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The FitMind Podcast: Mental Fitness, Neuroscience & Psychology

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FitMind: Neuroscience, Meditation & Mental Fitness Training

Expert insights on the science of mental fitness. Topics include psychology, neuroscience, mental health, mindfulness meditation, productivity, brain technologies, Stoicism, happiness hacking, and more. Liam McClintock, the Founder of FitMind, talks with leaders in their fields, from neuroscientists and psychologists to Buddhist monks and professional athletes. At FitMind, we believe that the next great human frontier is the mind. FitMind combines ancient techniques with western psychology to provide mental fitness training that is taught at Fortune 500 companies, addiction centers, schools, government organizations, and on the FitMind meditation app. Liam McClintock received a B.A. from Yale and worked in finance before traveling to Asia to study meditation full-time. He is currently completing an MS in Applied Neuroscience at King’s College London. Liam is an RYS Certified Yoga & Meditation Instructor and has trained in various meditation styles. He has been featured in Time, Vice, Daily Mail, Cosmopolitan, NBC, and Men’s Health.

#88

#97: Predictive Processing & Ultimate Wellbeing - Shamil Chandaria, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: <a href= "http://www.fitmind.com/">www.fitmind.org</a> 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 ... Read more

17 Dec 2024

1 HR 18 MINS

1:18:57

17 Dec 2024

#87

#96: The Science of Forgiveness - Fred Luskin, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.org] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

15 Nov 2024

1 HR 14 MINS

1:14:58

15 Nov 2024

#86

#95: Mental Wellness & Monk Training - Andrew Litchy, ND

In this episode, Dr. Andrew Litchy recounts his journey from life as a monk to becoming a naturopathic doctor. He shares his insights on how meditation helped him manage ADHD and how it has become integral to both his personal life and professional practice. The conversation spans topics from the daily life of a monk and the experience of ordination to practical tips on integrating mindfulness into a busy life. Dr. Litchy also discusses practical strategies for training the mind in a hectic world and provides top wellness tips, making this episode a rich resource for anyone interested in meditation and holistic health. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.org] (http://www.fitmind.com/) Show Notes 0:00 | Introduction to Andrew Litchy 9:02 | ADHD in Meditation 12:18 | How Meditation Clicked 13:25 | Straight Mindful Vipassana 19:05 | Jhanas Defined 23:42 | Experience of Ordaining as a Monk 27:40 | Day in the Life of a Monk 45:25 | From Monk to Med School 47:20 | Study on Meditation and HRV 55:20 | How to Train the Mind in a Busy Life 1:02:14 | Sticky Notes 1:10:17 | Homebase for the Mind 1:13:32 | “Waking From the Dream” 1:21:10 | Time Is a Construct 1:25:44 | Meditation Training for Children 1:31:05 | Top Wellness Tips 1:36:40 | Most Common Problems Treated in a Naturopathic Doctor’s Office ... Read more

06 Aug 2024

1 HR 47 MINS

1:47:13

06 Aug 2024

#85

#94: Exploring Consciousness & Deep Awareness - Doug Kraft

How does the mind shape our reality? What happens when the conceptual mind turns off? The answers might be found in the depths of meditation. Doug Kraft has delved into the complexities of the mind from various perspectives: as a psychotherapist, writer, minister, meditation teacher, and through the lenses of bio-energetics and neuroscience. In this episode, we discuss consciousness and the mind's role in constructing our reality. We explore how to train our brains to achieve lasting contentment. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.org] (http://www.fitmind.com/) SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Introduction to Doug Kraft 1:20 | Home Retreat Experience 8:15 | Dependent Origination 14:23 | What is Consciousness? 23:31 | How the Mind Constructs Reality 36:24 | The Man Who Lost $100,000 45:04 | Exercise for Glimpsing Deep Awareness 47:48 | Practice Insight - Redirecting Attention LINKS ---Doug's website: <a href= "https://easingawake.com/">https://easingawake.com/</a> ---Doug's retreat talks: <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DutrLDZo1Yk&t=2403s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DutrLDZo1Yk&t=2403s</a> ... Read more

02 Jul 2024

59 MINS

59:43

02 Jul 2024

#84

#93: Neuroplasticity, Meditation & the Predictive Brain - Ruben Laukkonen, PhD

How does the brain work at its deepest levels? And to what extent can we radically upgrade it, creating neuroplastic changes? Ruben Laukkonen, PhD is a cognitive neuroscientist, contemplative, speaker, and poet. His eclectic background includes competing semi-professionally in Muay Thai Kickboxing, founding two businesses (including the first online market for bitcoin in Australia), and intensive meditation training. Dr. Laukkonen is currently a principal investigator and lecturer at Southern Cross University and holds honorary fellowships at VU Amsterdam and The University of Queensland. He uses methods such as behavior, neuroimaging, machine learning, and phenomenology to empirically investigate some of the rarest states of human consciousness. This episode is a full tour of the mind, including a deep dive into some of those rare states of consciousness and what they reveal about achieving the highest levels of human happiness. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com) SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Introduction to Ruben Laukkonen, PhD 2:02 | Early Experience 10:45 | How the Mind Makes Itself 22:18 | Predictive Processing & Agitation 25:30 | Why There's Always Something Wrong 31:28 | Chain of Causality in the Mind 36:00 | The Mind Rebuilding After Deepest Levels of Meditation 38:25 | Meditation for Reconditioning the Mind 52:06 | Doing Nothing Very Well 53:14 | Stages of Meditation & Predictive Processing 1:08:28 | Cessation & Awakening Research 1:17:12 | Jhanas - Stages of Deconstruction 1:24:22 | Rapid Fire Questions LINKS ---<a href= "https://rubenlaukkonen.com/">https://rubenlaukkonen.com</a> ---<a href= "https://fitmind.com/give">https://fitmind.com/give</a> ... Read more

06 Sep 2022

1 HR 31 MINS

1:31:22

06 Sep 2022

#83

#91: The Science of Creativity & Imagination - Anna Abraham, PhD

Dr. Anna Abraham is a psychologist and neuroscientist who investigates creativity and how we can optimize this key trait. She’s also a leading scholar on the study of human imagination. On this episode, we discuss the key ingredients of a creative mind, how to become more creative, and how the brain can tell the difference between real and imaginary worlds. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com) SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Anna Abraham, PhD 1:44 | Imagination More Important Than Knowledge? 4:45 | Imagination Defined 7:53 | How We Experience Real vs. Imaginary Worlds 17:20 | Fiction Crossing Into Reality 21:35 | Overlap of Memory & Imagination 29:28 | Ingredients of a Creative Mind 42:08 | Ways to Build Creativity 48:35 | Predictors of Creativity 58:12 | Rapid Fire Questions ... Read more

21 Jun 2022

1 HR 02 MINS

1:02:21

21 Jun 2022

#82

#90: Master of Sleep - Nick Littlehales

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

17 May 2022

50 MINS

50:22

17 May 2022

#81

#89: Consciousness, Perception & Reality - Donald Hoffman, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com) 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 | <a href= "https://livestream.com/accounts/5587887/italy2017/videos/163120094"> Conversation with the Dalai Lama</a> (starting at 54:40) 30:15 | Reality Transcends Concepts 36:39 | Questioning Beliefs 38:56 | A New Worldview 45:04 | <a href= "https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00577/full"> Mathematical Theory of Consciousness</a> 45:39 | Rapid Fire Questions ... Read more

19 Apr 2022

50 MINS

50:56

19 Apr 2022

#80

#88: Profound States of Mind - Andrew Holecek

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com) 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 ... Read more

15 Mar 2022

1 HR 07 MINS

1:07:45

15 Mar 2022

#79

#87: The Future of the Brain - Miguel Nicolelis, MD, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

15 Feb 2022

1 HR 03 MINS

1:03:43

15 Feb 2022

#78

#86: The Science of Spontaneity - Edward Slingerland, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

18 Jan 2022

45 MINS

45:32

18 Jan 2022

#77

#85: Neuromagic & Illusion - Stephen Macknik, PhD & Susana Martinez-Conde, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

04 Jan 2022

54 MINS

54:07

04 Jan 2022

#76

#84: The Brain of a Mental Olympian - Elena Antonova, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com) 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 ... Read more

21 Dec 2021

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:26

21 Dec 2021

#75

#83: Origins of the Mind - Antonio Damasio, MD, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

07 Dec 2021

48 MINS

48:08

07 Dec 2021

#74

#82: Sleep & Dreams - Sidarta Ribeiro, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: <a href= "http://www.fitmind.com/">www.fitmind.com</a> 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 ... Read more

23 Nov 2021

57 MINS

57:23

23 Nov 2021

#73

#81: Mind Control & Brain-Computer Interfaces - Ramses Alcaide, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

09 Nov 2021

46 MINS

46:28

09 Nov 2021

#72

#80: The Power of Focus - Amishi Jha, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) 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 ... Read more

26 Oct 2021

49 MINS

49:59

26 Oct 2021

#71

#79: Pain & Placebo - Apkar V. Apkarian, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

12 Oct 2021

52 MINS

52:54

12 Oct 2021

#70

#78: Neuroscience, Consciousness & Nonduality - James Cooke, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

28 Sep 2021

55 MINS

55:51

28 Sep 2021

#69

#77: The Science of Compassion - Shauna Shapiro, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

14 Sep 2021

41 MINS

41:23

14 Sep 2021

#68

#76: Peak Performance Mindset - Elliot Roe

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

31 Aug 2021

48 MINS

48:10

31 Aug 2021

#67

#75: The Stoic Philosophy - Massimo Pigliucci, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

17 Aug 2021

1 HR 02 MINS

1:02:20

17 Aug 2021

#66

#74: Sublime Qualities of Mind - Sharon Salzberg

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

03 Aug 2021

44 MINS

44:16

03 Aug 2021

#65

#73: Hacking of the Human Mind - Robert Lustig, MD, MSL

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

20 Jul 2021

49 MINS

49:34

20 Jul 2021

#64

#72: Altered States, Shamanism & Beliefs - Roger Walsh, MD, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

06 Jul 2021

1 HR 00 MINS

1:00:59

06 Jul 2021

#63

#71: The Distraction Crisis & Brain-Enhancing Tools - Adam Gazzaley, MD, PhD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

15 Jun 2021

51 MINS

51:39

15 Jun 2021

#62

#70: Your Microbiome & the Gut-Brain Connection - Robynne Chutkan, MD

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

27 Apr 2021

54 MINS

54:49

27 Apr 2021

#61

#69: Mental Energy & Taoist Sex - Mantak Chia

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: <a href= "http://bit.ly/afitmind">http://bit.ly/afitmind</a> Website: [www.fitmind.com] (http://www.fitmind.com/) ... Read more

13 Apr 2021

41 MINS

41:41