In Your Head with Leigh Richardson

This week, Dr. Leigh Richardson sits down with the incredible Dr. Jenni Ogden, a renowned academic and clinical psychologist turned award-winning novelist. Dr. Jenni’s illustrious career has spanned research fellowships at Oxford University, MIT, and prestigious universities in Australia. Her groundbreaking textbook, Fractured Minds: A Case Study Approach to Clinical Neuropsychology, first published in 1996 (2nd edition in 2005), remains a classic, taught in universities around the globe. Listen here: https://bit.ly/IYHRJenniOgden

In 2008, Dr. Jenni made the bold decision to retire from academia and embrace fiction writing. How did she transition from neuropsychology to storytelling? It was a seamless evolution, leveraging the whole brain—where the left hemisphere orchestrates language and the right enhances the visual, blending seamlessly like a symphony.

Dr. Leigh dives deep into this transformation, exploring how Dr. Jenni’s life experiences shape her award-winning fiction and offering insights into creating novels that resonate deeply with readers' minds and hearts.

Tune in to discover the fascinating link between neuroscience and creativity and the art of writing stories that live on in the imagination.

Visit www.DrLeighRichardson.com and www.thebrainperformancecenter.com to learn more.

On the latest episode of In Your Head with Dr. Leigh Richardson, I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Theo Tsaousides, a renowned rehabilitation neuropsychologist and clinical assistant professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Dr. Tsaousides is the author of Brainblocks: Overcoming the 7 Hidden Barriers to Success, a powerful guide to identifying and tackling the obstacles that hinder our decision-making process.

Our conversation explored how emotional regulation and problem-solving intersect with decision-making. Dr. Tsaousides highlighted the seven "brainblocks" that can hold us back:

Self-Doubt: Undermining trust in our own judgment.

Procrastination: Overthinking and delaying action.

Multi-Tasking: Disrupting focus and clarity.

Rigidity: Imposing unnecessary rules and limiting flexibility.

Perfectionism: Searching for an unattainable ideal.

Negativity: Letting pessimism cloud reasoning.

Impatience: Rushing into decisions without proper consideration.

Dr. Tsaousides shared actionable, brain-based strategies to overcome these barriers, improve focus, and make decisions with greater confidence. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the decision-making process, this episode is for you. Visit www.DrLeighRichardson.com and www.thebrainperformancecenter.com to learn more.

On this episode of In Your Head with Dr. Leigh Richardson, we delve into the fascinating and often perplexing world of rare psychiatric and neurological disorders with Dr. Marc Dingman, author of Bizarre and a professor of neuroscience at Penn State University.

Dr. Dingman’s book explores a long list of unusual conditions that challenge our understanding of the human brain and behavior. We’ll begin the show by discussing a chilling case from 1966: the story of Charles Whitman, the University of Texas at Austin student who, without warning, opened fire from the observation deck of the university's clock tower, killing 14 people and injuring 30 others. But what drove him to commit such an unimaginable act? How could a man with an otherwise upstanding character—an Eagle Scout, ex-Marine, and college student—suddenly snap and take so many lives?

Was this an emotional reaction to external pressures? Was it influenced by social factors or his internal psychological state? Or perhaps, was something happening in Whitman’s brain that we couldn’t see? Dr. Dingman explores these questions in-depth, analyzing how psychiatric disorders and bizarre neurological occurrences can dramatically affect behavior and decision-making.

Throughout this episode, we’ll discuss the role of brain health in shaping our decisions, what happens when the brain deviates from what we consider "normal," and how understanding rare conditions can deepen our appreciation for the complexities of the human mind.

As Dr. Dingman says, there’s no such thing as a “normal” brain—each one is unique, and the differences between them can shape how we think, act, and interact with the world. Contact us at 214-329-9017 for more information. You can listen to the episode on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

Join me for an engaging discussion with Dr. Daniel Lieberman, author of Molecule of More, as we explore the fascinating world of dopamine and its profound influence on our lives. Dopamine isn’t just about reward; it’s a powerful driver of motivation, helping us set goals, prioritize, and make key decisions. It’s what keeps us moving forward, shaping how we plan and stay within social boundaries.

In our conversation, Dr. Lieberman delves into how dopamine impacts our values and priorities—sometimes blurring our sense of what’s truly important as we chase the next big “reward.” As we emerge from the challenges of the pandemic, technology, and virtual care are opening new doors for mental health support. Dr. Lieberman left academia to become part of this shift, working to provide accessible resources for those struggling with depression and anxiety.

Tune in to hear how dopamine drives us, how values can become murky in the pursuit of “what’s next,” and how virtual care is helping people reconnect with meaning, support, and health on their terms. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation! Contact us at 214-329-9017 for more information. You can listen to the episode on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

This episode of In Your Head, Dr Leigh Richardson had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Jon Lieff, a true pioneer in psychiatry and geriatric mental health, about the intricate relationship between the brain and the mind. They delved into fascinating questions: Does the brain create the mind? Does the mind exist beyond our neural networks, extending into nature itself?

Dr. Lieff highlighted the interplay between our wired brain—where neurons and dendrites connect and communicate—and our wireless brain, which enables cellular interaction on a dynamic, almost magical level. When our cells engage in active communication, we experience neuroplasticity at its best—a joyful, meaningful mental state that influences our well-being. His book for general scientific readers, The Secret Language of Cells, has been a best seller in cell biology and describes the detailed communication in cells throughout the body, the brain, microbes, and organelles. It shows how this ubiquitous signaling among all cells is not just the basis of brain functions, but the basis of brain body communication, immunity, and in fact all of biology.

Dr. Lieff, a Yale and Harvard-trained physician, has made groundbreaking contributions to geriatric psychiatry, creating integrated treatment models and pioneering complementary medicine programs for complex patients. His work has not only improved the lives of countless patients but also advanced our understanding of the brain and mind connection.If you’re curious about how our brain influences our perception of reality and the mind's role in our daily experiences, don’t miss this episode. Dive into the science of the mind with us, and discover new insights on neuroplasticity, mental well-being, and the wonders of our mental landscape!

Contact us at 214-329-9017 for more information. You can listen to the episode on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

Dr. Leigh Richardson welcomes Dr. G. Michael Russo, a highly respected counselor, educator, and researcher in neuroscience-informed counseling. Dr. Russo, an Assistant Professor of Professional Counseling at the University of Oklahoma, is also the Internship Coordinator and Coordinator for the Drug and Alcohol Counseling Certificate program. He holds licensure as a professional counselor in Oklahoma, is a National Certified Counselor, and is Board Certified in Neurofeedback at the level of Fellow.With over 10 years of clinical experience, Dr. Russo is at the forefront of research in neurofeedback, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse/misuse. He serves as the Director of the Applied Neurofeedback & Neurocounseling Education, Training, and Testing Evaluation (ANNETTE) Lab. Additionally, he chairs the Neuroscience Committee for the International Association of Addiction and Offender Counselors (IAAOC) and co-chairs the Neuroscience Taskforce for the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA). He is also an Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Counseling & Development and the International Journal for the Advancement of Counselling.

In this episode, Dr. Leigh Richardson and Dr. Russo discuss the integration of neuroscience in counseling practices, the transformative role of neurofeedback in treating mental health conditions, and how brain-based approaches can shape the future of mental health treatment. This conversation provides invaluable insights for mental health professionals and anyone interested in cutting-edge neuroscience applications.

After the episode, visit The Brain Performance Center's website at https://thebrainperformancecenter.com/ to explore how our programs can support individual brain health needs. Whether you seek advice or a comprehensive consultation, our dedicated team is ready to help you achieve optimal brain performance. Phone: 214-329-9017 Tune in on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

Join Dr. Leigh Richardson and special guest Dr. Brant Cortright, author of Neurogenesis, on this week's In Your Head podcast. Discover how mental health challenges like anxiety and depression can slow neurogenesis, impacting your brain's clarity and decision-making abilities. Listen here: https://bit.ly/DrBrantCortright. Learn how a simple test at your annual physical can identify inflammation that affects brain health, and how to foster the growth of new brain cells throughout your life.Ready to optimize your brain health? Visit the Brain Performance Institute to start your journey toward a healthier, sharper mind. Whether you seek advice or a comprehensive consultation, our dedicated team is ready to help you achieve optimal brain performance. Contact us at 214-329-9017 for more information. You can listen to the episode on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

As we move into what many call "sugar season," we must recognize how this time of year—starting with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and leading up to the Christmas and Hanukkah holidays—can significantly impact our health and well-being. Dr Leigh Richardson, founder of The Brain Performance Center and host of the In Your Head podcast, speaks with Dr Nicole Avena—a research neuroscientist, author, and expert in nutrition, diet, and addiction—to discuss sugar addiction and how to overcome it as explored in her book, Sugarless. Their conversation also touches on hidden sugars in foods and their various names, the dangers of ultra-processed foods, and the importance of involving kids in nutrition.

Learn more about Dr Leigh Richardson and what she can do for you by visiting thebrainperformancecenter.com and drleigherichardson.com. She owns and operates The Brain Performance Center, a brain and mental health clinic located in Dallas, Texas, which can be reached at 214-329-9017.

This episode is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Audible, and Stitcher, ensuring you can tune in at your convenience.

Dr. Leigh Richardson sits down with Dr. Andrew Wittman to dive into Crisis Decision-Making. When faced with a crisis, parents and leaders should ask themselves, "How can I use this to my greatest possible advantage?" It's key to approach challenges with a mindset of resilience. A helpful tool is the "two-minute rule"—suspend your self-limiting beliefs for just two minutes, just like being captivated by a movie. As for handling the inevitable hormone dump and the rollercoaster of fight, flight, or freeze—don't try to stop it. Instead, let it flow and ride through it with awareness.

Dr. Andrew Wittman is a leadership expert, former U.S. Marine, FBI special agent, and SWAT operator with extensive experience in high-stakes environments. He founded the Mental Toughness Training Center and is the author of Ground Zero Leadership: CEO of You. Dr. Wittman holds a PhD in Theological Studies and specializes in teaching mental toughness, leadership strategies, and crisis decision-making to industry leaders. With a unique military and corporate background, he helps individuals and organizations develop the skills necessary to thrive under pressure and make optimal decisions in both personal and professional life. After the episode, Visit The Brain Performance Center's website at https://thebrainperformancecenter.com/to explore how our programs can support your individual brain health needs. Whether you seek advice or a comprehensive consultation, our dedicated team is ready to help you achieve optimal brain performance. Contact us at 214-329-9017 for more information. You can listen to the episode on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.

This week, Dr. Leigh sits down with Sam Kabert, a former Silicon Valley entrepreneur turned Certified Breathwork Practitioner and keynote speaker. Sam shares his inspiring journey from chasing traditional success—earning a spot on Silicon Valley's 40 under 40 list at just 31—to discovering a deeper sense of purpose through mindfulness, breathwork, and balance. As the author of the #1 bestselling book, SOUL/Life Balance, and host of the Soul Seekr podcast, Sam offers valuable insights into how we can redefine success, improve mental resilience, and maintain brain health in our everyday lives. Don't miss this episode on the power of breathwork and its impact on brain performance, especially in high-pressure situations. Want to learn more about how you can protect and improve your brain health? Visit DrLeighRichardson.com to explore expert advice and resources from Dr. Leigh Richardson herself! For more on how to support both you and your work dreams, check out TheBrainPerformanceCenter.com and TheBrainPerformanceInstitute.com. Discover actionable steps to strengthen brain performance and mental resilience. Don't wait—your brain health matters!Listen to the episode on Audible, Amazon Music, Amazon Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Stitcher, Player FM, and Podcast Addict.