Rewired Minds

Rewired Minds
  • 5.0 (4)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Rewired Minds brings you powerful, real stories from those affected by brain tumors. Listen to voices in the brain tumor community as they share their raw, inspiring experiences navigating life before diagnosis, through the pivotal moment everything changed, to the reality that follows. Connect with the human side of brain tumors through understanding, hope, and action as we transform awareness into impact.

  1. Ep 19: Theresa Harju

    3D AGO

    Ep 19: Theresa Harju

    In this episode, Theresa Harju, spouse of brain tumor survivor Alec Harju, shares her unique perspective as a caregiver. She discusses the challenges and emotional toll of navigating the medical journey alongside her husband. The conversation explores their life before the diagnosis, the impact of surgery and recovery, and the complexities of managing caregiving responsibilities while raising a young family. Theresa also touches on topics such as fertility and medical gaslighting, emphasizing the importance of seeking second opinions. The episode highlights the resilience of families facing such challenges and the journey towards finding a new normal. Navigating the medical system requires persistence and organization.Awake surgery allows doctors to assess brain function in real-time.The emotional impact of losing abilities is profound.Caregiving responsibilities can strain personal identity.Fertility discussions are important but often overlooked.Medical gaslighting can occur, and seeking second opinions is vital.Finding a new normal takes time and adjustment. Bri will be participating in Coaching for Causes for another year. Each May, certified coaches from various fields donate our time for 1:1 coaching sessions. Clients make a donation to a selected cause in exchange for a session. This ensures that 100% of proceeds go directly to the nonprofit. I'm raising funds for Northwestern Medicine Malnati Brain Tumor Institute. The best part is that every coach chooses their own cause, so you can donate to another coach's cause and still coach with me or vice versa. Visit coachingforcauses.com for details. Resources Common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Brain tumor organizations: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Connect with Theresa Harju Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/omgitistheresa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yagurltheresa TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tokinwiththeresa Be a Guest Visit rewired-minds.com/guest to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    28 min
  2. Ep 18: Alec Harju

    APR 1

    Ep 18: Alec Harju

    Alec Harju shares his personal journey of recovery following surgery, discussing the challenges he faced and the impact on his family, particularly his two young children. The conversation delves into the emotional and mental aspects of healing, highlighting the importance of family support during difficult times. Recovery can be a foggy experience immediately after surgery.Having young children adds complexity to the recovery process.Conversations with family during recovery are crucial.Mental health plays a significant role in physical recovery.Children may not fully understand the situation but feel its impact.Every recovery journey is unique and personal. Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Connect with Alec Harju Website: https://www.facebook.com/alec.harju Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    17 min
  3. Ep 17: Nola Hynes

    MAR 25

    Ep 17: Nola Hynes

    In this episode of Rewired Minds, Bri Salsman speaks with Nola Hynes, a brain tumor survivor who shares her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Nola discusses her initial optimism upon being diagnosed with a meningioma, the challenges she faced during treatment, and the impact on her family life. She reflects on the importance of communication with her children, the struggles of dealing with cognitive decline, and her eventual path to recovery through advocacy and community building. Nola emphasizes the need for support and understanding among those affected by brain tumors and the importance of sharing experiences to foster healing and resilience. Nola's journey began with a diagnosis of meningioma in 2019.She initially felt optimistic, believing it was the best type of brain tumor.The recurrence of her tumor less than six months later led to significant challenges in her daily life.Nola experienced cognitive decline and feelings of dementia post-treatment and leverage psychedelics to help her recover.She struggled with how to communicate her health issues to her children.Nola's perspective on life changed, focusing more on family and less on career aspirations.She found humor and resilience in her experiences, using dark humor to cope.Nola is passionate about advocacy for brain tumor awareness and support.She aims to create community spaces for those affected by brain tumors.Nola believes in the power of shared experiences to aid recovery. Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Connect with Nole Hynes Email: meningiomaminded@gmail.com  Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    29 min
  4. Ep 16: Mike Hawkins

    MAR 18

    Ep 16: Mike Hawkins

    Mike Hawkins was diagnosed with a benign pituitary adenoma in 2009 after a routine eye appointment led to a same-day MRI and a life-changing weekend of waiting and uncertainty. What followed was a 17-year journey through four surgeries, two rounds of radiation, a stretch of 13 years thinking he was in the clear, and a gutting recurrence that brought everything flooding back. Now preparing for his first craniotomy, Mike opens up about protecting his four daughters from the fear, struggling with the unknown, and why facts and knowledge have always been his greatest source of comfort. His story is a powerful reminder that "benign" does not mean simple, and that finding the right surgeon makes all the difference. Vision changes were Mike's only symptom, both at diagnosis and at recurrence 13 years laterThe hardest part was the waiting and the unknownAsking a surgeon how many times they have performed your specific procedure is one of the most important questions you can askRadiation is not always the right first step and getting a second opinion early can change your entire treatment pathProtecting loved ones from worry is a valid choice, and there is no single right way to talk to family during a health crisisBenign doesn’t mean easy to treat or guaranteed to stay goneRegular follow-up MRIs are important even when you feel fineHaving confidence in your medical team is something you can build through research and honest conversations with your doctor Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    32 min
  5. Ep 15 SPOTLIGHT: Team Schladt Foundation

    MAR 11

    Ep 15 SPOTLIGHT: Team Schladt Foundation

    The conversation revolves around Melissa Schladt's experience with her partner Greg's diagnosis of glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. It details the shocking moment of diagnosis and the emotional turmoil that followed, highlighting the stark contrast between their previous life and the sudden health crisis they faced. Greg was diagnosed back in May of 2023 with glioblastoma.Glioblastoma is a very horrid and aggressive form of brain cancer.Greg and Melissa were living the dream before the diagnosis.One day he came home from a jog and showed signs of a stroke.Melissa just knew something was horribly not right.They took him to the ER immediately.The ER doctor informed them he had two masses on his brain.This diagnosis changed their lives dramatically.Greg was very involved with the creation of Team Schladt Foundation. Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Connect with Team Schladt Foundation Website: https://teamschladtfoundation.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Team-Schladt-Foundation/61561033456047/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamschladtfoundation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/team-schladt-foundation Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    19 min
  6. Ep 14: Caroline Lenher

    MAR 4

    Ep 14: Caroline Lenher

    In this episode of Rewired Minds, host Bri Salsman speaks with Caroline Lenher, who shares her unique perspective as a daughter of a long-term brain tumor survivor. Caroline discusses her father's journey with GBM, the challenges they faced, and the importance of advocacy and community support. The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of navigating a cancer diagnosis, the treatment process, and the impact of grief and remembrance. Caroline also highlights her transition into advocacy work, aiming to support others facing similar challenges. Caroline's father was diagnosed with GBM in 2006 and survived for 13 years.Long-term survivorship stories are crucial for hope in the brain tumor community.Advocacy is essential in navigating the complexities of a cancer diagnosis.The treatment journey for GBM often includes surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.Community support plays a vital role in coping with a cancer diagnosis.The 'wait and watch' approach can be challenging for families.Clinical trials can provide new treatment options and hope for patients.Grief can manifest in various ways throughout the cancer journey.Advocacy work can help others navigate their own cancer journeys. Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Connect with Caroline Lenher Website: https://www.coachingforcauses.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinelenher/ Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    35 min
  7. Ep 13: Colleen Kummer

    FEB 25

    Ep 13: Colleen Kummer

    In this episode of Rewired Minds, Bri Salsman interviews Colleen, a brain tumor survivor who shares her journey from diagnosis to recovery. Colleen reflects on her life before her diagnosis, the symptoms that led to her being diagnosed with medulloblastoma at age 12, and the challenges she faced during treatment. She discusses the importance of community support, her experiences navigating adolescence post-treatment, and the long-term effects of her diagnosis on her life. Colleen emphasizes the power of positivity and resilience, encouraging others to focus on the good even in difficult times. Colleen is a brain tumor survivor who was diagnosed with medulloblastoma at age 12.She emphasizes the importance of community support during her treatment.Colleen's experience highlights the challenges of navigating adolescence after a cancer diagnosis.She learned to face uncertainty by taking one day at a time.Colleen's positive outlook includes finding joy in small things post-treatment.She reflects on the lasting impact of her diagnosis on her life choices.Colleen encourages others to focus on the positives during tough times.Her journey has taught her about her own strength and resilience.Colleen's relationship with her health continues to evolve as she faces new challenges.She advocates for looking at the bright side, even in difficult situations. Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    19 min
  8. Ep 12: Catt Wolfe

    FEB 18

    Ep 12: Catt Wolfe

    In this episode, Bri Salsman interviews Catt, the wife of Clifton, a brain tumor survivor. Catt shares her experiences as a caregiver, the challenges they faced before and after Clifton's diagnosis, and how their family dynamics have evolved. The conversation delves into the hectic lifestyle they led prior to the diagnosis, the impact of Clifton's health on their family, and the lessons learned about balance and resilience in the face of adversity. Clifton's diagnosis forced them to slow down and reassess their lives.They thrived on a hectic lifestyle before the diagnosis.Family time is integrated into their work life at the bowling alley.Their daughter is learning valuable life skills at a young age.Awareness of Clifton's headaches was a gradual realization.Catt actively encouraged Clifton to seek medical advice.The couple's relationship strengthened through their challenges.They found a new perspective on work-life balance post-diagnosis.Caregiving has its own set of challenges and rewards.The importance of support systems in navigating health crises. Resources Check out a list of the most common medical terms relating to the brain tumor experience: rewired-minds.com/terms Connect with brain tumor organizations here: https://www.rewired-minds.com/braintumorresources Connect with Rewired Minds Website: rewired-minds.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RewiredMindsPod Instagram: @rewiredmindspod LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewiredminds Connect with Catt Wolfe Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cattwolfe19 Instagram: @mrs.kitty.wolfe Email: cattwolfe2019@gmail.com Brain Tumours with Humour Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tumourswithhumour/ Brain Tumor Talk Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/221698948725 Be a Guest Interested in being a guest on a future episode? Visit rewired-minds.com/guest for more information and to submit your request. Disclaimer The stories shared here are personal accounts from the brain tumor community for informational and awareness purposes only and are not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your specific situation. Most importantly, take care of yourself as you listen and process.

    37 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Rewired Minds brings you powerful, real stories from those affected by brain tumors. Listen to voices in the brain tumor community as they share their raw, inspiring experiences navigating life before diagnosis, through the pivotal moment everything changed, to the reality that follows. Connect with the human side of brain tumors through understanding, hope, and action as we transform awareness into impact.

Information

  • Creator
    Rewired Minds
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Rewired Minds