The Write Brain

From Nashville writer rounds to the science of the brain–gut loop, Ellis and Dr. Melillo unpack why there’s no one-size-fits-all diet—and how to tell what YOUR body actually needs. We dig into food sensitivities (what blood tests really measure), “leaky gut” (and why it actually begins in infancy), chemicals/dyes (Red 40, etc.), and the TikTok trends around parasites, mold, and candida. Plus: how tools like the Brain Driver and Interactive Metronome help balance the system so digestion, mood, and focus improve.What you’ll learnTest, don’t guess: real food-sensitivity panels & how to do a true 6-week elimination + reintroductionLeaky gut 101: the role of the parasympathetic (vagal) system & why brain balance mattersTH1/TH2 immunity, antibodies, and why creatives can be extra sensitiveDyes, chemicals & heavy metals: when to care, when to ignore the noiseParasites/mold/candida: how to confirm (stool/blood), and the why behind susceptibilityEllis’ stack: Brain Driver + Interactive Metronome to support timing, vagal tone & metabolismTry thisGet a reputable antibody panel (foods + common additives).Eliminate strictly for 6 weeks, then re-challenge one item at a time.If you suspect parasites/mold—test first, then treat.Support the brain–gut loop: sleep, breathwork, gentle vestibular/balance drills, timing work.Listen on: Spotify • Apple Podcasts • iHeartRadio • YouTubeFollow: @thewritebrainpodcast | @ellismelillo | @drrobertmelilloContact: thewritebrainpodcast@gmail.comDisclaimer: Educational only; not medical advice. Always consult your clinician.Hashtags: #RightBrain #BrainGutConnection #FoodSensitivity #FunctionalNeurology #LeakyGut #ADHD #Anxiety #Wellness #Nashville #TheWriteBrain

Ever felt the room spin, gotten car sick, or had that wobbly “boat” feeling out of nowhere? In this episode, we break down the three different kinds of dizziness — and why it matters. Vertigo, motion sickness, and lightheadedness come from different systems in the brain, and knowing which one you’re experiencing is the key to actually helping it.Ellis shares her Brain Driver routine + 68 days alcohol-free, while Dr. Melillo explains how the inner ear, neck, eyes, and brain work together to keep us balanced. We also talk color therapy, why some right-brain dominant creatives feel things more strongly, and simple ways to support your own system at home.What we cover:• Vertigo vs. dizziness vs. lightheadedness• Why the side you turn your head matters• Car + bed hacks to reduce motion sickness• The Brain Driver (and how Ellis uses it daily)• Right-brain sensitivity, empathy & overthinking• Why there’s no “one-time fix” — just balanceIf you’ve ever said:“I get dizzy in cars.”“The room spins when I lie down.”“My stomach drops when I stand up too fast.”…this episode is for you.

Country artist Kylie Frey joins us to talk rodeo roots, panic attacks, songwriting as therapy, and her new duet with Randall King—plus the upcoming EP Half a Mind (out Oct 23). We get into right- vs left-brain creativity, mom life, and why a horse can be the best therapist.🎵 Kylie Frey – “Half a Mind” EP drops Oct 23 🎙️ The Write Brain Podcast — father/daughter conversations about brain health, creativity, and real life.

In this episode of The Write Brain Podcast, Ellis and Dr. Robert Melillo unpack one of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in the world of child development and mental health: autism. With headlines circulating about Tylenol use during pregnancy, they dive deep into the real science behind risk factors, gene expression, brain development, and why blame-based narratives aren’t just inaccurate — they’re harmful.Dr. Melillo, who wrote one of the definitive books on autism science, explains:Why correlation ≠ causation in autism researchWhat autism actually looks like in the brainThe role of preconception health in both parentsWhy folic acid, gut health, and the immune system are downstream, not root causesHow the Brain Driver and functional neurology help restore balance gently and effectivelyEllis also shares how tools like red light glasses and her Brain Driver (thebraindriver.com) are helping her manage anxiety during her 41 days sober, while calling out media oversimplification — with her usual dose of comedy and side tangents (yes, Miami Vice and karate class make cameos).This episode is an empowering reminder that you’re not broken — you’re just imbalanced, and there are ways to get back to center.

Ellis and Dr. Robert Melillo explore the neurological roots of stuttering, Tourette’s, OCD, intrusive thoughts, and what it really means to have a “right-brain imbalance.”In this episode:The real reason why some people stutter — and why singing can stop itLeft vs. right-brain OCD (yes, there’s a difference)How concussion, trauma, and poor therapy protocols can trigger regressionWhy Botox can interfere with reading emotionsTools that help balance the brain (Brain Driver, red light lenses, vestibular therapy)Ellis also shares a candid sobriety update (41 days) and how committing to brain-based tools has helped reduce her anxiety, improved her sleep, and changed her mornings for the better.A brilliant mix of science, vulnerability, and dry humor as always.TheBrainDriver.com

In this episode of The Write Brain Podcast, we sit down with comedian and artist Danae Hays for a vulnerable, insightful, and unforgettable conversation about brain health, trauma, and identity.Danae opens up about her experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder, childhood trauma, and coming out later in life, while Dr. Robert Melillo breaks down the neurological science behind what she’s experienced. Together, they explore how brain imbalance, shame, and concussions can contribute to obsessive thought patterns, and how tools like the Brain Driver ( thebraindriver.com) can support long-term healing.Ellis and Danae also discuss the emotional cost of performance, the spiritual toll of suppressing your truth, and how creative intuition can become your compass once you learn to regulate your nervous system.This episode blends science, story, and sensitivity—offering a grounded, compassionate look at what healing really means.

In this episode of The Write Brain Podcast, we explore the deeper science and philosophy behind chiropractic care and its foundational role in brain development and functional neurology. After Ellis receives a live chiropractic adjustment from her father, Dr. Robert Melillo, the two delve into the origins of chiropractic, its long-standing ties to natural medicine, and how spinal alignment directly influences nervous system function. They also discuss the Brain Driver — a tool used to help regulate and balance brain activity — and how modalities like this can be integrated with other natural approaches to support both physical and mental health. Whether you're familiar with chiropractic or questioning its role in modern wellness, this conversation offers an evidence-based perspective that challenges mainstream narratives and connects the dots between movement, brain health, and holistic healing.

Actress and singer Jen Cooke opens up about her decade-long health spiral—weight changes, fatigue, anxiety, “ADHD” labels, liver enzyme scares, stopping meds—and how a hypothyroidism diagnosis (and the right support) helped her rebuild energy, creativity, and life. Dr. Robert breaks down the brain–hormone–immune loop (HPA axis, sympathetic/parasympathetic balance, blood sugar, HRV) and why many creatives feel great on stimulants…until they don’t.

We get nerdy—in a good way. What is QEEG? How does neurofeedback actually work? Dr. Rob shares the history (from Hans Berger to hospital EEGs), why brain rhythms (delta → gamma) matter, and how timing/synchrony between networks shapes attention, anxiety, creativity, and sleep. Ellis adds lived moments—racing thoughts at night, meditations that stick, and the infamous EEG cap glam fail—while Dr. Rob explains why developmental basics (primitive reflexes, hemispheric balance) often need tuning before neurofeedback truly lasts.

Callum Kerr joins Ellis and Dr. Robert Melillo to jam on creativity, anxiety, and growth—from Scottish roots to Nashville stages and TV sets. We get into why “fast glasses” are a personality trait, how acting taught him to handle rejection, singing American country with a Scottish heart, playing sober, and the difference between being naturally good and becoming truly great. Plus: lessons for 14-year-old creatives, parenting for resilience, and what’s next for Callum’s music and screen career (including Virgin River updates) and tour dates for Roots Under Me.

In this candid and vulnerable episode of The Write Brain, Ellis and Dr. Melillo dive deep into the often misunderstood world of procrastination and task avoidance. Through personal stories, neuroscience insights, and compassionate accountability, they explore why starting something — no matter how small — can feel impossible for those with right-brain dominance, ADHD, anxiety, or trauma histories.Ellis opens up about her experiences with paralyzing fear, shame, and self-criticism, from unopened emails to piles of unpacked boxes — and how red light glasses, support systems, and a little tough love are helping her take the first step. Dr. Melillo explains the neurological underpinnings of procrastination and how parents, creatives, and clinicians alike can reframe task avoidance as a brain-based challenge — not a moral failing.This episode is a powerful reminder that small steps matter, accountability heals, and you are not alone in the struggle.

In this episode of The Write Brain podcast we explore the myths surrounding chemical imbalances in the brain and discover the reality of neurotransmitters, brain function, and effective mental health solutions. Learn about dopamine, serotonin, and the impact of medication on brain activity versus long-term functional changes. Understand the vital differences between right and left brain functions and how they influence overall well-being.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast, Roman Alexander joins to discuss his latest music releases, overcoming personal challenges, and the impact of right-brain dominance. We touch upon Roman's musical beginnings, his struggle with dyslexia, the effects of concussions, and how he deals with anxiety. Roman also shares insights into the music industry, personal perseverance, and his love for racing cars as a way to find mental peace.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast, we explore Ellis' personal battle with anxiety, the impacts of an imbalanced right-brain dominance, and the importance of creating mental routines. Dr. Melillo provides scientific insights on neurological imbalances. The conversation also dives into the hilarity and struggles of a songwriter's life, concluding with practical advice for achieving mental balance.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast, we have Emma Zinck, acclaimed as one of the world's best female guitarists, we delve into Emma's background, her musical inspirations, and personal struggles. We explore her upbringing in Virginia, experiences with anxiety, overcoming stage fright, and the impact of her parents' support on her career. Emma also shares her thoughts on how vulnerability and honesty contribute to an artist's strength.

In this conversation, Ellis and Dr. Melillo dive into the fascinating world of epigenetics, discussing how genes are not fixed determinants of our health and behavior. They explore common misconceptions about genetics, the significant role of environmental factors in gene expression, and the implications for mental health. The discussion emphasizes the power of lifestyle choices in altering gene expression and the potential for generational impact. Ultimately, the conversation aims to empower listeners with knowledge about their genetic potential and the ability to change their health outcomes.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast, actor Taylor John Smith shares his journey from growing up with dreams of being a soldier to becoming a Hollywood actor. He discusses his childhood in Virginia, the moment he discovered acting, and the challenges he faced along the way. Taylor also opens up about personal struggles, family dynamics, and the emotional complexities of his craft.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast, we delve into the profound impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on brain development, mental health, and physical health. We discuss the history of ACEs research, the ten identified childhood experiences, and their long-term effects on individuals. We also explore the importance of resilience, the limitations of talk therapy, and the potential of combining physical and mental approaches for holistic healing.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast we dive deep into the extraordinary life of Thunderstorm Artis, a talented musician known from American Idol. From growing up in Hawaii with 10 siblings, facing homelessness, to nearly taking his own life, Thunderstorm opens up about his struggles, triumphs, and the pivotal role of faith and family in his journey. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation that explores resilience, purpose, and the power of music to heal and connect.

In this episode of the Write Brain Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of primitive reflexes and their vital role in human brain development. Learn about the various reflexes, their significance, and how they can affect mental health from childhood to adulthood. We also touch on the importance of early identification and intervention to address these reflexes and potential imbalances.