The Brain Development Podcast

Lara Barnes
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The Brain Development Podcast provides parents with a pathway to healing the behavioural and learning symptoms of their Autistic, Dyslexic, ADHD, OCD, Asperger's, Dyspraxic, and Dysgraphic child.  This podcast covers topics like building the foundation of the brain, correcting the behavioural and learning issues you see in your child with a neurodiverse child.  We shared parent success stories, expert insights, how the brain develops, what causes changes in a child's trajectory, how to help your child, gut health, microbiome, supplements, diet, nutrition, lab testing, visual and auditory systems, correcting the trajectory of a child with primitive reflexes, nervous system, photobiomodulation and so much more.  Join us to understand how you can help build your child's brain to let your child shine.

  1. 11 HR AGO

    ADHD Beyond the Label: A Strength-Based Guide for Parents With Sean McNicholas

    In this interview from the Brain Development Podcast, Lara interviews Sean McNicholas, an ADHD therapist who specializes in supporting teenagers and adults. Sean shares his personal journey living with ADHD and his professional shift from corporate life to psychotherapy, driven by a desire to understand the "why" behind neurological and emotional challenges. Sean advocates for a strengths-based approach to ADHD, reframing it not as a deficit, but as a different way of processing the world. He emphasizes that for individuals with ADHD, life is often a cycle of high and low stimulation, leading to impulsive or reactive behaviors when the brain is seeking balance. Key Takeaways Functional Disconnection: ADHD is often more than just a single diagnosis; it is frequently a mix of traits like dyslexia, dyspraxia, or OCD, suggesting an imbalance in how the brain's layers communicate. The Power of Routine: Individuals with ADHD often struggle with time blindness—living only in the "now" or "not now." External structures, like a physical diary rather than a digital one, provide the "certainty" the nervous system needs to feel safe. Co-Regulation: A child’s nervous system often mirrors their parent's. Sean suggests that parents must first regulate their own stress to effectively "co-regulate" and calm their child. The "Defender" Analogy: Much like a car needing a proper parking space, the tongue needs a wide palate to rest correctly. If the "parking space" is too small, it can lead to mouth breathing, which affects oxygen flow and brain function. Actionable Strategies for the Home Digital Detox: back-lit screens and vertical scrolling trigger dopamine releases that can "shut off" the prefrontal cortex, leading to meltdowns. Sean recommends a strict 2-hour screen-free window before bedtime. Nose Breathing: Encourage nose breathing over mouth breathing to ensure proper oxygenation and to prevent "over-breathing," which can keep the body in a state of stress. Supportive "No": Set clear boundaries with compassion. Children with ADHD crave boundaries to know where "the end" is, even if they test them frequently. Sean McNicholas Links https://www.instagram.com/theadhdexpert_/ https://www.newmetherapy.com/adhdtherapy SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    43 min

  2. 27 FEB

    The Airway Connection: How Your Child’s Mouth Shapes Their Brain With Dr Gabor Hermann

    Ever wonder why so many children today struggle with narrow smiles, restless sleep, or even focus issues? We’re sitting down with Dr. Gabor Hermann to explore why orthodontics is actually a "brain-first" specialty. Moving past the idea that braces are just for aesthetics, Gabor explains how the way a child breathes and swallows today dictates their neurological health tomorrow. We dive into the "stimulus" of early development from the muscle work of breastfeeding to the importance of chewing tough foods and how a lack of this stimulus is leading to a silent epidemic of narrow palates and restricted airways. This episode is a roadmap for parents who want to understand the "why" behind crooked teeth and how to ensure their child has the structural foundation to breathe, sleep, and grow into their full potential. Key Takeaways The Teeth are the Symptom: Crooked teeth are rarely the primary problem; they are a sign that the jaw and palate didn't have the space or "stimulus" to grow correctly. Airway is Priority #1: A narrow mouth often means a narrow airway. If a child's brain isn't getting enough oxygen during sleep, it can't develop or regulate emotions properly. The Tongue’s Critical Role: The tongue is the natural "expander" of the mouth. If it rests low (due to a tie or mouth breathing), the jaw will not develop wide enough. Early Intervention Matters: Modern soft diets lack the "chewing stimulus" needed for jaw growth; introducing texture and addressing mouth breathing early can prevent complex issues later. Collaborative Care: True healing requires a "team" approach, often involving orthodontists, ENTs, and therapists to fix the root cause of functional issues. 5 Featured Quotes "The teeth you see are a symptom of something else... the teeth move for a reason." "Compensation is the tax you pay when prevention fails." "What's the point of putting beautiful teeth on someone if they can't breathe?" "The brain is the biggest organ that grows first... and the biggest thing a brain needs to grow is oxygen." "It all starts with function: Lips, tongue, breathing. These three things create the foundation." Dr Gabor Hermann Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabor-hermann-orthodontist/ https://hermannortho.hu/en/hermannortho-english/ SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠⁠

    50 min

  3. 20 FEB

    Neuroplasticity Explained: Can the Brain Truly Heal at Any Age?

    Ever been told that a diagnosis is a life sentence or that the brain stops changing after childhood? Dr. Michael Longyear is here to challenge that "new normal." After a catastrophic injury left him paralysed, Michael used the very principles of functional neurology to walk again—and now he’s helping families do the same. We dive into the groundbreaking world of neuroplasticity, exploring how the brain can rewire and heal regardless of age or previous limitations. From understanding how "limbic loops" keep us stuck in cycles of chronic pain and anxiety to the power of the stories we tell ourselves, this conversation is a blueprint for possibility. If you’re searching for a way to move past labels like ADHD or developmental delay and want to tap into the actual biology of healing, this deep dive into the resilient human nervous system is exactly what you need. Key Takeaways A Diagnosis is Information, Not a Identity: A clinical label describes a current state; it does not dictate the future potential of a child’s developing brain. Neuroplasticity is Lifelong: The myth that the brain is "fixed" after childhood is debunked; the nervous system remains capable of change and adaptation throughout life. Breaking the Limbic Loop: Chronic issues—whether physical pain or emotional trauma—are often stored in "loops" that require specific neurological stimulus to break. The Power of Narrative: The stories we believe about our health and our children’s capabilities physically influence our neurology and recovery outcomes. The "Bottom-Up" Approach: Lasting change requires addressing the foundational levels of the nervous system before expecting higher-level cognitive or behavioural shifts. Dr Michael Longyear Links https://www.drmichaellongyear.com/ @drmichaellongyear, https://brainoi.com SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠⁠

    43 min

  4. 13 FEB

    Orthodontist Expert Explains How Mouth Breathing is Affecting Your Childs Brain Development!

    Did you know that the way your child breathes and chews today could dictate their health, sleep, and even their posture for the rest of their life? Dr. Steffen Decker joins us to bridge the gap between traditional orthodontics and functional growth. We strip away the idea that braces are just for "crooked teeth" and look at the underlying causes: narrow palates, low tongue posture, and the silent epidemic of mouth breathing. Dr. Decker shares his "Epiphany" at 2:00 am that linked dental structure directly to the airway, explaining why early intervention is about oxygen, not just aesthetics. From the way a baby latches to the impact of modern, soft diets on jaw development, this conversation is a vital roadmap for any parent wanting to prevent the "tax of compensation" later in life. We explore how a collaborative team of specialists can truly change a child’s life trajectory from the bottom up. Key Takeaways Function Over Aesthetics: Teeth move for a reason; crooked smiles are often symptoms of underlying functional issues like mouth breathing or poor tongue posture. The Airway Primary: Oxygen is the most critical nutrient for brain growth; a narrow palate restricts airflow, which can lead to sleep-disordered breathing and anxiety. The "Defender" Analogy: Jaw development is like parking a car (the tongue); if the parking space (the palate) is too narrow, the car cannot park correctly, leading to health cascades. Early Stimuli: Breastfeeding and chewing tough foods provide the necessary muscle activity to develop the jaw properly from birth. Holistic Synergy: True correction requires a team—dentists, ENTs, and myofunctional therapists—to ensure the brain and body communicate through a "closed circle" of stimuli. Timestamps & Chapters 00:00 – Introducing Dr. Stefan Decker: A Holistic Path to Orthodontics 05:30 – The Body Posture Connection: How Bite Affects the Whole System 10:45 – The 2:00 AM Epiphany: It All Starts with Lips, Tongue, and Breathing 15:15 – Breastfeeding vs. Bottle Feeding: The Stimulus of Jaw Growth 21:20 – The Asymmetry Cascade: How One-Sided Chewing Changes the Face 27:50 – Oxygen and the Brain: Why Airway Obstruction Leads to Anxiety 33:15 – The "Defender" Theory: Creating Space for the Tongue to Park 42:10 – Moving Beyond "Wait and See": The Importance of Early Intervention Dr Steffen Decker https://theorthodonticspecialist.co.uk/ https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dr-steffen-decker SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk⁠⁠⁠ HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠⁠

    1h 5m

  5. 6 FEB

    Why Breastfeeding and Latching are Foundational Brain Milestones

    Today on the Brain Development Podcast, Lara interviews Dr. Leo Hart! Dr. Hart discusses his work at Complete Care Chiropractic and Wellness Center. Dr. Hart is a functional neurologist and chiropractor based in Stuart, Florida. His practice focuses on uncovering and correcting the root causes of chronic health and neurodevelopmental challenges, primarily in pediatric patients. He specialises in: Key Takeaways Functional Neurology: Applying neurological principles to create lasting change in the brain and nervous system. Primitive Reflexes: Analysing and integrating these foundational reflexes to support proper brain development. Rehabilitation: Utilising vestibular and balance rehabilitation, eye movement exercises, and sensory stimulation. Metabolic Health: Addressing functional medicine and metabolic conditions, such as gut health and neuro-inflammation. Foundational Brain Development: Dr. Hart emphasises that many developmental issues, such as ADHD, sensory processing disorders, and mood regulation, stem from a "functional disconnection syndrome" or an imbalance in the brain's foundational systems. The Importance of Milestones: He highlights that early developmental milestones, including breastfeeding and latching, are critical indicators of neurological health. For instance, a failure to latch properly may point to impaired rooting reflexes caused by birth stress. Vagus Nerve Activation: To calm a child's nervous system, he uses various modalities to activate the vagus nerve, including light, vibration, and radiofrequency stimulation. He specifically mentions the auricular branch of the ear as a "magic area" for jump-starting a dead or exhausted nervous system. Environmental and Metabolic Factors: Successful treatment often requires addressing "neuro-inflammation" through gut testing, identifying food sensitivities, and managing environmental factors like screen time and sleep routines. SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk⁠⁠ Dr Leo Hart Links https://completecare.health/ https://www.instagram.com/drleohart/?hl=en HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠

    41 min
  6. Hope and Healing: A Deep Dive into the Transformative Journey of a Neurodiverse Child

    30 JAN

    Hope and Healing: A Deep Dive into the Transformative Journey of a Neurodiverse Child

    Lara shares her personal journey with her son Archie, detailing the challenges they faced and the transformative steps they took to support his neurodevelopment. Joined by Vicky Finlayson from the Happy Healthy Unicorn, Lara recounts the early signs of Archie's developmental delays, including speech and sensory issues, and how her quest for answers led her to explore various therapies and interventions. From understanding the importance of primitive reflexes to implementing dietary changes and engaging with specialists, Lara emphasises the significance of building a strong foundation for brain development. The episode is filled with emotional moments, including a poignant story about Archie’s breakthrough in communication, showcasing the hope and resilience that can emerge from the journey of parenting a neurodiverse child. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding Early Development: The importance of recognising early developmental milestones in children, such as rolling over, crawling, and speaking, is crucial for identifying potential delays and addressing them early on. Holistic Approach to Healing: A multi-faceted approach that includes dietary changes (like removing gluten and dairy), sensory integration, and various therapies (such as chiropractic care and auditory programs) can significantly improve a child's developmental trajectory. Role of Parental Advocacy: Parents play a vital role in advocating for their children’s needs, seeking out specialists, and being proactive in their child’s therapy and education to ensure they receive the necessary support. Building a Supportive Team: Finding the right practitioners who genuinely care about the child’s well-being is essential. Parents should feel empowered to move on from those who do not meet their expectations or provide adequate support. BEST MOMENTS "I started to piece it together by understanding what causes retention of primitive reflexes and it's missing or delayed motor milestones." - Lara "You just want the glimmers of hope to know that it's possible. And it is possible." - Lara "I had this meeting where she just told me that so much was wrong with my son, which, you know, you drive back in the car and you cry your eyes out." - Lara "You have to think nasal, mouth, and then gut. And the nasal cavities are so critical because that's your filter paper." - Vicky HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    47 min
  7. Unlocking Potential: Dr. Gen's Journey in Transforming Neurodiverse Lives

    23 JAN

    Unlocking Potential: Dr. Gen's Journey in Transforming Neurodiverse Lives

    Lara welcomes Dr. Gen, a functional neurologist and neurodevelopmental specialist from Australia, who runs the clinic Nurturing Brain Potential. Dr. Gen shares her journey into the field, highlighting her work with neurodiverse children facing challenges such as speech delays, sensory processing issues, and behavioural regulation. She discusses the importance of understanding the neurological underpinnings of these behaviours and how her clinic employs non-invasive strategies, including photobiomodulation and vagal work, to stimulate brain development. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Gen emphasises the power of hope and the potential for change, sharing inspiring success stories of children who have overcome significant obstacles. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding Neurological Development: The podcast emphasises the importance of understanding the neurological development of children, particularly those who are neurodiverse. It highlights that many behavioural issues stem from developmental delays rather than purely behavioural problems. Hope and Empowerment for Parents: A central theme is providing hope to parents. The discussion encourages parents to visualise their child's potential and understand that significant improvements are possible through targeted interventions and therapies. Non-Invasive Strategies: The clinic focuses on non-invasive strategies to optimise brain development, including the use of lasers and other modalities to stimulate brain pathways. This approach aims to address underlying neurological issues rather than just treating symptoms. Importance of Vagal Tone: The podcast discusses the role of the vagus nerve and the importance of activating the vagal system to help children self-regulate their emotions. This is crucial for children who struggle with anxiety or behavioural issues. BEST MOMENTS "What it is, is connections. If we know the underdeveloped areas in the brain, and if we can use lasers and various modalities to stimulate the brain, then we can develop these pathways." - Dr Gen "Every tantrum is one less. If we get tantrums and when we do our work, we do increase the amount of tantrums, but it's very quick in a few weeks' time that nervous system starts to regulate." - Dr Gen "I think the biggest thing for parents is hope. Everywhere they've been to, they haven't given them much hope. But when you say, 'In our clinic, there have been so many miracles,' it makes a massive difference." - Dr Gen "I just don't believe that. I've always come at it... that you have to believe, one, two, there's always hope." - Lara GUEST BIO Dr. Gen Dharamaraj is a functional neurologist and neurodevelopmental specialist and the founder of Nurturing Brain Potential. She helps children overcome challenges with focus, learning, sensory processing, and behaviour by addressing the root cause — the organisation of the nervous system. Through non-invasive, brain-based strategies, Dr. Dharamaraj empowers families to build strong neurological foundations for lasting academic, emotional, and developmental success. Website : https://www.nurturingbrainpotential.com.au Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/nurturingbrainpotential/?hl=en SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    41 min
  8. Transforming Neurodiverse Brains: Sana’s Journey with Muhammad

    16 JAN

    Transforming Neurodiverse Brains: Sana’s Journey with Muhammad

    In this episode of The Brain Development Podcast, Lara sits down with Sana, a devoted mother whose son Muhammad has experienced remarkable changes in his behaviour, cognition, and overall well-being over the past year. Joined by naturopathic nutritionist Vicky, they share an inspiring, layered journey of healing that combines primitive reflex integration, diet, lab analysis, and specialist care. This conversation is a message of hope for parents navigating the challenges of neurodiversity, showing that with dedication, the right guidance, and a holistic approach, profound transformation is possible. From managing gut health to integrating brain development techniques, Sana’s story exemplifies the power of informed, proactive parenting. Key Takeaways: Neurodiverse children are not “naughty” or broken: Many behavioural challenges stem from gut dysbiosis, autoimmunity, inflammation, and unintegrated reflexes, not wilful misbehaviour. Layered approach works: Combining primitive reflex work, diet changes, lab-guided interventions, and specialist therapy can unlock developmental potential. Parents’ determination is crucial: Following expert guidance consistently and taking control of your child’s environment, including home schooling if necessary, can accelerate progress. Hope is possible: With perseverance, neurodiverse children can thrive, learn, and reach their full potential. Best Moments and Quotes: Sana: “It is a very, very hard journey and very heartbreaking even for the parents… but you have to take a decision and really look into where your child needs help.” Vicky: “There were layers and layers that could be peeled back, and every layer we addressed took off a chunk of symptoms.” Sana: “We saw the changes within three days. All the groundwork we did beforehand made it easier for him to improve.” Sana: “Believe in yourself. Never ever give up. I decided to sacrifice my freedom for a period of time for the good of my child.” SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/ https:/www.braindevelopment.co.uk https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/ HOST BIO Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

    51 min
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The Brain Development Podcast provides parents with a pathway to healing the behavioural and learning symptoms of their Autistic, Dyslexic, ADHD, OCD, Asperger's, Dyspraxic, and Dysgraphic child.  This podcast covers topics like building the foundation of the brain, correcting the behavioural and learning issues you see in your child with a neurodiverse child.  We shared parent success stories, expert insights, how the brain develops, what causes changes in a child's trajectory, how to help your child, gut health, microbiome, supplements, diet, nutrition, lab testing, visual and auditory systems, correcting the trajectory of a child with primitive reflexes, nervous system, photobiomodulation and so much more.  Join us to understand how you can help build your child's brain to let your child shine.

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