139. Broken Brains Podcast Interview: “Bethany Lewis on Concussions, Neuroplasticity & Protecting...

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-c... • Episodes mentioned by Bethany: • The Concussion Coach Podcast episode 124 with Dr. Kellianne Arnella:    • 124. Evolving OT: The "Full-Scope" Approac...   • The Concussion Coach Podcast episode 96 with Natasha Wilch:    • 96. I Just Got A Concussion – Now What?; A...   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...  CLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW! (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted...)  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/de... • Repetitive Brain Trauma Summit – https://usfhealth.usf.edu/braintrauma 🎯 Subscribe for more conversations on brain health, concussion recovery, and mental resilience.