The Dr Rodcast

In the latest episode of The Rodcast Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Carmen Alvarez, a distinguished leader at Mass General Brigham and Harvard Medical School. Carmen has spent her career at the forefront of healthcare innovation, combining mindfulness and integrative medicine to improve lives. Her journey from personal grief to professional purpose is nothing short of inspiring. Here’s what we discussed: 1. Purpose Born from Loss Carmen shared how losing her brother, a heroic first responder, reshaped her outlook on life and sparked her mission to help others navigate challenges like grief and burnout. 2. Breathwork and the Nervous System She explained how something as simple as intentional breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system—reducing stress and improving resilience. 3. Reiki in Top-Tier Healthcare At one of the world’s leading hospitals, Carmen integrates Reiki to help patients manage pain, anxiety, and chronic conditions. Her work bridges traditional and holistic medicine. 4. Happiness by Choice Drawing from her chapter in the book Happiness by Choice, Carmen emphasized the power of self-compassion and curiosity in transforming life’s toughest moments. A Thought to Leave You With: "Healing isn’t about pretending you’re okay. It’s about feeling everything and letting it guide your transformation." Carmen’s approach proves that blending science with mindfulness can lead to profound changes—both for individuals and organizations. If you’re curious about practical ways to bring well-being into your life or workplace, this episode is for you. More about Carmen: Contact: X: @CarmenTAlvarez | @CAYAWellness IG: @CarmenAlvarezWellness Fostering a Culture of Well-Being in Healthcare Organizations: https://medium.com/@CarmenAlvarezWellness/fostering-a-culture-of-wellbeing-in-healthcare-organizations-d03ebdd61b7e [https://medium.com/@CarmenAlvarezWellness/fostering-a-culture-of-wellbeing-in-healthcare-organizations-d03ebdd61b7e] The Integration of Wellness Practices in Medicine and Impact on Patient Outcomes: https://medium.com/@CarmenAlvarezWellness/the-integration-of-wellness-practices-in-medicine-impact-on-patient-outcomes-4537b0ab4f72 [https://medium.com/@CarmenAlvarezWellness/the-integration-of-wellness-practices-in-medicine-impact-on-patient-outcomes-4537b0ab4f72]

In the latest episode of The Dr. Rodcast Podcast, I had the honor of speaking with Dr. Edward Griffor, a mathematician and visionary whose career spans decades, disciplines, and continents. From Harvard to MIT, from a NATO postdoctoral fellowship in Norway to groundbreaking work in Sweden, Dr. Griffor has dedicated his life to addressing some of the world’s most complex challenges. In this episode, we explored: The evolution of mathematics from philosophy to practical applications .How his work shaped the development of driverless cars and robotic surgery . The intersection of healthcare, AI, and engineering—including efforts to 3D-print human tissue Insights from his time working in Europe, the Soviet Union, South America, and beyond. Dr. Griffor also shared thought-provoking ideas about trust in technology, the role of mental models, and how global collaboration is key to solving problems in healthcare and beyond. This is a conversation for anyone passionate about innovation, the power of interdisciplinary work, and the future of humanity.

In this episode, we dive deep into the complex dynamics of inequality in organizations, focusing on body, gender, race, and sexuality. Professor Boncori's research sheds light on the often overlooked experiences of early pregnancy endings and their profound impact on individuals and workplaces. Here are some key takeaways: 1. Intersection of Personal and Professional Lives: We discuss how old school management practices that separate personal life from work are outdated. Personal experiences, including pregnancy endings, significantly impact professional life. 2. Arbitrary Legal Boundaries: The conversation highlights the stark differences in legal entitlements based on pregnancy timelines, and how these arbitrary boundaries affect support and rights. 3. Emotional and Physical Recovery: Professor Boncori emphasizes the need for compassionate workplace policies that consider both emotional and physical recovery, as well as the importance of offering flexible leave options. 4. Stigma and Disclosure: We explore the stigma around pregnancy loss, particularly with abortion and termination, and the challenges of disclosing such experiences in the workplace. 5. Supportive Work Environments: The episode underscores the importance of creating supportive and inclusive work environments that recognize the holistic experiences of employees. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in organizational behavior, HR management, and creating inclusive workplaces. Tune in to gain valuable insights and learn how we can better support our colleagues through challenging personal experiences. Prof Ilaria Boncori: personal web page https://www.essex.ac.uk/people/BONCO04906/Ilaria-Boncori [https://www.essex.ac.uk/people/BONCO04906/Ilaria-Boncori] Email: iboncori@essex.ac.uk [iboncori@essex.ac.uk] X: @BoncoriIlaria Linkedin: Ilaria Boncori https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilaria-boncori-phd-pfhea-fcipd-518537/?trk=public_post_main-feed-card_reshare-text&originalSubdomain=uk [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilaria-boncori-phd-pfhea-fcipd-518537/?trk=public_post_main-feed-card_reshare-text&originalSubdomain=uk] Project website: https://www.essex.ac.uk/research-projects/supporting-early-pregnancy-endings-in-the-workplace/resources [https://www.essex.ac.uk/research-projects/supporting-early-pregnancy-endings-in-the-workplace/resources] #Rodcast #Podcast #WorkplaceInequality #Inclusion #HRManagement #PregnancyLoss #MentalHealth #WorkplaceSupport #UniversityOfEssex

I'm thrilled to share our latest episode of the The Dr Rodcast, featuring the incredible Dr. Francesca Farina, a pioneering neuroscientist dedicated to early detection of dementia and reducing its stigma. 🌐🧠 From her groundbreaking research at the Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, to her advocacy for women's brain health, Dr. Farina's work is shaping the future of dementia research. In this episode, we dive deep into: 🧠 Her journey in neuroscience - Discover what sparked her passion for studying cognition and memory, and how real-life conversations with research participants shifted her focus to the fear and stigma surrounding dementia. 📰 Evolving perceptions - Learn how media portrayals and increased awareness have influenced public understanding of dementia, and the delicate balance between raising awareness and managing fear. 🧬 Risk factors and prevention - From midlife hearing loss to the importance of cognitive reserve, Dr. Farina sheds light on surprising factors that influence dementia risk and how lifestyle changes can make a difference at any age. 💡 Empowering the next generation - We discuss the critical need to educate young people about brain health and modifiable risk factors, ensuring lifelong habits that promote cognitive well-being. 👩‍⚕️ Advocacy and lived experiences - Hear inspiring stories of individuals living with dementia who defy stereotypes and lead fulfilling lives, championing their cause on global platforms. 🎵 The power of music - Explore the fascinating connection between music, memory, and the brain's resilience in dementia patients. Join us for an enlightening conversation that not only delves into the science of dementia but also emphasizes the human side of this condition. Whether you're interested in brain health, neuroscience, or simply want to hear from a leading expert in the field, this episode is for you! 🎧 Listen now and let's continue the conversation about brain health and dementia. It's never too early, and it's never too late to make a difference. 🌟 https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/francesca-farina [https://www.gbhi.org/profiles/francesca-farina] Brain health in young adults: https://www.bmj.com/content/378/bmj.o2311 [https://www.bmj.com/content/378/bmj.o2311] #Podcast #Neuroscience #DementiaResearch #BrainHealth #MentalHealth #HealthcareInnovation #WomenInScience #Rodcast

Ever wondered who's behind some of the biggest shifts in global health? From executive Director of the World Health Organisation to leading roles at Yale University and PepsiCo Dr Derek Yach has never shied away from challenging the status quo. With roles like Chief Health Officer at Vitality and President of the Smoke-Free World, Derek offers rare insights into the interplay between corporate influence and global health strategies. Episode Highlights: * Breaking Barriers: Hear about the wild story from Derek's time at WHO that reshaped global tobacco control and how he then set his sights on the food industry—challenging giants in the pursuit of public health. * From Controversy to Clarity: Dive into Derek's controversial move to the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World and discover his perspective on navigating the tricky waters of public and private sector interests. * A Look Ahead: Derek shares his insights on future health trends and the innovative technologies that could revolutionize how we address chronic diseases and public health.