The Write Brain

Ellis Melillo
The Write Brain
Latest episode

62 episodes

  • The Write Brain

    Sadie Bass on ADHD, Creativity & the Right Brain

    19/03/2026 | 54 mins.
    In this episode, we sit down with country artist Sadie Bass to talk about her new single “F You, I’m ADHD” — and the deeper reality behind what ADHD actually feels like.
    This conversation goes way beyond the label.
    We get into:
    • The difference between ADD vs ADHD (and why it matters)
    • Right brain vs left brain — and how it affects learning & creativity
    • Why ADHD isn’t really an “attention deficit”
    • Growing up with ADHD and navigating school
    • The connection between creativity, empathy, and anxiety
    • Stage fright, overthinking, and performing under pressure
    • Depression, brain chemistry, and finding what works for you
    • Misophonia (why certain sounds can trigger intense reactions)
    • Why so many artists struggle with mental health
    Sadie also shares her personal journey — from writing songs as a kid to building a career in music — and how being different actually became her biggest strength.
    This episode is honest, funny, and incredibly relatable — especially if you’ve ever felt like your brain just works… differently.
    If you’ve ever:
    Overthought everything
    Felt overwhelmed by your own mind
    Struggled with focus, anxiety, or emotions
    You’re not alone.
    And you might just be wired for something special.
    🎙 Hosted by Ellis Melillo & Dr. Robert Melillo
    🎧 Listen to Sadie Bass’s new single: “F You, I’m ADHD”
  • The Write Brain

    The Technology Problem Nobody Wants to Talk About

    11/03/2026 | 42 mins.
    In this episode we talk about a growing concern researchers are starting to notice around the world:
    For the first time in recorded history, a generation may be declining on certain cognitive measures compared to their parents.
    Cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath has pointed to a surprising factor — the widespread introduction of digital technology in schools and childhood development.
    So what’s actually happening to our brains?
    Dr. Robert Melillo and Ellis break down:
    • Why Gen Z may be struggling with attention, memory, and learning
    • The impact of screens and digital technology on brain development
    • Why humans are wired to learn from other humans
    • The connection between technology and the “dating recession”
    • How social media may be affecting confidence and relationships
    • The role of the right brain in imagination, creativity, and social connection
    • Why kids need movement, play, and real-world interaction
    We’re not here to criticize Gen Z — in fact, many young people are incredibly creative and innovative.
    But this episode explores an important question:
    What happens when technology replaces imagination, movement, and human interaction?
    And more importantly:
    How can we fix it?
    Sometimes the answer might be simpler than we think:
    Go outside. Talk to people. Get bored. Use your imagination.
  • The Write Brain

    Assume Competence: The Truth About Non-Speaking Autism

    04/03/2026 | 1h 2 mins.
    In this episode of The Write Brain Podcast, we dive into one of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in autism:
    What if non-speaking autistic individuals understand everything?
    Dr. Robert Melillo shares 35 years of neuroscience research and clinical experience working with children and adults on the autism spectrum — including those who have never spoken a word.
    We discuss:
    • What is actually preventing some autistic individuals from speaking
    • The role of the right brain and interoception
    • Why many non-speaking individuals may be exceptionally gifted
    • The controversy around spelling and letter boards
    • What research says about motor control vs. language ability
    • Why we must “assume competence”
    • Powerful real stories from families
    Many of the individuals discussed in this episode have demonstrated advanced reading levels, deep emotional intelligence, and profound insight — despite being previously labeled “low functioning.”
    Could it be that we’ve misunderstood the autistic brain?
    This episode is about awareness, compassion, neuroscience, and giving a voice to those who have one inside — but struggle to express it outwardly.
    If you know someone with autism, especially a non-speaking individual, please share this episode.
    April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day.
    For more information about Dr. Melillo’s upcoming lecture in New York City, visit his Instagram: @DrRobertMelillo or drmillo.com
    Assume competence.
    Presume intelligence.
    Lead with respect.
  • The Write Brain

    Are Psychic Abilities Genetic? The Science Behind Intuition

    26/02/2026 | 53 mins.
    This episode starts with a birthday month conversation… and somehow ends with chromosome 7, universal consciousness, autism, astral projection, and mushroom chocolate.
    We’re diving into something that sounds “woo” — but may actually have scientific grounding.
    In this episode, we explore:
    • Published research on a potential “psychic gene”
     • The role of chromosome 7 in intuitive abilities
     • Whether psychic ability could function like a biological sense
     • Right brain vs left brain differences in intuition
     • Autism, hyperconnectivity, and telepathic claims
     • The theory of universal consciousness (and what physics says about it)
     • Dreams, premonitions, and altered states
    Is psychic ability genetic?
     Are intuitive people neurologically different?
     Is consciousness produced by the brain — or accessed through it?
    We’re not telling you what to believe.
     We’re inviting you to think bigger.
    Open your mind.
     Question everything.
     And maybe don’t eat the chocolate in someone else’s cabinet.
    🎙 Welcome back to The Write Brain podcast.
  • The Write Brain

    Abby Anderson: Why Creative People Feel Everything So Deeply

    10/02/2026 | 54 mins.
    Abby Anderson joins The Write Brain podcast for a raw, honest conversation about creativity, anxiety, control, and what it really means to be gifted.
    In this episode, Abby opens up about:
    Growing up feeling “too sensitive”
    Why creative people struggle with anxiety and self-doubt
    The neuroscience behind right-brain dominance
    How control and perfectionism can turn into coping behaviors
    Her experience navigating the music industry at 19
    Why artists often crash emotionally after shows
    Turning pain into purpose through songwriting
    Learning that nothing was “wrong” with her — her brain just works differently
    This episode blends real-life vulnerability with brain science, offering language and understanding for creatives who’ve always felt deeply but never knew why.
    If you’re an artist, songwriter, or someone who’s ever thought “why am I like this?” — this conversation will make you feel seen.

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About The Write Brain

The Write Brain is a podcast that explores the intersection of mental health and the music industry. Hosted by singer/songwriter Ellis Melillo and functional neurologist Dr. Robert Melillo, each episode features intimate conversations with musical artists about their mental health journeys. With insights from Dr. Melillo on brain health and Ellis' personal experiences, the show uncovers the challenges musicians face in balancing creativity, performance, and well-being. Tune in for powerful stories of resilience, healing, and creative expression.
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