Minding the Brain

Have you ever wondered how J.R.R. Tolkien invented such evocative names? David M. Sidhu joins Jim Davies to discuss language processing, sound symbolism, and iconicity. [...]

Dive into the intriguing world of behavioral addiction! Discover how everyday actions like eating, gambling, and smartphone use can trigger our brain's reward pathways. Learn the fascinating distinctions between compulsive behaviors and healthy habits, and explore conditions like binge eating disorder and internet gaming disorder. The hosts also highlight the impact of dopamine and the neurobiological shifts that occur with addictive behaviors. Join them in unraveling the complexities of addiction beyond substances!

We’ve all heard that being in nature is good for mental and physical health, but just how good is it? John M. Zelenski and Dan [...]

Jim and Kim take a deep dive into the world of AI and ethics. Are LLMs sentient? Why should we worry about AI rights? Is [...]

What does it feel like to have schizophrenia? What is the history of the schizophrenia diagnosis and are there effective treatments for the condition? Find [...]

The discussion tackles the intricate relationship between social media and youth mental health. Topics include the responsibility of parents and governments, as well as the challenges of regulating phone use in schools. Insights on Australia’s social media age ban raise questions about its effectiveness and enforcement. The podcast also highlights the addictive behaviors associated with social media, emphasizing the importance of family communication. Lastly, the role of AI in social media is explored, revealing both its supportive potential and concerns regarding young users.

What is brain fog and what can you do about it? What’s Jim’s #1 recommendation for improving brain function? Do brains compensate for cognitive decline? [...]

Dr. Andrea Howard, an associate professor at Carleton University specializing in adolescent well-being, joins experts Dr. Jim Davies and Dr. Kim Hellemans to unravel the complex relationship between social media and youth mental health. They discuss psychological mechanisms behind addiction, explore social media's dual role in fostering connection and creativity, and examine the neurological impacts of features like endless scrolling. Additionally, they emphasize strategies for healthier social media engagement, highlighting the urgent need for awareness in academic settings.

Why does cannabis give some people anxiety? Can your brain heal after alcoholism? Does brain training work? Join Kim and Jim as they answer listener [...]

Dr. Ian Gold joins Minding the Brain to talk about his research on delusions. What are delusions? Is there a link between delusions and conspiracy [...]