Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Mind & Matter
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shamanism, Human Culture & the Evolution of Religion | Manvir Singh | 219 | 04 Apr 2025 | 01:44:18 | |
Short Summary: A detailed examination of shamanism with anthropologist Manvir Singh, blending evolutionary theory and vivid storytelling. About the guest: Manvir Singh, PhD is an anthropologist at the University of California, Davis. His new book, "Shamanism: The Timeless Religion," comes out on May 25, 2025. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Full transcript and other information on Substack. Episode Summary: Dr. Manvir Singh discusses shamanism’s role as a universal human practice, exploring its roots in cultural evolution, cognitive tendencies, and persistence across history and modern society. They discuss how shamans use altered states to address uncertainty—like healing or divination—while examining shamanism’s interplay with centralized religion, its psychological benefits, and parallels in today’s world, from tech gurus to medical placebos. Key Takeaways:
Related episode:
*Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Chemical Exposures, Neurodegenerative Disease & Exposomics | Gary Miller | 218 | 31 Mar 2025 | 01:33:06 | |
Short Summary: How environmental chemical exposures affect neurodegenerative disease and health. About the guest: Gary Miller, PhD is a Professor of Environmental Health Sciences at Columbia University. His research bridges pharmacology, toxicology, and neuroscience to explore neurodegeneration, particularly Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Full transcript and other information on Substack. Episode Summary: Dr. Gary Miller talks about neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, exploring their age-driven nature, early detection challenges, and environmental risk factors such as pesticide exposure and head trauma. They discuss the emerging field of exposomics—studying lifetime chemical exposures—and its potential to uncover links between pollutants, diet, and disease, while highlighting protective factors like caffeine and nicotine, and the role of technology in advancing prevention and treatment. Key Takeaways:
Related episode:
All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Thyroid Biology in Health & Aging | Diana van Heemst | 209 | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:38:48 | |
Short Summary: Thyroid biology, offering insights into its role in metabolism, development, and longevity, making it a fascinating listen for those interested in how our bodies manage energy and health across the lifespan. Guest: Diana van Heemst, PhD is a biologist at Leiden University Medical Center, specializing in gerontology and geriatrics. Her research focuses on the neuroendocrine biology of aging and longevity in humans, particularly involving thyroid functions. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and to everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Full transcript and other information on Substack. Full Summary: Dr. Diana van Heemst explores the thyroid's critical role in metabolism, growth, development, and transitions across life stages. It discusses the thyroid's evolutionary history, its location in the neck, and how it functions through hormone secretion, specifically T3 and T4. The conversation covers the importance of nutrients like iodine and selenium, the impact of thyroid hormone on various bodily functions, and the implications for health conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. It also touches on how thyroid activity might relate to longevity. Key Takeaways:
*Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Psychedelics, Depression, Psychotherapy, SSRIs, Human Clinical Experience of Psychedelic Medicine | Alan Davis | 120 | 11 Jul 2023 | 01:07:25 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Alan Davis, a clinical psychologist and Director of the Center for Psychedelic Drug Research & Education at Ohio State University. They discuss: the effectiveness of mainstream forms of psychotherapy and antidepressant medications (SSRIs) for depression; psychedelic medicine & psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy; the relevance of the subjective effects of psychedelics for their therapeutic effects; FDA approval for MDMA- and psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in the coming years; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Psychedelics, Neuroplasticity, LSD, Psilocybin, Ketamine, MDMA, Latest Psychedelic Science | Bryan Roth | 119 | 06 Jul 2023 | 01:17:19 | |
Nick talks to Bryan Roth, MD, PhD, a Professor of Pharmacology at the University of North Carolina. Dr. Roth has been studying the molecular mechanisms of psychedelics since the 1980s. They discuss: serotonin 2A receptors in the mammalian brain; psychedelics & neuroplasticity; classic psychedelics (e.g. LSD, psilocybin, DMT) compared to drugs like ketamine & MDMA; TrkB receptors & BDNF; engineering novel drugs & psychiatric treatment methods; latest findings in psychedelic science. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Psychedelics, Terence McKenna, Magic Mushrooms, DMT, Carl Jung, Culture | Dennis McKenna | M&M 118 | 28 Jun 2023 | 01:00:33 | |
Nick talks to ethnopharmacologist Dr. Dennis McKenna, who is the brother of psychonaut Terence McKenna and author of the book, "The Brotherhood of the Screaming Abyss." They discuss: the lives and psychedelic adventures of Dennis & Terence McKenna; experiences with psilocybin mushrooms & DMT; Carl Jung & psychology; the medical relevance of subjective psychedelic experiences; drugs, culture & society; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Psychiatry, Psychedelic Medicine, LSD for Anxiety, MDMA for Autism, Medical Education, Patient Access & Mental Health | Daniel Karlin | 117 | 09 Jun 2023 | 01:37:26 | |
Nick talks to Daniel Karlin, MD, a board-certified physician in psychiatry, addiction medicine & clinical informatics who is the Chief Medical Officer at MindMed. They discuss: psychiatry; incentives in scientific & medical research; healthcare & mental health; psychedelics; LSD for anxiety; MDMA for autism; ibogaine derivatives for addiction; patient access & care; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| The Dirty Truth About Cooking Oils (Avocado, Olive, Vegetable Oil) | Selina Wang | 116 | 01 Jun 2023 | 01:24:25 | |
Nick talks to chemist & food scientist Dr. Selina Wang about: food quality & purity; cooking oils (avocado, olive, vegetable, etc.); fruits & vegetables; oxidation & purity of cooking oils; how to identify high quality, pure foods to purchase; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Exercise Science, Nutrition, Plant vs. Animal Protein, Muscle Physiology, Sleep, Endurance vs. Resistance Training, Fat, Carbs, Amino Acids | Luc van Loon | 115 | 25 May 2023 | 00:42:48 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Luc van Loon, Professor of Exercise Physiology & Nutrition at Maastricht University, about topics in exercise science, health & nutrition. They discuss: macronutrients & energy; protein quality & digestibility; endurance & resistance training; plant vs. animal protein; muscle conditioning & muscle fibers; sleep & aging; muscle physiology & metabolism; and more. *Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Marijuana, Plant Chemistry, Terpenes, Volatile Sulfur Compounds, Cannabis Industry, What Pungent Weed Smells Like & Why | Iain Oswald | 114 | 08 May 2023 | 00:54:23 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Iain Oswald, who has a PhD in chemistry from the University of Texas-Dallas and is principal scientist Abstrax Tech, a cannabis research and product development company. He is an expert in using cutting edge analytical chemistry techniques to study plant chemistry and has done a lot of work to decipher the chemistry of commercial cannabis, including lesser-known compounds found in the essential oils of marijuana plants and how these relate the sensory qualities of marijuana. They discuss: the aroma of cannabis & the chemical compounds that dictate different aspects of its aroma; consumer preferences when it comes to marijuana aroma; terpenes, which are volatile compounds abundant in the plant world; his research on volatile sulfur compounds, which are found in nature in things like garlic and the aerosols produced by skunks, and how lesser-known cannabis compounds in this chemical family relate to some of the pungent, gassy/skunky odors commonly associated with marijuana; his journey from academia into the private sector, and what’s on the horizon for cannabis research. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Alcohol Toxicity, Vaping vs. Smoking, Tobacco, Nicotine, Marijuana, Cannabis Terpenes, THC, Toxicology| Echo Rufer | 113 | 02 May 2023 | 01:13:39 | |
Nick talks to board-certified toxicologist Dr. Echo Rufer. The conversation starts with a brief overview of what the science of toxicology is all about & a little bit about alcohol toxicity. They then discuss: differences between vaping and smoking; what toxins are produced through the combustion of plant material, especially tobacco & marijuana; cannabinoids like THC & CBD, as well as cannabis terpenes; relationship between dose, method of consumption & toxicity of chemical compounds; causes of the vaping-associated pulmonary injury (VAPI) associated with the vitamin E acetate that was found in some illicit market cannabis vape products; best ways to minimize toxin exposure for people who inhale plant-based consumer products such as tobacco or nicotine products or marijuana. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| The Age of Scientific Wellness: Why the Future of Medicine Is Personalized, Predictive, Data-Rich, and in Your Hands | Nathan Price | 112 | 13 Apr 2023 | 01:25:32 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Nathan Price, who is a professor at the Institute of Systems Biology and Chief Science Officer of Thorne HealthTech. They discuss topics related to his new book, "The Age of Scientific Wellness: Why the Future of Medicine is Personalized, Data-Rich, and in Your Hands." Listen to Nick's previous discussion with Dr. Nathan Price. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Critical Periods, Neuroplasticity, Language, Synesthesia, Childhood Development, AI, DTC Marketing, Customer Segmentation, Orita.ai | Dan Brady | 111 | 05 Apr 2023 | 00:45:03 | |
Nick talks to Daniel Brady, PhD a neuroscientist who studied sensory systems in the developing brain. Dr. Brady is also the co-founder and CEO of Orita.ai, a startup using machine learning & AI to solve data problems for direct-to-consumer brands. They discuss: critical periods of learning, childhood brain development, neuroplasticity, synesthesia, language acquisition, Orita.ai, machine learning & AI, customer segmentation, data science, and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Glyphosate, Choline & Alzheimer's: Toxins & Nutrition to Prevent Neurodegeneration | Ramon Velazquez | 208 | 08 Feb 2025 | 00:42:39 | |
Short Summary: The complexities of neurodegenerative disease, particularly Alzheimer's, environmental influences like glyphosate, and the crucial role of nutrients like choline, with actionable insights into brain health management. About the guest: Dr. Ramon Valazquez is an Assistant Professor at Arizona State University, leading a research lab at the Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center. His work focuses on environmental factors related to Alzheimer's and other dementias, alongside developing therapeutic strategies. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and to everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Full transcript and other information on Substack. Episode Summary: Dr. Ramon Velazquez explores neurodegenerative disease, with a deep dive into Alzheimer's, its pathophysiology including amyloid beta plaques and tau pathology. It examines the controversy around these proteins' roles in disease progression, the influence of environmental toxins like glyphosate on brain health, and the preventive potential of nutritional interventions, particularly choline. Key Takeaways:
Related episode:
All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Neurogenesis, Stem Cells, Neuroplasticity, Aging, Exercise, Fasting & PTSD | Rusty Gage | 110 | 20 Mar 2023 | 01:21:23 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Rusty Gage, a neurobiologist at the Salk Institute whose lab studies how genes & environment interact to influence brain development, including the process of adult neurogenesis. They discuss: what neurogenesis is and how it works; lifestyle factors that influence neurogenesis, such as exercise, intermittent fasting, etc.; molecular pathways involved in neurogenesis; depression & PTSD; memory formation and the function of newly born adult neurons; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Cannabis Lab Testing, THC, CBD, Cannabinoids, Terpenes, Pesticides, Heavy Metals, Consumer Safety, Marijuana Industry | Nick Mosley | 109 | 17 Mar 2023 | 00:48:51 | |
Nick talks with Nick Mosley, who is CEO of a cannabis testing lab called Confidence Analytics, which conducts analytical testing for legal cannabis products in Washington & California. They discuss: how analytical testing for cannabis products works; THC, CBD, and cannabinoid content; terpenes; pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants; the phenomenon of THC inflation & lab shopping in the legal marijuana industry; how consumers can discern whether cannabis products are safe & consistent. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Mind & Matter Podcast | Nick Jikomes, PhD | Neuroscience, Psychedelics, Psychology, Psychology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Evolution, Metabolism, Nutrition, Biotech | 14 Mar 2023 | 00:01:55 | |
What is Mind & Matter? Whether food, drugs or ideas, what you consume influences who you become. Learn directly from the best scientists & thinkers about alive today about how your body & mind react to what they’re fed. The weekly M&M podcast features conversations with the most interesting scientists, thinkers, and technology entrepreneurs alive today. At M&M, we are interested in trying to figure out how things work, not affirming our existing beliefs. We prefer consulting primary rather than secondary sources and independent rather than institutional voices. If we encounter uncomfortable truths or the evidence suggests unfashionable ideas may be valid, so be it. As the host, my aim is to help you better understand how the body & mind work by curating & synthesizing information in a way that yields science-based insights that you can choose to use or disregard in your own life. Taking ownership of your health starts with taking ownership of your information diet. I am motivated to connect the dots and distill general principles from what I learn, preferring to ask questions and play devil’s advocate to debating or pushing my own viewpoint. My beliefs:
Sometimes modern discoveries teach us we must unlearn received wisdom. Other times, modern information overload & historical chauvinism cause us to forget ancient wisdom which stills applies. The framework for learning that I embody is inspired by three Ancient Greek maxims inscribed in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi:
All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Biology of Monogamy, Sexual & Parental Behavior, Social Attachment, Oxytocin, Sex Hormones, Childhood Psychosis, Menopause & Brain Development | Devanand Manoli | 108 | 08 Mar 2023 | 01:51:42 | |
Nick talks to psychiatrist & neuroscientist Devanand Manoli, MD, PhD, whose lab at UCSF studies the neural basis of social behavior & attachment in prairie voles. As a psychiatrist, he also treats patients with childhood psychosis. They discuss: the neural basis of pair bonding, monogamy, and parental & sexual behavior; oxytocin, vasopressin, testosterone & estrogen; evolution of behavior; menopause & multigenerational parental care; childhood psychosis; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Evolution of Complex Behavior, Perception, Cognition, Consciousness & the Brain | Paul Cisek | 107 | 27 Feb 2023 | 02:04:20 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Paul Cisek, a neuroscientist at the University of Montreal who studies sensorimotor control & decision making in primates. They discuss: the evolution of the brain from the earliest nervous systems to humans; metabolism & state control; the evolution of behavior; sensation, perception, cognition, decision making & consciousness; language & representation; why neuroscience needs evolutionary thinking; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Dietary Nutrients, Taste, Whole vs. Processed Food, Obesity, Biology of Feeding Behavior | Stephen Simpson & David Raubenheimer | 106 | 20 Feb 2023 | 01:49:30 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Stephen Simpson & Dr. David Raubenheimer, both professors at the University of Sydney who have been research collaborators for many years. Their research focuses on understanding animal feeding behavior, especially how & why different animals use their sensory systems in order to consume foods so that their diets contain the right balance of nutrients. Understanding animals in the evolutionary & ecological contexts they evolved to survive in enables us to build a holistic picture of the general principles underlying feeding behavior. Topics discussed include: Macronutrients (protein, fats & carbohydrates) and micronutrients (sodium, calcium); the 'protein leverage hypothesis' & how this explains the modern obesity epidemic; how different diets can promote fat weight, longevity, or reproductive success; the optimal macronutrient composition for weight loss; the comparative biology of feeding behavior across animals like humans, gorillas, spiders, wolves, etc. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Metabolism, Obesity & Psychedelics for Metabolic Disease | Christoffer Clemmensen | 105 | 07 Feb 2023 | 01:22:04 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Christoffer Clemmensen, who runs the Metabolism & Molecular Pharmacology group at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. His lab studies the biological basis of obesity & other metabolic disorders. They discuss: the causes of obesity; environmental and biological factors influencing predisposition to obesity; novel anti-obesity drugs; gut hormones & peptides regulating food intake; whether psychedelics like psilocybin may be useful for treating obesity and other metabolic disorders. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Benefits & Risks of UV Radiation & Sunlight, Skin Health, Vitamin D, Nitric Oxide, Evolution of Skin Color | Richard Weller | 104 | 23 Jan 2023 | 01:41:25 | |
Nick talks to academic dermatologist Dr. Richard Weller about: skin health; benefits & risks of sunlight & UV radiation exposure; nitric oxide, blood pressure & cardiovascular health; vitamin D; sunscreen & tanning; the evolution of skin color & skin physiology; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Microbiome, Exercise, Diet, Metabolism, Circadian Rhythms, Endocannabinoids & Health | Christoph Thaiss | 103 | 17 Jan 2023 | 01:42:27 | |
Nick talks to biologist Dr. Christoph Thaiss, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania. His lab studies how the body detects & responds to environmental stimuli, with a focus on interactions between the gut microbiome, immune & nervous systems. They discuss: sensory systems of the body & basic principles of how they work; gut microbiome & the consequences of depleting it with antibiotics; endocannabinoids & exercise; how microbiome composition influences the brain & motivation to engage in exercise; prebiotics & probiotics; circadian rhythms & eating patterns. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Biochemistry & Molecular Biology of Serotonin Receptors, Tryptamines & Psychedelics | Ryan Gumpper | 102 | 12 Jan 2023 | 01:14:39 | |
Nick talks to biochemist & biophysicist Dr Ryan Gumpper, a postdoc in Dr. Bryan Roth's lab at the University of North Carolina. They discuss the biochemistry, molecular biology & biophysics of serotonin receptors, including the molecular details for what happens when serotonin and tryptamines psychedelics (e.g. LSD) bind to 5HT2A receptors in the brain. They also discuss how understand these details relates to the quest to discover novel psychedelic-derived compounds with therapeutic benefits, as well as the inspiration Ryan received from reading Alexander Shulgin's famous book, PIHKAL. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Glycosylation, CDGs & Role of Sugars Beyond Energy Production | Eva Morava | 207 | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:48:45 | |
Short Summary: The science of glycosylation, its impact on health, and potential treatments for congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDGs). About the guest: Dr. Eva Morava is a pediatric geneticist originally from Hungary, who has specialized in inborn errors of metabolism, particularly CDGs. She has a background in pediatrics and genetics from training in Hungary and the U.S. and is director of the Inherited Metabolic Disorders Section at GGS. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and to everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Episode Summary: Dr. Eva Morava discusses the critical role of glycosylation in biology, where sugars are not just used for energy but in modifying proteins to perform their functions. She explains how defects in this process lead to CDGs, a group of rare genetic disorders. The conversation covers the mechanics of glycosylation, clinical presentations of CDGs, current research on treatments including dietary interventions and gene therapy, and the broader implications of glycosylation in health, such as in liver disease and cancer. Key Takeaways:
*Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Consciousness, Anesthesia, Coma, Vegetative States, Sleep Pills (Ambien), Ketamine, AI & ChatGPT | Alex Proekt | 101 | 26 Dec 2022 | 01:37:21 | |
Nick talks to anesthesiologist & neuroscientist Dr. Alex Proekt, who runs a lab at the University of Pennsylvania, about altered states of consciousness. They discuss: NREM & REM sleep, anesthesia & anesthetic drugs like propofol; coma & vegetative states; sleeping pills like Ambien; the relationship between consciousness & the underlying brain dynamics; how ketamine differs from other anesthetics & what it does to brain activity; AI & ChatGPT. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Infectious Disease, Epidemiology, Pandemics, Health Policy, Big Science, Politicization of Science | Jay Bhattacharya | 100 | 19 Dec 2022 | 02:00:46 | |
Nick talks to Jay Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, who is a professor of medicine & economics at Stanford University. They discuss various aspects of the COVID pandemic, such as: how infectious, transmissible, and deadly SARS-CoV-2 is; mRNA vaccines, how well they stop transmission vs. severe COVID, and whether they can induce negative side effects such as myocarditis; how well masks really work; Jay's inclusion in the "TwitterFiles" and the suppression of speech on social media; what he thinks of Elon Musk after meeting him; his thoughts on the future of public health governance in the US.
*This content is never meant to serve as medical advice All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Developmental Neurobiology, Brain Organoids, Human-Animal Transplantation, Reverse Engineering the Human Brain | Sergiu Pasca | 99 | 15 Dec 2022 | 01:12:23 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Sergiu Pasca, a developmental neuroscientist and professor at Stanford University. They discuss topics related to human brain development, the origins of neuropsychiatric disease like autism & schizophrenia, new technologies for studying brain development, stem cells, and recent experiments from Dr. Pasca'a lab utilizing brain "organoids," "assembloids," and human-animal transplantations. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Neural Computation, Artificial Intelligence, Neuromodulators, Serotonin, Psychedelics, Subjective Experience | Zach Mainen | 98 | 28 Nov 2022 | 02:24:26 | |
Nick talks to computational neuroscientist Dr. Zach Mainen, a neuroscientist and director of the Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme at the Centre of the Unknown in Lisbon, Portugal. His lab studies the neuroscience of decision making, neuromodulation & behavior using both experimental and computational approaches. *Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| How Did the SARS-CoV-2 Virus Originate? | Alex Washburne | 97 | 21 Nov 2022 | 01:45:28 | |
Nick talks to mathematical biologist Dr. Alex Washburne about the origins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. *Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| MDMA, Microdosing LSD, THC & Memory, Human Psychopharmacology | Harriet de Wit | 96 | 15 Nov 2022 | 00:56:38 | |
Nick talks to experimental psychologist Dr. Harriet de Wit, a professor at the University of Chicago whose lab studies the behavioral effects of psychoactive drugs on humans. They discuss: the effects of MDMA on emotional perception and touch sensation; the effects of microdosing LSD; THC's impact on memory. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Purpose, Value, Evolution, Consciousness, Sentience, Life & Emergence of Mind From Matter | Terrence Deacon | 95 | 07 Nov 2022 | 02:29:46 | |
Nick talks to biological anthropologist & neuroscientist Dr. Terrence Deacon, who is a professor of biological anthropologist at UC-Berkeley and a leading thinker on the evolution of language, consciousness and human cognition. They discuss: how end-directed systems, such as life, can emerge from non-life; how complexity evolves once life originates; the origins of sentience and a sense of self; the evolution of the nervous system and consciousness; information, value, and "aboutness" in the universe; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Neuroscience of Pleasure, Reward, Liking vs. Wanting, Motivation, Food vs. Drug Addiction & Emotion | Kent Berridge | 94 | 31 Oct 2022 | 01:33:13 | |
Nick talks to neuroscientist Dr. Kent Berridge, a professor of psychology & neuroscience at the University of Michigan. They discuss: the neurobiology of the brain processes rewards and generates pleasure & motivation; the difference between "liking" and "wanting"; hunger and whether food addiction is similar to drug addiction; emotion and consciousness; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Marijuana, Cognition, Psychosis, Addiction, Cannabinoids, THC, CBD, THCV | Amir Englund | 93 | 24 Oct 2022 | 01:31:11 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Amir Englund, a psychopharmacologist at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King's College, London. Dr. Englund's research focuses on the effects of cannabis, medical marijuana and specific cannabinoids (e.g. THC, CBD, THCV) on human cognitive function. They discuss topics including: what is the addiction liability of marijuana? What are the acute & chronic cognitive effects of THC, including how it impacts memory & executive function; how the effects of THC can be modulated by cannabinoids like CBD & THCV; the relationship between marijuana & THC and psychosis (e.g. schizophrenia); and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Diet, Protein, Amino Acids, Fasting, Metabolic Health & Aging | Dudley Lamming | 92 | 18 Oct 2022 | 01:06:32 | |
Nick talks to molecular physiologist Dr. Dudley Lamming, a professor of medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Madison whose lab studies how the body responds to the nutrient and calorie content of food. We discuss: how the protein and amino acid composition of food impacts metabolic health & aging; branched chain amino acids & disease; sex differences between males & females in how diet affects health; fasting, calorie restriction & fasting; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Cultural Evolution, Religion & the Origins of WEIRD Psychology | Joseph Henrich | 206 | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:46:39 | |
Short Summary: How human culture and psychology have evolved, particularly exploring the unique psychological traits of "WEIRD" (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) societies, providing insights into why our minds and societies are the way they are today. About the Guest: Joe Henrich, PhD is a professor of human evolutionary biology at Harvard University. His research focuses on applying evolutionary theory to understand the human mind and culture, particularly how cultural evolution has led to the emergence of WEIRD psychology. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and to everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Key Takeaways:
Related episode:
*Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Population Genetics, Personal Genomics, History & Human Evolution | Razib Khan | 91 | 11 Oct 2022 | 01:45:16 | |
Nick talks to genetics researcher & writer Razib Khan. Razib did graduate work in genetics at the University of California-Davis and recently founded a genomics data startup. He also runs a Substack, "Unsupervised Learning," where he writes a lot of fascinating articles on the subjects of human evolutionary & population genetics, personal genomics, and more. Nick and Razib discussed: how the story of human evolution has changed over the past two decades; genomics technology & ancient DNA; Neanderthals, Denisovans & ancient humans; personal genomics (e.g. 23AndMe, Ancestry.com); Razib's experience as a writer on Substack. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| How Does Ketamine Work & Is It Addictive? | Christian Lüscher | 90 | 04 Oct 2022 | 00:45:43 | |
Nick talks to Christian Lüscher, MD, PhD, a neuroscientist at the University of Geneva whose lab studies the cellular mechanisms that underlie drug reinforcement, dependence and addiction. Dr. Lüscher talks about the nature of addictive drugs in the brain, how ketamine works, and the latest research from his lab look at how ketamine's unique effects within the brain's reward circuitry enable it to be psychoactive & reinforcing, but have a very low addiction liability (in rodents). He also discusses what this research may mean for the use of ketamine as a therapeutic treatment for depression in humans. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Neuroscience of Aggression, Sex, Behavior, Hormones, Emotion & Consciousness | David Anderson | 89 | 28 Sep 2022 | 01:53:14 | |
Nick talks to neuroscientist Dr. David Anderson, a professor at Caltech whose lab studies the neurobiological basis of animal behavior and emotion. They discuss: technologies for understanding cause-and-effect in the brain; neurobiological basis of animal behavior, including aggression/fighting, mating, feeding, and social behavior; how hormones such as estrogen regulate behavior; emotions, feelings, and consciousness; and David's new book, "The Nature of the Beast." All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Depression, Serotonin, SSRIs, Psychiatry, Mental Health & Social Media | Joanna Moncrieff | 88 | 21 Sep 2022 | 01:26:23 | |
Nick talks to psychiatrist Dr. Joanna Moncrieff about depression. What causes it? How do SSRIs work? How well do antidepressants work? What are the risks & benefits of long-term antidepressant use? What is the evidence that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance (too little serotonin) in the brain? How is social media & technology influencing mental health? All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Sociology, Social Psychology, Homelessness, Drug Addiction, Cultural Capital, Elite Overproduction & Decline of Civilization | Leighton Woodhouse | 87 | 15 Sep 2022 | 01:51:49 | |
Nick talks to journalist & documentary filmmaker Leighton Woodhouse. They discuss: homelessness & drug addiction; religion & ideology; sociology & social psychology; the social function of laws and norms; economic vs. cultural capital & the "overproduction of elites"; institutional science; civilizational decline & the future of American society. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Shamanism, Psychedelics, Social Behavior, Religion & Evolution of Human Culture | Michael Winkelman | 86 | 31 Aug 2022 | 01:34:08 | |
Nick talks to anthropologist Dr. Michael Winkelman, who was a professor at Arizona State University for many years, where he studied topics related to shamanism as practiced by early hunter gatherer societies, and other topics related to human cultural evolution. He is now retired and conducts independent research from Brazil, where he now lives. They discuss: what shamanism is & the core features of shamanic ritual practices across historical hunter gatherer cultures; how the various ritual practices associated with shamanism were used by forager societies (e.g. symbolism, group dance and drumming) & the use of psychedelics; evolution of shamanism & religion from prehistoric times to the present; role religion and spiritual practices have played in human evolution; how human culture is akin to virtual reality & how human ritual practices help sculpt the narratives that form within human cultures that regulate human behavior; future of religion & spirituality in the modern age & whether the use of psychedelics as entheogenic substances might have a role to play in that. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Biochemistry of Psilocybin Production, Psychedelic Tryptamines & Magic Mushrooms | Dirk Hoffmeister | 85 | 25 Aug 2022 | 01:32:44 | |
Nick talks to pharmaceutical microbiologist Dr. Dirk Hoffmeister, who is professor at the Hans Knöll Institute in Germany. Professor Hoffmeister has a background in botany and mycology, the study of fungi. His lab studies various aspects of fungal biochemistry & molecular biology, including the biochemistry and molecular genetics of psilocybin production in magic mushrooms. We spoke about various topics in mycology, mostly related to Psilocybe mushrooms. This included: how psilocybin is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan; the ecological reasons for why some mushrooms produce psilocybin; why magic mushrooms turn a vibrant blue color when they are physically damaged; the production of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) by certain species; the ecology of Psilocybe mushrooms; other areas of mycology that his lab studies. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Climatology, Climate Change, Computer Modeling, Green Energy, Politicization of Science | Judith Curry | 84 | 18 Aug 2022 | 01:48:01 | |
Nick talks to climatologist Dr. Judith Curry, the former chair of the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Her research interests have included hurricanes, atmospheric modeling, air-sea interactions, and a variety of other areas in climate science. She runs Climate, Etc., an online blog focused on climate science. She is also writing a new book called, “Climate Uncertainty & Risk,” which she described towards the end of the podcast. They discuss: how Earth’s climate has changed over time and how climate scientists measure this; what computer models are used for in climate science and what their strengths & weaknesses are; tropical storms and severe weather events; CO2, methane, and other greenhouse gasses; different forms of energy, such as oil, natural gas, solar, wind, and nuclear; how she thinks about the tradeoffs between different energy sources in terms of their abundance, environmental impact, costs, and other factors; the politicization of climate science and why certain branches of science are especially prone to it. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Prescription Drugs, Psychiatric Medicine, Big Pharma & the Medicalization of Everything | David Cohen | 83 | 11 Aug 2022 | 01:20:39 | |
Nick talks to Dr. David Cohen, a professor at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs. His research looks at psychoactive drugs (prescribed, licit, and illicit) and their desirable and undesirable effects as socio-cultural phenomena “constructed” through language, policy, attitudes, and social interactions. They discuss: prescription psychiatric drugs, including SSRIs, benzodiazepines and stimulants (e.g. Adderall); the history of how some of the most widely prescribed psychiatric drugs came to be so popular; how pharmaceutical companies go about marketing these drugs and the conditions they aim to treat to both physicians and the public; the quality of the evidence supporting their use; what we are learning about the potential for dependency, long-term health effects, and actual level of benefit that comes from chronic psychiatric drug use; why many psychiatric drugs are increasingly prescribed in combination; and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Inflammation, Memory, Epigenetics, Skin Health, Stem Cells, Tissue Repair & Cancer | Shruti Naik | 82 | 04 Aug 2022 | 01:06:49 | |
Nick talks to Dr. Shruti Naik, assistant professor of pathology & medicine at the NYU Langone. Her lab studies the interactions between immune cells, epithelial cells, and microbes in barrier tissues that interface with the environment (e.g. skin, lungs & gut). They discuss: inflammatory memory; how cells store memories of inflammation epigenetically; how skin cell regenerate and repair tissue damage; stem cell biology; cancer, and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Systems Biology, Personalized Medicine, AI & the Future of Health | Lee Hood | 205 | 24 Jan 2025 | 00:58:00 | |
Short Summary: Deep dive into systems biology and personalized medicine, exploring how technology and data can revolutionize health care, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and the future of medicine. About the Guest: Dr. Lee Hood is a pioneering scientist with a 60-year career in biology, notably at Caltech and the University of Washington. He co-founded the Institute for Systems Biology and has significantly contributed to molecular immunology and the Human Genome Project, holding a PhD in biology. Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and to everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Key Takeaways:
Related episodes:
All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Sex Differences in Brain, Endocannabinoid Biology, Juvenile Play Behavior, Cannabis & Pregnancy | Margaret McCarthy | 81 | 28 Jul 2022 | 01:22:02 | |
Nick talks to neuroscientist Dr. Margaret McCarthy, whose lab at the University of Maryland studies the origins and mechanisms of sex differences in the brain, the endocannabinoid system, and neural basis of animal behavior. They discuss: the nature of sex differences observed in the mammalian brain, including differences in the susceptibility to various diseases and disorders of the brain; differences in juvenile play behavior in males vs. females, and how these can be altered by sex hormones and cannabinoids; sex differences in brain development that lead to sex differences in behavior; how the endocannabinoid system influences brain development and behavior; how cannabis use during pregnancy may influence brain development. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Origins of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus | Matt Ridley | 80 | 21 Jul 2022 | 00:57:52 | |
Nick talks to science writer Matt Ridley, who most recently published the book, "Viral: The Search for the Origin of COVID-19" together with molecular biologist Dr. Alina Chan. They discussed what is known and still unknown about the origins of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the latest developments in that mystery which have come to light in the past few months; the relationship between institutional science and politics; whether we are ever likely to know definitively the origins of this virus, and more. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||
| Psychedelic Startups, Biotech, Drug Discovery, Psilocybin, DMT, Psychedelics & Society | Sam Banister | 79 | 14 Jul 2022 | 01:12:57 | |
Nick talks to medicinal chemist Sam Banister, who is co-founder and Chief Science Officer at Psylo, a biotech startup focused on developing next-generation psychedelic medicines. They discuss: the past, present, and future of psychedelic science; Sam's journey from academia to biotech startup co-founder; Alexander Shulgin; psychedelics like psilocybin, DMT, and others; and psychedelics & society. *Not medical advice. All episodes, show notes, transcripts, etc. at the M&M Substack
For all the ways you can support my efforts | |||