Smooth Brain Society

This episode features two members of Women in Neuroscience UK, Ginevra Sperandio and Riya Verma, discussing their journeys into neuroscience, the importance of women's health research, and the mission of their organization. They explore the challenges faced by women in neuroscience, the need for better representation, and the significance of patient voices in research. The discussion also highlights innovative ideas for future research and how individuals can get involved with Women in Neuroscience UK.Check WiNUK out here: https://www.womeninneuroscienceuk.orgSupport the showSupport us and reach out!https://smoothbrainsociety.comhttps://www.patreon.com/SmoothBrainSocietyInstagram: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTikTok: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTwitter/X: @SmoothBrainSocFacebook: @thesmoothbrainsocietyMerch and all other links: Linktreeemail: [email protected]

Dr. Zoe Swithenbank, a senior research associate at Lancaster University, delves into her work at the intersection of mental health, addiction, and public health. Zoe's research focuses on treatment pathways for individuals with alcohol use and mental health challenges. She highlights the structural barriers in accessing care and the need for long-term support in smoking cessation, which is often not included in core treatment services. Zoe advocates for a more integrated approach to addiction and mental health services, emphasizing the role of lived experience in shaping effective interventions. Her work also explores the social norms around smoking within recovery communities and the importance of empowering individuals to make choices that support their recovery journey.00:00 Introducing Dr. Zoe Swithenbank02:18 The Role of Smoking Cessation in Recovery08:55 Barriers in Addiction and Mental Health Care11:55 The Intersection of Mental Health and Addiction25:19 Qualitative Research in Addiction Studies33:57 Navigating Diverse Perspectives in Qualitative Research37:00 Balancing Scientific Rigor with Human Experience40:10 Understanding Service Provider Perspectives42:52 Challenging Stigma in Addiction and Mental Health49:40 Rethinking Smoking Cessation Outcomes50:42 Long-Term Studies in Substance Use Treatment54:30 Future Directions in Research and Service DeliverySupport the showSupport us and reach out!https://smoothbrainsociety.comhttps://www.patreon.com/SmoothBrainSocietyInstagram: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTikTok: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTwitter/X: @SmoothBrainSocFacebook: @thesmoothbrainsocietyMerch and all other links: Linktreeemail: [email protected]

Dr. Ellie Rukuwai of Victoria University of Wellington, discusses her research on perfectionism and self-injury within the Māori community, exploring how cultural perspectives shape these experiences. She emphasizes the importance of understanding perfectionism not just as a psychological construct but as a culturally bound experience that can differ significantly from Western definitions. The discussion also touches on the impact of colonization on Māori identity, the challenges of mental health diagnosis, and the necessity of qualitative research in capturing the nuances of individual experiences. Ellie shares her personal journey of reconnecting with her Māori heritage and the importance of community support in mental health.https://people.wgtn.ac.nz/ellie.rukuwaiSupport the showSupport us and reach out!https://smoothbrainsociety.comhttps://www.patreon.com/SmoothBrainSocietyInstagram: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTikTok: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTwitter/X: @SmoothBrainSocFacebook: @thesmoothbrainsocietyMerch and all other links: Linktreeemail: [email protected]

Dr. Liam Collins-Jones of University of Cambridge shares his journey from studying medicine to becoming a neuroscientist and comedian. He discusses innovative brain imaging techniques, particularly near infrared spectroscopy, and their applications in understanding brain activity in babies and dementia patients. The podcast explores the intersection of science and humor, emphasizing the importance of making science accessible and enjoyable. Liam also reflects on the challenges of research, the value of curiosity, and the role of comedy in science communication.Support the showSupport us and reach out!https://smoothbrainsociety.comhttps://www.patreon.com/SmoothBrainSocietyInstagram: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTikTok: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTwitter/X: @SmoothBrainSocFacebook: @thesmoothbrainsocietyMerch and all other links: Linktreeemail: [email protected]

Dr. Jonathan Howard, neurologist and psychiatrist at NYU Langone and chief of the neurology service at Bellevue Hospital, discusses his dual origin stories. The first as a medical professional and his experiences treating multiple sclerosis and other neuro-immune diseases. The second, understanding the dangers of misinformation in medicine, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic which he doccuments across two books "We want them infected" and "Everyone Else is Lying to you". Dr. Howard reflects on the lessons learned from COVID-19 and the need for the medical community to regain public trust and effectively combat misinformation.Support the showSupport us and reach out!https://smoothbrainsociety.comhttps://www.patreon.com/SmoothBrainSocietyInstagram: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTikTok: @thesmoothbrainsocietyTwitter/X: @SmoothBrainSocFacebook: @thesmoothbrainsocietyMerch and all other links: Linktreeemail: [email protected]