research research led to study of IASTM, Gua Sha, acupressure, taping, and vibration and their impact on the body and mind. One night, Sharik awoke with a distinct impression that vibration can be used to aid in healing the human nervous system. He then threw himself into searching for the perfect tool that would target the areas of chronic pain and muscles that hold onto stress and tension. Sharik simply could not find the right tool to help people in the way that he knew they could be helped.
Because Sharik could not find the right tool, he decided to create it. The first version of the Rezzimax® Tuner Pro, an FDA registered class 1 510(k) exempt medical device is a handheld device that uses vibration to fine-tune your nervous system, was a great start to help thousands of people. They began getting feedback from people suffering from the effects of TBI and all forms of chronic pain. Using the device for just a few minutes a day has been found to drastically reduce chronic pain for many people.
Receive 30% off with code: facesoftbi www.rezzimax.com
DEB BRANDON is a weaver, respected textile artist and enthusiast, and writer. She’s been an active volunteer with Weave a Real Peace (WARP), including serving multiple terms as a board member as well as writing the long-running “Textile Techniques from Around the World” column for the WARP newsletter. Brandon is a popular speaker on textiles and other topics. She’s an avid traveler and has competed nationally and internationally in dragon boating, and she’s been a professor in the Mathematical Sciences Department at Carnegie Mellon University since 1991. Her other books include the memoir “But My Brain Had Other Ideas,” and her essays have appeared in several publications, including HandEye Magazine and Weaving Today.
Find her books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2L4lI2V and https://amzn.to/2Pr3mKj
Dean Foor, is the founder of Oregon Medi Hemp and the proprietor of Entangled Biome product line. Dean has a wide professional background that makes him a much sought after expert in the field of Medical Hemp Processing, from farm-to-table.
Before Entangled Biome, Dean has worked in environmental impacts of water and soil, bioremediation in Alaska, art and science of wine making in Australia, Switzerland, and Oregon and responsible for the conception of many renewable energy Biogas Plants.
With overseeing the daily operations of Entangled Biome that include quality control from seed to harvest and the processing that involves ethanol extraction of Organic Certified USDA industrial hemp. Dean believes in a hands on experience to achieve the best quality Organic 'CBD-rich' Full Spectrum Hemp Oil that helps support a healthy and active life for many family, friends and customers.
Dean also holds degrees in both Civil Engineering and Geomatic Engineering from Ohio State University. He also serves as a consultant for Medical Hemp Processing and Organic 'CBD-rich' Full Spectrum Hemp Oil best practices.
Joe Russo was fortunate enough to receive his TBI from a mountain bike accident on May 4th, 2014. Adding the TBI to ADHD, dyslexia, job change and a myriad of other life changing events, he found himself in a bit of the TBI fog. It took another 2 years until life long friend Dean Foor introduced him to his CBD product and the life altering effects and benefits it had. CBD is now an integrated part of his life not only as a survivor but also an advocate for education and reforming laws.
Receive 15% off your first order before Dec. 31st with coupone code: 15Tribe2018 www.entangledbiome.com
I am a graduate of Michigan State University and I have been a practicing speech-language pathologist since 2014. I have worked in skilled nursing facilities and in hospitals in acute care and inpatient rehabilitation. My true passion is in working with individuals with brain injury, and I am grateful to work at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. I am a co-instructor of several of Origami’s group therapies, which include Brain Injury Education Group, Memory Group, and Social Communication Group. I received my Vital Stim swallowing therapy certification in 2017. I enjoy my job because it allows me to help individuals improve their lives following brain injury.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Lee Gerdes is the founder of Cereset, a wellness company that helps clients manage stress, restore hope and finally achieve restful sleep through patented BrainEcho™ technology. Gerdes, an experienced computer engineer with a background in psychology, physics and math, created Cereset to ease his own stress and restless nights following a violent, physical attack that left him traumatized. His proprietary algorithm has been used to help 130,000 worldwide and has been the subject of several successful clinical trials by Wake Forest University and the U.S. Military.
Find Lee's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ziahA3
Dr. Wice graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a PhD in Clinical Psychology in 2012. She has provided treatment and assessment services to adults, couples, and families in a variety of healthcare and community settings. She has experience providing cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based treatments for mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, and coping with stress. During her internship and residency at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, she received advanced training in interventions and assessments related to chronic disease management. Dr. Wice enjoys helping people cope with chronic diseases, physical injuries, and related emotional challenges. She is interested in research-based strategies to prevent illness and injury, reduce the burden associated with these challenges, and to improve the quality of life for individuals who are living with these conditions.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Becky Henry is changing the way parents & other caregivers are supported by helping them have SHIFT HAPPEN!
With lived experience and professional coaching training, Becky guides caregivers to release; fear, panic, sadness and worry and allow waves of joy and sorrow to co-exist so they have more; confidence, calmness and compassion to support a loved one in recovery.
Since Becky founded Hope Network, LLC in 2003 she’s been coaching parents to practice self-care skills when caregiving and feel less isolated and more supported.
Elisabeth Wilson is an acquired brain injury survivor, a brain health advocate, an attorney, and a licensed occupation therapist. She was a busy litigation attorney when she began experiencing numerous troubling neurological symptoms and cognitive decline, leading to her inability to practice law. She was eventually diagnosed with a very rare brain tumor of the pineal gland, a pineocytoma.
After brain surgery to remove the tumor in 2016, she underwent extensive rehabilitation with a variety of practitioners and made lifestyle and nutrition changes to support her recovery. She also suffered a concussion during the course of her recovery from a run-in with a bookcase in her home in the dark. After experiencing her life-changing injuries, she decided to devote her life to Neuro rehabilitation and helping others in their recovery from neurological injury and disease.
She went on to serve as the Editor of the book How to Feed a Brain: Nutrition for Optimal Brain Function and Repair by Cavin Balaster, which is available on Amazon. Elisabeth reinstated her license as an occupational therapist in Texas and is currently a candidate for a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach certification through the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy. She holds undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Occupational Therapy, with a minor in Neuroscience, from University of Southern California, and a law degree from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. With this background, she is poised to embark on a passionate journey to help others with acquired brain injuries live their best life and recover from debilitating neurological symptoms.
She lives in the Dallas, Texas area and hopes to begin working with clients in the near future.
Find her book on Amazon; https://amzn.to/2DBgJ9k
Linda is a Speech-Language Pathologist at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. She graduated from Michigan State University for both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Linda has worked in neuro-rehabilitation for 18 years. Neurological injuries are as diverse as the people themselves; which Linda finds fascinating and a good challenge to determine the best treatment for each person. Linda is also an Adjunct Faculty and Clinical Faculty for the School of Communication Arts and Sciences at Michigan State University. Linda also is one of the facilitators for the Lansing Area Aphasia Support Group which meets once a month. Linda finds the most gratifying aspect of her job is helping her clients improve their communication abilities and complete tasks to achieve their goals. Linda says she loves it when she can help them succeed and smile.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Rebecca Wyatt is a physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) at Michigan State University. She received a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training from Central Michigan University in 2004 and her medical degree from MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM) in 2008. Dr. Wyatt’s residency training was completed in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Sparrow Hospital through MSU 2008-2012 where she served as the chief resident during her last year of residency. She is an associate professor with the Department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Michigan State Universities School of Osteopathic Medicine. It is a great privilege to be the Medical Director and part of the Origami team.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Hart Shafer is the founder and CEO of TheraSpecs Company, makers of precision-tinted glasses that help relieve migraine, post-concussion syndrome, and other issues triggered or worsened by light. TheraSpecs glasses help people get out of the dark and back to their lives.
Hart was inspired to start TheraSpecs by his wife, Kerrie, who lives with chronic migraine. Previously, he worked in technology product development and still coaches, consults, and speaks on innovation and agile leadership. He is the inventor on three patents, holds a degree in physics with a mathematics core from Macalester College, and lives in Phoenix, AZ.
www.theraspecs.comhttp://www.theraspecs.com
$10 off with coupon code: FACESOFTBI
Michael is a 2002 graduate of Michigan State University. At Michigan State, he received a bachelor’s of science in Psychology along with the completion of premedical tracking. He started working at Origami shortly after graduating in December 2002. At Origami, he started off as a direct care provider. In 2004, he transitioned into the role of a Care Coordinator. He is a certified brain injury specialist and certified case manager, currently he also serves as the care coordination supervisor.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
On February 19, 2016, a group of tourists were frolicking in the waters of Colombia, South America. The merriment was interrupted when a boulder came crashing down on top of them. All but one made it to safety— her name is Schuyler. Our guest today is her mother, bestselling author and international motivational speaker Meridith Alexander. Meridith’s book THE SKY IS THE LIMIT hit the #1 New Release in the motivational category on Amazon the night that it was launched.
Meridith and Schuyler’s story has impacted thousands upon thousands and has established Meridith as an expert in the power of a deliberately positive mindset. Today, Meridith and Schuyler continue to spread their message of hope and empowerment by showing others that how we view our circumstances truly impacts how we experience every aspect of our life.
Find Meredith's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NRR8cK
Kathie is an Occupational Therapist and certified as an Employment Training Specialist. She graduated from Eastern Michigan University and has been practicing in the Lansing area for over twenty years, with experience working in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient services, and industrial rehabilitation. She has lectured on accommodations and productivity after a brain injury and published work on Adolescents with TBI: Transitioning Back to School. She is a Proctor for Certified Brain Injury Specialist exams and enjoys assisting co-workers prepare for this certification. She is honored to be part of a company that focuses on staying educated on the most up to date information, educating the community, and providing quality care to those they serve. Working in such a natural environment alongside so many individuals who truly have the best interest of the clients and family members at heart is very rewarding to her.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Mackenzie is a 2013 Michigan State University kinesiology graduate and received her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University in 2015. Since working at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center, she has received training and presented on topics within the community, including: serial casting techniques, AARP CarFit, vision therapy, cognitive perceptual motor retraining, and pre-driving rehabilitation services. Mackenzie currently works as an occupational therapist specializing in functional and community OT as well as some vision therapy and upper extremity modalities.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Amanda Lopez is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. She graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2011 with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. She is a CPI-Certified Instructor for Non-violent Crisis Intervention. At Origami, Dr. Lopez provides individual and family therapy to clients and caregivers. She also serves as a co-facilitator for group therapy targeted at brain injury education as well as ongoing support for transitioning back into the community and the workforce.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Tina Hutchence was born in Australia and lived in Hong Kong as a teenager, finally making California her home for the past 46 years. Her background is in Makeup for motion picture but when her brother Michael Hutchence - lead singer of INXS - took his life in 1997 she and her mother Patricia authored ‘Just A Man the Real Michael Hutchence’ for Pan Macmillan. She has now written a more in depth, personal book on Michael’s life written with music writer Jen jewel Brown due out in late September. In it she discusses Michael’s struggle with his traumatic brain injury.
Pre-order Tina's book, "Michael: My Brother, Lost Boy of INXS" -- due out late September: https://www.bookdepository.com/Michael-Tina-Hutchence/9781760633134
Arika Button graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences then went on to receive her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Grand Valley in 2008. Since then she has been working at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center as a Physical Therapist and treats clients with various neurologic and orthopedic conditions. She is an APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor and mentors 3-4 students a year. She is also a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and has received advanced training on serial casting, manual therapy techniques, and vestibular rehabilitation.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Kara Christy is an occupational therapist and certified brain injury specialist with eight years of experience working with individuals who have sustained a brain injury at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. She practices in the specialty areas of cognitive perceptual motor retraining and vision therapy, along with traditional occupational therapy practice areas of ADL and IADL retraining. Kara is also a certified fieldwork educator and enjoys teaching on these topics with university graduate programs, with fieldwork students, and at various conferences.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Mariah Moncada graduated from the University of Michigan in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Movement Science and then received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Central Michigan University in 2016. She is an APTA Certified Clinical Instructor, a Certified Brain Injury Specialist, a PWR!Moves Certified Therapist, and has received advanced training in craniosacral therapy and vestibular rehabilitation. She works at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center and treats clients with various neurologic and orthopedic conditions.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Natasha Huffine is an occupational therapist and Certified Brain Injury Specialist with eleven years of experience working with people who have sustained traumatic brain injuries at Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center. At Origami she specializes in Vision Therapy, Cognitive Perceptual Motor Retraining, and Driving Rehabilitation. Natasha is also a surveyor for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities for the brain injury specialty programs. Currently, Natasha is a panelist assisting to form medical guidelines for treatment of those with moderate to severe brain injuries through the Brain Injury Association of America.
Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization located in Lansing, Michigan. Origami provides comprehensive rehabilitation care for survivors of brain injuries and their families. Through their compassionate and innovative service, Origami creates opportunities and transforms lives.
Brady Kramer born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Kramer received a full athletic scholarship to play hockey at Providence college he was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens out of high school. His athletic career includes induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame for The Haverford School, playing for the U.S. World Junior National Hockey Team, captain of Providence College Hockey Team, and participation in the U.S. Olympic Hockey Festival. Kramer signed with the Montreal Canadiens in 1995. After playing 18 minor league games he retired as the result of anxiety and depression. Concussions were a major part of his athletic career, receiving as many as 7 diagnosed and undiagnosed injuries.
Kramer is the owner of BCTK, a company that manages the operations and logistics of corporate incentive and business travel programs.
Roni L. Robinson, MSN, CRNP is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. She works with the Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Center for Sports Medicine and Performance Center and the Trauma Program.
Roni completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Delaware, Newark, DE, where she received her BSN in nursing. She completed her graduate studies at The University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, where she received her MSN in the Pediatric and Acute/Chronic Nurse Practitioner Program.
Roni's research and clinic interests are in pediatric and adolescent concussion. She has published material in peer reviewed journals and has lectured extensively about concussion in children and adolescents and helped develop the program Concussion Care for Kids: Minds Matter at CHOP.
Helpful links: www.chop.edu/concussion www.brainsteps.net
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Dr. Ronald Murray s a Phyiscal Therapist ,Traditional Naturopathy, and holds a Doctorate in Integrative Medicine.He is the director of the of The Asclepeion Center of Body Mind Therapy in Silver Spring M.D He has been on faculty of The Capitol University of Integrative Medicine for 10 years where he taught the Colloid Fluid Model approach to CranioSacral Therapy . His mentors include Dr. John Upledger who , among others taught him advanced forms of body-mind work.Maria Gabrielle and Dr.Bradford has mentored him Darkfield Microscopy. He has taken extensive from Dr. Konrad Werthmann ,Dr.Thomas Rau , Dr.Kirk Slegel. He also attended the Paracelsus Biological Medicine Network two-year curriculum. His passion is synthesizing the conceptual framework of energetic and and biological medicine and there influences on the autonomic nervous system.
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology
TED W. BAXTER was born and grew up on Long Island in New York.
He got his bachelor of business administration in three years at Hofstra University in 1984 where he majored in public accountancy. He took a job working for Price Waterhouse as an auditor and he passed all four parts of the CPA exam on the first shot. He then became a management consultant soon thereafter, focusing on financial industry clients. While he was working as a senior manager, he attended the Executive Masters Business Administration program at Wharton on the weekends, where he got his MBA, concentrating on finance and strategy.
After spending twenty-two years in the financial industry, he retired as a global finance executive with expertise such as international banks and securities, risk management, financial products, controllership, team-building, change management, strategic planning, and information technology systems.
Ted experienced a massive ischemic stroke in April 2005. Ted now volunteers his time at two hospitals in Orange County, California, providing his expertise and his experience as a stroke survivor in a communication recovery program and is involved in various philanthropic issues. He also participates as a member of the board of directors of the American Heart and Stroke Association. He does speaking engagements for health-related institutions, hospitals, and universities in California. Ted lives in Newport Beach, California, with his wife, Michelle, and their dog, Zorro.
Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2J756tB
Episode sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology DC
Dr. Robert Stern is Professor of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Anatomy and Neurobiology at Boston University (BU) School of Medicine, where he is also Director of the Clinical Core of the BU Alzheimer’s Disease Center. He is also Director of Clinical Research for the BU Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center.
A major focus of Dr. Stern’s research involves the long-term effects of repetitive brain trauma in athletes, including the neurodegenerative disease, CTE. He has been funded from NIH and the Department of Defense for his work on developing methods of detecting and diagnosing CTE during life, as well as examining potential genetic and other risk factors for this disease. He is the lead principal investigator for the 7-year, multi-center DIAGNOSE CTE Research Project, funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. His other major areas of funded research include the assessment and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, the cognitive effects of chemotherapy in the elderly, thyroid-brain relationships, and driving and dementia. He is the BU site principal investigator for several clinical trials for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
He appears frequently in national and international print and broadcast media for his work on CTE and AD. He also appears in the feature length documentaries, “League of Denial” (PBS Frontline, 2013), “Head Games” (2012), and “I Remember Better When I Paint” (2009).
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neuorology
Maggie Fauver joined Canna Care Docs in January 2015 as a member of the company’s mid-Atlantic expansion team. She worked closely with Delaware’s Office of Medical Marijuana during the implementation of the state’s medical marijuana program, forming strong relationships with state regulators and administrators.
Promoted to mid-Atlantic operations manager in January 2016, Fauver oversaw Canna Care Docs’ April 2016 opening of its first office in Maryland, in Takoma Park. She has since continued the Maryland expansion and has opened Canna Care Docs offices in Cockeysville, Columbia and Baltimore, Maryland. Informed by her perspective as the victim of a serious car crash, Fauver was inspired to pursue a career in health care advocacy.
In January 2012 she enrolled in Shoreline Community College in Shoreline, Washington, to pursue a degree in health information and informatics management. She graduated with high honors as a registered health information technician (RHIT). She also holds a degree in business administration from Delaware County Community College. Fauver has become a strong advocate for medical cannabis. She devoted significant energy in support of the Delaware Senate’s 2017 passage of the Bravery Bill, improving veterans’ access to medical cannabis.
She served on the board of directors and strategic planning committee for Delaware NORML, the state chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. During her career she has also been an active volunteer, including serving as vice president of her local Parent Teacher Association, as a Cub Scout leader, and as a judge for the Delaware Business Partners of America 2017 & 2018 State Leadership Conference.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neuorology
Alison Epperson received her Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Studies from Centre College in Danville, KY and received her Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University School of Law in Cleveland, OH. In 2013 and 2014, Alison spent time working for the Honorable Tom Harkin in his Washington, D.C. Senate office, focusing for awhile on disability issues, and spent the summer of 2016 interning at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio. Alison was then a summer associate at Orrick, Herrington and Sutcliffe’s New York office and will start as a full-time associate in September 2018. During her last semester of law school, Alison externed at the U.S. State Department. She was also named Law Student of the Year in 2018 by 'The National Jurist.' Alison was Zac Easter’s long-time girlfriend and first became connected and knowledgeable of CTE through him. She was involved in the founding of CTE Hope and currently serves as its Chief Communications Officer, while also assisting in programing and development. In terms of CTE Hope’s mission, Alison’s main passion stems from the support side of the disease and the organization as that is the role she played most prominently in Zac’s life.
sponsored by: Midwest Functional Neurology
Brian Eder is the founder of Birdies 4 Brains, a 501c3 organization that raises money to benefit Minnesotans affected by brain injury. Brian’s passion for this cause stems from him personal connection in that his sister suffered an AVM as a 21 year-old college student. It’s that experience which led to Birdies 4 Brains.
Birdies 4 Brains will host its seventh annual event where golfers play 100 holes of golf in one day to raise money and awareness. In the prior 6 years Birdies4Brains has raised over $325,000 and has a goal to raise $125,000 in 2018. In Brian’s spare time… he’s also the founder of Eder & Associates, a wealth management firm located in Lake Elmo, MN. He’s married to Gretta and they have 1 daughter Beatrice (5) and they’re expecting their second daughter in early June. They reside in Lake Elmo, MN.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Michael V. Kaplen is a senior partner in the New York personal injury law firm, De Caro & Kaplen, LLP. His practice focuses on personal injury and medical malpractice with an emphasis on representing individuals who have sustained a traumatic or acquired brain injury and other catastrophic injuries.
Michael is a Professorial Lecturer in Law at The George Washington University Law School where he teaches the only course in the nation devoted to traumatic brain injury law. He is board certified as a Civil Trial Advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and is board certified in Medical Malpractice, and a member of the board of governors of the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys.
Michael serves on the executive board of the Interstate Bus Litigation Group of the American Association for Justice and is a member of the New York State Traumatic Brain Injury Services Coordinating Council.
He was an invited by President Obama to be a participant in the 2014, White House Healthy Kids & Safe Sports Concussion Summit and serves as a member of the American Academy of Neurology, Concussion Work Group.
Michael served three-terms as president of the Brain Injury Association of New York State, the leading not-for-profit New York State brain injury advocacy dedicated to brain injury education, advocacy and prevention.
Get your FREE ID card: https://brainlaw.com/brain-injuries/card/
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
In 2003 Ryan Boyle was dragged by a truck causing him immediately to go into a coma. After emergency brain surgery, where they removed a portion of his brain, it seemed like all hope was gone. Proof that miracles do happen, not only did he wake from the coma, but soon started a rigorous battle to learn how to stand, walk, eat, and everything else, all over again.
Through patience, hard work and lots of love and support, not only did Ryan defeat the odds, but he thrived through the recovery process and paved his way to become the youngest member of the USA Paralympic Road Cycling Team, winning a silver medal in the Rio 2016 games.
Now, in between his Paralympic training schedule (he resides at the Olympic Training Village in Colorado), going to school and finishing his second book, Ryan is devoted to helping others by sharing his story and offering advice to those experiencing hardships.
He recently graduated from Blessed Trinity High School in Roswell. When Ryan wrote his book When The Lights Go Out: A Boy Given a Second Chance at the end of his freshmen year of high school, he knew that he wanted to speak about his road to recovery and share his story of inspiration. He has spoken at his school in Georgia, at Clemson University, and at Safe America, where he went for his driving classes.
"This inspirational story describes how I had to overcome enormous obstacles. It is also about a spiritual journey of reflection, prayer, and many incomprehensible acts of faith. This is a living example of how a horrific event can be overcome by measures of strength, determination, and faith that you never knew you had within." -- ryan
Find his book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2HAlxe8
Episode sponored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Lisa Rocks is a certified speech-language pathologist who has been practicing for over 8 years. Her experience is in a variety of settings, including primarily acute care and acute rehab. She recently has been in the school and early intervention settings, working with children 3-5 years of age. She has worked with both adults and children in the areas of swallowing and language needs. Her specialty is brain injury with a focus on cognition.
Molly Brightbill is a certified speech- language pathologist working primarily in the acute inpatient rehab setting at Good Shepherd Penn Partners with 6 years’ experience. She is a certified brain injury specialist, providing evaluation and treatment for speech, language, cognition and swallowing goals in the adult population.
Edward Egros is a television sports reporter and anchor with Fox 4 in Dallas, TX and a sports analytics enthusiast. While his work in television has always involved telling meaningful stories about athletes and teams, his "Inside Sports Analytics" podcast and website also enhance this same mission but through a different approach: by incorporating sports analytics into journalism.
He earned his undergraduate degrees in journalism and economics from Southern Methodist University in Dallas (where he is based). He also earned his Master's degree in predictive analytics from Northwestern University. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys traveling, a good adventure and a delicious iced coffee.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
After almost four decades of practice as a pediatric surgeon and nearly a decade of practicing holistic medicine, Dr. Ivan Figueroa-Otero now heals people through the guiding principles and empowering words of his Amazon best-selling series of self-improvement books. Bilingual in English and Spanish, he was a member of the Puerto Rico Medical Association, American Academy of Medical Acupuncture, American Pediatric Surgical Association, and Fellow American Academy of Medical Acupuncture. He is currently engaged in his private practice and continues in his role as an educator, trying to achieve full integration of traditional Chinese acupuncture courses in the curriculum of medical schools. He resides in Puerto Rico.
Find Dr. Figueroa-Otero's book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2H8cyQs
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with Dr. Alison Alford.
I was born and raised in Lancaster, PA. I attended undergraduate at University of Miami obtaining a BS in Psychobiology. I then attend Jefferson Medical College back in Philadelphia, PA. Once I graduated, I did my residency and fellowship at Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2012 I became a board-certified Child Neurologist. I had a strong interest in headaches and studied to obtain my second board in Headache Medicine in 2013. I have become the only board-certified Pediatric Headache Medicine Specialist in Virginia.
I would see a fair amount of post-concussion syndromes for their headache management. However, in 2016 one of our concussion clinics lost their primary physician. I, personally was not a fan of the way other clinics were run, so I decided to start managing more of the concussion symptoms myself. I pride myself and my clinic on bringing the relationship back into medicine and I felt that needed to happen with concussion/TBI patients as well. So many people do not understand the far reaches of a TBI and how much disability it can cause. So, I felt this was very important to protect this patient population and provide the best care possible. I was also asked to join the board of directors for the Brain Injury Association of Virginia. I have learned so much about the need for even more resources for TBI in Virginia. This has made me all the more passionate about getting these patients what they need.
I live in Richmond with my husband of 13 years. We have two young children and a loving Golden Retriever.
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with author Berit Brogaard.
“Brit” is a Professor of Philosophy with joint appointments in the Departments of Philosophy and Psychology at the University of Miami as well as the Network for Sensory Research at the University of Toronto. Her educational background includes a medical degree in neuroscience and a doctorate in philosophy. Her areas of research include perception, synesthesia, blindsight, consciousness, neuro-psychiatry and emotions.
Brit has written over 75 peer-reviewed articles, some three hundred popular articles on neuroscience and health issues and two books: Transient Truths (Oxford) and On Romantic Love (Oxford). She is currently finishing a third book with Oxford entitled Seeing and Saying as well as working on another book for popular press.
Her work has been featured in various public media, including Nightline, ABC News, the Huffington Post, Fox News, MSNBC, Daily Mail, Modesto Bee, and Mumbai Mirror. She is also an editor of the international peer-reviewed philosophy journal Erkenntnis and was the first female President of the Central States Philosophical Association. Brit has fear-color/texture/shape/motion synesthesia. She has recently co-authored a book with Kristian Marlow, The Superhuman Mind, based in part on research at the lab.
Find Brit's books on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2BGsbuM
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with Pat Stanford.
Pat Stanford was born in Philadelphia, but moved to Florida with her farming family when she was one. She has poetry published in several anthologies, and won second place in the 2004 Seven Hills Contest with her short story, Divorce Sale.
Fixing Boo Boo, a slightly fictionalized account of what happens when a brain-injured sibling comes to live with a sister who doesn’t know what that means, is her first novel length work. She lives in Tallahassee, Florida with her husband and a quirky cat, and is currently working on a new novel as well as ghostwriting a book for a CEO of a corporation.
Purchase Pat's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2FmHMSD
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with Tiffany B. Cobb, Ph.D.
Dr. Tiffany Cobb is a pediatric neuropsychologist at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota. She received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, IL in 2010, and completed her internship training and a two-year postdoctoral fellowship in pediatric neuropsychology at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.
Dr. Cobb is a licensed psychologist in Minnesota. She joined Gillette Children’s in 2012. Dr. Cobb evaluates children with complex medical conditions, including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury.
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with Ira Pastor.
Ira Pastor - Chief Executive Officer – Bioquark Inc. (www.bioquark.com) - Over 30 years of experience across multiple sectors of the pharmaceutical industry including pharmaceutical commercialization, biotech drug development, managed care, distribution, OTC, and retail; Served as VP, Business Development for drug development company Phytomedics Inc., raising $40 million of private equity, consummating over $50 million of licensing deals, and bringing lead drug candidate from discovery stage to Phase III development; Prior to that, employed by SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals working in sales, marketing, and business strategy positions.
Mr. Pastor has also served as Vice President of Corporate Development for the pharmacy benefit management company Prescription Delivery Systems (acquired by Cigna Health Insurance); MBA, Temple University; BS, Pharmacy, Rutgers University; He is also a Board Member of RegenerAge SAPI de CV, (www.regenerage.clinic/en/) a clinical company focused on expedited translational therapeutic applications of regenerative and rejuvenative healthcare interventions, the Reanima Project (http://www.reanima.tech), member of the Executive Council of the World Academy of Medical Science – WAMS (https://wams.online/our_team/ira-s-pastor/), and member of the World Economic Forum's Human Enhancement council (https://www.weforum.org/people/ira-pastor).
sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Barry Sears
Dr. Barry Sears is a leading authority on the dietary control of hormonal response. A former research scientist at the Boston University School of Medicine and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dr. Sears has dedicated his research efforts over the past 30 years to the study of lipids. He holds 13 U.S. Patents in the areas of intravenous drug delivery systems and hormonal regulation for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
His research has elevated food from more than simply a source of calories to being recognized as an exceptionally powerful drug. Because of his revolutionary research, Dr. Sears has been a frequent guest on many national programs such as 20/20, Today, Good Morning America, CBS Morning News, CNN, and MSNBC.
Dr. Sears continues his ongoing research as the President of the non-profit Inflammation Research Foundation in Marblehead, MA. In addition to continuing research on the hormonal effects of food, Dr. Sears has expanded his research in developing innovative dietary approaches to treating cancer and neurological conditions, as well as his on-going work in treating cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Purchase Dr. Sears book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2Hzgo5F
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with TBI survivor Deb Brandon.
I was born in England, raised in Israel, Switzerland, and England, and now live in the United States. I’m a math professor at Carnegie Mellon University. I’ve participated nationally and internationally in dragon boating. I’m a mother, a writer, and a respected textile artist.
I am also a brain injury survivor. My journey towards reclaiming my life began with three brain surgeries in as many weeks—two carefully planned, the third a terrifying surprise.
My essays have appeared in several publications, including the Weave A Real Peace newsletter, where I have a regular column; Dragon Boat World International, Hand/Eye Magazine,and Logan Magazine; and SIAM Journal of Mathematical Analysis and Journal of Integral Equations and Applications. As a speaker, I present programs about brain injury (both my own and the wider scope of brain injury). I am an active blogger and participate in social media platforms including Facebook, discussing brain injury and its impact both in new material through my own Facebook page and by contributing to other sites and posts.
Purchase Deb's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2EBEDl0
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Carolyn Dean
Carolyn Dean, MD, ND is a brain health, diet and nutrition expert, author of "365 Ways to Boost Your Brain Power: Tips, Exercise, Advice" and "The Magnesium Miracle". Dr. Dean is a health pioneer with over 30 years of experience with brain health, diet, rehab and nutrition issues. She’s authored 30 books including "Atrial Fibrillation: Remineralize Your Heart", "The Yeast Connection", "Future Health Now Encyclopedia", "Hormone Balance", "365 Ways to Boost Your Brain Power: Tips, Exercise, Advice", "IBS for Dummies" and "The Magnesium Miracle".
Radio, TV and magazines interview her regularly including ABC's The View, NBC and CBS. Know the Cause with host Doug Kaufmam, Your Health with Dr. Becker, The Women's Connection with Barrie Switzen, Weekend Today in NY, WNBC with Dr. Ian Smith, Health Matters with Christine Crosbie, Global TV to name a few. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for the Nutritional Magnesium Association. www.nutritionalmagnesium.org
Find Carolyn's books on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2Ec1NeZ
sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she speaks with Dr. Joyce Mikal-flynn
Dr. Joyce Mikal-Flynn has firsthand experience with trauma. An avid marathon runner and triathlete, in 1990 she survived a sudden death event requiring 22 minutes of CPR. Since her survival she completed 5 marathons, several triathlons, earned her Master’s In Nursing and a Doctor of Education. She is passionate about her philosophy of using one’s inner strengths and courage to turn tragic events into victories. Her ongoing research and clinical work is intended to positively influence the field of trauma focusing on PTG for individuals, vicarious survivors and communities who suffered and survived critical events.
She developed a contemporary system of rehabilitation: Metahabilitation bringing forth her business: Methab.com. An associate professor at CSUS, she continues clinical practice, lecturing and researching on posttraumatic growth (PTG), presenting internationally and nationally on the subject. Publications include articles in Nursing Times (2012), Journal of Addictions Nursing (2015) and Nursing 2016.
Her book: Turning Tragedy Into Triumph: MetaHabilitation, A Contemporary Model of Rehabilitation was released in 2012. She completed a sabbatical (2015) studying vicarious survivors of trauma, focusing on family and friends of those who suffered and survived troubling life events. She visited Oklahoma City, NYC and Boston interviewing people who witnessed and were affected by these traumatic events. Her ongoing research along with a deep concern for those who deal with trauma and those who care for them lead to the creation of a course at CSUS: Traumatology: Introduction to Posttraumatic Growth.
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. James Giordano
Dr. James Giordano is Professor in the Departments of Neurology and Biochemistry, and Chief of the Neuroethics Studies Program of the Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics at Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA; and is Executive Director of the Center for Policy for Emerging Technologies (C-PET), a Washington DC-based international think tank.
Dr. Giordano is also Distinguished Visiting Professor of Brain Science, Health Promotions and Ethics at the Coburg University of Applied Sciences, Coburg, Germany. Dr. Giordano has served as an appointed member of United States Department of Health and Human Services Secretary’s Advisory Council on Human Research Protections (SACHRP); appointed member of the Neuroethics, Legal and Social Issues (NELSI) Advisory Panel of the Defense Advanced Research Projects’ Agency (DARPA); as Senior Science Advisory Fellow of the Strategic Multilayer Assessment Branch of the Joint Staff of the Pentagon; and as Research Fellow and Task Leader for the Sub-Program on Dual Use Brain Science of the European Union Human Brain Project.
His ongoing research addresses mechanism and treatment of neurological disorders and injuries, and neuroethical issues arising in and from the development, use and misuse of neuroscientific techniques and technologies in medicine, public life, and military applications.
Purchase his books on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2DgmMff
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Center for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with survivor Matt Faulkner.
Matt Faulkner is the co-author of Most Likely to Survive (2013) and the subject of the documentary film, Recovery (2016), both of which detail the events surrounding his unexpected recovery from the severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) he suffered 3 ½ months before his high school graduation. After spending nearly two months in a deep coma, unlikely to survive, Faulkner beat the odds by walking out of the hospital after 103 days and across the stage at his high school graduation two weeks later. He went on to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in economics less than four years after that.
Today, he is happily married to his husband, Kyle and works as an auditor for NRG Energy, Inc. Outside of his full-time job, he is a frequent guest speaker on the topic of TBI rehabilitation & recovery to groups of students, nurses and young therapists. Faulkner hopes to use his experience to positively impact the current paradigm of neuro-rehabilitation so that it focuses more on individual patients. For more information on the film and book, please visit https://www.facebook.com/mattfaulkner2013
Matt's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2BG1neX
Watch Matt's Documentary: https://filmfreeway.com/recoveryfilm
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Center for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Jarrod Pedone
Before 9/2/12, Jarrod Pedone was a full time musician, recording engineer & composer. On that evening, while out for a run, he was struck by an intoxicated driver. He suffered a laundry list of injuries. The most concerning of which was the traumatic brain injury.
When Jarrod eventually woke up, he learned that outpatient physical & mental therapy understandably left something to be desired in regards to musician's skills recovery. He naturally resumed his career path. Little did he know that creating music was now going to be by far the most significant source of therapy that he'd experience. Jarrod has been creating music (as "Ninth Floor Mannequin") & showing steady improvement ever since.
Find Jarrod's Music here: https://ninthfloormannequin.bandcamp.com/track/absences
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Center for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Mary Lee Etsy.
Mary Lee Esty, LCSW-C, PhD, is President of the Brain Wellness and Biofeedback Center of Washington, Bethesda, MD, and a Senior Fellow of the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback. The Center provides biofeedback and neurofeedback treatments for symptoms following concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), including headache, insomnia, fatigue, cognitive problems, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Her first research for TBI was done with NIH funding through the Kessler Rehabilitation Hospital, and published in the Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation in 2001.
Conquering Concussion, by Dr. Esty and C.M. Shifflett, defines numerous effects of concussion: short and long-term physical, social, emotional, and metabolic effects that present therapeutic challenges to health care providers. This book informs professionals and lay people about life-long effects of concussion that are not generally understood. Who knew that Elvis, King Henry VIII, and Howard Hughes were seriously affected by concussion, and about its link to their odd behaviors? Conquering Concussion was awarded a coveted Kirkus starred review and is the educational tool the authors had hoped to create.
Purchase her book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2BEDOTC
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Center for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Kimberly Jones
Kim is the mother of a 24 year old TBI survivor, Jeffry Lovell. Jeffry’s TBI was acquired in a motor vehicle accident at the age of 13, and it left him with severe diffused axonal injury and left frontal lobe damage. Jeffry was in a coma for over 40 days and endured inpatient neurorehabilitation for 4 months and constant outpatient rehabilitation for the next 5 years.
After the initial critical phase of her son’s recovery, Kimberly experienced depression, suicide attempts, and declining physical health. At her lowest point she finally took her doctor’s advice and joined a gym, seeking to get some relief. Her hope is to encourage other caregivers to seek professional help for themselves, and she hopes to assist caregivers in finding resources for their own health as the second, silent victims of TBI. Her message is “Care for the Caregiver: Survive AND Thrive!” The truth is that without the caregiver, there is no survivor.
episode spnosred by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Center for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Joy Kiefrer
Joy Kieffer is a lifelong educator, Bachelor of Science in Education from university of Wisconsin- Eau Claire, Masters Degree in Special Education from Mankato State University, Sixth Year Certification in Education Administration from University of Minnesota- Mankato. She taught in general education and special education from 1979- 1989, and worked as a Special Education Coordinator and then as a Director of Special Education Services until she retired in 2015 (to care for and serve as guardian/conservator her son who sustained a traumatic brain injury.)
Currently, Joy Kieffer is the Employment Services Manager in the Twin Cities marker for Mind Shift, a 501©3 providing sustaining employment for individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Joy Kieffer taught in Boscobel, WI, Cornell, Wi, Austin, MN, and Owatonna, MN, She served in school administration in Owatonna, MN and Buffalo, MN. She has two remaining children- Erica Ash Gibson in Kentucky and Connor Martin, student at Marian University in Wisonsin. Her son Kevin Ash passed away on January 15, 2017 from complications due to Chrontic Traumatic Encephalopathy resulting from exposures to blasts during his three tours of duty from 2003-2012.
Watch the full 60 minutes segment here: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/scientists-seek-veterans-for-final-act-of-service/
and the overtime segment here: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/scientists-seek-veterans-for-final-act-of-service/
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Center for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Alina Fong about Depression and axniety after brain injury.
Alina K. Fong received her PhD in Clinical Neuropsychology with an emphasis in neuroradiology from Brigham Young University. She received the national American Psychological Association Clinical Neuropsychology Division 40 Graduate Student Research Award in 2004 for her research on "Cortical Sources of the N400 and 'The N400 Effect." Dr. Fong's interest in brain mapping soon turned to functional MRI, and since then, her research efforts have been focused on the clinical applications of fMRI.
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neuorology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Henry Emmons.
Henry Emmons, MD, is a psychiatrist who integrates mind-body and natural therapies, mindfulness and neuroscience into his
clinical work. He is a founder of Partners in Resilience, committed to integrating the best of nutrition, movement, natural therapies and the psychology of mindfulness to help restore resilience and rediscover joy. Henry is the author of The Chemistry of Joy, The Chemistry of Calm, and Staying Sharp, and is in demand as a workshop and retreat leader for both healthcare professionals and the general public. Learn more at www.henryemmons.com
Purchase his book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2Df4L0C
episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology: Ceter for Brain Health
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. David Traster.
Dr. David Traster is a licensed chiropractor with a Master’s Degree in Sports Health Science. Dr. Traster is the CEO of South Florida Integrative Health in Miami, Florida which specializes in post-concussion rehabilitation.
Dr. Traster is an associate professor for the Carrick Institute for Graduate Studies and lectures around the world on translating clinical research into clinical practice. Dr. Traster has received a Diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology by the American Chiropractic Neurology Board, as well as a Fellow in Brain Injury and Rehabilitation by the American College of Functional Neurology. He is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician through the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians and a Certified practitioner in Applied Kinesiology. He is a certified personal trainer with specialties in performance enhancement and corrective enhancement through National Academy of Sports Medicine.
He has been a co-author on 36 case study publications in the journal of Frontiers Neurology. He has been a keynote speaker at neurology conventions all over the world and has developed his own post-doctorate fellowship program on vestibular rehabilitation through the American College of Functional Neurology which he teaches to a variety of healthcare professionals around the world.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Joseph Cleary.
Dr. Joseph Cleary is a pediatric neuropsychologist at Mt Washington Pediatric Hospital. He is a graduate of Widener University, where he earned his master’s and doctoral degrees in Clinical Psychology with specialties in Neuropsychology and School Psychology. Dr. Cleary completed his internship training at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and The Center for Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Health. Currently, Dr. Cleary provides comprehensive neuropsychological assessment for children with chronic medical conditions, specializing in acquired brain injuries.
Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital provides family-focused, integrated care to children with serious, chronic or complex medical needs. Since 1922, the hospital has helped children heal from illness and injury, and now treats nearly 9,000 patients each year. The 102-bed hospital is a jointly owned affiliate of The University of Maryland Medical System and Johns Hopkins Medicine and has locations in Baltimore City, Prince George’s County and in the community. For more information, please visit www.mwph.org.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Mira Bartók
Mira Bartók is the author of the New York Times best-selling memoir The Memory Palace, which won a National Book Critics Circle Award for Autobiography. The Memory Palace was also a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection and was voted a best book of 2011 by the Chicago Tribune and the Washington Post. Mira Bartók has written and illustrated numerous nonfiction titles for children and has also edited and translated several picture books in Italian, Norwegian, and Sámi (Lapp). The Wonderling is her first novel for young readers.
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Christy Sands of Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital.
Christy Sands, PT, DPT
Christy Sands has been a physical therapist at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital for 9 years. She earned a B.S. in Kinesiological Science in 2004, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from University of Maryland in 2009. She has a clinical specialty treating pediatric vestibular and coordination disorders. She assisted with development and oversight of MWPH’s Balance Clinic in conjunction with occupational therapy. She is responsible for organizing physical and occupational therapy care for patients in the Concussion Assessment and Management Program (CAMP) at MWPH.
Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital provides family-focused, integrated care to children with serious, chronic or complex medical needs. Since 1922, the hospital has helped children heal from illness and injury, and now treats nearly 9,000 patients each year. The 102-bed hospital is a jointly owned affiliate of The University of Maryland Medical System and Johns Hopkins Medicine and has locations in Baltimore City, Prince George’s County and in the community. For more information, please visitwww.mwph.org.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with advocates Rekha Iyer and Jash Desai.
Rekha Iyer is a junior at Neuqua Valley High School, and an avid advocate for students that have suffered traumatic brain injury. After her own experience with 2 concussions, Rekha is rewriting "return to learn protocols" for students post-injury. She actively pursues her passion for policy and advocacy through several youth organizations and courses in the realms of law and politics.
Jash is currently a senior at Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville, Illinois. After spending much of life involved in combat sports, specifically Tae-Kwon-Do, Jash could see the effects of concussions on his teammates and wanted to fix the gaps in the state system of academic reintegration post-injury after hearing what happened with Rekha.
Episdoe sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
This is a special epsisode for me -- my two-year podcast anniversary! I will be joined by several of my fellow TBI friends who have been instrumental in my advocacy work: Paul Bosworth, Toni Popkin, and Anne Forrest.
Join us as we have a candid conversation looking back on the last two years that I have gotten to know them, and how we have collaborated to be amazing advocates of traumatic brain injury!!
sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Lindie McDonough from Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital.
Lindie McDonough, CTRS, CBIS, CPST
Lindie McDonough attended Stevenson University and George Washington University, where she earned degrees in Therapeutic Recreation and Transitional Services for Traumatic Brain Injury. Lindie has been employed at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital for 12 years, and works as a Senior Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. She coordinates therapeutic recreation programs, Abilities Adventures, and community and school re-entry programs for inpatients and outpatients in the rehabilitation program.
Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital provides family-focused, integrated care to children with serious, chronic or complex medical needs. Since 1922, the hospital has helped children heal from illness and injury, and now treats nearly 9,000 patients each year. The 102-bed hospital is a jointly owned affiliate of The University of Maryland Medical System and Johns Hopkins Medicine and has locations in Baltimore City, Prince George’s County and in the community. For more information, please visitwww.mwph.org.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Robert Sherman of Iron Neck.
Robert Sherman is co-owner of Iron Neck, a company that makes a neck training device used by high school, college and pro teams of almost every sport to reduce concussion risk associated with whiplash. While an increased amount of attention is being paid to neck strength as a critical component to concussion management, it pales in comparison to that paid to helmets and post-concussion protocols. Robert is an advocate for preventive concussion management and travels the country educating professionals on the importance of neck training and the latest research on concussions. Through his interactions with leading strength & conditioning coaches, athletic trainers, physical therapists, neurologists, athletes and concussion survivors, Robert has gained a comprehensive perspective on the issues all individuals face from concussions to chronic neck pain.
Robert, along with two close friends from business school at University of Texas, met Mike Jolly, inventor of the Iron Neck in 2015. A former collegiate football player, Mike developed the Iron Neck in 2012 after seeing some of his UCLA football teammates develop CTE after their NFL careers. In 2011, Mike discovered research associating increased neck strength with reduced concussion risk as well as the increased threat of rotational forces on the brain that contribute to CTE. Since launching a redesigned version of the Iron Neck in 2016, hundreds of teams have incorporated it into their concussion management efforts.
Sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Darryl L. Powe
Darryl Powe is a speech-language pathologist with more than 20 years of experience. He has worked in a variety of settings including acute and rehabilitation hospitals, university clinics and outpatient offices. He has also taught on the undergraduate level both on campus and developed distance learning classes in communicative disorders. He holds a MS in Communicative Disorders from UNC-Chapel Hill and a BS in Speech Pathology and Audiology from Shaw University in Raleigh, NC. He specific research interests include evidenced-based practice and interdisciplinary team building. His primary clinical interests are in treatments for Parkinson’s diseases and concussion. He holds certification in both LSVT and SPEAK OUT.
HealthSouth is one of the nation’s largest providers of post-acute healthcare services, offering both facility-based and home-based post-acute services in 34 states and Puerto Rico through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies, and hospice agencies.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join Host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Mozghan Hines.
Mozghan Hines, PT, DPT, Director of Therapy Operations at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital
of Middletown. Mozghan Hines graduated from Delaware Technical Community College with an associate
degree in Physical therapy in 1992. She received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2007 from
Neumann University in Aston, PA.
Mozghan is a multi-dimensional professional with more than 23 years of success and experience in rehabilitation management and in the clinical setting, from a Physical Therapist Assistant to Director of Rehabilitation. Her experience includes pediatrics, geriatrics, home health, acute rehab, NICU, PICU, SNF, outpatient PT with an emphasis on neurological rehab.
She has co-authored an article for Advance Magazine for Directors in Rehabilitation (Nov 2001, Vol. 10. NO 11) titled, “Growing Pain” as well as a section “cerebral palsy aquatics” for two books by Freeman Miller, M.D., entitled, “Therapeutic Treatments”. She has also presented multiple continuing education seminars on “aquatic based physical therapy” and “The Black
Hole of Brain Injury in older adults.” Mozghan is involved in the PTA board advisory for Delaware Technical Community College as well as Delaware Brain Injury association.
HealthSouth is one of the nation’s largest providers of post-acute healthcare services, offering both facility-based and home-based post-acute services in 34 states and Puerto Rico through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies, and hospice agencies.
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with jessica Heimall from Health South.
Jessica Heimall, PT, DPT, C/NDT, CBIS, Physical Therapist and Brain Injury Program Co-Champion at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Toms River Jessica (Jess) began her career at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Toms River in 2013 after obtaining her clinical doctorate at Drexel University in Philadelphia. In June 2014, Jess became the physical therapy representative of the Brain Injury Program and took on the role of co-champion in February 2015. In June 2016, Jess became a certified brain injury specialist and then in March 2017, she completed her neurodevelopmental treatment certification. HealthSouth is one of the nation’s largest providers of post-acute healthcare services, offering both facility-based and home-based post-acute services in 34 states and Puerto Rico through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies, and hospice agencies.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology, DC
Willi Bosch was an avid hockey and lacrosse player in elementary and middle school. He played
for his local association as well as AAA hockey teams. On July 7, 2014 Willi fell while riding his
longboard alone in Roseville. He called a friend who helped him return to his dad’s house. What
unfolded from there was unthinkable. Willi was taken to United Hospital where it was
discovered his brain was bleeding. He was transported to Regions Hospital where two more
brain bleeds were discovered as well as two skull fractures. Willi underwent an emergency
craniotomy. His parents were told his chances of surviving were slim, but Willi isn’t much of a
quitter.
Three weeks after his accident he woke up and continued to fight back to who he was on July 6.
He worked with speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists and doctors at
Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare to regain and strengthen everything he could. Willi was aptly named because
his will is his greatest gift in his recovery.
Mary Barsness is a school administrator at Prodeo Academy and the founder/presenter of the
No Helmet No Ride program, a program offered through Regions Hospital
that Mary founded after her son, Willi, had a near fatal fall off his skateboard. During Willi’s
prolonged hospital stay the family saw more teens coming in with similar injuries. None of
those patients had been wearing helmets. It was clear that kids were not understanding the
potential severity of the decision to not wear helmets.
sponsored by: www.mnfunctionalneurology.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Cheryl Green.
Cheryl Green, MFA, MS integrates her training in Performance As Public Practice and Speech-Language Pathology to explore how story can be used to break down stigma and barriers. After decades of sustaining mild TBIs, in 2011 she began making films that combine personal narrative and activism to create dynamic, artistic tools to challenges misconceptions and stereotypes of disability while celebrating pride in disability experiences. A filmmaker, podcaster, blogger, and public speaker, Cheryl also provides Closed Caption and Audio Description services to make media more accessible and to encourage a disability aesthetic.
She recently released a feature-length documentary, "Who Am I to Stop It?" which focuses on isolation, art, and transformation after brain injury. Instead of injury or medical details, it focuses on the psychosocial consequences of brain injury. The film shows how peers with TBI use the arts to navigate an inaccessible world and to reconnect to a sense of self-pride and contribution to society.
Ben has always chased his dreams, finding his way from a small river town in Minnesota to a Super Bowl championship field. He has established himself as a prominent corporate and motivational speaker in the areas of leadership and culture. Both of his programs, The Champion’s Way™ and The MVP Program™, stem from lessons he learned in the locker room with Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy and in the huddle with future Hall-of-Famer Peyton Manning. Both programs illuminate dynamic ways to succeed in business and life.
”I believe, as a speaker, that vulnerability equals connectivity. This is why I approach my keynote presentations with a mission of bringing you on an emotional journey through my life, into a hall-of-fame huddle, and onto a field of high-impact lessons. All our lives tell a story, and this is how I tell mine!”
Ben has found success in many realms, sitting on the prestigious board of the American Brain Foundation, authoring Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away with Simon and Schuster, and releasing award-nominated albums as a professional singer. However, without question, Ben would tell you his greatest accomplishment is being a husband to his beautiful wife and a father to their four daughters.
Purchase Ben's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2fSAjmW
Purchase Ben's album on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2xj0ElP
Watch Ben's music video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOX-kSJ7PI4 Episode sponosred by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Tim Healy has been passionate about football for all of his life as a fan, player and coach. After playing four years at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN, Tim signed a free agent contract with the New Orleans Saints. As a father of seven, he has coached his three boys in more than 10 seasons of youth football and also coached for three years at Roseville High School in Minnesota.
Tim has learned many life lessons and made lifelong friends on and around the field and feels strongly that football builds virtue and character. This passion led him to join the TackleBar Football™ team, a safer game that can and will encourage greater participation. Prior to TackleBar, Tim owned a medical device distributorship representing Medtronic Spine and Biologics. Tim is the acting CEO and in charge of all of the sales initiatives.
"TackleBar Football eliminates tackling while still maintaining contact. Players learn the fundamentals of the game while decreasing their chances of concussions and injuries at such a young age. I saw this first hand. It’s very fun and very safe. With almost 200 kids playing TackleBar Football last year, we had zero concussions. Moms have told me that they actually enjoyed watching the game of football once they realized their sons were not going to get hurt."
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Bridgett Wallace.
Bridgett Wallace, PT, DPT is President of 360 Balance & Hearing and brings more than fifteen years experience to treating patients with dizziness and balance disorders. Bridgett lectures and consults with the medical and therapeutic communities, participates in research efforts, and has been a contributing author to physical therapy textbooks. She holds a competency-based certification in vestibular rehabilitation and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Texas State University and has served on the Board of Directors for a variety of associations, including the Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA), the Vestibular Disorders Association (VEDA), Austin Groups for the Elderly (AGE) and on the APTA Concussion Expert Panel. In 2011, Bridgett was a recipient of the Health Care Heroes Award by the Austin Business Journal.
Bridgett understands how balance is important in all aspects of life and spends her spare time outdoors with a special love for family, friends, four legged friends and water.
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with author Tim Laskowski.
Tim Laskowski was born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania and has worked in social services for most of his adult life. He also has a PhD in English Literature. For 21 years, he was a case manager in Montana working with people with disabilities, many of which were TBI survivors. Currently, Tim lives in Prescott, Arizona and is the Program Manager for US VETS, a program that serves homeless veterans. Tim has served on the Board of Directors for the Montana Brain Injury Alliance and for VSA Arts of Montana, an organization that promotes art opportunities for people with disabilities. Tim is the author of the novel, Every Good Boy Does Fine, published by Southern Methodist University Press in 2003. The novel is the story of a Montana man with a brain injury who is trying to regain his independence and move from a group home.
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Dan Engle
Dr. Dan Engle is Board Certified in Psychiatry and Neurology, with a clinical practice that combines aspects of regenerative
medicine, orthomolecular psychiatry, integrative spirituality and peak performance methods. He received his medical degree from the University of Texas in San Antonio, his psychiatry residency degree from the University of Colorado in Denver and his Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship degree from Oregon Health and Sciences University.
Currently, he is Medical Consultant to Onnit Labs in Austin, Texas, the Temple of the Way of Light Ayahuasca Center in Peru
and the True Rest Float Center in Tempe, Arizona. His programs include Freedom From Meds, a comprehensive and integrative tool kit for successful transition from psychiatric medications, the Concussion Repair Manual, facilitating the return to optimal function after concussion and traumatic brain injury, and Full Spectrum Medicine, utilizing the most effective broad-based, synergistic avenues in leading edge frontier medical research for accelerating personal development towards optimal
life performance.
Purchase his book: "The Concussion Repair Manual: A Practical Guide to Recovering from Traumatic Brain Injuries" on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2xFfQWR
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neuorology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Stephanie Mills and Brooke Mills about National Concussion Awareness Day -- September 15, 2017.
Dr. Stephanie Mills is a chiropractor and mother to Brooke, a teenager who suffers on going Post Concussion Syndrome. Dr. Stephanie believes in the power of the body to heal itself and has guided thousands of patients towards optimal health through chiropractic care. Stephanie is proud of her daughter's passion to help others and has supported Brooke's efforts to increase concussion awareness.
Brooke Mills is an 18 year old concussion survivor and the founder of National Concussion Awareness Day. Brooke suffered a concussion in a mandatory gym class during her freshman year of high school. When traditional medical treatment failed, she sought alternative care and a path toward healing. After realizing so many concussion survivors feel misunderstood and not supported, Brooke became a peer to peer speaker for schools in her state. Brooke has used stories of her physical, academic, emotional and social struggles to inspire others and educate as many people as possible on the reality of concussions.
this episode is sponsored by: www.mnfunctionalneurology.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Bennet Omalu about his new memoir, CTE, concussions, and the NFL.
Dr. Bennet Omalu is a Nigerian-American physician, forensic pathologist and neuropathologist who was the first to publish findings of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in American Football players. He is the chief medical examiner of San Joaquin County, California, and a clinical professor at University of California, Davis. Will Smith plays him in the major motion
picture, Concussion.
Dr. Bennet Omalu wants to save lives. Specifically, he wants to protect your brain and your kid’s brain, which has a huge impact on mental and physical health. In Truth Doesn’t Have a Side: My Alarming Discovery About the Danger of Contact Sports, readers will learn about the discovery of (CTE) and new medical information about the true cost of playing contact sports including football, soccer and more.
Purchase Dr. Omalu's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2w4z0Ds
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Larry Komer.
Dr. Komer is a sought-after expert and authority in restoring hormones, health, performance, happiness and vitality. This new area of medicine is called Interventional Endocrinology. He has pioneered several treatment methods recognized as leading-edge protocols for the treatment of menopause, Andropause (low testosterone) and traumatic brain injury.
Larry Komer trained at Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario with a degree in physiology. He went on to receive his MD degree at Queen’s and then went to McMaster University, Hamilton Ontario where he earned his specialty degree in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Dr. Komer has been a leader in the treatment of menopause, writing guidelines for physicians and delivering more than 100 talks entitled “Be Menopositive” with his wife Joan. He has assessed and successfully treated over 13,000 women who are suffering from poor hormonal function.
In 2004, he became Founder and Director of the Masters Men’s Clinic. This is the largest clinic in Canada diagnosing, treating, and doing research on testosterone deficiency syndrome. The clinic has assessed and treated more than 7,000 patients. Dr. Komer has been on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Society for the Study of the Aging Male.
During that time, he observed the link between traumatic brain injury and low hormones in both men and women and has been a leading advocate for hormonal restoration to re-establish normal brain function. This led to the creation of the Komer Brain Science Institute where Dr. Komer and his team, have been restoring hormones in brain injured patients.
Purchase his book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2v6mfLl
This episode sponsored by: www.mnfunctionalneurology.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Fong from Cognitive Fx
Alina K. Fong received her PhD in Clinical Neuropsychology with an emphasis in neuroradiology from Brigham Young University. She received the national American Psychological Association Clinical Neuropsychology Division 40 Graduate Student Research Award in 2004 for her research on "Cortical Sources of the N400 and 'The N400 Effect." Dr. Fong's interest in brain mapping soon turned to functional MRI, and since then, her research efforts have been focused on the clinical applications of fMRI.
This episode is sponsored by: www.mnfunctionalneurology.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Hope Alcocer.
Hope Alcocer, Chicago born, Michigan raised, is a Midwest export who fell in love with New York City 3 years ago and currently resides in Brooklyn. At age 22, she launched a woman’s empowerment online magazine while simultaneously managing a remote based media firm servicing international clients in the music, fashion, lifestyle, and tech industries. Her newest project is the release of her first novel, a fictional story inspired by true events in her own life. The book was released on International Women’s Day and has sparked national attention, capturing the hearts and unbridled spirits of women from all walks of life.
Purchase Hope's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2vBT0Sq
This episode sponosered by: www.mnfunctionalneurology.com
Join hosst Amy Zellmer as she chats with brain injury survivor and author, Mark Glasser.
Mark Glaser, author of 58 Feet: The Second That Changed Our Lives, grew up in the small ranching town of Calhan, Colorado, surrounded by airplanes and motorcycles. His love of motorcycles followed him into adulthood. When he met his wife, Robyn, through a mutual friend, he often took her on long dates on his motorcycle. In 2010, Mark and Robyn’s lives were unexpectedly changed when they were involved in a motorcycle accident. Robyn sustained a concussion, but Mark collided with the car that had turned into them and sustained a traumatic brain injury. He was airlifted to a Level I Trauma Center in Lakewood, Colorado where he spent 30 days in the Neurosurgical ICU before being transferred to Craig Hospital for rehabilitation. He has since welcomed two children, and lives in Denver.
Find Marks book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tUMrIl
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neuorolgoy
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats wtih film maker, Diane Musselman.
Born and raised in southern Illinois, Diane Musselman participated in music and drama throughout her childhood years. This includes playing first chair flute in her high school band as well as acting in school theater productions. She moved to California in 1981 and received her Bachelors and Master’s Degree at California State University, Northridge, in Speech Pathology.
During those years, she continued to act on stage and in commercials, most notably in The Elephant Man and The Good Doctor. During her acting studies she met three other actors in search of good acting projects who decided to create a production company called Chocolate Old Fashioned Productions.
From there she moved on to create Dancing Forward Productions where she discovered a new love of writing and producing. This resulted in a script for Just Another Dance With My Father. She reached out to former Chocolate Old Fashioned Productions fellow-producer, Kay Yamamoto, as well as new friends Sheryl Hartman, Peyton Skelton, and George Ohan to help produce the film, starring Jerrika Hinton of Grey’s Anatomy. The film is the proud recipient of the Gold Remi awarded at WorldFest Houston. https://vimeo.com/119706282
Diane is also pleased to be a co-executive producer on the feature film Last Call at Murray’s, and executive producer on the award winning web series Carbon Dating, both currently on the festival circuit. She is also pleased to have produced the 2016 music video, Look, for singer/songwriter Nina Paolicelli.
This episode sponsored by: http://www.mnfunctionalneurology.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with TBI survivor, Patti Foster.
Patti Foster was a media personality and voice talent for more than a decade...until she horrifically suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. Her life abruptly came to a halt when a tractor-trailer rig, barreling down the highway at 70 mph pulling a trailer full of cars, plowed into the back of their completely stopped SUV. Now Patti travels aroundthe world speaking and offering hope to others as they learn to cope with the effects of brain injury. Visit her at www.pattifoster.com
Purchase Patti's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2tWIxzv
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Carole Starr about her TBI journey and her newly released book.
Carole Starr's life changed forever in 1999 when she sustained a brain injury in a car accident. She was unable to continue her life as a teacher and amateur musician. It took Carole many years to accept her brain injury and the new person she became. She's reinvented herself by focusing on what she can do. She's now an inspiring keynote speaker, the author of To Root & To Rise: Accepting Brain Injury, and the founder and facilitator of Brain Injury Voices, an award-winning survivor education, advocacy and peer mentoring volunteer group.
Purchase Carole's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2sTPJg5
This episode is sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Saloni Agarwal, PT, is certified in vestibular rehabilitation, and works with patients at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Altamonte Springs to rehabilitate vestibular disorders through patient-specific routines that are determined by an in-depth assessment, which identifies the base of the issue. Once a patient isdischarged from the rehabilitation hospital, he or she will continue rehabilitation through a patient-specific home exercise program designed to improve the efficiency of rehabilitation and achieve faster results.
The vestibular rehabilitation program has shown successful recovery results in patients with balance, dizziness, vertigo and postural dysfunction caused by stroke, head injury and other neurological disorders.
Join host Amy Zellmer of Faces of TBI as she chats with author and stroke survivor, Mark Moore.
Mark is a philanthropist and successful businessman. Along with his wife Brenda, a former nurse, Mark has established the Mark and Brenda Moore and Family Foundation, through which he supports advances in healthcare, education, culture and the arts, and Christian evangelism. Prior to engaging full time in his philanthropic work, Mark was Chief Operating Officer and co-owner of Segovia, Inc., a leading provider of global internet protocol services to the US Defense Department. Mark is also the Mid-Atlantic Ambassador for the American Stroke Association and the author of the memoir A Stroke of Faith, which is now on sale. Mark’s new memoir (FaithWords, on sale now), follows his journey from successful businessman to unexpected stroke victim and survivor.
In May 2007, Mark was hit in quick succession by two nearly fatal strokes at the age of 46 and spent a month in a medically-induced coma. Now, almost ten years later, he has made a near-full recovery due to intense rehabilitation, the expertise of caregivers, and what he calls the three Fs: family, friends, and faith. Now retired, Mark spends his days educating people about stroke prevention and awareness, sharing his inspirational story with those who have suffered strokes and other traumatic ailments, and giving back to his community.
Purchase his book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2qNrqz5
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Listen in as host Amy Zellmer chats with Dr. Mario Dulay.
Dr. Dulay conducts neuropsychological assessments on adults with various neurological diagnoses including dementia and traumatic brain injury in the Department of Neurosurgery at the Houston Methodist Hospital. He provides cognitive rehabilitation treatments, works with families of individuals with cognitive issues, and determines patient disability status for benefits. In association with the Houston Methodist Concussion Center, he provides evaluations of patients of all ages who have experienced sports-related or other types of concussive injuries.
He is an assistant professor at the Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Neurological Surgery, adjunct assistant professor of psychology at the University of Houston, and director of The Houston Institute for Neuropsychological Knowledge (THINK) lab.
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Judy Chase.
Judy Chase is the mother of an elite snowboarder that survived several traumatic brain injuries. Her son, Matt, was a sponsored snowboarder, and National Champion for USASA & PBRJ. He also took 2nd place in the Revolution Tour just behind the Olympic alternate for Shaun White. Matt was on his way to becoming a professional snowboarder when his dream came to a crashing halt. With a series of brain injuries, Matt found himself giving up his snowboard for a dark, quiet room, confined to his bed with migraines.
In this podcast, hear about Matt’s journey through his traumatic brain injuries from debilitating symptoms to complete recovery. Judy has a message of hope, inspiring those with brain injuries to find treatment that actually heals the brain injury rather than just treating the symptoms. This treatment was found at Minnesota Functional Neurology & Chiropractic, where Judy is now the Office Manager & Patient Advocate. She gives encouragement and hope to patients, empowering them to attain full recovery from their injury.
Check out Matt’s snowboarding video that went viral on YouTube. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7mamtIjwbE
Episode sponsored by: Minnesota Functional Neurology DC
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Jami Benz, mother to Braden.
Braden is a gifted child who is diligent about wearing a helmet on the family's ATV. Jami was unaware of the dangers lurking on her son's soccer field. She hopes to educate parents, coaches and referees about the dangers of head injuries on (and off) the field and how a helmet doesn't necessarily protect the brain from a concussion.
Certain neurological conditions, including stroke, brain injury, and Parkinson’s disease, cause muscles in the head and neck to have decreased strength, range of motion, coordination and/or speed, which can result in dysphagia, the medical term for difficulty or discomfort when swallowing. While it is a common post-stroke symptom, the severity of dysphagia can range from minimal to profound impairments, and may require the temporary or permanent placement of a feeding tube.
This treatment team includes a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and a nutritionist who work together to create a proper nutrition plan.
SLP: Lauren Stermer Holdaway, SLP at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Ocala received her bachelor’s degree from Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio in 2006 and then went on to earn her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Montevallo in 2011. She has since worked in a variety of settings including inpatient rehabilitation, acute care, outpatient rehabilitation and skilled nursing. She currently works with adolescents and adults suffering from speech, language, cognitive, voice and swallowing disorders.
Nutritionist: Devin Breedon, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Ocala. Devin graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in dietetics and completed a dietetic internship at Texas A&M-Kingsville. He has been providing nutritional counseling in hospital and outpatient settings for six years, specializing in geriatric and rehabilitative nutrition. Devin also works with a population that has extensive medical comorbidities including diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. Devin is a member of the academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Florida Academy of Nutrition.
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Deborah Zelinsky about how eyes are affected after a brain injury.
Deborah Zelinsky, O.D., F.N.O.R.A., F.C.O.V.D. graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry in 1985 and founded the Mind-Eye Connection in 1993.
She has spent the past thirty years developing methods for assessment of brain function with emphasis on the often untested linkage between eyes and ears. Certification in the use of those methods is beginning in 2017.
Customized eyeglasses can be used to stabilize dysfunctional eye/ear connections, enhancing learning and language abilities. When visual and auditory pathways are not solidly interacting, reading and spelling abilities suffer, as do social skills.
Dr. Zelinsky’s cutting edge research in retinal circuitry and three patents in novel usages of retinal stimulation have been described in neuro-optometric rehabilitation publications and optometric courses worldwide. Currently she is a reviewer for the Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the Journal of Visualized Experiments (JOVE) and has been a scientific grant reviewer for the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program several times. In 2013, she was presented with the Founding Father’s Award from NORA (NeuroOptometric Rehabilitation Association) and is an active member of the World Brain Mapping Foundation and the Society for Neuroscience.
Her books include “Open your Eyes and Listen” and “An Insight to Vision”. Along with Donalee Markus, Ph.D , Dr. Zelinsky is featured in the 2015 book “The Ghost in My Brain: How a Concussion Stole My Life and the New Science of Brain Plasticity Brought it Back” by Dr. Clark Elliott.
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Michael Lewis.
Michael is an expert on nutritional and nonpharmaceutical interventions for brain health, particularly the prevention, management, and rehabilitation of concussions and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and omega-3 fatty acids.
In 2012 upon retiring as a Colonel after a distinguished 31 year career in the U.S. Army, he founded the nonprofit Brain Health Education and Research Institute. His pioneering work in the military and since has helped thousands of people around the world and he is regularly featured in the media, radio, podcasts, webinars, scientific conferences, and television including CNN’s Sanjay Gupta MD show.
Dr. Lewis is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Tulane University School of Medicine. Dr. Lewis is board-certified and a Fellow of the American College of Preventive Medicine and American College of Nutrition. He completed post-graduate training at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University, and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. Dr. Lewis is a consultant to the U.S. Army and Navy as well as several organizations and companies around the world, and a founding member of the Pop Warner Youth Football Medical Advisory Board. He is in private practice in Potomac, MD, and is the author of the recent Amazon #1 Hot Seller book, When Brains Collide: What every athlete and parent should know about the prevention and treatment of concussions and head injuries.
This episode is sponsored by: www.mnconcussion.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with survivor Sam Black.
In early 2013, Sam was a passenger in a car that was hit by an impaired driver, and from that moment her life changed forever. Suffering from several injuries, including a brain injury, Sam was unable to return to a career that she loved very much. Through months of healing, reflection and support, Sam was able to focus on the gifts that she still had to offer the world, and through this transition, Grounded Roots Wellness was born.
Sam Black is the Executive Director of Grounded Roots Wellness Inc., a space dedicated to healing the mind, body and soul. Sam is a Certified Psychic Medium and Wellness Coach, Trainer and Speaker. She has a passion for helping others find the little gems inside and empowering others to shine their light!
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Becky Henry about self-care and mindfulness for TBI survivors and caregivers.
Becky Henry inspires people to reclaim joy.
In 2003, Becky created Hope Network, LLC inspiring families living with eating disorders to let go of pain and suffering and get their lives back. She is the National Award Winning author of Just Tell Her To Stop: Family Stories of Eating Disorders. (Infinite Hope Publishing).
Becky is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and Associate Certified Coach (ACC) designated by the International Coach Federation (ICF).
Becky Henry's HOPE Network, LLC is changing the way caregivers are supported while care-giving. Through education, coaching and a community of support, hopelessness and helplessness are replaced with HOPE.
She will share self-care and mindful tools such as: BreathingMeditation - including a hands on oneDBT Skills (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) - for mindfulness and distress toleranceLaughter YogaJoyful Movement - ie- walking, yoga, slow dancing, tai chi, stretchingStop - Notice, Breathe and chooseEat and sleep regularly Notice distress
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Penny Eissenberg of Health South.
While driving may be second nature to most, it is a privilege that requires sharp physical, visual and mental skills. As we age, tasks that once seemed simple can require increased focus, practice and dexterity.
Medical conditions that may affect driving skills include stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injury or arthritis. These conditions may affect vision, memory, attention and the ability to problem solve and act quickly, which are both necessary skills to remain safe on the road.
With physical rehabilitation, older drivers, or those who have suffered an injury, can practice the movements and skills needed to travel safely, such as getting in and out of the car or reacting to unexpected hazards on the road.
Since maintaining mobility is one of the most important aspects of preserving independence, older drivers can greatly benefit from participating in these activities.
During the week of December 5-9, 2016, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) will recognize Older Driver Safety Awareness Week to promote the understanding that mobility and transportation are crucial to keeping older adults active in their communities.
Penny Eissenberg is the director of therapy operations at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Virginia and has special interest and expertise in driver rehabilitation. Penny personally directs all aspects of the driver rehabilitation program including evaluation of cognition, vision, visual-perceptual skills and physical abilities. Penny also performs on-road assessments of driver competency, trains in the use of adaptive equipment and develops driving re-entry plans.
Join Amy as she reflects on this past year, and all of the wonderful advocacy work she has been able to do ... as well as the fantastic TBI survivors she has met!
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with former NFL wife, Cyndy Feasel, about the NFL, CTE, and her late husband, Grant Feasel, who played for six years with the Seatle Seahawks. Feasel died on Sunday, July 15, 2012, in Ft. Worth, TX. He was 52. He was found to have stage 3 CTE in his brain -- a result of repetitive head trauma from playing football.
Cyndy will share some of her memories, as well as talk about her soon-to-be-released book "After the Cheering Stops: An NFL Wife’s Story of Concussions, Loss, and the Faith that Saw Her Through" Former NFL wife Cyndy Feasel tells the tragic story of her family’s journey into chaos and darkness resulting from the damage her husband suffered due to football-related concussions and head trauma—and the faith that saved her.
Cyndy Feasel was married for twenty-nine years to NFL lineman Grant Feasel, who was discovered after his death to have developed CTE—a progressive degenerative brain disease—from the concussions he received playing football. An art teacher in Fort Worth, Texas, Cyndy is committed to raising awareness of CTE and the dangers of repetitive head injury.
Cyndy's website: www.afterthecheeringstops.com
You can purchase Cyndy's book on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2eAmuYg
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with NFL Indianapolis Colts SuperBowl champ, Ben Utecht, about his newly released book, and how he is losing his memories after muliptle concussions.
As an influential advocate for brain health, Ben served as the national spokesperson for the American Academy of Neurology and currently sits on the prestigious board of the American Brain Foundation. Ben was given the AAN’s most esteemed honor, the Public Leadership in Neurology Award, in 2014. Also at that time, Ben released a music video for his song “You Will Always Be My Girls,” written as a love letter to his wife and daughters with the goal of emotionally connecting people to the importance of their memories. The video has impacted the lives of many, garnering over 1.3 million YouTube views to date.
Ben can now add “author” to his résumé, with the release of his new book Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away, published by Simon & Schuster. The book is the first memoir from a former NFL player who left the game as a result of concussions. It takes the reader on a heart-felt journey through the ups and downs of Ben’s life with faith, family, and football. Ben has a message of hope that has reached a nation-wide audience, inspiring people to value every moment to its fullest.
Read Amy's Huffington Post article about Ben and his book: www.huff.to/2bcotf5
This episode is brought to you by MFNC Brain Rehabilitation
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with TBI survivor, Adam Pepiton.
Adam Pepiton, a graduate of Cesar Chavez High School, was living a full life as a college student studying Criminal Justice, working for Kmart and spending time with family and friends. Then on September 5th, 2010 his life changed forever. When leaving a friend’s house after a party, he was the victim of a drive-by shooting in which he was shot in the head. The bullet entered on the left side and lodged in the skull on the right side. This type of injury (transverse) has less than a 1% survival rate, so Adam surviving was a true miracle. Adam is diagnosed as a quadriplegic due to the brain injury. This means he has feeling throughout his body but can’t control his legs, trunk, has diminished use of right arm and limited usage of his left arm/hand.
Adam is currently taking college classes and volunteers for the American Red Cross handling the volunteer applications and processes, along with starting his Youtube channel.
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with 2015 Miss Oregon & TBI survivor, Ali Wallace.
Ali recently turned her crown over to the new 2016 Miss Oregon, but TBI awareness is still part of her daily platform. Hear about Ali's struggles after receiving a traumatic brain injury in high school, and how it affected her in pagaent competitions inlcuding Miss Oregon and Miss America -- where TBI was her platform! Also, learn what she is up to next now that she has retired her crown!
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with Speech Therapist, Richard DuBose.
Richard has has 11 years of experience working directly with a primarily TBI population. Richard came about his calling to work with traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in a very personal way. During his junior year of college at the University of South Alabama, his father was in a car accident on the way to work and sustained a TBI. Through this experience and his fascination with cognition and how the brain works, he became interested in treating adults and adolescents with TBI. His first job out of college was working with a brain injury program in Greenville, South Carolina, where he worked with patients in an inpatient and outpatient setting. He also spent a couple of years working in a skilled nursing facility, but found his way back into the rehabilitation setting in his current position at AnMed Rehabilitation Hospital, a rehabilitation hospital in the HealthSouth network.
He’s presented on topics of cognition, behavior and “brain games” and serves as the facilitator of the Anderson/Oconee/Pickens brain injury support group. Helping those who’ve acquired brain injuries has become a family affair as Richard’s wife of three years, a physical therapist, shares his passion of helping this particular patient population.
HealthSouth is one of the nation's largest providers of post-acute healthcare services, offering both facility-based and home-based post-acute services in 34 states and Puerto Rico through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies, and hospice agencies. HealthSouth can be found on the web at www.healthsouth.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with EmilyFiocchi, a yoga specialist and physical therapy assistant at HealthSouth Geisinger Rehabilitation Hospital and hatha yoga instructor.
Emily Fiocchi is a physical therapist assistant at HealthSouth Geisinger Rehabilitation Hospital and certified Hatha Yoga Instructor. As a clinician for the last 25 years, she has treated patients in inpatient and acute care rehabilitation, neurologic and orthopedic outpatient clinics. To keep herself healthy, physically and emotionally in a demanding career, Emily turned to Yoga. She experienced the benefits of a weekly practice and wanted her patients to experience the same. Once certified, in June 2000, through the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, Emily began to use Yoga techniques as a compliment in the treatment of outpatients who suffer with chronic pain or fatigue, fibromyalgia and/or with high anxiety and depression. Recently, she became a part of a multidisciplinary team of health professionals who provide monthly education and follow up physical therapy treatment of patients living with chronic pain. Her focus is teaching the stress management aspects (deep breathing, meditation and relaxation) of Yoga and her passion is to create a bridge between traditional and holistic therapy. Emily lives in Danville, Pennsylvania, and teaches at her home in a sunroom Yoga studio.
HealthSouth is one of the nation's largest providers of post-acute healthcare services, offering both facility-based and home-based post-acute services in 34 states and Puerto Rico through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies, and hospice agencies. HealthSouth can be found on the web at www.healthsouth.com
Join host Amy Zellmer as she chats with SchaOn Blodgett about his own rehabilitation from multiple concussions.
SchaOn specializes in relaxation & de-stressing therapies, as well as working with individuals with chronic ‘hard-to-resolve’ issues. He has completed extensive training in Esogetics Holistic Medicine and Kirlian Energy Emission Analysis, completed various levels of training in BodyTalk Access, Access Consciousness “the Bars”, Complex Homeopathy and Ayurvedic Medicine.
Additionally, SchaOn is a regular guest speaker on the topic of Esogetics Colorpuncture at Anoka-Ramsey Community College for their Nursing and Holistic Health Degree programs, and from 2013-2015 was an Instructor at Normandale College teaching classes on Holistic Health & Wellness. In 2014, he was invited and held workshops for the State of Minnesota’s Department of Administration on the topic of “Natural Stress Release for the Busy Professional” during their “Stress Quest Week”.
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with yoga instructor, Laura Erdman-Luntz, about the powerful healing benefits of yoga, and how yoga played an important part in Amy's TBI rehab.
Experienced Yoga Educator, Author, inspiring Life Coach and Business Entrepreneur, Laura Erdman-Luntz has over 20 years experience in the fitness and wellness industries. She uniquely blends her Life Coaching knowledge and vast experience with Yoga to create programs, classes and workshops that truly do bring mind and body together for positive change, inspiring people to live their most authentic life. She incorporates New Thought ideas into classes and programs on positive living, manifesting and changing subconscious beliefs. Her Yoga training began in 1988 and began teaching in 1992. She has taught over 500 workshops, over 15,000 hours of yoga classes, coached hundreds of clients and has trained dozens of yoga teachers at the beginner and advanced level.
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with Dr. Richard Senelick about finding the right doctor for your child when they suffer a concussion.
Richard C. Senelick M.D. is a physician specializing in both neurology and the subspecialty of neurorehabilitation. He received his undergraduate and medical school training at the University of Illinois in Chicago and his residency in neurology at the University of Utah. He has lived in San Antonio, Texas for over 40 years where he has served as the Medical Director of HealthSouth RIOSA, The Rehabilitation Institute of San Antonio, since its inception in 1988. He is also the Editor in Chief of HealthSouth Press, the publishing arm of one the nation’s largest rehabilitation hospital systems. He is an associate clinical professor in the Department of Neurology at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.
Amongst his many books and publications, he has authored Living with Stroke: A Guide for Patients and Families, Living with Brain Injury: A Guide for Families, The Spinal Cord Injury Handbook, and Beyond Please and Thank You: The Disability Awareness Handbook. Dr. Senelick has also produced a number of educational DVDs on both Stroke and Traumatic Brain Injury.
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with speech therapist, Rachel Katz M.S., CCC-SLP, about what Aphasia and how to communicate with patients who suffer from it.
Aphasia, which is most often the result of a traumatic brain injury or stroke, doesn’t affect intelligence, so it is not hard to understand the very real struggle of the patients experiencing it. In fact, a 2010 study on the impact of 60 different diseases and 15 conditions on quality of life for more than 66,000 people found that aphasia has the largest negative impact on quality of life, more than cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Rachel is a Speech Team Leader at HealthSouth Sunrise Rehabilitation Hospital (HSSRH) specializing in aphasia, motor speech disorders, dysphagia, and cognitive rehabilitation. Her experience is with a wide variety of diagnoses, including primary stroke and brain injury patients in an acute inpatient rehabilitation setting. She is a member of the American Speech Language and Hearing Association and received the ACE award for advanced continuing education in her field.
She has an advanced specialty certification in Vital Stim/NMES, Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile, Lee Silverman Voice Treatment, Deep Pharyngeal Neuromuscular Stimulation and Lessac-Madsen Resonant Voice Therapy. She is a co-chair of the Joint Commission Disease Specific Stroke Program at HealthSouth Sunrise. She co-developed the Evidence-Based Cognitive Evaluation and Treatment corporate course and is a corporate clinical educator in the area of cognition. Rachel initiated and facilitates the Aphasia Community Group at HSSRH to provide education and support for people with aphasia and their family members and caregivers.
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with TBI Survivor and author Mike Strand about the art and magic of writing a book.
Mike has seen brain injury not only through his own experience, but through listening to numerous experiences from those who’s stories have entered his mind and touched his heart as he participated in, and then facilitated numerous support groups. We all share a common experience in our own way, and Mike has a natural gift with words that allows him to express the many frustrations and emotions in clear language, often with humor.
Mike began writing for the MN Brain Injury Alliance's newsletter, which is what led him down the path of writing not one, but THREE books on his brain injury experiences.
In this podcast we will talk about: publishing options, journaling versus book writing, understanding the craft, and much more!
check out Mike's book: http://www.lapublishing.com/brain-injury-survivor-strand3/
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with Sandeep Vaishnavi, MD, PhD. about Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and his recent book "The Traumatized Brain"
-
Director, Neuropsychiatric Clinic, Carolina Partners
-
Neuropsychiatrist, Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, Duke Medicine
-
Clinical Associate, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke Medicine
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with with Kristen Schreier, MA, CCC-SLP about caregiver support.
“It is hard to be a patient with a brain injury, but it is harder to be a caregiver, “says Kristen Schreier, MA, CCC-SLP, speech pathologist at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Toms River.“You cannot expect yourself to be able to take care of someone if you are not well yourself, or at the top of your game.”
Kristen has been a speech pathologist with HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Toms River, New Jersey since 2007. Kristen received her master’s degree from The College of New Jersey. She is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and is the hospital’s program champion for the brain injury program. In January 2016, Kristen became a facilitator to train other healthcare professionals to obtain brain injury specialist certifications. She also works with Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey as an adjunct professor and clinic supervisor. Kristen is dedicated to educating patients, families, and other clinicians about brain injury diagnoses, recovery, and the necessity of therapy.
Join Amy Zellmer as she talks about Setting Positive Intention for the New Year, and how to have an "Attitude of Gratitude" as you move into the new year. Understand that traumatic brain injury (TBI) doesn't have to hold you back, and that your attitude determines your happiness and recovery efforts.
free gratitude worksheet: http://bit.ly/1kqfVFI
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with James Heuer about TBI patient's legal rigths.
Personal injury matters when it affects your life. That is the driving philosophy of James A Heuer, Jr, principal attorney at Heuer Fisher, P.A. James "Jim" is knowns to his friends and colleagues as "Heuer the Lawyer" (pronounced "hoyer"). He himself has experienced a TBI and can relate to his clients who are going through this invisible struggle.
Join Amy Zellmer as she chats with Anne Forrest from Austin, TX. Anne is an 18 year TBI survivor from an auto accident. She was a Ph.D. living in Washington DC when her world was turned upside down by a TBI. She will talk about Neuroplasticity and how the brain can continue to recover, even years later.
Join Amy Zellmer as she interviews TBI survivor Paul Bosworth about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and how it helped his recovery. Paul is located in Louisiana and has founded BBQ4TBI.org in which he raises money for the Brain Injury Alliance. Paul and Amy are both volunteers for the Brain Injury Association of America's Advisory Council.
Join Amy Zellmer as she interviews TBI survivor Stephanie Freeman from Georgia about the "power of never giving up."
Stephanie shares how she received a TBI from a car accident 22 years ago and was told she would never be able to walk again. Hear how she overcame those odds and is now an active runner, including finishing the Boston Marathon in 2014.
Stephanie is the founder of www.shareyourstrong.org a 501C3 non profit whose mission is: "to bring awareness to brain trauma and encourage and inspire the lives of people who have been affected by this silent epidemic."
Both Stephanie and myself are volunteers for the Brain Injury Association of America's Advisory Council (BIAAC) and continue to be loud and proud advocates for all brain injury survivors!