Something You Should Know

The Science of Memory Manipulation & Why Wildlife is Invading Neighborhoods

35 snips
Dec 18, 2025
Steve Ramirez, a neuroscientist at Boston University, reveals fascinating insights into memory manipulation, explaining how our recollections can be intentionally altered to enhance mental health. He discusses how memories are reconstructed over time and the implications for those with dementia. Randi Minetor, a nature writer, dives into the increase of wildlife encounters in neighborhoods, highlighting how human expansion into animal habitats and food sources make animals bolder. She offers practical tips for safely coexisting with wildlife.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ADVICE

Prevent Common Household Fires

  • Avoid leaving pots and pans unattended; cooking is the leading cause of house fires.
  • Fix risky household habits like wrong-wattage bulbs, loose batteries, dusty vents, and unmaintained chimneys to reduce fire risk.
INSIGHT

Memory Is Rewritten Each Recall

  • Memories are reconstructive and change each time we recall them.
  • Scientists can now selectively alter specific memories in lab animals, challenging our definition of the past.
INSIGHT

Why Scientists Change Memories

  • Researchers manipulate memories to understand how memory works and to restore brain health.
  • Turning memories up or down could treat psychiatric disorders by altering emotional intensity.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app