The Better Brain Podcast

Breathing is something we do every moment of our lives—but few realize how deeply it shapes our brain, emotions, and health.In this Better Brain Podcast episode, we sit down with Dr. Jack Feldman, Distinguished Professor of Neurobiology at UCLA, whose groundbreaking research revealed how specific neurons in the brainstem generate and regulate breathing. His work has transformed our understanding of breathing’s role in consciousness, emotional regulation, and even survival.We cover:The biological fingerprint of breathing and what “healthy” breathing looks like How breathing interacts with consciousness and brain activity Surprising insights from sighs, yawns, and physiologic breathing patterns The science behind nasal vs. mouth breathing Techniques like Wim Hof breathing and how they affect stress, pain, and sleep Real-time demonstrations of how breath changes heart rate and emotional stateThe overlap between breathwork and psychedelics From obstructive sleep apnea to free divers pushing human limits, we explore breathing in every dimension—and even try breathing techniques live to see their effect on our own physiology.🧠 Hosted by Dr. Daniel Rafie & Dr. Kevin Bickart | The Better Brain Podcast🎧 Full episode also available on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.Connect with the Better Brain Podcast:Instagram: @betterbrainpod | @adel.neuroX: @betterbrainpod🌐 BetterBrainPodcast.com for exclusive content and the Better Brain Health newsletter.💡 Visit Our Sponsor: ContactMedicalServices.com👉 If this episode gave you new insights on breathing, stress, or brain health, hit like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.Hashtags#Breathing #BrainHealth #JackFeldman #BetterBrainPodcast #UCLA #Neuroscience #StressRelief #EmotionalRegulation #WimHof #NasalBreathing #MindBodyConnection #MentalHealth #PeakPerformance #BreathworkTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

 What happens when winning a UFC championship doesn’t bring the fulfillment you thought it would?Former UFC Bantamweight Champion Miesha Tate joins the Better Brain Podcast to unpack the mindset of victory, failure, and what it truly means to enjoy the process rather than just the outcome.We explore Miesha’s journey from rising star to world champion, and the unexpected crash that came after achieving her dream. She opens up about balancing motherhood with elite competition, her evolving relationship with opponents, and how psychedelics have shaped her perspective on healing and performance.Miesha also shares the strategies she uses to keep her body and brain performing at their peak: from training methods that minimize brain injury risk, to nutrition, supplements, and mental resilience. We dig into her experiences with knockouts, the realities of brain trauma in combat sports, and what might ultimately drive her to step away from fighting.🧠 Hosted by Dr. Daniel Rafie & Dr. Kevin Bickart | The Better Brain Podcast🎧 Full episode also available on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.💡 Visit Our Sponsor: ContactMedicalServices.com👉 If this episode gave you a new perspective on mindset, performance, or recovery, hit like, subscribe for more expert insights, and share your thoughts in the comments!🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.Hashtags:#MieshaTate #UFC #Mindset #BrainHealth #BetterBrainPodcast #MMA #PeakPerformance #SportsNeurology #MindsetMatters #AthleteMindset #BrainInjury #Nutrition #Supplements #Psychedelics #PerformanceMindset #Neuroscience #RecoveryJourney #MentalResilience #BetterBrain #concussion #cte To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Where does pain really come from—and why does it sometimes never go away?UCLA Professor of Psychiatry, pain specialist, and former VA psychiatrist Dr. Brandon Yarns joins the Better Brain Podcast to decode the mystery of pain. From the moment it begins to the ways it can persist for years, we explore the powerful and surprising role the brain plays in both acute and chronic pain.Dr. Yarns shares how chronic pain isn’t just about tissue damage—but about brain circuits, memory, trauma, and emotional processing. We discuss how chronic pain literally reshapes the brain, and why some treatments—including opioids—can backfire. He also breaks down the complex connection between chronic pain and mental health, including depression and PTSD.But there’s hope. Dr. Yarns shares his groundbreaking research into a specific psychotherapy that has been shown to completely reverse certain forms of chronic pain—without drugs or surgery. We also explore actionable strategies to boost your pain threshold and build resilience against chronic pain. To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

What really happens to the brain when surfers face 50-foot waves? And could surfing—despite its risks—actually protect the brain from aging and dementia? UCLA medical student and surfer Jibreel Cader joins the Better Brain Podcast to explore the Anatomy of a Big Wave Surfer. We dive into the brutal physics behind big wave surfing, breaking down shocking wipeout videos and the hidden forces that few outside the surf world understand. We then investigate a silent epidemic: concussions and traumatic brain injuries in surfing. Jibreel shares early findings from his research, revealing why brain damage in surfers often goes undiagnosed—and what can be done about it. But it’s not all risk. We also explore how surfing may enhance brain health, improve mental resilience, and activate neuroprotective pathways—making it a fascinating paradox in neuroscience. 🧠 Hosted by Dr. Daniel Rafie & Dr. Kevin Bickart | The Better Brain PodcastVisit Our Sponsor: ContactMedicalServices.com 👉 If this episode made you think differently, hit like, subscribe for more expert interviews, and drop your thoughts in the comments!#BigWaveSurfing #BrainInjury #SurfingScience #TraumaticBrainInjury #Neuroscience #ExtremeSports #BrainHealth #BetterBrainPodcast #ConcussionAwareness #SurferBrain #PeakPerformance #AnatomyOfASurfer #DementiaPrevention #MentalResilience #WipeoutPhysics #SurfingResearch #Neuroplasticity #WellnessPodcast #MindBodyConnection #HighPerformanceBrainTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Why can’t you sleep — and what’s your brain doing while you toss and turn?World-renowned UCLA neuroscientist Dr. Gina Poe joins the Better Brain Podcast to reveal the surprising science of sleep. We dive deep into REM, sleep stages, circadian rhythm, and how alcohol, weed, antidepressants, and even painkillers disrupt your brain's ability to rest and repair.We break down real sleep data from co-host Dr. Kevin Bickart, uncover how sleep impacts memory and learning, and share powerful, science-backed tips to upgrade your sleep—starting tonight.🧠 Hosted by Dr. Daniel Rafie & Dr. Kevin Bickart | The Better Brain PodcastVisit Our Sponsor's website: Contactmedicalservices.com #SleepScience #REMsleep #DreamsAndTheBrain #OptimizeYourSleep #BetterSleepBetterBrain #NeuroscienceOfSleep #SleepTips #SleepHacks #BrainHealth #GinaPoe #SleepExpert #DeepSleep #WhyWeSleep #SleepAndHealing #MentalHealthAndSleep #Neuroplasticity #SleepPodcast #BrainOptimization #SleepRecovery #BetterBrainPodcast #HealthPodcast #Neuroscience #MentalHealth #WellnessTips #SleepMatters #PeakPerformance #BrainPower #ScienceTalk  #FYP #DidYouKnow #LifeHack #MindBlown #BrainFacts To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

 What if the key to well-being isn’t what you think?In this episode, we sit down with renowned psychiatrist and mindfulness researcher Dr. Richie Davidson—scientific advisor to the Dalai Lama—to explore the science of well-being.We discuss the power of purpose, the proven techniques to boost happiness, and how cultivating well-being can actually extend your life.Chapters Include:The science behind emotional resilienceWhy purpose is essential to healthHow mindfulness reshapes the brainPractical tools for lasting well-beingConnect with the Better Brain Podcast: Instagram: @betterbrainpod @adel.neuroX: @betterbrainpodVisit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.Visit Our Sponsor's website: Contactmedicalservices.com 👉 If you found this episode helpful, hit the like button, subscribe for more expert interviews, and share your thoughts in the comments!🔔 Don’t forget to turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode.#WellBeingScience#HappinessHack #MindfulnessMatters #RichieDavidson #DalaiLamaWisdom #LiveLonger #NeuroscienceOfHappiness #BetterBrainPodcast #PurposeDrivenLife #MentalHealthAwareness #LongevitySecrets #EmotionalFitness#MindBodyConnection #ScienceOfHappiness #TrainYourMind To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

In this episode of the Better Brain Podcast, neurologists Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart sit down with two leading experts in nutrition science: Sarah Berry, lead nutritional scientist at Zoe, and Tim Spector, renowned epidemiologist, author, and co-founder of Zoe.We dive into the complex world of nutrition research, exploring:Why traditional studies in nutrition are so flawedHow Zoe is changing the game with personalized dataThe real story behind seed oils and social media mythsWhy gut health directly affects your brain and moodPractical tips for what to eat, when to eat, and how to improve overall wellnessAnd... a blind yogurt taste test — can experts pick the healthiest option based on just the label?This is a must-watch for anyone serious about brain health, nutrition, and cutting through the noise online.Connect with the us: Instagram: @betterbrainpod @adel.neuroX: @betterbrainpodVisit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.Visit Our Sponsor's website: Contactmedicalservices.com 🔗 Links & Resources:👤 Tim Spector:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tim.spectorTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/timspector📘 Buy Tim's New Book – Food for Life:https://www.amazon.com/Food-Life-Cookbook-author/dp/1787335232👩‍🔬 Sarah Berry:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarahberry🎧 Zoe Science & Nutrition Podcast:https://link.chtbl.com/p1ggKgOA🌐 Learn more about Zoe and their personalized nutrition approach:https://joinzoe.com👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more conversations that bridge the gap between neuroscience, nutrition, and everyday health!#GutHealth #BrainHealth #NutritionScience #Zoe #TimSpector #SarahBerry #BetterBrainPodcast #Neurology #MentalHealth #SeedOils #FoodForLife #YogurtTasteTest #neuroscience #diet #podcast #interview #fypTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Join Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart for an discussion dementia and the modifiable risk factors that could help prevent or ward off the diagnosis.  The duo cover how dementia is diagnosed, what brain imaging demonstrates in dementia, and the most significant risk factors for developing dementia and how to address certain of these risk factors to aid in the prevention of dementia. Timestamps:00:00 – Intro3:17 – Dementia is Growing5:03 – What is Dementia?10:43 – Psychological Disorders and Prodromal Theories13:56 – Normal Aging and Memory Loss21:34 – When should patients be concerned? 23:00 – Age-Related Brain Volume Loss25:20 – Diagnosing Dementia28:40 – Lewy Body Dementia29:47– Genetics33:02- MRIs of Alzheimer Patients42:06 – Young Onset Dementia Paper 54:37 - Hand Grip Strength57:24 - Sleep59:01 - Vitamin D59:35 - Strength of the Study, Final Remarks1:01:05 - Deprivation of Stimulation (Hearing Impairment, Vision Loss, Social Isolation)1:02:16 - 14 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia Across the Board1:06:52 - What Can Be Done Today to Visualize Dementia Risk1:13:33 - Things we can do now to reduce dementia risk1:17:10 - How to measure cardiovascular fitness1:22:25 - Brain health assessment1:29:11 - ConclusionTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Join Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart for an important discussion on stress with Dr. Aditi Neurukar MD, MPH, a renowned Harvard-trained doctor specializing in stress, public speaker, and best-selling author. Check out her book: The 5 Resets, a reimagined approach to transform your stress and burnout for good. In this episode, Dr. Neurukar defines stress, and how it can progress from healthy to unhealthy. She shares why humans have the need to stay on their phones, and the debilitating effects of doom scrolling. She also breaks the myth that multitasking is beneficial, and discusses the importance of listening to your body, offering 5 mindset shifts to reduce and manage stress. The Five Resets: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063289210/keywords=self%20help%20books?tag=harpercollinsus-20Dr. Aditi Neurukar Website: https://www.draditi.com/Visit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter.For more information on our Sponsor, Contact Medical Services, Check out their website: https://www.contactmedicalservices.com/To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

On this episode of the Better Brain Podcast, Drs. Daniel Rafie and Kevin Bickart chat with Dr. Frederica Amati, head nutritionist at Zoe, the science and nutrition company. She is also a best-selling author, with her new book, Every Body Should Know This, being described as a fascinating DIY guide to food and health. In this episode, Dr. Amati shares insights on early childhood interventions and building a healthy food environment, exploring the connection between the gut microbiome, nutrition, and mental health. She emphasizes the benefits of maintaining a balanced diet and how eating well at any age can increase lifespan and quality of life. She also discusses the importance of listening to your body and its hunger or fullness cues to create a healthy relationship with food, as well as the difference between processed/unprocessed foods and their nutrition levels.For a deeper dive into the gut microbiome, listen to the Zoe Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/p1ggKgOATo Purchase Dr. Amati's new book visit: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Every-Body-Should-Know-This/dp/0241679613/Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/isLi8ZQVY44Connect with the Better Brain Podcast: Instagram: @betterbrainpod @adel.neuroX: @betterbrainpodVisit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter. 00:00 - Beginning 2:14 – The Origin Story10:07 – Microbiome and Mental Health14:30 – The Microbiome as a Representation of our Environment23:07 – Ultra Processed Foods27:09 – Direct effect of ultra-processed foods on the gut35:14 – The Gut Brain Axis (How Ultra-Processed Foods Influence Mental Health and Brain Health)42:29 – The Microbiome and Diet through Childhood, Breast Milk, Weaning56:24 - The Home Food Environment1:00:37 – Processed vs Ultra-Processed Foods1:07:36 – Dairy Impact on Gut Health1:12:51 – Saturated Fats, Low Fat Foods, and Cholesterol 1:18:37 – Processed Vs. Unprocessed Meat1:24:32 – The Carnivore Diet1:32:42 – Protein Intake, Retaining Muscle, Increasing Longevity 1:38:55 – Sugars and Salts (Not all Sugars are the Same)1:47:37 – Blended Foods1:51:47 – Counting Calories and Calorie Restriction1:59:57 – GLP – agonists02:10:44 – Hope after 40 (How diet can increase health span)2:18:01 – The Pleasure of Eating and Intuitive Eating2:24:22 – Track your Microbiome Health          2:32:11 – The Grocery Store Run2:50:10 – Outro#microbiome #gutmicrobiome #nutrition #diet #calories #caloriedeficit #carnivorediet #processedfoods #protein #mentalhealth #brainhealth #podcast #interviewTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Drs. Daniel Rafie and Dr. Kevin Bickart examine gut and brain health with Dr. Tim Spector. Dr. Spector is a Professor of Epidemiology at King’s College London and scientific co-founder of ZOE, the science and nutrition company. He is the bestselling author of The Diet Myth, Spoon-Fed and Food for Life. The original pioneer of microbiome research, he is among the top 100 most-cited scientists in the world.In this episode, Dr. Spector discusses the importance of the gut microbiome to various aspects of health including disease, neurodevelopmental disorders, and mental illness. He discusses easy changes that can be made in the diet in order to increase diversity of plants consumed, and improve gut microbiome health. Furthermore, he debunks common myths about sugar, saturated fats, and processed meats, emphasizing the importance of food quality over quantity. He also explains why a Mediterranean-style diet is ideal for overall health and how these small dietary changes can lead to a healthy gut microbiome and improve mood and energy.For a deeper dive into the gut microbiome, listen to the Zoe Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/p1ggKgOAVisit https://betterbrainpodcast.com/ to subscribe and receive exclusive content including episode show notes and the better brain health newsletter. To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

On this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Daniel Geschwind, a renowned expert in neurogenetics, join us for a compelling conversation.Dr. Geschwind holds the prestigious titles of Gordon and Virginia MacDonald Distinguished Professor of Human Genetics, Neurology and Psychiatry at UCLA. He is also the Senior Associate Dean and Associate Vice Chancellor of Precision Health. In this episode, he shares his profound insights into the intersection of neurogenetics with neuropsychiatric diseases and traumatic brain injuries.Together, we delve into the exciting world of neurogenetics, exploring how this rapidly evolving field is transforming the diagnosis and treatment of various conditions. Dr. Geschwind discusses current advancements, innovative applications and future directions in neurogenetics, providing a comprehensive understanding of its impact on precision health.To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Join Dr. Daniel Rafie, Sports Neurologist and host of the UCLA BrainSPORT podcast, in an exhilarating conversation with professional downhill skateboarder, Owen Fox. In this episode, they delve into the world of extreme sports, exploring the psychology behind overcoming fear and achieving the elusive flow state. Owen shares his firsthand experiences in downhill skateboarding, shedding light on the adrenaline-fueled thrills and the potential dangers inherent in his sport. Tune in as they discuss the mental and physical challenges of extreme sports and how athletes like Owen navigate the fine line between passion and risk.Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction1:36 – Meet Owen Fox3:27 – Owen's Video Analysis6:05 – Confidence in Skill7:35 – Enjoying the Risk11:56 – The Process of Downhill Skateboarding15:46 – The Flow State20:08 – A Hope for Success25:54 – Danny Way27:27 – Relationship to Fear30:07 – Skill as a Prerequisite to Flow37:20 – Owen’s Near-Death Experience41:29 – Growing Beyond Your Limits43:24 – Importance of Community48:22 – A Job or a Hobby?50:54 – Loving the ProcessTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Join host Daniel Rafie and NFL veteran and former Pittsburg Steelers All-Pro defensive linebacker, Ryan Shazier, on this episode of the UCLA BrainSport Podcast. Ryan’s stellar career and his road to the NFL Hall of Fame was suddenly cut short by an on-field spinal cord injury. Ryan was given less than a 20% chance of walking again, but despite these odds, he was able to make a miraculous recovery and is now walking and leading a fulfilled life. The pair discuss the context of his injury and the physical and psychological consequences that resulted from it. They then go on to discuss Ryan’s mindset throughout his recovery and how he was able to achieve the recovery he did.Gain valuable insights from Ryan's experiences and learn how a strong mental approach can make a significant impact on success. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the power of mindset in the world of sports and beyond.Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction4:51 – A quote7:17 – An Addictive Mindset11:58 – Losing Greatness, Suddenly19:26 – Context to Ryan’s Spinal Cord Injury25:01 – Ryan’s Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy28:36 – Media Coverage of Ryan’s Injury30:27 – Ryan’s Faith39:22 – An Overcoming Mindset50:09 – Goal Setting58:38 – The Rehab Exercises1:02:42 – Ryan’s Relationship to Pain1:11:00 – The Identity Crisis1:19:11 – What is an Inspiration?1:24:13 – A Walking Miracle?1:27:11 – If you could go back…1:28:59 – Final WordsTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Dive into the exploration of spirituality in the latest UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast episode. Host Adel engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Lisa Miller, Columbia Psychology professor and author of "The Awakened Brain," along with Dr. Kevin Bickart, Neurobehavioral physician at UCLA.Join the trio as they discuss the meaning and science behind spirituality and its indispensable role in the human condition. Discover insights into the connection between spirituality and mental health, and how the absence of spirituality may contribute to mental illness.This episode offers a straightforward exploration of the topic, providing valuable insights into the impact of spirituality on our well-being. Tune in for a grounded discussion on the significance of spirituality in our lives. To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

In Part B of the Brain Energy BrainSPORT Podcast episode, your host Adel is joined by Dr. Chris Palmer, a distinguished Harvard psychiatrist and best-selling author of the book "Brain Energy." Together, they continue their exploration of the Brain Energy theory.The pair discuss the link between diet and mitochondrial function, including the role of the ketogenic diet. The conversation shifts to the connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD and Autism. Wrapping up, Dr. Palmer and Adel provide actionable strategies to avoid mitochondrial dysfunctionTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

Visit https://www.brainsportpodcast.com to subscribe to the BrainSPORT Podcast and access exclusive content unavailable elsewhere. Join host Adel in this UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast episode featuring Dr. Chris Palmer, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the author of the best-selling book, Brain Energy. In part A of this two-part series, they dissect the Brain Energy Theory for Mental Illness.The pair assesses the current state of mental illness diagnosis and management, emphasizing certain shortcomings.The heart of the discussion is the Brain Energy Theory. The duo explore how mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in mental illness and the evidence to substantiate this theory.Delve into this scientific journey with Adel and Dr. Chris Palmer, as they discuss a new potential paradigm of mental health.To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

In this thought-provoking episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, host Adel delves into the enigmatic world of the dopamine neurotransmitter and its profound implications for mental health and addiction. Join us as we welcome the distinguished Dr. Anna Lembke, a psychiatrist at Stanford University and the celebrated author of the New York Times bestseller, "Dopamine Nation."Dr. Lembke, a recognized expert in the field, offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted role of dopamine in our lives. Together, they navigate the intricate relationship between this powerful neurotransmitter, mental illness, and the pervasive grip of addiction on our society.In this episode, we peel back the layers of dopamine's influence, from its crucial role in motivation to its darker side in the realm of addiction and withdrawal. Dr. Lembke generously shares her insights into the underlying mechanisms that fuel these processes, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of how dopamine shapes our behaviors and choices.However, it's not all theory and scientific jargon. Our dynamic duo doesn't just uncover the mysteries; they also provide actionable strategies to help break free from the clutches of bad habits and addiction. With Dr. Lembke as your guide, you'll gain invaluable tools to navigate this complex neurochemical landscape and regain control of your own well-being.Join us on this journey as we explore the fascinating interplay of dopamine, mental health, and addiction. In a world where these topics have never been more relevant, this episode offers not only insights but hope for a brighter, healthier future. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the complexities of the brain and its impact on your life.To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!