Dr. Don Watenpaugh is a scientist, sleep clinician, data artist, and poet with a PhD in physiology. His extensive career spans academia, NASA, and the U.S. Navy, focusing on human sleep, exercise, and environmental physiology. As a board-certified sleep medicine specialist, he directed a large urban sleep clinic for over 13 years, caring for patients and educating healthcare providers. Dr. Watenpaugh is an adjunct faculty member in physiology, anatomy, and biomedical engineering. He now creates data-driven art and poetry at Studio Videnda. In this episode, he brings his deep expertise to the critical relationship between sleep and concussion recovery.

Episode Summary:In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis welcomes sleep expert Dr. Don Watenpaugh, to explore the complex connection between sleep disturbances and concussion recovery. Dr. Watenpaugh explains the physiological reasons why concussions commonly disrupt sleep—from brain inflammation impacting cerebral spinal fluid "brainwashing" during non-REM sleep to the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The conversation delves into the different types of insomnia (sleep onset and maintenance) and their potential causes, including restless leg syndrome and sleep apnea.

Crucially, Dr. Watenpaugh provides actionable, evidence-based strategies to improve sleep and support brain healing. He discusses the evolving role of exercise as medicine, emphasizing safe, non-jarring activities like stationary cycling. He covers practical sleep hygiene tips, such as the importance of spinal alignment during sleep, the potential benefits of slightly elevating the head of the bed, and the disruptive effects of electronics and blue light. The discussion also touches on the careful use of supplements like melatonin, the special considerations for military personnel and student-athletes, and the overarching importance of patient education and self-advocacy. This episode is packed with science-backed insights to help listeners break the vicious cycle of poor sleep and prolonged concussion symptoms.

Key Resources & Strategies Mentioned:

• Exercise as Medicine: Safe, mild-to-moderate exercise (e.g., stationary cycling to avoid head acceleration) can aid concussion recovery and improve sleep. Always consult your doctor.

• Sleep Position & Environment:

• • Maintain spinal alignment; avoid stomach sleeping to prevent neck torsion.

  • Consider slightly elevating the head of the bed to help reduce intracranial pressure.

  • Remove electronics (TVs, phones) from the bedroom to avoid mental stimulation and blue light, which suppresses natural melatonin.

• Addressing Underlying Causes:

• • Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): Evening exercise (ending 2+ hours before bed) can help. Other treatments are available.

  • Sleep Apnea: A common cause of sleep maintenance insomnia. Treatment (e.g., CPAP) is critical for overall health and concussion recovery.

  • Hormonal Factors: Post-menopausal women may see a link between hormone changes and sleep apnea onset.

• Melatonin & Supplements: Prioritize natural melatonin production by managing light exposure. If using supplements, start with a low dose well before bedtime, monitor for side effects like headaches or grogginess, and consult your doctor.

• Patient Advocacy & Reliable Research: Dr. Watenpaugh stresses the importance of educating yourself using reliable, peer-reviewed sources like PubMed/MEDLINE, reputable medical institutions (e.g., Johns Hopkins & the Mayo Clinic), and professional organizations (e.g., American Academy of Sleep Medicine).

Dr. Don Watenpaugh's website:

Website/Data Art Studio: https://www.studiovidenda.com

Bethany Lewis & The Concussion Coach:

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Download at www.theconcussioncoach.com

Concussion Coaching Program: For personalized mentorship in recovery. Sign up for a free consultation HERE

Alyson Lim is an 18-year-old student from Singapore who sustained a concussion and whiplash after a car accident at age 15. Over the past three and a half years, she has navigated persistent post-concussion symptoms while adapting her education, relationships, and goals. Alyson’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, reframing adversity, and finding growth in the face of an often misunderstood injury. Now preparing for medical school in Perth, Australia, she shares wisdom beyond her years, emphasizing hope, pacing, and the mindset of “bouncing forward.”

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis talks with Alyson Lim about her concussion recovery journey since her car accident at 15. Alyson discusses the initial impact of her symptoms—headaches, dizziness, light and sound sensitivity, and cognitive challenges—and how they reshaped her academic path, leading her to move from a rigorous school system to a smaller private school that allowed her to prioritize rest and recovery. She shares the therapies and support that helped her most, including treatment at Cognitive FX in Utah, osteopathy for neck and jaw tension, and coaching with Bethany and Kaylee. Alyson also opens up about the emotional and identity challenges of being a teenager with a concussion, the critical role of family and friends, and how she cultivated hope and positivity. Throughout the conversation, Alyson offers actionable advice on pacing, gratitude, managing setbacks, and embracing a “bounce forward” mindset. Her story is a testament to the possibility of growth and renewed purpose after a concussion.

Resources Mentioned by Alyson:

• Cognitive FX – A treatment center in Utah specializing in post-concussion therapy, where Alyson underwent intensive neurorehabilitation. https://www.cognitivefxusa.com/

• Osteopathy – Sessions to address neck and jaw tightness related to whiplash and concussion.

• Post-Concussion Success Coaching Program – The coaching program with Bethany Lewis and Kaylee that provided emotional support, symptom management strategies, and recovery guidance.

• The “180 Exercise” – A mindset tool Alyson uses: spend 10 seconds acknowledging what you don’t like about your situation, then one minute focusing on what you hope for or what is positive.

• Supportive Academic Accommodations – Alyson highlights the importance of working with schools to secure adjustments like flexible attendance, quiet testing environments, and extra time.

Alyson’s Contact Information:

• Email: alysonlimst@gmail.com

• (Note: Alyson has given permission for listeners to reach out with questions or to share their own experiences.)

Bethany Lewis & The Concussion Coach:

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Download at www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Concussion Coaching Program: For personalized mentorship in recovery. Sign up for a free consultation HERE

Chris Garvin is a neuroscientist working at Neuronic, where he helps bridge the gap between emerging neurotechnology and real-world impact. With a background in neuroscience and experience in neurotech diagnostics, Chris is passionate about advancing brain health and recovery. Having grown up playing contact sports and experiencing concussions himself, he brings both personal and professional insight into the discussion of innovative recovery tools.Description/Summary: In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis chats with Chris Garvin about Neuronic, a photobiomodulation device that uses specific wavelengths of light to support brain healing. Chris explains the science behind how light therapy can reduce inflammation, boost cellular energy, and improve symptoms like brain fog, sleep issues, and emotional regulation following a concussion. He shares his own experience with concussion recovery, the development of the Neuronic helmet, and the promising results he’s seen in both clinical and at-home settings. Whether you’re exploring new recovery modalities or curious about the future of neurotech, this conversation sheds light on a non-invasive, accessible option for brain health and concussion rehabilitation.

Resources Mentioned by Chris:

• Neuronic Website: Learn more about the photobiomodulation device and its applications: https://www.neuronic.online/about-neuronic/about

• Clinical Locator Map: Neuronic has a network of clinics across North America where the device is available.

• Discount code: THECONCUSSIONCOACH https://checkout.neuronic.online/THECONCUSSIONCOACH

• Research Databases: For those interested in the science, Chris suggests searching "photobiomodulation" on PubMed or Google Scholar to explore the growing body of research.

• Link to webpage with research articles Chris mentioned: https://neuronic.teamaligned.com/room/692f56ac329350b5b8b91129/overview?avk=ee3c909f

• Paper Chris mentioned on photobiomodulation showing how 1070 light can switch microglia from an inflammatory M1 to an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202304025

Guest Contact Information:

• Email: chris.garvin@neuronic.online

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisgrvinneuro/

Bethany Lewis & The Concussion Coach:

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Download at www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Concussion Coaching Program: For personalized mentorship in recovery. Sign up for a free consultation HERE

Website: www.theconcussioncoach.com

Angela Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist, author, and founder of TimberNook, an award-winning, nature-based developmental program now operating in four countries. With a master's in occupational therapy and a background in kinesiology, she has become a leading voice on the critical importance of unrestricted outdoor play for sensory, motor, social, and emotional development. Her book, Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children, outlines the profound impacts of movement and nature on the developing brain and body.Description/Summary: In this enlightening episode, Bethany Lewis welcomes Angela Hanscom to explore the deep therapeutic benefits of nature and unstructured outdoor play. Angela shares her journey from traditional OT clinics to creating TimberNook, highlighting the sensory deficits she observed in children confined to indoor, structured environments. They discuss how the core developmental challenges many kids face today—issues with balance, attention, sensory processing, and emotional regulation—are remarkably similar to symptoms experienced by those recovering from concussion and brain injury.The conversation delves into the science of the vestibular system, explaining why movements like spinning, climbing, and rolling are not just play, but essential neurological workouts. Angela makes a compelling case for how natural, outdoor environments provide the varied, graded sensory input that "plastic" indoor settings cannot, promoting better integration, focus, and resilience. She also addresses the "risk paradox," explaining how overprotection can lead to poorer risk assessment and greater injury. For anyone—child or adult—dealing with sensory overwhelm, anxiety, or post-concussion symptoms, this episode offers a hopeful, practical argument for the healing power of getting outside, moving freely, and reconnecting with the natural world.

Connect with Angela Hanscom and TimberNook:

• Website: http://www.timbernook.com (Features new research on TimberNook's impact in schools)

• Email: angie@timbernook.com

• Instagram: @timbernook_global

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimberNook.Camps/

• Book: Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Hanscom

Bethany Lewis & The Concussion Coach:

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Download at www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Concussion Coaching Program: For personalized mentorship in recovery. Sign up for a free consultation HERE

Website: www.theconcussioncoach.com

Guest Introduction:Jennifer Foltz is a practitioner of Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, yoga, and compassion-centered coaching. She specializes in supporting people recovering from concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and strokes, as well as those dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, migraines, and TMJ. Having walked through her own TBI recovery after a plane crash in 2007, Jennifer deeply understands the importance of slowing down and listening to the body's wisdom.

Summary:In this powerful episode, Jennifer Foltz shares her personal journey of recovering from a traumatic brain injury. She opens up about the initial denial and resistance to the diagnosis, the challenging symptoms like rage, emotional dysregulation, and loss of social filters, and how acceptance became a turning point in her healing—even five years post-injury.

Bethany and Jennifer explore a wide range of holistic modalities that proved instrumental in Jennifer's recovery, including Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, somatic trauma work (like Somatic Experiencing and EMDR), Feldenkrais, light therapy, and the pure joy of dance. Jennifer emphasizes the critical importance of community, highlighting the transformative impact of the Love Your Brain Foundation and her own local Brain Injury Gathering.

The conversation delves into the often-overlooked emotional and existential crises that accompany brain injury, offering invaluable advice for both survivors and their loved ones. Jennifer explains the gentle, nervous-system-focused approach of Craniosacral Therapy and how it supports the body's innate healing intelligence. This episode is a beacon of hope, normalizing the long and non-linear recovery journey and underscoring that healing is always possible, connection is vital, and it's never too late to reclaim your life.

Jennifer Foltz's Information:

• Website: jenniferfoltz.com

• Email: hello@jenniferfoltz.com

Healing Modalities & Therapies Discussed:

• Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy: A whole-body therapy that helps release tension patterns and regulate the nervous system by tuning into the body's inherent rhythmshttps://www.craniosacraltherapy.org/

• Somatic Trauma Therapies:

• • Somatic Experiencing (SE): A body-centered approach to healing trauma and stress.

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): A psychotherapy treatment for trauma.

• Feldenkrais Method: A movement-based practice that increases awareness and improves function.

• Light Therapy: Mentioned as part of her therapeutic journey.

Support Organizations & Communities:

• Love Your Brain Foundation: https://www.loveyourbrain.com/ A non-profit offering free, evidence-based yoga, meditation, and community support programs for people affected by TBI and their caregivers.

• • Retreats, Online Groups, & Facilitator Training: Jennifer highly recommends their heart-centered, compassion-focused community.

• The Brain Injury Gathering (BIG): Jennifer's local, in-person support group in Sebastopol, California, focused on discussion, grounding practices, and mutual support.

Key Concepts & Advice:

• Healing Timeline: Challenging the myth that significant recovery is only possible within the first two years post-injury.

• Acceptance as a Journey: Emphasizing that acceptance is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.

• The Importance of Slowing Down: How brain injury forces a beneficial change in life pacing, allowing for deeper awareness.

• Advice for Caregivers: The critical need for self-care, patience, and maintaining one's own resources to be fully present.

• Normalizing Symptoms: Understanding that experiences like aphasia, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive changes are common symptoms, not personal failings.

Bethany Lewis & The Concussion Coach:

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Download at www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Concussion Coaching Program: For personalized mentorship in recovery. Sign up for a free consultation HERE

• Website: www.theconcussioncoach.com

Jason Kreuzman is a pediatric occupational therapist based in St. Louis, Missouri, specializing in Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and chronic pain. He is the Co-Chair of the FND Society Pediatric Committee and the Chair of the Multidisciplinary FND Committee at St. Louis Children's Hospital. As the founder of Rewire OT, Jason is opening a new outpatient clinic and leading the charge to create pediatric OT/PT treatment guidelines for FND. He joins us to demystify this complex condition and share a hopeful, practical path to recovery.

Description:

What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), and how is it similar to concussion recovery? In this fascinating episode, pediatric occupational therapist Jason Kreuzman breaks down FND—a disorder where the brain and body's communication goes awry, causing very real, debilitating symptoms like functional seizures, limb weakness, and tremors.

Jason shares his journey into this niche field, the heartbreaking stigma patients face, and the striking similarities between FND and post-concussion syndrome (including the "invisible" nature of symptoms and the "boom-bust" cycle). We dive deep into the role of occupational therapy in FND recovery, focusing on nervous system regulation, sensory integration, and the crucial "twist": focusing on the task, not the symptom.

We discuss:

• A clear definition of FND and how it's diagnosed.

• The surprising overlap between FND, chronic pain, and concussion.

• Why a holistic, team-based approach (OT, PT, Psychology) is essential.

• Practical strategies for nervous system regulation and interoceptive awareness.

• Crucial advice for parents and caregivers on co-regulation and advocacy.

• What to do (and what not to do) during a functional seizure.

• School accommodations.

• A powerful message of hope: recovery is possible.

If you or a loved one is navigating confusing neurological symptoms, this episode offers validation, clarity, and a roadmap to finding the right help.

Shownotes & Key Resources Mentioned:

Resources from Jason Kreuzman:

• RewireOT.com: Jason's central hub for FND resources, information, and updates on his outpatient clinic (opening late 2025).

• FND Society: Jason is the Co-Chair of their Pediatric Committee. The society offers lectures, research, and (with membership) a provider referral list. FNDSociety.org

Essential FND Information Hubs:

• Neurosymptoms.org: The "gold standard" patient education website, created and maintained by leading FND neurologists and researchers. An indispensable first stop for understanding the diagnosis.

• Patient-Led Advocacy & Support Groups: Jason highlights the incredible work of groups like FND Hope, FND What Now, and FND Action. These global communities provide connection, support, and resources.

Tool for Management:

• Neuro-Log.com: A symptom management and tracking app created by a person with FND. A fantastic tool for identifying patterns and triggers in daily life.

Guest Contact:

• Follow Jason's work and access resources at RewireOT.com.

The Concussion Coach:

• Download the free guide, "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion," or book a free consultation with Bethany at theconcussioncoach.com.

We are thrilled to welcome back the fabulous Dr. Devin Duval for another insightful conversation. Dr. Duval is a Neuro-Optometrist with a focus on pediatrics, vision therapy, and vision rehabilitation. He is a Fellow of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development (FCOVD), a member of the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association (NORA), and an associate professor at Rocky Mountain University. He is dedicated to advancing the field and helping patients with concussions and developmental challenges through neuro-optometric care.

Summary Description:

In this continuation of a fantastic conversation (see Episode 111), Bethany Lewis and Kaylee Blair dive deeper with Dr. Duval into three critical topics for concussion recovery:

1. Primitive Reflexes: Learn what primitive reflexes are, why they are crucial for our foundational neurological development, and how a concussion can cause them to re-emerge, creating symptoms like heightened startle responses, fidgeting, balance issues, and visual problems. Dr. Duval explains how reintegrating these reflexes through specific exercises can break through recovery plateaus and accelerate healing.

2. Sleep Hygiene: Dr. Duval shares essential, light-based strategies for improving sleep—a cornerstone of brain recovery. Discover why morning and evening light exposure is vital, how blue light from screens disrupts your sleep cycle, and how practical tools like blue-light-blocking glasses and red-light lamps can help you get the restorative rest you need.

3. Navigating Setbacks: Concussion recovery is rarely a straight line. Dr. Duval offers encouraging wisdom and perspective for those times when you feel you've taken "five steps back," reminding listeners that progress is an upward trend, even with inevitable peaks and valleys.

This episode is packed with actionable insights and hope for anyone on a concussion recovery journey.

Resources Mentioned

Previous Episodes with Dr. Duval:

• Episode 28: The Benefits of Neuro-Optometry for People with Concussions - Watch on YouTube

• Episode 111: Understanding and Using Syntonics (Light Therapy) in Concussion Recovery - Watch on YouTube

Primitive Reflex Resources:

• Book: "Reflexes, Learning and Behavior" by Sally Goddard Blythe. A foundational text on the subject, though noted as an "intense read." Also “Reflexes, Movement, Learning and Behavior: Analysing and Unblocking Neuro-motor Immaturity”

• Online Experts: Dr. Duval highlighted the work of Dr. Alexandar Andrich and Patti Andrich, OTR/L, COVT, CINPP, FNAP as leading resources and researchers in primitive reflex integration. Listen to the podcast with her.

• YouTube channel with helpful Primitive Reflexes info from Occupational Therapy Practitioners: https://www.youtube.com/@HarklaFamily

Sleep Resources:

• Blue Light Blocking Company: BlockBlueLight.com - A source for recommended blue-light-blocking glasses and ambient light bulbs that can be adjusted for different times of the day.

• Tool: Salt Lamps - Used to create a relaxing, red-light environment in the evening to signal the brain that it's time for sleep.

Work with Bethany:

• The Concussion Coach Program: If you're struggling with lingering symptoms, Bethany offers a coaching program to guide you through recovery: Sign up for a free consultation to get valuable information and resources at www.theconcussioncoach.com.

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Available at www.theconcussioncoach.com

Natasha Wilch is a registered physical therapist and a leading voice in concussion care. She is the founder of Symphony Brain Performance and a clinical mentorship program, Concussion Nerds. With a passion for evolving the conversation around concussion worldwide, Natasha brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to her work, informed by her own family's experience with her father's brain injury when she was a teenager.

Summary Description:

In this powerful and emotional episode, Natasha Wilch gets personal, sharing a story she's never told publicly before. She opens up about her experience as a 17-year-old watching her father struggle with a significant brain injury, detailing the profound impact it had on the family dynamics, her relationship with her parents, and her own sense of home and safety.

We discuss:

• The initial trauma of her father's accident and the long-term symptoms he faced.

• The feeling of "walking on eggshells" at home and how it shaped her ability to read subtle energy shifts—a skill she now uses as a clinician.

• The heartbreaking family rift that occurred and the pivotal moments that began to rebuild the bridge between her and her father.

• How this personal history ignited her passion for helping other families navigate the complex emotional and physical landscape of concussion recovery.

• Practical advice for individuals with concussions and their families on how to communicate, seek resources, and foster understanding to prevent similar struggles.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone on a concussion journey and their loved ones. It’s a raw, hopeful look at the ripple effects of brain injury within a family and a testament to the power of education, compassion, and healing.

Resources Mentioned:

• Natasha's Previous Episode (Episode 96): I Just Got A Concussion - Now What?

• Natasha's Clinic & Programs:

• • Symphony Brain Performance: Her in-person/virtual clinic.

  • Concussion Mini School: A FREE community and video resource library with monthly coaching calls.

  • Virtual Consultations: For individuals and families to chart a path forward.

• For Clinicians:

• • Concussion Nerds: Natasha's signature mentorship program for clinicians, including immersive in-person weekends.

• Connect with Natasha:

• • Instagram: @natasha.wilch

Podcast Host Contact Information:

Bethany Lewis, The Concussion Coach

• Website: www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" - Available at www.theconcussioncoach.com

• Coaching: Sign up for a free consultation for Bethany's concussion coaching HERE