This week we're learning about hypnosis, the placebo effect, and the ways we can use the power of suggestion to our advantage with help from science journalist Erik Vance. Listen to hear Erik discuss how the placebo effect works, the ways in which we may be able to use hypnosis to help us with various ailments and issues, and why the power of suggestion is a uniquely understudied area of research.

Erik is a staff editor for the New York Times' Well section, and is the author of the book Suggestible You: The Curious Science of Your Brain's Ability o Deceive, Transform, and Heal.

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A government minister spreading conspiracy theories