Science Savvy – Details, episodes & analysis

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Science Savvy

fairleycarmen9

Science

Frequency: 1 episode/21d. Total Eps: 25

Welcome to Science Savvy, where I, Carmen Fairley, leverage my background in Pharmacology and Biomedical Engineering to explore the extraordinary science behind everyday life. I want you to fall in love with science like I did, and realise it doesn't have to be inaccessible jargon. We cover topics from interviews with researchers at the forefront of healthcare, through to mental health, and even topics around love, friendship, and family, to help YOU see that cool science is EVERYWHERE. New episodes every two Fridays. Follow now and never miss an episode!

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https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910212
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https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422
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https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-22354-2
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34852810
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38791331
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547742/
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[Pilot] How Our Brains Predict and Shape Everyday Life

Episode 1

Saturday, October 5, 2024 • Duration 24:46

This is one of our early episodes. We shared a mic and the audio is a bit raw, so feel free to check out our latest episodes for a more polished experience.

Welcome to the first episode of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how our brains work as prediction machines to help us make sense of the world around us. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind how the brain constantly anticipates and adapts to everyday experiences.

This episode dives into how your brain predicts everything from the next note in a song to the social signals in a conversation. I unpack key theories in neuroscience and explain how the brain’s ability to make sense of uncertainty shapes your emotions, perceptions, and actions. If you’ve ever wondered how your brain seems to be one step ahead, this episode offers a practical and research-backed look at why prediction is at the core of everything we do.

Science Savvy is about understanding the hidden systems that guide your thoughts, your feelings, and your health. If you're curious about how your brain works and how that knowledge can empower your everyday life, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Barrett, L. F. (2017). The theory of constructed emotion: An active inference account of interoception and categorization. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 12(1), 1-23. https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsw154 Friston, K. (2005). A theory of cortical responses. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 360(1456), 815-836. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2005.1622 Barbas, H. (2015). Generalization of the prefrontal cortex in primates: Principles and prediction models. Progress in Brain Research, 219, 27-47. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.03.001 Kilford, E. J., Garrett, E., & Blakemore, S. J. (2017). The development of social cognition in adolescence: An integrated perspective. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 70, 106-120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.08.016 Redgrave, P., & Gurney, K. (2006). The short-latency dopamine signal: A role in discovering novel actions? Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(12), 967-975. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2022 Schultz, W. (2016). Dopamine reward prediction error coding. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 18(1), 23-32. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2016.18.1/wschultz Ito, M. (2008). Control of mental activities by internal models in the cerebellum. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(4), 304-313. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2332 Buckner, R. L. (2010). The role of the hippocampus in prediction and imagination. Annual Review of Psychology, 61, 27-48. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.psych.60.110707.163508 Schapiro, A. C., Turk-Browne, N. B., Botvinick, M. M., & Norman, K. A. (2017). Complementary learning systems within the hippocampus: A neural network modeling approach to memory consolidation. Hippocampus, 27(3), 244-256. https://doi.org/10.1002/hipo.22675 Rao, R. P. N., & Ballard, D. H. (1999). Predictive coding in the visual cortex: A functional interpretation of some extra-classical receptive-field effects. Nature Neuroscience, 2(1), 79-87. https://doi.org/10.1038/4580 Morris, R. G. (2006). Elements of a neurobiological theory of the hippocampus: The role of synaptic plasticity, synaptic tagging, and schemas. The European Journal of Neuroscience, 23(11), 2829-2846. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.04888.x Fiorillo, C. D., Tobler, P. N., & Schultz, W. (2003). Discrete coding of reward probability and uncertainty by dopamine neurons. Science, 299(5614), 1898-1902. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1077349 Behrens, T. E., Hunt, L. T., Woolrich, M. W., & Rushworth, M. F. S. (2008). Associative learning of social value. Nature, 456(7219), 245-249. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature07538 Powers, A. R., Mathys, C., & Corlett, P. R. (2017). Pavlovian conditioning–induced hallucinations result from overweighting of perceptual priors. Science, 357(6351), 596-600. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aan3458 Pellicano, E., & Burr, D. (2012). When the world becomes ‘too real’: A Bayesian explanation of autistic perception. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 16(10), 504-510. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2012.08.009 Friston, K. J., Shiner, T., FitzGerald, T., Galea, J. M., Adams, R., Brown, H., Dolan, R. J., Moran, R., Stephan, K. E., & Bestmann, S. (2012). Dopamine, affordance, and active inference. PLoS Computational Biology, 8(1), e1002327. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1002327 Griffiths, T. L., Lieder, F., & Goodman, N. D. (2015). Rational use of cognitive resources: Levels of analysis between the computational and the algorithmic. Topics in Cognitive Science, 7(2), 217-229. https://doi.org/10.1111/tops.12142 Wang, X.-J., & Krystal, J. H. (2014). Computational psychiatry. Neuron, 84(3), 638-654. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2014.10.018 Clark, A. (2013). Whatever next? Predictive brains, situated agents, and the future of cognitive science. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 36(3), 181-204. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0140525X12000477 Ma, W. J., Beck, J. M., Latham, P. E., & Pouget, A. (2006). Bayesian inference with probabilistic population codes. Nature Neuroscience, 9(11), 1432-1438. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn1790

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Periods - Why Can’t Mother Nature Just Text Me I'm Not Pregnant?

Episode 2

Tuesday, October 15, 2024 • Duration 19:56

In this episode of Science Savvy, we tackle one of the most common yet least understood experiences in women’s health: why do we get periods. From evolutionary theories to hormonal rollercoasters, I explore the biology and history behind menstruation and the science that underlies symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and acne. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down why periods exist in the first place and what they can reveal about your health.

We look at the theories around menstruation as a defense mechanism, the evolution of concealed ovulation, and how different phases of the cycle impact your brain, energy levels, and even your creativity. Whether you’re curious about how your body works or want to better align your lifestyle with your cycle, this episode offers practical insights grounded in biology and evolutionary science.

Science Savvy is here to help you understand your body and brain through a scientific lens. If you’re ready to work with your cycle instead of against it, this episode is for you.

Further reading and references:

Profet, M. (1993). Menstruation as a defense against pathogens transported by sperm. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 68(3), 335-386. Strassmann, B. I. (1996). The evolution of endometrial cycles and menstruation. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 71(2), 181-220. Pawlowski, B. (1999). Loss of oestrus and concealed ovulation in human evolution: The case against the sexual-selection hypothesis. Current Anthropology, 40(3), 257-275. Emera, D., Romero, R., & Wagner, G. (2012). The evolution of menstruation: A new model for genetic assimilation. BioEssays, 34(1), 26-35. Hillard, P. J. A., & Speroff, L. (2019). Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility. Wolters Kluwer Health. Miller, G., Tybur, J. M., & Jordan, B. D. (2007). Ovulatory cycle effects on tip earnings by lap dancers: Economic evidence for human estrus. Evolution and Human Behavior, 28(6), 375-381. Haselton, M. G., & Gildersleeve, K. (2011). Can men detect ovulation. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 20(2), 87-92. Johnson, S., Marriott, L., & Zinaman, M. (2018). Accuracy of an online fertility tracker. Journal of Women's Health, 27(4), 435-442. Wilcox, A. J., Weinberg, C. R., & Baird, D. D. (1995). Timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation. The New England Journal of Medicine, 333(23), 1517-1521. Yang, Z., & Schank, J. C. (2006). Women do not synchronize their menstrual cycles. Human Nature, 17(4), 433-447. Frank-Herrmann, P., et al. (2007). The effectiveness of a fertility awareness-based method to avoid pregnancy in relation to a couple's sexual behavior during the fertile time. Human Reproduction, 22(5), 1310-1319. Berglund Scherwitzl, E., et al. (2017). Fertility awareness-based mobile application for contraception. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care, 22(5), 365-373.

Who the F*!k am I? Science of Consciousness & Self-Awareness

Episode 7

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 • Duration 26:57

Welcome to the Consciousness episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore what it really means to be conscious and how self-awareness shapes who we are. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind consciousness and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.

This episode covers everything from classic philosophical ideas like Descartes’ “I think, therefore I am” to modern neuroscience frameworks such as Crick’s Astonishing Hypothesis and Tononi’s information integration theory. We explore how brain chemistry, genetics, and personal experience come together to influence identity, self-esteem, and the feeling of being a self at all. Whether you’re curious about how the brain creates your sense of self or interested in the science behind awareness and emotion, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Crick, F. (1994). The Astonishing Hypothesis: The Scientific Search for the Soul. Scribner. Chalmers, D. J. (1995). Facing up to the problem of consciousness. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 2(3), 200-219. Tononi, G. (2004). An information integration theory of consciousness. BMC Neuroscience, 5(42). Koch, C., Massimini, M., Boly, M., & Tononi, G. (2016). Neural correlates of consciousness: progress and problems. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 17(5), 307-321. Northoff, G., Heinzel, A., de Greck, M., Bermpohl, F., Dobrowolny, H., & Panksepp, J. (2006). Self-referential processing in our brain. NeuroImage, 31(1), 440-457. Lieberman, M. D., & Eisenberger, N. I. (2009). Pains and pleasures of social life. Science, 323(5916), 890-891. Panksepp, J. (1998). Affective Neuroscience: The Foundations of Human and Animal Emotions. Oxford University Press.

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You Are What You Eat: The Gut Microbiome Shapes Mood, Health, and Behavior

Episode 8

Tuesday, November 26, 2024 • Duration 33:41

Welcome to the Gut Health episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how your gut microbiome does so much more than support digestion. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind the gut-brain connection and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.

This episode covers how gut bacteria influence your mood, mental health, immune function, and even decision-making. I share fascinating research on the relationship between the microbiome and depression, explain the biological pathways linking your gut to your brain, and offer practical tips for improving gut health through diet and lifestyle. Whether you're curious about probiotics, interested in the science of mood, or simply want to understand your body better, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Bercik, P., & Collins, S. M. (2014). The effects of the microbiota on the central nervous system and behavioral disorders. Gastroenterology, 146(6), 1449-1458. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2014.02.037 Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2012). Mind-altering microorganisms: The impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 13(10), 701-712. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3346 Foster, J. A., Rinaman, L., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). Stress and the gut-brain axis: Regulation by the microbiome. Neurobiology of Stress, 7, 124-136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ynstr.2017.03.001 Mayer, E. A., Padua, D., & Tillisch, K. (2014). Altered brain-gut axis in autism: Comorbidity or causative mechanisms. BioEssays, 36(10), 933-939. https://doi.org/10.1002/bies.201400075 Clarke, G., Stilling, R. M., Kennedy, P. J., Stanton, C., Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2014). Minireview: Gut microbiota: The neglected endocrine organ. Molecular Endocrinology, 28(8), 1221-1238. https://doi.org/10.1210/me.2014-1108 Sampson, T. R., & Mazmanian, S. K. (2015). Control of brain development, function, and behavior by the microbiome. Cell Host & Microbe, 17(5), 565-576. O'Mahony, S. M., Clarke, G., Dinan, T. G., & Cryan, J. F. (2015). Early-life adversity and brain development: Is the microbiome a missing piece of the puzzle. Neuroscience, 342, 37-54. Ridaura, V. K., et al. (2013). Gut microbiota from twins discordant for obesity modulate metabolism in mice. Science, 341(6150), 1241214. Dash, S., Clarke, G., Berk, M., & Jacka, F. N. (2015). The gut microbiome and diet in psychiatry: Focus on depression. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 28(1), 1-6. Madra, M., & Ringel, Y. (2015). The role of probiotics in treating irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, 44(1), 159-175. Jacka, F. N., et al. (2017). A randomized controlled trial of dietary improvement for adults with major depression (the SMILES trial). BMC Medicine, 15, 23. Staudacher, H. M., et al. (2017). Probiotic and prebiotic mechanisms to improve mental health via the gut-brain axis. Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 38, 69-77. Kong, X., et al. (2020). Probiotics supplementation during antibiotic treatment reduces the risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 115(6), 921-929. Mills, J. P., et al. (2017). The impact of cesarean delivery on the diversity of the infant gut microbiome. Microbial Ecology in Health & Disease, 28(1), 13777.

Wired for Wonder: Neuroscience of Creativity

Episode 6

Tuesday, December 10, 2024 • Duration 30:09

Welcome to the Creativity episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the science behind creative thinking and how the brain fuels imagination. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind creativity and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.

This episode covers the roles of the prefrontal cortex and default mode network, the surprising impact of dopamine on creative flow, and how certain brain states enhance idea generation. Joined by my friend Alicia, an artist and entrepreneur with a background in psychology, we look at how both science and lived experience shape creative expression. Whether you’re an artist, a science enthusiast, or just curious about where great ideas come from, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Adnan, A., Beaty, R., Silvia, P., Spreng, R. N., & Turner, G. R. (2019). Creative aging: Functional brain networks associated with divergent thinking in older and younger adults. Neurobiology of Aging, 75, 150–158. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.11.004 Kulisevsky, J., Pagonabarraga, J., & Martinez-Corral, M. (2009). Changes in artistic style and behaviour in Parkinson's disease: Dopamine and creativity. Journal of Neurology, 256(5), 816–819. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-009-5001-1 Weinberger, A. B., Green, A. E., & Chrysikou, E. G. (2017). Using transcranial direct current stimulation to enhance creative cognition: Interactions between task, polarity, and stimulation site. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 11, 246. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2017.00246 Chi, R. P., & Snyder, A. W. (2012). Brain stimulation enables the solution of an inherently difficult problem. Neuroscience Letters, 515(2), 121–124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neulet.2012.03.012

Attention, Please: What ADHD Can Teach Us About the Brain

Episode 10

Tuesday, December 24, 2024 • Duration 38:47

Welcome to the ADHD episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore what it really means to live with ADHD and how science is reshaping the way we understand it. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind attention, dopamine, and neurodiversity, and unpack how it all shows up in everyday life.

This episode covers how neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine influence focus, what makes ADHD more of a difference than a deficit, and how modern life and social media interact with attention challenges. I’m joined by my brother Alex, who has ADHD, for a candid and personal conversation about medication, coping strategies, creativity, and hyperfocus. Whether you’re navigating ADHD yourself, supporting someone who is, or just curious about how attention works, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Lee, Y. C., et al. (2022). Effects of mindfulness-based interventions in children and adolescents with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(22), 15198. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-011-9457-0 Arnsten, A. F. T. (2009). The emerging neurobiology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: The key role of the prefrontal association cortex. The Journal of Pediatrics, 154(5), I-S43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpeds.2009.01.018 Volkow, N. D., & Swanson, J. M. (2013). Clinical practice: Adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. The New England Journal of Medicine, 369(20), 1935-1944. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMcp1212625 Faraone, S. V., Biederman, J., & Mick, E. (2006). The age-dependent decline of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis of follow-up studies. Psychological Medicine, 36(2), 159-165. Swanson, J. M., & Volkow, N. D. (2002). Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of medications for ADHD: A review of stimulant and nonstimulant formulations. Molecular Psychiatry, 8(7), 252-264. Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: A review of empirical studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(6), 1041-1056. Wiklund, J., Yu, W., Tucker, R., & Marino, L. D. (2017). ADHD, impulsivity, and entrepreneurship. Journal of Business Venturing, 32(6), 627-656. White, H. A., & Shah, P. (2011). Creative style and achievement in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Personality and Individual Differences, 50(5), 673-677. Armstrong, T. (2010). The Power of Neurodiversity: Unleashing the Advantages of Your Differently Wired Brain. Da Capo Press. Ashinoff, B. K., & Abu-Akel, A. (2021). Hyperfocus: The forgotten frontier of attention. Psychological Research, 85, 1-19.

All you need is LOVE

Episode 12

Saturday, January 4, 2025 • Duration 31:13

Welcome to the Love episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the biology behind one of humanity’s most powerful emotions. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind love and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.

This episode covers the three stages of love known as lust, attraction, and attachment. Together with my friend Alejandra, we explore how hormones like oxytocin, vasopressin, dopamine, and cortisol shape our connections and influence everything from butterflies to heartbreak. We also look at the brain’s response to emotional bonding and the evolutionary reasons behind long-term partnerships. Whether you're curious about how love works, why it hurts when it ends, or how biology fuels connection, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Sharma, S. R., Gonda, X., Dome, P., & Tarazi, F. I. (2020). What's love got to do with it: Role of oxytocin in trauma, attachment, and resilience. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 214, 107602. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107602 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 Stein, D. J., & Vythilingum, B. (2009). Love and attachment: The psychobiology of social bonding. CNS Spectrums, 14(5), 239-242. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1092852900025384 Acevedo, B. P., Poulin, M. J., Collins, N. L., & Brown, L. L. (2020). After the honeymoon: Neural and genetic correlates of romantic love in newlywed marriages. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 634. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00634

The Science of Friendship: Giggles, Bonding, and Learning

Episode 11

Saturday, January 4, 2025 • Duration 27:34

In this episode of Science Savvy, I’m joined by my best friend of ten years, Dasha, to explore the science behind long-term friendship. With warmth, laughter, and a healthy dose of evidence-based insight, we look at how your brain syncs up with your closest companions, why oxytocin makes you feel safe and connected, and how staying close to your friends can actually support your physical health and longevity.

We discuss how friendship shapes the brain, buffers stress, and even extends lifespan. Whether you're curious about how social bonds work or simply love your bestie and want to know why it matters, this episode is packed with heart and science.

Science Savvy is about uncovering the biology behind the relationships, habits, and emotions that define our lives. If you're ready to understand how your friendships literally change your brain, this episode is for you.

Further reading and references:

Dunbar, R. I. M. (2018). Friends: Understanding the Power of Our Most Important Relationships. Little, Brown Spark. Parkinson, C., Kleinbaum, A. M., & Wheatley, T. (2018). Similar neural responses predict friendship. Nature Communications. Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine. Lieberman, M. D. (2013). Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect. Crown Publishers. Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin. Lunn, N. (2021). Conversations on Love. Viking. Holt-Lunstad, J. (2018). Why social relationships are important for physical health: A systems approach to understanding and modifying risk and protection. Annual Review of Psychology. Haslam, C., & Jetten, J. (2014). Social connectedness and health in older adults. Journal of Aging and Health. Roberts, S. G., & Dunbar, R. I. (2011). Communication in social networks: Effects of kinship, network size, and emotional closeness. Personal Relationships. Langan, K. A., & Purvis, J. M. (2020). Long-distance friendship maintenance: An application of expectancy violation theory and the investment model. Current Opinion in Psychology.

Make 2025 your b!tch: Brain hacks to build lasting habits

Episode 9

Tuesday, January 7, 2025 • Duration 29:48

Welcome to the New Year Habits episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how to build better routines using neuroscience-backed strategies. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind focus, motivation, and habit formation, and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.

This episode covers how dopamine drives reinforcement, how your prefrontal cortex shapes goal setting, and how small actions can rewire your brain over time. I share five practical, research-based strategies to help you start small, reward progress, build flexibility, embrace accountability, and make decisions in advance. Whether you're trying to build healthier routines, stay off your phone, or finally stick to a New Year's resolution, this episode offers clear and actionable insights grounded in real science.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Wise, R. A., & Jordan, C. J. (2021). Dopamine, behavior, and addiction. Journal of Biomedical Science, 28(1), 83. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12929-021-00766-5 Lauretani, F., et al. (2024). Dopamine pharmacodynamics: New insights. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(10), 5293. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105293 Berlucchi, G., & Buchtel, H. A. (2009). Neuronal plasticity: Historical roots and evolution of meaning. Experimental Brain Research, 192(3), 307–319. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00221-008-1611-6 Talpos, J., & Shoaib, M. (2015). Executive function. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, 228, 191–213. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16522-6_7

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Lasting habits I think you should build or Neuroplasticity 101

Episode 15

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 • Duration 33:39

Welcome to the Neuroplasticity episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the incredible adaptability of the brain and what it means for learning, healing, and growth. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind neuroplasticity and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.

This episode covers the story of JJ, a boy who was born missing key brain structures but still outperformed his peers academically. We use his story to explore how the brain can rewire itself under extraordinary conditions and what that means for you. I also discuss the role of social interaction, sleep, oxytocin, exercise, and gut health in shaping brain function. Whether you're navigating a personal challenge, looking to boost your cognitive abilities, or simply want to understand how resilient your brain really is, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.

Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.

Further reading and references:

Zhao, J.-L., Jiang, W.-T., Wang, X., Cai, Z.-D., Liu, Z.-H., & Liu, G.-R. (2020). Exercise, brain plasticity, and depression. CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, 26(9), 885–895. https://doi.org/10.1111/cns.13395 Damiani, F., Cornuti, S., & Tognini, P. (2023). The gut-brain connection: Exploring the influence of the gut microbiota on neuroplasticity and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neuropharmacology, 109491. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109491 Rojczyk, A., Dziewanowska, A., & Maryniak, A. (2020). When the brain looks imperfect: An example of neuroplasticity as seen in a patient with arachnoid cysts—a case study. Frontiers in Neurology, 11, 567. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2020.00567 Gulyaeva, N. V. (2017). Molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity: An expanding universe. Biochemistry (Moscow), 82(3), 237–242. https://doi.org/10.1134/S0006297917030013 Balouch, S., Rifaat, E., Chen, H. L., & Tabet, N. (2019). Social networks and loneliness in people with Alzheimer’s dementia. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 34(5), 666–673. Ma, Y. H., Wang, Y. Y., Tan, L., et al. (2021). Social networks and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 81(1), 263–272. Sachdev, P. S. (2022). Social health, social reserve, and dementia. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 35(2), 111–117. J Neurosci. (2021). Enriched environment promotes adult hippocampal neurogenesis through FGFRs. Journal of Neuroscience, 41(13), 2899–2910. Enriched environment increases neurogenesis and improves social memory persistence in socially isolated adult mice. Journal: Unspecified. Neurobiology of Aging. (2023). Adulthood cognitive trajectories over 26 years and brain health at 70 years of age. Leuner, B., Caponiti, J. M., & Gould, E. (2012). Oxytocin stimulates hippocampal neurogenesis via oxytocin receptor expressed in CA3 pyramidal neurons. Nature Communications, 8(1), 537. Sanchez-Vidaña, D. I., & Chan, A. M. (2012). Oxytocin stimulates adult neurogenesis even under conditions of stress and elevated glucocorticoids. Hippocampus, 22(4), 861–868. Sleep. (2021). Adult hypothalamic neurogenesis and sleep-wake dysfunction in aging. Sleep, 44(2), zsaa173. Wang, L. Y., et al. (2017). Sleep and hippocampal neurogenesis: Implications for Alzheimer's disease. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 45, 35–52. Schoch, H., et al. (2019). Memory consolidation during sleep and adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Neural Regeneration Research, 14(1), 20–23. Koehl, M., & Abrous, D. N. (2015). Sleep and adult neurogenesis: Implications for cognition and mood. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, 25, 151–181.

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Science Savvy – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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PubMed4

ncbi.nlm.nih1

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

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Other99+

PubMed4

ncbi.nlm.nih1

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