The Catalysts
Catalysts
Explore the Catalysts
14,000+ streams · 22 countries · ⭐ 4.8 listener rating
The Catalysts is a medical science and discovery podcast that translates advanced research into accessible conversations for curious minds. The show blends expert insight with engaging stories, and connects world-class research with the people who benefit most from scientific advancement.Season 2: the Science of Cancer drops this fall
Season 2 of the Catalysts picks up where Season 1 left off: expert insight from researchers at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, with a focus on the Science of Cancer. Listen for diverse perspectives on the breakthroughs, challenges, and evolving questions shaping today’s cancer science.
Rediscover Season 1: the Science of Aging
Tune in to Season 1 to hear how medical research shapes the way we live, age and face what comes next.
Revitalizing the aging brain and neurogenesis with Rusty Gage
Discover how 2024 Taylor Prize Laureate Professor Rusty Gage transformed our understanding of the brain with his discovery of adult neurogenesis. Explore his latest research on revitalizing the aging brain—and the surprising inspirations, from systems theory to astrophysics, that fuel his groundbreaking work in neuroscience
The SuperAgers with Angela Roberts
Why do some people thrive into their 90s and beyond with sharp minds and vibrant lives? Professor Angela Roberts explores Canada’s SuperAgers—a diverse group with exceptional cognition, resilience, and zest for life—revealing what sets them apart and what their stories can teach us about aging well.
Real to surreal – a new aging experience with virtual reality with Paul Frewen
Discover how VR is transforming aging—from boosting social connection to enabling profound experiences. Professor Paul Frewen shares how wearable VR is enhancing mental well-being, advancing psychiatric care, and offering new ways to support older adults through immersive, therapeutic, and even mystical virtual experiences.
Cannabis use and its impact on the aging population with Jibran Khokhar
Six years after its legalization in Canada, cannabis use is rising fastest among older adults. Western professor Jibran Khokhar explores how edibles, oils, THC, CBD, and psychedelics affect aging bodies and brains—and whether the benefits are medicinal, recreational, or placebo. Discover what science says about cannabis and aging.
In synch: Balancing the aging body and mind with Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso
Discover how gait and cognition are connected—and how exercise and brain training can delay dementia. Western geriatrician Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso shares research on falls, frailty, and mobility, highlighting motor biomarkers and the SYNERGIC Trials as promising tools to protect cognitive and physical health in older adults.
Fast-tracking drug development with Lisa Saksida and Ravi Menon
How can we find better treatments for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia—faster? Western researchers are rethinking drug discovery with a bold approach: fail faster to succeed sooner. Learn how this strategy is helping identify promising therapies while saving time, money, and sparing patients from false hope.
