In this episode, host Laura Hansen Breksa welcomes neurologist and advocate Dr. Julie Thompson-Dobkin to discuss her mission of demystifying epilepsy through the Hidden Truths Project.
Dr. Thompson-Dobkin shares her unique journey from studying zoology to becoming a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), a path shaped by her holistic approach to the human body and mind. She reveals the personal turning point that led her to epilepsy advocacy: diagnosing her own son’s seizures after they were missed by his school.
Together, they discuss how art serves as a "tacit form of knowledge"—a bridge that communicates the complex emotional and physical realities of chronic conditions that words often fail to describe. Whether you are a caregiver, a patient, or someone interested in the power of creative expression, this conversation offers a deep look into resilience, community, and the beauty of neurodiversity.
Learn more about the Hidden Truths Project:
https://hiddentruthsproject.com/
Support Epilepsy Awareness: https://www.epilepsy.com/
Chapters00:00 – Intro: Describing the Indescribable
01:05 – Dr. Thompson-Dobkin’s Path to Medicine & Osteopathy
03:32 – Neurology as a Puzzle: The Power of Listening
04:36 – A Mother’s Intuition: Diagnosing Her Son’s Epilepsy
06:40 – The Birth of Hidden Truths Project
08:42 – The 5 Categories of Epilepsy Art
11:24 – Laura’s Journey: Living with a "Family Disease"
13:10 – Combatting Stigma Through Education and Art
17:53 – The Hidden Anxiety of Chronic Dependency
23:05 – Neurodiversity: Embracing a Perfectly Imperfect World
28:45 – Cultural Perspectives and the Future of Hidden Truths
37:55 – 5 Key Takeaways on Growth and Resilience
#IntentOnPurpose #EpilepsyAwareness #Neurodiversity #HiddenTruthsProject #ArtHeals #Neurology #ChronicIllness #DrJulieThompsonDobkin
Get to know Dr. Thompson-Dobkin:
Board-certified neurologist with a career spanning clinical neurology, academic research, and advocacy. Early work focused on cerebrovascular disease and translational research in leading academic centers. Later expanded into community-based care, freestanding clinical trials, and
global outreach. Founder of Hidden Truths Project, a nonprofit transforming awareness and inclusion through creative engagement.
Founder & CEO — Hidden Truths Project | Newport Beach, CA | 2012 – Present
Developed a nationally recognized arts-based initiative raising awareness about epilepsy and
other hidden disabilities. Partnered with neurologists, artists, educators, and nonprofits to create inclusive, empowering platforms.
St. Anthony’s Foundation Volunteer
Mission is to feed, heal, shelter, clothe, lift the spirits of those experiencing homelessness and extreme poverty
Senior Fellow in Education & Director of Curriculum Studies — The Kant Institute Newport Beach, CA
Leads strategy and program development for an education-focused think tank addressing learning disparities and equity.
Skills & Focus Areas
Cerebrovascular disease | Epilepsy | Sleep disorders
Clinical trials design & oversight
Public engagement through art & education
Mentorship and youth neuroscience programming
Nonprofit leadership & fundraising
Curatorial Direction & Thematic Programming
Creative Collaboration across Disciplines
Art-Driven Advocacy & Public Engagement