Read the transcript, https://KesslerFoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-07/Brainwaves%20SUMMER%202025%20Audio%20Newsletter%20TRANSCRIPT.pdf

After a life-altering car accident left Luke Bonenberger with a traumatic brain injury, his world was consumed by rage, confusion, and a loss of identity. But what began as a devastating setback became the spark for a remarkable transformation. In this episode, Luke opens up about his journey to becoming a motivational speaker and author. With the help of community support and mental wellness strategies, he found a new path—one rooted in healing, acceptance, and the power of storytelling.

Listeners will also meet Bill, a fellow TBI survivor whose involvement in the Inspire Arts program showcases the healing potential of creative expression. Together, their stories illuminate the vital roles of occupational therapy, family support, and community reintegration in recovery.

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Chapters

00:00:00 - Welcome and Introduction

00:00:46 - In Pain, He Found Purpose

00:03:26 - Listen and Learn

00:04:07 - Lessons Learned

00:04:56 - Back in Action

00:06:53 - Talking about TBI

00:07:33 - The Art of Healing

00:08:49 - Episode Wrap Up

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For more information:

Watch the video or listen to the podcast—Recycling Pain: Pain to Purpose with Luke Bohnenberger:
video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHRk3RHHTZk
podcast - https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/recycling-pain-pain-to-purpose-with-luke-bohnenberger

Read our TBI Brainwaves newsletter (link TBD)

Listen to past Brainwaves audio newsletters: https://kesslerfoundation.org/publication-archives#block-traumatic-brain-injury-research-newsletter

Learn more—TBI Facts Sheets from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center msktc.org/tbi/factsheets

Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to KesslerFoundation.org/join

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Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media as accessible as possible. These tools help ensure that individuals with visual or cognitive impairments are not prevented from accessing the materials we provide to help change the lives of people with disabilities. 
 
These automated voices may not correctly capture intonation or pronunciation that may be clearer in the accompanying text. If you encounter any issues related to Kessler Foundation's use of AI narrators in our multimedia content, please reach out to Communications@KesslerFoundation.org

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This podcast was recorded in July 2025 and was edited and produced by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer for Kessler Foundation.