#205 Dr. Kate Pate - Ph.D. Neurophysiology & Military Medical Researcher
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Dr. Kate Pate - Ph.D. neurophysiologist, military medical researcher, educator, and advocate for veterans and first responders. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in the neurological and physiological effects of trauma, stress, and environmental exposures. Her work bridges the gap between science and real-world application, improving care for those who serve. Kate’s research journey began with a focus on respiratory neurophysiology, later expanding into redox biology, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and inflammatory diseases. Inspired by personal experience and a deep connection to the military community, she transitioned from academia to industry, ultimately founding Coruna Medical—a company developing innovative medical solutions for combat and austere environments. Recognizing the complex physical, mental, and emotional challenges faced by military and first responder communities, Kate pursued additional training in coaching, psychedelic integration, addiction recovery, and functional medicine. She also explored spirituality, theology, and philosophy to provide a holistic approach to healing. An avid outdoorswoman and conservationist, Kate spends her free time exploring the Rocky Mountains, reading, or planning her next adventure over a strong cup of coffee. Dr. Kate Pate joins Bobby Marshall in the studio to discuss neurological health, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, sleep deprivation, diet, training at altitude, biology, veteran health, therapy in nature, physicians, world travels, nutrition, and much more. Don’t forget to subscribe or follow us on social media for updates on the show, events, and new episodes
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The latest episode of the Mountain Side Podcast offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of neurophysiology, traumatic brain injuries, and mental health. Featuring Dr. Pate, an expert in military medical research and an advocate for veterans and first responders, the discussion covers a range of topics, providing insights into brain health and the science behind it.
Introduction to Dr. Pate In this thought-provoking session, the host Bobby Marshall welcomes Dr. Pate, a renowned educator and researcher in neurophysiology. Dr. Pate's work spans across physiology, neuroscience, and redox biology, specifically focusing on the impact of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and the potential therapeutic approaches to address them. Her passion for helping veterans and individuals in high-stress occupations is evident as she shares her journey from academia to actively engaging in military medical research.
Exploring the Complexities of Brain Health The podcast explores Dr. Pate's background and her contributions to understanding brain health. Her experience in both educational and practical research roles guides the listener through a comprehensive overview of neurotrauma and the body's response to injuries. Dr. Pate emphasizes the importance of addressing TBIs holistically, linking it to mental health, chronic stress, and environmental exposures.
Integrating Science and Personal Advocacy Dr. Pate's personal connection to the military community and her dedication to applying her research in practical ways shine throughout the conversation. She recounts how her work extended from studying respiratory systems to developing methods that could significantly impact the military medical field, particularly in trauma care. Her advocacy is grounded in her desire to support those in need and share scientific knowledge in an accessible manner.
Nature as Therapy and Brain Health Interventions A significant portion of the discussion highlights the benefits of nature therapy and natural interventions for brain health. The podcast touches on the contributions of renowned scientists like Andrew Huberman, emphasizing simple yet effective practices like exposure to sunlight and nature walks to improve mental and cognitive well-being. Dr. Pate supports the integration of such holistic approaches with scientific rigor, advocating for their role in enhancing lifestyle and mitigating the effects of brain injuries.
The Role of Psychedelics in Mental Health Another intriguing aspect of the episode is the exploration of psychedelics as potential therapeutic agents in treating conditions like PTSD, addiction, and depression. Dr. Pate provides balanced insights into the promise and challenges of psychedelic-assisted therapy, stressing the importance of understanding these substances within controlled, clinical settings.
Confronting Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease The conversation also delves into neurodegenerative diseases, specifically dementia and Alzheimer's. Dr. Pate discusses the underlying differences in these conditions, and while current treatments focus on managing symptoms, she sheds light on ongoing research efforts aiming to slow disease progression and enhance the quality of life for those affected.
Future Endeavors Dr. Pate concludes by talking about her ongoing work in developing a therapeutic approach for brain injuries, derived from naturally occurring bacteria. Her dedication to finding innovative solutions and her plans to explore clinical trials demonstrate her commitment to advancing this critical area of health research. Whether you're interested in the science behind brain injuries, the therapeutic potential of nature, or the future of mental health treatment, this episode of the Mountain Side Podcast provides a treasure trove of insights. Dr. Pate's expertise and compassionate approach to her work offer both a scientific and a personal lens on these profound topics. To keep up with Dr. Pate’s work and insights, follow her on Instagram and stay tuned for her future endeavors in brain health research. You can also listen to the full episode for an in-depth understanding of her journey and research.