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Your heart and brain are in constant conversation, and when that connection falters, everything from memory to mood to energy pays the price.

In this episode of Your Health Toolkit: The Neurology Sessions, Dr. Lauren Young and Dr. Ashley Burkman sit down with cardiologist Dr. Jeffrey Thompson and physician assistant Shawn Brady to explore how your heart and brain work in sync, and what happens when that balance is lost.

They unpack how blood flow, inflammation, and autonomic control shape your memory, mood, and energy—and why “normal” checkups can overlook early warning signs.

You’ll learn:

• How the autonomic nervous system connects heart rhythm and brain clarity.
• Why fatigue, brain fog, and poor sleep can signal cardiovascular imbalance.
• What sleep apnea and microvascular dysfunction reveal about hidden stress on the brain and heart.
• The early role of endothelial health and oxygen delivery in long-term resilience.
• Key labs and tests that catch issues before they become crises.
• The daily habits—nutrition, movement, and stress recovery—that protect both systems.

If you’ve ever been told your heart looks “fine” but you still feel worn down, this conversation is your next step toward understanding why and what you can do about it.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Cardiologist Dr. Jeffrey Thompsen and Shawn Brady, PA-C, from Center for the Healthy Heart
• Explore articles and resources from Collaborative Natural Health Partners

Your Health Toolkit is a podcast created by the physicians from Collaborative Natural Health Partners (CNHP) – your go-to hub for holistic and integrated family healthcare in Connecticut and New York. At CNHP, we’ve crafted a special blend of expertise, bringing together naturopathic physicians (NPs), osteopathic medicine physicians (DOs), and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to offer you a warm, integrative, patient-centered approach to health and wellness. If you’re interested in learning more, head over to our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram for information, articles, and resources to take the guesswork out of your health.
Your Health Toolkit is a podcast presented for general information and educational purposes only. The discussions presented by Dr. Lauren Young and the show’s guests should not be considered medical advice but rather a conversation starter with your doctor. Everyone’s body is unique, and we recommend having a discussion with your personal healthcare team before trying anything discussed on the show.