We were lucky to catch up with Dr. Bankole Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Bankole, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.
The death of my parents when I was 22 years of age has been a burning spur to never give up. I am always hopeful that things will turn out better the next day. My decision to start a biopharmaceutical company in my kitchen, with just $450 in my pocket, and take it all the way to being listed on the NASDAQ.
I am committed to building value. I have been blessed by strong mentors who pulled no punches and always gave me their version of the truth without sugarcoating. Naturally, I am adventurous and have advanced my skills through self-learning, reading the classics, and an understanding that nothing is really new – only being re-discovered.
My promotion of the brain was initially criticized heavily by the scientific community, which is often slow to change. I, however, overcame that through persistence in research and demonstrating the conviction of my views, most of which are now mainstream.
I have had to overcome prejudice but admit I have been sheltered by intellect to reason much of this away. I have learned how prejudice can hurt and hold people back. But I also have learned that it is best to rise to the occasion and perform to the best of one’s ability.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Dr. Bankole Johnson is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Casa Privée in Miami, a five-star concierge medical facility for mental and physical health optimization, biohacking, longevity promotion, beauty, neurology and neuropsychiatry, designed to optimize mind-body well-being. Focusing on brain health as the driver for mental health and total body wellness, Casa Privée offers a unique and advanced high technology-driven approach to medicine. Simply, it’s “Time Travel in Medicine ”.
Dr. Johnson is one of the leading neuroscientists and physicians in the world. His accolades include a medical degree, two doctorate degrees and a master’s degree including a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.), the highest award by a British University. He attended the University of Glasgow, London and Oxford. Dr. Johnson also holds the bestowed honor of Queen Elizabeth II award for his medical service in the United Kingdom.
Dr. Johnson specializes in understanding brain function, brain imaging, neuroscience and molecular genetics – using the latest and some of the rarest forms of technology for treatment.
Professor Dr. Johnson has served as Editor-in-Chief and on the Editorial Boards of prestigious medical journals, and reviewed for more than 30 journals in pharmacology, neuroscience, and addictions. He has authored more than 400 articles, received over 14,000 citations, has an i10 index of 156, and an h-index of 61, making him one of the most senior physician-scientists in the world.
As the Founder and CEO of Casa Privée, located in the heart of Miami, Dr. Johnson is revolutionizing the approach to mental and physical health. His facility, renowned for its five-star concierge service, focuses on a plethora of vital aspects such as mental and physical health optimization, biohacking, longevity, beauty, as well as neurology and neuropsychiatry. At Casa Privée, the mantra is simple yet profound: “Time Travel in Medicine,” a concept that epitomizes the advanced, technology-driven methods employed to enhance mind-body well-being.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
As a leading figure in the world of neuroscience and medicine, I specialize in brain function, brain imaging, neuroscience, and molecular genetics. My approach is unique, utilizing some of the world’s rarest and most advanced technologies in treatment. My prolific career extends beyond clinical practice, with significant roles in academia and publishing. As a Professor, Editor-in-Chief, and a member of numerous editorial boards, my insights have been invaluable to the medical community. My extensive body of work includes over 400 articles, with a remarkable citation count exceeding 14,000, showcasing my influence and expertise in the field.
My decision to start a biopharmaceutical company in my kitchen, with just $450 in my pocket, and take it all the way to being listed on the NASDAQ. I am committed to building value. I have been blessed by strong mentors who pulled no punches and always gave me their version of the truth without sugarcoating. Naturally, I am adventurous and have advanced my skills through self-learning, reading the classics, and an understanding that nothing is really new – only being rediscovered.
Transformation only comes from a prepared mind. You cannot transform without knowledge. You must read and learn voraciously from others. It is important to always have context in your mind and create a platform of steps. Dream about your “big ideas” always then wake up and work towards them. Realize that not everything is possible, but much more than you ever realize is!
Beyond the scientific discoveries and patents, the most fulfilling aspect has been seeing the real-world impact of my work. Knowing that my research has helped improve people’s lives is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continue.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
As a young, foreign-trained scientist, navigating the academic and professional world presented challenges. I faced moments of self-doubt and cultural barriers, teaching me resilience and the importance of adaptability. Starting university at a young age was challenging. It limited my social activities, making me focus more on studies and research. This focus benefited my career, but it also presented unique personal challenges. Curiosity was my primary motivator. Having been homeschooled, I had a fear of missing out on knowledge, which drove me to explore extensively. This curiosity led me to psychiatry and later to a scholarship in psychopharmacology at Oxford University.
Growing up in Nigeria instilled in me a strong sense of community and understanding of diverse cultures. This background has been fundamental in my approach to mental health, allowing me to appreciate the different ways mental health issues manifest and are treated across cultures. I have failed many times but am relentless in determination. I think hard about decisions but in the end trust my instincts. I often tell trusted friends stories or different scenarios to get their opinion but I do not burden them with the responsibility of giving the wrong advice. This unburdens them to tell me their true feelings.
Stay curious and never stop learning. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Remember, it’s not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about applying it to make a tangible difference in the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://casaprivee.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casa.privee/
Image Credits
Casa Privée // Nick Garcia