The Neurostimulation Podcast

Dr. Michael Passmore

Welcome to The Neurostimulation Podcast — a deep dive into the expanding frontier of interventional mental health. Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, a psychiatrist specializing in neurostimulation and geriatric mental health, this show explores how cutting-edge interventions — from non-invasive brain stimulation (TMS, tDCS, and beyond) to ketamine-assisted psychotherapy — are reshaping the landscape of modern psychiatry and neuroscience. Each episode bridges science, clinical experience, and human insight, featuring thought leaders and innovators who are redefining how we understand and treat the mind. Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, student, or simply fascinated by the brain, you’ll discover practical knowledge, fresh ideas, and inspiring conversations that illuminate the evolving art and science of mental health care. Subscribe for episodes that stimulate your mind, deepen your understanding, and connect you to the future of brain-based healing. podscan_YIPb4jA8fBJ5ino2RSuBo3BdjrOmPM6c

  1. MAR 1

    From Molecules to Meaning: A Scientist's Journey Through Neuroscience and Ancient Wisdom with Dr. José Ángel Moreno Cabezuelo - #42 - Feb 28, 2026

    From Molecules to Meaning: A Scientist's Journey Through Neuroscience and Ancient Wisdom with Dr. José Ángel Moreno Cabezuelo - #42Episode SummaryIn this fascinating episode, Dr. José Ángel Moreno Cabezuelo—molecular biologist, genetic engineering lead at CyanoCapture, and author of "Heartbeats of Consciousness"—shares his unique journey from studying cyanobacteria to exploring the intersection of neuroscience, ancient philosophy, and human consciousness. This conversation bridges hardcore science with timeless wisdom, offering practical insights for living with greater presence, purpose, and meaning. Show Notes with Timestamps[00:00 - 10:04] Opening & Pre-show conversation (can be trimmed) [10:04 - 01:41] Introduction to the Neurostimulation Podcast Welcome and podcast missionInformation about educational purposes and medical disclaimer [01:51 - 03:25] Introducing Dr. José Moreno Background in molecular biology and genetic engineering at CyanoCapture, OxfordPublished work in Plant Physiology, Microbiology Spectrum, Current Opinion in MicrobiologyIntroduction to his book "Heartbeats of Consciousness" [03:25 - 08:11] Dr. Moreno's Scientific Journey Working with cyanobacteria since 2016The surprising fact: half of Earth's oxygen comes from ocean organisms, not forestsMoving from Spain to the UK to develop genetic engineering toolboxCurrent work producing insulin and other compounds in cyanobacteria [08:11 - 13:27] The Birth of "Heartbeats of Consciousness" The gap between knowing how life works and knowing how to live wellWhy current books force a choice between rigorous science and engaging storytellingCreating a hybrid: fiction with scientific rigorThe heartbeat exercise: feeling the invisible protagonist of life [13:27 - 16:31] The Characters: Fania and Paula Fania's story: trauma, resilience, and becoming "antifragile"Paula's journey: scientific curiosity meets emotional anxietyThe hourglass metaphor for living in the present moment [16:31 - 22:38] Three Transformative Scientific Ideas We Are Literally Light: Biophotons and brain illumination at death (University of Calgary research)Distributed Intelligence: The "second brain" in our gut (500 million neurons, 80-90% of body's serotonin), the heart's 40,000 neuronsNeuroplasticity: The brain's ability to change at any age [22:38 - 26:17] Pleasure vs. Happiness Why having more comfort hasn't reduced anxiety and depressionDopamine (pleasure) vs. serotonin (happiness)Ancient wisdom meets modern neuroscienceThe firefly metaphor: we are meant to shine and connect [26:17 - 31:30] The Book's Personal Journey Processing the loss of his father through writingThe ten promises (decalogue)Being "unbreakable": protecting inner peace from external circumstances [31:30 - 40:30] Connecting Ancient Wisdom with Modern Neuroscience Buddhist teachings on suffering and desire (2,500 years old)Stoicism and controlling our responsesTaoist Wu-Wei: flowing with lifeHow neuroscience is confirming ancient philosophical insightsDiscussion of psychedelic-assisted therapy and Ram Dass [40:30 - 43:30] Practical Applications Using metaphors to make science accessibleThe importance of cold exposure and hormetic stressThe problem with endless phone scrolling and dopamine dysregulationBenefits of handwriting vs. typing for brain connectivity [43:30 - 47:40] Love, Clarity, and Connection Why "love" is taboo in academic/clinical settingsLove as the unifying force in science and lifeClarity as an act of loveEverything is connected: from cyanobacteria to consciousness [47:40 - 49:11] Closing Thoughts & Resources Final reflections on the conversationWhere to find Dr. Moreno's work and bookEncouragement to check out "Heartbeats of Consciousness" Key TakeawaysScience and ancient wisdom are converging on the same truths about human wellbeingWe are literally beings of light (biophotons) with distributed intelligence throughout our bodiesNeuroplasticity means we can change at any age—we're not condemned to be who we've beenHappiness comes from giving and purpose, not from pleasure and consumptionThe present moment (the sand falling through the hourglass) is where our attention belongs ResourcesBook: "Heartbeats of Consciousness: A Bridge Between Science, Mind, and Soul" https://www.amazon.ca/Heartbeats-Consciousness-Between-Science-Understanding/dp/1919385908 Website: drjoseangelmoreno.com Connect: Links to Dr. Moreno's social media and content in episode description The Neurostimulation Podcast explores the fascinating world of neuroscience, clinical neurostimulation, and evidence-based interventional mental health. Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore.

    49 min
  2. FEB 14

    Living Life on Hard Mode: Understanding ADHD and Neurodivergence with Kit Slocum - #41- Feb 14, 2026

    Title: "Thriving with ADHD: Understanding Neurodivergence with Kit Slocum" Show Notes: In this episode, I sit down with Kit Slocum, Neurodiversity Lead and Learning Experience Designer at FLOWN, to explore ADHD, neurodivergence, and what it really means to design work and lives that support attention rather than assault it. Kit brings a unique combination of academic training in behavioral neuroscience, lived experience with ADHD, and years of coaching neurodivergent professionals worldwide. We discuss why distraction isn't a moral failing, how our nervous systems respond to modern overstimulation, and practical tools for regulation and focus. Key Topics: The "life on hard mode" experience of neurodivergenceWhy focus is a nervous system issue, not a willpower problemThe Energy Regulation Matrix tool for managing burnoutShame, masking, and late-stage ADHD diagnosisFinding vocational alignment with neurodivergent traitsThe neurodiversity paradigm vs. the pathology paradigmParallels between ADHD coaching and ketamine-assisted psychotherapyThe power of community in neurodivergent spaces Resources Mentioned: FLOWN body doubling platform: flown.comKit's ADHD Mastery Program (6-week gamified course) https://flown.com/adhd-focus-program Energy Regulation Matrix tool https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FIiYB9Nd-LXi-eoMyRxApsRC594MPqwD/view?usp=sharingEnergy Regulation How-To https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VjX6yTaC9ZbBhFW3burM5cu6wwoLeWSQ/view?usp=sharingIkigai diagram for career alignment https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V2FxreSqzYrAYpBr2lM-UKg3xcGkfYOA/view?usp=sharingBook: Quiet: The Power of Introverts by Susan Cain https://a.co/d/fRHtUAhPsychedelic Science Conference (Denver) https://www.psycon.org/event/denver-colorado-2026/ Connect with Kit: LinkedIn: Kit SlocumFLOWN: flown.comNext ADHD Mastery Program: March 2026 Key Takeaway: Attention isn't about forcing yourself to become something you're not—it's about understanding your nervous system and designing your life accordingly.

    50 min
  3. FEB 7

    Fear, Purpose, and the Pursuit of Meaning: An Emergency Medicine Physician's Philosophy on Life - Dr. Dana Cowles - Feb 7, 2026 - #40

    Episode Title Fear, Purpose, and the Pursuit of Meaning: An Emergency Medicine Physician's Philosophy on Life Guest Dr. Dana Cowles - Board-certified emergency medicine physician with dual academic background in biology and philosophy Episode Summary Dr. Dana Cowles shares his unique perspective on fear, trauma, and finding purpose through his experiences in emergency medicine and philosophy. From surviving a traumatic car accident at age 12 to working the front lines in emergency rooms, Dr. Cowles challenges conventional wisdom about happiness and offers a compelling framework for building resilience through purpose rather than comfort. Key Topics Discussed Personal Trauma & Transformation Surviving a serious car accident at age 12 that shaped his worldviewHow trauma taught him that helplessness, not fear, is the real enemyThe importance of building skillsets throughout life to face uncertainty Three Types of Fear Anticipatory Fear (the "what ifs") - Requires making a plan and trusting itContemporary Fear (immediate crisis) - Demands slowing down and paying attentionRetrospective Fear (PTSD) - Needs reframing into prospective planning Emergency Medicine Insights The reality of ER work vs. TV portrayalsRisk stratification over definitive diagnosisThe mantra: "Aviate, Navigate, Communicate" (borrowed from aviation)Why the only unforgivable mistake is telling someone they're safe when they're not The Happiness Myth How Freud, Bernays, and modern marketing created the "happiness on demand" cultureWhy the opposite of depression is purpose, not happinessThe historical shift from "worthy life" to "euphoric happiness"How consumer culture exploits our pursuit of happiness What People Really Need Security (knowing everything will be okay)Affirmation (knowing you're a good person)Purpose over comfort Philosophy & Meaning Energy transformation as life's purpose (potential to kinetic energy)Why building, growing, and developing matters more than tearing downThe importance of having plans for life's uncertaintiesWhy "the only thing to fear is fear itself" is wrong Healthcare & Society How medicine has wrongly treated fear and anxiety as diseasesThe unintended consequences of COVID lockdowns (telling 90% of people they weren't "essential")Concerns about AI replacing human purposeThe importance of maintaining purpose regardless of automation Memorable Quotes "The real enemy is helplessness. We need to build a skillset throughout our lifetime to be able to face helplessness." "The opposite of depression is purpose, and purpose is what keeps you up and going." "Everything in life comes at a cost. You need to know that cost and be willing to pay it, or you're gonna accrue interest." "The only people who are truly fearless are thoughtless or careless." "Stop talking to me about what you're against. I want to know what you're for." "I don't believe in good people or bad people. I believe people do good things and people do bad things." Trigger Warning This episode contains discussions of trauma, death, violence, and graphic medical situations that some listeners may find disturbing. Resources & Links Dr. Dana Cowles's Website https://cowlesemergencyservices.com/ For Healthcare Professionals If you're a healthcare worker, first responder, or caregiver struggling with unresolved trauma, please reach out for support. You're not alone, and help is available.

    1h 3m
  4. JAN 17

    From the Dojo to the Bedside: How Martial Arts is Revolutionizing Dementia Care with Ben Couch - Jan 17, 2026 - #39

    From the Dojo to the Bedside: How Martial Arts is Revolutionizing Dementia Care with Ben Couch - Episode #39Guest: Ben Couch, Founder of ElumenEd and Eastern Ergonomics Host: Dr. Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia Episode Length: ~1 hour Episode SummaryIn this fascinating conversation, martial artist and healthcare educator Ben Couch shares how 40+ years of martial arts training is transforming dementia care and caregiver safety. Ben discusses his innovative Eastern Ergonomics program, which applies ancient martial arts principles—balance, efficiency, breath, and mindful presence—to patient transfers and caregiving. He also opens up about his personal journey after his mother's Alzheimer's diagnosis and how it deepened his understanding of care. Key Topics DiscussedBen's Background 40+ years in martial arts (black belts in 8 disciplines, 7th degree in karate)20+ years as National Director of Training at Watermark Retirement CommunitiesFounded ElumenEd to bring Eastern Ergonomics to healthcare facilities nationwidePersonal experience with mother's Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2022 The Problem with Traditional Ergonomics Training Patient transfers have been the #1 cause of healthcare worker injuries for decadesTraditional training focuses on "dots" without connecting the transitional movementsAnnual compliance training often fails to create meaningful changeInjuries cost $40,000-$120,000 per nurse to replace Martial Arts Principles Applied to Caregiving Mental Preparation: Posture and breathing as foundation for presence and safetyTaking a pause before each transfer to be fully present"New heart every day" mindset to avoid autopilot modeConnection between body posture and mental state Physical Techniques: Moving from center of gravity rather than arm strength"Hands always push" principle (using triceps/lats instead of biceps/deltoids)Triangulation of balance—avoiding weak points in stanceSoftness, flow, and minimal effort from Tai Chi and Japanese JujitsuPrinciple-based rather than position-based training Communication and Dignity Shifting from doing something "to" someone → "for" someone → "with" someoneThe person receiving care is the teacher, guiding the caregiverMaintaining presence and listening, even with advanced dementiaTreating every transfer as a mutual, collaborative experience Personal Insights Ben's mother's musical awakening after moving to exceptional memory careThe importance of not accepting that "life is over" after an Alzheimer's diagnosisHow martial arts practice helped Ben manage depressionThe parallel between martial arts training and caregiving excellence Vision for the Future Goal: Remove transfer injuries from the #1 spot for the first time everReduce turnover and burnout among caregiversFree up budget resources for meaningful resident programsChallenge healthcare assumptions about what's possibleBring more presence and continuous improvement to all aspects of care Key Quotes"Everybody has a plan until you get punched in the face." — Mike Tyson (referenced by Ben about his mother's diagnosis) "In the beginner's mind, there are endless possibilities. In the expert's mind, there are very few." — Shunryu Suzuki "You're not ever gonna be good, but you're gonna be better." — Ben on continuous improvement "The person who we are assisting...is the one who should be teaching us. They teach us their movement and then we respond to that." "It's not over when you get this diagnosis...do we act that way?" Resources MentionedElumenEd — Ben's company offering Eastern Ergonomics trainingEastern Ergonomics — Ben's innovative caregiver training programBook: I Heard There Was a Secret Chord by Daniel Levitin (on music and brain health) Who Should ListenNurses, CNAs, and direct care staffHealthcare administrators and risk managersDementia care professionalsPhysical therapists and occupational therapistsFamily caregiversAnyone interested in innovative approaches to healthcare and injury prevention Connect with Ben Couchhttps://easternergonomics.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@elumenEd Get Ben's free eBook that covers some fundamentals of the Eastern Ergonomics program. You can also book a time to talk about the benefits of bringing Eastern Ergonomics to your facility. Subscribe & ShareIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Neurostimulation Podcast and share it with colleagues in healthcare, caregiving, or anyone interested in innovative approaches to dementia care. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional medical guidance.

    1h 4m
  5. JAN 10

    The Cave You Fear to Enter: Memory Reconsolidation and Emotional Healing with Dr. Brian Desroches - #38 - Jan 10, 2026

    The Cave You Fear to Enter - Memory Reconsolidation and Emotional Healing with Dr. Brian Desroches - Episode #38Guest: Dr. Brian Desroches, PhD - Psychotherapist, Author, Clinical Coach Release Date: January 10, 2026 Episode SummaryIn this transformative conversation, Dr. Brian Desroches shares how a personal breakthrough in 2015 fundamentally changed his understanding of emotional healing after more than 20 years of clinical practice. Moving beyond traditional "overcome and manage" approaches, Brian introduces listeners to the neuroscience of memory reconsolidation - a process that allows us to update emotional learnings at the synaptic level rather than simply coping with symptoms. Key Topics DiscussedThe 2015 Paradigm Shift Brian's 10-year struggle with writing procrastination despite extensive therapyHis breakthrough experience with memory reconsolidation at a workshopHow shame and inadequacy became neurologically linked to writing in his brainThe immediate and lasting transformation that followed Understanding Emotional Learning How the brain acquires implicit emotional knowledge in the first 7 years of lifeWhy these learnings feel true in the present moment even when formed decades agoThe difference between explicit trauma memories and implicit emotional patternsHow the brain's predictive process creates protective but maladaptive behaviors Memory Reconsolidation Explained The brain as a learning, predicting, and adapting processWhat prediction errors (or "prediction corrections") are and why they matterThe five-step process for creating lasting changeWhy insight alone doesn't lead to transformation Reframing Self-Sabotage Why "getting in your own way" is actually your brain protecting youThe car analogy: one foot on gas, one on brakeMoving from "what's wrong with me?" to "what did I learn?"Understanding triggers as protective mechanisms, not character flaws The Role of Compassion Why compassion is the gateway to self-loveHolding space for the parts of ourselves that learned to protect usThe grief that often accompanies discovering what's really driving our patternsJoseph Campbell's wisdom: "The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek" Practical Applications Why you must be in an "activated state" for change to occurHow to identify the real threat your brain is predictingThe importance of embodied experience vs. intellectual understandingNavigating systemic changes when you transform Memorable Quotes"It is not a character flaw. The brain is doing its job that it was designed to do - it just doesn't need to do it anymore because it's doing it based on past history that doesn't exist." "When you touch into an emotional learning, it feels true. The emotional brain doesn't know time. You may have learned that 40 years ago, but when it gets activated today, it feels true today." "The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure that you seek. When you land upon an emotional learning, your thinking brain will judge it as irrational, as illogical. But to your emotional brain, it does make sense." About Dr. Brian DesrochesDr. Brian Desroches has over 30 years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist and holds a PhD in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology. Originally from Windsor, Ontario, he now practices in Seattle, Washington. Beyond his therapy practice, Brian consults with dental professionals worldwide, helping them navigate difficult patient interactions and lead complex organizations. His latest book, Living a Trigger Free Life, translates cutting-edge neuroscience into accessible, practical guidance for lasting emotional transformation. ResourcesBook: Living a Trigger Free Life by Dr. Brian DesrochesWebsite: https://a.co/d/bDgsLtC Practice Location: Seattle, Washington Related Concepts MentionedMemory reconsolidationImplicit vs. explicit memoryEmotional learningEMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)Internal Family SystemsNeuroplasticityPrediction error/correctionBilateral auditory stimulation For CliniciansThis episode offers valuable insights for mental health professionals looking to move beyond symptom management toward root-cause transformation. Dr. Desroches' approach integrates neuroscience research with clinical practice in a way that honors both the science and the deeply human experience of healing. Next Episode: Another exciting journey into the cutting edge of neuroscience, neurostimulation, and interventional mental health. Subscribe to never miss an episode and help us reach more curious minds!

    1h 4m
  6. 12/21/2025

    Beyond Chemical Imbalance: New Frontiers in Psychiatry with Dr. Theodore Henderson - #37

    Beyond Chemical Imbalance: New Frontiers in Psychiatry with Dr. Theodore Henderson - #37 In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, host Mike welcomes Dr. Theodore Henderson, a pioneering psychiatrist and neuroscientist whose work is reshaping the field of mental health. Dr. Henderson challenges the traditional "chemical imbalance" model of psychiatric disorders, advocating for a more nuanced understanding rooted in neuroimaging, neuroplasticity, and the biology of inflammation. Key Topics Discussed: Dr. Henderson’s Journey: From a background in neurobiology and radiology to psychiatry, and how questioning the status quo led him to innovative treatments.Moving Beyond Chemical Imbalance: Why the serotonin hypothesis is outdated, and how new research points to neuroplasticity and mitochondrial health as central to mental wellness.Neuroimaging and Diagnosis: The role of SPECT scans in identifying brain dysfunction, traumatic brain injury, and differentiating between psychiatric conditions.Infrared Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation): How Dr. Henderson’s research has advanced the use of infrared light to stimulate brain repair, neuroplasticity, and recovery from conditions like depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, and traumatic brain injury.Ketamine and Synergistic Treatments: The science behind ketamine’s effects on neuroplasticity, and how combining it with infrared therapy can yield powerful results.Neuroinflammation and Viral Triggers: Insights into how chronic fatigue, depression, and even some cases of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s may be linked to viral infections and neuroinflammation.Long COVID: Dr. Henderson’s approach to treating long COVID symptoms, including fatigue and brain fog, with antiviral therapies and infrared light.Personalized Psychiatry: The importance of moving away from a “cookbook” approach to mental health, and embracing individualized, biomarker-driven diagnostics and treatments.Future Directions: The promise of next-generation transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), ongoing research collaborations, and the need for broader access to innovative therapies. Actionable Insights: Clinicians: Consider neuroinflammatory and viral contributions to psychiatric symptoms; basic blood tests and antibody panels can be informative.Patients: There is hope beyond standard medications—emerging therapies may offer new avenues for recovery. Resources: Dr. Henderson’s book: Brighter Days Ahead (link in show notes)Dr. Henderson’s clinic and contact information (link in show notes) Connect with Dr. Henderson: https://neuro-luminance.com/about/https://neuro-luminance.com/brighter-days-ahead/ If you’re interested in the future of mental health treatment, from infrared laser therapy to the role of neuroinflammation, this episode is essential listening.

    38 min
  7. 11/12/2025

    How Adenosine Bridges Rapid Antidepressant Therapies: Insights from Ketamine and ECT Research - #36 - Nov 11, 2025

    The Neurostimulation Podcast #36: How Adenosine Bridges Rapid Antidepressant Therapies – Insights from Ketamine and ECT Research Host: Dr. Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor, UBC Psychiatry Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Passmore explores groundbreaking research revealing how adenosine—a natural brain chemical—may be the key link between two of the fastest-acting antidepressant treatments: ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The discussion covers: The science behind adenosine’s role in mood regulation and how both ketamine and ECT trigger rapid antidepressant effects via adenosine pathways.Key findings from a recent Nature study using mouse models, including the necessity and sufficiency of adenosine A1 and A2A receptors for treatment response.The implications for clinical practice, including the potential impact of caffeine (which blocks adenosine) on treatment outcomes.Why standardizing caffeine intake may be important for patients undergoing ketamine or ECT therapy.The importance of translating preclinical findings into human studies and the need for further research. Key Takeaways: Adenosine may act as a “common language” for rapid antidepressant effects in both ketamine and ECT.Caffeine could potentially interfere with these treatments by blocking adenosine receptors—patients and clinicians should be aware of this variable.The research is preclinical (in mice), but it lays the groundwork for future human studies and smarter, more targeted therapies. Resources & Links: Extended data, figures, and the full research paper are linked in the show notes.For more information, check the episode’s resource section. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical guidance. Connect & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with friends or colleagues who might benefit. Join the conversation in the comments—your feedback helps shape future episodes! Stay curious, and tune in next time for more insights into neuroscience, clinical neurostimulation, and interventional mental health. Contact: Questions, ideas, or feedback? Leave a comment or reach out via the podcast’s contact channels.

    24 min

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About

Welcome to The Neurostimulation Podcast — a deep dive into the expanding frontier of interventional mental health. Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, a psychiatrist specializing in neurostimulation and geriatric mental health, this show explores how cutting-edge interventions — from non-invasive brain stimulation (TMS, tDCS, and beyond) to ketamine-assisted psychotherapy — are reshaping the landscape of modern psychiatry and neuroscience. Each episode bridges science, clinical experience, and human insight, featuring thought leaders and innovators who are redefining how we understand and treat the mind. Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, student, or simply fascinated by the brain, you’ll discover practical knowledge, fresh ideas, and inspiring conversations that illuminate the evolving art and science of mental health care. Subscribe for episodes that stimulate your mind, deepen your understanding, and connect you to the future of brain-based healing. podscan_YIPb4jA8fBJ5ino2RSuBo3BdjrOmPM6c

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