Dr. Bertha Madras: Addiction Science, Cannabis, Youth Brain Development & Public Health Leadership

Dr. Mark Gold welcomes renowned neuroscientist and public health leader Dr. Bertha Madras for an in-depth discussion on addiction science, adolescent brain development, cannabis research, public policy, and the opioid crisis.Drawing from decades of groundbreaking research at Harvard Medical School and service as Deputy Director of Demand Reduction for the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, Dr. Madras shares insights on protecting youth brain health, advancing evidence-based addiction treatment, creating screening and intervention programs, and shaping national responses to substance use disorders.The conversation also explores her work with the Vatican, the President's Opioid Commission, mentoring future scientists, and her belief that society's mission is not a "war on drugs," but a defense of the brain as the repository of our humanity.