Join us on this episode of Body Banter as we welcome Valerie DeLeon, Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Florida and Past-President of the American Association for Anatomy. We explore the treatment of historical skeletal remains and tissues in the broader science community and how the mistreatment of marginalized communities continues to influence science. Valerie delves into her recent work, including the publication of guidelines for the ethical management of legacy anatomical collections. Through her insights, she emphasizes the critical importance of respecting decedent and living individuals.

In this week's episode of Body Banter, Vancouver-based fashion designer and spinal cord injury advocate Chloë Angus shares her unique perspective on the human body through the lens of fashion design. Chloë reveals how her experiences in the fashion industry as well as her own experience of living with a spinal cord injury have deeply influenced her understanding and appreciation of the body. She talks about her involvement with Human in Motion, supporting the development of innovative wearable exoskeleton technology, and her vision for a future where this technology can empower folks with motion disabilities to move freely and independently.

In this episode of Body Banter, Dr. Lara Boyd joins us to talk about neuroplasticity, aka the brain’s capacity to change, from her perspective as a physical therapist-turned-neuroscience researcher. We discuss the inseparable relationship between the brain and the body, as well as how the sweet spot for changes in the brain occurs when we engage in activities that are challenging yet achievable. Lara also shares her 'recipe for brain health and longevity' (surprise, it’s really quite simple!) and how we all have the agency to change our brains.