Holy Shift! Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow

What actually controls when you pee — and what happens when that system breaks down?

In this episode of Holy Shift!, host Angela Gill Nelms speaks with Dr. Zachary Danziger, Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Rehabilitation Medicine at Georgia Tech and Emory University, about how the nervous system coordinates the bladder and urethra — and why disruptions in those signals can lead to conditions like underactive bladder, which affects millions of older adults. Dr. Danziger shares how his lab uses electrical nerve stimulation and AI-driven mathematical models to better understand bladder dysfunction and develop more precise, predictive treatments.

The conversation highlights the role of system neuroscience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustained public research funding in solving common but often overlooked health challenges. From theoretical models to real-world clinical impact, this episode explores how engineering and neuroscience are coming together to reshape the future of bladder health.

Learn More About Dr. Zach Danziger:
Danziger Lab: https://scholarblogs.emory.edu/danziger/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-danziger-35b7581a/

Support Tomorrow’s Breakthroughs – Donate Today: 
If you want to support the research you heard about on today’s episode, consider a donation to the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory. Every contribution—big or small— supports ongoing work and fuels future innovations.
https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/46972/donations/new
  • Select "Designation"
  • Choose "Make a Special Gift to Georgia Tech (write in your preference)"
  • In the open field, write: "BME Fund for Excellence (555788)
Connect!
About The Host: Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in transforming bold ideas into impactful healthcare solutions. She serves as the Director of Biolocity, accelerating the commercialization of early-stage medical technologies developed at Emory University and Georgia Tech. She is also the Founder and CEO of The AGN Group, and the host of the Badass Leaders Podcast, where she champions courageous, compassionate leadership. Learn more at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

Meet The HolyShift! Team:
  • Produced by: Erin Buckley and Zachary Danziger
  • Filming & Editing: Jackie Hampton
  • Logistics & Marketing Support: Rajashree Ramamoorthy, Katie Hart, The AGN Group

Creators and Guests

Host
Angela Gill Nelms
Angela Gill Nelms is an engineer, entrepreneur, and podcast host dedicated to helping individuals build bold brands, transform organizational culture, and lead with courage. On Holy Shift!, Angela serves as the Host, guiding conversations during episodes, interviewing guests, and facilitating engaging discussions on the power of biomedical research to change lives.
Producer
Erin Buckley, Ph.D.
Dr. Erin Buckley is an Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Pediatrics at Georgia Tech and Emory University. Her research is focused on developing optical technologies that can non-invasively monitor oxygen and blood flow in the brain at the bedside. At Holy Shift!, Dr. Buckley serves as a Producer overseeing all aspects of the podcast, from episode development and recording to publication and marketing.
Editor
Jackie Hampton
Jackie Hampton is a senior at Emory University, majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Architectural Studies. Jackie focuses on understanding urban challenges and solutions from multiple perspectives, drawing on coursework in environmental science, anthropology, and political science. At Holy Shift!, Jackie works as an Editor, recording episodes and editing to ensure a seamless listening experience.
Designer
Katie Hart
Katie Hart is the Senior Client Relations Manager and Executive Podcast Producer at The AGN Group. Katie specializes in bringing podcast episodes to life from concept to launch, while concurrently driving branding, social media, and strategic partnerships. At Holy Shift!, Katie contributes as a Designer, consulting on all aspects of production.
Designer
Rajashree Ramamoorthy
Rajashree Ramamoorthy is a biomedical engineer at Emory University, holding a Master’s degree from the University of Arizona. Rajashree’s research specializes in the intersection of engineering and neuroscience, focusing specifically on human movement and balance research. At Holy Shift!, Rajashree contributes as a Designer, creating marketing materials to drive audience engagement across all platforms.
Producer
Zachary Danziger
Dr. Zachary Danziger is as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University whose research blends neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and mathematical biology to understand the nervous system and fluid movement. At Holy Shift! podcast, Dr. Danziger acts as a Producer, overseeing all aspects of the podcast, from episode development and recording to publication and marketing.

What is Holy Shift! Biomedical Breakthroughs Shaping Tomorrow ?

Step inside the world of biomedical engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University. Holy Shift! brings you fast, inspiring conversations with the researchers creating engineering breakthroughs that improve health health — from new imaging tools to personalized treatments — to show why their work matters for all of us.