Pulse by AlphaWire

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Welcome to Pulse by AlphaWire, the podcast where science and education meet cutting edge technology and artificial intelligence.  My name is Aldo de Pape and each week I sit down with innovators, thinkers and doers who are working to change our world for the better.  Together, we explore their journeys, uncover the lessons they've learned and take the entrepreneurial pulse that drives them on their path to success.

  1. The Future of Brain Health: Scientific Innovation, Startups and AI with Dr. Craig Ritchie Founder of Scottish Brain Sciences

    2D AGO

    The Future of Brain Health: Scientific Innovation, Startups and AI with Dr. Craig Ritchie Founder of Scottish Brain Sciences

    In this episode of Pulse, host Aldo de Pape sits down with Craig Ritchie, founder and CEO of Scottish Brain Sciences, for a deep conversation about brain health, Alzheimer’s disease, entrepreneurship, genetics, AI, and the future of healthcare innovation. Craig shares his journey from medical school in Aberdeen to becoming a globally recognized leader in neurodegenerative medicine. He discusses why he left the security of academia to build a startup focused on accelerating breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s research and explains why he believes a cure is closer than many people think. The conversation also explores the impact of screen time on children, how AI may transform healthcare, the role of genetics in dementia risk, and why entrepreneurship can move faster than traditional institutions when solving major global health challenges. Key Topics Covered The mission behind Scottish Brain SciencesWhy Craig Ritchie believes Alzheimer’s disease is curableThe future of brain health and neurodegenerative medicineTransitioning from academia to entrepreneurshipThe “triple helix” model: healthcare, universities, and startups working togetherHow AI is reshaping medicine and diagnosticsThe dangers of excessive screen time for childrenGenetics and Alzheimer’s disease risk factorsWhy innovation in healthcare often moves too slowlyThe importance of balance, rhythm, and community for brain healthCraig’s personal morning routine and favorite book recommendationsNotable Quotes “Research is a means to an end. It’s not an end in itself.” “A cure for Alzheimer’s is just around the corner, but we have to believe it’s possible.” “The biggest problems facing society aren’t solved by governments or corporations alone — they’re solved through entrepreneurship.” “If children are spending all their time on screens, they’re not doing the things that help healthy brain development.” About Craig Ritchie Craig Ritchie is a leading expert in Alzheimer’s disease, dementia prevention, and brain health research. Originally from Aberdeen, Scotland, he trained in psychiatry and later worked with renowned Alzheimer’s researcher Colin Masters in Melbourne, Australia. Today, Craig serves as CEO and founder of Scottish Brain Sciences, a company focused on accelerating clinical research, diagnostics, and therapeutic innovation in neurodegenerative disease. He also holds academic positions at University of St Andrews and University of Aberdeen. To learn more about Scottish Brain Sciences: https://brainsciences.scot/who-we-are/team/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlphaWireHQ This episode was brought together by AlphaWire: https://alphawire.xyz/

    53 min
  2. Unraveling the Story Behind Tony Mafia: An Artist and a Life of Freedom with Film Writer and Director, Sabine Lubbe Bakker

    MAY 7

    Unraveling the Story Behind Tony Mafia: An Artist and a Life of Freedom with Film Writer and Director, Sabine Lubbe Bakker

    In this episode, Aldo sits down with the award winning Dutch filmmaker Sabine Lubbe Bakker for a deeply personal and reflective conversation about a man whose life resists simple definition.  Through memory, research, and storytelling, we explore the world of ‘Tony Mafia‘ - a painter shaped by a restless pursuit of freedom - a troubled past, and a legacy carried as much by myth as well as fact. This conversation is about questioning how we remember, interpret, and ultimately honor the lives of those who leave an imprint through art.  It is our sincere hope that this conversation helps you in telling the story of your life bringing all the colour into it, it deserves.  Keywords Tony Mafia, art biography, creative freedom, art legacy, personal stories, art analysis, biography research, art history, artist mental models Key Topics The influence of personal history on artThe story behind Tony Mafia's paintingsThe process of researching an artist's lifeKey Frameworks Storytelling in ArtBiographical Research TechniquesSound Bites "Imagination opens up a story to get closer to someone""It's about the possibility, not just the truth""The paintings are a treasure, a story worth telling"Chapters Introduction to Tony Mafia and Personal Biography 02:17 The Search for Truth and Possibility in Stories 04:22 The Influence of Art in Personal and Family History 06:04 Unraveling the Life of Tony Mafia: Childhood and Early Talent 12:06 The Significance of the Paintings and Their Value 20:17 The Blog and Public Perception of Tony Mafia 22:14 Reflections on Tony Mafia's Character and Legacy 30:53 Archiving and Understanding the Paintings 32:04 The Personal Meaning of Tony Mafia's Art 36:08 The Impact of Society and Era on Tony Mafia's Life 40:19 The Artistic Spirit and Longing for Freedom 43:14 Art as a Reflection of Inner Life and Society 50:26 The Relationship Between the Artist and the Viewer 51:53 Imagining the Narrative of Tony Mafia's Life 53:56 Next Steps: Preserving and Sharing Tony Mafia's Legacy This episode was brought together by AlphaWire: https://alphawire.xyz/

    57 min
  3. The Truth about Male Fertility: What Most Men Get Wrong with Karen Czeloth Urologist and Founder of Aspen Med Ltd

    APR 30

    The Truth about Male Fertility: What Most Men Get Wrong with Karen Czeloth Urologist and Founder of Aspen Med Ltd

    In this insightful interview from Aberdeen, Aldo sits down with Dr. Karen Czeloth, a Clinical Andrologist and specialist in men's health. She shares her journey from Germany to the UK, her expertise in male health, and her innovative approach to personalized medicine that's challenging how we think about healthcare as a whole. What begins as a discussion on fertility evolves into something much broader: a reflection on prevention, personalization, and the role technology must play in reshaping modern medicine. Discover how technology, AI, and a holistic perspective are transforming healthcare and empowering individuals to take ownership of their health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Karen Czelloth 01:55 Understanding Male Fertility and Health 04:57 Dr. Czelloth's Journey in Medicine 07:32 The Role of Technology in Healthcare 10:19 Holistic Approach to Patient Care 13:19 AspenMed: Personalized Medicine for Men 16:10 AI's Impact on Healthcare 21:15 Challenges in the UK Healthcare System 25:37 Empowering Patients Through Knowledge 31:17 Expanding Focus to Women's Health 32:54 Future Aspirations for AspenMed 34:54 Personal Routines and Reflections 37:42 Recommended Readings and Resources Keywords men's health, personalized medicine, AI in healthcare, urology, andrology, holistic health, international healthcare, medical technology, health ownership

    41 min
  4. Rethinking How Children Learn: Beyond Screens, Toward Listening with Drew Vernon, Director of Education at Tonies

    APR 23

    Rethinking How Children Learn: Beyond Screens, Toward Listening with Drew Vernon, Director of Education at Tonies

    What if one of the most meaningful shifts in education isn’t visual—but auditory? In this conversation with Drew Vernon, we explore a deceptively simple idea: that listening—true, focused listening—may be one of the most underutilized tools in childhood development today. Drew’s work at Tonies began in product and marketing, but evolved into something deeper—rethinking how children engage with content, learn, and connect without the constant pull of screens. We discuss: Why audio is more than a nostalgic format—it’s a developmental toolThe growing tension between screen-based engagement and attention spansHow tactile, screen-free experiences can reshape learning environmentsUnexpected use cases—from classrooms to adoption and family connectionThe role of storytelling in emotional and cognitive developmentWhere AI fits—and where it may fall short—in early educationWhat stood out most to me is not the technology itself, but the philosophy behind it. This is not about replacing one medium with another. It is about reintroducing space—space for imagination, for attention, for human connection. In a world increasingly optimized for speed and stimulation, perhaps the real innovation is in slowing things down.

    31 min
  5. The Limitless Mindset: How AI is Rapidly Transforming Preventive Medicine

    APR 16

    The Limitless Mindset: How AI is Rapidly Transforming Preventive Medicine

    In this episode, Alex Cardon shares his inspiring journey from founding multiple companies to building Limitless, a health-tech platform making preventive blood testing accessible across Europe. Discover his insights on entrepreneurship, health, family, and the Belgian startup ecosystem. Key Topics Alex's motivation behind creating Limitless to democratize preventive healthThe concept and functionality of Limitless blood testing serviceHow Alex's personal health experience inspired his entrepreneurial venturesDifferences between attempts and successful companies in Alex’s journeyThe importance of planning, scenario analysis, and legal agreements when working with friendsStrategies for balancing entrepreneurship, family life, and personal well-beingThe Belgian startup landscape and how regulations impact entrepreneurshipFuture ambitions for Limitless and regional expansion plansLessons from Alex's diverse business ventures in loyalty programs, pet food, and health techBooks and routines that inspire Alex’s focus and resilienceNotable Quotes "Act today, not in the future, to be better tomorrow.""Longevity implies waiting, prevention is acting now.""A quitter never wins and a winner never quits."

    39 min
  6. AI, Neurodiversity, and the Future Classroom with Vijita Patel, Executive Director at the Qatar Foundation

    APR 9

    AI, Neurodiversity, and the Future Classroom with Vijita Patel, Executive Director at the Qatar Foundation

    How can technology truly support neurodiverse learners without replacing the human connections they rely on? In this episode, Aldo de Pape speaks with Vijita Patel of the Qatar Foundation to explore how thoughtful tech integration is transforming special needs education. From sensory-friendly innovations to ethical AI use, this conversation dives into what it really means to create inclusive, human-centered learning environments. If you’re passionate about inclusive education and the future of learning, subscribe, share this episode, and join the conversation on how we can build more accessible, human-centered systems for every student. Key Topics Technology's role in supporting neurodiverse studentsSuccessful implementation of sensory rooms and sanctuariesChallenges and ethical considerations of AI in educationQatar Foundation's ecosystem and global impactValues-driven approach to educational technology

    29 min
  7. Psychological Liberation: What if Stress isn't the Problem but Your Thinking is? A Conversation with Dr. Michael Vlerick

    APR 2

    Psychological Liberation: What if Stress isn't the Problem but Your Thinking is? A Conversation with Dr. Michael Vlerick

    In this 'Pulse' interview, Dr. Michael Vlerick explores the profound concepts of happiness, psychological liberation, and the transformative power of ancient wisdom traditions. Discover practical insights on meditation, the nature of emotions, and the future of technology in enhancing human well-being. Keywords happiness, psychological liberation, meditation, ancient wisdom, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, technology and AI, personal growth, mental health, spiritual insights Key Topics Psychological liberation and its roots in ancient wisdom The true purpose of meditation and mindfulness practices Understanding and transforming emotions The impact of technology and AI on human wellbeing Sound Bites "We get used to good things and lose our sense of wonder." "Humility is key when considering the future of AI." "Excited to co-host future happiness interviews with Aldo." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Psychological Liberation 02:50 Exploring Ancient Wisdoms 05:11 The Essence of Meditation 11:48 Personal Experiences of Liberation 16:07 The Nature of Human Happiness 21:04 Embracing Emotions for Growth 27:40 Understanding Stress and Its Effects 31:21 Other Practices for Personal Liberation 35:21 The Illusion of Self and Awareness 37:28 Historical Perspectives on Personal Liberation 39:22 Cultural Insights on Suffering and Liberation 41:57 The Shift in Western Thought 47:37 Technology, AI, and Personal Liberation 53:09 The Future of Technology and Human Integration 01:04:10 Outro Fixed.mp4 This episode was brought together by AlphaWire: https://alphawire.xyz/

    1h 5m
  8. The Most Powerful Influence on Our Kids is the Media with Aly Jetha CEO of Big Bad Boo

    MAR 26

    The Most Powerful Influence on Our Kids is the Media with Aly Jetha CEO of Big Bad Boo

    What if the most influential teacher in a child’s life isn’t a teacher at all—but the stories they choose to watch, over and over again? This is a conversation about the power of storytelling—how it entertains, how it educates, and how, when done with intention, it can shape the values of an entire generation. Aldo de Pape sits down with Aly Jetha at WISE to discuss Big Bad Boo, the children’s media company he founded with his wife. Key Topics: Children don’t separate learning from play. The stories they return to—again and again—shape how they see the world. When done well, entertainment becomes education without resistance. At Big Bad Boo, behind every engaging story lies intentional design: psychologists, educators, and artists working together to embed empathy, resilience, and ethical thinking into narrative. Reaching hundreds of millions of children is not just a distribution challenge—it is a moral one. What we amplify at scale matters. In refugee camps and conflict zones, stories become tools for healing. Content, when paired with curriculum, can reduce trauma and restore a sense of possibility. While academic outcomes are measured rigorously, social-emotional development is often left behind. Yet the data tells a different story—declining happiness, rising bullying, and a growing need for human skills. Reflections What stories are shaping the next generation—intentionally or not?Where do we outsource education without realizing it?And what responsibility comes with creating at scale?

    22 min
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About

Welcome to Pulse by AlphaWire, the podcast where science and education meet cutting edge technology and artificial intelligence.  My name is Aldo de Pape and each week I sit down with innovators, thinkers and doers who are working to change our world for the better.  Together, we explore their journeys, uncover the lessons they've learned and take the entrepreneurial pulse that drives them on their path to success.

Information

  • Creator
    AlphaWire
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Pulse by AlphaWire
  • Show Website
    Pulse by AlphaWire