Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The FitMind Podcast: Mental Fitness, Neuroscience & Psychology
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #101: Movement as Meditation - George Thompson | 16 Apr 2025 | 01:23:10 | |
Tai Chi master and filmmaker George Thompson shares how movement became a form of meditation and a path to healing. From training with a Taoist monk in the mountains to recovering from a knee injury using only internal awareness, George explores how mindful movement can transform our thoughts, breath, and daily lives. We discuss:
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org
Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to George Thompson 9:58 | Meeting Master Gu 12:56 | Tai Chi Training 15:45 | Healing Knee Pain 20:12 | Breath Awareness Exercise 22:09 | How Taichi Transforms Thought 29:40 | Emptiness Described 34:10 | Taoist Origin Story of the Universe 38:26 | Patterns 41:55 | Daily Practices 47:58 Breathwork Practices 50:04 | Applying Daily Mindfulness 56:10 | Internal Family Systems - Labeling Parts 57:47 | Documentary Message & Inspiration 1:01:02 | Consciousness 1:10:00 | Facing Challenges 1:15:33 | Life of Service & Integrity 1:21:25 | Where to Find More on George 🎥 Watch George’s documentary “The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KArWcMldPM 🌿 Learn more about George’s retreats and teachings: https://www.balanceispossible.com/ & https://www.taoistwellness.online/
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| #100: Float Therapy: Science, Healing & Peak Performance - Justin Feinstein, PhD | 19 Mar 2025 | 01:32:01 | |
In this episode, neuroscientist and clinical researcher Dr. Justin Feinstein discusses the fascinating science and therapeutic potential of flotation therapy. Often misunderstood and mislabeled as “sensory deprivation,” Dr. Feinstein explains why this is a misnomer and what’s truly happening inside the float tank. Instead of depriving the senses, floating creates an environment of deep physical and mental rest, allowing the nervous system to reset. We explore Dr. Feinstein’s pioneering research on using float therapy to help individuals with PTSD and high anxiety sensitivity. He also shares insights into how flotation therapy could become a valuable tool in the public health system, especially for trauma survivors and people with severe anxiety. Dr. Feinstein highlights compelling case studies, including patients with anorexia nervosa who experienced meaningful relief through floating, as well as its growing popularity among high-performing athletes looking to optimize recovery and mental performance. Whether you’re new to flotation therapy or familiar with the practice, this conversation reveals its untapped potential and emerging role in both mental health and peak performance.
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org
Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to Justin Feinstein, PhD 2:55 | Floating & PTSD treatment 18:02 | More Stress, More Effective Floating 20:02 | Anxious People's Struggle With Meditation 31:58 | High Anxiety Sensitivity 43:41 | Peak Performance Through Flotation 47:12 | How Long Benefits of Floating Last 52:29 | Floating & Meditation 54:31 | Out-of-Body Experiences 58:03 | Anorexia Nervosa & Floating 1:01:40 | Effects on Nervous System 1:04:07 | Altered States & Brainwaves in the Tank 1:19:26 | Importance of Early Intervention 1:24:17 | Respiration 1:27:30 | Links: https://www.mauicalm.org/, https://www.clinicalfloat.org/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-feinstein/ | |||
| #90: Master of Sleep - Nick Littlehales | 17 May 2022 | 00:50:22 | |
Nick Littlehales has been an elite sport recovery coach for nearly a quarter-century and is the bestselling author of Sleep: The Myth of 8 Hours, the Power of Naps... and the New Plan to Recharge Your Body and Mind. On this episode, we uncover the common myths and misunderstandings about sleep. We also discuss the circadian rhythm, chronotypes, polyphasic sleep, and treating sleep as recovery. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Nick Littlehales 1:42 | Sleep Tips 3:45 | Becoming a Sleep Coach 7:28 | How the Pros Optimize Sleep 9:38 | What to do Before You Sleep 19:36 | Understanding Circadian Rhythm 26:10 | Polyphasic Sleep: Importance of Naps 28:58 | 7 Key Sleep Recovery Indicators 37:27 | How to Improve Sleep 43:54 | Microrest 45:20 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #89: Consciousness, Perception & Reality - Donald Hoffman, PhD | 19 Apr 2022 | 00:50:56 | |
Donald Hoffman, PhD is a cognitive scientist and author of The Case Against Reality: Why Evolution Hid the Truth from Our Eyes. He is currently a professor at UC Irvine, where he studies consciousness, visual perception and evolutionary psychology. On this episode, we “take the red pill” and hear Dr. Hoffman’s theory on why reality is not what it seems. He explains this complex topic by comparing reality to a user interface. We discuss many topics, such as his mathematical theory of consciousness, questioning beliefs, and how the mind forms new mental models. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Donald Hoffman, PhD 2:23 | Why Reality Isn’t as It Seems 7:30 | Reality as a User Interface 13:51 | Adapting to Evolving Technology 16:06 | Creating New Mental Models 18:31 | Moving Beyond Spacetime 23:06 | Consciousness is Fundamental 25:26 | Ancient Wisdom & Science of Consciousness 30:00 | Conversation with the Dalai Lama (starting at 54:40) 30:15 | Reality Transcends Concepts 36:39 | Questioning Beliefs 38:56 | A New Worldview 45:04 | Mathematical Theory of Consciousness 45:39 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #88: Profound States of Mind - Andrew Holecek | 15 Mar 2022 | 01:07:45 | |
Andrew Holecek is an author and meditation teacher with decades of intensive practice experience, including a 3-year silent retreat in the Tibetan tradition. Andrew’s work combines ancient wisdom with modern science. We discuss the insights gained from his lengthy silent retreat, the 2 vectors of enlightenment, how our minds construct our realities, and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Andrew Holecek 4:55 | In the Presence of Meditation Masters 10:10 | 3-Year Silent Retreat Experience 18:58 | Insights Gained from 3-Year Retreat 22:50 | Unsticking the Mind 30:06 | Enlightenment Defined 38:58 | Waking Up & Growing Up 44:23 | How Our Minds Construct Our Realities 54:20 | Deconstructing Mental Constructs 62:23 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #87: The Future of the Brain - Miguel Nicolelis, MD, PhD | 15 Feb 2022 | 01:03:43 | |
Miguel Nicolelis, MD, PhD is a Brazilian neuroscientist and physician famous for his pioneering work in the field of brain-machine interface (BMI) technology. Dr. Nicolelis’s extensive research with brain-machine interfaces blurs the lines between real life and science fiction. In the episode, we discuss neuroprosthetics, monkeys controlling robots, brain-to-brain communication, and the key implications of these wild, futuristic technologies for us all. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Dr. Miguel Nicolelis 4:20 | Monkeys Controlling Robots 10:30 | Mirror Neurons & Brain-Machine Interface (BMI) 13:02 | Advances & Applications of BMIs 17:50 | BMIs for Parkinson’s Disease 21:36 | Upgrading the Human Mind? 24:50 | Why Machines Will Never Think Like a Human 29:56 | Brains are Changed by Digital Systems 32:50 | Limitations of Computers 37:07 | How Nature Shaped the Brain 40:15 | We Only Experience a Sliver of Reality 49:45 | Viruses of the Mind 59:30 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #86: The Science of Spontaneity - Edward Slingerland, PhD | 18 Jan 2022 | 00:45:32 | |
Edward Slingerland, PhD, is a Professor of Philosophy and Associate Member in the Asian Studies and Psychology Departments at the University of British Columbia. He's an expert on the cognitive science of ancient philosophies. On this episode, we discuss the science of ancient concepts like Wu Wei (”effortless action”), hot vs cold cognition, ways to alter consciousness, the paradox of trying not to try, and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Edward Slingerland, PhD 1:39 | Wu Wei & Flow State 9:34 | Hot vs. Cold Cognition 13:45 | How to Get into State of Wu Wei 17:35 | When to Not Use Wu Wei 19:30 | Paradox of Trying Not to Try 26:40 | Wu Wei in Daily Life 30:10 | Microdosing Psychedelics 32:28 | Alcohol and Ways to Alter Consciousness 38:06 | How Much Effort is Needed to Become Effortless? 40:00 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #85: Neuromagic & Illusion - Stephen Macknik, PhD & Susana Martinez-Conde, PhD | 04 Jan 2022 | 00:54:07 | |
Dr. Susana Martinez-Conde and Dr. Stephen Macknik are neuroscientists who specialize in the science of magic and illusion. Both are professors of ophthalmology, neurology, and physiology & pharmacology at the Downstate Medical Center. Together they pioneered the study of various aspects of magic such as perception, cognitive illusion, and attentional misdirection. On this episode, we discuss how magic tricks fool the brain, why everyday life is an illusion, what neuroscientists and magicians can learn from each other and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to Stephen Macknik, PhD & Susana Martinez-Conde, PhD 8:00 | How Magic Hacks Our Minds 13:00 | What Neuroscientists Learn from Magicians 15:54 | What Magicians Learn from Neuroscientists 17:24 | Testing Attention Manipulation 22:25 | Cognition & Calculation 25:36 | How Our Brains Construct Reality 28:27 | Vision Produces Our Changing Realities 29:53 | Microsaccades Explained 32:58 | Brain on Autopilot 35:50 | Expertise as an Unconscious Process 40:46 | Magic for Kids vs. Magic for Adults 43:43 | Is Magic Still Enjoyable When You Know the Tricks? 48:24 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #84: The Brain of a Mental Olympian - Elena Antonova, PhD | 21 Dec 2021 | 01:06:26 | |
Dr. Elena Antonova is a neuroscientist and senior lecturer in psychology at Brunel University London. Her research focuses on the effects of long-term mindfulness meditation practice in the hope of promoting mental wellbeing in the general population. On this episode, we dive into the different approaches to meditation and the 4 levels of meditation practice development. We also discuss what goes on in the brains of elite meditators and what it takes for the average person to reap the benefits from a meditation practice. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Elena Antonova, PhD 4:28 | Categorizing Meditation Practices 7:15 | Why Breath Focus is Fundamental 10:19 | Constructivist vs. Innateist Approach to Meditation 12:08 | 4 Levels of Meditation Practice Development 17:12 | Mental Fitness Defined 20:19 | Brains of Mental Olympians 24:10 | Default Mode Network Differences 32:00 | Field of Awareness Described 35:45 | Habituation of the Attention System 46:45 | Eye Movement Paradigm Study 54:00 | Balancing Brain’s Predictive Nature with the Present Moment 57:10 | Measurable Changes with Just 10 Minutes a Day 59:14 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #83: Origins of the Mind - Antonio Damasio, MD, PhD | 07 Dec 2021 | 00:48:08 | |
Dr. Antonio Damasio is a neurologist, psychologist and best-selling author. He's the Founder & Director of the Brain and Creativity Institute, which researches human emotions, memory, communication, and decision-making, and is regarded as one of the most influential psychologists of the modern era. On this episode, we discuss the evolution of the mind, the surprising role of feelings in consciousness, and why we have a brain in the first place. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Antonio Damasio, MD, PhD 2:07 | Why Do We Have a Brain? 4:00 | Brain & Nervous System Are One 6:08 | Evolution of the Mind 10:28 | Minds are Representation Machines 16:51 | Distinguishing Between Feeling & Emotions 19:04 | Feelings are the Beginning of Consciousness 22:38 | Nervous Systems Produce Feelings/Consciousness 29:30 | Understanding Feelings is of Utmost Importance 34:34 | How Feelings Impact Culture, Politics, Relationships, & Everything Really 39:37 | Building Conscious Machines with Vulnerability 43:30 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #82: Sleep & Dreams - Sidarta Ribeiro, PhD | 23 Nov 2021 | 00:57:23 | |
Dr. Sidarta Ribeiro is an award-winning neuroscientist, author, and Founder of the Brain Institute at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte in Brazil, where he is also a professor of neuroscience. In this episode, we discuss how dreams have influenced human evolution, the connection between sleep and learning, and how to cultivate a rich dream life. He gives his top tips for how to get a better night’s sleep and stresses the importance of sharing our dreams with others. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Sidarta Ribeiro, PhD 3:09 | History of Sleep and Dreams 5:56 | Problem with Not Paying Attention to Dreams 7:27 | Purpose of Dreams 13:45 | How Sleep Made Humans a Dominate Species 22:17 | How to Cultivate a Dream Life 27:38 | Interpreting Meaning of Dreams 36:23 | Collective Dreams Have Changed During Covid 37:48 | Sleep Tips - How to Get a Better Night’s Sleep 41:43 | Are Naps Good? 42:55 | Connection Between Sleep, Memory and Learning 46:13 | Too Much Sleep? 49:51 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #81: Mind Control & Brain-Computer Interfaces - Ramses Alcaide, PhD | 09 Nov 2021 | 00:46:28 | |
Ramses Alcaide, PhD is an electrical engineer, neuroscientist, and CEO of Neurable, an innovative brain-computer interface company. At Neurable, he is the inventor and primary developer of a brain-computer interface technology that is designed to turn human biometrics into actionable insights. On this episode, we discuss his work at Neurable, how thoughts can be read by machines, and the benefits, ethical concerns, and future of brain-computer interface technology. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Ramses Alcaide, PhD 3:20 | What is a Brain-Computer Interface? 5:34 | How a Brain Interfaces with a Machine 9:48 | How Thoughts are Read by Machines 13:48 | Enten EEG Headphones - How They Work 23:18 | Addressing BCI Concerns and Ethics 26:30 | Future of BCIs 35:28 | Can People Become too Reliant on BCIs? 40:33 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #99: Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Superpower - Philippe Douyon, MD | 18 Feb 2025 | 01:09:16 | |
This episode features Dr. Philippe Douyon, a board-certified neurologist specializing in neuroplasticity, brain health, and cognitive resilience. We discuss the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize, challenging misconceptions like the belief that cognitive change is limited to early life. Dr. Douyon explains how inherited mindsets shape thought patterns and how intentional habits can rewire the brain for better cognitive function. Key strategies for brain health, including diet, fasting, exercise, and lifelong learning, are explored, along with neurodegenerative disorders and the effects of chronic stress. Practical approaches to mental fitness and stress management highlight how individuals can enhance cognitive resilience and take control of their brain health.
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org
Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Philipe Douyon 4:18 | Neuroplasticity Explained 6:00 | Myths About Neuroplasticity 10:01 | Inherited Mindset 12:13 | Taking Charge of Your Brain 15:21 | Lifestyle Changes for Brain Health 23:50 | Fasting 26:55 | Diet 30:13 | Life-Long Learning 38:36 | Neurological Disorders: Strokes & Dementia 42:32 | Pseudo-Dementia 46:26 | Flow States 48:47 | Benefit of Learning New Things 53:55 | Role of Emotions 56:22 | Chronic Stress Management 1:06:41 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #80: The Power of Focus - Amishi Jha, PhD | 26 Oct 2021 | 00:49:59 | |
Dr. Amishi Jha is a neuroscientist and professor of psychology at the University of Miami. She's the Director and Co-Founder of Contemplative Neuroscience for the Mindfulness Research and Practice Initiative. Dr. Jha leads research on the neural basis of attention and the effects of mindfulness-based training programs on cognition, emotion, resilience, and performance, working with the military, educators, elite athletes, and children. We discuss the 3 main subsystems of attention, the evolutionary reason for mind wandering, and recommended practices to sharpen your attention. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind 0:00 | Introduction to Amishi Jha, PhD 4:48 | The Attention Problem 6:30 | 3 Main Subsystems of Attention 11:06 | How Subsystems of Attention Work Together 13:20 | Meta Awareness and Meta Cognition 15:30 | Evolutionary Reason for Mind Wandering 18:58 | What Makes a Thought “Sticky” 24:18 | High Stress and Attention 31:33 | Can You Undo Benefits of Mindfulness? 36:28 | Different Definitions of Mindfulness 40:18 | Recommended Practices to Train Attention 43:58 | Rapid Fire Questions | |||
| #79: Pain & Placebo - Apkar V. Apkarian, PhD | 12 Oct 2021 | 00:52:54 | |
Apkar V. Apkarian, PhD is a professor of physiology, anesthesiology, and physical medicine and rehabilitation at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. He has been studying pain for more than two decades and is a pioneer in the use of fMRI to study the neurochemistry of the brain. Dr. Apkarian's research has increasingly focused on chronic pain, including the strategic use of placebo treatment. In this episode, we discuss the placebo effect, how pain works in the brain, and susceptibility to chronic pain and placebo response. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #78: Neuroscience, Consciousness & Nonduality - James Cooke, PhD | 28 Sep 2021 | 00:55:51 | |
Dr. James Cooke is a neuroscientist, writer and speaker, focused on consciousness, meditation, psychedelic states, and science. He studied Experimental Psychology and completed his PhD in Neuroscience at Oxford University. He holds research positions at University College London and Trinity College Dublin where he investigates how the brain creates our experience of the world. In this episode, we dive into the concept of nonduality, why our brains construct an ego, the nature of consciousness, psychedelic states and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
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| #77: The Science of Compassion - Shauna Shapiro, PhD | 14 Sep 2021 | 00:41:23 | |
Shauna Shapiro, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and an expert in mindfulness and self-compassion. She has spent two decades studying the benefits of mindfulness and compassion. Her TEDx Talk on this topic has been viewed over 2 million times. Dr. Shapiro is a professor of psychology at Santa Clara University. She graduated summa cum laude from Duke University, and received a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Arizona. She's published over 150 journal articles and 3 books. Her most recent book is Good Morning, I Love You: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices to Rewire Your Brain for Calm, Clarity, and Joy. We dive into the science supporting self-compassion, the exciting overlap between modern neuroscience and ancient wisdom, where the mindfulness movement might be headed, and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #76: Peak Performance Mindset - Elliot Roe | 31 Aug 2021 | 00:48:10 | |
Elliot Roe is a leading expert in mindset optimization for high performers. In just the last 3 years his poker clients have won over $150,000,000 and nearly every major tournament title, including the World Series of Poker Main Event. His clientele also includes Olympic medalists, UFC Champions, Hollywood actors, business executives, and Wall Street traders. He also Co-Founded the mobile mindset app Primed Mind and hosts the A-Game Advantage Podcast. Elliot holds a graduate degree in Clinical Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy. We discuss his work with the world's top poker players and other mental peak performers, the psychology of hypnotherapy, and his advice for forming your own optimal mindset. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #75: The Stoic Philosophy - Massimo Pigliucci, PhD | 17 Aug 2021 | 01:02:20 | |
Dr. Massimo Pigliucci is Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York, former co-host of the Rationally Speaking Podcast, and one of the most influential modern Stoics. He's published several books including How to Be a Stoic, Nonsense on Stilts, and A Field Guide to a Happy Life. Professor Pigliucci has a PhD in Evolutionary Biology and also a PhD in Philosophy. We go in-depth on Stoicism, what it is, and how to apply it in everyday life. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #74: Sublime Qualities of Mind - Sharon Salzberg | 03 Aug 2021 | 00:44:16 | |
Sharon Salzberg is a world-famous meditation teacher and NY Times bestselling author. She's largely responsible for popularizing mindfulness in the West. Sharon co-founded the Insight Meditation Society with Jack Kornfield and Joseph Goldstein and has been leading meditation retreats around the world for over three decades. Her books include Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness, A Heart as Wide as the World, Real Happiness - The Power of Meditation: A 28-Day Program; Real Happiness at Work, and Real Change. We discuss her training with legendary teachers in Asia, the most sublime states of mind and how to achieve them, handling the "inner critic," the psychology of real love, and how this differs from conditional love. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #73: Hacking of the Human Mind - Robert Lustig, MD, MSL | 20 Jul 2021 | 00:49:34 | |
Dr. Lustig is an endocrinologist, professor emeritus of pediatrics at UCSF, and bestselling author of Fat Chance. He also wrote The Hacking of the American Mind: The Science Behind the Corporate Takeover of Our Bodies and Brains. Dr. Lustig holds a BS from MIT, an MD from Cornell, and a Masters of Studies in Law from UC Hastings College of Law. We discuss the basic brain mechanisms behind various addictive products that are hacking our reward centers, the 7 key differences between pleasure and happiness, neuromarketing, and what to do about all this. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #72: Altered States, Shamanism & Beliefs - Roger Walsh, MD, PhD | 06 Jul 2021 | 01:00:59 | |
Dr. Roger Walsh has a unique background that makes him one of the world's leading experts on the mind. He graduated from Australia's Queensland University with degrees in psychology, physiology, neuroscience, and medicine and then came to the US as a Fullbright Scholar. He's now a professor of psychiatry, philosophy, and anthropology at the University of California Irvine. Dr. Walsh has written several books and collectively, Dr. Walsh's writings and research have received over two dozen national and international awards and honors, while his teaching has received one national and six university awards. He's a close friend and confidant of The Dalai Lama, Ken Wilber, Stan Grof, and other legends in the field. We discuss altered states, stages of adult psychological development, shamanism, the power of rituals, and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #71: The Distraction Crisis & Brain-Enhancing Tools - Adam Gazzaley, MD, PhD | 15 Jun 2021 | 00:51:39 | |
Dr. Adam Gazzaley is a neuroscientist, author, photographer, entrepreneur, and inventor. He's the Founder and Executive Director of Neuroscape, a lab that bridges technology and neuroscience to enhance brain function. His team invented the first video game approved by the FDA as a medical treatment. Dr. Gazzaley is also the David Dolby Distinguished Professor of Neurology, Physiology, and Psychiatry at UCSF. He's the Co-Founder and Chief Science Advisor of Akili Interactive Labs, JAZZ Venture Partners, and Sensync. In addition to entrepreneurial endeavors, Dr. Gazzaley's also an active scientist, having authored over 150 scientific articles. He holds MD and PhD degrees in neuroscience from Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. He's been profiled in the NY Times, The New Yorker, WSJ, TIME, and many other publications. We discuss the current distraction crisis, Dr. Gazzaley's video game for improving ADHD, the new psychedelics division of Neuroscape, and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #98: The Science of Connection - Adam Dorsay, PsyD | 21 Jan 2025 | 01:14:53 | |
In this episode, psychologist Adam Dorsay, PsyD, explores the importance of human connection and its impact on well-being. He introduces the four types of connection and examines their role in resilience and life satisfaction. The discussion highlights the science behind relationships, the role of vulnerability in building meaningful bonds, and the value of awe in deepening connections. Dr. Dorsay provides practical insights for fostering connection in personal relationships, work, and the natural world, offering strategies to enhance purpose and well-being.
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org
Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Adam Dorsay 1:45 | 4 Types of Connection 10:02 | Neuroscience of Connection 21:09 | How to “Know Thyself” 25:44 | Vulnerability & Courage 29:24 | Connection to the World 39:50 | Amazement & Awe 49:00 | Connect to Your Work 59:59 | Effective Communication Strategy | |||
| #70: Your Microbiome & the Gut-Brain Connection - Robynne Chutkan, MD | 27 Apr 2021 | 00:54:49 | |
Dr. Robynne Chutkan is the Founder of Gutbliss, an integrative gastroenterologist, microbiome expert, and bestselling author. She did her undergrad pre-Med at Yale and went on to get an MD from Columbia. Here we dive deep into a relatively recent discovery and surprising area of mental fitness—your second brain, the gut. Dr. Chutkan describes the incredible research showing just how intimately connected our mental health is with the bacteria in our guts. She also gives her top tips for creating a healthy microbiome. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #69: Mental Energy & Taoist Sex - Mantak Chia | 13 Apr 2021 | 00:41:41 | |
Mantak Chia is a Taoist meditation master who has taught millions of students worldwide for over 45 years. He's authored 57 books and founded the Universal Healing Tao Center in Thailand. Master Chia has also studied Western anatomy and medicine. In this episode, we discuss the ancient tradition of mind training called Taoism and its methods, like meditation and dark rooms. Master Chia explains how to stop wasting mental and sexual energy and start cultivating more of it for a happier and healthier life. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #68: Nutrition for the Brain - David Perlmutter, MD | 30 Mar 2021 | 00:52:23 | |
Dr. David Perlmutter, is a world-renowned neurologist and 5-time NY Times bestselling author, including #1 NY Times bestseller Grain Brain. Dr. Perlmutter has received the Linus Pauling Award (Institute for Functional Medicine) and National Nutritional Foods Association Clinician Award. He serves as a medical advisor for The Dr. Oz Show and Men's Health. We talk about the connection between your gut and brain, the best foods to eat for a healthy microbiome, why our brains need a detox, and much more. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #67: Sustainable Happiness - Bhante Vimalaramsi | 16 Mar 2021 | 00:45:22 | |
Bhante Vimalaramsi is a Buddhist monk and renowned meditation teacher. He founded the Dhamma Sukha Meditation Center and authored several books on meditation with over a million copies worldwide. We go into Bhante's fascinating background, the mechanics of deep meditation, whether lasting happiness (nirvana/nibbana) is possible, and his practice advice. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #66: Neuroscience, Work & the Future - Tara Swart, MD, PhD | 02 Mar 2021 | 00:52:53 | |
Dr. Tara Swart is a neuroscientist, medical doctor, bestselling author, peak performance coach, and former psychiatrist. She holds positions as a Senior Lecturer at MIT Sloan, Chief Science Officer at Heights, Neuroscience and Psychological Advisor at To Be Magnetic, and Chief Neuroscience Officer at Arowana International. Dr. Swart received a PhD in Neuropharmacology and BS in Biomedical Science from King's College London, and a BM BCh in Medicine from Oxford. Topics in this episode include the law of attraction, autopilot thinking, organizational plasticity, and the exciting/scary intersection between neuroscience and technology. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #65: Lucid Dreams & Dream Yoga - Charlie Morley | 16 Feb 2021 | 00:57:39 | |
Charlie Morley is one of the world's leading experts on lucid dreaming and dream yoga. Charlie has been practicing lucid dreaming for over 20 years and was "authorized to teach" by Lama Yeshe Rinpoche in 2008 within the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. He has also written multiple books on the topic, delivered talks at Oxford and The Houses of Parliament, and is a black-belt in kickboxing. In this episode, we unpack the science of lucid dreaming and then get into its wild potential for exploring and transforming the mind.
Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #64: Fasting, Shamans & Facing Fear - Dave Asprey | 02 Feb 2021 | 00:23:35 | |
Dave Asprey is the Founder of Bulletproof, a 3x NY Times bestselling author, and regarded as the father of biohacking.
Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #63: The Psychedelic Renaissance - Rick Doblin, PhD | 19 Jan 2021 | 00:48:54 | |
Dr. Rick Doblin is the Founder and Director of MAPS, which has raised over $100 million for supporting psychedelics research. Rick is one of the key leaders of this current psychedelic renaissance. He received a doctorate in public policy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. Topics include Stan Grof's theories, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and the journey towards the legalization of psychedelics. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #62: Your Brain in Flow - Steven Kotler | 05 Jan 2021 | 00:57:14 | |
Steven Kotler is the bestselling author of Stealing Fire and Founder of the Flow Research Collective. Steven is a leading expert on human peak performance. His work has appeared in over 70 publications, including The New York Times, National Geographic, Wired, and Time. This episode centers around the neuroscience and psychology of flow states, as well as the future of flow technology using machine learning. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #61: The Science of Breathing - James Nestor | 22 Dec 2020 | 00:57:10 | |
James Nestor is a science journalist and bestselling author. His most recent book, Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, explores the fascinating evolutionary biology and ancient practices of breathing. He's also written about freediving, created an Emmy-nominated documentary, and been on various shows, such as The Joe Rogan Experience. Topics in this episode include nose breathing, surgical breath interventions, elite athletic respiration, advanced yogic breathing techniques, and the relationship between breath and mind. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #97: Predictive Processing & Ultimate Well-Being - Shamil Chandaria, PhD | 17 Dec 2024 | 01:18:57 | |
In this episode, Dr. Shamil Chandaria, an expert in consciousness, neuroscience, and AI, shares insights from his work on human experience and the intersection of technology and well-being. He discusses the Bayesian brain theory and the free energy principle, explaining how the brain constructs reality by predicting and updating perceptions to reduce uncertainty and surprise. Chandaria also explores how meditation helps break habitual thought patterns, offering a deeper awareness of how the brain shapes our experience and revealing profound insights into consciousness. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org
Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Shamil Chandaria 3:38 | Spiritual Awakening in Human Flourishing 4:31 | How the Brain Predicts Reality - Bayesian Brain Explained 9:26 | AI & the Human Brain 21:33 | Free Energy Principle in Wellbeing 37:30 | Befriending Difficult Emotions 43:30 | Boundless Awareness 54:00 | Effortless Action 57:17 | Psychedelics & Bayesian Brain 1:07:29 | Default Mode Network & Predictive Processing 1:13:12 | Gamma Brain Waves in Long-Term Meditators Research
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| #60: Self-Directed Neuroplasticity - Rick Hanson, PhD | 08 Dec 2020 | 01:06:19 | |
Dr. Rick Hanson is a psychologist, Senior Fellow of UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, and New York Times bestselling author. He’s lectured at NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard, and taught in meditation centers worldwide. An expert on positive neuroplasticity, Dr. Hanson's work has been featured on the BBC, CBS, NPR, and other major media. He also founded the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom. Topics in this episode include neuroplasticity, negativity bias, the HEAL model, our internal good and bad wolves, and so-called "neurodharma." FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #59: Yoga, Zen & Tibetan Training - Cyndi Lee | 24 Nov 2020 | 00:39:35 | |
Cyndi Lee is a world-famous yoga and meditation teacher, Founder of the OM yoga center in New York, and a renowned author. Cyndi is the first female Western teacher to fully integrate yoga with Tibetan practices. She has trained thousands of yoga teachers across the world and appeared on a number of TV shows. Topics in this episode include misconceptions about yoga, some advanced breathing methods, the relationship between body and the mind, and integrating Tibetan meditation techniques. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #58: Mindset of a Navy SEAL - Commander Mark Divine | 10 Nov 2020 | 01:15:18 | |
Mark Divine is an ex-Navy SEAL Commander, serial entrepreneur, and NY Times bestselling author. Mark, a self-described "warrior monk," is a master of human performance, both mental and physical. As you'll hear he started out on Wall Street before getting into martial arts, entering the SEALs (where he was the Honor Man of his class), and starting multiple million-dollar businesses, including SEALFIT. Topics in this episode include Zen, Navy SEAL training, mental toughness, and his unique model of training that combines principles from martial arts, yoga and CrossFit. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #57: Psychedelics & Microdosing Research - Harriet De Wit, PhD | 27 Oct 2020 | 00:27:18 | |
Dr. Harriet De Wit is a Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Chicago with a PhD in Experimental Psychology. She has been researching psychoactive drugs for over 40 years. Dr. De Wit takes a cautious, scientific approach to these potent compounds. She's excited about their transformative power, but not caught up in the hype. Topics in this episode include MDMA and LSD research, microdosing, potential pitfalls, and the future of psychedelics. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com
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| #56: A Liberated Mind - Steven Hayes, PhD | 13 Oct 2020 | 01:08:34 | |
Dr. Steven Hayes is one of the most cited psychologists in the world. He was listed by the Institute for Scientific Information as the 30th “highest impact” psychologist worldwide and is the author of 46 books and nearly 650 scientific articles. His career has focused on an analysis of the nature of human language, cognition, and the application of this for the understanding and alleviation of human suffering. He's also the developer of Relational Frame Theory, an account of human higher cognition, and has guided its extension to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a popular evidence-based form of psychotherapy that uses mindfulness, acceptance, and values-based methods. In this episode, we discuss the importance of psychological flexibility, why mental suffering is optional, how our minds have created a virtual reality, theory of mind, psychedelics, lucid dreaming, utopias, and of course his famous form of psychotherapy, ACT. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com
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| #55: The Power of Habits - Gretchen Rubin | 29 Sep 2020 | 00:51:58 | |
Gretchen Rubin is the New York Times bestselling author of several books about happiness, habit and human nature. Her books, including The Four Tendencies, Better Than Before, Happier at Home, and The Happiness Project, have sold over 3.5 million copies worldwide. Gretchen also has a popular blog and podcast, called Happier. Previously, she received a law degree from Yale and clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Topics in this episode include happiness engineering, how to make and break habits, why habits are highly personal and Gretchen's four tendencies framework, willpower, and the effects of clutter on the mind.
FitMind App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #54: Brain Stimulation Technology - Jay Sanguinetti, PhD | 15 Sep 2020 | 00:57:13 | |
Dr. Jay Sanguinetti is a scientist and technologist trained in philosophy, neuroscience, and cognitive psychology. Jay's SEMA Lab is researching ways of using noninvasive brain stimulation to enhance cognitive function and wellbeing. For example, he's working with one of the world's best-known meditation masters, Shinzen Young, to create a neuromodulation device for augmenting mindfulness meditation practice. Topics in this episode include how noninvasive brain stimulation works, neural changes associated with mindfulness, and a rare disorder that led to some fascinating scientific breakthroughs.
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com
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| #52: Brain Fitness, Biofeedback & Nootropics - Andrew Hill, PhD | 18 Aug 2020 | 01:15:21 | |
Dr. Andrew Hill is a neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and biohacker. He's the Founder of Peak Brain Institute, a brain fitness center, and Lead Neuroscientist at TruBrain, a nootropics company. Dr. Hill holds a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from UCLA and is best known for his mission to bring the brain-hacking technology of neurofeedback into mainstream practice. His community-oriented company Peak Brain Institute teaches brain-training from a fitness perspective and uses EEG neurofeedback and QEEG brain mapping designed to help people enhance cognitive performance. Topics in this episode include neurofeedback, a NASA study on cat brains, how brainwaves work, debunking the stoned ape hypothesis, the "god spot" in the brain, aging well, altered states of consciousness, brain gyms, the future of neuroscience technology, and why Elon musk may be wasting his time trying to get to Mars. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.com | |||
| #51: Neurotech & PTSD with a Navy Surgeon - Dr. Erik Won | 04 Aug 2020 | 00:42:36 | |
Dr. Erik Won is a Harvard-trained doctor and the President of Wave Neuroscience, a biotechnology company developing innovative solutions for mental disorders like PTSD. Dr. Won served as a U.S. Navy Flight Surgeon for Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 and became CTO of medical at Boeing before joining Wave Neuro. He also has an MBA and has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals. In this episode, we talk about the tragedy that led to Dr. Won's interest in treating PTSD, unpack a promising technology called magnetic e-resonance therapy (MeRT), and discuss the future technology in this field. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
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| #50: Clinical Psychology, Meditation & Sleep - Tucker Peck, PhD | 21 Jul 2020 | 00:50:04 | |
Dr. Tucker Peck is a meditation teacher, clinical psychologist, and founder of Drugfreesleep.com. He holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology with a focus on the scientific study of meditation’s effects on the mind, brain, and body. Tucker began training in meditation in 2005 and has studied with Sharon Salzberg of the Insight Meditation Society and Dr. John Yates of Dharma Treasure, a previous guest on The FitMind Podcast. Tucker was awarded a research grant from the Mind and Life Institute, which he has used to study the effects of meditation on the sleeping brain. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #96: The Science of Forgiveness - Fred Luskin, PhD | 15 Nov 2024 | 01:14:58 | |
Stanford psychologist Fred Luskin, PhD, discusses the science of forgiveness, emphasizing the need to process grief as a foundation for emotional healing. He explores practical ways to teach forgiveness to children and how adults can approach societal challenges with acceptance and meaning. Luskin also introduces his 9 Steps to Forgiveness, a research-based framework for releasing resentment and fostering gratitude, offering listeners actionable tools for resilience and well-being. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Fred Luskin 3:23 | Link to 30 Days of Meditation, Science & Bliss course: https://bit.ly/30-day-course 3:33 | Forgiveness is the Forgotten Step 5:44 | Forgiveness Defined 12:30 | Resolving Grievances 16:22 | Choosing Where to Put Your Attention 18:50 | Grief Precedes Forgiveness 26:40 | Power of Forgiveness Anecdotes 38:40 | 9 Steps to Forgiveness 46:11 | Revenge is a Life Well Lived 51:49 | Repainting Your Life Picture 59:02 | Modeling Forgiveness for Children 1:06:00 | Forgiveness of Global Issues 1:10:40 | Next Steps
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| #49: How Porn Rewires the Brain - Donald Hilton, MD | 14 Jul 2020 | 01:05:15 | |
Donald Hilton, MD is a neurosurgeon and internationally recognized expert on the neuroscience of pornography. Dr. Hilton is currently listed in Best Doctors of America and serves as a clinical associate professor in the Department of Neurology at UT Medical School. He graduated summa cum laude with a degree in biology from Lamar University and cum laude with a medical degree from UT. In this episode, we discuss the magnitude of the porn problem, the neuroscience of porn addiction, and potential solutions to the issue on both personal and society-wide levels. Explicit Content Warning: Includes detailed descriptions of pornographic acts. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #48: From Businessman to Monk - Sean Fargo | 07 Jul 2020 | 00:38:27 | |
Sean Fargo is the Founder of Mindfulness Exercises, where he has taught meditation to some of the top executives in the world at companies like PG&E, Reddit, and DocuSign. Sean is a meditation instructor at Google and advisor to technology startups like Elevate Labs and WellBrain.io. He was formerly a Buddhist monk for two years and worked at the famous Spirit Rock Meditation Center with Jack Kornfield and other world-renowned meditation teachers. In this episode, we talk about how he went from being an international businessman to becoming a monk with no possessions, the details of his training as a monk, why he decided to leave and reenter the western world, and how to deal with difficult emotions. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #47: Taking Control of Your Brain - Jill Bolte Taylor, PhD | 30 Jun 2020 | 00:44:58 | |
Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor is a neuroanatomist with the 7th most viewed TED talk of all time, titled "My Stroke of Insight." She's been named by Time Magazine on a list of the 100 most influential people in the world and was the first guest on Oprah's SoulSeries show. Dr. Taylor founded the nonprofit Jill Bolte Taylor Brains, Inc. and is the national spokesperson for the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center. She received a PhD with postdoctoral studies at Harvard Medical School in the Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience. She's also the author of the bestselling book My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientists' Personal Journey. In this episode, we talk about the brain hemorrhage that led to her stroke of insight and one of the most viewed TED talks of all time, her tips for taking control of our brains, how to switch from doing mode to being mode, becoming your best self, and how consciousness works. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||
| #46: The Mind of a Memory Champion - Nelson Dellis | 16 Jun 2020 | 00:51:05 | |
4x USA Memory Champion Nelson Dellis tells us how to remember (and forget) anything. Nelson Dellis is an American memory champion, mountain climber, and consultant. He has won the USA Memory Championship four times and is an official Grandmaster of Memory (for which you must: memorize 1,000 random digits in one hour, memorize the order of 10 decks of cards in 1 hour, and memorize the order of one deck of cards in less than two minutes). Nelson runs a nonprofit, Climb 4 Memory, which helps combat Alzheimer's disease, co-founded Memory League, and authored Remember it!. As a memory athlete, he has broken several memory records, including memorizing a shuffled deck of cards in 63 seconds and memorizing 339 digits in 5 minutes. Nelson has been featured in documentaries, programs, and shows like Today, The Dr. Oz Show, and Nightline. In this episode of The FitMind Podcast, we discuss how memory works, tips for improving your memory, creating a memory palace, how to learn a language fast, speed reading and how to remember what you read, the future of brain training, his favorite brain foods, and how to forget bad memories. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind | |||