Aging Like a Pro

Music's Role in Aging Well with Dr. Xiaoyan Sun

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 18:08:00 -0000

What if your favorite song could unlock forgotten memories? Hear about the latest discoveries from Dr. Xiaoyan Sun, a neurologist and leading voice in cognitive aging research, to explore how music can enhance memory. It can even improve emotional well-being in older adults—especially those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease.

What You’ll Learn:

Dr. Sun shares a powerful reminder from Dr. M. Lee Pearce: "What good is all the medical science in the world in extending life if it is not accompanied by an acceptable quality of life?"

If you or a loved one are navigating memory changes, or you're simply curious about how music supports aging brains, this episode is a must-listen!

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Aging Like a Pro began as a healthy aging seminar series in partnership with community centers, libraries and senior organizations that focuses on mitigating social isolation and loneliness while offering information for healthy aging and brain health.

Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Xiaoyan Sun is a board-certified neurologist with specialized training in cognitive and behavioral neurology. Her global medical journey began in China, where she earned her M.D., followed by a Ph.D. in neuroscience from Japan. After completing her neurology residency in South Carolina and fellowship training in Boston, she now serves patients with memory and cognitive issues at the University of Miami’s Memory Disorder Clinic. As Clinical Director at the Brain Endowment Bank, she leads clinical diagnosis of donor brains. Dr. Sun is also a dedicated educator and researcher, with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Learn more at: https://mbi-umiami.org/about-mbi/

Host Bio:

Rosa Hart, BSN, RN, SCRN combines her expertise in neuro care and patient advocacy with a passion for storytelling. She is the creator and host of the internationally award-winning podcast "Stronger After Stroke", developed for the Norton Neuroscience Institute. This resource has reached stroke survivors and their loved ones worldwide, providing hope and practical strategies for achieving their best quality of life after stroke. Consequently, she is dedicated to amplifying public health messaging through media.

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Nine Necessities for Healthy Aging with Susan Fox-Rosellini

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 18:03:00 -0000

Want to age with energy, clarity, and confidence? This episode of the Aging Like A Pro podcast is your roadmap to doing just that.

Join host Rosa Hart as she chats with Susan Fox Rosellini, founder of the Aging Like a Pro Program. Together, they bust pervasive myths about aging and unpack the 9 Necessities for Healthy Aging- practical strategies to keep your body and brain in top shape.

From daily habits like eating well and staying active, to the deeper benefits of sleep, social connection, and stress management, Susan breaks it all down with insight and encouragement. You’ll also hear why managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are non-negotiables for a vibrant later life.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation packed with science-backed tips to help you live your best life—at any age.

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Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support

Guest Bio:

Susan Fox-Rosellini, M.B.A., brings over 35 years of experience in business development, product innovation, and revenue growth across for-profit and nonprofit sectors. She currently serves as Executive Director of Administration and Community Engagement at the McKnight Brain Institute, where she leads strategic initiatives and community programs while pursuing her Doctorate in Health Policy and Administration at UAB (expected 2026). Susan holds a B.B.A. from George Washington University and an M.B.A. from the University of Miami. Previously, she served as Executive Director of Development and Marketing for the Department of Neurology, significantly expanding its endowment and giving portfolio.

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-fox-rosellini-17a5101ab/

Host Bio:

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Fitness for Life with Dr. Eddie Tiozzo

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:20:00 -0000

What does it really take to stay fit and sharp as we age? In this energizing episode of the Aging Like A Pro podcast, Dr. Eduard Tiozzo of the University of Miami joins nurse Rosa Hart to break down the science and soul of lifelong fitness. From the difference between physical activity and structured exercise, to how our built and social environments shape our habits, this conversation is packed with practical tips, mindset shifts, and evidence-based insights.

Learn why humans weren’t designed for cars and couches.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to fine-tune your routine, this episode will inspire you to move with purpose, age with strength, and thrive for life.

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Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can participate in the cutting-edge research being done at the University of Miami’s McKnight Brain Institute, contact us here:

umiamimbi@miami.edu

We wish to thank the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Eduard Tiozzo is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Miami, where he also serves as the Residency Program Research Director and a member of the Gordon Center for Simulation and Innovation in Medical Education. With a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology and a Master’s in Clinical and Translational Investigation from the University of Miami, his research focuses on the role of exercise, physical activity, and nutrition in managing chronic conditions. Dr. Tiozzo has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications and multiple book chapters. He’s deeply involved in graduate medical education and is a fellow of the American Heart Association.

Learn more at: https://mbi-umiami.org/about-mbi/

Host Bio:

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Eat Smart, Think Sharp: Nutrition for Optimal Brain Health

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 18:04:00 -0000

Dive into smarter eating with expert Dr. Nicole Beaton Sur, Vascular Neurologist from the University of Miami. Discover the crucial link between nutrition and brain health as Dr. Sur unveils how macronutrients like proteins, carbs, and fats fuel cognitive functions. Learn which foods bolster brain vitality and which to avoid. Gain practical tips on planning, grocery shopping, and nurturing resilience through nutrition to safeguard against brain aging and diseases. Empower your journey to a fuller, healthier life.

Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Nicole Beaton Sur, Assistant Professor of Clinical Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, specializes in stroke care, health disparities research, and medical education. A recipient of the “Woman Resident of the Year” award, Dr. Sur serves as a co-investigator for the Florida Stroke Registry and site-PI for the NIH-funded DISCOVERY study, focusing on cognitive outcomes after stroke and addressing disparities in anticoagulant use for atrial fibrillation-related stroke. She is deeply involved in graduate medical education, having developed the Neuroscience and Behavioral Science pathway for the NextGenMD curriculum and contributing to the National Board of Medical Examiners. Through her clinical work, research, and leadership in diversity and inclusion initiatives, Dr. Sur is advancing equity and excellence in stroke care and academic neurology.

Learn more at: https://mbi-umiami.org/about-mbi/

Host Bio:

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Mastering Mindfulness: Practical Strategies for a Healthier Life

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 18:02:00 -0000

Want to unlock the secret to better mental health and aging gracefully? This episode of the Aging Like A Pro Podcast has nurse Rosa Hart sit down with Dr. Sonya Kaur, a neuropsychologist from the University of Miami, to explore the transformative power of mindfulness.

Dr. Kaur shares the origins of mindfulness and its growing role in therapy and medical practice. She explains the difference between a "doing" and "being" mindset, offers practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into daily life, and discusses its benefits for mental health and neurological conditions.

We also dive into the role of self-compassion in mindfulness and Dr. Kaur leads us through a simple mindfulness exercise. Whether you're just starting or looking to deepen your practice, this episode is packed with insights to help you age like a pro.

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Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Sonya S. Kaur, originally from Singapore, earned a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin. She completed her internship in Clinical Psychology with a neuropsychology specialization at the Henry Ford Health System and a postdoctoral fellowship in clinical neuropsychology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Currently an Instructor in the Division of Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Miami, Dr. Kaur conducts neuropsychological assessments for various neurological and psychiatric conditions. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and explores therapeutic techniques to improve sleep in neurological disorders. Her research focuses on cognitive impairment in aging, particularly the impact of lifestyle interventions like exercise and sleep on neurodegenerative disease progression.

Learn more at: https://mbi-umiami.org/about-mbi/

Host Bio:

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Sleep Smarter NOT Harder with Proven Strategies

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:06:00 -0000

Did you know that something as stimulating as quality sleep could be your secret weapon for aging like a pro? In this insightful episode of the Aging Like A Pro podcast, we sit down with Dr. Christian Agudelo, a renowned sleep neurologist from the University of Miami, to explore the fascinating science of sleep and its profound impact on brain health.

Key Takeaways:

The Importance of Sleep Stages: Non-REM and REM sleep stages are essential for brain restoration, with Stage 3 non-REM facilitating brain "cleaning" and REM consolidating daily experiences into long-term knowledge.

Benefits of Quality Sleep: Proper sleep boosts mood, cognitive function, and protects against aging-related diseases like dementia, stroke, and heart conditions.

Sleep Hygiene Tips: Consistent wake-up times, sunlight exposure, physical activity, and a calming bedtime routine are crucial for optimizing sleep quality.

If you're looking to demystify sleep or improve your sleep habits, this episode is a must-listen. Prioritize your sleep—your brain will thank you!

Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Christian Agudelo is a Miami native who pursued a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering from Duke University before attending the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he engaged in research on Parkinson’s Disease and neuroimaging with NIMH R25 and T23 fellowships. He completed his neurology residency and sleep medicine fellowship at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he serves as a clinical instructor and Evelyn F. McKnight Neurocognitive Scholar. Dr. Agudelo focuses his research on the relationship between sleep and cognitive decline, aiming to identify sleep biomarkers for preclinical cognitive decline, particularly among historically understudied Black and Latino populations. As Director of Education for the McKnight Brain Institute, he develops programs for cognitive neurology trainees and educates the public on sleep and cognitive health. Dr. Agudelo is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, highlighting his commitment to clinical practice, research, and service.

Find out more at: https://mbi-umiami.org/about-mbi/

Host Bio:

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Translating Research into Practice with Dr. Tatjana Rundek

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:07:00 -0000

Ready to unlock the secrets to healthy aging? Tune in to the Aging Like A Pro Podcast as Dr. Tatjana Rundek, a leading expert in brain health, dives into the latest research on aging and how we can put science into practice to boost brain health, prevent cognitive decline, and live our best lives—at any age. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on transforming knowledge into action!

Genetic factors cannot be controlled, but many environmental and lifestyle factors can be prevented or managed to reduce risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease.

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Tatjana Rundek, MD, PhD, FANA is a Professor of Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she serves as Executive Vice Chair of Research and Faculty Affairs, Director of Clinical Translational Research, and Director of the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute. A vascular neurologist and clinical researcher, she leads NIH-funded projects on stroke, age-related memory loss, cognitive decline, and brain health, collaborating nationally and internationally on major studies. With over 500 peer-reviewed publications, she is also an accomplished educator and mentor, directing research training programs such as StrokeNet and NeuroNEXT. Dr. Rundek has held leadership roles in organizations like the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission and the American Institute in Ultrasound in Medicine and has earned prestigious awards, including the AHA Mentor Award and the Women in Academic Medicine Career Achievement Award. She continues as a member of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine in Florida (ASEMFL) engaging in collaborations and discussions across the State of Florida about research and brain health challenges our society faces. She has recently been elected as the newest member of the Florida ADRC REC Steering Committee.

https://mbi-umiami.org/

Host Bio:

Connect on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosa-hart-scrn/

Introducing "Aging Like A Pro"

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 17:02:00 -0000

While we can’t change our genes, we can take control of environmental and lifestyle factors to lower the risk of memory decline and even Alzheimer’s disease. Tune in as we explore actionable strategies, expert insights, and inspiring stories to help you age like a pro!

We wish to thank the McKnight Brain Institute at the University of Miami, the Ansin Foundation, Community Foundation of Broward, and the McKnight Brain Research Foundation for their support.