Podcasts about Deep brain stimulation

Ask most people what a brain chip does and they will tell you it reads your mind. Dr. Michael Lawton implants these devices, and he says that is not what comes off them. He is President and CEO of Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, the hospital where Neuralink's first human implant was performed, and he has completed more than 10,000 brain operations and clipped around 5,500 aneurysms. Louisa sat down with him inside Barrow to find out what the electrodes actually pick up, how far the technology has come, and where it stops. He walks through the surgery itself. The device goes into the hand knob, one small lobule of the motor cortex, where 64 electrodes have already become 108. The threads carrying them are about a tenth the thickness of a hair, so a robot inserts them while avoiding every arteriole on the surface. You'll hear what Nolan Arbaugh, Neuralink's first patient, can now do with a cursor at world record speed, and why Lawton can't keep up with him in a head to head. *Reduce your risk of Alzheimer's with my science-backed protocol for women 30+:* https://go.neuroathletics.com.au/youtube-sales-page Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for evidence-based conversations at the intersection of brain science, longevity, and performance. _____ *TOPICS DISCUSSED* 00:00 Intro: The Brain Surgeon at Neuralink's First Hospital 00:39 The Guy Who Does the Cases Nobody Else Wants 02:17 A Day in the Life: 5:30am Starts and Three Surgeries 03:20 "Game Tape": Reviewing Every Operation Like an Athlete 04:24 The Surgeon Athlete and Why Surgery Is a Physical Skill 05:32 Fifty Years From Now: What Happens to Neurosurgery 06:11 The ROSA Robot and Mapping a Seizure Focus 08:16 Deep Brain Stimulation and Hitting an Exact Target 08:52 Will We All Be Operated On by Robots? 10:02 The Brain AVM: The One Case a Robot Can't Take 11:18 Why Bleeding Breaks a Robot: The Waymo Problem 13:15 What a Brain-Computer Interface Actually Does 14:49 The Hand Knob: 108 Electrodes in One Small Spot 15:50 Cursor Control at World Record Speed 16:31 Inside the Implant: Threads a Tenth the Width of a Hair 17:27 "No, the Chip Cannot Read Your Thoughts" 17:58 What the Device Really Reads: A Train of Spikes 19:18 From Movement to Sensation: What Comes Next 19:48 Why Restoring Sight Is So Much Harder 20:58 The 1943 Paper That Predicted All of This 22:37 Elon, Telepathy, and What's Actually Possible 23:00 Boosting Creativity and Intelligence in 50 Years 25:10 "When I Retire, We'll Be Treating Depression and Addiction" 26:04 Alzheimer's: Light Therapy and the Blood-Brain Barrier 27:11 Treating the Disease vs Preventing It 28:25 10,000 Operations: How He Feels About Robots Taking Over 29:54 Neuroplasticity: How Nolan's Brain Learned the Device 31:34 What Actually Changes at the Neuron Level 32:04 Patient Two and the Robotic Arm 32:42 5,500 Aneurysms: The Cases That Stay With Him 33:16 Cardiac Standstill: Cooling a Brain to 15 Degrees 35:46 What Separates a Great Surgeon From an Average One 36:17 Traits of Greatness: The Formula Nobody Has Cracked 37:21 The Phone Call in the Middle of a 16-Hour Surgery 39:35 "I Must Have Been Born for This" 41:26 Can You Tell How Old a Brain Is Just by Looking? 43:12 Why Alzheimer's Is Invisible in a Living Brain 44:14 What a Neurosurgeon Does to Protect His Own Brain 44:40 "Alcohol Will Be Viewed Like Cigarettes in the 60s" 45:13 Peptides, Injectables, and Zero Supplements 46:52 The Last Generation to Operate With Open Hands 48:10 How Louisa Found Him on Twitter in 2021 48:53 The Six Mysteries of the Mind 49:14 Which One Gets Solved First, and Which May Never 50:03 Is Consciousness in the Tissue? 51:39 Memory: The Circuitry We Still Can't Explain 53:18 Why Consciousness Is Harder Than Memory 55:12 Louisa's Father's Stroke 56:02 Advice for Anyone Watching a Parent Decline 56:21 His Sister's Brain Tumor and How He Carries It 57:38 A World Where Stroke Is an Outpatient Repair 58:40 Forty Years On, Finally at the Dawn _______ *Thank you to our sponsors* Timeline (Mitopure): https://timeline.com/neuro Mitopure now starts at $79 Ogee: https://ogee.com Use code NEURO for a discount on the Crystal Contour Collection Kion (Kion Aminos): https://getkion.com/neuro for a 20% discount Function Health: https://functionhealth.com/LouisaNicola Use code NEURO25 for a $25 credit _______ I'm Louisa Nicola - clinical neurophysiologist - Alzheimer's prevention specialist - founder of Neuro Athletics. My mission is to translate cutting-edge neuroscience into actionable strategies for cognitive longevity, peak performance, and brain disease prevention. If you're committed to optimizing your brain- reducing Alzheimer's risk - and staying mentally sharp for life, you're in the right place. Stay sharp. Stay informed. Join thousands who subscribe to the Neuro Athletics Newsletter → https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Biochemist Suzanne Pfeffer is an expert on the molecular roots of Parkinson's disease. Her work focuses on mutated proteins linked to Parkinson's risk. She's discovered, for instance, that drugs inhibiting one of the proteins can help neurons regrow primary cilia and stave off cell death, reversing disease progression. Since similar drugs are in clinical trials, her findings bring great hope for people with a subtype of Parkinson's and hopefully can be linked to earlier detection through warning signs like REM sleep disruptions and loss of smell. “This is precision medicine,” Pfeffer tells host Russ Altman of the future of Parkinson's disease on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast. Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu. Episode Reference Links: Stanford Profile: Suzanne Pfeffer Connect With Us: Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Suzanne Pfeffer, a professor of biochemistry at Stanford University. (00:03:25) Path into Parkinson's Research How Pfeffer's protein work led to a life-changing work on Parkinson's disease. (00:05:28) Parkinson's Primer The various causes and the effects of the disease on the brain and body. (00:10:26) Lewy Bodies and Dementia How Lewy bodies, synuclein, and dementia relate to Parkinson's disease. (00:11:56) Molecular Trafficking Pfeffer breaks down the effects of LRRK2 and GBA mutations in the brain. (00:16:10) Early Disease Changes Some of the early changes in the body and how they show up as symptomatically. (00:20:04) Current Treatments The limitations of symptom-focused treatments. (00:21:46) Treating Earlier Opportunities for slowing or reversing disease progression when detected earlier. (00:22:32) Targeting LRRK2 Current research on disease treatment & trial challenges. (00:27:33) The Value of Basic Science Why curiosity-driven research can unexpectedly lead to disease breakthroughs. (00:29:33) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: biomarkers, brain donation, and better Parkinson's treatments. (00:31:52) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send a Text to the Moms - please include your contact info if you want a response. thanks!The podcast episode featured a discussion with Dr. Martijn Figee and Dr. Alexander Charney from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai about deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a potential treatment for schizophrenia. The doctors explained that DBS is a neurosurgical procedure involving the implantation of electrodes to target specific brain circuits, offering a durable treatment option for severe, treatment-resistant symptoms like hallucinations and delusions. They shared that initial results from a small number of patients have been promising, with some experiencing immediate and significant symptom reduction. The treatment is currently in the experimental stage, with ongoing clinical trials at Mount Sinai and Johns Hopkins. The ideal patient for DBS would have chronic, medication-resistant symptoms and the ability to provide informed consent and comply with follow-up care. The conversation also touched on the challenges of schizophrenia research, the hope for future advancements, and the importance of participation in studies and brain donation for scientific progress.Link:https://icahn.mssm.edu/research/blauMindy and her book: https://mindygreiling.com/Randye and her book: https://randyekaye.com/Miriam and her book: https://www.miriam-feldman.com/Thanks for liking and sharing the podcast! Support the showPlease share and support the podcast so we can reach more people who need the info and support.Want to know more?Join our facebook page  Our websites:Randye KayeMindy Greiling Miriam (Mimi) Feldman

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 7-02-2026: Dr. Dawn devotes the first half of the show to a nuanced defense of GLP-1 receptor agonists, arguing the polarized debate treats obesity as a moral failure rather than a physiological one. She recounts the "Marilyn Monroe dress" moment that transformed semaglutide from diabetes drug into elite cosmetic tool, and pushes back on the puritanical framing that behavior change must be earned rather than pharmacologically enabled—noting we don't apply this logic to antihypertensives or statins. Dr. Dawn catalogs visceral fat as a genuine endocrine organ producing over 17 hormones, most of which drive self-perpetuating growth: leptin (this satiety hormone at high levels disables it's own brain receptor), IL-6, TNF-alpha (blocks insulin), resistin (increases insulin resistance and inflammation), PAI-2 (blocks clot breakdown, raising cardiovascular risk), retinol-binding protein 4 (impairs muscle glucose uptake), chemerin (recruits macrophages and directs fat to the belly), and visfatin. Only adiponectin declines with rising visceral fat. It improves insulin sensitivity, suppresses hepatic gluconeogenesis, and blocks IL-6 . Dr. Dawn describes GLP-1's neurobiological action: receptors in the hypothalamus, brainstem, hippocampus, and mesolimbic reward system, with the drugs quieting the brain's salience network so food loses its intrusive pull. Taste buds shift, sweet and salty become muted, and reward circuits stop firing on cheat foods—creating a window during which behavioral change becomes possible. Dr. Dawn frames group support through self-determination theory (autonomy, competence, relatedness), arguing GLP-1s create the cognitive bandwidth for behavioral programs to succeed. A Tufts study of patients discontinuing after 10% weight loss found those enrolled in behavioral support programs regained about three times less weight than usual-care controls, outperforming even medically-tailored meal plans. Group engagement doubled the time patients stayed on the medication. A November 2025 Nature study piggybacked on deep brain stimulation research at Penn. Electrodes implanted in the nucleus accumbens of post-bariatric patients recorded low-frequency brain activity surges during food-noise episodes on drug free patients. A third participant who started tirzepatide showed complete silencing of that signature—the first direct electrical confirmation that GLP-1s suppresses compulsive food thoughts in the reward center. RNA sequencing of adipose tissue from 25 obese patients before and after bariatric surgery, compared to 24 lean controls, revealed persistent epigenetic changes even after weight loss. Lipid-associated inflammatory macrophages drop but retain some of their pro-inflammatory epigenetics, explaining the well-known slippery slope back to obesity—and why Dr. Dawn suggests GLP-1s may work best as intermittent tools when behavioral maintenance starts slipping. An emailer asks about long-term smoking versus vaping data. Dr. Dawn notes there is no long-term data yet, but short-term evidence shows e-cigarettes contain nicotine, propylene glycol, reactive oxygen species, and nitrosamines, producing spirometry readings similar to mild COPD in otherwise-healthy vapers. Vaping over a year raises stroke relative risk by 1.62 and nearly doubles MI risk, and combining smoking and vaping produces a multiplicative rather than additive harm. Data on cancer will take decades to emerge. Researchers built a functioning underwater breathing apparatus for cockroaches with electrodes attached to brain and sensory organs allowing remote-controlled direction while preserving natural obstacle-navigation autonomy. The 10mm × 10mm sponge-based oxygen tank uses magnesium dioxide catalyzing hydrogen peroxide breakdown, delivering oxygen through silicone tubes to the roach's spiracles for up to three hours underwater. Deployemenet will improve search-and-rescue in flooded and collapsed structures where dogs cannot reach. A Science Advances paper from Yong Lin Kong's lab at Rice University describes 3D-printing electronic circuits directly onto living tissue. Researchers achieved microwave-focused annealing at sub-200-micrometer resolution. By selectively heating only conductive ink particles (copper, silver, gold) without damaging surrounding tissue, the technique enables printing circuits onto 3D-printed heart valves, tracheas, and ear scaffolds, potentially creating combined graft-and-sensor implants, ingestible diagnostic devices, and perhaps even decorative electronic tattoos. A single-shot reformulation of zanamivir (originally the inhaled flu drug Relenza) provided 76.1% flu protection in a 5,000-participant trial—far exceeding the roughly 40-45% offered by annual flu vaccines. Because zanamivir targets neuraminidase in a way that inactivates it if the virus tries to mutate around the drug, trapping newly-made viral copies inside their host cells, this approach works across all flu strains and could bypass the annual guessing game of trivalent vaccine formulation.

Welcome to the La French Tech Switzerland Podcast, where we shine a light on entrepreneurs and investors from Switzerland, France, and beyond.In each episode, we dive into the stories, breakthroughs, and bold visions shaping the next wave of innovation, from AI and Robotics to Deep Tech, Crypto, the Agent Economy, and Clean Tech.This is your dose of inspiration from the people building and funding tomorrow's game changers, right here at the heart of European innovation.--- Today, we are joined by Matthew Lapinski, co-founder and CEO of CLEE MEDICAL, who is working at the cutting edge of neurosurgical innovation, based in Geneva, Switzerland.In this episode, we explore how Clee Medical is developing the future of brain surgery by integrating ultra-high-resolution, real-time imaging and navigation directly into the surgical process. Matthew explains the limitations of current "standard of care" navigation, which often relies on pre-operative MRIs that do not account for brain shift or real-time tissue changes, and how their novel use of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is bridging that gap.In this conversation, we cover: Real-time OCT imaging versus traditional pre-operative planning, Addressing "brain shift" and the lack of real-time information in the OR (operating room), Closing the performance gap between junior and elite surgeons, Doubling surgical throughput for procedures like Deep Brain Stimulation, Clee Medical's transition from a hardware provider to a data-driven company, And so much more. Now let's get into the episode.--- The French Tech Switzerland podcasts are imagined, edited, hosted, and produced by ⁠⁠Raphael Grieco⁠⁠ (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠raphael-grieco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

THIS EPISODE IS AN EXCERPT -- Welcome to the La French Tech Switzerland Podcast, where we shine a light on entrepreneurs and investors from Switzerland, France, and beyond.In each episode, we dive into the stories, breakthroughs, and bold visions shaping the next wave of innovation, from AI and Robotics to Deep Tech, Crypto, the Agent Economy, and Clean Tech.This is your dose of inspiration from the people building and funding tomorrow's game changers, right here at the heart of European innovation.--- Today, we are joined by ⁠Matthew Lapinski⁠, co-founder and CEO of ⁠CLEE MEDICAL⁠, who is working at the cutting edge of neurosurgical innovation, based in Geneva, Switzerland.In this episode, we explore how Clee Medical is developing the future of brain surgery by integrating ultra-high-resolution, real-time imaging and navigation directly into the surgical process. Matthew explains the limitations of current "standard of care" navigation, which often relies on pre-operative MRIs that do not account for brain shift or real-time tissue changes, and how their novel use of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is bridging that gap.In this conversation, we cover: Real-time O C T imaging versus traditional pre-operative planning, Addressing "brain shift" and the lack of real-time information in the OR (operating room), Closing the performance gap between junior and elite surgeons, Doubling surgical throughput for procedures like Deep Brain Stimulation, Clee Medical's transition from a hardware provider to a data-driven company, And so much more. Now let's get into the episode.--- The French Tech Switzerland podcasts are imagined, edited, hosted, and produced by ⁠⁠⁠Raphael Grieco⁠⁠⁠ (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠raphael-grieco.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Damiaan Denys is a professor of psychiatry at the University of Amsterdam and the co-editor of "Deep Brain Stimulation: A New Frontier in Psychiatry."------------Keep Talking SubstackSpotifyApple PodcastsSocial media and all episodes------------Support via VenmoSupport on SubstackSupport on Patreon------------(00:00) Early Fascination With Human Nature(02:18) Difficult Father and Survival Through Understanding People(04:07) Boredom With Protocolized Psychiatry(06:34) From Anti-Psychiatry to Evidence-Based Medicine(10:01) What Psychiatry Is Supposed To Do(12:27) Defining Mental Disorders and Cultural Relativity(15:42) Choosing Psychiatry's Biggest Mysteries(18:04) Human Nature as Fundamentally Problematic(20:07) OCD, Addiction, and Dopamine Theory(23:41) Deep Brain Stimulation Origins(26:08) Understanding Obsessions and Compulsions(29:31) How Brain Stimulation Alters Brain Circuits(33:12) Instant Personality Changes After Stimulation(36:41) The Woman Who Cleaned Sixteen Hours Daily(40:04) Self-Confidence as the Hidden Mechanism(43:17) One Root Behind Many Psychiatric Disorders(46:09) Why Deep Brain Stimulation Remains Rare(49:22) Building a Future Around DBS Treatment(53:06) The Three-Part DBS Treatment Team(56:14) Depression Patient Rediscovers Music and Art(58:47) DBS as Stimulation of the Mind(01:01:08) Fragility, Vulnerability, and Human Connection(01:05:18) Soul, Transcendence, and Psychedelic Experiences(01:08:42) Leaving Academia and Returning to Human Beings(01:11:36) Autonomy, Modern Life, and Resisting Comfort

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) was developed as a targeted, adjustable therapy for movement disorders to improve earlier hard-to-control procedures. Victor Sung, M.D., discusses how UAB began performing DBS in 1997 and built one of the nation's highest-volume programs, now performing six surgeries a week. Learn how advances such as directional stimulation, brain-sensing devices, and remote programming are shaping care, and how DBS plays an important role in the future of UAB's Movement Disorders Division.

In this episode, Drs. Martijn Figee and Holly Lisanby talk about emerging approaches for helping some of our sickest patients This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm

Welcome to the Sterile Technique Podcast! It's the podcast about Surgical Technology. Whether you are a CST or CSFA, this podcast helps you earn CE credits and improve both your surgical knowledge and skills in the OR. This episode discusses the cover article of the January 2016 issue of The Surgical Technologist, the official journal of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST). The article is titled, "Stereotactic Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease". "Scrub in" at steriletpodcast.com and on Twitter, @SterileTPodcast (twitter.com/SterileTPodcast). This podcast is a Dybas Media production. Sound effects adapted from GarageBand and sindhu.tms at https://freesound.org/people/sindhu.tms/sounds/169065/ and licensed courtesy of https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/.

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, my guest is Dr. Casey Halpern, MD, a professor of neurosurgery at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. We discuss how deep brain stimulation and other neuromodulation approaches are being used to treat Parkinson's disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), binge eating disorder and depression-related symptoms. We also explore the brain circuits that drive compulsions, cravings and impulsivity, as well as emerging non-invasive tools for predicting and treating harmful behaviors. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman Function: https://functionhealth.com/huberman Rorra: https://rorra.com.huberman Timestamps (00:00:00) Casey Halpern (00:00:20) Neurosurgery, Deep Brain Stimulation (00:04:19) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Treatments (00:10:11) Sponsor: Function (00:11:49) OCD Brain Areas, Addiction (00:14:12) Nucleus Accumbens, Risk & Rewards; Binge Eating Disorder (00:18:28) Sponsor: AG1 (00:19:46) Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (00:27:31) Sponsor: Rorra (00:28:46) Awareness of Cravings, Severe Binge Eating Disorder (00:32:51) Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning & Predicting Impulsive Behavior (00:36:57) Acknowledgements Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are going to describe and explain neuropathy. What is it? Why am I experience the symptoms? What causes the symptoms to come and go? Is it due to my Parkinson's disease or just old age? This is the second of three episodes in the "Dr. Ospina Explains" series. In this episode, we learn all about neuropathies. So, if you have or had or anticipate having any tingling, numbness, burning, weakness is your feet or elsewhere, this is the episode for you. https://www.apdaparkinson.org/article/peripheral-neuropathy-parkinsons-disease/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Join Kay Mayordomo, PT, DPT as she dives into a case study involving a patient's experience post-DBS due to Parkinson's, revealing the ongoing challenges he faced with balance and safety. Despite good lower extremity strength, his reactive postural control was lacking, leading to frequent falls. We focused on improving his gait, safety awareness, and even floor recovery techniques to empower him and reduce caregiver burden.   Want to make sure you stay up to date in all things Geriatrics in less than 3 minutes every other week? Join thousands of others in our free MMOA Digest Email list - https://institute-of-clinical-excellence.kit.com/a3837f54b7

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.  Guest: Lauren Jackson, M.D.  Deep brain stimulation is an established management option for Parkinson's Disease. It's a neurosurgical procedure in which thin electrodes are implanted into various areas of the brain and then connected to a pulse generator that produces electrical stimulation which modulates abnormal brain activity. The procedure has the potential to improve the quality of life in those with Parkinson's by reducing motor symptoms including tremor, rigidity and bradykinesia. It also enables a reduction in doses of dopaminergic medications. Who's a candidate for this procedure? Is there an optimal time in the course of the disease to perform it? What can patients expect in terms of symptom improvement? How long do patients see benefits? These are some of the questions I'll be asking my guest, Dr. Lauren Jackson, a neurologist from the Department of Neurology at the Mayo Clinic. The topic for this podcast is “Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease”.  Connect with us! Mayo Clinic Talks Podcast Season 6 | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development 

I love bringing you innovative ideas that are improving the lives of people with Parkinson's—and this one truly surprised me. I never thought learning to play the harmonica would make the list, but here we are. In this episode, I share the story of an inspirational physical therapist in Hawaii who received a grant to study how learning the harmonica can impact speech in people with Parkinson's disease. Even though it was a small study, the results were encouraging, and he's now expanding his work to bring this creative therapy to more people. It turns out the harmonica isn't just about making music—it's a powerful tool for strengthening breathing, mouth muscles, and coordination, all of which are essential for clear speech. Similar to established speech therapies, this approach helps build vocal strength and breath control, but with a fun and engaging twist that keeps people motivated. To make it accessible, he's even creating a program-in-a-box that includes everything you need: a harmonica, a lesson book, and access to a companion website and YouTube tutorials.You have to listen to this episode—even if you're not musically inclined. This is about so much more than music; it's about discovering creative, effective ways to improve quality of life. https://harmonicaparkinsonsproject.com/   (Lauching soon) kevin.lockette@bsci.com (email address for our guest) https://store.bookbaby.com/Book/the-harmonica-parkinsons-project  (purchase book) Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

The standard treatment plan for Parkinson's disease (PD) typically begins with medications to help manage symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen or medications may become less effective over time. If this happens, more advanced treatment options may be considered, such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), pump medications, or focused ultrasound. Understanding the potential benefits and risks of each option, and discussing them with your care team, can help you make an informed decision about the next steps in your treatment plan. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Arjun Tarakad, Associate Professor of Neurology at Baylor College of Medicine, a Parkinson's Foundation Center of Excellence, and Samantha Helton, a person living with young-onset Parkinson's. Mrs. Helton shares her first-hand experience undergoing DBS, including what motivated her to say "yes" to surgery, while Dr. Tarakad discusses what to expect before, during, and after DBS surgery. Follow and rate us on your favorite podcast platform to be notified when there's a new episode! Let us know what other topics you would like us to cover by visiting parkinson.org/feedback. 

Ever wondered if physical therapy really helps after deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's? Let's dive in with Kay Mayordomo, PT, DPT. In this episode, we explore a randomized pilot study on deep brain stimulation (DBS) and its impact on patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). While DBS can help with tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, many still struggle with balance and gait issues post-surgery. What does the research say about PT after deep brain stimulation?   #ParkinsonsDisease #DeepBrainStimulation #PhysicalTherapy Want to make sure you stay on top of all things geriatrics? Go to https://MMOA.online to check out our Free eBooks, Lectures, & the MMOA Digest!

In this episode we explore Tai Chi for Parkinson's disease  - how this gentle, low-impact mind–body practice can support people living with the condition. As we know, Parkinson's affects movement, balance, and coordination due to changes in the brain's dopamine system. We will highlight how Tai Chi's slow, controlled motions can help counter these challenges. We spoke with a long time Tai Chi instructor who has modified his instructions to include all people with Parkinson's. He focuses on key benefits backed by research, such as improved balance, reduced risk of falls, better posture, and increased flexibility. He describes how Tai Chi emphasizes weight shifting, body awareness, and deliberate movement—skills that are especially valuable for individuals with Parkinson's. Other benefits may be cognitive and emotional, including reduced stress and improved focus. Overall, Tai Chi is a complementary therapy—not a cure—that can be integrated alongside medical treatment to help manage symptoms and promote overall well-being. Box4Bucks fitness challenge fundraiser. To donate click this link. https://give.michaeljfox.org/box4bucks  Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Generalised epilepsy is often described as involving the whole brain at once. But does it start all at once? Dr. Frederic Schaper discusses research mapping subtle brain abnormalities to shared brain networks in generalised epilepsy, and how these networks overlap with targets used for deep brain stimulation. The conversation explores what this may reveal about seizure mechanisms and future neuromodulation research. This episode is sponsored by EASEE® by Precisis GmbH and had no influence over the editorial content or discussion. Learn more about EASEE® here: https://precisis.de/en   

At the Parkinson's Experience podcast, we love a powerful, uplifting story — and this is one you won't forget. After battling Parkinson's disease for nine years, Hank Bode passed away in January 2025. Throughout that journey, Hank and his son Lincoln closely followed the work of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, inspired by its commitment to directing 100% of donations to Parkinson's research and its relentless pursuit of a cure. To honor his father and raise funds for Parkinson's research, Lincoln decided to do something extraordinary. As a member of Team Fox, he took on the World Marathon Challenge — running 7 half marathons in 7 days across 7 continents. Beginning January 31, 2026 in Antarctica, Lincoln raced through Cape Town, Perth, Dubai, Madrid, Brazil, and finished in Miami on February 6, 2026. For seven days his life was run, eat, fly, sleep then repeat.  He pushed his limits, carried his father's legacy across the globe, and completed the challenge with a story that will inspire anyone facing adversity. You dont want to miss this one. https://give.michaeljfox.org/fundraiser/6877830 https://www.instagram.com/team.fox.777/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

This is the first episode in a three-part series I'm calling Dr. Ospina Explains. In this series, we'll dive into topics many of you have been asking about recently. One of my favorite Movement Disorder Specialists, Dr. Ospina, has a wonderful way of explaining all things Parkinson's in terms that are easy for the rest of us to understand. I hope you'll tune in to all three parts as they're released — I truly believe you'll learn a lot. We're starting with Botox. Like many people, I used to think Botox had only one purpose — cosmetic. But after speaking with Movement Disorder Specialist Dr. Marie Ospina, I learned that Botox can actually help treat several symptoms that occur in people living with Parkinson's. You'll discover exactly what those symptoms are when you listen to my conversation with Dr. Ospina. I think you may be surprised — and you might even find yourself asking your MDS or neurologist whether Botox could help relieve some of your pain or muscle tightness. Stay tuned! Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Dr. Read Montague, PhD, is a professor and director of the Center for Human Neuroscience Research at Virginia Tech and an expert in how dopamine and serotonin shape human learning, motivation and decision-making. We discuss how they impact focused effort in the context of short- and long-term goals of all kinds. Also, how SSRIs and low-effort, high-engagement activities reduce the rewarding properties of dopamine, and how AI algorithms are revolutionizing understanding of the brain. Episode show notes are available at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman David: https://davidprotein.com/huberman Joovv: https://joovv.com/huberman Function: https://functionhealth.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Timestamps (00:00:00) Read Montague (00:02:54) Dopamine, Motivation & Learning (00:08:49) Reward Prediction Error, Expectations (00:12:24) Sponsors: David & Joovv (00:14:54) Foraging, Dating, Expectations vs Outcomes; AI (00:23:36) Dopamine, Expectation, Motivation; Forward Drive; Dopamine "Hits" (00:29:58) Baseline Dopamine & Fluctuations; Parkinson's Disease (00:34:36) Movement, Urgency; ADHD, Bee's Dance, Explorer vs Focus Mode (00:42:29) Sponsor: AG1 (00:43:40) Social Media, ADHD; Explorers vs Task-Based, Combat (00:50:54) Effort, Learning; Social Media & Phones, Resisting Behaviors (01:01:36) Serotonin & Dopamine, Opponency, SSRIs (01:11:21) Hunger, Dopamine; Negative Feedback, Learning, Trauma; Torture (01:18:34) Drugs of Abuse & High Dopamine (01:19:48) Sponsor: Function (01:21:35) Trauma & Dopamine Adaptation (01:27:34) SSRIs, Dopamine, Positive Experiences (01:29:50) Deep Brain Stimulation; Measuring Dopamine & Serotonin in Humans (01:36:16) Sleep; Divorce; Science is a Contact Sport (01:45:14) Long-Term Motivation, Learning How to Fail, Tool: Kids & Sports (01:54:14) Sponsor: LMNT (01:55:34) Meditation, Breathing, Learning; Dopamine as a Currency (02:04:38) Function of Sleep, Motivation; Time Perception & Dopamine, Tracking Time (02:13:18) LLMs, AI, Uses & Problem Solving (02:18:33) Future Projects, Commercial Brain-Machine Interfaces; Concentration (02:25:57) Dopamine "Hits"?; Depression & Schizophrenia; Quitting (02:30:17) Dopamine & Serotonin Misunderstandings; Internal Satisfaction; Motivation (02:35:58) Serotonin Syndrome; Acknowledgements (02:38:31) Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow, Reviews & Feedback, Sponsors, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you have trouble sleeping? It's a topic you can't avoid once you reach a certain age. And while sleep problems are common in people with Parkinson's disease, they certainly aren't limited to them. Because of that, treatment is often the same as it is for anyone else. Until researchers uncover more specific biological causes in Parkinson's—progress is being made—we rely on standard, evidence-based treatments for insomnia. In this episode, we speak with an expert about one such treatment: a non-medication approach called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, or CBT-I. It helped me tremendously, and I hope you'll listen. It may be something you want to try. https://cbti.directory/ Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Dysphagia in Parkinson's disease is not one-size-fits-all, and treatment decisions shouldn't be either.In this episode of Swallow Your Pride, Theresa is joined by PD Dr. Bendix Labeit, MBA, neurologist and clinician-scientist, and Jule Hofacker, MSc, speech-language pathologist and PhD student in neurogenic dysphagia, to explore how Parkinson's treatments impact swallowing. They discuss how dopaminergic medication […] The post 388 – Parkinson's, Swallowing, and Deep Brain Stimulation: What Clinicians Need to Know appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Dr. Josh Eloge, Associate Director for the Woman's Board Treatment Research Center, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Rush University Medical Center, and Founder of Connected Neuroscience has a focus on treatment-resistant depression which is defined as depression that is not relieved by at least two first-line medications. Research has identified that TRD is associated with hyperactivity in a specific brain region, shifting attention from a chemical view of depression to a neurobiological one.  Research on deep-brain stimulation and implantable technology is demonstrating neuromodulation and reductions in hyperactivity. Josh explains, "So depression, kind of a low mood, is something that is universally experienced, right? It's part of the human condition to a certain extent. However, when a low mood persists for most of the time and is accompanied by problems with being able to enjoy things, disruptions in sleep, appetite, or even thoughts about life not being worth living, one might be experiencing something called a major depressive episode, part of a major depressive disorder. And this is a specific psychiatric disorder that requires attention. Frankly, there are poor outcomes associated with this. About one in five Americans will experience a major depressive episode at some time in their life, so it's a little bit more common than people might think, and there are some effective treatments. So in my work, both seeing patients and in the research that I do here at Rush, we're looking at major depressive episode and trying to think how can we best treat this disorder to get people back to being able to enjoy things that they like to do, being with their family, have meaningful work, these sorts of things." "However, the research also shows that about a third of patients who try these different medications don't ultimately get the response that we are hoping for. And this has been termed treatment-resistant depression - when you try at least two of these first-line medications, but the symptoms are still present, and this is where a lot of the research that we've been working on in this specific population has been focused on." #ConnectedNeuroscience #MentalHealth #Neuroscience #DeepBrainStimulation #TreatmentResistantDepression #MedicalResearch #Innovation #RushUniversity #BrainHealth #ClinicalTrials #Psychiatry #NeuroModulation #DBS #TRANSCENDstudy #TRD connectedneuroscience.com Download the transcript here  

Dr. Josh Eloge, Associate Director for the Woman's Board Treatment Research Center, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the Rush University Medical Center, and Founder of Connected Neuroscience has a focus on treatment-resistant depression which is defined as depression that is not relieved by at least two first-line medications. Research has identified that TRD is associated with hyperactivity in a specific brain region, shifting attention from a chemical view of depression to a neurobiological one.  Research on deep-brain stimulation and implantable technology is demonstrating neuromodulation and reductions in hyperactivity. Josh explains, "So depression, kind of a low mood, is something that is universally experienced, right? It's part of the human condition to a certain extent. However, when a low mood persists for most of the time and is accompanied by problems with being able to enjoy things, disruptions in sleep, appetite, or even thoughts about life not being worth living, one might be experiencing something called a major depressive episode, part of a major depressive disorder. And this is a specific psychiatric disorder that requires attention. Frankly, there are poor outcomes associated with this. About one in five Americans will experience a major depressive episode at some time in their life, so it's a little bit more common than people might think, and there are some effective treatments. So in my work, both seeing patients and in the research that I do here at Rush, we're looking at major depressive episode and trying to think how can we best treat this disorder to get people back to being able to enjoy things that they like to do, being with their family, have meaningful work, these sorts of things." "However, the research also shows that about a third of patients who try these different medications don't ultimately get the response that we are hoping for. And this has been termed treatment-resistant depression - when you try at least two of these first-line medications, but the symptoms are still present, and this is where a lot of the research that we've been working on in this specific population has been focused on." #ConnectedNeuroscience #MentalHealth #Neuroscience #DeepBrainStimulation #TreatmentResistantDepression #MedicalResearch #Innovation #RushUniversity #BrainHealth #ClinicalTrials #Psychiatry #NeuroModulation #DBS #TRANSCENDstudy #TRD connectedneuroscience.com  Listen to the podcast here

The World Parkinson Coalition is bringing its triennial World Parkinson Congress to Phoenix in May 2026—the first time the Congress has been hosted in the U.S. since 2016. This is truly a can't-miss event for anyone in the Parkinson's community. The Congress will bring together approximately 4,000 attendees from around the world, including researchers, healthcare professionals, people with Parkinson's, and care partners. It's a unique opportunity to learn about the latest research, emerging therapies, and the global effort to improve care—while also connecting with an incredible community of people and resources. Guest, Eli Pollard, describes the gathering as an opportuntity to cross pollinate ideas with peers around the world - all working to cure the disease. I'm especially excited to share that I've been invited to serve on the local organizing committee and the support group leadership subcommittee. I can confidently say this will be an important and inspiring gathering of the world's Parkinson's experts, with some fun events mixed in as well.

This year I have been highlighting some of local areas in the U.S. where people with Parkinson's take classes designed for their needs, provide social support, and community. It is truly magical to have this kind of central location just focused on your needs as a person with Parkinson's. Just last month we highlighted Parkinson's Body & Mind in Connecticut. They have done and continue to provide spaces where PWP can gather for exercise, wellness and community programs – all for free.  If you didn't listen to that episode, check it out soon. In this episode, we talk with the co-founders of InMotion, which offers community-based wellness programs for people with Parkinson's disease. They provide this service free of charge in the greater Cleveland area and online. They talk about giving People with Parkinson's the "power to change the script "and to "feel better every day." This is a true success story, and they continue to learn and grow.  Learn more by listening to this conversation with Dr. Karen Jaffe and Ben Rossi of In Motion. How might you form a similar organization in your part of the country to provide valuable wellness programs and a greater sense of community? Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   https://beinmotion.org/  

While often overshadowed by better known movement disorders, dystonia affects thousands and can dramatically affect quality of life. This episode explains what dystonia is, why it frequently appears alongside Parkinson's, and what therapies - from medications to DBS to physical therapy – are helping people regain control. So, listen on as a movement disorder specialist, Dr. Niemann, breaks down dystonia. He helps us understand symptoms, treatment options and everyday strategies for living your best life with dystonia. https://www.barrowneuro.org/person/nicki-niemann-md/ https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Toronto journalist Anna Mehler Paperny had experimental surgery that placed electrodes in her brain in the exact location neurologists believe could be the source of her depression. She's part of a clinical study out of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre that uses deep brain stimulation to treat mood disorders. She speaks about the procedure and her hopes that the study, a first of its kind in Canada — will lead to a better understanding of the physiology of depression and its treatment.

This year I have been highlighting some of local areas in the U.S. where people with Parkinson's take classes designed for their needs, provide social support, and community. It is truly magical to have this kind of central location just focused on your needs as a person with Parkinson's. If this exist in your area, like Power for Parkinson's in Austin and my guest today from Parkinson's Body & Mind in Connecticut, please take advantage of it.  Exercise is the only proven way to slow the progression of the disease. Let's exercise and build a community together. Lynn Hagerbrant is the co-founder of Parkinson's Body & Mind. It is a not-for-profit organization that provides exercise classes in partnership with local YMCAs and now offer them virtually.  They have a speaker series, support groups and mentorships. It is a one stop shop for PwP and their care partners. Most this is free for the PWP and their care partner removing a barrier for some to access these kinds of wellness programs. Learn more by listening to this conversation with Lynn. How might you form a similar organization in your part of the country to provide valuable classes and a greater sense of community? https://www.parkinsonsbodyandmind.org/ https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches  Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Who doesn't like magic tricks? I love watching magicians trying to surprise the audience with their slight of hand tricks. Always fascinates me and asking how do they do that. What does this have to do with the Parkinson's Experience? Well, my guest today turned to learning magic after he was diagnosed with PD and could no longer work as a nurse. Although his main symptom is bradykinesia or slowness of movement, he is able to perform magic with a little help from getting Deep Brain Stimulation surgery. He performs and has recruited a community of magicians to join him is raising awareness of Parkinson's and fundraise for PD research. His organization is called Slow Motion Magic, and his book and fundraiser is called Conjuring for a Cure. This is an inspirational, positive story you don't want to miss. Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches  https://www.amazon.com/s?k=conjuring+for+a+cure&crid=4BAMLO9ZLUWQ&sprefix=conjuring+for+%2Caps%2C229&ref=nb_sb_ss_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker_1_14 https://slowmotionmagic.org/   

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 10-02-2025: Dr. Dawn opens by explaining how blood pressure treatment guidelines have been corrected back to 140/90 after the problematic 2015 SPRINT study temporarily changed recommendations to 120/80. That study used ideal measurement conditions - five minutes of quiet sitting, perfect cuff sizes, compliant patients - creating unrealistic targets that caused elderly patients to faint and break hips. The Veterans Administration and major cardiology organizations now recommend treating to 140/90, with statins only for LDL above 190 or 12% ten-year cardiovascular risk. An emailer asks about claims linking Tylenol to autism. Dr. Dawn thoroughly debunks this, explaining that Swedish studies of 2.5 million children found no association when controlling for sibling comparisons. She notes autism rates remained flat from 1960-1990 despite widespread Tylenol use, then spiked after DSM-4 in 1994 and DSM-5 in 2013 broadened diagnostic criteria. Recall bias skews studies since mothers of autistic children are asked leading questions about past Tylenol use during pregnancy when fever treatment was medically necessary. She discusses RFK Jr.'s mixed positions, comparing him to Isaac Newton who excelled at physics but believed in astrology. While criticizing vaccine misinformation, Dr. Dawn strongly supports RFK's stance on ultra-processed foods. She describes NIH researcher Kevin Hall's studies showing people consume 500 extra calories daily on ultra-processed diets versus whole foods, even when nutrients are matched. The US produces 15,000 calories per person daily, with the food industry engineered to promote overconsumption through hyper-palatable fat-sugar-salt combinations. A caller asks about Healthcare 4.0 plans for biometric tracking bracelets and digital twins. Dr. Dawn discusses privacy concerns around constant health monitoring and data collection, noting that while early disease detection could be valuable, mandatory participation raises serious civil liberties issues. She acknowledges voluntary research projects like the Million Man Study but emphasizes the importance of consent and protection against unauthorized data access by advertisers or government agencies. An emailer shares research on ultrasound brain stimulation helmets as alternatives to surgical electrode implants. Dr. Dawn explains how 256-element phased ultrasonic arrays can target brain regions like the visual cortex with high precision mechanical perturbation, potentially treating Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and depression without surgery. The technology remains experimental, requiring MRI guidance, but could become portable and dramatically improve quality of life for neurological conditions currently requiring invasive deep brain stimulation. A caller with adrenal cancer asks about fasting-mimicking diets. Dr. Dawn explains that 14-hour fasting before chemotherapy improves outcomes because healthy cells can downshift metabolism while cancer cells cannot. Cancer cells rely only on glycolysis without mitochondrial function, making them vulnerable during fasting states. She recommends chronotherapy - scheduling treatments during fasting periods - and expresses optimism about new cancer therapies like CAR-T cells and CRISPR technologies. An emailer asks about inulin fiber for fatty liver disease. Dr. Dawn explains how this fiber found in chicory, Jerusalem artichokes, and root vegetables stimulates gut bacteria to break down fructose before it reaches the liver, preventing fructose-induced hepatic lipogenesis. Inulin supplementation protects against fatty liver disease, increases antioxidant production, and helps with obesity by reshaping the gut microbiome to better process dietary sugars.

When Parkinson's disease progression begins to steal your voice and your stability, what options remain? Travis opens up about a frightening downward spiral that left him falling repeatedly and struggling to communicate - the very foundation of his identity and independence."If I can't talk to you and have you understand me, then I am trapped and I'm no different than somebody locked in a cage," Travis shares, revealing the profound isolation that comes when Parkinson's affects speech. After years of managing symptoms with medication and Deep Brain Stimulation, Travis found himself facing a new reality: needing an electric wheelchair and watching as waiters began addressing his questions to his partner instead of him.The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Travis reveals his experience with Vyalevⓡ, a recently FDA-approved subcutaneous delivery system for carbidopa-levodopa that doesn't require the permanent abdominal port of earlier systems. Just days into this new treatment, Travis describes subtle but meaningful improvements that allowed him to hike at 10,000 feet elevation when he'd previously struggled to take out the trash without falling.This raw, unfiltered discussion explores the emotional impact of disease progression, the difficult decisions about assistive devices, and the constant search for solutions that preserve dignity and independence. Travis's philosophy resonates throughout: "It's better to be out there doing something cool than looking like you're doing something cool, but not actually" - a powerful reminder that living fully sometimes means embracing the tools that enable participation, even when they challenge our self-image.Join us for this deeply personal exploration of finding hope when standing at the edge of what feels like a cliff, and stay tuned for part two where we'll continue the conversation about this promising treatment option. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

September is Fall Prevention month. As we age, falling—or even the fear of falling—becomes increasingly common. For people with Parkinson's, the risk is often higher due to specific changes in the body that affect balance, strength, and coordination. Almost all of us will experience a fall at some point, which is why it's so important to understand your abilities, recognize your tendencies, and keep open communication with your neurologist and care team. The good news is that there are effective ways to improve balance, manage dizziness, and build strength. Prevention truly is key. Today, I have two special guests joining me: ·       Dr. Ospina, a Movement Disorder Specialist (MDS), who explains why people with Parkinson's are more likely to face fall risks as part of the disease process—and what's happening in the body that leads to falls. She also shares strategies and treatments that can help reduce those risks. ·       A home safety expert, whose company evaluates living spaces and provides personalized recommendations to make your home safer. Their process is clinically guided, ensuring that the solutions fit your individual needs. This service is incredibly valuable for anyone looking to prevent falls at home. As we recognize Fall Prevention Month, I'd love to hear from you. Do you have a personal story about a fall, or tips you've used to reduce your ownl risk? Please share your experiences in the comments section or email at info@17branches.org.  Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches  https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches  https://measurabilities.com/ https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/index.html    

Martha Carlin, CEO and founder of the Bio Collective, details the significant influence of the microbiome on overall health. Martha discusses her unconventional path from accounting to microbiome research, sparked by her husband's Parkinson's diagnosis. Together, they explore the complex connections between gut health and diseases like Parkinson's, autism, and even Alzheimer's. Martha sheds light on groundbreaking research funded by NIH grants, the potential of machine learning and AI in understanding microbiome patterns, and the future prospects of personalized probiotics. Practical advice on maintaining a healthy microbiome, the impact of diet and exercise, and the intriguing intersections between gut health, neurochemistry, and systemic diseases are highlighted. The discussion also covers challenges in integrating microbiome research into clinical practice and potential future therapies.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Martha Carlin, CEO and founder of the Bio Collective.

October 2025 Journal Club Podcast Title: Deep Brain Stimulation Electrode Deviations are Associated With Brain Stiffness Interfaces Measured by Magnetic Resonance Elastography To read journal article: https://journals.lww.com/onsonline/fulltext/2025/10000/deep_brain_stimulation_electrode_deviations_are.8.aspx Author: Chengyuan Wu Guest Faculty: Kim Burchiel Moderator: Helen Shi Committee Co-Chair: Rafael Vega

I've been eager to share with all of you in podcast land some important information and history about what I believe is one of the key drivers in helping fulfill the Michael J. Fox Foundation's mission to cure Parkinson's disease. The Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), launched in 2010, is a groundbreaking study involving people both with and without Parkinson's. It gathers data over time to help researchers better understand how Parkinson's starts, how it progresses, and — most importantly — how to stop it. Sound important? It absolutely is. And it's still going strong, continually recruiting new participants to join its large and growing community of volunteers. The more data we collect through PPMI, the faster we can accelerate the path to a cure. Maggie Kuhl and Alyssa O'Grady are at the heart of this effort — overseeing the data, bringing in new participants, and tracking the initiative's progress every step of the way. Listen to what the experts say about how you can contribute to the solution to the Parkinson's puzzle. Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   https://www.michaeljfox.org/ppmi https://www.ppmi-info.org/    

Listening to personal Parkinson's stories offers valuable insights for everyone. In this episode, we interview Greg Ritscher, who responded to his diagnosis with determination shaped by his business and personal experiences. Greg also shares a notable DBS story. His journey highlights motivation, positivity, community support, and advocacy. Enjoy our inspiring conversation with Greg.  https://gregritscher.com/ https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

In part two of this two-part episode of the Brain & Life Podcast, co-host Dr. Daniel Correa speaks with internationally bestselling author Liz Nugent, who shares her journey as a writer and her experiences living with dystonia. Liz discusses her experience with Deep Brain Stimulation and the relationship between her writing and her dystonia diagnosis. Dr. Correa is then joined by world-renowned neurologist and movement disorders specialist Dr. Alfonso Fasano, Chair in Neuromodulation at the University of Toronto and a neurologist at Toronto Western Hospital. Dr. Fasano explains Deep Brain Stimulation and upcoming research for dystonia.   Additional Resources Liz Nugent Dystonia Overview Speaking Up About Dystonia   Other Brain & Life Podcast Episodes on Similar Topics Billy McLaughlin on Life as a Musician with Focal Dystonia Rogers Hartmann on Beating Dystonia Self-Discovery and The Lost Voice with Songwriter Greta Morgan   We want to hear from you! Have a question or want to hear a topic featured on the Brain & Life Podcast? Record a voicemail at 612-928-6206 Email us at BLpodcast@brainandlife.org   Social Media: Liz Nugent @liznugentwriter; Dr. Alfonso Fasano @al_fasao Guests: Hosts: Dr. Daniel Correa @neurodrcorrea; Dr. Katy Peters @KatyPetersMDPhD  

In part one of this two-part episode of the Brain & Life Podcast, co-host Dr. Daniel Correa speaks with internationally bestselling author Liz Nugent, who shares her journey as a writer and her experiences living with dystonia. Liz discusses her early career in theater and television and highlights the importance of advocacy, awareness, and storytelling. Dr. Correa is then joined by world-renowned neurologist and movement disorders specialist Dr. Alfonso Fasano, Chair in Neuromodulation at the University of Toronto and a neurologist at Toronto Western Hospital. Dr. Fasano explains how the different types of dystonia present and delves into treatment options. Tune in next week to hear about Deep Brain Stimulation and upcoming research.   Additional Resources Liz Nugent Dystonia Overview Speaking Up About Dystonia   Other Brain & Life Podcast Episodes on Similar Topics Billy McLaughlin on Life as a Musician with Focal Dystonia Rogers Hartmann on Beating Dystonia Self-Discovery and The Lost Voice with Songwriter Greta Morgan   We want to hear from you! Have a question or want to hear a topic featured on the Brain & Life Podcast? Record a voicemail at 612-928-6206 Email us at BLpodcast@brainandlife.org   Social Media: Liz Nugent @liznugentwriter; Dr. Alfonso Fasano @al_fasao Guests: Hosts: Dr. Daniel Correa @neurodrcorrea; Dr. Katy Peters @KatyPetersMDPhD

The range of symptoms and affected body systems in Parkinson's disease is extensive. One area that is less frequently discussed is the vestibular system—the inner ear structure directly connected to the brain, responsible for balance and spatial orientation. When this system malfunctions, individuals may experience dizziness, balance problems and an increased risk of falls, highlighting its importance in your overall health. With aging, the inner ear naturally becomes less robust. Although current research has not yet identified a definitive cause for the higher incidence of vestibular dysfunction in people with Parkinson's disease, effective interventions are available. In this episode, Christopher Taylor, Occupational Therapist at Mayo Clinic, will provide insights into the diagnosis and treatment options—namely vestibular therapy—that can assist with symptoms such as dizziness, gait disturbances, freezing, and postural instability. This discussion aims to enhance our understanding of the crucial role played by the inner ear and its connections. Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches  https://vestibular.org/

On a special episode of the Walker Webcast, Willy sat down with Dr. Theodore Schwartz—one of the nation's leading neurosurgeons and author of Gray Matters: A Biography of Brain Surgery—at the Sun Valley Writers' Conference. Together, they discussed Dr. Schwartz's approach to patient care and balancing transparency with compassion, making the decision to become a neurosurgeon, the power of the human brain, cutting edge technologies like Deep Brain Stimulation and Brain Computer Interface, and so much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the possibilities along the Parkinson's journey is losing the ability to drive safely. This possibility is a scary one. For many, driving equals independence. So, it means more than just the hassle of getting around. It means losing your independence. It can lead to depression and anxiety. However, it is important to be safe on the road while driving a multi-ton vehicle. We must protect ourselves, our family, and others on the road. So, we are talking today with an Occupational Therapist who is so passionate about this topic that she started a business focused on helping people keep their independence if possible. She will take us through the when, why, how of driving while diagnosed with Parkinson's. OTs are the professionals trained to assess patients on activities of daily living which includes testing people on their driving skills. We discuss the testing process and the legal implications. There are many options for people once it is determined there is a driving defiicit. So, don't give up. Ask an Occupational Therapist for suggestions.  Listen in to learn everything about driving with PD. https://drivingtoindependence.com/ https://www.aded.net/? https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

Where do you exercise? Is there a place you can take classes specific for people with Parkinson's? Is it convenient? I know of only a handful of cities where there is a one stop fits all approach to PD wellness. Most are created and managed by someone stepping up and doing the work to make it happen for their community and beyond. I am excited to highlight some of these magical places where people with Parkinson's take classes designed for their needs, provide social support, and community. I am thrilled to bring. you this first magical place. It is in the greater the Austin, TX area and on their YouTube chamnnel. Power For Parkinson's was founded by two women, Dr. Nina Mosier and Susan Stahl. They both had fathers with Parkinson's and saw a need, so they found a way to provide research-based exercises while offering them for FREE. With nine locations, the classes are very accessible. Add in the YouTube channell with available streaming and on demand videos all for free, well that is magical. After listening to my guest today, you are going to want to have a similar opportunity in your area as well. Listen on. https://www.powerforparkinsons.org/ https://www.powerforparkinsons.org/youtubeq https://www.dbsandme.com/17branches Thank you to our sponsor – Boston Scientific, the maker of Vercise Genus, a Deep Brain Stimulation or DBS system. To learn more about the latest treatment options for Parkinson's disease at https://DBSandMe.com/17branches   

In this episode, we explore the role of genetics and genetic testing in the decision-making and outcome of deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease with two experts in the field: Dr. David Arkadir and Dr. Saar Anis. This interview is also available in the text format within the MDS Scientific Issues: Read the issue

Send us a textA mother shares her 18-year journey supporting a son with schizophrenia through mental health system failures, incarceration, and experimental brain surgery.• Colleen Scott's son started showing signs of schizophrenia at age 17, withdrawing socially and exhibiting erratic behavior• A prosecutor advised having her son arrested "to get him in the system" for mental health help, resulting in traumatic incarceration• Laws preventing family commitment, alongside HIPAA restrictions at age 18, create nearly insurmountable barriers for families seeking help• After years of struggle, Colleen secured disability benefits and eventually enrolled her son in an experimental Deep Brain Stimulation trial at Johns Hopkins• The mental health system's integration with the legal system often criminalizes mental illness rather than treating it• Current group home living with court-ordered treatment provides some stability, though interactions with police remain common• Colleen advocates for better training for law enforcement and restoration of family commitment options with proper safeguards• Organizations like the National Schizophrenia and Related Conditions Society (NSSC) offer hope through focused advocacy and lobbying effortshttps://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

After more than a decade of living with the effects of Parkinson's Disease, Ana found something that finally made a real difference. In this episode of Baptist HealthTalk, she shares with us how deep brain stimulation helped her regain movement, confidence and control over her daily life. From not being able to brush her teeth to riding her bike and playing hours of pickleball, Ana's story shows what's possible with the right treatment — and the right mindset. Ana sits down with Dr. Sporrer, the neurosurgeon who changed her life, to tell us more about this life-changing procedure and how it's giving new hope to people living with Parkinson's. Host: Willard Shepard, Award-Winning JournalistGuests:Justin Sporrer, M.D., Neurosurgeon and Director of Functional Neurosurgery at Baptist Health Miami Neuroscience InstituteAna Velasco, Parkinson's Patient

Click here to subscribe for our podcast and video content on YouTube. In this episode of the Parkinson's Podcast, hear from John Dean, a speech language pathologist who exclusively works with people with Parkinson's, about the impacts that Deep Brain Stimulation can have on speech and swallowing. For more information about the Davis Phinney Foundation visit: https://dpf.org Season 6 Episode 3