Episodios

  • What Brain Health Experts Are Talking About Right Now: Science Updates from Brain Week 2026

    What Brain Health Experts Are Talking About Right Now: Science Updates from Brain Week 2026
    Apr 1 2026
    Brain science does not stand still. New research continues to reshape how we think about memory, prevention, nutrition, and lifelong cognitive health.In this special Brain Week 2026 episode of the Let’s Talk Brain Health! Podcast, your hosts brought together a panel of experts across neurology, neuropsychology, nutrition, sensory therapies, and aging science to discuss what is new, what is promising, and what still needs more evidence.This conversation focuses on separating hype from science. You will hear where the strongest research is emerging, what early warning signs deserve more attention, and how everyday habits influence brain health across the lifespan.If you want to stay current on brain health science and understand what actions are worth your attention right now, this episode brings the latest updates directly from the experts.What You Will Learn in This EpisodeEarly brain health signals adults often overlookWhy prevention starts decades before symptoms appear How sleep, smell changes, and hearing loss connect to brain healthWhat new research says about the MIND diet and dementia riskWhy personalized risk reduction matters more than one-size adviceThe role of caffeine and nutrition in cognitive performanceWhat emerging research says about sensory stimulation and brain functionWhy following evidence over trends protects your brain healthKey Topics CoveredEarly Detection and PreventionLearn why subtle changes such as sleep disruption, smell loss, and metabolic health may signal future neurological risk and why early action matters.Cognitive Aging and Risk ReductionUnderstand how lifelong learning, education, and cognitive engagement build resilience against cognitive decline.Nutrition and Brain HealthExplore the latest findings on the MIND diet, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and emerging areas like mushrooms and metabolic health.Brain Performance and Fueling CognitionLearn how caffeine and metabolic health influence daily brain performance.Emerging Therapies and Brain StimulationHear updates on areas such as 40 Hz sensory stimulation and aromatherapy research, and where the evidence currently stands.Key TakeawaysBrain health is built across decades, not just later in life.Prevention science continues to strengthen around lifestyle factors such as cardiovascular health, hearing health, sleep quality, and nutrition.There is no single solution for brain health. Personal risk factors matter.Patterns matter more than perfection when it comes to brain-healthy habits. Following credible science helps protect you from misinformation.Earn FREE CEs Join the Learn at Pinnacle app ⁠to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode!Featured Expert GuestsDr. Kellyann Niotis, MD – Preventive Neurology and The Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases of Florida Dr. Mitchell Clionsky, Ph.D. – Clinical Neuropsychology and author of Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your BrainMaggie Moon, MS, RD – Brain health nutrition and author of the MIND dietDr. Richard Gold, Ph.D. – 40 Hz sensory stimulation and applied neuroscience from Metta Mindfulness MeditationDr. Jenna Stedman, DCN – Performance nutrition at Master Nutrition LabPatricia Faust, MGS – Clinical aromatherapy and aging brain health at My Boomer BrainPrevious Podcast Episodes from Our PanelistsEpisode 58: Preventive Neurology: Brain Care Today to Protect Tomorrow with Dr. Kellyann Niotis, MDEpisode 3: Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain with Dr. Emily Clionsky, M.D. and Dr. Mitch Clionsky, Ph.D.Episode 42: The MIND Diet Update: A Scientific Approach for Brain Health & Dementia Prevention with Maggie Moon, MS, RD Episode 6: Brain Beats: How Sound Influences Cognition with Dr. Richard Gold, Ph.D.Episode 48: Enhancing Cognitive Performance Through Nutrition with Dr. Jenna Stedman, DCN Episode 36: Essential Oils for Brain Health: Insights From A Clinical Aromatherapist, Patricia Faust, MGS
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    48 m
  • Gaslighting and Brain Health: Recognizing Manipulation and Protecting Your Mind with Dr. Jennifer Fraser, Ph.D.

    Gaslighting and Brain Health: Recognizing Manipulation and Protecting Your Mind with Dr. Jennifer Fraser, Ph.D.
    Mar 18 2026
    Gaslighting does not only affect your emotions. It affects your brain.In this episode, Dr. Krystal Culler and Heather Elwell sit down with Dr. Jennifer Fraser, author of The Gaslit Brain, to examine what happens in the brain when someone experiences chronic gaslighting, bullying, and psychological harm.*Please note that this conversation was recorded live during a live Neuro Nook book club discussion and featured as part of the Virtual Brain Health Center’s annual Brain Week series.*This conversation connects neuroscience, workplace culture, and lived experience. You will learn how gaslighting disrupts memory, increases stress responses, and impacts cognitive performance. More importantly, you will learn what you can do to protect your brain.This discussion also explores institutional gaslighting, why even high-performing professionals are vulnerable, and how understanding the science can reduce self-blame and increase clarity.If you have ever questioned your memory, your judgment, or your sense of reality after a difficult workplace or personal experience, this episode provides language, science, and practical strategies.What You Will Learn in This EpisodeThe difference between normal conflict and gaslightingWhy gaslighting is designed to create confusionWhat chronic psychological stress does to the brainHow the amygdala and hippocampus respond to prolonged stressWhy highly capable professionals are often targetsHow workplace cultures can enable manipulationWhy language matters in recognizing psychological harmBrain-based strategies to strengthen cognitive resilienceKey TakeawaysGaslighting follows patterns. Learning those patterns helps you see clearly.Your brain is wired for trust. That makes manipulation difficult to recognize.Psychological harm can produce real neurological effects including: stress overload, memory disruption, and cognitive fatigue.Recovery is possible. Neuroplasticity means the brain can repair and adapt.Awareness is protection. Naming the behavior reduces its power.Practical Brain Health Strategies DiscussedStrengthen awareness of your environment and patterns of behaviorBuild a more precise emotional vocabulary to better interpret stress signalsPrioritize psychological safety and supportive relationshipsSlow down decisions when something feels offQuestion assumptions and look for evidence before accepting claimsStay socially connected during recovery rather than withdrawingLearn More About Dr. Jennifer FraserWebsite: BulliedBrain.comPsychology Today column: The Bullied BrainPodcast: The FEMCAST Listen to host, Dr. Krystal Culler’s conversation with Dr. Jennifer Fraser on her podcast, The FEMCAST titled, “How 'Psychopath Puppet Masters' Destroy Careers (and How to Escape)” on iTunes, Spotify, or Substack or watch on YouTubeRelated Resources MentionedLearn more about BrainHQ brain training platform from our previous podcast conversation with their lead scientist Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D. “What the Latest Brain Training Science Means For Your Brain Health” Previous podcast conversations with Dr. Jennifer FraserListen now: Exposing Gaslighting: What it Does to the Brain and How to HealListen now: Understanding the Neuroscience of Bullying & Its Impact on the BrainExplore the written summary of Neuro Nook Book Club discussion on the gaslit brainKey Message From This EpisodeGaslighting loses power when it is recognized and named. Protecting your brain starts with understanding how manipulation works and trusting your ability to question what does not feel right.Support the PodcastIf this episode helped you better understand brain health and psychological safety:Share this episode with someone who may benefitLeave a review to help others find the showSubscribe for future brain health conversationsContactHave a topic you would like explored on the podcast?Email: podcast@virtualbrainhealthcenter.com
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    46 m
  • Brain-Based Behavior Chance: How to Build Healthy Habits in Daily Life with Trish Turn, MS, NBC-HWC

    Brain-Based Behavior Chance: How to Build Healthy Habits in Daily Life with Trish Turn, MS, NBC-HWC
    Mar 5 2026
    Episode SummaryWhy is it so difficult to change habits even when you deeply care about the goal?In this episode of the Let’s Talk Brain Health Podcast, Dr. Krystal Culler, DBH, MA, sits down with returning guest Trish Turo, NBC-HWC, health educator/researcher & brain health coach, to explore habits and behavior change through a brain-based lens.Together, they unpack how habits form, why resistance shows up, and what is happening inside the brain when we try to change routines. This conversation focuses on real-life behavior change, not ideal conditions. You will learn how brain systems such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex influence motivation, fear, and follow-through.This episode also explores how shame, setbacks, and past experiences shape the stories we tell ourselves about our ability to change. Instead of relying on willpower alone, Trish shares practical strategies that help you work with the brain rather than against it.If you have ever said, “I know what to do, but I can’t seem to do it,” this conversation will help you understand why and what to do next.What You’ll Learn in This Episode• The difference between a behavior and a habit• Why motivation often shows up after action rather than before it• How the brain’s habit loop works: cue, routine, reward• Why the amygdala can make behavior change feel threatening• How past experiences and memories influence your willingness to try again• The role of shame and self-talk in habit formation• Why social support improves long-term behavior change• Practical ways to make habit change easier for your brainPractical Brain Health Tips from This EpisodeStart smallFocus on one change at a time instead of trying to overhaul everything at once.Use habit stackingPair a new habit with something you already do daily.Anchor your habits to your valuesConnect behavior change to something meaningful, such as family, health, or purpose.Create visual remindersPhotos or objects connected to your values can reinforce daily choices.Practice self-compassionYour brain is designed to protect you from change. Progress requires patience.Try something more than onceYour brain needs repetition to build new neural pathways.Spend time in natureEven small moments outside can support brain health and regulation.About the GuestTrish Turo, NBHWC, is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, brain health educator, researcher, and registered yoga teacher. She holds a master’s degree in health psychology and has spent more than a decade helping individuals and organizations support behavior change and healthy lifestyle habits.Trish has presented at national conferences, served on national committees, and worked across digital healthcare organizations. She is also the author of "A Kid’s Book About Healthy Habits" and focuses on making brain health education accessible to people of all ages.Connect with Trish TuroLinkedIn: Trish Turo, MS, NBC-HWCInstagram: @Coach_Trish LinkTr.ee: Coach_TrishPrevious Podcast Episode Mentioned In This ConversationUnveiling the Habenula: The Neuroscience of Behavior Change with Dr. Kyra Bobinet, MD, MPHKey TakeawayHabits shape daily life more than motivation ever will. When you understand how your brain responds to change, you reduce shame and increase your ability to follow through. Sustainable behavior change starts with small steps, patience, and learning to work with your brain’s natural tendencies.Listener Question or Topic Suggestion?Have a brain health topic you would like covered on the podcast?Email: podcast@virtualbrainhealthcenter.comSupport the PodcastIf you found this episode helpful:• Share it with someone who could benefit from it• Leave a review to help others discover the showYour brain health matters. Thank you for investing in it.
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    42 m
  • Music and Memory Care: How Your “Time of Life” Songs Support Cognitive and Emotional Health with Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC

    Music and Memory Care: How Your “Time of Life” Songs Support Cognitive and Emotional Health with Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC
    Feb 18 2026
    Music reaches your brain fast! It activates memory, movement, emotion, and connection in seconds.In this episode, host Dr. Krystal L. Culler, DBH, MA, sat down with Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC, creator of Musical Memory Care to explore how music functions as a whole-brain and body workout. We focus on one powerful idea—the “time of your life” effect.Research shows the music you loved between roughly ages 13 and 27 leaves a lasting imprint. Those songs shape identity. They anchor memory. They often remain accessible even during cognitive change.Shannon shares how she moved from professional jazz vocalist to serving older adults in memory care communities. What began as singing for residents evolved into an intentional, research-informed program that integrates rhythm, movement, emotional expression, and identity support.We explore:Why time-of-life music remains accessible in dementia How music activates the limbic system and supports emotional regulation The role of rhythm in movement, including Parkinson’s support Why intentional facilitation matters in memory care settings How music supports dignity, identity, and human connection Practical ways you can use music today for brain healthYou will hear real-world stories from Shannon’s work in memory care. Stories of individuals who had not spoken in years yet responded to music. Stories of rhythm supporting walking and daily tasks. Stories that reinforce this truth. Music is not entertainment alone. It is a neurological tool.If you are a caregiver, clinician, or family member supporting someone with cognitive change, this conversation gives you some practical suggestions. Play their music, not yours. Use rhythm to support movement. Build playlists rooted in their adolescence and young adulthood. Intention matters.If you are focused on your own brain health, start here:Create a “time of your life” playlist Use music to regulate mood and stress Pair rhythm with movement for exercise Share meaningful songs to deepen social connectionMusic does not require perfection. It asks for presence.About Shannon Wallace, CDP, CDC Shannon Wallace is a professional international jazz vocalist and the creator of Musical Memory Care, an interactive program serving active older adults and individuals living with all stages of dementia. Her work has reached participants across North America and in more than 40 countries. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Dementia Care Certified professional who integrates music, movement, and compassion into structured memory care experiences.Brain health lives in daily moments. Music is one of the most accessible tools you already have.00:00 Why Music Hits Fast: A Whole Brain + Body Workout00:49 Meet Shannon Wallace & the Musical Memory Care Mission02:23 The Grant Question That Changed Everything (Volunteering in Memory Care)05:48 Music Like Fitness: Intentionality, Regulation, and Engagement08:09 Your “Time of Life” Music Bump: Why Certain Songs Stick Forever11:41 Music for Mood & Nervous System Regulation (Limbic System, Empathy, Shifting State)15:10 Why Music Still Connects in Dementia—and the Need for Intentional Care20:45 Inside the Musical Memory Care Program: Reading the Room + Multi-Sensory Design23:32 Proof in Practice: Vivian Speaks Again & Building Trust Through Personal Connection29:28 Try This at Home: Playlists, Movement, Sharing Songs + Parkinson’s Rhythm Hack36:24 Closing Wisdom: Work-Life Balance, Where to Find Shannon, and Final TakeawaysResourcesDownload the free infographic on how music is a whole brain-body workout!Learn more about Shannon and her Musical Memory Care™ program on her website. Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn or her professional website for her vocal talent or speaking.Listen to our previous podcast conversation with Eyleen Braaten, Executive Director of the Giving Voice Chorus and Neuroscientist, Dr. Patricia Izbicki, Ph.D., to learn how singing can impact your brain.
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    40 m
  • The Brain Behind Addiction: Inside A Transformational Care Model-Where Hope Meets Science with Dr. Amber Deckard, Psy.D.

    The Brain Behind Addiction: Inside A Transformational Care Model-Where Hope Meets Science with Dr. Amber Deckard, Psy.D.
    Feb 4 2026

    In this episode, Dr. Amber Deckard, a neuropsychologist and leader in neurocognitive assessments at Caron's neuropsychological services, shares insights into the brain-first approach to addiction treatment.

    She explains how viewing addiction as a brain-based disorder rather than a moral failing changes the treatment paradigm. We delve into the latest brain science, revealing how substances physically alter brain areas responsible for reward, motivation, memory, decision-making, and self-control, challenging the misconception that addiction is a moral failing.

    Dr. Deckard discusses the impacts of substances on brain function and the importance of a holistic, evidence-based, and multidisciplinary approach to recovery.

    She highlights the role of various therapeutic modalities, including neurofeedback, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and personalized treatment planning, in supporting brain health and recovery.

    The episode aims to shift perspectives on addiction, emphasizing the brain's capacity for healing and the crucial role of integrated care.

    00:00 Introduction to the Brain First Approach

    00:05 Meet Dr. Amber Deckard, PsyD

    02:16 Understanding Addiction as a Brain-Based Disorder

    05:04 The Role of Family in Recovery

    07:38 Advanced Neurocognitive Assessment Tools

    13:54 Personalized Treatment Plans

    23:30 The Power of Neurofeedback

    29:12 The Comprehensive, Multimodal Approach to Brain Health

    33:25 Dr. Deckard's Personal Brain Care

    35:41 Message of Hope and Conclusion

    Resources

    • Learn more about Caron’s Neurospychological Service’s and its cutting-edge Neurocognitive Assessment Program on their website.
    • Connect with Dr. Amber Deckard on LinkedIn.
    • Listen to learn more about Brain HQ’s brain training program in our previous podcast episode “What the Latest Brain Training Science Means for Your Brain Health: A Conversation with the Lead Developer of BrainHQ, Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D.”
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    37 m
  • How Digital Cognitive Assessments Support Brain Health: Real World Insights with Professor Adrian Owen, Ph.D. of Creyos

    How Digital Cognitive Assessments Support Brain Health: Real World Insights with Professor Adrian Owen, Ph.D. of Creyos
    Jan 21 2026

    In this episode of the Let's Talk Brain Health! Podcast, we were joined by Professor Adrian Owen, a globally recognized neuroscientist, author, and Chief Scientific Officer of Creyos.

    The conversation delves into Professor Owen's extensive career in cognitive neuroscience, his groundbreaking research on brain function and dementia, and the innovative digital tools his team has developed to make cognitive assessment more accessible to the public.

    Key topics include the importance of brain health, the role of sleep in cognitive function, and practical strategies for monitoring and enhancing brain health using technology.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to take proactive steps to care for their brains and why it's crucial to measure cognitive health accurately and consistently.

    The episode wraps up with actionable steps listeners can take to prioritize their brain health daily. Join this enlightening conversation to learn more about protecting and optimizing brain function at every stage of life.

    00:00 Introduction to Let's Talk Brain Health! Podcast

    00:41 Meet Professor Adrian Owen

    03:11 Professor Owen's Journey into Neuroscience

    06:37 Understanding Dementia and Cognitive Decline

    12:24 The Importance of Brain Health and Cognitive Assessments

    18:04 The Role of Technology in Brain Health

    27:06 Future of Neuroscience and Brain Health

    31:34 Actionable Steps for Better Brain Health

    37:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Resources:

    • Learn more about Creyos' digital cognitive assessments on their website.
    • Explore Creyos’ blog for additional resources and information.
    • Stay in touch with Creyos on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and YouTube.
    • Questions? Email help@creyos.com for additional information.
    • Read more about his book “Into the Gray Zone” and sign up for his next book’s release on August 4, 2026, “Think Before You Think: Understanding and Mastering Executive Function.”
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    39 m
  • What the Latest Brain Training Science Means for Your Brain Health: A Conversation with the Lead Developer of BrainHQ, Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D.

    What the Latest Brain Training Science Means for Your Brain Health: A Conversation with the Lead Developer of BrainHQ, Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D.
    Jan 7 2026

    In this episode, we explore the science of brain fitness and how targeted brain training exercises can strengthen key brain systems with Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D.. Dr. Mahncke shares his journey from studying neuroscience at UCSF to leading brain plasticity-based training at BrainHQ.

    Learn how BrainHQ’s specific brain training program can improve memory, attention, decision-making, and overall brain resilience across 300+ published research studies.

    Discover the profound impact of brain plasticity, the significance of the groundbreaking INHANCE study, and practical tips on incorporating brain training into your daily life.

    Dr. Mahncke emphasizes that brain training is not just a trend but a scientific approach to maintaining and boosting brain health.

    Tune in to find out how you can intentionally train your brain at any age and better understand the notion of cognitive fitness.

    00:00 Introduction to Brain Fitness

    00:24 Meet Dr. Henry Mahncke, Ph.D.

    01:46 Personal Motivation and Early Career

    03:13 Graduate School and Discovering Brain Plasticity

    05:40 The Concept of Brain Fitness

    09:19 Brain HQ: The Science Behind Brain Training

    11:02 Understanding Brain Fitness and Training

    20:50 The Enhanced Study and Neuromodulatory Systems

    24:46 Exciting Beginnings: Launching the Study

    25:11 Study Design: Brain HQ vs. Ordinary Games

    26:18 Training Regimen and Compliance

    26:35 Breakthrough Results: Acetylcholine Levels

    27:43 Beyond Brain HQ: Broader Brain Health

    29:56 The Importance of Intensity in Brain Training

    32:58 Holistic Approach to Brain Health

    39:45 Practical Tips for Brain Training

    42:45 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Resources

    • Try BrainHQ’s brain training exercises for free on their website.

    • Explore the science behind BrainHQ in over 300+ research studies.

    • Learn more about the INHANCE study’s media coverage and results in the research article.

    • Learn more about brain health in BrainHQ’s “Better Brain Health” blog.

    • Connect with Henry on LinkedIn.

    • Stay in touch with BrainHQ on Instagram and Facebook.

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    48 m
  • Exploring Brain Health Through Reading and Book Club Engagement with LeAnne Stuver and Heather Elwell

    Exploring Brain Health Through Reading and Book Club Engagement with LeAnne Stuver and Heather Elwell
    Dec 22 2025

    In this episode, we delve into the incredible benefits of reading for brain health with guests Leanne Stuver, a nurse educator and Director of Lifelong Learning, and Heather Elwell, CEO of Brain Health Mentors.

    Learn how reading stimulates multiple brain areas, enhances social connections, and supports lifelong learning.

    Discover the advantages of different reading formats, genres, and even how book clubs can enrich your cognitive and social wellbeing.

    Join us as we discuss the science behind reading, offer practical tips, and share personal favorite book recommendations.

    This episode is filled with insights and strategies to help you integrate reading into your brain health routine.

    Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on how to make reading a key component of a happier, healthier life.

    00:41 The Brain-Boosting Power of Reading

    01:09 Meet Our Guests: Leanne Stuver and Heather Elwell

    03:14 How Reading Impacts the Brain

    07:30 The Benefits of Book Clubs

    10:00 The Neuro Nook Book Club

    22:04 Books vs. Audiobooks: What Science Says

    26:05 Genres and Their Unique Brain Benefits

    34:09 Rapid Fire Book Recommendations

    41:03 Final Thoughts and Tips for Better Brain Health

    Resources

    • Learn more about the Neuro Nook (Book Club)
    • Explore the Neuro Nook (Book Club) Reading List
    • View Our Neuro Nook Rx Infographic
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    42 m