The Better Brain Podcast

Drs. Rafie and Bickart
  • 5.0 (3)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Better Brain Podcast, your source on all things brain health and how to make it better. We're your hosts, Drs. Rafie and Bickart, and we are Neurologists specializing in Neuropsychiatry, Dementia, Sports, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Our mission at the Better Brain Podcast is to provide you with the information and tools you need to improve your brain health and overall well being. We do this by combining the latest evidence-based practices with practical tools to better your brain. Our episodes feature experts and high level performers that will help us navigate this complex and nuanced field, with a goal of attaining a firm grasp on these topics.   Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to expand your knowledge, a individual concerned about your risk of dementia, a creative looking for inspiration, or simply a curious soul eager to learn more about the brain, the Better Brain Podcast is your trusted companion. Subscribe for UNRELEASED CONTENT and more at: The Better Brain Podcast

  1. SEP 15

    Breathing Explained: Wim Hof, Nasal vs. Mouth, Sighs & Stress Control Techniques | Jack Feldman, PhD

    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 state The 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.neuro X: @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 #Breathwork 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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    2h 6m

  2. SEP 2

    The REAL Cost of UFC Glory: A Champion's Mindset, Brain Injuries & Finding Fulfillment l Miesha Tate

    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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    2h 33m

  3. JUL 30

    You've Been Thinking About Pain All Wrong l Brandon Yarns, MD

    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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    1h 41m

  4. JUL 10

    Anatomy of a Big Wave Surfer: The Hidden Concussion Crisis and the Surfing Brain Health Paradox l Jibreel Cader

    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 Podcast Visit 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 #HighPerformanceBrain 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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    1h 55m

  5. JUN 25

    Hidden Factors Destroying Your Sleep (Trauma, SSRI, Light, Alcohol) & How to Fix It l Gina Poe, PhD

    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 Podcast Visit 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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    1h 45m

  6. JUN 12

    The Dalai Lama’s Neuroscientist REVEALS Keys to Lasting Wellbeing & Longevity l Richie Davidson, PhD

    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 resilience Why purpose is essential to health How mindfulness reshapes the brain Practical tools for lasting well-being Connect with the Better Brain Podcast:  Instagram: @betterbrainpod @adel.neuro X: @betterbrainpod Visit 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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    29 min

  7. MAY 28

    UNFILTERED Truth On Seed Oils: Science-Based Gut Health Tools l Tim Spector, MD & Sarah Berry, PhD

    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 flawed How Zoe is changing the game with personalized data The real story behind seed oils and social media myths Why gut health directly affects your brain and mood Practical tips for what to eat, when to eat, and how to improve overall wellness And... 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.neuro X: @betterbrainpod Visit 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.spector Twitter/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 #fyp 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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    2h 12m

  8. MAR 31

    Prevent Dementia by Modifying THESE Risk Factors: Cut Dementia Risk by 50%

    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 – Intro 3:17 – Dementia is Growing 5:03 – What is Dementia? 10:43 – Psychological Disorders and Prodromal Theories 13:56 – Normal Aging and Memory Loss 21:34 – When should patients be concerned? 23:00 – Age-Related Brain Volume Loss 25:20 – Diagnosing Dementia 28:40 – Lewy Body Dementia 29:47– Genetics 33:02- MRIs of Alzheimer Patients 42:06 – Young Onset Dementia Paper 54:37 - Hand Grip Strength 57:24 - Sleep 59:01 - Vitamin D 59:35 - Strength of the Study, Final Remarks 1:01:05 - Deprivation of Stimulation (Hearing Impairment, Vision Loss, Social Isolation) 1:02:16 - 14 Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia Across the Board 1:06:52 - What Can Be Done Today to Visualize Dementia Risk 1:13:33 - Things we can do now to reduce dementia risk 1:17:10 - How to measure cardiovascular fitness 1:22:25 - Brain health assessment 1:29:11 - Conclusion 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.com Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!

    1h 31m
See All (18)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Better Brain Podcast, your source on all things brain health and how to make it better. We're your hosts, Drs. Rafie and Bickart, and we are Neurologists specializing in Neuropsychiatry, Dementia, Sports, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Our mission at the Better Brain Podcast is to provide you with the information and tools you need to improve your brain health and overall well being. We do this by combining the latest evidence-based practices with practical tools to better your brain. Our episodes feature experts and high level performers that will help us navigate this complex and nuanced field, with a goal of attaining a firm grasp on these topics.   Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to expand your knowledge, a individual concerned about your risk of dementia, a creative looking for inspiration, or simply a curious soul eager to learn more about the brain, the Better Brain Podcast is your trusted companion. Subscribe for UNRELEASED CONTENT and more at: The Better Brain Podcast

Information

  • Creator
    Drs. Rafie and Bickart
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Better Brain Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Better Brain Podcast