The Neurostimulation Podcast

Episode SummaryHost Dr. Michael Passmore (Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia) sits down with Dr. Ronan Denyer, a postdoctoral fellow at the Coactions Lab in Brussels. Dr. Denyer completed his PhD in neuroscience at UBC under Dr. Lara Boyd, and his research sits at the intersection of brain stimulation, neuroimaging, and behavioral neuroscience. In this episode, they take a deep dive into transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) — what it is, how it works, and what it could mean for the future of cognitive enhancement and neurological treatment.Key Topics CoveredDr. Denyer's background — From Trinity College Dublin to UBC to Brussels, how a final-year undergraduate project set him on the path of brain stimulation researchThe locus coeruleus (LC) — Why this tiny, blue-colored brainstem nucleus with far-reaching noradrenergic projections is one of neuroscience's most intriguing structuresTranscutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) — How stimulating specific parts of the outer ear (the cymba conchae and tragus region) can non-invasively activate the vagus nerve → nucleus tractus solitarius → locus coeruleus pathwaytVNS vs. TMS vs. tDCS — Key comparisons between these neuromodulation approaches and why tVNS offers a unique real-time biomarker advantage via pupillometryPerceptual decision-making study (Brain Stimulation journal) — How tVNS boosted accuracy on a random dot motion task without slowing reaction times, supporting the gain hypothesis over the urgency hypothesis of LC function; the "rescue effect" seen after errorsThe drift-diffusion model — How modeling revealed tVNS increases the drift rate (evidence accumulation speed), explaining the accuracy improvementtVNS + TMS combined study — Evidence that tVNS increases corticospinal excitability during stimulation (online effect), with pupillometry confirming LC engagement; intriguing finding that MEP changes and pupil changes were not correlated, hinting at potential sub-nodes within the LCClinical translation potential:Stroke rehabilitation — Pairing tVNS bursts with motor therapy to promote plasticity onlineADHD — The tonic/phasic LC firing model and the explore-vs-exploit hypothesis; why elevated tonic LC firing may underpin attentional difficultiesParkinson's disease — LC degeneration as an early biomarker; tVNS + pupillometry as a potential low-cost screening tool for preclinical Parkinson's; targeting non-motor symptomsAnxiety and PTSD — Emerging hypotheses linking LC dysfunction to these conditionsUpcoming research — The KinArm forced-response reaching task: examining how tVNS shifts the speed-accuracy curve and modulates movement vigor, with implications for stroke rehabKey Concepts ExplainedTermPlain-language meaningtVNSNon-invasive stimulation of the ear to activate the vagus nerve and the brain's noradrenaline systemLocus coeruleusSmall brainstem nucleus; the brain's primary source of noradrenaline; modulates attention, arousal, and decision-makingGain hypothesisLC noradrenaline boosts signal-to-noise ratio, improving perceptual accuracy without speeding up responsesUrgency hypothesisLC increases response speed at the cost of accuracy (not supported by this study)PupillometryMeasuring pupil size as a proxy for LC activityMotor evoked potential (MEP)A muscle twitch elicited by TMS; used to measure corticospinal excitabilityDrift-diffusion modelA mathematical framework for modeling perceptual decision processesTonic vs. phasic LC firingTonic = baseline arousal level; phasic = task-triggered bursts that sharpen perceptionPapers ReferencedXiang et al. — Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Boosts Accuracy During Perceptual Decision Making, Brain Stimulation https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40311845/Dr. Denyer's tVNS + TMS corticospinal excitability study (recently published) https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/jn.00008.2026Connect & Learn MoreHost: Dr. Michael Passmore, University of British Columbia, Department of PsychiatryGuest: Dr. Ronan Denyer, Coactions Lab, Brussels (formerly UBC, Lara Boyd Lab)

Non-Invasive Deep Brain Stimulation: The Promise of Transcranial Focused Ultrasound with Dr. Samuel PichardoIn this episode, Dr. Michael Passmore sits down with Dr. Samuel Pichardo, biomedical engineer and researcher at the University of Calgary and the Hotchkiss Brain Institute, to explore one of the most exciting frontiers in neuromodulation: transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (TUS/tFUS).Dr. Pichardo's lab is at the cutting edge of ultrasound neuromodulation — investigating how low-intensity pulsed ultrasound can precisely target deep brain structures non-invasively, with lasting effects on neural activity.What We Cover:What is transcranial focused ultrasound (TUS)? How it differs from TMS and tDCS, and why its ability to penetrate to deep brain structures makes it uniquely powerfulThe physics of neuromodulation: How pulsed ultrasound bursts at low frequencies (e.g., ~250 kHz) can produce neuromodulatory effects lasting 30–60 minutes after a single session — and why the underlying mechanism is still an active area of researchPulse repetition frequency (PRF): Key findings from Dr. Pichardo's lab comparing 10 Hz, 100 Hz, and 1000 Hz PRF — and why 100 Hz produced the strongest and most sustained inhibitory effectThe skull barrier: Why lower ultrasound frequencies are used to overcome skull attenuation, and the challenges this creates for precision targetingPilot clinical study — essential tremor and Parkinson's disease: Targeting the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) of the thalamus non-invasively, and what the results showed: significant tremor reduction in essential tremor patients, and a promising but less robust trend in Parkinson's patientsThe multi-focus targeting strategy: How Dr. Pichardo's team addressed the precision-vs.-accuracy tradeoff using phased array transducers to enlarge the treatment envelopeBabelBrain: The open-source, cross-platform (Mac, Windows, Linux) software tool developed by Dr. Pichardo's lab that integrates MRI/CT imaging data to model acoustic intensity, thermal effects, and safety parameters — a turnkey solution for TUS researchers worldwideThe future of the field: Which neuropsychiatric conditions are most likely to benefit first — including refractory depression, OCD, PTSD, and addiction — and why Dr. Pichardo believes depression may become the "poster child" indication for TUS in the next few yearsNomenclature: Why the field still hasn't settled on a consistent acronym (TUS, tFUS, LIFU, FUS) — and why that's okayKey Takeaways:Focused ultrasound can reach deep brain targets non-invasively with millimeter precision — something no other non-invasive technology can currently matchThe neuromodulatory effects are real, reproducible, and growing in clinical promise, but replication studies and sham-controlled trials are still essentialBabelBrain is freely available as an open-source tool for research labs worldwideThe field is at an inflection point, with rapid growth in FDA applications and commercial investmentLinks & Resources:Dr. Pichardo's lab at the University of Calgary / Hotchkiss Brain Institute https://www.neurofus.ca/BabelBrain (open-source TUS planning software) https://proteusmrighifu.github.io/BabelBrain/Pulse repetition frequency study (PRF paper from the Pichardo lab) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38621645/VIM thalamic TUS pilot study (essential tremor & Parkinson's) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8109299/Focused Ultrasound Neuromodulation Symposium, Paris (July) https://www.itrusst.com/fun26The Neurostimulation Podcast is hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore, clinical associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. The content shared is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your specific health needs.If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who might find it valuable. Drop your questions and comments below — and tune in next time for another journey into the cutting edge of neuroscience and clinical neurostimulation.

Episode Show NotesGuest: Dr. Ayla WolfDuration: ~48 minutesEpisode DescriptionDr. Ayla Wolf shares her personal journey from sustaining multiple concussions to becoming a leading expert in concussion recovery. She challenges the outdated "rest in a dark room" advice and explains why persistent post-concussion syndrome requires an individualized, integrative approach combining neuroscience, functional neurology, and holistic therapies.Timestamps0:10 - IntroductionWelcome and episode overview1:00 - Guest IntroductionMeet Dr. Ayla Wolf - clinician, researcher, and author2:51 - Dr. Wolf's Personal StoryHow multiple concussions changed her career path7:31 - The Turning PointMaking the radical decision to return to school and study brain injuries8:41 - What Happens After a ConcussionUnderstanding the brain's metabolic crisis and energy deficit19:32 - Understanding Functional NeurologyHow this approach differs from traditional assessments25:23 - Acupuncture and Cerebral Blood FlowThe role of holistic therapies in concussion recovery28:34 - Why Rest Isn't Always BestDebunking the "dark room" myth and understanding gradual return to activity31:56 - Dysautonomia ExplainedThe autonomic nervous system and its role in persistent symptoms43:35 - The Concussion Breakthrough BookA comprehensive guide for those feeling stuck in recovery47:14 - Closing Thoughts & ResourcesHow to learn more and connect with Dr. WolfKey TakeawaysMost concussions heal within weeks, but 30% of people develop persistent symptomsProlonged rest beyond 48-72 hours can create maladaptive neuroplasticityFunctional neurology provides individualized treatment based on comprehensive testingDysautonomia (autonomic nervous system dysfunction) is common after concussionRecovery requires integrative approaches addressing multiple brain systems simultaneouslyAcupuncture can improve cerebral blood flow through the trigeminovascular systemResources MentionedDr. Wolf's website: https://www.lifeafterimpact.com/Book: The Concussion Breakthrough: Discover The Missing Pieces to Recoveryhttps://a.co/d/0bCKi38bPodcast: Life After Impact: The Concussion Recovery Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-after-impact-the-concussion-recovery-podcast/id1790456849Organization: Healing Response Acupuncture and Functional Neurologyhttps://www.healingresponseneuro.com/Guest BioDr. Ayla Wolf is an associate professor at the Carrick Institute and founder of Healing Response Acupuncture and Functional Neurology. With over 20 years of experience working with complex neurological cases, she specializes in traumatic brain injury, chronic migraine, dysautonomia, and vestibular disorders. Her work combines neuroscience, functional neurology, and holistic therapies to help patients with persistent post-concussion syndrome.

From Molecules to Meaning: A Scientist's Journey Through Neuroscience and Ancient Wisdom with Dr. José Ángel Moreno Cabezuelo - #42Episode SummaryIn this fascinating episode, Dr. José Ángel Moreno Cabezuelo—molecular biologist, genetic engineering lead at CyanoCapture, and author of "Heartbeats of Consciousness"—shares his unique journey from studying cyanobacteria to exploring the intersection of neuroscience, ancient philosophy, and human consciousness. This conversation bridges hardcore science with timeless wisdom, offering practical insights for living with greater presence, purpose, and meaning.Show Notes with Timestamps[00:00 - 10:04] Opening & Pre-show conversation (can be trimmed)[10:04 - 01:41] Introduction to the Neurostimulation PodcastWelcome and podcast missionInformation about educational purposes and medical disclaimer[01:51 - 03:25] Introducing Dr. José MorenoBackground in molecular biology and genetic engineering at CyanoCapture, OxfordPublished work in Plant Physiology, Microbiology Spectrum, Current Opinion in MicrobiologyIntroduction to his book "Heartbeats of Consciousness"[03:25 - 08:11] Dr. Moreno's Scientific JourneyWorking with cyanobacteria since 2016The surprising fact: half of Earth's oxygen comes from ocean organisms, not forestsMoving from Spain to the UK to develop genetic engineering toolboxCurrent work producing insulin and other compounds in cyanobacteria[08:11 - 13:27] The Birth of "Heartbeats of Consciousness"The gap between knowing how life works and knowing how to live wellWhy current books force a choice between rigorous science and engaging storytellingCreating a hybrid: fiction with scientific rigorThe heartbeat exercise: feeling the invisible protagonist of life[13:27 - 16:31] The Characters: Fania and PaulaFania's story: trauma, resilience, and becoming "antifragile"Paula's journey: scientific curiosity meets emotional anxietyThe hourglass metaphor for living in the present moment[16:31 - 22:38] Three Transformative Scientific IdeasWe Are Literally Light: Biophotons and brain illumination at death (University of Calgary research)Distributed Intelligence: The "second brain" in our gut (500 million neurons, 80-90% of body's serotonin), the heart's 40,000 neuronsNeuroplasticity: The brain's ability to change at any age[22:38 - 26:17] Pleasure vs. HappinessWhy having more comfort hasn't reduced anxiety and depressionDopamine (pleasure) vs. serotonin (happiness)Ancient wisdom meets modern neuroscienceThe firefly metaphor: we are meant to shine and connect[26:17 - 31:30] The Book's Personal JourneyProcessing the loss of his father through writingThe ten promises (decalogue)Being "unbreakable": protecting inner peace from external circumstances[31:30 - 40:30] Connecting Ancient Wisdom with Modern NeuroscienceBuddhist teachings on suffering and desire (2,500 years old)Stoicism and controlling our responsesTaoist Wu-Wei: flowing with lifeHow neuroscience is confirming ancient philosophical insightsDiscussion of psychedelic-assisted therapy and Ram Dass[40:30 - 43:30] Practical ApplicationsUsing metaphors to make science accessibleThe importance of cold exposure and hormetic stressThe problem with endless phone scrolling and dopamine dysregulationBenefits of handwriting vs. typing for brain connectivity[43:30 - 47:40] Love, Clarity, and ConnectionWhy "love" is taboo in academic/clinical settingsLove as the unifying force in science and lifeClarity as an act of loveEverything is connected: from cyanobacteria to consciousness[47:40 - 49:11] Closing Thoughts & ResourcesFinal reflections on the conversationWhere to find Dr. Moreno's work and bookEncouragement to check out "Heartbeats of Consciousness"Key TakeawaysScience and ancient wisdom are converging on the same truths about human wellbeingWe are literally beings of light (biophotons) with distributed intelligence throughout our bodiesNeuroplasticity means we can change at any age—we're not condemned to be who we've beenHappiness comes from giving and purpose, not from pleasure and consumptionThe present moment (the sand falling through the hourglass) is where our attention belongsResourcesBook: "Heartbeats of Consciousness: A Bridge Between Science, Mind, and Soul"https://www.amazon.ca/Heartbeats-Consciousness-Between-Science-Understanding/dp/1919385908Website: drjoseangelmoreno.comConnect: Links to Dr. Moreno's social media and content in episode descriptionThe Neurostimulation Podcast explores the fascinating world of neuroscience, clinical neurostimulation, and evidence-based interventional mental health. Hosted by Dr. Michael Passmore.

Episode TitleFear, Purpose, and the Pursuit of Meaning: An Emergency Medicine Physician's Philosophy on LifeGuestDr. Dana Cowles - Board-certified emergency medicine physician with dual academic background in biology and philosophyEpisode SummaryDr. Dana Cowles shares his unique perspective on fear, trauma, and finding purpose through his experiences in emergency medicine and philosophy. From surviving a traumatic car accident at age 12 to working the front lines in emergency rooms, Dr. Cowles challenges conventional wisdom about happiness and offers a compelling framework for building resilience through purpose rather than comfort.Key Topics DiscussedPersonal Trauma & TransformationSurviving a serious car accident at age 12 that shaped his worldviewHow trauma taught him that helplessness, not fear, is the real enemyThe importance of building skillsets throughout life to face uncertaintyThree Types of FearAnticipatory Fear (the "what ifs") - Requires making a plan and trusting itContemporary Fear (immediate crisis) - Demands slowing down and paying attentionRetrospective Fear (PTSD) - Needs reframing into prospective planningEmergency Medicine InsightsThe reality of ER work vs. TV portrayalsRisk stratification over definitive diagnosisThe mantra: "Aviate, Navigate, Communicate" (borrowed from aviation)Why the only unforgivable mistake is telling someone they're safe when they're notThe Happiness MythHow Freud, Bernays, and modern marketing created the "happiness on demand" cultureWhy the opposite of depression is purpose, not happinessThe historical shift from "worthy life" to "euphoric happiness"How consumer culture exploits our pursuit of happinessWhat People Really NeedSecurity (knowing everything will be okay)Affirmation (knowing you're a good person)Purpose over comfortPhilosophy & MeaningEnergy transformation as life's purpose (potential to kinetic energy)Why building, growing, and developing matters more than tearing downThe importance of having plans for life's uncertaintiesWhy "the only thing to fear is fear itself" is wrongHealthcare & SocietyHow medicine has wrongly treated fear and anxiety as diseasesThe unintended consequences of COVID lockdowns (telling 90% of people they weren't "essential")Concerns about AI replacing human purposeThe importance of maintaining purpose regardless of automationMemorable Quotes"The real enemy is helplessness. We need to build a skillset throughout our lifetime to be able to face helplessness.""The opposite of depression is purpose, and purpose is what keeps you up and going.""Everything in life comes at a cost. You need to know that cost and be willing to pay it, or you're gonna accrue interest.""The only people who are truly fearless are thoughtless or careless.""Stop talking to me about what you're against. I want to know what you're for.""I don't believe in good people or bad people. I believe people do good things and people do bad things."Trigger WarningThis episode contains discussions of trauma, death, violence, and graphic medical situations that some listeners may find disturbing.Resources & LinksDr. Dana Cowles's Website https://cowlesemergencyservices.com/For Healthcare ProfessionalsIf you're a healthcare worker, first responder, or caregiver struggling with unresolved trauma, please reach out for support. You're not alone, and help is available.

The Cave You Fear to Enter - Memory Reconsolidation and Emotional Healing with Dr. Brian Desroches - Episode #38Guest: Dr. Brian Desroches, PhD - Psychotherapist, Author, Clinical CoachRelease Date: January 10, 2026Episode SummaryIn this transformative conversation, Dr. Brian Desroches shares how a personal breakthrough in 2015 fundamentally changed his understanding of emotional healing after more than 20 years of clinical practice. Moving beyond traditional "overcome and manage" approaches, Brian introduces listeners to the neuroscience of memory reconsolidation - a process that allows us to update emotional learnings at the synaptic level rather than simply coping with symptoms.Key Topics DiscussedThe 2015 Paradigm ShiftBrian's 10-year struggle with writing procrastination despite extensive therapyHis breakthrough experience with memory reconsolidation at a workshopHow shame and inadequacy became neurologically linked to writing in his brainThe immediate and lasting transformation that followedUnderstanding Emotional LearningHow the brain acquires implicit emotional knowledge in the first 7 years of lifeWhy these learnings feel true in the present moment even when formed decades agoThe difference between explicit trauma memories and implicit emotional patternsHow the brain's predictive process creates protective but maladaptive behaviorsMemory Reconsolidation ExplainedThe brain as a learning, predicting, and adapting processWhat prediction errors (or "prediction corrections") are and why they matterThe five-step process for creating lasting changeWhy insight alone doesn't lead to transformationReframing Self-SabotageWhy "getting in your own way" is actually your brain protecting youThe car analogy: one foot on gas, one on brakeMoving from "what's wrong with me?" to "what did I learn?"Understanding triggers as protective mechanisms, not character flawsThe Role of CompassionWhy compassion is the gateway to self-loveHolding space for the parts of ourselves that learned to protect usThe grief that often accompanies discovering what's really driving our patternsJoseph Campbell's wisdom: "The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek"Practical ApplicationsWhy you must be in an "activated state" for change to occurHow to identify the real threat your brain is predictingThe importance of embodied experience vs. intellectual understandingNavigating systemic changes when you transformMemorable Quotes"It is not a character flaw. The brain is doing its job that it was designed to do - it just doesn't need to do it anymore because it's doing it based on past history that doesn't exist.""When you touch into an emotional learning, it feels true. The emotional brain doesn't know time. You may have learned that 40 years ago, but when it gets activated today, it feels true today.""The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure that you seek. When you land upon an emotional learning, your thinking brain will judge it as irrational, as illogical. But to your emotional brain, it does make sense."About Dr. Brian DesrochesDr. Brian Desroches has over 30 years of clinical experience as a psychotherapist and holds a PhD in Pastoral Counseling and Psychology. Originally from Windsor, Ontario, he now practices in Seattle, Washington. Beyond his therapy practice, Brian consults with dental professionals worldwide, helping them navigate difficult patient interactions and lead complex organizations. His latest book, Living a Trigger Free Life, translates cutting-edge neuroscience into accessible, practical guidance for lasting emotional transformation.ResourcesBook: Living a Trigger Free Life by Dr. Brian DesrochesWebsite: https://a.co/d/bDgsLtCPractice Location: Seattle, WashingtonRelated Concepts MentionedMemory reconsolidationImplicit vs. explicit memoryEmotional learningEMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)Internal Family SystemsNeuroplasticityPrediction error/correctionBilateral auditory stimulationFor CliniciansThis episode offers valuable insights for mental health professionals looking to move beyond symptom management toward root-cause transformation. Dr. Desroches' approach integrates neuroscience research with clinical practice in a way that honors both the science and the deeply human experience of healing.Next Episode: Another exciting journey into the cutting edge of neuroscience, neurostimulation, and interventional mental health.Subscribe to never miss an episode and help us reach more curious minds!

The Neurostimulation Podcast #36: How Adenosine Bridges Rapid Antidepressant Therapies – Insights from Ketamine and ECT ResearchHost: Dr. Michael Passmore, Clinical Associate Professor, UBC PsychiatryEpisode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Passmore explores groundbreaking research revealing how adenosine—a natural brain chemical—may be the key link between two of the fastest-acting antidepressant treatments: ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The discussion covers:The science behind adenosine’s role in mood regulation and how both ketamine and ECT trigger rapid antidepressant effects via adenosine pathways.Key findings from a recent Nature study using mouse models, including the necessity and sufficiency of adenosine A1 and A2A receptors for treatment response.The implications for clinical practice, including the potential impact of caffeine (which blocks adenosine) on treatment outcomes.Why standardizing caffeine intake may be important for patients undergoing ketamine or ECT therapy.The importance of translating preclinical findings into human studies and the need for further research.Key Takeaways:Adenosine may act as a “common language” for rapid antidepressant effects in both ketamine and ECT.Caffeine could potentially interfere with these treatments by blocking adenosine receptors—patients and clinicians should be aware of this variable.The research is preclinical (in mice), but it lays the groundwork for future human studies and smarter, more targeted therapies.Resources & Links:Extended data, figures, and the full research paper are linked in the show notes.For more information, check the episode’s resource section.Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.Connect & Share:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with friends or colleagues who might benefit. Join the conversation in the comments—your feedback helps shape future episodes!Stay curious, and tune in next time for more insights into neuroscience, clinical neurostimulation, and interventional mental health.Contact:Questions, ideas, or feedback? Leave a comment or reach out via the podcast’s contact channels.

Exploring tACS: Current Research and Future Potentials in NeuropsychiatryIn this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, Dr. Michael Passmore hosts Dr. Osama Elyamani, a psychiatrist and neuroscientist. They discuss the emerging applications of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) in psychiatry, including its potential as a research tool and therapeutic intervention. They delve into the science of brain oscillations, the clinical evidence surrounding tACS, and future prospects in the field. Particular attention is given to the distinctions between tACS, TMS, and tDCS, as well as the limitations and safety considerations of these neurostimulation techniques. The conversation also touches on the significance of symptom-based approaches in psychiatric treatment and the potential for tACS to aid in diagnosing and treating disorders like depression and schizophrenia. Dr. Elyamani provides insights into ongoing research, future directions, and offers advice for young researchers entering the field.Dr. Osama Elyamany (PhD) is currently a postdoctoral researcher and resident psychiatrist at the Centre of Psychiatry at Justus Liebig University Giessen.He is working on research projects investigating brain oscillations in psychiatric disorders using EEG and fMRI, aiming to develop targeted therapies through pharmacological substances and neurostimulation techniques like tACS and TMS.Email Address: osama.elyamany@psychiat.med.uni-giessen.deWebsite: https://www.ukgm.de/ugm_2/deu/ugi_psy/ugi_psy_team.phpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/osama-elyamany/00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:39 Dr. Elyamani's Background and Research Focus02:54 Understanding Brain Oscillations and tACS07:31 Comparing tACS with Other Neurostimulation Techniques11:12 Potential Therapeutic Applications of tACS20:42 Challenges and Future Directions in tACS Research35:20 Safety and Practicality of tACS41:10 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook

Neurostimulation Podcast – Aug 30, 2025Guests: Professor Bernhard Hommel & Professor Lorenza ColzatoHost: Dr. Michael PassmoreEpisode Overview:In this episode, Dr. Passmore is joined by Professors Hommel and Colzato to discuss their recent research on metacontrol—the brain’s ability to balance persistence and flexibility—and how it can be modulated using paired anodal tDCS and methylphenidate. The conversation explores the implications of reducing cortical noise, the significance of the aperiodic EEG exponent, and the potential for individualized, biomarker-guided neurostimulation treatments.Key Topics:Definition and importance of metacontrol in cognitive functionThe spectrum between persistence and flexibility in the brainIndividual variability in cognitive control and its clinical relevanceThe study: combining anodal tDCS over the right inferior frontal cortex with methylphenidateFindings: reduction in cortical noise during task processing, indexed by a rise in the aperiodic EEG exponent (especially at fCZ)Implications for ADHD, OCD, and other disorders affecting attention and cognitive controlThe need for replication and standardization before clinical applicationCultural differences in treatment approaches (pharmacological vs. neurostimulation)The future of personalized, feedback-driven neurostimulation and neurofeedbackTakeaways:Metacontrol is a modifiable brain function, not just an abstract concept.Combined tDCS and methylphenidate can reduce cortical noise during tasks, with the aperiodic exponent as a promising EEG marker.The path to clinical application will require safety, individualization, and further research.Links & Resources:Study in Brain Stimulation Journal:https://www.brainstimjrnl.com/article/S1935-861X(25)00081-6/fulltextAdditional lab content and resources:https://www.bernhard-hommel.eu/enThe Metacontrol Lab YouTube channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@metacontrol-2024Disclaimer:This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Do not attempt brain stimulation or drug-device combinations outside of supervised clinical research.Connect:If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave your questions or comments below. Let us know what topics you’d like to hear about in future episodes!

Deep Dive into tDCS Methodology: Key Considerations and Protocol DesignsIn this episode of The Neurostimulation Podcast, we review chapter seven of the Practical Guide to Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), which focuses on the methodological considerations for selecting tDCS protocols and devices. We discuss important factors such as electrode size and placement, stimulation intensity and duration, and the timing of tDCS sessions. The episode also covers the decision-making framework for clinicians, population-specific adjustments, and the comparison between clinic-based and home-based device use. The role of behavioral tasks during tDCS and the importance of methodological rigor in tDCS research and clinical practice are emphasized. Listeners are encouraged to understand the crucial elements of proper tDCS setup to ensure effective and replicable results.00:00 Introduction to Chapter Seven Review01:17 Importance of Methodology in tDCS01:57 tDCS Decision Matrix02:44 Defining Research and Therapy Goals03:25 Key Variables in Protocol Design05:11 Standalone vs. Adjunctive tDCS06:16 Population-Specific Considerations07:41 Clinic-Based vs. Home-Based Device Use09:13 Session Frequency and Repetition10:39 Integration with Behavioral Tasks11:15 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Aging with Independence and Innovation: Jennifer Cain Birkmose on the Future of Senior CareIn this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, host Michael Passmore discusses senior care innovations with guest Jennifer Cain Birkmose. Jennifer, a pioneering entrepreneur and global health leader, co-founded Viva Valet, a concierge-style service aimed at helping seniors live independently at home for as long as possible. The platform offers comprehensive services including in-home adjustments, technology integration, and safety checks. The episode touches on Jennifer’s methodologies, such as using ethnographic research and involving seniors in beta testing, to ensure user-friendly design. Additionally, Jennifer shares insights from her role as a UN advisor on aging and technology and emphasizes the importance of respect, agency, and social connections in senior care. The conversation concludes with a vision for the future of aging, highlighting the expected societal shifts as the senior population grows.Check out Jennifer's senior's care & support services at Viva Valet https://www.vivavalet.com00:00 Introduction to the Neurostimulation Podcast01:38 Meet Jennifer Cain Birkmose: Innovator in Senior Services04:26 The Viva Valet Platform: Revolutionizing Senior Independence06:25 Challenges and Solutions in Senior Care11:16 User Experience and Technology Integration27:00 Combating Fraud and Ensuring Safety for Seniors33:55 Global Advocacy and Future Directions38:24 Understanding Customer Needs and Bridging Gaps38:46 Resources and Initiatives at Viva Valet39:43 Global Aging and Cultural Commonalities40:24 The Importance of Agency and Independence44:04 Aging with Reverence and Play45:19 Improv and Its Impact on Older Adults54:48 Future Predictions for Aging by 203501:01:55 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts01:08:13 Podcast Outro and Call to Action

Exploring Advanced Applications of tDCS: Beyond the BrainIn this episode of the Neurostimulation Podcast, Dr. Michael Passmore continues exploring transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) based on 'The Practical Guide to Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation.' He discusses the expansion of DC-based neuromodulation beyond traditional brain applications to the spinal cord and cerebellum. The episode covers three primary targets of DC stimulation: tDCS, cerebellar DC stimulation, and transcutaneous spinal DC stimulation (tsDCS). Additionally, Dr. Passmore delves into electrode setup, clinical applications, home-based treatments, and the challenges and future directions of this evolving field. Tune in to learn about the potential transformative impacts of these techniques on neurological and psychiatric care.00:00 Introduction to the Neurostimulation Podcast01:17 Exploring DC-Based Neuromodulation02:34 Understanding Electrode Design and Placement03:27 tDCS: The Most Researched Form of DC Neurostimulation04:14 Cerebellar DC Stimulation: Beyond Motor Control06:07 Spinal Cord Stimulation: tsDCS Applications07:08 Home-Based Applications and Safety Considerations08:11 Clinical Applications and Case Highlights09:05 Challenges and Future Directions in DC Neuromodulation11:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts