NeuroAlchemy: The Brain-Body Healing podcast

Dr. Sarah Young
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NeuroAlchemy: The Brain-Body Healing Podcast explores the science and soul of real-life healing. Hosted by integrative neuro clinician Dr. Sarah Young, this podcast bridges neuroscience, nervous system regulation, integrative medicine, and spiritual insight to help listeners understand how true healing happens when the brain, body, emotions, and life experiences begin working together again. Many people living with chronic or invisible health challenges feel dismissed, overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or stuck searching for answers that traditional approaches have not fully provided. NeuroAlchemy offers a different perspective. Instead of treating symptoms in isolation, this podcast explores how the nervous system, physiology, emotions, and daily life interact as one interconnected system. Through clear explanations and compassionate guidance, Dr. Sarah translates complex neuroscience into practical tools that support real-world healing. Listeners will learn about neuroplasticity, nervous system regulation, sleep and brain repair, stress physiology, emotional resilience, trauma-informed healing, and integrative approaches to brain and body health. Episodes include both solo teaching and conversations with practitioners and thought leaders who are exploring innovative approaches to healing. Topics often include brain health, chronic illness recovery, functional and integrative medicine, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and the powerful connection between neuroscience and spirituality. NeuroAlchemy is designed for curious, thoughtful listeners who sense that healing involves more than just treating symptoms. Whether you are navigating stress, burnout, trauma recovery, neurological challenges, or complex health conditions, this podcast offers insights that help you reconnect with your body’s natural capacity for regulation and change. At the heart of NeuroAlchemy is the understanding that healing is not only biological. It is emotional, relational, and meaningful. When the nervous system begins to feel safe and supported, the brain and body can reorganize in powerful ways. This process is known as neuroplasticity, and it reminds us that change and recovery remain possible throughout life. If you are interested in nervous system healing, neuroscience and spirituality, trauma-informed care, or integrative approaches to brain and body health, NeuroAlchemy invites you into a deeper conversation about transformation. Here, science and soul come together to illuminate the path toward clarity, resilience, and real-life healing.

  1. Emotional Healing, Internal Family Systems, and Reclaiming Feeling States with Gloria K. Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

    3d ago

    Emotional Healing, Internal Family Systems, and Reclaiming Feeling States with Gloria K. Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with psychologist Dr. Gloria K. Vanderhorst for a thoughtful conversation exploring emotional healing, Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, and the lifelong process of reconnecting with parts of ourselves that may have been suppressed or disconnected over time. Drawing from nearly five decades of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, Dr. Vanderhorst shares insights into emotional development, childhood conditioning, emotional intelligence, and the ways early experiences shape identity, relationships, and emotional regulation later in life. Together, Sarah and Gloria explore what happens when people lose access to important feeling states, why emotional awareness matters, and how reflection, compassion, and curiosity can help people reconnect with themselves in healthier and more authentic ways. Topics explored include: • Emotion Focused Therapy in everyday language • Internal Family Systems and “parts” work • emotional suppression and disconnection • childhood experiences and adult relationships • raising emotionally intelligent boys • reclaiming lost feeling states • self-reflection as a catalyst for healing • emotional awareness and personal growth At the heart of this conversation is a reminder: Emotional awareness is not weakness. It is part of being fully human. And healing often begins by reconnecting with the parts of ourselves we learned to silence. 🌿 Micro Practice Invitation Spend 10 to 15 minutes each day sharing experiences, observations, or thoughts with someone you trust. Talk about: • something you noticed today • an experience you had • a thought you are still processing Small moments of emotional connection help strengthen awareness, communication, and relational safety over time. 🧠 Connect with Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst Website: https://www.drvanderhorst.com Email: gkvanderhorst@gmail.com Facebook: gloria.vanderhorst.7 Instagram: @gkvanderhorst YouTube: @gloriakvanderhorst LinkedIn: gloria-vanderhorst-ph-d-730826b/ 🌿 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    34 min
  2. Traumatic Brain Injury, Long-Haul COVID, and Neuroinflammation: Unlocking Brain Recovery with Scott Bukow

    Jul 3

    Traumatic Brain Injury, Long-Haul COVID, and Neuroinflammation: Unlocking Brain Recovery with Scott Bukow

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with researcher Scott Bukow for a conversation exploring traumatic brain injury, long-haul COVID, neuroinflammation, and the often-overlooked mechanisms involved in neurological recovery. Many people navigating brain injury or post-viral symptoms are told their scans look normal, yet they continue experiencing brain fog, fatigue, cognitive changes, sensory overwhelm, and nervous system dysregulation. Together, Sarah and Scott explore why that disconnect exists and what may actually be happening beneath the surface. This episode examines the overlap between traumatic brain injury and long-haul COVID, including the role of neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, autonomic imbalance, blood-brain barrier disruption, and the gut-brain axis. Topics explored include: • overlooked mechanisms in brain injury recovery • the connection between TBI and long-haul COVID • neuroinflammation and nervous system dysregulation • the gut-brain axis and brain health • neuroplasticity and cognitive recovery • environmental and inflammatory stressors • rebuilding trust after neurological change • integrative and functional approaches to healing At the heart of this conversation is a reminder: Healing is rarely linear. The brain is adaptable. And recovery often begins by reconnecting the pieces that were previously overlooked. 🌿 Micro Practice Invitation Choose one small supportive action for your brain this week. It could be: • stepping outside for natural light • reducing overstimulation • practicing slow breathing • adding one nourishing habit Small, repeated inputs help the nervous system relearn safety and support neuroplasticity over time. 🧠 Connect with Scott Bukow https://scottbuco.com https://www.mybrainmechanic.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/scottbuco 🌿 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    46 min
  3. Intuition, Somatic Healing, and Nervous System Regulation: Reconnecting with Inner Wisdom with Tracy Fance

    Jun 26

    Intuition, Somatic Healing, and Nervous System Regulation: Reconnecting with Inner Wisdom with Tracy Fance

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with Tracy Fance for a grounded conversation exploring intuition, somatic healing, nervous system regulation, and reconnecting with inner wisdom. Together, Sarah and Tracy discuss how healing is not only mental, but deeply embodied. They explore how stress and trauma shape the nervous system, how intuitive signals are often quieted by overwhelm, and how reconnecting with the body can restore clarity, trust, and alignment. This conversation bridges neuroscience, emotional healing, and spiritual awareness in a practical, accessible way for listeners seeking deeper connection with themselves. Topics explored include: • the connection between intuition and nervous system regulation • how trauma is stored in the body • somatic healing in everyday language • learning to trust intuitive signals • spiritual and human alignment • emotional regulation and body awareness • releasing tension through somatic practices • small daily practices for healing and self-trust At the heart of this conversation is a reminder: Healing is not about becoming someone new. It is about reconnecting with what is already within you. 🌿 Micro Practice Invitation Take a few quiet moments this week to notice your internal signals. Instead of asking, “What should I do?” Try asking, “What am I noticing in my body right now?” Notice your breath, sensations, and emotional tone without judgment. This small shift can begin rebuilding trust with your inner guidance system. 🧠 Connect with Tracy Fance Website: https://tracyfance.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/tracyfance 🌿 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    52 min
  4. Spiritual Parenting in an Artificial Age: Raising Children Who Stay Real with Phil Kobald

    Jun 19

    Spiritual Parenting in an Artificial Age: Raising Children Who Stay Real with Phil Kobald

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with Phil Kobald, author of Spiritual Parenting and host of the Holistic Circle platform, for a thoughtful conversation about parenting, authenticity, spirituality, and raising children in an increasingly artificial world. Together, Sarah and Phil explore what it means to cultivate inner alignment before trying to shape outward behavior, why children learn more from embodiment than correction, and how spirituality can become a grounded, practical part of everyday family life. This conversation invites listeners to slow down, reconnect with authenticity, and reflect on how nervous system regulation, modeling, mindfulness, and self-awareness shape the emotional environments children grow up within. Topics explored include: • spirituality in everyday language • spirituality versus religion • authenticity and emotional modeling • parenting in a technology-driven culture • inner alignment and nervous system regulation • mindful parenting and embodiment • helping children stay grounded in who they are • balance, self-awareness, and emotional presence • curiosity and spiritual development • creating meaningful ripple effects in family systems At the heart of this episode is a reminder: Children learn more from what we embody than what we say. Authenticity matters. And parenting begins within. 🌿 Micro Practice Invitation Pause for one intentional breath before responding to your child this week. Notice your own nervous system first. Then respond from presence rather than reactivity. Small moments of awareness create powerful ripple effects over time. 🧠 Connect with Phil Kobald Holistic Circle Platform Book: Spiritual Parenting 🌿 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    52 min
  5. Can Neurodegeneration Be Reversed? Exploring Nervous System Repair and Brain Resilience with Mark Burnett

    Jun 12

    Can Neurodegeneration Be Reversed? Exploring Nervous System Repair and Brain Resilience with Mark Burnett

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with Mark Burnett to explore brain health, neuroprotection, environmental toxicity, and what becomes possible when someone refuses to let a diagnosis define their future. After experiencing toxic exposure and neurological symptoms, Mark was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and early Alzheimer’s. Rather than accepting decline as inevitable, he immersed himself in research surrounding inflammation, glial cell health, neuroprotection, and data-driven self-healing. Together, Sarah and Mark explore the emotional impact of diagnosis, the connection between environmental toxins and neurological health, and how agency, curiosity, and nervous system support can reshape the healing journey. Topics explored include: • neurodegeneration and neuroprotection in everyday language • nervous system regulation and brain resilience • environmental toxicity and inflammation • glial cells and brain support • data-driven self-healing and tracking progress • redefining identity after diagnosis • mindset, intuition, and active participation in recovery • neuroscience, spirit, and multidimensional healing • restoring hope after chronic illness At the heart of this conversation is a reminder: A diagnosis is not the end of your story. The brain is adaptable. Healing is multidimensional. And agency changes the trajectory of recovery. 🌿 Micro Practice Invitation Choose one small daily action that supports brain health and track it consistently this week. Healing often begins with awareness, repetition, and participation rather than perfection. 🧠 Connect with Mark Burnett Website: https://mybrainrestore.com Product: https://mybrainrestore.com/2x-active-formula-product/ Mark’s Story: https://mybrainrestore.com/my-journey/ Free eBook: https://mybrainrestore.com/pdf/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/mybrainrestore YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MyBrainReStore 🌿 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    56 min
  6. Healing in Spirals: Nervous System Regulation, Creativity, and Rebuilding Self-Trust with Jen Day

    Jun 5

    Healing in Spirals: Nervous System Regulation, Creativity, and Rebuilding Self-Trust with Jen Day

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with Jennifer Day for a thoughtful conversation about nonlinear healing, nervous system regulation, creativity, and rebuilding self-trust after overwhelm. Together, Sarah and Jennifer explore why healing often happens in spirals instead of straight lines, how the nervous system revisits layers of experience, and why creativity, ritual, and embodied awareness can help people reconnect with safety inside themselves. Jennifer shares her own healing journey and the development of her LifeLines drawing practice, a symbolic and body-based approach that supports emotional regulation, intuition, and inner coherence. Topics explored include: • nonlinear healing and nervous system patterns • somatic awareness in everyday life • creativity as nervous system regulation • rebuilding self-trust after burnout or trauma • why returning to emotions does not mean failure • rituals, grounding, and symbolic expression • imagination and healing • compassion instead of pressure-based healing At the heart of this conversation is a reminder: Healing is layered. Your nervous system is adaptable. And returning to yourself happens through safety, presence, and permission. 🌿 Guest Micro Practice Invitation Hand to heart. Feet to earth. Place one hand over your heart and take one slow breath. Ask yourself, “How am I feeling right now?” Whatever arises, gently respond: “Of course I feel this way. It makes sense that I feel this way.” Then notice the soles of your feet connecting with the ground beneath you. This simple practice supports grounding, validation, and nervous system safety. 🎨 Connect with Jen Day https://www.lifeshinedesign.com https://instagram.com/lifeshinedesigncoach https://substack.com/@lifeshinedesign Free Offering: https://www.lifeshinedesign.com/get-started/p/draw-your-way-to-freedom-a-mini-ritual-workbook-by-jennifer-day-lifeshine-design Free LifeLines Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lifelinessoulcircles 🧠 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    50 min
  7. Returning to Trust: Nervous System Safety and Water Wisdom with Cori Myka

    May 22

    Returning to Trust: Nervous System Safety and Water Wisdom with Cori Myka

    In this episode of NeuroAlchemy, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with Cori Myka, founder of Calm Within Adult Swim, for a deeply human conversation about fear, trust, nervous system safety, and what it truly means to learn again as an adult. Although Cori teaches adults how to swim, this conversation reaches far beyond the water. Together, Sarah and Cori explore how fear lives in the body, why adults often carry emotional patterns into new experiences, and how safety, curiosity, and gentle pacing can help people rebuild trust in themselves. This episode weaves together nervous system healing, embodied learning, emotional resilience, mindfulness, and personal transformation. You’ll hear how skill-building can become identity-shifting, why play accelerates growth, and how healing becomes possible when the body feels safe enough to participate. Topics explored include: • nervous system safety and emotional regulation • fear, overwhelm, and adult learning • confidence as a body-based experience • mindfulness and embodied awareness • healing through curiosity rather than force • how the body relearns trust • the role of play in nervous system healing • water as a teacher for surrender, presence, and resilience At the heart of this episode is a reminder: Healing is not just mental. Growth is not about perfection. And trust can be rebuilt gently, one experience at a time. 🌿 Listener Micro Practice Invitation Before beginning any task this week, gently pause and ask yourself: “Do I want to?” Notice what arises in your body. If resistance appears, become curious instead of forceful. Ask what that part of you may need before moving forward. This small moment of listening helps build trust and safety inside the nervous system. 🌊 Connect with Cori Myka / Calm Within Adult Swim https://adultswimlesson.com/ Instagram: @calmwithinadultswim YouTube: @adultswimlesson 🧠 Connect with Dr. Sarah Young Website: https://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7agFaWsIgMJfl071O6ny14 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@neurosynergyhealth If this episode resonated with you, please consider liking, sharing, and subscribing. That’s how these conversations travel and reach the people who need them most. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    32 min
  8. Healing from the Inside Out: Core Beliefs, Self-Healing & Subconscious Trauma with Sarah Dawkins

    May 15

    Healing from the Inside Out: Core Beliefs, Self-Healing & Subconscious Trauma with Sarah Dawkins

    In this episode of NeuroSynergy – The Brain-Body Healing Podcast, Dr. Sarah Young sits down with Sarah Dawkins, holistic health coach and former registered nurse, to explore the connection between core beliefs, the subconscious mind, and the body’s natural ability to heal. Drawing from her own journey through chronic health challenges, Sarah shares how symptoms can be understood as meaningful messages rather than problems to suppress. This conversation reframes healing as a process of awareness, self-trust, and reconnecting with the body’s innate intelligence. Together, we explore how emotional trauma can manifest physically, how early beliefs shape long-term patterns, and how shifting those internal narratives creates space for real transformation. This episode offers a grounded and compassionate perspective for anyone navigating chronic symptoms, emotional healing, or a deeper return to self. Key Themes: • Core beliefs and subconscious patterns • Emotional trauma and physical symptoms • Mind-body connection • Self-worth and healing Micro Practice Invitation Take a moment to get comfortable and allow your body to be supported. Close your eyes and take a slow, deep breath in through your nose, then gently out through your mouth. Let your breathing settle into a natural rhythm. Bring your awareness through your body, starting at your head and slowly moving down through your neck, shoulders, arms, chest, abdomen, back, hips, legs, and feet. As you scan, notice any areas of tension, heaviness, or sensation. When something stands out, gently place your attention there. Without analyzing, allow a color or shape to arise. Now imagine breathing in a soft white or pink light, directing it into that area. As you exhale, imagine the tension softening and releasing. Continue breathing in light and breathing out tension for as long as feels right. If needed, move to other areas with the same gentle awareness. When you’re ready, return your awareness to your whole body. Notice any subtle shifts. Take one final deep breath in and a slow breath out, and gently open your eyes. Connect with Sarah Dawkins: Website: https://www.sarahdawkins.com Podcast: Mind Body Medicine for Self Healers YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SarahDawkinsHealth Connect with Dr. Sarah: Websitehttps://home.neurosynergyhealth.com/home-6935 If this conversation resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone on their healing journey. Healing begins with awareness. And awareness begins with listening. You are not broken. You are becoming.

    38 min
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About

NeuroAlchemy: The Brain-Body Healing Podcast explores the science and soul of real-life healing. Hosted by integrative neuro clinician Dr. Sarah Young, this podcast bridges neuroscience, nervous system regulation, integrative medicine, and spiritual insight to help listeners understand how true healing happens when the brain, body, emotions, and life experiences begin working together again. Many people living with chronic or invisible health challenges feel dismissed, overwhelmed by conflicting advice, or stuck searching for answers that traditional approaches have not fully provided. NeuroAlchemy offers a different perspective. Instead of treating symptoms in isolation, this podcast explores how the nervous system, physiology, emotions, and daily life interact as one interconnected system. Through clear explanations and compassionate guidance, Dr. Sarah translates complex neuroscience into practical tools that support real-world healing. Listeners will learn about neuroplasticity, nervous system regulation, sleep and brain repair, stress physiology, emotional resilience, trauma-informed healing, and integrative approaches to brain and body health. Episodes include both solo teaching and conversations with practitioners and thought leaders who are exploring innovative approaches to healing. Topics often include brain health, chronic illness recovery, functional and integrative medicine, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and the powerful connection between neuroscience and spirituality. NeuroAlchemy is designed for curious, thoughtful listeners who sense that healing involves more than just treating symptoms. Whether you are navigating stress, burnout, trauma recovery, neurological challenges, or complex health conditions, this podcast offers insights that help you reconnect with your body’s natural capacity for regulation and change. At the heart of NeuroAlchemy is the understanding that healing is not only biological. It is emotional, relational, and meaningful. When the nervous system begins to feel safe and supported, the brain and body can reorganize in powerful ways. This process is known as neuroplasticity, and it reminds us that change and recovery remain possible throughout life. If you are interested in nervous system healing, neuroscience and spirituality, trauma-informed care, or integrative approaches to brain and body health, NeuroAlchemy invites you into a deeper conversation about transformation. Here, science and soul come together to illuminate the path toward clarity, resilience, and real-life healing.

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