The Neurologic Wellness Podcast

EPISODE 118 | Dr. David Traster Sits Down with Allie Chandler: Chronic Illness, Lyme Disease, Mold Toxicity & POTS Recovery In this episode, Dr. David Traster interviews Allie Chandler about her journey through severe Lyme disease, mold toxicity, and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). After years of neurological, cardiac, and digestive dysfunction — including nearly two years bedbound — healing began through a root-cause functional medicine approach. Topics include: • Biological drivers of inflammation • Drainage pathway optimization • Parasite protocols • Nervous system regulation • Limbic system retraining • Vagus nerve stimulation • The endocrine impact of strength training • Rebuilding belief systems after chronic illness This conversation highlights the integration of physiology, neuroplasticity, and resilience in long-term recovery. Neurologic Wellness Institute: Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL *This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

EPISODE 117 | On this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster sits down with Dr. Conner Bor of NeuroActive Spine and Rehab Center to explore neurodevelopmental disorders, Autism, ADHD, pediatric functional neurology and a proactive model for addressing developmental delays. Many children present with vestibular dysfunction, retained primitive reflexes (such as ATNR), speech delays, and impaired motor planning. Rather than adopting a "wait and see" approach, this model emphasizes early intervention through activation, nourishment, protection, and neurological challenge. Discussion Includes: Co-activation therapy Photobiomodulation (laser) PEMF and transcranial direct current stimulation Sensory-rich vestibular and proprioceptive therapies Neurocognitive eye movement training Objective tools including QEEG and fNIRS Cranial nerve stimulation for speech development Foundational lifestyle changes The mission is to empower parents with education and provide individualized, data-driven strategies to improve functional quality of life. Neurologic Wellness Institute Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL *This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

In this episode, Dr. David Traster of The Neurologic Wellness Institute sits down with Mark Faulkner of CON-CRĒT Creatine to explore the expanding science of creatine — far beyond strength training. With a background in physics, biochemistry, forensic toxicology, and athletic drug testing, Faulkner shares how creatine hydrochloride (CrHCL) was discovered and how it differs from traditional creatine monohydrate in absorption, dosing, and neurological applications. We discuss: Creatine as the rate-limiting molecule for ATP production Brain energy metabolism and cognitive performance Creatine deficiency in modern diets Kidney function myths and creatinine lab interpretation Bioavailability differences between monohydrate and CrHCL Huntington's disease research Emerging data on traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion Immune system function and T-cell energy This episode reframes creatine as a foundational cellular energy molecule critical for muscle, brain, immune, and metabolic health. Educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

EPISODE 115 Can you train your brain in the gym? In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster speaks with Aaron Delgrolice, founder of Hybrid Fitness Training, about integrating neuroscience into movement and fitness. Aaron explains his top-down nervous system approach, emphasizing that neurological systems fire before muscular tissue. By assessing and retesting visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, and cerebellar systems, he creates individualized programs that improve pain, mobility, balance, and performance. The conversation explores: • Brain-based movement training • Breathwork and parasympathetic regulation • The neurological roots of chronic pain • Emotional stress and physical tension • Calisthenics and kettlebell training through a neuro lens • The future of individualized fitness This episode bridges functional neurology and modern performance training, highlighting how integrating the brain transforms movement and overall wellness. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

EPISODE 114 | Understanding Therapeutic Plasma Exchange with Dr. Peter Miller In this episode, we interview Dr. Peter Miller of VIP TPE in Boca Raton, Florida, to explore the science and clinical application of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE), also known as apheresis. We discuss: • What TPE is and how it works • ASFA guideline categories and clinical evidence • TPE in Guillain-Barré Syndrome, PANS/PANDAS, Myasthenia Gravis • IVIG combination therapy • The AMBAR Alzheimer's trial results • Safety, risks & outpatient candidacy • Emerging research in aging and inflammatory load reduction TPE works by removing harmful plasma components including antibodies, toxins, and neuroinflammatory proteins. While it does not reverse existing neurological damage, research suggests it may help slow disease progression in certain patient populations. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL Schedule a consultation at the link in bio This content is for educational purposes only and not medical advice.

EPISODE 113 | Treating Concussions with Dr. Melissa Biscardi In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, we interview concussion expert Dr. Melissa Biscardi about her multidisciplinary background and her work advancing brain injury rehabilitation. Topics include ocular motor dysfunction after concussion, her PhD research into virtual reality interventions in postconcussion syndrome, development of the Brain Toolkit app, sleep and medication considerations for brain health, and holistic recovery strategies addressing the vestibular system, eyes, and cervical spine. Listen & subscribe for more conversations exploring neurologic health and recovery. Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

EPISODE 112 | Is chronic illness rooted in the body—or in how the brain and nervous system are communicating? In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. Cathleen King of Primal Trust shares her deeply personal recovery journey and the neuroscience behind nervous system regulation, brain retraining, and identity-level healing. After years of Lyme disease, mold toxicity, autoimmune illness, and nervous system collapse, Dr. King discovered that her symptoms were driven by a protective brain stuck in survival mode. This realization led to the creation of Primal Trust, a multi-level nervous system and inner work program that has guided nearly 20,000 people through healing. Topics include: Brain processing disorders & symptom memory loops Vagus nerve, limbic system & somatic regulation Why belief systems and identity matter in healing Illness identity & the fear of letting diagnoses go Timing vs. treatment in chronic illness recovery Neurologic Wellness Institute Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

PODCAST 111 | Dizziness can mean many different things — and understanding the nervous system is key to treating it correctly. In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. Traster is joined by Dr. Helena Esmonde, PT, DPT from Vestibular First, a specialist in vestibular rehabilitation and balance disorders. Together, they explore how the vestibular system works, why dizziness is often misdiagnosed, and how eye movements can help differentiate inner ear conditions from central neurologic issues. Topics discussed include: • The difference between dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance • How the vestibular system, vision, and proprioception interact • What causes BPPV and why it can often be resolved quickly • How vestibular rehab identifies stroke, vestibular migraine, and 3PD • Why individualized care matters more than rigid protocols This episode is essential listening for anyone dealing with chronic dizziness, balance issues, or neurologic symptoms. If you're struggling with dizziness, vertigo, or balance concerns, our team provides advanced neurologic and vestibular evaluations. www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

PODCAST 110 | In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, host Dr. David Traster interviews Dr. Cedrick Noel, a chiropractor and functional neurologist with more than two decades of experience helping patients who haven't found answers elsewhere. Dr. Noel discusses his evolution into functional neurology starting as a student with the Carrick Institute, the development of his multidisciplinary clinic, and why establishing a strong neurological foundation is critical before structural or gut-based interventions. The conversation covers his innovative tools—including the Focus Builder App, at-home spinal decompression devices, and the Gravity Reset vestibular approach—along with a heartfelt tribute to his late colleague, Dr. Jason Whitaker. Learn more about neurologic-based care and schedule a consultation: www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Waukesha, WI | Wood Dale, IL

PODCAST 109 | In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster welcomes Dr. Ayla Wolf, an experienced clinician specializing in the integration of functional neurology and Chinese medicine. With over 20 years in private practice, Dr. Wolf shares how acupuncture, herbal medicine, movement therapies, and nutrition can modulate the nervous system, improve autonomic regulation, and support conditions such as POTS, dysautonomia, migraines, mast cell activation syndrome, and brain injuries. This episode explores the science behind acupuncture, differential diagnosis in Chinese medicine, and why individualized care is essential for complex neurological cases. Serving patients at our clinics in Boca Raton, FL, Chicago, IL, Wood Dale, IL, and Waukesha, WI Visit us at www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com

PODCAST 108 | In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster interviews Dr. Jonathan Chung to discuss modern neurologic care, upper cervical chiropractic, dizziness, and the growing influence of social media on patient health beliefs. Dr. Chung explains his clinical philosophy centered on anti-fragility, resiliency, and health independence, while addressing common misconceptions around the vagus nerve, atlas alignment, glymphatic function, and cervical biomechanics. The discussion also explores cervicogenic dizziness, the neck as a sensory organ, migraine and autonomic symptoms, and how fear-based messaging can worsen patient outcomes through the nocebo effect. The episode concludes with an important discussion on autoimmune disease awareness, including lupus, and why early detection is critical for long-term neurologic and systemic health. Learn more about neurologic-based care at the Neurologic Wellness Institute Serving patients at our clinics in Boca Raton, FL, Chicago, IL, Wood Dale, IL, and Waukesha, WI Visit us at www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com

PODCAST 107: Dizziness is one of the most complex and misunderstood symptoms in neurology — and it's rarely just an inner ear issue. In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster speaks with Dr. Amir Kheradmand, vestibular neurologist at Johns Hopkins University, about how dizziness, vertigo, balance, vision, and the brain are deeply interconnected. This conversation explores how clinicians differentiate dizziness from vertigo, why conditions like vestibular migraine and PPPD are becoming more common, and how abnormal eye movements help pinpoint where dysfunction exists in the nervous system. Dr. Kheradmand also discusses stroke red flags that can be missed, why imaging isn't always definitive, and how maladaptive brain states develop after vestibular injury. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on neuromodulation and why the future of dizziness treatment lies in individualized, brain-based care. 🎗️ Special thanks to the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA/VITA) for their advocacy, education, and support for patients worldwide. Subscribe to the Neurologic Wellness Podcast for expert insights into brain health, balance, and recovery. Learn more at www.neurologicwellnessinstitute.com

PODCAST 106 | From One Clinic to a Global Classroom: Adrenal Fatigue, Natural Medicine & Modern Health Truths | Dr. Bradley Campbell In this powerful episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, host Dr. David Traster sits down with Dr. Bradley Campbell, chiropractor, naturopathic doctor, acupuncturist, educator, and author, to explore how modern stress, nervous system dysregulation, and lifestyle factors are driving today's chronic health conditions. Dr. Campbell shares how he transitioned from owning a single brick-and-mortar clinic to creating a global online education platform, allowing him to teach natural chiropractic, naturopathic, herbal, acupuncture, and functional health principles to thousands worldwide. He discusses: Why over 90% of patients show signs of adrenal fatigue His book Do I Have Adrenal Fatigue? and the 4 S's: salt, sex, sugar, and stress hormones The role of modern stressors like phones, fake lighting, stimulants, loneliness, and processed food Why hormones and low testosterone are often signals—not root causes How acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, and labs fit into holistic healing The dangers of poor-quality supplements and fake herbs Food processing, antibiotics, gut health, and nervous system addiction patterns Why long-form education is the future of health truth Dr. Campbell also shares his personal journey into chiropractic after a childhood concussion, his experience navigating censorship, and his mission to empower patients to "use their doctor, not be used by their doctor." A must-listen episode for anyone interested in adrenal fatigue, nervous system healing, holistic health, functional medicine, and patient empowerment. Recovery is possible. The brain and body can heal. Clinic Locations: Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Wood Dale, IL | Waukesha, WI Learn more or schedule a consultation: neurologicwellnessinstitute.com

Episode 105 | Neuromodulation Explained: The Future of Drug-Free Brain Therapy with SOZO Brain Center In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, host Dr. David Traster sits down with Matthew Papadopoulos, CEO of the Sozo Brain Center, one of the world's leading authorities in non-invasive neuromodulation. The Sozo Brain Center, based in Cyprus, is internationally recognized for delivering cutting-edge, drug-free brain stimulation therapies for complex neurological and mental health conditions. The word Sozo comes from ancient Greek, meaning "to save" — a mission reflected in their life-changing clinical outcomes. In this conversation, we explore: What neuromodulation really is and how non-invasive brain stimulation works Why protocols matter more than devices How combining stimulation with targeted cognitive and motor tasks enhances neuroplasticity Conditions treated including dementia, Parkinson's, autism, chronic pain, and mental health disorders EEG brain mapping, outcome tracking, and personalized treatment timelines Using TMS, TPS, tDCS, tACS, Vagal Nerve Stimulation, Tongue Electric Stimulation Training doctors globally to expand access to neuromodulation Dr. Traster shares why he considers Sozo Brain Center one of the global gold standard in neuromodulation and how this technology is redefining neurological and mental health care worldwide. Recovery is possible. The brain can heal. Neurologic Wellness Institute Locations: Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Wood Dale, IL | Waukesha, WI Learn more or schedule a consultation: neurologicwellnessinstitute.com Subscribe for more conversations on brain health, neuroplasticity, and cutting-edge neurological care.

PODCAST 104: The Eye–Brain Connection — Neurovision, Concussion Recovery & Peak Performance with Dr. Aakash Shah In this episode of the Neurologic Wellness Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Aakash Shah, a leading neurovision specialist, to explore the powerful connection between vision, brain function, and human performance. Dr. Shah works with patients ranging from infants to professional athletes, specializing in pediatric vision, traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussion recovery, and sports vision training. With over a decade of experience, he explains how vision is processed in the brain—not just the eyes—and why optimizing the eye-brain connection is critical for recovery, learning, and peak performance. Dr. Shah also shares his inspiring personal journey. Born with severe vision loss due to exotropia (turned-out eye) and amblyopia (lazy eye), he was told by multiple doctors that nothing could be done. Through neurology-based vision therapy, brain training, and light therapy, he was able to restore the majority of his vision as an adult—including depth perception and the ability to pass a DMV eye exam. In this conversation, we discuss how neuroplasticity allows the brain to rewire itself and how targeted vision and brain training can lead to lasting recovery, improved cognition, and elite-level performance. Topics Covered in This Episode • How vision is processed in the brain, not just the eyes • Why strabismus and amblyopia are often neurological—not structural • The role of neuroplasticity in vision and brain recovery • How Syntonics light therapy helps regulate the autonomic nervous system • The science behind photobiomodulation and brain-eye health • Why concussion patients experience light sensitivity, anxiety, and tunnel vision • How neurovision training improves reaction time, decision-making, and visual memory • The "quiet eye," flow state, and elite athletic performance • How vision training can reduce injury risk and repeat concussions • Why eye tracking and peripheral awareness are critical for reading, academics, and sports Why This Episode Matters This episode highlights the brain's incredible ability to heal and adapt. Whether you're dealing with concussion symptoms, vision challenges, learning difficulties, or looking to enhance athletic or cognitive performance, this conversation shows how addressing the eye–brain connection can unlock recovery and optimization. Resources & Links 👉 Learn more about Neurologic Wellness Institute: https://neurologicwellnessinstitute.com 📍 Clinic Locations: Boca Raton, FL | Chicago, IL | Wood Dale, IL | Waukesha, WI

The Posture-Brain Connection: How Posture Rewires the Brain, Impacts Balance, Movement, and Neurological Health – with Mat Boule Posture is not just structural — it is neurological. In this episode of The Neurologic Wellness Podcast, Dr. David Traster sits down with posturology expert Mat Boule to explore how posture directly programs the brain, influences balance, coordination, movement efficiency, and shapes long-term neurological health. Mat explains how dysfunctional posture disrupts sensory input from the vestibular system, visual system, and proprioceptive pathways, forcing the brain into compensatory patterns that can lead to chronic pain, poor balance, dizziness, gait instability, fatigue, and decreased motor control. This episode reveals how restoring proper postural strategies can recalibrate the nervous system, improve coordination, enhance athletic performance, and optimize how the brain organizes movement in space. You'll learn how postural correction is not simply biomechanical — it is a powerful form of brain-based rehabilitation. Key Topics Covered: The neurological relationship between posture and brain function How poor posture impacts balance, coordination, and vestibular processing Posturology and the brain-body connection Sensory integration, proprioception, and movement efficiency How posture influences chronic pain, dizziness, and instability Brain-based posture correction and neuro-sensory rehabilitation strategies About Mat Boule: Mat Boule is a posturologist specializing in the neurological regulation of posture, balance, and human movement. His work focuses on how the brain processes sensory input from the vestibular system, eyes, muscles, and joints to maintain upright stability and coordinate efficient movement patterns. Through advanced postural assessment and neuro-sensory correction strategies, Mat addresses the root causes of postural dysfunction, dizziness, poor balance, movement inefficiency, and chronic pain. His approach is grounded in neuroscience and centers on recalibrating how the brain organizes posture to improve mobility, coordination, performance, and long-term resilience. This episode offers a powerful perspective for clinicians, athletes, and anyone seeking to improve movement, balance, posture, and neurological performance.

What if your vision is not just about seeing… but about how your brain functions? In this episode, Dr. David Traster sits down with Dr. Paul Brewer, OD, an optometrist who specializes in functional vision and neuro-optometric rehabilitation. We explore how vision is deeply wired into your brain, and how improving visual processing can drastically change balance, cognition, mood, and human performance. 🌐 What You'll Learn in This Episode ✅ How vision integrates with the vestibular system and proprioception ✅ Why 70–80% of the brain is involved in visual processing ✅ How visual system errors can cause dizziness, motion sensitivity, headaches, and anxiety ✅ The multimodal nature of the brain — how sensory systems communicate and synchronize ✅ Real-world clinical examples from Dr. Brewer's private practice ✅ How professional athletes use vision therapy to improve performance and reaction time We dive into assessment and treatment strategies for: Concussions & Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Autism & developmental visual processing challenges Chronic dizziness / visual vertigo / PPPD Double vision & binocular vision dysfunction Post-stroke visual rehabilitation Performance enhancement for athletes and executives Dr. Brewer also shares what it's like seeing patients 1:1 — from kids with developmental delays… to adults struggling after a concussion… to professional athletes and high-level performers looking to optimize their nervous system. 💡 Big Idea Vision is not just eyesight. Vision is brain function. Correcting vision is not only about lenses — it's about rewiring neural networks through targeted sensory input and neuroplasticity. 🚀 Want to work with us? We specialize in brain-based rehabilitation, functional neurology, and multimodal sensory integration — including vestibular rehab, neuro-visual training, and concussion recovery. 🌐 Website: ➡️ https://NeurologicWellnessInstitute.com 📍 Clinic Locations: Florida Boca Raton, FL Illinois Chicago, IL (Downtown) Wood Dale, IL (Chicagoland) Wisconsin Waukesha, WI (Milwaukee area) We work with patients locally and those traveling from around the world.