The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast

Adel

Welcome to the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, UCLA Health's foremost podcast, an award-winning platform where we explore the intricate realm of brain health and human performance. I'm your host, Adel, a Sports Neurologist, and together, we embark on a captivating journey through the depths of science and personal stories.

Our mission at the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast is simple yet profound: to enrich the human experience. We do this by combining the latest evidence-based practices with the power of vulnerable personal narratives. We believe that a deeper understanding of the brain, its vulnerabilities, and its remarkable resilience can provide us with insights into ourselves and enable us to become more proficient physicians, scientists, creatives, and, most importantly, improved human beings.

In each episode, we delve into scientific breakthroughs that shape our understanding of the brain. We tackle the most pressing questions about brain health, traumatic brain injuries, and the secrets behind human performance. But we don't stop there. We also celebrate the invaluable experiences of individuals who have journeyed through the complexities of brain and neurological health, sharing their insights, triumphs, and challenges.

Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to expand your knowledge, a scientist in pursuit of cutting-edge research, a creative looking for inspiration, or simply a curious soul eager to learn more about the brain, the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast is your trusted companion.

Join us on this quest to evolve as better individuals, together. Subscribe, listen, and immerse yourself in a world where science and personal stories converge to unlock the potential of the human brain. Welcome to the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, UCLA Health's foremost and award-winning podcast - let's explore the mysteries of the mind and enrich our lives in the process.


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Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

Extreme Sports, Overcoming Fear, and the Flow State l Owen Fox
Mar 22 2024
Extreme Sports, Overcoming Fear, and the Flow State l Owen Fox
Join Dr. Daniel Rafie, Sports Neurologist and host of the UCLA BrainSPORT podcast, in an exhilarating conversation with professional downhill skateboarder, Owen Fox. In this episode, they delve into the world of extreme sports, exploring the psychology behind overcoming fear and achieving the elusive flow state. Owen shares his firsthand experiences in downhill skateboarding, shedding light on the adrenaline-fueled thrills and the potential dangers inherent in his sport. Tune in as they discuss the mental and physical challenges of extreme sports and how athletes like Owen navigate the fine line between passion and risk.Timestamps:0:00 – Introduction1:36 – Meet Owen Fox3:27 – Owen's Video Analysis6:05 – Confidence in Skill7:35 – Enjoying the Risk11:56 – The Process of Downhill Skateboarding15:46 – The Flow State20:08 – A Hope for Success25:54 – Danny Way27:27 – Relationship to Fear30:07 – Skill as a Prerequisite to Flow37:20 – Owen’s Near-Death Experience41:29 – Growing Beyond Your Limits43:24 – Importance of Community48:22 – A Job or a Hobby?To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Resiliency & Overcoming Adversity: A Miraculous Recovery from a Spinal Cord Injury | Ryan Shazier
Jan 25 2024
Resiliency & Overcoming Adversity: A Miraculous Recovery from a Spinal Cord Injury | Ryan Shazier
Join host Daniel Rafie and NFL veteran and former Pittsburg Steelers All-Pro defensive linebacker, Ryan Shazier, on this episode of the UCLA BrainSport Podcast. Ryan’s stellar career and his road to the NFL Hall of Fame was suddenly cut short by an on-field spinal cord injury. Ryan was given less than a 20% chance of walking again, but despite these odds, he was able to make a miraculous recovery and is now walking and leading a fulfilled life. The pair discuss the context of his injury and the physical and psychological consequences that resulted from it. They then go on to discuss Ryan’s mindset throughout his recovery and how he was able to achieve the recovery he did.Gain valuable insights from Ryan's experiences and learn how a strong mental approach can make a significant impact on success. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the power of mindset in the world of sports and beyond.Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction4:51 – A quote7:17 – An Addictive Mindset11:58 – Losing Greatness, Suddenly19:26 – Context to Ryan’s Spinal Cord Injury25:01 – Ryan’s Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy28:36 – Media Coverage of Ryan’s Injury30:27 – Ryan’s Faith39:22 – An Overcoming Mindset50:09 – Goal Setting58:38 – The Rehab Exercises1:02:42 – Ryan’s Relationship to Pain1:11:00 – The Identity Crisis1:19:11 – What is an Inspiration?1:24:13 – A Walking Miracle?1:27:11 – If you could go back…1:28:59 – Final WordsTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!
Unlocking the Secrets of Dopamine: Breaking Bad Habits, Mental Health, and Addiction Recovery with Dr. Anna Lembke
Oct 22 2023
Unlocking the Secrets of Dopamine: Breaking Bad Habits, Mental Health, and Addiction Recovery with Dr. Anna Lembke
In this thought-provoking episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast, host Adel delves into the enigmatic world of the dopamine neurotransmitter and its profound implications for mental health and addiction. Join us as we welcome the distinguished Dr. Anna Lembke, a psychiatrist at Stanford University and the celebrated author of the New York Times bestseller, "Dopamine Nation."Dr. Lembke, a recognized expert in the field, offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted role of dopamine in our lives. Together, they navigate the intricate relationship between this powerful neurotransmitter, mental illness, and the pervasive grip of addiction on our society.In this episode, we peel back the layers of dopamine's influence, from its crucial role in motivation to its darker side in the realm of addiction and withdrawal. Dr. Lembke generously shares her insights into the underlying mechanisms that fuel these processes, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of how dopamine shapes our behaviors and choices.However, it's not all theory and scientific jargon. Our dynamic duo doesn't just uncover the mysteries; they also provide actionable strategies to help break free from the clutches of bad habits and addiction. With Dr. Lembke as your guide, you'll gain invaluable tools to navigate this complex neurochemical landscape and regain control of your own well-being.Join us on this journey as we explore the fascinating interplay of dopamine, mental health, and addiction. In a world where these topics have never been more relevant, this episode offers not only insights but hope for a brighter, healthier future. Don't miss this opportunity to unravel the complexities of the brain and its impact on your life.To fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: The UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast YouTube Video Playlist For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at brainsportpodcast.com.Connect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @_brainsport Twitter: @ahdelneuro Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast!