Gül Dölen, a neuroscientist from UC Berkeley, dives into the fascinating world of critical periods in brain development. She reveals how certain life stages allow for rapid learning, akin to a sponge soaking up knowledge. Dölen discusses the groundbreaking potential of psychedelics like MDMA to reopen these critical windows, offering hope for PTSD recovery and even stroke rehabilitation. She makes captivating connections between childhood learning and adult mystical experiences, sparking curiosity about the brain's hidden abilities.