The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast
The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast
Adel
Welcome to the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, UCLA Health's foremost podcast, an award-winning platform where we explore the intricate realm of brain health and human performance. I'm your host, Adel, a Sports Neurologist, and together, we embark on a captivating journey through the depths of science and personal stories.Our mission at the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast is simple yet profound: to enrich the human experience. We do this by combining the latest evidence-based practices with the power of vulnerable personal narratives. We believe that a deeper understanding of the brain, its vulnerabilities, and its remarkable resilience can provide us with insights into ourselves and enable us to become more proficient physicians, scientists, creatives, and, most importantly, improved human beings.In each episode, we delve into scientific breakthroughs that shape our understanding of the brain. We tackle the most pressing questions about brain health, traumatic brain injuries, and the secrets behind human performance. But we don't stop there. We also celebrate the invaluable experiences of individuals who have journeyed through the complexities of brain and neurological health, sharing their insights, triumphs, and challenges.Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to expand your knowledge, a scientist in pursuit of cutting-edge research, a creative looking for inspiration, or simply a curious soul eager to learn more about the brain, the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast is your trusted companion.Join us on this quest to evolve as better individuals, together. Subscribe, listen, and immerse yourself in a world where science and personal stories converge to unlock the potential of the human brain. Welcome to the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, UCLA Health's foremost and award-winning podcast - let's explore the mysteries of the mind and enrich our lives in the process.Subscribe for UNRELEASED CONTENT and more at: The BrainSPORT Podcast 
Resiliency & Overcoming Adversity: A Miraculous Recovery from a Spinal Cord Injury | Ryan Shazier
Join host Daniel Rafie and NFL veteran and former Pittsburg Steelers All-Pro defensive linebacker, Ryan Shazier, on this episode of the UCLA BrainSport Podcast. Ryan’s stellar career and his road to the NFL Hall of Fame was suddenly cut short by an on-field spinal cord injury. Ryan was given less than a 20% chance of walking again, but despite these odds, he was able to make a miraculous recovery and is now walking and leading a fulfilled life. The pair discuss the context of his injury and the physical and psychological consequences that resulted from it. They then go on to discuss Ryan’s mindset throughout his recovery and how he was able to achieve the recovery he did.Gain valuable insights from Ryan's experiences and learn how a strong mental approach can make a significant impact on success. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the power of mindset in the world of sports and beyond.Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction4:51 – A quote7:17 – An Addictive Mindset11:58 – Losing Greatness, Suddenly19:26 – Context to Ryan’s Spinal Cord Injury25:01 – Ryan’s Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy28:36 – Media Coverage of Ryan’s Injury30:27 – Ryan’s Faith39:22 – An Overcoming Mindset50:09 – Goal Setting58:38 – The Rehab Exercises1:02:42 – Ryan’s Relationship to Pain1:11:00 – The Identity Crisis1:19:11 – What is an Inspiration?1:24:13 – A Walking Miracle?1:27:11 – If you could go back…1:28:59 – Final WordsTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Jan 25, 2024
1 hr 34 min
The Science of Spirituality and Impact on Mental Health l Lisa Miller, PhD & Kevin Bickart MD, PhD
Dive into the exploration of spirituality in the latest UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast episode. Host Adel engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Lisa Miller, Columbia Psychology professor and author of "The Awakened Brain," along with Dr. Kevin Bickart, Neurobehavioral physician at UCLA.Join the trio as they discuss the meaning and science behind spirituality and its indispensable role in the human condition. Discover insights into the connection between spirituality and mental health, and how the absence of spirituality may contribute to mental illness.This episode offers a straightforward exploration of the topic, providing valuable insights into the impact of spirituality on our well-being. Tune in for a grounded discussion on the significance of spirituality in our lives. To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Dec 20, 2023
1 hr 36 min
Causes of Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Links to ADHD and Autism, Prevention & Treatment Tips l Chris Palmer, MD l Part B
In Part B of the Brain Energy BrainSPORT Podcast episode, your host Adel is joined by Dr. Chris Palmer, a distinguished Harvard psychiatrist and best-selling author of the book "Brain Energy." Together, they continue their exploration of the Brain Energy theory.The pair discuss the link between diet and mitochondrial function, including the role of the ketogenic diet. The conversation shifts to the connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD and Autism. Wrapping up, Dr. Palmer and Adel provide actionable strategies to avoid mitochondrial dysfunctionTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Nov 21, 2023
1 hr 28 min
Revolutionizing Mental Health: The Brain Energy Theory l Chris Palmer, MD | Part A
Visit https://www.brainsportpodcast.com to subscribe to the BrainSPORT Podcast and access exclusive content unavailable elsewhere. Join host Adel in this UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast episode featuring Dr. Chris Palmer, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the author of the best-selling book, Brain Energy. In part A of this two-part series, they dissect the Brain Energy Theory for Mental Illness.The pair assesses the current state of mental illness diagnosis and management, emphasizing certain shortcomings.The heart of the discussion is the Brain Energy Theory. The duo explore how mitochondrial dysfunction plays a key role in mental illness and the evidence to substantiate this theory.Delve into this scientific journey with Adel and Dr. Chris Palmer, as they discuss a new potential paradigm of mental health.To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Oct 27, 2023
1 hr 20 min
Unlocking the Secrets of Dopamine: Breaking Bad Habits, Mental Health, and Addiction Recovery with Dr. Anna Lembke
In this thought-provoking episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, host Adel delves into the enigmatic world of the dopamine neurotransmitter and its profound implications for mental health and addiction. Join us as we welcome the distinguished Dr. Anna Lembke, a psychiatrist at Stanford University and the celebrated author of the New York Times bestseller, "Dopamine Nation."Dr. Lembke, a recognized expert in the field, offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted role of dopamine in our lives. Together, they navigate the intricate relationship between this powerful neurotransmitter, mental illness, and the pervasive grip of addiction on our society.In this episode, we peel back the layers of dopamine's influence, from its crucial role in motivation to its darker side in the realm of addiction and withdrawal. Dr. Lembke generously shares her insights into the underlying mechanisms that fuel these processes, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of how dopamine shapes our behaviors and choices.However, it's not all theory and scientific jargon. Our dynamic duo doesn't just uncover the mysteries; they also provide actionable strategies to help break free from the clutches of bad habits and addiction. With Dr. Lembke as your guide, you'll gain invaluable tools to navigate this complex neurochemical landscape and regain control of your own well-being.Join us on this journey as we explore the fascinating interplay of dopamine, mental health, and addiction. In a world where these topics have never been more relevant, this episode offers not only insights but hope for a brighter, healthier future. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the complexities of the brain and its impact on your life.To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Oct 22, 2023
1 hr 10 min