The Concussion Nerds Podcast

Are you feeling stuck on your healing journey, longing for a sense of "normal" that seems forever out of reach?

It's all too easy to let frustration take over when recovery feels slow, and anger often fills the space where acceptance could be. Many people get trapped, waiting for life to return to the way it was before their injury – a pattern that keeps you in a holding pattern, waiting to feel better. What if there's a way to start moving forward, even without "getting back" to who you were before?

Today, I'm joined by Lina Maria Aristizabal, a wellbeing coach and resilience educator, dedicated to helping individuals thrive after adversity. After suffering a concussion in 2018, she turned to science-based wellbeing strategies to rebuild her own joy and purpose. She holds degrees from Buffalo State University of New York, the University of Toronto, and Nipissing University, alongside certifications in applied positive psychology, resilience training, and coaching. As co-founder of Revive and Thrive Wellbeing, Lina creates programs that help individuals flourish despite health challenges.

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

• The power of acceptance in your healing process and why it doesn't mean "giving up"

• Lina's journey from resistance to peace and how she finally started moving forward

• Key practices from wellbeing science that can bring more joy and purpose into your life today

• Practical steps you can use to take control of your emotional state, even when symptoms linger

Get ready to be inspired by Lina's story and the practical wisdom she shares. This conversation could be the shift you need to finally start living fully, even as you continue your healing journey.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

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

Connect with Lina:

Book and Audiobook: Raise Your Head Up: A No-Nonsense Guide to Getting Your Life Back After Concussion by Lina Maria Aristizabal

Amazon.com, Amazon.ca

Promo code Concussion Nerds for 40% off Learn to Thrive with Post-Concussion Syndrome self-study course.

https://reviveandthrivewellbeing.com/product/ltt-self-study/

Email: [email protected]

Author Website: https://authorlinamaria.com

Are outdated myths about concussion recovery holding you back?

If you've ever been told that bed rest is the best way to heal from a concussion, you're not alone. Many people dealing with concussions still struggle under old advice that doesn't align with current science, keeping them from experiencing real recovery.

Today, Dr. Annie Howard joins us to share groundbreaking insights on concussion recovery, as well as the practical, integrative approaches she uses to help patients reclaim their lives. From her own journey with a serious concussion to innovative tools like adaptive contrast oxygen therapy, Annie's expertise challenges common misconceptions and brings fresh solutions for managing concussion symptoms.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 Why the "rest for two weeks" advice may not work for your recovery—and what to do instead

👉 The power of an integrative, whole-system approach versus the outdated "silo" method

👉 How adaptive contrast oxygen therapy can improve blood flow, reduce brain fog, and enhance mood

👉 Simple, effective ways to support concussion recovery, even for persistent symptoms

Ready to leave outdated advice behind and take charge of your recovery? This episode with Dr. Annie Howard will give you the tools to get started.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

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

Connect with PT Annie Howard!

Website: https://www.happybrainpt.com/

Have you ever wondered what it's really like for your loved one who's struggling with persistent concussion symptoms?

Supporting someone on a healing journey from a concussion can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to understand what they're going through. Maybe you've found yourself frustrated, trying to relate or make sense of changes in your loved one's energy, routines, and capabilities. It's tough to watch them go through this—and at times, you may even wonder if there's something more you could do to help.

In this episode, we'll dive into why life looks so different for someone healing from a concussion, from navigating mental fatigue to managing energy like a depleted battery. We'll also explore ways to communicate and show support without comparing or assuming—and why this can make a world of difference for both you and your loved one.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 Why simple tasks can now feel incredibly draining for your loved one

👉 How neurofatigue and energy depletion impact daily activities

👉 Practical ways to communicate and show support without comparisons

👉 Tips for creating safe, open spaces for your loved one's needs to be met

Understanding these nuances is key to navigating the shifts in your relationship. Whether you're a partner, spouse, parent, or friend, this episode is for anyone who wants to truly support someone on their healing journey.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Want to catch all the goodness from the summit? You can still enjoy lifetime access and all the bonuses here:

Clinicians, click here: https://gtly.to/nzL0BfRpn

Healing journey, click here: https://gtly.to/IzvvEANk3

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Your vote means a lot. Thank you!

Have you ever felt the fire of your passion finally come to life, creating real impact in the world?

Many of us have a drive to help others—especially those recovering from concussions—but find ourselves held back by a lack of confidence or resources. You might feel an eagerness to serve but face the frustration of not knowing how to deliver consistent, impactful results.

When you struggle with doubt, you risk limiting your reach and the positive change you can bring. But there's a way to overcome this! With the right framework and community support, you can transform that passion into a lasting impact.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 How having a clear framework for concussion care builds confidence and trust

👉 Real-life success stories of clinicians who are now leaders in their communities

👉 Ways a collaborative approach fuels progress for both providers and patients

👉 An exciting initiative that could support you in your mission to provide affordable, comprehensive concussion care

In this episode, we're celebrating Emily from Fernie, British Columbia, who turned her passion into a thriving clinic serving her community's unique needs. Her success story is just one example of the powerful ripple effect of expert concussion care. Plus, you'll learn how you can support an upcoming initiative that will help fund treatment scholarships and provide tools to clinics, making top-quality care more accessible.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Want to catch all the goodness from the summit? You can still enjoy lifetime access and all the bonuses here:

Clinicians, click here: https://gtly.to/nzL0BfRpn

Healing journey, click here: https://gtly.to/IzvvEANk3

Click this link if you'd like to support me in the Fab 40 Over 40 competition: https://votefab40.com/2024/natasha-wilch

Your vote means a lot. Thank you!

Do you ever feel like you've hit a dead end on your healing journey?

Too often, people struggling with persistent concussion symptoms hear from providers that "this is your new normal" or that they "should've been better by now." These words can crush the small flame of hope patients cling to, making recovery seem out of reach.

But here's the truth: Hope is a science, and it's a critical component of healing. We explore how hope is not just a feeling but a practical framework for motivation and progress.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 Why the words "this is your new normal" can be harmful to recovery

👉 How hope acts as both a desire and mindset that fuels healing

👉 The two critical types of thinking in the science of hope—and why most concussion patients excel in only one

👉 Actionable steps you can take to reignite your sense of hope, whether you're a patient or clinician

By fostering hope, both patients and providers can find a path to meaningful recovery.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Want to catch all the goodness from the summit? You can still enjoy lifetime access and all the bonuses here:

Clinicians, click here: https://gtly.to/nzL0BfRpn

Healing journey, click here: https://gtly.to/IzvvEANk3

Many people zero in on physical rehab, neck care, and eye exercises when healing from a concussion—but what if the secret to faster, smoother recovery lies in something you might be neglecting: your sleep?

If you've been stuck in a frustrating cycle of brain fog, irritability, and sluggish memory post-concussion, the missing link could be your inconsistent sleep patterns. Research shows that poor sleep exacerbates these symptoms and drags out recovery. So, what can you do about it?

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 How sleep disruption between days 14-30 post-injury can lead to cognitive and emotional struggles

👉 Why sleep is crucial for flushing toxins from the brain and improving neuroplasticity

👉 Key tips for establishing consistent sleep routines to kickstart your recovery

👉 The truth about sleeping pills: how they help, when they hurt, and why they're not a long-term fix

If you've been focusing solely on rehab exercises without addressing sleep quality, it's time to shift priorities. Early sleep support can mean the difference between a prolonged healing process and getting back to your best self. Let's dive into the critical connection between sleep and concussion recovery—and start taking action today.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Want to catch all the goodness from the summit? You can still enjoy lifetime access and all the bonuses here:

Clinicians, click here: https://gtly.to/nzL0BfRpn

Healing journey, click here: https://gtly.to/IzvvEANk3

Are you sabotaging your concussion recovery without even realizing it?

It's easy to fall into the trap of outdated advice, like waiting for your symptoms to disappear or relying solely on your physician. But are you aware of the three most common pathways people follow after a concussion—and which one could be prolonging your recovery?

Here's the truth: doing nothing, relying solely on your GP, or waiting for symptoms to fade can actually delay healing. However, there's a much better way to navigate your recovery and get back to feeling like yourself again.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 The 3 most common (and often ineffective) pathways people take after a concussion.

👉 Why general practitioners may not be your best bet for concussion recovery.

👉 The ideal first steps to take within the first four days of a concussion.

👉 How a concussion-literate provider can accelerate your healing.

Choosing the right path early on is critical to a successful recovery. Let's stop waiting and start healing smarter!

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Want to catch all the goodness from the summit? You can still enjoy lifetime access and all the bonuses here:

Clinicians, click here: https://gtly.to/nzL0BfRpn

Healing journey, click here: https://gtly.to/IzvvEANk3

If you've been struggling with persistent concussion symptoms or find that traditional treatments just aren't hitting the mark, you may be missing out on an integrative approach to healing. Most people think concussion care is just about addressing one issue at a time, but the truth is, your recovery could be much faster if all of your symptoms were treated together.

So, what's holding you back from real progress? It could be that you're piecing together different treatments without connecting the dots. Integrated rehabilitation is the holistic game-changer that makes everything work together for better results.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 How integrated rehabilitation brings faster, more effective healing.

👉 Why treating multiple systems at once leads to bigger breakthroughs.

👉 How misaligned focus in concussion care can slow your recovery.

👉 The impact of personalized treatment in concussion rehabilitation.

Ready to learn how an integrative approach can transform your recovery—or your practice? Let's dive in and change the way you look at concussion care, for good.

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Want to catch all the goodness from the summit? You can still enjoy lifetime access and all the bonuses here:

Clinicians, click here: https://gtly.to/nzL0BfRpn

Healing journey, click here: https://gtly.to/IzvvEANk3

Have you ever wondered if your healthcare provider is truly recognizing all aspects of your concussion? Could there be critical symptoms overlooked, delaying your recovery?

Too often, concussions go undiagnosed in emergency rooms, orthopedic offices, and general practices. Providers might focus solely on the immediate trauma and miss the underlying concussion. This can leave patients confused, scared, and without a proper recovery plan. The good news? Awareness is the first step to ensuring no one gets left behind.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 Why motor vehicle accidents and falls are leading causes of undiagnosed concussions

👉 The importance of early concussion screening, even in orthopedic settings

👉 How patient feedback can teach clinicians to improve care

👉 Why a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for full recovery

This episode is all about raising awareness—among both clinicians and patients—so that together we can improve the concussion diagnosis and treatment process. Ready to learn more? Tune in and take that next step in your concussion journey!

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Join us for our upcoming CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT this fall: https://www.natashawilch.com/virtual-summit

What if the root cause of your lingering symptoms isn't what you think it is?

For those living with a brain injury or concussion, it's easy to assume that all the symptoms—headaches, dizziness, fatigue—stem directly from the injury itself. After all, isn't that what most of us have been told?

But what if this belief is actually keeping you from healing? In this episode, our guest, Cristabelle Braden, reveals how she spent years chasing treatments and medications for her traumatic brain injury (TBI), only to discover that some of her most debilitating symptoms had a different root cause entirely. Through a transformative journey of self-advocacy, she learned that finding the real issue is the first step to lasting relief.

In this episode, you'll learn:

👉 How Christabellel's 12-year journey through brain injury treatments led her to the discovery of a hidden condition affecting her daily life.

👉 The importance of understanding root causes versus symptoms in brain injury recovery.

👉 Practical strategies for advocating for yourself when traditional medicine falls short.

👉 The surprising dietary and lifestyle changes that brought Christabelle newfound freedom and relief from chronic symptoms.

Join us as we explore the importance of digging deeper for answers, empowering you to take control of your recovery journey and find hope beyond the diagnosis.

Connect with Cristabelle Braden:

Website: https://cristabellebraden.com

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

Let's connect!

Instagram:@natasha.wilchEmail: [email protected] Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com

Be the FIRST to know all the information for our upcoming CONCUSSION NERDS VIRTUAL SUMMIT this fall by joining the waitlist HERE https://www.natashawilch.com/summit-waitlist