Ologies with Alie Ward Mnemonology (MEMORY) Part 1 with Michael Yassa
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Dec 4, 2024 
Dr. Michael Yassa, a neurobiologist and director at UC Irvine’s Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, dives into the mysteries of memory. He discusses how memories are formed, stored, and occasionally forgotten, while debunking common myths. Listeners learn about childbirth amnesia, the effects of cramming for tests, and why you might forget a word at the worst time. Yassa also touches on neurotransmitters' roles in memory, exploring how emotional experiences shape recall and even examining extraordinary conditions like hyperthymesia.
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Memory Complaints and Misconceptions
- People frequently discuss their poor memory with Michael Yassa after learning he is a neuroscientist.
- Some even ask about memories being stored outside the brain, a notion Yassa refutes based on current scientific understanding.
Tip-of-the-Tongue Phenomenon
- The "tip-of-the-tongue" phenomenon is a common, harmless occurrence caused by distractions and competing thoughts.
- It's a temporary failure to access a stored memory, often resolved when the brain quiets.
Learning and Memory Hacks
- Avoid cramming for long-term retention; spaced study sessions are more effective.
- Engage multiple senses during learning (multimodal learning) for better recall.