What happens when your body tells you "no" but the world keeps telling you to "push through"?

If you've ever felt the pressure to keep going, keep performing, or keep showing up—despite your body screaming for rest—you're not alone. For people living with concussions or brain injuries, the expectation to "suck it up" can be not only harmful but downright dangerous.

In this episode of Concussion Nerds, Natasha sits down with the incredible Briana Rice—scientist, advocate, and current Miss USA Woman of Achievement 2025—whose story is a powerful reminder that slowing down is not weakness, but wisdom. Brianna opens up about living with post-concussion syndrome, learning to give herself grace, and how she's turned her pain into purpose by using her national title to raise awareness about invisible injuries.

Amb Briana Rice Bsc. is a developmental biologist and the reigning Miss U.S. Woman of Achievement 2025.

She is an International Ambassador for Happiness and the founder of the Love and Light Movement, she curates upscale events and retreats.

She is also a certified Tantra teacher, Sound Healer, and yoga instructor, blending science and spirituality to help others heal, rise.

Briana and is the co-founder of the Blackberry Merlot wine Festival and the visionary behind Grace for Your Journey, a platform that empowers women and uplifts the voices of those living with invisible disabilities and chronic health conditions.

As the Riverside Director of the Global Society of Female Entrepreneurs, Briana fosters leadership and community among women in business. and reclaim their inner power with grace.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER:

• Why "pushing through" with a brain injury can lead to serious setbacks (including seizures).

• How to navigate the tension between your body's limits and society's expectations.

• Practical ways to rebuild self-trust and self-love after a diagnosis changes your life.

• The power of advocacy and how Brianna is using her platform to create resources and visibility for brain injury survivors.

This conversation is raw, inspiring, and full of reminders that even when life doesn't go as planned, you still have the power to write a new story.

Connect with Briana:

Website: www.brianarice.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bri_from_the_ie/

Let's Connect!

@concussionnerds https://www.instagram.com/concussionnerds/

@natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/

Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Learn how to connect & understand your nervous system so you can have greater outcomes in your health & healing journey: Grab a copy of the workbookhttps://www.natashawilch.com/understanding-connecting-your-nervous-system-1

Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge

Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery:

• Mini School: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school

• Membership: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussion-mini-school-the-membership

🎙️ Ready to change the way you see concussion care? Join the Concussion Nerds Virtual Summit on September 27–28, 2025 for expert talks, live workshops, and tools to help you or your clients heal with confidence.

👉 Grab your free or VIP pass here: natashawilch.com/virtual-summit