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What if the biggest shift you could make in life was moving from “I don’t know” to “I’ve got this”? In this episode, Dr. Michael and Mae Bagnell unpack the concept of agency—the ability to actively influence your outcomes instead of passively reacting to them. It’s not just about control; it’s about clarity, preparation, and making decisions that move you toward the results you want.

Through real stories of clients overcoming chronic health challenges, you’ll see how agency can turn fear into action. From creating a simple “fear bag” to being able to travel without anxiety, the conversation shows how preparation and understanding lead to confidence. Agency isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about knowing enough to take the next right step.

You’ll also learn why staying in “I don’t know land” keeps you stuck and how shifting to “Here’s what I do know” can be a game changer. Dr. Michael shares how he works with patients to focus on what’s certain, while Mae offers coaching insights to help people move forward even when the future is unclear.

This isn’t just for those with health conditions. Whether you’re working toward career goals, building relationships, or navigating life changes, the principles of agency apply. It’s about recognizing where you have influence, setting goals, and taking small actions that add up over time.

By the end of the episode, you’ll have a fresh perspective on how to approach challenges with more confidence, less fear, and a greater sense of control. Agency is more than a mindset—it’s a practice that can transform your life.

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Welcome to a powerful new Back to School series on The Neuro Collective Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Michael and May Bagnell dive into a deeply important and timely conversation: how to support the autistic child's brain using the tools of functional neurology.

Whether you're a parent just beginning to notice differences in your child’s development or someone who’s already walked a long road of research and therapies, this episode offers insights for you. Learn how brain connectivity, primitive reflexes, eye movement therapies, and sensory integration all play a part in helping children not just cope—but thrive—this school year.

You'll discover:

• Why early signs like delayed speech, sensory sensitivities, or motor clumsiness may matter
• How functional neurology provides non-invasive, holistic support
• The role of primitive reflex integration in learning and behavior
• Real strategies for calming the nervous system
• Why it’s not about “fixing” your child, but understanding and supporting their unique wiring

Plus, we touch on the rising awareness around adult diagnoses and how understanding your brain's wiring can lead to healing and clarity at any age.

💡This episode is filled with hope, insight, and practical next steps. Don’t miss it—and be sure to catch the next part of this series where we’ll explore the gut-brain connection, nutrition, and genetics in autism.

🎧 Hit play and let’s talk brighter connections!

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In this episode of The Neuro Collective Podcast, Dr. Michael Bagnell dives deep into three of the most popular brain-boosting trends in wellness today—and separates science from hype.

Question 1: Are Ice Plunges Good for Your Brain?
From biohackers to athletes, cold plunges are all the rage. But do they really improve brain function or reduce inflammation? Dr. Bagnell explains how controlled cold exposure affects the autonomic nervous system and why it's not always anti-inflammatory.

Question 2: Red Light Therapy—Hype or Healing?
A young mom asks about red light panels for herself and her kids. Dr. Bagnell unpacks the science behind photobiomodulation (PBM), how it activates mitochondria, and its use in treating conditions like ADHD, speech delays, and even neurodegeneration.

Question 3: What’s the Best Exercise for Brain Health?
From strength training to hot yoga and even running backwards, Dr. Bagnell shares how different types of movement stimulate different brain regions—from the cerebellum to the frontal lobe—and how to build a brain-friendly workout routine.

Whether you're a wellness enthusiast, parent, or just curious about optimizing your brain, this episode is packed with practical tips, research insights, and real-world applications.

🔗 Subscribe & Share if you love learning how to heal and thrive through neuroscience, lifestyle, and movement.

💬 Have questions for future episodes? DM us or send an email—we’d love to feature yours!