Amir is Co-founder and CEO at Virtuleap, a VR startup that unlocks neuroscience in order to detect and delay the early onset of cognitive illnesses like Alzheimer’s. Previous to Virtuleap, Amir founded Gameguise, a mobile games studio based in Dubai, and Time Dirham, the first social impact startup to introduce time banking to the Middle East. He is an alumnus of York University and THNK School of Creative Leadership. Amir has been a contributing writer to tech blogs like VentureBeat and Tech Crunch on the topics of emerging tech, spatial computing, and startup ecosystems.

In this episode, Jason and Amir discuss:

• The role of virtual reality in the detection and potential delay of cognitive illnesses, exemplified by Virtuleap
• The cultivation of gratefulness and the significance of being present in everyday life
• Amir's personal and professional journey leading to the creation of Virtuleap and the fusion of VR with neuroscience
• Addressing the cognition crisis with VR tools designed for cognitive enhancement and emotional well-being
• The contrast between the negative effects of addictive social media and the constructive use of VR technology for cognitive development

 Key Takeaways: 

• Virtual reality holds significant promise in the early detection and treatment of cognitive health issues. Its immersive and interactive nature can aid in early diagnosis and support treatment processes.
• Gratefulness and mindfulness in daily life are crucial in maintaining meaningful relationships and personal well-being.
• Entrepreneurial ventures can emerge from diverse cultural experiences, contributing to innovative solutions in technology.
• Gamified cognitive training within virtual reality can offer a multifaceted approach to improving mental health and focus.
• Mindful technology such as Virtuleap's VR programs can counterbalance the negative impacts of social media on attention and cognition.

“If you notice a cognitive deficit, like an inability to concentrate, and work to compensate for it, it can help with emotional regulation. These aspects are deeply interconnected, and we're currently experiencing a cognition crisis. Our tool increases awareness of cognitive performance as an indicator of mental health. With this awareness, you can take action, because without it, there's no opportunity for improvement. ”

 - Amir Bozorgzadeh

Connect with Amir Bozorgzadeh:

Website: https://virtuleap.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirboz/ 

Email: [email protected] 

Connect with Steve and Jason:

LinkedIn: Jason or Steve

Website: Rewire, Inc.: Transformed Thinking 

Email: [email protected]

Show notes by: Angelo Paul Tagama

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.