Learn how chronic stress and traumatic brain injuries can silently impact workplace dynamics and employee wellbeing!

In this episode of the Academy I3 podcast, hosts Charlie and Shane engage in a thought provoking discussion with Dr. Maria Garay Seratos, an expert in domestic violence, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Dr. Seratos talked about the profound impact of brain injuries and chronic stress on groups that are marginalized, particularly within the context of child welfare and the workplace. She highlights the critical symptoms and long-term effects associated with TBI and chronic stress, underscoring the need for greater awareness and support in professional environments. Dr. Seratos emphasizes the importance of creating brain health initiatives, educating the workforce, and integrating these efforts into broader DEI strategies. This episode sheds light on a largely unrecognized issue, urging organizations to prioritize brain health as a fundamental component of employee wellbeing and organizational success.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Meet Dr. Maria Garay Soratos

02:11 The Link Between Brain Health and DEI Challenges

04:09 Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

06:04 Non-Concussive Head Impacts and CTE

07:20 The Prevalence and Impact of TBI

10:10 Brain Health and Chronic Stress

11:28 Intersectionality and Brain Health in the Workplace

14:39 Misconceptions About Brain Health

19:53 Strategies for Supporting Brain Health in the Workplace

35:32 The Role of Leadership in Promoting Brain Health

39:37 Long-Term Benefits of Prioritizing Brain Health

41:00 Envisioning the Future of DEI and Brain Health

44:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Learn about our guest: 

María E. Garay-Serratos, MSW, PhD, is a domestic violence – traumatic brain injury/chronic traumatic encephalopathy (DV-TBI/CTE) expert and thought leader. Her life’s mission is to create global awareness to address the silent and unrecognized DV-TBI/CTE pandemic. Dr. Garay-Serratos is currently the Founder and CEO of Pánfila Domestic Violence HOPE Foundation and the Protagonist, Associate Producer, DV-TBI/CTE Expert Consultant for This Hits Home, a feature documentary released in 2023. Her work and story have also been the focus of various media/social media articles/interviews including NPR, The National Desk Spotlight on America, USC News, The Global Good Podcast, HuffPost, The Los Angeles Times, Boston University CTE Center, and Concussion Legacy Foundation. Prior to founding Pánfila and involvement with This Hits Home, Dr. Garay- Serratos served as a C-level executive for over 25 years for various non-profit organizations. She attended Pitzer College in Claremont, California, where she earned her undergraduate degree in sociology. Her graduate studies were in the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California where she earned both a master’s degree and a doctorate.

Check out Dr. Garay-Serratos' organization: Pánfila Domestic Violence HOPE Foundation

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