The Neuro Experience

In your 30s, everything changes, and your fitness plan should too.

In this episode of The Neuro Experience, I sit down with Sam Christine, mom of two, marathoner, macro coach, and creator of the EMPWR app, to unpack what actually works for women when fat loss stalls, hormones crash, and burnout creeps in.

After pushing her body too far during marathon training, Sam lost her period for 13 months. The cause? Undereating, overstressing, and overtraining, all while juggling career, motherhood, and a crumbling marriage. Now, she’s helping thousands of women rebuild their health from the inside out.

About Sam:

Samantha Christine is a nutritionist, certified trainer, and founder of EMPWR by Sam—a fitness app helping women train smarter, fuel better, and build lasting strength. As a mom of two, she makes fitness realistic and sustainable through workouts, recipes, and mindset shifts that empower women to feel strong and confident.

Where to find Sam:

Instagram: @samcfit

The EMPWR Podcast

EMPWR by Sam Fitness App 

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Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Function Health:

Visit https://functionhealth.com/louisa or use gift code NEURO100 at sign-up to own your health.

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***

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_

Topics discussed: 

00:00 – Intro

02:17 – How Sam turned her life around

04:00 – The Critical Decade for Women’s Health

06:20 – Under-Fueling, Hormones & Recovery

13:50 – From Rock Bottom to EMPWR

17:30 – Reinvention: Friendship, Clean Living & Divorce

23:20 – How to Build Muscle & Lose Fat (The Right Way)

28:30 – Nutrition Myths & Mindset Shifts

35:30 – Women’s Health, Fertility & Family

38:00 – Navigating Hormonal Shifts & Reinvention

43:00 – Exercise as Brain Medicine

51:30 – Biohacking, Bloodwork & Longevity Tools

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every 80 seconds, a woman dies from heart disease — yet most still think cancer is the bigger threat.

In this minisode, I sit down with Dr. Jeremy London, board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, to unpack why women’s cardiovascular risk skyrockets after menopause and how hormones, inflammation, and lifestyle choices all connect. This episode features highlights from our full conversation, which premiered July 24th, 2025.

Watch the full episode here → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jbvQRZgb3w

Dr. London explains how declining estrogen drives visceral fat, raises cholesterol, and fuels chronic inflammation — creating a “perfect storm” for heart attacks, strokes, and even Alzheimer’s.

From estrogen and inflammation to cholesterol, exercise, and sleep — this conversation exposes the real science behind heart and brain health. If you’ve ever wondered how to protect yourself from the #1 killer of women, this episode will change how you think about prevention, hormones, and longevity.

***

Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

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_

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Why Women’s Heart Risk Triples After Menopause

00:55 – Estrogen’s Role: Anti-Inflammatory and Protective

01:45 – Weight Gain, Visceral Fat, and Inflammation

02:09 – Cholesterol, LDL, and Rising Risks Post-Menopause

02:38 – The “Perfect Storm” of Metabolic Decline

03:13 – How the Women’s Health Initiative Misled Women on Hormones

03:36 – Estrogen, Brain Health, and Alzheimer’s Connection

04:45 – The #1 Global Killer: Cardiovascular Disease

05:26 – What “Heart Disease” Really Means

06:00 – Cholesterol Explained: HDL, LDL, and Triglycerides

07:37 – Why ApoB Is a More Accurate Marker

09:18 – Plaque Formation and Early Intervention

10:11 – The Study That Reversed Heart Aging by 20 Years

11:24 – VO₂ Max, Zone-5 Training, and Longevity

12:16 – Resistance Training and “Muscle as the Organ of Longevity”

13:09 – Why Consistency Beats Intensity

13:57 – The Sitting Disease and Daily Movement

14:22 – The Power of Nutrition: “Your Body Is the Soil”

15:02 – Whole Foods, Processed Diets, and Alcohol

16:24 – Can Plaque Be Reversed? The Truth

17:11 – Alzheimer’s and Lifestyle: Prevention Starts in Your 30s

18:19 – The Final Pillar: Sleep and Recovery

19:28 – Why Sleep Fuels Brain and Heart Health

20:12 – Which Health Pillar Matters Most for You

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In this powerful episode, board-certified urologist Dr. Kelly Casperson exposes the gender bias in medicine and reveals why testosterone may be the missing link in women’s mood, motivation, and longevity.

One of the few female urologists in the U.S., Dr. Kelly is rewriting the narrative on hormones—explaining why testosterone isn’t “just for men” and why, after 90 years, the FDA still hasn’t approved it for women.

Her message is clear: women are not broken. Whether you’re in your 30s, perimenopause, or beyond, this episode will change how you see your biology—and your power.

About Dr. Casperson

Dr. Kelly Casperson is a urologist, author, speaker, and educator transforming the way women understand their bodies. She empowers women of all ages to embrace sexual health, hormone balance, and intimacy with confidence and curiosity. With humor and candor, she dismantles shame-based myths and teaches one powerful truth: You Are Not Broken.

Follow Dr. Kelly Casperson:

***

Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Troscriptions:

Go to https://www.troscriptions.com/neuro | Code: NEURO for 10% your first order
Ketone IQ:

Go to https://www.ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order

Timeline:

Head to https://timeline.com/neuro to get 20% off

Manukora:

Head to https://www.manukora.com/neuro to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit.

Brickhouse Nutrition:

Check out the university study and get 20% off when you use promo code NEURO at https://brickhousenutrition.com.

Jones Road Beauty: 

Head to https://Jonesroadbeauty.com and use code NEURO at checkout.

***

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_

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Intro

03:14 – From Sex Ed to Menopause

05:15 – FDA Bias & Hormone Approval

07:26 – Redefining HRT as PET (Progesterone, Estrogen, Testosterone)

07:51 – Hormones 101 & Testosterone Misconceptions

10:13 – Perimenopause vs. Stress

11:51 – The “Bricks of the House” Analogy

13:57 – Symptoms of Low Testosterone in Women

15:15 – Lab Values vs. Reality

17:14 – DHEA & Supplementation

20:10 – Emotions on Testosterone

21:23 – Testosterone & Mental Health

22:33 – Vitamin D & Hormone Synergy

23:07 – Debunking Testosterone Myths

26:35 – The “Married-Only” Paradox

27:14 – Perimenopause Misdiagnosis

28:19 – Myth #2 – Masculinization Fear

29:15 – Fertility & Testosterone

30:07 – Pregnancy & Safety

31:01 – Blood Tests Explained

32:41 – Dr. Casperson’s Book & Treatment Guidance

33:24 – Contraindications & Safety

34:06 – Breast-Cancer Data

35:12 – The Menopause Divorce Rate

36:47 – Untreated Menopause & Relationships

39:25 – Testifying at the FDA

41:35 – The Estrogen Box Warning

43:35 – Why the FDA Still Hasn’t Acted

45:59 – Risk Tolerance Gap

46:17 – Systemic Discrimination in Medicine

47:28 – Neurological Protection of Testosterone

48:11 – Alzheimer’s & Hormone Decline

50:11 – Prevention vs. Treatment

52:04 – Brain Receptors & Protection

55:14 – The Brain Literally Eats Itself

57:18 – FDA Hearing Reflection 

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Can medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro actually do more than help you lose weight? This minisode features highlights from our full conversation, which premiered October 7th, 2025. Watch the full episode here → https://youtu.be/AcVIiy201H4?si=nlaFL3JnoZHxQVFh

Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen and I explore the difference between GLP-1, GIP, and triple-agonist drugs — and what’s next in obesity medicine, how estrogen changes after 40 drive midsection weight gain and inflammation, why GLP-1s reduce cancer and Alzheimer’s risk through anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects and how obesity and insulin resistance impact fertility and PCOS — and how GLP-1s can help.If you’ve ever wondered whether GLP-1s are just “weight loss shots” or a real step forward in metabolic and brain health — this “minisode” is a must-listen.

***

Follow Dr. Salas-Whalen:

***

I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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_

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Intro

00:04  – The Probiotic GLP-1 Myth

00:19 – The “iPhone Evolution” of GLP-1 Drugs

00:52 – GLP-1 vs GIP vs Triple Agonists Explained

01:24 – Phase 3 Results & Massive Weight Loss Outcomes

01:38 – The Role of Glucagon in Weight Loss

01:56 – Menopause, Estrogen & Midlife Weight Gain0

3:06 – The “Fat Shift” After 40

04:01 – Can You Combine HRT and GLP-1s?

06:17 – “Willpower” vs Biology in Obesity

07:49 – The Genetic and Hereditary Roots of Obesity

08:57 – Breaking the Transgenerational Cycle

09:30 – Thyroid Cancer Myths and GLP-1 Safety

10:49 – GLP-1s and Breast Cancer Prevention

12:06 – Inflammation as the Root of Disease

12:28 – Neuroprotection and Alzheimer’s Prevention

13:17 – GLP-1s, PCOS & Fertility Benefits

13:53 – The Positive Ripple Effect on Mental Health

14:21 – GLP-1s Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk by 33%

14:58 – The Future of Metabolic Health

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can strength training, sprinting, and nutrition truly transform women’s hormones, metabolism, and longevity?

In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Estima — chiropractor, women’s health expert, and founder of The Estima Method — breaks down the science of female physiology, muscle, and midlife health.

We cover why walking isn’t enough, how hormones shape muscle and bone, and why protein and strength training are essential “medicine” for women over 35. Expect myth-busting, practical tools, and empowering insights to help you train and live in sync with your biology.

About Dr. Stephanie Estima:

Dr. Estima began her career in chiropractic care, where she developed a deep interest in neuroscience, biomechanics, and the body’s connection between movement and the brain. After noticing how differently men and women respond to the same health strategies, she became passionate about helping women navigate hormones, metabolism, and midlife health.

Where to find Dr. Estima:

Instagram: @dr.stephanie.estima

Website: https://drstephanieestima.com

***

Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Function Health:

Visit https://functionhealth.com/louisa or use gift code NEURO100 at sign-up to own your health.

Ketone IQ:

Go to https://www.ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order

PUORI:

Go to https://puori.com/NEURO and use the code NEURO at checkout for 20% off.

AquaTru:

Go to https://AquaTru.com now for 20% off (your purifier) using promo code NEURO. AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee.

Caraway:

Visit https://Carawayhome.com/neuro and take an additional 10% off your next purchase.

Jones Road Beauty: 

Head to https://Jonesroadbeauty.com and use code NEURO at checkout.

***

I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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_

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Intro

03:14 – Reassessing Hormone Therapy in 2025

04:24 – The Rise of HRT & Social Media Awareness

05:37 – Balancing the Conversation: HRT Pros & Cons

06:42 – Lifestyle Levers That Matter More

08:05 – Why Walking Isn’t Enough Exercise

10:59 – Muscle Quality & Metabolism Explained

12:29 – Type 1 vs. Type 2 Muscle Fibers

16:25 – Glucose, Muscle, and Longevity18:07 – Bone Health & Estrogen

20:33 – The Power of Impact Training

22:28 – How to Build a “Prescription for Health”

24:06 – The Zone 2 Misconception

26:29 – Progressive Overload & The “Weighted Vest” Myth

27:45 – Sample Lower-Body Workout Blueprint

34:03 – Learning Proper Squat Mechanics

35:28 – The Power of Deadlifts & Hip Hinge Movements

36:46 – Glute Bridges & Unilateral Training

38:35 – Nutrition & Midlife Metabolism

39:47 – How Hormones Change Body Composition

42:06 – Sleep, Insulin, and the Estrogen Cascade

43:59 – Strength Training as Hormone Therapy

45:06 – LDL & Visceral Fat Connection

46:04 – Fasting & Female Metabolism

47:17 – Why Aggressive Fasting Backfires for Women

50:53 – The Dark Side of Fasting Culture

53:22 – Practical Guidelines for Eating Windows

54:03 – Under-Fueling & Protein Deficiency in Women

55:09 – Appetite, GLP-1 Drugs & Metabolic Health

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Can obesity, menopause, and even Alzheimer’s risk be transformed with one class of medications? Triple board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen joins The Neuro Experience to unpack the science behind GLP-1 therapies, sustainable weight loss, and hormone health.

One of the earliest physicians to adopt GLP-1 treatments, Dr. Salas-Whalen has redefined how obesity and midlife health are managed—showing why weight gain isn’t about “willpower” but biology, inflammation, and longevity.

A leader in obesity and hormone medicine, Dr. Salas-Whalen founded StrengthMD and The Dry Revolution, sharing evidence-based wellness insights worldwide. Her upcoming book, Weightless: A Doctor’s Guide to GLP-1 Medications, Sustainable Weight Loss, and the Health You Deserve, launches Dec 30, 2025 (U.S./Canada) and early 2026 worldwide.

Follow Dr. Salas-Whalen:

Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Puori

Go to https://puori.com/NEURO and use the code NEURO at checkout for 20% off.

Wildgrain

For a limited time, Wildgrain is offering our listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to https://Wildgrain.com/NEURO to start your subscription. 

OSEA

Get 10% off your first order sitewide with code NEURO at https://OSEAMalibu.com. You’ll get free samples with every order, and free shipping on orders over $50.

Honeylove

Save 20% Off Honeylove at https://honeylove.com/NEURO.

Brickhouse Nutrition

Check out the university study and get 20% off when you use promo code NEURO at https://brickhousenutrition.com.

Eko Health

Get $50 off, plus a FREE custom chest piece cover ($25 value) when you go to https://ekohealth.com/NEURO 

***

I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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_

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Intro

01:44 – Dr. Rocio’s Journey into Endocrinology

02:38 – Discovering the First GLP-1 Drug

03:29 – Early Results & FDA Approval

05:00 – GLP-1 101: What It Is + How It Works

06:28 – Natural vs Synthetic GLP-1s

07:09 – GLP-1s & Alzheimer’s Link

08:20 – GLP-1s vs Bariatric Surgery

09:32 – Rewiring Cravings in the Brain

11:24 – Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of GLP-1s

11:24 – Ad

15:19 – Ozempic, Mounjaro & Next-Gen GLP-1s

17:02 – GLP-1s & Women’s Hormones

19:26 – Will You Be on GLP-1 Forever?

21:35 – The Myth of Willpower

23:22 – Breaking Generational Obesity Cycles

24:43 – GLP-1 & Thyroid Cancer Myth

25:55 – Ad27:55 – GLP-1s Reduce Cancer Risk

29:12 – Inflammation & GLP-1s

30:00 – GLP-1s & Fertility (PCOS)

31:27 – GLP-1 Meds Cut Dementia Risk by 33%

32:04 – Muscle Loss on GLP-1s?

33:14 – Muscle: Your Body’s Anti-Inflammatory Organ

34:01 – How to Eat Enough Protein on GLP-1s

35:19 – Tracking Your Body Composition

36:57 – Build Muscle While Losing Weight

37:25 – GLP-1 Side Effects & How to Avoid Them

38:24 – The GPS Method (GLP-1 + Protein + Strength)

38:24 – Ad

41:15 – Exposing “GLP-1 Gummies” & Celeb Hype

41:34 – Microdosing & Maintenance Explained

45:01 – The Emotional Shift in Patients

46:07 – The Future of GLP-1s

48:04 – Ending Chronic Disease

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In this episode of The Neuro Experience, I sit down with Dr. Kellyann Niotis—one of the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologists—to reveal how you can protect your brain long before symptoms of Alzheimer’s or dementia appear. With Alzheimer’s cases expected to triple by 2050, Dr. Niotis explains the difference between dementia types, the real role of genes like ApoE4, and why lifestyle choices may be more powerful than genetics.

If you want actionable tools to lower your risk, strengthen your memory, and understand the future of preventive neurology, this conversation delivers science-backed strategies you can start applying today.

About Dr. Kellyann Niotis:

Dr. Kellyann Niotis is the first fellowship-trained preventive neurologist focused on reducing risk for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Lewy Body Dementia. She launched the nation’s first Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell and now leads early-detection and brain health research at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases Florida. Her work appears in leading medical journals and has been featured by CNN.

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Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode:

Timeline:

Head to⁠ http://timeline.com/neuro⁠ to get started.

Beam:

Visit ⁠http://shopbeam.com/TNE⁠ and use code TNE at checkout.

Jones Road Beauty:

Head to ⁠http://Jonesroadbeauty.com⁠ and use code NEURO at checkout. After you purchase, they will ask you where you heard about them. PLEASE support our show and tell them our show sent you.

NOCD:

Head to ⁠http://learn.nocd.com/NEURO⁠ and book a free 15 minute call to get started.

Eko Health:

Go to ⁠http:/ekohealth.com/NEURO ⁠ for up to $50 off, plus a free chest piece cover. 

***

I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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_

***

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Introduction

01:25 – Preventative neurology

02:23 – Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s & Other Types of Dementia

04:08 – What Is Alzheimer’s?

05:26 – Clinical Diagnosis: Imaging & Symptoms

07:07 – How Amyloid Disrupts Neural Communication

09:48 – Genetics vs. Lifestyle: Public Misunderstanding

12:02 – Role of Family History & Genetic Risk

14:04 – The ApoE4 Gene Explained15:07 – ApoE Variants

17:08 – ApoE4 and Lipid Transport in the Brain

18:35 – Immune Response & Infection Susceptibility

20:05 – Hormones: Key Role in Brain Health

21:08 – Genotypes & Risk Multipliers

23:01 – ApoE4 Not Always Deterministic: Population Studies

24:15 – Other Genetic Factors Beyond ApoE

25:13 – Biomarkers: Current Use & Limitations

27:13 – Risks of Self-Testing Biomarkers

28:45 – Why Two-Thirds of Patients Are Women

29:46 – Estrogen, Menopause & Neuroprotection

32:07 – Testosterone & Dementia Risk

35:01 – LDL, ApoB & Brain Health Debate

37:01 – Statins & Dementia: Myths vs. Evidence

39:08 – Fear & Misconceptions Around Cholesterol

41:09 – Lipoprotein(a) & Vascular Dementia Risk

44:39 – Brain Vasculature & Hypertension

49:15 – New Alzheimer’s Drugs & Risks

55:32 – Why Rates Keep Rising (Lifestyle & Stress)

58:11 – Early Signs

01:00:23 – Tau Protein, Tangles & Neuronal Damage

01:05:49 – Keto vs. Mediterranean

01:07:14 – Personalization & Preference for Mediterranean Diet

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parkinson’s disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world—and according to Dr. Ray Dorsey, it doesn’t have to be this way. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Dorsey, a leading neurologist, Parkinson’s researcher, and tireless advocate for rethinking chronic illness. Together, we unpack why the rates of Parkinson’s have doubled in the last 25 years and explore a bold claim: Parkinson’s is largely a manmade and preventable disease.Dr. Dorsey’s message is urgent yet hopeful: prevention is possible, but it requires awareness, advocacy, and collective action.

Dr. Ray Dorsey is a neurologist and one of the world’s foremost voices in Parkinson’s disease research and care. With deep clinical expertise and a passion for health care innovation, he is reshaping how we understand and address chronic illness. His parents were both psychiatrists, and he knew from first grade that he wanted to become a doctor. Today, he combines that lifelong love of learning with a mission to prevent Parkinson’s and improve the lives of millions worldwide.

*** 

Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey. 

*** 

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Troscriptions:

Go to www.troscription.com/neuro | Code: NEURO for 10% your first order

Ketone IQ: 

Go to https://ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order + receive a free gift with your second shipment.

Caraway:

Visit https://carawayhome.com/neuro and you can take an additional 10% off your next purchase.

Manukora:

Head to https://manukora.com/NEURO to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit.

Rula:

Go to https://rula.com/NEURO to get started today. 

Puori:

Go to https://puori.com/NEURO and use the code NEURO at checkout for 20% off.

***

I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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 Dr. Ray Dorsey’s work: Ending Parkinson’s DiseaseExplore Parkinson’s 25 recommendations in his book The Parkinson’s Plan to reduce your risk.

Topics discussed:

00:00:00:00 —  Intro 

00:01:45:16 — Rising rates of Parkinson’s & preventability
00:03:59:20 — How it starts & prodrome (decades-long progression).
00:05:27:22 — TCE & contaminated water/sites (Camp Lejeune, Woburn, Brooklyn, Silicon Valley).

00:10:36:02 — Dry cleaning exposure (perc), apartments above cleaners.

00:12:31:08 — Pathophysiology I: mitochondria, substantia nigra, alpha-synuclein.

00:17:06:16 — Pathophysiology II: body-first vs brain-first; REM sleep behavior disorder.
00:23:52:16 — Diagnosis: clinical features, imaging/biomarkers.

00:25:44:09 — Genetics (12.5%) & environmental susceptibility; TCE history/regulation.

00:29:12:23 — Pesticides: chlorpyrifos, paraquat; golf-course & agricultural exposure.

00:34:14:00 — Consumer guidance: wash produce; prioritize organic meat/dairy; contamination case studies.

00:37:58:11 — Sex differences & exposure sociology; possible estrogen protection.

00:39:37:03 — Management mindset: no cure; reduce exposures; 25 recommendations; occupational risks.
00:41:05:15 — Air pollution & purifiers: PM2.5, blood–brain barrier bypass, home monitoring.
00:46:53:17 — Water purification: filters vs RO; well-water testing & regulation gaps.

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Menopause is finally in the spotlight — but most women still don’t understand what’s happening to their bodies in their late 30s, 40s, and beyond. Even worse, many doctors misdiagnose or dismiss symptoms like brain fog, night sweats, weight gain, and mood swings as “just stress.”

About Dr. Alicia Robbins:

Dr. Alicia Robbins is a board-certified Gynecologist and Lifestyle Medicine physician, founder of The Elm, and creator of The Robbins Method. She is recognized as a leading voice in perimenopause and midlife health, dedicated to providing compassionate, proactive care and rewriting the narrative on women’s midlife.

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Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

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A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

Function Health

Visit https://www.functionhealth.com/louisanicola and use code NEURO100 or use gift code NEURO100 at sign-up to own your health. The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. 

FIGSYou can get 15% off your first order at https://www.wearfigs.com with the code FIGSRX. 

Honeylove

Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to https://www.honeylove.com/neuro.

Cowboy Colostrum

Get 25% Off with code NEURO at https://www.cowboycolostrum.com.

AquaTru

Go to https://www.AquaTru.com now for 20% off (your purifier) using promo code NEURO. AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee. 

Brickhouse Nutrition

Get 20% off when you enter NEURO at https://www.takelean.com.

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I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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_

Follow Dr. Alicia Robbins

The Elm: https://theelmgreenwich.com/

Instagram: @aliciarobbinsmd

Topics discussed:

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Most of us think protein is just about building muscle—but what if we’ve been getting it wrong all along? In this eye-opening episode, host Louisa sits down with Angelo Keely, co-founder and CEO of Kion, to uncover the real science behind protein, amino acids, and muscle health.

Angelo explains why essential amino acids—not just protein—are the critical drivers of muscle maintenance, recovery, and even longevity. He breaks down the shocking truth about how different protein sources actually compare, why aging adults need more than the RDA suggests, and how supplements like amino acids can prevent muscle loss—even without exercise. 

Whether you’re a midlife woman trying to protect bone density, an athlete looking for an edge, or simply someone who wants to age stronger—this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.

About the guest:

Angelo is the co-founder and CEO of Kion, a lifestyle and supplement company built around optimizing health and energy through essential nutrients. With a lifelong passion for nutrition and performance, he’s on a mission to educate people about the powerful science of amino acids and help them live stronger, healthier, and longer lives. 

Discover Kion:

Instagram: @kion

Visit getkion.com/neuro for 20% off.

***

Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey.

***

A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:

OSEA 

Get 10% off your first order sitewide with code NEURO at OSEAMalibu.com. You’ll get free samples with every order, and free shipping on orders over $50. 

Ketone IQ

Go to www.ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order + receive a free gift with your second shipment.

Wildgrain

For a limited time, Wildgrain is offering my listeners $30 off the first box - PLUS free Croissants in every box - when you go to Wildgrain.com/NEURO to start your subscription. 

Cozy Earth

Head to cozyearth.com and use my code NEURO for 40% off!

Cowboy Colostrum

For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off their entire order. Head to CowboyColostrum.com and use code NEURO at checkout. 

Puori

Go to puori.com/NEURO and use the code NEURO at checkout for 20% off

***

I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — 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_

Topics discussed:
00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:33 - confusion around protein, fat loss

00:02:36 - Carbs/fat = fuel vs protein = structure; macronutrient primer 

00:04:29 - Protein turnover & amino acids (house remodel analogy) 

00:08:29 - Protein beyond muscle00:11:02 - Energy storage vs “amino reservoir”; why low protein costs muscle 

00:13:25 - Nuance in intake advice; social/media oversimplification00:17:18 - “Protein isn’t equal”

00:18:27 - What EAAs are; “essential” vs “non-essential”; leucine as trigger 

00:21:15 - Comparing foods: plant vs dairy/eggs vs. meat

00:25:05 - Protein potency ladder

00:27:15 - Louisa’s protein plan; bioavailability clarification; why EAAs hit faster

00:30:28 - Aging & leucine-enriched EAAs

00:35:22 - Steak “not very anabolic” alone; training vs nutrition 

00:36:11 - NASA bed-rest studies

00:38:09 - Building muscles with amino acids and no exercise controversy 

00:40:46 - Angelo’s backstory & founding Kion

00:43:31 - Practical playbook (midlife female)

00:50:08 - GLP-1 weight-loss caveat

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