Neuroscientists Kimberly Noble, Adriana Galván, Sandrine Thuret, and Lisa Mosconi explore how the brain develops and evolves throughout each stage of life. They discuss the rapid development of a child's brain, the impact of technology on brain development, promoting neurogenesis and brain health in adults, and understanding women's brain health and hormonal changes.

Original broadcast date: March 5, 2021. In each stage of life, our brains morph and change. This hour, TED speakers explore pivotal chapters where the brain can either flourish or decline – and what control we might have over brain health. Guests include neuroscientists Kimberly Noble, Adriana Galván, Sandrine Thuret, and Lisa Mosconi.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Neuroscientists Kimberly Noble, Adriana Galván, Sandrine Thuret, and Lisa Mosconi dive into the fascinating dynamics of brain development across life stages. They explore how socioeconomic factors and early experiences shape children's cognitive growth, emphasizing the urgent need for societal action. The conversation also uncovers the ongoing process of neurogenesis in adulthood and how lifestyle choices influence brain health. Additionally, they address the unique challenges women face during menopause and the importance of supportive interventions for cognitive well-being.

Neuroscientists Kimberly Noble, Adriana Galván, Sandrine Thuret, and Lisa Mosconi explore how our brains evolve through life's stages. They delve into the impact of socioeconomic status on childhood development, revealing how family income shapes cognitive growth. The guests highlight the unique characteristics of the adolescent brain and the importance of neurogenesis in adults, offering tips to promote brain health. Mosconi discusses the hormonal influences on women’s brain health during aging, advocating for more awareness and research.

Kimberly Noble, a leading neuroscientist and pediatrician, discusses her groundbreaking research on how family income influences childhood brain development. She reveals insightful findings from a study analyzing brain scans of over 1,000 children, showcasing the stark cognitive impacts of poverty. Noble argues that simple cash transfers to families can significantly enhance children's emotional and cognitive growth, challenging the notion that a child's brain is fixed by their circumstances. With optimism, she emphasizes that improving economic conditions can unlock potential in young minds.