The Neuro Experience – Details, episodes & analysis

In this eye-opening episode, I am joined by renowned olive oil expert Dr. Rod Mailer to uncover the shocking truths behind one of the most misunderstood ingredients in our kitchens: olive oil. Together, we explore the science, sourcing, and scandals behind olive oil—what it really means when a bottle says “extra virgin,” how processing and storage impact its quality, and why so much of what we buy may not be what it claims to be. We also dive into the science of why seed oils—like canola, soybean, and sunflower—pose serious health risks, and how they’ve infiltrated modern diets to a dangerous degree. Whether you’re a health-conscious consumer or just want to know what’s actually in your food, this episode will change the way you think about fat. About Dr. Rod Mailer: Dr. Rodney Mailer is a leading expert in olive oil quality and production, instrumental in developing Australia’s olive oil industry. He founded and led the Australian Oils Research Laboratory and has worked globally to combat adulteration and ensure authenticity in extra virgin olive oil. Dr. Mailer continues to help shape international standards for edible oils through his roles with the International Standards Organisation, Codex Alimentarius, and Standards Australia. *** Subscribe to The Neuroscience 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: Fatty15: Get 15% off your 90-day Starter Kit when you visit www.fatty15.com/neuro | Code: NEURO Boncharge: www.boncharge.com | Code: NEURO15 Branch Basics: www.branchbasics.com to shop their Premium Starter Kit and save 15% | Code: NEURO Ketone IQ: www.ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order + receive a free gift with your second shipment MUD\WTR - The coffee alternative. If you're ready to ditch the crash and sip smarter, go to mudwtr.com and use code NEURO to get 43% off + free shipping. *** Topics discussed: 00:00:08: The harmful effects of seed oils 00:01:35: Misinformation via social media 00:02:56: Why are seed oils killing us? 00:09:51: Why fry in seed oil and not olive oil? 00:17:50: How olive oil is manufactured 00:19:33: Different types of olives 00:23:01: Olive oil tasting 00:25:24: The controversy of the olive oil industry 00:28:09: Cold pressed olive oil 00:35:00: Which oil to buy in Australia 00:37:11: Storage and shipment issues 00:38:36: What to look for in the supermarket 00:41:12: What makes olive oil bad? 00:44:10: The importance of the manufacturer 00:45:09: Labeling discrepancies of olive oil 00:49:38: Anything can sell on Amazon 00:51:01: Unknowing blending of oils 00:53:27: Consuming olive oil for longevity 00:54:52: Clinical epidemiology *** 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 your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Social isolation isn't just emotionally challenging—it can literally shorten your lifespan. In this episode with Shawn Stevenson, I explore compelling new research showing how meaningful social relationships directly influence biological processes like inflammation, stress hormones, immune function, and cognitive resilience. Learn how maintaining strong connections isn't simply good for mental health; it's critical for healthy aging at the cellular level. Follow Shawn: instagram.com/shawnmodel/ SponsorsA huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:Caraway – Cook clean, live clean. Head to carawayhome.com/neuro and use code NEURO to get 10% off your next purchase. KetoneIQ: the cleanest ketones I have ever had for long sustaining energy: Visit https://ketone.com/NEURO for 30% OFF your subscription order Troscriptions – Unlock your cognitive potential with precision-dosed nootropics developed by medical experts. Whether you need more focus, clarity, or energy, Troscriptions offers innovative solutions.- Get 10% off: https://troscriptions.com/NEURO The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation with Dr. Heather Sandison, we explore what I consider to be one of medicine's most significant misunderstandings—that Alzheimer's disease, particularly in women, is an unstoppable fate. We examine the evidence behind cognitive decline, hormones, lifestyle interventions, and a framework for preventing and even reversing what was once considered irreversible. If you're interested in making evidence-based decisions about your brain health, understanding why traditional approaches have failed, or learning about the powerful role of lifestyle interventions in cognitive function, this episode provides both the scientific rationale and actionable strategies you need. Subscribe to The Neuroscience Experience for more conversations that challenge conventional thinking about brain health. I'm committed to bringing you insights that transform how we approach cognitive aging and performance.  SponsorsA huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts:Hone Health – Take control of your hormones with at-home testing designed specifically for men. Get personalized insights and expert guidance to optimize your health and performance. Learn more at: https://honehealth.com/Momentous – Science-backed supplements trusted by elite athletes and experts. Whether you’re looking to improve recovery, performance, or overall wellness, Momentous has you covered. Use code NEURO for 20% off your order: https://www.livemomentous.com/neuroTroscriptions – Unlock your cognitive potential with precision-dosed nootropics developed by medical experts. Whether you need more focus, clarity, or energy, Troscriptions offers innovative solutions.- Get 10% off: https://troscriptions.com/NEURO- https://troscriptions.com/discount/NEUROMAIL?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NeuroMail  Episode Timestamps:   00:00 Why Are Women More Vulnerable to Alzheimer’s?  06:13 The Role of Hormone Replacement Therapy  11:24 Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia  17:04 Alzheimer's Drugs vs. Lifestyle Interventions That Work  29:50 APOE Gene, Genetic Risk, Lipids, and Cholesterol in Alzheimer’s  37:47 How the Ketogenic Diet Impacts Brain Health  41:11 GLP-1 Agonists and Their Role in Cognitive Health  44:30 How Infections Contribute to Cognitive Decline  48:00 Plasma Exchange and Alternative Therapies  52:09 Foundational Health Practices & Dual Task Exercise  54:17 Conclusion and Further Resources  The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Olympic bronze medalist, Molly Seidel, joins Louisa Nicola today to talk about mental health, running and eating disorders. Molly has been struggling with her mental health—and it’s a struggle that is ongoing. In February, she received a diagnosis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and was trying different strategies to cope with the symptoms, which include depression, anxiety, and the return of the eating disorder that Molly has suffered with at different times for the past 12 years. In this raw interview, Louisa and Molly chat about all things running, mental health and what it means to live with an eating disorder.If you enjoy this episode, please leave a review here.https://lovethepodcast.com/O6HRoB Content warning: This story covers disordered eating. If you are struggling with an eating disorder and are in need of support, please call the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline at 1–800–931–2237. For a 24-hour crisis line, text “NEDA” to 741741.Sponsors:MOMENTOUS SUPPLEMENTS - 15% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://www.livemomentous.com/neuroKETONE-IQ- 20% DISCOUNT - NEURO20https://hvmn.me/NeuroYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sleep is generally divided into two phases, REM (rapid eye movement) and NREM (non-rapid eye movement).  While the REM sleep phase is when your body focuses on reenergizing your mind, the NREM phase, and specifically the deep sleep stage, is when your body’s physically restorative processes take place. With your brain less active, the blood supply to your muscles and tissues increases, delivering oxygen and nutrients that promote muscle repair and growth. Let’s dig into some specific connections between sleep and muscle recovery. Professor Shona Halson is the Deputy Director of the SPRINT Research Centre atACU’s School of Behavioural and Health Sciences. Prior to this she was the HeadRecovery Physiologist at the Australian Institute of Sport for over 15 years and hasled the Recovery team at three Olympic campaigns with the Australian OlympicCommittee. Her research focuses on sleep, recovery and fatigue and she haspublished over 160 peer-reviewed articles and multiple book chapters. Shonaprovides consultancy services to the Australian Open Tennis Tournament and Nikeas well as a number of national and international professional sporting teams. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What happens to muscle and recovery during sleep deprivation and why What happens to athletes who don't recovery adequately  Hormones related to sleep deprivation Hunger - Protein - sleep deprivation SPONSORSEIGHT SLEEP: $150 off  - NEUROhttps://www.eightsleep.com/neuroKETONE-IQ- 20% DISCOUNT - NEURO20https://hvmn.me/NeuroFind Shona here: twitter.com/ShonaHalsonYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dopamine is the primary brain chemical response that motivates us and makes us feel good. Aside from making us feel moody and tired, low dopamine levels also contribute to many mental health conditions and addiction.This episode I interview Dr. Anna Lembke, MD, Chief of the Stanford Addiction Medicine Dual Diagnosis Clinic at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Lembke is a psychiatrist expert in treating addictions of all kinds: drugs, alcohol, food, sex, video games, gambling, medication, etcIn this episode we cover: Defining dopamine  The role that dopamine plays in Parkinson's Disease  Dopamine and depression Dopamine's role in fitness How to correct an addiction  Anna discusses her 'dopamine fast' method Much more... SPONSORSEight Sleep: $150 off  - NEUROhttps://www.eightsleep.com/neuroMOMENTOUS SUPPLEMENTS - 15% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://www.livemomentous.com/neuroYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The compelling and robust body of evidence of ergogenic — enhancing physical performance — effects of creatine supplementation (5 g/day) are well-documented. Besides the evidence supporting its efficacy in increasing exercise performance/muscle function, muscle strength, and lean mass, there is literature suggesting that creatine may also be beneficial for brain health.In this episode I draw on 3 studies in 3 areas:Parkinsons DiseaseDepression Menopausal womenSPONSORSEight Sleep: $150 off  - NEUROhttps://www.eightsleep.com/neuroMOMENTOUS SUPPLEMENTS - 15% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://www.livemomentous.com/neuroYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At 28 years old, Lauren Fisher has been one of the best known names in CrossFit. Since the NorCal Regionals in 2012, she’s collected a Top 10 finish at the Games (2014), a 1st place finish at the California Regional (2016), and eight overall Games appearances in total (4 individual, 4 team). In 2022, her team finished 4th overall at the 2022 Games.   Her mission is to challenge women to tap into the individual strength of females to see that strong is beautiful and giving up is simply not an option.   In this episode I debunk Lauren’s entire life from nutrition to sleep. I also dig into her training schedule and the highs and lows of being a XFIT athlete.   If you enjoy this episode please leave a review, it takes 20 seconds and helps us get this message out there.  Lauren Fisher https://lauren-fisher.com/ Grown Strong https://grownstrong.com/ - 30% discount code- NEURO  Sponsors:MOMENTOUS SUPPLEMENTS - 15% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://www.livemomentous.com/neuroKETONE-IQ- 20% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://hvmn.me/NeuroYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that are required by the human body. There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) Found in flaxseed oil and chia seed oil Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) In short: ALA⇒ EPA⇒ DHA Your body isn’t good at producing omega-3s. That’s why they’re called essential fatty acids—you have to get them from food or supplements. In this solo episode I will: 1. Break down what Omega 3 fatty acids are.2. Talk about 2 studies that were done on the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and the brain3. Dosage requirements needed to achieve these desired results 4. Where to source your Omega'3's from  Sponsors:KETONE-IQ- 20% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://hvmn.me/NeuroYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are around 40 trillion bacteria in your body, most of which are found in your gut. Collectively, they are known as your gut microbiome, and they’re incredibly important for overall health. However, certain types of bacteria in your intestines can also contribute to many diseases. In this episode I speak with Dr Kirten Parekh from Klora about optimising your gut health so you can have a better performing brain.In this episode we discuss: What is the gut microbiome What is dysbiosis? How does the gut communicate with the brain? What is wrong with our food system ? How does disease in the gut start? What are pre, pro and post biotics? How can we have a better gut microbiome? Sponsors:KETONE-IQ- 20% DISCOUNT - NEUROhttps://hvmn.me/NeuroEight Sleep: $150 off  - NEUROhttps://www.eightsleep.com/neuroYou can follow me or contact me here ---Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0Instagram: louisanicola_Twitter : louisanicola_YouTube: Louisa NicolaThe information provided in this show is not medical advice, nor should it be taken or applied as a replacement for medical advice. The Neuro Experience podcast, its employees, guests and affiliates assume no liability for the application of the information discussed. The Neuro Athletics Newsletter Instagram: @louisanicola_Twitter : @louisanicola_YouTube: @Louisa NicolaThe Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices