Podcast Summary: "Inside the Mind of Clara Woods: A Nonverbal Artist with a Powerful Voice"
Change Your Brain Every Day, hosted by New York Times bestselling authors Dr. Daniel Amen and Tana Amen, presents an inspiring episode titled "Inside the Mind of Clara Woods: A Nonverbal Artist with a Powerful Voice." Released on March 3, 2025, this episode delves into the remarkable journey of Clara Woods, a nonverbal artist, and her mother Bettina Woods. Clara's story is one of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of art in overcoming significant neurological challenges.
Introduction to Clara and Bettina Woods
The episode opens with a heartfelt introduction by Clara Woods herself:
Clara Woods [00:00]: "Art is my happy place. When I paint, it's like my brain takes a big deep breath and relaxes... Art is my superpower."
Dr. Daniel Amen and Tana Amen set the stage by highlighting Clara's unique journey:
Tana Amen [00:50]: "Clara suffered a stroke in the womb and had come to see us at Amen Clinic's Costa Mesa for treatment. This is her powerful story of resilience, hope, and healing."
Clara's Early Life and Diagnosis
Bettina Woods shares the challenging early years following Clara's prenatal stroke:
Bettina Woods [02:30]: "Clara was born, but we didn't know that she had the stroke. When she was around one year old, she couldn't open her right arm. Doctors said she'd be like a vegetable, but Clara proved them wrong with her vibrant personality and spirit."
Despite being diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Clara's mother chose to focus on living a "normal" life, avoiding prolonged hospital stays and fostering an environment where Clara could thrive.
The Power of Art as Communication
Clara's inability to speak, read, or write turned to art as her primary means of expression. This creative outlet became her "superpower," allowing her to communicate complex emotions and ideas without words.
Clara Woods [28:15]: "Art is my happy place... Since I can't use my words, painting helps me show the world what's in my heart and mind."
Bettina emphasizes how art transformed Clara's life:
Bettina Woods [10:47]: "She started painting just for fun, but we began to see colors and forms she created. Introducing her to Frida Kahlo's story ignited her passion for art."
Achievements and Exhibitions
Clara's talent did not go unnoticed. With Bettina's unwavering support, Clara hosted over 30 exhibitions worldwide, including prestigious events like Art Basel in Miami, sponsored by Louis Vuitton.
Bettina Woods [12:27]: "Clara was the first kid to have her own company in Italy. Her first exhibition in Florence sold out, and she continued to gain international recognition."
The family's dedication paid off as Clara connected with influential figures like Virgil Abloh, leading to further exhibitions and collaborations. Despite facing challenges such as the pandemic, Clara's art continued to flourish, demonstrating her unyielding spirit.
The Move to California and Its Impact
In 2020, the Woods family relocated to California, seeking a more supportive environment for Clara's growth and their own well-being.
Bettina Woods [15:19]: "In Europe, the mindset was more closed. Here in California, we found more opportunities and a community that embraced Clara's talent and our mission."
The move proved beneficial, offering Clara greater exposure and the freedom to manage her artistic endeavors more effectively.
Managing ADHD Within the Family
Beyond Clara's cerebral palsy, the Woods family also navigates the complexities of ADHD. Bettina and her husband Carlo both have ADHD, which adds another layer of challenge to their daily lives.
Bettina Woods [19:27]: "Carlo is full ADHD, and so is Clara. This impacts our relationships and how we manage our household and business."
Bettina recounts the strain ADHD placed on her marriage and family dynamics before seeking help:
Bettina Woods [41:34]: "We were resilient to be together and raise the family, but it was hell before we understood ADHD. Once we knew, it became manageable."
They credit Amen Clinics with providing the necessary support and strategies to improve their mental health and familial relationships.
Collaboration with Amen Clinics
Feeling overwhelmed and desperate for solutions, Bettina reached out to Amen Clinics for assistance with Clara's cerebral palsy and the family's ADHD challenges.
Bettina Woods [21:46]: "I wrote an email explaining everything—my husband, Clara, and myself. I was desperate for help."
Dr. Amina, a child and adult psychiatrist at Amen Clinics, joined the conversation to discuss Clara's brain health and potential treatments.
Dr. Amina [22:35]: "Clara's brain shows areas of both high and low activity. Strategies like a ketogenic diet or medication can help calm hyperactive regions and support her mental health."
Therapeutic Strategies and Treatments
The discussion highlights various therapeutic options to support Clara's neurological health:
- Ketogenic Diet: Bettina shares success stories where a low-carbohydrate diet significantly reduced seizures in children.
Tana Amen [27:25]: "A ketogenic diet can help with seizure control and mood stability."
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Tana Amen suggests this as a potential treatment to stimulate Clara's cerebellum and improve brain function.
Tana Amen [23:00]: "Hyperbaric oxygen therapy could help stimulate her sleepy cerebellum, enhancing her brain's functionality."
- Medication Management: Dr. Amina discusses the careful use of medications to manage Clara's anxiety and seizure activity without hindering her creativity.
Clara's Influence and Future Projects
Clara's artwork has not only provided her with a means of expression but has also inspired countless individuals facing similar challenges:
Bettina Woods [32:17]: "Clara's videos have over 30 million views, inspiring people to overcome depression and embrace their unique talents."
Looking forward, the Woods family is launching the Inclusion Matters Podcast, hosted by Clara and their son Aiden, who is on the autism spectrum and a talented musician. This platform aims to amplify voices of individuals with disabilities, fostering a community of support and visibility.
Bettina Woods [33:47]: "With the Inclusion Matters Podcast, we want to help others by providing a platform for visibility and support."
Family Dynamics and Emotional Resilience
Bettina openly discusses the emotional toll of managing multiple challenges within the family, including raising a nonverbal child and supporting a husband with ADHD.
Bettina Woods [18:18]: "I believe it's God who has given us these challenges, but I also believe in finding a mission to promote inclusion and diversity."
Her vulnerability offers listeners a candid look into the struggles and triumphs of nurturing a family with diverse neurological needs.
Conclusion: Embracing Unique Brains
The episode concludes with a powerful message about the potential for brain improvement and the importance of understanding and supporting unique individuals.
Tana Amen [43:53]: "Everyone's brain is different, and by seeking help, you can improve your brain's health even if it was hurt before or after birth."
Dr. Daniel Amen reinforces this optimism:
Dr. Daniel Amen [44:24]: "Your brain can be better, and we love making brains better."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Clara Woods [00:00]: "Art is my happy place... Art is my superpower."
- Tana Amen [00:50]: "This is her powerful story of resilience, hope, and healing."
- Bettina Woods [10:47]: "She can communicate really well, like expressing herself with gestures."
- Dr. Daniel Amen [21:19]: "This is what we love, making brains better."
- Bettina Woods [18:27]: "She's amazing and she can do things. She's smart."
Final Thoughts
"Inside the Mind of Clara Woods: A Nonverbal Artist with a Powerful Voice" is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity through creativity and support. Clara and Bettina Woods exemplify how understanding the brain and leveraging individual strengths can lead to remarkable achievements. Their story not only inspires but also educates listeners on the importance of brain health, inclusion, and the transformative power of art.
For more information about Clara Woods and her work, visit clarawoodscollection.com or follow her on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.