Connect My Brain
Why is this happening to my kid and what can I do about it? If you're the parent of a developmentally delayed child, you've probably asked this question more than once. That's where I come in! I'm Dr. Laura Hanson and I specialize in identifying the "why" and telling you the "what." Join me every Thursday for a deeper look at how our brains are wired and how to get the most out of your mind. Are you looking to break negative patterns, overcome mood disorders, or optimize your potential? Maybe your child struggles with ADHD, OCD or other learning difficulties. Tune in to Connect My Brain, where I explain concepts like biofeedback and neurofeedback, brainwave frequencies, and much more. Let me help you change your life by changing your mind!
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158. Integration: The Missing Link In Your Child's Development
07/03/2025
158. Integration: The Missing Link In Your Child's Development
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Hey parents! 👋 I'm Dr. Laura Hansen, and today I want to share with you the importance of integration in your child’s development. Think of their child's body like an orchestra. The brain is the conductor, and every system (eyes, ears, muscles, digestion) are the instruments. In our healthcare system, we often treat each "instrument" separately. But at Connect My Brain we understand that everything is connected. When one system is off, it affects the others. At Connect My Brain we use a three-tier integrative approach to address the root causes of developmental delay. Mechanical – How does your child's body move and coordinate? Body Chemistry – What fuel does their brain need to function optimally? Brain – How are the neural pathways developing? If you're concerned about your child's development, remember that early intervention makes a difference. Check out our CMB membership for resources, or explore our coaching programs. You can also download our Connect My Brain app to track developmental milestones. SHOW NOTES: Have a question you want answered on the podcast? Ask Dr. Laura here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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157. The REAL Education Behind Chiropractic (It's Not Just About Pain) | Truth Bombs
06/26/2025
157. The REAL Education Behind Chiropractic (It's Not Just About Pain) | Truth Bombs
Hey everyone! I'm Dr. Laura, and in this Truth Bombs episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what chiropractors ACTUALLY study. Did you know our education covers everything from anatomy and physiology (how your body is built and works) to nutrition, neuroanatomy (your nervous system), and even pharmatoxicology (how drugs and toxins affect your body)? I've been noticing more healthcare providers talking about the body's natural ability to heal itself lately - but chiropractors have been studying this concept since 1895! We call it "innate intelligence," and it's basically your body's built-in wisdom to heal cuts, digest food, and keep you healthy. With 30 years in practice and seven credentials, I've seen firsthand how amazing this natural healing really is. Unfortunately, many people only think of chiropractors for pain relief, but we're trained SO much deeper than that. I want to change how you see our profession! Whether it's through nutrition, lab testing, or collaborating with other providers, we're here to help orchestrate your body's natural healing. Ready to explore chiropractic from a new perspective? Let's connect! SHOW NOTES: Have a question you want answered on the podcast? Ask Dr. Laura here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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156. My Three-Tier Approach To Addressing The Root Causes Of Learning And Behavioral Challenges
06/19/2025
156. My Three-Tier Approach To Addressing The Root Causes Of Learning And Behavioral Challenges
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) I'm Dr. Laura Hansen, and after 30 years in this field, I realized I might be taking for granted that people truly understand what we do here at Connect My Brain. So let me share my story and explain how we help children reach their full potential. At Connect My Brain, we take a unique three-tier approach: mechanical (like primitive reflexes), chemical (through functional lab work), and neurological (using brain mapping). We understand that everything is connected – your child's development, nutrition, brain function, and overall health all work together. SHOW NOTES: Want us to answer your questions on the podcast? Ask Dr. Laura here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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155. Why So Many Kids Think They're Not Good Enough | Truth Bombs
06/12/2025
155. Why So Many Kids Think They're Not Good Enough | Truth Bombs
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Hi everyone! In this Truth Bomb episode, I'm sharing something that breaks my heart - after 30 years of practice and assessing hundreds of kids, I've noticed a troubling pattern. So many children come into my office thinking they don't do anything right. From ages 2 through college, kids are constantly comparing themselves to their peers. If they don't look or perform exactly like other children, they assume something's wrong with them. This negative self-image is holding our kids back in ways we might not even realize. At Connect My Brain, we focus on creating a safe space where children can practice and develop without that harsh inner critic. Remember, development starts with movement - even in the womb! When we support our children's physical development, we're building the foundation for everything else. If your child seems less enthusiastic than they should be, that's a red flag worth addressing. Subscribe to the SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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154. Root Cause Medicine: One Doctor's Wake-Up Call with Dr Ben Edwards
06/05/2025
154. Root Cause Medicine: One Doctor's Wake-Up Call with Dr Ben Edwards
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) I had the most incredible conversation with Dr. Ben Edwards on this week's Connect My Brain podcast, and I'm still buzzing from everything we discussed! As a chiropractor, I've always believed in the body's innate wisdom to heal itself, but hearing Dr. Edwards' transformation from conventional MD to holistic practitioner was absolutely fascinating. Dr. Edwards shared his eye-opening journey – how he went from seeing 50 patients a day in seven-minute visits, treating symptoms with pharmaceuticals, to discovering that the body can actually heal itself when given the right inputs. His story started with a simple question from an elderly patient: "Why are you just treating my symptoms instead of fixing the root cause?" That question changed everything. Enroll in the Parent Membership SHOW NOTES: https://connectmybrain.com/episode154 What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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153. Child Struggling? Tasks, Homework & Planning Issues | Truth Bombs
05/29/2025
153. Child Struggling? Tasks, Homework & Planning Issues | Truth Bombs
Today I'm breaking down one of the most important concepts in brain development – executive function. Ever wondered what executive function actually means? I'll take you on a quick journey through your brain, from the visual cortex in the back to the frontal lobe up front. This is where the magic happens – where your brain develops the ability to make good decisions, plan for the future, regulate emotions, and "read the room." I explain how executive function is a process that builds over time, starting from the back of your brain and working forward. When everything flows smoothly, you develop into a powerful young person who can execute tasks, turn in homework, and make solid life plans. Don't miss our upcoming parental webinars starting May 14th! I'll teach you how to understand your child's unique "blueprint" and help their brain develop with the right intensity and frequency. Sign up at Grab our free milestone app at Join Dr. Laura’s parenting membership here: Download the Connect My Brain app here: Request a virtual assessment here: Find us on Instagram: Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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152. Spotting the Signs of Executive Function Delays in Your Child's Daily Life
05/22/2025
152. Spotting the Signs of Executive Function Delays in Your Child's Daily Life
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) In this episode of Connect My Brain, I answer a listener's question: "What is executive function and where is it in the brain?" Executive function isn't just about following directions—it's the brain's ability to plan, reason, organize, and make good choices. As I explain, these skills develop sequentially as your child grows, starting with the back of the brain and eventually reaching the frontal lobe. I break down the warning signs at different ages, from toddlers who can't follow simple instructions to college students who struggle to create schedules. I also share why understanding your child's developmental "blueprint" is crucial for addressing these challenges. The good news? No one is stuck with these patterns! With proper brain retraining, nutrition, and appropriate expectations, we can improve executive function at any age. Want more resources? Visit to access our executive function webinars and join our parent membership community for ongoing support! Enroll in the Parent Membership SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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151. Why Telling Kids to Focus Never Works (And What Does) | Truth Bombs
05/15/2025
151. Why Telling Kids to Focus Never Works (And What Does) | Truth Bombs
👉 Did you know attention is a skill that must be developed? Today, I share why children struggle to focus and introduce my concept of "brain currency" - how your brain evaluates what actions to take based on past patterns. Everything your child practices becomes their neural pathway! If they've practiced avoidance or device dependence, that becomes their default mode. The good news? We can reshape these patterns! Join me for a FREE webinar on May 14th at 7PM where I'll expand on these concepts and provide practical strategies. Visit my website to register! Remember parents - you're the role model. What are YOU practicing daily? Your habits shape your child's brain development! Grab our free milestone app at Download the Connect My Brain app here: Request a virtual assessment here: Find us on Instagram: ****** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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150. Why Some Kids Can't Think, Plan, and Focus
05/08/2025
150. Why Some Kids Can't Think, Plan, and Focus
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) As a neurodevelopmental doctor with three decades of experience, I've seen firsthand how parents struggle with children who can't focus, plan ahead, or stay motivated. The most important thing I want you to understand is this: executive function doesn't just magically appear - it develops through specific stages from the very beginning of life. In today's episode, I explore the fascinating journey of how your child's brain develops the ability to think, plan, and focus. So many parents ask me, "Why can't my child just sit still and concentrate?" The answer lies in understanding their developmental blueprint. -> Ready to learn more? Join my FREE webinar on May 14th at 7PM where I'll dive deeper into practical strategies for supporting executive function development. Visit to register! Enroll in the Parent Membership SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ------ Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else! Visit
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149. C-Section or Natural? How Your Baby's Birth Affects Development | Truth Bombs
05/01/2025
149. C-Section or Natural? How Your Baby's Birth Affects Development | Truth Bombs
Welcome to Connect the Dots: Truth Bombs! Today I'm talking about how your baby's birth experience can affect their development. I explain why babies born vaginally get important immune benefits from mom's bacteria and how squeezing through the birth canal helps shape their head properly. As a mom who had a C-section, I share what I wish I'd known then about birth choices. I also talk about what to do if you need a C-section, forceps, or vacuum during delivery. I give simple tips for making a birth plan and why having a midwife or doula can be so helpful. Remember, being pregnant is natural, not a disease! This quick 5-minute video might completely change how you think about giving birth. Grab our free milestone app at Join Dr. Laura’s parenting membership here: Download the Connect My Brain app here: Request a virtual assessment here: Find us on Instagram: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 **** Want help starting or managing your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. She helps coaches and course creators create shows that grow their business and connect with listeners. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else. Visit
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148. The Unseen Risks of Food Dyes and Generic Medications
04/24/2025
148. The Unseen Risks of Food Dyes and Generic Medications
Did you know that 90% of generic medications in America primarily come from China? In 2019, government advisor Rosemary Gibson revealed shocking information about medication quality and safety. Research found that 13% of generic medications coming into the US were defectively manufactured, containing carcinogens, lead, arsenic, and other toxins. As a parent or patient, you deserve to know what's going into your body. I also explore the concerning impact of food dyes on our health - especially for children. Red Dye #40 has been linked to allergies, migraines, and immune dysfunction, while Yellow #5 can damage DNA and white blood cells. These synthetic dyes can cause neurobehavioral problems in children and have already been banned in places like California and the UK. Food companies are getting sneaky too - rebranding dyes with innocent-sounding names like "allura red" or "brilliant blue" to make them seem natural. You'll find these harmful ingredients hiding in popular snacks like M&Ms, Doritos, and many children's cereals. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172 ****** Dreaming of starting your own podcast? Talk to my producer, Marcie Paige. She helps coaches and course creators launch shows that grow their business and connect with listeners. You focus on delivering great content—she'll take care of everything else. Visit
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147. Why Treating Mama Like a Queen During Pregnancy is Essential | Truth Bombs
04/17/2025
147. Why Treating Mama Like a Queen During Pregnancy is Essential | Truth Bombs
Welcome to Episode 2 of Connect the Dots: Truth Bombs! Today, I'm talking about why pregnancy health matters so much for your baby's growth. I'll show you why treating mama like a queen isn't just a nice thought—it's truly needed for your baby to develop well! I'll explain how ongoing stress can change mom's brain and even take stress hormones from your baby through the umbilical cord. Did you know your baby's balance system forms first, then eyes (4-10 weeks), and finally hearing (18 weeks)? These early senses in the womb shape how your child will grow after birth. Movement is so important! Your baby needs to move in the womb to grow properly, and this movement helps their brain develop too. Babies are fully formed at birth but still learning how to use their bodies—and movement is the key! Join me as we learn how to give our babies the best possible start!
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146. What Your Child's Food Preferences Reveal About Their Health
04/10/2025
146. What Your Child's Food Preferences Reveal About Their Health
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) In this episode of Connect My Brain, I dive into one of my greatest passions – connecting the dots when it comes to your child's health and development. As a practitioner with over 30 years of experience specializing in pediatrics, I've observed how seemingly separate health issues often share common roots. When we look at mood swings, attention issues, digestive problems, or even chronic infections, conventional medicine often focuses on treating symptoms rather than addressing the underlying causes. But I believe in looking at the bigger picture – understanding how your gut health, immune system, brain, and overall body function as an interconnected network. Remember to download our Connect My Brain app to track your child's developmental milestones, and reach out through the website if you have questions about your unique health blueprint! SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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145. Beyond 'Normal' Labs: What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Fertility | Truth Bombs
04/03/2025
145. Beyond 'Normal' Labs: What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Fertility | Truth Bombs
This is the first episode of Connecting the Dots: Truth Bombs! Today I break down why your health before pregnancy matters more than you might think. I explain why just "feeling great" isn't enough to know what's actually happening in your body and how your health directly impacts your baby's brain development. I reveal why traditional lab tests might show "normal" results even when something's wrong, and why I recommend preparing 1-2 years before conception by understanding your body chemistry through functional labs. Whether you're planning for pregnancy or already have children with developmental concerns, it's never too late to make positive changes to your health or your child's. Join Dr. Laura’s parenting membership here: Download the Connect My Brain app here: Request a virtual assessment here:
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144. What I Learned at MAPS: Medical Doctors Who Look for the 'Why' Behind Children's Health Issues
03/27/2025
144. What I Learned at MAPS: Medical Doctors Who Look for the 'Why' Behind Children's Health Issues
👉 Last week, I attended the Medical Academy of Pediatrics and Special Needs (MAPS) conference, and I'm excited to share what I learned with all of you passionate moms out there! With over 600 attendees—90-95% of them medical doctors—it was truly inspiring to see healthcare professionals focusing on finding the "why" behind our children's health challenges rather than just treating symptoms. As a chiropractor for 30 years, I've witnessed waves of different diagnoses in children—from autism to oppositional defiance, attention issues, gut problems, and now rising mood disorders. What struck me most at the conference was the emphasis on asking why children struggle with attention, experience anxiety, have gut issues, or show dampened moods—rather than just labeling them. SHOW NOTES: Have a topic you want covered in an upcoming episode? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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143. The Chemistry Connection: How Your Body's Fuel Impacts Brain Development
03/13/2025
143. The Chemistry Connection: How Your Body's Fuel Impacts Brain Development
Today I wanted to focus on something absolutely fundamental to our health and development: chemistry. By chemistry, I mean the fuel that runs the human body. At Connect My Brain, I focus on the mechanical, chemical, and brain aspects of development. While I've talked extensively about mechanics (those developmental milestones children need to accomplish) and the brain (how movement wires up neural pathways), today I'm diving into that crucial third piece—the chemistry that makes it all possible. Without the correct fuel, it's incredibly difficult to make lasting neurological changes. This is one of the biggest challenges I face in my practice: helping families understand why the chemical aspect is so important for bringing everything together. Want to learn more? Visit to explore our summer program and reach out with any questions. I'm here to help your family thrive! Subscribe to the ! SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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142. Your Child's Belly Blueprint: Understanding the gut-brain axis in childhood development
02/27/2025
142. Your Child's Belly Blueprint: Understanding the gut-brain axis in childhood development
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) In today's episode, I dive deep into the fascinating connection between gut health and brain development in children. As a doctor who specializes in developmental health, I've seen firsthand how everything in our bodies is connected, and the belly is no exception to this rule. I begin by emphasizing the importance of parental health before conception. Many young couples tell me they feel great, but few actively prepare their bodies for pregnancy. This preparation is crucial because the state of health at conception directly impacts the quality of what goes into creating new life. Subscribe to the SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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141. The 21-Day Myth: The real timeline for rewiring your child's Brain
02/13/2025
141. The 21-Day Myth: The real timeline for rewiring your child's Brain
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) As a healthcare provider and educator, I've seen firsthand how parental commitment can transform a child's developmental journey. Through my work at Connect My Brain, I've developed what I call the "five-two rule" - where children work with us twice weekly while families manage five days at home. I can't stress enough that success largely depends on parents' dedication to following through with our recommended exercises and lifestyle changes. From my years of experience, I've learned that cellular-level changes require time and consistency. Typically, we see noticeable improvements within 90 days of committed effort. But here's what I want parents to understand - we shouldn't just accept limitations or wait to "see if they grow out of it." I've witnessed remarkable improvements in families who've dedicated themselves to our program, which addresses mechanical, chemical, and brain-based aspects of development. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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140. The Five-Two Rule: Why parents are the key to success
01/30/2025
140. The Five-Two Rule: Why parents are the key to success
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Today, I wanted to speak directly to YOU - the parents who are working so hard to help your children thrive. As both a mom and a doctor who has spent 30 years helping families, I truly understand what you're going through when your child faces developmental challenges. Let me share something I call the "five-two rule." While I might see your child twice a week in my practice, you're with them five days a week. This means you, as parents, are the most powerful force in your child's progress. Over my years of practice, I've seen parenting styles change dramatically, and I want to help you understand why certain ages are so crucial for developing good habits. I've seen firsthand how developmental delays affect the whole family, especially our dads. Fathers often feel this intense pressure to "fix" everything, and it can be really hard when they can't. I want to be clear - we shouldn't brush off delayed development as "just normal." Early help makes such a difference in your child's journey. Subscribe to the SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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139. Why can't my kid wait? Understanding the brain science behind impulse control
01/16/2025
139. Why can't my kid wait? Understanding the brain science behind impulse control
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Ever wonder why some kids can resist that tempting cookie while others dive right in? Today we are breaking down the fascinating science behind impulse control in children - and it's not as simple as just saying "no." Whether you're dealing with an impulsive kiddo or just curious about how little brains develop, this episode delivers practical advice backed by solid science, all wrapped up in easy-to-understand examples that make total sense for real-world parenting. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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138. Why stress, phones, and skipping milestones are changing our children's brains
01/02/2025
138. Why stress, phones, and skipping milestones are changing our children's brains
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Today, I talked about something that's really close to my heart - how our immune system and brain development are connected, especially in kids. You know what's crazy? About one in three kids these days isn't developing quite the way they should, and as a mom and doctor, that really gets me thinking. n this episode, we also talked about stress (because who isn't stressed these days, right?), and how it affects both parents and kids. When we're stressed, it actually changes how blood flows to our brain, which impacts everything from how we handle emotions to how we make decisions. But here's the good news - it's never too late to make changes that can help our brains work better. Whether you're thinking about having kids someday, expecting a little one, or already in the parenting trenches, this episode is packed with practical tips to help create the best environment for your child's brain to thrive. And remember, small changes can make a big difference - we just need to take that first step! The best part? You don't need a medical degree to understand this stuff. It's all about making small, meaningful changes that can help our kids (and us!) feel and function better. Because at the end of the day, isn't that what we all want for our families? CMB Store: ( & ) SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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137. How your health during pregnancy shapes your baby's brain development
12/19/2024
137. How your health during pregnancy shapes your baby's brain development
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Let me share some fascinating insights about how a mother's health during pregnancy affects her baby's brain development. The connection between our immune system and our baby's developing brain is truly remarkable. Think of the immune system during pregnancy as a blueprint for baby's brain development. Whether dealing with a virus like COVID-19, managing an old infection like mono, or experiencing high levels of stress, it all impacts how the brain develops. The fascinating part? The baby doesn't even need to get sick - just the mother's immune response can influence brain development patterns. When explaining brain development to parents, comparing it to gardening helps make it clear. The brain starts with abundant neural connections and naturally trims away the unnecessary ones, keeping the vital pathways. The vestibular system in the inner ear plays a crucial role too, affecting everything from movement to emotional processing. Many parents are surprised to learn just how significant stress during pregnancy can be. High stress levels can affect how a baby's brain develops, potentially impacting movement, thinking, and language skills. This isn't about creating guilt - it's about understanding how to support healthier pregnancies. CMB Store: ( & ) SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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136. Brain Development in the Womb: Critical windows that shape your child's future
12/05/2024
136. Brain Development in the Womb: Critical windows that shape your child's future
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Today's discussion delves into the fascinating world of neuroimmune development and its profound impact on children's health, particularly during pregnancy and early childhood. Recent research about "pandemic babies" (children born after March 2020) reveals important findings about how maternal inflammation can affect fetal brain development, even without direct infection. Using a favorite analogy of tiddlywinks, the complex concepts of neural circuit development become clearer, making brain development more understandable for parents and caregivers. The episode emphasizes the critical nature of developmental windows - those key periods when the brain, gut, and immune system are forming. Environmental factors during these times can significantly influence a child's future health. Drawing from decades of clinical experience, the crucial connection between gut health and neurological development becomes evident, leading to practical solutions for parents dealing with picky eaters and nutritional challenges. SHOW NOTES: Enroll in the What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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135. How vision problems can look like ADHD with Dr. Zelinsky
11/21/2024
135. How vision problems can look like ADHD with Dr. Zelinsky
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Today, Dr. Laura Hanson sits down with Dr. Zelinsky from the Mind-Eye Institute to discuss the fascinating connection between vision, brain function, and overall development. Dr. Zelinsky brings a unique perspective to optometry, focusing on how the entire visual system—not just central eyesight—affects learning, attention, and behavior. For parents concerned about their child's development, this episode offers hope and practical insights. The Mind-Eye Institute's approach goes beyond traditional vision care to address the complex relationship between visual processing and brain function. Want to learn more about how vision might be affecting your child? Visit or call 847-501-2020. The Mind-Eye Institute team can help you figure out if this approach could help your child succeed. Remember: Sometimes the solution isn't about seeing better—it's about helping the brain process what it sees in a better way. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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134. Your Child's Brain & Big Emotions: A Parent's Guide to Understanding Meltdowns
11/07/2024
134. Your Child's Brain & Big Emotions: A Parent's Guide to Understanding Meltdowns
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Ever wondered why your child seems to have bigger reactions than other kids? In this episode of Connect My Brain, Dr. Laura Hanson breaks down the science behind emotional outbursts in a way that makes sense for parents. Children's reactions sometimes don't match the situation - like having a complete meltdown over bumping an elbow or not being able to wait while mom's on the phone. Instead of just labeling this as "bad behavior," we want to consider there might be more going on under the surface. Kids between 7 and 8 years old go through an especially important time in brain development. What's happening in their lives during this period - including family stress or big events like the pandemic - can have a lasting impact on how they handle emotions. Think of it this way: adults have years of experience to draw from when dealing with frustrating situations. But kids? They're still building their emotional toolbox. They don't have that library of experiences to help them respond appropriately yet. The good news? The brain can change and improve at any age, though it's easier when children are younger. Don’t wait if you notice your child struggling with big emotions. Getting help early can make a big difference. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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133. Why more kids are struggling: A guide for concerned parents
10/24/2024
133. Why more kids are struggling: A guide for concerned parents
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) As a mom, have you ever worried about your child's development? In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Laura Hanson talks about why so many kids are struggling today and what parents can do to help. What makes this episode really helpful is Dr. Hanson's explanation of why some kids are picky eaters or have tummy troubles. These aren't just "phases" - they might be signs that your child needs support. She explains how food sensitivities and poor nutrient absorption can affect behavior and development. The best part? Dr. Hanson offers hope! She shares how her team works with families, taking things step by step without overwhelming kids with too many changes at once. They even offer online appointments for families who don't live nearby. Whether you're planning to have a baby, expecting, or already have kids who might need extra support, Dr. Hanson's message is clear: there are always options and ways to help your child thrive. Sometimes you just need to try a different approach. Want to learn more? Dr. Hanson invites parents to check out Connect My Brain's website and reach out if they need guidance. Remember, you're not alone in this journey! SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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132. How Neurofeedback and EMDR are changing mental health treatment with Sean Brock
10/10/2024
132. How Neurofeedback and EMDR are changing mental health treatment with Sean Brock
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Today, Dr. Laura Hanson sits down with Sean Brock from Neuro Colorado to explore the intersection of neurofeedback, counseling, and mental health. This conversation reveals how two different professions can come together to offer comprehensive care for individuals struggling with various mental health challenges. Sean Brock, a licensed professional counselor, shares his journey of incorporating neurofeedback and neurostimulation into his practice. He explains how these techniques can complement traditional counseling methods, offering a more holistic approach to mental health treatment. Dr. Hanson, a chiropractor with expertise in neurofeedback, brings her unique perspective on how physical health and brain function intertwine. The discussion delves into the science behind neurofeedback, explaining how it can help regulate brain activity and potentially alleviate symptoms of conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. Brock also provides an insightful explanation of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and how it differs from neurofeedback while still targeting trauma processing. One of the most compelling aspects of their conversation is the emphasis on hope and the potential for positive change. Both experts stress that individuals struggling with mental health issues have options and that feeling better is possible with the right approach and support. SHOW NOTES: Connect with Sean: Visit Sean's website, Connect with Sean on and Phone Sean at Neuro Colorado: 720-232-0834 What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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131. Move to Learn: Unlocking your child's brain power through physical activity
09/19/2024
131. Move to Learn: Unlocking your child's brain power through physical activity
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Dr. Laura Hanson offers a fascinating exploration into the crucial role of movement in child development and learning. As a passionate educator and healthcare professional, Dr. Hanson shares her invaluable insights on how physical activity can jumpstart a child's cognitive and emotional growth. In this episode, we cover: The importance of primitive reflexes in early development How movement discharges stress and improves attention The connection between physical posture and emotional well-being The impact of chronic habits on brain circuitry The role of the hippocampus in learning and memory SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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130. Lifestyle changes and brain development: A dad's perspective on helping his daughter thrive
09/05/2024
130. Lifestyle changes and brain development: A dad's perspective on helping his daughter thrive
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Bradley Hilton, a father and financial planner, shares his family's journey in helping their daughter overcome developmental challenges. After noticing differences in their child's behavior post-pandemic, Bradley and his wife sought help. They eventually found Dr. Laura Hansen at Connect My Brain, who offered a unique approach to addressing their daughter's needs. In their very first session, they saw a breakthrough - their 4.5-year-old daughter suddenly became potty trained, a milestone they had been struggling with for months. The path to improvement wasn't easy, though. Bradley describes the intense commitment required - daily exercises, dietary changes, and a complete lifestyle overhaul for the whole family. He emphasizes that while it was overwhelming at times, the results were worth it. Bradley encourages other parents, especially fathers, to be open to recognizing potential issues in their children's development and to seek help without trying to "fix" everything themselves. Dr. Laura Hansen stresses the importance of early intervention, explaining that there are crucial developmental windows in a child's life. She discusses how various factors, from prenatal health to gut bacteria, can impact a child's brain development. However, she reassures listeners that it's never too late to make positive changes. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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129. The Brain-Body Connection: Rethinking childhood learning challenges
08/29/2024
129. The Brain-Body Connection: Rethinking childhood learning challenges
👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on or ! (it’s free) Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the different approaches to helping your child with attention, behavior, or learning challenges? As a mom and a doctor, I totally get it. In this podcast, I first dive into the world of traditional versus alternative treatments for kids' developmental issues. Then, we'll explore why the usual route of medication and standard therapies might not always be the best fit, and why it's so crucial to keep an open mind about other options out there. Moreover, we'll discuss the pros and cons of insurance-based treatments and why sometimes thinking outside the box can lead to better results. Next, I'll share some practical tips on how to research different approaches, such as primitive reflex work and nutrition, that could make a significant difference for your child. Additionally, we'll delve into the fascinating connection between body movement and brain development, and how understanding this link can unlock new ways to help your little one thrive. Furthermore, I'll explain concepts like lateralization and the homunculus in simple terms, showing how they relate to your child's learning and behavior. Whether you're a parent desperately looking for answers or just curious about how our amazing brains work, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights that could transform the way you think about child development and learning. SHOW NOTES: What do you want to learn more about? Submit your questions here: Phone the office: 678-501-5172
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