The Concussion Nerds Podcast

  What if we approached brain health the same way we approach our dental checkups or yearly eye exams? Most people wait until they're dealing with brain fog, concussion symptoms, cognitive decline, or burnout before paying attention to their brain health. But by the time symptoms show up, changes may have already been happening behind the scenes for years. In this episode, we're diving into why proactive brain health assessments could completely change the future of concussion recovery, cognitive performance, and neurodegenerative disease prevention. From EEGs and eye-tracking technology to the impact of subconcussive hits in sport, this conversation explores what's possible when we stop being reactive and start paying attention before things go wrong. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why brain health baselines may become as important as annual physicals How tools like EEGs, saccadic eye testing, and reflex assessments can measure cognitive function What subconcussive hits may be doing to the brain even without a diagnosed concussion Why supporting your brain health now could impact your recovery and resilience later in life Your brain is involved in every single thing you do — and this episode might just change the way you think about caring for it. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if raising your energy didn't require pushing harder… but simply slowing down long enough to reconnect with yourself? So many of us try to shift our mood, mindset, or frequency through force. We hustle for healing, chase productivity, and pressure ourselves to "feel better" faster. But true energetic shifts often happen in the quietest moments — through presence, softness, and allowing. In this gentle guided meditation, you'll be invited to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the light already within you. Through calming visualization and grounding awareness, this practice helps you move from pressure into peace and from striving into ease. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: How to create an energetic shift through presence instead of pressure A simple visualization to help you feel calmer, lighter, and more grounded Ways to reconnect with your inner warmth and sense of ease How breath and awareness can help raise your frequency naturally A gentle reminder that healing and alignment don't have to feel hard Whether you're starting your morning, resetting during a busy day, or winding down in the evening, this meditation offers a soft space to return to yourself. Take a breath, settle in, and let your inner light expand from the inside out. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if the symptoms you've been fighting for years aren't "just stress" or "just a concussion"? Too many people are told to simply rest, push through, or wait it out after a brain injury or traumatic event. But when symptoms like migraines, dizziness, anxiety, sleep struggles, nervous system dysregulation, and chronic pain continue to linger, it's often a sign that something deeper is being missed. In this powerful roundtable discussion, concussion professionals from multiple disciplines come together to unpack the complex overlap between concussion, trauma, PTSD, gut health, vision, nervous system regulation, and brain recovery. From cutting-edge neuro technology to the importance of movement, nature, and whole-body healing, this conversation challenges outdated approaches and offers hope for people who feel stuck in their recovery journey. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why concussion recovery is about far more than just the brain How trauma and nervous system dysregulation can mimic concussion symptoms The surprising connection between gut health, inflammation, and chronic pain What the future of brain health and concussion recovery could look like If you've ever wondered why healing feels so complicated — or why you still don't feel like yourself — this episode will leave you feeling seen, informed, and hopeful about what's possible. Let's Connect!   Dr. Jacque Moser - Naturopathic Health Expert & Doctor of Chiropractic Website: https://www.docjacque.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doc_jacque/   Dr. Paul Rollett - Board Certified in Vision Development & Rehabilitation Website: www.okanaganvisiontherapy.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okanaganvisiontherapy/   Jan McNeil - Registered Clinical Counsellor, Trauma and Somatic Therapist Website: https://covalentcounselling.com   Natasha Wilch - Concussion Mentor & Clinician Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com    Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

Have you ever felt like nobody truly understands what you're going through—whether you're navigating concussion recovery, building a business, or trying to support others without burning yourself out? Too many people try to "do it all" alone. Clinicians isolate themselves instead of leaning into collaboration, entrepreneurs carry the weight of leadership in silence, and those on a healing journey often stay stuck in communities that reinforce hopelessness instead of growth. But here's the truth: healing, growth, and success were never meant to happen in isolation. The right community can change everything—from your recovery journey to your business trajectory to your sense of purpose and connection. In this episode, Natasha shares personal stories, powerful reflections, and real-life examples of how finding the right people can transform your life in ways you never expected. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why community plays a critical role in concussion recovery, entrepreneurship, and mental well-being The difference between supportive communities that help you grow and toxic spaces that keep you stuck How collaboration and connection can help clinicians better support their patients and avoid burnout Why stepping into uncomfortable rooms and new environments can lead to life-changing opportunities If you've been craving connection, support, or a reminder that you don't have to navigate life alone, this episode is for you.     Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if you gave yourself permission to pause… without needing to earn it first? So many of us carry the belief that we always need to be doing, fixing, striving, or proving something. Even during rest, our minds keep racing and our bodies stay braced for what's next. But living in constant motion can leave you disconnected from yourself, exhausted in your body, and craving a moment of softness. This guided meditation is an invitation to slow down, release the pressure to perform, and remember that your worth is not tied to productivity. You don't need to change anything in this moment. You simply get to be here. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL: Feel more grounded, calm, and present in your body Release tension and soften the need to constantly "do" Reconnect with the idea that rest is allowed and safe Leave with a greater sense of peace, softness, and self-compassion Take this breath, this pause, this moment… and let yourself remember: just being is enough. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool  

Are you focusing so much on calming your nervous system that you might actually be slowing down your recovery? If you've been doing all the "right" things—breathwork, tapping, somatics, sound healing—but still feel stuck, you're not alone. There's a growing trend in the concussion space to label everything as a nervous system issue… and while that's part of the picture, it's not the whole story. Here's the hard truth: constantly regulating without addressing the root problem can turn into a subtle form of avoidance. Instead of progressing, you stay in a loop of managing symptoms without truly moving the needle. In this Roundtable episode, we unpack the difference between management and treatment—and why both matter if you actually want to heal. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why nervous system regulation alone isn't enough for concussion recovery The key difference between managing symptoms and actually treating the problem How "doing all the healing things" can sometimes keep you stuck Where technology and innovative tools fit into real, effective care If you've ever felt like you're doing everything right but still not getting better, this episode might just change the way you approach your recovery. Let's Connect!   Dr. Jacque Moser - Naturopathic Health Expert & Doctor of Chiropractic Website: https://www.docjacque.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doc_jacque/   Dr. Paul Rollett - Board Certified in Vision Development & Rehabilitation Website: www.okanaganvisiontherapy.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okanaganvisiontherapy/   Jan McNeil - Registered Clinical Counsellor, Trauma and Somatic Therapist Website: https://covalentcounselling.com   Natasha Wilch - Concussion Mentor & Clinician Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com    Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool    

What if the reason your clients (or you) aren't improving isn't a lack of effort—but a too-narrow approach to healing? You might be doing everything "right"—seeing the best specialists, targeting specific symptoms, following structured plans—yet still hitting a frustrating plateau. Here's the uncomfortable truth: when care stays siloed, progress stalls. Focusing on one system at a time can help… but without integrating how the brain and body work together, you're just building partial solutions. The real breakthrough happens when you zoom out, connect the dots, and treat the full system as an orchestra—not isolated instruments. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: - Why hyper-specialized, "niche-only" treatment often leads to plateaus in concussion recovery - The real reason multiple great providers still might not get you lasting results - How integrating systems (not just treating them) unlocks faster, deeper progress - What actually created dramatic change in just one intensive week—without traditional exercises If you've been stuck, the missing piece may not be what you're doing—but how everything is being put together. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool  

This week's meditation invites you to step away from stillness and into intuitive movement. Instead of guiding the mind, this practice encourages you to reconnect with your body—allowing it to lead, express, and release in its own natural way. There's no background music provided in this session. Instead, you're encouraged to choose your own playful, freeing song and let it shape your experience. This is about trusting your body's wisdom, following subtle impulses, and letting go of expectations. ✨ What to expect: A gentle arrival with breathwork to ground your awareness A shift from thinking to feeling Free, intuitive movement guided by your body (not instructions) Space to explore expression without judgment A soft return to presence through sensation and ease

What if the hardest part of concussion recovery isn't what you feel… but what no one else can see? So many people living with concussion are stuck in this exhausting loop—pushing through because they "look fine," downplaying symptoms, or waiting for progress to magically happen just by showing up to appointments. On the outside, life might look normal. But internally? It's a constant negotiation with energy, symptoms, identity, and overwhelm. And here's where it gets even harder—when you don't feel believed, supported, or safe with your providers, healing slows down. When you rely only on in-session work without doing the real-life integration, you stay stuck. When you resist accepting where you are, you delay where you could go. This episode cracks open the truth: concussion recovery is not passive, it's not linear, and it's definitely not "mild." But when you combine the right support, honest acceptance, and consistent action outside the clinic—you start to reclaim control, rebuild trust in your body, and actually move forward. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why concussion is called an "invisible injury"—and how that impacts healing The biggest mistake patients make that keeps them stuck in recovery What true acceptance looks like (and why it's not the same as "being okay") How the right support system—and feeling safe—can accelerate healing Healing from a concussion isn't about proving you're fine—it's about finally giving yourself permission to do what it actually takes to get better.   Let's Connect!   Dr. Jacque Moser - Naturopathic Health Expert & Doctor of Chiropractic Website: https://www.docjacque.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doc_jacque/   Dr. Paul Rollett - Board Certified in Vision Development & Rehabilitation Website: www.okanaganvisiontherapy.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okanaganvisiontherapy/   Jan McNeil - Registered Clinical Counsellor, Trauma and Somatic Therapist Website: https://covalentcounselling.com   Natasha Wilch - Concussion Mentor & Clinician Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com    Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

Are you overlooking the neck as a major driver of your client's persistent concussion symptoms—even when you think you've already treated it? So many clinicians (and even clients themselves) assume the neck has been "dealt with" because pain was addressed or manual therapy was done. But if you're only looking at range of motion, muscle tension, or pain levels, you're likely missing huge pieces of the puzzle—and that could be exactly why progress has plateaued. Here's the reality: with research showing that 85% of persistent concussion cases involve the cervical spine, it's not just about treating the neck—it's about treating it properly. When we fail to assess motor control, joint position sense, and integration with other systems, we leave major drivers of symptoms untouched. The good news? Once you know what to look for, you can completely transform outcomes.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: ➡️ Why 85% of persistent concussion clients have cervical spine involvement—and what that actually means for your treatment approach ➡️ The 3 most commonly missed elements in neck assessment and rehab (and why they matter) ➡️ How poor motor control and compensatory patterns are silently limiting your client's recovery ➡️ Why joint position sense and sensory integration are critical—and how they impact dizziness, coordination, and overall function     If you've been treating the neck but not seeing the results you expect, this episode will shift how you assess, think about, and integrate cervical spine work—so you can finally stop missing what matters most.   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What would change if you gave yourself full permission to pause—even for just a few minutes? So often, you're caught in the cycle of doing more, proving more, and meeting every expectation… leaving little to no space for yourself. You may think rest is something you have to earn, or worse, that taking time for yourself is selfish. But the truth is, constantly pushing without pausing only disconnects you further from what you actually need. This meditation is your invitation to step out of that cycle—to soften, breathe, and return to yourself without pressure or performance. In this space, you're reminded that choosing yourself isn't indulgent… it's foundational. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: How to gently bring your body into a state of ease and support A simple breathing rhythm to anchor you in the present moment How to release expectations and reconnect with your authentic self Why taking time for yourself is essential—not selfish Give yourself this moment to reset—you can always come back to this space. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if the reason your concussion recovery feels stuck… isn't your body—but the way you've been navigating it? Too many people wait, guess, or follow the wrong advice after a concussion—bouncing between providers, trying random solutions, or doing nothing at all—only to end up months (or years) later still struggling with symptoms that could've been addressed sooner. In this episode, we unpack why so many concussion patients feel lost early on—and how that delay, confusion, or misdirection can quietly turn into long-term suffering. More importantly, we explore what should happen instead: the right timing, the right referrals, and the power of a truly integrative approach to recovery. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why early guidance (even when symptoms seem "manageable") can prevent long-term complications The key signs that tell you which professional you should see—and when How vision, gut health, and nervous system regulation all play a role in concussion recovery Why "new normal" doesn't have to mean worse—and how growth can come after injury Recovery from a concussion isn't linear—but with the right support, it doesn't have to feel like you're navigating it alone. Let's Connect!   Dr. Jacque Moser - Naturopathic Health Expert & Doctor of Chiropractic Website: https://www.docjacque.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doc_jacque/   Dr. Paul Rollett - Board Certified in Vision Development & Rehabilitation Website: www.okanaganvisiontherapy.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okanaganvisiontherapy/   Jan McNeil - Registered Clinical Counsellor, Trauma and Somatic Therapist Website: https://covalentcounselling.com   Natasha Wilch - Concussion Mentor & Clinician Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com    Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool  

What if everything you've been told about concussion recovery… is actually slowing you down? Too many people are still being told to "just rest," sit in a dark room, and wait it out—only to find themselves months (or years) later still struggling with symptoms that no one seems to understand. And that's the problem. Concussions aren't just a "brain issue." They're complex, multi-system injuries—and when you treat them like a one-size-fits-all problem, you miss the very things that actually lead to healing. In this episode, we're breaking down the biggest myths, sharing real clinical perspectives, and showing you what concussion recovery shouldlook like when it's done right. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why "just rest" is outdated advice—and what to do instead in the first 7 days The biggest myths about concussion recovery that are still keeping people stuck How different systems (vision, nervous system, gut, trauma) all play a role in healing Why validation, collaboration, and individualized care are the missing pieces in recovery This is where real stories meet real clinicians—and where the conversation around concussion care finally starts to change.   Let's Connect!   Dr. Jacque Moser - Naturopathic Health Expert & Doctor of Chiropractic Website: https://www.docjacque.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doc_jacque/   Dr. Paul Rollett - Board Certified in Vision Development & Rehabilitation Website: www.okanaganvisiontherapy.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/okanaganvisiontherapy/   Jan McNeil - Registered Clinical Counsellor, Trauma and Somatic Therapist Website: https://covalentcounselling.com   Natasha Wilch - Concussion Mentor & Clinician Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com    Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool  

What if the reason you feel stuck with complex concussion cases isn't the client—but how you're organizing the problem? You might be trying to treat every symptom individually—chasing headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and brain fog as separate issues—only to feel overwhelmed, frozen, and unsure where to start. The truth is, persistent concussion cases aren't simple—and when you approach them without a clear framework, complexity turns into chaos. But when you shift from symptom-chasing to system-based thinking, everything changes. You stop guessing, start prioritizing, and finally move forward with clarity and confidence. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: ➡️ Why persistent concussion cases feel overwhelming—and why it's not because you're doing it wrong ➡️ The critical difference between "chaos" and "complexity" in clinical practice ➡️ How to shift from symptom-based treatment to a systems-based framework ➡️ How to identify the biggest "needle movers" to create meaningful progress for your clients When you learn to organize complexity instead of reacting to it, you stop feeling stuck—and start making real impact.   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if your recovery—or your patient's recovery—isn't stuck… but simply out of sync? You might be doing "all the right things"—treating the neck, addressing vision, working on vestibular rehab—yet still hitting frustrating plateaus that don't make sense. Because here's the truth: when each system is treated in isolation, even brilliantly, the brain never fully relearns how to coordinate them. Progress happens… until it doesn't. Recovery isn't about perfecting one instrument—it's about conducting the entire orchestra. When you shift from siloed treatment to integrated, layered care, that's when real momentum—and real healing—begins. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why treating concussion systems individually can lead to progress—but also plateaus The powerful "orchestra" analogy that explains how the brain truly heals What recent research reveals about multi-system involvement in persistent concussion How to move from siloed care to an integrated, coordinated recovery approach Because healing isn't about playing louder on one instrument—it's about creating a symphony. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool  

What if the symptoms you've been trying to fix aren't actually the problem? If you've been chasing individual concussion symptoms—dizziness, fatigue, brain fog—without real progress, you might be stuck in the cycle of treating what's obvious instead of what's actually driving the issue. Here's the truth: when you treat symptoms in isolation, you risk missing the deeper system interactions underneath them. That's where confusion, overwhelm, and stalled recovery happen. But when you understand how systems like the vestibular and autonomic nervous systems work together, everything starts to click—and that's when real, targeted progress begins. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: * Why treating symptoms alone can keep both clinicians and patients stuck * How the vestibular system can mimic or drive autonomic dysfunction * The critical role of the otoliths in balance, blood pressure, and symptom patterns * Why a multi-system assessment is the key to clarity and effective treatment When you shift from chasing symptoms to understanding systems, the chaos turns into clarity—and you finally know exactly where to start.   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

When was the last time you truly saw yourself with kindness instead of criticism? So many of us move through life focused on what we're not doing well enough—constantly pushing, fixing, and judging ourselves—while completely overlooking the quiet, steady effort it takes just to keep showing up each day. That constant self-criticism can leave you feeling disconnected, exhausted, and never quite "enough." But what if the shift you need isn't more discipline or productivity—what if it's learning to meet yourself with compassion? This meditation helps you slow down, reconnect with your body, and begin seeing yourself through a gentler, more supportive lens. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: How to ground yourself using breath and body awareness A simple way to reconnect with your heartbeat and inner calm Gentle affirmations to practice self-love and appreciation How to shift from self-criticism to self-compassion in just a few minutes A small moment of kindness toward yourself can change the way you move through your entire day.   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

Are you unknowingly slowing down your own healing… even while doing "everything right"? Maybe you've been telling yourself you just need to accept this is your new normal… or pushing harder because you need to be better by now. And while those thoughts feel valid (and honestly, human), they might actually be the very things keeping you stuck. Because here's the truth no one talks about: When acceptance turns into resignation, or urgency turns into pressure, your nervous system pays the price—and your healing can stall. In this episode, we're breaking down two of the most common (and sneaky) mindset traps in concussion recovery—and what to do instead so you can finally move forward with more clarity, compassion, and real momentum.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why "acceptance" does not mean settling for a life that feels limited or incomplete The powerful shift that happens when you honestly acknowledge where you are (without forcing positivity) How urgency and self-imposed timelines can dysregulate your nervous system and delay progress A more supportive, sustainable way to approach healing that actually works with your body—not against it     Healing doesn't happen faster when you rush it—but it does happen differently when you learn to work with your nervous system instead of fighting it. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if you didn't need to fix anything right now—only breathe and gently accept where you are? In moments of stress or uncertainty, you may find yourself trying to control your thoughts, push away discomfort, or rush toward solutions—forgetting that constant resistance can leave you feeling even more overwhelmed and disconnected. This guided meditation invites you to pause, soften that resistance, and explore acceptance—not as giving up, but as a way to create space, restore your energy, and reconnect with a quiet sense of hope and forward movement.   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if the very mindset you think is helping your concussion recovery is actually slowing it down? Many people on a concussion healing journey are told they need to "accept their new normal" or feel pressure to heal within a certain timeline. And while those ideas might sound supportive on the surface, they can quietly become barriers that keep you stuck, frustrated, and overwhelmed. In this episode, we unpack two common themes that show up again and again in rehabilitation: acceptance and urgency. When misunderstood, acceptance can feel like giving up hope, while urgency can push your nervous system into stress and pressure that actually works against healing. But when these concepts are reframed the right way, they can become powerful tools that help move your recovery forward. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why "acceptance" does not mean settling for a "new normal" How acknowledging the truth of where you are today can actually create a path forward Why putting a timeline on your healing may be increasing stress on your nervous system How shifting from urgency to trust can support real, sustainable progress in recovery Healing after a concussion isn't about giving up or rushing the process — it's about understanding your nervous system, meeting yourself where you are, and taking the next step forward from there. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool  

In this short guided meditation, take a moment to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the resilience that already lives within you. Through gentle breathing, self-compassion, and a heart-centered visualization, this practice invites you to soften self-judgment and meet yourself with kindness. Resilience isn't about pushing through or being hard on yourself—it's the quiet strength that allows you to keep showing up, learning, and moving forward at your own pace. A gentle reminder: you don't have to become resilient. You already are.   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

What if the real reason your concussion rehab isn't progressing… has nothing to do with the exercises you're doing?

Are you trying to rehab vision, balance, or exercise tolerance… but secretly ignoring the one system that sets the ceiling for all of it? If you're a clinician piling on protocols without addressing nervous system state—or you're on a healing journey wondering why "all the right exercises" still flare your symptoms—you might be missing the foundation. Because no matter how advanced the intervention, if the nervous system feels threatened, it won't integrate change. And here's the hard truth: there is no 15-minute reset. No six-week magic switch. Nervous system regulation isn't sexy. It's consistent, daily work. But when you understand how state drives physiology, symptoms, and capacity, everything about concussion rehab starts to make more sense. In this episode, we explore how the nervous system truly sets the stage for recovery—through the lens of the Stephen Porges Polyvagal Theory—and why safety (or even just "okay-ness") must come before performance.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why concussion often leads to sympathetic dominance—and what that actually means physiologically The difference between ventral vagal (safety), sympathetic (mobilization), and dorsal vagal (shutdown) states Why you can't rehab peripheral vision, sound sensitivity, or vestibular symptoms effectively in a threat state How shifting from "I need to feel safe" to "I can feel okay" changes the entire recovery trajectory The nervous system isn't the side quest—it's the foundation. And when you start there, everything else becomes possible.         ​​Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership    

Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

Grounding into Earth Meditation Feeling overwhelmed or disconnected? This gentle meditation helps you slow down, release tension, and reconnect to steady, grounded strength. Through breath awareness and a visualization of roots growing into the Earth, you'll be guided to let heaviness melt downward while drawing calm, enduring support upward into your body. Repeat softly to yourself: I am supported. I am connected. It is okay to slow down. Come back to this practice anytime you need to feel steady, present, and held. The Earth is always here.   Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

What if the symptoms you've been "living with" for years aren't something you have to accept at all? If you've ever been told to just shake it off, sit in a dark room, or wait out your concussion symptoms—chances are you've been missing one of the most foundational pieces of brain recovery. In this episode, I'm joined by Scott Thomson, co-founder of Cognitive Protocol, to unpack a hard truth: ignoring nutrition (or oversimplifying it) keeps people stuck in inflammation, brain fog, headaches, mood changes, and fatigue—sometimes decades after their last hit to the head. The solution isn't doing nothing… it's reclaiming agency. Strategic, targeted nutrition can calm the storm in the brain, reduce inflammation, and support real healing—without needing 25 different supplements or a full-time job in the kitchen.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why brain health was ignored for so long in sports—and how that mistake is still affecting adults today How Scott Thomson's background in professional athletics and nutrition led to the creation of Cognitive Protocol The critical role of omega fatty acids, creatine, and inflammation-reducing nutrients in brain recovery How intentional nutrition gives concussion patients and caregivers back a sense of control and momentum in healing     Brain healing isn't passive—and as Scott Thomson shares, you don't have to live with lingering symptoms forever when you give your brain what it actually needs to recover. Listener Discount Code: CONCUSSIONNERDS20 Website: https://cognitiveprotocol.com/         Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

Have you ever felt the pull to deepen your healing—but found yourself terrified of what might surface if you actually slowed down long enough to listen? If you're like many people on a concussion or trauma-related healing journey, you might be unintentionally doing the very thing that keeps you stuck: staying in your head, trying to control every outcome, and avoiding the "box" of unresolved experiences you're afraid might burst open. But here's the truth—healing rarely happens in the mind alone. And when you try to logic your way through everything, you disconnect from the very place your healing actually begins: your body. In this episode, Natasha shares a raw and personal update as she heads into a 300-hour somatic-based trauma training in Spain—reflecting on what it takes to be open, curious, and courageous in your own healing… even when you have no idea what might come up. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why staying "in your head" can stall nervous system and concussion recovery The deeper connection between trauma, the body, and persistent symptoms What it really feels like to surrender control and let your healing unfold How you can start reconnecting with your own body in small, safe, meaningful ways Whether you're navigating your own recovery or supporting someone else, this episode is your reminder to slow down, breathe, and come home to yourself—one moment at a time.     Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What if the real reason your nervous system work isn't "working"… is because you've been aiming for the wrong goal? So many people in the concussion and healing space are trying to "feel safe," "stay calm," or "get into parasympathetic mode" — only to end up more frustrated, more dysregulated, or even more disconnected from their bodies. And here's the kicker: It's not that you're doing it wrong… it's that you've been told to chase an outcome you can't physiologically access yet. In this episode, Natasha breaks down the misconceptions around nervous system regulation and exposes the hidden ways our approach may actually be keeping us stuck. From meditation backfiring, to emotional suppression showing up as symptoms, to the importance of meeting your body where it actually is — we go there. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why "feeling safe" is often too big of a first step — and the realistic place to start instead How to know when meditation and calming tools will help… and when they'll make you feel worse What your body is really asking for when you feel snappy, irritable, wired, or "crawly" in your skin Why repressed emotions turn into physical symptoms — and the journaling practice that helps move them out instead of storing them Your nervous system isn't something to "fix." It's something to understand — and today, you get the clarity you've been missing.     Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What if "evidence-based" isn't the only correct path — but picking the wrong alternative care could cost your client their recovery? Too many patients and clinicians get stuck in a binary: either "only evidence-based" or "anything that feels good." That leaves vulnerable people chasing unproven fixes, paying lots of money, delaying effective care — or worse, getting harmed. Here's the hard truth: the concussion space is messy and full of gray. Research often lags behind clinical observation, but that doesn't mean anything goes. The solution is evidence-informed, patient-centred care — blend what the best evidence shows, your clinical reasoning, objective outcomes, and informed consent so people safely get the care that actually helps them. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: How to tell the difference between helpful complementary care and care that's actively harmful (financial, symptomatic, or delaying effective treatment). Practical flags to watch for in a therapist's approach — e.g., inability to explain the treatment plan, no objective/subjective outcome measures, pressure sales, or discouraging other referrals. Why trauma almost always plays a role in persistent concussion and how addressing it (EMDR, somatic, or other trauma-informed approaches) can unlock rehab progress. How to prioritize and co-manage care (what to measure, how to test and retest in session, when to refer, and how to keep the patient's autonomy and safety front and centre). If you're a clinician: use this episode as a checklist to tighten your referrals and explain your reasoning to patients. If you're on a healing journey: use it as permission to ask tough questions and refuse care that feels coercive, vague, or unmeasured. Let's finish Season One by choosing curiosity over dogma — and by putting patient safety, clarity, and real outcomes first. Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Visit Natasha's Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Thank you to our sponsor Neuronic. Learn more about their photobiomodulation products and save $100 on your order by checking out their website here: https://www.neuronic.online/discount-handler?code=2568457

Have you ever wondered why your vision still feels "off" long after your concussion recovery was supposed to be complete? You're not imagining it — and you're definitely not alone. So many concussion survivors go through the motions of rehab, only to find their eyes still struggle to track, focus, or process movement the way they used to. The problem? Vision issues are often an invisible piece of the concussion puzzle that goes undiagnosed or under-treated. In this episode, Natasha sits down with Dr. Paul Rollett, a neuro-optometrist who understands this struggle on a personal level. After suffering a severe concussion during optometry school, Dr. Rollett experienced the same visual challenges he now helps his patients overcome. His story sheds light on how vision connects deeply to brain recovery — and why addressing it can make all the difference in your healing journey.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why vision problems are so common — yet so often missed — after concussion How neuro-optometry bridges the gap between vision and brain healing The signs your eyes may still be struggling post-injury How targeted vision therapy can accelerate your recovery and clarity     KEY TAKEAWAYS: Even in environments focused on vision, post-concussion visual issues can go overlooked — awareness and specialized care matter. Recovery is possible, but it often requires a collaborative approach between neuro-optometrists, physiotherapists, and other rehab professionals. Vision therapy isn't just about the eyes — it's about retraining the brain to process visual information effectively. Personal experience often fuels passionate, patient-centered care — and Dr. Rollett's journey is proof of that.     CONNECT WITH DR. PAUL ROLLETT:

Have you ever hesitated to recommend a treatment because you weren't sure your patient could afford it — or worried your fees would look like you're putting profit before care? Many private-practice providers freeze at the money conversation: we undercharge out of guilt, over-explain costs, or avoid talking about outcomes and value — and that leaves patients confused, underserved, or worse, exploited. That discomfort is exactly why this episode matters. The Roundtable pulls back the curtain on pricing, billing, and ethical care — we name the tension between value and access, then give you practical ways to hold both at once: clear upfront conversations about outcomes, flexible "plan B" options, warranties/refund approaches for devices, pro-bono funnels, and clinician-level boundaries that protect both patient outcomes and your team's sustainability. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL LEARN: How to frame cost conversations around value and outcomes (so patients see spending as investment, not just expense). Concrete strategies for setting and defending fee schedules while staying ethical and compassionate (including transparency, team conversations, and when to push back on insurer-driven rates). A practical, team-based clinical approach for complex concussion cases — what to assess first (vision, vestibular, neck, nervous-system regulation) and how to coordinate referrals. Real ways to increase access without going broke: pro-bono slots, low-cost/online resources, sliding plans, and negotiating efficient treatment doses that still get results. On this episode of The Roundtable we dig into the hard stuff — cost, billing, and caring for people in vulnerable positions — and we walk through a real, messy case study (Michelle's multi-system concussion) so you leave with both mindset shifts and actionable tools.    Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Visit Natasha's Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Thank you to our sponsor Neuronic. Learn more about their photobiomodulation products and save $100 on your order by checking out their website here: https://www.neuronic.online/discount-handler?code=2568457

Could the clinic you're trusting with your brain actually be doing more harm than good? Too many people assume "concussion clinic" on a website means expert care — and they end up getting one-size-fits-all treatments, vague reassurance, or worse: passive "symptom management" that stalls recovery. That confusion is costing people time, money, and progress. In this episode we pull back the curtain on what realconcussion care looks like, how to spot red flags (and good signs), and why an integrated, multi-system screen — not a single weekend course — matters. We also meet Seira, whose post-concussion picture includes POTS and complex vision issues, and dig into how you actually treat those drivers instead of just masking symptoms. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL LEARN: How to tell a legitimate concussion clinic from a marketing label — the one question that reveals everything. The 7 concussion profiles every competent clinic should be able to screen for (and why that matters for recovery). Which questions to ask reception and your therapist so you don't get handed a hot pack and sent home. The difference between managing POTS symptoms and treating underlying drivers (plus what Seira's case teaches us about integrated care). Need a quick checklist? Grab the your guide in Choosing the Right Concussion Clinic  with the exact questions to ask before you book an appointment HERE: https://www.natashawilch.com/choosing-the-right-concussion-clinic   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Visit Natasha's Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Thank you to our sponsor Neuronic.  Learn more about their photobiomodulation products and save $100 on your order by checking out their website here:https://www.neuronic.online/discount-handler?code=2568457

Have you ever wondered what's actually happening in your brain after a concussion—and why some symptoms just won't quit? You've probably tried the usual: rest, therapy, supplements… but your sleep is still off, your focus is fuzzy, and your mood swings are confusing everyone (including you). That's where neurofeedback comes in—a powerful yet often misunderstood approach that can retrain your brainwaves and support true, lasting recovery. In this episode, Natasha sits down with Lisa Cramer, licensed professional counselor, neurofeedback provider, and owner of MindBody Neurotherapy in Colorado and Illinois. Lisa breaks down how neurofeedback works, why it's such a game-changer for lingering concussion symptoms, and how it fits into an integrated recovery plan.    

What really happens when concussion care goes beyond silos and clinicians start collaborating?   If you've ever felt like concussion care is disjointed—with one provider treating symptoms in isolation—you're not alone. Too often, patients are left bouncing between professionals, trying to piece together their own recovery while struggling to understand what's actually happening in their brain and body.   That's exactly why The Roundtable exists—to change that. In this first episode of Concussion Nerds: The Roundtable, host Natasha Wilch, along with Dr. Rachel Parker, Dr. Cameron McCrodan , and Dr.Rob Trachter, pull back the curtain on what real interdisciplinary collaboration looks like. Together, they share insights from the frontlines of concussion care—where emergency medicine meets functional neurology, vision therapy, and rehabilitation—to redefine what's possible for recovery. Because concussion care shouldn't be about guessing. It should be about teamwork. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why most people with concussions fall through the cracks between diagnosis and rehab—and how to change that The crucial role emergency and trauma physicians play as the first point of contact after a head injury Why imaging doesn't diagnose concussion (and what actually does) The real timelines for concussion recovery—and why the old "two weeks" stat needs to go How vision plays a massive role in persistent symptoms (and what happens when therapy goes wrong) What "rehab burnout" looks like and how to reignite motivation for healing Concussion Nerds: The Roundtable isn't just another podcast—it's a conversation that bridges the gap between disciplines, restores hope to patients, and reminds us all that behind every concussion is a human story waiting to be seen, heard, and healed.   Tune in and join the movement toward more connected, compassionate, and informed concussion care.     Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Visit Natasha's Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Thank you to our sponsor Neuronic.  Learn more about their photobiomodulation products and save $100 on your order by checking out their website here: https://www.neuronic.online/discount-handler?code=2568457

⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: This episode includes discussion of suicide and recent shootings in relation to CTE. What happens when the body of an elite athlete breaks down—and the mind begins to follow? So many athletes push through pain, assuming that grit and discipline can outlast anything. But what happens when the symptoms you're feeling—confusion, depression, vertigo, and memory loss—aren't something you can train your way out of? In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode, former Team USA Bobsled athlete William Person shares his journey from Olympic-level competition to losing his sense of self after years of undiagnosed head injuries. What started as dizziness and brain fog became a battle for survival—and ultimately, a story of recovery, faith, and purpose. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: The hidden toll of repetitive head injuries and why so many athletes ignore the warning signs The moment William realized something was deeply wrong—and the turning point that started his path to healing The treatments and mindset shifts that helped him rebuild his life after traumatic brain injury Why true healing requires more than just medical answers—it demands community, hope, and self-compassion This episode isn't just about recovery—it's about rediscovering who you are when everything you've built falls apart. William's story will remind you that even in the darkest moments, there's always a way back to yourself. Connect with Will: TikTok One man with a chamber HBOT (@hyperbarichealing) | TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@hyperbarichealing?_t=ZT-8zD0dNeEvPi&_r=1_ To raise funds to open a CTE Recovery Center for athletes and military veterans battling CTE like symptoms to receive care without the burden of cost William's GoFundMe is: https://gofund.me/93ff9c6e Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1 Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge

How often do we, as clinicians, wait for the research to “catch up” before we make changes—while our clients continue to struggle with symptoms that could've been eased sooner? If you're still using the same intake forms, the same outcome measures, or the same clinical flow because “that's how it's always been done,” you might be missing key opportunities to prevent trauma from taking hold and prolonging recovery. Here's the truth: fear avoidance, trauma, and negative self-talk can all delay healing after a concussion. But with the right tools, insights, and a willingness to adapt, we can rewrite recovery pathways and help our clients find safety, resilience, and real progress—faster. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: The key role of fear-avoidance behaviors in persistent concussion symptoms Why traditional intake questionnaires may be missing critical emotional data How trauma and negative self-perception influence the nervous system and recovery A powerful new EMDR approach that may prevent trauma from taking root after MVAs By integrating trauma-informed, research-backed care sooner—not later—you'll learn how to support your clients more completely and help them reclaim their healing journey.       Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What happens when your body tells you “no” but the world keeps telling you to “push through”? If you've ever felt the pressure to keep going, keep performing, or keep showing up—despite your body screaming for rest—you're not alone. For people living with concussions or brain injuries, the expectation to “suck it up” can be not only harmful but downright dangerous. In this episode of Concussion Nerds, Natasha sits down with the incredible Briana Rice—scientist, advocate, and current Miss USA Woman of Achievement 2025—whose story is a powerful reminder that slowing down is not weakness, but wisdom. Brianna opens up about living with post-concussion syndrome, learning to give herself grace, and how she's turned her pain into purpose by using her national title to raise awareness about invisible injuries. Amb Briana Rice Bsc. is a developmental biologist and the reigning Miss U.S. Woman of Achievement 2025.  She is an International Ambassador for Happiness and the founder of the Love and Light Movement, she curates upscale events and retreats. She is also a certified Tantra teacher, Sound Healer, and yoga instructor, blending science and spirituality to help others heal, rise. Briana and is the co-founder of the Blackberry Merlot wine Festival and the visionary behind Grace for Your Journey, a platform that empowers women and uplifts the voices of those living with invisible disabilities and chronic health conditions.  As the Riverside Director of the Global Society of Female Entrepreneurs, Briana fosters leadership and community among women in business. and reclaim their inner power with grace.   BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why “pushing through” with a brain injury can lead to serious setbacks (including seizures). How to navigate the tension between your body's limits and society's expectations. Practical ways to rebuild self-trust and self-love after a diagnosis changes your life. The power of advocacy and how Brianna is using her platform to create resources and visibility for brain injury survivors. This conversation is raw, inspiring, and full of reminders that even when life doesn't go as planned, you still have the power to write a new story. Connect with Briana: Website: www.brianarice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bri_from_the_ie/   Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What happens when you fight for years to be taken seriously, only to find that the very people meant to help you don't understand what you're going through? Too often, people with concussions are dismissed, ignored, or told to “just live with it.” They try everything, but without the right care, it feels like they're stumbling in the dark—losing energy, losing hope, and sometimes even losing parts of themselves. In this episode, you'll meet Angelique Esseling from the Netherlands, a woman whose story proves just how much persistence, resilience, and the right support can change everything. From years of medical dismissal to finally finding real answers—and even traveling across the world for an intensive—Angelique's journey is nothing short of inspiring. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: The critical mistakes many people unknowingly make in the early stages of concussion recovery Why self-advocacy (even when you're exhausted) can be the turning point in your healing journey What an intensive program really looks like—and how it can create breakthrough results when nothing else seems to work How Angelique turned her challenges into a platform for advocacy, storytelling, and public speaking that's changing lives If you've ever felt dismissed, misunderstood, or stuck on your healing path, Angelique's story will remind you that there is another way forward—and that your limits don't define you, they can actually guide you toward new possibilities.     Connect with Angelique: Website: https://breingelique.nl/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mijn_nah_route/         Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What if the very words you use about your recovery are keeping you stuck? Too many people navigating life after a brain injury or concussion don't realize how powerful language is in shaping their recovery. Calling your brain damaged or framing your setbacks as permanent truths can quietly reinforce fear and limit growth. But when you shift from judgment to curiosity, everything changes—and that's exactly what this conversation with Taryn Barlow, aka The Well Brain SLP, is all about. Taryn Barlow is a pioneer in Cognitive Health Coaching and the founder of The Well BrainTM, a virtual practice that bridges the gap between healthcare and holistic neuro recovery. With dual expertise as a Speech-Language Pathologist and Certified International Health Coach, along with credentials as a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and Amen University Elite Brain Health Clinician, Taryn integrates clinical knowledge with whole-life wellness to support tangible, everyday outcomes—like realistic cognitive strategies, advocacy, and confidence in daily tasks. Unlike traditional coaching models, Taryn's approach is rooted in neuroscience and tailored to those recovering from brain injury, —helping clients move from cognitive chaos to cognitive confidence. She brings experience from diverse medical settings, offering deeply individualized care that empowers people to reclaim their thinking, their health, and their life. If you're looking for someone who understands both the science of the brain and the art of transformation, Taryn brings both—filling a vital and often overlooked gap in neuro-recovery support. In this episode, Natasha and Taryn dive deep into the lived experiences, pivots, and lessons that shaped their work, while unpacking why language, advocacy, and curiosity matter so much in recovery. If you've ever felt frustrated by the system, unsure how to describe your journey, or overwhelmed by the idea of investing in your healing, this episode is your permission slip to rethink what's possible.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why your choice of words can either hinder or accelerate recovery after concussion or brain injury How curiosity opens the door to growth while judgment keeps you stuck The importance of duality—how you can experience joy and struggle at the same time Why advocating for yourself (and stepping outside the system when necessary) can unlock deeper healing Your recovery journey doesn't have to follow the path you thought it would—sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come when you reframe the way you think, speak, and choose to move forward. Connect with Taryn: Website: https://thewellbrainslp.com/about-me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taryn_thewellbrain/ Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

​​Are you or your patients still struggling with lingering pain long after a concussion or injury? Too often, people are told their symptoms are “just in their head” or that they'll have to live with chronic pain forever. Clinicians may treat the obvious issues but miss what's really fueling the pain—and patients are left frustrated, exhausted, and stuck in survival mode. But what if the missing link isn't just about the body, but the brain? In this episode, Dr. Becca Timko shares how she built her clinic, Clarity Brain and Body, around functional neurology and a patient experience that truly works. Together, we dive into how chronic pain and concussion recovery intersect—and why addressing both is essential for real healing. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why chronic pain often shows up alongside persistent concussion symptoms How to recognize when pain is brain-based versus tissue-based The signs that pain is shifting into something chronic (hint: it's not just about a 3-month cutoff) Practical ways clinicians can shift their approach to better support patients in pain This conversation will leave you with fresh insights, practical strategies, and hope—whether you're a clinician helping patients heal or someone on your own recovery journey. Connect with Dr. Becca Timko: Instagram: @claritybrainandbodyclinic: https://www.instagram.com/claritybrainandbodyclinic/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/claritybrainandbodyclinic Let's Connect! @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

Have you ever felt like you're “doing all the right things” when it comes to your health—but still not seeing results? Here's the truth: nutrition isn't just about willpower or following a cookie-cutter plan. Many people unknowingly spin their wheels because they're missing the root causes hiding beneath symptoms. That's where today's guest, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner Danielle Blasko, comes in. She blends lab testing with personalized protocols to help clients cut through the guesswork and finally move toward healing. If you've ever been overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice, stuck in a cycle of quick fixes, or unsure what your body really needs—you'll want to tune into this one. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: What a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner actually does (and why it matters for long-term healing) Why so many people are under-eating protein—and simple ways to change that How inflammation impacts your recovery (and what nutrition can do to calm it down) Practical, beginner-friendly strategies to make nutrition less confusing and more doable in everyday life Nutrition doesn't have to be complicated or intimidating—it can actually become one of the most powerful tools in your healing journey. Tune in and get a sneak peek of Danielle's upcoming Concussion Nerds Summit talk—you won't want to miss it!   Connect with Danielle:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellemarie_nutrition_/ Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What if the advice you've been given about concussions is not only outdated—but actually slowing down your recovery? Far too many people are still told to “sit in a dark room and wait it out” after a concussion. The problem? That approach is not just unhelpful, it can delay healing, increase frustration, and leave people feeling isolated. The truth is: concussion care has evolved. Access to the right treatment, at the right time, can make all the difference in recovery. And today's guest, Lucas Johnson, co-founder and CEO of Headquarters (a virtual concussion clinic), is on a mission to make high-quality, interdisciplinary concussion care accessible to everyone—without the outdated “just wait” approach. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: The outdated concussion myths that are still being repeated—and why they need to stop How Lucas' personal concussion story led him to create a new standard of care Why early, structured movement (not rest in a dark room) is key to recovery How virtual clinics like Headquarters are breaking barriers and expanding access across the U.S. If you've ever felt frustrated by the lack of clear, effective concussion care—or you just want to stay on top of the most up-to-date recovery strategies—this episode is packed with hope, science, and innovation. Connect with Lucas Johnston: Website: https://www.headquarters.health/ Email: lucas@headquarters.health   Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

Ever felt like you're chasing a dream that just keeps slipping through your fingers? You've given it everything—your time, your energy, even your savings—only to feel like you're still miles away from where you want to be. Maybe you've even convinced yourself it's safer not to dream at all, because disappointment hurts too much. But what if you could hear from someone who's been there—facing rejection, setbacks, and moments of “this is never going to happen”—and still found a way forward? In this episode, Natasha sits down with Broadway performer and independent artist Kelsie Watts, whose journey from bartending in Nashville to starring in Six on Broadway and racking up over 60,000 Spotify streams in a month will leave you inspired (and maybe a little teary). Her story is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and daring to believe there's more waiting for you. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why chasing your dream often takes more grit—and more patience—than you expect The reality of building a career in a competitive, numbers-driven industry How authenticity and vulnerability can open unexpected doors The mindset shifts that keep you moving forward when quitting feels easier Whether you're healing from an injury, building a business, or pushing toward a creative dream, this conversation will remind you: you belong, you matter, and it's never too late to keep going.   Connect with Kelsie Watts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsiewattsmusic/ Listen to her music: https://lnk.to/KelsieWatts-FITIN?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAad98QOBNTR_pm-qCz9DVWyur0kwZo_XisNQDCFp73-zTeSqocbcOoEl0un1kw_aem_aVRZnTuuVbgPKCKNH5p-XQ Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

Are you stuck treating symptoms when you know there's something deeper going on? Here's the truth: too many clinicians are caught in a loop—taking course after course, trying to get “certified,” but still walking into treatment sessions unsure how to actually help their concussion clients thrive. I've seen it. I've lived it. And I knew something had to change. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain and taking you behind the scenes of why this podcast, this community, and this entire movement even exists. Spoiler: it's not just about education—it's about reshaping identities, changing the culture of care, and setting a whole new standard for what concussion rehab should look like.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL FIND OUT: Why I'm not here to teach you how to treat a symptom—and what I am here to do The personal story that shaped my path into neuro rehab and ultimately led to this work Why quality education should never be a privilege and how we're breaking that barrier How clinicians in this community are shifting their confidence, their care, and their careers     This is more than a podcast. It's a movement. And if you're here—whether you're brand new or a long-time Nerd—you're part of it. We're redefining what's possible in this space, and we're doing it one clinician, one client, and one deep conversation at a time. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

Are your symptoms being brushed off as “just anxiety” when you know something deeper is going on? If you've been told your labs are “normal,” but your body feels anything but — you're not alone. So many people with complex, overlapping symptoms like fatigue, GI issues, dizziness, brain fog, and medication sensitivities are stuck in a loop of misdiagnosis and dismissal. And it's exhausting. In this episode of the Concussion Nerds Podcast, Dr. Zachary Spiritos — neurogastroenterologist and founder of Ever Better Medicine — pulls back the curtain on two highly misunderstood and underdiagnosed conditions: POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). These aren't “rare unicorn” illnesses — they're just rarely understood.

Is sound sensitivity slowing down your concussion recovery—more than you even realize? For many people on a healing journey (and the clinicians who support them), sound sensitivity becomes an exhausting, confusing hurdle. Whether it's struggling to be in noisy environments, feeling constantly overstimulated, or relying on earplugs 24/7, this issue doesn't just make life harder—it often gets overlooked or misunderstood altogether. But what if sound sensitivity is more than just an annoying symptom… and instead, a clue pointing to deeper dysregulation in the nervous system? In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on what's really going on—and how to start shifting it. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why sound sensitivity is not just about your ears—and how the brain and nervous system play a huge role The connection between auditory processing and cognitive function after a concussion Why noise-canceling headphones are management, not treatment (and what to do instead) A step-by-step framework for gently retraining your tolerance to sound using the “Sound Sensitivity Pyramid” This episode blends practical tools with empowering education—for clinicians and healing humans alike. Whether you're new to concussion recovery or feeling stuck in the middle of it, this conversation will help you better understand your body, your brain, and your next steps forward. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What if healing the brain wasn't just about rest and rehab—but light? Most people think of concussion treatment as pacing, physio, maybe some cognitive rehab… but what if we've been missing a powerful, science-backed tool this whole time? Let's be real: Photobiomodulation sounds like something straight out of a sci-fi film. And if you're a clinician or someone on a healing journey, you might be wondering—how could a helmet that shines light on your head actually make a difference? In this episode of the Concussion Nerds Podcast, Natasha is joined by Chris Garvin from Neuronic, a cutting-edge neurotech company that's changing how we support the brain using light. Together, they break down the science of photobiomodulation in a way that's actually understandable—and explore how it's being used to help people with persistent concussions, cognitive decline, and more.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: What photobiomodulation actually is—and how Neuronic's device is using it to improve brain function How red light therapy has evolved beyond skincare to support concussion recovery and neurodegenerative care The real-life stories of patients and families seeing life-changing shifts through this technology What new research says about boosting BDNF (aka brain fertilizer) without needing intense aerobic exercise     This episode is a must-listen for clinicians who want to stay on the cutting edge of evidence-informed care—and for anyone on a healing journey who's curious about non-invasive tools that can support real recovery. If you've never heard of Neuronic or photobiomodulation before, prepare to have your mind (and brain) blown. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/ @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership  

What if you could see how your nervous system is responding in real time—right in your clinic? Most practitioners are doing their best with the tools they've got. But let's be honest: when you're only tracking symptoms, you're often flying blind. There's a huge gap between what a patient feels and what's actually happening in the brain—and without objective data, it's easy to miss what truly needs to be addressed. Now imagine if you had technology that not only helped track brain activity and nervous system responses in real time… but did it in a simple, accessible, and fast way. That's exactly what today's guest, Dr. Trevor Colm, is building—right at the intersection of chiropractic care, neuroscience, and innovation. Trevor's journey from musician and athlete to concussion survivor to chiropractor—and now tech creator—offers powerful insight into why we must question what we've always done, especially in healing professions. Because what if there's a better way? A smarter, more integrated, tech-supported way? BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: How a single chiropractic adjustment radically changed Trevor's life after his concussion—and what it taught him about healing The difference between structural vs. tonal chiropractic techniques (and why it matters for the nervous system) Why current tools in concussion and brain-based care often fall short—and how Cortex is bridging that gap The role of curiosity, lived experience, and real-time data in creating meaningful, measurable change in clinical outcomes This one's for the clinicians, the curious minds, and anyone who's ever asked “But why is this working?”—or better yet, “How can we do it even better?”    

Is it really just a headache—or is your brain trying to tell you something deeper? If you've ever shrugged off recurring headaches or mislabeled your pain as a "migraine" without really knowing the difference, you're not alone. The truth is, many people—and even some clinicians—still don't fully understand what makes a migraine different from a headache. And that misunderstanding? It leads to missed diagnoses, mistreatment, and a whole lot of people suffering in silence, thinking, “This is just my new normal.” But what if the pain isn't your final story? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Thompson Maesaka of The Neural Connection—a specialist with deep personal and clinical experience in neurological healing—who's here to break down what's really happening inside the brain during a migraine. From misunderstood symptoms to game-changing interventions, he's sharing what he's learned after years of clinical work and his own healing journey from concussion, Lyme disease, and chronic neurological dysfunction.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: The key differences between a migraine and a headache (and why that matters) What's actually happening in the brain during a migraine episode—spoiler: it's more like a seizure than a headache The outdated beliefs that are still holding patients (and practitioners) back Why “this is your new normal” is one of the most harmful things a clinician can say—and what should be said instead     This episode is a call to curiosity, compassion, and a completely different way of looking at migraine care. Tune in—you'll never think about head pain the same way again.    

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your client's concussion recovery by doing too much too soon—or doing the wrong “right” thing? Here's the hard truth: even the best rehab tools fall flat when clients lack the capacity to actually use them. And far too often, clinicians mistake “more” for “better,” piling on protocols without pausing to ask if the nervous system can actually handle it. In this episode of The Concussion Nerds Podcast, we're diving into the 3 biggest mistakes that keep both clinicians and clients spinning their wheels—mistakes that leave progress stalled and everyone frustrated. If you've ever wondered why someone “should” be getting better… but isn't? This episode is your lightbulb moment. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why your client's perceived capacity may not match their actual nervous system capacity—and why that matters The common therapist trap of doing too much, too soon (and how to course correct without losing momentum) How “just keep doing it” exercise advice can backfire—and what to do instead Real-world examples of misdiagnosed exercise intolerance and the nuanced rehab strategies that actually helped Whether you're a clinician or someone walking your own healing path, this episode will challenge you to rethink your approach, slow down with intention, and start working with the nervous system instead of steamrolling it.      

Are you overlooking the most important part of your concussion assessments? If you're a clinician working with concussion patients and you're not fully evaluating the neck—you're missing a critical piece of the puzzle. The truth is, many providers stop short when assessing cervical involvement. You might check range of motion, maybe even do some manual therapy—but what about sensory motor control? Joint position sense? Proprioception? These deeper layers of neck function not only impact symptoms like dizziness and disorientation… they can even increase risk for future concussions. But here's the good news: there is a better way to assess and treat the neck—and it's going to radically elevate the way you support your clients with complex concussion.     BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why range of motion and palpation alone are NOT enough to rule out cervical involvement How joint position sense and sensory motor control can impact symptoms like dizziness and eye movement dysfunction Simple clinical tests to help determine whether the neck is driving your client's ongoing symptoms How new research is shaping baseline testing and return-to-play decisions for athletes Whether you're a PT, chiropractor, or clinician supporting clients post-concussion, this episode is packed with tools and insights that will help you go deeper in your assessments and get your clients better, faster.