In a captivating discussion, Dmitri Chklovskii, head of the Neural Circuits and Algorithms lab at the Flatiron Institute, reveals how neurons are far more than just passive processors. He argues that these 'smart' cells actively influence their inputs, reshaping our understanding of brain function. The conversation dives into the complexities of the C. elegans connectome, uncovering its significance for neural communication. Chklovskii also challenges traditional neuroscience by exploring how feedback mechanisms and spike timing shape learning and behavior.