As a coach, teacher and political strategist, words are very important to Matt Kadow. He can rally the troops and turn a phrase with the best of them.
So imagine his shock when he reviewed his virtual teaching lessons and noticed he was dropping words and losing his train of thought altogether.
So he got his brain examined, and was relieved that he wasn’t suffering from the fallout of multiple traumatic brain injuries he suffered as an athlete over the years.
But he came away with a number of tools to manage his anxiety and keep his brain as healthy as possible. And he passes those tools along to the athletes he coaches, by placing an emphasis on concussion protocols, and by creating a culture where athletes are encouraged to communicate when they’re suffering mentally. That focus on mind-body connection is yielding brilliant results.
This episode also marks the debut of Allison Grady. Allison starred in Episode 27 of the podcast, and as a clinical psychology student and a college track sprinter who's battled mental illness and an eating disorder, she brings an invaluable perspective to the show.
************************************
Our conversation with Matt was presented by DUI & Behavioral Health Counseling Centers, which has offices here in northern Illinois – in Sycamore, Plano, and Crystal Lake. If you suspect you or someone you love has a problem with drinking, drugs, mental illness or anger, call 815-895-9000 today and set up an evaluation. Visit duisycamore.com for more information.
************************************
Catch me on IGTV (@40000_Steps) and Facebook Live at 11 a.m. CST every Tuesday and Thursday. Join the discussion. Bring your own snacks.
************************************
If you or someone you know would like to star on the podcast, or be interviewed on IGTV, email us at 40000steps@gmail.com.
************************************
Sign up for our free newsletter and read my regular musings in The Big Blog at 40000steps.com, where you can also read about and listen to every episode of 40,000 Steps Radio.
