What if hope itself is one of the most powerful treatments we have? In this conversation, Scott sits down with Dr. Richard Bedlack: renowned neurologist, Duke ALS Clinic founder, and star of the new documentary Stitching Strength. Known for his bold blazers, rock-and-roll spirit, and groundbreaking research, Dr. Bedlack shares how fashion, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to hope have transformed his work and his life. From his pioneering ALS Untangled and ALS Reversals programs to deeply personal lessons on joy, resilience, and gratitude, Dr. Bedlack shows us how leading with authenticity and optimism can change outcomes, both inside the clinic and far beyond.

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About Dr. Richard Bedlack:

Follow Dr. Bedlack: https://www.instagram.com/stitchingstrength/?hl=en
Check out the documentary, Stitching Strength: https://www.stitchingstrength.com/
Learn more about the Duke ALS Clinic: https://alsclinic.duke.edu/
Explore ALS Untangled: https://www.alsuntangled.com/

Time Stamps:

(02:53) How fashion became Dr. Bedlack’s “suit of armor”
(07:05) Early encounters with ALS and the importance of hope
(12:38) Hope as a leadership principle
(17:38) Nutrition, rest, and routines for peak performance
(22:10) ALS Untangled: Crowdsourcing alternative treatments
(27:50) ALS Reversals: What we can learn from patients who recover
(30:58) Is hope a treatment? Exploring the biology of optimism
(37:26) Reframing setbacks into lessons
(39:43) Stitching Strength: Adaptive fashion and spiritual resilience
(44:55) What ALS has taught Dr. Bedlack about what really matters

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