The Brain Coach
By Mary Turos
The Brain Coach Mar 02, 2022
Ep: 17: Breani Bridges, Employment Consultant for People with Disabilities
Breani Bridges is an employment consultant who helps adults with disabilities prepare for and navigate work and life. Breani provides supportive services for all ages; young adults transitioning from school to adults moving into retirement.
Breani began her career as a peer educator in the Maryland public school systems where she gained experience working with students with disabilities and autism. She is an impassioned expert who helps young adults transition to life outside of school and navigate the reduced resources young adults face after leaving school.
In this episode, Mary and Breani discuss the importance of meeting kids where they are, using positive experiences to encourage growth, and how "safe risks" promote growth and increase capacity to adapt and address their disability.
Breani shares practical advice for where families and individuals can find resources, as well as her plans to build a Maryland-based community center for adults with disabilities.
To contact Breani, email her at: Bbridges@transcen.org
Ep 16: Denise, Parenting a Child with Down Syndrome
On today's episode of the podcast, Brain Coach Mary Turos speaks with Denise, a mom raising a daughter with Down syndrome. Denise discusses her experiences, from receiving her daughter's initial diagnosis to navigating years of medical programs and everything in between. Mary and Denise talk about myths commonly associated with Down syndrome, how having a disability impacts families, and Denise's personal experience of being a young mother of a child with Down syndrome.
Denise offers advice for families facing Down syndrome diagnosis, and how social media can provide a supportive network.
Some topics discussed in the episode:
Welcome To Holland Poem
https://www.emilyperlkingsley.com/welcome-to-holland
Down Syndrome Creed:
https://www.gradsa.org/down-syndrome-creed/
Footprints in the Sand:
https://www.ryanhart.org/footprints-in-the-sand/
Ep 15: Adult Executive Function Discussion with Mary
In this episode, Mary takes a deep dive into adult executive functions and the challenges she commonly sees with her adult clients. Topics covered include:
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Inability to manage time, especially during the workday. Dealing with distractions
- How to prioritize and make progress. How much time we can actually be productive daily
- Why providing true value makes us indispensable at work
Understanding how the brain works, especially as adults, is critical to changing thinking and behavior. Hope you enjoy this discussion.
Ep 14: Nikki Wooton, We Rock The Spectrum, an Inclusive Kid's Gym
On today's episode of The Brain Coach, Mary speaks with Nikki Wooten, owner of We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym in Forest Hill, Maryland.
We Rock is a kid's gym for children of all abilities but caters to kids with autism. The gym provides specialized equipment and a safe environment where kids can act freely while getting the sensory input they need.
Ropes courses, trampolines, zip lines, and more allow kids to enjoy safe fun where they (and their parents) feel free of judgement. We Rock provides an outlet for parents to connect and share resources and just relax.
Nikki shares with Mary her family's personal journey with autism and the challenges they've overcome related to diagnosis, school, and finding resources for their neurodiverse son.
We Rock The Spectrum has locations nationwide. Check out the fun programs offered at the Forest Hill location by following Facebook and Instagram or calling 410-891-4600.
Ep 13: Jori Eidem's family journey with the rare disease MLD
Today's guest Jori Eidem, a physician assistant from Rochester, MN, discusses her family's personal journey navigating a serious and life-threatening condition called Metachromatic Leukodystrophy or MLD.
Jori shares the story of her niece Amelia, an 8-year-old who played soccer, dressed up as a princess, and collected unicorns. Amelia was bright, funny and with the right amount of sass. She did well in school, despite her left-handedness. Until she didn’t. In 2021, when Amelia began falling behind academically and began having staring spells, she was screened for ADHD and Autism.
A few months passed and she started having trouble with coordination and by the end of the school year, she had rapid deterioration of motor and cognitive function. Amelia was evaluated at a major medical center where an MRI revealed a typical pattern for MLD, a diagnosis later confirmed by genetic testing.
This rare, hereditary condition is passed through a recessive gene and can appear in infancy, childhood, or adulthood. The incidence of MLD ranges, with estimates anywhere from 1 in 40,000 births to 1 is 160,000 births.
You can learn more about the disease at the MLD Foundation. Jori shares Amelia's journey and the Go Fund Me page the family established to provide updates on Amelia's progress. You can get in touch with Jori here: webelieveinunicorns2022@gmail.com or Eidem.Jori@gmail.com
And finally, the link to the article mentioned in the show: Staring Spells: When It's More Than Daydreaming | Johns Hopkins Medicine
Please note: Amelia's parents are fully aware of this podcast. They want to spread the word about MLD since it is so rare and difficult to diagnose. It is so rare, in fact, that it doesn't receive funding for research for therapies, and the family has started a small foundation for those in need of information.
This podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 12: An Extraordinary Mom's Parenting Story
Meet Mia, our “mom extraordinaire.” Mia shares her experiences successfully parenting a child with learning disabilities. Mia beautifully tells her story of navigating the challenges of school, homeschooling, medication, and social pressures. The conversation touches on fears parents face when first dealing with a diagnosis, how to stay calm while still expressing emotions, and how to move towards acceptance of a situation that may not be what we envisioned.
Mia talks about the ups and downs and the pivotal moment she realized her son will be alright. And why she believes building a team or community to support a child helps avoid feelings of isolation.
We hope you enjoy this discussion! You can find Mia on Instagram: @city_mom_77
Ep 11: Eric Robinson, Language-Based Disabilities Expert
As a high school educator, Eric Robinson helps students navigate language-based learning disabilities and language processing issues. Eric wears many hats at The Highlands School in Bel Air, Maryland, as an English and woodworking teacher, co-manager of the drama department, and Upper School Coordinator.
Eric also serves as adjunct professor of reading at Community College of Baltimore County. In today's episode he discusses how language disorders present in individuals and how they can impact students.
Mary asks about Eric's mantra of "do it afraid" and why having many different jobs throughout his career led him to this important work helping children with learning challenges. Reflecting on why it's important to help students avoid getting lost in their feelings and instead focus on the evidence in their lives, Eric shares a new area of interest he's introduced at The Highlands School - teaching students soft skills, such as working in teams, understanding their audience, and developing a growth mindset.
The Highlands School is an independent, AIMS-accredited, K-12 program designed for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and language-based learning differences. Founded in 1996, The Highlands School is a state-of-the-art facility located on a beautiful 18-acre campus.
The Brain Coach Podcast is building a community of educators, researchers, therapists, clinicians, family members who share information and insights to support a healthy brain.
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 10: The 13 Most Common Questions Parents Ask
In today's episode, Brain Coach Mary Turos answers the 13 most common questions she gets from parents of teens and young children. Mary's offers insights into children's behaviors and simple techniques to help parents. The 13 questions follow:
1) Should I reward my kids for good grades or for turning assignments in on time?
2) Will having a disability or disclosing my child's disability impact his/her acceptance into school or college?
3) Why won't my teen go to sleep at a reasonable hour?
4) Why should kids do chores? Isn't school enough responsibility?
5) Should I have my child evaluated? If so, when?
6) My child isn't turning in assignments, but they are capable of doing the work. Why is this happening?
7) My kid has a disability, but I don't want them labeled and I don't want them using it as a crutch. What do you think?
8) What are some ways to interact with my child without it coming off as criticism?
9) Where should my child study?
10) What are some things I can incorporate into my child's home routine?
11) My child does well on quizzes, but bombs tests. What's happening?
12) How long will it take to FIX my kid? (yikes!)
13) What is the worst disability to have?
Ep 9: Mark Feiring, Executive Director, Maryland Book Bank
Mary speaks with Mark Feiring, executive director of the Maryland Book Bank. Based in Baltimore, this nonprofit organization is committed to cultivating literacy in children from under-resourced neighborhoods.
The Maryland Book Bank distributes books locally through programs including:
- The Maryland Book Bank Ravens Bookmobile: in partnership with the Baltimore Ravens, this mobile library serves Baltimore neighborhoods where kids can climb on board and select their own books.
- Warehouse distribution programs where teachers, families and educators can pick up books.
- Educator boxes where teachers can bring books directly to kids at school.
- Story kit program, which provides five story books, so children have books of their own.
Mark discusses circumstances that result from children being illiterate. For example, 50% of people in prison are illiterate, and high school students have an increased likelihood of dropping out if they aren't proficient readers by 3rd grade.
The Book Bank team seeks to mitigate these outcomes by supplying children with books. Studies show children are more apt to be proficient readers when they grow up in a literacy positive environment and books have a positive impact on vocabulary.
Be sure to follow the Maryland Book Bank for details on its upcoming Books for Kids Day. This annual service day event collects books from communities state-wide. In previous years, the Book Bank collected 35,000 books in one day.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMarylandBookBank/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdbookbank/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MDBookBank?lang=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-maryland-book-bank/?viewAsMember=true
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 8: Michelle Foote, MS, LPC - Professional Counseling
Licensed professional counselor Michelle Foote, MS, LPC, joins Mary on today’s episode of The Brain Coach podcast.
Michelle shares her perspective on supporting a healthy brain through her work as a professional counselor and why she’s passionate about lifelong learning.
Michelle helps clients move through issues using talk therapy and uncovering underlying challenges.
Some of the mental health trends discussed on today's episode include:
· Emerging neuroscience connecting brain activity with action
· Psychedelics in the treatment of PTSD, particularly the benefit soldiers
· The diminishing stigma of seeking therapy for mental health issues
Today's discussion addresses challenging elements of working in a 'helping profession', including setting emotional boundaries and being empathetic to clients’ heartbreak without it becoming your own trauma. Michelle provides a great self-care strategy she calls the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, which is free and can be done anytime.
Mary and Michelle discuss personal mantras, personal failures, and Michelle’s story of how therapy had a meaningful impact in her life and ultimately drew her to the profession.
Michelle is a therapist for a large state agency in Corpus Christi, TX.
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 7: Jennie Iglehart - Perspectives on Education
Retired independent schoolteacher Jennie Iglehart shares her experiences and learnings from a 34-year career in education.
An elementary school teacher, Jennie taught hundreds of Baltimore-area students in 4th and 5th grades. She shares the roundabout way she found education after an early career as an ICU nurse.
Mary and Jennie discuss current trends in education including specialized education, technology, and the increased emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion. How collaboration and seeking help from colleagues benefits teachers, students, and families. And why giving yourself the time and space to make decisions (and mistakes!) can help you find the right career path.
The Brain Coach podcast seeks to help families navigate challenging times with advice and perspectives from our growing community of experts that help promote a healthy brain.
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 6: Shamena Maharaj - Joy, Happiness & Mindfulness
In today's episode of The Brain Coach, Mary speaks with mindfulness expert Shamena Maharaj. Shamena is an award-winning human resources professional, education scholar, philanthropist, author, and mother of two daughters.
Shamena and Mary discuss mindfulness, how it helps us in the day-to-day and supports recovery from stress. Shamena shares simple ways to incorporate meditation into life to support mindfulness.
Shamena authored a captivating storybook Becoming my Best Self; My Shero Attributes that guides children through a set of key attributes needed in life. She also authored Joy, Happiness and Mindfulness which includes 35 daily reflections for a calmer life.
Learn more about Shamena's work on her personal website or find her on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Shamena's Books:
JOY, HAPPINESS AND MINDFULNESS: 35 DAILY REFLECTIONS FOR A CALMER LIFE
Written during a time of reflection, this book takes readers through Shamena's reflective journey of 35 days of practice and reflection. Readers are invited read the reflections then write their own reflection of the day. Available here.
Becoming My Best Self: My Shero Attributes
A book to inspire children and let them know that failure is part of life, gratitude is important for our wellbeing, and compassion is important to cultivate. Available here.
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 5: Keri Leach - Mindfulness in Fitness & Nutrition
Keri Leach, health and fitness coach and owner of Mint Condition Fitness in Westerville, Ohio, joins Mary to talk about incorporating mindfulness and joy into fitness and nutrition.
In today's episode, Keri discusses why motivation alone isn't enough to create a healthy lifestyle and the "five whys" to ask yourself when committing to a health and fitness regimen.
Keri is optimistic about the future of the fitness industry. She sees an increased focus on positive mindset and healthy habits and less emphasis on grueling workouts and impossibly strict diets.
Mary and Keri discuss the impact nutrition and activity have on brain health and the latest research showing how exercise can reduce risk for Altheimer's or dementia.
Keri's early career focused on diabetes treatments for the pharmaceutical industry where she saw firsthand that people want quick fixes to solve health problems. Always passionate about health, she set out on a mission find a better way to make lifestyle changes that stick.
Today, Keri is certified with the American Counsil on Exercise and the science-based group Precision Nutrition. She offers private and small group training and nutrition coaching.
Keri will send a free copy of her exercise e-Book to anyone who emails her at keri@mintyfreshfitness.com. You can follow Keri on social at:
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 4: Laura Schmid - Art Therapist & Licensed Counselor
Today The Brain Coach welcomes Laura Schmid, ATR-BC, LPC, a board certified art therapist and licensed counselor in the St. Louis, MO area.
Mary and Laura discuss art therapy and how the incorporation of visual arts into traditional counseling can promote positive change in peoples' lives.
Laura shares why everyone can benefit from art therapy, regardless of artistic ability, and how the practice is used in a variety of settings. Art therapy provides an alternate means of communication for those unable to communicate verbally or struggle to express themselves through language, such as children or stroke victims.
Laura has a masters in art therapy counseling from Southern Illinois University. Throughout her career, she has used art therapy to support adolescents, adults and seniors. To learn more about Laura's work, you can find her on LinkedIn.
Additional art therapy resources:
American Art Therapy Association
Art Therapy | Psychology Today
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 3: Lew Goldstein - Education Expert
In today's episode, Mary speaks with New Jersey-based education consultant and K-16 expert, Lew Goldstein.
Mary discusses how Lew's wide-range of professional experiences - journalist, teacher, college educator, and public administrator - led him to a 19-year career as assistant superintendent of the Princeton, NJ school district. Lew discusses the positive impact of this role and how it enabled connection with thousands of students, families, and teachers.
Lew's diverse experiences created an unexpected path and led to a successful and rewarding career. He and Mary discuss how a growth mindset plays a key role in welcoming new opportunities.
Lew currently works as an educational consultant in a high-special needs school district in NJ. He is founder and festival chair of the Nassau Film Festival, the Cranford Film Festival and hosts two NJ-based television programs, Focus On and HealthWatch. You can find Lew on LinkedIn.
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 2: Leah Roberts - Special Education Advocate
What parents need to know to advocate for their child.
In today's podcast, Mary talks with special education advocate Leah Roberts from LMR Educational Consulting.
Leah is an educational consultant who helps parents of special needs children work with their child's school to secure support services. She helps parents understand the steps to get evaluations, 504s, IEPs. She teaches parents to effectively advocate for their children.
Leah has been a teacher, a reading specialist, and a special education teacher. After taking time to be a stay-at-home mom, she returned to education and oversaw IEP programs within schools. Eventually, she branched out and became a consultant, helping families navigate the complex process of special education. Today Leah fights to for students and families to ensure schools are meeting their obligation to help every student.
Mary and Lead discuss the complexities in understanding evaluation results, IEPs and 504s. And how, sadly, most parents find Leah only when they've hit rock bottom and are getting nowhere with the school on their own.
Leah explains why, in a perfect world, she wouldn't have a job. And why it's so challenging for school systems to properly train personnel on the laws impacting special education.
Leah provides advice for what parents can do if they suspect a learning issue in their child. And why learning struggles have become even more evident during COVID and online learning.
LMR Education offers free consultations, for more information, contact Leah through her website or through Facebook.
Please note: this podcast does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
Ep 1: Meet the Brain Coach, an interview with Mary Turos
Mary Turos is an executive function expert known as "The Brain Coach."
Working from her Maryland headquarters, Mary coaches children and adults facing executive function issues.
In this first episode of the The Brain Coach, we interview Mary who explains this field of work, and how she helps clients set and achieve goals that help bring harmony to life.
For more information about Mary and her work, visit our website: braincogcoach.com
Please note: this course does not provide medical advice. The information, images and other materials contained are for informational purposes only. No information discussed is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek help from your physician for medical questions or advice.
The Brain Coach Introduction
Welcome to The Brain Coach podcast! I'm your host, Mary Turos.
I've had a fun, sometimes frustrating, but always fascinating journey to become 'The Brain Coach'.
I started my career as a public school teacher in Maryland and loved helping kids with challenges and learning difficulties.
Living in the heart of Maryland academia, I have the unique opportunity to connect with many researchers and practitioners. I pick their brains and transform ideas into methods that work for my learners and their families. This is the information I hope to crystallize and bring on this podcast to help more people find harmony in their lives.
As an executive function coach, I see kids and adults who want to be more productive and independent (and want to have fun) but something is holding them back. You may have someone in your life who's 'stuck' and struggles with school, academics, work, or behavior but they just don't know WHY. This could even be you. I help by figuring out the WHY and then make a plan for moving forward.
We'll examine simple changes that help create better daily routines, encourage better choices, avoid risky behaviors, and help get 'unstuck'.
All of this work is rooted in neuroscience and what we know about the brain.
On the podcase, I'll interview researchers, child experts, education professionals, advocates, and everyone and anyone who's willing to talk and share their expertise. Simple, actionable information from experts families can use right away to help.
I'm so excited to get started and hope you'll follow along on this journey. Thanks for listening.
Make it a great day!
Mary