Cognitive Optimization & Resilience Education (CORE) Series

Healthy Mind, Healthy Body: Understanding Weight Beyond Willpower
Join Dr. Amanda Velasquez, Director of Obesity Medicine at Cedars Sinai, as she explains the complex biology that shapes body weight and its connection to brain health. In this informative talk, Dr. Velasquez describes how genetics, early life influences, metabolism, hormones, inflammation, and the brain all interact to regulate hunger, energy use, and long-term weight…

Mental Fitness: A Key to Navigating the Roadmap to Brain Health and Wellness
Join Dr. Jeffrey Wertheimer, a board-certified neuropsychologist and chief of psychology and neuropsychology at Cedars-Sinai, as he explores the concept of mental fitness and its vital role in brain health and cognitive resilience. In this engaging talk, Dr. Wertheimer outlines a practical roadmap for optimizing brain wellness through mindfulness, exercise, sleep, nutrition, and meaningful social…

Stroke of Genius: Outsmarting the Silent Threat
Join Dr. Alexis Simpkins, vascular neurologist and stroke research director at Cedars-Sinai, as she unpacks the silent threat of stroke and how to outsmart it. In this talk, she explains what stroke really is, why it is affecting younger people more than ever, and how quick action can save lives. Learn practical strategies for prevention,…

Rhythms of Wellness: Orchestrating Cardiovascular and Brain Health
How does cardiovascular health impact your brain? In this thought-provoking session, Dr. Joseph Ebinger, Director of Clinical Analytics and Cardiac Care at Cedars-Sinai, explores the surprising connections between cardiovascular health and cognitive function. From everyday habits to long-term risks, this talk challenges assumptions, offers fresh insights into how we age and what we can do…

Evidence-Based Approaches to Health Behavior Change
Behavioral Scientist Celina Shirazipour, PhD, shares powerful, research-backed techniques to help bridge the gap between intention and action when it comes to lifestyle changes.

Mind Matters: How Stress Impacts Brain Health
Health Psychologist Megan Taylor-Ford, PhD, breaks down how stress, especially the chronic kind, can reshape memory, focus, and emotional regulation. Learn how your brain responds to stress, why it matters, and what you can do about it.

Move Smarter, Not Harder: The Science Behind an Active Life
Physical Therapist Song Vo, PT, DPT, NCS, discusses the relationship between physical exercise and brain health, from what counts as physical activity, the benefits of various types of exercises, and practical tips on how to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.

Sweet Dreams: Why Sleep is Important for Brain Health
William Li, MD, board-certified neurologist and Sleep Medicine specialist, explores connections between sleep and brain health. Discover how sleep stages, circadian rhythms, and sleep patterns impact cognitive function and mental well-being. Learn about common sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea, and take-away practical tips for improving sleep quality.

How Genetics Play a Role in Dementia
Genetic Counselor Tara Jones discusses how genetic factors influence dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. She explains the impact of APOE, explores different types of dementia, assess your family history by creating a pedigree chart, and discover practical lifestyle strategies to reduce your dementia risk.

Diet and Brain Health
Emily Burke, RD, CNSC, Associate Director of Clinical Nutrition, talks about the vital connections between diet and brain health. She explains how nutrition impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and motor skills, along with practical tips for incorporating brain-boosting foods into your daily routine.










