Explore every episode of the podcast Think Neuro
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Low Testosterone: What You Need to Know with Noa Tal, MD | 04 nov. 2026 | 00:04:21 | |
Hypogonadism is a defect of the reproductive system resulting in lack of function of the gonads (ovaries or testes). The gonads have two major functions: to produce hormones (testosterone, estradiol), and to produce gametes (eggs or sperm). Sex hormones deficiency can result in defective primary or secondary sexual development, infertility and loss of libido. Defective egg or sperm development results in infertility. pituitary adenomas and other tumors that impinge upon the pituitary gland can cause hypogonadism (a subset of hypopituitarism) by causing either decreased production of LH and FSH or by causing hyperprolactinemia which inhibits LH and FSH production. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Hearing Aid Recycling Program (HARP) at Pacific Neuroscience Institute | 28 oct. 2026 | 00:01:35 | |
Pacific Neuroscience Institute Foundation’s Hearing Aid Recycling Program (HARP) accepts your generous monetary and device donations. We have partnered with industry sponsors to provide the necessary services to clean and prepare recycled hearing aids for a new life of use. Your support allows us to mold, fit and refurbish hearing aids for people with limited financial resources to hearing-related care. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 80. Being An Empowered Care Partner for Parkinson's Disease with Sheila Moore, MSG, LCSW | 21 oct. 2026 | 00:58:41 | |
When a person receives a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, the effects extend out into that person’s world. Family members often find themselves in new roles as caregivers—or, in the phrase of Sheila Moore, a licensed clinical social worker at Pacific Neuroscience Institute—care partners. Sheila works with people who have Parkinson’s disease and their care partners at PNI and at PNI’s Movement Disorders Center. Sheila has a wealth of information, resources and referrals for families, as well as support for those incredibly trying times. Sheila also works closely with PNI’s Parkinson’s disease and movement disorder neurologists, Dr. Melita Petrossian and Dr. Natalie Diaz as well as the rest of the team. Sheila shares with us today some of her experiences and advice for when situations become tough, along with her top ten tips for the empowered care partner. We also talk to Mary, who found herself thrust into the role of care partner when her husband Charles received a Parkinson’s diagnosis at PNI almost 10 years ago. Mary has worked with Sheila and participated in support groups, and offers her own advice and experience in how to cope with this challenging situation. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| PNI & 25 Years with the Los Angeles Kings - 2026 with Chester Griffiths, MD, FACS | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:01:37 | |
Celebrating 25 years with the team, Chester Griffiths, MD, FACS, has been a member of the Los Angeles Kings ice hockey team medical staff since 2002 as their maxillofacial plastic surgeon. Maxillofacial surgeons are trained to handle facial trauma as well as a wide variety of conditions and injuries that affect the head, neck, mouth, and jaw. Dr. Griffiths has done hundreds of procedures for team players as well as visiting team members and the referees who have been injured during games including the Olympics. And he has even saved a life on the ice. Dr. Griffiths’ passion for hockey and the LA Kings is lifelong, and he is reminded of their shared values each time he looks at his two Stanley Cup rings. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Hearing Loss, Cognition, Dementia, and the CELEBRATE Protocol with Rebecca Lewis, AuD | 07 oct. 2026 | 00:02:49 | |
Hearing loss is common as we age, but its effects reach far beyond the ears. Research increasingly links untreated hearing loss to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia, while treating hearing loss with hearing aids or cochlear implants may help protect memory and quality of life. At PNI’s Ear, Hearing & Balance program, our audiologists and ENT specialists work together to evaluate your hearing and recommend the right next step, whether that’s hearing aids, cochlear implants, or another treatment path. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Common Questions About Cochlear Implants with Rebecca Lewis, AuD | 30 sept. 2026 | 00:11:09 | |
Hearing loss is one of the leading causes of overall disability worldwide, affecting approximately 466 million adults and children. In this video, Rebecca Lewis, AuD, the Audiology Director of the Adult & Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, answers common questions about cochlear implants. For more information: Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Investigating Hormone Imbalances That Cause Irregular Cycles with Noa Tal, MD | 23 sept. 2026 | 00:02:26 | |
The pituitary gland may be tiny, but it plays a significant role in a woman’s health. When functioning properly, this master gland regulates essential hormones that influence many of bodily functions, from menstrual cycles to metabolism. Therefore, when pituitary gland disorders arise, they can disrupt reproductive health, energy levels, and overall quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore the role of the pituitary gland in women’s health, common disorders, symptoms to watch for, and how these conditions can be diagnosed and treated. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 79. Restoring Hearing Health with One Cochlear Implant at a Time with Courtney Voelker, MD, PhD | 16 sept. 2026 | 00:54:36 | |
It sounds almost too good to be true: A simple solution to a major health issue, that’s safe, effective and covered by insurance—yet most of the people who would benefit from this procedure don’t even know about it. We’re talking about cochlear implants—a well-established procedure that can restore hearing loss. Dr. Courtney Voelker has made it her life’s work to spread the word about this remarkable surgery. One of her patients, Sharon, also wants people to know how her cochlear implant completely changed her life, restoring her ability to hear everything from her pet birds to her yoga teacher to actors on stage in theatrical performances. Dr. Voelker and Sharon share those stories with us today. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Rapid Stroke Treatment at Comprehensive Stroke Centers with Jason Tarpley, MD, PhD | 09 sept. 2026 | 00:03:38 | |
With four Comprehensive Stroke Centers at Providence hospitals in the greater Los Angeles region, Pacific Neuroscience Institutes specialists have expert teams to treat stroke patients. Working with EMS, neurointerventional teams are standing by to provide immediate, advanced treatment. Using the latest in leading-edge imaging and minimally invasive clot-retrieval and clot busting techniques, we are able to treat strokes right away, maximizing the chance of recovery. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus? | With Garni Barkhoudarian, MD | 02 sept. 2026 | 00:03:50 | |
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) can cause symptoms of dementia, but these are reversible. NPH is a neurological condition that occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain’s ventricles, causing them to enlarge. It most commonly affects older adults and can lead to a unique set of symptoms, including difficulty walking, problems with bladder control, and cognitive decline. Because its symptoms often overlap with those of other neurological conditions, NPH can be challenging to diagnose but is often treatable once identified. 310-582-7450 Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Multiple Sclerosis: 6 Lifestyle Pillars for Brain Health | Dr. Barbara Giesser | 26 août 2026 | 00:09:12 | |
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. MS is managed by disease modifying therapies (DMTs), symptom management medications, and lifestyle interventions. Lifestyle interventions focus on six pillars of brain health: nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, social connection and avoidance of harmful substances. Learn more. pacificms.org Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 78. Revolutionizing Brain Tumor Surgery with Minimally Invasive Techniques with Daniel Kelly, MD | 19 août 2026 | 00:52:58 | |
The world of brain surgery has changed dramatically over the past generation. Surgeons are able to remove many tumors and other problems from the brain, often using new approaches that have much shorter recovery times and much better long-term outcomes. Many of these surgeries are much less invasive than old methods that saw the need to cut into a patient’s skull. Dr. Daniel Kelly and the team at Pacific Neuroscience Institute have pioneered many of these new approaches, and they’ve published peer-reviewed papers on their work in an effort to spread the word through the field. Dr. Kelly, the CEO and co-founder of PNI, joins us today to talk about some of these papers and what he and the team have found. For more information, visit: pacificneuro.org Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS): The All-Important Pre-Operative Phase | 12 août 2026 | 00:05:34 | |
Walavan Sivakumar, MD, explains how Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is used at PNI to help patients with brain tumors through the neurosurgical process. ERAS unfolds in three phases, and Dr. Sivakumar details why the preoperative stage plays a key role in setting patients up for success. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Dopamine Neuron Cell Replacement Therapy for Parkinson's Disease with Melita Petrossian, MD | 05 août 2026 | 00:05:13 | |
Parkinson's disease begins with the quiet loss of the brain cells that make dopamine, and dopamine is what carries your movement, your mood and the drive that gets you through the day. As those cells disappear, so does everything they were holding up, which is why the disease eventually shows itself in so many different ways at once. For years the central question in Parkinson's research has been whether any of that can be given back, and stem cells offer one of the more hopeful answers, since they can be turned into the very dopamine neurons the brain can no longer make on its own. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 77. The Little Gland with a Very Big Job with Garni Barkhoudarian, MD | 15 juil. 2026 | 00:58:34 | |
For a tiny organ, the pituitary gland carries outsized responsibilities in the human body. The size of a pea, the so-called “master gland” produces vital hormones that regulate many important bodily functions, including growth, stress, thirst, and even reproductive development. So it only follows that when things go awry with the pituitary gland, the body can suffer many other problems. Dr. Garni Barkhoudarian is a director of the Pacific Pituitary Disorders Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute and he joins us today to discuss the positive parts—and the pitfalls—of the pituitary gland. Christine, one of Dr. Barkhoudarian’s patients, also joins us to share her story of the long and arduous road to get her pituitary tumor diagnosed—and the happy ending she experienced when Dr. Barkhoudarian finally removed the tumor. For more information, visit: Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay - Episode 23: Scanning the Eye for Signs of Multiple Sclerosis | Dr. Barbara Giesser and Dr. Howard Krauss | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:39:04 | |
July is Healthy Vision Month, and the National Eye Institute—part of the National Institutes of Health—reminds us to take care of our eyes, by eating a healthy diet and exercising, and also by understanding the connection between our vision and other diseases. Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is one of those diseases. Dr. Barbara Giesser, who specializes in treating patients with MS at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, says that often times, a sudden loss of vision is the first indication that a person might have MS. Dr. Howard Krauss, one of the founders of Pacific Neuroscience Institute and a neuro ophthalmologist, notes that 40 percent of the brain’s activity is related to vision—so it makes sense that a disease of the brain like MS would have such a big impact on vision. We’re revisiting this conversation between these two doctors who have partnered in ways that can detect MS very early in the process, and to monitor the optic nerve to see how well MS treatments are working. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 76. Getting the Right Diagnosis for Facial Paralysis with Dr. Amit Kochhar | 17 juin 2026 | 00:33:04 | |
Every medical treatment needs to start with a diagnosis, but sometimes that diagnosis proves elusive. Sometimes it may appear that a person has one thing needing treatment, and after that treatment doesn’t work, doctors have to consider other possibilities. Dr. Amit Kochhar at Pacific Neuroscience Institute sees patients with facial paralysis, which is often diagnosed as Bell’s Palsy or Ramsey Hunt Syndrome—but sometimes turns out to be a cancerous tumor on a facial nerve. Doctors try to figure that out as quickly as possible, so they can remove the tumor and begin the work of restoring the patient’s appearance. In today’s episode, Dr. Kochhar describes these various symptoms and explains how he reaches the right diagnosis and treatment for his patients. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay - Episode 56: Dr. Michael Yong on Seasonal Allergies | 10 juin 2026 | 00:39:00 | |
If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you probably kept a close eye on the pollen count this spring—and you may have felt those all-too-familiar symptoms that affect one in five people: Congestion, sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose. That’s known as allergic rhinitis or, more commonly, hay fever. And that’s why now is a good time to revisit this Think Neuro podcast with Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Dr. Michael Yong, an otolaryngologist with focused training in neuro-rhinology who specializes in treating these seasonal allergies. We’ll learn about what causes allergies and what the different treatment options are. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Chronic Subdural Hematoma with Ashkan Mowla, MD | 27 mai 2026 | 00:01:30 | |
When blood collects in the skull outside the brain and below the outermost layer of tissue surrounding the brain (dura), a subdural hematoma results. This may occur due to head trauma when it is called an acute subdural hematoma. Chronic subdural hematomas may occur due to aging and the increased fragility of blood vessels. The pooled blood may resolve on its own or may require surgical intervention as development of a subdural hematoma can be a life-threatening condition. Symptoms of subdural hematoma can include headache, confusion, change in behavior, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, lethargy or excessive drowsiness, weakness, apathy, and seizures. Subdural hematomas are generally diagnosed by CT scan or MRI imaging. Ashkan Mowla, MD, FAHA, FAAN, is neuro-interventional surgeon at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute® (PNI). He specializes in minimally invasive endovascular procedures to treat conditions and diseases of the brain and spine, including stroke, brain aneurysm, brain and spine arteriovenous malformation and fistula and carotid and intracranial disease. Accepting new patients: 424-212-5361 Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay: Episode 44. Preventing Stroke and Getting the Best Treatment if One Occurs with Dr. Sandra Narayanan | 13 mai 2026 | 00:39:27 | |
National Stroke Awareness Month is observed in May to promote public awareness about stroke symptoms and prevention. While 800,000 Americans have a stroke every year, many of these can be prevented. It’s particularly critical to recognize when a stroke is happening, because fast treatment can prevent the worst effects. In this Spotlight Replay, Dr. Sandra Narayanan, a neurointerventional surgeon at Pacific Neuroscience Institute who treats people who’ve had strokes, tells us how a healthy lifestyle can help most people avoid a stroke. And she gives an important update to the F.A.S.T. acronym for helping recognize when someone has had a stroke—it’s now BE FAST. Let’s listen in and learn what BE FAST stands for—and keep a stroke from knocking us down! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay: Episode 06. Meet Minimally Invasive Brain Surgery’s Pathfinder: Dr. Chester Griffiths | 06 mai 2026 | 00:52:08 | |
May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month, which the National Brain Tumor Society calls “a time dedicated to supporting, empowering, and amplifying the voice of the brain tumor community.” The NBTS estimates that more than 1.3 million Americans are living with a brain tumor and, while 73 percent of these are benign, an estimate 18,350 Americans will die of a brain tumor this year. In this Spotlight Replay, we revisit a conversation with Dr. Chester Griffiths, one of the founders of Pacific Neuroscience Institute and a pioneer in the minimally invasive brain surgery that has become one of PNI’s hallmarks. Dr. Griffiths tells how he helps find the path through the brain to the tumor, helps the neurosurgeon remove the disease, and then leads their tiny instruments out again. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Brain Aneurysm Management with Ashkan Mowla, MD | 22 avr. 2026 | 00:01:47 | |
In general, aneurysms are only detected after they have burst although they may sometimes be detected during the course of other tests. Operating on the arteries of the brain may feel scary but there have been tremendous advances in the way that aneurysms are surgically treated. The interventional neuroradiologist has several options for treating the aneurysm from the inside of the blood vessel based on the patient’s status. These kinds of surgery, called endovascular neurosurgery or embolization, are performed using the minimally invasive microcatheter-based approach mentioned earlier. In this way, aneurysms can be treated by coiling, stent coiling, flow diversion, or balloon remodeling. In all these methods, the aim is to prevent blood from pooling in the aneurysm and causing blood clots. The deposited wire coils or cages help to cut off the blood’s access to the aneurysm so that it can flow normally through the blood vessel. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 74. Understanding the Full Spectrum of Parkinson's Disease with Melita Petrossian, MD | 15 avr. 2026 | 00:56:58 | |
Parkinson’s disease is a neurologic movement disorder. It affects the brain and causes difficulty with movement, with the most common motor symptoms being tremors, stiffness or rigidity of muscles, and slowness of movement. According to the American Parkinson Disease Association, it is the fastest growing neurodegenerative disease in the world, and the second most common after Alzheimer’s disease, with an estimated 1 million people in the U.S. and more than 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s. In addition to the well-known motor symptoms of tremors, rigidity and slowness, Parkinson’s disease also manifests in non-motor symptoms including sleep problems, constipation, anxiety, depression, and fatigue, among others, which can be present well before any visible motor symptoms. Dr. Melita Petrossian is a movement neurologist and medical director of Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Movement Disorders Center. In today’s episode, Dr. Petrossian discusses these non-motor symptoms and explains the different types of testing that can lead to a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease—and what someone living with Parkinson’s may need to consider. For more information, visit: Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay: 34. Treating the Wonder that is the Voice Box | Dr. Omid Mehdizadeh | 08 avr. 2026 | 00:50:17 | |
Two slender muscles carry out some of the most important—and taken-for-granted—tasks in our lives. These muscles make up what we have come to call our “voice box,” and they not only produce the sounds that we make—they also close on cue to protect our lungs as we swallow. In this Spotlight Replay, we revisit a conversation with Dr. Omid Mehdizadeh, who treats voice and swallow disorders, in which he helps us appreciate the vital role of this unsung hero, our voice box. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay: Episode 50. Loneliness, a Panel Discussion: Drs. Shanthi Gowrinathan, Amit Kochhar and Courtney Voelker | 01 avr. 2026 | 00:45:43 | |
Survey after survey is telling us that Americans are increasingly feeling lonely. It’s a trend that’s been growing for years and, while it was exacerbated during the pandemic when we were instructed to socially isolate, it continues even as society has reopened. In this Spotlight Replay, we revisit a panel discussion in which three doctors at Pacific Neuroscience Institute tell how they help people deal with different causes of loneliness. Doctors at PNI discover loneliness in their patients, often for specific causes that can be treated. Dr. Courtney Voelker sees patients with hearing so compromised that they can’t follow conversations with loved ones. Dr. Amit Kochhar has patients who are unwilling to socialize because their facial paralysis prevents them from expressing emotions. And Dr. Shanthi Gowrinathan works with patients struggling with depression from a cancer diagnosis. Each doctor has tools to help ease the social impact of these neurological diseases. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Meet Dr. Noa Tal | 25 mars 2026 | 00:02:31 | |
Fellowship trained, Noa Tal, MD, is a devoted endocrinologist committed to delivering exceptional care and striving for excellence in her field. With a diverse background encompassing medicine, research, teaching, and wellness, she endeavors to make significant contributions to healthcare. At the Pituitary Disorders Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute®, Dr. Tal cares for patients with endocrine issues as a result of pituitary tumors. Dr. Tal earned her medical degree from Tel Aviv University School of Medicine and completed her internal medicine residency at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY. Subsequently, she pursued further specialization through an endocrinology fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA. Her research focuses on advancing understanding in areas such as microbiome, pituitary pathology, and endocrine pathways related to aging and age-related diseases. Beyond her medical achievements, Dr. Tal is deeply passionate about promoting wellness. She has volunteered at “Plant Powered Metro New York,” sharing insights on plant-based nutrition, chronic disease management, and diabetes prevention. Dr. Tal has also undergone additional training in diet and lifestyle intervention and has served as a yoga instructor, integrating holistic approaches into her practice. She firmly believes in a comprehensive approach to patient care, encompassing research, quality improvement, and wellness promotion, with the ultimate aim of making a positive impact in medicine, academia, and wellness. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 73. Treating the Whole Patient, Not Just the Cancer | 18 mars 2026 | 00:40:31 | |
When someone is diagnosed with a brain tumor, their world can shift overnight, bringing challenges that reach far beyond the medical diagnosis. A tumor is, first and foremost and most obviously, a health challenge. Like any serious illness, however, it also taxes people mentally and psychologically. Patients and their families have to navigate a complex medical system, take in new and challenging information, and make large, potentially life-changing decisions. Because of this stressful environment, Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Dr. Shanthi Gowrinathan, a psychiatrist who specializes in treating people with cancer, is part of a team that helps people cope with the mental aspects of their illness. In today’s episode, Dr. Gowrinathan explains how she helps patients and their families maintain their sense of self in the face of tremendous challenges. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay: 48. Charting the Brain, in Great Detail | Dr. Garni Barkhoudarian & Josh Emerson | 11 mars 2026 | 00:45:35 | |
The doctors at Pacific Neuroscience Institute believe strongly in educating other neurosurgeons in the latest techniques for minimally invasive surgery. PNI’s Pacific Rim Master Class in Endoscopic Endonasal and Keyhole Surgery is right around the corner, coming up at the end of March. In this Spotlight Replay, we return to the episode in which Dr. Garni Barkhoudarian talks about his commitment to pay forward his own neurosurgery education. We also hear from medical illustrator and animator Josh Emerson, manager of PNI’s Neuroanatomy Lab, who tells us how people can learn about the fascinating inner anatomy of the brain through illustration. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Spotlight Replay: 37. Treating Essential Tremor, a Little-Known but Prevalent Disease | Dr. Melita Petrossian | 04 mars 2026 | 01:01:35 | |
March is Essential Tremor Awareness Month. Essential tremor is one of the most common movement disorders, affecting millions of people around the world. In this Spotlight Replay, we return to the episode in which Dr. Melita Petrossian discusses the diagnosis and treatment of Essential Tremors, and explains how these tremors differ from those seen in people with Parkinson’s Disease. Keeping hope alive, the International Essential Tremor Foundation’s theme this year is, “Still Believing in Answers for ET.” While the exact cause of Essential Tremor remains unknown, Dr. Petrossian and the team at PNI work hard to help alleviate symptoms and provide patient support. Let’s listen in! Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 72. Revolutionary Robotic Surgery for Head & Neck Cancer Treatment | 18 févr. 2026 | 00:34:24 | |
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself needing head and neck cancer surgery and your surgeon has an unexpected assistant: a robot. But it won’t be R2D2 or C3P0 from Star Wars. Instead, the modern medical robot is a high-tech tool that surgeons use to perform sensitive tasks in hard-to-reach places. In this episode, Dr. Vivian Wu, a head and neck surgeon at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, takes us into the new world of robotic surgeries. Dr. Wu also tells us about some new tests that can show how successful someone’s cancer treatment has been, without the need for invasive biopsies. She talks about how to prevent and treat Human Papillomavirus, or HPV, which has started showing up in people’s mouths in greater numbers. Dr. Wu also emphasizes the important role a care “village” plays in a patient's treatment and recovery. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Treatment & Management of Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (DAVFs) with Adi Iyer, MD, MS | A PNI Minute | 11 févr. 2026 | 00:01:59 | |
Dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a rare vascular condition where abnormal connections (fistulas) form between branches of arteries and veins in the dura mater, the brain's covering. The dural arteries deliver high-pressure, oxygen-rich blood to the brain, while the dural veins return deoxygenated, low-pressure blood to the heart. DAVF causes high-pressure arterial blood to flow into veins or sinuses meant for low-pressure blood, which can lead to ruptures, brain hemorrhages, and other neurological issues. Meet Dr. Aditya (Adi) Iyer, a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon specializing in vascular diseases of the brain and spine at Pacific Neuroscience Institute®. As one of California’s few dual-trained neurosurgeons, Dr. Iyer offers both minimally invasive open surgical techniques and incisionless catheter-based procedures to treat strokes, aneurysms, AVMs, tumors, and pain. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 12. Alzheimer’s: Too Common, and So Mysterious | Dr. Verna Porter | 04 févr. 2026 | 00:50:12 | |
One in ten Americans who are 65 and older suffer from Alzheimer’s dementia. It’s the 6th leading cause of death in the country, and it is a scourge worldwide. But little is known about what causes Alzheimer’s, and cures have been elusive. Dr. Verna Porter specializes in treating people with Alzheimer’s, and she remains optimistic. Until we have a remedy, she advises people to eat well and get plenty of sleep. Patients with Alzheimer’s often have abnormal levels of a gummy plaque called amyloid protein crowded around the neurons of the brain. No one knows for sure what causes it to accumulate. What we know for sure is that sleep clears toxins from the brain, amyloid protein among them. Yet, so few of us get enough of it. Eating a diet that’s low in sugar, and intermittent fasting, also may clear toxins. Even when we do invent a cure for Alzheimer’s, prevention will still be the best medicine, Dr. Porter says. Listen now for more on the mysterious origins of Alzheimer’s and what you can do to live with it if it strikes you or a relative. For more information: pacificneuro.org | (310) 582-7640 Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Meet Dr. Ashkan Mowla | 28 janv. 2026 | 00:01:59 | |
Ashkan Mowla, MD, FAHA, FAAN, is neuro-interventional surgeon at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute® (PNI). He specializes in minimally invasive endovascular procedures to treat conditions and diseases of the brain and spine, including stroke, brain aneurysm, brain and spine arteriovenous malformation and fistula and carotid and intracranial disease. He is triple board-certified neurologist with fellowship training in stroke and cerebrovascular diseases and also interventional neuroradiology. Prior to joining PNI, he was an assistant professor of neurological surgery at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, CA for 5 years. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 71. Combining Exercise and Gaming for Better Brain Health | 21 janv. 2026 | 00:54:01 | |
Ryan Glatt turned his recovery from a traumatic brain injury into a passion for helping others restore and preserve the health of their brains. He now runs the Fit Brain Program at PNI, where he oversees a marvelous room, the Brain Gym. He leads people through workouts in which they move their bodies while exercising their minds, and where specialized brain-body exercise machines flash and beep. In addition to being the Fit Brain director, Ryan is also a brain health coach, which means that, he works as a specialized personal trainer for people who want to stave off cognitive decline. Ryan works in tandem with doctors at the institute, helping people manage their conditions, recover from surgeries, and maybe even preventing the need for future treatment. In today’s episode, Ryan Glatt takes us through his journey and tells us what brain health coaching entails. He also tells us the six vital things you can work on to help keep your brain (and body!) healthy, now and in the future. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Understanding Pseudotumor Cerebri with Dr. Alexander Solomon | A PNI Minute | 24 déc. 2025 | 00:02:24 | |
Pseudotumor cerebri (PTC), also known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension, is a condition caused by elevated cerebrospinal fluid pressure in the brain. The symptoms of this condition mimic those of a brain tumor, giving it the name pseudotumor cerebri, meaning "false brain tumor." The increased pressure can cause swelling of the optic nerve and can result in loss of vision. Medications can often reduce the pressure and headache, but surgery is necessary in some cases. Alexander M. Solomon, MD, is a neuro-ophthalmologist and strabismus surgeon at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica and Torrance, CA. Dr. Solomon’s personal philosophy is that each patient is individual and that diagnosis and optimal management of any disease is best carried out in conjunction with patient and family education, and understanding. His skillset includes visual field analysis and optical coherence tomography interpretation, as well as advanced adult strabismus diagnosis and treatment including thyroid eye disease, cranial nerve palsies, and orbital disease. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Inside the Mind of a Top Neurosurgeon: Dr. Dan Kelly on Risk and Resilience | Guest Podcast | 03 déc. 2025 | 01:05:15 | |
Dr. Daniel Kelly joins Dr. Stephen Sideroff this week on the Quantum Leadership Podcast. In this powerful episode of the Quantum Leadership Podcast, Dr. Stephen Sideroff sits down with Dr. Dan Kelly, one of the nation’s leading neurosurgeons and co-founder and director of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, for an illuminating look at the inner work, vision, and steady courage behind his remarkable leadership journey. From leaving a secure tenured role at UCLA to create an entirely new model of neuroscience care, to performing high-stakes brain tumor surgeries where a millimeter can change a life, Dan shares what it truly takes to lead with clarity, presence, and heart. He reveals how risk-taking, disciplined innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration helped him grow PNI from a small three-person nucleus into a nationally recognized institute with more than a dozen centers of excellence. Dan also opens up about the personal side of leadership: coping with emotionally heavy diagnoses, maintaining balance through meditation and exercise, fostering trust in the operating room, and navigating the enormous pressures of a healthcare system while protecting what matters most: patient outcomes, team wellbeing, and integrity. His story offers profound lessons for leaders facing uncertainty, complexity, or the need to build something groundbreaking from the ground up. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| The Indomitable Dr. Howard Krauss | Guest Podcast | 19 nov. 2025 | 00:53:29 | |
The Indomitable Dr. Howard Krauss Dr. Howard Krauss is a pioneering surgical Neuro-ophthalmologist specializing in minimally invasive orbital and oculoplastic surgery and adult strabismus. A leader in ophthalmology and medicine, he has blazed the trail for many who followed his footsteps into this specialty as surgeons. We’ll learn about his formative years including his journey from rocket scientist to neuro-ophthalmologist. We continue our conversation, learning about his experience training to become a surgical neuro-ophthalmologist, his experience as a co-founder of the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, and Dr. Krauss offers some of his thoughts on the current state of our healthcare system, and sage advice to the next generation of aspiring physicians and neuro-ophthalmologists. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| How to Identify and Treat Thyroid Nodules with Vivian Wu, MD | 12 nov. 2025 | 00:02:36 | |
Thyroid nodules are growths on your thyroid. They are usually benign (not cancer). They may become overactive and make too much of the thyroid hormone. All types of hyperthyroidism are due to an overproduction of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) causes your thyroid to make more thyroid hormone than your body needs. Hyperthyroidism can accelerate your body functions such as your metabolism (can cause unintentional weight loss) or a rapid or irregular heart rate. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Multiple Sclerosis and Wellness with Dr. Barbara Giesser | 05 nov. 2025 | 00:02:13 | |
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. In multiple sclerosis, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin, in the central nervous system. This immune-mediated damage disrupts the normal flow of electrical impulses along the nerves, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms. For people with MS, exercise and physical activity can be variously challenging. However, being physically active is one of the most beneficial adaptations to a lifestyle with MS. The six pillars of brain health are nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, social connection and avoidance of risky substances. Advice and educational resources in these areas are part of our neurologic treatment plan. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Chris' Story - Hemifacial Spasm | 29 oct. 2025 | 00:04:16 | |
Hemifacial Spasm is a potentially debilitating condition where the facial muscles of expression spasm uncontrollably. Botulinum toxin can control the spasm, but in severe cases, minimally invasive surgery for microvascular decompression of the facial nerve is more efficacious. Listen to Chris B's story as he dealt with this issue and sought definitive care at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute with Dr. Garni Barkhoudarian and Dr. Melita Petrossian. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Neurosurgical Fellowship Training at Pacific Neuroscience Institute | 22 oct. 2025 | 00:02:40 | |
The Pacific Brain Tumor Center and Pacific Pituitary Disorders Center offers a 1-year neurosurgery fellowship in minimally invasive surgery for brain, pituitary and skull base tumors. Our clinical training program is focused on endoscopic endonasal and keyhole surgical approaches, neuro-endoscopy, pituitary tumor management and multimodality neuro-oncology treatments. The fellowship emphasizes operative and peri-operative patient management, outpatient evaluation of new patients and follow-up patients as well as clinical and anatomical laboratory research projects. The fellowship is integrated into the Saint John's Cancer Institute Surgical Oncology Fellowship. Qualified applicants must have completed training in an ACGME-accredited neurosurgical residency program and be eligible for a California medical license. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 70. The Lifestyle Roadmap to Improving Your Memory and Brain Health | 15 oct. 2025 | 00:33:54 | |
Our memory isn't just a passive function. Just like our muscles, it's something that can be trained, optimized, and protected. Subtle changes in our memory can signal the earliest stages of cognitive decline, but preventative interventions can make a huge difference. That's exactly what Dr. Karen Miller, Senior Director of the Brain Wellness and Lifestyle Program at PNI, helps her patients achieve. Dr. Miller specializes in personalized approaches to improve brain health. One technique is the "memory palace," a method that links information to familiar places and strengthens one's ability to recall information. In this episode, learn how Dr. Miller combines cognitive training with lifestyle factors like exercise, nutrition, and social engagement to help patients preserve and improve their brain health. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Our Philosophical Approach to Spine Care with Jean-Philippe Langevin, MD | 08 oct. 2025 | 00:02:03 | |
Spinal disorders may be caused by spine trauma, genetic components or disease including cancer. As the backbone is made of bone, a misconception is that all spine issues are taken care of by orthopedic surgeons. In reality, neurosurgeons are integrally involved in spinal surgery due to the delicate nature and proximity of major nerves in these regions. To meet the need for a specialty spine center in the South Bay area, in 2019, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance opened its state-of-the-art Spine Institute, bringing together a multidisciplinary team of surgical experts of neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons, and capitalized on the hospital’s already nationally recognized rehabilitation centers. The Spine Institute at Providence Little Company of Mary is now the only comprehensive spinal treatment center in the South Bay. The institute cares for all emergency and conventional neuro-spinal disorders, focusing on advanced minimally invasive spinal procedures. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Cochlear Implants Crash Course with Mathilde Tranberg, Cochlear Implant Ambassador | 01 oct. 2025 | 00:05:00 | |
A cochlear implant for hearing loss is an electronic device that is implanted into the inner ear (the cochlea) and is used to restore hearing in patients who no longer benefit from traditional hearing aids or have hearing loss in just one ear. While a cochlear implant does not re-create normal hearing, it allows individuals to understand speech and perceive sounds in a way that improves communication and quality of life. Mathilde Tranberg is the dedicated Cochlear Implant Outreach Ambassador at Pacific Head & Neck, Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Mathilde was born profoundly deaf and received Cochlear Implants when she was 2 and 6 years old. As a bilateral cochlear implant (CI) user and the 84th recipient of a CI in Denmark, she knows firsthand the transformative power of this technology. Her goal is to share her personal journey and empower others with the knowledge and confidence to embrace improved quality of life through better hearing. Mathilde has always been very active and loves playing all kind of sports. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Malia's Grateful Patient Story | AVM Treatment at PNI | 24 sept. 2025 | 00:03:01 | |
While traveling with her family, 17-year-old Malia experienced a grand mal seizure while she was sleeping. Her parents immediately brought her back to Los Angeles to the care of Dr. Walavan Sivakumar at Pacific Neuroscience Institute South Bay, in Torrance, Ca. An MRI showed that Malia had an Arteriovenous Malformation which likely had been growing for a few years. Learn more about the life-saving surgery and treatment that Dr. Sivakumar and the multi-specialty team at PNI-South Bay and Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance performed to put Malia back on course to live a long and full life. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 69. A Silent Revolution in Hearing Loss Treatment | 17 sept. 2025 | 00:42:15 | |
Cochlear implants are leading a revolution in the treatment of hearing loss. According to a 2022 study, only about 10% of those who qualify for cochlear implants have received them. Cost, accessibility, and lack of awareness are only some roadblocks for potential patients. At Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Dr. Courtney Voelker and Dr. Chester Griffiths are working to change that. Dr. Voelker is recognized as one of the nation’s top cochlear implant surgeons, with patients as young as five months old. Dr. Griffiths is the founder of Pacific Head & Neck, a premier clinic in Los Angeles. Because hearing loss is the leading modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline, addressing it is vital. Tune in to hear how these two doctors are raising awareness about cochlear implants and making a difference in people’s lives. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Smell Dysfunction Challenges & Treatment with Dr. Michael Yong | A PNI Minute | 10 sept. 2025 | 00:02:52 | |
Smell loss after viral infections can be difficult to manage. Dr. Yong uses various techniques to target smell recovery which is a complex process involving neurons in the nose and brain. Smell is intricately linked in both emotional and functional terms with quality of life. Learn more about smell dysfunction and treatment. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Multidisciplinary Voice Clinic at PNI | 03 sept. 2025 | 00:04:57 | |
Having a healthy voice is important for everyone, whether you are a professional singer, teacher, salesperson or simply like to read aloud to your grandchildren. Similarly, our ability to swallow is an essential part of everyday life and when comprised can feel frustrating and even embarrassing in public settings. If you suffer from hoarseness or trouble with your voice or throat, our team of expert ENT providers can help. We provide comprehensive care for voice and swallowing disorders. Omid Mehdizadeh, MD is our fellowship trained laryngologist who specializes in voice and swallowing treatment and care. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| 68. Innovative Techniques for Stroke Intervention and Prevention | 20 août 2025 | 00:36:56 | |
Approximately every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. About 87% of all strokes are ischemic strokes, which blocks blood flow to the brain. When it comes to treating strokes, knowing the signs and symptoms is important so you can act fast. Dr. José Morales is a vascular neurologist and neurointerventional surgeon at Pacific Neuroscience Institute. Dedicated to serving his patients, Dr. Morales specializes in minimally invasive endovascular procedures that treat conditions and diseases of the brain and spine, such as strokes. Listen to this episode and find out how Dr. Morales treats stroke, the importance of early detection, and how lifestyle changes can help prevent it. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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| Focused Ultrasound Treatment for Tremors with JP Langevin, MD & Natalie Diaz, MD | 13 août 2025 | 00:02:38 | |
Focused Ultrasound is an incisionless treatment for patients with Essential Tremor (ET) and Tremor Dominant Parkinson’s Disease (TDPD) who have not responded to medication. It uses high intensity ultrasound waves guided by MRI to treat deep areas in the brain associated with tremor, with no permanent implants or general anesthesia. There is little to no risk of infection and patients usually return home the same day with immediate tremor improvements. Think Neuro is produced by Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California.
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