The Brain Health Mission Podcast

Welcome to The Brain Health Mission Podcast, your go-to source for insights into how the latest science, public health policies, and practical lifestyle choices impact brain health. Hosted by neurologists and brain experts, the podcast aims to empower you with knowledge and tools to protect and support your most vital organ—your brain.

The Brain Health Mission Podcast

Latest episodes

Neurotechnology – What is it and what’s in it for our brain health?

Neurotechnology – What is it and what’s in it for our brain health?

45m 54s

In this episode of the Brain Health Mission Podcast, our host Jana Midelfart-Hoff explores the fascinating and rapidly evolving field of neurotechnology. Joined by Virginia Mathieu, Director of Neurotechnology at the Centre for Future Generations, they unpack what neurotechnology is, how it is developing, and its potential to support brain health.

The conversation also dives into important questions around how to distinguish truly beneficial innovations from gimmicks, as well as key considerations such as data protection and the evolving European legislative landscape.

This episode offers a thought-provoking look at the intersection of brain health, technology, and policy—providing valuable insights into...

Teaching the Brain: The Impact of Education on Brain Health

Teaching the Brain: The Impact of Education on Brain Health

37m 40s

In this episode, host Jana Midelfart-Hoff sits down with Dr. Anna Jansen, child neurologist and President of the European Paediatric Neurological Society, to explore brain health from a fresh perspective: childhood and adolescence. They dive into how the brain develops in young people and the powerful role education plays in shaping cognitive, emotional, and social growth.

Together, they debunk common myths, share evidence-based insights, and discuss practical strategies for fostering healthy brains from an early age. From the classroom to everyday life, this conversation highlights the transformative potential of education in creating brighter, healthier futures.

Blending scientific expertise with practical...

The Sad Brain and Winter Blues: How to Cope with Depression and the Seasonal Low

The Sad Brain and Winter Blues: How to Cope with Depression and the Seasonal Low

44m 31s

In this episode, we are joined by Andrea Fiorillo, Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Naples and President of the European Psychiatric Association, to explore the neurobiological and clinical aspects of depression during the winter months—a phenomenon affecting millions of people worldwide.

Professor Fiorillo discusses the role of reduced daylight exposure, explains why certain individuals are more vulnerable to seasonal mood changes, and examines how environmental, biological, and psychosocial factors interact to increase risk.

This episode offers valuable insights for both healthcare professionals and the general public, providing a deeper understanding of winter-related depression along with practical, science-based strategies...

The Impact of Sleep on Brain Health

The Impact of Sleep on Brain Health

46m 53s

In this episode, we sit down with neurologist, sleep expert, and best-selling author Dr. Inge Declercq to explore the essential role sleep plays in protecting and optimising brain health. Drawing on rigorous science and years of clinical experience, Dr. Declercq explains why sleep is a non-negotiable priority and challenges common misconceptions about what it really means to sleep "well” and sleep "enough".
She emphasises that sleep does not exist in isolation, but is closely connected to how we spend our days, from light exposure and movement to stress and screen use. This insightful conversation offers many pieces of practical advice...