Lara engages in a transformative conversation with Dr. Josh Madsen, a neurodevelopmental chiropractor who is changing how we approach learning and behavioural challenges in children with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. Dr. Madsen stresses a bottom-up approach to brain development, targeting foundational neurological gaps rather than just managing symptoms. He explores the critical role of energy production, mitochondrial function, and environmental influences on neurological health.

The episode underscores the power of early intervention, the integration of primitive reflexes, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle for both parents and children. Listeners will gain actionable insights and strategies to support their child’s development by addressing root causes, not just surface behaviours.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Bottom-Up Brain Development

Dr. Madsen explains that real progress occurs when we address early brain development by improving energy production, reducing inflammation, and integrating primitive reflexes, key to supporting neurological function in children.

Early Intervention is Essential

Developmental delays often begin in the first year of life. Addressing these early, particularly motor skill delays and reflex issues, can dramatically change long-term cognitive and behavioural outcomes.

Parental Health & Environment

Children’s neurological development is shaped by their environment and parental health before conception. Nutritional quality, toxin exposure, and emotional wellbeing all impact how the brain develops.

Nutrition and Lifestyle

Whole foods, minimal processing, and limiting artificial additives are essential. When parents model healthy behaviours, children are far more likely to adopt them.

BEST MOMENTS

Dr. Josh Madsen:

“When those mechanisms are disrupted, the body can't produce enough energy for the neurological system to develop properly.”

Dr. Josh Madsen:

“If you want to create attention issues in a child, it’s not difficult—damage their gut, feed them poorly, and expose them to constant electronics.”

Dr. Josh Madsen:

“Early support can save countless hours of future rehabilitation, speech therapy, or physiotherapy. The earlier we intervene, the better.”

Lara:

“‘Wait and see’ is one of the most dangerous things a doctor can say. Wait and see for what?”

HOST BIO

Lara Barnes is a successful woman in tech who turned to functional neurology to help her son with behavioural, learning, and speech difficulties. Through her journey, she learned how to change the brain and rebuild function. The Building the Brain Podcast empowers parents with knowledge and tools to help their children thrive.

www.braindevelopment.co.uk

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GUEST BIO

Dr. Josh Madsen is a Doctor of Chiropractic with deep expertise in functional neurology, neurodevelopmental delays, and functional medicine. He holds an Exercise Science degree from the University of Northern Iowa and earned his chiropractic degree from Palmer College. He further trained through the Carrick Institute and Functional Neurology Seminars (National University of Health Sciences).

www.iowainfinity.com

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