In this powerful episode, we explore one of the most important—and least understood—medical challenges of our time: how brain injury and aging impact mental health, behavior, and society. Our host is joined by renowned neuropathologist Dr. John Crary, a leading expert on brain diseases at Mount Sinai, to unpack the science and lived reality behind concussions, CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy), dementia, and more.

Dr. Crary shares his early fascination with neuroanatomy, how pathology reveals the hidden stories inside every brain, and why repetitive mild head trauma—not just big hits—may be the true danger in contact sports and military service. He explains how CTE is diagnosed, why tau tangles are the “smoking gun,” and how the exact location of damage reveals the cause. The conversation digs into why certain brain regions drive memory loss, depression, and even aggression—and why some athletes and veterans develop devastating symptoms at a young age.

We also discuss:

• Sports like football, boxing, and soccer—how risky are they really?
• The biomechanical “Nestlé Crunch bar” model of brain injury
• Why CTE can only be definitively diagnosed after death (for now)
• Emerging tools: PET scans, blood tests, MRI biomarkers
• How studying athletes may help unlock treatments for Alzheimer’s
• New hope in RNA-based therapies and amyloid/tau-targeting drugs
• Whether recovery is possible after multiple concussions—and when it’s too late

This episode blends science, medicine, personal stories, and societal urgency. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, physician, or just curious about the brain, this is a must-listen conversation that could change how you think about brain health forever.

What should you do when water damage strikes—whether it’s a burst pipe, a flooded basement, or a slow leak you didn’t notice until it was too late? In this episode, Dr. Mitchell sits down with trusted mold inspector Joseph Reiss to unpack the essentials of mold prevention, testing, and remediation. They cover what to do in the first 24 hours after water damage, why carpets are mold magnets, how to safely contain and remove contaminated materials, and which testing methods actually help identify hidden mold.

Joseph also shares insights on flood-proof home design, how to avoid costly mistakes, and what to look for in professionals who truly understand water and mold management. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or health-conscious listener, this conversation offers practical steps to protect your home—and your health—from toxic mold.

Adverse drug reactions and allergic responses to medications and vaccines are no longer rare side effects—they’re a growing medical challenge. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Mariana Castells, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, Director of the Mastocytosis Center of Excellence, and Director of the Drug Hypersensitivity and Desensitization Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

We explore:

• Why newer medications and targeted therapies carry higher risks of severe reactions
• The difference between drug intolerance, adverse reactions, and true allergies
• The dangers of mislabeling penicillin allergy—and how it affects treatment choices
• Cutting-edge diagnostic tools like basophil and mast cell activation testing
• The role of mast cells, novel receptors, and genetics in multiple drug allergies
• Strategies for safer prescribing, testing, and desensitization

Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, or patient who’s experienced a “bad reaction” to medication, this conversation offers clarity on what we know today—and where the science of drug allergy is heading.

What’s it really like to be a medical student in 2025? Host Dr. Mitchell sits down with second-year students Nya Evans and Marco Halabi from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine for a candid conversation about why they chose medicine, the challenges of medical school today, and how training has evolved since the 1980s. From simulation labs and self-directed learning to the psychological toll of training and the role of AI in the future of medicine, this episode offers a rare first-hand look at how tomorrow’s physicians are being shaped. Both insightful and personal, it’s a reminder that while technology changes, the heart of medicine is still human connection.

Brain fog—a term once absent from the medical lexicon—has become one of the most debilitating and puzzling symptoms of Long COVID. But what exactly is happening inside the body to cause this cognitive impairment? Is it just inflammation, or is there a more complex mechanism at play?

In this episode, we sit down with leading immunologist Dr. Terry Harville, Medical Director of the Special Immunology Laboratory at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Dr. Harville takes us on a deep dive into the unique relationship between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the human immune system, explaining why this zoonotic virus is so effective at causing long-term neurological issues. This isn't just about forgetfulness; it's a serious medical condition that could be a harbinger of something much worse.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the cognitive effects of Long COVID, this episode is an essential listen, packed with scientific insights and actionable treatment strategies from an expert on the front lines.


Visit apolloneuro.com and use code: smartmd at checkout to get your hands on the sleep wearable that Dr. Mitchell trusts.

Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph Reiss
Phone Number: 908-451-4592  
Email: [email protected]

What if your child’s sudden anxiety, OCD, or tics weren’t behavioral—but biological? In this eye-opening episode, we welcome back Dr. Jill Crista, a leading expert in naturopathic medicine and mold-related illness, to explore a lesser-known but critically important condition: PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections) and its broader counterpart, PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome).

What if a simple strep throat infection could lead to sudden-onset OCD, anxiety, tics, or even psychosis in children? Dr. Crista breaks down the groundbreaking science behind how infections—and even environmental toxins like mold and glyphosate—can trigger autoimmune attacks on the brain, mimicking psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Crista shares her "Core Four" treatment framework and critical cautions (like which "brain-boosting" herbs can actually flare symptoms). Whether you're a parent, clinician, or someone struggling with unexplained neuropsychiatric symptoms, this episode is a must-listen for understanding the body-mind connection in mental health.

Visit apolloneuro.com and use code: smartmd at checkout to get your hands on the sleep wearable that Dr. Mitchell trusts.

Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph Reiss
Phone Number: 908-451-4592  
Email: [email protected]

Ever looked in the mirror and wondered, What if I tweaked this? You’re not alone. Plastic surgery—once reserved for the rich and famous—is now a reality for everyday people seeking confidence and self-improvement. But how do you know if it’s right for you? And what separates a natural-looking result from a "wind tunnel face"?

On this episode, host Dean Mitchell sits down with Dr. Robert Freund, a top Manhattan plastic surgeon, inventor of the Teardrop Breast Lift, and author of Cosmetic Breast Surgery and A More Beautiful You. From their shared high school days to their time at Brown University, Dean and Dr. Freund reunite for a candid conversation about the psychology of plastic surgery, teen procedures, the future of anti-aging and much more!

Whether you’re considering a procedure or just fascinated by the intersection of medicine and art, this episode is packed with insider insights, ethical dilemmas, and a few wild stories from Dr. Freund (like the time he spent 16 hours reattaching a model’s fingertip).

Visit apolloneuro.com and use code: smartmd at checkout to get your hands on the wearable that Dr. Mitchell trusts.

Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph Reiss
Phone Number: 908-451-4592 
Email: [email protected]

Visit Dr. Mitchell's website here: https://www.mitchellmedicalgroup.com

In this episode of The Smartest Doctor in the room, we welcome back Dr. Kevin Tracey, a pioneering neurosurgeon, scientist, and leading expert in bioelectric medicine—specifically, the healing power of the vagus nerve. Dr. Tracey’s work has proven that electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve can reverse autoimmune conditions without medication, a discovery that could dramatically transform modern medicine.

Dr. Tracey also shares insights from his new book, The Great Nerve, which explores the vagus nerve’s role in health, longevity, and holistic healing. Plus, we discuss why he’s a top candidate for a Nobel Prize in medicine.

Whether you're a health enthusiast, autoimmune patient, or medical professional, this conversation will change how you think about healing, inflammation, and the mind-body connection.

Listen now—and discover how the "great nerve" could be the key to unlocking your body’s natural healing potential.

Grab your copy of The Great Nerve on Amazon!

Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph Reiss

Phone Number: 908-451-4592  

Email: [email protected]

Visit Dr. Mitchell's website here: https://www.mitchellmedicalgroup.com

In this episode of The Smartest Doctor in the Room, Dr. Mitchell sits down with renowned nutritionist, chef, and author Mia Rigden to explore her holistic approach to healthy eating for individuals and families. Mia shares her expert insights on balancing nutrition science with the emotional and practical aspects of food, offering actionable tips for sustainable wellness.

Mia also opens up about her work with high-profile clients, her bestselling books FoodWise and The Well Journal, and her mission to make nutritious home cooking accessible through her Substack, Between Meals. Whether you're a busy parent, a fitness enthusiast, or just looking to feel better every day, this conversation is packed with science-backed wisdom you won’t want to miss!

Visit miarigden.com for more practical insights!

Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph Reiss
Phone Number: 908-451-4592 
Email: [email protected]

Visit Dr. Mitchell's website here: https://www.mitchellmedicalgroup.com

What separates elite athletes from the rest? While we often focus on strength, speed, and skill, one critical factor is frequently overlooked: vision. In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Laby, a leading sports vision ophthalmologist who has worked with the Los Angeles Dodgers, NBA teams, Formula 1 drivers, and Olympic athletes.

Whether you’re a pro athlete, a weekend competitor, or just someone who wants to protect and optimize your eyesight, this episode will change how you see the game—literally. Dr. Laby also shares insights from his book, "Eye of the Champion: Unlocking the Power of Sports Vision for Peak Performance," and explains how his work with Usher syndrome patients proves that vision training isn’t just for athletes—it’s for everyone.

Tune in to discover how the science of sight can elevate your performance, safety, and quality of life!

Need a certified mold inspector? Reach out to Joseph Reiss
Phone Number: 908-451-4592 
Email: [email protected]

Visit Dr. Mitchell's website here: https://www.mitchellmedicalgroup.com