The Concussion Coach

Bethany Lewis
  • 4.8 (22)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Monthly

Concussion Coach Bethany Lewis loves sharing uplifting and helpful information for those struggling with Post Concussion Syndrome. Her goal is to increase awareness of concussions and the impact they can have on a person’s life, and to bring hope to people who have suffered a concussion and those who love them. sharing stories and knowledge about concussions will bring important light and understanding to this misunderstood and often-invisible injury. This podcast was previously called Life Inspired Coach.

  1. 2d ago

    141. Misophonia: When Everyday Sounds Trigger Extreme Reactions – An Interview with Jordan Slingerland

    Jordan Slingerland is a recent high school graduate from Gilbert, Arizona, currently in flight school. She has lived with misophonia since the age of 12 and has become a thoughtful advocate for herself and others with the condition. Jordan shares her personal journey of navigating school, family life, friendships, and work while managing intense reactions to common sounds like chewing, sniffling, and pen clicking. Her insight, vulnerability, and practical strategies offer hope and validation for anyone affected by this often-misunderstood neurological condition. In this episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis steps outside the usual brain injury discussion to explore misophonia – a chronic neurological condition where specific everyday sounds trigger intense emotional and physical reactions such as rage, panic, or disgust. Bethany is joined by her cousin, Jordan Slingerland, who shares her lived experience with misophonia, from her first trigger at age 12 to developing coping strategies that allow her to reclaim joy and connection. Together they discuss the fight-or-flight response, the isolating nature of the condition, practical accommodations for school and work, tools like AirPods and loop earplugs, and the importance of self-advocacy and family support. This episode offers invaluable insight for anyone with misophonia, their loved ones, and even concussion survivors who deal with sound sensitivity. Resources Mentioned by Jordan Slingerland soquiet.org Comprehensive resource for misophonia research, support groups, tools, and free “misophonia cards” to share with others. AirPods / Bluetooth headphones Used constantly to block trigger sounds and provide a sense of control. Loop earplugs Reusable, discreet earplugs that reduce sound without full noise cancellation; helpful for testing environments where Bluetooth isn’t allowed. Wax earplugs Moldable earplugs that block sound effectively. 504 Plan (school accommodations) Legal document in U.S. schools that can allow headphone use, preferential seating, separate testing rooms, and other supports. AMC theater assistive listening devices Headphones that sync to the movie screen, available for patrons who need them (useful for blocking out audience sounds). Family accommodations Non-food family activities (walks, pool time, family meetings) and separate seating during meals. Breathing exercises & rainbow grounding technique In-the-moment strategies to distract the brain and calm the nervous system. Daily reflection practice Reviewing both positive and negative moments to prevent misophonia from canceling out the good parts of the day. Jordan Slingerland  Email: jordanslingerland1@gmail.com  Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    1h 11m

  2. May 19

    140. Nervous System Healing with the Rezzimax PainTuner – Trauma Release, Cranial Nerves & New Research; An Interview with Sharik Peck & Katyrra Larson

    In this returning episode of The Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis (The Concussion Coach) reconnects with Sharik Peck and Katyrra Larson to explore the latest developments with the Rezzimax PainTuner—an external vagus nerve stimulator that uses gentle resonance (in the frequency range of a cat's purr) to calm the nervous system. Sharik shares exciting updates, including a new Philippines-based study using the device to help breast cancer patients manage stress, pain, and GI dysfunction, as well as ongoing TMJ research in the US. The conversation dives into innovative applications of the tool: a new mouthpiece attachment for cranial nerve stimulation (helping a brain-injured patient regain speech and focus), and scraping techniques that combine vibration with myofascial release.  Katyrra provides practical calming strategies for acute anxiety and startle responses (including humming with the tongue between the teeth). Sharik also shares a powerful trauma release protocol (Stress Down Regulation/Resilience program) that combines breathing, flexor engagement, and sensory input to help the brain reorganize traumatic memories—a protocol that does not require the device but is accelerated by it. The episode emphasizes nervous system regulation as the cornerstone of concussion recovery, and Bethany shares her personal enthusiasm for the tool, including a listener discount and money-back guarantee. Resources Mentioned by the Guests Rezzimax PainTuner (and the "Mini" version) Rezzimax Mouthpiece Attachment (for oral/cranial nerve stimulation) Recipes (Protocols) Library – Found on the Rezzimax website (video + written steps) Whole Body De-Stress rezzipe: https://rezzimax.com/pages/rezzipes-whole-body-destress Stress Down Regulation / Resilience program (trauma release): https://rezzimax.com/pages/rezzipes-stress-down-regulation Moro reflex protocol (for startle response): https://rezzimax.com/pages/rezzipes-primitive-reflexes-moro-startle-reflex Rezzimax YouTube Channel – Contains the trauma release presentation and all instructional videos https://www.youtube.com/@Rezzimax Discussed Practitioners & Concepts: Dr. James Sheen & Dr. Edward Chauvin – protocols for addressing dormant fungi/molds/viruses Dr. Sean Drake – breathwork for high-level performers Andrew Byrne – work with "singing athletes" and cranial nerves Gua sha & Astym (scraping techniques enhanced with vibration) Contact & Discount Information from the Conversation Rezzimax Purchase & Discount Code: https://rezzimax.com/?ref=BethanyLewis Use code BethanyLewis in the discount section for $75 off Rezzimax Money-Back Guarantee: Available if you try it and don't love it Previous Episodes Referenced: Episode 47 (Sharik alone) and Episode 76 (Sharik & Katira) RezziMax Website & Recipe Access:  rezzimax.com  Trauma Release Protocol Location: RezziMax website → Recipes → Emotional Clearing → "Stress Down Regulation or Resilience program" Previous episodes with Sharik peck:1. Healing the Nervous System Through Resonance 2. External Vagus Nerve Stimulator: Rezzimax Pain Tuner Pro Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    49 min

  3. May 12

    139. Broken Brains Podcast Interview: “Bethany Lewis on Concussions, Neuroplasticity & Protecting Kids from Brain Injury”

    In this powerful crossover episode, Bethany Lewis (The Concussion Coach), a neurological occupational therapist and certified life coach, joins Bruce Parkman of the Broken Brains podcast to shatter common myths about concussions. Bethany explains that you don't need to be knocked out—or even hit your head—to sustain a concussion, and that the severity of the impact doesn't always predict the outcome. She discusses how concussions are often misdiagnosed as mental health issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD), the critical link between repetitive head impacts and long-term brain health, and how women and girls are more susceptible yet severely understudied. Bethany offers hope through neuroplasticity and whole-person recovery, while providing essential advice for parents: believe your child’s symptoms, prioritize their brain over the sport, and advocate for proper care. This episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, coaches, and anyone wanting to understand the true impact of a "silent injury." Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation Episodes mentioned by Bethany: The Concussion Coach Podcast episode 124 with Dr. Kellianne Arnella: https://youtu.be/k7CbCVzjQNQ The Concussion Coach Podcast episode 96 with Natasha Wilch: https://youtu.be/9CDVMmmBpJI Bethany Lewis on Concussions, Neuroplasticity & Protecting Kids from Brain Injury | Broken Brains Podcast Episode 88Bethany Lewis joins Bruce Parkman to discuss the realities of concussions, the dangers of repetitive brain trauma, and how parents can better protect their children. In This Episode, We Cover: Concussions and repetitive brain trauma  Neuroplasticity and brain recovery  Symptoms and warning signs of concussion  Mental health and brain injury  Advice for parents, coaches, and athletes  Key Takeaways: Concussions are brain injuries, not “just headaches”  Early awareness can improve recovery outcomes  Neuroplasticity gives hope for healing  Parents must prioritize brain health over sports performance Resources & Links: The Concussion Coach  Head Smart App  Repetitive Brain Trauma Summit  🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts   📲 Be sure to follow, share, like, and subscribe to support brain health awareness and bring real treatments to those who need them most.   Broken Brains with Bruce Parkman is sponsored by The Mac Parkman Foundation Support The Mac Parkman Foundation by donating today! https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CR24MY2GDUCZL  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!  https://www.mpfact.com/headsmart-app/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Repetitive Brain Trauma02:33 Bethany Lewis & Her Concussion Journey05:07 The Problem with Concussion Education10:48 Concussion Myths vs Reality14:11 Why Parents Need More Awareness18:43 The Fragility of the Human Brain21:28 Neuroplasticity & Brain Healing25:34 Changing the Conversation Around Concussions28:27 Concussions in Female Athletes32:02 New Treatments for Concussion Recovery35:19 Recognizing Symptoms & Seeking Help39:26 Mental Health After Brain Injury44:23 Advice for Parents on Protecting Their Kids 🔗 Resources & Links: The Concussion Coach – https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Head Smart App – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.headsmart Repetitive Brain Trauma Summit – https://usfhealth.usf.edu/braintrauma 🎯 Subscribe for more conversations on brain health, concussion recovery, and mental resilience.

    58 min

  4. May 7

    138. Malingering, Return-to-Play, and the Truth About Pain: A Legal & Neuroscience Deep Dive with Michael Flomenhaft, Esq.

    Michael Flomenhaft, Esq. is the principal of the Flomenhaft Law Firm PLLC in New York, New York. His practice focuses on trying cases for victims of traumatic brain injury and severe chronic pain. Renowned for his vast knowledge of neuroscience—including neuroimaging, neuropsychology, neurobiology, and the neuroanatomy of chronic pain—Mr. Flomenhaft serves on the board of advisors for the Center for Neuroscience and Law at Fordham Law School and was a director of neurolaw for the Program for Imaging and Cognitive Sciences at Columbia University. He is a graduate of Boston University School of Law and the Trial Lawyers College. In this second conversation with attorney Michael Flomenhaft, host Bethany Lewis dives deeper into the most challenging aspects of concussion recovery and litigation. They begin by tackling the difficult subject of malingering—why it is often alleged, how objective imaging and biographical evidence can refute it, and why standard MRIs are insufficient for visualizing white matter damage. Michael explains why traditional concussion return-to-play protocols are "gray matter protocols" applied to a white matter injury, leaving athletes at unrecognized risk. The discussion then shifts to chronic pain, its atrophic (brain-shrinking) effects, the role of specialists like osteopaths and craniosacral therapists for headache relief, and the powerful potential of neurofeedback in brain rehabilitation. This episode provides essential education for anyone navigating the legal, medical, and personal realities of persistent post-concussion symptoms. Resources Mentioned by Michael Flomenhaft: Website: www.brainjusticeny.com Email: mflomenhaft@brainjusticeny.com Phone: 917-359-8023 Previous Episode (Part 1): Episode 134   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AU96lajw5oQ&t=240s Imaging & Techniques referenced: Susceptibility Weighted Imaging (microbleeds) Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) – to visualize white matter injury Volumetric MRI (to show brain atrophy over time) PET scans Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG) Neurofeedback (recommended as a top intervention for leveraging  Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    50 min

  5. Apr 29

    137. Near-Fatal Collision to Running Again: A Story of Miracles, Forgiveness, and Grace, with Amy Wilson

    Amy Stevenson Wilson, MPH, CHWC holds a Master’s in Public Health and is a Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Born and raised in Fruit Heights, Utah, Amy is an avid runner, reader, and nutrition enthusiast. She earned her political science degree from BYU and has lived around the globe. In 2017, while eight months pregnant, she survived a near-fatal collision with street-racing teens. Now a mother of four, she lives in Farmington, Utah, and shares her story of traumatic brain injury, physical recovery, and the power of forgiveness. In this episode, host Bethany Lewis interviews her neighbor and friend, Amy Stevenson Wilson. Amy shares her harrowing story of being hit by a car traveling 95 mph while she was 35 weeks pregnant. She details the immediate aftermath including emergency C-section, a traumatic brain injury (Glasgow Coma Scale of 7), a grade 5 kidney laceration, a broken pelvis, and the dramatic rescue by Salt Lake City first responders. She recounts how her daughter, Grace Deliverance, was born not breathing and required 11-12 minutes of CPR, facing a grim prognosis of severe developmental delays. The episode follows their miraculous recovery, the decision to forgive the teenage driver in court, and the ultimate triumph of running a 10k with her father just a few years later. This episode is a powerful testament to hope, faith, and the resilience of the human brain and spirit. Connect with Amy: Email: amystevensonwilson@gmail.com Social Media (Facebook): Amy Stevenson Wilson Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    1h 10m

  6. Apr 21

    136. From Critical TBI to Thriving: Neuroplasticity, the Gut-Brain Axis, and the MoCrazy Method with Jamie MoCrazy & Grace Mauzy

    Jamie MoCrazy is a former professional freestyle skier, X Games record-setter, and critical traumatic brain injury survivor. Once known for pushing the limits in big air and slopestyle, her life changed dramatically during a competition in Whistler, Canada. Now, she uses her platform to raise awareness about the long-term effects of TBI and the importance of proper diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Grace “Fruit” Mauzy (MA in Psychology, PhD candidate in Mind-Body Medicine) is Jamie’s mother, who played a critical role as both a caregiver and researcher throughout Jamie’s recovery. She brings a unique dual perspective, combining academic expertise with lived experience navigating the complexities of brain injury care. In this powerful episode of the Concussion Coach Podcast, host Bethany Lewis sits down with Jamie and Grace MoCrazy to discuss their remarkable journey through severe traumatic brain injury and recovery. Jamie shares the story of her 2015 skiing accident—which left her in a coma with a death report written before she left the mountain—and how she has no memory of the event or the two months following. Grace describes the harrowing moment she received the call, the breaking of protocol in stimulating Jamie’s system in ways that contradicted hospital protocol (touching, singing, massaging, playing music), and the science that supported those instincts. Together, they explore the similarities and differences between severe TBI and concussion, and why healing cannot happen when the nervous system is stuck in sympathetic (fight/flight) mode. Grace explains the gut-brain axis, how the microbiome shrinks under stress and craves processed foods, and why nausea is the gut telling the brain it isn’t healing. Jamie introduces her powerful reframing tool: “Let’s stop and look at the view”—a strategy that transforms guilt into grace. The episode closes with details on the MoCrazy Method (a 6-week virtual mind-body therapy program) and the iFly Alive to Thrive in-person event, both designed to help brain injury survivors and their caregivers rebuild connection, joy, and a thriving “2.0” life. Resources Mentioned MoCrazy Strong Foundation (Jamie & Grace): Website: www.MoCrazyStrong.org Email: jamie@mocrazystrong.org | info@mocrazystrong.org Instagram: @MoCrazyStrongFoundation Facebook: @MoCrazy Strong Brain Injury Foundation Upcoming Events (as of recording): The MoCrazy Method (6-week virtual mind-body therapy program with psychoeducation) Starts: April 29, 2026 | Wednesdays, 6:00–7:00 PM MT Registration: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/mocrazy-method-spring--2026 iFly Alive to Thrive (indoor skydiving + lunch + social connection) Date: May 14, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM MT (skydiving 9:30–11:00 AM) Location: Ogden, UT (iFly + Ogden Library) Cost: $45 (lunch included; scholarships available) Registration: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/alive-to-thrive Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    1h 6m

  7. Apr 16

    135. OT’s Role in Vision Remediation & Concussion Recovery: Interview with Dr. Alicia Reiser, OTD, MS OTR/L

    Dr. Alicia Reiser, OTD, MS OTR/L is an occupational therapist with over 24 years of experience and the owner of A Rise Above Occupational Therapy Services in the Lehigh Valley, PA. She earned her clinical doctorate from Salus University (Drexel University) with a specialization in vision remediation. An active scholar and adjunct faculty at Drexel, Dr. Reiser bridges the gap between neurological rehabilitation, vision therapy, concussion recovery, ADHD care, and nervous system regulation. She is the co-owner of NeurOT Consulting and co-author of 100 Visually Loaded Activities and Occupations. In this episode, Dr. Alicia Reiser explains the critical but often overlooked connection between vision and the brain following a concussion. She discusses how visual inefficiencies (such as convergence insufficiency, double vision, and blurry vision) can mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms, hinder recovery, and cause chronic symptoms like headaches and dizziness. Dr. Reiser highlights the unique role of Occupational Therapy in vision remediation, the importance of interdisciplinary care with neuro-optometrists, and her work to establish a national Community of Practice within AOTA to standardize vision rehabilitation. She also provides actionable advice for patients and families navigating concussion recovery. Resources Mentioned by Dr. Reiser Find a Neuro-Optometrist: College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD) – www.covd.org (Look for the "board certified in vision therapy" box) Book (Co-authored by Dr. Reiser): 100 Visually Loaded Activities and Occupations (Available for pre-order via NeurOT Consulting: https://neurotconsulting.com/) Textbook Mentioned: Understanding and Managing Vision Deficits: A Guide for Occupational Therapists by Dr. Mitchell Scheiman, ODhttps://www.routledge.com/Understanding-and-Managing-Vision-Deficits-A-Guide-for-Occupational-Therapists/Scheiman/p/book/9781032882871 Continuing Education Course: Vis Con (through  CiaoSeminars) – https://www.ciaoeminarss.com  AOTA Community of Practice (CoP) for Vision Rehabilitation: Enrollment Survey Link: https://forms.aota.org/forms/vision_cop_enrollment_survey_copy Original Discussion Board Request: https://communot.aota.org/discussion/vision-remediation-community-of-practice-interestWebsites & Social Media Dr. Reiser’s Practice: www.ariseaboveoccupationaltherapyservices.com Instagram: @ariseaboveot Facebook: @ariseaboveot Consulting & Book (with Megan Schneider): www.neurotconsulting.com Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    1h 7m

  8. Apr 10

    134. The Legal Side of the Invisible Injury: Interview with Michael Flomenhaft, Esq.

    Michael Flomenhaft, Esq. is the principal of the Flomenhaft Law Firm, PLLC in New York. He is a renowned trial lawyer specializing in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and severe chronic pain. With a unique, deep expertise in neurosciences—including neuroimaging, neurobiology, and the neuroanatomy of chronic pain—Michael bridges the gap between complex brain science and the courtroom. He serves on the Board of Advisors for the Center for Neuroscience and Law at Fordham Law School and was a director of Neurolaw for the Program for Imaging and Cognitive Sciences at Columbia University. A graduate of Boston University School of Law and the Trial Lawyers College, he is passionate about advocating for clients whose brain injuries are often unrecognized or minimized. In this powerful episode, host Bethany Lewis (The Concussion Coach) sits down with attorney Michael Flomenhaft to uncover the challenging legal realities of living with a concussion. They discuss why standard ER scans (CAT scans, MRIs) often miss the white matter damage that causes persistent symptoms, and how this medical gap creates major hurdles in legal cases. Michael explains why a "normal" scan does not mean a normal brain, the progressive nature of brain atrophy, and the invisible emotional burdens of grief, shame, and fear that clients carry. He also introduces advanced imaging (DTI, NeuroQuant) and hopeful therapies like neurofeedback. Resources Mentioned by Michael Flomenhaft Contact for Legal Help (New York/New Jersey & Nationwide Referrals): Email: mflomenhaft@brainjusticeny.com Phone: 917-359-8023 Website: www.brainjusticeny.com Key Medical & Legal Concepts Discussed: DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging): Specialized MRI that evaluates white matter integrity (introduced into US jurisprudence by Mr. Flomenhaft in 2004). SWI (Susceptibility Weighted Imaging): MRI sequence sensitive to microscopic bleeds (hemosiderin). NeuroQuant: FDA-cleared computerized program to evaluate brain atrophy. Neurofeedback: Described as "going to the gym for your brain," a highly effective intervention for re-establishing white matter connectivity and recovering function. Connect with Bethany: Website: https://theconcussioncoach.com/ Free Guide: "5 Best Ways to Support Your Loved One Dealing with a Concussion" on the website Free Coaching Consultation: https://theconcussioncoach.com/free-consultation

    53 min
See All (140)

4.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Concussion Coach Bethany Lewis loves sharing uplifting and helpful information for those struggling with Post Concussion Syndrome. Her goal is to increase awareness of concussions and the impact they can have on a person’s life, and to bring hope to people who have suffered a concussion and those who love them. sharing stories and knowledge about concussions will bring important light and understanding to this misunderstood and often-invisible injury. This podcast was previously called Life Inspired Coach.

Information

  • Creator
    Bethany Lewis
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    140
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Bethany Lewis
  • Show Website
    The Concussion Coach

You Might Also Like