In this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health! Podcast, co-host Dr. Jonathan Artz, MD, an experienced neurologist, shares his extensive background and insights on cognitive health. 

Dr. Artz discusses his journey from medical school through various specializations, ultimately focusing on cognitive disorders and dementia. 

He emphasizes the importance of early conversations about brain health, lifestyle modifications, and the role of primary care providers in initial evaluations. 

Dr. Artz also outlines key factors affecting brain health, the limitations of current medications, and common misconceptions about cognitive diseases. 

Listeners are encouraged to engage in preventive measures actively and have detailed discussions with healthcare providers about any cognitive concerns.

**Recorded live on March 10, 2025, during our Brain Week 2025 events and adapted to this podcast episode.**

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Dr. Jonathan Artz

00:37 Dr. Arts' Educational and Professional Journey

02:01 Establishing a Cognitive Program at Kaiser Permanente

02:45 Transition to Renown Institute of Neurosciences

04:06 Common Questions About Brain Health

04:24 The Role of Primary Care in Cognitive Health

06:48 Key Information to Share with Healthcare Providers

13:53 Importance of Sleep and Other Factors

16:27 When to Start the Conversation About Cognitive Health

22:42 Red Flags and Immediate Actions for Brain Health

26:26 The Prevalence of Brain Health Supplements

27:01 Importance of Disclosing Supplements to Healthcare Providers

28:26 Common Cognitive Concerns and Symptoms

28:46 The Significance of Memory and Learning Issues

29:21 Understanding Speech and Language Problems

29:32 When to Seek Medical Attention for Cognitive Issues

32:43 The Role of Neurologists in Cognitive Health

33:14 The Importance of Patient History in Neurology

33:45 Encouraging Open Communication with Healthcare Providers

35:31 Practical Tips for Cognitive Wellbeing

35:53 The Impact of Lifestyle on Brain Health

41:50 The Role of Social Interaction in Cognitive Health

42:52 The Risks of Smoking and Other Substances

48:34 The Complexity of Diagnosing Dementia

51:31 Current Treatments and Their Limitations

56:52 The Importance of Lifestyle in Managing Cognitive Health

57:25 Conclusion and Encouragement to Start the Conversation

• "Twelve Questions to Ask Your Doctor For Better Brain Health" Conversation Starters from the American Academy of Neurology

• Explore additional podcast conversations in our library of 30-minute conversations with the experts on a wide variety of topics, from nutrition to oral health

🧠 Episode Overview:
In this special panel discussion, we explore why brain health matters at every age. Join host Dr. Krystal Culler and three expert guests—LeAnne, Nandita, and Giovanna—for a vibrant, age-inclusive conversation spanning childhood through adulthood. You’ll walk away with fresh insights, surprising truths, and practical strategies to support brain health across the lifespan.

🎧 Tune in to discover:

• What everyone should know about the brain, including tips on sleep, stress, and neuroplasticity

• Myths we need to bust (no, brain health isn’t just for older adults!)

• A rapid-fire round of actionable tips across the five pillars of brain health:
  🔹 Movement
  🔹 Nutrition
  🔹 Sleep
  🔹 Emotional Well-being
  🔹 Cognitive Fitness

• Powerful takeaways and messages of hope for every listener, no matter your age

💬 Perfect for:
Parents, educators, students, caregivers, health professionals, and anyone curious about protecting and improving brain health from childhood to adulthood.

00:00 Introduction to Brain Health for All Ages

00:47 Brain Health in Children (Ages 5-9)

04:51 Brain Health in Teens (Ages 11-18)

08:17 Brain Health in Youth (Ages 18-39)

11:08 Brain Health in Adults and General Discussion

13:25 Risk Factors and Protective Factors for Brain Health

26:58 Debunking Brain Health Myths

33:16 Debunking Brain Health Myths for Youth

34:05 Understanding Nutrition for Brain Health

35:43 Brain Health Tips for Adults and Older Adults

39:05 Practical Brain Health Strategies: Movement

43:05 Practical Brain Health Strategies: Nutrition

46:42 Practical Brain Health Strategies: Sleep

50:44 Practical Brain Health Strategies: Emotional Wellbeing

54:35 Practical Brain Health Strategies: Cognitive Fitness

57:12 Final Takeaways on Brain Health

**Recorded live on March 12, 2025, during our Brain Week 2025 events and adapted to this podcast episode.**

Panelists:

• Kids: LeAnne Stuver, M.Ed., BSN, Director of Lifelong Learning at the Virtual Brain Health Center
• Teens: Nandita Srikumar, Founder of Cognitive Connections
• Youth: Giovanna Manson-Hing, MA, CDP, CPT,
• Adults: Dr. Krystal L. Culler, DBH, MA, Founder of the Virtual Brain Health Center

🧠 Brain Health Resources by Age Group

Teens:

• Cognitive Connections – Learn more about Nandita's work, teen brain tools, and her podcast:
  Website | LinkTree

• My Teenage Brain – Dr. John Coleman shares 10 essential insights on the adolescent brain:
  Read PDF

Youth (18–39):

• NextGen Brain Health Study – A global research initiative on young adult brain health:
  Study Website

• Lancet Public Health Article – Research spotlight on dementia prevention in young adults:
  Read Article

• HFC's Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s – Activating youth for stigma reduction and education:
  YMAA Program | Free Youth Courses

Adults:

• Brain Health Basics – Browse infographics for everyday brain health tips:
  View Library

• Lancet Commission 2024 – Hopeful updates on dementia prevention and care:
  View Report

• Virtual Brain Health Center Directory – Curated tools, programs, and expert resources:
  Explore Directory

• Let’s Talk Brain Health Podcast – Expert interviews on topics from hearing to nutrition:
  Listen Here

In this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health! podcast from the Virtual Brain Health Center, we explore how spiritual health supports brain health with guest Christine Turo-Shields. Christine, a licensed clinical social worker and addictions counselor, shares how she integrates spirituality into trauma care and highlights the role of spiritual practices in healing and building resilience.

Discover the profound connection between spirituality and brain health as Christine shares her insights on the importance of integrating faith and spirituality into mental well-being, especially for trauma survivors. 

Gain valuable strategies for nurturing spiritual health, including meditation, prayer, and mindfulness practices.

Explore how these practices can lead to emotional resilience and cognitive wellness. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation and practical tips to enhance your brain health journey.

00:45 Meet Christine Turo Shields

02:32 Blending Spirituality with Clinical Practice

04:18 Defining Spiritual Health

07:05 Research on Spiritual Health and Brain Health

15:01 Practical Strategies for Spiritual Health

21:28 The Power of Spiritual Health & Healing

24:58 Final Thoughts and Resources

34:53 Conclusion

Resources:

•  Learn more about Christine and her practice on their website. 

• You can also connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

What if the key to better focus, less burnout, and sharper brain health was flow?

In this inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Brain Health!, former professional athlete and ADHD advocate Jamie Toyne shares how discovering the science of flow transformed his life—and how it can do the same for you.

Jamie explores what it takes to enter a flow state, why it’s essential for cognitive performance, and how small shifts in your daily routine can help you get “in the zone” more often. He also shares practical tools to reduce distractions, improve focus, and build habits that support your brain’s natural rhythm.

Whether you're seeking more clarity, energy, or creativity, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you tap into your brain’s full potential through flow.

00:00 Introduction & Jamie's ADHD Journey

03:03 Discovering Flow Through Tennis

06:30 Burnout and the Quest for Flow

08:56 The Science and Practice of Flow

14:28 Creating Flow in Daily Life

18:50 Addressing Burnout and Self-Care

25:17 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

Resources

• Learn more about Jamie’s coaching and consulting services on his website

  Explore the factors that may be blocking you from flow with his free tool

In this enlightening episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health podcast, we are joined by Dr. Marie Marie Onakomaiya, PhD, MPH, a distinguished neuroscientist and CEO of Metric Health. Marie shares her journey from her academic pursuits to her groundbreaking work in AI-driven assessment platforms for brain health. 

She discusses the importance of measurement-based care, how personalized data collection can revolutionize brain injury recovery, and the transformative potential of bringing advanced assessments to more people globally. 

Gain valuable insights on the future of brain health, patient empowerment, and the role of technology in healthcare from an expert dedicated to making a meaningful impact. 

Tune in to learn how technology can empower patients, provide better data to healthcare providers, and ultimately improve outcomes for individuals with brain injuries.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Marie Onakomaiya, PhD, MPH

01:23 Inspiration Behind Metric Health

03:14 Understanding Measurement-Based Care

04:38 Traditional vs. Modern Brain Health Assessment

07:55 The Role of Self-Advocacy in Brain Health

11:04 Challenges in Brain Injury Recovery

17:20 Personalized Medicine and Brain Health

19:58 Future of Brain Health Assessment

25:32 Practical Advice and Resources

28:46 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Resources:

• Learn more about Metric Health on their website.

• Interested in learning more about Virtual Reality and its use to improve brain health? Check out our podcast episode with Amir Bozorgzadeh, CEO and co-founder of VirtuLeap

Beta Testing Information

Express interest in joining the beta test group to help inform the future of brain care injury.

Have you ever had a concussion or brain injury? You can be part of an evolution in brain injury care by joining Metric Health's beta launch. Designed to make follow-up care less frustrating and more personalized, Metric Health's new app is an alternative to “go home and rest” when that is not enough. 
With easy-to-use, scientifically valid assessments and personalized insights into your brain health, you can communicate more effectively with your healthcare providers.

Sign up for the waitlist today and get early access to a better way to manage your recovery.

**If you’re looking for supportive LGBTQI+ communities or want to connect further with today’s speaker, we’re here for you. Reach out anytime at ⁠podcast@virtualbrainhealthcenter.com⁠—we’d be happy to guide you in the right direction!**

In this podcast episode, we welcome Daìthì, a passionate advocate diagnosed with young-onset dementia in 2015, whose advocacy highlights the intersection of dementia care and LGBTQI+ rights, particularly for trans and non-binary individuals.

Daìthì shares their personal journey, emphasizing their unwavering identity and the importance of inclusive research and services across several countries.

They discuss the challenges faced by LGBTQI+ individuals with dementia, their advocacy work, and their involvement in various projects and conferences aimed at greater visibility and inclusion.

The conversation also touches on misconceptions about dementia erasing identity and the necessity of identity-affirming care for brain health.

Daìthì highlights the importance of personal directives, community, and the ongoing fight against exclusion.

The episode concludes with a powerful call to action: listen, educate, and advocate for trans and non-binary individuals living with dementia.00:00 Introduction to Daìthì 02:40 Personal Journey and Identity04:19 Defining Moments and Challenges06:01 Misconceptions About Dementia and Identity08:30 Importance of Identity-Affirming Care16:50 Advice for Navigating Dementia Care22:19 Future of Inclusive Dementia Care29:44 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Learn more and take action with resources from some key organizations:

• SAGE (Services & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Elders)

• Opening Doors London (focused on LGBTQ+ aging)

• Alzheimer’s Europe’s LGBTQ+ working group

• DEEP Network’s LGBTQ+ initiatives and support group

• Dementia Engagement & Empowerment Project (DEEP)

• Mens & Zorg, where Tommy Sierens is working on inclusive palliative care

These organizations are actively making a difference in how dementia care intersects with LGBTQ+ identities.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health Podcast from the Virtual Brain Health Center, expert host Dr. Krystal Culler engages with two distinguished guests, Dr. Patricia Izbicki and Eyleen Braaten, to explore the intersection of music and brain health. 

Dr. Izbicki, a neuroscientist and musician, and Eyleen, the Executive Director of the Giving Voice Chorus, discuss the profound impact of music on cognitive health, emotional well-being, and social connectivity. 

They share insights from scientific research and real-world applications, emphasizing how group singing can significantly benefit individuals, especially those living with dementia and their care partners. 

The episode highlights the transformative power of music in fostering joy, community, and cognitive resilience, urging listeners to embrace music in their daily lives.

00:00 Introduction to Brain Health

00:45 Meet Our Special Guests

02:59 Patricia's Journey into Music and Neuroscience

03:58 Eileen's Passion for Music and Brain Health

04:53 The Science Behind Music and the Brain

08:23 Benefits of Singing and Choir Participation

10:25 The Giving Voice Initiative

14:45 Transformative Stories from Giving Voice

25:34 Long-term Benefits of Music on Cognitive Health

30:00 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Resources:

• Learn more about the Giving Voice Chorus on their website.

• Explore more of Dr. Patricia Izbicki’s science writing on her website.
  

Join us in an insightful conversation with Genein Letford, M.Ed., a national thought leader in brain health and creativity. As an award-winning businesswoman and educator, Genein delves into the concept of ‘prismatic leadership,’ intercultural creativity, and neurosomatic creativity. 

She shares her journey from teaching to founding Cafe Strategies, a company that empowers organizations through the arts and neuroscience.

Learn how creativity impacts cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and emotional regulation, and how integrating arts into everyday life—regardless of one's background or profession—can enrich brain function. 

Genein  also addresses the importance of accessible arts education for all, advocating that creativity is a vital skill in today’s fast-evolving world. 

Dive deep into how music, movement, and the arts not only enhance brain health but also foster social connections, promote adaptability, and include different cultural perspectives. 

Don't miss this opportunity to explore how to unleash your own creative potential and thrive in every aspect of life.

00:00 Introduction to Janine Letford and Her Work

01:38 Genein's Journey into Creativity and Brain Health

05:02 Defining Creativity and Its Importance

07:26 Neurosomatic Creativity Explained

10:10 The Role of Arts in Brain Health

14:06 Overcoming Creative Barriers and Healing Through Arts

17:53 Practical Steps to Engage in Creative Activities

21:31 Future of Creativity and Brain Health

25:31 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Resources:

• Learn more about Genein’s work at CAFFE Strategies on her website
• Explore the Lyrics N’ Leadership offerings
• Connect with Genein on LinkedIn
• Check out Genein’s books on her website
• Watch “How Do Our Brains Handle Grief” a TedX talk by Dr. Mary Frances-O’Connor, Ph.D.

Join us as Dr. Jenna Stedman shares her mission to enhance cognitive performance and brain health through strategic nutrition.

With impressive qualifications and experience, Dr. Stedman discusses how diet directly impacts focus, memory, and attention.

Learn about personalized cognitive nutrition, practical dietary tips, and the importance of hydration.

This episode is packed with insights for athletes, professionals, and anyone looking to optimize their brain health.

Discover the powerful connection between what we eat and how we perform in everyday life!

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jenna Stedman

01:13 Journey into Cognitive Nutrition

03:17 Understanding Cognitive Performance Nutrition

05:25 Practical Applications and Benefits

06:29 Working with Dr. Stedman

09:00 Cognitive Performance Events

16:10 Evidence-Based Nutritional Strategies

22:50 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Resources:

• Learn more about how blueberries impact cognitive function across the lifespan in this study

• Explore Jenna’s website and her work at The Master Nutrition Lab

• Learn more about Jenna’s Mindful Nutrition Program here

Explore our previous podcast conversations on nutrition and brain health.

In this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health! podcast, host Dr. Krystal L. Culler, DBH, MA interviews Andrew Campbell, a distinguished audiologist and author specializing in hearing and brain health. 

Campbell shares his extensive experience and research findings that highlight the importance of addressing hearing loss early to prevent cognitive decline and dementia. 

He underscores that untreated hearing loss significantly increases the risk of dementia and impacts memory, cognitive load, and social isolation. 

Campbell advocates for regular hearing assessments, especially for those over 55, and emphasizes the need for consistent use of hearing devices for optimal benefits. 

Additionally, he highlights the interconnectedness of hearing health with overall well-being and longevity. 

The discussion also includes practical advice on accessing independent audiologists and the importance of proactivity in managing hearing health.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:05 Andrew's Background and Career

01:26 The Importance of Hearing Health

03:03 Research and Statistics on Hearing Loss

09:35 Early Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss

12:00 Impact of Hearing Loss on Cognitive Function

16:53 Steps to Assess and Improve Hearing Health

19:17 Addressing Stigma and Hesitancy

23:18 Case Study and Practical Advice

26:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Resources:

• Learn more about the ACHIEVE Study here

• Review the Lancet Commission 2024 Report on “Dementia prevention, intervention, and care”

• Explore Andrew’s website and his work at Neuaudio hearing & brain health

• Check out Andrew's book “Hearing and Brain Health: Startling links between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline” on Amazon

• Access additional learning videos on Andrew’s YouTube

Explore our previous podcast conversations on how our various senses impact our brain health.

•  “Mind Your Mouth: How Oral Health Impacts Brain Function” with Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS, dental director and dementia practitioner, as we explore the surprising connection between oral health and brain health. 

Discover the implications of oral bacteria on cognitive functions and learn actionable steps for maintaining both physical and cognitive well-being. 

From her pivot in dental practice to her enduring commitment to geriatric and homebound care, Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS, shares invaluable insights and practical tips for optimal oral hygiene. 

Don't miss this essential conversation about how simple dental care can have profound impacts on your brain health.

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS

01:10 Unexpected Career Shift

03:06 Oral Health and Brain Health Connection

06:34 Importance of Daily Oral Hygiene

08:57 Oral Health Challenges for Women

15:19 Practical Tips for Oral Care

19:11 Patient Success Story

24:56 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Resources

• Learn more about Dr. Joy Poskozim’s dental practice on her website

• Explore more resources from Joy on her personal website

• Email Dr. Joy with questions at jvpdent@gmail.com

Learn more about how other aspects of your senses can impact your brain health.

Explore our previous podcast conversation “How Our Eyes Reflect Our Well-being” with Dr. Jacquelin Theis, DO  

Join us for an insightful episode of Let’s Talk Brain Health as we explore resilience and mental wellness with Kapil Gupta—parallel entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and founder of Solh Wellness, an AI-powered mental wellness platform.

Kapil shares his transformative journey from a successful career in digital marketing to becoming a leading voice in mental health. He delves into the importance of resilience, his belief in self-generated happiness, and the innovative tools Solh Wellness offers to support mental wellness.

Through Kapil’s insights, listeners will discover actionable strategies to build resilience, optimize mental health, and prioritize authenticity in both personal and professional life. He also introduces his 16-hour theory, a powerful framework for mental wellness, and discusses the role of transparency and trust in creating supportive organizational cultures.

Tune in to hear Kapil's unique perspective and gain inspiration for navigating life’s challenges with confidence and clarity!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Kapil Gupta

01:57 Kapil's Journey to Mental Wellness

02:44 Defining Resilience

04:28 Building Resilience: Tools and Techniques

09:33 Organizational Mental Wellness

13:17 The 16-Hour Theory

15:37 Challenges in Mental Wellness

18:43 Introducing the Solh Platform

22:57 Scientific Validation and Impact

29:02 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts

Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode filled with strategies to boost resilience and mental well-being!

Resources:

Social media handle: @kapgup on X, Facebook, Instagram

Explore the Sohl Wellness app

Read Kapil's book “In My Head: A New Approach to Mental Wellness” on Amazon

Join us as we welcome Trish Turo, MS, NBC-HWC, a national board-certified health and wellness coach, brain health educator, and researcher, to the Let's Talk Brain Health podcast. 

In this episode, Trish shares her extensive experience in brain health coaching, highlighting the interconnectedness of mind and body. 

She discusses the role of brain health coaching in promoting healthy lifestyle changes, preventing cognitive decline, and enhancing overall well-being. 

Learn how personalized coaching plans can transform your brain health and discover the importance of small, joy-filled steps in achieving lasting change. 

Tune in for valuable insights and practical tips to prioritize your cognitive well-being.

0:00 Introduction to Trish Turo, MS, NBC-HWC

01:00 Trish's Personal and Professional Background

01:29 Understanding Brain Health Coaching

03:25 The Role and Impact of Brain Health Coaches

06:47 Personalized Brain Health Coaching

17:48 Success Stories and Future of Brain Health Coaching

23:26 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Resources:

• Connect with Trish on LinkedIn and Instagram (@CoachTrish)

• Check out her book- “A Kids Book About Healthy Habit” on Amazon

  Learn more about how "Nature Supports Our Optimal Brain Health" with our ⁠previous podcast conversation⁠ with Dr. Melissa Sundermann, DO

In this episode, we welcome Magda Kaczmarska, a dance artist, neuropharmacology researcher, and executive director of Dance Stream Projects, a nonprofit that promotes brain health through dance. 

Magda shares her journey from neuropharmacology to dance, exploring the overlap between systematic scientific research and artistic expression. 

She highlights the benefits of dance for brain health, including its impact on vascular and cognitive functions, mood improvement, and empathy enhancement. 

Magda also discusses her innovative dance programs for older adults and people living with dementia, emphasizing the therapeutic value and social connections formed through movement. 

Join us as Magda enlightens us on how dance can serve as a powerful tool for lifelong brain health and well-being.

00:00 Introduction to Magda Kaczmarska, MFA

01:13 The Intersection of Dance and Neuroscience

04:36 Mental, Physical, and Social Benefits of Dance

05:50 Dance and Brain Health Research

12:35 Creative Aging Programs for Older Adults

13:31 The Importance of Facilitating Dance Safely

14:44 Stories in the Moment: A Dance Program for Dementia

21:57 Personal Reflections and Success Stories

24:49 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Resources:

• To further explore how dance can benefit your brain health, connect with Magda and her nonprofit Dance Stream Projects.

• Explore Magda’s article “Valuing embodiment: insights from dance practice among people living with dementia” online here.

• Connect with Madga on LinkedIn to continue the conversation. 

Join us as we welcome back Maggie Moon, an award-winning brain health nutritional specialist and the author of 'The Mind Diet, Second Edition.' 

In this episode of 'Let's Talk Brain Health,' Maggie discusses her latest research and the updates included in her new book that launched on December 3, 2024!

Discover how the MIND diet—a blend of the Mediterranean diet and DASH diet—can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disease and enhance brain function. 

Learn about Maggie's efforts to adapt the MIND diet for diverse cultural backgrounds, such as the Korean diet, and how nostalgia for certain foods can impact our dietary choices. 

Tune in to get practical tips, MIND diet food swaps, and easy-to-follow strategies to incorporate brain-healthy habits into your daily life. 

Don't miss Maggie's insights on building a resilient brain through nutrition.

00:00 Introduction to Maggie Moon and Her Work

01:03 Recent Activities and New Book Announcement

02:25 Understanding the MIND Diet

04:57 Adapting the MIND Diet to Different Cultures

08:54 The Science of Food Nostalgia

14:39 Practical Tips for Adopting the MIND Diet

16:12 New Recipes and Ingredient Accessibility

20:20 Building a Resilient Brain with the MIND Diet

27:09 Rapid Fire: Food Swaps and Snack Ideas

29:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources:

• Learn more about Maggie’s work on her website

• Listen to Maggie’s initial conversation with us on the MIND Diet in Episode 16

• Receive MIND Diet meals and tips directly in your inbox- email sign-up.

  Explore Maggie's new book “The MIND Diet: 2nd Edition: A Scientific Approach to Enhancing Brain Function and Helping Prevent Alzheimer's and Dementia”

Join us in this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health podcast as we welcome Jess Brain, a certified brain fitness trainer, laughter leader, and aerobics instructor. 

Jess shares her journey from struggling with exams in college to discovering the holistic benefits of brain health and laughter. 

Discussing the extensive research on the neurological and physical benefits of laughter, Jess explains how it enhances dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, endorphins, and oxytocin levels while reducing cortisol. 

The conversation also covers how laughter can improve cognitive resilience, immune function, and overall well-being. 

Jess offers practical tips for integrating laughter into daily life and highlights the importance of a joyful mindset for optimal brain function.

00:00 Welcome to Let's Talk Brain Health

00:36 Jess Brain's Journey to Brain and Laughter

02:14 The Science Behind Laughter and Brain Health

06:31 Laughter's Impact on Different Age Groups

11:57 Gender Differences in Laughter

16:12 Practical Tips for Incorporating Laughter

20:30 Unexpected Benefits of Laughter

22:01 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

• Learn more about Jess on her website. 

• Connect with Jess on Instagram or Facebook.
  

Join us in this enlightening episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health podcast as we delve into the world of biofeedback and mental health technology.

Featuring Noga Sapir, CEO and founder of Reflect Innovation, and Dr. Michal Gruberger, a leading neuroscientist, we explore the innovative Reflect Orb.

Designed for effective stress management and self-regulation, the Reflect Orb combines science, technology, and creativity.

Discover personal journeys, groundbreaking research, and real-world applications that make brain care accessible and transformative.

Learn how biofeedback can enhance mindfulness practices and improve resilience while exploring the future of brain health technology.

Don't miss the insights from two pioneering figures in the neurotech ecosystem on making personalized mental wellness a reality for everyone.

00:00 Meet Our Guests

01:41 Noga's Personal Journey with Anxiety

06:24 Understanding Biofeedback with Noga Sapir

08:30 The Science Behind Reflect Orb with Dr. Michal Gruberger

15:24 Success Stories and Testimonials

20:15 Integrating Reflect Orb into Daily Life

24:59 The Future of Biofeedback Technology

27:36 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Resources:

• Explore the Reflect Orb on their website
• Revisit our previous podcast conversation "Understanding the Neuroscience of Bullying & Its Impact on the Brain: A Conversation with  Dr. Jennifer Fraser, Ph.D."
• Connect with Noga Sapir and Dr. Michal Gruberger on LinkedIn

In this episode of the 'Let's Talk Brain Health' podcast, Dr. Michael Foti, Vice President of NAMI and a clinical assistant professor, shares his personal and professional journey through anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As a frontline healthcare worker, Dr. Foti experienced severe mental health challenges and learned important lessons about self-care and mental wellness. He discusses his memoir 'Grief' and the impact of unprocessed grief on mental health. 

Dr. Foti also shares insights on destigmatizing mental illness, especially in the medical community, and emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and personal well-being to better support others. 

Tune in to uncover strategies for managing mental health and learn how fostering brain health can help navigate life's challenges.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Dr. Michael Foti

01:30 Dr. Foti's Personal Mental Health Journey

02:34 Challenges and Overcoming Mental Health Struggles

05:11 Effective Strategies for Managing Mental Health

08:44 The Impact of Grief on Mental Health

11:49 Addressing Mental Health Stigma

15:17 Supporting Loved Ones Through Mental Health Struggles

16:14 Insights from Dr. Foti's Book 'Grief'

17:20 Future Challenges and Opportunities in Mental Health

21:07 Final Thoughts and Advice on Mental Health

Resources:

• Learn more about Dr. Foti’s new book “Grief: A Doctor’s Battle with Anxiety and Depression”

• Explore the many resources provided by the National Institute of Mental Illness (NAMI)

• Connect with Dr. Foti on LinkedIn and Instagram

In this episode, Amir Bozorgzadeh, CEO and co-founder of VirtuLeap, discusses his journey from founding tech startups to diving into the world of virtual reality (VR) and brain health science. 

Amir shares how VR technology, notably enhanced by VirtuLeap’s flagship product 'Enhanced VR,' is being used for therapeutic purposes and cognitive assessment. 

He highlights the significant potential of VR in treating conditions like ADHD and early-stage Alzheimer's, alongside the broader implications of integrative data from multiple human systems. 

Amir also touches on the impact of social media on attention spans, introducing the concept of 'TikTok brain,' and emphasizing the need for personalized care through advanced data collection and analysis. 

The conversation concludes with insights into the broader applications of VR in healthcare, research opportunities, and Amir's personal commitment to brain health.

00:00 Introduction to Amir Bozorgzadeh

00:35 Amir's Journey into Virtual Reality

02:30 Understanding Virtual Reality

04:04 VR and Brain Health

05:56 The Cognition Crisis and TikTok Brain

07:58 Virtuleap's Flagship Product: Enhanced VR

09:42 CogniClear VR: Screening for Cognitive Impairment

10:57 The Power of Data in VR

14:40 Applications and Future of VR in Healthcare

25:12 Personal Insights and Final Thoughts

Resources

• Learn more about Virtuleap on their website
• Connect with Amir on LinkedIn, YouTube, or email amir@virtuleap.com 

In this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health podcast, host Krystal interviews Rena Yudkowsky, a professional memory coach and geriatric social worker. With over 20 years of experience, Rena offers valuable insights on how midlifers and seniors can maintain and improve their memory. 

She discusses her journey into gerontology, the importance of memory health, and differentiates between normal age-related memory changes and signs of cognitive decline. The episode also provides practical tips—including the 'Forget Me Not Spot,' mental imagery, and sensory engagement—to enhance memory. 

Rena highlights four key lifestyle factors—diet, exercise, social stimulation, and cognitive engagement—that play crucial roles in brain health. 

The episode concludes with Rena emphasizing the importance of confidence in aging and some emerging trends in memory enhancement technologies.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

01:06 Rena's Background and Passion for Memory Coaching

02:38 Understanding Memory Health

05:12 Normal vs. Abnormal Memory Changes

09:35 Practical Tips to Boost Memory

18:45 Lifestyle Factors for Memory Health

22:16 Challenges and Overcoming Memory Issues

25:09 Future of Memory Enhancement and Brain Health

26:22 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Resources:

• Learn more about Rena and her work on her website.

• Join Rena’s MPower “brain training Whatsapp group” 

• Read more about memory in Rena’s chapter on memory  in the “Caregivers Advocate” book by Debbie Compton