Best Sophia A Nelson Podcasts (2025)

1
Advanced TMS for Concussion and Brain Dysfunction with Dr. Glen Zielinski | E29 35:33

2d ago35:33

35:33

Send us a text Dr. Glen Zielinski from Northwest Functional Neurology in Lake Oswego, OR, joins us to talk about how he’s using cutting-edge, image-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) technology to treat more than just depression. With neuro-navigated TMS, he's able to target specific brain regions with millimeter precision—and he's not …

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As the World Turns: Navigating Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) | E28 34:44

8d ago34:44

34:44

Send us a text Navigating the complex world of inner ear disorders, Dr. Ayla Wolf and Sophia Bouwens discuss the mechanics and causes of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and what contributes to re-occurring BPPV. • Difference between true vertigo and general dizziness • How the semicircular canals and otolithic organs in our inner ear de…

1
Vital Voices Live with Andrea Mitchell and Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfield 47:20

12d ago47:20

47:20

In this special episode of Vital Voices Live, veteran journalist Andrea Mitchell sits down with U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield for a powerful conversation on global leadership, diplomacy, and the role of women driving change on the world stage. From her early days in Louisiana to representing the United States at the …

1
Neuroplasticity in Action: Dr. Brody Miller’s Journey from TBI to PhD | E27 42:20

15d ago42:20

42:20

Send us a text Dr. Brody Miller, PhD, is a 2x best selling, author, researcher, speaker, and pioneer in brain health recovery. Having recovered from severe brain trauma, drug and epileptic seizures, he created a unique, and holistic approach, called the REBOUND method (TM) with his Mind Gym Starter Course. He focuses on helping high-level, heart le…

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Resetting Your Brain: How Cereset Combats Post-Concussion Fatigue with Dr. Ala Lysyk | E26 46:20

23d ago46:20

46:20

Send us a text Dr. Ayla Wolf interviews Dr. Ala Lysyk about Cereset technology, an innovative approach using acoustic feedback to help the brain reset itself after concussion or trauma. They discuss how this engineering-based technology creates a real-time acoustic mirror therapy that allows the brain to recognize and correct harmful patterns causi…

1
Beyond Tachycardia: The Misunderstood World of POTS | E25 45:01

29d ago45:01

45:01

Send us a text Dr. Ayla Wolf and Sophia Bouwens dive deep into the complexities of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), explaining how this autonomic dysfunction manifests and why proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Dr. Wolf breaks down the different subtypes, testing methods, and treatment approaches while emphasizing…

1
Vital Voices Live with Ashlyn Harris 41:18

1M ago41:18

41:18

On this episode of Vital Voices LIVE, two powerhouse voices take the stage: Ashlyn Harris and Brittany Packnett Cunningham. Ashlyn — two-time World Cup champion, advocate, and mom — gets candid about life after soccer, embracing imperfection, and what it means to lead with authenticity as a queer woman. Brittany brings her signature brilliance, gui…

1
Vital Voices Live with Tourmaline 29:49

1M ago29:49

29:49

To kick off Global Pride Month in DC, Vital Voices Live welcomed the brilliant Tourmaline for a powerful conversation honoring the legacy of Marsha P. Johnson — the trailblazing Black trans icon who helped shape the LGBTQ+ movement. Tourmaline — filmmaker, activist, and author of the new biography Marsha — joined host Sharita Gruberg, Vice Presiden…

1
The Forgotten 30%: Navigating Life with Persistent Post-Concussion Symptoms | E24 54:38

1M ago54:38

54:38

Send us a text Chaandani Khan's story begins with a life derailed. Six years ago, a car accident left this high-achieving event planner with a concussion that transformed her world overnight. The woman who once thrived on 70-hour work weeks, constant travel, and a packed social calendar suddenly couldn't make a sandwich or find matching shoes. The …

1
Vital Voices Live with Sophia Bush and Jen Klein 44:46

1M ago44:46

44:46

In this powerful episode of Vital Voices Live, acclaimed actress, activist, and storyteller Sophia Bush sits down with Jen Klein—author, advocate, and longtime champion for women’s rights—for a bold and deeply personal conversation about advocacy, authenticity, and the courage to lean into hard conversations. Together, they explore what it means to…

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Cold Plunge, Ketones, and Creatine - Yay or Nay in Concussion Recovery with Dr. Mike T Nelson | E23 30:25

1M ago30:25

30:25

Send us a text Dr. Mike Nelson explains how ketones and lactate can serve as alternative fuel sources for the brain after concussion when glucose metabolism becomes impaired. This metabolic insight opens new possibilities for recovery support and symptom management. • Concussions disrupt glucose metabolism in the brain but don't affect ketone and l…

1
Navigating Exercise Intolerance After Concussion with Dr. Mike T Nelson | E22 53:00

2M ago53:00

53:00

Send us a text Dr. Mike Nelson shares his expertise on exercise intolerance after concussion, explaining that neurological limitations, not metabolic fatigue, are the primary barrier to resuming physical activity. The key difference is that your nervous system acts as a brake on performance, preventing your body from accessing its existing physical…

1
A Conversation with Victoria Zitrin & Alyse Nelson | Global Wellness Day 20:23

2M ago20:23

20:23

In celebration of Global Wellness Day, our CEO Alyse Nelson sits down with Victoria Zitrin — artist, entrepreneur, advocate, and Co-Chair of the Vital Voices Bay Area Council. Victoria is the founder of Ventura Vie, a public charity rooted in wellness, creativity, and empowerment. From mentorships to live events and the V Boutique in San Francisco,…

1
A Conversation with Breeze Liu & Alyse Nelson | Fighting Back Against Deepfake Pornography 22:26

2M ago22:26

22:26

After discovering deepfake pornography featuring her image online, Breeze Liu faced a harrowing journey that exposed the deep failures of our legal and tech systems. But instead of staying silent, she took action. In this powerful episode, Breeze joins Vital Voices CEO Alyse Nelson to share how she turned trauma into purpose—founding Alecto AI to h…

1
More Than Meets the Eye: Troubleshooting Visual Symptoms After Concussion with Dr. Paul Brewer | E21 56:27

2M ago56:27

56:27

Send us a text Dr. Brewer brings his expertise as a neuro-optometrist to explain how visual processing problems are often overlooked in concussion recovery despite causing significant symptoms. He shares insights on integrating visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems to create lasting improvements for patients with post-concussion syndrome. …

1
A Conversation with Wanjira Mathai & Alyse Nelson | World Environment Day 2025 32:21

2M ago32:21

32:21

In honor of World Environment Day, Vital Voices CEO Alyse Nelson sits down with Wanjira Mathai — renowned Kenyan environmentalist and Managing Director for Africa at the World Resources Institute. Daughter of the late Wangari Maathai, the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Wanjira carries forward a legacy of people-powered climate ac…

1
The State of Terrorism in the U.S. w/ Jacob Ware 37:33

2M ago37:33

37:33

Send us a text On today's episode, Jacob Ware from the Council on Foreign Relations returns to discuss the state of U.S. domestic terrorism after the 2024 U.S. Elections. We cover whether the definition of terrorism has been weaponized against marginalized communities by the Trump administration, and debate on whether the charges against Luigi Mang…

1
Vital Voices Live: A conversation with Nazanin Boniadi 43:02

2M ago43:02

43:02

In this powerful episode of the Vital Voices Podcast, actor and activist Nazanin Boniadi joins Alyse Nelson, President & CEO of Vital Voices, for a candid conversation on courage, advocacy, and the fight for human rights in Iran and beyond. Nazanin shares her journey from Hollywood to human rights activism, the personal cost of raising her voice, a…

1
EMDR Adaptations for Brain Injuries with Dr. Michelle Morrissey | E20 57:36

2M ago57:36

57:36

Send us a text Dr. Michelle Morrissey of the Morrissey Institute explains how she has adapted EMDR therapy to safely and effectively treat patients with concussions and brain injuries. She details the eight phases of EMDR treatment and shares her approach of clearing small traumas first to create capacity for healing bigger ones. • Dr. Morrissey ha…

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What Concussions Do to Women’s Hormones with Dr. Tatiana Habanova (Part 2) | E19 37:50

2M ago37:50

37:50

Send us a text Dr. Ayla Wolf and Dr. Tatiana Habanova discuss the neuroendocrine changes post-concussion, particularly the impact on thyroid and adrenal function. Dr. Habanova explains that hypothyroidism often results from pituitary dysfunction rather than direct thyroid issues. She emphasizes the importance of assessing hormone levels immediately…

1
A Conversation with Mary Robinson & Alyse Nelson | International Biodiversity Day 2025 30:17

3M ago30:17

30:17

In honor of International Day for Biological Diversity, this episode features a powerful conversation between Vital Voices President & CEO Alyse Nelson and Mary Robinson — Ireland’s first female President, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and lifelong advocate for climate justice, gender equality, and ethical leadership. Mary reflects …

1
What Concussions Do to Women’s Hormones with Dr. Tatiana Habanova (Part 1) | E18 36:59

3M ago36:59

36:59

Send us a text The hormonal ripple effects of concussions are often overlooked in recovery, creating frustrating plateaus for patients despite their best rehabilitation efforts. These hidden disruptions in the endocrine system can dramatically impact recovery and require a nuanced approach to care. • Dr. Tatiana Habanova brings together functional …

1
When Life Changes in an Instant: A Father Shares His Son's Brain Injury Journey | E17 37:05

3M ago37:05

37:05

Send us a text When Shane Swenson's car was struck by a drunk driver traveling 90mph in a 30mph zone one February morning in 2019, life as he knew it changed forever. His 12-year-old son Brady suffered a traumatic brain injury that would launch the family on an unexpected journey through emergency surgeries, months of rehabilitation, and a complete…

1
Vital Voices Live: A Conversation with Karlie Kloss and Osi Imeokparia 49:38

3M ago49:38

49:38

In this special episode of the Vital Voices Live Podcast, supermodel, entrepreneur and philanthropist Karlie Kloss joins Kode With Klossy CEO Osi Imeokparia to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Kode With Klossy—a decade of empowering young women and gender-expansive youth in tech. Together, they reflect on the early days of the initiative, how ment…

1
Why Traditional Balance Therapy Often Fails Concussion Patients with Natasha Wilch | E16 52:59

3M ago52:59

52:59

Send us a text Natasha Wilch, physical therapist and concussion specialist, breaks down why traditional balance therapy often fails concussion patients and explains her approach to addressing persistent vestibular issues through a functional neurology lens. She shares insights from her five-day intensive treatment program and reveals the missing li…

1
Vital Voices Live: A Conversation with Dina Powell McCormick with Guest Host Betsy Fischer Martin 49:07

3M ago49:07

49:07

In this episode of Vital Voices Live, Dina Powell McCormick — former Deputy National Security Advisor and Vice Chair at BDT & MSD Partners — joins us to talk about her new book, Who Believed in You?, co-authored with Senator David McCormick. Drawing from her personal journey and insights from leaders like Satya Nadella, Tory Burch, and Condoleezza …

1
Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza w/ Peter Beinart 32:32

3M ago32:32

32:32

Send us a text On today's episode, I am joined by Peter Beinart, a professor of journalism and political science at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York and author of "Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza". A book that assesses how the Zionist movement has rationalized the suffering of Palestinian…

1
Untangling Dysautonomia: Beyond POTS and Vagal Nerve Hacks | E15 39:16

4M ago39:16

39:16

Send us a text Dr. Ayla Wolf, DAOM, unpacks the complex nature of dysautonomia beyond the common POTS diagnosis, explaining how this autonomic nervous system dysfunction affects multiple body systems and presents differently in each individual. • The autonomic nervous system makes automatic adjustments for body functions like heart rate, breathing,…

1
Your Brain on Light: How Photobiomodulation Supercharges Recovery After Impact | E14 40:09

4M ago40:09

40:09

Send us a text Dr. Wilkerson walks us through the science of photobiomodulation. PBM can decrease inflammation, increase blood flow to treated areas, and improves cellular function by promoting energy production. • Photobiomodulation is the umbrella term for using light to change cellular function • Lasers work faster for pain relief, while LEDs ar…

1
Brain Mapping and Cognitive Recovery with Dr. Michael Bagnell | E13 1:08:54

4M ago1:08:54

1:08:54

Send us a text Dr. Bagnell shares his 30-year journey as a "health detective" in functional neurology, revealing how he helps patients with persistent cognitive symptoms after brain injury through careful investigation and targeted interventions. • Brain fog often stems from disrupted neurovascular coupling, where blood flow fails to properly suppl…

1
Vital Voices Live: A Conversation with Sara Blakely with Guest Host Norah O'Donnell 49:51

4M ago49:51

49:51

Welcome to the Vital Voices Live Podcast, a podcast dedicated to celebrating the game-changers, the rule-breakers, and the fearless women shaping our world! In front of a live studio audience in the Vital Voices Headquarters in Washington DC, this episode is guest hosted by Norah O'Donnell in conversation with Sara Blakely, an entrepreneur, innovat…

1
Christian Nationalism Under Trump's Second Term w/ Amanda Tyler 44:09

4M ago44:09

44:09

Send us a text On today's episode, I am joined by Amanda Tyler, Executive Director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, to discuss her new book, "How to End Christian Nationalism," where she covers the eight steps you can take to help fight against the influence of Christian Supremacy in U.S politics. Instagram The Social Chemist (…

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A Conversation with Nika Kovač & Alyse Nelson | International Women’s Day 2025 20:03

4M ago20:03

20:03

A conversation in honor of International Women's Day between Vital Voices CEO and co-Founder Alyse Nelson and Nika Kovač, the founding director of the 8th of March Research Institute, a movement-building organization that uses storytelling and advocacy to confront gender and economic inequalities across Slovenia.…

1
Autonomic Dysfunction After Brain Injury - An Interview with Dr. John McClaren - Part 2 | E12 45:42

4M ago45:42

45:42

Send us a text Dr. John McLaren shares his functional neurology approach to treating autonomic dysfunction and concussions, exploring cutting-edge therapies and personalized rehabilitation strategies for complex brain injuries. • Detailed explanation of how jump rope training can improve neuroplasticity by synchronizing upper and lower body timing …

1
The Psychology of Disinformation and Conspiracy Theories w/ Dr. Joseph Pierre 47:47

4M ago47:47

47:47

Send us a text On today's episode, forensic psychiatrist Dr. Joseph Pierre returns to the podcast to discuss his new book "False: How Mistrust, Disinformation, and Motivated Reasoning Make Us Believe Things That Aren't True." We explore how confirmation bias has been put on steroids, the democratization of influence in the online world, whether it …

1
Autonomic Dysfunction After Brain Injury - An Interview with Dr. John McClaren - Part 1 | E11 45:15

4M ago45:15

45:15

Send us a text Dr. John McClaren shares his journey into specializing in brain injury rehabilitation and explains how autonomic nervous system dysfunction affects many TBI patients, often going undiagnosed despite causing significant symptoms. • Personal connection to TBI after his father's severe train accident which inspired his specialization • …

1
Ancient Healing Meets Modern Technology at The Shiu Clinic in Manhattan | E10 50:48

5M ago50:48

50:48

Send us a text Dr. Clayton Shiu brings his expertise in treating brain injuries through a unique integration of traditional Chinese medicine and cutting-edge technology, creating remarkable results for patients with neurological conditions. • Specialized training at Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Teaching Hospital …

1
Concussion Recovery with Elite Speed Skater Dr. Danielle Fleming | E9 41:43

5M ago41:43

41:43

Send us a text Join us for a powerful conversation on the often-overlooked aspects of concussion recovery. Dr. Danielle Fleming shares her experiences navigating the athletic world while dealing with the long-term impacts of brain injuries. - Discussing how athletes often ignore symptoms - The emotional toll of balancing identity and health - Techn…

1
Unraveling Cervical Instability: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions | E8 24:17

5M ago24:17

24:17

Send us a text In this episode Dr. Ayla Wolf dives deep into cervical instability, a condition that often gets overlooked but can have significant effects on daily life. Understanding its symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options can empower listeners to seek the help they need. • Explanation of cervical instability and its causes, hig…

1
Part 2 - Traumatic Neck Injuries and Concussions | E7 31:03

5M ago31:03

31:03

Send us a text This episode emphasizes the intricate relationship between neck injuries and concussion recovery, exploring how sensory integration affects patient outcomes. Listeners learn about the importance of tailored therapies, effective communication among care providers, and the necessity of understanding each patient's unique presentation f…

1
Traumatic Neck Injuries and Concussions: Overlapping Symptoms | E6 27:20

6M ago27:20

27:20

Send us a text This episode illuminates the significant connection between neck injuries and concussions, and the overlapping symptoms that can occur from either. We delve into various symptoms stemming from neck trauma, explore effective therapies, and highlight the importance of functional neurological assessments and integrative treatment approa…

1
The Contributing Factors Behind January 6 and the Unite the Right Rally w/ Timothy Heaphy 42:56

6M ago42:56

42:56

Send us a text On today's episode, I am joined by the lead investigator of the January 6 committee and former US attorney for the Western District of Virginia, Timothy Heaphy, who also participated in the 2017 Unite the Right rally (UTR) investigation team. For our discussion, we cover his 2024 book "Harbingers: What January 6 and Charlottesville R…

1
Eight Less Headache Days a Month? An Inside Look into Our Concussion Research | E5 22:18

6M ago22:18

22:18

Send us a text Our latest episode provides an inside look into a pilot study Sophia Bouwens and Ayla Wolf were both personally involved in on acupuncture's effect on post-traumatic headaches, revealing significant improvements for participants. We discuss the necessity of research-driven therapies, the importance of patient-provider communication, …

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The Weaponization of Disinformation & Its Assault on Democracy w/ Barbara McQuade 42:10

6M ago42:10

42:10

Send us a text On today's episode, I am joined by Barbara McQuade, a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC and co-host of the #SistersInLaw podcast, to discuss her 2024 book "Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America,” a book about how disinformation has been weaponized under Trump’s presidency and how to make social media platfor…

1
Post-traumatic Headaches: A Form of Neuropathic Pain | E4 43:53

6M ago43:53

43:53

Send us a text This episode explores the connections between post-traumatic headaches and neuropathic pain, providing insights into the neurological underpinnings that affect pain perception and treatment efficacy. We emphasize individualized approaches to treatment and highlight the importance of understanding the brain's role in experiencing and …

1
Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding a True Faith w/ April Ajoy 51:22

6M ago51:22

51:22

Send us a text On today's episode, I am joined by April Ajoy, TikTok content creator, former Christian Nationalist, and co-host of The New Evangelicals Podcast, to discuss her 2024 book "Star-Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding a Truth Faith." A book that touches on the history of Christian Nationalism, the tactics used to mai…

1
Migraines Versus Post-Traumatic Headaches: What is the Difference? | E3 48:18

6M ago48:18

48:18

Send us a text This podcast dives deep into the complexities of post-traumatic headaches and migraines, exploring the differences in symptoms, triggers, and treatment options. Insights introduce listeners to medication overuse headaches and emphasize the importance of accurate diagnosis and holistic approaches for recovery after a concussion. • Exp…

1
Overcoming Headache Challenges After a Concussion | E2 43:31

7M ago43:31

43:31

Send us a text Post-traumatic headaches represent a multifaceted challenge for those recovering from concussions, often requiring careful diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. The episode delves into various headache types, the dangers of medication overuse headaches otherwise known as rebound headaches, and the interrelation between neck injurie…

1
Post-Concussion Syndrome: Seeing the Big Picture of Concussion Recovery | E1 45:10

7M ago45:10

45:10

Send us a text Sophia Bouwens and Dr. Ayla Wolf DAOM discuss their new podcast, "Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast" focusing on concussions and brain injuries. Dr. Wolf shares information on her soon-to-be-published book, which includes a 48-question questionnaire to categorize symptoms into eight meaningful categories, such as pos…

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Before You Move Out of America, Consider Moving Toward Love w Sonya Renee Taylor 36:20

8M ago36:20

36:20

On this season finale of “America, Who Hurt You?” Sarah Jones sits down with New York Times bestselling author and activist, Sonya Renee Taylor to discuss why radical self love IS the moment. Yes, even in the face of oppressive systems and the current American Bro-ligarchy. Sonya reminds us that, in order to build the world we want to live in, we m…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Sophia A Nelson Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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