The Concussion Nerds Podcast

Natasha Wilch
  • 4.4 (14)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to The Concussion Nerds Podcast, where we revolutionize concussion care! This show is for passionate clinicians who want to excel in their field, move clients from stuck to excelling, and celebrate life's moments. Join us as we bring you cutting-edge advancements, practical tips, and inspiring success stories. Together, we'll propel concussion care into a new era, blending science with heart and soul. Whether you're a seasoned pro, a fresh face, or an individual on their own healing journey, this podcast is your ultimate resource. Let's build a community that uplifts and empowers one another, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in concussion care. Get ready to laugh, learn, and grow with me, Natasha Wilch, on The Concussion Nerds Podcast!

  1. 2d ago

    EP 124: When Concussion and ADHD Collide: Untangling Two Conditions that Look Identical

    Have you ever wondered if your concussion symptoms are really from your brain injury, or if something else could be contributing to the way you're feeling? Many people assume problems like poor focus, forgetfulness, irritability, or mental fatigue are simply part of concussion recovery. Others are told it's "just ADHD." The reality is that these two conditions share many of the same symptoms, making it difficult to know what's really going on. In this episode, we're unpacking the surprising overlap between concussion and ADHD, why symptoms alone don't tell the full story, and what clinicians, patients, and families should be looking for instead. Understanding the difference can lead to more accurate treatment, better recovery, and fewer people falling through the cracks. This episode is brought to you by Headquarters Health. Headquarters Health is on a mission to make world-class concussion care accessible to everyone. Through its virtual concussion clinic, patients can connect with concussion specialists and receive evidence-based, personalized care without the long wait. For healthcare providers, Headquarters Health also offers an AI-powered platform that streamlines multidisciplinary concussion management and supports better patient outcomes. Learn more at https://headquarters.health/nerds BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why concussion and ADHD can produce nearly identical symptoms, and why that matters. How a concussion can uncover previously undiagnosed ADHD or make existing ADHD symptoms worse. Why symptom checklists aren't enough to distinguish between concussion and ADHD. The key questions, assessments, and treatment considerations that can lead to better recovery outcomes. Whether you're recovering from a concussion, caring for someone who is, or working with patients, this episode will help you better understand the connection between concussion and ADHD so you can make more informed decisions about recovery. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    25 min

  2. Jun 22

    EP 123: Why Car Accident Concussions Aren't the Same as Sports Concussions

    Have you ever wondered why recovering from a concussion after a car accident can feel so much harder than recovering from a sports injury? Many people assume that all concussions follow the same recovery path. As a result, motor vehicle accident (MVA) concussions are often managed using frameworks designed for athletes, leaving important factors overlooked. The reality is that car accident-related concussions come with unique challenges. From whiplash and delayed access to specialized care to the stress of insurance claims and the increased risk of another accident, these factors can significantly impact recovery. Understanding these differences is the first step toward getting the right support and improving outcomes. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why concussions from motor vehicle accidents differ from sports-related concussions What new research reveals about the increased risk of repeat car accidents after a concussion The factors that may contribute to longer recovery timelines following an MVA Why early assessment and individualized concussion care are critical for recovery Whether you're recovering from a concussion, supporting someone who is, or working with concussion patients, this episode offers important insights into why one-size-fits-all concussion care simply doesn't work. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    15 min

  3. Jun 15

    EP 122: The Emotional Toll of an Invisible Brain Injury

    Have you ever found yourself trying to explain your concussion symptoms—only to be met with doubt, confusion, or the dreaded "But you look fine"? Living with an invisible injury can be incredibly isolating. Whether it's an employer questioning your ability to work, a doctor dismissing your concerns, a family member who doesn't understand, or even your own inner critic making you question your experience, constantly feeling like you have to prove your symptoms can become one of the biggest barriers to healing. In this episode, we're unpacking why people struggle to understand persistent concussion symptoms, how to navigate these difficult conversations with confidence, and the practical tools you can use to advocate for yourself without carrying the emotional burden alone. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why invisible injuries like concussion are so often misunderstood—and why that disbelief isn't a reflection of your reality. Practical scripts and communication strategies for talking with employers, doctors, family members, and insurance providers. How to advocate for the accommodations and support you deserve without feeling like you have to justify your symptoms. Why finding the right support system and challenging your own inner critic can become one of the most powerful parts of your recovery journey. You don't have to convince everyone to believe you—but you do deserve to be heard, supported, and equipped with the tools to navigate a world that can't always see what you're carrying. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    35 min

  4. Jun 8

    EP 121: What If It Isn't Dementia? The Hidden Impact of Falls and Concussion

    Could your elderly patient or loved one be living with a concussion that no one ever diagnosed? Too often, we associate falls in older adults with broken hips or "just getting older," overlooking the possibility of a brain injury. When memory problems, balance issues, or mood changes appear after a fall, they're frequently dismissed as normal aging instead of signs of a treatable concussion. In this episode, we explore why older adults are one of the most overlooked populations in concussion care, how age-related assumptions can delay recovery, and what clinicians and families can do to recognize the signs and advocate for better outcomes. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in older adults—and why concussions are often missed. How concussion symptoms can be mistaken for normal aging or even early dementia. The unique challenges and opportunities for concussion recovery in the aging brain. The simple question every clinician and family member should ask after a fall that could change someone's recovery journey. Whether you're a healthcare provider, caregiver, or someone supporting an aging loved one, this episode will challenge the way you think about falls and empower you to recognize the hidden signs of concussion that deserve attention. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    25 min

  5. Jun 1

    EP 120: Unveiling Triple PD: Insights from Dr. Abbie Ross and Dr. Dani Tolman

    Have you been told your dizziness is "just anxiety" — and wondered why you still don't feel like yourself months or even years later? Many people living with persistent dizziness make the mistake of assuming they simply have to learn to live with it. That's exactly why vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross and Dr. Danielle Tolman are joining me on the podcast today. Together, we unpack Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (3PD), one of the most misunderstood conditions affecting people with chronic dizziness, vestibular disorders, and persistent concussion symptoms. The longer dizziness goes unexplained, the more overwhelming and isolating it can become. Dr. Abbie Ross and Dr. Danielle Tolman explain why 3PD develops, how the brain can become stuck in a heightened state of threat detection, and why recovery requires more than simply pushing through symptoms. They share practical insights on nervous system regulation, graded exposure, and rebuilding trust in your body so you can regain confidence and get back to the activities that matter most. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: What Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (3PD) is and how to recognize its most common symptoms Why concussion, vestibular migraine, BPPV, and other vestibular conditions can contribute to chronic dizziness How Dr. Abbie Ross and Dr. Danielle Tolman approach treatment by addressing the whole person—not just the diagnosis Why recovery starts with nervous system regulation, education, and the right sequencing of rehabilitation Whether you're a clinician supporting patients with chronic dizziness or someone navigating these symptoms yourself, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of 3PD and renewed hope for recovery. Connect with Dr. Abbie & Dr. Dani: Social media: Instagram: @balancingactrehab Tiktok: @balancingactrehab YouTube: Balancing Act Resources Facebook: Balancing Act Rehab Email: info@balancingactrehab.com   Website:  Balancing Act Rehab The Dizzy Reset™, online program and community Merchandise, including true-to-size inner ear jewelry Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    38 min

  6. May 25

    EP 119: Cognitive Intolerance: The Concussion Symptom We Don't Talk About Enough

    Have you ever wondered why your brain feels completely exhausted after answering emails, sitting in a Zoom meeting, or trying to multitask after a concussion? So many people think they're "resting" after a concussion because they're not exercising or playing sports—but meanwhile, they're doom scrolling, juggling tasks, taking calls, and overloading their brain without even realizing it. The problem? Your brain doesn't distinguish between physical effort and cognitive effort. Thinking, processing information, emotional stress, multitasking, and screen time all demand energy from an already overwhelmed system. In this episode, Natasha breaks down what cognitive load really is, why it can delay recovery, and how to safely navigate return to work without pushing your brain past its limits. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why cognitive work can be just as exhausting as physical activity after a concussion The hidden ways multitasking, screen time, and emotional stress overload the brain What "cognitive intolerance" actually means and how to recognize it How to create a structured, supportive return-to-work plan that sets you up for success If you've been feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or confused about why your brain still feels "fried" after a concussion, this episode will help you better understand what's happening—and why recovery requires more than just physical rest. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    26 min

  7. May 18

    EP 118: The Brain Health Test Everyone Should Be Doing

    *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6a09fa52-3384-83ec-bcd5-81d7a7da6fc8-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-6a09fa52-3384-83ec-bcd5-81d7a7da6fc8-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> What if we approached brain health the same way we approach our dental checkups or yearly eye exams? Most people wait until they're dealing with brain fog, concussion symptoms, cognitive decline, or burnout before paying attention to their brain health. But by the time symptoms show up, changes may have already been happening behind the scenes for years. In this episode, we're diving into why proactive brain health assessments could completely change the future of concussion recovery, cognitive performance, and neurodegenerative disease prevention. From EEGs and eye-tracking technology to the impact of subconcussive hits in sport, this conversation explores what's possible when we stop being reactive and start paying attention before things go wrong. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: Why brain health baselines may become as important as annual physicals How tools like EEGs, saccadic eye testing, and reflex assessments can measure cognitive function What subconcussive hits may be doing to the brain even without a diagnosed concussion Why supporting your brain health now could impact your recovery and resilience later in life Your brain is involved in every single thing you do — and this episode might just change the way you think about caring for it. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    19 min

  8. May 15

    Presence Over Pressure Meditation

    What if raising your energy didn't require pushing harder… but simply slowing down long enough to reconnect with yourself? So many of us try to shift our mood, mindset, or frequency through force. We hustle for healing, chase productivity, and pressure ourselves to "feel better" faster. But true energetic shifts often happen in the quietest moments — through presence, softness, and allowing. In this gentle guided meditation, you'll be invited to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the light already within you. Through calming visualization and grounding awareness, this practice helps you move from pressure into peace and from striving into ease. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU'LL DISCOVER: How to create an energetic shift through presence instead of pressure A simple visualization to help you feel calmer, lighter, and more grounded Ways to reconnect with your inner warmth and sense of ease How breath and awareness can help raise your frequency naturally A gentle reminder that healing and alignment don't have to feel hard Whether you're starting your morning, resetting during a busy day, or winding down in the evening, this meditation offers a soft space to return to yourself. Take a breath, settle in, and let your inner light expand from the inside out. Let's connect!   Instagram:  @natasha.wilch https://www.instagram.com/natasha.wilch/ Email: hello@natashawilch.com Website: https://www.natasha-wilch.com   Join the Clinician's Edge to have Your Weekly Taste of Neuro Wisdom  here: https://www.natashawilch.com/clinicians-edge   Join the Concussion Mini School and Membership! Get the support and resources you need for concussion recovery: https://www.natashawilch.com/concussionminischool

    2 min
See All (142)

4.4
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Concussion Nerds Podcast, where we revolutionize concussion care! This show is for passionate clinicians who want to excel in their field, move clients from stuck to excelling, and celebrate life's moments. Join us as we bring you cutting-edge advancements, practical tips, and inspiring success stories. Together, we'll propel concussion care into a new era, blending science with heart and soul. Whether you're a seasoned pro, a fresh face, or an individual on their own healing journey, this podcast is your ultimate resource. Let's build a community that uplifts and empowers one another, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in concussion care. Get ready to laugh, learn, and grow with me, Natasha Wilch, on The Concussion Nerds Podcast!

Information

You Might Also Like