The Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast

The Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Bimonthly

Welcome to The Healthy Brain Toolbox. I'm Dr. Ken Sharlin, neurologist, speaker, author, and host for this show. In each episode, I interview influential people whose work impacts how we live and how we think. My guests are leaders in the health and fitness industry, physicians, scientists, authors, and public servants. Here, you'll find conversations that break down barriers, expand your horizons, and give you the tools you need to protect your health and nourish your aging brain.

  1. Ep 19 | Ironman Mindset Masterclass with JD Tremblay

    May 6

    Ep 19 | Ironman Mindset Masterclass with JD Tremblay

    What happens when the human body is pushed through 10 Ironman-distance triathlons back-to-back, and what does the brain learn from that kind of pressure? In this episode, JD Tremblay, ultra-endurance athlete, engineer, veteran, author, and founder of the Hungry Warrior Academy, shares what it takes to operate at the edge of human endurance. But this conversation goes far beyond sport. JD breaks down how discipline is built through systems, why one non-negotiable can transform behavior, and why recovery and energy regulation matter more than constant output. He reframes pain, performance, and resilience in a way that connects to brain health and long-term well-being. Key Takeaways The difference between DNS, DNF, and FinisherHow pride delayed JD’s first triathlonThe power of your personal non-negotiableEnergy regulation and the B.R.A.I.N. frameworkTackling one “enemy” at a time instead of overhauling your whole lifeAbout the Guest JD Tremblay is the founder of the Hungry Warrior Academy, an ultra-endurance triathlete who operates at the edge of human limits. As one of only three people in the world to complete the EpicDeca, he’s proven what relentless discipline and mental toughness can achieve. His mission now is simple: help others raise their standards, master their mindset, and their pursue goals. Additional Resources Website www.hungrywarrioracademy.comwww.hunger4more.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jd-tremblay-2b6215256 Facebook www.facebook.com/jdtremblaytriwww.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559051615885Instagram www.instagram.com/jdtremblaytriwww.instagram.com/hungrywarrioracademyTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@hungrywarrioracademy YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Hungry-Warrior-Academy Book: Hunger For More in Life From the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    59 min
  2. Ep 18 | Courage, Healthcare, and Democracy with Zach Wahls

    Apr 22

    Ep 18 | Courage, Healthcare, and Democracy with Zach Wahls

    In this episode of the Healthy Brain Toolbox, Iowa State Senator and U.S. Senate candidate Zach Wahls shares his journey from a viral 2011 Iowa House testimony to becoming a national advocate for healthcare, housing, and policy reform. He opens up about his family story, his mother’s MS diagnosis, and how lived experiences with chronic illness, discrimination, economic insecurity shaped his focus on healthcare access, housing stability, and equal protection. Zach also explores bridging urban and rural divides through shared everyday concerns, campaign finance reform, and the ongoing debate around Citizens United. 👉 If you found this conversation valuable, like, share, and subscribe for more discussions on brain health, policy, and whole-person wellness. Key Takeaways: Zach Wahls’ viral 2011 testimony and the courage behind it  Healthcare as a human right (and why rural hospitals are closing)  Medicaid cuts and their ripple effect on small-town America  Big money in politics and the Citizens United turning point  Prescription drug costs, PBMs, and pharmacy deserts  AI, social media, and the future of mental health   About the Guest Zach Wahls is an Iowa State Senator, nationally recognized advocate, and former Iowa Senate Democratic Leader, the youngest in state history. He first gained national attention for his 2011 testimony about growing up with two mothers, later becoming a bestselling author and co-founder of Scouts for Equality. A graduate of Princeton University and the University of Iowa, he is focused on expanding opportunity, lowering costs for families, and building a new generation of leadership. Additional Resources Website: www.zachwahls.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/zachwahls Facebook: www.facebook.com/zach.wahls Threads: www.threads.com/@zachwahls Instagram: www.instagram.com/zachwahls TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@zachwahls X: https://x.com/zachwahls Book: My Two Moms: Lessons of Love, Strength, and What Makes a Family From the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    54 min
  3. Ep 17 | Rebuilding Wellbeing Revolution with Troy Norris

    Apr 9

    Ep 17 | Rebuilding Wellbeing Revolution with Troy Norris

    Ready to Overcome Burnout? It’s Time for a shift. In this week’s Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast, I reconnect with Troy Norris, a Harvard-trained scientist and founder of the WellBalance Institute. His work bridges neuroscience, positive psychology, and real-life application. In this episode, Troy shares his science-backed model of wellbeing, offering practical strategies to help you thrive, no matter how busy or stressed life may get. 👉 If you’re ready to transform your wellbeing, don’t miss an episode—like, share, and subscribe now! Key Takeaways From burnout and breakdown to founding the WellBalanced Institute  The science of meaning: why “mattering” drives wellbeing more than money or status  Fragile wellbeing: what happens when your identity rests on only one or two pillars  Trauma, neuroplasticity, and shifting from fear-based to love-based motivation  Hedonic adaptation: why lottery winners and paraplegics often return to similar happiness levels  Well span vs. health span: adding life to your years, not just years to your life  Purpose after diagnosis: rebuilding identity amid chronic illness or aging   About the Guest Troy Norris is a Harvard-trained scientist, best-selling author in positive psychology, and expert in translating the science of wellbeing into real-life results. He is a researcher, writer, and founder of the WellBalance Institute, where he serves as Chief WellBalance Officer. After experiencing burnout himself, he created the WellBalance Model to help individuals build healthier, more balanced, and more fulfilling lives. Additional Resources Website www.troywnorris.comwww.wellbalance.org/institutewww.WellBalance.orgLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/troy-norris Facebook: www.facebook.com/WellBalanceLotus Instagram: www.instagram.com/wellbalancelotus YouTube: www.youtube.com/@WellBalanceLotus Free Assessment: www.wellbalance.org/assessment From the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    52 min
  4. Ep 16 | Uncovering Supplement Secrets with Michael Ponce

    Mar 25

    Ep 16 | Uncovering Supplement Secrets with Michael Ponce

    What if the supplements in your daily routine are doing more harm than good? In this eye-opening conversation with Michael Ponce of NuMedica, we uncover what most people don’t know about the supplement industry, from hidden contaminants like heavy metals to misleading labels and the truth about what’s actually inside your vitamins. If you’ve ever wondered whether your supplements are truly safe, effective, or even worth it, this episode will change the way you look at your health. Watch until the end, you may never shop for supplements the same way again. 🎧 If you found this valuable, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on brain health, wellness, and longevity. Key Takeaways The shocking reality of heavy metals in popular protein powders  What “third-party tested” really means and why it mattersHow supplement sourcing impacts safety and potency  The difference between FDA-approved drugs and “supports brain health” claims  Why more vitamins ≠ better healthHow lab testing can prevent wasting money or harming your body  The murky world of herbal supplements and liver “support” formulas  About the Guest Michael Ponce is a biotechnology consultant and Advanced Nutrition Specialist at NuMedica, with 13+ years in life sciences. He specializes in lab R&D, regulatory compliance, and quality systems, bringing a science-driven approach to supplements, diagnostics, and product development. Additional Resources Website: www.numedica.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ponce-73b8832b2, www.linkedin.com/company/numedicanutrition Facebook: www.facebook.com/numedica Instagram: www.instagram.com/numedicanutrition Explore the Toolbox Treasures: Each episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you strengthen brain health and navigate neurological challenges with clarity and confidence. Support for the Show: 🩺 Appreciate the content? Help us keep it going. Click here to become a monthly supporter and support our mission to share free, high-quality health education every week: https://podcast.healthybraintoolbox.com From the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    57 min
  5. Ep 15 | Reawakening Memories with Alban Maino

    Mar 11

    Ep 15 | Reawakening Memories with Alban Maino

    What if a TV show could unlock memories, calm anxiety, and bring joy to people with dementia? In this episode, Alban Maino, the visionary behind Memory Lane TV, reveals how storytelling, music, and sensory science combine into a global, free resource transforming the lives of those living with dementia and their caregivers. Discover the science, the magic, and the heart behind this revolutionary approach, and learn why Memory Lane TV could change everything you thought you knew about dementia care. 🎧 Listen now, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! Key Takeaways: How tailored music, visuals, and sensory cues awaken memories and lift mood.Why conventional treatments miss human connection, and how multisensory care restores joy.How practical, evidence-based tools empower caregivers and improve lives.How timed sensory “doses” calm anxiety and ease sundowning.How Memory Lane TV is becoming a free, global dementia-care resource. About the Guest Alban Maino is the founder of Memory Lane TV and the Memory Lane Foundation, dedicated to improving life for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Blending neuroscience, storytelling, and design, he created a multi-sensory platform that reduces agitation, increases engagement, and restores calm and meaningful connection in dementia care. Additional Resources Website: www.memory-lane.tv LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/albanmaino, www.linkedin.com/company/memory-lane-therapeutics Facebook: www.facebook.com/forgetdementia X: https://x.com/forgetdementia Instagram: www.instagram.com/memorylanetv Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/forgetdementia TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@memorylanetv YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC031n0ORReeIUIBchB0AccQ From the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    53 min
  6. Ep 14 | From ER Burnout to Treehouse Dreams with Dr. Clint Carter

    Feb 25

    Ep 14 | From ER Burnout to Treehouse Dreams with Dr. Clint Carter

    Is prevention in healthcare truly possible, or is it structurally sidelined? In this episode of The Healthy Brain Toolbox, I sit down with Dr. Clint Carter, former ER physician and founder of MyMD Select Tyler, to examine what happens when a doctor steps outside the traditional insurance-based model and rebuilds care around time, access, and relationship. We explore direct primary care, physician burnout, insurance-driven care, and the link between metabolic health and cognitive decline. From insulin resistance and inflammation to the limits of brief appointments, this conversation challenges how we approach prevention and the future of medicine.  If you’re interested in dementia prevention, lifestyle medicine, healthcare reform, and protecting your cognitive future, this episode is for you. ✅If you found this conversation valuable, please like, share, and subscribe for more expert insights on brain optimization and preventive neurology. Key Takeaways The soul-crushing reality of traditional healthcare Why Dr. Carter almost left medicine to build treehousesThe magic of direct primary care: no middlemen, no waiting rooms, no nonsenseHow insurance might be costing you more than it’s helpingFunctional medicine, food as medicine, and why “healthy” is a four-letter wordWhy prevention isn’t just about popping pillsThe future of medicine: burnout-proof models and patient-first careAbout the Guest Dr. Clint Carter is a board-certified emergency physician who transitioned from ER medicine to found MyMD Select Tyler, a Direct Primary Care practice focused on time, access, and meaningful patient relationships. He also hosts the MyMD Unscripted podcast, where he challenges the status quo and promotes a more human approach to healthcare.  Additional Resources Website: www.mymdselect.comEmail:  drcarter@mymdselect.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/clint-carter-472b17263Facebook: www.facebook.com/mymdselectETXInstagram: www.instagram.com/mymdselectPodcast: My MD Unscripted with Clint Carter, MDFrom the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    59 min
  7. Ep 13 | Disrupting Healthcare Dogmas with Dr. Efrat LaMandre

    Feb 11

    Ep 13 | Disrupting Healthcare Dogmas with Dr. Efrat LaMandre

    What does it truly take to deliver patient-centered care in today’s complex healthcare system? I’m joined by  Dr. Efrat LaMandre, DNP, FNP-C, a nationally recognized nurse practitioner, educator, and healthcare innovator, as we unpack the challenges, opportunities, and real-world strategies that put patients first. In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving role of nurse practitioners, the physician shortage, and how inclusivity and compassion can transform care. Dr. E shares her thoughts on medical gaslighting, value-based care, and expanding your clinical toolbox to meet patients where they are. We also tackle the impact of AI, social determinants of health, and the future of functional, individualized healthcare. If you want to see healthcare through a new lens and discover practical tools to improve patient outcomes, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. ✅ Like, share, and subscribe for more insights that empower both patients and providers alike! Key Takeaways: Nurse Practitioner Revolution: Filling gaps in care or falling short?Medical Gaslighting: Your symptoms matter, and here's how to advocate for your own health.Functional & Value-Based Care: Why lifestyle and labs really count.AI in Healthcare: Friend, foe, or just a tool?LGBTQ+ Inclusivity: Creating safe, affirming care for all.About the Guest: Dr. Efrat LaMandre, known as Dr. E, is a nationally recognized nurse practitioner with a PhD and a leading voice in healthcare education. She founded one of the largest NP-led practices in the U.S. and leads EG Prep, a nonprofit organization that trains nurse practitioners nationwide. Through her podcast, The Medical Disruptor, and national media appearances, she challenges conventional medical thinking while promoting patient-centered, evidence-based care. Website: www.drefratlamandre.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/efratlamandreFacebook: www.facebook.com/drefratlamandreTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@drefratlamandreYouTube: www.youtube.com/@DrEfratLaMandreX www.x.com/DrEfratLamandrePodcast: The Medical Disruptor by Dr. EFrom the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    52 min
  8. Ep 12 | Revolutionizing Brain Health Tech with James Hamet

    Jan 28

    Ep 12 | Revolutionizing Brain Health Tech with James Hamet

    In this episode of the Healthy Brain Toolbox, I sit down with James Hamet, the founder and CEO of Vistim Labs. James is revolutionizing the way we detect and monitor neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. We dive deep into Vistim Labs' innovative EEG-based multimodal brain imaging technology, which offers PET scan-level diagnostic insights without the high costs or radiation risks. Learn about the potential of non-invasive diagnostic tools, the future of brain health, and the power of early detection. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation!  🔔 If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more insights into brain health and neuroscience! 🎧Stay tuned and keep your brain sharp! 🧠💪 Key Takeaways How Vista Labs is transforming EEG into a scalable brain-imaging platform, without radioactive tracersJames Hamet’s conviction that neurodegenerative disease is reversible, not inevitableHard-won entrepreneurial lessons, including why founders should never outsource their first saleAI’s proper role in medicine: a powerful assistant, not a decision-makerWhy trust, not technology, is the true currency of healthcare and businessAdditional Resources: Website www.jameshamet.comwww.vistimlabs.comwww.neurable.comEmail james.hamet@gmail.cominfo@vistimlabs.comLinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/jchametwww.linkedin.com/company/vistimlabsExplore the Toolbox Treasures: Each episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you strengthen brain health and navigate neurological challenges with clarity and confidence. From the Toolbox to Your Life: Subscribe to The Healthy Brain Toolbox on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with cutting-edge insights in brain health and integrative medicine.Know a colleague, patient, or loved one who could benefit from this episode? Share it with someone navigating their cognitive health journey—or someone building a mission-driven, holistic practice. Let’s amplify awareness and spark transformation together.If you found this episode valuable, please consider leaving a review. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing brain-savvy, soul-centered insights to the world. Join the conversation. Connect with me on social media for clinical pearls, practical strategies, and empowering conversations at the intersection of brain health and whole-person care.FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

    58 min
See All (20)

About

Welcome to The Healthy Brain Toolbox. I'm Dr. Ken Sharlin, neurologist, speaker, author, and host for this show. In each episode, I interview influential people whose work impacts how we live and how we think. My guests are leaders in the health and fitness industry, physicians, scientists, authors, and public servants. Here, you'll find conversations that break down barriers, expand your horizons, and give you the tools you need to protect your health and nourish your aging brain.

Information

  • Creator
    The Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Healthy Brain Toolbox Podcast

You Might Also Like