The Neurostimulation Podcast

Dr. Michael Passmore
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Daily

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. 6d ago

    TMS for PTSD: Does Protocol Actually Matter? - Dr. Noah Philip

    TMS for PTSD: Does Protocol Actually Matter? | Dr. Noah Philip | The Neurostimulation Podcast In this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, Dr. Michael Passmore sits down with Dr. Noah Philip — Professor of Psychiatry at Brown University, Section Chief of Psychiatric Neuromodulation at the VA Providence, and leader at the VA Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology — to explore the cutting edge of brain stimulation for PTSD, depression, and beyond. Dr. Philip shares findings from a landmark multi-site VA study comparing three TMS approaches for PTSD, and what the results mean for clinicians worldwide. He also discusses accelerated TMS, the combination of tDCS with virtual reality exposure therapy, teaching TMS in Ukraine, and the exciting frontier of focused ultrasound as a noninvasive form of deep brain stimulation. In this episode: 🧠 What Dr. Philip's lab at the VA Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology does 📊 Key findings from a propensity-matched cohort study of 756+ veterans comparing 10 Hz rTMS, iTBS, and deep TMS for PTSD — and why the bottom line is: "use whatever device you have" 💡 Why "treatment-resistant" may say more about our limitations than about patients ⚡ How accelerated TMS (5x/day for 5 days) can deliver comparable outcomes in just one week 🎮 Combining tDCS + virtual reality for PTSD — results from a JAMA Psychiatry study 🌍 Teaching TMS in Ukraine and what it means for resource-limited settings 🔬 First-in-human focused ultrasound to the amygdala: safety, early results, and why this technology excites him most 🤖 The role of AI — from facial decoding to personalized treatment prediction — in the future of precision psychiatry Resources & References: 📄 Study: Effectiveness of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Multi-Site Propensity-Matched Cohort Study of Treatment Parameters — Brain Stimulation (2025) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41241259/ 🏥 VA Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology https://centerforneuro.org 💻 Unbroken Foundation, Lviv (Ukraine TMS training program) https://unbroken.org.ua/foundation About the Neurostimulation Podcast: Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UBC, the Neurostimulation Podcast explores the world of neuroscience, clinical neurostimulation, and interventional mental health — making cutting-edge research accessible to clinicians, researchers, students, and curious minds alike. The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider. Connect & Subscribe: 👍 Like and subscribe to never miss an episode 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments 📲 Share with a colleague who might find this helpful

    52 min

  2. May 16

    Signal Over Noise: How Transcutaneous VNS Optimizes Cognition with Dr. Ronan Denyer

    Episode Summary Host Dr. Michael Passmore (Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia) sits down with Dr. Ronan Denyer, a postdoctoral fellow at the Coactions Lab in Brussels. Dr. Denyer completed his PhD in neuroscience at UBC under Dr. Lara Boyd, and his research sits at the intersection of brain stimulation, neuroimaging, and behavioral neuroscience. In this episode, they take a deep dive into transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) — what it is, how it works, and what it could mean for the future of cognitive enhancement and neurological treatment. Key Topics Covered Dr. Denyer's background — From Trinity College Dublin to UBC to Brussels, how a final-year undergraduate project set him on the path of brain stimulation researchThe locus coeruleus (LC) — Why this tiny, blue-colored brainstem nucleus with far-reaching noradrenergic projections is one of neuroscience's most intriguing structuresTranscutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) — How stimulating specific parts of the outer ear (the cymba conchae and tragus region) can non-invasively activate the vagus nerve → nucleus tractus solitarius → locus coeruleus pathwaytVNS vs. TMS vs. tDCS — Key comparisons between these neuromodulation approaches and why tVNS offers a unique real-time biomarker advantage via pupillometryPerceptual decision-making study (Brain Stimulation journal) — How tVNS boosted accuracy on a random dot motion task without slowing reaction times, supporting the gain hypothesis over the urgency hypothesis of LC function; the "rescue effect" seen after errorsThe drift-diffusion model — How modeling revealed tVNS increases the drift rate (evidence accumulation speed), explaining the accuracy improvementtVNS + TMS combined study — Evidence that tVNS increases corticospinal excitability during stimulation (online effect), with pupillometry confirming LC engagement; intriguing finding that MEP changes and pupil changes were not correlated, hinting at potential sub-nodes within the LCClinical translation potential:Stroke rehabilitation — Pairing tVNS bursts with motor therapy to promote plasticity onlineADHD — The tonic/phasic LC firing model and the explore-vs-exploit hypothesis; why elevated tonic LC firing may underpin attentional difficultiesParkinson's disease — LC degeneration as an early biomarker; tVNS + pupillometry as a potential low-cost screening tool for preclinical Parkinson's; targeting non-motor symptomsAnxiety and PTSD — Emerging hypotheses linking LC dysfunction to these conditionsUpcoming research — The KinArm forced-response reaching task: examining how tVNS shifts the speed-accuracy curve and modulates movement vigor, with implications for stroke rehab Key Concepts Explained TermPlain-language meaning tVNS Non-invasive stimulation of the ear to activate the vagus nerve and the brain's noradrenaline system Locus coeruleus Small brainstem nucleus; the brain's primary source of noradrenaline; modulates attention, arousal, and decision-making Gain hypothesis LC noradrenaline boosts signal-to-noise ratio, improving perceptual accuracy without speeding up responses Urgency hypothesis LC increases response speed at the cost of accuracy (not supported by this study) Pupillometry Measuring pupil size as a proxy for LC activity Motor evoked potential (MEP) A muscle twitch elicited by TMS; used to measure corticospinal excitability Drift-diffusion model A mathematical framework for modeling perceptual decision processes Tonic vs. phasic LC firing Tonic = baseline arousal level; phasic = task-triggered bursts that sharpen perception Papers Referenced Xiang et al. — Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Boosts Accuracy During Perceptual Decision Making, Brain Stimulation https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40311845/Dr. Denyer's tVNS + TMS corticospinal excitability study (recently published) https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/jn.00008.2026 Connect & Learn More Host: Dr. Michael Passmore, University of British Columbia, Department of PsychiatryGuest: Dr. Ronan Denyer, Coactions Lab, Brussels (formerly UBC, Lara Boyd Lab)

    49 min

  3. May 2

    Who Heals the Healer? Burnout, Shame & the Psychology of High Achievement: Dr. Stacey Elliott

    Show Notes — Neurostimulation Podcast Episode: Who Heals the Healer? Burnout, Shame & the Psychology of High Achievement Guest: Dr. Stacey Elliott, DO In this deeply insightful episode, Dr. Michael Passmore sits down with Dr. Stacey Elliott — board-certified psychiatrist, addiction medicine physician, and founder of CNY Integrative Psychiatry — to explore the hidden psychology behind burnout, high achievement, and the often-overlooked emotional lives of high-functioning professionals. What we cover: Why burnout is best understood as a loss of connection with the self, not a personal failureHow early attachment patterns and subtle childhood adaptations can drive overachievement in adult lifeThe surprising overlap between addiction and workaholism — and why both are attempts to manage the same core woundThe concept of therapeutic prescribing: why the relationship around medication matters as much as the medication itselfThe nocebo effect in psychiatry and what "difficult" patients are often really communicatingShame vs. guilt: how shame accumulates in high performers and what it takes to heal itThe importance of peer consultation, supervision, and Balint groups for clinicians and caregiversWhat it actually means to be authentically well — not just high-functioning Guest resources: Dr. Stacey Elliott's website: www.cnyintegrativepsych.comPeer consultation services for clinicians: https://www.cnyintegrativepsych.com/peer-consultation Key concepts mentioned: Internal Family Systems (IFS)Balint groupsVicarious stress and compassion fatigueIkigai (the four quadrants of meaningful work)Nocebo effect in psychiatric medication

    58 min

  4. Apr 18

    Non-Invasive Deep Brain Stimulation: The Promise of Transcranial Focused Ultrasound with Dr. Samuel Pichardo - #46

    Non-Invasive Deep Brain Stimulation: The Promise of Transcranial Focused Ultrasound with Dr. Samuel Pichardo In this episode, Dr. Michael Passmore sits down with Dr. Samuel Pichardo, biomedical engineer and researcher at the University of Calgary and the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, to explore one of the most exciting frontiers in neuromodulation: transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (TUS/tFUS). Dr. Pichardo's lab is at the cutting edge of ultrasound neuromodulation — investigating how low-intensity pulsed ultrasound can precisely target deep brain structures non-invasively, with lasting effects on neural activity. What We Cover: What is transcranial focused ultrasound (TUS)? How it differs from TMS and tDCS, and why its ability to penetrate to deep brain structures makes it uniquely powerfulThe physics of neuromodulation: How pulsed ultrasound bursts at low frequencies (e.g., ~250 kHz) can produce neuromodulatory effects lasting 30–60 minutes after a single session — and why the underlying mechanism is still an active area of researchPulse repetition frequency (PRF): Key findings from Dr. Pichardo's lab comparing 10 Hz, 100 Hz, and 1000 Hz PRF — and why 100 Hz produced the strongest and most sustained inhibitory effectThe skull barrier: Why lower ultrasound frequencies are used to overcome skull attenuation, and the challenges this creates for precision targetingPilot clinical study — essential tremor and Parkinson's disease: Targeting the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) of the thalamus non-invasively, and what the results showed: significant tremor reduction in essential tremor patients, and a promising but less robust trend in Parkinson's patientsThe multi-focus targeting strategy: How Dr. Pichardo's team addressed the precision-vs.-accuracy tradeoff using phased array transducers to enlarge the treatment envelopeBabelBrain: The open-source, cross-platform (Mac, Windows, Linux) software tool developed by Dr. Pichardo's lab that integrates MRI/CT imaging data to model acoustic intensity, thermal effects, and safety parameters — a turnkey solution for TUS researchers worldwideThe future of the field: Which neuropsychiatric conditions are most likely to benefit first — including refractory depression, OCD, PTSD, and addiction — and why Dr. Pichardo believes depression may become the "poster child" indication for TUS in the next few yearsNomenclature: Why the field still hasn't settled on a consistent acronym (TUS, tFUS, LIFU, FUS) — and why that's okay Key Takeaways: Focused ultrasound can reach deep brain targets non-invasively with millimeter precision — something no other non-invasive technology can currently matchThe neuromodulatory effects are real, reproducible, and growing in clinical promise, but replication studies and sham-controlled trials are still essentialBabelBrain is freely available as an open-source tool for research labs worldwideThe field is at an inflection point, with rapid growth in FDA applications and commercial investment Links & Resources: Dr. Pichardo's lab at the University of Calgary / Hotchkiss Brain Institute https://www.neurofus.ca/BabelBrain (open-source TUS planning software) https://proteusmrighifu.github.io/BabelBrain/Pulse repetition frequency study (PRF paper from the Pichardo lab) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38621645/VIM thalamic TUS pilot study (essential tremor & Parkinson's) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8109299/Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation Symposium, Paris (July) https://www.itrusst.com/fun26 The Neurostimulation Podcast is hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. The content shared is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific health needs. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who might find it valuable. Drop your questions and comments below — and tune in next time for another journey into the cutting edge of neuroscience and clinical neurostimulation.

    53 min

  5. Apr 4

    Understanding Nervous System Dysregulation: CES Therapy for Anxiety and Trauma with Tauna Young & Cara Maxfield - #45

    Episode Summary In this episode, Dr. Michael Passmore is joined by two guests who bring both clinical expertise and lived experience to the topic of nervous system dysregulation. Together, they explore why anxiety is far more body-based than most people realize, and how a lesser-known technology called Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) may offer real relief for anxiety, insomnia, trauma, and chronic pain. Guests Tauna Young, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and founder of NeuroVana Calm — a company focused on expanding access to CES therapy. Tauna has years of clinical experience helping patients struggling with anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, and nervous system dysregulation. Cara Maxfield, entrepreneur and content creator who speaks openly about navigating trauma recovery, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic pain, and the real-world challenges of managing mental health while parenting and running a business. Topics Covered What nervous system dysregulation actually is and how it shows up in the body Why anxiety is a physical, physiological experience — not a character flaw or weakness The fight-or-flight response: when a protective mechanism becomes miscalibrated The connection between trauma, body memory, and emotional triggers What Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) is and how it works How CES stimulates the thalamus and vagus nerve to induce a calm brain state Research comparing CES to experienced meditators' brainwave states CES FDA clearance (since 1979) and its safety profile vs. medications Clinical applications: anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, chronic pain, fibromyalgia Why CES remains largely unknown in mainstream medicine How to use CES: loading phase, daily use, and situational use Combining CES with CBT, psychotherapy, exposure therapy, and medication Cara's first-hand account of using CES during a panic attack Practical tips for regulating your nervous system Key Takeaways Anxiety is a nervous system state, not a personal weakness The body and brain are deeply interconnected — what affects one affects the other CES is portable, discreet, safe, and can be used anywhere — even the dentist CES has a 67% success rate (≥50% improvement) vs. ~45–55% for SSRIs, with far fewer side effects Tools like CES work best as part of a broader toolkit alongside therapy and lifestyle strategies Everyone has trauma to some extent — normalizing that conversation is key to healing Resources & Links 🌐 NeuroVana Calm: NeuroVanaCalm.com 📖 Free eBook from Tauna Young: A deeper dive into the science of CES — available at NeuroVanaCalm.com 📚 The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk (referenced in episode) https://a.co/d/0bkbVqsp Connect & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might benefit, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Drop your questions and topic ideas in the comments — your feedback shapes future episodes. The Neurostimulation Podcast is an independent educational project by Dr. Michael Passmore. All content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.

    55 min

  6. Mar 28

    Beyond Rest: Rethinking Concussion Recovery with Dr. Ayla Wolf - #44

    Episode Show NotesGuest: Dr. Ayla Wolf Duration: ~48 minutes Episode DescriptionDr. Ayla Wolf shares her personal journey from sustaining multiple concussions to becoming a leading expert in concussion recovery. She challenges the outdated "rest in a dark room" advice and explains why persistent post-concussion syndrome requires an individualized, integrative approach combining neuroscience, functional neurology, and holistic therapies. Timestamps0:10 - Introduction Welcome and episode overview 1:00 - Guest Introduction Meet Dr. Ayla Wolf - clinician, researcher, and author 2:51 - Dr. Wolf's Personal Story How multiple concussions changed her career path 7:31 - The Turning Point Making the radical decision to return to school and study brain injuries 8:41 - What Happens After a Concussion Understanding the brain's metabolic crisis and energy deficit 19:32 - Understanding Functional Neurology How this approach differs from traditional assessments 25:23 - Acupuncture and Cerebral Blood Flow The role of holistic therapies in concussion recovery 28:34 - Why Rest Isn't Always Best Debunking the "dark room" myth and understanding gradual return to activity 31:56 - Dysautonomia Explained The autonomic nervous system and its role in persistent symptoms 43:35 - The Concussion Breakthrough Book A comprehensive guide for those feeling stuck in recovery 47:14 - Closing Thoughts & Resources How to learn more and connect with Dr. Wolf Key TakeawaysMost concussions heal within weeks, but 30% of people develop persistent symptomsProlonged rest beyond 48-72 hours can create maladaptive neuroplasticityFunctional neurology provides individualized treatment based on comprehensive testingDysautonomia (autonomic nervous system dysfunction) is common after concussionRecovery requires integrative approaches addressing multiple brain systems simultaneouslyAcupuncture can improve cerebral blood flow through the trigeminovascular system Resources MentionedDr. Wolf's website: https://www.lifeafterimpact.com/ Book: The Concussion Breakthrough: Discover The Missing Pieces to Recovery https://a.co/d/0bCKi38b Podcast: Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-after-impact-the-concussion-recovery-podcast/id1790456849 Organization: Healing Response Acupuncture and Functional Neurology https://www.healingresponseneuro.com/ Guest BioDr. Ayla Wolf is an associate professor at the Carrick Institute and founder of Healing Response Acupuncture and Functional Neurology. With over 20 years of experience working with complex neurological cases, she specializes in traumatic brain injury, chronic migraine, dysautonomia, and vestibular disorders. Her work combines neuroscience, functional neurology, and holistic therapies to help patients with persistent post-concussion syndrome.

    48 min

  7. Mar 21

    Rewiring the Dyslexic Brain: How Neuroplasticity Can Transform Reading Struggles with Dr. Rebecca Troy - #43 - Mar 21, 2026

    Episode #43: Rewiring the Dyslexic Brain: How Neuroplasticity Can Transform Reading Struggles with Dr. Rebecca Troy Guest: Dr. Rebecca Troy, EdD Educational neuroscientist, dyslexia expert, and national board certified teacher Episode Summary: Dyslexia affects millions of children and adults worldwide, but modern neuroscience reveals something hopeful: the brain is remarkably plastic and capable of reorganizing itself when given the right training. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Troy shares over 20 years of expertise helping struggling readers through neuroplasticity-based interventions. Timestamp Highlights: 0:10Introduction to the episode2:16Dr. Troy's personal story and background2:30Family history with dyslexia4:01Overview of Dr. Troy's program for parents4:19Redefining dyslexia: Not a permanent deficit7:03The power of daily 10-15 minute practice at home8:15Shortcomings in traditional reading instruction12:42Early warning signs for parents (ages 3-5)15:08How neuroplasticity rewires the dyslexic brain17:35The emotional impact of reading struggles23:55Next steps for concerned parents25:42Understanding phonemic awareness34:39Final message of hope for struggling readers Key Topics Discussed: What dyslexia really is: an underdevelopment in brain connectivity, not a permanent deficitHow neuroplasticity research shows the brain can rewire itself to read like typical readersEarly warning signs parents should watch for (ages 3-5)Why phonemic awareness is the foundation for reading successThe critical importance of early identification and interventionHow daily 10-15 minute structured practice at home can transform outcomesThe emotional impact of unrecognized reading strugglesDyslexia's common overlap with ADHD (40% of cases) and other conditionsHidden strengths in dyslexic brains: spatial reasoning, creativity, and entrepreneurshipWhy the traditional education system needs to shift its approach Key Takeaways: Dyslexia is not permanentBrain imaging studies show that with targeted training, struggling readers can develop the same neural pathways as typical readersParent-led intervention worksDaily practice at home is more effective than weekly clinical sessions due to increased repetition and lower stressEarly intervention is criticalScreening at ages 3-5 can prevent years of academic struggle and emotional traumaThe crawl-walk-run approachExecutive function and phonemic awareness must be developed before phonics-based reading instruction Resources Mentioned: Dr. Troy's dyslexia discovery workshops (monthly screenings)PTO Reconnect Therapy programVisualize - New company using playcraft to develop spatial reasoning and creativity strengths in dyslexic children (launching at South by Southwest)Book mentioned: "Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons" Guest Bio: Dr. Rebecca Troy is an educational neuroscientist with a doctorate in education and a neuroscience research focus on reading disabilities. As a national board certified teacher in early and middle literacy, she's spent over 20 years developing practical, neuroplasticity-based interventions that help struggling readers. Her work has been featured in Psychology Today, Women's Journal, and Voyage New York. Dr. Troy is passionate about equipping parents with tools to support children with learning differences and is currently involved in launching Visualize, a company focused on developing dyslexic strengths through play. Connect with Dr. Rebecca Troy: https://www.drrebeccatroy.com About This Podcast: The Neurostimulation Podcast explores the science of the brain, innovative treatments, and practical tools to help people unlock their cognitive and emotional potential. Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, psychiatrist and clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia.

    38 min

  8. 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
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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

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Michael Passmore
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Michael Passmore
  • Show Website
    The Neurostimulation Podcast

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