Podcast
The Neuro Collective Podcast
Hosted by Dr. Michael Bagnell & May Bagnell · EN
Welcome to The Neuro Collective Podcast!
We are your hosts, Dr. Michael Bagnell, Functional Neurologist and May Bagnell, Mindset and Nutrition Coach. Together, we are here to guide you through the dynamic intersection of Functional Neurology, Mindset Coaching, and Functional Medicine. If you're passionate about neuroscience, alternative health, and holistic wellness, you're in the perfect place.
Our podcast is designed for those who are eager to explore innovative ways to heal brain conditions, optimize brain performance, and enhance overall well-being.
We cater to everyone from health-conscious individuals to high-performing athletes.
Each week, we bring you expert interviews, the latest research, and actionable tips to help you achieve peak mental and physical health. Together, we'll dive deep into the science and practicalities of brain health, empowering you to live your best life with a sharper mind and a healthier body.
So, let's embark on this journey together and unlock the limitless potential of your brain. This is The Neuro Collective Podcast—where holistic health meets neuroscience.
49episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Day in the Clinical Life: Vestibular and Visual Training in Action 187
2w ago00:12:50Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailDay in the Clinical Life: Vestibular and Visual Training in ActionIn this episode of The Neurocollective Podcast, we take listeners behind the scenes for a “day in the clinical life” as May Bagnell, IHP shares her personal experience with vestibular and visual system testing and training. The conversation explores how this technology works, what the evaluation measures, and why strengthening the vestibular system can have a profound impact on energy, clarity, balance, and overall brain function.What You’ll LearnWhat the vestibular system does and why it matters beyond balanceHow low vestibular function can show up as fatigue, fogginess, dizziness, and even emotional symptomsWhat the testing and training process looks like in the clinicHow a mathematically guided protocol is used to target imbalancesWhy the chair-based vestibular training can create noticeable shifts in just one sessionHow brainstem regulation connects vestibular function, heart rate, blood pressure, and dysautonomiaWhy this technology is useful for understanding deeper brain and eye-brain relationshipsEpisode HighlightsA real-time “before and after” experience from MayDiscussion of how vestibular weakness can drain energy and affect cognitionAn inside look at the rotational multi-axis chair and its advanced softwareThe role of goggles and eye tracking in measuring brain responsesWhy the team emphasizes precision, comfort, and individualized careA practical reminder that practitioners also need support and recalibrationKey TakeawaysThe vestibular system is tightly connected to how the brain processes movement, balance, energy, and orientation.Symptoms like fatigue, heavy eyes, brain fog, dizziness, and palpitations may point to deeper system imbalance.Small, targeted interventions can create significant short-term improvements.Functional neurology approaches work best when they are individualized and data-driven.Practitioners and clients alike benefit from ongoing evaluation and adjustment.Practical ReflectionIf you’ve ever noticed days where your energy, clarity, or balance feels dramatically worse without an obvious reason, this episode offers a helpful framework for becoming more curious about what your body may be signaling.Closing MessageThis episode reminds us that healing is often about finding the right imbalance, supporting the right system, and taking the next step with precision and care.Remember: You can heal. We can help.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →{3} The Hidden Conversation Series: Your Brain & Hormones 186
2w ago00:28:20Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailBrain and Hormones: The Hidden Conversation Shaping Your HealthIn this episode, we explore the powerful two-way conversation between the brain and your hormones. What may feel like “just hormones” is often a more complex feedback loop involving the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, ovaries/testicles, and the nervous system. We break down how stress, blood sugar, sleep, inflammation, and nervous system dysregulation can all influence hormone signaling — and how hormonal imbalances can, in turn, affect mood, energy, sleep, memory, and motivation.Key Topics CoveredWhy hormones are messengers, not the whole storyThe role of the hypothalamus as a translator and thermostatHow the pituitary communicates with other hormone-producing glandsWhy stress, blood sugar, sleep, and inflammation disrupt hormonal balanceThe connection between cortisol, insulin, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid functionHow brain health and metabolic health shape hormone outcomesWhy lifestyle and nervous system regulation matter before jumping to quick fixesHow to become more curious about your own symptoms and patternsMain TakeawaysThe brain and hormones are in constant communication.Hormonal symptoms often reflect deeper nervous system and metabolic stress.Supporting sleep, stress regulation, and blood sugar balance can improve hormonal health.Quick fixes may help temporarily, but long-term change usually requires addressing the root causes.Tracking patterns over time can help you connect symptoms to triggers and make better decisions for your health.Practical Exercise: Your Brain-Hormone Conversation LogFor one week, each evening or the next morning, write down: How you slept How clear your thinking felt How steady your energy was How calm or reactive you felt What was happening in your body or environment when things changed Use this log to become more curious, not judgmental, about your health patterns.Clinical InsightFrom a functional neurology perspective, hormone symptoms are not always “in the brain,” but the brain is always part of the picture. That’s why effective care often includes both neurological strategies and metabolic strategies.Who This Episode Is ForThis episode is especially helpful for anyone dealing with: Hormone imbalance Perimenopause or menopause symptoms Stress and burnout Poor sleep Brain fog Weight changes Fatigue Blood sugar instability Nervous system dysregulation Closing MessageWhen we understand the hidden conversations between the brain and hormones, we can make more informed, sustainable choices that support long-term health and healing.Remember: You can heal. We can help.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →{2} The Hidden Conversation Between Your Gut and Your Brain: How Your Gut Shapes Mood, Memory, and Mind 185
3w ago00:22:51Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThis episode dives into the intricate communication between your gut and brain — a relationship that influences your mood, memory, and overall mental health. With insights from experts, we explore how gut health impacts neurological function and how understanding this connection can empower you to take control of your mood and health.In this episode:The gut as a second brain: its nervous system and immune function How gut barrier integrity affects the blood-brain barrier and mood regulation The role of neuroimmune chemicals and neuroinflammation in mental health The importance of comprehensive gut testing beyond standard stool analysis The impact of bacterial byproducts and probiotics on mood and neurotransmitter production How lifestyle, nutrition, and mindfulness can optimize gut-brain communication The embryological link: gut and brain development from the same fetal tissue Practical strategies for improving gut health to support mental well-being The significance of gut microbiota diversity and dysbiosis in neurological disorders The benefits of slowing down, mindful eating, and colorful nutrition Timestamps: (00:01) Introduction to the gut-brain dialogue and why it matters (00:23) The gut's nervous system: "like a nasty teenager" always talking back (0:33) The influence of gut disruption on mood and personality (01:26) The connection between gut treatment and a well-behaved brain (01:38) Enteric nervous system's role in immune regulation and mood (02:07) Gut lining's impact on the blood-brain barrier via cortisol and stress (03:17) Neuroinflammation caused by GI infections affecting mood and behavior (04:12) The hidden conversation: immune system, gut, and brain interactions (05:04) Embryonic development: gut and brain as twin tissues (05:58) "Gut feelings" and the power of the brain-gut connection (06:27) Lifestyle interventions and genetic influence via epigenetics (07:35) The importance of comprehensive stool tests and microbiota analysis (08:55) Beyond simple parasite checks: looking at flora, bacteria, and metabolites (09:51) How gut health influences neurotransmitter production: serotonin, GABA, and more (13:21) The impact of diet, sugar, alcohol, and processed foods on gut and brain health (14:25) Change your food, change your mood—impact of nutrition on mental health (15:49) Combining protocols: gut support and nervous system regulation (17:50) The microbiota-gut-brain axis and its link to autism, anxiety, and depression (19:20) Microorganisms within your ecosystem: communication and healing potential (20:19) Food as a message: improving nerve signaling through mindful nutrition (22:21) The art of slowing down, colorful plates, and intentional eating (23:18) Visualize your gut-brain harmony to guide healthier choices (24:25) Empowering yourself with the vision of an interconnected gut and brain Resources & Links: Neuroinflammation and Mood Disorders Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis The Gut Microbiota and Brain Axis - Review Emory University Gut-Brain Connection Research Connect with the Hosts: www.BagnellBrainCenter.com Additional Notes: Understanding that your gut and brain share origin and communication pathways transforms how you approach mental and physical health. Small, mindful changes in diet, stress management, and gut support can have profound effects on mood, cognition, and resilience. Remember, health is less about calories and more about communication—strive for a gut that's singing, not talking back.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →{1} The Hidden Conversations Series: The Brain-Gut Conversation That's Controlling Your Digestion and Stress 184
3w ago00:24:19Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailLength: 26 minutesUnlocking the Hidden Conversation Between Your Brain and GutExplore how stress, nervous system regulation, and neural pathways influence digestive health and overall well-being. This episode unpacks the bi-directional communication between the brain and gut, highlighting practical steps to improve your health through understanding this vital connection.Main Topics:The dynamic dialogue between the brain and gut and its impact on digestionHow stress and neurochemistry modulate gut function and immune responseThe significance of the vagus nerve in neuro-gastrointestinal regulationThe effects of chronic stress on gut integrity and systemic healthPractical strategies to support nervous system balance, including mindful eating and breathingIn this episode:The story of stress affecting digestion in seconds and the importance of body awarenessThe role of the vagus nerve as a communication highway between brain and gutHow cortisol and stress influence gut barrier integrity, leading to potential health issuesThe impact of sympathetic versus parasympathetic nervous system dominance on digestionThe importance of stress management and nervous system regulation for gut healthA case example of vagal nerve stimulation improving both migraines and digestionPractical tips: eating without distractions, mindful breathing, and recognizing symptom patternsThe need for a holistic approach, considering brain health in digestive disordersTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to the series "The Hidden Conversations" on brain-gut communication 00:12 - How stress influences digestion in real-time 00:30 - The story illustrating the brain's quick response affecting the gut 01:21 - The significance of bi-directional communication between brain and gut 01:50 - Gut acting as an orchestra, with the vagus nerve as the conductor 02:22 - The vagus nerve as the highway of neural communication 02:54 - The role of interoception in gut-brain signaling 03:11 - The brain’s primary question: "Am I safe?" and its influence on bodily functions 03:41 - Impact of safety perception on reproduction and infertility 04:31 - Neurochemistry pathways: neural, chemical, and immune signals 04:55 - How stress hormones like cortisol affect gut permeability 05:25 - The consequences of a compromised gut barrier, including food allergies 06:28 - The importance of neuro-awareness in symptom diagnosis 06:55 - The influence of the nervous system in end-organ health, beyond specific specialties 07:22 - Recognizing lost signals in the nervous system contributing to health issues 08:08 - The analogy of butterflies and neural responses under stress 08:44 - The connection between subconscious perceptions and physical sensations 09:32 - Modern stress: a new epidemic and its effect on gut health 10:06 - Differentiating modern chronic stress from historical physical stress 11:02 - The sympathetic spiral of doom and its impact on digestion 11:40 - How overactivation of sympathetic responses hamper effective digestion 12:23 - The importance of parasympathetic activation for gut health 13:14 - Cultural shifts in stress levels over the last century 14:01 - How signal loss from the brain to the gut exacerbates digestive conditions like IBS 14:57 - The significance of nervous system regulation in managing digestive issues 15:25 - Practical ways to support nervous system safety through mindful habits 16:43 - The role of brain health, particularly frontal lobe function, in gut regulation 17:07 - Using brain mapping and neurotherapy to enhance gut-brain communication 18:45 - The relationship between brain stem health, dizziness, and nausea 20:07 - Case study: vagal nerve stimulation improving migraines and digestion 21:30 - Supporting gut motility through brainstem regulation and brain health 22:45 - Identifying hidden signals affecting chronic gut dysfunction 23:25 - Practical tips for nervous system regulation: mindful eating, slow breathing, pattern recognition 25:24 - The importance of neurogastroenterology: synchronizing brain and gut signals 26:19 - Outro: The next episode on how gut bacteria influence mood and cognitionResources & Links:The Vagus Nerve and Its Role in HealthUnderstanding the Gut-Brain AxisConnect with the Hosts:May Bagnell - https://www.instagram.com/bwell_femme/Dr. Bagnell - WebsiteNext time: We dive into how gut bacteria influence mental health and cognition, uncovering the reverse conversation in the gut-brain connection.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →The Hidden Link Between Vestibular Health and Alzheimer’s Disease in Women 183
4w ago00:23:48Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailThe Hidden Link Between Vestibular Health and Alzheimer’s Disease in WomenIn this episode, May Bagnell, IHP and Dr. Michael Bagnell explore the surprising connection between the vestibular system in the inner ear and cognitive decline, particularly Alzheimer's disease in women. They discuss how the vestibular system influences memory, spatial navigation, and overall brain health, and why maintaining its function might be key to preventing dementia.Main topics include:The heightened risk of Alzheimer's in women and the lesser-known role of the vestibular systemHow the inner ear communicates directly with the brain’s memory centersThe vestibular system’s function as the brain’s GPS for spatial orientation and navigationEmerging technology for assessing and improving vestibular healthThe impact of aging on vestibular function and ways to strengthen itThe connection between sleep, vestibular health, and cognitive performancePersonal stories illustrating vestibular episodes and their effects on cognition and balancePractical steps for assessing and training vestibular function to support brain health Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Linking vestibular health to women’s risk of Alzheimer's 01:01 - Why women are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's and the vestibular system's role 02:26 - Understanding the vestibular system as the brain’s guidance system 03:01 - The connection between vestibular function, memory, and cognition 03:56 - Dementia types, prevalence in women, and early signs like balance issues 04:25 - The potential link between early vestibular decline and future cognitive issues 05:21 - Advances in technology for deep investigation into vestibular function 05:47 - The importance of strengthening the vestibular system and its impact on neuroprotection 06:46 - Preventive health strategies: biohacking and neurological optimization 07:16 - Real-world example of vestibular dysfunction linked to cognitive symptoms 07:47 - Personal story of a vestibular episode and its cognitive and physical aftermath 08:56 - Woman's perspective on the fear and acceptance of aging and cognitive risk 11:08 - Sleep’s role in brain health and its correlation with vestibular and cognitive functions 13:28 - How sleep disruptions can worsen vestibular problems and cognitive decline 15:26 - Vestibular testing in darkness and light and its implications for sleep quality 16:44 - The importance of symmetry in vestibular function for overall brain health 17:22 - Integrating sleep, diet, and vestibular training for optimal neuroprotection 20:30 - Personal experience with vertigo and its impact on cognition and stability 21:42 - Recognizing subtle vestibular issues as a factor in cognitive decline 22:15 - Taking proactive steps: brain health audits and vestibular training opportunities 23:09 - Closing thoughts: The brain’s adaptability and the power of training the vestibular systemResources & Links:www.Bagnell Brain Center.comAura Ring (Sleep tracker) Connect with May & Dr. Michael Bagnell:https://www.instagram.com/bagnell_brain_center/https://www.tiktok.com/@bagnellbraincenter305 Take Action: Schedule a brain health audit to assess your vestibular and cognitive function and start personalized training to support your brain health!For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →The Hidden Connection Between The Vestibular System & Dysautonomia 182
Jul 100:31:39Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailMost cases of dizziness, anxiety, and exhaustion are dismissed as separate issues—what if they're all signs of a deeper, interconnected problem? What if your body's signals of imbalance are really a breakdown in communication between your vestibular system and autonomic nervous system? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Michael Bagnell & May Bagnell, IHP reveal how conditions like POTS, long COVID, concussion, and chronic dizziness may all stem from a hidden connection — and that understanding could transform the way you approach treatment and healing.You’ll discover how the vestibular system, housed in the inner ear, plays a crucial role beyond balance — influencing blood pressure, heart rate, and even mood through its connection to the brainstem and autonomic nervous system. Dr. Bagnell breaks down how dysfunction in this system can amplify anxiety, cause sensory overload, and lead to symptoms like blackouts, tachycardia, and depersonalization.We break down:The anatomy of the vestibular system and its surprising links to neurochemistryHow aging, injury, or inflammation weaken this system, creating a cascade of dysautonomia symptomsThe powerful concept of system integration — when sensory signals are out of sync, it worsens dizziness, anxiety, and brain fog Why diagnosing dysautonomia involves looking at the bigger picture, rather than just treating symptoms with pillsPractical strategies for neural rehabilitation, emphasizing neuroplasticity and system retraining instead of medication fixesImagine addressing the root cause instead of just managing symptoms — offering hope to those stuck in a cycle of uncertainty. This episode is essential listening for anyone experiencing unexplained dizziness, chronic stress, or anxiety that resists conventional treatments. Discover how the brain’s adaptability and functional neurology can help restore balance, health, and quality of life. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, understanding this interconnected system unlocks new pathways to healing. It's not about treating in isolation — it’s about training, retraining, and upgrading the body's communication networks to function harmoniously again.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →Why Dizziness Is Not Only An Inner Ear Problem 181
Jun 2400:33:57Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailMost cases of dizziness are mistaken for inner ear problems, but the reality is far more complex—and most doctors are missing crucial clues that could resolve decades of suffering. In this episode, Dr. Bagnell and May Bagnell, IHP expose the unseen factors behind chronic dizziness that traditional tests overlook—like sensory imbalances, brain compensation, and neural performance. Discover how advanced functional neurology tools are opening a new window into the true root causes, beyond what MRI scans or ENT visits can reveal. You'll learn:Why longstanding dizziness often stems from systemic sensory mismatches—not just inner ear disruptionsHow asymmetries in the vestibular and visual systems can go unnoticed with standard testing but are key to resolutionThe role of stress, emotional regulation, and neurological networks in balance and anxiety, and why they shouldn't be ignoredConcrete protocols for retraining the brain’s response to motion—restoring stability by using precise, personalized rehab strategiesReal stories of patients who recovered from decades of imbalance through targeted, cutting-edge assessments and therapies This episode is perfect for anyone tired of managing symptoms and ready for actual healing. If you've experienced chronic dizziness, unexplained balance issues, or emotional distress linked to imbalance, this is your critical next step. Understanding the true causes of dizziness can unlock the potential for complete recovery—don’t settle for just managing your symptoms when science now offers a pathway to true balance. Join us to see how shifting the focus from structural guesses to performance-based assessments illuminates the root and rapidly accelerates healing. Your journey to a life without limits starts here.#dizziness #vestibularmigraines #anxiety #functionalneurologyFor more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →Part 8: Inside The Brain Series- The Occipital Lobes: Vision, Perception & Why Your Brain Gets Overloaded- Episode 180
Jun 300:28:27Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailMost people think vision happens in the eyes, but the truth is that vision is a brain function.In this episode of the Inside the Brain Series, Mae Bagnell,IHP explores the fascinating role of the occipital lobes, the brain's primary visual processing center. Learn how your brain transforms visual information into the experience of sight and why healthy visual processing is essential for focus, attention, balance, cognition, and emotional well being.Discover how excessive screen time and constant visual stimulation can contribute to brain fog, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, sensory overload, and poor concentration. Mae also explains the important connection between the visual system and conditions such as concussions, vestibular disorders, ADHD related attention challenges, migraines, and reading difficulties.This episode also provides practical strategies to help support the visual brain, reduce visual stress, and improve overall brain function through the power of neuroplasticity. From changing visual distance throughout the day to spending more time outdoors and reducing visual clutter, you'll gain actionable tools you can begin using immediately.If you've ever experienced overwhelm, difficulty focusing, dizziness, or mental exhaustion, this conversation will help you better understand the role your visual system may be playing.Your eyes collect information, but your brain creates the experience of sight. When you intentionally support your visual brain, you can improve the way you think, feel, move, and experience the world around you.Remember, you can heal and we can help.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →Part 7: The Temporal Lobes: Memory, Mood & The Meaning Your Brain Gives Life- Episode 179
May 2100:29:02Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailWhat if one part of your brain quietly shaped your memories, emotions, identity, and even the meaning behind your life experiences? In this episode of our Inside the Brain series, Dr. Michael and May Bagnell,IHP take a fascinating journey into the temporal lobes — the brain’s powerful “meaning makers.” Discover how this incredible region helps you decode the past, understand the present, and connect to the future, while influencing everything from memory and language to music, mood, and emotional regulation.Have you ever heard a song that instantly transported you back to a specific moment in your life? Or wondered why certain memories carry such deep emotional weight? Dr. Michael and May unpack the science behind how the temporal lobes shape your personal story and why memory isn’t simply stored — it’s continuously rewritten and reshaped. They also discuss signs that your temporal lobes may need support, including brain fog, anxiety, sound sensitivity, sleep struggles, emotional overwhelm, and memory changes.Episode Highlights: • Why the temporal lobes are called the brain’s “meaning makers” • The powerful connection between memory, identity, and emotion • How music can unlock forgotten memories • Signs of temporal lobe dysfunction to watch for • The impact of chronic stress and inflammation on brain health • Strategies for healthy aging: movement, sleep, nutrition, and nervous system regulation • Functional neurology approaches that help optimize brain performanceYour brain carries your story — your memories, your experiences, and the connections that make you who you are. Join us as we explore how caring for your brain today can help preserve meaning, memory, and human connection for years to come.For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
Transcribe →Part 6: The Parietal Lobes: Sensory Processing, Overwhelm & Your Brain’s Internal Map- Episode 178
May 1900:32:38Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of The Neuro Collective Podcast, Dr. Michael and May Bagnell,IHP continue their Inside the Brain series with a fascinating deep dive into the parietal lobes — the brain regions responsible for sensory processing, body awareness, spatial orientation, attention, and sensory integration. Discover why some people feel easily overstimulated, overwhelmed in busy environments, disconnected from their body, or mentally exhausted after sensory-heavy experiences like crowded stores, concerts, airports, or loud restaurants.Learn how the parietal lobes act as your brain’s internal mapping system, helping you understand where your body is in space through proprioception, movement, touch, and coordination. Dr. Bagnell explains how these brain regions influence everything from clumsiness and coordination to focus, filtering information, visual processing, and emotional overwhelm. The episode also explores how conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, concussion, stroke, apraxia, and sensory processing challenges may involve parietal lobe dysfunction — and how functional neurology can help retrain and strengthen these systems.You’ll also discover practical ways to support your brain naturally, including reducing sensory overload, improving nervous system regulation, using intentional movement and cross-body exercises, creating visual calm, and strengthening body awareness through activities like yoga, stretching, grounding, and water therapy. Whether you’re a neuroscience enthusiast, a parent navigating sensory challenges, or someone trying to understand why your brain feels overloaded, this episode offers powerful insight into how the brain processes the world around you — and how healing and regulation are possible.Highlights from this episode:What the parietal lobes actually doWhy busy environments can feel exhaustingThe connection between sensory overload and anxietyHow the brain maps the body through proprioceptionClumsiness, coordination, and brain functionParietal lobes and ADHD, dyslexia, concussion, and sensory issuesFunctional neurology approaches for brain retrainingSimple ways to support sensory regulation and brain healthBecause when the brain processes the world differently, life can feel overwhelming — but understanding the brain is the first step toward healing. For more information, visit us at www.bagnellbraincenter.com. You CAN Heal! We CAN Help!!
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