Today's guest is Lee Schwartz , a speaker, author, advocate, and proud father of two former NFL players. In his book Raising Giants, Lee shares the real-life story of how love, discipline, and vision helped shape his sons, Jeffrey and Mitchell, into elite athletes and grounded men. He serves on the West Coast Advisory Board of the Concussion and CTE Foundation , which is dedicated to researching the causes of CTE. Lee joined the podcast to share his powerful story and advocacy.In this episode, Lee discusses his family’s journey with football and his growing passion for CTE advocacy. Lee shares his "sobering" experience attending the CTE summit, which inspired him to join the advisory board of the Concussion and CTE Foundation. He discusses the difficult reality that CTE is currently only diagnosable postmortem and the importance for parents to be aware of the risks to their children of playing contact sports when young.Key Topics Discussed:Lee’s Journey: How writing the book Raising Giants led him to the Concussion and CTE Foundation.Youth Sports & CTE: The critical need for parents to educate themselves about the risks of contact sports, emphasizing the statistic that approximately 1.1 million high school football players exist, yet only about 11 go on to play 10 years in the NFL.The Science of CTE: An explanation of how the brain moves and sustains damage from both concussive and sub-concussive hits. A recent study mentioned in the episode found that "neurodegenerative mortality was nearly four times higher in NFL players."Warning Signs: Symptoms to watch for (like memory issues, headaches, depression, and personality changes) and a reminder that the youngest case of CTE diagnosed so far was in a 15-year-old.Relevant Prior Episodes:Interview with Julia Manning from the Concussion and CTE Foundation.Interview with Laura Dyer (personal story of a brother diagnosed with CTE).Resources MentionedLee's Book: Raising Giants: My Extraordinary Journey with TWO NFL Sons Author Website: www.raisinggiantsbook.com Social Media:X (Twitter): @RaisingGiants_Instagram: @raising_giants_bookFacebook: Raising GiantsFoundation: Concussion and CTE Foundation (formerly Concussion Legacy Foundation) Website: concussionfoundation.org Free Support: Available via the CLF HelpLine (free, personalized support via phone, text, or email): https://concussionandcte.org/helpline/Connect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

Clare Sharpen is a registered health coach and founder of The Brain Health Coach UK. Based in London, Clare spent over two years recovering from post-concussion syndrome following a fall in June 2023. During her recovery journey, she discovered the profound impact of nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and nervous system regulation on brain health. Now she runs the Post-Concussion Wellbeing Course, a group program supporting people through post-concussion recovery using a holistic approach alongside any clinical care they may be receiving. Clare describes her experience as "a gift wrapped in suffering" and is passionate about helping others turn their post-concussion struggles into opportunities for becoming more health-filled, self-compassionate, and attuned to their bodies.In this powerful episode, Clare Sharpen shares her three-year journey through post-concussion syndrome, offering hope and practical wisdom for anyone navigating this invisible injury.Clare's concussion occurred when she fainted in a restaurant and fell headfirst down a set of wooden steps. Despite being unconscious for 5-10 minutes, she declined ambulance transport. She saw multiple medical specialists over 10 weeks—including a cardiologist—and not one mentioned the word concussion, instead focusing on her low blood pressure and heart rate.While listening to a podcast about the gut-brain connection, Clare heard the term "brain injury." When she googled post-concussion syndrome, she found a list of symptoms that matched her experience perfectly. "I literally nearly fell out of the hammock," she recalls.Key Recovery Strategies1. Nervous System Regulation (The Foundation)2. The Neuroscience of Pain3. Vestibular Physiotherapy & Graded Exercise4. Nutrition & Lifestyle5. Hypnotherapy for Lingering Light & Noise SensitivityAdvice for Loved OnesGet professional help for the person with concussion. She wishes her family had sought a concussion coach sooner rather than trying to figure everything out alone. You don't need to become an expert—let experts guide you.The Gift in SufferingClare describes her experience as a gift wrapped in suffering. She's emerged from her recovery more peaceful, less frantic, and with a deeper understanding of herself. Her identity is no longer tied to productivity or achievement.Resources MentionedBooks"The Way Out" by Alan Gordon – Understanding chronic pain and the brain's role in creating itAppsCurable – Neuroscience-based pain reprocessing appHypnotherapist (Recommended by Clare)Jacqueline PanchaudEmail: [email protected] Clare SharpenWebsite: thebrainhealthcoach.co.ukEmail: [email protected] & Facebook: @thebrainhealthcoachukConnect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

Steve Clapp is a retired marketing and finance professional from the Chicago area who suffered a concussion in January 2025 after falling on an icy driveway. His injury led to persistent post-concussion syndrome (PCS) that affected nearly every aspect of daily life—visual overload, screen intolerance, sleep disruption, and visual vertigo made even ordinary environments difficult to navigate. Through self-advocacy, persistence, and finding the right providers, including NCX Brain Recovery and neuro-optometrist Dr. Devin Duvall, Steve has made remarkable progress in his recovery journey.In this inspiring episode, Steve Clapp shares his concussion journey and the challenges of navigating a healthcare system that often felt confusing and inconsistent. He discusses how a seemingly minor setback during vestibular therapy triggered a major flare that launched him into full-blown PCS, and how his world became increasingly smaller as symptoms worsened. Steve emphasizes that self-advocacy became one of the most important parts of his recovery—learning to advocate for himself, find the right providers, and not give up hope.Key topics covered include:The initial injury and lack of concussion education at the ERThe emotional toll of losing meaningful activities and his part-time job: his world ‘getting smaller’The importance of finding providers who specialize in concussion patientsHis experience at NCX Brain Recovery's two-week intensive programWorking with neuro-optometrist Dr. Devin Duvall for vision therapy, which also helped with his sleepManaging insomnia and nervous system dysregulationFinding balance between monitoring symptoms and taking breaks from thinking about recoveryThe importance of support from loved ones and finding a talk therapistPCS is non-linear. Recovery happens in phases, and progress is rarely a straight line. Self-advocacy is critical. Patients need to take an active role in finding answers and evaluating treatment options.The right providers exist. Finding practitioners with deep experience treating PCS makes a tremendous difference.Improvement often becomes visible only when you look backward. Recovery can feel frustratingly slow when measured day to day, but meaningful progress and healing are possible.The emotional component of PCS is often underestimated. Managing fear, uncertainty, setbacks, and nervous system activation is an important part of the recovery process.Steve's story is also a reminder that healing isn't just about treatment—it's about learning to navigate uncertainty, manage the emotional side of recovery, and continue moving forward even when progress isn't always obvious. His experience offers practical lessons and encouragement for anyone trying to find their way through post-concussion syndrome.Resources MentionedNCX Brain RecoveryIntensive concussion rehabilitation program offering occupational therapy, multi-sensory integration, and brain enhancement. Steve attended their two-week intensive program.Website: https://www.ncxbrainrecovery.com/Location: Springville, UtahDr. Devin Duvall, OD - Neuro-OptometristBoard-certified neuro-optometrist specializing in vision therapy and vision rehabilitation for concussion patients. Steve completed an intensive vision therapy program with Dr. Duvall.Website: https://www.newsightvt.com/Location: Provo, Utah (also offers virtual consultations)Dr. Duvall Podcast EpisodesEPISODE 28: How Vision Therapy Can Help With Concussions: Interview with Dr. DevinEpisode 111: Unlocking Concussion Recovery with Light: A Deep Dive into Syntonics with Dr. Devin DuvalEPISODE 116: Primitive Reflexes, Sleep, and Setbacks in Concussion Recovery: Interview with Dr. DevinGuest Contact InformationSteve ClappEmail: [email protected] has graciously offered to be available to answer questions from listeners who may be on their own concussion recovery journey.

Porter Charles is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, and a workplace therapist. He is also a TBI survivor, bringing both professional expertise and lived experience to his work.He is the founder and CEO of Smooth Stone Counseling, where he supports individuals in navigating life and work imbalances. He specializes in shifting clients out of fear-based thinking into more grounded and sustainable ways of living. Porter offers virtual one-on-one sessions and workplace workshops and is passionate about creating accessible educational content to support emotional wellness and recovery. He currently serves as a board member for the Boston College School of Social Work Alumni and works with clients ranging from Harvard and MIT staff to executives, parents, and high schoolers.In this episode, host Bethany Lewis, the Concussion Coach, interviews Porter Charles, a former colleague from Cognitive FX. Porter shares his deeply personal journey of suffering a traumatic brain injury from a white-water rafting accident and the long, challenging road to recovery.The conversation covers the wide range of debilitating symptoms he experienced, including panic attacks, cognitive issues, and the "T" (trauma) part of the TBI. Porter discusses the difficulties of navigating a lack of understanding from medical professionals, the isolation of an "invisible injury," and the importance of finding effective treatments.He highlights the turning point at Cognitive FX, the importance of therapies like occupational therapy and EMDR, and how his experience ultimately guided his career path as a therapist. The episode provides hope for those suffering from concussions and offers practical advice for both survivors and their caregivers on the importance of addressing both the physiological and psychological aspects of recovery.Resources Mentioned and Contact InformationPorter Charles’ Website: Smooth Stone CounselingPorter’s email: [email protected]’s Facebook Handle: https://www.facebook.com/SmoothStoneCounseling Porter’s Instagram Handle: https://www.instagram.com/talktoporter_/ Porter’s TikTok Handle: https://www.tiktok.com/@talktoporter The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.orgEMDRIA (EMDR International Association): emdria.orgBrain Sparks (Nonprofit mentioned): brainsparx.org Cognitive FX (Treatment center mentioned): cognitivefxusa.comConnect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

Ali Rheaume is a speaker, author, artist, and accessibility specialist who is deeply passionate about supporting the disability and brain injury community. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Movement Science and a Master’s degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation.Ali is the owner of 199 Accessibility Consulting and her art business, Embracing Unique Art. She serves on the Brain Injury Council of Massachusetts, the Franklin Commission on Disability, and the NASHIA (National Association of State Head Injury Administrators) Education Committee. She is also the founder and facilitator of two community groups: a virtual support group called Life After Concussion and an in-person social hour for individuals with disabilities called Rise Up.Ali is a passionate advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and bringing people together to increase awareness and support for brain injury and disability.In this uplifting and insightful episode, host Bethany Lewis reconnects with previous guest Ali Rheaume (from Episode 46) to catch up on the developments in her life and work since they last spoke.Ali shares the heartfelt inspiration behind her new children's book, "Buddy the Brain," which she wrote and illustrated to help children understand brain injuries, helmet safety, and how to support loved ones who may be different after a brain injury. She also highlights the book's accessibility features, including large print, braille, ASL, audiobook, and e-book versions.The conversation then shifts to Ali's accessibility consulting business, where she offers a practical mini-masterclass on creating accessible digital content. She shares her top tips, including using left-aligned text, sans serif fonts, alt text, captions, and avoiding all caps or decorative fonts.Ali also shares about her advocacy work, the importance of digital compliance, and the power of community. She discusses her two support groups and offers profound, practical advice on navigating relationships and dating after a brain injury—emphasizing authenticity, setting boundaries, and taking small, celebratory steps forward.Finally, Ali leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: everyone's journey is unique, and progress happens one small step at a time. Whether you're a survivor, a caregiver, or a clinician, there is hope and a path forward.📚 Resources Mentioned by Ali Rheaume1. "Buddy the Brain" Children's BookAn educational, interactive book for children (K–2nd grade) that teaches about the brain, helmet safety, and brain injury in a kid-friendly way.Written and illustrated by Ali Rheaume, available on AmazonAccessible formats available: Large print, braille, ASL, audiobook with character descriptions, and e-book.Uses Ali's own accessible handwriting font on a clean white background for easy reading.Ali shared her top tips for making digital content more inclusive: Left-align text (not centered or justified) Use sans serif fonts (avoid script, decorative, or serif fonts) Avoid all caps and italics for long text Include alt text (image descriptions) for screen readers Add captions to videos (full sentences, not flashing single words) Place text on a solid background for better readabilityA monthly, growth-mindset support group for adults (18+) whose lives have been affected by concussion.When: Second Wednesday of each month, 2:00–3:30 PM Eastern Time.Where: Virtual (Zoom)Focus: Real, vulnerable conversation with a focus on moving forward, sharing tips, and mutual support—not just complaining.How to join: Sign up for emails via Ali's website to receive the Zoom link and monthly topic. https://alirheaume.com/A monthly, free in-person social hour in Franklin, Massachusetts, for anyone navigating disability.Activities include casual conversation, guest speakers, games, and crafts (e.g., flower arranging).Open to all, including friends and family.All activities are adaptive and accessible.

Jack Fonderwhite, LAc is the creator of Peak Mind, a novel electroacupuncture approach to neurostimulation, and the founder of Jackupuncture in Hawaii. He is a provider for some of Hawaii’s top talent, including UFC’s BMF champion Max Holloway. A former kickboxing competitor himself, Jack combines nearly a decade of clinical expertise with personal experience to help elite performers—especially combat sports athletes—elevate their brain’s ability to perform at its best in sport, work, and life. His brain-first approach specializes in helping present and former athletes recover from concussions and optimize their cognitive longevity.In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis reunites with her friend and fellow “Concussion Nerd” Jack Fonderwhite. They dive deep into the unique challenges of diagnosing, treating, and recovering from concussions in the world of combat sports (MMA, kickboxing, boxing, etc.). Jack explains why combat sports athletes face a higher risk of undetected sub-concussive impacts, the lack of baseline data in youth sports, and the importance of proactive brain care for those who choose to continue fighting. He shares powerful anecdotes about treating psychosis and hallucinations resulting from repeated head trauma, offers practical advice for parents of young fighters, and outlines how athletes can train safely without giving up the sport they love. Finally, Jack discusses his upcoming nonprofit to fund concussion care for youth athletes and how he works with clients both in-person and virtually.Resources Mentioned in the EpisodePupillometry / Reflex Pro: An app-based tool that scans the pupil’s response to light to assess autonomic nervous system function and screen for suspected neurological injury.Baseline Testing: Jack emphasizes the need for comprehensive baseline measurements (cognition, reaction time, balance, visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, and autonomic systems) before an athlete begins competing.Sub-threshold Cardio Rehab: An evidence-based recovery method using heart-rate-monitored exercise to help the brain heal after trauma.Contact & Follow Jack FonderwhiteWebsite: jackupuncture.comEmail: [email protected]: @jackupuncturehiPrevious Episode (Episode 104): Jack Fonderwhite on Electroacupuncture & ConcussionConnect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

Tim Whipple is a financial advisor and part-owner of his own firm from Provo, Utah. He is a husband of nearly 30 years, a father to five boys, and a proud first-time grandpa. Tim is also a former college football and rugby player who has navigated the long-term effects of multiple concussions, including a significant fall several years ago that led to post-concussion syndrome, brain fog, debilitating "belt" headaches, and emotional challenges.In this episode of the Concussion Coach podcast, host Bethany Lewis interviews Tim Whipple, a client she has worked with alongside fellow coach Kaylee Blair. Tim shares his journey from a slip that led to a concussion, to the gradual onset of debilitating symptoms, and his eventual path to recovery through treatment at Cognitive FX (where he also discovered three broken vertebrae in his neck). He discusses the emotional toll of irritability and anxiety, the practical strategies he now uses daily—such as stacking his schedule, using interval training for brain clarity, taking intentional "small quits," and leveraging tools like the ResiMax and light therapy. Tim offers wisdom on accepting that he may never be the same as before, finding hope in progress over perfection, and the importance of giving the brain time to heal. The episode is a powerful message of resilience, self-compassion, and practical recovery strategies.Resources Mentioned by Tim Whipple:Cognitive FX – A clinic specializing in concussion and PCS treatment (where Tim received brain scans and therapy).Brain Waves – Audio used to help the brain focus or take a restorative break (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brainwave-37-binaural-series/id307219387)Rezzimax – A device Tim uses when headaches begin to flare up.Full Spectrum Light Bed – The one recommended by coach Kaylee Blair: https://www.radiantvitality.com/ to help reset anxiety and calm the nervous system.A Child's Hope Foundation – An organization Tim works with, supporting orphanages in Mexico and other countriesInterval Training (modified) – Tim describes doing heart-rate-spiking exercises to help clear brain fogConcussion Coach Program – To work with both Bethany & Kaylee Blair: https://postconcussionsuccess.com/free-consultation/Guest Contact Info:Tim welcomes questions via Bethany Lewis. Listeners can send inquiries to:[email protected](Bethany will pass messages along to Tim)Connect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

Jordan Slingerland is a recent high school graduate from Gilbert, Arizona, currently in flight school. She has lived with misophonia since the age of 12 and has become a thoughtful advocate for herself and others with the condition. Jordan shares her personal journey of navigating school, family life, friendships, and work while managing intense reactions to common sounds like chewing, sniffling, and pen clicking. Her insight, vulnerability, and practical strategies offer hope and validation for anyone affected by this often-misunderstood neurological condition.In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis steps outside the usual brain injury discussion to explore misophonia – a chronic neurological condition where specific everyday sounds trigger intense emotional and physical reactions such as rage, panic, or disgust. Bethany is joined by her cousin, Jordan Slingerland, who shares her lived experience with misophonia, from her first trigger at age 12 to developing coping strategies that allow her to reclaim joy and connection. Together they discuss the fight-or-flight response, the isolating nature of the condition, practical accommodations for school and work, tools like AirPods and loop earplugs, and the importance of self-advocacy and family support. This episode offers invaluable insight for anyone with misophonia, their loved ones, and even concussion survivors who deal with sound sensitivity.Resources Mentioned by Jordan Slingerlandsoquiet.orgComprehensive resource for misophonia research, support groups, tools, and free “misophonia cards” to share with others.AirPods / Bluetooth headphonesUsed constantly to block trigger sounds and provide a sense of control.Loop earplugsReusable, discreet earplugs that reduce sound without full noise cancellation; helpful for testing environments where Bluetooth isn’t allowed.Wax earplugsMoldable earplugs that block sound effectively.504 Plan (school accommodations)Legal document in U.S. schools that can allow headphone use, preferential seating, separate testing rooms, and other supports.AMC theater assistive listening devicesHeadphones that sync to the movie screen, available for patrons who need them (useful for blocking out audience sounds).Family accommodationsNon-food family activities (walks, pool time, family meetings) and separate seating during meals.Breathing exercises & rainbow grounding techniqueIn-the-moment strategies to distract the brain and calm the nervous system.Daily reflection practiceReviewing both positive and negative moments to prevent misophonia from canceling out the good parts of the day.Jordan Slingerland Email: [email protected] Connect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

In this returning episode of The Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis (The Concussion Coach) reconnects with Sharik Peck and Katyrra Larson to explore the latest developments with the Rezzimax PainTuner—an external vagus nerve stimulator that uses gentle resonance (in the frequency range of a cat's purr) to calm the nervous system. Sharik shares exciting updates, including a new Philippines-based study using the device to help breast cancer patients manage stress, pain, and GI dysfunction, as well as ongoing TMJ research in the US. The conversation dives into innovative applications of the tool: a new mouthpiece attachment for cranial nerve stimulation (helping a brain-injured patient regain speech and focus), and scraping techniques that combine vibration with myofascial release. Katyrra provides practical calming strategies for acute anxiety and startle responses (including humming with the tongue between the teeth). Sharik also shares a powerful trauma release protocol (Stress Down Regulation/Resilience program) that combines breathing, flexor engagement, and sensory input to help the brain reorganize traumatic memories—a protocol that does not require the device but is accelerated by it. The episode emphasizes nervous system regulation as the cornerstone of concussion recovery, and Bethany shares her personal enthusiasm for the tool, including a listener discount and money-back guarantee.Resources Mentioned by the GuestsRezzimax PainTuner (and the "Mini" version)Rezzimax Mouthpiece Attachment (for oral/cranial nerve stimulation)Recipes (Protocols) Library – Found on the Rezzimax website (video + written steps)Whole Body De-Stress rezzipe: https://rezzimax.com/pages/rezzipes-whole-body-destressStress Down Regulation / Resilience program (trauma release): https://rezzimax.com/pages/rezzipes-stress-down-regulationMoro reflex protocol (for startle response): https://rezzimax.com/pages/rezzipes-primitive-reflexes-moro-startle-reflexRezzimax YouTube Channel – Contains the trauma release presentation and all instructional videos https://www.youtube.com/@RezzimaxDiscussed Practitioners & Concepts:Dr. James Sheen & Dr. Edward Chauvin – protocols for addressing dormant fungi/molds/virusesDr. Sean Drake – breathwork for high-level performersAndrew Byrne – work with "singing athletes" and cranial nervesGua sha & Astym (scraping techniques enhanced with vibration)Contact & Discount Information from the ConversationRezzimax Purchase & Discount Code: https://rezzimax.com/?ref=BethanyLewis Use code BethanyLewis in the discount section for $75 offRezzimax Money-Back Guarantee: Available if you try it and don't love itPrevious Episodes Referenced: Episode 47 (Sharik alone) and Episode 76 (Sharik & Katira)RezziMax Website & Recipe Access:  rezzimax.com Trauma Release Protocol Location: RezziMax website → Recipes → Emotional Clearing → "Stress Down Regulation or Resilience program"Previous episodes with Sharik peck:1. Healing the Nervous System Through Resonance2. External Vagus Nerve Stimulator: Rezzimax Pain Tuner ProConnect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

In this powerful crossover episode, Bethany Lewis (The Concussion Coach), a neurological occupational therapist and certified life coach, joins Bruce Parkman of the Broken Brains podcast to shatter common myths about concussions. Bethany explains that you don't need to be knocked out—or even hit your head—to sustain a concussion, and that the severity of the impact doesn't always predict the outcome. She discusses how concussions are often misdiagnosed as mental health issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD), the critical link between repetitive head impacts and long-term brain health, and how women and girls are more susceptible yet severely understudied. Bethany offers hope through neuroplasticity and whole-person recovery, while providing essential advice for parents: believe your child’s symptoms, prioritize their brain over the sport, and advocate for proper care. This episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, coaches, and anyone wanting to understand the true impact of a "silent injury."Connect with Bethany:Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the websiteFree Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultationEpisodes mentioned by Bethany:The Concussion Coach Podcast episode 124 with Dr. Kellianne Arnella: https://youtu.be/k7CbCVzjQNQThe Concussion Coach Podcast episode 96 with Natasha Wilch: https://youtu.be/9CDVMmmBpJIBethany Lewis on Concussions, Neuroplasticity & Protecting Kids from Brain Injury | Broken Brains Podcast Episode 88Bethany Lewis joins Bruce Parkman to discuss the realities of concussions, the dangers of repetitive brain trauma, and how parents can better protect their children.In This Episode, We Cover:Concussions and repetitive brain trauma Neuroplasticity and brain recovery Symptoms and warning signs of concussion Mental health and brain injury Advice for parents, coaches, and athletes Key Takeaways:Concussions are brain injuries, not “just headaches” Early awareness can improve recovery outcomes Neuroplasticity gives hope for healing Parents must prioritize brain health over sports performance Resources & Links:The Concussion Coach Head Smart App Repetitive Brain Trauma Summit 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts  📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most. Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman FoundationSupport The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today!https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW! https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma02:33 Bethany Lewis & Her Concussion Journey05:07 The Problem with Concussion Education10:48 Concussion Myths vs Reality14:11 Why Parents Need More Awareness18:43 The Fragility of the Human Brain21:28 Neuroplasticity & Brain Healing25:34 Changing the Conversation Around Concussions28:27 Concussions in Female Athletes32:02 New Treatments for Concussion Recovery35:19 Recognizing Symptoms & Seeking Help39:26 Mental Health After Brain Injury44:23 Advice for Parents on Protecting Their Kids🔗 Resources & Links:The Concussion Coach – https://theconcussioncoach.com/Head Smart App – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.headsmartRepetitive Brain Trauma Summit – https://usfhealth.usf.edu/braintrauma🎯 Subscribe for more conversations on brain health, concussion recovery, and mental resilience.