Podcasts about fmri

In this short episode, first aired in 2011, a neurologist issues a dare to a ragtime piano player and a famous conductor. When the two men face off in an fMRI machine, the challenge is so unimaginably difficult that one man instantly gives up. But the other achieves a musical feat that ought to be impossible.Reporter Jessica Benko went to Michigan to visit Bob Milne, one of the best ragtime piano players in the world, and a preternaturally talented musician. Usually, Bob sticks to playing piano for small groups of ragtime enthusiasts, but he recently caught the attention of Penn State neuroscientist Kerstin Betterman, who had heard that Bob had a rare talent: He can play technically challenging pieces of music on demand while carrying on a conversation and cracking jokes. According to Kerstin, our brains just aren't wired for that. So she decided to investigate Bob's brain, and along the way she discovered that Bob has an even more amazing ability ... one that we could hardly believe and science can't explain.Our newsletter comes out every Wednesday. It includes short essays, recommendations, and details about other ways to interact with the show. Sign up (https://radiolab.org/newsletter)!Radiolab is supported by listeners like you. Support Radiolab by becoming a member of The Lab (https://members.radiolab.org/) today.Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @radiolab, and share your thoughts with us by emailing radiolab@wnyc.org.Leadership support for Radiolab's science programming is provided by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Science Sandbox, a Simons Foundation Initiative, and the John Templeton Foundation. Foundational support for Radiolab was provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pornography cravings can become conditioned responses to learned cues such as time, location, emotional state, and device use. Through repetition, the brain can begin anticipating the expected reward before you consciously decide to seek pornography.You may promise yourself you're done, then find your phone in your hand and wonder, “How did I get here again?” The pull may have started before you recognized it as a decision.Trying to quit over and over only to end up in the same loop can be frustrating. The FREE Miswired Desire Quiz can help you identify the patterns driving that pull and where your brain may need to rewire: https://drtrishleigh.krtra.com/t/xKWMpwc49joQ?tracking_id1=Buzzsprout&tracking_id2=092726_WhenIDontWantTo&cpc=0.00Your bedroom. Being home alone. Stress after work. Your phone. A certain time at night. These aren't inherently sexual, but repetition can teach your brain that these cues predict what comes next. Pornography adds another layer. Dr. Trish Leigh calls it Algorithm Amping: digital systems learn what captures your attention and keep feeding you more personalized, novel, and intense stimulation.Over time, the screen keeps getting amped while real life stays at normal volume. Your brain can become highly practiced at pursuing stimulation, relief, or escape through the same learned pathway.Why  Do  I Keep Watching Pornography When  I Don't  Want To?In This Video You'll Learn:• Why pornography cravings can start before you decide to watch• How everyday cues can trigger pornography urges• How algorithms can intensify stimulation patterns• Why you can want pornography without enjoying it• How to identify and rewire your pornography triggersDr. Trish Leigh's Instant Rewire: Ask what happened right before the urge, what your brain expects to get from pornography, and what you really want. Then give your brain a new choice and outcome. A craving isn't proof of what you want. It may be proof of what your brain has learned to predict.Chapters:00:00 What Causes Pornography Cravings?02:24 Can Your Brain Crave Porn Before You Decide to Watch?03:12 What Triggers Pornography Cravings?07:18 How Do Porn Algorithms Affect Your Brain?09:13 Can Pornography Change What Your Brain Wants?11:23 How Do I Identify My Pornography Triggers?12:14 Why Do I Want Porn Even When I Don't Enjoy It?13:45 Why Does Real Life Feel Boring After Porn?15:47 How Do You Rewire Pornography Triggers?#PornRecovery #MiswiredDesire #PornTriggers #BrainRewiring #PornAddiction© Dr. Trish LeighResearch References:Gola, M., Wordecha, M., Sescousse, G., Lew-Starowicz, M., Kossowski, B., Wypych, M., Makeig, S., Potenza, M. N., & Marchewka, A. (2017). Can pornography be addictive? An fMRI study of men seeking treatment for problematic pornography use. Neuropsychopharmacology, 42, 2021–2031.Voon, V., Mole, T. B., Banca, P., Porter, L., Morris, L., Mitchell, S., et al. (2014). Neural correlates of sexual cue reactivity in individuals with and without compulsive sexual behaviours. PLOS ONE, 9(7), e102419.Send us Fan MailSupport the showHi. I am Dr. Trish Leigh, a Cognitive Neuroscientist, and Sex Addiction Recovery Coach. I am on a mission to help people heal their brains from porn use.My podcasts are designed to help you learn that:

Why do MTB skills seem to disappear the moment you feel scared, frustrated, overwhelmed or under pressure? You KNOW how to brake. You KNOW where to look. You KNOW what your body should be doing — and yet, on a difficult section of trail, suddenly none of it seems accessible. In previous episodes I've talked about how a lack of automaticity may be the cause, in THIS episode we talk about how you may be sabotaging yourself mentally! Because maybe it's the way you talk to yourself. In this episode of the Ride & Inspire RAWcast, we explore a sport psychology tool called Ileism. It's actually ridiculously simple — but psychological and neuroscience research into self-distancing and emotion regulation helps explain why changing the way we talk to ourselves can influence how we respond under pressure.In this episode, you'll learn:Why your MTB skills can feel inaccessible when pressure risesHow self-talk influences fear, attention and performanceWhat third-person self-talk and ileism areWhy psychological distance can help us regulate emotionsPractical examples on how to replace identity-based thoughts with useful process cuesHow to coach yourself through difficult MTB sectionsWhy the RIGHT technical cues still matterHow this technique can also help with overwhelm, procrastination and stressful situations away from the bikeBecause becoming a better mountain biker isn't "just" about learning what your body needs to do. It's also about learning how to "coach" your brain when it matters.Try the practical self-talk exercise from this episode on your next ride and notice what changes. And DO share it with me

En este primer episodio de la tercera temporada hablamos sobre el amor, quizá uno de los temas más importantes y universales de la historia de la humanidad. Pero, como somos Otro Podcast de Ciencia, lo exploramos desde la biología, la neurociencia y la endocrinología para entender qué hay detrás de la atracción, el deseo, el amor romántico y los vínculos que establecemos. Referencias:- Acosta-Quevedo, D. C., Felipe Pradilla, I., & Palacios-Ariza, M. A. (2022). Neurobiología del amor romántico.- Aron, A., Fisher, H., Mashek, D. J., Strong, G., Li, H., & Brown, L. L. (2005). Reward, motivation, and emotion systems associated with early-stage intense romantic love. Journal of Neurophysiology, 94(1), 327–337. https://doi.org/10.1152/jn.00838.2004- Carter, C. S. (2014). Oxytocin pathways and the evolution of human behavior. In Annual Review of Psychology (Vol. 65, pp. 17–39). Annual Reviews Inc. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-010213-115110- Carter, C. S. (2017). The oxytocin-vasopressin pathway in the context of love and fear. In Frontiers in Endocrinology (Vol. 8, Number DEC). Frontiers Media S.A. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2017.00356- Fisher, H., Aron, A., & Brown, L. L. (2005). Romantic love: An fMRI study of a neural mechanism for mate choice. Journal of Comparative Neurology, 493(1), 58–62. https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.20772- Heinrichs, M., von Dawans, B., & Domes, G. (2009). Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human social behavior. In Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology (Vol. 30, Number 4, pp. 548–557). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.05.005- Jennings, K. J., & de Lecea, L. (2020). Neural and hormonal control of sexual behavior. In Endocrinology (United States) (Vol. 161, Number 10). Endocrine Society. https://doi.org/10.1210/endocr/bqaa150- Meston, C. M., Penny, ;, & Frohlich, F. (2000). The Neurobiology of Sexual Function. In Arch Gen Psychiatry (Vol. 57).- Santi, D., Spaggiari, G., Gilioli, L., Potì, F., Simoni, M., & Casarini, L. (2018). Molecular basis of androgen action on human sexual desire. In Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology (Vol. 467, pp. 31–41). Elsevier Ireland Ltd. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.007- Snowdon-Farrell, A., Attal, C., Nikkheslat, N., Pariante, C., Young, A. H., & Zahn, R. (2025). How does neurochemistry affect attachment styles in humans? The role of oxytocin and the endogenous opioid system in sociotropy and autonomy – A systematic review. In Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews (Vol. 169). Elsevier Ltd. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105994

What if your brain could move a robotic arm, restore speech, or even bring back the sensation of touch? Brain-computer interfaces are turning neural activity into action, and the technology is advancing faster than most people realize.In this episode Mr. Anas Reda, a fifth-year MD-PhD candidate at Vanderbilt University and a researcher in functional neurosurgery, joins Ms. Prisha Hallur, host of the Synapse Podcast, to explain what brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) actually do and how they decode intention from brain activity. Using a simple three-step framework—acquisition, interpretation, and output, he breaks down how imagining a movement can be translated into control of a cursor, robotic limb, or other device.You'll discover:Why most current BCIs read the combined activity of thousands or hundreds of thousands of neurons rather than individual neuronsHow motor, speech, vision, and sensory BCIs aim to restore lost neurological functionHow a person with locked-in syndrome used neural signals to communicate intended speechHow responsive neurostimulation devices detect and treat epileptic seizuresWhy EEG, fMRI, minimally invasive stent-based systems, and implanted chips involve different trade-offs between safety, precision, and resolutionMr. Reda also traces the field's evolution from early human implants and primate experiments to modern systems that help patients walk, speak, control computers, and operate robotic limbs. The promise is enormous, but so are the challenges: improving signal quality, training brain-specific AI models, increasing device durability, and ensuring these life-changing technologies are distributed equitably.

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 9-10-2026: The Pennsylvania measles outbreak has reached 540 confirmed cases with 119 new cases in the past week—the highest yearly count in 35 years, with likely three-fold undercount. Dr. Dawn emphasizes measles' R-value of 14 (versus COVID's peak of 3), its four-day pre-rash contagion window, and two-hour airborne persistence. Lancaster County's pediatric vaccination has dropped from the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity to 87%. She discusses the recent infant death (measles at birth with subsequent splenic rupture during vaginal delivery), the impossibility of vaccinating pregnant women against this live-virus disease, and public health workers doing pop-up clinics and home vaccine delivery. Dr. Dawn criticizes federal threats to strip tax-exempt status and terminate federal grants from universities like UCLA and UC Davis over race-conscious admissions. She argues this targets exactly the schools admitting students most likely to serve underserved communities and enter primary care—where the physician shortage is most acute—rather than dermatology or interventional radiology at tertiary centers. UCLA's Eisenberger social pain lab found that social exclusion (via a rigged game with undergraduates) activates the same brain regions as physical pain (dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and anterior insula on fMRI). A follow-up study showed acetaminophen blunted both self-reported social pain and empathy for others' pain, later replicated with EEG changes in DACC. Dr. Dawn suggests strategic use before stressful social events—though not combined with alcohol. Orexins are wakefulness-regulating neurotransmitters discovered in narcoleptic Doberman Pinschers and Labrador Retrievers. Takeda's oveporexton was approved August 5 as the first orexin agonist for narcolepsy, and Eli Lilly recently paid $8 billion for a related biotech, with Morgan Stanley projecting $16 billion in annual sales. Beyond narcolepsy, orexin agonists show promise for ADHD, attention/motivation, and potentially sleep apnea, with lower abuse potential than methylphenidate or Adderall. A caller advocates for free education and mandatory multilingual instruction in elementary school. Dr. Dawn describes France's tuition-and-food-subsidized medical education with post-graduation community service requirements built in, and shares her own experience with 2% National Defense Student Loans established after Sputnik. Researchers identified a distinctive brain-wave signature marking the transition to unconsciousness under propofol anesthesia—the loss of alpha-band coordination between the parietal cortex and thalamus. Delivered via scalp electrodes, this signature could enable individualized anesthesia dosing and provide non-behavioral markers of consciousness for brain-injured patients. A grandmother caller asks about protecting her first-grader during the measles outbreak. Dr. Dawn confirms two-dose MMR vaccination provides 100% protection against severe measles and 98% against mild disease, and reminds her to prompt women of childbearing age to verify their vaccination status before pregnancy, since maternal measles or COVID infection carries much higher mortality. Researchers studying breath and stool volatile compounds in asthmatic children identified four molecular markers that could enable early sepsis detection through breath analysis. This would prove especially valuable in neonates, where blood cultures are technically difficult, and could provide hours-to-days warning before clinical sepsis manifests. Vaginal birth exposes the infant to maternal vaginal and fecal bacteria that serve as the first beneficial inoculation, with some maternal microbes crossing the placenta prenatally. During the first week of life, maternal antibodies in colostrum and breast milk train the neonatal immune system to tolerate friendly bacteria—preventing later asthma, food allergies, and autoimmune disease. Dr. Dawn highlights colostrum as the critical component and suggests it should be sourced for infants who cannot be breastfed. Magnesium L-threonate crosses the blood-brain barrier efficiently, with about a gram at bedtime improving deep and REM sleep, morning alertness, mood, and productivity. It also reduces migraine severity, and one of Dr. Dawn's patients successfully replaced ADD medications with 3g daily. The only meaningful upper limit is diarrhea, which signals malabsorption.

Neurofeedback pioneer Joy Lunt, RN opens this classic NeuroNoodle Open Mic conversation with a case that still grabs your attention: a client with dissociative identity disorder whose EEG "utterly changed" mid-session—"like as if somebody else was sitting in the chair." Later, Joy describes seeing the EEG of one personality look like that of a four-year-old child.This is NeuroNoodle before today's Brain Bar—the audience-driven Open Mic format where Pete Jansons brought viewer questions directly to the panel. Joy Lunt, Jay Gunkelman, Dr. Mari Swingle, Dr. Andrew Hill, John Mekrut, Joshua Moore, Anthony Ramos and the crew move from DID and EEG patterns into depression and the salience network, neurofeedback protocols, Joy's striking experience using neurofeedback with her mother after a Parkinson's diagnosis, Parkinson's and repeated head trauma, the panel's debate over "digital Ozempic" and the brain, insomnia, exhausted kids, autism, and why hyperfocus and flow are "not even close."

Hay pacientes con daño cerebral que tienen fuerza, movilidad o equilibrio suficientes para hacer mucho más de lo que finalmente consiguen en su vida diaria. Y otros, aparentemente más afectados, terminan siendo mucho más independientes. ¿Qué explica esa discrepancia? En este episodio utilizamos el concepto pedagógico de "fenotipo premotor" para explorar todo lo que ocurre entre disponer de movimiento y conseguir convertirlo en una acción: selección, preparación, secuenciación, predicción, aprendizaje, automatización y transferencia. Hablamos de corteza premotora, complejo motor suplementario, sinergias, aprendizaje explícito e implícito, retención, generalización y de por qué a veces "da un paso largo” funciona mejor que “extiende la rodilla”. También revisamos estrategias clínicas y tecnologías que podrían ayudarnos cuando el verdadero problema no está simplemente en la fuerza o el tono. Porque en neurorrehabilitación no basta con conseguir más movimiento: necesitamos conseguir que ese movimiento se convierta en una acción útil, estable, transferible y autónoma. Referencias del episodio: 1. Antenucci, P., Moura, J., Bhatia, K. P., Rocchi, L., & Latorre, A. (2026). The Bereitschaftspotential in Voluntary Movement and Movement Disorders: Potential, Limitations and New Perspectives. Clinical neurophysiology : official journal of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology, 187, 2111895. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinph.2026.2111895 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42013765/). 2. Ariani, G., Shahbazi, M., & Diedrichsen, J. (2025). Cortical Areas for Planning Sequences before and during Movement. The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 45(3), e1300242024. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1300-24.2024 (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11735648/). 3. Boyd, L., & Winstein, C. (2006). Explicit information interferes with implicit motor learning of both continuous and discrete movement tasks after stroke. Journal of neurologic physical therapy : JNPT, 30(2), 46–59. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.npt.0000282566.48050.9b (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16796767/). 4. Branscheidt, M., Hadjiosif, A. M., Anaya, M. A., Keller, J., Widmer, M., Runnalls, K. D., Luft, A. R., Bastian, A. J., Krakauer, J. W., & Celnik, P. A. (2025). Reinforcement Learning is Impaired in the Sub-acute Post-stroke Period. Neurorehabilitation and neural repair, 39(4), 297–311. https://doi.org/10.1177/15459683241304352 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39849897/). 5. Cattaneo, L., Nunes, S., Giampiccolo, D., Caro, V. D., Basaldella, F., Badari, A., Tagliaferri, M., Squintani, G., & Sala, F. (2025). Anatomical characterization of premotor-motor connectivity in humans by paired intraoperative direct cortical stimulation. NeuroImage, 324, 121621. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121621 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41314273/). 6. Demeco, A., Marotta, N., Lentini, M. P., Fratto, C., Loiarro, G., Frizziero, A., Salerno, A., Cerasa, A., de Sire, A., & Ammendolia, A. (2026). Mental simulation practices in stroke rehabilitation reorganize brain connectivity: a systematic review. Journal of stroke and cerebrovascular diseases : the official journal of National Stroke Association, 35(9), 108719. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2026.108719 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42537726/). 7. Denyer, R., Greenhouse, I., & Boyd, L. A. (2023). PMd and action preparation: bridging insights between TMS and single neuron research. Trends in cognitive sciences, 27(8), 759–772. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2023.05.001 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37244800/). 8. Fridman, E. A., Hanakawa, T., Chung, M., Hummel, F., Leiguarda, R. C., & Cohen, L. G. (2004). Reorganization of the human ipsilesional premotor cortex after stroke. Brain : a journal of neurology, 127(Pt 4), 747–758. https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awh082 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14749291/). 9. Fried, I., Katz, A., McCarthy, G., Sass, K. J., Williamson, P., Spencer, S. S., & Spencer, D. D. (1991). Functional organization of human supplementary motor cortex studied by electrical stimulation. The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 11(11), 3656–3666. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.11-11-03656.1991 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1941101/). 10. Fu, Y., Wang, W., Yan, Q., Song, J., Li, Y., Zhu, C., Chai, S. C., Subramaniam, P., Yao, L., & Singh, D. K. A. (2026). Comparative effects of transcranial direct and alternating current stimulation combined with cognitive-motor dual-task training on functional and cognitive recovery in stroke survivors. Frontiers in neurology, 17, 1720429. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2026.1720429 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41725712/). 11. Garcea, F. E., & Buxbaum, L. J. (2023). Mechanisms and neuroanatomy of response selection in tool and non-tool action tasks: Evidence from left-hemisphere stroke. Cortex; a journal devoted to the study of the nervous system and behavior, 167, 335–350. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cortex.2023.06.012 (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10543550/). 12. Genkin, M., Shenoy, K. V., Chandrasekaran, C., & Engel, T. A. (2025). The dynamics and geometry of choice in the premotor cortex. Nature, 645(8079), 168–176. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-025-09199-1 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40562938/). 13. Jahfari, S., Waldorp, L., van den Wildenberg, W. P., Scholte, H. S., Ridderinkhof, K. R., & Forstmann, B. U. (2011). Effective connectivity reveals important roles for both the hyperdirect (fronto-subthalamic) and the indirect (fronto-striatal-pallidal) fronto-basal ganglia pathways during response inhibition. The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 31(18), 6891–6899. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.5253-10.2011 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21543619/). 14. Kim, M. S., Park, H., Kwon, I., An, K. O., Kim, H., Park, G., Hyung, W., Im, C. H., & Shin, J. H. (2025). Efficacy of brain-computer interface training with motor imagery-contingent feedback in improving upper limb function and neuroplasticity among persons with chronic stroke: a double-blinded, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial. Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation, 22(1), 1. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-024-01535-2 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39757218/). 15. Koyama, T., & Domen, K. (2017). Diffusion Tensor Fractional Anisotropy in the Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus Correlates with Functional Independence Measure Cognition Scores in Patients with Cerebral Infarction. Journal of stroke and cerebrovascular diseases : the official journal of National Stroke Association, 26(8), 1704–1711. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2017.03.034 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28478977/). 16. Liepmann, H. (1900). Das Krankheitsbild der Apraxie (Motorische asymbolie): Auf Grund eines Falles von einseitiger Apraxie. Monatschrift für Psychiatrie und Neurologie, 8, 15-44 (https://www.mpi.nl/publications/item2354912/das-krankheitsbild-der-apraxie-motorische-asymbolie-auf-grund-eines-falles). 17. Meehan, S. K., Randhawa, B., Wessel, B., & Boyd, L. A. (2011). Implicit sequence-specific motor learning after subcortical stroke is associated with increased prefrontal brain activations: an fMRI study. Human brain mapping, 32(2), 290–303. https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.21019 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20725908/). 18. Mihara, M., Hattori, N., Hatakenaka, M., Yagura, H., Kawano, T., Hino, T., & Miyai, I. (2013). Near-infrared spectroscopy-mediated neurofeedback enhances efficacy of motor imagery-based training in poststroke victims: a pilot study. Stroke, 44(4), 1091–1098. https://doi.org/10.1161/STROKEAHA.111.674507 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23404723/). 19. Mihara, M., Fujimoto, H., Hattori, N., Otomune, H., Kajiyama, Y., Konaka, K., Watanabe, Y., Hiramatsu, Y., Sunada, Y., Miyai, I., & Mochizuki, H. (2021). Effect of Neurofeedback Facilitation on Poststroke Gait and Balance Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Neurology, 96(21), e2587–e2598. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000011989 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33879597/). 20. Nachev, P., Kennard, C., & Husain, M. (2008). Functional role of the supplementary and pre-supplementary motor areas. Nature reviews. Neuroscience, 9(11), 856–869. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2478 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18843271/). 21. Park, S. H., Yan, S., Dee, W., Reed, R., Roth, E. J., Rymer, W. Z., & Wu, M. (2022). Repeated adaptation and de-adaptation to the pelvis resistance force facilitate retention of motor learning in stroke survivors. Journal of neurophysiology, 127(6), 1642–1654. https://doi.org/10.1152/jn.00046.2022 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35583975/). 22. Paul, T., Cieslak, M., Hensel, L., Wiemer, V. M., Tscherpel, C., Grefkes, C., Grafton, S. T., Fink, G. R., & Volz, L. J. (2024). Corticospinal premotor fibers facilitate complex motor control after stroke. Annals of clinical and translational neurology, 11(9), 2439–2449. https://doi.org/10.1002/acn3.52159 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39073030/). 23. Potgieser, A. R., de Jong, B. M., Wagemakers, M., Hoving, E. W., & Groen, R. J. (2014). Insights from the supplementary motor area syndrome in balancing movement initiation and inhibition. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 8, 960. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2014.00960 (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4246659/). 24. Zhang, Y., Zhang, Y., Zheng, B., Chen, S., Yu, H., Dai, L., Zhang, W., Huang, H., Su, X., Cao, M., & Chen, J. (2025). The effects of combining anodal transcranial direct current stimulation with robot-assisted gait training on lower limb motor function and the motor cortex regulation of stroke patients. Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation, 22(1), 230. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-025-01731-8 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41163056/). 25. Zhang, Y. S., Li, Y. D., Ou, C. X., Bi, Z. T., Xiao, J. H., Zhang, J. M., Wei, J. X., Xu, J. W., & Huang, L. (2026). Comparative efficacy and mechanistic insights of non-invasive neuromodulation and motor rehabilitation on functional reorganization of the supplementary motor area in subacute stroke: a narrative review. Frontiers in physiology, 17, 1744260. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2026.1744260 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42005313/). 26. Zhou, Y., Li, X., Huang, W., Xie, H., Zheng, Y., Su, L., Xiang, H., Zhou, H., Jiang, W., & Dou, Z. (2026). Predicting activities of daily living at discharge in stroke patients using rehabilitation robot training-induced functional connectivity. Topics in stroke rehabilitation, 33(6), 618–629. https://doi.org/10.1080/10749357.2026.2612712 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41496182/).

Links For The Occult Rejectshttps://linktr.ee/theoccultrejectsOccult Research Institutehttps://www.occultresearchinstitute.org/Substackhttps://substack.com/@theoccultrejects?r=7auau0&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageCash Apphttps://cash.app/$theoccultrejectsVenmo@TheOccultRejectsBuy Me A Coffeebuymeacoffee.com/TheOccultRejectsPatreonhttps://www.patreon.com/TheOccultRejectsBibliographyCurses, Blessings, and Ritual HarmCannon, Walter B. “‘Voodoo' Death.” American Anthropologist 44, no. 2 (1942): 169–181.Faraone, Christopher A. Ancient Greek Love Magic. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1999.Gager, John G., ed. Curse Tablets and Binding Spells from the Ancient World. New York: Oxford University Press, 1992.Graf, Fritz. Magic in the Ancient World. Translated by Franklin Philip. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1997.Ogden, Daniel. Magic, Witchcraft, and Ghosts in the Greek and Roman Worlds: A Sourcebook. 2nd ed. New York: Oxford University Press, 2009.Stratton, Kimberly B., and Dayna S. Kalleres, eds. Daughters of Hecate: Women and Magic in the Ancient World. New York: Oxford University Press, 2014.Tambiah, Stanley Jeyaraja. “The Magical Power of Words.” Man 3, no. 2 (1968): 175–208.Placebo, Nocebo, and Medical CommunicationBarsky, Arthur J., Ralph Saintfort, Malcolm P. Rogers, and Jonathan F. Borus. “Nonspecific Medication Side Effects and the Nocebo Phenomenon.” JAMA 287, no. 5 (2002): 622–627.Benedetti, Fabrizio. Placebo Effects: Understanding the Mechanisms in Health and Disease. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2009.Benedetti, Fabrizio, Marina Lanotte, Lorella Lopiano, and Luana Colloca. “When Words Are Painful: Unraveling the Mechanisms of the Nocebo Effect.” Neuroscience 147, no. 2 (2007): 260–271.Colloca, Luana, and Fabrizio Benedetti. “Nocebo Hyperalgesia: How Anxiety Is Turned into Pain.” Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology 20, no. 5 (2007): 435–439.Colloca, Luana, and Damien Finniss. “Nocebo Effects, Patient–Clinician Communication, and Therapeutic Outcomes.” JAMA 307, no. 6 (2012): 567–568.Colloca, Luana, and Franklin G. Miller. “The Nocebo Effect and Its Relevance for Clinical Practice.” Psychosomatic Medicine 73, no. 7 (2011): 598–603.Enck, Paul, Fabrizio Benedetti, and Manfred Schedlowski. “New Insights into the Placebo and Nocebo Responses.” Neuron 59, no. 2 (2008): 195–206.Häuser, Winfried, Ernil Hansen, and Paul Enck. “Nocebo Phenomena in Medicine: Their Relevance in Everyday Clinical Practice.” Deutsches Ärzteblatt International 109, no. 26 (2012): 459–465.Inner Speech and DevelopmentFernyhough, Charles. The Voices Within: The History and Science of How We Talk to Ourselves. New York: Basic Books, 2016.Vygotsky, Lev S. Thought and Language. Revised and expanded ed. Edited and translated by Alex Kozulin. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 1986.Winsler, Adam, Charles Fernyhough, and Ignacio Montero, eds. Private Speech, Executive Functioning, and the Development of Verbal Self-Regulation. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2009.Rumination and Repetitive Negative ThinkingBrosschot, Jos F., Bart Verkuil, and Julian F. Thayer. “Conscious and Unconscious Perseverative Cognition: Is a Large Part of Prolonged Physiological Activity Due to Unconscious Stress?” Journal of Psychosomatic Research 69, no. 4 (2010): 407–416.Ehring, Thomas, and Edward R. Watkins. “Repetitive Negative Thinking as a Transdiagnostic Process.” International Journal of Cognitive Therapy 1, no. 3 (2008): 192–205.Nolen-Hoeksema, Susan. “Responses to Depression and Their Effects on the Duration of Depressive Episodes.” Journal of Abnormal Psychology 100, no. 4 (1991): 569–582.Nolen-Hoeksema, Susan, Blair E. Wisco, and Sonja Lyubomirsky. “Rethinking Rumination.” Perspectives on Psychological Science 3, no. 5 (2008): 400–424.Smith, Jeannette M., and Lauren B. Alloy. “A Roadmap to Rumination: A Review of the Definition, Assessment, and Conceptualization of This Multifaceted Construct.” Clinical Psychology Review 29, no. 2 (2009): 116–128.Treynor, Wendy, Richard Gonzalez, and Susan Nolen-Hoeksema. “Rumination Reconsidered: A Psychometric Analysis.” Cognitive Therapy and Research 27, no. 3 (2003): 247–259.Watkins, Edward R. “Constructive and Unconstructive Repetitive Thought.” Psychological Bulletin 134, no. 2 (2008): 163–206.Watkins, Edward R. Rumination-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Depression. New York: Guilford Press, 2016.Self-Talk and PerformanceHardy, James. “Speaking Clearly: A Critical Review of the Self-Talk Literature.” Psychology of Sport and Exercise 7, no. 1 (2006): 81–97.Hatzigeorgiadis, Antonis, Nikos Zourbanos, Evangelos Galanis, and Yiannis Theodorakis. “Self-Talk and Sports Performance: A Meta-Analysis.” Perspectives on Psychological Science 6, no. 4 (2011): 348–356.Theodorakis, Yiannis, Antonis Hatzigeorgiadis, and Nikos Zourbanos. “Cognition: Self-Talk and Performance.” In The Oxford Handbook of Sport and Performance Psychology, edited by Shane M. Murphy. New York: Oxford University Press, 2012.Affect Labeling, Emotion, and LanguageBarrett, Lisa Feldman. “Solving the Emotion Paradox: Categorization and the Experience of Emotion.” Personality and Social Psychology Review 10, no. 1 (2006): 20–46.Lieberman, Matthew D., Naomi I. Eisenberger, Molly J. Crockett, Sabrina M. Tom, Jennifer H. Pfeifer, and Baldwin M. Way. “Putting Feelings into Words: Affect Labeling Disrupts Amygdala Activity in Response to Affective Stimuli.” Psychological Science 18, no. 5 (2007): 421–428.Lindquist, Kristen A., Lisa Feldman Barrett, Eliza Bliss-Moreau, and James A. Russell. “Language and the Perception of Emotion.” Emotion 6, no. 1 (2006): 125–138.Torre, Jared B., and Matthew D. Lieberman. “Putting Feelings into Words: Affect Labeling as Implicit Emotion Regulation.” Emotion Review 10, no. 2 (2018): 116–124.Self-Distancing and Reflective ProcessingAyduk, Özlem, and Ethan Kross. “From a Distance: Implications of Spontaneous Self-Distancing for Adaptive Self-Reflection.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 98, no. 5 (2010): 809–829.Kross, Ethan, and Özlem Ayduk. “Making Meaning out of Negative Experiences by Self-Distancing.” Current Directions in Psychological Science 20, no. 3 (2011): 187–191.Kross, Ethan, Özlem Ayduk, and Walter Mischel. “When Asking ‘Why' Does Not Hurt: Distinguishing Rumination from Reflective Processing of Negative Emotions.” Psychological Science 16, no. 9 (2005): 709–715.Kross, Ethan, Emma Bruehlman-Senecal, Jiyoung Park, Aleah Burson, Adrienne Dougherty, Holly Shablack, Ryan Bremner, Jason Moser, and Özlem Ayduk. “Self-Talk as a Regulatory Mechanism: How You Do It Matters.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 106, no. 2 (2014): 304–324.Moser, Jason S., Adrienne Dougherty, Whitney I. Mattson, Benjamin Katz, Tim P. Moran, Darwin Guevarra, Hannah Shablack, et al. “Third-Person Self-Talk Facilitates Emotion Regulation Without Engaging Cognitive Control: Converging Evidence from ERP and fMRI.” Scientific Reports 7 (2017): 4519.Affirmation and Counter-IncantationCascio, Christopher N., Matthew B. O'Donnell, Francis J. Tinney Jr., Matthew D. Lieberman, Shelley E. Taylor, Victor J. Strecher, and Emily B. Falk. “Self-Affirmation Activates Brain Systems Associated with Self-Related Processing and Reward and Is Reinforced by Future Orientation.” Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience 11, no. 4 (2016): 621–629.Cohen, Geoffrey L., and David K. Sherman. “The Psychology of Change: Self-Affirmation and Social Psychological Intervention.” Annual Review of Psychology 65 (2014): 333–371.Wood, Joanne V., W. Q. Elaine Perunovic, and John W. Lee. “Positive Self-Statements: Power for Some, Peril for Others.” Psychological Science 20, no. 7 (2009): 860–866.Implementation Intentions and ActionGollwitzer, Peter M. “Implementation Intentions: Strong Effects of Simple Plans.” American Psychologist 54, no. 7 (1999): 493–503.Gollwitzer, Peter M., and Veronika Brandstätter. “Implementation Intentions and Effective Goal Pursuit.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 73, no. 1 (1997): 186–199.Gollwitzer, Peter M., and Paschal Sheeran. “Implementation Intentions and Goal Achievement: A Meta-Analysis of Effects and Processes.” Advances in Experimental Social Psychology 38 (2006): 69–119.Schweiger Gallo, Inge, Andreas Keil, Kathleen C. McCulloch, Brigitte Rockstroh, and Peter M. Gollwitzer. “Strategic Automation of Emotion Regulation.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 96, no. 1 (2009): 11–31.Ritual, Identity, and Psychological FormationBell, Catherine. Ritual Theory, Ritual Practice. New York: Oxford University Press, 1992.Hobson, Nicholas M., Juliana Schroeder, Jane L. Risen, Dimitris Xygalatas, and Michael Inzlicht. “The Psychology of Rituals: An Integrative Review and Process-Based Framework.” Personality and Social Psychology Review 22, no. 3 (2018): 260–284.Rappaport, Roy A. Ritual and Religion in the Making of Humanity. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1999.Xygalatas, Dimitris. Ritual: How Seemingly Senseless Acts Make Life Worth Living. New York: Little, Brown Spark, 2022.Also want to remind people about the website, if you're into reading we have tons of information by multiple contributors, and we got t-shirts up on the site if you're interested. Fun fact, the art is all based on the eyeball. 

Send us Fan MailA pet medicine mishap kicks things off as we relive “Pilgate,” the moment Brik knocked arthritis meds off the counter and Bernoulli and Beaker ate a truly scary number of pills. Once everyone is safe, we shift to a bigger question that hits home for parents and teachers: are we asking kids to learn on devices that are built to distract them?We break down the changing screen time recommendations in schools, including major limits like those adopted by Los Angeles Unified, and why the evidence keeps pointing in the same direction: excessive classroom screen use is linked with weaker attention, worse reading outcomes, less handwriting, and more off-task behavior. We're careful about cause versus correlation, but we also get practical about what teachers see every day when an “entertainment machine” sits on a desk for hours. We talk about when technology actually helps, like targeted practice and the right science simulations, and why paper still wins so often.Then it's pet science time. A 2026 iScience study uses dog fMRI to test whether dogs can read emotion from human faces alone. The results are surprisingly sweet: happy faces light up reward-related brain regions, and dogs show different brain patterns for different negative expressions, even without voice, smell, or body language.Finally, we welcome back Dr. Jen Golbeck, professor, social media and AI researcher, and author of Think Like a Dog. We explore positive psychology for dogs, whether dogs “laugh,” how scent work can give a dog purpose, and how understanding a dog's perspective can improve behavior and well-being. If you like science, education, and pets, hit subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave us a review.Dr. Golbeck's links:Bio and Social LinksThink Like a Dog LinksThe Science Pawdcast LinksAll our social links are here!Support the showFor Science, Empathy, and Cuteness!Being Kind is a Superpower.All our social links are here!

Ask almost anyone how Ozempic works and you'll hear the same answer: it slows your stomach down. Dr. Ken Brown says that's the magician's waving hand.In this solo episode, the board-certified gastroenterologist walks through the research showing that roughly 99% of GLP-1 weight loss happens in three regions of the brain - and that the gut accounts for less than 1%. Which means the nausea, bloating, and heartburn people white-knuckle through aren't the thing making them lose weight.He maps the actual mechanism: the hypothalamus, where a misfiring hunger neuron acts like a broken fuel light telling you the tank is empty when it's full. The mesolimbic system, where dopamine explains why you find room for a Crumbl cookie after a full dinner - and why fMRI scans of that reward circuit go dark once someone starts a GLP-1. And the brainstem's area postrema, the ancient poison-detection system these drugs quietly hijack to produce fullness and nausea.Then the part he sees in clinic every week: why the pylorus tightens, why the migrating motor complex stalls, why the fundus stretches, and how that combination pools acid at the top of the stomach and pushes it into the esophagus. Plus the trial data showing most stomachs return to normal emptying by around 16 weeks, why a PPI often doesn't fix GLP-1 heartburn, and what he does instead for patients ready to quit a medication their gut can't tolerate.In this episode:- Why "it slows your stomach" is a misdirection- Your body's own GLP-1, and why these drugs act like an Amber Alert instead- The three brain regions doing 99% of the work- The broken fuel light: AgRP, POMC, and lifelong hunger- Dopamine, the dessert tray, and why this isn't willpower- The fMRI studies that made it visible- What the drugs actually do to the stomach — and the bathtub with the plug in it- Tachyphylaxis: why it improves around 16 weeks- Long-term GLP-1 use and SIBO risk- How to keep the weight loss without the gut miseryChapters: 0:00 The misdirection · 3:21 How your own GLP-1 works · 4:38 Three brain regions · 9:35 The broken fuel light · 11:08 Why you find room for the cookie · 13:11 The fMRI studies · 15:01 What happens in the stomach · 17:21 The bathtub analogy · 19:56 The trials nobody talks about · 21:31 Why 16 weeks matters · 23:29 SIBO and long-term use · 23:58 You don't have to suffer · 30:10 Bringing it togetherEducational content only - not medical advice. Talk to your physician about your medications.Learn more: regardingyourgut.com · kbmdhealth.comBrought to you by Atrantil Pro.

Episode 149 – Acupuncture in Behaviour Medicine with Dr Carole Parsons   How do therapies such as acupuncture fit into Veterinary Behaviour Medicine? This is the topic I discuss with UK-based Vet, Dr Carole Parsons, who runs a mobile acupuncture clinic, in this episode of the podcast. I, myself, am a great believer in acupuncture and other complementary therapies but hearing the research evidence that Carole provided during this conversation as well as her clinical experience of using acupuncture for a variety of cases, really sealed the deal for me.   Have a listen as we chat about the patients that can benefit from acupuncture, its indications in Veterinary Behaviour Medicine, its limitations and the cool things such as fMRI studies and neurotransmitter influence.   If you're looking for a qualified UK Veterinary Acupuncturist, then you can search here:  www.abva.co.uk/find-a-vet or https://www.ivas.org/vet-search-map-2018/   And, if you'd like to work with Carole personally, here are her contact details: www.pettherapyacupuncture.co.uk / @pettherapyacupuncture on Instagram / facebook.com/PetTherapyAcu   And, if you'd like to read more about evidence-based acupuncture, here are great resources to go to: Acupuncture in Medicine journal or www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org   If you'd like to know more about my case-based Veterinary Behaviour Membership – The Behaviour Case Collective – then you can do this right here:   https://katrin-jahn.mykajabi.com/behaviour-case-collective   If you liked this episode of the show, Veterinary Behaviour Chat, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!   Facebook Group: Join The Veterinary Behaviour Community on Facebook   You can CONNECT with me: Website: Visit my website Trinity Veterinary Behaviour Instagram: Follow Trinity Veterinary Behaviour on Instagram Trinity Veterinary Behaviour Facebook: Join us on Trinity Veterinary Behaviour's Facebook page Trinity Veterinary Behaviour YouTube: Subscribe to Trinity Veterinary Behaviour on YouTube LinkedIn Profile: Connect with me on LinkedIn   Thank you for tuning in!

Send us Fan MailGet your notes app or a fresh piece of paper ready, because this conversation with former movie executive and tech entrepreneur Steven Puri took a turn into pure gold. We went so deep into the mechanics of productivity that we completely lost track of time—proving the exact focus concepts we were discussing! If you've ever felt like modern digital distractions are stealing your workday before you even get started, this episode is your ultimate antidote.In this episode, Steven and I dive into the neuroscience of focus, master-level time-boxing, and actionable dopamine management for nurse solopreneurs. We break down why getting into a flow state isn't just about willpower, but about building the right environment, audio cues, and routines to let your creative brain excel. Tune in to discover how you can transform a single hour of daily focus into monumental progress for your health writing business.About Steven PuriSteven is the Founder and CEO of The Sukha Company with the mission to help millions of people find their focus, achieve more and have a healthy work life.Steven's career started as a newscaster/interviewer for the #1 youth news show in the DC/Baltimore market (on WTTG-TV) and then as a junior software engineer & Thomas J. Watson Scholar at IBM. After attending USC in Los Angeles, he began working in film production and produced computer-generated visual effects for 14 movies including Independence Day which won the Academy Award for Visual Effects.Steven's first tech company was Centropolis Effects that produced those CGI effects, and he eventually sold it to the German media conglomerate Das Werk when he was 28.Steven then produced some indie films and eventually went studio-side to develop and produce live-action features as a VP of Development & Production at 20th Century Fox (running the Die Hard and Wolverine franchises) and an EVP at DreamWorks Pictures for Kurtzman-Orci Productions (Star Trek 11, Transformers 1&2, Eagle Eye, Transformers: Prime, et al.).After Fox, Steven returned to building tech companies and had two failed start-ups before founding The Sukha Company – ‘sukha' means ‘happiness from self-fulfillment' in Sanskrit. The Sukha is a focus app that bundles all the tools necessary to enter into a Flow State and a have healthy, productive workday.Steven now lives in Austin, TX.Dopamine Management and Time-Boxing for Nurse WritersToday on the Savvy Scribe Podcast:Why modern tech platforms are intentionally engineered to steal your attention—and how to reclaim your life through effective dopamine managementWhat actually happens in your brain during a flow state, including fascinating neuroimaging findings from FMRI scans.How to conquer the “cold start problem” in the morning and stop reaching for quick digital hits when your work gets frustrating.Unforgettable stories from blockbuster Hollywood screenwriters on using physical environments and personal chronotypes as focus triggers.How a busy high school vice principal and dad used just one focused hour a night to complete his PhD dissertation.The brain science behind why your best ideas strike while doing laundry, walking, or taking a shower.How to harness time-boxing and Parkinson's Law to get more done in two hours than you used to get done all day.The surprising power of ambient audio triggers, from 60–90 BPM focus tracks to real Himalayan rain and Viennese coffee shop sounds.Steven's simple 30-day challenge that will completely transform your daily momentum before you even check your phone in the morning.Mentioned Resources:Sukha (Flow State AppFlow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiThe Net and the Butterfly: How to Unlock Your Inner Genius by Olivia Fox Cabane and Judah PollackWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a

In this audio we explore how Acem Meditation affects brain activity, based on scientific studies using EEG and fMRI. EEG readings show increased alpha and theta brainwaves—linked to deep relaxation, memory processing, and self-awareness. At the same time, brain scans (fMRI) reveal higher activity in areas related to insight and memory, including the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Surprisingly, the brain's default mode network—active during spontaneous thought and inner reflection—is more engaged during Acem Meditation than during ordinary rest. This suggests that the technique stimulates both calm and cognitive processing, without relying on concentration. Whether you're a beginner or experienced meditator, this audio gives insight into how the brain responds to non-directive, open awareness meditation. Research references Davanger S, Ellingsen O, Holen A, Hugdahl K. Meditation-specific prefrontal cortical activation during acem meditation: an fMRI study. Percept Mot Skills. 2010;111(1):291-306. Xu J, Vik A, Groote IR, Lagopoulos J, Holen A, Ellingsen O, et al. Nondirective meditation activates default mode network and areas associated with memory retrieval and emotional processing. Front Hum Neurosci. 2014;8:86. Lagopoulos J, Xu J, Rasmussen I, Vik A, Malhi GS, Eliassen CF, et al. Increased theta and alpha EEG activity during nondirective meditation. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(11):1187-92.

In this audio, we explore how Acem Meditation affects brain activity, based on scientific studies using EEG and fMRI. EEG readings show increased alpha and theta brainwaves—linked to deep relaxation, memory processing, and self-awareness. At the same time, brain scans (fMRI) reveal higher activity in areas related to insight and memory, including the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Surprisingly, the brain's default mode network—active during spontaneous thought and inner reflection—is more engaged during Acem Meditation than during ordinary rest. This suggests that the technique stimulates both calm and cognitive processing, without relying on concentration. Whether you're a beginner or experienced meditator, this audio gives insight into how the brain responds to non-directive, open awareness meditation. Research references Davanger S, Ellingsen O, Holen A, Hugdahl K. Meditation-specific prefrontal cortical activation during acem meditation: an fMRI study. Percept Mot Skills. 2010;111(1):291-306. Xu J, Vik A, Groote IR, Lagopoulos J, Holen A, Ellingsen O, et al. Nondirective meditation activates default mode network and areas associated with memory retrieval and emotional processing. Front Hum Neurosci. 2014;8:86. Lagopoulos J, Xu J, Rasmussen I, Vik A, Malhi GS, Eliassen CF, et al. Increased theta and alpha EEG activity during nondirective meditation. J Altern Complement Med. 2009;15(11):1187-92.

Hier gehts zum kostenfreien vierteiligen Videokurs "Deine erfüllte Partnerschaft startet hier - vom verletzten inneren Kind zum Erwachsenen ICH": Hier klicken! 30 Sekunden Zusammenfassung Warum du nicht 1x, sondern 100x am Tag entscheidest, ob du bleibst oder gehst – und wieso diese Zerrissenheit kein persönliches Versagen ist, sondern der Normalzustand (Studie: die Hälfte aller Trennungswilligen ist messbar ambivalent) Was der Strange Situation Test über deinen Bindungstyp verrät – und warum Schwan, Eisbär oder Pinguin schon mit 12 Monaten angelegt sind, lange bevor du dich erinnern kannst Was Verliebtsein in deinem Gehirn wirklich ist: kein Gefühl, sondern ein Antriebssystem – und warum unzuverlässige Nähe dein Dopaminsystem stärker bindet statt schwächer Der Satz zum Aufschreiben: Die Intensität deiner Sehnsucht ist kein Maß für die Qualität deiner Liebe – manchmal ist sie das sicherste Zeichen für ein Nervensystem im Mangel 3 Körper-Fragen, die dir zeigen, ob da wirklich dein Herz spricht oder deine Verlustangst – und warum die Entscheidung sich erst treffen lässt, wenn dein Nervensystem reguliert ist Du möchtest 1:1 an deinen Themen arbeiten? Dann fülle 7 Fragen aus und buche dir ein kostenfreies Erstgespräch zur HEARTset-Journey: Hier klicken! Jetzt auf die Warteliste setzen für die neue Runde zum Beziehungssicher-Kurs: Hier klicken! Werde Heartset Beziehungscoach! Hier geht`s zur neuen Ausbildungsrunde: Hier klicken! Kostenfreier Bindungstypentest: Bist du Eisbär, Schwan oder Pinguin? Hier klicken! Podcastfolge zur Vertiefung: 7 Dinge, die du für dich selbst tun musst, bevor du jemanden liebst. Hier klicken! Quellenverzeichnis: Ainsworth, M. D. S., Blehar, M. C., Waters, E., & Wall, S. (1978). Patterns of Attachment: A Psychological Study of the Strange Situation. Hillsdale, NJ: Erlbaum. (Strange Situation Test, Bindungstypen) Joel, S., MacDonald, G., & Page-Gould, E. (2018). Wanting to Stay and Wanting to Go: Unpacking the Content and Structure of Relationship Stay/Leave Decision Processes. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 9(6), 631–644. (Ambivalenz bei Trennungsgedanken) Fisher, H., Aron, A., & Brown, L. L. (2005). Romantic love: An fMRI study of a neural mechanism for mate choice. Journal of Comparative Neurology, 493(1), 58–62. / Aron, A., Fisher, H., et al. (2005). Reward, Motivation, and Emotion Systems Associated With Early-Stage Intense Romantic Love. Journal of Neurophysiology, 94(1), 327–337. (Verliebtsein als Dopamin-Antriebssystem)

Psychologist Russ Poldrack is a mind reader of sorts, but not in the traditional sense of the word. Instead, he makes movies of blood flow in the brain using functional MRI to draw insights into the function of specific regions of the brain to decipher how they control behavior. In one example, Poldrack has shown how people with obsessive-compulsive disorder have enhanced “salience networks” that turn on when surprising things happen. This finding could have “very profound” outcomes in diagnosis and treatment, Poldrack tells host Russ Altman in this wide-ranging exploration of the implications and the ethics of functional neuroimaging on Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast. Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu. Episode Reference Links: Stanford Profile: Russ Poldrack Poldrack Lab website: http://poldracklab.org The MyConnectome project: https://www.myconnectome.org/ Stanford Center for Open and Reproducible Science: https://datascience.stanford.edu/cores Connect With Us: Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Chapters: (00:00:00) Introduction Russ Altman introduces guest Russ Poldrack, a professor of psychology and of psychiatry and behavioral science at Stanford University. (00:03:15) Path into Neuroimaging How Poldrack moved from cognitive psychology into functional MRI research. (00:04:18) Functional MRI How MRI can be used to track brain activity. (00:06:59) Mapping Brain Activity How tasks and behaviors are linked to patterns of brain activation. (00:08:02) Resting Functional MRI How resting scans revealed large-scale brain networks. (00:09:00) Brain Networks and Behavior How the brain controls stopping, switching, and habits. (00:10:34) Layers of Brain Organization Why neuroimaging studies the brain across multiple scales. (00:13:04) Individual Brain Differences How shared brain networks vary across individuals. (00:13:34) Scanning Himself Why Poldrack repeatedly scanned his own brain. (00:15:47) Mapping One Brain Deeply How repeated scans revealed reliable individual brain patterns. (00:18:59) Neuroimaging and Mental Health How brain network differences may relate to depression and OCD. (00:21:42) Reproducibility in Brain Imaging How larger and deeper data sets improve reliability. (00:24:51) Analytic Variability Why the same data can produce different conclusions. (00:26:39) Multiverse Analysis How testing many analyses helps identify stable findings. (00:27:55) Open Science How data sharing and standards improve transparency. (00:30:29) Privacy and Brain Data How researchers protect participants when sharing neuroimaging data. (00:32:17) Future In a Minute Rapid-fire Q&A: neuroimaging, reproducibility, and AI in science. (00:33:22) Conclusion   Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What happens when we stop looking at nutrients in isolation and start looking at the environment in which our brain cells actually function?In this episode, we explore fascinating new research into choline and the post-menopausal brain, including an fMRI study that found changes in brain activity and connectivity following choline intake.From there, we uncover the much bigger story connecting choline, phosphatidylcholine, lecithin and omega-3 fatty acids with the membranes that surround our cells, and explore research into memory, cognition and anxiety.We then go deeper into the principles of Electromagnetic Nutrition, looking at hydration, electrolytes, membrane potential and mitochondrial energy to reveal an extraordinary recurring pattern within human physiology:Water. Minerals. Membranes. Energy.Discover why the nutrient matters, but so does the Living Terrain in which that nutrient has to work.This podcast is for educational purposes and does not claim that choline, lecithin, phospholipids, or omega-3 supplements prevent or treat dementia, anxiety, memory loss, or other medical conditions.

Steven Puri has produced Academy Award-winning visual effects on films like Independence Day, Braveheart, and Se7en, climbed the executive ladder at DreamWorks and 20th Century Fox, and built three tech companies — two of which failed. Out of those failures came a powerful question: why do some people sustain high performance without burning out, while others grind themselves into the ground?In this episode, Jeff and Steven break down what flow actually is, what your brain is doing when you're in it, how to trigger it consistently, and why most founders are unknowingly working against their own neurology every single day.Key Takeaways[0:00] — Multitasking is a myth. Your brain context switches — and every switch costs you.[4:10] — Steven's origin: bet on proximity to greatness. From Virginia to USC to an Academy Award for Independence Day.[14:55] — What Hollywood taught him: single-minded determination is what separates good from legendary.[22:25] — The Fox wake-up call: he was just the guy in the chair. So he left to build something of his own.[38:55] — The accidental flow state: a Wi-Fi outage on a 2.5-hour flight produced his best work ever — and he didn't even notice time passing.[48:20] — What flow actually feels like: time disappears, distractions drop, self-consciousness fades, and you finish feeling energized — not drained.[51:20] — The neuroscience: fMRI scans show prefrontal cortex activity drops in flow. You stop editing yourself and just work.[55:30] — The 15–23 minute rule: that's how long it takes to drop into flow. One interruption resets the clock.[1:01:00] — Ron Bass's rule: no family talk until he'd written for hours. "When I start talking, I can no longer hear the voices in my head."Tweetable Quotes"Our brains don't multitask. They context switch — and every switch costs you energy you could have spent going deep." — Steven Puri"It takes 15 to 23 minutes to drop into flow. One Slack ping resets the clock to zero. That's not costing you a minute — it's costing you a whole session." — Jeff Mains"You can have results or excuses. Can't have both." — Steven Puri"When I start talking to my family, I can no longer hear the voices in my head. And that's what I get paid for." — Ron Bass (via Steven Puri)"The companies with the biggest incentive for your distraction don't want you to write the book, start the company, or open the restaurant. Your graveyard is their business model." — Steven Puri"Americans overestimate what they can do in a day and underestimate what they can do in a year." — Steven Puri"Why use your brain poorly? You wouldn't type on your keyboard upside down." — Steven Puri"Even if it's just one hour a day, make that hour have the power of two." — Steven Puri"Think of the one thing you could do today that would move your life forward. Don't go to sleep until it's done." — Steven Puri"Build a business of significance while living an epic, adventurous life — that is the whole game." — Jeff MainsSaaS Leadership Lessons1. Proximity to Greatness Is a Strategy Steven's career accelerated every time he put himself in rooms with top performers — from mopping floors near Michael Jordan (metaphorically) to working under Fincher and Cameron. For SaaS founders: deliberately seek mentors, communities, and masterminds where the standard is higher than your current one. You absorb more than you realize.2. The Chair Doesn't Define the Mission Steven hit a wall as a studio executive — well-paid, high-profile, but not his. He was "babysitting Die Hard 5." Many SaaS founders face this inside larger orgs or even their own companies as they scale — doing the job instead of building the vision. Define what you are building, not just what the role requires.3. Protect Your Peak Hours Like Revenue Just as Ron Bass refused to speak to his family until he'd written for hours, the highest-output founders treat their cognitive peak hours as non-negotiable protected time. For most people this is morning. Block it. Turn off Slack. Tell your team. That hour generates disproportionate value — protect it before the reactive demands of leadership consume it.4. Flow State Is a Competitive Advantage — Not a Luxury The research shows flow produces output up to 5x greater per hour. For a SaaS founder juggling product, team, and go-to-market, the difference between 1 hour of deep flow work and 1 hour of fragmented distraction is compounding. Learning to trigger flow is not a wellness exercise — it is a business efficiency investment.5. Monotasking and Time-Boxing Are Table Stakes Multitasking is scientifically false. Context switching burns cognitive resources. The most productive founders pick one thing, finish it, then move to the next. Pair this with Parkinson's Law: time-box every task. Estimates train your brain, create urgency, and prevent the endless stretch that kills output. These two habits alone will outperform most productivity systems.6. One Thing Per Day Compounds Into a Different Life Steven's simplest and most powerful habit: before touching the phone each morning, identify the one thing that would move your life forward today. Not five things. One. Do it before the day's noise sets in. Thirty days of this looks like progress. A year of this looks like a different company.Guest Resourceswww.thesukha.co/mediaSteven@TheSukha.cowww.TheSukha.cohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-puri/Episode SponsorThe Futureproof Series - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfkXKUPZ5xuOqMPR7_gzGybncTtavyR1NThe Captain's KeysSmall Fish, Big Pond – https://smallfishbigpond.com/ Use the promo code ‘SaaSFuel'Champion Leadership Group – https://championleadership.com/https://jeffmains.com/books/SaaS Fuel ResourcesWebsite - https://championleadership.com/Jeff Mains on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkmains/Twitter - https://twitter.com/jeffkmainsFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesaasguy/Instagram - https://instagram.com/jeffkmains

Your body already knows you're stressed before your brain finishes the thought. That tightness in your chest before a hard conversation. The way your stomach drops before you walk into a room full of people. Logic doesn't reach it. Telling yourself you're fine doesn't touch it. What if you could send a direct signal to your nervous system that you're safe, and actually change the chemistry?Jessica Ortner is a New York Times bestselling author and co-founder of The Tapping Solution, a movement that has brought EFT Tapping to millions worldwide, fueling hundreds of published studies, a massively downloaded app with tens of millions of sessions completed, and work that now extends to veterans, schools, and communities in crisis.In this conversation, you'll explore:What tapping is, where it came from, and how it works.Why positive thinking and reframing often fail, and what the nervous system actually needs to release stressThe cortisol study that shows a serious reduction in stress hormones from a single session, and what that means for your daily lifeHow tapping physically rewires the brain's response to food cravings, trauma, and intrusive thoughts, with fMRI data to back itWhy your body can hold chronic pain in ways that have nothing to do with the original injury, and tapping might helpHow to use tapping covertly before a difficult conversation, a big presentation, or a social situation when anxiety tends to take overYou don't have to believe this works for it to work. You just have to try it.You can find Jessica at: Website | Instagram | Episode TranscriptNext week, next week we're sitting down with Leisa Peterson to talk about why the quiet question "am I actually behind with money?" never goes away, no matter how many articles you've read or podcasts you've listened to — and what it actually takes to resolve it at the level it lives. Be sure to follow Good Life Project wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss any upcoming episodes.Check out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dear readers, I've been a sceptic for too long. It's easy to be sceptical as a psychiatrist—the flowers will be lour'd upon you! I've been using Graymatter's Health PRISM EEG-fMRI neurofeedback system for a few years, it's true. There are EEG leads on there. I saw a lot of EEG-related technology in Beijing. It's possible I'm looking at an EEG in this very photo from my hotel room in China, below:But have I been measuring the brain with EEG regularly? Well, no, again! I've been content with my fancy fMRI scans alone, for SAINT, and giant brain healing magnets at set frequencies, like deep TMS with SWIFT.There are even videos of me talking about TMS, like this one below, with friends like Colleen Hanlon from BrainsWay, and heroic patients who chose to speak publicly, too.But one thing I haven't routinely done is measure the brain itself as part of clinical care, as companies like Firefly Neuroscience are making possible. That may need to change, is the outcome in my personal brain as a result of this interview. I speak, at length, with Dave Decaprio, their president and COO.The EVOKE system provides multimodal analysis of brain function, including Quantitative EEG and Event-Related Potentials. From the Firefly website:At Firefly Neuroscience, our technology is built to measure and interpret brain function in a clinically meaningful way. The Evoke™ system combines quantitative EEG (qEEG) and event-related potentials (ERP) to capture both baseline brain activity and cognitive response during structured tasks.This data is analyzed against a proprietary normative database of over 191,000 EEG and ERP sessions, allowing clinicians to evaluate patterns relative to age-matched expectations and track changes over time. The result is a structured, interpretable view of brain function that can be used alongside clinical evaluation to support earlier insight, more informed treatment decisions, and a clearer understanding of patient progress.I haven't used it in clinical practice yet, but Dave makes a compelling case, and at this point I think it's only a matter of time. Brain Medicine, as an emerging specialty, brings change. That change needs to be measured. EEG might be one such tool.I hope you enjoy today's podcast! And thanks to Sharena Rice, PhD, William M. Sauve, MD, along with Dave, for their guest spots.—OwenAnnouncements: * You can Join The Frontier Psychiatrists LIVE at Psych Congress 2026. Get your tickets now!* You can buy a copy of my IRL in print book on Amazon, Inessential Pharmacology. It's got a lot of good reviews, and one “one star” review, which, in the spirit of transparency, I will excerpt for you:The author has taken a collection of drug leaflets from pharmaceutical companies and woven them together with underwhelming lackluster commentary and memes. He intended to create an engaging reading experience, however, this aim should have been clearly stated, should have been made explicitly clear in the book description. He wanted to have fun writing it and wanted readers to have fun reading it. Now, having missed the return window, I find myself stuck with a book that feels more tedious than enjoyable.Don't miss the return window if you hate my work! Good advice for us all. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thefrontierpsychiatrists.substack.com/subscribe

Jim Carrey wrote a cheque to himself for ten million dollars when he was a broke, unknown actor. Sara Blakely visualised a billion-dollar business and an Oprah appearance before either was remotely plausible. Easy to dismiss as coincidence. Harder to dismiss once you understand what an fMRI shows when a person runs a scenario in their mind. Andrew May breaks down the neuroscience behind why mental rehearsal works, and why leaders who ignore it are leaving a genuine performance edge on the table. Use Code "PQPODCAST10" to get 10% off your Lumo Coffee order:https://lumocoffee.com/ Interested in sharing your story? Email Producer Shannon at support@performanceintelligence.com today with your story and contact details. Learn more about Andrew and Performance Intelligence: https://performanceintelligence.com/Find out more about Andrew's Keynotes : https://performanceintelligence.com/keynotes/Follow Andrew May: https://www.instagram.com/andrewmay/Watch the Performance Intelligence Podcast on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@performanceintelligencepodcastIf you enjoy the podcast, we would really appreciate you leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Play. It takes less than 60 seconds and really helps us build our audience and continue to provide high quality guests.

The July Forever Strong Foundations Challenge begins July 6, 2026. This 4-week challenge is designed to help you build a stronger, more energized you through sustainable nutrition, training, and lifestyle habits. Register here: https://bit.ly/4gCmoNR For 40 years you've been told 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram is "enough" but the scientists who contributed the reports behind the new 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines say not a single study has ever shown that number beats eating more.In this episode, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon sits down with Dr. Don Layman and Dr. Heather Leidy, the protein researchers who developed the scientific reports informing the new U.S. Dietary Guidelines, to discuss:Why the guidelines reprioritized protein to a healthy range of 1.2–1.6 g/kg and why that still isn't technically "high protein"Why you don't really have a protein requirement, but an essential amino acid requirement and what that means for your brain, mood, and antioxidant productionWho's quietly falling short: roughly 20% of women over 60 sit below the RDA, and adolescent girls are among the most consistently deficientHow to spot real protein on a label (Layman's 10-gram threshold) and why most "+protein" snacks are just fairy dustWhat a higher-protein breakfast does to afternoon cravings, backed by fMRI brain-reward dataWalk away knowing how much protein you actually need, why "enough to avoid deficiency" and "enough to thrive" are two different numbers, and how to build every meal around protein first so you're covered on the nutrients that matter most.Thank you to our sponsors:OneSkin - Get 15% off at https://bit.ly/4ekX9gt with code DRLYONExplore More from Dr. Gabrielle LyonPremium Podcast Subscription: Ad-free episodes, key takeaway summaries, exclusive Q&A, and behind-the-scenes content https://foreverstrong.supercast.comWeekly newsletter: Recipes, podcast updates, and practical weekly insights https://drgabriellelyon.com/sign-up/Apply to become a patient: Personalized care with Dr. Lyon's clinical team https://drgabriellelyon.com/new-patient-inquiry/Find Dr. Donald K. Layman at:Website: https://www.metabolictransformation.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/layman.donConnect with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgabriellelyon/TikTok: @drgabriellelyonX (Twitter): https://x.com/drgabriellelyonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyonChapters00:00 - Introduction02:00 - The biggest change in 45 years03:36 - Why the guidelines are so controversial06:09 - Process complaints vs. the science08:25 - Protein was always there, just hidden10:26 - Is 1.6g really high protein?13:00 - Half of people are below average13:45 - The randomized trials that say no benefit16:57 - Why cherry-picked studies mislead18:42 - Amino acids are essential, fiber isn't21:17 - Does protein only matter with lifting?33:33 - Nitrogen balance and its blind spot40:02 - The carbohydrate RDA everyone ignores47:37 - The nine essential amino acids49:49 - Why aging makes deficiency worse53:36 - Going below 50% animal protein58:25 - Protein quality and carbohydrate dilution1:04:34 - Hitting protein when you're small1:08:53 - High-protein breakfast and the teen brain1:10:19 - fMRI: blunted food cravings1:18:40 - The saturated fat sticking point1:26:30 - The 10% number from thin air1:40:17 - Is protein in everything fairy dust?1:46:42 - Smart high-protein snacksIf you found this episode valuable, share it with someone who would benefit from it.Disclaimers: This episode includes paid sponsorships.The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Podcast and YouTube are for general information purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast, YouTube, or materials linked from this podcast or YouTube is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professional for any such conditions.

As a holistic and functional psychiatrist, I see many people who are highly sensitive. Most are deep divers into information and able to connect a lot of dots. Many are gifted. Many struggle with overwhelm and low stress tolerance. Some struggled with anxiety, inner tension, or feeling “too much” for as long as they can remember. Some feel different - that they don't fit in.As a holistic and functional psychiatrist with over twenty years in practice, I've worked with thousands of highly sensitive adults and children. Most are deep divers into information, able to connect a lot of dots — many are gifted. And yet many struggle with overwhelm, low stress tolerance, anxiety, or inner tension that has been there for as long as they can remember. Many feel different, like they don't quite fit in. What I've found is that sensitivity itself is rarely the problem — it's the seeming vulnerability to brain-related or physical conditions. Over the years I've found three different models to be especially useful in explaining some of the vulnerabilities and the strengths of those of us who are highly sensitive: Dr. Elaine Aron's work on the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), the nutritional medicine concept of Pyrrole Disorder, and Dr. Sharon Meglathery's RCCX Theory. Each looks at a similar group of traits through a different lens — psychological, biochemical, and genetic, respectively.Before I start, I want to emphasize that sensitivity is not a pathology or a diagnosis. It is actually a trait that has existed across human history for a reason. My goal is not to pathologize it, but to understand it — and to offer tools to those who have these traits but who are struggling with a condition more prevalent in those with these traits. As I go through these three frameworks, the overlap will be obvious and I'll highlight what each of these has to offer that the others don't.What You'll Learn* The HSP model provides validation and a language for sensitive individuals.* Pyrrole Disorder involves an overproduction of pyrroles, leading to nutrient depletion of nutrients critical for neurotransmitter functioning.* Pyrrole Disorder is common in brain-related conditions.* RCCX Theory connects genetic vulnerabilities to sensitivity and chronic illness.* Stress amplifies the experiences of highly sensitive individuals.* Understanding these models can lead to effective treatment options.* There are meaningful paths forward for those who are highly sensitive.Chapters* 00:00 Understanding High Sensitivity* 02:26 The Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) Model* 10:23 Exploring Pyrrole Disorder* 18:18 RCCX Theory Explained* 30:11 Intersecting Models: HSP, Pyrrole Disorder & RCCX Theory* 34:40 Conclusion and Path ForwardI. THE HIGHLY SENSITIVE PERSONIn the early 1990s, psychologist Dr. Elaine Aron identified a personality trait she called Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) — and the people who score high in it she called Highly Sensitive Persons, or HSPs.This is not a diagnosis. It is a trait, present in roughly 15–20% of the population. It has been found across more than 100 species — from fruit flies to primates. This tells us it is evolutionarily conserved — it confers survival advantages. In any social group, having members who are wired to notice subtle cues, process information deeply, and detect threats before others do is extremely valuable. Fitting with this, many of these individuals, who also struggle with complex chronic health issues are considered the “canaries in the coal mine” since their bodies react to environmental triggers (environmental toxins, chemicals, or stressors) long before the rest of the population.Dr. Aron captured the core features of this trait in an acronym she called DOES:D — Depth of processing: HSPs think deeply, reflect before acting, and notice subtleties that others miss.O — Overstimulation: Because they process so thoroughly, HSPs reach their threshold more quickly in high-stimulation environments.E — Emotional reactivity and Empathy: HSPs feel emotions intensely and are highly attuned to the emotions of those around them.S — Sensitivity to subtle stimuli: They pick up on things — in their environment, in social dynamics, in the body — that others simply don't register.As you can see, traits that are super powers, can become liabilities. The deep diver who loses sight of the big picture. The empath who absorbs everyone else's energy as their own energy becomes depleted. The person who withdraws from the world because the stimulation has simply become too much.HSP ResearchBeyond the clinical observations, there is now a growing body of neuroscience and genetic research supporting this trait. There is evidence that the brains of sensitive people are doing more, processing more and feeling more.fMRI studies (Acevedo, Aron et al., 2014) have shown that when HSPs view emotional images — particularly photos of loved ones expressing happiness or sadness — their brains show significantly greater activation in regions associated with awareness, empathy, and sensory integration.Twin studies show that Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS) as defined by Dr. Aron is approximately 47% heritable. Small studies as opposed to large genome wide studies have focused on genetic variants involving dopamine and serotonin systems, such as a serotonin transport gene, a dopamine receptor gene, and COMT, which codes for the enzyme that metabolizes dopamine and norepinephrine.While this hints at a biochemical dimension, the HSP framework doesn't address this as directly as the other two models I'll discuss, nor does it explain the higher prevalence of physical health conditions in those who are highly sensitive.Research published in 2026 (Matsuzawa et al.) found that individuals high in SPS had substantially higher rates of depression (13.8%), anxiety disorder (10.5%), and developmental disorders, such as ADHD and ASD, compared to the general population.Despite this overlap with developmental disorders: unlike, ADHD, HSPs typically have excellent concentration in quiet environments. And unlike the social deficits described in ASD, HSPs tend to have heightened social attunement. They often feel too much of what's happening in social situations, not too little, even if they respond awkwardly at times.Research shows that high sensory processing sensitivity is associated with more frequent physical symptoms — back pain, fatigue, digestive issues, frequent illness.What This Framework OffersThe HSP model has given millions of people validation and a language for these traits that has allowed them to shift from “what is wrong with me” to “this is how I am wired.”It also offers an evolutionary reframe. High sensitivity is not a mistake and is not pathologic. It is a feature of the human population that has served us.What it doesn't offer is a biological explanation for why some sensitive people suffer so acutely — or a path toward biochemical intervention. II. PYRROLE DISORDERPyrrole disorder is a biochemical imbalance that has been recognized for decades, though it remains largely unknown in mainstream psychiatry. It involves an overproduction of pyrroles — metabolic byproducts that, on their own, are not a problem. When they are high, however, they can result in a depletion of zinc, B6 and a few other nutrients.First identified in the 1950s and first treated with zinc and B6 in the 1980s, pyrrole disorder is one of the most common nutrient imbalances found in brain-related conditions — and one of the most treatable. Yet most people who have it have never heard of it. I learned about pyrroles in 2014 when I first trained with the Walsh Research Institute.The Importance of Zinc, B6 & MagnesiumVitamin B6 is required to synthesize dopamine, serotonin, and GABA — three of the most critical neurotransmitters for mood regulation, anxiety, and stress response. Zinc plays a profound role in the central nervous system, the immune system, gastrointestinal tract (which we now know has its own significant influence on brain health) and connective tissue (joints and skin).Pyrrole Disorder Traits & SymptomsThe most consistent feature is low stress tolerance. People with elevated pyrroles are often described as those for whom life seems harder than it should be, every transition can be destabilizing and every large group or new environment feels like too much.The overlap with the HSP profile is striking, but here, we start to see not only traits, but symptoms.- Socially anxious, shy, or fearful since childhood, with severe inner tension- Sensitive to bright light, loud noises, textures, and odors- Avoids crowds, strangers, and new situations- History of reading difficulty- Poor short-term memory- Underachievement- Irritability, mood swings, bouts of depression- Tends to stay up late; little or no dream recall; morning nausea- White spots on fingernails; very dry skin; stretch marks; poor wound healing- Joint pain- Frequent infections or autoimmune tendenciesMost people with pyrrole disorder don't have all of these symptoms — but the inner tension, the high sensitivity, and low stress intolerance are very common.What the Data ShowsThe Walsh Research Institute has collected data on over 30,000 patients. Elevated pyrroles were found in:* 18% of those with ADHD* 24% of those with depression* 28% of those with behavioral disorders* 35% of those with autism* 35% of those with bipolar disorder* 30% of those with schizophrenia* 12% of those with PTSDAnd in only 8% of healthy controls — meaning those with no psychiatric diagnosis.What Causes Pyrrole Disorder?For many, there appears to be a genetic component, but for others, pyrroles appear to have increased due to high physiologic or emotional stress. Examples include candida overgrowth or other forms of gut microbial imbalances, mold toxicity, heavy metals, chemical exposures, illness, emotional trauma, major life transitions or even growth spurts in children.What This Framework Brings UsRelative to the HSP framework, an understanding of pyrroles gives a specific, treatable biological mechanism. When zinc, B6, Magnesium and other nutrients are depleted, we know how the brain's neurotransmitter functioning is affected — and we know what to do about it.Treatment from a Walsh Research Institute trained practitioner typically involves a nutrient protocol of zinc (based on zinc and copper testing), B6 or its active form P5P, and other nutrients for pyrrole disorder and other nutrient imbalances identified. For many patients, a lifetime of chronic inner tension and fearfulness begins to shift within days to a couple of weeks of starting the nutrients.Treatment doesn't change one's personality, but it can improve social discomfort, overwhelm, the anxiety, the depression that has been layered on top of that sensitivity.Where zinc deficiency can impact a lot of the physical conditions that appear to be more common in those who are hypersensitive, it doesn't fully explain the significant hormonal, inflammatory, connective tissue symptoms and autoimmunity we see in many who are hypersensitive.III. RCCX THEORYRCCX theory has been proposed by Dr. Sharon Meglathery, MD — a psychiatrist and internist whose own complex health history (which is very similar to my own) led her to one of the most compelling explanations I've encountered for why hypersensitivity, neurodivergence, psychiatric conditions, MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome), EDS (Ehlers Danlos Syndrome), POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) and/or CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and autoimmunity tend to cluster together in certain individuals and families.RCCX refers to a module of four genes on chromosome 6. Three of them appear to be particularly important to our health, and two of those have very high rates of mutation.The Three Key Genes(1) TNXB codes for a protein involved in connective tissue. Variants range from subtle joint hypermobility to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. But connective tissue isn't just about joints — it's also about the permeability of the gut-blood barrier, the blood-brain barrier, and vulnerability to upper cervical (neck) instability, which can put tension on the vagus nerve and affect the entire autonomic nervous system.(2) CYP21A2 is the most important gene in the module when it comes to psychiatric conditions. It codes for 21-hydroxylase, an enzyme needed to convert 17-hydroxyprogesterone into cortisol. When there is a mutation — and there can be many, of varying degrees — the body may struggle to meet the demand for cortisol under stress. A weakness on this gene could have two primary effects:First — The theory holds that many people with CYP21A2 mutations, even without hypermobility, may develop what Dr. Meglathery calls a “brain wired for danger” — essentially, a nervous system calibrated toward threat detection from early in life, with minimal trauma required. A mutation on CYP21A2 may essentially result in relatively higher androgens impacting the amygdala — the brain's fear and emotional center. Studies have found that hypermobile individuals (who often carry TNXB mutations) have a larger-than-normal amygdala.Second — because of this mutation, the body may not be able to keep up with the body's need for cortisol (especially when under stress). This deficit causes the brain to release corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) to signal the adrenal glands to produce more cortisol. CRH binds to mast cells and activates the immune system — leading to secondary brain inflammation. This is the inflammatory pathway that can result in a number of secondary health issues including MCAS, CIRS, POTS, CFS and more.(3) C4 is involved in immune response and autoimmunity, and has been linked to schizophrenia. This gene variant is not as common as the first two referenced, though I do see a number of families who also have autoimmunity impacting multiple family members.The CAPS Psychological ProfileDr. Meglathery uses the term CAPS — CYP21A2 Mutation Associated Neuropsychiatric Spectrum — to describe the psychological profile she has observed in people with this genetic vulnerability. These traits can exist long before any formal psychiatric diagnosis, and they are not inherently pathological. - Anxiety and over-arousal during times of stress — high adrenaline, insomnia, sometimes manic-like characteristics- Under-arousal during low-stress periods — leading to ADD presentations, compulsive behaviors, or thrill-seeking to raise arousal- High emotionality, sensitivity, and reactivity to environmental stimuli- Sensory processing difficulties — typically over-stimulation in loud or chaotic environments- A strong ability to read emotions in others, paired with social awkwardness in response- Easily affected by events others would consider minor — an offhand comment, a disturbing movie- A tendency toward nonconformity- Special abilities: gifted musicians, scientists, creatives, systems thinkers- Hyper-focus and obsession with areas of deep interest, often leading to remarkable accomplishments- High tenacity and determination, when not derailed by overstimulation or past trauma- Strong emotions — positive or negative — that can manifest as obsessional worrying, harm avoidance, OCD tendencies, or very high standards for self and othersDr. Meglathery also notes — and I have observed this clinically — that people with this profile tend to find each other through friendships, partnerships and marriage. They are drawn together by shared sensitivities, emotional depth, and intellectual gifts. This means children are likely to receive a tendency towards CAPS from both sides.Women who are appear to have CYP21A2 mutations often have a male-pattern finger length ratio — the ring finger longer than the index finger — a possible marker of androgen exposure during development.What RCCX OffersRCCX theory offers the broadest biological framework we have for understanding why sensitivity, psychiatric vulnerability, and complex chronic illness so often travel together in the same people and families. It connects the nervous system, the immune system, the hormonal system, and connective tissue under one genetic umbrella.It also points toward specific interventions: nervous system regulation (limbic retraining, vagal work), mast cell management, and addressing the downstream biochemical consequences of cortisol dysregulation.The limitation is that genetic testing for variants on the gene for 21-hydroxylase is not yet widely available, which is why this isn't a gene that you'll see referenced when it comes to HSP, though I would argue it is likely the most prevalent. RCCX remains a clinical theory — but one that explains the constellation of traits and symptoms of most of the people that I in my practiceIV. WHERE THESE MODELS INTERSECTWhere Might Pyrrole Disorder and RCCX Theory Meet?The symptom overlap is almost complete: poor stress tolerance, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, inner tension, connective tissue symptoms, frequent infections, autoimmune tendencies. Relatively low zinc would impact most of these shared symptoms, but there may be a potentially deeper connection.21-hydroxylase contains a pyrrole-like structure — heme — within it. Could a mutation resulting in abnormal 21-hydroxylase lead to a buildup of abnormal heme-like compounds, contributing directly to pyrrole disorder? This is not proven, but in an exchange about this with Dr. Meglathery, she indicated that she also believes there is a strong association, and the biochemical logic is compelling.This matters, because we know what helps pyrrole disorder. We have a treatment — treatment that can complement what RCCX theory makes evident — that the stress response has to be addressed.Stress (again from any cause - physiologic or emotional) is the great amplifier across all three models. Stress worsens the HSP experience, and tips the CYP21A2 mutation from manageable to destabilizing (through the hormonal consequences and the inflammatory cascade) and yes, it even causes pyrroles to increase.BRINGING IT TOGETHERFor someone who is highly sensitive, and struggling with brain related or physical symptoms or conditions, pyrrole disorder and even RCCX theory are worth considering because they offer tools and start to answer, “What Can We Do About It?”The three frameworks work together:The HSP model offers validation and language. It shifts the frame from deficit to difference. It reminds us that sensitivity is not pathology — it is a trait with evolutionary value, and it comes with great strengths.The Pyrrole model offers a treatable nutrient imbalance. It explains, at the neurotransmitter level, why stress hits harder for these individuals. Treatment doesn't take away the sensitivity; it lifts the weight that has accumulated on top of it.The RCCX model offers the broadest systems view. It connects the dots between what the body is doing — the immune activation, the hormonal dysregulation, the connective tissue involvement — and the psychiatric and psychological profile that tends to accompany it. It also provides additional tools: nervous system regulation, mast cell support, hormonal awareness.If any of this resonates — the sensitivity, the inner tension, the feeling of always being at the edge of overwhelm — please know that there are roots to explore and meaningful paths forward.If you are looking for someone trained by the Walsh Research Institute knowledgeable in assessing for and treating pyrrole disorder (and other common nutrient imbalances impacting brain health), or learning more about Dr. Aron's work on HSP and Dr. Meglathery's RCCX theory, I am providing those links below.And as always, I welcome your thoughts, experience and questions.Until next time,CourtneyAbout the AuthorDr. Courtney Snyder MD is a Holistic and Functional Child and Adult Psychiatrist who offers non-patient consultations to individuals and practitioners nationally and internationally in addition to her treatment practice serving FL, IN, KY, OH. Her educational content, shared through her website, Substack Newsletter, the Holistic Psychiatry Podcast and YouTube Channel reaches readers and listeners in over 160 countries.ResourcesWalsh Research Institute: walshinstitute.orgRCCX Theory — Dr. Sharon Meglathery: rccxandillness.comDr. Elaine Aron — The Highly Sensitive Person: hsperson.comOther Sources: Acevedo et al. 2014, “The Highly Sensitive Brain,” Brain & Behavior | Matsuzawa et al. 2026, Psychiatry & Clinical Neurosciences ReportsMedical Disclaimer:This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating (if you are a practitioner). Consult your physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit courtneysnydermd.substack.com/subscribe

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offer a different way to understand the body, especially when it comes to chronic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, stress, digestion, anxiety, inflammation, nervous system dysregulation, and unexplained symptoms.In this episode of hol+, Dr. Taz sits down with  Dr. Jordan Barber, clinician, educator, published researcher, licensed acupuncturist, and author of Thinking in Chinese Medicine: A Patient's Guide to Acupuncture, Herbs, and Healing, for a grounded conversation about what Chinese medicine actually is, why it has been misunderstood in the West, and how it can help us see chronic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, stress, symptoms, and whole-body health through a more connected lens.Together, they explore why Chinese medicine is not just acupuncture, herbs, or “energy work,” but a way of thinking. Dr. Barber explains how Traditional Chinese Medicine looks at the whole person, including sleep, digestion, emotions, stress, relationships, movement, pain patterns, and the way someone experiences life. He also breaks down how the word qi became simplified into “energy,” why that translation can be misleading, and why Chinese medicine is often more practical, physiological, and science-informed than many people realize.Dr. Barber shares his own path into Chinese medicine after working in IT, living through 9/11 in New York City, and experiencing chronic health issues that conventional care did not resolve. After trying acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and dietary changes, he saw a major improvement in his recurring sinus issues and began to understand health through a completely different framework.If you're listening to this and thinking, “My symptoms feel connected, but no one is helping me connect the dots,” join the Circle here:

In keeping with our themes of mattering, meaning, and connection this June, we wanted to reshare a conversation with had with author Emily Falk. In this conversation, we decode what goes on behind the scenes with our decisions - everything from what to eat for breakfast to how to respond to trolls on social media - and how emotional, rational, and social information is integrated by the brain to guide our choices. Emily's book is now available on paperback wherever you get your favorite reads.  ©20256 Behavioral Grooves Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Emily Falk [8:29] Understanding Value Calculations [12:58] Research Methods and fMRI [18:01] Self-Relevance and Social Relevance Systems [28:41] Defensiveness and Social Norms [40:49] The Importance of Being "In Sync" [58:17] The Role or Music in Self/Social Relevance [1:07:45] Grooving Session: Communication, Social Norms, and Behavioral Science at Work ©2025 Behavioral Grooves Links About Emily What We Value by Emily Falk

Únete a nuestra comunidad El Mapa de la Ansiedad en Skool: https://www.skool.com/elmapadelaansiedad Un espacio con cursos, recursos y una comunidad para comprender mejor la ansiedad, compartir experiencias y aprender herramientas prácticas para transformar tu relación con la mente. ¿Alguna vez te has preguntado cómo se ven tus pensamientos? ¿Dónde nace el miedo? ¿Qué ocurre en tu cerebro cuando recuerdas, decides, amas, te obsesionas o sientes ansiedad? En este episodio de La Teoría de la Mente, nos adentramos en El Nuevo Mapa del Cerebro, leyendo a Rita Carter, para explorar una de las grandes revoluciones de la neurociencia moderna: la posibilidad de observar la mente en acción. Gracias a técnicas como la Resonancia Magnética Funcional, la Tomografía por Emisión de Positrones y otros métodos de imagen cerebral, hoy podemos contemplar cómo distintas regiones del cerebro se activan cuando pensamos, sentimos o recordamos. Pero este viaje no es solo una explicación científica: también es una invitación a cuestionar quiénes somos realmente. ¿Existe un “yo” único y coherente? ¿O somos más bien una conversación interna entre múltiples sistemas cerebrales que negocian, interpretan y construyen una historia sobre nosotros mismos? A lo largo del episodio exploramos casos fascinantes que desafían nuestra idea de identidad: personas que ríen al estimular una zona concreta del cerebro, pacientes con hemisferios cerebrales desconectados que parecen mostrar dos formas distintas de responder al mundo, y experiencias que nos obligan a preguntarnos si nuestras decisiones nacen de la razón o si el cerebro ya ha decidido antes de que nuestra conciencia invente una explicación. También revisamos episodios oscuros de la historia del estudio cerebral, como la frenología o la lobotomía, para comprender cómo hemos pasado de interpretar bultos en el cráneo a mapear circuitos neuronales implicados en la emoción, la compulsión, la moralidad, el deseo, la ansiedad y la toma de decisiones. En este episodio descubrirás cómo funciona el sistema de recompensa del cerebro, por qué la dopamina puede estar relacionada con la motivación y la adicción, qué papel tienen los lóbulos frontales en nuestras decisiones morales, cómo el cerebro construye la sensación de identidad y por qué muchas veces nuestras emociones dirigen nuestra vida mucho más de lo que creemos. Este capítulo es una invitación a mirar dentro de nosotros con más curiosidad, más ciencia y también más compasión. Porque comprender el cerebro no nos hace menos humanos: nos permite entender mejor nuestras contradicciones, nuestras heridas, nuestros impulsos y nuestra capacidad de cambio. Escucha este episodio de La Teoría de la Mente y acompáñanos en este viaje hacia el interior del cerebro humano. Enlaces recomendados Comunidad El Mapa de la Ansiedad: https://www.skool.com/elmapadelaansiedad Nuestra escuela de ansiedad: www.escuelaansiedad.com Nuestro nuevo libro: www.elmapadelaansiedad.com Visita nuestra página web: http://www.amadag.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Asociacion.Agorafobia/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amadag.psico/ ▶️ YouTube Amadag TV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC22fPGPhEhgiXCM7PGl68rw 5 títulos alternativos 4 hábitos que van a ayudarte a entender mejor tu cerebro y tomar mejores decisiones Deja de creer que siempre decides racionalmente: tu cerebro ya empezó antes que tú Esta forma de entender el cerebro cambiará para siempre cómo ves tu mente 5 cosas que nunca te contaron sobre el miedo, la ansiedad y el cerebro El nuevo mapa del cerebro: lo que la neurociencia revela sobre quién eres realmente 25 palabras clave para SEO neurociencia,cerebro,mapa del cerebro,Rita Carter,La Teoría de la Mente,mente humana,conciencia,fMRI,resonancia magnética funcional,tomografía por emisión de positrones,emociones,ansiedad,miedo,TOC,adicciones,sistema de recompensa,dopamina,lóbulos frontales,cerebro dividido,hemisferios cerebrales,libre albedrío,identidad,autoconocimiento,salud mental,psicología cognitiva Hashtags #Neurociencia,#MapaDelCerebro,#RitaCarter,#LaTeoríaDeLaMente,#SaludMental,#Autoconocimiento

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, vestibular physical therapists Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT sit down with neurologist Dr. Kristin Steenerson to unpack Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness, also known as 3PD or PPPD.If you feel dizzy, floaty, rocking, disoriented, or visually overwhelmed most days — especially in places like grocery stores, airports, busy restaurants, or while scrolling screens — this episode explains what may be happening in the brain and nervous system.Dr. Steenerson breaks down the diagnostic criteria for 3PD, why symptoms can continue even after the original vestibular problem improves, how 3PD overlaps with vestibular migraine, and why treatment often requires a combination of education, vestibular therapy, medication, cognitive strategies, lifestyle support, and gradual exposure.This conversation also addresses why 3PD is sometimes misunderstood, how hypervigilance plays a role, and why there is real hope for recovery and improved quality of life. Hosted by:

Why do breakups hurt so much? Because neurologically, heartbreak looks almost identical to drug withdrawal. In a landmark 2010 fMRI study, Helen Fisher and her colleagues showed that the brains of the recently rejected lit up in the same reward and craving circuits — the VTA and nucleus accumbens — that drive cocaine addiction. In this episode of The Dr. Leaf Show, Dr. Caroline Leaf unpacks the neuroscience of heartbreak and why it can take at least 63 days to rewire, plus two more segments: why horror movies might actually be good for your brain (and when they're not), and a Pick My Brain Q&A tackling self-love, the attachment styles myth, unconditional love, and how to reignite the spark in a long marriage.

Robert Gallery is a former professional football player and a 2023 College Football Hall of Fame inductee. He played collegiate football at the University of Iowa, earning unanimous All-American honors and the 2003 Outland Trophy. Gallery was selected second overall in the 2004 NFL Draft and played eight seasons in the NFL with the Oakland Raiders and Seattle Seahawks. Following his professional career, Gallery experienced mental health challenges associated with repeated head injuries and alcohol dependency. Ibogaine treatment was a significant part of his personal recovery. He co-founded Athletes for Care to support other athletes navigating similar post-career challenges and to advocate for research and awareness around athlete mental health. In this episode, former NFL star Robert Gallery shares how severe CTE symptoms, failed conventional treatments, and suicidal despair led him to medically supervised ibogaine and 5‑MeO‑DMT therapy in Mexico, catalyzing profound neurological, emotional, and spiritual healing and inspiring his Athletes for Care advocacy work. RESOURCES: Learn more about Robert Gallery here: https://athletesforcare.org/ Instagram: @athletes4care Get 10% off Peluva minimalist shoe with coupon code COACHTARA here: http://peluva.com/coachtara   CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Intro 00:22 – Meet Robert Gallery + ibogaine turning point 02:09 – Sponsor: Peluva barefoot shoes 03:57 – Interview begins: welcoming Robert 06:04 – NFL career, injuries, and retirement crash 08:50 – Rage at home, brain fog, alcohol, suicidality 12:56 – CTE brain scan wake‑up call and protocols 15:21 – Hyperbaric, IVs, "fractionally better," and despair 16:45 – Discovering VETS and hope for ibogaine 18:28 – Cold‑turkey off meds and heading to Mexico 19:43 – First ibogaine and 5‑MeO treatment in Mexico 25:11 – Inside the ibogaine journey: self‑hatred to self‑love 29:04 – 5‑MeO "death," meeting God, and clear brain reboot 31:45 – Second and third journeys, seeing his own death 34:46 – Life rebuilt: present dad, tools, and daily work 34:53 – SPECT vs fMRI and what scans can't show 36:31 – How ibogaine shifts self‑worth and emotional patterns 38:42 – Coming back to football, pride, and veterans' trauma 40:42 – New thought patterns, white matter, and Stanford data    WORK WITH TARA: Are You Looking for Help on Your Wellness Journey? Here's how Tara can help you: TRY TARA'S APP FOR FREE: http://taragarrison.com/app INDIVIDUAL ONLINE COACHING: https://www.taragarrison.com/work-with-me CHECK OUT HIGHER RETREATS: https://www.taragarrison.com/retreats   SOCIAL MEDIA:  Instagram @coachtaragarrison TikTok @coachtaragarrison Facebook @coachtaragarrison Pinterest @coachtaragarrison   INSIDE OUT HEALTH PODCAST SPECIAL OFFERS: ☑️ Upgraded Formulas Hair Test Kit Special Offer: https://bit.ly/3YdMn4Z ☑️ Upgraded Formulas - Get 15% OFF Everything with Coupon Code INSIDEOUT15: https://upgradedformulas.com/INSIDEOUT15 ☑️ Rep Provisions: Vote for the future of food with your dollar! And enjoy a 15% discount while you're at it with Coupon Code COACHTARA: https://bit.ly/3dD4ZSv  

Dr. Justin Garcia explains why heartbreak mirrors cocaine withdrawal, why dating apps backfire, and what humans actually hunger for beneath the swiping.Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/1334What We Discuss with Justin Garcia:Humans evolved with two parallel drives that don't always cooperate: pair bonding (social monogamy) and sexual variety. Only 3 to 5% of mammals form true pair bonds, but our wiring for connection and our hunger for novelty often pull in opposite directions — which explains a lot about why relationships are so complicated.The most expensive item on the menu at a legal Nevada brothel isn't sex — it's the "girlfriend experience," where men pay $20,000+ for champagne, eye contact, and the simulation of being wanted. Intimacy, not eroticism, turns out to be the rarest and most expensive commodity humans chase.Chronic loneliness is as damaging to your health as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day — and you can feel it even when you're surrounded by sexual partners. People with crowded romantic schedules but no real connection are quietly running a health risk equivalent to chain-smoking.Heartbreak isn't a metaphor — it's neurochemical withdrawal. fMRI scans of the romantically rejected look remarkably like the brains of people detoxing from cocaine. The dopamine and oxytocin systems that build love operate on circuitry that closely parallels addiction.70% of people have eventually fallen for someone they weren't initially attracted to — meaning the snap judgment that drives swipe culture is almost always wrong. Slow down, say yes to second and third dates, introduce novelty into existing relationships (a new recipe, a new park, a new position), and water the grass you already have. Connection is built, not detected.And much more...And if you're still game to support us, please leave a review here — even one sentence helps! Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!Subscribe to our once-a-week Wee Bit Wiser newsletter today and start filling your Wednesdays with wisdom!Do you even Reddit, bro? Join us at r/JordanHarbinger!This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: Lufthansa Allegris: Go to Lufthansa.com and search for "Allegris" to learn moreBoll & Branch: 15% off first set of sheets: bollandbranch.com, code JORDANEarnIn: Download EarnIn on the App Store or Google Play, type JordanHarbinger under PodcastFactor: 50% off first box: factormeals.com/jordan50off, code JORDAN50OFFProgressive Insurance: Free online quote: progressive.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the neuroscience of grief, including how the brain maps relationships across three dimensions — space, time, and closeness — and why losing someone requires a remapping of those neural circuits. I describe how grief differs from depression, the role of oxytocin in driving yearning after a loss, and why people move through grief at different rates. I also discuss science-based tools for grieving adaptively, including how to access feelings of attachment while decoupling them from episodic memory. Finally, I explain how foundational biology — particularly sleep and cortisol rhythms — shapes our capacity to navigate the grieving process. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman Timestamps (00:00:00) Grief (00:01:47) Myths of Grief, Kubler-Ross & fMRI (00:03:56) Brain Mapping Experiment, Proximity (00:07:05) Inferior Parietal Lobule; Space, Time & Closeness (00:09:20) Episodic Memory & Remapping After Loss (00:11:28) Sponsor: Eight Sleep (00:14:21) Tool: Dedicated Time, Counterfactual Thinking & Guilt (00:15:52) Oxytocin & Individual Differences in Grief (00:18:21) Prairie Voles, Monogamy & Nucleus Accumbens (00:22:30) Sponsor: LMNT (00:24:48) Vagal Tone, Emotional Disclosure & Bereavement Writing Study (00:29:40) Cortisol Rhythms, Complicated Grief & Sunlight (00:33:03) Sponsor: AG1 (00:34:59) Rational Grieving, Neuroplasticity & NSDR Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are delighted to host Marieke McKenna on this episode of the Mangu.tv podcast. Marieke McKenna (London, 1994) is a Scottish-Dutch philosopher, historian, artistic researcher, and performance artist. Her work explores metaphysics, phenomenology, consciousness studies, spirituality, ecology, and philosophies of nature through interdisciplinary research and embodied practice. She is an expert on cross-cultural perspectives on dreaming and other altered states of consciousness.For the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science, she led the research project History of Lucid Dreaming Research, the first oral-historical examination of the emergence of lucid dreaming as an object of scientific inquiry. In collaboration with the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, the project combined oral history, philosophy, and cross-cultural anthropological research into how different cultures and traditions understand dreaming, with hands-on experience in neuroscience sleep laboratories conducting EEG and fMRI research on the dreaming brain.Outside academia, Marieke, who is based in The Netherlands, is an award-winning artist and curator, with performances and lectures at institutions including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. She is the host of her own national radio show on NPO Radio 2, for which she selects music from across the globe, and has taught at various universities, conservatoires, and institutes, including Advaya and the Embassy of the Free Mind.Giancarlo and Marieke discuss idealism, interconnectedness, and how dreamwork nurtures healing and belonging. They speak about lucid dreaming in therapy, indigenous perspectives, and technology's encroachment into “inner space,” debating AI, advertising in dreams, collective consciousness, telepathy, quantum theory, and the mind's creative potential.

In this episode, Eric sits down with Alyece Smith, business coach, TEDx speaker, autism advocate, and founder of Socially Ausome, for a candid conversation about ADHD, masking, burnout, boundaries, and what it really takes to build systems that fit your brain. Alyece shares how her son's autism diagnosis changed the way she understood neurodivergence, her own ADHD, and the cost of trying to operate like everyone else. After leaving corporate to prioritize her son's care, she built a successful business quickly, but found herself overdelivering, people-pleasing, working late into the night, and burning out despite outward success. Together, Eric and Alyece explore why "inconsistency" is often misunderstood, especially for ADHDers. They talk about under-stimulation, energy management, spark times, decision fatigue, boundaries, and why sustainable follow-through usually requires better support, not more shame. Alyece also introduces her F.L.O.W. First Thinking framework: Find your spark times, Link boring tasks with stimulation, Organize your overflow, and Work your week around your peaks. This conversation is practical, validating, and useful for anyone who has ever felt scattered, overextended, or exhausted from trying to work against their own brain. Summary In this episode, Eric sits down with Alyece Smith — business coach, TEDx speaker, autism mom, and founder of Socially Ausome — for a candid conversation about what it really looks like to build a business with an ADHD brain. Alyece shares how her son's autism diagnosis cracked open her own understanding of neurodivergency, eventually leading her to leave corporate, launch a six-figure business, burn out spectacularly, and rebuild everything on her own terms. She introduces her F.L.O.W. First Thinking framework, breaks down why consistency advice fails ADHDers, and explains why energy management — not time management — is the real key to sustainable success. This one is raw, practical, and deeply validating for any entrepreneur who has ever felt scattered, burnt out, or like they're just not built for the traditional business model. Key Takeaways You're not scattered — you're bored. ADHD brains are chronically under-stimulated. What looks like inconsistency is really a dopamine regulation issue. Energy management beats time management. Work during your brain's natural peak times (your chronotype) — not just whenever the calendar says to. Boundaries are a business strategy. Burnout wasn't from working hard — it was from having no limits with clients or herself. "That's not in our contract, but I'm happy to invoice you" was a turning point. Masking is exhausting and expensive. Pretending to be neurotypical burns energy that could fuel your actual work. Coming out publicly as ADHD was terrifying — and completely freeing. The 48-hour rule for pivots. Before burning something down, sit with it 48 hours. Still fired up? Probably a real signal. Not? Likely boredom or fear. Systems aren't one-size-fits-all. The right system is one built around how your specific brain works — not how productivity gurus say it should. Brain dump daily. A five-minute voice memo clears mental clutter and can be run through AI tools to generate action lists. Passion is your compass. Hyperfocus kicks in hardest around genuine passion. Can't stop thinking about it? That's your signal. Women with ADHD are chronically misdiagnosed. Internalizing symptoms leads to anxiety and depression, and many women aren't diagnosed until perimenopause amplifies everything. Timestamps 0:00 — Introduction & Alyece's background 0:47 — Her son's autism diagnosis and the research rabbit hole that changed everything 3:17 — Leaving corporate in 2022 to prioritize her son's healthcare 3:56 — Going straight into entrepreneurship — and immediately masking all over again 4:16 — Hitting six figures in six months, then hitting a wall 4:35 — Working until 2–3am and the unrealistic client expectations that drove it 5:15 — People-pleasing, poor boundaries, and faking having an assistant 7:14 — What it means to deliver excellence when you're miserable doing it 8:27 — The breaking point: her husband calls her out 9:20 — Becoming a "brick wall of boundaries" and what that sounds like in practice 26:27 — Coming out publicly as ADHD on Facebook — and the flood of "me too" responses 27:47 — Why she now loves being an ADHD keynote speaker 28:20 — Reframing ADHD inconsistency: dopamine, boredom, and under-stimulation 29:37 — The fMRI study: boredom registers as pain in the ADHD brain 30:25 — Why ADHDers start strong and struggle to finish 31:56 — Decision fatigue and the power of a personal uniform 33:04 — Introducing the F.L.O.W. First Thinking framework 36:31 — Applying Flow First in a corporate setting — $300K saved in one quarter 36:54 — The book and what's inside beyond the TEDx talk 37:15 — Where people get the F (Find Your Spark Times) wrong 38:00 — Why changing your schedule feels uncomfortable — and how to push through 39:00 — Harmful advice in the ADHD space: "just be more consistent" 40:29 — How women internalize ADHD symptoms differently — and the misdiagnosis epidemic 41:17 — One small, actionable shift for overwhelmed entrepreneurs 43:14 — The Voice Pen app recommendation 46:21 — Where to find Alyece and get the book The F.L.O.W. Framework: F — Find your spark times (when your brain is most alert and focused) L — Link boring tasks with stimulating ones (temptation bundling) O — Organize your overflow (a "parking lot" system for ideas and distractions) W — Work your week around your peaks (theme your days, not your hours) Resources Mentioned Book: Flow First Thinking by Alyece Smith - Get it on Amazon Website: sociallyausome.com Nonprofit: Caden's Corner / The Awesome Family's Foundation App: Voice Pen — voice memo to AI-generated action list Tool: ManyCam — virtual camera with timer overlay for Zoom calls Connect with Alyece Website: sociallyausome.com Facebook & Instagram: @sociallyausome (Skip the TikTok DMs — she's not in there) ADHD reWired Services Coaching Groups Adult Study Hall 1:1 Therapy & Coaching Additional Resource Mentioned: Neurodivergent + LGBTQ+ Pride Month Panel

Today's episode is all about how childhood literally shapes the brain.Our most important experiences – from learning to read, to the growing complexity of our social lives at school, and even the video games we play – leave physical traces in how our brains get organized that shape how we see the world as adults.But how does the brain actually know what parts of our lives are actually important enough to reorganize around? How do particular experiences get under the hood to leave their mark on the developing brain?Today's guest, Stanford psychology professor Kalanit Grill-Spector, has spent her career trying to answer these questions. She's has been imaging children's brains – from infants to teenagers – to watch this reorganization unfold. Her work focuses on how our visual experience as children shapes our brains and how we see the world – what she and her team have found is not always what they expected.Learn MoreThe Vision and Perception Neuroscience Lab at Stanford Humanities and SciencesBrain's face recognition area grows much bigger as we get older (New Scientist, 2017)Neuroscientists use AI to simulate how the brain makes sense of the visual world (Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, 2025)Bridging nature and nurture: The brain's flexible foundation from birth (Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, 2025)Extensive childhood experience with Pokémon suggests eccentricity drives organization of visual cortex (Nature Human Behavior, 2019)Cortical recycling in high-level visual cortex during childhood development (Nature Human Behaviour, 2021)A unifying framework for functional organization in early and higher ventral visual cortex (Neuron, 2024)The emergence of visual category representations in infants' brains (eLife, 2024)White matter connections of human ventral temporal cortex are organized by cytoarchitecture, eccentricity and category-selectivity from birth (Nature Human Behaviour, 2025)Send us a text!Thanks for listening! If you're enjoying our show, please take a moment to give us a review on your podcast app of choice and share this episode with your friends. That's how we grow as a show and bring the stories of the frontiers of neuroscience to a wider audience.We want to hear from your neurons! Email us at at neuronspodcast@stanford.eduLearn more about the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute at Stanford and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. 

Your partner said all the right things. So why do you feel MORE alone than before you opened up? Welcome to positive invalidation. That strange ache—being reassured into invisibility—has a name. It's what happens when "you're so good at your job, don't even worry about it" lands like a door quietly closing on what you actually feel. In this episode, Tony Overbay unpacks the science of validation, the paradox underneath it, and why the partner who soothes you fastest may be regulating their own nervous system, not seeing yours. Through the story of Archie and Veronica, this episode explores: Why positive invalidation stings more than the obvious kind—and how to spot it inside your own well-meaning reassurances Dr. Marsha Linehan's "kernel of truth" definition of validation, plus Tony's four pillars of a connected conversation David Schnarch's distinction between other-validated and self-validated intimacy—and why needing validation is the real trap The co-regulation research (including the famous fMRI hand-holding study) that explains why your partner's bad day becomes your emergency The four stages of competence, from "unconscious incompetence" to actually living it—and why stage two is where most people quit therapy HALT, upstream versus downstream work, and a surprising tangent into energy landscapes and Buddhist non-self As a licensed marriage and family therapist who's spent decades guiding couples back toward each other, Tony weaves together DBT, ACT, and Schnarch's differentiation work to answer one question: can you give validation as a gift without needing it back? If something here resonates, share it with someone who needs to hear that they're not broken—they're human. Please follow Tony on Instagram @virtual.couch on Tiktok @virtualcouch on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/tonyoverbaylmft and on Substack https://thevirtualcouch.substack.com/ You can reach out to Tony through his website tonyoverbay.com or by emailing contact @ tonyoverbay.com 00:00 Welcome and Disclaimer 02:28 Meet Archie and Veronica 03:07 A Compliment That Hurts 05:08 Positive Invalidation Explained 06:35 Where Invalidation Comes From 09:10 Science of Validation and DBT 09:49 Four Pillars of Connection 12:31 Validation Research and Polarization 14:52 Schnarch and Differentiation 18:05 Self-Validated Intimacy 19:08 Non-Self and Interdependence 22:58 Co-Regulation and Fusion 26:08 When Comfort Is for You 28:11 Co-Regulation as Hope 28:57 When Growth Triggers Chaos 30:03 Energy Landscapes Explained 32:01 Biology of Pushback 35:02 Validation Paradox 38:12 Self-Validated Intimacy 41:12 Building Self-Validation 46:20 Veronica and Archie Revisited 47:09 Upstream vs Downstream 51:37 Four Stages of Change 55:00 Key Takeaways and Wrap

Hey rockstar,In the last piece, we explored why AI “fast money” shortcuts leave so many people feeling numb, overwhelmed, and disconnected — and why the real foundation of a sustainable business is still connection, care, and community.There's a closely related piece almost nobody is talking about:If numbness is what erodes your relationships, joy and wealth creation from the inside out, curiosity is what brings it back to life.Not just as a nice idea — but as a literal learning rate for your brain and your purpose.“Hey, before we jump in - when you get a moment, hit reply and tell me…. What's the #1 thing you're struggling with right now?The Number That Should Stop Every Purpose Driven Wealth Creation - ColdA developmental psychologist at Williams College tracked how many questions children ask per hour.At age five, the average kid asks 107 questions per hour. They're relentless. Why is the sky blue? Why do dogs have tails? Why does grandma's hair turn white? Their brains are running at full throttle, pulling in data from every direction.Then school starts.* By first grade, the entire class asks 2.3 questions per hour — combined.* By fifth grade? 0.48 questions per hour. Less than one question every two hours from a room full of eleven-year-olds.In one observation, kids were experimenting with an old-fashioned balance scale, genuinely doing science. The teacher shut it down: “Enough of that. I'll give you time to experiment at recess. There's no time for experiments now. We're doing science.”Read that again. No time for experiments… during science class.The researcher's conclusion is brutal: if you lose your curiosity by age 11, you probably don't get it back.I disagree on one thing. I think you can get it back. But you have to understand what curiosity actually is, neurologically. And that's where it gets interesting — especially for anyone trying to build something real in the AI era.Your Brain Is a Large Language Model (No, Really)The more I create custom services and learn about how advanced AI models work, the more clear it becomes: your brain is running the same basic algorithm.Consider the parallels:* Your brain has roughly 86 billion neurons connected by an estimated 100 trillion synapses.* GPT-4 has approximately 1.8 trillion parameters across its mixture-of-experts architecture.* Both are massive pattern-recognition networks.* Both learn by prediction.Here's how an LLM trains: it reads a sentence, predicts the next word, checks whether it was right, and adjusts its internal weights. Right answer? Strengthen that pathway. Wrong answer? Weaken it, try again. Billions of repetitions, trillions of adjustments.Your brain does the same thing.Every experience is a prediction. You reach for a coffee cup and predict its weight. You start a sentence and predict how the other person will react. When reality matches your prediction, your synapses strengthen. When it doesn't, your brain recalibrates. Neuroscientists call this predictive coding.A 2024 study found LLMs become more advanced, their internal representations actually become more similar to human brain activity during speech processing.Your brain is the original foundation model — pre-trained by evolution, fine-tuned by experience.But here's the critical difference:An LLM's learning rate is set by engineers. They decide how aggressively the model updates its weights in response to new data. Too high and it's unstable. Too low and it stops learning.In your brain, that learning rate has a name. It's called curiosity. And unlike an LLM, you can adjust it yourself.Curiosity as a Reward Signal: The Dopamine ConnectionUC Davis put people in an fMRI scanner and asked them trivia questions.What they found — published in the journal Neuron — changed our understanding of how curiosity works.When participants were highly curious, their ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens lit up. These are the same brain regions activated by food, sex, and addictive drugs.Curiosity hijacks your reward circuitry. It's not a nice-to-have personality trait. It's a neurochemical event.But the more interesting finding was this: during the curious state, participants were shown random faces, completely unrelated to the trivia. Later, they remembered those faces significantly better than faces shown during low-curiosity moments.Curiosity didn't just help them learn the answer they wanted. It supercharged their memory for everything happening in that moment.This is exactly how reinforcement learning works in AI. When an LLM gets a reward signal through RLHF (Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback), it doesn't just strengthen the specific output — The reward ripples through the network.Curiosity is your brain's RLHF. It's the reward signal that tells 86 billion neurons: pay attention, something important is happening, encode everything.Without that signal, your brain does what an untrained model does. It defaults to cached responses. You stop updating. You become, in AI terms, a frozen model.Curiosity Literally Keeps You AliveAnd this is about much more than learning faster.In 1996, researchers Gary Swan and Dorit Carmelli at SRI International followed 1,118 older men over five years as part of the Western Collaborative Group Study. They measured curiosity at baseline and tracked who survived.The result: highly curious people had significantly higher survival rates — even after controlling for age, smoking, cardiovascular disease, and other risk factors. They replicated the finding in 1,035 older women.Curiosity was directly associated with greater cognitive reserve — the brain's buffer against age-related decline.Curious brains keep building new connections. Incurious ones atrophy.Mindset is a biological variable. Curious people don't merely think differently — their brains physically maintain themselves better.Which means in business terms:The relentless drive to learn boosts your neurons and adaptability as much as any supplement or course.How We Lose Curiosity (And Why That Kills Businesses)We aren't born numb.However, school, social conditioning, and performance culture often suppress questioning. By the time most people start or grow a business, their curiosity has nearly vanished.We learn to:* Stop experimenting unless there's a guaranteed outcome* Protect what we already “know” instead of updating* Prioritize looking competent over actually learningLayer AI “shortcuts” on top of that and the effect compounds. You can ship more, post more, automate more — without ever engaging the deeper questions:* What is really happening in my market right now?* What are my clients actually struggling with beneath the surface?* Where am I out of alignment with what I'm selling?Without those questions, your wealth stops evolving in any meaningful way. You may still be iterating on tactics, but your inner model of reality is frozen.Numbness plus speed is just a faster way to hit the wall.The most dangerous thing that can happen to your brain — or your business — is to stop being surprised.How to Crank Your Learning Rate Back Up Five strategies for creative agency:1. Create information gaps intentionally. Curiosity arises when you know enough to spot gaps but not enough to fill them. Before meetings, read halfway through an article and enter with questions, not answers.2. Schedule daily “explore time.” Dedicate 30 minutes to learning about unfamiliar fields to keep your curiosity alive without aiming for expertise.3. Ask “dumb” questions among experts. Genuine learners ask for explanations, even in rooms full of accomplished people.4. Change your physical inputs. Perceptual and intellectual curiosity; try new routes, restaurants without menus, or confusing places to stimulate dopamine.5. Teach what you learn within 24 hours. Sharing knowledge helps organize and consolidate it—similar to fine-tuning data in LLMs.Curiosity, AI, and the “Whole Human” In a world obsessed with speed and automation, the temptation is to outsource not just your tasks, but your actual thinking — your contact with reality.But the future we actually want isn't built by numbed-out operators running frozen mental models, propped up by ever-fancier tools.It's built by people who are:* Awake enough to notice when they've gone numb* Curious enough to re-open the questions about what they're building* Grounded enough to use AI as support for their nervous systems and insight — not as a mask over their disconnectionThat's the through-line from the last piece to this one:* From extraction → to contribution* From performance → to presence* From “how do I hack the algorithm?” → to “how do I keep my own learning rate high enough to truly serve?”What This Means for YouIf you're an entrepreneur: Your competitive advantage isn't your product. It's your rate of learning. Build a culture that rewards questions over answers. Hire curious people over credentialed people.If you're an executive or practitioner: Schedule one hour a week to explore a field completely outside your industry. Those who survive disruption are the ones whose mental models are still updating.If you're investing in yourself: Bet on your curiosity the way a smart investor bets on a sole proprietor founder's adaptability. Curiosity predicts adaptability — and adaptability predicts survival.If you're a parent or leader of others: Count the questions in the room. If the number is dropping, the issue isn't the people — it's the environment. Protect spaces where real learning (which is always a little messy) is allowed.The Invitation to the Deeper MindLet the FOMO cool.Keep experimenting with AI — but pair every tool with a question:* What is this teaching me about my clients, my patterns, my assumptions?* Where am I tempted to go numb instead of stay curious?Rebuild your foundation with timeless ingredients: connection, care, community, and a living curiosity that aligns you with life—not just trends. Curiosity reconnects you with reality, countering numbness.That's how I use Generative AI in Oracle work: To awaken intuition, not replace it.When you open The Light Between Oracle, you enter an immersive experience blending symbolic language, somatic regulation, and guided integration—so insights land in your body, not just your mind.Here's the process:* You arrive scattered or braced.* The Oracle helps you downshift to hear yourself.* It reflects the clearest pattern at play.* You leave with one grounded step to take that day.The goal isn't more information—it's becoming someone whose inner model continually updates through presence, questions, and authentic connection.If you felt this piece in your bones, take the next step with me:Try The Light Between Oracle here: [Insert your link to the Oracle app]What you'll get from it:* Clarity without overwhelm (a focused prompt + practical direction)* Nervous system replenishment (so your guidance doesn't get drowned out by stress)* Better decisions through curiosity (questions that reopen your learning rate)* Aligned momentum (action that feels clean, not performative)* A daily wisdom + strategy practice you can actually sustainIf you want, hit reply and tell me what you're navigating right now—and I'll tell you the best place to start inside the Oracle. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thelightbetween.substack.com/subscribe

Unlock the hidden understanding of how past head trauma shapes your brain—and what you can do now to heal, protect, and optimize your mental vitality. If you've ever wondered how invisible injuries impact your cognition, mood, and overall wellness—especially as we age—this episode offers groundbreaking insights backed by neuroresearch, seasoned with Grandpa Bill's candid stories and proactive approach.This isn't just about MRI results or medical jargon—it's about exploring the profound, often unseen effects of multiple head impacts over a lifetime. Grandpa Bill shares his personal journey through brain health, from surviving concussions to accessing advanced imaging techniques like DTI and fMRI. Discover how micro-tears, microglia activation, and neuroinflammation can influence everything from processing speed to emotional resilience—all with practical steps you can integrate today.You'll learn about:The limitations of standard MRI scans in detecting microscopic brain injuriesHow Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) can reveal hidden wiring tearsThe crucial role of neuro inflammation and microglia in aging and trauma recoveryThe impact of repetitive head impacts on brain plasticity, cognition, and sensory processingSimple, intentional practices—like deep calming breaths and sensory integration—that support neuro plasticity and mental clarityDiscover how past head trauma can silently shape your brain's future. Join Grandpa Bill as he explores the unseen impacts of brain injuries and shares practical steps for healing and optimizing mental vitality. Learn about advanced imaging techniques and holistic practices that support brain health at any age.Grandpa Bill Asks:How can understanding microstructural brain damage change your approach to aging?What role does neuro plasticity play in recovering from past head trauma?Ever wondered how childhood head impacts can echo into your senior years?

If you are a woman in midlife who is exhausted, foggy, losing your hair, and being told it is just aging — this episode is going to change how you look at your body forever. I sat down with Julie Sawaya, the co-founder of Needed, and what I learned blew my mind. Julie is a trained nutritionist with a Stanford MBA. She was doing EVERYTHING right — farmer's market every Sunday, nutrition certifications, incredibly intentional about every bite. And then she tested herself. Almost every nutrient came back in the red zone. If two trained nutritionists were massively depleted, what is happening to the rest of us? Here is the kicker. The nutrition standard we are all measured against — the RDA — was created in 1941. For men. Going to war. Based on the minimum needed to keep troops from getting sick. That is the floor we are still being measured against in 2026. As women. In midlife. Going through one of the most nutritionally demanding phases of our lives. Ninety-five percent of women are nutritionally depleted. Ninety-seven percent of pregnant women take a prenatal vitamin and are STILL depleted. And nobody is connecting the dots between pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause as one long depletion pipeline. We go DEEP on: The 1941 RDA standard, why it was built for wartime men, and why it is still failing women today The depletion pipeline: how pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause stack on top of each other and most women never get to refill the tank CHOLINE — the nutrient behind midlife brain fog that almost nobody is talking about (and the brand new April 2026 fMRI study showing a single dose improved working memory connectivity within three hours) Omega-3 and the midlife brain — why 89% of US adults are in the high cardiovascular risk range and why plant-based sources alone do not cut it Magnesium — the most Instagrammed supplement in the world right now, and why most women are taking the form their body literally cannot absorb The supplement trap: folic acid vs. methylfolate, magnesium oxide vs. glycinate, cyanocobalamin vs. methylcobalamin — and why 40% of us cannot even process the cheap forms because of an MTHFR variant Red flags and green flags to look for the next time you flip over a supplement bottle Why the protein RDA is laughably low for midlife women, and what we actually need to preserve muscle as estrogen declines The "repletion not restriction" reframe — why midlife is the time to add MORE of the right things, not eat less Your action plan for this week: how to get a nutrient panel, what to look at on your labels, and the food-first changes you can start tomorrow morning This is not a thyroid 101. This is not a supplement infomercial. This is the conversation I wish every midlife woman was given the day she started feeling like something was off. You are not broken. You are not crazy. You are not just aging. You may be running on accumulated nutritional debt that nobody told you to repay. That changes today. Use code NATALIEJILL for 20% off your first order at https://needed.sjv.io/c/5810852/1770238/20859    Connect with Julie Sawaya and Needed: Website: thisisneeded.com and use code NATALIEJILL for 20% off your first order Instagram: @needed Backed by 15,000+ practitioners worldwide Connect with Natalie: Instagram: @nataliejillfit Newsletter and resources: nataliejillfitness.com Midlife Conversations is the podcast made for midlife women who refuse to accept "you are just getting older" as an answer APPROXIMATE TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 — The wake-up call: two trained nutritionists, both in the red zone 06:00 — Where the RDA actually came from (spoiler: 1941, wartime, men) 12:00 — The depletion pipeline: pregnancy to perimenopause as one continuum 18:00 — The forgotten gap between postpartum and perimenopause 25:00 — Choline: the nutrient behind midlife brain fog nobody is talking about 32:00 — Omega-3 and the midlife brain: why most women are not getting close 38:00 — Magnesium forms: why the cheap one in your multivitamin is barely doing anything 42:00 — The supplement trap: what is actually in your generic multivitamin 48:00 — Red flags and green flags on a supplement label 55:00 — Protein in midlife: why the RDA is wrong and what you actually need 62:00 — Repletion, not restriction: what an ideal midlife day of eating looks like 65:00 — Your action plan for this week   Thank you to our show sponsors:  QUANTUM UPGRADE: Try Quantum Upgrade completely free for 15 days—no credit card required. Use code NATALIEJILL at checkout on https://quantumupgrade.io/start  Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com   Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit   For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/  Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen.  Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.

הגענו לקו הסיום של סדרת הביקורת המהירה שלנו, אבל עם פתרון שהולך לשנות לכם את הבית. בפרק הזה, הרב צבי וילור צידון נותן לכם את "אתגר ה-48 שעות" שילמד אתכם איך להאיר על הטוב במקום להעיר על הרע. איך גורמים לבן/בת הזוג לרצות לשנות התנהגות מתוך אהבה והערכה?טיזר לעונה החדשה: הצצה ראשונה לסדרת העומק הפסיכולוגית שמתחילה בפרק הבא (חלק 7) – "מביקורת לחיבור: המדריך הפסיכולוגי המלא". אנחנו הולכים לנתח סריקות מוח (fMRI), להבין את לולאת ה"דרישה-נסיגה" ההרסנית, ולגלות למה המוח שלנו מתרגם ביקורת לסכנה קיומית.אל תשכחו להירשם לערוץ כדי לקבל התראה ברגע שהפרק הבא עולה!#פודקאסטזוגיות #ייעוץזוגי #ביקורתבזוגיות #הרבצביוילורצידון #פסיכולוגיה #מדעיהמוח #שלוםבית #התפתחותאישית #גוןגוטמןלקרוא עוד על ביקורת זוגיתhttps://heb.centernyc.com/love1/ הרשמו לזריקת חסידות בערוצים השוניםלומדים יהדות וחסידות ברשת, הרשמו לערוץ היוטיוב, פייסבוק,  ווצאפ ,פודקאסטים ועודhttps://heb.centernyc.com/zrikat

Eleanna Varangis is assistant professor of Movement Science in the School of Kinesiology at the University of Michigan, director of the ATHINA lab, and member of the Faculty Council at the Michigan Concussion Center,How does your brain change over your life and adapt to new environments and circumstances? Eleanna's is examining these questions and to find ways we can live our healthiest lives, no matter age or circumstance. In part 2, we talk about the importance of social support and interaction when recovering from a brain injury, Eleanna talks about the commonality of CTE and Alzheimers, she explains and fMRI machine and what their doing at her ATHINA Lab at the University of Michigan.PLEASE SHARE, LIKE, SUBSCRIBE! WHATEVER THOSE OTHER PODCASTS AND YOUTUBE CHANNELS ASK YOU TO DO FOR THEM, DO FOR US TOO!Check us out on Youtube, Instagram and Facebook! @concussiontalk & @lziaksThank you!Subscribe and leave a review!Visit https://www.concussiontalk.com/ for more!Follow and subscribe! @concussiontalk on YouTube, Instagram & Facebook 2014 e-book, Detour: https://leanpub.com/detourFollow Lauren on Instagram @lziaksConcussion Talk Podcast discusses traumatic brain injury (TBI) by featuring interviews with experts (physiotherapists, doctors, researchers, athletes, community leaders, etc.) and people who have experienced TBI first-hand.Chronically dives deeper into concussions and brain injury as I team up with Lauren Ziaks; a DPT, ATC, and wealth of knowledge of chronic health conditions post-concussion. Join us as we interview more experts, spread awareness of brain injury and more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

בפרק 247 של הפודקאסט אירחתי את טליה גרין טיטיון פסיכולוגית קלינית מומחית, מורשה להיפנוזה ומתמחה בשינוי הרגלים, השגת מטרות, ושיפור יכולת ההשפעה והשכנוע. צללנו בפרק אל אחד התחומים המרתקים והמושמצים ביותר במדעי המוח – ההיפנוזה הקלינית. בעוד שהתודעה הציבורית עדיין שבויה בדימויים של קוסמים על במות ואובדן שליטה, המציאות המדעית חושפת כלי טיפולי עוצמתי המגובה במחקרים מהרווארד וסטנפורד ומוסדר בחוק הישראלי בקפידה. היפנוזה אינה שינה ובוודאי לא "קסם"; זהו מצב של עוררות ופוקוס קיצוני, המאפשר למוח להפוך ל"נוירופלסטי" – רך וגמיש כמו פלסטלינה מחוממת. במצב זה, הביקורת הרציונלית המגבילה נסוגה לצד, ומאפשרת לנו לגשת ישירות לחיווטים העצביים העמוקים ביותר האחראים על חרדות, עישון והרגלים אוטומטיים.במהלך הפרק נחשפים סיפורים אישיים מטלטלים המדגימים כיצד המיינד יכול לרפא את הגוף במקומות שהרפואה הקונבנציונלית הרימה ידיים – החל מהתאוששות מאי ספיקת לב קשה ועד לשיקום יד משותקת כנגד כל הסיכויים הרפואיים. דרך המונח "Refire to Rewire", אנו לומדים ששינוי אמיתי אינו מסתכם בטיפול בסימפטום החיצוני, אלא ביצירת חיווט עצבי חדש ומבני במוח. זהו מסע בין מדע לנס רפואי, המזכיר לנו שבסוף, גם עם כל הכלים העוצמתיים ביותר, הקבלה של האנושיות והפגיעוּת שלנו היא המפתח האמיתי לטרנספורמציה.בפרק תמצאו תשובות לשאלות * מהו ההבדל המהותי בין מדיטציה להיפנוזה, ומדוע היפנוזה מכונה "מדיטציה עם מטרה"? * איך נראה המוח בזמן היפנוזה בבדיקת fMRI והאם אנחנו באמת מאבדים שליטה? * מדוע קשה כל כך לשנות הרגלים כמו עישון או אכילה רגשית באמצעות היגיון בלבד? * מהו המקרה הטרגי שהוציא את ההיפנוזה הבידורית מחוץ לחוק בישראל? * כיצד ניתן להשתמש בהיפנוזה עצמית כדי להשפיע על החלמה פיזית של הגוף?האם הייתם מוכנים להפקיד את המפתחות של "מבקר הפנים" שלכם כדי לתקן את מה שבור מבפנים?להתחיל את המסע לשקט נפשי עם הקורסים ״לא כולם נרקסיסטים״ ו״מתחילה מחדש״אוהבים את הפודקאסט? דרגו אותנו באפליקציה האהובה עליכםלקבוצת הפייסבוק בית ספר לקארמה טובהhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/660622764666404/לבלוג 3 סיפורים מהשבוע החולףWww.Ruth-dayan.comלאתר משרד רות דיין-וולפנר - משרד עו"ד דיני משפחהWww.ruthdayan.co.Ilהאינסטגרם שלנוhttps://www.instagram.com/ruthi/

You've probably heard that clutter is stressful. But what does it actually look like inside the brain? In this episode, I'm walking through what researchers at Princeton and Yale found when they put people in fMRI machines surrounded by visual clutter, and the results might surprise you. Your brain doesn't get to ignore what it sees, even when you think it does. FREE: QUIZ (Clutter Personality)

There's a pill on Amazon called Fukitol.  It contains nothing. And yet people buy it, swear by it, and give it five stars.  Today, Nir Eyal explains the remarkable science behind why placebos work. --- Listen to the bonus episode: https://nudge.kit.com/40414a1b44 Nir's book Beyond Belief: geni.us/beyondbelief Nir's free belief change guide: nirandfar.com/belief-change Join 11,934 readers of the Nudge Newsletter: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/mailing-list Unlock the Nudge Vaults: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/vaults Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew/  --- Today's sources:  Ariel, G., & Saville, W. (1972). Anabolic steroids: The physiological effects of placebos. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 4(2), 124–126. Branthwaite, A., & Cooper, P. (1981). Analgesic effects of branding in treatment of headaches. British Medical Journal (Clinical Research Ed.), 282(6276), 1576–1578. Dawkins, L., Shahzad, F. Z., Ahmed, S. S., & Edmonds, C. J. (2011). Expectation of having consumed caffeine can improve performance and mood. Appetite, 57(3), 597–600. Draganich, C., & Erdal, K. (2014). Placebo sleep affects cognitive functioning. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 40(3), 857–864. Kaptchuk, T. J. (2018). Open-label placebo: Reflections on a research agenda. Perspectives in Biology and Medicine, 61(3), 311–334. Lee, C., Linkenauger, S. A., Bakdash, J. Z., Joy-Gaba, J. A., & Profitt, D. R. (2011). Putting like a pro: The role of positive contagion in golf performance and perception. PLoS One, 6(10), e26016. Plassmann, H., O'Doherty, J., Shiv, B., & Rangel, A. (2008). Marketing actions can modulate neural representations of experienced pleasantness. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 105(3), 1050–1054. Richter, C. P. (1957). On the phenomenon of sudden death in animals and man. Psychosomatic Medicine, 19(3), 191–198. Rozenkrantz, L., Mayo, A. E., Ilan, T., Hart, Y., Noy, L., & Alon, U. (2017). Placebo can enhance creativity. PLoS One, 12, e0182466. Wager, T. D., Rilling, J. K., Smith, E. E., Sokolik, A., Casey, K. L., Davidson, R. J., et al. (2004). Placebo-induced changes in fMRI in the anticipation and experience of pain. Science, 303(5661), 1162–1167.

Dr. Mala Cunningham (PhD in Counseling Psychology, senior disciple of Swami Satchidananda, and founder of Neuroscience and Yoga TT, Cardiac Medical Yoga TT, and Mental Health, Neuroscience and Yoga TT) joins us to explore the powerful intersection of ancient yoga practices and modern neuroscience.Learn how yoga and meditation actually change your brain, stimulates your vagus nerve for instant calm, and why giving your brain conscious rest is so important. As well as the role of gratitude and intention in reshaping your neurobiology, micro-resting techniques, learning styles in meditation, body awareness, emotional safety, and much more.This conversation blends Neuroscience with Yoga techniques and strategies you can use immediately for better emotional regulation, stress reduction, emotional health, and peak performance.M. Mala Cunningham, Ph.D., E-RYT-1000, C-IAYT is a licensed psychotherapist, educator, trainer, author, and innovator in Neuro-Yoga Psychology™. With over 30 years of clinical experience, she specializes in integrative mental health, vagus nerve regulation, and psychodynamic therapy. A former Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia, she developed the University of Virginia's Cardiac Medical Yoga Program and taught Integrative Medicine in the Nursing and Medical School for over 12 years. Dr. Mala is the CEO of Positive Health Solutions, LLC, and leads nationally recognized trainings in medical yoga, neuroscience, and mental health integration. She is an international speaker and consultant for healthcare professionals, yoga therapists, and educators. She lives in Charlottesville, VA. Her website is: www.cardiacyoga.comDr. Mala's new book:"Neuroscience, Yoga, and Psychology: Tools for Regulating the Vagus Nerve for Health and Peak Performance" (out June 2026). This book can be pre-ordered.Learn more & upcoming trainings:Cardiac Yoga / Positive Health Solutions:https://cardiacyoga.comNeuroscience & Yoga Teacher Training at Yogaville (Integral Yoga Ashram): Check yogaville.org--Timestamps below ⬇️If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more people discover these tools for healing and well-being.Chapters / Timestamps00:09 Introducing Dr. Mala Cunningham — yoga, neuroscience & counseling psychology01:01 How yoga impacts neurobiology and why technology finally proved it03:40 Yoga is now mainstream in science, business & government04:58 Personal experience: knowledge + practice gives real agency06:59 What is the vagus nerve? (The wanderer — 75% of parasympathetic system)08:12 Activating your inner pharmacy: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, Endorphins (DOSE)10:43 Sympathetic vs Parasympathetic balance, dorsal/ventral vagal states & the gunas13:31 Simple ways to stimulate the vagus nerve (neck rolls, eyes, ears, breathing)14:52 Meditation, learning styles & why mantra didn't work for a visual learner18:29 Giving the brain conscious rest (more powerful than sleep)20:23 fMRI insights: Left prefrontal cortex, pleasure centers & BASS practice22:14 Ego, safety, emotional threat & defensive patterns28:52 Micro-resting technique (eyes, tongue, jaw, shoulders at stoplights)34:54 Gratitude practices — cognitive vs felt sense39:03 Intention (sankalpa), optimism & rewiring the amygdala42:24 Trauma wiring, protection & becoming objective50:38 Reading body language & genuine somatic awareness55:32 The power of a simple smile + deep sigh to activate parasympathetic56:35 Dr. Mala's upcoming Neuroscience & Yoga Teacher Training at Yogaville + new book Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Émile Coué genuinely seems to have wanted to help people by teaching them how to plant helpful directives in their subconscious minds. Whether he was effective is something that's still debated. Research: Baldwin, J. Mark, et al. “A Disclaimer.” Science, vol. 12, no. 309, 1900, pp. 850–850. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/1629542 Baudouin, Charles. “Émile Coué and His Life’s Work.” American Library Service. New York. 1923. https://digirepo.nlm.nih.gov/ext/dw/55330740R/PDF/55330740R.pdf Baudouin, Charles. “Suggestion and Autosuggestion.” New York. Dodd, Mead and Company, 1921. https://dn720207.ca.archive.org/0/items/suggestionauto00bauduoft/suggestionauto00bauduoft.pdf Britannica Editors. "Émile Coué". Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 Feb. 2026, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Emile-Coué “Coue, After Goodby Lecture, Flees City.” Boston Globe. January 31, 1923. https://www.newspapers.com/image/430295545/ “Coue Explains How to Use Auto-Suggestion.” Boston Globe. January 7, 1923. https://www.newspapers.com/image/430953338/?match=1&terms=Coue COUÉ, EMILE. “SELF MASTERY THROUGH CONSCIOUS AUTOSUGGESTION.” AMERICAN LIBRARY SERVICE PUBLISHERS. NEW YORK. 1922. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/27203/27203-h/27203-h.htm “Delirium Tremens.” Cleveland Clinic. June 5, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/25052-delirium-tremens “EMILE COUÉ DEAD; A MENTAL HEALER; Many Made Well by Saying ‘Every Day, in Every Way, I'm Growing Better and Better.’” New York Times. July 3, 1926. https://www.nytimes.com/1926/07/03/archives/emile-Coué-dead-a-mental-healer-many-made-well-by-saying-every-day.html Heid, Markham. “Is Hypnosis Real? Here’s What Science Says.” Time. March 2, 2023. https://time.com/5380312/is-hypnosis-real-science/ Myga, Kasia A et al. “Autosuggestion: a cognitive process that empowers your brain?.” Experimental brain research 240,2 (2022): 381-394. doi:10.1007/s00221-021-06265-8 Neal, E. Virgil, ed. “Hypnotism and hypnotic suggestion. A scientific treatise on the uses and possibilities of hypnotism, suggestion and allied phenomena.” New York State Publishing Company. Rochester, NY. 1906. https://archive.org/details/hypnotismhypnoti00roch/page/n9/mode/1up “Pliny 1813 Years Ahead of Coue … “ Boston Globe. January 30, 1923. https://www.newspapers.com/image/430295455/?match=1&terms=Coue Rapp, Dean R. “‘Better and Better—’ Couéism as a Psychological Craze of the Twenties in England.” Studies in Popular Culture, vol. 10, no. 2, 1987, pp. 17–36. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/23413989 Sage, X. Lamotte. “Hypnotism As It Is: A Book for Everybody.” New York State Publishing Company. Rochester, NY. 1900. Accessed online: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5b/Hypnotism_as_it_is%3B_a_book_for_everybody_%28IA_hypnotismasitisb00sage%29.pdf Sari, N. K. et al.“The role of autosuggestion in geriatric patients’ quality of life: a study on psycho-neuro-endocrine-immunology pathway.” Social Neuroscience, 12(5), pp. 551–559. 2017. doi: 10.1080/17470919.2016.1196243 Schlamann, Marc et al. “Autogenic training alters cerebral activation patterns in fMRI.” The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis 58,4 (2010): 444-56. doi:10.1080/00207144.2010.499347 Whiteside, Thomas. “Better and Better.” The New Yorker. May 9, 1953. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1953/05/16/better-and-better Yeates, Lindsay B. “Émile Coué and his Method (I): The Chemist of Thought and Human Action.” Australian Journal of Clinical Hypnotherapy & Hypnosis, Volume 38, No.1, (Autumn 2016), pp.3-27. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374753633_Emile_Coue_and_his_Method_I_The_Chemist_of_Thought_and_Human_Action See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Garth Heckman The David Alliance TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com  Heb.10:32 Don't ever forget those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. 33Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. 34You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail. When all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew you had better things waiting for you in eternity. 35 Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens. Remember the great reward it brings you! 36Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.   We must remember What love is like! Pedro Calderon the poet says “Without madness there is no love”!     Rev. 12:11 By the word of our testimony we overcome the enemy.   Memories are free Spiritual nitro glycerin - explosive in our soul. And here is the secret - they don't have to just be our memories - they can be from other believers.    fMRI's tell us the affect on the brain in real time: Reliving memories :  restore emotional grounding and clear thinking. It is the emotional, mental and spiritual reset button.  You see the big picture and God for who he is.    Stories of healing, winning muslims to christ, provision, salvation.  

The Pleasure Evolution with Kim AirsWatch or listen on YouTube + all major podcast platforms!We're back baby!! And we're kicking things off with an absolute legend: Kim Airs, the trailblazing sex toy pioneer who ditched her Harvard job in 1993 to open one of the first women-friendly sex shops and has been myth-busting, innovating, and celebrating pleasure ever since.In this juicy return episode, Kim spills the wild history of sex toys – from bathtub-caulk dildos to today's mind-blowing robot strokers and app-controlled vibes – while sharing hands-free orgasm secrets, breathwork magic, lazy toy-cleaning hacks, and why really letting go unlocks next-level fun.Jump to the Good Stuff: 02:40 – Welcome back after 19 months! Introducing legend Kim Airs03:30 – From boring marriage to smut hound: Kim's wild origin story04:30 – Writing for On Our Backs & the spark to open Grand Opening!05:48 – Quitting Harvard to sell “rubber dicks to girls”11:28 – The surprising bathtub-caulk origin of silicone dildos15:15 – Busting the silicone lube on silicone dildo myth - test it overnight!16:48 – Lazy cleaning hacks: Baby wipes & why most “toy cleaners” are overkill20:18 – Evolution of toys: From jelly rubber to app-controlled & discreet designs23:05 – Penis pleasure explosion: Robot strokers, spinning, thrusting & beyond Fleshlight27:00 – Sex dolls & AI companions - fascinating or concerning?39:03 – Hands-free orgasms: Kim's fMRI-proven breath & energy magic41:32 – Letting go = animal-level pleasure - scream, grab sheets!44:34 – Beginner tips: Pick what visually turns you on + check measurements48:42 – Final thoughts + where to find KimPleasure Highlights:Silicone's surprising origin: Bathtub caulk saved a marriage!Busting myths: Silicone lube + silicone toys? Test it—it's usually fine now.Hands-free Os are real (and learnable via breath/energy work).Modern penis toys are exploding—way beyond Fleshlight.Let go of control for animal-level pleasure (scream, grab sheets—it's hot!).Connect with Kim Airs:Instagram: @KimAirsTikTok: @TheKimAirsFacebook: @Kim.AirsPodcast: SexChat with Kim AirsCameo:  @Naughty GrandmaEnhance your self-awareness by acknowledging and understanding your behavior patterns, and foster a deeper connection with your inner self. Get the Unleashing My Power: A Women's Empowerment and Gratitude Journal to reclaim your personal power through the practice of daily gratitude and reflection. Learn more HERE. Connect with Jordan D'Nelle:Facebook @‌jordandnelle Instagram @‌jordandnelle Instagram @‌TheVVVPodcastTikTok @‌jordandnelleYoutube @jordandnelleEmail: JordanDnelle@VaginasVulvasandVibrators.comIf you loved this Episode, please support the Vaginas, Vulvas, and Vibrators podcast!Join the Patreon community: patreon.JordanDnelle.comLeave an honest review on iTunes. Your ratings and reviews help this podcast impact more lives!Subscribe to Vaginas, Vulvas, and Vibrators on iTunes if you haven't already!Follow Jordan D'Nelle on social media for teasers and extras!Listen and Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple PodcastsSpotify PodcastsYoutube @jordandnelleWebsite Links:jordandnelle.comKim Airs LinkTreehttps://grandopening.com/ SEXchat with Kim Aires | Spotify Podcasts*Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and/or entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and opinions expressed are my own, or those of my guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or institutions with which I am affiliated.Vaginas, Vulvas, and Vibrators, the unapologetic women's sexual wellness podcast, normalizing pleasure, bodies, and sexual health through expert, shame-free conversations.

Valentine's Day may be all about couples, but this week's episode celebrates heartbreak, breakups, and proudly being single as a Pringle.Part 1: Getting dumped is the push psychologist Jiawen Huang needs to step outside his comfort zone.Part 2: While completing her PhD in neuroscience, Leslie Sibener is determined to fix her relationship. Jiawen Huang obtained his PhD in Psychology from Columbia University, where he studied how prior knowledge provides a scaffold for prediction and memory. He grew up in China, and did his undergrad at University College London where he scanned people watching movies in fMRI scanner. In his free time, he can be found dancing salsa, practicing Spanish, and whittling wood carvings, all of which he started doing this past year.Leslie Sibener is a neuroscientist and science communicator based in New York City. She received degrees in Neuroscience and Creative Writing from Johns Hopkins University, and her PhD at Columbia University where she studied movement and motor learning. Now as a postdoctoral fellow at Rockefeller University, Leslie researches the mechanisms that allow specific memories to be stored for long term memory in the brain, while others are forgotten. She has always been passionate about sharing science outside of the lab. This has manifested in being the group leader the science writing group NeuWrite, a team member of Stories of WiN, and founder of Scientist on the Subway. Additionally, she has collaborated with a variety other groups, such as BioBus, Facts Machine Podcast, and the Dance Theatre of Harlem, to engage the public with science.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.