

Better Brain Fitness (a Brainjo Production)
Josh Turknett, MD
Hosted by Drs. Josh Turknett and Tommy Wood, Better Brain Fitness explores the frontiers of how to keep our brain fit and healthy, so that we can perform at our best and do the things that we love for as long as possible.
Episodes
Mentioned books

17 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 57min
Statins, Cholesterol, and Brain Health: Our Unfiltered Take
Explore the intricate relationship between statins, LDL cholesterol, and brain health. The hosts delve into the link between midlife cholesterol levels and dementia risk, suggesting that better management could prevent many cases. They highlight the benefits of statins, including their anti-inflammatory properties, while addressing potential cognitive side effects. The discussion emphasizes the need for personalized healthcare approaches and the complexity of cholesterol’s role in both cardiovascular and cognitive health.

18 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 30min
Does Red Light Therapy Boost Brain Health?
Discover the intriguing benefits of red light therapy for brain health, from tackling migraines to boosting cognitive function. The hosts dive into its scientific origins and transformative potential for treating traumatic brain injuries. They share a notable study linking red light exposure with enhanced executive function in students. The episode also emphasizes the importance of mitochondrial health and encourages audience engagement on this fascinating journey into innovative therapeutic possibilities.

Jul 8, 2025 • 25min
#78: What's More Important For The Brain: Diet or Exercise?
The hosts dive into the intriguing debate of diet versus exercise for brain health. They highlight how even small lifestyle changes can safeguard against cognitive decline. Discover the unique roles both nutrition and physical activity play in enhancing brain resilience. The interplay between diet and exercise is underscored, revealing their combined impact on cognitive function. Tune in to learn how balanced choices can significantly improve your overall brain wellness!

10 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 20min
#77: Why Does Sleep Quality Decline as We Age (and what can we do about it!)?
As we age, sleep quality declines, leading to lighter and less efficient sleep. This decline is closely linked to cognitive health, making physical and mental engagement crucial for a better night's rest. The podcast highlights how lifestyle choices can enhance sleep and cognitive function, creating a beneficial cycle. It also delves into the sleep-stress connection and offers practical tips for establishing routines that promote better sleep. Understanding these dynamics can help maintain brain vitality as we grow older.

32 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 28min
#76: Can the Brain Heal Itself After Years of Poor Sleep Habits?
Dive into the fascinating world of sleep and brain health! Discover how the glymphatic system works to clear toxins and its vital role in cognitive function. Explore recent studies showing that improved sleep can reverse chronic sleep deprivation effects. Uncover the connection between sleep quality, cognitive reserve, and physical activity, plus the secrets of slow-wave sleep. This insightful discussion proves that better sleep can lead to a healthier brain and a sharper mind!

May 27, 2025 • 18min
#75: Can a Long Layoff Really Boost Your Performance?
Listeners explore the intriguing concept of sudden performance boosts in sports after a long break. The discussion highlights how the brain adapts and retains skills during a hiatus. Psychological factors play a key role, offering insights into anxiety reduction and skill consolidation. Personal anecdotes illustrate the unexpected joy of rediscovering talents like music and bowling. Additionally, the phenomenon of 'beginner's luck' sheds light on the pressures faced by performers transitioning from practice to public performance.

31 snips
May 15, 2025 • 31min
#74: Can We Train Our Brain To Improve Focus?
Explore ways to boost your focus in a tech-driven world. Discover how constant distractions affect your attention span and learn about the Pomodoro method for better productivity. Mindfulness practices can also enhance your attention significantly! Understand the vital role of arousal management in optimizing cognitive performance. Plus, find out how structuring time for deep work and creating a supportive environment can improve your focus. It's a mix of science and practical strategies to help you reclaim your concentration.

10 snips
May 1, 2025 • 38min
#73: Democratizing Health Optimization with AI: A conversation with Dr. Jared Pelo
Dr. Jared Pelo, Co-founder and CMO of Bionic Health, is a pioneer in personalized preventative medicine using AI. In this chat, he shares his journey through traditional and alternative medicine. They discuss how AI can enhance patient care and democratize health optimization. Challenges in preventive medicine and the importance of lifestyle changes are highlighted, alongside the need for innovative healthcare solutions. The conversation also dives into transforming care models, emphasizing personalized engagement and the psychological aspects of pursuing optimal health.

Apr 15, 2025 • 23min
#72: Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Secret Weapon Against Dementia?
Discover the intriguing relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and dementia risk in women. The hosts dive into the historical evolution of HRT, highlighting its changing perceptions and impacts on women's health. They discuss critical factors like timing and dosage that influence cognitive outcomes. Personalized approaches in hormone management are emphasized, urging tailored discussions with healthcare providers. Tune in for insights that could reshape how we think about HRT and brain health.

Apr 1, 2025 • 55min
#71: What's really happening with scientific research funding?
Elizabeth Nance, an Associate Professor at the University of Washington, shares her expertise in brain therapies and injury. She highlights the crucial role of NIH funding in pediatric brain health research, especially for infants. The discussion delves into the complex grant proposal process and recent funding disruptions that threaten scientific progress. With a focus on public awareness, Nance emphasizes the urgent need for support in navigating these challenges to advance innovations in brain health and treatment.