Radio Headspace

The Brain’s Amazing Ability to Change — David Eagleman Breaks It Down

Apr 27, 2025
David Eagleman, a renowned Stanford neuroscientist and author, explores the incredible concept of neuroplasticity. He discusses how our brains adapt and change throughout life, emphasizing the significance of mental flexibility and embracing novelty. Eagleman illustrates brain resilience through riveting case studies and details how learning evolves with age. He also highlights the interplay between subconscious mechanisms and conscious experiences, urging us to strengthen our brain health by seeking new challenges and experiences.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Half Brain Removal Goes Well

  • A boy with Rasmussen's encephalitis had half his brain removed and still functioned well cognitively.
  • This illustrates the brain's extraordinary ability to adapt and rewire itself even after such drastic changes.
INSIGHT

Brain Plasticity as Live Wiring

  • Brain plasticity means the brain constantly changes and reshapes itself throughout life.
  • David Eagleman calls this "live wiring" as neurons reconnect and seek new connections continually.
ADVICE

Mindfulness Focuses Inward

  • Mindfulness turns attention inward and helps limit distracting external stimuli.
  • Meditation changes brain response so sensory input activates sensory areas but does not spread elsewhere.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app