Rebecca Rusch welcomes Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a visionary in neuro-optometry and founder of MyVision First, Vision Performance Training, and ScreenFit. This episode unpacks how the way we see, literally and figuratively, shapes our sense of safety, healing, and performance. Dr. B’s journey began with his own childhood vision struggles, fueling a mission to help others retrain their visual brains after injury, overload, or simply the demands of modern life. Together, Rebecca and Dr. B explore the intersection of vision, resilience, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible when we address the root causes that limit our potential.

In This Episode, Rebecca and Dr. B Explore:

1. The difference between eyesight and true vision—and why it matters for performance, healing, and self-perception
2. How Dr. B’s personal experience with vision therapy transformed his life and purpose
3. The hidden impact of visual processing on confidence, learning, and movement
4. Why addressing the root cause—not just the symptoms—unlocks real growth
5. The shift from reactive to proactive vision care, and what it means for athletes, patients, and everyday humans
6. How our visual system is overloaded by modern screens and what we can do about it
7. The power of awareness, patience, and trust in the brain-body connection

Transformative Insights

1. Vision is more than seeing clearly—it’s about how we interpret and interact with the world
2. Healing and high performance both start with understanding and retraining the visual brain
3. Our sense of safety, confidence, and potential is deeply tied to how we see ourselves and our environment
4. The brain’s plasticity means change is always possible, no matter your starting point

Vulnerable Moments

1. Dr. B shares how childhood struggles with vision shaped his identity and career path
2. Rebecca reflects on her own concussion recovery and the wish to have found vision therapy sooner
3. Both discuss the emotional journey of moving from frustration and limitation to empowerment and purpose

Practical Wisdom

1. How to recognize when vision—not just eyesight—may be holding you back
2. Simple strategies to reduce screen overload and support healthy visual processing
3. The importance of seeking care that addresses the whole person, not just isolated symptoms
4. Building trust in your body’s ability to adapt and heal

Personal Growth

1. Dr. B’s evolution from patient to practitioner, and his commitment to changing the paradigm of vision care
2. Rebecca’s ongoing journey to integrate new tools for healing and performance
3. The ripple effect of sharing our stories—how one person’s breakthrough can inspire hope and action in others

Helpful Links

1. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum’s Website: MyVision First
2. ScreenFit Program
3. Vision Performance Training
4. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum on Instagram
5. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum on LinkedIn

Sponsor

Get $200 off ScreenFit™ using code RUSCH

Take 10% off selected MyVisionFirst shop products using code RUSCH

Connect with Rebecca:

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Substack

Blood Road