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Ben Rein

Neuroscientist and author of Why Brains Need Friends who studies the neurobiology of social behavior and speaks about how social connection affects stress, inflammation, and brain health.

Top 10 podcasts with Ben Rein

Ranked by the Snipd community
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97 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 4min

Why Brains Need Friends w/ Dr. Ben Rein

Dr. Ben Rein, a Stanford neuroscientist and author of *Why Brains Need Friends*, joins to explore the neurobiology of social interaction. He discusses the epidemic of loneliness and why our brains crave connection. Ben highlights the roles of oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin in making socializing rewarding. They dive into empathy training, explaining how we can increase cognitive empathy and the factors affecting our likability. Plus, he examines the downsides of virtual interactions and the impact of social media on mental health.
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69 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 1h 17min

517: Why Being Lonely Is as Deadly as Smoking – And What To Do Even If You're an Introvert | Ben Rein, PhD

This episode features Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and author of *Why Brains Need Friends*, who explores the dire consequences of social isolation. He reveals how loneliness acts like a biological stressor, increasing risks for health issues as severe as heart disease and dementia. Dr. Rein discusses the concept of a 'social diet,' emphasizing the importance of calibrating social interactions. He also highlights how pets can bolster our social health and shares insights on the dangers of relying too much on digital connections over real ones.
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28 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 55min

Ep125 "Why do brains need friends?" (with Ben Rein)

Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and author of 'Why Brains Need Friends,' dives into the fascinating world of social neuroscience. He explains why human brains crave social interaction and how isolation can trigger stress responses. The duo discusses the evolutionary roots of our need for connections and the cognitive benefits of socializing, such as building brain reserve. Rein also critiques AI chatbots as substitutes for real human interaction, addresses social media's detrimental effects on mood, and highlights the bonding power of dogs.
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14 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 60min

Neuroscientist: How To Rewire Your Brain To Feel Alive, Connected & Happy Again | Dr. Ben Rein

Dr. Ben Rein, an award-winning neuroscientist and chief science officer of the Mind Science Foundation, dives deep into the critical impact of loneliness on our health. He explains why chronic isolation can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and the neuroscience behind our brains treating solitary moments as threats. Discover the pitfalls of digital connection, practical steps to foster real relationships, and how empathy can be rewired. Plus, Ben shares insights on the profound links between social bonds and improved overall well-being.
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11 snips
May 10, 2024 • 47min

The Science of MDMA with Ben Rein

Neuroscientist Ben Rein discusses the neuroscience of empathy, psychopathy, and MDMA in the brain with Neil deGrasse Tyson. Topics include MDMA's impact on empathy, personal experiences post-9/11, transformative experiences, firefighters' empathy levels, MDMA in psychotherapy for PTSD, and the impact of social media on empathy.
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10 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 40min

Autism Insights And The Neuroscience Of Social Interactions

Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and author of *Why Brains Need Friends*, joins the discussion to explore the intricate links between social connection and health. He debunks claims connecting acetaminophen to autism, highlighting the complex genetic factors involved. The conversation reveals how isolation can lead to stress and poor health, alongside the importance of finding one's ideal level of social interaction. Additionally, Ben emphasizes that even small acts of connection can significantly enhance well-being, offering a hopeful perspective on human relationships.
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7 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 39min

"Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection" | Ben Rein

In this enlightening discussion, neuroscientist Ben Rein, an adjunct lecturer at Stanford and author of "Why Brains Need Friends," explores the critical need for social connections in maintaining our mental and physical health. He reveals how isolation, exacerbated by technology and societal divides, can increase risks of mental illness, heart disease, and dementia. Ben offers insights into the brain chemistry behind social interactions and provides practical tips for rebuilding our social 'diet' to foster better health and well-being.
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5 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 49min

SSRI-ously? Separating Fact From Fiction On SSRIs

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist and science communicator, unpacks the complexities of SSRIs, addressing their mechanisms and actual effects on mental health. He highlights the controversies surrounding their use, including misconceptions linking SSRIs to violence. The conversation touches on withdrawal symptoms, the importance of individual treatment plans, and the critical evaluation of scientific research. Through anecdotes and insights, listeners gain a balanced understanding of SSRIs in the context of depression and anxiety treatment.
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Feb 3, 2025 • 20min

Neuroscience Behind Online Hostility & Social Behaviour with Dr. Ben Rein

Dr. Ben Rein, a neuroscientist specializing in the neurobiology of social behavior, discusses the alarming effects of excessive online time on brain development. He explains how social media's design fosters hostility by stripping away crucial social cues, making negativity easier. The conversation covers the challenges of 'virtual disengagement' on empathy, the mental health implications of social media use, and practical strategies for healthier online habits. Rein emphasizes the need for mindfulness in digital interactions to nurture a more empathetic online environment.
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Apr 4, 2024 • 28min

Ep. #225: A Special Alchemy: Curiosity, Empathy & Social Media, with Dr. Ben Rein

Neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein discusses empathy, science communication, and social media. He uses TikTok and Instagram to summarize research, teach neuroscience, and debunk misinformation. The conversation highlights the unique blend of curiosity, empathy, and social media. Topics include empathy in neuroscience, combating misinformation, and the power of curiosity in informal science communication.

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