On this football and fitness edition of The Upswing, host Jeff Sherman speaks with Dr. Kate Essad, a neurologist with Aurora Health Care, about the facts and myths surrounding concussions, head injuries and CTE.
As fall youth sports begin, Dr. Essad explains what parents, coaches and student-athletes should know following a possible concussion. She stresses a simple guiding principle: “When in doubt, sit it out.”
Dr. Essad emphasizes that concussion recovery should be individualized, with a student’s return to school taking priority before a return to play. When it is time to get back on the field, she says, young athletes should do so with confidence in their recovery.
Later, Jeff welcomed Dr. Ryan Pollay, co-founder of Kaizen House of Athletics, a new fitness and wellness concept expected to open at Bayshore Town Center on Nov. 1, 2026.
Pollay says Kaizen is intended to be more than a place to work out. The adult-focused concept aims to bring people together through fitness, social connection and wellness – creating the kind of community people typically seek at a neighborhood coffee shop. A full cafe experience will be available, but the broader vision is a one-stop destination for fitness-minded adults on Milwaukee’s North Shore.
While Kaizen won’t offer hot yoga onsite, Pollay says the collaborative nature of the organization seeks to develop partnerships with businesses that provide specialized fitness classes and experiences. He says the goal is to create a welcoming, home-like environment for serious adult fitness clients while building a stronger sense of community.
Sherman ended the show with his thoughts on Downtown Milwaukee’w Water Street entertainment district.
The Upswing is presented by Horicon Bank.
