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brainSTEM
Hilary Marusak
27 episodes
6 days ago
A podcast for anyone interested in the brain or brain disorders, hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak and produced by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. Episodes feature individuals with lived experiences and experts, covering a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, PTSD, and Alzheimer's disease. We also discuss "hot topics" like how pregnancy shapes "mommy brain" and the effects of air pollution on the brain. Follow us and email us!

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Medicine
Health & Fitness
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All content for brainSTEM is the property of Hilary Marusak and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
A podcast for anyone interested in the brain or brain disorders, hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak and produced by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. Episodes feature individuals with lived experiences and experts, covering a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, PTSD, and Alzheimer's disease. We also discuss "hot topics" like how pregnancy shapes "mommy brain" and the effects of air pollution on the brain. Follow us and email us!

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Medicine
Health & Fitness
Episodes (20/27)
brainSTEM
E25 – Science Under Threat: NIH Funding Cuts and the Future of Research

In this special episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak is joined by Dr. Alaina Jaster, host of Psychedelic Brain Science, a science advocate, and a postdoctoral research fellow in the THINK lab. They are also joined by Dr. Christine Rabinak, a world-leading PTSD researcher, who brings a unique perspective on the impact of recent federal funding cuts—not just on scientific innovation, but also on patients whose lives depend on this research. 

The conversation centers on the Trump administration’s executive actions affecting NIH indirect costs and broader federal science funding freezes. These cuts threaten groundbreaking research, training the next generation of scientists, and the economic and public health benefits of biomedical innovation. Beyond the numbers, they also affect real people—patients with PTSD, cancer, and other life-threatening conditions who rely on scientific progress for hope and treatment. 

Scientists across the country are facing uncertainty, and the lack of clear information has created widespread concern. But there are ways to take action. In this episode, we highlight concrete steps researchers, advocates, and the public can take to push back against these harmful policies and fight for the future of science. 

🔗 Topics Covered: 

  • How recent NIH funding cuts and freezes impact research, jobs, and innovation 

  • The ripple effects on early-career scientists and the next generation of researchers 

  • The role of science in shaping policy—and how policy shapes science 

  • Firsthand perspectives from both researchers and patients affected by these decisions 

  • Actionable steps for advocacy and protecting scientific funding 

📢 Take Action: 

  • Contact your representatives via phone or email: Find your elected officials 

  • Make 5 calls in 5 minutes to advocate for NIH and NSF funding: 5 Calls 

  • Use email templates and fact sheets for advocacy: SSDP Action Alert 

  • Sign petitions and stay informed through professional societies: Society for Neuroscience Petition 

  • Join activist groups and find more resources: 

  • Indivisible – Fighting against the constitutional crisis 

  • The People’s Union – Economic boycotts and protest organizing 

  • Stand Up for Science – Grassroots science advocacy 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience. 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Submit your questions for future episodes on Instagram @brainstempodcast. Visit our website: www.BrainSTEMpodcast.com. 

📺 Video podcasts available on YouTube: BrainSTEM YouTube Channel 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24/7 at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

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8 months ago
59 minutes 12 seconds

brainSTEM
E24 – Clearing the Haze: The Science Behind Vaping

In this episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak sits down with Dr. David Ledgerwood, a leading expert in nicotine, vaping, and addiction, to explore the complex science behind vaping. Vaping is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, but is it really? Dr. Ledgerwood breaks down the chemical processes involved in vaping, its impact on the body, and how it compares to smoking. He also discusses the effects of vaping on lung and cardiovascular health, especially for young people and adolescents. 

 

With vaping becoming increasingly popular, especially among teens, this episode uncovers the risks and benefits of vaping, and what the latest research tells us about its long-term impact. 

 

🔗 Topics Covered: 

  • Key differences between smoking and vaping 

  • Vaping and its impact on lung and cardiovascular health 

  • The risks of vaping for young people 

  • Vaping as a smoking cessation tool 

  • Nicotine and cannabis in vapes 

  • The safety of vaping devices 

  • Regulation and public health policies on vaping 

 

🌿 Tune in to get a clearer understanding of vaping from a leading expert. 

 

🔗 Resources mentioned in the episode: 

  • Wayne State Nicotine and Tobacco Research Division 

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse - Vaping 

  • Drug Lab Detroit 

 

📢 Follow us on Instagram @brainstempodcast to submit your questions for future episodes. 

 

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts! 

 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist ⁠Dr. Hilary Marusak⁠. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the ⁠Society for Neuroscience⁠ and ⁠Michigan Society for Neuroscience⁠. 

 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos 

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9 months ago
38 minutes 14 seconds

brainSTEM
E23 – Brain on Fire: Understanding Neuroinflammation’s Role in Addiction

In this episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak is joined by Dr. Eric Woodcock, a leading expert in neuroinflammation and substance use disorders (SUDs), to explore how inflammation in the brain contributes to addiction. 


As research on the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction continues to grow, Dr. Woodcock discusses the role of neuroinflammation in conditions like opioid and nicotine use disorders, and its connection to psychiatric disorders such as depression and PTSD. He also highlights his groundbreaking work on using neuroinflammation as a potential target for new treatments, including novel interventions like neurostimulation. 


Whether you’re fascinated by the science of addiction or curious about the future of addiction treatment, this episode offers a deep dive into the role of inflammation in the brain and its potential to change how we approach addiction. 


🔗 Topics Covered: 

  • Understanding neuroinflammation and its role in addiction 

  • The connection between neuroinflammation and psychiatric disorders like depression and PTSD 

  • Differentiating central vs. peripheral inflammation 

  • Neurostimulation as a novel intervention for addiction 

  • The future of neuroinflammation-targeted treatments 

🌟 Tune in to hear Dr. Woodcock’s expert perspective on how neuroinflammation could revolutionize addiction treatment and prevention. 


🔗 Resources Mentioned in the Episode: 

  • Drug Lab Detroit 

  • Tolan Park Research Clinic/Methadone Clinic in Detroit 

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 

  • Quality Behavioral Health 


📢 Follow us on Instagram @brainstempodcast to submit your questions for future episodes. 

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts! 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist ⁠Dr. Hilary Marusak⁠. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the ⁠Society for Neuroscience⁠ and ⁠Michigan Society for Neuroscience⁠. 

 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos 

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9 months ago
34 minutes 51 seconds

brainSTEM
E22 – The Gut-Brain Connection: How our Microbiome Shapes Mental Health

In this fascinating episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak is joined by Dr. Annelise Madison, a clinical psychologist and expert in psycho-neuro-immunology. Together, they explore the gut-brain connection and how our gut health influences mental well-being. Dr. Madison sheds light on the surprising ways gut bacteria, immune pathways, and diet can impact mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. They also discuss practical tips for supporting gut-brain health, the role of stress, and the potential of probiotics in mental wellness.  

 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the powerful link between mind and body. 

🔗 Topics Covered: 

  • What is the gut-brain axis? 

  • How gut bacteria influence behavior 

  • The impact of diet on mental health 

  • Stress, pollution, and the gut-brain connection 

  • Probiotics for mental wellness 

🌱 Tune in for groundbreaking insights on how your gut health can shape your mind and mood. 

🔗 Resources mentioned in the episode: 

  • Michigan PNI lab 

  • The Psychobiotic Revolution by John Cryan 

  • The Mind-Gut-Immune Connection by Emeran Mayer 

  • UCLA Goodman-Luskin Microbiome Center 

  • APC Microbiome Ireland 

📢 Follow us on Instagram @brainstempodcast to submit your questions for future episodes. 

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts! 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist ⁠Dr. Hilary Marusak⁠. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the ⁠Society for Neuroscience⁠ and ⁠Michigan Society for Neuroscience⁠. 

 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos 

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9 months ago
29 minutes 52 seconds

brainSTEM
E21 - Mind Over Marijuana: Unraveling Cannabis and the Brain

In this thought-provoking episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak sits down with Dr. Matthew Hill, a leading expert in cannabis research, to discuss the complex relationship between cannabis and the brain. 

With the growing popularity of cannabis for both recreational and medicinal use, there are many misconceptions about its effects. Dr. Hill breaks down the science behind cannabis, explaining its components (like CBD and THC), how it interacts with the brain, and its potential benefits and risks. From short-term effects to long-term impacts, including concerns about cannabis and psychosis, this conversation provides a balanced and informative perspective on what we know—and what we still need to understand—about cannabis use. 

Dr. Hill also shares his groundbreaking research on the therapeutic potential of cannabis for conditions like PTSD, chronic pain, and epilepsy. Whether you’re curious about cannabis’s role in mental health treatment or just want to clear up some of the myths, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights. 

🔗 Topics Covered: 

  • The basics of cannabis and its components 
  • Acute vs. long-term effects of cannabis use 
  • Cannabis and psychosis: What the science says 
  • Exploring cannabis for medical treatments 
  • Public opinion vs. scientific research 
  • Misconceptions about cannabis: Indica vs. Sativa 

🌿 Tune in to get a clearer understanding of cannabis and its impact on the brain—straight from a researcher at the forefront of this field. 

🔗 Resources mentioned in the episode: 

  • CCIC Education: https://cciceducation.com/ 
  • NOVA/PBS: The Cannabis Question: Watch here 
  • Dr. Matthew Hill's Lab: http://www.hill-lab.ca/ 
  • Canada’s Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines: English version 
  • For Youth: Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines: Canada's guidelines for youth 

📢 Follow us on Instagram @brainstempodcast to submit your questions for future episodes. 

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts! 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist ⁠Dr. Hilary Marusak⁠. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the ⁠Society for Neuroscience⁠ and ⁠Michigan Society for Neuroscience⁠. 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos 

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9 months ago
36 minutes 46 seconds

brainSTEM
E20 - Runner's High and Beyond: The Neuroscience of Exercise

In this special episode of BrainSTEM, co-producer Aman takes the mic to interview host Dr. Hilary Marusak, neuroscientist and avid runner, about the fascinating connection between exercise and brain health. 

What exactly is a runner’s high, and how does it work? How do the brain’s endocannabinoids contribute to this euphoric state, and how does exercise impact mental health, neuron growth, and longevity? Hilary dives into these topics and shares insights from her research, including a groundbreaking study on the effects of exercise on anxiety in adolescents. 

Whether you're a seasoned runner, a fitness enthusiast, or just curious about how movement impacts your brain, this episode will leave you inspired to lace up your shoes and hit the ground running! 

🔗 Questions from Listeners: 

  • Is running the only exercise that gives a “high”? 

  • Does running promote neuron growth? 

  • Cardio vs. strength training: Which is better for brain health? 

  • What’s the optimal level of exercise for mental health? 

✨ Tune in now to learn how exercise can transform your brain and your life! 

📢 Follow us on Instagram @brainstempodcast to submit your questions for future episodes. 

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts! 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist ⁠Dr. Hilary Marusak⁠. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the ⁠Society for Neuroscience⁠ and ⁠Michigan Society for Neuroscience⁠. 

 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos 

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Marusak and her work: 

  • The Trauma History Investigation of Neurodevelopment in Kids (THINK) lab at Wayne State University: www.wsuthinklab.com 

  • Dr. Marusak’s School of Medicine Bio 

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10 months ago
28 minutes 11 seconds

brainSTEM
E19 – Pulverizing the Stigma of Mental Illness

In this inspiring episode of BrainSTEM, host Dr. Hilary Marusak sits down with Jon Nelson, a dedicated mental health advocate and member of the One Mind Lived Experiences Council. Jon’s powerful story of resilience and advocacy, sparked by his personal journey through depression, is a call to action for dismantling the stigma surrounding mental illness. 

Jon shares insights from his journey, including pivotal moments that led to his recovery and his work in shaping mental health narratives through congressional briefings, national healthcare forums, and public outreach. Together, we explore the challenges of the current mental health system, misconceptions about mental illness, and actionable steps to combat stigma and support loved ones. 

Tune in for an authentic and empowering conversation that underscores the importance of awareness, advocacy, and community in creating a world where mental health is treated with the care and respect it deserves. 

🔗 Resources mentioned in the episode: 

  • One Mind 

  • Pulverizethestigma.com 

  • Contact Jon: Jon@pulverizethestigma.com 

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts! 

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist ⁠Dr. Hilary Marusak⁠. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the ⁠Society for Neuroscience⁠ and ⁠Michigan Society for Neuroscience⁠. 

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos 

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10 months ago
45 minutes 35 seconds

brainSTEM
E18 - The Neuroscience of Anxiety: Expert Insights and Personal Journeys

TW: This episode briefly mentions suicidal thoughts and ideation.

Most people experience symptoms of anxiety, like increased heart rate and heavy breathing, from time to time. This is normal. However, individuals with anxiety disorders often experience these intense emotions and symptoms for prolonged periods of time. This episode is all about the neuroscience of anxiety disorders.

First, for a more personal experience, Dr. Hilary Marusak talks with Amanpreet Bhogal, one of our very own producers, about what it’s like to experience an anxiety disorder. Then, Dr. Marusak talks with Dr. Angela Fang, a licensed clinical psychologist and neuroscientist focused on understanding the social, emotional, and cognitive mechanisms associated with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive related disorders.

To learn more about Dr. Fang and her work, visit: https://psych.uw.edu/people/9180 and https://www.uwconnectlab.com/

Mindful Walking Meditation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kapvpqwcNLQ

Finch: Self Care Pet is the app that Amanpreet mentioned which helped her with tracking her mood, building small habits around meditation, and setting goals like taking a shower and drinking water when life was difficult. This is not a sponsored post. Here is a link to the app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/finch-self-care-pet/id1528595748

Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience. Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com.

Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos

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1 year ago
1 hour 19 minutes 4 seconds

brainSTEM
E17 – Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety

In this Halloween special episode, Dr. Marusak interviews Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a psychiatrist and director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University about fear and his new book, “Afraid”. They discuss the purpose of fear, fear-based disorders, such as anxiety and PTSD, why we like to be scared (e.g., rollercoasters, haunted houses), some surprising benefits of fear, and more.

We are giving away a free signed copy of Dr. Javanbakt's book! See our @brainstempodcast social media before November 7, 2023, for details. To learn more about Dr. Javanbakt, visit: https://www.starclab.org & https://www.instagram.com/arash_javanbakht/.  To learn more about Dr. Javanbakt’s new book, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Afraid-Understanding-Purpose-Harnessing-Anxiety/dp/1538170388.  

Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience. 

 

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos  

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2 years ago
43 minutes 37 seconds

brainSTEM
E16 – Baby on Board: How Pregnancy Shapes “Mommy Brain”

First, Dr. Marusak talks with her best friend, Kristen Ciantro. Kristen is a stay-at-home mom with four kids (the fourth was actually born right before this episode aired!) and a degree in electrical engineering. Then, Dr. Marusak talks with Dr. Bridget Callaghan, an Assistant Professor of Psychology at The University of California, Los Angeles, where she directs the Brain & Body Lab. Together with her lab, Dr. Callaghan studies the impacts of early caregiving relationships on mental and physical health outcomes across the lifespan and into the next generation.  

To learn more about Dr. Callaghan’s work, you can follow her and her lab on social media @Dr_BCallaghan and @BABLab_UCLA or visit her lab’s website: https://brainandbodylab.psych.ucla.edu/. Additional recommended readings/resources:  “Baby Brain” by Dr. Sarah McKay and Psychology Today’s Find a Therapist Tool on their website: www.psychologytoday.com. 

Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience. 

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos. 

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2 years ago
59 minutes 1 second

brainSTEM
E15 - Air Pollution and the Brain: Unhazing the Impact of the Environment on Brain Health

This special episode features an interview with Dr. Clara Zundel, Ph.D., about recent research on the impact of air pollution on the brain and mental health. Dr. Zundel is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neurosciences at Wayne State University’s School of Medicine. Her work focuses on how environmental toxins, such as air pollution, impact brain and behavior and increase risk for psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. 

To learn more about our research studies, visit www.wsuthinklab.com. To obtain real-time updates and forecasts on air quality in your area, visit www.airnow.gov.  

Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience. 

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos.

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2 years ago
20 minutes 52 seconds

brainSTEM
E14 – Brain Stimulation: Electric Insights and New Approaches in Psychiatry

In this special episode, Dr. Marusak talks with Dr. Greg Fonzo, Ph.D. about recent advances in brain stimulation used in his lab and others. Dr. Fonzo is an Assistant Professor and Co-Director of the Center for Psychedelic Research and Therapy in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School.  Dr. Fonzo’s research encompasses two main themes.  First, his laboratory utilizes non-invasive neuroscience tools such as neuroimaging and neuromodulatory probes to understand neurobiological mechanisms of stress-related mental health disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and major depression.  Second, his laboratory is focused on designing novel neuroscience-informed interventions to alleviate mental health symptoms, with a particular focus on psychedelic-assisted therapies and neuromodulation 

To learn more about Dr. Fonzo's work, visit https://sites.utexas.edu/fonzolab/. To learn about the Center for Psychedelic Research and Therapy at UTexas, visit: https://dellmed.utexas.edu/units/center-for-psychedelic-research-and-therapy 

The ultrasound footage is courtesy of OneMind.org.  

Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. 

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience. 

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos. 

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2 years ago
22 minutes 18 seconds

brainSTEM
E13 – OCD: Delving into Compulsions and Intrusions

First, Dr. Marusak talks with Johnny Crowder, a suicide/abuse survivor, TEDx speaker, touring musician, mental health & sobriety advocate, and the Founder & CEO of Cope Notes, a text-based mental health platform that provides daily support to users in nearly 100 countries around the world. Then, she speaks with Dr. Christopher Pittenger, a clinician-scientist with expertise in the neurobiology and treatment of OCD at Yale University School of Medicine. 

To learn more about COPE notes, visit: copenotes.com. For a link to Johnny's first TEDx talk, which covers thought patterns & why the brain does what it does, visit: copenotes.com/tedx. Visit the International OCD Foundation's website for facts and information about OCD, and resources, including find a therapist who specializes in OCD: iocdf.org. Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2LTYvOoFc6L7p2kUMaFhCA/videos.

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3 years ago
59 minutes 43 seconds

brainSTEM
E12 - Decoding Antisocial Behavior: Perspectives from a Neuroscientist/Psychologist

This special episode covers antisocial behavior, with an interview with neuroscientist and psychologist Dr. Luke Hyde. Dr. Hyde is an Associate Professor at the University of Michigan. His work focuses on how adversity and inequality impact child brain and behavior development with an additional focus on the development of behavior problems and antisocial behavior in youth and adults.

To learn more about Dr. Hyde's research, visit: https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/mindlab/. For a link to the Aftermath: Surviving Psychopathology Foundation, visit: aftermath-surviving-psychopathy.org/. The CDC website has science- and evidence-based practices for parenting: www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/childdevelopment/positiveparenting/index.html. For parents who are worried about their child's behaviors, look for a child psychologist or social worker and ask them what sort of science- and evidence-based interventions they use. You can also Google "parent management training near me". Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. Our video podcasts are also posted on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcJA47yll5ffIZ_xZgXqPiw/featured.

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3 years ago
24 minutes 21 seconds

brainSTEM
E11 - Burnout in Healthcare: Understanding the Toll on the Healers

Dr. Marusak talks with Dr. Sunny S. Lou, MD, PhD, about burnout among medical professionals. Dr. Lou is a fellow in the Division of Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Dr. Lou’s research interests include leveraging information from the electronic health record to develop models for clinical decision support and to improve anesthesiology workflow. For a video version of this episode, visit our BrainSTEMpodcast Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcJA47yll5ffIZ_xZgXqPiw/featured.

To learn more about Dr. Lou’s research, visit: sslou.rbind.io. For resources for medical providers experiencing burnout: American Psychiatric Association. Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. 

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3 years ago
22 minutes 32 seconds

brainSTEM
E10 – Pediatric PTSD: Taking a Deeper Dive into Childhood Trauma’s Lingering Shadows (Spotify Video Version)

First, Dr. Marusak talks with Vara, a young cancer survivor with PTSD symptoms. Then, she talks with Dr. Ryan Herringa, a child psychiatrist and neuroscientist at University of Wisconsin who specializes in the treatment and study of childhood traumatic stress and PTSD. 

To learn more about Dr. Herringa's research, visit the BRAVE Research Center's website: brave.psychiatry.wisc.edu. For resources for children and families, visit the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, the Trevor Project, and the National Institute of Mental Health. A local pediatrician or counselor can refer to a mental health provider, or Psychology Today's website. Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. 

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3 years ago
1 hour 5 minutes 11 seconds

brainSTEM
E09 – Psychedelics in Psychiatry: New Frontiers of Healing (Spotify Video Version)

First, Dr. Marusak talks with two black women therapists about psychedelics: Jamilah George (@MilahSingz), a Clinical Psychology PhD student, and Sara Reed (@minds_health), a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and CEO of a mental health technology company called Minds iHealth Solutions. Then, she talks with Dr. Jessica Maples, a researcher at Emory University who specializes in exposure-based treatments for PTSD, including psychedelic augmentation of psychotherapy such as MDMA and psilocybin. 

To learn more about psychedelic research, visit: https://medium.com/north-star/the-shadows-you-wont-face-dd586fa57716 https://www.washingtonpost.com/magazine/2020/09/21/psychedelic-medicine-will-it-be-accessible-to-all/ https://psychedelicstoday.com/2020/09/01/sara-reed-ketamine-therapy-through-a-culturally-responsible-lens/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212144719301218?via%3Dihub https://www.mindsihealth.com/  https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/4/3/article-p125.xml  https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/4/1/article-p4.xml https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/4/3/article-p146.xml. To learn about the Grady Trauma Project, visit

gradytraumaproject.com. To learn more about Dr. Jessica Maples-Keller, go to: jessmaples.wixsite.com/website-1.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio and video by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions.

Show more...
3 years ago
1 hour 26 seconds

brainSTEM
E10 – Pediatric PTSD: Taking a Deeper Dive into Childhood Trauma’s Lingering Shadows

First, Dr. Marusak talks with Vara, a young cancer survivor with PTSD symptoms. Then, she talks with Dr. Ryan Herringa, a child psychiatrist and neuroscientist at University of Wisconsin who specializes in the treatment and study of childhood traumatic stress and PTSD. For a video version of this episode, visit our BrainSTEMpodcast Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcJA47yll5ffIZ_xZgXqPiw/featured.

To learn more about Dr. Herringa's research, visit the BRAVE Research Center's website: brave.psychiatry.wisc.edu. For resources for children and families, visit the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, the Trevor Project, and the National Institute of Mental Health. A local pediatrician or counselor can refer to a mental health provider, or Psychology Today's website. Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions. Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com. 

Show more...
3 years ago
1 hour 5 minutes 10 seconds

brainSTEM
E09 - Psychedelics in Psychiatry: New Frontiers of Healing

First, Dr. Marusak talks with two black women therapists who specialize in psychedelic psychotherapy: Jamilah George (@MilahSingz), a Clinical Psychology PhD student, and Sara Reed (@minds_health), a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and CEO of a mental health technology company called Minds iHealth Solutions. Then, she talks with Dr. Jessica Maples, a researcher at Emory University who specializes in exposure-based treatments for PTSD, including psychedelic augmentation of psychotherapy such as MDMA and psilocybin. For a video version of this episode, visit our BrainSTEMpodcast Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcJA47yll5ffIZ_xZgXqPiw/featured.

Interested in learning more about psychedelics and psychedelic research? https://medium.com/north-star/the-shadows-you-wont-face-dd586fa57716. https://www.washingtonpost.com/magazine/2020/09/21/psychedelic-medicine-will-it-be-accessible-to-all/. https://psychedelicstoday.com/2020/09/01/sara-reed-ketamine-therapy-through-a-culturally-responsible-lens/. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2212144719301218?via%3Dihub . https://www.mindsihealth.com/. https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/4/3/article-p125.xml . https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/4/1/article-p4.xml. https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/4/3/article-p146.xml. To learn about the Grady Trauma Project, visit http://gradytraumaproject.com/. To learn more about Dr. Jessica Maples-Keller, go to https://jessmaples.wixsite.com/website-1

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions.

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3 years ago
1 hour 36 seconds

brainSTEM
E08 - PTSD: Unearthing Trauma’s Deep Roots in the Mind

Dr. Marusak first interviews Dan Zia Joseph, an Army Officer in California serving as a Combat Engineering Platoon Leader while he completes a Masters in Psychology. Then, she talks with Dr. Tanja Jovanovic, a neuroscientist who specializes in the study of PTSD Neurobiology at Wayne State University.

To learn more about Dan and “combat psychology”, visit: www.combatpsych.com. Jiu Jitsu for veterans with military connected disabilities: https://www.wedefyfoundation.org/. Follow Dan on instagram @CombatPsychology. To learn more about Dr. Jovanovic's research and a list of resources, visit https://www.detroittraumaproject.com/ or follow on twitter @DTP_Wayne.

BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Audio by Amanpreet & Manmeet Bhogal. Subscribe, share, and follow us! Email us with topic or guest suggestions.

Show more...
4 years ago
46 minutes 31 seconds

brainSTEM
A podcast for anyone interested in the brain or brain disorders, hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak and produced by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. Episodes feature individuals with lived experiences and experts, covering a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as depression, PTSD, and Alzheimer's disease. We also discuss "hot topics" like how pregnancy shapes "mommy brain" and the effects of air pollution on the brain. Follow us and email us!