Wired for Hope

Dr. Jessica Barton
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MEDICINE

On Wired for Hope we explore the brain, behaviour, and mental health with people who have lived with brain injury and those who have studied it. I'm Dr. Jess, an NHS clinical psychologist in the UK, university lecturer, and published author, passionate about making neuroscience more accessible. We’ll explore a range of topics from sports related concussion, to feminist perspectives on disability, and mental health and identity. We’ll also shine a light on some of the latest research from around the world, in our regular feature ‘what’s new in neuroscience’. Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt Wired for Hope disclaimer  1. The content shared on "Wired for Hope" is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for personalised psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified mental health professional.   2. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship between you and the host, or any guest contributors. No therapeutic services are being provided via this podcast.   3. Mental health is deeply individual. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing or have concerns about your mental health, please consult a qualified, licensed mental health professional in your local area.   4. This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families.  5. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to "Wired for Hope" disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content.   🗣️ Guest Disclaimer Views expressed by guest speakers on the podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any affiliated organisations.   ⚠️ Trigger Warnings Some episodes may discuss sensitive topics such as trauma, abuse, suicide, or mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. Trigger warnings will be provided at the start of relevant episodes.   🌍 Jurisdiction Notice "Wired for Hope" is created and hosted in the United Kingdom. The content reflects psychological practices and legal considerations relevant to UK regulations. Listeners from other jurisdictions should consult local professionals for region-specific guidance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more i

Episodes

  1. 2D AGO

    The Psychology of Acceptance

    In this episode, Dr Jess speaks with Dr Richard Coates, a clinical neuropsychologist, about the transformative power of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - both in brain injury rehabilitation and in everyday life.  Richard opens up about his own experience of using ACT skills to show up for the things that matter to him, from walking into a podcast studio with a racing heart to queuing for roller coasters with his family.  Together, he and Dr Jess explore the crucial difference between acceptance and resignation, the concept of psychological flexibility, and why ACT can be particularly well-suited to people living with the realities of brain injury, where traditional cognitive restructuring can fall short.  Richard reflects on the importance of bringing creativity, humour, and genuine human vulnerability into the therapy room, and reveals the founding story of ACT and the human being behind it. LINKS: The Hexaflex explained: https://positivepsychology.com/act-model/  Russ Harris Values List: https://www.actmindfully.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Values_Checklist_-_Russ_Harris.pdf  Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description.

    56 min

  2. FEB 2

    Living Well with Multiple Sclerosis: Mindfulness and Hope

    In this episode, Dr Jess speaks with Lucy Traynor, who was 31 when she first experienced symptoms of multiple sclerosis - a diagnosis that would take three years to confirm.  Lucy shares the emotional weight of seeing her brain scan for the first time, the frustration of navigating medical systems not designed with women in mind, and how negative media portrayals of MS fuelled her initial fears about the future.  She discusses the challenge of balancing fertility plans with treatment decisions, the isolation of invisible disability, and how panic attacks became worse than physical symptoms.  Lucy also reveals what helped her thrive: mindfulness, running marathons, painting, and consciously choosing positivity.  Useful links: MS-UK: https://ms-uk.org/ Professor G’s blog: https://ms-selfie.blog/ Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by ⁠Anthony Zahra⁠ Music Credit: ⁠SigmaMusicArt⁠ DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • ⁠Headway⁠ – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description.

    53 min
  3. Mild brain injury and neurodivergence

    JAN 12

    Mild brain injury and neurodivergence

    In this episode, Dr. Jess speaks with Aaron, a PhD researcher and mountain biker who sustained a concussion that left him with persistent symptoms affecting every aspect of his life.  Aaron shares his raw experience of struggling with noise sensitivity, motion sickness, debilitating headaches, and concentration difficulties that made completing his PhD feel impossible.  He discusses the isolation of having an "invisible" injury, the challenge of explaining his symptoms to friends and family, and how his identity as someone who finds meaning through active sport was completely upended.  This conversation explores the intersection of ADHD, mental health, identity, neurodivergence, and mild traumatic brain injury. Aaron also introduces Heady, the app he co-founded with his concussion specialist to democratise access to evidence-based rehabilitation.  Find out more about the Heady App: www.headyrehab.com Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min
  4. The Complexities of Mild Brain Injury and Sports-Related Concussion

    12/08/2025

    The Complexities of Mild Brain Injury and Sports-Related Concussion

    In this episode, Dr Jess explores mild traumatic brain injury and sports-related concussion with world-renowned neuropsychologist Dr Nigel King.  Although most people recover from mild brain injury within weeks, a small percentage develop persistent post-concussion symptoms that can last months or years.  Nigel explains the complex interplay between subtle brain injury and psychological factors like anxiety, PTSD, and stress that can mimic or exacerbate symptoms.  The conversation traces the history of concussion research, from dismissing persistent symptoms as "purely psychological" to the current landscape shaped by CTE discoveries in professional athletes.  Nigel shares insights on return-to-play protocols, the importance of metabolic recovery beyond symptom resolution, and how public perception of concussion has shifted dramatically. Links: Overcoming Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Post-Concussion Symptoms: https://overcoming.co.uk/614/Overcoming-Mild-Traumatic-Brain-Injury-And-Post-Concussion-Symptoms---King Head injury, concussion and return to activity and sport – adults: https://www.royalberkshire.nhs.uk/media/ny0b5exs/head-injury-concussion-and-return-to-activity-and-sport-adult-_jun24.pdf Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr
  5. Mental health after traumatic brain injury

    11/17/2025

    Mental health after traumatic brain injury

    In this episode, Dr Jess welcomes Andrew Jenkins to the Wired for Hope podcast. Andrew survived a devastating car accident 25 years ago that left him in a coma for four weeks.  He shares his raw and honest journey from silently struggling with shame, identity loss, and toxic masculinity to finding self-compassion and purpose.  He discusses the turning point of meeting the surgeon who saved his life, working through 24 years of grief, and ultimately becoming a mental health advocate. Andrew offers powerful insights on the importance of involving family in your recovery, the value of lived experience working alongside professionals, and practical tools for recovery. Before we jump into the conversation with Andrew, Dr Jess explores mental health after brain injury, first examining the biological, social, and psychological factors that contribute to emotional difficulties following a brain injury.  In 'What's New in Neuroscience', we examine research on the gut-brain axis and how nutrition impacts neuroinflammation and cognitive function. Links: The Gut-Brain Axis and Neuroinflammation in Traumatic Brain Injury Headway Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 11m
  6. Supporting mothers after brain injury

    10/27/2025

    Supporting mothers after brain injury

    In this episode of the Wired for Hope podcast, Dr Jess speaks with Dr Phil Butler, a social worker and researcher who completed her PhD on the lived experiences of mothers with acquired brain injury.  Phil discusses her groundbreaking research using feminist disability theory to explore why parents with ABI, particularly mothers, have been largely overlooked in the literature, with most studies focusing on child protection rather than parental wellbeing.  She shares powerful insights from her cooperative inquiry group, where mothers moved from guilt and shame to self-compassion and advocacy.  The conversation explores concepts such as interdependence, the "misfit" identity, and practical recommendations for healthcare services.  In 'What's New in Neuroscience', we examine research on nature-based interventions for brain injury recovery and reflect on the complex ethics of VR nature simulations. Links: Mothers with Acquired Brain Injury (Including Stroke) - Best practice considerations for the health service Nature-based interventions and nature interaction for people with acquired brain injury: A systematic scoping review Headway Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
  7. The science of hope in brain injury recovery

    10/13/2025

    The science of hope in brain injury recovery

    In our first episode, Dr Jess speaks with Dr Alan Gray, a consultant clinical psychologist, with a specialism in neuropsychology, about the transformative power of hope in brain injury rehabilitation.  We explore why hope matters for both mental and physical recovery, the surprising statistics about brain injury prevalence in the UK, and how goal-setting can foster meaningful progress.  Alan explains the two key components of hope - agency and pathways - and discusses the delicate balance between maintaining realistic expectations and nurturing optimism.  The conversation also touches on the vital role of family members in the recovery journey and why supporting caregivers is essential for patient wellbeing.  In 'What's New in Neuroscience', we examine cutting-edge research on robotic-assisted gait training for brain injury survivors. Links: Effect of robotic-assisted gait training on functional independence measure scores in patients with acquired brain injury: retrospective study: 10.3389/fresc.2025.1575148 Mark Holloway: family experience of brain injury – surviving , coping, adjusting: http://bit.ly/4nKrSH3 Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt DISCLAIMER:  This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families. Limitation of Liability While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to “Wired for Hope” disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content. Please see full disclaimer in the show description. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
  8. Trailer - Welcome to Wired for Hope

    10/06/2025

    Trailer - Welcome to Wired for Hope

    Welcome to Wired for Hope, where we explore the brain, behaviour, and mental health with people who have lived with brain injury and those who have studied it. I'm Dr. Jess, an NHS clinical psychologist in the UK, university lecturer, and published author, passionate about making neuroscience more accessible. We’ll explore a range of topics from sports related concussion, to feminist perspectives on disability, and mental health and identity. We’ll also shine a light on some of the latest research from around the world, in our regular feature ‘what’s new in neuroscience’. Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    2 min
  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

On Wired for Hope we explore the brain, behaviour, and mental health with people who have lived with brain injury and those who have studied it. I'm Dr. Jess, an NHS clinical psychologist in the UK, university lecturer, and published author, passionate about making neuroscience more accessible. We’ll explore a range of topics from sports related concussion, to feminist perspectives on disability, and mental health and identity. We’ll also shine a light on some of the latest research from around the world, in our regular feature ‘what’s new in neuroscience’. Subscribe today to join the Wired for hope podcast community and learn with me. Written and hosted by Dr. Jessica Barton Produced by Anthony Zahra Music Credit: SigmaMusicArt Wired for Hope disclaimer  1. The content shared on "Wired for Hope" is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for personalised psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified mental health professional.   2. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship between you and the host, or any guest contributors. No therapeutic services are being provided via this podcast.   3. Mental health is deeply individual. If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing or have concerns about your mental health, please consult a qualified, licensed mental health professional in your local area.   4. This podcast is not intended for use in crisis situations. If you are in immediate danger, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or facing a mental health emergency, please seek immediate help by contacting emergency services or a crisis line. UK Resources Include: • Emergency Services (Police/Ambulance): Call 999 • Samaritans (Free, 24/7 Helpline): Call 116 123 • NHS 111 (Non-Emergency Medical Help): Call 111 • Contact your local Single Point of Access (SPA) for mental health referrals and support — a centralised hub in the UK for accessing local services. • Headway – A UK charity providing resources and support for individuals affected by brain injury and their families.  5. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and relevance of information shared, the host and contributors to "Wired for Hope" disclaim any liability for any direct, indirect, or consequential loss or damage that may arise from the use of the podcast or reliance on its content.   🗣️ Guest Disclaimer Views expressed by guest speakers on the podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or any affiliated organisations.   ⚠️ Trigger Warnings Some episodes may discuss sensitive topics such as trauma, abuse, suicide, or mental illness. Listener discretion is advised. Trigger warnings will be provided at the start of relevant episodes.   🌍 Jurisdiction Notice "Wired for Hope" is created and hosted in the United Kingdom. The content reflects psychological practices and legal considerations relevant to UK regulations. Listeners from other jurisdictions should consult local professionals for region-specific guidance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more i

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Jessica Barton
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Jessica Barton
  • Show Website
    Wired for Hope