Every Brain on the Team

When an athlete slams the ball after a mistake, is it an attitude problem or a nervous system problem? Occupational therapist Dr. Varleisha Lyons explains what's happening underneath the behavior, why your athletes mirror your own regulation, and one simple practice any coach can start this week.

About the guest
Dr. Varleisha Lyons
Dr. Varleisha Lyons is an occupational therapist, trauma-responsive educator, and the founder of Wasut Sanctuary, with decades of clinical experience and a grounding in trauma-responsive care, neuroscience, cultural intelligence, and spiritual wellness. She has worked as a professor and practitioner, served as vice president of the American Occupational Therapy Association, and now teaches and consults internationally. Learn more at drvarleisha.com.

See how we can work together: elsebethbirman.com | Email: [email protected] | Cover art by Jørgen Birman

The views and opinions shared by guests are their own and don't necessarily reflect those of Elsebeth Birman or Every Brain on the Team. This podcast is for education and isn't a substitute for individual medical or mental health advice.

Every Brain on the Team is a podcast for coaches, athletic directors, and parents in any sport, at any level, who want to support every athlete on their roster, neurodivergent and neurotypical alike. Host Elsebeth Birman, an occupational therapist and coach, sits down with coaches, researchers, clinicians, and athletes to talk about how brains learn, focus, and handle pressure, and what that means for your next practice or game. New episodes every Wednesday starting November 4, plus a recap episode on the last Wednesday of every month.

See how we can work together: elsebethbirman.com | Email: [email protected] | Cover art by Jørgen Birman

The views and opinions shared by guests are their own and don't necessarily reflect those of Elsebeth Birman or Every Brain on the Team. This podcast is for education and isn't a substitute for individual medical or mental health advice.