The Neuro Collective Podcast

Dr. Michael Bagnell & May Bagnell
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Semiweekly

Welcome to The Neuro Collective Podcast! We are your hosts, Dr. Michael Bagnell, Functional Neurologist and May Bagnell, Mindset and Nutrition Coach. Together, we are here to guide you through the dynamic intersection of Functional Neurology, Mindset Coaching, and Functional Medicine. If you're passionate about neuroscience, alternative health, and holistic wellness, you're in the perfect place. Our podcast is designed for those who are eager to explore innovative ways to heal brain conditions, optimize brain performance, and enhance overall well-being.   We cater to everyone from health-conscious individuals to high-performing athletes. Each week, we bring you expert interviews, the latest research, and actionable tips to help you achieve peak mental and physical health. Together, we'll dive deep into the science and practicalities of brain health, empowering you to live your best life with a sharper mind and a healthier body. So, let's embark on this journey together and unlock the limitless potential of your brain. This is The Neuro Collective Podcast—where holistic health meets neuroscience.

  1. 14h ago

    Why Sleep Is the Night Shift Your Brain and Immune System Rely On-The Hidden Conversations Part 5 - 188

    Send us Fan Mail Unlock the Hidden Conversations Between Your Brain and Immune System — What You Need to Know to Heal Naturally Your brain and immune system are constantly talking — often unnoticed, yet their dialogue holds the key to your health. In this eye-opening episode, May Bagnell and Dr. Michael Bagnell reveal how sleep, stress, inflammation, and even gut health influence your immune function, from the microglia cells supporting your brain to the vagus nerve acting as a communication highway. Discover how immune signals like cytokines impact your mood, mental clarity, and even autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's, challenging the common notion that illness is solely about pathogens.You'll uncover:   How sleep acts as the nightly repair crew for your brain and immune system — and why prioritizing quality sleep is more critical than ever.  The role of cytokines in sickness behavior and real-world symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, and pain, revealing their impact beyond just infections.  Why chronic inflammation and immune misregulation can quietly sabotage your mental health, mood, and long-term vitality, even when you feel "fine."  The fascinating concept of "immunoseption" — how your brain's immune regulation is a two-way conversation, not just a one-way response to illness.  Practical steps to modulate autoimmunity, reduce stress-driven immune overload, and optimize vagus nerve function, supporting a balanced, resilient immune system.  Whether you're fighting fatigue, brain fog, autoimmune issues, or simply want to understand how your nervous system influences your health, this episode offers clear, actionable insights from top neuro and immune experts. Learn how to harness the power of your body's communication pathways to restore harmony and thrive at any age.Perfect for health-conscious individuals, biohackers, or anyone tired of band-aid remedies, this episode helps you decode your body's silent language — because understanding these hidden conversations could be your secret to lasting vitality.Remember: Your brain and immune system's dialogue is always happening — learn how to listen, influence, and turn the conversation in your favor.Tune in today and start rewiring your health from the inside out!Why this works:   Visit us at https://www.instagram.com/bagnell_brain_center/ #FunctionalNeurology #BrainFog #NeuroImmunology  For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  2. Jul 16

    Day in the Clinical Life: Vestibular and Visual Training in Action 187

    Send us Fan Mail Day in the Clinical Life: Vestibular and Visual Training in Action In this episode of The Neurocollective Podcast, we take listeners behind the scenes for a “day in the clinical life” as May Bagnell, IHP shares her personal experience with vestibular and visual system testing and training. The conversation explores how this technology works, what the evaluation measures, and why strengthening the vestibular system can have a profound impact on energy, clarity, balance, and overall brain function. What You’ll Learn What the vestibular system does and why it matters beyond balanceHow low vestibular function can show up as fatigue, fogginess, dizziness, and even emotional symptomsWhat the testing and training process looks like in the clinicHow a mathematically guided protocol is used to target imbalancesWhy the chair-based vestibular training can create noticeable shifts in just one sessionHow brainstem regulation connects vestibular function, heart rate, blood pressure, and dysautonomiaWhy this technology is useful for understanding deeper brain and eye-brain relationshipsEpisode Highlights A real-time “before and after” experience from MayDiscussion of how vestibular weakness can drain energy and affect cognitionAn inside look at the rotational multi-axis chair and its advanced softwareThe role of goggles and eye tracking in measuring brain responsesWhy the team emphasizes precision, comfort, and individualized careA practical reminder that practitioners also need support and recalibrationKey Takeaways The vestibular system is tightly connected to how the brain processes movement, balance, energy, and orientation.Symptoms like fatigue, heavy eyes, brain fog, dizziness, and palpitations may point to deeper system imbalance.Small, targeted interventions can create significant short-term improvements.Functional neurology approaches work best when they are individualized and data-driven.Practitioners and clients alike benefit from ongoing evaluation and adjustment.Practical Reflection If you’ve ever noticed days where your energy, clarity, or balance feels dramatically worse without an obvious reason, this episode offers a helpful framework for becoming more curious about what your body may be signaling. Closing Message This episode reminds us that healing is often about finding the right imbalance, supporting the right system, and taking the next step with precision and care.Remember: You can heal. We can help. For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  3. Jul 14

    {3} The Hidden Conversation Series: Your Brain & Hormones 186

    Send us Fan Mail Brain and Hormones: The Hidden Conversation Shaping Your Health In this episode, we explore the powerful two-way conversation between the brain and your hormones. What may feel like “just hormones” is often a more complex feedback loop involving the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, ovaries/testicles, and the nervous system. We break down how stress, blood sugar, sleep, inflammation, and nervous system dysregulation can all influence hormone signaling — and how hormonal imbalances can, in turn, affect mood, energy, sleep, memory, and motivation. Key Topics Covered Why hormones are messengers, not the whole storyThe role of the hypothalamus as a translator and thermostatHow the pituitary communicates with other hormone-producing glandsWhy stress, blood sugar, sleep, and inflammation disrupt hormonal balanceThe connection between cortisol, insulin, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid functionHow brain health and metabolic health shape hormone outcomesWhy lifestyle and nervous system regulation matter before jumping to quick fixesHow to become more curious about your own symptoms and patternsMain Takeaways The brain and hormones are in constant communication.Hormonal symptoms often reflect deeper nervous system and metabolic stress.Supporting sleep, stress regulation, and blood sugar balance can improve hormonal health.Quick fixes may help temporarily, but long-term change usually requires addressing the root causes.Tracking patterns over time can help you connect symptoms to triggers and make better decisions for your health.Practical Exercise: Your Brain-Hormone Conversation Log For one week, each evening or the next morning, write down:   How you slept  How clear your thinking felt  How steady your energy was  How calm or reactive you felt  What was happening in your body or environment when things changed  Use this log to become more curious, not judgmental, about your health patterns. Clinical Insight From a functional neurology perspective, hormone symptoms are not always “in the brain,” but the brain is always part of the picture. That’s why effective care often includes both neurological strategies and metabolic strategies. Who This Episode Is For This episode is especially helpful for anyone dealing with:   Hormone imbalance  Perimenopause or menopause symptoms  Stress and burnout  Poor sleep  Brain fog  Weight changes  Fatigue  Blood sugar instability  Nervous system dysregulation  Closing Message When we understand the hidden conversations between the brain and hormones, we can make more informed, sustainable choices that support long-term health and healing.Remember: You can heal. We can help. For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  4. Jul 10

    {2} The Hidden Conversation Between Your Gut and Your Brain: How Your Gut Shapes Mood, Memory, and Mind 185

    Send us Fan Mail This episode dives into the intricate communication between your gut and brain — a relationship that influences your mood, memory, and overall mental health. With insights from experts, we explore how gut health impacts neurological function and how understanding this connection can empower you to take control of your mood and health. In this episode: The gut as a second brain: its nervous system and immune function  How gut barrier integrity affects the blood-brain barrier and mood regulation  The role of neuroimmune chemicals and neuroinflammation in mental health  The importance of comprehensive gut testing beyond standard stool analysis  The impact of bacterial byproducts and probiotics on mood and neurotransmitter production  How lifestyle, nutrition, and mindfulness can optimize gut-brain communication  The embryological link: gut and brain development from the same fetal tissue  Practical strategies for improving gut health to support mental well-being  The significance of gut microbiota diversity and dysbiosis in neurological disorders  The benefits of slowing down, mindful eating, and colorful nutrition  Timestamps:   (00:01) Introduction to the gut-brain dialogue and why it matters  (00:23) The gut's nervous system: "like a nasty teenager" always talking back  (0:33) The influence of gut disruption on mood and personality  (01:26) The connection between gut treatment and a well-behaved brain  (01:38) Enteric nervous system's role in immune regulation and mood  (02:07) Gut lining's impact on the blood-brain barrier via cortisol and stress  (03:17) Neuroinflammation caused by GI infections affecting mood and behavior  (04:12) The hidden conversation: immune system, gut, and brain interactions  (05:04) Embryonic development: gut and brain as twin tissues  (05:58) "Gut feelings" and the power of the brain-gut connection  (06:27) Lifestyle interventions and genetic influence via epigenetics  (07:35) The importance of comprehensive stool tests and microbiota analysis  (08:55) Beyond simple parasite checks: looking at flora, bacteria, and metabolites  (09:51) How gut health influences neurotransmitter production: serotonin, GABA, and more  (13:21) The impact of diet, sugar, alcohol, and processed foods on gut and brain health  (14:25) Change your food, change your mood—impact of nutrition on mental health  (15:49) Combining protocols: gut support and nervous system regulation  (17:50) The microbiota-gut-brain axis and its link to autism, anxiety, and depression  (19:20) Microorganisms within your ecosystem: communication and healing potential  (20:19) Food as a message: improving nerve signaling through mindful nutrition  (22:21) The art of slowing down, colorful plates, and intentional eating  (23:18) Visualize your gut-brain harmony to guide healthier choices  (24:25) Empowering yourself with the vision of an interconnected gut and brain  Resources & Links:   Neuroinflammation and Mood Disorders  Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis  The Gut Microbiota and Brain Axis - Review  Emory University Gut-Brain Connection Research  Connect with the Hosts: www.BagnellBrainCenter.com   Additional Notes: Understanding that your gut and brain share origin and communication pathways transforms how you approach mental and physical health. Small, mindful changes in diet, stress management, and gut support can have profound effects on mood, cognition, and resilience. Remember, health is less about calories and more about communication—strive for a gut that's singing, not talking back. For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  5. Jul 8

    {1} The Hidden Conversations Series: The Brain-Gut Conversation That's Controlling Your Digestion and Stress 184

    Send us Fan Mail Length: 26 minutes Unlocking the Hidden Conversation Between Your Brain and Gut Explore how stress, nervous system regulation, and neural pathways influence digestive health and overall well-being. This episode unpacks the bi-directional communication between the brain and gut, highlighting practical steps to improve your health through understanding this vital connection. Main Topics: The dynamic dialogue between the brain and gut and its impact on digestionHow stress and neurochemistry modulate gut function and immune responseThe significance of the vagus nerve in neuro-gastrointestinal regulationThe effects of chronic stress on gut integrity and systemic healthPractical strategies to support nervous system balance, including mindful eating and breathingIn this episode: The story of stress affecting digestion in seconds and the importance of body awarenessThe role of the vagus nerve as a communication highway between brain and gutHow cortisol and stress influence gut barrier integrity, leading to potential health issuesThe impact of sympathetic versus parasympathetic nervous system dominance on digestionThe importance of stress management and nervous system regulation for gut healthA case example of vagal nerve stimulation improving both migraines and digestionPractical tips: eating without distractions, mindful breathing, and recognizing symptom patternsThe need for a holistic approach, considering brain health in digestive disordersTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the series "The Hidden Conversations" on brain-gut communication  00:12 - How stress influences digestion in real-time  00:30 - The story illustrating the brain's quick response affecting the gut  01:21 - The significance of bi-directional communication between brain and gut  01:50 - Gut acting as an orchestra, with the vagus nerve as the conductor  02:22 - The vagus nerve as the highway of neural communication  02:54 - The role of interoception in gut-brain signaling  03:11 - The brain’s primary question: "Am I safe?" and its influence on bodily functions  03:41 - Impact of safety perception on reproduction and infertility  04:31 - Neurochemistry pathways: neural, chemical, and immune signals  04:55 - How stress hormones like cortisol affect gut permeability  05:25 - The consequences of a compromised gut barrier, including food allergies  06:28 - The importance of neuro-awareness in symptom diagnosis  06:55 - The influence of the nervous system in end-organ health, beyond specific specialties  07:22 - Recognizing lost signals in the nervous system contributing to health issues  08:08 - The analogy of butterflies and neural responses under stress  08:44 - The connection between subconscious perceptions and physical sensations  09:32 - Modern stress: a new epidemic and its effect on gut health  10:06 - Differentiating modern chronic stress from historical physical stress  11:02 - The sympathetic spiral of doom and its impact on digestion  11:40 - How overactivation of sympathetic responses hamper effective digestion  12:23 - The importance of parasympathetic activation for gut health  13:14 - Cultural shifts in stress levels over the last century  14:01 - How signal loss from the brain to the gut exacerbates digestive conditions like IBS  14:57 - The significance of nervous system regulation in managing digestive issues  15:25 - Practical ways to support nervous system safety through mindful habits  16:43 - The role of brain health, particularly frontal lobe function, in gut regulation  17:07 - Using brain mapping and neurotherapy to enhance gut-brain communication  18:45 - The relationship between brain stem health, dizziness, and nausea  20:07 - Case study: vagal nerve stimulation improving migraines and digestion  21:30 - Supporting gut motility through brainstem regulation and brain health  22:45 - Identifying hidden signals affecting chronic gut dysfunction  23:25 - Practical tips for nervous system regulation: mindful eating, slow breathing, pattern recognition  25:24 - The importance of neurogastroenterology: synchronizing brain and gut signals  26:19 - Outro: The next episode on how gut bacteria influence mood and cognition Resources & Links: The Vagus Nerve and Its Role in HealthUnderstanding the Gut-Brain Axis Connect with the Hosts: May Bagnell - https://www.instagram.com/bwell_femme/Dr. Bagnell - WebsiteNext time: We dive into how gut bacteria influence mental health and cognition, uncovering the reverse conversation in the gut-brain connection. For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  6. Jul 3

    The Hidden Link Between Vestibular Health and Alzheimer’s Disease in Women 183

    Send us Fan Mail The Hidden Link Between Vestibular Health and Alzheimer’s Disease in Women In this episode, May Bagnell, IHP and Dr. Michael Bagnell explore the surprising connection between the vestibular system in the inner ear and cognitive decline, particularly Alzheimer's disease in women. They discuss how the vestibular system influences memory, spatial navigation, and overall brain health, and why maintaining its function might be key to preventing dementia. Main topics include: The heightened risk of Alzheimer's in women and the lesser-known role of the vestibular systemHow the inner ear communicates directly with the brain’s memory centersThe vestibular system’s function as the brain’s GPS for spatial orientation and navigationEmerging technology for assessing and improving vestibular healthThe impact of aging on vestibular function and ways to strengthen itThe connection between sleep, vestibular health, and cognitive performancePersonal stories illustrating vestibular episodes and their effects on cognition and balancePractical steps for assessing and training vestibular function to support brain health  Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Linking vestibular health to women’s risk of Alzheimer's 01:01 - Why women are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's and the vestibular system's role 02:26 - Understanding the vestibular system as the brain’s guidance system 03:01 - The connection between vestibular function, memory, and cognition 03:56 - Dementia types, prevalence in women, and early signs like balance issues 04:25 - The potential link between early vestibular decline and future cognitive issues 05:21 - Advances in technology for deep investigation into vestibular function 05:47 - The importance of strengthening the vestibular system and its impact on neuroprotection 06:46 - Preventive health strategies: biohacking and neurological optimization 07:16 - Real-world example of vestibular dysfunction linked to cognitive symptoms 07:47 - Personal story of a vestibular episode and its cognitive and physical aftermath 08:56 - Woman's perspective on the fear and acceptance of aging and cognitive risk 11:08 - Sleep’s role in brain health and its correlation with vestibular and cognitive functions 13:28 - How sleep disruptions can worsen vestibular problems and cognitive decline 15:26 - Vestibular testing in darkness and light and its implications for sleep quality 16:44 - The importance of symmetry in vestibular function for overall brain health 17:22 - Integrating sleep, diet, and vestibular training for optimal neuroprotection 20:30 - Personal experience with vertigo and its impact on cognition and stability 21:42 - Recognizing subtle vestibular issues as a factor in cognitive decline 22:15 - Taking proactive steps: brain health audits and vestibular training opportunities 23:09 - Closing thoughts: The brain’s adaptability and the power of training the vestibular system Resources & Links: www.Bagnell Brain Center.comAura Ring (Sleep tracker)  Connect with May & Dr. Michael Bagnell: https://www.instagram.com/bagnell_brain_center/ https://www.tiktok.com/@bagnellbraincenter305   Take Action: Schedule a brain health audit to assess your vestibular and cognitive function and start personalized training to support your brain health! For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  7. Jul 1

    The Hidden Connection Between The Vestibular System & Dysautonomia 182

    Send us Fan Mail Most cases of dizziness, anxiety, and exhaustion are dismissed as separate issues—what if they're all signs of a deeper, interconnected problem?  What if your body's signals of imbalance are really a breakdown in communication between your vestibular system and autonomic nervous system? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Michael Bagnell & May Bagnell, IHP reveal how conditions like POTS, long COVID, concussion, and chronic dizziness may all stem from a hidden connection — and that understanding could transform the way you approach treatment and healing.You’ll discover how the vestibular system, housed in the inner ear, plays a crucial role beyond balance — influencing blood pressure, heart rate, and even mood through its connection to the brainstem and autonomic nervous system. Dr. Bagnell breaks down how dysfunction in this system can amplify anxiety, cause sensory overload, and lead to symptoms like blackouts, tachycardia, and depersonalization. We break down: The anatomy of the vestibular system and its surprising links to neurochemistryHow aging, injury, or inflammation weaken this system, creating a cascade of dysautonomia symptomsThe powerful concept of system integration — when sensory signals are out of sync, it worsens dizziness, anxiety, and brain fog Why diagnosing dysautonomia involves looking at the bigger picture, rather than just treating symptoms with pills Practical strategies for neural rehabilitation, emphasizing neuroplasticity and system retraining instead of medication fixesImagine addressing the root cause instead of just managing symptoms — offering hope to those stuck in a cycle of uncertainty. This episode is essential listening for anyone experiencing unexplained dizziness, chronic stress, or anxiety that resists conventional treatments. Discover how the brain’s adaptability and functional neurology can help restore balance, health, and quality of life. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, understanding this interconnected system unlocks new pathways to healing. It's not about treating in isolation — it’s about training, retraining, and upgrading the body's communication networks to function harmoniously again. For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

  8. Jun 24

    Why Dizziness Is Not Only An Inner Ear Problem 181

    Send us Fan Mail Most cases of dizziness are mistaken for inner ear problems, but the reality is far more complex—and most doctors are missing crucial clues that could resolve decades of suffering.  In this episode, Dr. Bagnell and May Bagnell, IHP expose the unseen factors behind chronic dizziness that traditional tests overlook—like sensory imbalances, brain compensation, and neural performance. Discover how advanced functional neurology tools are opening a new window into the true root causes, beyond what MRI scans or ENT visits can reveal.  You'll learn: Why longstanding dizziness often stems from systemic sensory mismatches—not just inner ear disruptionsHow asymmetries in the vestibular and visual systems can go unnoticed with standard testing but are key to resolutionThe role of stress, emotional regulation, and neurological networks in balance and anxiety, and why they shouldn't be ignoredConcrete protocols for retraining the brain’s response to motion—restoring stability by using precise, personalized rehab strategiesReal stories of patients who recovered from decades of imbalance through targeted, cutting-edge assessments and therapies This episode is perfect for anyone tired of managing symptoms and ready for actual healing. If you've experienced chronic dizziness, unexplained balance issues, or emotional distress linked to imbalance, this is your critical next step. Understanding the true causes of dizziness can unlock the potential for complete recovery—don’t settle for just managing your symptoms when science now offers a pathway to true balance.  Join us to see how shifting the focus from structural guesses to performance-based assessments illuminates the root and rapidly accelerates healing.  Your journey to a life without limits starts here. #dizziness #vestibularmigraines #anxiety #functionalneurology For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com.  You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!

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About

Welcome to The Neuro Collective Podcast! We are your hosts, Dr. Michael Bagnell, Functional Neurologist and May Bagnell, Mindset and Nutrition Coach. Together, we are here to guide you through the dynamic intersection of Functional Neurology, Mindset Coaching, and Functional Medicine. If you're passionate about neuroscience, alternative health, and holistic wellness, you're in the perfect place. Our podcast is designed for those who are eager to explore innovative ways to heal brain conditions, optimize brain performance, and enhance overall well-being.   We cater to everyone from health-conscious individuals to high-performing athletes. Each week, we bring you expert interviews, the latest research, and actionable tips to help you achieve peak mental and physical health. Together, we'll dive deep into the science and practicalities of brain health, empowering you to live your best life with a sharper mind and a healthier body. So, let's embark on this journey together and unlock the limitless potential of your brain. This is The Neuro Collective Podcast—where holistic health meets neuroscience.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Michael Bagnell & May Bagnell
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    189
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Neuro Collective Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Neuro Collective Podcast