The Neuro Experience

Louisa Nicola & Pursuit Network
The Neuro Experience

This podcast interviews the best experts in the world to bring emerging themes in athletic performance, neurology, sleep physiology and medicine. Louisa regularly consults for technology development companies, professional athletic organizations and consults with the biggest names in NBA, MLB and NFL. Louisa is on the scientific advisory board of Tonal, Hone Health, Klora and Momentous. Find Louisa on Instagram @louisanicola_

  1. 2D AGO

    The Shocking Link Between Lonliness & Illness | Shawn Stevenson

    Social isolation isn't just emotionally challenging—it can literally shorten your lifespan. In this episode with Shawn Stevenson, I explore compelling new research showing how meaningful social relationships directly influence biological processes like inflammation, stress hormones, immune function, and cognitive resilience. Learn how maintaining strong connections isn't simply good for mental health; it's critical for healthy aging at the cellular level. Follow Shawn: instagram.com/shawnmodel/ Sponsors A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: Caraway – Cook clean, live clean. Head to carawayhome.com/neuro and use code NEURO to get 10% off your next purchase. KetoneIQ: the cleanest ketones I have ever had for long sustaining energy: Visit https://ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order Troscriptions – Unlock your cognitive potential with precision-dosed nootropics developed by medical experts. Whether you need more focus, clarity, or energy, Troscriptions offers innovative solutions. - Get 10% off: https://troscriptions.com/NEURO The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    51 min
  2. 4D AGO

    Brutally Honest Advice For Brain Fog and Burnout

    You don’t need expensive biohacking tech to fix your brain. On this episode of the Neuro Experience Podcast, neurophysiologist Louisa Nicola reveals how deep sleep, oxygen (VO2 max), and strength training can clear brain fog, sharpen focus, and protect against cognitive decline. Learn practical, science-backed strategies to optimize your brain, think faster, and live longer. Sponsors: David Protein - It's got no junk, no fake health claims, just a smart science-backed snack that supports lean muscle, appetite control, and recovery. Buy 4 cartons and get the 5th one for free. Just go to davidprotein.com/neuro. KetoneIQ: the cleanest ketones I have ever had for long sustaining energy: Visit https://ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order Goodwipes - If you want to upgrade your restroom ritual with good wipes, go to goodwipes.com, use code NEURO if you're shopping for them online.  The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    15 min
  3. JUN 15

    Doctor Tim Spector: Optimise Your Gut With These SIX Foods

    What if the key to preventing chronic disease, Alzheimer’s, and even depression lies not in your genes—but in your gut? In this groundbreaking conversation, Louisa Nicola sits down with world-renowned epidemiologist and microbiome expert Professor Tim Spector (MD, King's College London, co-founder of ZOE) to unpack decades of research on the gut microbiome, nutrition, and how it shapes nearly every system in the body—including the brain. You'll learn: Why identical twins with the same DNA can develop completely different diseasesHow gut microbes regulate immune responses, neurochemicals like GABA and serotonin, and even GLP-1The emerging connection between gut health and Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and mood disordersWhy probiotics often don’t work—and what to eat insteadHow menopause radically changes metabolism and gut diversityWhat 250,000+ people taught Tim about personalized nutrition and energy levelsThe 6 rules Tim lives by to radically improve gut (and brain) healthWhether you're a clinician, biohacker, or simply someone looking to upgrade your brain and body—this episode will fundamentally shift how you view food, mood, and longevity. Sponsors: David Protein - It's got no junk, no fake health claims, just a smart science-backed snack that supports lean muscle, appetite control, and recovery. Buy 4 cartons and get the 5th one for free. Just go to davidprotein.com/neuro. Goodwipes - If you want to upgrade your restroom ritual with good wipes, go to goodwipes.com, use code NEURO if you're shopping for them online. Timestamps 00:00–02:00 — Intro: Importance of diet in chronic disease reduction (70–80%) 02:00–06:00 — Spector’s medical background and transition to twin studies 06:00–10:00 — Discovery of the gut microbiome in identical twins 10:00–13:00 — Personal health scare: mini-stroke leads to nutrition interest 13:00–16:00 — Why microbiome matters more than genes 16:00–20:00 — Gut microbiome 101: immune function, neurotransmitters, GLP-1 20:00–24:00 — Inflammation, brain health, and stroke recovery 24:00–28:00 — Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and gut-driven inflammation 28:00–31:00 — The case for fermented foods vs probiotics 31:00–36:00 — Zoe Daily 30 trial results: microbiome shifts in 2 weeks 36:00–40:00 — Prebiotics vs probiotics: why broad fiber wins 40:00–44:00 — Glyphosate and organic vs non-organic foods 44:00–48:00 — Mental health and gut-brain axis (depression, ADHD, anxiety) 48:00–53:00 — Mouse microbiome transfer experiments & human parallels 53:00–58:00 — Real-world impact: Zoe studies show improved energy and mood 58:00–1:01:00 — Menopause, metabolic shifts, and microbiome changes 1:01:00–1:05:00 — Gut-friendly habits: Tim Spector’s 6 rules 1:05:00–end — Wrap-up and personal gut health commi The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    59 min
  4. JUN 3

    How CREATINE is Used to Treat Depression

    Today,  I sit down with Dr. Nick Fabiano, MD, a resident psychiatrist, to explore the powerful connection between creatine supplementation and depression. We dive deep into current scientific evidence discussing how creatine, typically known for its athletic performance benefits, might significantly improve mental health and depressive symptoms.  Dr. Fabiano provides an overview of how creatine impacts brain chemistry, energy metabolism, and mood regulation. Whether you're a clinician looking for novel therapeutic approaches, someone battling depressive symptoms, or simply interested in cutting-edge mental health research, this episode offers valuable insights. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on creatine's potential role in mental health! Key Topics: What is creatine and how does it affect the brain?Clinical evidence linking creatine supplementation to improved depressive symptomsOptimal creatine dosing for mental health benefitsPotential mechanisms underlying creatine's antidepressant effectsFind Nick here: https://x.com/NTFabiano  Sponsors A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: BonCharge- Get 15% off any product when you visit https://boncharge.com/ Fatty15 - Get 15% off your 90-day Starter Kit when you visit fatty15.com/neuro and use the code NEURO at checkout The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    37 min
  5. MAY 29

    How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease in Women | Deep Sleep and Brain Health | A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Part 4

    What if one simple change could slash your Alzheimer’s risk by 36%? In Part 4 of A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease, I uncover the hidden brain dangers of sleep loss, especially for women in perimenopause and menopause. You’ll learn why disrupted sleep isn’t just exhausting, it’s accelerating cognitive decline. I’ll break down the science of the glymphatic system, the critical role of estrogen and progesterone in REM and deep sleep, and the exact strategies I use to optimize sleep quality. From hormone balance and temperature hacks to supplements and tech, this episode is your complete guide to protecting your brain overnight. Don’t let sleep sabotage your future, because your brain depends on it. Sponsors A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: David Protein - It's got no junk, no fake health claims, just a smart science-backed snack that supports lean muscle, appetite control, and recovery. Buy 4 cartons and get the 5th one for free. Just go to davidprotein.com/neuro. Momentous – Science-backed supplements trusted by elite athletes and experts. Whether you’re looking to improve recovery, performance, or overall wellness, Momentous has you covered. Use code NEURO for 20% off your order: https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro Goodwipes - If you want to upgrade your restroom ritual with good wipes, go to goodwipes.com, use code NEURO if you're shopping for them online. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    23 min
  6. MAY 20

    Can Resistance Training Help Women Build Muscle & Prevent Alzheimer’s?

    I'm excited to share my conversation with Stuart Phillips, where we dive deep into muscle building science - a topic that generates endless debate on social media. As someone who struggles with gaining muscle despite consistent training, I was shocked when Dr. Christopher Gardner told me muscle growth is "10% nutrition and 90% exercise." This contradicted everything I thought I knew, so I had to bring in Stu - widely considered the foremost expert on muscle development - to separate fact from fiction. The most fascinating insight for me was discovering that effective muscle building can happen across a wide range of repetition schemes - from as low as 3 reps to as high as 25 reps per set. This challenges the rigid "strength/hypertrophy/endurance" continuum that's dominated fitness advice for decades. Subscribe to The Neuroscience Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey. Episode Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Introduction 0:03:52 - How Protein & Exercise Affects Muscle Growth 0:08:16 - Do Men and Women Respond Differently to Exercise? 0:11:05 - Importance of Lifting Weights for Muscle Growth 0:13:09 - Exercise Routines for Aging and Maintaining Health 0:23:47 - Strength Training for Alzheimer’s Prevention 0:31:39 - HRT and Muscle Loss 0:35:30 - Genetic Factors in Muscle Building 0:39:38 - 4 Pillars of Healthy Living 0:43:07 - How GLP-1 Impacts Weight Loss and Muscle 0:48:20 - How Resistance Training Impacts Muscle Hypertrophy 0:58:41 - Gender Differences in Muscle Adaptation 1:02:42 - Conclusion  Sponsors A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: Caraway – Cook clean, live clean. Head to carawayhome.com/neuro and use code NEURO to get 10% off your next purchase. MUD/WTR - The coffee alternative. If you're ready to ditch the crash and sip smarter, go to mudwtr.com and use code NEURO to get 43% off + free shipping. Fatty15 - Get 15% off your 90-day Starter Kit when you visit fatty15.com/neuro and use the code NEURO at checkout The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    1h 9m
  7. MAY 13

    6 Proven Strategies to Prevent Alzheimer’s | A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s | Part 3

    Why are women twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease—especially during and after menopause? The answer goes far beyond age, and what I reveal in this episode might change how you think about your brain forever. In Part 3 of A Woman’s Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease, I uncover the hidden hormonal and genetic factors that put women at greater risk—and the steps you must take before symptoms ever begin. I’ll walk you through the six most powerful prevention strategies, the critical tests your doctor probably hasn’t mentioned, and the one conversation that could completely reshape your cognitive future. Sponsors A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: Branch Basics - That’s 15% off your New Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit at BranchBasics.com with promo code NEURO. Make the change today—because you and your family deserve better. Momentous – Science-backed supplements trusted by elite athletes and experts. Whether you’re looking to improve recovery, performance, or overall wellness, Momentous has you covered. Use code NEURO for 20% off your order: https://www.livemomentous.com/neuro Troscriptions – Unlock your cognitive potential with precision-dosed nootropics developed by medical experts. Whether you need more focus, clarity, or energy, Troscriptions offers innovative solutions. - Get 10% off: https://troscriptions.com/NEURO - https://troscriptions.com/discount/NEUROMAIL?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NeuroMail The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_ Twitter : @louisanicola_ YouTube: @Louisa Nicola The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman

    31 min
4.9
out of 5
376 Ratings

About

This podcast interviews the best experts in the world to bring emerging themes in athletic performance, neurology, sleep physiology and medicine. Louisa regularly consults for technology development companies, professional athletic organizations and consults with the biggest names in NBA, MLB and NFL. Louisa is on the scientific advisory board of Tonal, Hone Health, Klora and Momentous. Find Louisa on Instagram @louisanicola_

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