Brain Mastery with Mark Watson

In this episode, we're joined by Kerry King, a distinguished Speech and Language Pathologist who specializes in the realm of brain injury. Dive deep as Kerry unravels the intricacies of working neck and up, focusing on enhancing brain functions crucial for communication.Kerry sheds light on the pivotal role of technology in promoting effective communication and maintaining optimal brain health. While there's no shortage of brain training programs out there, Kerry emphasizes on the importance of evidence-based programs, understanding both objective and subjective outcome measures and ensuring these outcomes transfer into other activities of daily living.Compensatory strategies may serve as temporary aids, but Kerry firmly believes in the power of fostering neuroplastic changes. It's crucial to engage patients in active rehabilitation, and merely relying on compensatory strategies can sometimes be a disservice. Making informed decisions is paramount.Tune in to glean insights from a seasoned professional and understand the transformative journey of brain injury rehabilitation.https://connectspeech.ca/ Phone: 519-852-9771

In today's episode, we delve into the profound narrative of resilience and perseverance with Daniel Ignicio, a beacon of hope in the realm of brain health. After a traumatic event left him in a coma for a month, Daniel emerged, battling the challenges of a multifaceted brain injury. But his story isn't one of limitations; it's one of boundless possibilities (he attained a PhD). Despite receiving top-notch acute healthcare, Daniel recognized the gaps in community reintegration for people like him. With a burning passion, he has committed himself to bridge these gaps. Driven by innate curiosity, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery, learning, and adaptation.

In this captivating episode, we delve deep into the world of addictions, a place often shrouded in darkness and misperception. Our special guest, Liana Roy, a seasoned healthcare professional and devoted mother, brings to light the poignant story of her daughter Amanda, drawing attention to the intricate ties between addiction and brain injury. Liana candidly discusses the significant gaps in our healthcare system when dealing with addictions. The numerous obstacles many confront while seeking help can be overwhelming, be it from a lack of resources, inadequate support, or deeply ingrained societal biases. Liana's fervent advocacy highlights the urgent need for improved interventions, comprehensive resources, and a societal shift to celebrate resilience rather than stigmatize struggle. This episode is not just a recounting; it's a call to action. We're urged to not only understand the multifaceted nature of addiction and brain injury but also to recognize and champion the spirit of human tenacity that emerges from such challenges. Join us on this transformative journey and challenge your perceptions about addiction, brain injury, and the unwavering strength of the human spirit.

Today, we have the pleasure of conversing with Evan Kennedy, who serves as the Director of Outpatient Rehabilitation at PAM Health. With a distinguished career in healthcare, Evan is a strong advocate for the power of collaborative care and the growing significance of preventative medicine. Drawing upon his years of experience, he provides a wealth of insights into how interdisciplinary teamwork among healthcare professionals not only improves patient adherence and compliance but also enhances overall patient outcomes. Don't miss out on Evan's expert perspectives on the future of outpatient rehabilitation, particularly how blending traditional and cutting-edge therapies can contribute to a more effective and compassionate healthcare system.PAM Health: https://pamhealth.com/Evan Kennedy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-kennedy-pt-dpt-mha-0b149451

In this episode of the Brain Mastery podcast, host Mark welcomes Janelle Breese Biagioni, a specialist in brain injury and traumatic life losses. Janelle shares her personal journey and the motivation behind founding the Constable Gerald Breese Center for Traumatic Life Losses. They discuss the importance of counseling for brain injury survivors and their families, as well as the need for systemic changes and support services. Janelle emphasizes the importance of collaboration and action in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with brain injuries. They also touch on the need for early intervention, prevention, and customized approaches in supporting individuals with brain injuries.https://traumaticlifelosses.com/

In this week's episode of the podcast, host Mark is joined by Scott Maxwell, the executive director of Wounded Warriors Canada. Tune in as Scott sheds light on the vital occupational awareness training provided by Wounded Warriors Canada to healthcare providers who support first responders, veterans, and their families.Scott emphasizes the significance of mental health awareness and action, and shares insights into the ongoing efforts in this field. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that highlights the critical work being done to support those who serve our communities and protect our nation. https://woundedwarriors.ca/

Join us for a special edition of our podcast as we delve into the groundbreaking advancements shaping the realm of brain healthcare. In this episode, Scott Rintoul, renowned professional sports broadcaster, assumes the role of host to engage in an in-depth conversation with Mark Watson, our esteemed CEO and the usual host of Brain Mastery.Tune in to gain valuable insights from Mark as he shares his expertise on brain injury and concussion recovery, shedding light on the transformative potential of a blended care model centered around neuroplasticity. Together, Mark and Scott explore the significance of accessibility, awareness, and empowerment in facilitating cognitive recovery. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that unveils the future of post-acute cognitive care and brain health.Find out how you can start offering BEARS in your clinic! Visit our website and apply for upcoming training. To learn more about the impact BEARS can have in clinics, read testimonials from our current providers that offer BEARS in their clinics along with those who have received cognitive care as participants in the BEARS program.https://www.abiwellness.com/

Join us in this thought-provoking episode with Dr. Josh Davis, as we explore the intersection of orthopaedic and neurological treatments, focusing on evidence-based approaches that address the whole person.Discover how breaking down the silos between these two fields can lead to more effective and comprehensive care for patients, ultimately leading to better outcomes and quality of life. We'll delve into the crucial role of cognitive factors in enhancing gait, balance, and mobility, and why it's essential to consider the cognitive piece alongside physical rehabilitation.Dr. Davis emphasizes that by eliminating the divisions between orthopaedic and neurological therapies, we have the opportunity to maximize outcomes and reduce the prevalence of comorbidities that result from extended wait times or inadequate treatment options.You can reach Dr. Davis at https://firststeppt.com/

Join us in this episode as we discuss the complexities of long COVID, guided by our special guest, Dr. James Jackson, an expert in brain health and long COVID. With a compassionate approach, Dr. Jackson discusses the challenges of treating long COVID and other brain health disorders and provides invaluable insights on becoming your own health advocate, finding your strength and discovering meaning in the healing process. Gain a deeper understanding of the intertwining aspects of brain health and mental health, and how community support plays a vital role in promoting and improving peoples health and well-being. Don't miss this transformative episode as we explore pathways to hope and healing for those seeking guidance in their long COVID journey. Pick up a copy of Dr. James Jackson's book "Clearing the Fog: From Surviving to Thriving with Long Covid - A Practical Guide" to learn more:https://www.amazon.ca/Clearing-Fog-Surviving-Thriving-Practical/dp/0316530093

Join guest host Scott Rintoul in this captivating episode as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Lisa Huskins, a highly experienced Occupational Therapist at Leading Edge Physiotherapy in Edmonton. Tune in now to gain valuable insights from Lisa as she delves into the significance of interdisciplinary care, her experiences collaborating with insurance providers, and the instrumental role of real-time progress tracking with BEARS (Brain Enhance and Recovery System). Discover how Lisa's dedication to enhancing cognition in her clients fuels her passion for transformative therapy. Don't miss this enlightening discussion!--Website - www.leadingedgephysio.com

Former professional boxer, concussion awareness advocate, and founder of secondimpact.com Ray Ciancaglini shares his vulnerable cautionary tale of how the lack of education and knowledge of concussion and second impact syndrome was a gamble where the wager far exceeded the price. Ray has been instrumental in passing the 2010 Concussion Management Awareness Act in the state of New York and now spends his time leading the discussion on education, prevention awareness, and ending second impact.--Find out more about Second Impact at their website by clicking below:www.thesecondimpact.com

If you're a healthcare professional with a need to standardize and optimize patient care in cognitive rehab, this week's episode is made for you! Mark Watson, CEO of ABI Wellness, takes just a few minutes to tell you why you should sign up for our upcoming training session to add the Brain Enhance and Recovery System (BEARS) to your clinic.Find out more and apply for training today: https://www.abiwellness.com/training

Our guest today is Michael Nikitin, the CTO and Co-Founder of Aida Healthcare, a visionary company that aims to align the needs of hospitals, patients, and payers through the power of technology. Aida Healthcare is breaking down barriers that impede access to care by harnessing existing innovative technologies and bridging the gap between healthcare systems and patients, ensuring that everyone receives the support they need. Michael has been at the forefront of driving innovation and leveraging cutting-edge tools to tackle the challenges faced by the healthcare ecosystem. He will shed light on the critical role technology plays in extending patient-centered care, ultimately promoting greater healing and recovery.Aida Healthcare: aidahealhthcare.comMichael Nikitin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mnikitin/

How does breathwork benefit our mental and physical performance? This week's expert guest is Josh Duntz, the founder of Stasis, a digital health company that helps people optimize their health and performance through breathwork.As someone with a military background, Josh has witnessed the challenges that veterans face when they transition out of the military, particularly with their mental health. This experience has led him to recognize the benefits of breathwork and meditation in promoting better overall health and wellness. Josh shares some practical tips on how to improve breathing techniques to boost your performance and general wellness, regardless of one's profession or interests.

This podcast may contain content that could be triggering or upsetting, especially for those who have experienced mental health concerns. Listener discretion is advised.Robb Nash, musician, storyteller and creator of the Robb Nash Project, dedicates his efforts to instilling hope in individuals who are grappling with addiction, depression, or suicidal ideation. Through his project, Robb and his team encourage people to recognize their own strength and understand that their struggles can be transformed into gifts that can benefit the world. Furthermore, Robb has formulated a curriculum for mental health education in schools, known as "Stories of Life through Darkness: A Living Curriculum" currently available through his website. This curriculum ensures that students are supported and guided towards mental wellness..If you need support, Contact Kids Help Phone :1-800-886-6868 or text NASH to 686868

For this week's episode, we hear from Taylor Johnson, a performance optimization coach who leads athletes, gamers, practitioners and academic experts to discover and enhance their health and wellness performance. Taylor shares his passion for health enhancement and his experience in traditional sports, esports, and technology. He discusses his person-first approach to work and life, promoting wellness and high achievement.Check out Taylor's work here:https://www.taylorjohnsonperformance.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylorjohnsonperformance

Jill Roberts - Clinical Director and Occupational Therapist at One Rehab Support Services, discussed the importance of accessible care and reliable treatment options for complex injury patients. Jill highlights the importance of strengthened collaboration and the need for support services outside of the traditional working hours. One Rehab Support Services, developed under the umbrella of Occupational Therapists, enhances collaborative support and implements a coordinated plan to help the client succeed in their recovery journey.Learn more about one Rehab Services at onerehab.ca or you can reach out to Jill directly at Jill@onerehab.ca

Dr. Aaron Thompson, an occupational medicine specialist physician, explains what occupational medicine is and how it can benefit people with greatly varied needs and conditions. He discusses the importance of seeking treatment or assessment instead of ignoring symptoms and how physicians focus on helping people meet their specific activity goals to improve their daily quality of life.--Mentioned by Aaron:Choosing Wisely Campaign - https://www.choosingwisely.org/

James Geering, retired firefighter and paramedic and host of Behind the Shield podcast, shares a different perspective around mental ill health due to stresses of the first responder's life. Compelled to action, he is on a mission to reduce the suffering in this world.James discusses the importance of courage and leadership, and how investing in our uniformed personnel services will revolutionize the system and provide better working conditions and better emergency community services.Follow James:Website - https://www.jamesgeering.com/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo3Viwg13qPrafoSlI0mSMwInstagram - http://instagram.com/behindtheshield911

The Move 430 challenge gives you an opportunity to challenge yourself to be active for 30 minutes, every day in April, while raising funds to help children access community-based organized sports activities. Sign up is only $30! Engage your family, co-workers, or do it individually, it all matters. 100% of the funds go to the kids. Give the gift of sports and the lifelong benefits that come with it. Your body and brain will be thankful.#SoALLkidscanplay #Move430 #communityinvolvement #KidSport--Sign up here: https://move430.ca/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/move430challenge/Twitter: https://twitter.com/move430Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KidSportBC/

What does the long road of brain injury recovery look like for survivors and their caregivers? In a car accident on the way to work over five years ago, Ryan Jones suffered a brain injury and heart attack. With doctors unsure whether he would survive, Ryan received cutting-edge treatment at Vancouver General Hospital, becoming the first cardiac arrest patient to receive a brain bolt procedure. Months later, he woke up from a coma and began his recovery journey. In this episode, Donna and Ryan explain how Ryan was able to push forward with his brain injury and gain the support he needed and return to work as a firefighter. Listen now to hear these two share an inspiring message about persevering despite uncertainty and against all odds.

As CEO of Resilience Code, Dennis holds the rare distinction of working in all 4 Major League sports. His high level of executive performance was created through exposure to exceptional cultures and mindsets in sports, business, and communities. Dennis has exceptional insight into brain health, mental strength and resilience, and discusses how to create the rhythm for high performance outcomes.Have a listen if you want to learn more about the intersections of systems and operations and what habits help develop your identity and the culture of your workplace.Learn more about Resilience Code at https://www.myresiliencecode.com

David Harrington is a mission driven individual. As the President of the Centre for Neuro Skills, his focus is improving the efficacy and efficiency of health care to the brain injured population. David dives into why investing in brain injury rehabilitation is the right thing to do, not only socially, but economically and how by doing so, we could help individuals receive the proper care for maximum outcomes. To learn more about the Centre for Neuro Skills, go to www.neuroskills.com or visit abiausa.com for additional information and support on brain injury.

Dr. Eve Valera discusses her interests and frustrations in researching the intersections of brain injuries and intimate partner violence. She hopes to open the conversation and remove stigma around IPV and raise awareness about a problem that sadly continues to grow.You can learn more about Eve and her research at the Valera Lab here:The Valera Lab - https://valera.martinos.org/staff-members/eve-valera-phd/

Dr. Jim Jackson is the lead psychologist at the CIBS Center at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He and his team are on a mission to figure out how to prevent and restore cognitive functions in brain injury survivors. His passion for learning directly from those afflicted brings forth innovative and meaningful solutions and treatments. Dr. Jackson has a compassionate and optimistic message for individuals struggling with cognitive dysfunction due to illness or injury, and for clinicians working in this field. Have a listen and pick up Dr. Jacksons book "Clearing the Fog, from Surviving to Thriving with Long Covid - a practical guide" available March 9th, 2023. You can pre-order the book here:https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/clearing-the-fog-james-c-jackson/1142157106Contact Dr. Jackson at the Critical Illness, Brain Dysfunction, and Survivorship (CIBS) Center at: https://www.icudelirium.org/

We're excited to announce the Open House event at Nomad Therapies in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Nomad specializes in orthopedic and neurological therapies in clinic and in community. The clinicians at Nomad are dedicated to providing the best in care to everyone they serve. If you have concerns regarding your brain health, or if you'd like to learn more, you can RSVP for the March 9th event at https://nomadtherapies.ca/

In this episode, we are speaking with Dr. Jonathan Hartman about "Your Brain on Nutrition". Dr. Hartman, Owner of The Hartman Center for Functional Neurology speaks about the importance of healthy, whole food choices in reducing inflammation an aiding in the healing process.Check out The Hartman Center:https://thehartmancenter.com/

Today we are speaking with Shaheeza Haji about 'Your Brain on Resilience and Purpose.' Shaheeza, CEO of Running Shoe Restorative Healthcare and Calgary Concussion Center, speaks of her lived experience when recovering from symptoms of concussion and how this led to her purpose and drive behind her holistic and empathetic approach to brain health in her clinic.Check out Running Shoe Restorative Healthcare - https://runningshoehealth.com/Mentioned in this episode:Dr. John Leddy's Exercise and Concussion Study - https://static1.squarespace.com/static/608dd92a97633c6b6ebbb3cf/t/6092a1597454f86dae60c980/1620222297567/Exercise-Concussion-Study.pdf

Upcoming BEARS Training Starts in February! Don't miss the opportunity to help better serve your patients, communities, and staff.Registration is open! Listen to find out how to get involved.www.abiwellness.com/training

Today we launch the Your Brain On... series, on the Brain Mastery Podcast!Today's guest, Liam Chisholm, exercise specialist and studio manager at Innovative Fitness, discusses the fickle nature of inspiration and the importance of discipline in achieving your goals. Liam inspires us to action, acknowledging our own self-resistance and asking for help if needed. This is Your Brain On "Workouts"Connect with Liam Chisholm:Website - https://www.innovativefitness.com/location/victoria-personal-training/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/innovativefitness/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/innovativefitness/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/liam-chisholm-aa080024b/

Today's episode guest is a determined individual who is focused on changing communities from within. Her dedication to filling the gaps in neuro health, Karen Friesen, Executive Director of Ck2 Inc., educator, parent, and advocate, believes people have a right to learn and to the tools that help them change their lives. Recommending we suspend disbelief for infinite results, Karen provides hope and insight on how we can influence the trajectory of people's lives.Website: ck2inc.com

Today Mark Watson delivers a message of hope, gratitude, and continued service to those in need of cognitive remediation. As our collaborative efforts grow, we further extend the possibilities of a world where everyone is provided the options and tools to optimize their brain health and maximize their quality of life. Season Greetings and Best Wishes for 2023!

Celebrating episode 100 with Dr. Matt Galati, founder, and president of the Brain Changes initiative who discusses his personal journey of resiliency and recovery and what prompted him to develop the Brain Changes Initiative. Matt is a champion in educating the brain injury and medical communities and helping bridge the gaps and impact change in brain injury recovery.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Features: Dr.Matt GalatiEmail: info@brainchanges.orghttps://www.brainchanges.orgIG:@brainchanges

The founder of The Neuroplasticity Alliance, Sherry discusses her quest for neuroplastic programs to help people recover from all types of neurological illnesses and challenges. Understanding the barriers and driven to action - Sherry works to tackle the barriers, break them down - and bring awareness and accessibility to individuals, providers, clinicians, and the healthcare communities.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/npallies/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neuroplasticityalliance/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/neuroplasticity/Twitter: https://twitter.com/SherryO17344985

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, help is available. Contact HeadsUpGuys.com for information and resources, or to find a therapist near you. Dr. John Ogrodniczuk, founder of Heads Up Guys, and researcher at UBC discusses the silent epidemic of male suicide and the need for awareness and resources in the field of mental health. The Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Features: Dr.John OgrodniczukFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeadsUpGuysTwitter - https://twitter.com/headsupguysInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/headsupguys/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/headsupguys/

In this week's episode, we are joined by Marc Saab, founder and managing director of BML Technology, a company that helps organizations develop digital health solutions to improve patient outcomes, and one of ABI Wellness' scientific advisors. Tune in to hear Marc discuss the progression of medical technologies to give patients more understanding and control of their health. In the episode, Marc also talks about the difficulty in achieving real behavioral change and the many possibilities that come with neuroplasticity. Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain. Featuring: Marc Saab – LinkedIn BML Technology – Website, LinkedInMentioned:The Woman Who Changed Her Brain by Barbara Arrowsmith-YoungChange or Die by Dalan DeutschmanThe Brain that Changes Itself by Norman DoidgeRudy

Advocacy, Awareness and Support. These are the guiding principles for Jenny Clarke, Co-founder and CEO of Same You. Jenny founded the Same You Charity to help bring awareness to and bridge the gaps in brain injury recovery. Compelled to action by experiencing the lack of support and the challenges people experience, she is inspired to 'break down the boundaries after brain injury'. Learn more at https://www.sameyou.org/

Dr. Jan Venter is leading the way in functional neurology, by looking at disease prevention not just treating the ailments. His overall health assessment and targeted treatment programs looks at healthy aging, health optimization, and using evidence-based therapies to treat the body as a whole. And take note, Dr. Venter talks about basic accessible assessments and self guided treatments which can help you relax and improve your overall wellbeing. Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain. Dr. Venter can be reached at Healthcode Medical Inc at 604-283-8892 or info@healthcodefx.com

Today we speak with Jennifer Carnegie, a neuro-occupational therapist with a focus on providing therapies that promote meaningful activities and ADL's. She discussed how meaningful function is an individualized approach and differs with each person and may change over time. Jennifer talks about and the many benefits of technology in healthcare and how she uses it provide greater accessibility to her clients. Learn more about Jennifer's approach at Invisible-Care, or contact her at jennifer@invisiblecare.ca or call/text at 289-799-6032. Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.

This week on the podcast features Mark Halvorson, brain injury survivor and advocate, support group leader, and author. In this episode, Mark shares his brain injury recovery story and discusses specialized rehab options. He advocates for better support for the whole family of a brain injury survivor and discusses his own role in peer counseling and support groups.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Learn more about The Seminole Spirit brain injury support group here. You can contact Mark Halvorsen at seekinmotion2012@gmail.com or by calling (404) 434-7452.

This week on the podcast we are joined by Bill Barrable, CEO of Praxis Spinal Cord Institute. At Praxis, Bill leads an expert team focused on creating solutions for people with spinal cord injuries. In this episode, he discusses with Mark the purpose of Praxis, not just to carry out clinical trials and other research, but to help move new knowledge into practice. Bill also talks to Mark about involving people with spinal cord injury in research design and how that sets the outcomes at Praxis apart. Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Learn more about Praxis Spinal Cord Institute

In this week's episode, we hear from Zara Dureno, occupational therapist and neuro coach. Her message is inspiring, as she shares her knowledge about the “brain's amazing capacity to change”. She explains what it means to be an occupational therapist and how she empowers the individuals she works with and helps them regain the ability to do what is meaningful to them. She also talks about the role of hope in recovery and the importance of dispelling certain stigmas surrounding health and wellness. Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain. Learn more about The Surrey Neuroplasticity Clinic.

This week on the podcast, Michelle Taschereau, Director of Customer Experience at ABI Wellness is taking over for a conversation with Cathy Williams and Adriana Patino to discuss the challenges they've faced with Long COVID. Cathy and Adriana each share details of their experience in seeking and receiving help for the debilitating symptoms they've experienced. Their Long COVID recovery process involves participation in the BEARS program, an evidence-based program designed to help patients with cognitive challenges improve their brain function. Cathy and Adriana talk about the outcomes they've seen. Listen as the two describe for us the reality of living with Long COVID.Mentioned:BEARS by ABI WellnessLong COVID Canada

If you're a healthcare professional with a need to standardize and optimize patient care in cognitive rehab, this week's episode is made for you! Mark Watson, CEO of ABI Wellness, takes just a few minutes to tell you why you should sign up for our upcoming training session to add the Brain Enhance and Recovery System (BEARS) to your clinic.Find out more and apply for training today: https://www.abiwellness.com/training

In a short special episode, Mark Watson dives into the journey behind the research and creation of the Brain Enhance and Recovery System, from his work with special education, using neuroplasticity to help children with learning disabilities to adapting the program to help people with brain injuries and all types of brain health concerns. He describes the gap in available healthcare options for people suffering from conditions that impact the brain and how ABI Wellness came about to fill that gap. Listen as Mark shares just a few stories about the individuals and families that continue to inspire him along this journey.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.

How can advancement and progression be maximized while treating brain injuries in occupational therapy? In this episode, we hear from Shannon Orr, an occupational therapist and partner at Complex Injury Rehab, about the importance of using a research-based approach in brain injury recovery. Shannon talks about combining neuroplasticity research and therapeutic techniques to challenge clients in an individualized way, engaging them in their recovery so they can see real improvement in their lives, no matter how long they've been living with a brain injury. She also explains her vision for a more accessible and integrated system to help brain injury survivors, so that they no longer have to suffer in silence without knowing where to turn. Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and is passionate about educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain. Featured:Shannon Orr - Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, WebsiteMentioned:The Ghost in My Brain by Clark ElliotNorman DoidgeThis episode was originally released in September 2021

What actionable steps can a person take, regardless of their age, to improve brain health? This week's episode is filled with life-changing practical advice from Dr. Krystal Culler, founder and creative director of the Virtual Brain Health Center. Krystal is a Doctor of Behavioral Health with a background in the psychology of aging, gerontology, and sociology. In this episode, she shares how her own personal experiences have fuelled her passion for making brain health more accessible to all people. Her enthusiasm for her work is both obvious and inspiring as she talks about the incremental improvements we can each make daily to thrive at any age. Krystal also explains her vision for the future of accessibility in brain health, along with what she is doing now to make that vision a reality.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and is passionate about educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Featuring:Dr. Krystal Culler - Twitter, LinkedInVirtual Brain Health Center - Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, WebsiteMentioned:The Telomere Effect by Elizabeth Blackburn and Elissa EpelKeep Sharp: Build a Better Brain at Any Age by Sanja GuptaThis episode was originally released in August 2021

How does neuroplasticity programming work in a physical therapy setting to enable patients to be their best selves? This week we hear from Shannon O'Kelley, president of IRG Physical & Hand Therapy a group with clinics throughout the Northwest. Join us as Shannon talks about how innovation serves individuals and communities and discusses how neuroplasticity creates more opportunities for effective rehabilitation.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Featuring:Shannon O'Kelley - TwitterIRG Physical & Hand Therapy - Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedInEpisode originally released on November 3, 2021

This week on the podcast we are switching things up a bit! Michelle Taschereau, Director of Customer Experience at ABI Wellness is taking over for a conversation with Alexandra Noble, a participant in our Brain Enhance and Recovery System (BEARS) program. In this episode, Alex talks all about her journey of recovery from multiple systemic infectious disease syndrome from mold exposure and Lyme disease, sharing why self-advocacy has been so essential throughout her experience. Michelle and Alex also discuss the changes in self-identity that people can go through with conditions that affect the brain, and give advice on not letting a diagnosis define who you are.Brain Mastery is presented by ABI Wellness. Click here to learn about ABI Wellness' propriety Brain Enhance and Recovery System (BEARS) and expand your knowledge of cognitive care options.

This week on the podcast we hear from Drew Dudley! Drew is a leadership author, educator, and speaker, and the founder of Day One Leadership. In this episode, he shares insight into the role of empathy in leadership and how to get past self-doubt. He also discusses with Mark the need for a holistic focus in medicine, “treating the whole person,” to improve medical care and why everyone should give up the idea of “returning to normal” in recovery.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Featuring:Drew Dudley – Website, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram

This week, Mark sits down with Ed Middleton, physical therapist and clinical owner of Newleaf Total Wellness Centre in Abbotsford, BC. In this episode, they discuss intersections between physiotherapy and neurological therapy and why it's necessary to move beyond compensatory strategies in treatment. Ed also shares his thoughts on the future of brain rehabilitation and the current barriers in recovery.Brain Mastery is hosted by CEO of ABI Wellness, Mark Watson. He is an expert on brain injury recovery and has a passion for educating people about the potential to change, adapt, and heal the brain.Featuring:Ed Middleton at Newleaf Total Wellness Centre - Website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn