Hope Survives | Brain Injury Podcast

The Wide Reaching Impact of Brain Injury

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400

One moment can alter the course of a lifetime, but no one should have to navigate that new reality alone. Brain injury is a journey that impacts the entire family, often requiring a level of patience and resilience that must be discovered along the way.

In this special episode, Cristabelle leads us on a look back on Brain Injury Awareness Month by sharing a diverse range of perspectives- including an introduction to the conversations happening on a broader scale in the current landscape of brain injury as well as deeply personal stories shared during our recent virtual concert. Hear from Chrys Dolcé (Daughter Perspective of Father’s Stroke), David Colby (Story of Multiple Concussions), Lindy Boone Michaelis (Parent Perspective of Son’s TBI), and Tameka Wolfe (Spouse Perspective + VP of Board).

We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center on the neurological basics of brain injury and how understanding the underlying physical changes can lead to more targeted and effective recovery.

🧠 In this episode:

Understanding how brain injury affects everyone: from children and adults to the entire family support system.
An overview of current national conversations around language used to describe brain injury (moving beyond “mild” “moderate” and “severe”), the need for standardization of care, and the push to reclassify brain injury as a chronic condition.
Brain injury recovery is dynamic; there is a need for better awareness of shifting symptoms over time.
Neurology of brain injury and why it’s important to understand underlying neurological changes for effective recovery.
Why building a supportive network is vital for reducing isolation and maintaining hope during the long-term recovery journey.
There is always hope for new life and joy after an injury, no matter how much the trajectory has changed.

CONNECT

Follow @hopesurvives

Visit ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Join a support group at ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

-------

Sponsor

Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC offers personalized neuro-recovery programs for anyone going through brain injury and a wide range of neurological conditions. Learn more:⁠ ⁠https://www.thefnc.com⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:19 Why it Matters

11:58 Neurological Basics of Brain Injury - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

17:29 Daughter Perspective of Father’s Stroke - Chrys Dolcé

20:47 Story of Multiple Concussions - David Colby

23:09 Parent Perspective of Son’s TBI - Lindy Boone Michaelis

29:06 Spouse Perspective + VP of Board - Tameka Wolfe

32:26 The Journey Continues

-------

Disclaimer

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician for individualized care. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org/podcast⁠

Navigating Aphasia and Loss of Language after Brain Injury & Stroke (with Tawni Ballinger, CCC-SLP)

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:10:00 -0400

When words feel out of reach, the frustration and isolation of aphasia can become one of the most challenging parts of the recovery journey, especially because maintaining communication is essential for the social connections that fuel our healing. So how do we navigate this?

In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Tawni Ballinger (M.A., CCC-SLP), a speech-language pathologist specializing in aphasia, to explore the deep impact of language challenges on individuals and families and to share practical strategies for finding your voice again.

We also feature a special spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center, about the neurological explanation of aphasia.

🧠 In this episode:

Understanding the emotional impact of aphasia and the frustration of communication hurdles.
Practical tips for using describing words to help express your needs clearly.
How loved ones can best support someone with aphasia through patience and understanding.
The importance of seeking evidence-based speech therapy focused on meaningful, real-life tasks.
Neuroplasticity & how the brain can adapt and recover through targeted effort.

*REGISTER FOR APHASIA VIRTUAL WORKSHOP - May 19, 2026 - https://hopesurvives.org/aphasia-workshop

CONNECT

Follow @hopesurvives

Visit ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Join a support group at ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠

-------

Sponsor

-------

0:00 Intro

1:54 Welcome with Cristabelle

4:04 The Neurological Side of Aphasia - Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

7:47 Introducing Tawni Ballinger

12:39 Impact of Loss of Language

16:24 Strategies to Help

21:28 Advice for Loved Ones

24:54 Understanding SLP for Aphasia

28:06 Words of Hope

-------

Disclaimer

Communication Strategies to Increase Connection after Brain Injury (with Roberta Brooks - CCC-SLP)

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:35:00 -0400

Navigating conversation after a brain injury can often feel like a series of constant roadblocks, but rebuilding connection starts with understanding the "why" behind these challenges. In this episode, we sit down with Roberta Brooks (M.A. CCC/SLP (ret), CBIS), a neuro resource facilitator and retired speech-language pathologist who has spent her entire career spanning 40 years in the field of brain injury. This episode explores the complexities of communication that can happen with brain injury, along with encouragement and strategies to help you have better conversations - both for the person with the injury and their loved ones.

We also feature a special spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center on understanding how to communicate about your brain injury, including some tips to effectively communicate your needs to your medical providers.

🧠In this episode:

Understanding communication breakdown after brain injury
How symptoms can affect communication in subtle ways
Ways to help with expressing your needs clearly with an injury
Practical ways that conversation partners can engage in connection with the person with brain injury
The role of emotional regulation in daily communication

CONNECT

Follow @hopesurvives

Visit ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Join a support group at ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠

-------

Sponsor

-------

0:00 Intro

2:14 Welcome with Cristabelle

4:50 Communicating about your Brain Injury - Dr. Ryan Harvey

8:42 Introducing Roberta Brooks

13:58 Defining Communication Breakdown

16:25 Strategies to Help Connection

24:15 The Impact of Emotional Regulation

28:35 Approaching with Curiosity & Intentionality

34:40 Words of Hope

-------

Disclaimer

Invisible Injury and Self-Advocacy after Brain Injury / Stroke (with Judy Kim Cage)

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400

Even when they are not immediately obvious to outsiders, the symptoms of a brain injury are valid and real- yet it can be so frustrating to feel misunderstood while navigating these invisible effects. Today, we’re discussing the reality of living with an invisible injury with Judy Kim Cage, who has experienced a hemorrhagic stroke and brain surgeries due to MoyaMoya, and also lives with hypermobile EDS.

We also feature a spotlight with Dr. Ryan Harvey from The Functional Neurology Center to explore the science behind what is happening in the brain when symptoms aren't visible. There are very real neurological reasons for these challenges that simply can’t be seen from the outside - and if you can relate, you’re not alone!

🧠In this episode:

The neurological side of invisible brain injury symptoms
A real life story of surviving a stroke & brain surgeries
Examples of invisible effects in daily life
The tension of holding hope while also having hard days
Why self-advocacy is so important

CONNECT

Follow @hopesurvives

Visit ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Join a support group at ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠

-------

Sponsor

-------

0:00 Intro

1:55 Welcome with Cristabelle

6:23 Neurological Side of Invisible Effects of Brain Injury - Dr. Ryan Harvey

10:58 Introducing Judy Kim Cage

18:55 Hope in the Tension of “You Look Fine”

23:55 Advocating for Yourself

31:00 Words of Hope

-------

Disclaimer

Understanding Nutrition for Brain Injury Recovery (with Dr. Karen Carpenter)

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:35:00 -0400

Nutrition is one of the most overlooked, yet most powerful tools for healing from brain injury. Let’s dive into how what we choose to eat can actually help our brains to recover in this conversation with Dr. Karen Carpenter, a clinician with over 30 years of experience in Chiropractic Neurology and Functional Medicine.

🧠In this episode:

Why you should care about nutrition in brain injury recovery
The role of inflammation and anti-inflammatory diets
Gut-brain axis and its impact on brain health
Practical tips for improving nutrition with limited cognitive function

***FREE Downloadable Resource Guides:

🥗Small Steps Towards Better Brain Nutrition: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/small-steps-toward-better-brain-nutrition

🥑Fueling the Brain For Recovery: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/fueling-the-brain-for-recovery

💙Nutrition Workshop with Dr. Carpenter coming on April 24 - sign up: hopesurvives.org/nutrition

CONNECT

Follow @hopesurvives

Visit ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Join a support group at ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠

-------

Sponsor

-------

0:00 Intro

2:00 Welcome with Cristabelle

6:23 Introducing Dr. Carpenter

8:44 Why should we care about nutrition in brain injury?

15:25 Small steps to get started

17:00 Understanding Inflammation

20:15 Practical tips for brain injury

23:40 The Gut-Brain Connection

26:50 Impact on Hormones

30:55 Words of Hope

-------

Disclaimer

Broadening the Brain Injury Conversation | Season 5 First Look

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:20:00 -0400

At Hope Survives, we know there is no one-size-fits-all path to recovery. Today we’re sharing a preview of where we are going in Season 5.

This season, we’re having thoughtful conversations with clinicians and individuals impacted by brain injury: connecting expert insight with the real-life, day-to-day experience of life after brain injury. Today’s preview episode includes a first look at some of our conversations. Subscribe and stay tuned for the official premiere coming on March 19!

CONNECT

Follow @hopesurvives

Visit ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Join a support group at ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠

-------

Sponsor

Thank you to The Functional Neurology Center for sponsoring this podcast - The FNC’s personalized neuro-recovery programs offer hope for those suffering from Brain Injuries, Dysautonomia, Vestibular, Chronic Pain, Stroke, Movement Dysfunction, Developmental Disorders, PPPD, FND and Complex Post Concussion. Learn more:⁠ ⁠https://www.thefnc.com⁠⁠

-------

Disclaimer

126. Hope for the Holidays after Brain Injury + Strategies for Sensory Overwhelm & More

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:11:00 -0400

It's okay if your holidays feel different this year... there is hope to find comfort and joy this holiday season, even while navigating brain injury.

Today, Cristabelle offers encouragement and practical tools to help you move through this season with grace - and beyond - because these strategies work anytime of year!

We’ll discuss sensory regulation strategies, graceful social "scripts" for setting boundaries, and brain-healthy ways to find joy. Join us as we learn to redefine what celebration may look like, and it's okay if the holidays feel different this year.

***FREE Downloadable Resource Guides:

🎄Seeking Comfort & Joy this Holiday Season: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/seeking-comfort-and-joy-holidays

🎄Harvesting Hope for the Holidays: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/harvesting-hope-for-the-holidays

This is the Season 4 finale! Stay connected between podcast seasons by joining our support groups and workshops, & reach out to us anytime at: hi@hopesurvives.org

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:42 Welcome with Cristabelle

12:00 Encouragement if your holidays feel different…

14:40 Sensory Regulation to Decrease Overwhelm

18:10 Strategies to help with Overstimulation

22:15 Navigating Social Situations

25:09 Finding Brain Healthy Alternatives

26:45 Gratitude Crafts and Activities

27:25 Give Yourself Grace in Redefining Celebration

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician. More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org/podcast⁠

125. Understanding Neuro Fatigue in Brain Injury Recovery (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 20:57:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered why the healing brain’s battery seems to drain so quickly, even after simple tasks? Today, we’re diving into the complex and often misunderstood topic of neuro fatigue after brain injury.

In this informative episode, host Cristabelle Braden welcomes back Dr. Jeremy Schmoe of the Functional Neurology Center to uncover the science behind this exhausting symptom. Dr. Schmoe explains exactly what happens when neurons become unstable and lack the oxygen, activation, and nutrition they need to communicate effectively. Listen as they distinguish the difference between general physical tiredness and true neurological fatigue, validating the "rollercoaster" of energy crashes that so many survivors experience. Tune in for practical strategies to identify your limits, advice for loved ones on spotting the physical signs of a crash, and a powerful reminder that there is always help and hope for improving your function.

🧠*FREE Downloadable Resource: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub/understanding-neuro-fatigue

💙 *Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:00 Introducing Dr. Schmoe

9:25 What is Neuro Fatigue?

15:10 Distinguishing Neuro Fatigue vs General Fatigue

17:30 Identify Neuro Fatigue & Strategies

20:45 Simple Practical Tools

28:30 What Families and Loved Ones Can Look For

30:20 Final Thoughts

32:30 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

124. Reframing the Journey: Finding Gratitude in a Life You Didn’t Expect - Brain Injury Community Panel

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 19:20:00 -0400

How do you hold on to thankfulness when you’re navigating symptoms, setbacks, or the emotional weight of daily challenges? Together we’ll explore how gratitude can coexist with grief, struggle, and healing - along with a podcast spotlight on the power of gratitude from Dr. Jeremy Schmoe.

In this heartfelt panel, host Cristabelle Braden invites Holly Kostrzewski, Joi Kue, and Robin Luftig for an honest conversation about gratitude, reflection, and resilience. Each panelist brings a unique story: Robin’s sudden medical crisis and brain tumor; Holly’s traumatic injury at 18 and decades of ongoing symptoms & reinjury; and Joi’s lifelong journey with hydrocephalus, childhood surgeries, and the emotional impact of growing up with a TBI. Together, they share the first emotions they faced, from hopelessness and confusion to loneliness, depression, and fear, and how each learned to find gratitude through difficulty. Their stories highlight the power of small celebrations, community, acceptance, and learning to reframe setbacks with compassion. You are not alone!

Connect with panelists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/124

Let’s make a difference together!

🌎 Millions of people are living with brain injury and struggling to find support… and at Hope Survives, we’re here to change that.

💙 Join us for GivingTuesday: HopeSurvives.org/givingtuesday

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

*PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: The Power of Gratitude with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

-------

0:00 Intro

2:14 Welcome with Cristabelle

6:04 The Power of Gratitude with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

8:27 Introducing Panelists

14:35 Emotional Impact of Injury

19:35 How did you find gratitude during hardest times?

25:45 Hope through Setbacks

36:45 Challenges with Connection and Communication

41:15 Reframing Perspective with Gratitude

46:15 For the Dark Times

49:55 Advice for those Struggling with Gratitude

53:55 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

123. Brain Injury in Veterans (Part 2): Courage through Invisible Wounds - PTSD & TBI

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:42:00 -0400

Unseen struggles, PTSD, and the mental battle… how do you keep moving forward? In this two part series we’re sitting down with veterans as they share the “necessary conversations” that need to be had in our communities. Stay tuned to hear once in a lifetime stories filled with raw emotion and genuineness. Let’s discover how the heroes of our country beat the odds in the service and how they found hope after hanging up the uniform.

In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden and special co-host Jeremiah Griffin sit down with Army veteran Vinnie Morales and Marine Corps veteran Scottie Williamson. Together, we explore what it’s really like to overcome brain injury and PTSD, the role of community in recovery, and why embracing your journey can be an act of hope. Tune in for an authentic look at what it takes for veterans to find courage in the face of a changed life.

*Sensitive Topics: this episode discusses topics including mental health and suicide prevention in the veteran community.

Hope survives when you take action.

Connect with panlists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/123

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Jeremiah - Navy Corpsman

5:15 Jeremiah on Brain Injury Awareness

9:20 Jeremiah on Veteran Conversations

12:20 Meet Army Veteran Vinnie Morales

14:42 Meet Marine Corps Veteran Scottie Williamson

19:30 Navigating Emotions like Anger, Fear, Survivors Guilt

25:45 Unique Struggles to Veterans with TBI

37:50 Importance of these Conversations

41:30 Lessons Learned from Time in Service

46:15 What Hope Would You Give?

54:15 Closing Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

Disclaimer: The opinions and views expressed here belong solely to the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the DoW or it's components. Any mention of products or services does not imply DoW endorsement. Additionally, the presence of external hyperlinks does not signify DoW approval of the linked websites or their content, products, or services.

122. Brain Injury in Veterans (Part 1): Rebuilding and Resilience

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:36:00 -0400

Combat Deployments, Brain Injury, and Healing..?! Where does your help come from? In this two part series we’re sitting down with veterans as they share the “necessary conversations” that need to be had in our communities. Stay tuned to hear once in a lifetime stories filled with raw emotion and genuineness. Let’s discover how the heroes of our country beat the odds in the service and how they found hope after hanging up the uniform.

In this episode, host Cristabelle Braden and special co-host Jeremiah Griffin invite listeners to peek into the lives of Army Veterans: Joie Wehr and Todd Strader as they share deeply personal stories of resilience, rebuilding, and hope. Along with sharing their stories, we talk about the importance of education on brain injury, awareness of TBI and mental health in veterans, having a place to heal, and rebuilding your identity.

*Sensitive Topics: this episode discusses topics including mental health and suicide prevention in the veteran community.

Hope survives when you take action.

Connect with panlists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/122

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:25 Meet Jeremiah - Navy Corpsman

10:15 Meet Joie - Army Veteran - TBI

13:10 Mental Health in TBI & Military

17:55 Persevering through Setbacks

20:30 Finding Grace for Mistakes

22:50 Staying Resilient

23:50 Words of Hope

27:30 Meet Todd - Army Veteran - Blast Overpressure

33:25 Frustration for Recognition of TBI

42:30 Importance of Awareness for Veterans

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

121. The Search for Hope: Overcoming Fear and Anxiety Post TBI/Stroke - Brain Injury Community Panel

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:29:00 -0400

When you first realized that this brain injury would impact you or your family’s life, what thoughts or emotions came up for you?

Today, we’re asking questions about the emotional side of brain injury. We want you to know you’re not alone, and it’s natural to have these feelings… but it’s what you do with them that matters. So let’s explore these very real feelings and talk about how to find hope - together.

In this powerful panel episode, host Cristabelle Braden invites listeners into a real conversation with three inspiring survivors: Gary Brennan, Didi Green, and Ashleigh Mackey. Together, they open up about the emotional side of recovery, sharing honestly about the uncertainties, setbacks, and the search for hope. Through heartfelt stories and practical advice, the panel highlights the value of acceptance, reaching out for help, and creating new meaning after trauma. Listeners are encouraged to find community, embrace their feelings, and remember that no one walks this road alone.

Connect with panlists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/121

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:35 Welcome with Cristabelle

8:25 Introducing Panelists

17:30 Emotional Impact of Injury

21:40 Mental Health Journey

31:00 Handling Feelings of Fear and Anxiety for the Future

39:55 Tools or Practices that Help

48:00 Regaining Hope

52:35 Words of Hope & Encouragement

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

120. Hope For Family: It's Not a Wasted Life (with Lindy Boone Michaelis)

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 21:10:00 -0400

Brain injury affects every single person in the family - so how do we move forward, together?

In this heartfelt episode, Cristabelle sits down with Lindy Boone Michaelis to explore the journey of hope, heartbreak, and healing after her family's life-changing experience with traumatic brain injury.

Lindy is the daughter of beloved singer/entertainer Pat Boone and the founder of Ryan’s Reach, a nonprofit organization providing group homes for TBI in Orange County, CA. Lindy’s son had a severe TBI, and in this conversation she opens up about the reality of walking through long-term uncertainty, family upheaval, and the unexpected ways faith and love can anchor us in stormy seasons. You’ll hear honest emotions and the lessons learned from years of recovery and resilience - reminding us that pain can transform, compassion can multiply, and every story matters. This powerful conversation also highlights the inspiration behind Lindy’s new song (co-written with Cristabelle) called, "It's Not a Wasted Life," revealing that even in our deepest struggles, hope for families can grow.

Listen to “It’s Not a Wasted Life” by Lindy Boone wherever you listen to music, or see the lyric video here: https://youtu.be/dOnNytRPT7I?si=InWWmyW1tsOCsTdc

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:50 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:13 Introducing Lindy’s Story

10:15 TBI Impact on Whole Family

19:00 Complex Emotions

21:10 Perspective and Growth

25:13 Inspired to Help Others

30:38 It’s Not a Wasted Life

36:45 Heartbreak to Compassion

42:50 Words of Hope for Families

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

119. Fear Does Not Define You + Hope For Brain Injury Recovery

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 16:49:00 -0400

Have you ever had days that felt like hope is just out of reach? You wake up already exhausted, feeling anxious, foggy, and afraid of what the day might bring? If you can relate, you’re not alone.

In this episode, Cristabelle is sharing honestly about the fears she faced through her brain injury recovery, and how she has learned to acknowledge them without letting them take over. We’ll talk about the balance between being real about what you’re feeling and choosing faith one small step at a time - because healing starts with honesty, community, and the courage to believe that light still breaks through the darkness.

We also have a podcast spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe sharing the neurological side of fear & anxiety, reasons why our brain can get stuck in loops, and hope for recovery.

*Upcoming workshops: hopesurvives.org/workshops

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

*PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: Neurological Side of Fear & Anxiety + Hope for Recovery with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

-------

0:00 Intro

2:50 Welcome with Cristabelle

5:45 Desperate for Hope

7:18 Fears and Struggles

13:15 Hope for Overcoming

15:45 Anxiety and Identity

21:05 Dr. Schmoe - Neurological Side of Fear & Anxiety

27:10 Dr. Schmoe - Hope for Recovery

30:45 You are Not Alone

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

118. The Truth About Boundaries in Brain Injury Recovery - Community Panel

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:57:00 -0400

Brain injury can affect every part of your life - so it’s important to understand what your personal boundaries are, both with yourself and others. But it’s a lot easier said than done… let’s talk about navigating boundaries in the recovery process!

Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 3 panelists: Chaandani Khan, Alfinie Mayes, and Farook Outhmani. This panel of brain injury survivors opens up about their personal journeys and the importance of setting boundaries in recovery, including their experiences with empathy, resilience, and the challenges of communicating needs to others. We talk about the significance of self-care, the necessity of saying no, and the hope that exists in the recovery process. Through real-life stories, they provide insights into navigating the complexities of brain injury and the emotional changes that accompany it.

Connect with panelists & read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/118

*Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:20 Welcome with Cristabelle

6:55 Introducing Panelists

15:10 Why Set Boundaries in Recovery?

22:35 Boundaries with Self

32:15 Boundaries with Others

43:30 How to Navigate when Someone Pushes Your Boundaries

54:30 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

117. What We Wish People Knew About Concussions

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 17:41:00 -0400

There are so many misunderstandings about concussion - and today we’re here to clear them up.

Did you know that 81% of U.S. adults don’t know concussions are traumatic brain injuries, according to a recent study by the BIAA? That might sound shocking to those of us who understand TBI, but unfortunately, it’s representative of the general public’s perception of concussions. So let’s bring awareness together for National Concussion Awareness Day!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

The surprising truths behind common concussion myths.
Why what you don’t see on the outside can change everything.
Why the word “mild” can be extremely misleading.
Real voices sharing what they wish everyone understood.
The hidden factors that make every recovery so different.

Our host Cristabelle Braden shares some of her experiences, common misconceptions, and important facts about concussion in a relatable way. We also have input from some of our incredible Hope Survives volunteers who have experienced concussions themselves: Didi, Emily, Frank, Hunter, Christine, Ayana, Holly, and Shaun share what they wish people understood about concussions. Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there.

Check out some of our previous concussion episodes with more education and resources - find them at hopesurvives.org/podcast :

85. CONCUSSIONS: Common Misconceptions, Symptoms, & My Experiences

81. The Road to Concussion Recovery (Dr. Brittni Charle)

73. I have a concussion… now what? (Dr. Mark Heisig)

57. Female Hormones after TBI/Concussion (Melissa Biscardi)

54. Pillars of Concussion Care + Holistic Approach (Melissa Biscardi)

20. Concussion Awareness + Safety in Sports (Protect Your Skull)

18. PINK Concussions - Female Brain Injury Awareness + Gaps in Research (Katherine Snedaker)

12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions (Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Why Concussion Awareness Matters

4:35 What’s Beneath - Invisible Injury

7:30 Mild does not mean Mild Effect on Life

10:30 Why it Doesn’t Usually Show on Brain Scans

12:15 Doesn’t Need a Direct Head Hit

13:15 Every Concussion is Different

17:00 Misdiagnosed as Mental Health

18:30 Why we Share Awareness

21:00 Common Signs & Symptoms

25:00 What We Wish People Understood - Volunteer Voices

44:00 Support and Connection

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

116. Care, Support, and Boundaries for Brain Healing (Cristabelle Braden + Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 18:40:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like you were pushing so hard, that you ended up in cycles of burnout, overwhelm, and exhaustion? Life with brain injury is… a lot. But there is hope to get out of those loops of symptom cycles. Today, we’re diving into the topic of care, support, and boundaries. We also have a podcast spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe sharing the importance of boundaries and what can help your brain be in a better environment to heal.

Let’s talk about the importance of:

learning to care for ourselves and others
identifying our support needs and what true support feels like
setting healthy boundaries that become guard rails for recovery

You are not alone!

*Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

-------

*PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: Boundaries for Brain Healing with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle

4:00 Cycles of Overwhelm

6:48 Why I Couldn’t Keep Burning Out

9:45 Care, Support, and Boundaries

13:41 Dr. Schmoe - Boundaries for Brain Healing

17:00 Dr. Schmoe - Sample Boundaries to Set

21:10 Screen Time and Social Media

22:25 Taking Brain Healing Seriously

25:35 Grace to Pivot and Shift as Needed

27:00 Finding the Right Support

30:00 Identifying Care Needs

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

115. Hope For Couples: Communication after TBI

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:29:00 -0400

Communication can become a big challenge after a brain injury - which affects all relationships, but especially the ones that are closest to us. So let’s talk about communication in relationships & marriage after brain injury! We also have a podcast spotlight with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe sharing some of the neurological reasons why communication can be hard after a brain injury.

Whether you are a survivor, family member, single, or married, there is something in this episode to encourage and uplift you, and practical communication tips that can help us all to maintain better relationships post-injury. You are not alone!

Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 2 panelists: Tameka Wolfe and Rob Baugh. Tameka not only is the leader of Hope For Couples support group, but also currently serves as Vice President of the Hope Survives Board of Directors. Rob is a member of our Brain Injury Advisory Council and serves as a team lead for the Hope Ambassador Team. They each bring a unique perspective to marriage after brain injury - Tameka will share from the spouse’s perspective, and Rob will share from the survivor’s perspective. They will share their experiences with how communication changed in their respective relationships after the brain injury, as well as practical tips and strategies that have helped them. We also dive into the balance of navigating ambiguous loss and grief for relationship changes, while also maintaining hope and embracing the journey with your partner.

Hope For Couples group: https://www.hopesurvives.org/couples

*Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Read Tameka & Rob’s bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/115

-------

*PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: Neurological Reasons for Communication Struggles with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle

9:10 Neurological Reasons for Communication Struggles with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

13:05 Hope For Couples - Introducing Panelists

19:30 Communication Challenges after TBI

26:00 Connection with One Another after TBI

34:43 Navigating Misunderstandings

39:50 Ambiguous Loss and the Hard Times

48:45 Encouragement for Spouses

51:15 Encouragement for Survivors

55:20 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

114. Social Cues, Relationships & Communication Challenges - Brain Injury Community Panel

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:35:00 -0400

If relationships have been hard post-concussion / brain injury, you are not alone. Our ability to connect with others is an important part of life - so what do you do when your communication skills and ability to read social cues becomes affected after a brain injury? Let’s talk about it!

Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 2 panelists: Elayne Masters and Hunter Schulz. This panel of brain injury survivors opens up about the challenges of staying connected and the need for understanding support while navigating cognitive overload, shifting relationships, and the struggle to communicate. We’ll share some strategies for adapting communication, maintaining real friendships, and finding hope for new ways to connect.

*Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: www.hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Connect with Hunter - IG: @huntervpageantry

Connect with Elayne - IG @brainiactivist

Read their bios on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast/114

-------

0:00 Intro

2:18 Welcome with Cristabelle

6:05 Introducing Panelists

11:45 Communication Challenges

28:05 Social Challenges

35:00 Strategies for Maintaining Relationships

47:10 Finding New Ways to Connect

56:15 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

113. The Struggles of Social Communication after Brain Injury (Cristabelle Braden)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 19:46:00 -0400

Brain injury impacts how we express ourselves, how we connect with others, and how we're understood. In this heartfelt episode, Cristabelle Braden shares her personal journey through the communication challenges that follow brain injury.

Through real-life examples, she opens up about the emotional toll of feeling misunderstood, how memory and social difficulties can impact relationships, and the ongoing process of rebuilding confidence in social situations. The struggles of communication often impact connection with others, but this isn’t always seen on the outside - let’s talk about it!

*Rewiring Hope on-demand video series with Dr. Schmoe: hopesurvives.org/rewiring-hope

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Importance of Connection

7:40 Struggles with Communication

10:58 Practical Examples

25:25 Growth and Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

112. Learning to Care For a Post-Injury Brain: Mindset, Habits, What Worked, What Didn’t - Brain Injury Community Panel

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 20:20:00 -0400

After a brain injury, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, unsure how to truly care for your brain in the day-to-day. What habits actually help? What mindsets make a difference? And how do you know when something just isn’t working?

Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces 3 panelists: Stefanie Beeney, Charlotte Endorf, and Farook Outhmani. Each of our panelists has lived experience with brain injury, and shares openly about their personal journeys: what has helped them, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way. You’ll hear honest insights about shifting mindsets, learning to rest, building healthy habits, and the importance of listening to your body. Through stories of trial and error, the panelists highlight the value of self-advocacy and support systems, while offering practical ideas and gentle encouragement for others navigating recovery.

Register for our upcoming workshops: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops (on Pacing Your Plans, Functional Neurology with Dr. Schmoe, Nervous System, and more!)

*New Hope Survives Online Store - podcast listeners discount code: PODCAST10 for 10% off your entire order through July 31, 2025! ⁠https://www.hopesurvives.org/store⁠

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Read bios & more on panelists on our website: hopesurvives.org/podcast

-------

*PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle

5:00 Brain Health Small Steps with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

11:18 Introducing Panelists

15:40 Process of Learning to Care for Brain after TBI

20:55 Adjusting Pre-Injury to Post-Injury Habits

26:40 Practical Things that Have Helped

35:25 Things that Did NOT Work - and How to Pivot

47:10 Advice on Staying Consistent

52:25 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

111. From Survival Mode to Gentle Healing - Brain Health Rhythms (Cristabelle Braden)

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 20:17:00 -0400

We often feel like we are in “survival mode” after a brain injury - our lives have changed so much, and it’s all we can do to get through each day. But what if healing could feel gentle, and less overwhelming?

In this relatable episode, Cristabelle Braden opens up about her own journey through multiple traumatic brain injuries - moving from survival mode to embracing small, powerful brain health rhythms that foster true recovery. Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or family member, you’ll find hope, practical tips, and heartfelt encouragement, reminding you that progress is possible, and you’re never alone on this journey. Listen to discover how gentle rhythms and community support can help you take the next hopeful step forward.

*New Hope Survives Online Store - podcast listeners discount code: PODCAST10 for 10% off your entire order through July 31, 2025! - ⁠hopesurvives.org/store

*Register for our upcoming workshops: https://hopesurvives.org/workshops

(on Nutrition, Pacing, Nervous System, and more!)

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

-------

*PODCAST SPOTLIGHT: with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

-------

0:00 Intro

2:33 Survival Mode

9:00 Invitation to Gentle Healing

11:05 Importance of Brain Health Lifestyle with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe

13:52 Struggles of Stress

17:15 Recognizing Your Symptoms

20:00 Finding Rhythms

28:15 Small Steps to Brain Health

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

110. Everyday Resilience: Finding Strength in the Struggle - Brain Injury Community Panel

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:53:00 -0400

Everyday resilience after brain injury isn’t always big or loud - sometimes it’s a quiet determination to keep going, or simply getting out of bed. Today, through the voices of our Brain Injury Community Panel, we will bring you some tools to recognize your own resilience, and how to continue to move forward and find strength in the struggle.

Join our host, Cristabelle Braden, as she introduces our 3 panelists: Rob Baugh, Christine Lawrence, and Angie Weber - and they courageously share their personal journeys through the challenges of brain injury. Each panelist opens up about navigating setbacks, learning from challenges, advice for when you feel in survival mode, and the practical tools that have guided them toward healing and hope.

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

*New Hope Survives Online Store - podcast listeners discount code: PODCAST10 for 10% off your entire order through July 31, 2025! - hopesurvives.org/store

More on the panelists & this episode: https://hopesurvives.org/podcast/110

-------

0:00 Intro

2:24 Welcome with Cristabelle

10:00 Introducing TBI Survivor Panelists

14:30 How do you define Resilience?

18:00 How do you recognize Resilience?

27:30 Tools for Resilience

31:10 Embracing New Dreams while Grieving Old Life

38:50 Lessons Learned from Challenges

43:20 Navigating Setbacks

50:30 When In Survival Mode

56:55 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

109. How to Support Neuroplasticity after Brain Injury (with Dr. Michelle Eisenmann)

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 10:30:00 -0400

Did you know that our brains are resilient? Today, we’re exploring neuroplasticity - the brain’s ability to rewire and form new pathways - as it relates to brain injury!

In this uplifting episode, host Cristabelle Braden welcomes Dr. Michelle Eisenmann, a passionate advocate, Functional Neurology doctor, and expert in brain resiliency. Dr. Eisenmann brings both professional insight and personal experience with traumatic brain injury, offering a compassionate perspective that resonates with survivors and their families alike.

Listen as we explore the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt and heal, debunking common myths about recovery timelines and empowering listeners to take an active role in their healing process. You’ll learn how lifestyle factors like nutrition, sleep, and movement can make a real difference, why small changes matter, and how resilience is built through consistency and self-compassion. Tune in for practical tips, encouragement, and a reminder that every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating on the lifelong journey of recovery.

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Dr. Michelle Eisenmann: @thebrainfluencer | resiliencybh.com

-------

0:00 Intro

2:40 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:40 Introducing Dr. Eisenmann

9:25 Neuroplasticity and Brain Injury

11:55 Is there a Time Limit for Neuroplasticity?

17:45 Brain Rewiring & Adapting after Injury

22:40 Lifestyle for Brain Resiliency

29:45 Consistency, Predictability, and Novelty

32:10 Stress and Trauma Impact on Brain Resiliency

36:55 Need for Individualized Care

42:05 Dr. Eisenmann’s Personal TBI Recovery

48:05 Small Steps Forward in Resilience

51:40 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

108. Cristabelle's Story: Finding Hope Through Multiple TBIs (Interview from The Concussion Coach)

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 22:05:00 -0400

Cristabelle Braden has fought through multiple traumatic brain injuries to come out on the other side carrying a strong message of resilience, hope, and healing.

She is the host of this podcast - the founder of Hope Survives - and today, in something much different than our usual episodes - she shares her story!

Listen for practical advice, takeaways, and lessons learned from her over 15 years of living with TBI and working with so many survivors & their families through her online support groups, as well as in the brain injury community. We hope you’ll be encouraged and uplifted by hearing her story.

This episode features an interview that originally aired on The Concussion Coach podcast with Bethany Lewis. Thank you to Bethany for allowing us to share this with our community!

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives |⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠⁠

Reach out to us anytime: ⁠hi@hopesurvives.org⁠ + connect with our global online community & zoom groups:⁠ ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Bethany Lewis, The Concussion Coach - neurological occupational therapist and certified life coach - and check out her podcast: @the_concussion_coach | ⁠ theconcussioncoach.com⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:15 Concussion Coach Intro

8:35 Cristabelle’s Interview Start

12:20 TBI Journey & Symptoms

21:45 Re-Injuries and Recovery

28:25 What is Hope for TBI

34:45 Brain Injury Affecting Other Systems in Body

44:25 Flare Ups & Calming Symptoms

50:45 Finding Hope through Setbacks

57:30 Pacing & Daily Life with Brain Injury

62:45 Connecting with Hope Survives

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

107. The Identity Journey: Self-Rediscovery after TBI - Brain Injury Community Panel

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 13:25:00 -0400

There is a common phrase, “new you” after brain injury - but what if it’s more nuanced than that? There are parts of ourselves that feel new and unfamiliar, but there are other parts of ourselves that have been there all along… how do we piece it all together?

How do we find ourselves again? What does “identity” mean anyway? Why does society define us by what we do - and how can we get to a deeper understanding of who we really are? Get ready to explore all this and more with our second Brain Injury Community Panel.

Today’s panel features 3 brain injury survivors, each with their own unique journey: Bobby Apgar, Lynda Douge, and Chelsea Tuttle. Our conversation will help you to learn more about the journey of identity after brain injury, ways that these survivors have learned to re-discover themselves, and encouragement and advice on how to get to know yourself again.

FREE Resources available for Instant Download:

Journaling Prompts for Survivors: Exploring Identity after Brain Injury
Journaling Prompts for Survivors: Emotions, Relationships, and Daily Growth
Family Identity after Injury: When One of Us is Injured, All of Us are Changed

CLICK HERE: ⁠https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub⁠

-------

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠

Join the online community & zoom groups: ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden |⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about volunteering, sharing your story, or becoming a Hope Ambassador: ⁠https://www.hopesurvives.org/getinvolved⁠

-------

0:00 Intro

2:34 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:20 Introducing Panelists - Survivor Stories

15:15 Identity Changes post-TBI

21:20 Sense of Self

34:50 Society Defines by What We Do

40:30 Self-Perception - Who We Are

45:35 Getting to Know Yourself Again

55:50 Brain Injury Identity Journey

57:55 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

106. Identity Shifts after Brain Injury + Ways to Find Yourself Again (with Bethany Lewis, OT)

Mon, 19 May 2025 21:00:00 -0400

Sense of self is often affected after brain injury - you just don’t feel like “you” anymore. This happens for both survivors and family members, and today we are exploring these identity shifts, and how to find yourself again even in the midst of brain injury recovery.

In this episode, Cristabelle is joined by Bethany Lewis, a Neurological Occupational Therapist passionate about combining occupational therapy, brain health, and mental and emotional well being, to explore the profound impact of brain injuries on identity. Let’s dig into why these identity shifts may happen, what could be going on beneath the surface, and how to move forward with a renewed sense of identity post brain injury - both for survivors and their loved ones.

It's okay to feel lost and to take time to rediscover yourself. Embracing the messiness of life is part of the human experience. Finding identity post-injury is a journey that requires intentionality, and it’s a process that you can work a little towards each day.

*** FREE Identity Resources available for Instant Download:

Family Identity after Injury: When One of Us is Injured, All of Us are Changed
Journaling Prompts for Survivors: Exploring Identity after Brain Injury

CLICK HERE: https://hopesurvives.org/resource-hub

-------

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠

Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠

Connect with Bethany - neurological occupational therapist and certified life coach - and check out her podcast: @the_concussion_coach | theconcussioncoach.com

-------

0:00 Intro

2:20 Welcome with Cristabelle

9:30 Introducing Bethany Lewis

14:15 Why talk about Identity and Brain Injury?

17:30 Describing Identity Shifts

26:30 When You Don’t Feel Like “You”

30:45 Help for Family Members

39:50 Feeling Defined by Injury

42:40 The Power of Language and Self-Perception

51:30 Tools for Reconnecting with Identity

57:15 Tools for Loved Ones to Help Survivors

60:00 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

105. Hope through Ambiguous Loss + Tools for Processing Emotions after Brain Injury (with Dr. Daniel Ignacio)

Mon, 05 May 2025 20:48:00 -0400

Navigating life after brain injury often leaves survivors and families facing a sense of loss that lacks clear answers or closure - with emotions that are overwhelming and hard to describe. Today, we’re discussing some tools to help process these big emotions - there is hope!

In this episode, Cristabelle welcomes Dr. Daniel Ignacio, a clinical neuropsychologist and TBI survivor himself, to explore the concept of ambiguous loss and the unique grief that follows brain injury. We discuss how these emotional challenges can deeply affect identity, relationships, and the journey to healing. Our conversation also dives into the impact of stress on the nervous system and offers insights for coping and finding hope. Dr. Ignacio brings both professional expertise and personal experience, making this discussion especially inspiring, relatable and helpful for anyone navigating life after brain injury.

Whether you're navigating big changes in your identity or processing your emotions, we know it takes courage to listen and explore this. So if you're processing emotions like grief or anger, or you're still trying to make sense of what healing looks like, we want you to know that we're here for you - you do not have to process this alone. Reach out to us anytime: hi@hopesurvives.org + connect with our global online community & zoom groups: ⁠hopesurvives.org/community⁠

-------

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | ⁠hopesurvives.org ⁠

Connect with Dr. Daniel Ignacio: @tbioc - St Jude Brain Injury Network: https://www.sjbin.org/

-------

0:00 Intro

2:40 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:15 Introducing Dr. Daniel Ignacio

14:30 Dr. Ignacio’s Personal TBI Journey

19:15 Neuropsychologist Explaining Ambiguous Loss

28:45 Identifying Persisting Symptoms Affect on Emotions

31:30 Navigating Tension of Hope and Grief

36:45 Impact of Nervous System Dysregulation + Chronic Stress

44:00 Tools for Processing Emotions + Healing

49:45 Advice for Survivors & Families

55:20 Words of Hope

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

104. Ambiguous Loss & Grief Processing - Brain Injury Community Panel

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 17:37:00 -0400

A brain injury can bring unexpected changes in identity, abilities, and relationships… and when things feel different, grief is a natural response. Today, we are exploring the concept of “ambiguous loss” - a type of loss that remains unclear, unresolved, or without closure - with our first Brain Injury Community Panel.

Today’s panel features 3 brain injury survivors, each with their own unique journey: Helena Jacobson, Stefanie Beeney, and Scott Tribble. Our conversation will help you to learn more about the concept of ambiguous loss, the impact on identity and social relationships for survivors, and tools to help navigate grief and move toward healing.

You do not have to process this alone: if you can relate to any of this, we are here for you. We invite you to join our online support groups, and feel free to reach out any time at hi@hopesurvives.org. We also have some grief processing resources available for both survivors & family members at our resource hub: hopesurvives.org/resource

-------

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org

Join the online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect with Helena on IG: @healingwithhelz

Connect with Stefanie on IG: @evolving.stef

Learn more about volunteering, sharing your story, or becoming a Hope Ambassador: https://www.hopesurvives.org/getinvolved

-------

0:00 Intro

2:30 Welcome with Cristabelle

6:45 Introducing Panelists - Survivor Stories

10:25 Ambiguous Loss after Brain Injury

16:00 Internal Loss of Self and Identity

23:30 External Loss of Life and Relationships

30:00 Navigating Grief & Loss

37:40 Strategies for Processing Grief

48:45 Maintaining Hope and Motivation

58:45 Advice through Ambiguous Loss

-------

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

103. Building the Future - Hope for Brain Injury Survivors & Families (with Cyndie Braden)

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 16:03:00 -0400

Healing is a journey, and we’re here for the long haul. As Brain Injury Awareness Month is drawing to a close, this remains true: brain injury doesn’t just impact survivors and families for a month—it’s every day, all year long.

In this episode, Cristabelle Braden sits down with her mother and Hope Survives board member, Cyndie Braden, to share personal experiences through more than a decade of navigating Cristabelle’s brain injuries, along with insights into the impact of brain injuries on families and the need for better support systems. This is an encouraging conversation for anyone on the journey of healing, or who would like to learn more about brain injury. We'll also explore the profound impact of support groups on individuals dealing with brain injuries, the importance of recognizing changed family dynamics, and ongoing efforts to raise awareness and build a brighter future for survivors.

CONNECT

Connect with Hope Survives: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org

Join the online community & zoom groups: hopesurvives.org/community

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

0:00 Intro

3:35 Welcome with Cristabelle

8:48 Introducing Cyndie

12:20 Early Symptoms and Recovery Challenges

21:00 The Impact of Support Groups

29:51 Building Hope After Head Injury

32:40 Changes in Family Dynamics Post-Injury

34:30 The Future of Hope Survives

40:55 Words of Hope

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

102. Tools For Healing - Integrative Care for Lasting Results (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:32:00 -0400

Have you ever felt “stuck” in brain injury rehabilitation, unsure where to go next? Finding the right care and tools for brain injury recovery can be confusing and frustrating, leaving many feeling lost and unsure where to turn. But you're not alone, and there is hope for continued healing.

In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center, to explore the power of integrative care in achieving lasting results for brain injury recovery. Dr. Schmoe shares his expertise on the importance of a holistic approach that combines functional neurology, metabolic health, and structural care. They discuss the critical need to understand root causes beyond the initial injury, the significance of proper sequencing in therapeutic interventions, basic metabolic tests that can uncover ways to help move forward, and practical tools that individuals can implement at home. This conversation offers invaluable insights into the brain's adaptability and the potential for recovery, providing hope and actionable strategies for those affected by brain injuries.

Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this conversation will help to illuminate the path towards more effective and comprehensive brain injury care. Join us as we uncover the tools for healing that can lead to lasting results and improved quality of life for brain injury survivors.

CONNECT

Connect with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe at thefnc.com

Connect with Hope Survives & our global online community, programs, workshops, and zoom groups: @hopesurvives | hopesurvives.org

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Previous Episodes with Dr. Schmoe (worth going back and listening to!):

73. Hope in Neuroplasticity + New Research and Technologies in Rehabilitation

64. How to Improve Symptoms on Hard Days

23. Brain Health - Strategies to Optimize your Brain for Healing

12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions

11. The Vestibular System and Brain Injury

2. Common Challenges, Strategies, + The Science Behind Why Symptoms Happen

0:00 Intro

2:34 Welcome with Cristabelle

7:20 Intro to Dr. Schmoe and Tools for Healing

12:50 The Role of Comprehensive Care in Brain Recovery

17:15 The Importance of the Right Order of Therapies

22:30 Identifying Root Causes Underneath Brain Injury

27:00 Practical Tools for Healing

32:30 Finding the Reason Behind Symptoms

34:30 The Need for Different Therapeutic Approaches

38:10 Words of Hope

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

101. The Power of Connection - You Are Not Alone (with Jasmine Balignasay-Chavez)

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:27:00 -0400

Brain injury survivors and their families often feel isolated and disconnected from others while navigating the challenges of a “new normal”. If you can relate, you’re not alone - and we are here to encourage you to know there is hope.

In this episode, Cristabelle sits down with Jasmine Balignasay-Chavez, managing director of Hope Survives, to discuss the profound impact of brain injuries, the isolation many survivors face, and the transformative power of connection. Jasmine shares her personal journey through brain injury, and some of her own experiences with isolation and the importance of knowing you’re not alone. We explore the importance of support groups, finding purpose in helping others, and choosing hope as an active part of healing.

Whether you’re a survivor, caregiver, or simply seeking inspiration, this podcast reminds you that recovery is possible and you are never alone. Let’s heal together: one step at a time.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Email us: hi@hopesurvives.org

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

0:00 Intro

3:00 Welcome with Cristabelle

10:40 Introducing Jasmine

13:15 Jasmine’s Brain Injury Journey

15:00 The Impact of Isolation and Disconnection

20:15 Finding Support and Community

25:30 Purpose in Helping Others

28:30 Building Community and Resources

32:30 Words of Hope

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

100. Voices of Hope - From the Heart of a Caregiver (with Tameka Wolfe)

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 00:30:00 -0400

Join us for a conversation of hope for the first week of Brain Injury Awareness Month!

In today’s episode, Cristabelle is joined by Tameka Wolfe, vice president of the board at Hope Survives, who shares her personal experience as a caregiver after her husband's traumatic head injury. Tameka discusses the challenges faced during her husband's recovery, the daily routines they've established, and the importance of offering grace to oneself as a caregiver. She shares how they have learned that every small step in the recovery journey matters, with encouragement for survivors & family members. Their story is one of resilience, faith, love, and most importantly - hope.

CONNECT

Connect with Tameka in “Hope For Couples” – hopesurvives.org/couples

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

00:00 Intro

03:13 Welcome with Cristabelle

10:40 Introducing Tameka’s Story

13:13 The Importance of Community and Support

15:52 Strategies and Hope for Navigating Recovery

18:57 Hope for Couples: Strengthening Relationships

21:46 Final Words of Encouragement

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

99. Season 4 Premiere: Nonprofit Launch Celebration!

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 19:24:00 -0400

Big announcements today - listen to this special episode of our livestream celebration for our newly launched nonprofit organization, Hope Survives!

Our vision: a world in which every survivor of brain injury and every member of their family are seen, loved, heard, valued, supported, uplifted, and never alone.

We are excited to share our newly expanded support groups, new programs, new workshops, new volunteer opportunities, and more!

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

You are not alone!

Host: Cristabelle Braden (Founder & Executive Director)

Guests: Tameka Wolfe (Board Vice President), Patti Shutt (Board Secretary)

0:00 Intro

1:45 Cristabelle’s TBI journey

6:15 Nonprofit journey

9:00 Our Mission & Vision

15:40 Impact of Support Community

21:00 Importance of Accessibility

23:30 Board & Leadership Team

27:45 New Community Support Groups

35:20 New Workshops & Programs

43:00 Our Volunteers

50:00 Q&A Session

65:00 Hope Sustainers

70:00 Website & Concert Announcement

75:00 Words of Hope

80:00 Final Thoughts

98. Redefining Wellness after Brain Injury (with Taryn Barlow)

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 22:24:00 -0400

When every day is a challenge through symptoms, it can be hard to feel even any sort of “well.” Today we are talking about how to redefine the concept of wellness on our brain injury journey to help us uncover our own path of recovery!

After a brain injury, wellness can feel distant. In this episode, Cristabelle invites Taryn Barlow, a speech language pathologist and cognitive health coach who owns a private practice called The Well Brain, for a conversation to encourage survivors & families to explore how to redefine wellness. We dig into finding your own path of what wellness means to you, including what neuro goals are significant to your personal recovery and a holistic perspective of spiritual wellness. It’s so important to learn how to connect with your values in a personal way, and redefine what wellness means to you - which will ultimately help us to move forward with hope!

Connect with Taryn - IG: Taryn_TheWellBrain | https://thewellbrainslp.com/

We are launching a new nonprofit - Hope Survives!

🩵Get involved: https://www.hopesurvives.org/getinvolved

---

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

0:00 Intro

1:52 Welcome with Cristabelle

10:25 Introducing Taryn and The Well Brain

20:15 Making Sense of Symptom Experience

27:45 Redefining Personal Wellness

33:00 Finding Your Why - Process towards Holistic Wellness

38:20 Take the First Step

41:15 It is Well with My Soul

44:45 Pursuing Wellness in Your Own Way

51:00 Words of Hope

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

97. The Mix of Grief, Joy, and Overwhelm - Holidays after Brain Injury (Cristabelle Braden)

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 21:18:00 -0400

Navigating the holiday season after brain injury can be really challenging. In this episode, Cristabelle encourages us to give ourselves grace and acknowledge the hard - grief and joy can coexist. It's okay not to be okay. She also shares some practical tips to help with overstimulation, and encouragement to practice gratitude. There is always hope and there is light in the darkness. No matter where you are at on your journey, praying you are filled with the hope of Emmanuel this Christmas!

Reach out through our new email: hi@hopesurvives.org

We are launching a new nonprofit - Hope Survives!

🩵Ways to help & get involved:

1. Share your testimonial (how have this podcast and/or the zoom support groups helped you?) + let us know if you’d like to be involved: ⁠⁠https://forms.gle/xm7wyuAN4V38xu4j8⁠⁠

2. Share our startup holiday fundraiser (through Dec.31, 2024): ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/RESTART4Hope⁠⁠

Thank you for being part of our journey. We are so excited for the new programs to launch in 2025, to be able to share even more hope for brain injury survivors and families!

----

0:00 Welcome

1:50 The Mixed Emotions - Grief and Joy

8:30 Practical Tips for Overstimulation

13:00 Focusing on What Matters + Gratitude

---

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

96. Concussion Affects the Whole Family + Tips for Managing Daily Life Activities (with Allison Moir-Smith)

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 20:39:00 -0400

The entire family goes on the brain injury journey - and it can be challenging to find a rhythm in the day-to-day life while living with symptoms. Let’s talk about it!

In this episode, Cristabelle interviews Allison Moir-Smith, who shares her journey through multiple concussions and the profound impact it has had on her family. She is the facilitator of the Concussed Moms Support Group and teaches brain-injury-friendly painting classes. She also shares practical coping strategies for managing daily life and reducing cognitive load while having to keep going through day-to-day activities (for example - laundry, meals, grocery store runs, and more!) Allison also shares how art and creativity has made a big difference in her recovery. This conversation highlights the emotional challenges faced by concussed individuals and their families, while also offering hope and encouragement for those on a similar journey. Register for Allison’s Concussed Moms Support Group here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_32eeXXE8SASaB_SUPW3puQ#/registration

We are launching a new nonprofit - Hope Survives!

🩵Ways to help & get involved:

1. Share your testimonial (how have this podcast and/or the zoom support groups helped you?) + let us know if you’d like to be involved: ⁠https://forms.gle/xm7wyuAN4V38xu4j8⁠

2. Share our startup holiday fundraiser (through Dec.31, 2024): ⁠https://bit.ly/RESTART4Hope⁠

Thank you for being part of our journey. We are so excited for the new programs to launch in 2025, to be able to share even more hope for brain injury survivors and families!

---

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

00:00 Welcome

02:00 Intro with Cristabelle

08:20 Allison's Journey Through Concussions

18:59 Importance of Support Groups and Community

25:32 Practical Tips for Managing Daily Life

33:05 Dealing with Memory Loss

38:37 The Healing Power of Art

45:44 Family Dynamics and Humor in Healing

48:00 Encouragement for Parents with Brain Injury

50:40 Words of Hope

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

95. Finding Your Unique Path to Success + Support in Brain Injury Rehabilitation (with Patti Shutt)

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 20:02:00 -0400

Each one us has our own unique path through brain injury recovery - let’s talk about finding yours and never giving up! (Plus - a big announcement!)

In this episode, Cristabelle interviews Patti Shutt, a NeuroCognitive Program Instructor at Success Rehabilitation, Inc., who shares from her 12 years of experience working with brain injury survivors. Patti brings uplifting energy, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance, kindness, and the necessity of recognizing one's own progress, no matter how small. Patti shares inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome significant challenges, highlighting the importance of support, patience, and the ability to adapt. She concludes with a message of hope, encouraging listeners to keep pushing forward and to remember that they are not alone in their struggles. -- Learn more about Success Rehab: ⁠https://www.successrehab.com/⁠

Cristabelle also announces our new nonprofit - Hope Survives!

🩵Ways to help & get involved:

1. Share your testimonial (how have this podcast and/or the zoom support groups helped you?) + let us know if you’d like to be involved: https://forms.gle/xm7wyuAN4V38xu4j8

2. Share our startup holiday fundraiser (through Dec.31, 2024): https://bit.ly/RESTART4Hope

Thank you for being part of our journey. We are so excited for the new programs to launch in 2025, to be able to share even more hope for brain injury survivors and families!

---

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

0:00 Welcome

2:20 Intro with Cristabelle

6:00 New Nonprofit Announcement

12:15 Introducing Patti & Success Rehabilitation

21:35 Common Threads in Brain Injury

28:00 Small Steps Forward, Acceptance, & Self-Kindness

36:00 Stories of Perseverance

43:30 Finding Strength in Setbacks

51:45 Lessons Learned from Working with Brain Injury

55:40 Words of Hope

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

94. Empowerment and Resilience - 6x Brain Surgery Survivor (with Nia Renee)

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:46:00 -0400

Living with chronic symptoms can be overwhelming - but it can also connect you to a deeper sense of empowerment and resilience than you ever knew you had.

In this episode, Cristabelle interviews Nia Renee, MBA, a 6x brain surgery survivor, model, motivational speaker, and the founder of "How To Love A Battered Woman," a coaching business dedicated to helping survivors of narcissistic abuse reclaim their lives. Nia Renee shares her journey of diagnosis with Chiari Malformation leading to multiple brain surgeries, and the challenges she has faced in navigating the medical system. The conversation delves into the impact of brain injuries on identity, the grieving process for the self that once was, chronic invisible disability, and the importance of advocacy and support in the healing journey. Nia Renee emphasizes that survivors are not burdens and deserve love and happiness, encouraging listeners to continue pushing forward and seek support in their own journeys.

Connect with Nia Renee: www.howtoloveabatteredwoman.com | @howtoloveabatteredwoman

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

00:00 Intro with Cristabelle

04:04 Introducing Nia Renee's Journey

07:00 Navigating the Medical Maze + Finding Answers

14:46 The Impact of Brain Surgery on Identity

22:57 Grieving the Old Self- A Continuous Process

33:48 Advocacy and Moving Forward

38:25 Words of Hope

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

93. My Brain Injury Anniversary - Reflections & Hope (Cristabelle Braden)

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:33:00 -0400

Today is the 17th anniversary of my first traumatic brain injury, which began the journey... and it has been a long one of re-injuries, symptoms, setbacks, and struggles. Today, I'm sharing some of my own story and hope to encourage you to keep moving forward in your own journey.

Brain injury anniversaries can be hard and bring mixed emotions. Some years I have found myself really sad, some years grateful, but most of the time it's a mix of both.

In this episode, I simply share some reflections from my heart. Takeaways include:

It's okay to feel sad on your brain injury anniversary - plan to give yourself grace and space for that day.
Allow yourself to feel, grieve, and acknowledge the hard parts.
Reflect on how far you have come since your injury.
Consider what blessings may have come since your injury that you didn't expect.
Be open to unexpected opportunities.
Healing is a long journey that requires patience and resilience.
Faith can be a powerful anchor during difficult times.
Sharing your story can help others feel less isolated.
It's never too late to seek new treatments and therapies.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

92. Grieving and Growing through TBI - Survivor & Caregiver Perspective (with Kelly Lang)

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 15:31:00 -0400

Living with brain injury is an emotional journey for the entire family. There is a grieving process that we go through, and it’s important this side is acknowledged and not ignored. Let’s dive deeper…

Today, Cristabelle Braden engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kelly Lang, a brain injury survivor and caregiver to her daughter who sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2001. She is a bestselling co-author of “The Miracle Child: Traumatic Brain Injury and Me,” co-leads the Brain Injury Association of America’s Advisory Council and serves on the Virginia Brain Injury Advisory Council, along with being a keynote speaker and many other advocacy and research projects for TBI. In this episode, she shares her story, especially as related to the grief process. We also talk about the invisibility of brain injuries and the misconceptions surrounding them, with encouragement and hope for survivors and families going through their own journeys.

00:00 Intro with Cristabelle

04:56 Kelly Lang's Story

10:03 Navigating Recovery as a Caregiver

15:03 Importance of Grief Processing

20:06 Journey of Healing and Growth

32:25 The Invisibility of Brain Injuries

39:50 Balancing Advocacy and Personal Recovery

45:08 Words of Hope

Connect with Kelly: https://substack.com/@kellylang1515 | https://www.themiraclechild.org/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

91. Nervous System Safety in Concussion/TBI Recovery (with Shelley Latendresse, OT)

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 01:37:00 -0400

After a brain injury, survivors often feel overwhelmed and on edge - one of the reasons for this could be nervous system dysregulation. Today, we are going to talk about nervous system safety and how to incorporate this into our recovery.

In this episode, Cristabelle Braden interviews occupational therapist Shelley Latendresse about the importance of understanding nervous system safety. Shelley shares her personal journey with brain injuries and how it shaped her approach to therapy. They discuss the complexities of the autonomic nervous system, the misdiagnosis of symptoms, and practical steps for creating safety in one's environment and body. It’s important to understand that feeling unsafe can hinder rehabilitation, but self-awareness and self-compassion can go a long way. The journey isn’t always linear, but you are not alone, and there are simple steps you can take today towards nervous system safety.

Connect with Shelley: otshelley.com IG: @ot_shelley

00:00 Introduction with Cristabelle

04:57 Introducing Shelley and OT

11:31 Exploring the Autonomic Nervous System

19:02 Identifying Symptoms of Dysregulation

31:10 Creating Safety in the Nervous System

39:30 Holistic Approaches to Recovery

48:22 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

90. Lost and Found through Brain Injury (with Amanda Allemang)

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 22:36:00 -0400

Brain injury is invisible: on the outside you can't see how lost a survivor can actually feel. Today’s episode is a survivor’s story of going from feeling lost to being found through finding hope and support.

Cristabelle speaks with Amanda Allemang, a 16 year survivor of TBI, about the long journey that brain injury can be. We talk about how hard it can be to find resources at first, dealing with symptoms, and the feelings of isolation and frustration. Amanda shares her personal story of recovery, the struggles she faced, and how she eventually found hope and community through the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania. She shares her experiences with eventually finding the right care team, starting a support group called “Lost and Found”, and the challenges of parenting while managing her symptoms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding, support, and the journey of healing after a brain injury.

00:00 Introduction with Cristabelle

10:16 Amanda's Journey Through Brain Injury

19:58 Finding Support and Resources

29:57 Navigating Life After Brain Injury

34:14 Coping with Symptoms and Daily Life

42:36 Navigating Relationships and Parenthood

48:56 Words of Hope and Encouragement

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

89. Blast Overpressure Brain Injury in Mortar Soldiers and the Effect on Mental Health (with Todd Strader)

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 19:15:00 -0400

You are NOT your brain injury! Brain injuries can be considered a hidden injury, but what happens when someone doesn’t even realize they have one? It would be so overwhelming to have so many symptoms and not know where they are coming from. This is often the case for members of the military that are exposed to occupational low-level blast overpressure from firing heavy weapons like mortars and artillery, which has now been shown to cause brain trauma, but has not yet been widely understood.

In this episode, Cristabelle interviews Todd Strader about his personal journey as a veteran and advocate for awareness of brain injuries caused by low-level blast overpressure. Many veterans face challenges in obtaining recognition and treatment for these injuries, and Todd shares about his support community called “Overpressured” which has helped many find support. We also discuss the importance of understanding the connection between TBI and mental health issues, including PTSD and suicide, and how recognizing the brain injury brings hope. Todd shares his personal experiences with symptoms, and how it is important to be real with the struggles we face.

00:00 Intro with Cristabelle

06:55 Todd Strader's Journey and Advocacy with Blast Overpressure

16:00 TBI, Mental Health, and PTSD

27:45 Symptoms and Challenges of Living with TBI

39:00 Future Directions & Hope in Research and Treatment for Veterans

43:00 Words of Hope: From Shame to Acceptance - You are Not Your Injury

Connect with Todd and Learn More: https://overpressured.com/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

88. Resilient Roots - Staying Grounded through TBI (with Cazoshay Marie)

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 19:05:00 -0400

How do we stay rooted after brain injury, when life feels so chaotic? Let’s talk about it!

Today, Cristabelle interviews Cazoshay Marie, a TBI survivor and advocate with roles as a member of the Brain Injury Association of America’s Advisory Council and as a Traumatic Brain Injury Ambassador for the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center. In this conversation, we explore themes of resilience, advocacy, and the importance of support systems, particularly for parents navigating the challenges of brain injury. We talk through the non-linear nature of recovery, the significance of finding personal roots, and the necessity of self-compassion in the healing journey.

0:00 Intro with Cristabelle

10:30 Introducing Cazoshay

13:00 Invisible Injury

17:55 Non-Linear Path of Recovery

24:15 Journey of Acceptance

26:25 Resilient Roots Support Group

30:50 Finding Roots & Staying Grounded

35:50 Words of Hope

Connect with Cazoshay: IG- cazoshay_marie

https://www.didwithcazoshay.com/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

87. Neck Instability after Concussion (with Dr. Sasha Blaskovich)

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 15:16:00 -0400

One of the hardest parts of recovery is trying to find out the root cause of where your symptoms are coming from. Every brain injury is different, and one of the possibilities for prolonged concussion symptoms could be a form of neck instability.

Today, Cristabelle interviews Dr. Sasha Blaskovich, as he shares his journey into chiropractic care due to a personal experience with concussion, and explains the potential for ligament damage in the neck causing neurological symptoms. He also highlights the innovative diagnostic tool of motion X-ray and the various treatment modalities. This is just one of the possibilities for prolonged symptoms, and it’s encouraging to know all of the new research and tools out there! There is always hope!

Connect with Dr. B: https://drblaskovich.com/

00:00 Welcome with Cristabelle

5:30 Dr. Blaskovich’s Background and Journey

10:16 Connecting Neck Injuries to Brain Symptoms

14:58 Exploring Symptoms of Neck Instability

24:34 Diagnostic Tools and Techniques

34:59 Treatment Approaches

41:30 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

86. Journey of Self-Advocacy and Returning to School after Brain Injury (with Calista Susa)

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 23:20:00 -0400

A brain injury can turn your entire life upside down in one day- and it’s so important to advocate for yourself in this “new normal.”

Calista Susa had a brain bleed at age 16, which led to hospital stays, brain surgeries, rehab, and facing a world of new challenges. On this episode, Cristabelle interviews Calista to share her journey of resilience: being a patient her entire life due to being born with achondroplasia, her journey through brain injury, returning to school with new accommodations, and now working in healthcare to help others! We also discuss how brain injury symptoms impact mental health, and how asking for help is actually a sign of strength.

00:00 Introduction with Cristabelle

07:32 Calista’s Injury and Hospital/Rehab

15:42 Navigating School Life After a Brain Injury

17:50 The Importance of Self-Advocacy

21:23 Mental Health and Emotional Resilience

30:03 Resilience and Moving Forward

38:35 Words of Hope

Connect with Calista - IG: @calista.susa

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

85. CONCUSSIONS: Common Misconceptions, Symptoms & My Experiences (Cristabelle Braden)

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 15:42:00 -0400

Have you ever heard someone say it’s “just a concussion”? It is common to minimize concussions down to just a “headache” - but it is so much more than that. Every concussion experience is different, and while some may recover, there are others with Persistent Post Concussion Symptoms who end up living with a completely changed reality.

In this episode for National Concussion Awareness Day, Cristabelle Braden discusses the realities of concussions, addressing common misconceptions, sharing personal experiences, and emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment. She highlights the various symptoms of concussions, the need for immediate care in certain situations, and ultimately conveys a message of hope for recovery and healing within the brain injury community.

00:00 Intro with Cristabelle

2:24 Concussion Experience & Importance of Awareness

10:30 Misconceptions About Concussions

18:10 Describing Concussion Symptoms

32:23 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

84. Courage to Restart and Rebuild after TBI (with Kevin McDonald)

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:22:00 -0400

The journey with brain injury is not easy - it takes courage, resilience, and hope to walk through.

Today, Cristabelle is joined by Kevin McDonald, a TBI survivor, advocate, and founder of the nonprofit “Restart Your Life - Renew Your Mind.” Kevin shares his personal journey through 15 years of TBI. He candidly opens up about the challenges he has faced, including anger, frustration, cognitive impulsivity, loss of filter, and memory issues - and how learning to renew his mind has brought hope. We discuss strategies for navigating life with a brain injury, and the need for advocacy and raising awareness - with encouragement to share your story! Rebuilding after brain injury can be a continuous process. It’s okay to make mistakes along the way - what is most important is to try again, redirect, and restart!

0:00 Intro with Cristabelle

5:50 Introducing Kevin's TBI Journey

12:10 Acceptance and Dealing with Anger & Frustration

18:43 The New Normal and Overcoming Challenges

25:40 It's Okay to Fail & Try Again

38:06 Encouragement for Rebuilding Life

41:45 Being a Brain Injury Advocate

45:10 Words of Hope

Connect with Kevin: https://www.restartlife.net/

Email: TBIrestart@yahoo.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

83. Making Sense of the Messy through Brain Injury / Concussion (with Natasha Wilch, PT)

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 19:59:00 -0400

Life with brain injury and concussion can feel so overwhelming, affecting identity and sense of self… so let’s talk about finding hope and making sense of the messy!

Today, Cristabelle is joined by Natasha Wilch, a physical therapist and concussion specialist, who shares insights into concussions and the importance of a holistic approach. We discuss the challenges of living with brain injury, including not trusting your body and dissociation, and the courage and bravery it takes to hope and try again after setbacks. Natasha also helps us understand the need to address the root causes of symptoms and why an integrated approach to concussion rehabilitation can make a huge difference. There are so many layers to this multi-faceted journey of healing, and we hope this episode will encourage you to keep gongs even when it’s hard. You are not alone!

***CONCUSSION NERDS SUMMIT REGISTRATION LINK: https://www.natashawilch.com/a/2147875754/K6QwrgrdClinician Track: https://www.natashawilch.com/a/2147875753/K6QwrgrdHealing Journey Track: https://www.natashawilch.com/a/2147875752/K6Qwrgrd

00:00 Intro with Cristabelle

13:00 Introducing Natasha

15:30 The Challenges of Living with Brain Injury

20:30 Addressing the Root Causes of Symptoms

25:15 Rebuilding Trust in Oneself

27:05 The Courage to Hope and Try Again

30:25 A Holistic Approach to Concussion Recovery

33:55 The Power of Mindset

38:15 Challenges in Finding the Right Care

48:15 Concussion Nerds Summit + Program Info

52:33 Words of Hope

Connect with Natasha: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

82. Adapting to Life with Brain Injury (with Lynda and Richard Dougé)

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Lynda and Richard have been married for almost 28 years. The day of their 25th wedding anniversary (9/25/21), while on vacation in Salt Lake City, Lynda was crossing a busy street on a pedestrian crosswalk at a green light. The driver of a lifted SUV made an illegal left turn to beat incoming traffic and hit her full force. She was thrown off and landed to the right side of her head. She was brought by ambulance to the ER and transferred to the Trauma/ICU unit. She was diagnosed with a severe traumatic brain injury. From that day forward, Lynda and Richard (as her caregiver) embarked on a treacherous and challenging journey.

Today, Lynda and Richard join Cristabelle to share their story and hope for others going through similar circumstances. They both share their struggles as well as the way they have chosen to find the silver lining in adapting to life with brain injury.

0:00 Intro with Cristabelle

5:20 Lynda and Richard

10:20 TBI Story

19:05 Hope in New Treatments

24:20 Rehab Process and Symptoms

29:30 Invisible Injury

33:00 Caregiver / Family Member Perspective

36:50 Finding a New Routine

39:20 It’s Okay to Ask for Help

41:20 Words of Hope

Connect with Lynda and Richard: LV0925@gmail.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

81. The Road to Concussion Recovery (with Dr. Brittni Charle)

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0400

After experiencing a concussion or any type of brain injury, the road to recovery can be one that is full of ups and downs, and unexpected twists and turns. Today, Dr. Brittni Charle joins Cristabelle for a conversation all about setbacks, flare ups, and re-injuries and all the unexpected bumps in the road that can hit — and also the wins and victories that we can celebrate along the way! Recovery looks different for each person, but there is help to be prepared for what might be around the bend.

0:00 Intro with Cristabelle

8:45 Introducing Dr. Brittni Charle

14:00 Common Struggles & Symptoms

19:00 Flare-Ups

22:30 Self-Awareness

26:15 Different Types of Flare-Ups

30:15 Everything is Harder

35:15 Flare Ups vs. Re-Injuries

40:15 Ways Impact to Brain Can Happen

42:00 Everyone has a Unique Recovery

46:65 Setbacks and Victories

48:30 Moving Forward

50:45 Words of Hope

Connect with Dr. Brittni Charle: - IG: @asenseofstability

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

80. Wordlayer - Speaking Life, Love, and Hope through TBI (with Lindy Boone Michaelis)

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 20:40:00 -0400

Today, Cristabelle is joined by Lindy Boone Michaelis, sharing her family’s journey with her son Ryan’s severe TBI. Brain injuries affect the entire family: "You get a call or you get notified, and for me, my life is now divided into two halves: before June 19, 2001 and after June 19, 2001... because everything changed."

Listen as Lindy shares from a place of vulnerability, wholehearted compassion, and kindness - and you are sure to be uplifted as she shares her story and words of life, love, and hope for both survivors and caregivers / family members. You are not alone!

0:00 Intro wtih Cristabele

6:45 Introducing Lindy

9:30 Her Son Ryan’s TBI

13:15 Processing, Praying, Journaling

16:00 Ryan’s Rehabilitation Journey

22:00 Growth in Communication

25:15 Family’s Journey

32:00 Ryan’s Reach - Nonprofit + Group Homes

39:30 Lindy’s Song - Wordlayer

43:45 Words of Hope

Lindy Boone Michaelis was born into an entertainment environment as the second daughter of singer/entertainer Pat Boone and grew up in Beverly Hills, California. For 7 years, the Boone Family toured all over the U.S. and internationally. The Boone Girls recorded several Christian albums, including “First Class” which was nominated for a Grammy award. Lindy is mother to Ryan, Jessica, and Tyler. She has been happily married to Mike Michaelis for 38 years. She has authored a book called “Heaven Hears” after her son Ryan had a tragic 3 story fall in 2001, telling of the family’s faith and the faithfulness of the Father to see them through this ordeal. The family started Ryan’s Reach, a foundation to support families of brain injury survivors in 2003 out of gratitude for Ryan’s survival and continued recovery. Lindy has just released her first original single, called “Wordlayer,” sung with her sisters Cherry Boone, Debby Boone, and Laury Boone. It is a beautiful song inspired by her son Ryan’s journey with traumatic brain injury.

Lindy’s new song- Wordlayer: ⁠https://www.ryansreach.com/wordlayer⁠Lindy’s book- Heaven Hears: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/141438324X/⁠

Ryan’s Reach foundation: ⁠ryansreach.com⁠

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

79. Hope in Neuroplasticity + New Research and Technologies in Rehabilitation (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:22:00 -0400

Whether you just had a brain injury or if you are years or decades out, there is hope. Concussion protocol is continually evolving, there is always new research coming out, and new technologies that completely change the game! It is so encouraging to know that the future is bright in brain injury rehabilitation.

Today, Cristabelle is joined by Dr. Jeremy Schmoe from The Functional Neurology Center to share some examples of cutting edge research and technologies within the field of brain injury rehabilitation. There is so much hope for people to continue to get better after brain injury!

0:00 Intro with Cristabelle

7:00 Welcome Dr Schmoe + Hope for Neuroplasticity

10:45 Integrating Multi-sensory Stimulation

15:00 Addressing Brain Feeling “Off” or in Chaos

16:00 Putting the Pieces Together to bring Stability Back

18:15 Importance of Finding Root Cause

21:30 Hope in New Research

26:00 Concussion Protocol is Evolving

28:45 Newer Technologies for Rehab

35:50 Importance of Precise Exam for Precise Rehab

45:50 Metabolic Function, Nutrition, Inflammation, Histamines

48:30 Visual and Vestibular Integration

49:45 Words of Hope

Previous Episodes with Dr. Schmoe:

#64 "How to Improve Symptoms on Hard Days"

#23 "Brain Health - Strategies to Optimize Your Brain for Healing"

Connect with Dr. Schmoe at thefnc.com

Email Cristabelle with questions at cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

77. Season 3 Premiere! + Embracing Your Unique Brain Injury Journey (with Ali Rheaume)

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

We’re back and ready to kick off Season 3 with some special episodes for Brain Injury Awareness month! Join our host Cristabelle and guest Ali Rheaume for an inspiring and honest conversation about the challenges on the brain injury journey. You are not alone!

Ali Rheaume is an award-winning artist, public speaker, disability advocate, and spokesperson who is an encouraging light in the journey of overcoming brain injury. Connect with her on social media @alison.rheaume or at https://www.alirheaume.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

0:00 Intro

1:50 Updates with Cristabelle

11:00 Introducing Ali

12:20 Ali’s Concussion Journey

16:00 Coping Strategies

18:00 Energy Management

21:25 Memory

23:20 Seeing How Far You’ve Come

26:30 Encouragement for Newly Injured

29:00 Comparison

32:30 Taking Breaks and Letting Go

39:20 Identity

46:00 Words of Hope

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

76. Be Kind to Yourself + Encouragement from Brain Injury Professionals

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:06:00 -0400

You can't see it on the outside, but every day living with a concussion / brain injury brings an internal struggle. You're constantly fighting what you want to do, what you used to be able to do, and what your brain will allow you to do. There's the physical toll- the fatigue, the headaches, the balance issues... There's also the emotional toll- the grief, the depression, the loss of identity... and more. Today we wrap up Season 2 with an uplifting episode. Cristabelle opens with an encouraging reminder to be kind to yourself, and then we hear some empowering words of hope from brain injury professionals. You are not alone - and there is always hope!

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

This is the final episode of Season 2 - stay tuned for Season 3 which will premiere later this year!

Featuring a lineup of some of our incredible brain injury doctors, professionals, and therapists from Season 2: Rebecca Quinn (Ep.29), Dr. Jen Blanchette (Ep.50), Natasha Wilch (Ep.52), Melissa Biscardi (Ep.54), Sonia Vovan (Ep.40), Katherine Noyes (Ep.55), Dr. Meaghan Kirschling (Ep.42), Dr. Thompson Maesaka (Ep.72), Taryn Barlow (Ep.61), Dr. Michelle Eisenmann (Ep.67), Natalie Mackenzie (Ep.74), Dr. Mark Heisig (Ep.35), Dr. Jeremy Schmoe (Ep.64), Dr. Kelsy Rayl (Ep.59).

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

75. Heartfelt Words of Hope - from Survivors

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 12:15:00 -0400

Cristabelle shares reflections and encouragement from her 15 year traumatic brain injury anniversary, along with powerful heartfelt "Words of Hope" from survivors. You are NOT alone!

Featuring Season 2 guests: Lisa Pubantz (ep.32), Allison Cook (ep.26), Dillon Berenty (ep.58), Ali Rheaume (ep.39), Madi (ep.62), Nick Krantz (ep.53), Silvie (ep.70), Jeff Huxford (ep.44), Bella Paige (ep.63), Bobby Apgar (ep.68), Cali Lonardelli (ep.37), and Cyndie Braden (ep.38).

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

Thank you to Council on Brain Injury for supporting this podcast by providing a microphone as part of their grant program to the brain injury community. Check out the amazing work done by CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

74. Managing Symptoms (with Natalie Mackenzie)

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 13:40:00 -0400

There are a lot of layers when it comes to brain injury symptoms. In the middle of it, how do you even begin to start to tackle your symptoms in order to move forward? Some days are up, some days are down. It can be overwhelming and emotional when you are just trying to get through each day. This week, Natalie Mackenzie joins Cristabelle to discuss advice on managing symptoms, identifying triggers, how to cope, and work towards a plan to improve over time. There is always hope!

Connect with Natalie on social media @thecognitiverehabcoach or at https://thebiss.co.uk/

0:00 Intro

5:15 Introducing Natalie

7:00 Emotional side of Managing Symptoms

17:05 Identifying Triggers/Symptoms

19:35 Growing Self-Awareness

27:00 What’s Not Working vs. What Will

32:00 Investigating your Symptoms

42:30 Uncovering the Layers

46:15 Common Symptoms to Look For

51:15 Facing your Struggles

53:15 Asking for Help from Loved Ones

55:45 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

73. I have a concussion… now what? (with Dr. Mark Heisig)

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 21:13:00 -0400

Spoiler alert: there’s more than “just rest”! This week Dr. Mark Heisig helps us to understand some of the new research on what can help concussion patients to improve. It's a comprehensive look at what you can do metabolically to prime your brain to heal. Key takeaway: it's important to take a full picture look when someone has a concussion, and creating a targeted treatment plan, rather than just ignoring the symptoms and hoping they go away.

This will be helpful if you (or your loved one) are in the acute stages, or if you have been living with post-concussion symptoms for some time. There is hope, and there is help!

Connect with Dr. Mark Heisig at drheisig.com or on instagram: @drmarkheisig

0:00 Intro

10:00 Introducing Dr. Mark Heisig

16:00 New Concussion Research

18:30 Acute Concussion Treatment

20:40 Red Flag Symptoms

22:10 Helping Post-Concussion Symptoms

25:00 Finding your “BAM”

25:45 Hydration

27:20 Breathing

30:25 Nutrition/Gut Issues

40:50 Top Things to Do

44:00 Why Prolonged Rest Worsens Symptoms

48:40 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

72. Post-Injury Headaches vs. Migraines- and what to do about them (with Dr. Thompson Maesaka)

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 12:30:00 -0400

When your head is in pain, everything else feels harder. After a brain injury, headaches can be a major symptom that decreases quality of life for survivors. This week, Dr. Thompson Maesaka is here to help us understand all things post-injury headaches, including hidden causes. We will also discuss the difference between post-concussion headaches and "true migraine," neurologists, and medication. When you can identify the cause behind WHY your head is in pain, it will help you to treat it effectively.

Connect with Dr. Thompson Maesaka: mnmigraineandconcussion.com ; IG: @dr.thompson_maesaka ; TikTok: @headache_whisperer

0:00 Intro

9:30 Introducing Dr. Thompson

12:00 Post-Injury Headaches

15:30 Stress on your System

20:30 Reasons for Headaches

22:00 Basics on How to Help Headaches

25:00 Neck and Eyes Relationship

30:50 Neurologists and Medication

34:10 Post-TBI Headaches Vs. True Migraine

44:45 Top Things to Know

51:10 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

71. Social Communication + Relationships after TBI (with Katherine Noyes)

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 17:39:00 -0400

Friends, dating, family, co-workers, and more... social communication can be a struggle for brain injury survivors! Let's break down some of the common difficulties in interpreting social cues from others, as well as how symptoms affect the way we communicate.

This week, Cristabelle has invited Speech Language Pathologist Katherine Noyes to join for all things relationships and social communication after TBI. Some topics include: nonverbal cues, tone of voice, repeating yourself, memory loss, interrupting, texting/social media, and more. We'll also discuss maintaining friendships and navigating dating relationships.

This episode is helpful for survivors but also will provide value for caregivers, friends and family to understand why some of these breakdowns in communication may happen. It would be a good one to share with your loved ones!

Connect with Katherine: @lotus_slp or lotusslp.com

Related Episode: #55 - "Communication and Cognition after Brain Injury (with Katherine Noyes)" to learn more about word-finding, aphasia, and more.

0:00 Intro

7:20 Introducing Katherine & SLP

12:50 Challenges in Social Cues after TBI

20:50 Communication Breakdowns

23:30 Dating

29:20 Friendships

35:20 Self-Awareness

36:50 Helping Communication Partners

42:20 Considering your Strengths

47:15 How does SLP help?

49:40 Words of Hope

CONNECT:

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

70. Rebuilding Life after Concussion (with Silvie)

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 11:30:00 -0400

It is common to feel a loss of self after a concussion when you lose so many things you used to be able to do - but there is hope.

This week, Cristabelle speaks with Silvie from The Concussion Community. Silvie struggled for years to find the right help and understand what was going on with her. Her concussion was even misdiagnosed as anxiety. The regular doctors she visited couldn’t address her symptoms, so she wasn’t getting help from them. Eventually, Silvie found the right concussion treatments and she is here to share what she has learned from her journey, offering hope to listeners to know that rebuilding your life is possible.

0:00 Intro

4:30 Hope Story with Cristabelle

14:05 Sylvie’s Concussion Journey

19:15 Misdiagnosed with Anxiety

21:10 Looking for Help

25:30 Rebuilding Life

29:30 Concussion Community

32:25 Getting Treatment

38:00 Hope for Everyone

41:30 Words of Hope

Connect with Silvie: @theconcussioncommunity | theconcussioncommunity.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

69. Dysautonomia and Beyond - Addressing Symptoms after Brain Injury (with Sonia Vovan, PT)

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 13:20:00 -0400

If you have felt like something is “off” but you can’t quite pinpoint what it is, it is possible that you have a form of Dysautonomia (related to the Autonomic Nervous System). It is very common after brain injury. This week, Sonia Vovan, PT is here to help us understand the basics of dysautonomia - and beyond - as we discuss ways to help address symptoms.

October is dysautonomia awareness month!

Sonia Vovan is a Registered Physiotherapist and Certified Vestibular Therapist working in Toronto Canada with individuals with vestibular issues and concussions. She received her advanced training in Vestibular Rehabilitation through Duke University’s School of Medicine (accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association). Sonia is an advocate for individuals suffering from brain injuries and is a Board Member on the Brain Injury Association of York Region (based in Ontario Canada). She is also working on her Ph.D. program at York University (Toronto) to study the implications of sensorimotor changes, such as visual and vestibular issues, following a concussion.

Connect with Sonia: @allinyourheadpt or https://soniavovan.com

0:00 Intro w/Cristabelle

8:15 Introducing Sonia

10:45 What is Dysautonomia?

12:35 Dysautonomia in Concussion

13:50 POTS vs other forms of Dysautonomia

15:15 Cristabelle’s experience

18:05 Dysautonomia and Anxiety

19:00 Effects of Dysautonomia

22:35 Where to Start

27:15 Giving your Brain Stability

28:55 Addressing Metabolic Issues

32:15 Hormones and Dysautonomia

34:40 Finding Underlying Issues

37:45 Advocate for yourself

19:30 Things you can Do

40:25 Words of Hope

Make sure to go back and listen to Episode 40, when Sonia shares all about the Vestibular System!

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

68. Frustrations of Living with Brain Injury + Not Giving Up (with Bobby Apgar)

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:30:58 -0400

The ups and downs of brain injury can be hard to navigate, and can often feel downright frustrating. This week we’re talking about these frustrations and what it means to learn to advocate for yourself, the journey of acceptance, how it affects relationships, and more.

This week’s guest Bobby Apgar is a TBI survivor and speaker. In 1995, Bobby was a college football start getting recognized as a pre-season All-American at a Division 1 level when he suffered a life changing car accident which caused a significant traumatic brain injury. After being in a coma for 28 days, Bobby began the journey of rehabilitation - but he didn't realize how much the TBI would affect his life. In recent years, Bobby was faced with coming to grips with his TBI like never before and began a journey of acceptance through entering the brain injury community. Today he openly shares this journey, including many of the frustrations and difficulties - and will leave you feeling inspired to never give up!

See Bobby's testimony video (mentioned): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCo5ZBB80ZA

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

67. Furthering your Recovery, Part 2 - (with Dr. Michelle Eisenmann)

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:00:01 -0400

Let's continue the discussion on how to keep your recovery moving forward - Dr. Michelle Eisenmann is back to help us understand the importance of a lifestyle that supports brain healing, and what to look for in a practitioner.

Connect with Dr. Michelle: https://www.resiliencybh.com/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

66. Grace and Grit: Furthering your Recovery, Part 1 - (with Dr. Michelle Eisenmann)

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 11:50:08 -0400

Do you ever feel "stuck" in not knowing how to move forward with your recovery? Today, Dr. Michelle Eisenmann is here in part 1 of a 2 part series to help us understand some things we can do to to keep our brain injury recovery on track. This week we will touch on the importance of finding the right practitioner (more on that next week!) and some tips on how to define your recovery goals. Most importantly, you will be encouraged to move forward with confidence, grace, and grit.

Connect with Dr. Michelle: https://www.resiliencybh.com/

0:00 Intro

5:35 Introducing Dr. Michelle

11:05 The importance of current research

12:35 Frustrations with Practitioners

15:15 How do you know what you need?

18:00 Defining recovery goals

21:00 Finding Root causes

22:50 Addressing Lifestyle

25:00 Finding Care that aligns with your goals

27:00 Grace & Grit

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

65. How to Grow in Self-Awareness for Survivors

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 15:36:12 -0400

For brain injury survivors, having some sort of self-awareness when it comes to symptoms is key to moving forward in recovery. When we are able to learn our brain & body's "tells" or when a symptom flare-up is beginning to happen, we are better able to assess if we need to rest, or if we can push through. It also helps us to know what types of treatment to seek out - especially because it's invisible, so others can't see your symptoms on the outside. However, self-awareness after brain injury doesn't always come easy due to feeling disconnected from yourself, the constant fatigue, or even just headache pain. Today, Cristabelle walks us through how to grow in self-awareness so that we can become better advocates for our own recovery. Caregivers will also learn how to support their survivor in growing in this area.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

64. How to Improve Symptoms on Hard Days (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 13:36:50 -0400

Symptom flare-ups and hard days will happen when recovering from a brain injury / concussion - and it can be exhausting and disheartening. But there are actually things we can do to help, if we learn the right things to check and respond to our brain & body’s signals. Our nervous system is more adaptable than we may think! Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is here to teach us exactly how to help ourselves feel better on those hard days.

Connect with Dr. Schmoe: theFNC.com

0:00 Intro w/Cristabelle

10:00 Introducing Dr. Schmoe

17:00 Your Nervous System can Adapt

18:50 Topic Intro: Keeping Recovery Going

19:50 Check In with Yourself

20:25 Checking Autonomics

22:45 Checking Gut Inflammation

25:10 If Cardio Flares Up Symptoms…

26:00 How to Know if Cardio Will Help

29:45 Checking Vestibular

31:15 Adaptive Exercise

33:00 Checking Eye Movements

34:30 Finding the “Perfect Recipe” For Yourself

36:50 Checking Cerebellum

38:25 Checking Neck

40:40 Checking Dual Tasking

42:15 Learning to Recognize Flare-Ups

45:00 Finding a Good Provider

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

63. Concussions, Depression, + Mental Health (with Bella Paige)

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 11:59:41 -0400

Concussion symptoms and mental health can be very interconnected, especially when you can't see the symptoms on the outside. Today, Cristabelle interviews Bella Paige (founder of Post Concussion Inc) on her journey with 10+ concussions and trying to hide her symptoms at first and pretending like nothing was wrong. This led to depression, which Bella openly shares with us today in a candid and inspiring conversation.

Bella Paige is a brain injury advocate. After sustaining over ten concussions and experiencing post-concussion syndrome for years, she hit a low spot and attempted to take her own life. After going to therapy, Bella knew she needed to do something for all those suffering from this invisible injury. She started Post Concussion Inc because she wanted to aid not only individuals who have suffered from concussions but also their families and friends.

Connect with Bella: @postconcussioninc or postconcussioninc.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

62. Finding Yourself Again After TBI (with Madi Grose)

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 15:53:21 -0400

"I realized that I can recover without being who I was, and I can find myself without being who I was, and I don't need to fully recover - and walk and see and do all of these things that might not be possible for me - to be happy. Like I can still be happy without being the person I was with the abilities I had." -Madi Grose

After a brain injury, it is really common to struggle with identity when your abilities and entire life changes. Today, we are talking about finding yourself again after your injury, even through the symptoms and changes. Cristabelle interviews inspiring TBI survivor Madi Grose, who shares her story and encouragement on how to cope with living with a significant traumatic brain injury. We also discuss how to find joy and happiness, even while walking through the very real feelings of grief and sadness. This is an uplifting episode as you'll hear Madi's joy radiate through the entire conversation!

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

61. Overstimulation, Brain Fog, Sensory Awareness (with Taryn Barlow)

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 12:00:17 -0400

Have you ever been so overwhelmed you couldn't finish a task? What about feeling overstimulated in a grocery store, to the point of panicking? Many brain injury survivors experience overstimulation and brain fog. This is a great episode to learn some tools on how to process this, whether you are a survivor yourself or a caregiver learning how to identify this for your loved one.

Overstimulation and brain fog can be frustrating both for the survivor and for the people around them. Taryn Barlow is here to teach us some tools on how to evaluate our environment, lifestyle, and symptoms to figure out the source of overstimulation. We talk about practicing Sensory Awareness, how to have a "battle plan" of strategies to help, and the importance of being patient with yourself.

Taryn Barlow is a Cognitive Health Coach (TM) which is a unique combination of her background in Speech-language Pathologist, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, and a Certified Brain Injury Specialist. Taryn is the owner of a virtual private practice (The Well Brain), that combines her knowledge of cognition and brain healthy lifestyle balance to support adults who have sustained brain injury. Connect: IG- @taryn_thewellbrain Email- thewellbrainslp@gmail.com

0:00 Intro

2:30 Cristabelle

9:00 Introducing Taryn

15:15 Lifestyle Beyond Therapies

20:00 Overstimulation - Sensory Awareness

29:00 Brain Fog

31:00 Making Your Battle Plan/Strategy

36:00 Finding the “Something” Source of Overstimulation

42:30 Cognitive Tasks

44:50 Letting Go of Perfection

48:30 Overdoing It Leads to Fatigue

51:00 Words of Hope

Note: We will be taking a short break, expect new episodes to return in a couple weeks!

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

60. Setbacks During Brain Injury Recovery

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 18:30:22 -0400

It can be hard to hold onto hope when it feels like there are just setbacks around every corner. Listen as Cristabelle shares her heart on this and how to continue moving forward, even when things are really hard. You are not alone.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

59. Patient Empowerment + Guide for Navigating Healthcare (with Dr. Kelsy Rayl)

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 14:03:17 -0400

A major part of living with brain injury can become the doctors appointments, therapies, and healthcare system - but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Dr. Kelsy Rayl is here to walk us through some steps to be more empowered as a patient, including practical tools on what to do to show up at appointments informed and get the most out of them. We also discuss managing symptoms in appointments, identifying personal recovery goals, and how to find the right medical team. It is important to know which doctors will help you to do which things, so that you can get your needs and symptoms addressed.

This is an encouraging and very important conversation for anyone navigating the healthcare system post-brain injury. Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, or family member listening - you'll leave more empowered and informed to know that you can take an active role in this healthcare journey!

0:00 Intro

5:30 Introducing Dr. Kelsy

8:30 Identity Post-Brain Injury

9:40 Lifestyle Change of Dr. Appts

13:30 Patient Empowerment

16:30 Identifying Strengths/Limits

17:45 Provider Perspective

19:00 Understanding Roles of Different Providers

30:15 Managing Symptoms w/ Appts.

36:00 Practical Tips for Documentation

42:15 Identifying & Prioritizing Recovery Goals

47:40 Seeking Second Opinions

48:45 Self-Advocacy

50:00 Words of Hope

Connect with Dr. Kelsy: @drkelsyrayl_dpt

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

58. Beating the Odds (Inspiring Survivor Story with Dillon Berenty)

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 17:02:12 -0400

"I was given less than 10% chance of surviving. Doctors were saying that they couldn't imagine me walking, that I wouldn't be able to talk, that I couldn't see... and the one big thing about my story is that I proved them all wrong. Even if the odds are stacked against you, and hope seems almost lost, always believe in the little percent that things are going to be okay. Because I took that small percent that they said that I was going to make it - I took it and ran. And I'm still here today." -Dillon Berenty

Listen to an inspiring survivor story as Dillon Berenty shares his journey of hope through brain trauma. After a concussion, Dillon was taken to the hospital, and through the scans a brain tumor was discovered. Six brain surgeries later, and a 10% chance of survival, Dillon is beating the odds every day. He shares some of the symptoms, struggles, ways he has learned to adapt, and how he has learned to keep perspective through it all. This is an uplifting story that is sure to encourage you, wherever you are at on your journey.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

57. Female Hormones after TBI / Concussion (with Melissa Biscardi)

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 14:06:59 -0400

Hormones can become disrupted after a brain injury, and today Melissa Biscardi is here to share current research and dive deeper into what this looks like for females, including the menstrual cycle, menopause, birth control, and more. We also discuss practical steps you can take if you think you or your loved one's hormones may have been affected.

0:00 Intro

4:55 Melissa & Her Research

8:10 When Menstrual Cycle is “Off”

10:25 Women and Concussions

12:25 Overlap with TBI Symptoms

14:25 Post-Partum Symptoms

15:55 Current Research of Brain Injury & Hormones

19:05 What you can do

20:10 anti-Müllerian hormone - Pre-Menopause & Menopause

23:45 Birth Control

26:20 Hormone Disruption

27:10 Cycle Connection with Risk of Injury

29:55 What you can do

Connect with Melissa: rehablab.ca @the.rehab.lab

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

56. Empowered Hope + Lessons Learned from TBI (with Cyndie Braden)

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:26:24 -0400

Living with a brain injury, some days hope is the only thing that gets you through. This week, Cristabelle is joined by her mother, Cyndie Braden, to speak about lessons they have learned over the 14 years of brain injuries. They speak vulnerably about some of the difficult aspects of the journey, while also sharing the growth in the family, caregiver, and survivor perspectives. You will also hear clips of Cristabelle from 10 years ago in 2012 speaking about her injury, at around the 5 year mark, as we reflect on 10 years of Hope After Head Injury.

Empowered hope is knowing that there may still be things that will be hard, but there is always something you can do to move forward on your journey. You are not alone! Share how Hope After Head Injury has helped you - in a written or voice message format! https://www.hopeafterheadinjury.com/10years

Connect with Cyndie: @cyndiebraden | email: cyndie@hopeafterheadinjury.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

55. Communication and Cognition after Brain Injury (with Katherine Noyes)

Fri, 27 May 2022 11:30:07 -0400

Communication is so important to our world, but it can be drastically affected for brain injury survivors. Difficulties include word finding, forming ideas, expressing oneself, understanding nonverbal cues, and more… so let’s work to understand this deeper and talk about some tips that can help!

Today we are diving into the connection between communication and cognition, and how this can be affected after brain injury. Katherine Noyes is a Speech Language Pathologist who is here to guide us in learning tools for improvement for executive functioning and communication. We also discuss tips for family/caregivers to help the survivor get their goal of communication across, as well as the non-verbal side of social cues, difficulty understanding sarcasm, and more.

Share how this podcast or the Hope After Head Injury groups have helped you! Accepting written & audio messages that could be shared on the podcast! https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/10years

0:00 Intro

2:00 10 Years

7:05 Introducing Katherine

10:15 Communication & Cognition

15:00 SLP / After Brain Injury

22:05 Tools for Improvement

28:55 Routine as a Strategy

33:05 Word Finding / Goal of Communication

36:05 How Family/Caregivers can Help

39:50 Difficulty with Social Cues / Sarcasm

48:35 Words of Hope

Connect with Katherine: @lotus_slp or lotusslp.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

54. Pillars of Concussion Care + Holistic Approach (with Melissa Biscardi)

Fri, 20 May 2022 14:04:07 -0400

Brain injury affects the whole person - and every injury is different. That is why it is so important to learn as much as we can about current research and rehab practices. This week, Melissa Biscardi from Rehab Lab is guiding us through pillars of concussion care to learn about different pieces of recovery that we may not have known to address. This includes: Autonomic Nervous System, Nutrition / Supplements, Psychological Support, Soft Tissue / Manual Therapy, Rehab + Memory / Cognition. We will also discuss how to find the right clinician. You’ll leave this episode with some takeaways that can help you to find where to go next in your recovery journey.

0:00 Intro

8:45 Introducing Melissa

12:15 Why Rehab?

17:40 Pillars of Care - overview

24:05 Autonomic Nervous System

26:40 Nutrition / Supplements

30:25 Psychological Support

31:30 Soft Tissue / Manual Therapy

35:10 Finding the Right Clinician

41:05 Rehab + Memory/Cognition

43:45 Cristabelle’s Example

49:00 Words of Hope

Connect with Melissa: rehablab.ca @the.rehab.lab

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

53. Take Control of Your Recovery (Survivor Story with Nick Krantz)

Fri, 13 May 2022 12:00:47 -0400

After 17+ concussions, Nick Krantz found himself at the end of his rope, having been told by many medical professionals that there wasn't really anything he could do, and he would just have to live with the symptoms. It was then that he discovered that there is so much more to brain injury recovery than he ever knew, and he began a journey of learning to overcome PCS, including nutrition, mindset, balancing hormones, exercise, and more. Today, Nick shares his story of overcoming PCS and finding hope in recovery.

0:00 Intro

6:20 Nick’s TBI Story

14:05 Symptoms

17:30 Fighting for Recovery

26:00 Power of Mindset

27:50 Taking Control

29:10 Hormones/Nutrition/Lifestyle

36:50 Autonomic Nervous System Regulation

40:50 Think about How you View Yourself

46:50 Words of Hope

Connect with Nick: @neurofitnick on IG

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

52. Autonomic Nervous System Recovery (with Natasha Wilch)

Fri, 06 May 2022 14:43:10 -0400

After a concussion or brain injury, the function of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) can be commonly disrupted. This can cause a dysregulation between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system - leading to increased symptoms.

This week, Natasha Wilch is back to explain the ins and outs of the ANS as it relates to brain injury. She will also explain dysautonomia and POTS, and share some practical tools to improve autonomic function.

0:00 Intro

2:20 Cristabelle

7:55 Introducing Natasha

13:11 What is the Autonomic Nervous System

14:20 Parasympathetic vs. Sympathetic

17:15 Effect of Concussions/Brain Injury

21:20 Compass 31 Tool to Bring to Practitioners

22:55 Dysautonomia & POTS

25:40 Cristabelle’s Experience

27:25 Identifying Triggers & Response

34:55 Putting the Pieces Together Clinically

36:40 Anxiety or Autonomics?

37:55 Practical Things to Do to Help

42:00 Words of Hope

Connect with Natasha: @natasha.wilch or https://www.natashawilch.com/

Compass 31 Assessment: https://www.mvpctr.com/compass-31-online-questionnaire/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

51. Survivor Self-Worth + Cristabelle's Mental Health Journey

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 11:30:23 -0400

How can the "invisible" injury affect our self worth? Survivors often don’t realize their own identity as separate from their brain injury. Living with symptoms for so long can take a toll on mental health. It's also easy to take in how other people view the "invisible" injury and let it negatively impact how we view ourselves. But you are more than your injury, and there is hope for improvement!

This week, Cristabelle goes deeper into some lesser known pieces of her own story, candidly sharing some of the harder parts to talk about including mental health struggles, navigating social cues, abuse and trauma, and more.

You'll hear Dr. Jen Blanchette ask Cristabelle questions, as today's interview was originally aired on TBI Therapist podcast: tbitherapist.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

50. The Role of Trauma/PTSD in Brain Injury + How to Find Help (with Dr. Jen Blanchette)

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 12:00:43 -0400

Something often overlooked in brain injury recovery is the effect of trauma or PTSD on the survivor. Trauma symptoms can have a lot of overlap with brain injury symptoms, as both stimulate the Autonomic Nervous System. Dr. Jen Blanchette helps us to uncover what this overlap can mean, and explains how addressing trauma can often be a missing piece that can really help to further along brain injury recovery.

0:00 Intro

5:15 Introducing Dr. Jen Blanchette

9:09 Neuropsychology vs. Therapy

14:03 What is “Trauma” exactly?

19:45 Trauma Symptoms

20:45 PCS/PTSD Overlap

24:15 What is Trauma Therapy?

26:25 Role of Autonomic System

31:05 Strategies to Help

32:00 Importance of Community

38:30 Different Types of Trauma Therapy

45:05 Words of Hope

Dr. Jen Blanchette is a Maine based licensed psychologist, trauma (PTSD) expert, fitness/yoga professional, and concussion clinician. She has over 10 years of training and experience in brain injury therapy and neuropsychological testing. Her superpower is curiosity and out of the box thinking to aid in finding new ways to thrive. She helps determined, ambitious brain injury survivors gain the tools and support they need to LIVE again. Dr. Blanchette is also the host of the TBI Therapist podcast, which discusses the intersections of meaning, mental and emotional wellness, and acquired brain injury.

Contact: tbitherapist.com @tbitherapist

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

49. How to Sleep Better to Improve Brain Healing (Dr. Roy Wilkins - Part 2)

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 12:00:00 -0400

Let’s discuss some specifics on how to sleep better after a brain injury. Dr. Wilkins also shares important information on sleep hygiene, what a sleep study will do, and hope that there is help available.

This is Part 2 - check out last week’s episode to hear an introduction on how sleep affects the brain and sleep disturbances after brain injury, along with more of Dr. Wilkins personal journey with TBI.

0:00 Intro

5:15 Getting to Root Cause

7:00 Trouble Falling Asleep

10:00 Trouble Staying Asleep

16:15 Help with Sleep Medicine

18:05 What is a Sleep Study?

19:30 What Happens when you’re Sleep Deprived

22:15 More Sleep Study Info

24:15 Sleep Hygiene / Habits

33:30 Do what you Can Do

35:15 Words of Hope: There’s Help

37:20 Contact

Roy Wilkins, D.C., M.D., RPSGT has extensive training and history in neurology, chiropractic medicine, and sleep medicine. He received his D.C. degree in 1983, residency orthopedics with board certification in 1989, residency neurology board certification in 1992, fellowship with sleep medicine American academy sleep medicine waiver B program in 2006, and MD degree UHSA 2010. He has owned and operated sleep labs White Mountain Sleep Lab from 2003 to present.

Contact: roydwilkins@hotmail.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

48. Why is Sleep so Important? + Sleep Disturbances after Brain Injury (Dr. Roy Wilkins - Part 1)

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 14:14:52 -0400

Dr. Roy Wilkins is an expert in sleep medicine - and a brain injury survivor himself! This week we will learn the importance of how sleep affects the brain. Dr. Wilkins also shares some of his own journey with TBI, along with why there can be sleep disturbances after a brain injury.

Stay tuned for PART 2 with Dr. Wilkins next week!

0:00 Intro

2:15 Cristabelle

7:50 Introducing Dr. Roy Wilkins

9:50 TBI Experience

17:50 Why is sleep so important?

21:10 Sleep & Brain Injury

25:20 Sleep & Autonomic System

28:20 Suggestions for Helping Sleep

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

47. Survivor/Caregiver Partnership and Communication (with Drew and Terry Niemann)

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 12:00:00 -0400

Let's talk about effective communication between survivors and family caregivers at home! This week, married couple and survivor/caregiver duo Terry & Drew Niemann are here to inspire us and talk about some of the challenges and lessons learned on their journey. We also discuss mental health, depression, mindfulness, and the importance of communication from both sides.

0:00 Intro

5:30 Introducing Drew & Terry

9:45 The Caregiver/Spouse Role

12:50 Finding a Rhythm

19:50 Push and Pull of Independence

21:00 Not Being Hard on Yourself

24:45 Depression & TBI

27:00 Survival Mode

28:50 Mindfulness and Mental Health

33:00 Caregiver Perspective

33:41 Lessons Learned

38:10 “A Battle Within”

42:20 Words of Hope

Drew & Terry also host their own podcast called "A Battle Within" - hear Cristabelle's interview on their podcast on Ep.120 "There is Always Hope" https://abattlewithin.com/120/ and check out their podcast on all platforms!

Connect with them: @a_battle_within

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

46. Personal Growth Mindset + Connecting to Your Values and Strengths (with David Freeman)

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 12:00:00 -0400

There are a lot of things you CAN do to help your recovery - and it's built on the foundation of your mindset! This week, fitness professional David Freeman, who has also had concussions from playing football, helps us to connect to our values and strengths and shares some tangible things we can do to improve our recovery and overall wellness.

0:00 Intro

2:15 Cristabelle

13:40 Introducing David

17:00 Foundation of Mindset

21:30 Redefine Success

27:40 Being True to You with Loss of Identity

29:50 Importance of Sleep

32:40 Importance of Nutrition

33:55 Management of Stress

35:10 Intentional Movement

38:40 Creating Better Habits

42:55 Personal Growth Mindset

David Freeman is a health and fitness professional that has been in the fitness industry for 10+ years. He is the National Digital Performer Brand Manager, Director of Inclusion and Diversity as well as the Co-Host of Life Time Talks Podcast with Life Time the Healthy Way of Life Company. He has been featured on the cover of Experience Life Magazine as an innovator within the health and fitness industry, and has been featured in Men’s Health and Men’s Journal, as the subject matter expert in helping change lives around the world and grow Life Time’s overall brand.

Connect with David at @freezy30 on instagram

David's Book Recommendation: StrengthsFinder2.0 by Tom Rath

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

45. Uncovering your Personal Path to Recovery (Dr. Molly Parker)

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 13:00:00 -0400

While each brain injury is unique, there are things we can do to treat it - as you find what works on your personal path of recovery. Dr. Molly Parker shares her personal concussion experience, including advice for work/life/symptom balance, routine, and boundaries. Then, we dive into the different types/sub-types of concussions, understanding your individual symptom profile, how to find the right provider, and more!

0:00 Intro

2:30 Announcements from Cristabelle

8:00 Introducing Dr. Molly

11:20 Work-Life-Symptom Balance

15:58 Routine & Boundaries

17:30 Uniqueness of Each Injury

20:00 Need for Comprehensive Care

22:00 Finding the Right Provider

25:45 Different Types/Sub-Types of Concussions

31:45 It’s Treatable

35:00 The Invisible Side

39:15 What works for YOU?

Connect with Dr. Molly at @mollyparkerpt or concussioncompass.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

44. Finding Normal + Living with TBI (with Jeff Huxford)

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 22:39:09 -0400

What does “normal” mean anyway? Jeff Huxford was a family medicine doctor in northwest Indiana for ten years before having to retire due to complications from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). He has since become a blogger, author, and speaker - and his story is currently being turned into a feature film!

This week, Jeff joins Cristabelle for an uplifting conversation, sharing his story and also touching on parenting with a brain injury, coping strategies for symptoms, and the perspective of having a brain injury for nearly a decade.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

0:00 Intro

6:20 Introducing Jeff

7:50 Brain Injury Awareness

10:20 How did you get your brain injury?

14:55 Finding Normal

16:30 Symptoms & Coping

23:40 Parenting with TBI

30:20 Finding Normal Book & New Normal Movie

33:50 Words of Hope

Connect with Jeff at: jeffhuxford.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

43. The Importance of Brain Injury Awareness

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 15:30:18 -0400

Brain Injuries are invisible. You can't see them on the outside, and that's one of the reasons awareness is so important. They can be overlooked, misdiagnosed, or mistreated, and survivors feel the burden.

This week, Cristabelle shares some of her personal brain injury story, and how she has seen awareness improve over the last decade - along with encouragement for how you can make a difference by bringing awareness right where you are.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

Related Past Episodes to Check Out:

17. Understanding the Invisible Injury (with Cyndie Braden)

19. Brain Injury Association of America (with Susan H. Connors, BIAA President & CEO)

21. How to Be a Brain Injury Advocate + Tips for Sharing Your Story (with Monica Vaccaro from BIAPA)

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

42. Gut-Brain Connection (Dr. Meaghan Kirschling)

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 16:20:14 -0400

Did you know that healing the gut can be a powerful tool in brain injury recovery?

Dr. Meaghan Kirschling is back to explain the way that the brain and gut are connected, including how chronic inflammation can adversely affect healing. There is so much hope in learning things that we can do to take our power back in healing. This is an informative and educational episode that will bring a deeper understanding of what we can do to further our brain healing through the gut.

0:00 Intro

6:45 Introducing Dr. Meaghan

9:00 Brain-Gut Connection

11:45 Inflammation & Information

16:35 Gut Affecting Recovery

18:25 Leaky Gut / Leaky Brain

22:15 Healing the Brain through the Gut

28:15 Gluten & the Brain

31:58 Recommendations

39:15 Words of Hope

Connect with Dr. Meaghan Kirschling: @drmeaghankirschling on instagram or through www.oneagorahealth.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

41. Symptom Flare-Ups & Crying Over Bananas

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 14:55:16 -0400

When you are so overwhelmed that every little thing is causing symptom overload & emotional responses... it may be time to step back and allow your brain and body to rest. This week, Cristabelle shares a personal story and encouragement for the days when everything is all too much.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

40. Vestibular Rehab + Ways to Improve/Maintain Recovery (with Sonia Vovan, PT)

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 16:44:03 -0400

After a brain injury, the vestibular system can be impacted and cause symptoms such as feeling off-balance, dizziness, vertigo, headaches, vision, and more. So this week we are discussing all things vestibular recovery with Sonia Vovan, PT!

Sonia is here to share her expertise and educate us on all things vestibular rehabilitation, focusing on things we can do to improve recovery. We will also talk about the difference between chronic vs. acute vestibular issues, and practical things we can do to maintain vestibular recovery over time.

0:00 Intro

7:34 Introducing Sonia Vovan, PT

12:40 What is the Vestibular System?

16:57 How does Brain Injury affect it?

20:34 Dizziness, Vertigo, Balance

25:07 Vision / Vestibular Relationship

29:04 Chronic vs. Acute

31:49 Dysautonomia & POTS

37:04 Vestibular Rehab Therapy

40:44 Ways to Improve Vestibular Recovery

45:18 Adaptation vs. Habituation

52:09 Maintaining Recovery

54:49 Words of Hope

Connect with Sonia on IG: @all.in.your.head.pt

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

39. Applying Creativity to Brain Injury Recovery (with Ali Rheaume)

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 17:36:07 -0400

What does it mean to have a creative mindset - and how can it help recovery? Let’s talk about it!

This week Cristabelle is joined by fellow survivor Ali Rheaume to discuss the benefits of creativity, and how having a creative mindset can aid in adaptability. This is an encouraging episode full of practical tips and application points!

Ali will also share how incorporating creativity in rehabilitation helped her go from a 10% functioning level and nonverbal after TBI to where she is today! Creative activities can help with learning skills post-TBI like trying new things, expressing emotions, and coping with change.

0:00 Intro

2:25 Cristabelle: Applying Creativity

10:35 Introducing Ali

13:25 Ali’s TBI Story

20:50 Creative Mindset in Recovery

23:30 Planning, Pacing, & Balance

28:05 Benefits of Creativity Post-TBI

32:40 Tips for Trying Something New

36:50 Creative Mindset Helps us Cope

29:30 Words of Hope

Connect with Ali on IG: @alison.rheaume ; @embracingunique

Join the Brain Injury Community on Clubhouse

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

38. Loss of Identity, Grieving the "Old Life," + How it Affects Families (with Cyndie Braden)

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 15:03:08 -0400

The “loss of identity” can be so hard to describe after a brain injury. On the one hand, you are still “you” - but you also don’t feel like yourself. There is also a grief that comes with losing the life you had before the injuries.

This week, Cristabelle dives deep into this struggle that survivors face and provides hope in knowing you are more than your brain injury. Then, Cristabelle’s mother Cyndie Braden is here to talk about the caregiver side. Loss of identity does not just affect the survivor, but also the family, as everything changes for them too. We also discuss what is like to grieve the “old life.” You are not alone.

NOTES

0:00 Intro

2:10 Cristabelle on Loss of Identity

10:48 Your Story is not Your Identity

19:31 Introducing Cyndie Braden (Cristabelle’s Mom)

24:41 Caregiver Loss of Identity

25:45 Grief Process

44:15 Words of Hope

Connect with Cyndie: @cyndiebraden | email: cyndie@hopeafterheadinjury.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

36. Learning Accommodations + Self-Worth Post-Injury (with Carly Endres, MS, CBIS)

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 22:15:56 -0400

When a brain injury changes your cognitive abilities, your self-worth can be affected. For survivors attending school or in any type of learning environment, it can be hard to keep up because of symptoms and fatigue. Cristabelle knows this firsthand, as she had her first TBI during high school and attended college post-injury. Today we are talking about difficulties with learning after a brain injury, what sort of accommodations are helpful, and how to advocate for yourself. Educator Carly Endres, MS, CBIS, also joins to share insight from her special education background.

This episode will provide insight for survivors, parents, families, and anyone in a learning environment. We also talk about some studying tips that are applicable to survivors- whether you are currently in school or not!

NOTES

0:00 Intro

2:15 Cristabelle

11:33 Introducing Carly

15:45 Accommodations & Modifications

37:04 Advocating for Yourself / Your Child

41:30 Studying & Reading Tips

49:15 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

35. Exercise Intolerance + Ways to Increase Movement (with Dr. Mark Heisig)

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 14:22:24 -0400

It is common to develop exercise intolerance while recovering from a brain injury. Today, Dr. Mark Heisig is here to explain why this happens, and give advice for survivors on how to increase movement.

Some topics covered: the relationship between symptoms and exercise, autonomic system dysfunction, different types of exercise affect on the brain, suggestions for where to start with increasing movement, and more.

Connect with Dr. Mark Heisig and sign up for his newsletter at drheisig.com

0:00 Intro- Exercise Intolerance

7:47 Introducing Dr. Mark Heisig

12:02 What are some challenges with exercise after concussion?

15:33 Exercise & Concussion Symptoms

17:40 Symptom Limited Activity

21:54 Increasing Activity

23:20 Buffalo Concussion Test

28:32 Low, Moderate, and High Intensity Exercise

35:22 Resistance Training

40:53 Duration

44:09 Where to Start for PCS

49:26 Ways to Increase Movement

53:12 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

34. Warrior Words of Hope

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 15:08:19 -0400

What does it mean to be a brain injury warrior? To kick off the new year, here are some words of hope from 6 incredible survivors.

0:00 Intro

2:21 Cristabelle: Warrior Words of Hope

10:20 Tanya Gauthier: Keep Going

14:02 Jo Ann Glim: Resilience

20:25 Shane Warner: Never Quit

24:07 Ali Rheaume: Combatting Fear

29:34 Rachel Rose Dombeck: Self-Kindness

34:04 Tracy Yatsko Onyekanne: Surviving is Fighting

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

33. Life is Not a Highlight Reel

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0400

There is a trend to post highlights of the year on social media. But do you find that actually hard to do, or even see from others? Living with brain injury, it is easy to feel discouraged from setbacks, or a recovery timeline you had in mind, or comparing to the "old you" and grieving the life before, as well as coping with symptoms on a daily basis. Listen as Cristabelle discusses all of this, while also sharing some of her personal journey through TBI.

Life is not a highlight reel. And that is okay. Let's talk about it!

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year!

0:00 Intro

9:44 Life is Not a Highlight Reel

13:56 My First TBI

19:58 Feeling like a Failure

21:47 Improving Little by Little

23:47 Re-Injuries & Setbacks

26:39 Most Recent Concussion Setback

30:14 It Can Be Hard to Look Back

32:14 Celebrating Steps

35:31 Reasons for Discouragement

38:59 You Don’t Need a New Years Resolution

39:41 You Don’t Need Highlights

40:56 You are More

44:34 Different Ways to Reflect

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

32. Victory through Visible & Invisible Disability (Lisa’s Story)

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:55:01 -0400

Lisa is a fighter, living with both an invisible injury (TBI) and physical disability. She was born with Spina Bifida and hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain), contracted spinal meningitis as an infant, and has been an advocate for disabilities her entire life. Then, in 2011 she sustained a traumatic brain injury from an accident playing wheelchair basketball.

This is an episode that is sure to inspire and encourage all who listen, as Lisa Pubantz eloquently shares her story of victory. She joins Cristabelle to discuss the tension between the invisible injury and the physical disability, how society treats people with disabilities, and how the TBI symptoms are often misunderstood.

0:00 Intro

6:13 Introducing Lisa’s Story

15:03 Wheelchair Basketball & Races

16:27 Adjusting after TBI

19:53 Surviving the Injury

22:14 Symptoms & Challenges

25:45 Visible vs. Invisible Disability

28:37 Misunderstood TBI Symptoms

31:38 Mental Health

34:49 How Others Treat People with Disabilities

42:58 Claiming Victory

46:28 Words of Hope

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

31. Hormones after Brain Injury (with Dr. Meaghan Kirschling)

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Did you know that hormones can be affected by a brain injury? Hormonal imbalances can actually be a contributing factor to persistent symptoms, along with affecting sleep, stress response, and reproductive systems.

Today, Dr. Meaghan Kirschling is here to talk about some of these potential hormonal changes, and how it could potentially affect a brain injury survivor. We also including variables in age, differences between male and female, and sex drive.

NOTES

0:00 Intro

4:29 Introducing Dr. Meaghan

10:18 Brain Injury Affects Hormones

14:14 What if it goes untreated?

15:22 Stress Response

16:32 Hormones & Persistent Symptoms

17:25 Pituitary Gland

21:58 Cortisol & Adrenal Glands

25:28 Variables (Age, etc.)

27:59 Oxytocin, Emotional Connection

31:19 Male vs. Female Differences

34:59 Birth Control & Menstrual Cycle

37:38 Testosterone & Estrogen Balance

40:03 Sex Drive

43:47 Sleep & Melatonin

45:25 Recommendations

51:43 Words of Hope

Connect with Dr. Meaghan Kirschling: @drmeaghankirschling on instagram or through www.oneagorahealth.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

30. Emotional Responses after Brain Injury + How it Affects Relationships

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 20:21:42 -0400

Emotions after brain injury can come in extremes - highs, lows, outbursts - or you can end up just feeling "blank" or nothing at all. Survivors also could have a hard time expressing their emotions and verbalizing it. Emotions also affect our identity, how we view ourselves, and directly impact our relationships. Today, Cristabelle leads us through all of this, sharing some personal examples along with encouragement for listeners.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

29. Emotional Dysregulation (with Rebecca Quinn & Carly Endres from NDBIN)

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 14:29:03 -0400

"A brain injury is the only time that we ask the injured body part to regulate itself..." How do you handle emotions after brain injury? What are some ways to help? Let's talk about it!

Today Cristabelle is joined by Rebecca Quinn & Carly Endres from the North Dakota Brain Injury Network for a conversation about emotional dysregulation as it relates to brain injury. We cover some common "tells" including outbursts and overstimulation, the cognitive behavioral spiral, the importance of mindfulness, and encouragement for both caregivers and survivors.

Episode Info & Tip Sheet Download: https://hopeafterheadinjury.com/644/emotional-dysregulation-with-ndbin/

NOTES

0:00 Intro

2:21 Why this topic?

7:50 Introducing Rebecca & Carly

14:35 Emotions after Brain Injury

16:23 Cognitive Symptom Inventory Info

20:40 Emotional Dysregulation

26:20 “Tells” - Outbursts & Overstimulation

32:35 Cognitive Behavioral Spiral

34:06 Mindfulness

37:03 Giving Permission to Yourself

43:27 Healing is Physical and Emotional

49:55 Little Steps for Improvement

Connect with Rebecca & Carly through the North Dakota Brain Injury Network: https://www.ndbin.org/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

28. Developing a Balanced Life Post-Injury (with Marlene Rivera, CBIS)

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 13:02:31 -0400

How do you realistically implement medical recommendations into your lifestyle? Let's talk about it.

Today Cristabelle is joined by Marlene Rivera, CBIS, to learn about how to develop a balanced life post-injury. We discuss some of the barriers that people might encounter, and also strategies such as how to communicate with medical professionals, the importance of a routine, prioritizing, and community.

More Info on Re-Discover U: https://www.councilonbraininjury.com/rediscoveru

Cristabelle will be sharing on Monday December 6, join via zoom at the link above!

NOTES

0:00 Intro

1:46 Why this topic?

7:24 Introducing Marlene

10:12 Identifying Barriers

17:14 Communicating with Medical Professionals

18:59 How to Better Follow Through

21:44 Connection with Others

23:17 Examine your Season of Life

24:36 Schedule & Routine

33:05 Prioritizing

39:16 Perspective

45:14 Words of Hope

46:38 ReDiscoverU Info

Connect with Marlene through CoBI at: councilonbraininjury.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

27. Surviving the Holidays with Brain Injury

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 22:17:31 -0400

The Holidays are upon us - and that can be overwhelming for brain injury survivors! For the first shorter "minisode" (mini+episode!) of Season 2, Cristabelle will walk us through some strategies and practical tips to manage symptoms and get the most out of your holiday gatherings.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

Brain Injury Bible Study: @braininjurybiblestudy | braininjurybiblestudy.com

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | facebook.com/cristabellebraden | cristabellebraden.com

Email: cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

26. Finding Confidence After Concussions (with Allison Cook, Miss Oregon USA)

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 13:15:18 -0400

Today we're kicking off Season 2 with five time concussion survivor and Miss Oregon USA, Allison Cook, on finding confidence and knowing your worth. We talk about coping with symptoms, overcoming imposter syndrome, the invisible injury, and more!

NOTES

0:00 Intro

1:41 Welcome to Season 2

9:24 Introducing Allison

12:39 Allison’s Concussion Journey

15:59 Coping with Symptoms

19:18 Invisible Injury

23:07 Imposter Syndrome Post-TBI

26:24 Confidence in Sharing Your Story

30:05 Dealing with Criticism & Misunderstandings

34:06 Comparison

39:16 You Matter

43:33 Words of Hope

Connect with Allison: @allisonecook | @missorusa | allisoncook.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

25. Out of the Darkness - Mental Health, Depression, Inspiring Survivor Story (with Tracy Yatsko)

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 20:02:08 -0400

Today is an inspiring episode all about finding hope, featuring survivor and Emmy Award winning host Tracy Yatsko. In 2005, she sustained a serious traumatic brain injury from playing basketball that completely derailed her life. From dealing with the invisible injury, grieving the old self, debilitating symptoms, and deep depression, she candidly shares her story.

This episode is all about encouragement to anyone listening - survivors, caregivers, family members - it is possible to find your way out of the darkness.

Season 1 - Episode 25

Thank you for being a part of Hope Survives Podcast for 25 episodes! This is the Season 1 Finale, as we take a short break to prepare for Season 2 - which will have even more education, awareness, and support! If there are any topics you would like to hear covered in Season 2, please email me: cristabelle@hopeafterheadinjury.com - as I would love to hear from you! -Cristabelle

Watch Tracy's Out of the Darkness Brain Injury Awareness PBS39 special (featuring Cristabelle as one of the guests!) | https://www.wlvt.org/television/out-of-the-darkness/

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

Tracy Yatsko is a brain injury warrior and activist. She currently serves on the board of the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania and manages its social media platforms. Tracy also co-leads a monthly virtual support group for survivors and caregivers.

In 2005, Tracy sustained a concussion that completely shifted her life… from having hopes and dreams of getting a Division 1 scholarship in track and field to fighting daily for hope and survival.

Tracy became the voice of the Pennsylvania Concussion Bill, Safety in Youth Sports Act in 2011, and continues to raise her voice surrounding concussion awareness and all things hope, healing and happiness.

Tracy is an Emmy Award winning host, receiving her award for a sports feature in 2020. She is a former talk show host, producer and multimedia journalist at PBS39. Tracy unashamedly loves Jesus and uses her faith and relationship with God to help people get out of the darkness and into the Light.

IG: @tracyyatsko | Email: tracylynnyatsko@gmail.com

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

24. Fatigue Management + Strategies (with Natalie Mackenzie)

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 19:24:58 -0400

After a brain injury, fatigue can become one of the most draining and difficult parts of getting through the day or week. Today we going to talk about some strategies and tips on how to manage that fatigue with Natalie Mackenzie, who has worked in the field of Neuro Rehabilitation for 20 years. Part of this is learning about what Natalie calls the 3 P’s: Planning, Prioritization, and Pacing.

Season 1 - Episode 24

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

Natalie Mackenzie has worked in the field of Neuro Rehabilitation for nearly 20 years. As a Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist and Certified Brain Injury Trainer, she has worked with hundreds of families and clients as Founder and Director of a Community Cognitive Rehabilitation service in the UK.

Natalie is also known as The Cognitive Rehab Coach, providing online support and education, blog writing, and contributions to the industry magazine, The NR Times. Natalie has trained a huge number of employees, as well as other industry professionals and spoken at conferences, whilst holding board positions for charities. She strives to increase standards in long term brain injury rehabilitation in the UK and providing more support to those struggling with any level of brain injury.

Natalie holds a BSc in Psychology and MSc in Cognitive Neuropsychology, and is currently completing her ADHD Coaching qualification with IACT. Natalie has a wealth of experience and training in the field both with adults and children, across severities of TBI from concussions to severe injuries. Natalie focus on a large range of goals, identified with the client, from day to day functional skills to return to work or education settings.

Natalie works closely with clients and families to educate and provide support with understanding the challenges of living with a hidden disability. Strategies, insights and training is provided to help navigate the pathway, with a holistic approach. As a qualified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Natalie also provides sessions to deal with anxiety, stress, adjustment and general relaxation to all ages.

Areas of expertise include fatigue management, insight and awareness, adjustment and formation of self and strategy implementation. As well as enjoying some geek level brain education to explain in simple why the brain doesn’t quite work the way we want it to sometimes! But with huge emphasis on the strengths of strategy implementation and adjustment to change of roles and formulation of changed values post injury.

Find out more at Facebook and IG follow The Cognitive Rehab Coach for more information.

https://www.facebook.com/thecognitiverehabcoach

IG: @thecognitiverehabcoach

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

23. Brain Health - Strategies to Optimize your Brain for Healing (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 21:08:23 -0400

Let’s talk about brain health after sustaining a brain injury with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe. These are some simple strategies that you can begin to incorporate into your routine to help optimize your brain for healing.

Season 1 - Episode 23

Mentioned by Dr. Schmoe:

Brain Exercises in Experience Life Article: https://experiencelife.lifetime.life/article/the-neurobic-workout/

ProloGel: prologel.com

The Brain Health Online Summit: https://www.thebrainhealthonlinesummit.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

Dr. Jeremy Schmoe, DC DACNB FACFN FABBIR, is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. He enjoys seeing the most complex cases Integrating neuro-rehab, manual therapy, lab work and nutrition.

He has worked with many professional NHL and KHL hockey players and has been highlighted in Minnesota Hockey Magazine. He has also been in The Huffington Post, Experience Life Magazine and WCCO for his work. He specializes in working with post concussion syndrome and vestibular symptoms, which is his passion. He has lectured Nationally and Internationally in Canada and England for the Carrick Institute of Clinical Neuroscience. He is a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board DACNB, passed the FACFN examination and was the valedictorian of the 2015 FABBIR Carrick Institute TBI program.

He has presented at the Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance Annual Conference, North Dakota TBI Network and in Washington DC at the Federal Interagency TBI Conference. He has been a guest on numerous podcasts and has presented at the University of Minnesota annual sports symposium as well as the Minnesota Chiropractic Association Concussion Conference and annual conference. He enjoys educating other providers and patients on functional neurology. He is an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. He lives and practices in MN. His wife Erin is also a chiropractor and they have a daughter named Willow and a dog named Burrberry who likes to hang at the clinic. His center in Minnesota has seen thousands of patients in an intensive care model helping with Post Concussion, Dizziness, Vertigo, Dysautonomia, TBI and ABI.

Website: https://theFNC.com/

Email: drschmoe@thefnc.com

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

22. Not Giving Up - Encouragement for Survivors, Caregivers, Families (with Cyndie Braden)

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 23:53:04 -0400

What does it mean to “not give up” on the brain injury? Let’s talk about it. Cristabelle shares encouragement for survivors and her mother Cyndie Braden offers support for caregivers and families. We talk about different aspects of choosing to not give up, including family dynamics, the day-to-day things, and how to give yourself grace for the hard days.

Season 1 - Episode 22

*Check out the "Not Giving Up" Brain Injury Awareness Music Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAjpyM81jsw

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

- Cyndie Braden has over 20 years experience teaching and developing educational curriculum, and she holds a Master of Science. After being thrown into the world of brain injury by her daughter’s injury, Cyndie has been passionately learning about brain injury research and finding resources while supporting the brain injury survivors and families. She has been invited to speak at brain injury conferences and events. She also has advocated with the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania at the State Capitol in Harrisburg and in Washington D.C. and works alongside her daughter Cristabelle to support the community of Hope After Head Injury.

IG: @cyndiebraden

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

21. How to Be a Brain Injury Advocate + Tips for Sharing Your Story (with Monica Vaccaro from BIAPA)

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 18:17:41 -0400

Hands down, one of the questions I am asked most frequently is something like, “how do I become a brain injury advocate” or “how do you get started sharing your story?”

On today’s episode, I’m sharing a lot of what I have learned about advocacy through the years - joined by Monica Vaccaro, director of programs at the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania, to share her perspective and insight! We are talking about being a self-advocate for brain injury, tips for sharing your story, and also how to get involved with advocacy on a larger scale if it’s something you are interested in!

Brain Injury Awareness Month might be almost over, but the advocacy goes on all year long! :) Let’s continue to use our voices together to make a difference!

Xo, Cristabelle

Season 1 - Episode 21

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

- Monica Vaccaro has been working in the field of brain injury for over 30 years. She is currently the Director of Programs for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania. She is very passionate about advocacy and doing everything she can to bring more awareness to this hidden injury. We have a conversation about brain injury symptoms, how they affect survivors on a practical and emotional level, and some strategies and tips for how to manage them.

Website: biapa.org | IG: @braininjurypa

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

20. Concussion Awareness + Safety in Sports (with Protect Your Skull)

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 20:08:33 -0400

Bringing a fresh perspective to sports concussions, Tracey Suggs and Foster Wilkins are the founders of Protect Your Skull - the world’s first and only concussion awareness brand creating quality performance apparel for today’s athlete. They are amazing advocates as they work hard to educate for safety in sports- today’s conversation is one you don’t want to miss!

Season 1 - Episode 20

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month!

MEET OUR GUESTS:

Protect Your Skull, LLC is the world’s first concussion awareness, performance, and lifestyle brand. It was established in 2013 by former athletes Tracey Suggs and Foster Wilkins. This is a brand that promotes the overall well-being of athletes. It’s the quality of life culture that PYS is pioneering. The game has evolved. Quality of life after the game matters most.

Website: protectyourskull.com

- Tracey Suggs is the Protect Your Skull, LLC Creative Director and co–founder. He currently lives in Charlotte, NC with his beautiful wife of 20 years and their 3 beautiful children. Promoting concussion awareness and safety in all sports to the next generation of athletes through his work with universities, youth sports camps, sports leagues, and organizations across the country is a primary focus. Suggs played football as a defensive back for Fayetteville State University of the CIAA Conference. He believes that winning now has to incorporate playing the game safer and smarter through a higher level of awareness both mentally and physically.Suggs is committed to creating a quality of life culture beginning with the next generation youth athletes and leaders. He believes that by using his power to empower the youth to achieve greatness in life that the world becomes a better place for the future.

-Foster Wilkins is the co-founder of Protect Your Skull. Wilkins’ success as an athlete and devoted alumni earned his 2007 induction in the Fayetteville State Football Hall of Fame. Through several years of playing football, Wilkins experienced concussions and minor injuries that led to the concept of providing athletes with knowledge to play sports with your health as the leading factor. As a collegiate football coach, Wilkins was highly impacted to become an advocate for an athlete’s health when he encounter his own players suffering from serious injuries and concussions, he knew that in order to pursue a successful athletic career a person’s health will have to be top priority. After coaching, Wilkins cultivated a philosophy of sustaining a healthy lifestyle to increase the quality and longevity of life. Among the Fayetteville State University’s community, he is known as an avid donor to the athletic program to ensure current players have access to safe and efficient equipment. Wilkins is instrumental in connecting the brand with local high schools and colleges to ensure players are proactively thinking about Life After the Game.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

19. Brain Injury Association of America - Advocacy + Resources (with Susan H. Connors, BIAA President and CEO)

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 21:02:55 -0400

Susan H. Connors, president and CEO of the Brain Injury Association of America, is here today for a special Brain Injury Awareness Month Episode. Listen as she shares about what the BIAA does, including help and resources that are available to survivors. Susan is a champion for brain injury, and today she also shares some of her personal journey as to how she got involved in the BIAA and what she has seen in brain injury awareness over the last 25 years. The discussion closes with encouragement and tips for those who may want to get involved with advocating on a broader scale.

Season 1 - Episode 19

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month! Get involved in the BIAA's campaign: #MoreThanMyBrainInjury

MEET OUR GUEST:

Susan Connors is president and chief executive officer of the Brain Injury Association of America. She was executive director of the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators from 2001 to 2005 and BIAA’s national director of state affairs from 1995 to 2001. Ms. Connors has served in advisory capacities and on expert panels for several federal agencies, universities, and nonprofit organizations and has authored numerous publications, position statements and articles. She has a bachelor’s degree in public communication from George Mason University. She is a non-voting member of the board.

BIAA Mission: To advance awareness, research, treatment, and education and to improve the quality of life for all people affected by brain injury.

Website: biausa.org | IG: @bia_usa

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

18. PINK Concussions - Female Brain Injury Awareness + Gaps in Research (with Katherine Snedaker)

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 22:18:42 -0400

How is female brain injury different? Today we are talking about awareness centered on female brain injury and concussions. Cristabelle is joined by Katherine Snedaker, founder of PINK Concussions. She offers some insight into the gaps in research when it comes to brain injury in women for this episode for Brain Injury Awareness Month.

Season 1 - Episode 18

MEET OUR GUEST:

Katherine Snedaker is the Executive Director and Founder of PINK Concussions, a non-profit focused on female brain injury including concussion from sports, violence, accidents, and military service. She earned her Masters in Social Work from Fordham University.

IG: @katherine_snedaker | @pinkconcussions

PINK Concussions is the first ever non-profit organization to focus on pre-injury education and post-injury medical care for women and girls with brain injury including concussion incurred from sport, violence, accidents or military service.

Website: pinkconcussions.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

17. Understanding the Invisible Injury (with Cyndie Braden)

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 22:59:52 -0400

Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it's not there. For the first week of Brain Injury Awareness Month, we are discussing how brain injury is an invisible injury, and how this affects survivors and families on a daily basis. Today, Cristabelle is joined once again by her mother, Cyndie Braden, for this special awareness month episode of Hope Survives!

Season 1 - Episode 17

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

IG: @cyndiebraden

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

16. Ways to Help Calm Brain Injury Symptoms (with Natasha Wilch)

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 22:00:22 -0400

If you've ever been overwhelmed or overstimulated with brain injury symptoms, you are not alone. Today, Natasha Wilch is here to share some ways to help us calm down symptoms. We discuss some simple strategies along with encouragement for survivors.

Season 1 - Episode 16

MEET OUR GUEST:

- Natasha Wilch is a Registered Physical Therapist based in Western Canada whom had dedicated her career to working with individuals with concussion. Her passion in learning has led her to training in vestibular rehab, acupuncture, clinical neuroscience and more. She is the owner of Symphony Rehabilitation and Co-Founder of Concussion Compass. Always looking for ways to better serve her clients, she was one of the first clincians in Canada to offer virtual care. Natasha has won the Canada Entrepreneur of the year award in 2017, Vancouver Island’s top 20 under 40 business & community achievement award in 2018 and this year she won the 2020 Excellence in Leadership Award for Physical Therapy. symphony-rehab.com

Concussion Compass: concussioncompass.com

Get Natasha's Free PDF - "3 Ways to Calm Your Concussion Symptoms": https://www.concussioncompass.com/3-ways-to-calm-your-concussion-symptoms-opt-in

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

15. Resilience - through Stroke & Brain Abscess (with Don't Count Me Out! hosts Jo Ann and Brad)

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 21:16:17 -0400

Resilience: we can come back stronger than we ever realized through brain injury!

Today, Cristabelle hosts a delightful conversation with survivors Brad Neufeld and Jo Ann Glim. They share their stories, what resilience means, and encouragement to listeners to never give up.

Season 1 - Episode 15

Jo Ann and Brad are the hosts of Don’t Count Me Out: A weekly program that offers stroke survivors tools, tips, interviews and hope.
See Cristabelle's interview on their show at - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkUn5QDJYoo

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUESTS:

- Brad Neufeld is the Founder and CEO of the Resilience Talk Network and Co-Host of the “Don’t Count Me Out” Podcast, a podcast for Stroke Survivors. Brad has more than 30 years of experience working in the mental health industry as a mentor. Back in December of 2008, Brad was diagnosed with a Brain Abscess and has experienced a total of 7 TIA’s, which are transient ischemic attacks or “Mini Strokes”. His passion is assisting others with overcoming the challenges of life.

resiliencetalknetwork.com

- Jo Ann Glim is an author, podcaster, motivational speaker, and stoke survivor. Jo Ann Glim was born in Chicago, Illinois to a military family and raised in Anacortes, Washington in the far reaches of the Pacific Northwest. It was an ideal place to raise a precocious child, especially one that’s inquisitive and daring. Tragically, her mother passed away from a stroke when Glim was fourteen. This was the beginning of a life-path plotted with many dark events. In her own words, “Instead of consuming me, they made me stronger, and I’m here to tell you, darkness can be replaced with light.” Glim’s three-pronged career of broadcast and print media, freelance writing, and business management formed her into the indie author she is today. Her 5-Star books, the award-winning “Begotten With Love,” and her newest release “Trapped Within,” are both non-fiction, life-stories filled with challenges, hope, and humor. Glim now lives in Florida with her husband Bill and their Scottish terrier, Lucy. Her passions are writing, photography, travel, handbells, and hiking. A paralyzing stroke nearly twenty-four years ago left her most of all, grateful for life itself!

Jo Ann’s Book: https://amazon.com/-/e/B00IOQF83Q

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

14. Keep Going! - Inspiring TBI Survivor Story (with Tanya Gauthier, TBIncredible)

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 21:15:27 -0400

How do we keep going on the brain injury journey? Sometimes it can be a struggle just to get through the day. Today Cristabelle keeps it real, sharing that it is not always easy, but we can choose to never give up.

Next, Tanya Gauthier, founder of the nonprofit TBIncredible, joins to share her inspirational story through her own traumatic brain injury and encouragement to listeners on how to keep going!

Season 1 - Episode 14

MEET OUR GUEST:

As the youngest of three children growing up in New Jersey, Tanya Gauthier understands the importance of family and strong community values. From ballet classes to extra tutoring sessions, she learned to appreciate the value of hard work at a very young age. In 2009, while in her junior year at West Point, Tanya survived a near fatal car accident that left her with a traumatic brain injury. Instead of feeling sorry for herself, Tanya was determined to complete her education. In 2011, she earned her degree in psychology and environmental engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Tanya’s mantra, ‘Keep Going!’ serves as her rallying cry when faced with adversity. While 2020 has been a challenging year for nearly everyone, Tanya persevered and founded TBIncredible nonprofit for fellow brain injury survivors. The organization, TBIncredible provides free recreational therapy through therapeutic photography. Through her love for photography, she found a wonderful way to share her passion with other TBI survivors to aid in their recovery. Always thinking of others, more than herself, Tanya uses therapeutic photography to bring back happiness to those that need it the most.

Website: tbincredible.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

13. Brain Injury Motivation: Staying Determined (Survivor Stories)

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 20:56:14 -0400

Today we are talking about what it means to be determined and stay motivated on our journey through brain injury!

First, Cristabelle will share some encouragement from her own journey with brain injury, and how staying determined doesn’t always mean pushing through. It’s so important to be kind to yourself!

Next, Steven Thompson will share about his decades long journey through brain injury and how he continued to stay determined to achieve his goals.

Finally, Shane Warner will share his story through TBI, how he stayed motivated, and how the mindset he learned from being in the National Guard helped him in his recovery journey.
Shane is also the host of his own podcast called IronWill which you can find here: https://ironwill.us/the-podcast/ (Hear Cristabelle’s interview with IronWill on Episode 46!)

Season 1 - Episode 13

EPISODE GUIDE: 0.00 Intro | 1:00 Cristabelle/Determination | 12:36 Steven Thompson | 24:08 Shane Warner

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

12. Dysautonomia - How Autonomic Nervous System is Affected by Brain Injury & Concussions (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 18:53:25 -0400

What is dysautonomia? How is it related to brain injury? How do you know if you have it? How is it treated?

Today, Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is back for a follow-up on last week’s episode on the vestibular system, to dig even further into some of the ways that autonomics can be affected by brain injury.

Season 1 - Episode 12

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

MEET OUR GUEST:

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

11. The Vestibular System and Brain Injury (with Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 17:20:57 -0400

What is the vestibular system? How does it affect brain injury survivors? What symptoms can be caused by dysfunction of this system? Today, Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is here to answer these questions and so much more.

Next week, Dr. Schmoe will be back to continue this conversation & talk about Dysautonomia.

Season 1 - Episode 11

MEET OUR GUEST:

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

10. Emotional Changes - Coping Strategies + How to Work Through Complex Emotions (with Dr. Ann Marie McLaughlin)

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 16:17:14 -0400

Emotional changes after brain injury are common. The way that the brain is physically affected can cause changes in emotional response. Also, dealing with a major life change can lead to complicated feelings and trauma responses. If you have experienced a wide range of confusing emotions, know that you are not alone!

Today, Dr. Ann Marie McLaughlin joins Cristabelle to share her expertise. Let’s talk about some of the ways that emotional changes affect survivors, common root causes, and some coping strategies and tips on how to work through the complex emotions that can happen after brain injury.

Season 1 - Episode 10

MEET OUR GUEST:

Dr. Ann Marie McLaughlin is the current president of the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania (https://biapa.org). She developed her interest in brain injury and cognitive rehabilitation while training in the neuropsychology lab at the VA Medical Center in Washington, D.C. From there, she moved on to a nationally recognized rehabilitation hospital and helped support their expanding brain injury unit. Dr. McLaughlin worked for 20 years in this acute rehabilitation hospital where she held positions including Director of Psychology and Program Manager for the Stroke, Chronic Pain and Brain Injury programs. She was responsible for start up of a 45 bed brain injury unit; focusing on program development, staffing and program outcomes of the inpatient unit as well as outpatient services, including a mild head injury program. In 2001, she brought her wealth of experience and skills to ReMed, as the Clinical Director of ReMed’s Outpatient, Home and Community Based Services. There she has championed creative interdisciplinary treatment approaches to serve a range of clients who have sustained mild to severe brain injuries. Dr. McLaughlin is a hands on Clinical Director and works directly with the clients and the team to develop the best possible treatment plans for achieving desired goals in their homes and communities. Clients and staff rely on her ability to listen, support and problem solve. She is known for her quick wit as well as her ability to remain calm in the midst of a crisis; essential skills in the constantly changing and challenging world of brain injury rehabilitation.

Through her years working in acute and post acute brain injury rehabilitation, Dr. McLaughlin has also focused on the needs of caregivers. She developed programs to support brain injury survivors as well as their families through an education series and group therapy. Dr. McLaughlin continues to share her talents to improve the lives of the people who have sustained brain injuries and their families. She is an active member of the Brain Injury Special Interest Group of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, focusing on issues of cognitive rehabilitation and community integration. She has published articles on topics related to brain injury, chronic pain, staff stress and family coping, and has presented on these topics at numerous conferences.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

9. Re-Injuries, Symptom Flare-Ups, and Combatting Fear (with Ali Rheaume + Natasha Wilch)

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 17:11:13 -0400

The journey of living with brain injury comes with ups and downs. Today, you will hear from two guests:

- Survivor Perspective: Ali Rheaume has been living with a TBI for 5 years, and just sustained a re-injury concussion a few months ago. She shares some of her journey and tips for dealing with re-injuries, along with encouragement on how to combat fear.

- Professional Perspective: Natasha Wilch is here to share some of the medical reasons that survivors might fa ll or hit their heads more often, advice for how to prevent re-injuries, the difference between a new injury and a flare-up, and more.

Setbacks might happen, but we can get through them. I hope this episode provides some encouragement and hope that healing is possible. You are not alone!
Xo, Cristabelle

Season 1 - Episode 9

GUIDE: 0:00 INTRO | 0:36 Cristabelle | 7:07 Ali | 22:32 Natasha

MEET OUR GUESTS:

- Ali Rheaume is an encouraging light in the journey of overcoming brain injury. She writes microblogs to help spread hope, provide new perspectives, and apply her gift of teaching to educate and advocate. Ali is an ambassador for Concussion Compass and an involved member of the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts. She is passionate about people and bringing community together. Ali also started the brand "embracing unique" to share her art, while reminding individuals to honor who they are and what they b ring to world.
Ali is also an inspirational speaker who has been featured on a webinar with HeadsUpCAN, a presentation with the BIA, and shared her story on Declaration Life podcast.

IG: @alison.rheaume | Art IG: @embracingunique

CONNECT:Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!
ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, podcast host, brain injury survivor & advocate. www.cristabellebraden.com

8. Residential Programs, Community Living, Post-Acute Rehab (with Success Rehabilitation)

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 18:43:46 -0400

There are many different options to help survivors to grow in independence. Did you know there are residential programs for brain injury that are different from the inpatient hospital setting? In fact, Success Rehab is just one example of what a community living program can look like. They provide post-acute rehabilitation for both residential and outpatients, but also do so much more to empower brain injury survivors to grow in confidence, find employment, and simply enjoy life!

Season 1 - Episode 8

Listen to previous "Resources & Treatment Options" episodes 3 & 4 for more!

MEET OUR GUESTS:

For 30 years, Success Rehabilitation has specialized in post-acute brain injury rehabilitation. “We create new opportunities for those who have experienced brain injury: one individual, one family, one success at a time.”

Website: https://www.successrehab.com/

-Joanne Tangney, MSW, LSW, CBIS, Co-Founder, President &

CEO

Joanne P. Tangney graduated from the University of Maryland with an Undergraduate Degree in Social Work and obtained her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Temple University. In 1990, she Co-Founded Success Rehabilitation, Inc. and currently resides as the President & CEO of the organization. Ms. Tangney has dedicated her entire professional career to working with individuals who have an acquired brain injury. Ms. Tangney sits on the Board of Director’s for the Rehabilitation Community Providers Service Organization (RCPSO) and RCPA Board of Directors (Rehabilitation Community Providers Association) and is an active member of this organization to ensure that the needs of individuals with brain injuries are addressed at the State level. Ms. Tangney was named Lehigh Valley Business’s 25 Women of Influence Award Winners 2018. The Women of Influence awards honors women business leaders for their contributions to their companies, industries, and communities.

-Stefanie Bauman, BA, CBIS, Director of Admissions & Clinical Services

Stefanie Bauman graduated from Muhlenberg College with Undergraduate Degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education. After teaching elementary school, she worked in various social services agencies including the National MS Society and then transitioned to working for about 17 years in the mental health field. In 2012, Stefanie began working at Success Rehabilitation as the Director of Admissions. In 2013, she earned her certification as a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and maintains this certification. She has been and continues to be an active participant in the RCPA Brain Injury Committee, is an attendee of the Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Board, and is co-chair of the Brain Injury Association of PA Annual Conference. Having experienced being a family member of a TBI survivor since July 2000 gives Stefanie a unique perspective when working with new clients and family members. She is honored to do the work she does at Success Rehabilitation and loves to have the opportunity to blend her professional work with her passion for supporting those who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

7. Nutrition - The Relationship between Food and Brain Health (with Brigid Titgemeier @beingbrigid)

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 20:31:22 -0400

Did you know that the foods we eat can have a huge impact on improvement and healing after a brain injury?

Today, nutrition expert Brigid Titgemeier (@beingbrigid) is here to share all about the relationship between food and brain health. Specifically, we are going to be talking about the brain/gut connection, how the food we eat can actually help to improve brain injury symptoms, and some simple meal ideas and tips on how to incorporate brain healthy foods into your routine.

Learning that there is a way to help my brain injury symptoms simply by the foods I choose to eat has brought me so much hope - which is why I am so excited to share this interview with Brigid! I hope it empowers you to know that there is always something else you can do that can help to make a difference in your recovery. Xo, Cristabelle

Season 1 - Episode 7

Highlights:

-The food we eat can help to reduce neuro-inflammation and consequently improve brain injury symptoms.

-The gut lining and the blood/brain barrier have similarities and are deeply connected; leaky gut can lead to leaky brain.

-There are simple ways to incorporate better food options to help improve brain health.

-“When you heal your gut you’re better able to heal your brain, and when you start to focus on the nutrients that heal your brain, it helps to improve the health of your gut.”

MEET OUR GUEST:

Brigid Titgemeier, MS, RDN, LD, IFNCP is a Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and health advocate, on a mission to transform your health and change your life through personalized nutrition. With a Masters degree in Public Health Nutrition and Board Certification in Integrative and Functional Nutrition, Brigid was a founding dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine, under Dr. Mark Hyman.
Throughout her career she has worked with 4,000 clients. She founded the functional nutrition and health consulting business, BeingBrigid Nutrition in 2018 to offer consistent health outcomes for her executive clients by leveraging a data driven personalized nutrition approach, advanced lab testing, education and coaching. She created a graduate course in integrative and functional nutrition with Dr. Stephanie Harris at Case Western Reserve University and co-teaches this course to educate future healthcare practitioners in functional nutrition.
Brigid has a Bachelor’s of Science in Dietetics from Miami University, as well as a Master’s of Science in Public Health Nutrition from Case Western Reserve University. Brigid has completed four years of advanced functional medicine training through the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy and the Institute for Functional Medicine. Brigid has published numerous articles for Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, Mind Body Green, The Chalkboard Mag, U.S. News and World Report, and the Huffington Post.

Website: beingbrigid.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. cristabellebraden.com

6. Adapting + Adjusting to Life After Brain Injury (Survivor Stories)

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 21:34:46 -0400

Simply put… life is different after brain injury. So what is it like adjusting and adapting to living with symptoms and everything else that comes with having a brain injury? Today you’ll hear from two survivors sharing their stories, and how they have been learning to live in the “new normal”.

My hope is that this episode brings you some encouragement that you are not alone and provides some tips that you might be able to apply to your own journey.

Season 1 - Episode 6

GUIDE: Intro 0:00 | Adapting 0:37 | Rachel 6:05 | JR 24:50

MEET OUR GUESTS:

- Rachel Rose Dombeck is a brain injury survivor, wellness enthusiast and entrepreneur. After having a brain injury in January 2016, her busy, active and outgoing life came to a screeching halt. Battling loss, isolation and loneliness, depression and anxiety she learned to rebuild her life through ultimate faith in God and the support of doctors, family and friends. Rachel knows that living with a brain injury is anything but easy, and that learning to live with, navigate and have a full life while managing brain injury symptoms requires community and support from other survivors. She hopes to be just that to others in her journey, whether they have a TBI or not. She believes that while we do not choose what happens to us, we can choose what we do with it and still build a meaningful life. IG: @rachelrosedombeck

- JR Copeland is a brain injury survivor who has chosen to never give up. He sustained his TBI from a DUI incident and has now been sober for 9 years since his accident! He is a proud member of Side by Side Brain Injury Clubhouse and loves attending Camp BIAG, which is put on by the Brain Injury Association of Georgia.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, she began to write music. Since then, she has surpassed medical expectations and thrived in her newfound gift of music; she has come from re-learning daily life tasks in brain injury rehabilitation to setting her feet firmly on the ground as a songwriter, speaker, and artist with a message of hope. Releasing multiple albums of original music and touring all over the United States, she brings her powerful testimony and a message of freedom, healing, and love wherever she goes. Cristabelle has continually persevered through the daily challenges that come with living with a brain injury, and through her setbacks, re-injuries, and struggles, discovered a stronger and clearer voice and message. She is a sought after speaker, both in brain injury and Christian ministry events. She is also a graduate-level Biblical scholar, currently working on a Masters in Theological Studies. In 2020 she launched an inspirational and uplifting podcast called Declaration Life. Her journey has inspired her to become a passionate advocate for brain injury, lobbying on a statewide and national level with the Brain Injury Association of America, as well as personally working hard to provide support and encouragement to brain injury survivors and their families through her online community Hope Survives.

5. Coping with Brain Injury Anniversary Dates - Survivor, Caregiver, Spouse, & Mother Perspectives

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 20:12:00 -0400

How do we approach brain injury anniversaries? That day can bring up a weird feeling, it can be painful, it can be hard to get through. Each of us will have different experiences with it. Today we will have perspectives from survivors as well as family members. Wherever you are on your journey, my hope is that this episode helps you to know know you’re not alone, and gives you tools and practical tips for dealing with your anniversary. Xo, Cristabelle

Season 1 - Episode 5

You'll hear from:

1) Cristabelle & her mother Cyndie Braden

2) Survivor: Jessica Karnes

3) Couple: David & Gretchen Christenson

4) Mother: Nicole Bingaman

GUIDE: 0:00 - Intro | 0:36 - Cristabelle & Cyndie Braden | 13:03 - Survivor, Jessica Karnes | 24:20 - Couple, David & Gretchen Christenson | 42:07 - Mother, Nicole Bingaman

MEET OUR GUESTS:

- Jessica Karnes is a brain injury and chronic illness warrior. She has persevered through multiple head injuries which has impacted her life and her family in a multitude of ways. She has had to learn how to do things over again after each injury, but she never gives up! She studied social work and obtained a bachelor’s degree at Spring Arbor University. She enjoys spending time with her family and watching Disney movies!

- David and Gretchen Christenson are small town South Dakota residents. David is a crop insurance agent, and Gretchen is a teacher. David suffered a TBI in a vehicle versus pedestrian hit and run 8 blocks from their home on November 14, 2009. They now refer to that date as David's "Alive Day" and are thankful for a recovery that many call a miracle. Book: https://amzn.to/36YmRpr

- Nicole Bingaman became acquainted with TBI in 2012 when her adult son had an accident resulting in a catastrophic traumatic brain injury. She has worked for over 20 years in the human service field, but is most passionate about raising brain injury awareness. Her book, Falling Away from You, was published in 2015. The book was written from the depths of Nicole’s grief. She is a blogger for BrainLine.org, and a contributing writer for the Mighty and TBI HOPE magazine. Her story, Love Wins, was featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Kind America. Nicole serves on the Board of Directors for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania and was named a TBI Hope Hero in 2019. Nicole is a certified yoga instructor, who has been trained with the LoveYourBrain foundation. Book: https://amzn.to/33WZs5X | nicolebingaman.com

- Cyndie Braden has over 20 years experience teaching and developing educational curriculum, and she holds a Master of Science. After being thrown into the world of brain injury by her daughter’s injury, Cyndie has been passionately learning about brain injury research and finding resources while supporting the brain injury survivors and families. She has been invited to speak at brain injury conferences. She also has advocated with the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania at the State Capitol in Harrisburg and in Washington D.C. and works alongside her daughter Cristabelle to support the community of Hope Survives.

CONNECT:

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. cristabellebraden.com

4. Music Therapy, Physical Therapy Benefits + info on Concussion Compass & Camp Cranium (with Lexi Campbell and Natasha Wilch)

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 23:48:29 -0400

This week we explore the benefits of music therapy and physical therapy in relation to brain injury - along with some great information about Concussion Compass (online membership for post concussion syndrome) and Camp Cranium (summer camp for kids with brain injury).

Season 1 - Episode 4

HIGHLIGHTS:

-Music Therapy can help with speech, coordination, rhythm, processing trauma, emotions, memory, and so much more. Music can access so many different parts of the brain and is helpful in creating new pathways.

-Physical Therapy can help brain injury survivors improve in many areas including gait, dizziness, neck pain, the vestibular system, sensory issues, spacial awareness, and more.

-Concussion Compass is an online membership community for people living with post concussion syndrome to help members understand how to move forward with mini-courses, resources, and mentorship.

-Camp Cranium is a non-profit summer camp that empowers kids and teens with brain injury.

GUIDE: 0:00 - Intro | 3:08 - Music Therapy | 15:53 - Camp Cranium | 21:53 - Physical Therapy | 31:45 - Concussion Compass

MEET OUR GUESTS:

- Lexi Campbell has a masters in music therapy from Drexel University, and her BSN (nursing) from University of Pittsburgh. She has been a pediatric nurse since 2013, and in 2008 she started Camp Cranium, a non-profit camp empowering children with brain injury. Her work has been recognized by numerous awards, receiving awards from the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania (BIAPA) and the Council on Brain Injury (CoBI), along with KDKA’s Hometown Hero award in Pittsburgh. She was also nominated for the Jaffee award and has twice been selected as a finalist for the Philly Magazine Health Hero.

campcranium.org

symphony-rehab.com

Concussion Compass: concussioncompass.com

Holiday Call (Dec 9) Registration: concussioncompass.com/navigating-the-holiday-season-xmas-call

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

3. Functional Neurology, Speech Pathology, Clubhouses & Camps (with Kyle Sloan, Nan Kennelly, Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 20:02:13 -0400

Ever wanted to learn more of the options out there to help with brain injury? Listen for some great information about clubhouses, camps, speech language pathology, and functional neurology.

HIGHLIGHTS:
-Brain injury clubhouses help with life skills, independence, community, and readiness for employment.
-Brain injury camps empower survivors to be themselves.
-Speech Language Pathology is about more than speech, it can help with communication, cognition, executive functioning, and more.
-Functional Neurology is an approach that works to integrate multiple different systems to improve neurological function, and can help with many different types and stages of brain injuries.

Season 1 - Episode 3

GUIDE: 0:00 - Intro | 1:33 - Clubhouses & Camps | 16:30 - Speech Language Pathology | 35:29 - Functional Neurology

MEET OUR GUESTS:

- Kyle Sloan is on staff at Beacon House brain injury clubhouse in Va. Beach, VA, and has recently joined the board of directors for the International Brain Injury Clubhouse Alliance (IBICA). Kyle was first introduced to the brain injury community in 2003 at Camp Bruce McCoy in Chesapeake VA, where he has now been involved every year for the last 17 years. Kyle’s goal is to always serve survivors and provide the opportunities that they need in order to be a part of a community.
Find a Clubhouse - IBICA: braininjuryclubhouses.net
Beacon House: egglestonservices.org/brain-injury-services/#0
Camp Bruce McCoy: biav.net/camp

- Nan Kennelly has over 26 years of experience treating cognitive-communication disorders related to brain injury. She is both owner and treating speech-language pathologist at Onword Therapy, a private practice in Fargo ND that specializes in treatment of brain injury related difficulties. Nan is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist and Trainer and serves as chair of the ND Brain Injury Advisory Council. Nan has a passion to both educate and advocate for individuals living with brain injury.
Onword Therapy: onwordtherapy.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:

2. Common Challenges, Strategies, + The Science Behind Why Symptoms Happen (with Monica Vaccaro and Dr. Jeremy Schmoe)

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 21:47:04 -0400

Today’s episode is all about common challenges brain injury survivors face! Let’s talk about how survivors are affected every day, strategies and tips to help, and some of the science behind why symptoms happen.

Cristabelle is joined today by two special guests, Monica Vaccaro (Director of Programs for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania), and Dr. Jeremy Schmoe (Founder and Director of The Functional Neurology Center). Together, they bring a well rounded view to this topic.

Season 1 - Episode

MEET OUR GUESTS:
- Monica Vaccaro has been working in the field of brain injury for over 30 years. She is currently the Director of Programs for the Brain Injury Association of Pennsylvania. She is very passionate about advocacy and doing everything she can to bring more awareness to this hidden injury. We have a conversation about brain injury symptoms, how they affect survivors on a practical and emotional level, and some strategies and tips for how to manage them.

- Dr. Jeremy Schmoe is the founder and director of The Functional Neurology Center and Co Developer of The Brain Health Online Summit. Over the past 10 years he has been working with patients with complex neurological dysfunction. He has treated thousands of patients with head injuries, vertigo, dysautonomia, dizziness, movement disorders, neuro-degenerative and developmental disorders. Today, he shares some of the science behind brain injury symptoms. He talks about autonomics, vision and eye movements, the vestibular system, and more. He explains how a brain injury can affect the way that these systems integrate which can then cause difficulties and symptoms that affect survivors every day. https://thefnc.com

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, she began to write music. Since then, she has surpassed medical expectations and thrived in her newfound gift of music; she has come from re-learning daily life tasks in brain injury rehabilitation to setting her feet firmly on the ground as a songwriter, speaker, and artist with a message of hope. Cristabelle has continually persevered through the daily challenges that come with living with a brain injury, and through her setbacks, re-injuries, and struggles, discovered a stronger and clearer voice and message. In 2020 she launched an inspirational and uplifting podcast called Declaration Life. Her journey has inspired her to become a passionate advocate for brain injury, lobbying on a statewide and national level with the Brain Injury Association of America, as well as personally working hard to provide support and encouragement to brain injury survivors and their families through her online community Hope After Head Injury.

1. Finding Hope: Life with Brain Injury

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 21:21:01 -0400

Let’s talk about the real-life struggles of this invisible injury, and the reason why hope is so important.

On this episode, Cristabelle invites her mother, Cyndie Braden, to join for a conversation sharing some of their family’s journey on finding hope through brain injury, the symptoms and struggles they have faced, and encouragement to fellow survivors and caregivers.

Season 1 - Episode 1

ABOUT THIS PODCAST:
Have you or a loved one experienced a traumatic brain injury, stroke, concussion, or ABI? This podcast is for you. Sharing hope, support, and education for brain injury survivors, caregivers, and families. Hosted by award-winning TBI survivor, advocate, and singer/songwriter Cristabelle Braden, this is an uplifting podcast to bring hope to your darkest days. Subscribe and stay tuned for messages of encouragement, interviews with professionals, and survivor stories.

CONNECT

Find more resources, podcast episodes, & our monthly zoom support group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hopesurvives.org⁠ | @hopesurvives

Hosted by Cristabelle Braden: @cristabellebraden | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cristabellebraden.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Listen to the intro song "Hope Survives" by Cristabelle Braden on all music streaming platforms!

This podcast is for education and informational purposes only, and not intended for medical advice. If you need specific medical advice, please consult your physician.

More: ⁠⁠hopesurvives.org/podcast⁠⁠

MENTIONED:
Brain Injury Association of America | www.biausa.org
Camp Cranium | www.campcranium.org
Camp Bruce McCoy | https://www.biav.net/camp/
Functional Neurology Center | https://thefnc.com/

MORE:
Music for Brain Injury (YouTube Playlist) | https://tinyurl.com/y6oe5gcb
Declaration Life Podcast (Cristabelle’s faith-based podcast) | https://cristabellebraden.com/declarationlife

ABOUT CRISTABELLE:
Cristabelle Braden is an award winning singer/songwriter, keynote speaker, writer, and podcast host. After suffering a traumatic brain injury, she began to write music. Since then, she has surpassed medical expectations and thrived in her newfound gift of music; she has come from re-learning daily life tasks in brain injury rehabilitation to setting her feet firmly on the ground as a songwriter, speaker, and artist with a message of hope. Releasing multiple albums of original music and touring all over the United States, she brings her powerful testimony and a message of freedom, healing, and love wherever she goes. Cristabelle has continually persevered through the daily challenges that come with living with a brain injury, and through her setbacks, re-injuries, and struggles, discovered a stronger and clearer voice and message. She is a sought after speaker, both in brain injury and Christian ministry events. She is also a graduate-level Biblical scholar, currently working on a Masters in Theological Studies. In 2020 she launched an inspirational and uplifting podcast called Declaration Life. Her journey has inspired her to become a passionate advocate for brain injury, lobbying on a statewide and national level with the Brain Injury Association of America, as well as personally working hard to provide support and encouragement to brain injury survivors and their families through her online community Hope After Head Injury.

Welcome to Hope Survives (Trailer)

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 14:53:00 -0400

Welcome to Hope Survives, a podcast from the Hope Survives nonprofit supporting individuals & families navigating life with brain injury. On this show, we explore the realities of life with brain injury through encouragement, thoughtful conversations, expert insights, & real stories.

Hope Survives also offers virtual support groups, learning sessions (including workshops & webinars) and resources for people & families seeking connection & encouragement . We’d love for you to join us, learn more at HopeSurvives.org

No matter where you are on your journey, remember: you are never alone, and hope survives.