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Brain Injury Bites

Education Podcasts

Brain Injury Bites is a brain injury podcast exploring the real-life challenges and triumphs of life after a brain injury. Through open conversations, expert interviews, and powerful lived experiences, it sheds light on what recovery and rehabilitation truly look like. Hosted by Brooke Trotter, a brain injury survivor, and Ashwini Kamath, a specialist solicitor and Headway Warrington trustee, each episode provides practical advice, emotional support, and expert guidance for anyone affected by brain injury, including survivors, family members, carers, and healthcare professionals. Topics include brain injury rehabilitation, fatigue and memory loss, nutrition and mental health, legal and financial support, and day-to-day coping strategies. Whether you're living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), recovering from a concussion, or supporting someone on their journey, our Brain Injury Bites podcast is here to help you understand, manage, and live well after brain trauma.

Location:

United Kingdom

Description:

Brain Injury Bites is a brain injury podcast exploring the real-life challenges and triumphs of life after a brain injury. Through open conversations, expert interviews, and powerful lived experiences, it sheds light on what recovery and rehabilitation truly look like. Hosted by Brooke Trotter, a brain injury survivor, and Ashwini Kamath, a specialist solicitor and Headway Warrington trustee, each episode provides practical advice, emotional support, and expert guidance for anyone affected by brain injury, including survivors, family members, carers, and healthcare professionals. Topics include brain injury rehabilitation, fatigue and memory loss, nutrition and mental health, legal and financial support, and day-to-day coping strategies. Whether you're living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), recovering from a concussion, or supporting someone on their journey, our Brain Injury Bites podcast is here to help you understand, manage, and live well after brain trauma.

Language:

English

Contact:

07807803456


Episodes
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31. An Interview with Emma Pilling: Life Beyond Diagnosis

4/22/2025
In this follow-up episode of Brain Injury Bites, Brooke and Ashwini continue their conversation with Emma Pilling, who shares more about life after her son Charlie’s diagnosis of an acquired brain injury. Emma discusses the vital support provided by the Child Brain Injury Trust, how small acts of inclusion can make a big difference and her journey into advocacy through blogging and charity work. With candid reflections on navigating school systems, building resilience, and creating a supportive community, Emma offers a heartfelt and practical look at parenting through uncertainty and the strength that can grow from being heard and understood. Helpful links: Emma's BlogChild Brain Injury TrustShine CharityHarry’s Hydrocephalus Awareness Trust For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Community Compass app! Brain Injury Bites is now part of the Community Compass app! Download now and take the first step toward reclaiming your best life - because you’re not alone in this journey. Google PlayApple App Store Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:32:30

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30. An Interview with Emma Pilling: Navigating the Challenges of Paediatric Brain Injury

1/28/2025
In this episode of Brain Injury Bites, hosts Brooke and Ashwani explore life after a child's acquired brain injury through the eyes of Emma Pilling, the mother of six-year-old Charlie. Emma shares the emotional and challenging journey she and her family have endured since Charlie was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, how it changed her career path, and the importance of the support they received from the Child Brain Injury Trust.

Duration:00:49:06

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28. An interview with Tony Ward: Dietician (Part 1)

7/23/2024
In this episode of Brain Injury Bites, hosts Ashwini and Brooke are joined by Tony Ward, a dietitian from Neuro Rehab Nutrition with 19 years of experience. They discuss the nutritional deficiencies commonly found in individuals with brain injuries, the impact of brain injury on metabolism and muscle mass, and more. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: neurorehabnutrition.co.uktony@neurorehabnutrition.co.uk Helpful links: Food Facts - British Dietetic Association (BDA) Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:31:58

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29. An interview with Tony Ward: Dietician (Part 2)

7/23/2024
In this episode of Brain Injury Bites, hosts Ashwini and Brooke talk with Tony Ward from Neuro Rehab Nutrition about the importance of credible dietary information and balanced nutrition post-brain injury. They discuss social media fads, highlight essential nutrients like omega-3s and antioxidants, and discuss the psychological aspects of eating. Featuring practical tips and success stories, this episode offers key insights for managing diet and recovery. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: neurorehabnutrition.co.uktony@neurorehabnutrition.co.uk Helpful links: Food Facts - British Dietetic Association (BDA) Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:24:45

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26. An interview with Sian Riley: Dietician (Part 1)

2/6/2024
In this episode of Brain Injury Bites, Ashwani and Brooke are joined by Sian Riley from Red Pepper Nutrition. Sian is a dietician specialising in rehabilitation with a focus on brain injury. They discuss the importance of nutrition in the rehabilitation journey, the impact of smell and taste loss after brain injury, and strategies to improve the eating experience. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: www.redpeppernutrition.comsian@redpeppernutrition.com Helpful links: https://www.fifthsense.org.uk/https://abscent.org/https://www.redpeppernutrition.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/red-pepper-nutrition-5-basic-tastes-why-they-matter.pdf Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:26:12

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27. An interview with Sian Riley: Dietician (Part 2)

2/6/2024
In this episode of Brain Injury Bites, Brooke, Ashwini, and Sian continue their conversation about brain injury recovery with a focus on nutrition. They continue their discussion by providing valuable insights and tips on promoting good nutrition and making it a pleasurable experience. The discussion also covers various aspects, including the importance of positive food perception, mindful eating, meal planning, routine, coping with changes in taste and smell, and addressing body image issues. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: www.redpeppernutrition.comsian@redpeppernutrition.com Helpful links: https://www.fifthsense.org.uk/https://abscent.org/https://www.redpeppernutrition.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/red-pepper-nutrition-5-basic-tastes-why-they-matter.pdf Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:30:35

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25. An interview with Colin Green: Neurological Physiotherapist (Part 2)

12/12/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Colin Green, a neurological physiotherapist from Physiomatters. In part 2, we explore the interplay of physical and neurological rehabilitation, emphasising the importance of goal-setting, managing expectations, and adapting therapy to the patient's needs. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: www.physio-matters.orgPhysio Matters Neuro (@PMneurophysio) / X (twitter.com)Physio Matters Neurological Ltd | Facebook Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:33:53

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24. An interview with Colin Green: Neurological Physiotherapist (Part 1)

12/12/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Colin Green, a neurological physiotherapist from Physiomatters. In part 1, we discuss brain injury rehabilitation, covering different recovery phases, the significant impact of fatigue, the importance of early intervention, and Colin's work on managing mobility and muscle functionality. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: www.physio-matters.orgPhysio Matters Neuro (@PMneurophysio) / X (twitter.com)Physio Matters Neurological Ltd | Facebook Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:32:27

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23. An interview with Suzanne Guest: Occupational Psychology (Part 2)

11/14/2023
In the second part of the episode, Suzanne talks us through her approach to supporting her clients and their employers in the process of returning to work. Additionally, Brooke shares his own experience of finding a purpose after sustaining his injury. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Helpful links: https://www.headway.org.uk/media/4123/brain-injury-a-guide-for-employers.pdfhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6iVODBpatMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Unfyov17E8s Contact details: https://www.workinmind.co.uk/https://twitter.com/suzguesthttps://www.tiktok.com/@haveigotsuzforyouhttps://www.youtube.com/@haveigotsuzforyouhttps://www.instagram.com/haveigotsuzforyou/ Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:27:12

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22. An interview with Suzanne Guest: Occupational Psychology (Part 1)

11/14/2023
In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Suzanne Guest, an Occupational Psychologist from Work In Mind. In this episode, Suzanne shares her expertise in helping people return to work after sustaining a brain injury. We also discussed the difference between occupational psychology and vocational rehabilitation. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Helpful links: https://www.headway.org.uk/media/4123/brain-injury-a-guide-for-employers.pdfhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6iVODBpatMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Unfyov17E8s Contact details: https://www.workinmind.co.uk/https://twitter.com/suzguesthttps://www.tiktok.com/@haveigotsuzforyouhttps://www.youtube.com/@haveigotsuzforyouhttps://www.instagram.com/haveigotsuzforyou/ Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:29:28

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21. An interview with Catherine Davies: Speech and Language Therapy (Part 2)

10/24/2023
In the second part of our discussion, we delve deeper into speech and language issues related to brain injuries. We explore working as part of a multidisciplinary team during rehabilitation and some fun games used during speech and language therapy sessions. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:30:19

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20. An interview with Catherine Davies: Speech and Language Therapy (Part 1)

10/24/2023
In this episode, Catherine Davies, an expert speech and language therapist from SLT for Life, shares her vast experience dealing with her client's communication and swallowing difficulties. She also sheds light on the crucial role of speech and language therapy in the rehabilitation process after brain injury. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:23:36

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18. An interview with Julie Meighan: Occupational Therapy (Part 1)

10/17/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Julie Meighan, who happened to be Brooke Trotter's Occupational Therapist. During our conversation, we delved into Julie's profession and how it helps individuals who have experienced a brain injury. Julie explained how Occupational Therapy is designed to assist patients in regaining their independence and improving their quality of life. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: juliemeighan@outlook.comwww.juliemeighantherapy.com Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:31:05

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19. An interview with Julie Meighan: Occupational Therapy (Part 2)

10/17/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Julie Meighan, who happened to be Brooke Trotter's Occupational Therapist. In this second part of the interview, we will explore how Occupational Therapy plays a significant role in the broader context of rehabilitation after brain injury and the importance of goal-setting. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Contact details: juliemeighan@outlook.comwww.juliemeighantherapy.com Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:15:33

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17. An interview with David Hilton: Court of Protection (Part 2)

10/10/2023
In this episode, we dive into Court of Protection work and professional deputyship with David Hilton. Part 2 of our conversation touches on several important topics, such as the oversight that family members acting as deputies can expect, the process of changing deputies, the role of professional trusts, and the ins and outs of personal injury trusts. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:35:36

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16. An interview with David Hilton: Court of Protection (Part 1)

10/10/2023
In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing David Hilton, an experienced solicitor specialising in Court of Protection work and professional deputy. In this first part of the interview, we explore the complexities of being a professional deputy and the important role that the Court of Protection plays. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:32:55

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15. An interview with Russell Sheldrick: Clinical Neuropsychology (Part 2)

10/3/2023
Join us for part two of our interview with Russell Sheldrick, a Clinical Neuropsychologist with extensive expertise in brain injury recovery. We dive deeper into the importance of managing expectations and involving friends and family in the recovery process. Plus, Russell shares insights on the various tests he administers to assess cognitive abilities and create personalised rehabilitation plans for patients. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:23:04

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14. An interview with Russell Sheldrick: Clinical Neuropsychology (Part 1)

10/3/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of interviewing Russell Sheldrick, who shares his expertise in Clinical Neuropsychology. In part one of our interview, we discuss what Clinical Neuropsychology is, and explore the various aspects of neuropsychological rehabilitation during the early stages of brain injury. For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:23:15

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13. See the hidden me!

5/17/2022
This is a special episode of brain injury bites recorded for ABI Week. This year's theme is 'See the hidden me' - basically about the hidden disability of brain injury. Action For Brain Injury Week is an annual campaign in the UK to raise awareness of the devastating effects of brain injury. It's organised by Headway UK, a national charity that we've spoken about on several occasions before. That charity supports people who are survivors of brain injury and their friends, families, and carers. Helpful links: Headway UK: - Information libraryHeadway UK: Brain Injury Identity Card For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode 13: Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:18:28

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12. Depression after a brain injury

2/1/2022
Feeling sad after a serious injury is normal, but it could also be a sign of depression. We have touched on this topic briefly in previous episodes, but we think it's important to discuss this in more detail as it is such a big topic. It's fair to say that many people will experience depression following a brain injury. In this episode, we will be talking about some of those symptoms and providing some help and advice. Resources: Episode Twelve -Depression after a brain injury - Information Sheet Helpful links: Hidden Disability storeMind: the mental health charityHeadway: Brain Injury Identity Card For a transcript, follow the link below: Episode 12: Transcript To keep up to date with our podcast, follow us on our social media accounts: TwitterFacebookInstagram Notice: Information and other content provided in this Podcast should not be taken as providing medical advice or recommendations. Please always consult your doctor or treating team for medical advice.

Duration:00:30:17