Let's Talk Brain Health! šŸ§ 

Virtual Brain Health Center
  • 5.0 (6)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS

šŸŽ™"Let's Talk Brain Health!" is a podcast that delves into the fascinating world of the brain and how it affects our overall health and well-being. Join us as we explore the latest research, cutting-edge technology, and practical tips for enhancing brain function, preventing cognitive decline, and optimizing the health of your brain. šŸ’”Whether you're a health enthusiast, a medical professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of the brain, "Let's Talk Brain Health!" offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you optimize your cognitive potential and live your best life.

  1. The Arts as the Fifth Pillar of Health: Brain Health, Longevity, and Dementia Prevention with Dr. Daisy Fancourt, Ph.D.

    5D AGO

    The Arts as the Fifth Pillar of Health: Brain Health, Longevity, and Dementia Prevention with Dr. Daisy Fancourt, Ph.D.

    **This special podcast episode was recorded live as part of the Virtual Brain Health Centerā€™s Neuro Nook book club, where readers explored The Art Cure together before welcoming Dr. Fancourt for this live discussion. What if one of the most powerful tools for supporting brain health has been hiding in plain sight? In this episode of the Letā€™s Talk Brain Health! Podcast, Dr. Krystal Culler and Heather Elwell, co-host of the Neuro Nook brain health book club, sit down with internationally recognized researcher Dr. Daisy Fancourt, author of The Art Cure: The Science of How the Arts Save Lives, for a fascinating conversation about why the arts may be the forgotten fifth pillar of health. We often hear health advice centered on movement, sleep, nutrition, stress management, and routine medical care. But how often are we told to read a book, visit a museum, sing, dance, paint, or attend a live performance for our health? The science says we should be. Dr. Fancourt shares decades of research showing how arts engagement supports mental health, physical health, social wellbeing, and cognitive health. Whether you identify as creative or not, this episode may change how you think about what belongs in your personal brain health routine. What Youā€™ll Learn in This Episode šŸ§  Why the arts are considered the forgotten fifth pillar of health šŸ§  What counts as ā€œarts engagementā€ & why it is broader than many people realize šŸ§  The difference between active participation and receptive engagement, and why both matter šŸ§  What happens in the brain when you listen to music, read, dance, create, or experience the arts šŸ§  How arts engagement influences dopamine, stress hormones, inflammation, and emotional well-being šŸ§  The connection between the arts, neuroplasticity, cognitive reserve, and dementia risk reduction šŸ§  New research linking arts engagement to biological aging and longevity šŸ§  Why arts participation supports healthy aging across the lifespan šŸ§  Practical ways to build creative engagement into your everyday routine šŸ§  Why equitable access to the arts is also a public health issue Who Should Listen This episode is for: Adults interested in brain health & healthy aging Individuals concerned about memory or dementia preventionHealthcare and public health professionalsEducators & community leadersArtists, creatives, and arts advocatesAnyone who has ever said, ā€œIā€™m not artistic,ā€ or ā€œIā€™m not creativeā€Key Takeaways āœ” The arts are not a luxury. They are a meaningful health behavior āœ” Arts participation may help strengthen cognitive reserve and protect long-term brain health āœ” Both creating art and experiencing art offer measurable health benefits āœ” Small, consistent creative habits can make a difference over time āœ” Healthy aging is not only about what you remove from life. It is also about what you add Earn FREE CEs The podcast qualifies for the following credit types: AMA PRA Category 1, ANCC, AAPA, APA, ASWB, and IPCE. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ā ā to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! Support the Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please help us grow the conversation around better brain health: Follow or subscribe to the Letā€™s Talk Brain Health! PodcastLeave a rating or reviewShare this episode with a friend, colleague, book club, or fellow brain health advocateThank you for investing your time and energy into your brain health. A special thank you to Dr. Daisy Fancourt for sharing her expertise and advocacy, and to our Neuro Nook community for making this live book club conversation possible. Resources: Explore the additional resources from ā€œThe Art Cureā€ book and projectConnect with The Social Biobehavioural Research Group, Dr. Daisy Fancourtā€™s Research Lab Subscribe to Dr. Fancourtā€™s NewsletterFollow the Social Biobehavioural Research Group on LinkedIn, X, & Blue SkyLearn more about the Neuro Nook (book club) from the Virtual Brain Health CenterReview the Neuro Nook (book club) summary of The Art Cure

    34 min
  2. Brain Health In Action: How Youth Are Leading Change in Their Communities with Shawn, Manasvi, and Nandita

    APR 29

    Brain Health In Action: How Youth Are Leading Change in Their Communities with Shawn, Manasvi, and Nandita

    What happens when young people move beyond awareness and start taking action on brain health in their schools and communities? In this special episode of the Letā€™s Talk Brain Health Podcast, Dr. Krystal Culler sits down with youth leadersā€“Shawn, Mansavi, and Nanditaā€“ who are not waiting for change. They are creating it. Through advocacy, education, and peer engagement, these young changemakers are putting brain health into action and showing what prevention can look like in real life. This conversation highlights how youth are using their voices to reduce stigma, promote mental wellness, and build healthier environments where they live and learn. Their stories remind us that brain health is not only a future issue. It is something that can be supported starting today. This episode offers a powerful look at youth leadership, prevention, and the role young people play in shaping the future of brain health. What You Will Learn in This Episode Why youth voices matter in brain health conversations How students are raising awareness about mental and brain health Ways young leaders are supporting their peers The importance of curiosity and education in brain health advocacy How youth are building supportive school and community environments What motivates young people to become brain health advocates Key Takeaways Brain health starts early, and youth are an essential part of prevention efforts. Young people are not only learning about brain health. They are teaching others and creating change. Peer leadership plays a powerful role in reducing stigma and encouraging help-seeking. Small actions such as starting conversations, sharing resources, and supporting peers can create a meaningful impact. Investing in youth leadership is investing in the future of brain health. Why This Conversation Matters Youth are often talked about in brain health conversations. This episode highlights what happens when youth are part of the conversation and part of the solution. Their leadership shows how education, advocacy, and community engagement can work together to strengthen brain health literacy and prevention. Who Should Listen Educators and school leaders Parents and caregivers Youth development professionals Public health professionals Students interested in advocacy Anyone interested in prevention and community brain health Key Message From This Episode Brain health is not only something we learn about. It is something we practice. These youth leaders show what it looks like to turn knowledge into action. Resources Learn more about Shawnā€™s work at Brainolicious Adventuresā„¢ and check out his books on Amazon! Explore Manasviā€™s work at The Mind Initiative Visit Nanditaā€™s S.T.R.A.P. the Stroke App and learn more about her work at Cognitive Connections Download the Virtual Brain Health Centerā€™s resources for kids and teens on their website Listen to our previous podcast conversation on brain health across the lifespan featuring Nandita!    Earn FREE CEs The podcast qualifies for the following credit types: AMA PRA CATEGORY 1, ANCC, AAPA, APA, ASWB, and IPCE. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ā ā to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! Support the Podcast If this episode inspired you: Share it with an educator or youth leaderSubscribe for more brain health conversationsLeave a review to help others find the showThank you for investing in your time in brain health today, and for the next generation. **This conversation was part of the Virtual Brain Health Center's Brain Week 2026 events and is being released on the podcast to reach a broader audience.

    49 min
  3. The Science of the Human-Animal Bond: How Pets Support Your Brain Health & How You Support Theirs with Dr. Etana Berger, Ph.D.

    APR 15

    The Science of the Human-Animal Bond: How Pets Support Your Brain Health & How You Support Theirs with Dr. Etana Berger, Ph.D.

    Pets are part of millions of households. For many people, they are companions, family members, and daily sources of connection. Research shows these relationships also influence physical health, mental health, social well-being, and brain health. In this episode of the Letā€™s Talk Brain Health Podcast, Dr. Krystal Culler, DBH, MA, sits down with Dr. Etana Berger, Ph.D., behavior scientist and applied behavior analyst, to explore the science behind the human-animal bond. This conversation explores how pets support human brain health and why it is equally important to understand how we support the cognitive and emotional well-being of our animals. This episode brings a behavioral science lens to the conversation and highlights how intentional interactions, enrichment, and environment shape wellbeing for both people and pets. What You Will Learn in This Episode How pets support emotional health, stress reduction, and social connectionThe brain health benefits of the human-animal bondWhy routines and shared activities benefit both humans and animalsHow behavioral science helps us better understand pet needsWays to support your petā€™s cognitive health through enrichmentThe importance of environment, stimulation, and engagement for petsHow caring for a pet can strengthen purpose and daily structureKey Takeaways The relationship between people and pets is a two-way health connection. Positive interactions with pets can support stress regulation, emotional well-being, and social health. Animals also benefit from cognitive enrichment, predictable routines, and supportive environments. Behavior science helps us better understand how to create healthier environments for both humans and animals. Small daily actions can strengthen brain health for both you and your pet. Who Should Listen Pet owners interested in brain health  Professionals in health, animal behavior, or aging services Anyone interested in the science of human connection and wellbeing About the Guest Dr. Etana Berger, Ph.D., is a behavior scientist, professor, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with over a decade of experience supporting meaningful behavior change across the lifespan. Her work explores how behavioral science principles apply across both human and animal behavior and how environments shape outcomes.  Resources You can connect directly with Dr. Berger on LinkedIn or at Compassionate Animal Learning, her companyā€™s website.  Be sure to check out her new program offering for ā€œSeparation Related Behavior Workshop and Social Meet Up Seriesā€ starting on May 11, 2026 via this form. You can learn more about The Susie Project, rescuing animals from the Caribbean.  The resources from this podcast conversation are available in this presentation.  Earn FREE CEs The podcast qualifies for the following credit types: AMA PRA CATEGORY 1, ANCC, AAPA, APA, ASWB, and IPCE. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ā ā to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! Support the Podcast If you found this episode valuable: Share it with a fellow pet owner Subscribe for more brain health conversations  Leave a review to help others find the show Contact Have a topic you would like covered on the podcast? Email: podcast@virtualbrainhealthcenter.com Thank you for investing in your brain health and the well-being of those pets who depend on you. **Disclaimer** Pet ownership is a meaningful, long-term commitment that requires time, resources, and consistent care. This conversation focuses on the science of how humanā€“animal relationships connect to the brain and overall health. It is not intended to encourage adopting or acquiring a pet. We encourage you to reflect on your current circumstances, capacity for care, and long-term readiness before making any decisions related to pet ownership.

    37 min
  4. What Brain Health Experts Are Talking About Right Now: Science Updates from Brain Week 2026

    APR 1

    What Brain Health Experts Are Talking About Right Now: Science Updates from Brain Week 2026

    Brain science does not stand still. New research continues to reshape how we think about memory, prevention, nutrition, and lifelong cognitive health. In this special Brain Week 2026 episode of the Letā€™s Talk Brain Health! Podcast, your hosts brought together a panel of experts across neurology, neuropsychology, nutrition, sensory therapies, and aging science to discuss what is new, what is promising, and what still needs more evidence. This conversation focuses on separating hype from science. You will hear where the strongest research is emerging, what early warning signs deserve more attention, and how everyday habits influence brain health across the lifespan. If you want to stay current on brain health science and understand what actions are worth your attention right now, this episode brings the latest updates directly from the experts. What You Will Learn in This Episode Early brain health signals adults often overlookWhy prevention starts decades before symptoms appear How sleep, smell changes, and hearing loss connect to brain healthWhat new research says about the MIND diet and dementia riskWhy personalized risk reduction matters more than one-size adviceThe role of caffeine and nutrition in cognitive performanceWhat emerging research says about sensory stimulation and brain functionWhy following evidence over trends protects your brain healthKey Topics Covered Early Detection and Prevention Learn why subtle changes such as sleep disruption, smell loss, and metabolic health may signal future neurological risk and why early action matters. Cognitive Aging and Risk Reduction Understand how lifelong learning, education, and cognitive engagement build resilience against cognitive decline. Nutrition and Brain Health Explore the latest findings on the MIND diet, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and emerging areas like mushrooms and metabolic health. Brain Performance and Fueling Cognition Learn how caffeine and metabolic health influence daily brain performance. Emerging Therapies and Brain Stimulation Hear updates on areas such as 40 Hz sensory stimulation and aromatherapy research, and where the evidence currently stands. Key Takeaways Brain health is built across decades, not just later in life. Prevention science continues to strengthen around lifestyle factors such as cardiovascular health, hearing health, sleep quality, and nutrition. There is no single solution for brain health. Personal risk factors matter. Patterns matter more than perfection when it comes to brain-healthy habits. Following credible science helps protect you from misinformation. Earn FREE CEs  Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ā to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! Featured Expert Guests Dr. Kellyann Niotis, MD ā€“ Preventive Neurology and  The Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Florida  Dr. Mitchell Clionsky, Ph.D. ā€“ Clinical Neuropsychology and author of Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain Maggie Moon, MS, RD ā€“ Brain health nutrition and author of the MIND diet Dr. Richard Gold, Ph.D. ā€“ 40 Hz sensory stimulation and applied neuroscience from Metta Mindfulness Meditation Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN ā€“ Performance nutrition at Master Nutrition Lab Patricia Faust, MGS ā€“ Clinical aromatherapy and aging brain health at My Boomer Brain Previous Podcast Episodes from Our Panelists Episode 58: Preventive Neurology: Brain Care Today to Protect Tomorrow with Dr. Kellyann Niotis, MD Episode 3: Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain with Dr. Emily Clionsky, M.D. and Dr. Mitch Clionsky, Ph.D. Episode 42: The MIND Diet Update: A Scientific Approach for Brain Health & Dementia Prevention with Maggie Moon, MS, RD  Episode 6: Brain Beats: How Sound Influences Cognition with Dr. Richard Gold, Ph.D. Episode 48: Enhancing Cognitive Performance Through Nutrition with Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN  Episode 36: Essential Oils for Brain Health: Insights From A Clinical Aromatherapist, Patricia Faust, MGS

    48 min
  5. Gaslighting and Brain Health: Recognizing Manipulation and Protecting Your Mind with Dr. Jennifer Fraser, Ph.D.

    MAR 18

    Gaslighting and Brain Health: Recognizing Manipulation and Protecting Your Mind with Dr. Jennifer Fraser, Ph.D.

    Gaslighting does not only affect your emotions. It affects your brain. In this episode, Dr. Krystal Culler and Heather Elwell sit down with Dr. Jennifer Fraser, author of The Gaslit Brain, to examine what happens in the brain when someone experiences chronic gaslighting, bullying, and psychological harm. *Please note that this conversation was recorded live during a live Neuro Nook book club discussion and featured as part of the Virtual Brain Health Centerā€™s annual Brain Week series.* This conversation connects neuroscience, workplace culture, and lived experience. You will learn how gaslighting disrupts memory, increases stress responses, and impacts cognitive performance. More importantly, you will learn what you can do to protect your brain. This discussion also explores institutional gaslighting, why even high-performing professionals are vulnerable, and how understanding the science can reduce self-blame and increase clarity. If you have ever questioned your memory, your judgment, or your sense of reality after a difficult workplace or personal experience, this episode provides language, science, and practical strategies. What You Will Learn in This Episode The difference between normal conflict and gaslightingWhy gaslighting is designed to create confusionWhat chronic psychological stress does to the brainHow the amygdala and hippocampus respond to prolonged stressWhy highly capable professionals are often targetsHow workplace cultures can enable manipulationWhy language matters in recognizing psychological harmBrain-based strategies to strengthen cognitive resilienceKey Takeaways Gaslighting follows patterns. Learning those patterns helps you see clearly.Your brain is wired for trust. That makes manipulation difficult to recognize.Psychological harm can produce real neurological effects including: stress overload, memory disruption, and cognitive fatigue.Recovery is possible. Neuroplasticity means the brain can repair and adapt.Awareness is protection. Naming the behavior reduces its power.Practical Brain Health Strategies Discussed Strengthen awareness of your environment and patterns of behaviorBuild a more precise emotional vocabulary to better interpret stress signalsPrioritize psychological safety and supportive relationshipsSlow down decisions when something feels offQuestion assumptions and look for evidence before accepting claimsStay socially connected during recovery rather than withdrawingLearn More About Dr. Jennifer Fraser Website: BulliedBrain.com Psychology Today column: The Bullied Brain Podcast: The FEMCAST  Listen to host, Dr. Krystal Cullerā€™s conversation with Dr. Jennifer Fraser on her podcast, The FEMCAST titled, ā€œHow 'Psychopath Puppet Masters' Destroy Careers (and How to Escape)ā€ on iTunes, Spotify, or Substack or watch on YouTube Related Resources Mentioned Learn more about BrainHQ brain training platform from our previous podcast conversation with their lead scientist Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D. ā€œWhat the Latest Brain Training Science Means For Your Brain Healthā€  Previous podcast conversations with Dr. Jennifer Fraser Listen now: Exposing Gaslighting: What it Does to the Brain and How to Heal Listen now: Understanding the Neuroscience of Bullying & Its Impact on the Brain Explore the written summary of Neuro Nook Book Club discussion on the gaslit brain Key Message From This Episode Gaslighting loses power when it is recognized and named. Protecting your brain starts with understanding how manipulation works and trusting your ability to question what does not feel right. Support the Podcast If this episode helped you better understand brain health and psychological safety: Share this episode with someone who may benefitLeave a review to help others find the showSubscribe for future brain health conversationsContact Have a topic you would like explored on the podcast? Email: podcast@virtualbrainhealthcenter.com

    46 min
  6. Brain-Based Behavior Change: How to Build Healthy Habits in Daily Life with Trish Turo, MS, NBC-HWC

    MAR 5

    Brain-Based Behavior Change: How to Build Healthy Habits in Daily Life with Trish Turo, MS, NBC-HWC

    Episode Summary Why is it so difficult to change habits even when you deeply care about the goal? In this episode of the Letā€™s Talk Brain Health Podcast, Dr. Krystal Culler, DBH, MA, sits down with returning guest Trish Turo, NBC-HWC, health educator/researcher & brain health coach, to explore habits and behavior change through a brain-based lens. Together, they unpack how habits form, why resistance shows up, and what is happening inside the brain when we try to change routines. This conversation focuses on real-life behavior change, not ideal conditions. You will learn how brain systems such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex influence motivation, fear, and follow-through. This episode also explores how shame, setbacks, and past experiences shape the stories we tell ourselves about our ability to change. Instead of relying on willpower alone, Trish shares practical strategies that help you work with the brain rather than against it. If you have ever said, ā€œI know what to do, but I canā€™t seem to do it,ā€ this conversation will help you understand why and what to do next. What Youā€™ll Learn in This Episode ā€¢ The difference between a behavior and a habit ā€¢ Why motivation often shows up after action rather than before it ā€¢ How the brainā€™s habit loop works: cue, routine, reward ā€¢ Why the amygdala can make behavior change feel threatening ā€¢ How past experiences and memories influence your willingness to try again ā€¢ The role of shame and self-talk in habit formation ā€¢ Why social support improves long-term behavior change ā€¢ Practical ways to make habit change easier for your brain Practical Brain Health Tips from This Episode Start small Focus on one change at a time instead of trying to overhaul everything at once. Use habit stacking Pair a new habit with something you already do daily. Anchor your habits to your values Connect behavior change to something meaningful, such as family, health, or purpose. Create visual reminders Photos or objects connected to your values can reinforce daily choices. Practice self-compassion Your brain is designed to protect you from change. Progress requires patience. Try something more than once Your brain needs repetition to build new neural pathways. Spend time in nature Even small moments outside can support brain health and regulation. About the Guest Trish Turo, NBHWC, is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, brain health educator, researcher, and registered yoga teacher. She holds a masterā€™s degree in health psychology and has spent more than a decade helping individuals and organizations support behavior change and healthy lifestyle habits. Trish has presented at national conferences, served on national committees, and worked across digital healthcare organizations. She is also the author of "A Kidā€™s Book About Healthy Habits" and focuses on making brain health education accessible to people of all ages. Connect with Trish Turo LinkedIn: Trish Turo, MS, NBC-HWCInstagram: @Coach_Trish LinkTr.ee: Coach_TrishPrevious Podcast Episode Mentioned In This Conversation Unveiling the Habenula: The Neuroscience of Behavior Change with Dr. Kyra Bobinet, MD, MPHKey Takeaway Habits shape daily life more than motivation ever will. When you understand how your brain responds to change, you reduce shame and increase your ability to follow through. Sustainable behavior change starts with small steps, patience, and learning to work with your brainā€™s natural tendencies. Listener Question or Topic Suggestion? Have a brain health topic you would like covered on the podcast? Email: podcast@virtualbrainhealthcenter.com Support the Podcast If you found this episode helpful: ā€¢ Share it with someone who could benefit from it ā€¢ Leave a review to help others discover the show Your brain health matters. Thank you for investing in it.

    42 min
  7. Music and Memory Care: How Your ā€œTime of Lifeā€ Songs Support Cognitive and Emotional Health with Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC

    FEB 18

    Music and Memory Care: How Your ā€œTime of Lifeā€ Songs Support Cognitive and Emotional Health with Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC

    Music reaches your brain fast! It activates memory, movement, emotion, and connection in seconds. In this episode, host Dr. Krystal L. Culler, DBH, MA, sat down with Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC, creator of Musical Memory Care to explore how music functions as a whole-brain and body workout. We focus on one powerful ideaā€”the ā€œtime of your lifeā€ effect. Research shows the music you loved between roughly ages 13 and 27 leaves a lasting imprint. Those songs shape identity. They anchor memory. They often remain accessible even during cognitive change. Shannon shares how she moved from professional jazz vocalist to serving older adults in memory care communities. What began as singing for residents evolved into an intentional, research-informed program that integrates rhythm, movement, emotional expression, and identity support. We explore: Why time-of-life music remains accessible in dementia How music activates the limbic system and supports emotional regulation The role of rhythm in movement, including Parkinsonā€™s support Why intentional facilitation matters in memory care settings How music supports dignity, identity, and human connection Practical ways you can use music today for brain healthYou will hear real-world stories from Shannonā€™s work in memory care. Stories of individuals who had not spoken in years yet responded to music. Stories of rhythm supporting walking and daily tasks. Stories that reinforce this truth. Music is not entertainment alone. It is a neurological tool. If you are a caregiver, clinician, or family member supporting someone with cognitive change, this conversation gives you some practical suggestions. Play their music, not yours. Use rhythm to support movement. Build playlists rooted in their adolescence and young adulthood. Intention matters. If you are focused on your own brain health, start here: Create a ā€œtime of your lifeā€ playlist Use music to regulate mood and stress Pair rhythm with movement for exercise Share meaningful songs to deepen social connectionMusic does not require perfection. It asks for presence. About Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC Shannon Wallace is a professional international jazz vocalist and the creator of Musical Memory Care, an interactive program serving active older adults and individuals living with all stages of dementia. Her work has reached participants across North America and in more than 40 countries. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Dementia Care Certified professional who integrates music, movement, and compassion into structured memory care experiences. Brain health lives in daily moments. Music is one of the most accessible tools you already have. 00:00 Why Music Hits Fast: A Whole Brain + Body Workout 00:49 Meet Shannon Wallace & the Musical Memory Care Mission 02:23 The Grant Question That Changed Everything (Volunteering in Memory Care) 05:48 Music Like Fitness: Intentionality, Regulation, and Engagement 08:09 Your ā€œTime of Lifeā€ Music Bump: Why Certain Songs Stick Forever 11:41 Music for Mood & Nervous System Regulation (Limbic System, Empathy, Shifting State) 15:10 Why Music Still Connects in Dementiaā€”and the Need for Intentional Care 20:45 Inside the Musical Memory Care Program: Reading the Room + Multi-Sensory Design 23:32 Proof in Practice: Vivian Speaks Again & Building Trust Through Personal Connection 29:28 Try This at Home: Playlists, Movement, Sharing Songs + Parkinsonā€™s Rhythm Hack 36:24 Closing Wisdom: Work-Life Balance, Where to Find Shannon, and Final Takeaways Resources Download the free infographic on how music is a whole brain-body workout! Learn more about Shannon and her Musical Memory Careā„¢ program on her website.  Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn or her professional website for her vocal talent or speaking. Listen to our previous podcast conversation with Eyleen Braaten, Executive Director of the Giving Voice Chorus and Neuroscientist, Dr. Patricia Izbicki, Ph.D., to learn how singing can impact your brain.

    40 min
  8. The Brain Behind Addiction: Inside A Transformational Care Model-Where Hope Meets Science with Dr. Amber Deckard, Psy.D.

    FEB 4

    The Brain Behind Addiction: Inside A Transformational Care Model-Where Hope Meets Science with Dr. Amber Deckard, Psy.D.

    In this episode, Dr. Amber Deckard, a neuropsychologist and leader in neurocognitive assessments at Caron's neuropsychological services, shares insights into the brain-first approach to addiction treatment.  She explains how viewing addiction as a brain-based disorder rather than a moral failing changes the treatment paradigm. We delve into the latest brain science, revealing how substances physically alter brain areas responsible for reward, motivation, memory, decision-making, and self-control, challenging the misconception that addiction is a moral failing.  Dr. Deckard discusses the impacts of substances on brain function and the importance of a holistic, evidence-based, and multidisciplinary approach to recovery.  She highlights the role of various therapeutic modalities, including neurofeedback, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and personalized treatment planning, in supporting brain health and recovery.  The episode aims to shift perspectives on addiction, emphasizing the brain's capacity for healing and the crucial role of integrated care. 00:00 Introduction to the Brain First Approach 00:05 Meet Dr. Amber Deckard, PsyD 02:16 Understanding Addiction as a Brain-Based Disorder 05:04 The Role of Family in Recovery 07:38 Advanced Neurocognitive Assessment Tools 13:54 Personalized Treatment Plans 23:30 The Power of Neurofeedback 29:12 The Comprehensive, Multimodal Approach to Brain Health 33:25 Dr. Deckard's Personal Brain Care 35:41 Message of Hope and Conclusion Resources Learn more about Caronā€™s Neurospychological Serviceā€™s and its cutting-edge Neurocognitive Assessment Program on their website.Connect with Dr. Amber Deckard on LinkedIn.Listen to learn more about Brain HQā€™s brain training program in our previous podcast episode ā€œWhat the Latest Brain Training Science Means for Your Brain Health: A Conversation with the Lead Developer of BrainHQ, Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D.ā€

    37 min
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About

šŸŽ™"Let's Talk Brain Health!" is a podcast that delves into the fascinating world of the brain and how it affects our overall health and well-being. Join us as we explore the latest research, cutting-edge technology, and practical tips for enhancing brain function, preventing cognitive decline, and optimizing the health of your brain. šŸ’”Whether you're a health enthusiast, a medical professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of the brain, "Let's Talk Brain Health!" offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you optimize your cognitive potential and live your best life.

Information

  • Creator
    Virtual Brain Health Center
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    74
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Ā© Virtual Brain Health Center
  • Show Website
    Let's Talk Brain Health! šŸ§ 

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