Science Savvy

Building Minds: How Architecture Shapes Our Lives and Well-Being

In this episode of Science Savvy, we step into the fascinating world of architecture and design to explore how the spaces we inhabit influence our minds, health, and emotions. Joined by Antonio, a talented architect, we discuss everything from what makes a house feel like a home to the emerging field of neuroarchitecture, which blends design with our understanding of the brain.
Discover how natural light, biomimicry, and even the materials we touch can impact our mental health, productivity, and sense of community. Learn why humans are drawn to beauty, the psychology of shared spaces, and how design reflects our evolving values. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or a curious mind, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the buildings and cities that shape our lives.
Tune in to uncover how thoughtful design can help you build not just better spaces, but a better life.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate the podcast, and share it with your friends. Follow Science Savvy on Instagram and TikTok for more insights, and stay savvy!
Further reading / references:
Jeremy Bentham: The Panopticon concept.
Kaplan, R. & Kaplan, S. (1993). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective - Discusses the impact of natural environments on mental health and productivity.
Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The Cognitive Benefits of Interacting with Nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207–1212.
Galima, S. V., Vogel, S. R., & Kowalski, A. W. (2020). Seasonal affective disorder: Common questions and answers. American Family Physician, 102(11), 668–672. PMID: 33252911.
Pjrek, E., Friedrich, M. E., Cambioli, L., Dold, M., Jäger, F., Komorowski, A., Lanzenberger, R., Kasper, S., & Winkler, D. (2020). The efficacy of light therapy in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 89(1), 17–24. https://doi.org/10.1159/000502891
Tao, L., Jiang, R., Zhang, K., Qian, Z., Chen, P., Lv, Y., & Yao, Y. (2020). Light therapy in non-seasonal depression: An update meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research, 291, 113247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113247
Nussbaumer, B., Kaminski-Hartenthaler, A., Forneris, C. A., Morgan, L. C., Sonis, J. H., Gaynes, B. N., Greenblatt, A., Wipplinger, J., Lux, L. J., Winkler, D., Van Noord, M. G., Hofmann, J., & Gartlehner, G. (2015). Light therapy for preventing seasonal affective disorder. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (11), CD011269. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD011269.pub2
Do, A., Li, V. W., Huang, S., Michalak, E. E., Tam, E. M., Chakrabarty, T., Yatham, L. N., & Lam, R. W. (2022). Blue-light therapy for seasonal and non-seasonal depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 67(10), 745–754. https://doi.org/10.1177/07067437221097903
Rolls, E. T. (2015). Limbic systems for emotion and for memory, but no single limbic system. Cortex, 62, 119–157. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cortex.2013.12.005
Mori, K., & Sakano, H. (2024). Circuit formation and sensory perception in the mouse olfactory system. Frontiers in Neural Circuits, 18, Article 1342576. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncir.2024.1342576
Mills, E. G. A., O'Byrne, K. T., & Comninos, A. N. (2019). Kisspeptin as a behavioral hormone. Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, 37(2), 56–63. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-3400239
Gaeta, G., & Wilson, D. A. (2022). Reciprocal relationships between sleep and smell. Frontiers in Neural Circuits, 16, Article 1076354. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncir.2022.1076354
Shahsavar, P., Ghazvineh, S., & Raoufy, M. R. (2024). From nasal respiration to brain dynamic. Reviews in Neuroscience, 35(6), 639–650. https://doi.org/10.1515/revneuro-2023-0152

PCOS: The Reality Show Where No Egg Wins

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is more than just a reproductive disorder; it’s a full-body metabolic condition that affects millions. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Basma Faris, a board-certified OB/GYN and certified culinary medicine specialist, to break down the science of PCOS.
We discuss:
Why PCOS is not just about cystic ovaries
The role of insulin resistance in hormonal imbalance
How diet and lifestyle can support metabolic health
Why stress and sleep are crucial for managing symptoms
Common myths and the dangers of wellness misinformation
Whether you have PCOS or just want to better understand how hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle interact, this episode is packed with science-backed insights.
 
Bibliography
St-Onge MP, Cherta-Murillo A, Darimont C, Mantantzis K, Martin FP, Owen L. The interrelationship between sleep, diet, and glucose metabolism. Sleep Med Rev. 2023 Jun;69:101788. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2023.101788. Epub 2023 Apr 28. PMID: 37156196; PMCID: PMC10247426.
Lee SWH, Ng KY, Chin WK. The impact of sleep amount and sleep quality on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Med Rev. 2017 Feb;31:91-101. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2016.02.001. Epub 2016 Feb 9. PMID: 26944909.
Lazar, S., Ionita, I., Reurean-Pintilei, D., & Timar, B. (2023). How to Measure Glycemic Variability? A Literature Review. Medicina, 60(1), 61. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010061
Ehrhardt, N., & Al Zaghal, E. (2018). Behavior Modification in Prediabetes and Diabetes: Potential Use of Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 13(2), 271-275. https://doi.org/10.1177/1932296818790994
Hanefeld, M., Sulk, S., Helbig, M., Thomas, A., & Köhler, C. (2014). Differences in Glycemic Variability Between Normoglycemic and Prediabetic Subjects. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 8(2), 286-290. https://doi.org/10.1177/1932296814522739
Dmitrovic, R., Katcher, H. I., Kunselman, A. R., & Legro, R. S. (2011). Continuous Glucose Monitoring During Pregnancy in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 118(4), 878-885. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0b013e31822c887f
Tao, M., Zhou, J., Zhu, J., Lu, W., & Jia, W. (2011). Continuous glucose monitoring reveals abnormal features of postprandial glycemic excursions in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Postgraduate Medicine, 123(2), 185-190. https://doi.org/10.3810/pgm.2011.03.2277
Merino, J., Linenberg, I., Bermingham, K. M., Ganesh, S., Bakker, E., Delahanty, L. M., Chan, A. T., Capdevila Pujol, J., Wolf, J., Al Khatib, H., Franks, P. W., Spector, T. D., Ordovas, J. M., Berry, S. E., & Valdes, A. M. (2022). Validity of continuous glucose monitoring for categorizing glycemic responses to diet: Implications for use in personalized nutrition. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 115(6), 1569-1576. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqac026
Wyatt, P., Berry, S. E., Finlayson, G., O'Driscoll, R., Hadjigeorgiou, G., Drew, D. A., Khatib, H. A., Nguyen, L. H., Linenberg, I., Chan, A. T., Spector, T. D., Franks, P. W., Wolf, J., Blundell, J., & Valdes, A. M. (2021). Postprandial glycaemic dips predict appetite and energy intake in healthy individuals. Nature Metabolism, 3(4), 523-529. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42255-021-00383-x
Zahalka, S. J., Galindo, R. J., Shah, V. N., & Low Wang, C. C. (2024). Continuous Glucose Monitoring for Prediabetes: What Are the Best Metrics? Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 18(4), 835-846. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968241242487
Basiri, R., & Cheskin, L. J. (2024). Personalized Nutrition Therapy without Weight Loss Counseling Produces Weight Loss in Individuals with Prediabetes Who Are Overweight/Obese: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients, 16(14). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16142218
Joseph, J. I., Eisler, G., Diaz, D., Khalf, A., Loeum, C., & Torjman, M. C. (2018). Glucose Sensing in the Subcutaneous Tissue: Attempting to Correlate the Immune Response with Continuous Glucose Monitoring Accuracy. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 20(5), 321-324. https://doi.org/10.1089/dia.2018.0106
Jospe, M. R., Richardson, K. M., Saleh, A. A., Bohlen, L. C., Crawshaw, J., Liao, Y., Konnyu, K., & Schembre, S. M. (2024). Leveraging continuous glucose monitoring as a catalyst for behaviour change: A scoping review. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 21(1), 74. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-024-01622-6
Zhu, J. P., Teng, Y. C., Zhou, J., Lu, W., Tao, M. F., & Jia, W. P. (2013). Increased mean glucose levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and hyperandrogenemia as determined by continuous glucose monitoring. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 92(2), 165-171. https://doi.org/10.1111/aogs.12031
Rizos, E. C., Kanellopoulou, A., Filis, P., Markozannes, G., Chaliasos, K., Ntzani, E. E., Tzamouranou, A., Tentolouris, N., & Tsilidis, K. K. (2024). Difference on Glucose Profile From Continuous Glucose Monitoring in People With Prediabetes vs. Normoglycemic Individuals: A Matched-Pair Analysis. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 18(2), 414-422. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968221123530

Food for Thought: How What You Eat Shapes Your Mind, Body, and Relationships

In this episode of Science Savvy, we dive deep into the fascinating ways food influences our brains, bodies, and even our relationships. Joined by food-loving couple Pablo and Alicia, we explore how the taste, smell, and texture of our meals trigger dopamine release, creating cravings and memories. Discover the science of macronutrients, the gut-brain axis, and how omega-3s can boost brain health.
We also discuss how food fosters social bonds and sparks romance, releasing hormones like oxytocin that deepen our connections. Plus, we tackle why highly palatable foods can be so hard to resist, the evolutionary wiring behind our cravings, and the cutting-edge science of the microbiome. Whether you're a health nut, a foodie, or just curious about the science of eating, this episode serves up a banquet of insights.
Tune in to get your fill of science-backed "food for thought" and leave with practical tips to feel your best—mind and body.
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and share it with a friend. Follow us on Instagram for more bite-sized science content, and stay savvy!
Further reading / references:
Omega-3s and cognitive function: Swanson, D., Block, R., & Mousa, S. A. (2012). Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA: Health benefits throughout life. *Advances in Nutrition*, *3*(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.111.000893.
Gut-brain axis: Carabotti, M., Scirocco, A., Maselli, M. A., & Severi, C. (2015). The gut-brain axis: Interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems. *Annals of Gastroenterology*, *28*(2), 203.
Serotonin and the gut: Yano, J. M., Yu, K., Donaldson, G. P., Shastri, G. G., Ann, P., Ma, L., ... & Hsiao, E. Y. (2015). Indigenous bacteria from the gut microbiota regulate host serotonin biosynthesis. *Cell*, *161*(2), 264-276. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2015.02.047.
Gut microbiome and mental health: Dash, S., Clarke, G., Berk, M., & Jacka, F. N. (2015). The gut microbiome and diet in psychiatry: Focus on depression. *Current Opinion in Psychiatry*, *28*(1), 1-6.
Gut microbiome and autoimmune disorders: Peterson, C. T., Sharma, V., Elmen, L., & Peterson, S. N. (2015). Immune homeostasis, dysbiosis and therapeutic modulation of the gut microbiota. *Clinical and Experimental Immunology*, *179*(3), 363-377.
Inflammation and diet: Calder, P. C. (2010). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes. *Nutritional Neuroscience*, *13*(3), 183-188.
Social bonding and food: Ruddock, H. K., Brunstrom, J. M., Vartanian, L. R., & Higgs, S. (2019). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the social facilitation of eating. *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*, *110*(4), 842-861.
Evolutionary cravings and brain reward systems: Berthoud, H. R., Münzberg, H., & Morrison, C. D. (2017). Blaming the brain for obesity: Integration of hedonic and homeostatic mechanisms. *Gastroenterology*, *152*(7), 1728-1738. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.12.050.
Lab-grown meat: Post, M. J. (2012). Cultured meat from stem cells: Challenges and prospects. *Meat Science*, *92*(3), 297-301.
Insect protein and sustainability: van Huis, A., Van Itterbeeck, J., Klunder, H., Mertens, E., Halloran, A., Muir, G., & Vantomme, P. (2013). Edible insects: Future prospects for food and feed security. *FAO Forestry Paper*. FAO: Rome.

Mind over Migraine: Dehenna Davison on Battling the Invisible Pain

In this deeply personal episode of Science Savvy, I sit down with Dehenna Davison, former Member of Parliament for Bishop Auckland, who made headlines when she stepped down from her dream job due to chronic migraine. Dehenna is a powerful advocate for migraine awareness, and she shares her journey—from suffering in silence to securing the first UK parliamentary debate on migraine since the 1960s.
What you will learn:💥 The science of migraine: Migraine disease is a debilitating neurological condition that affects over 1 billion people worldwide and is ranked among the top 10 most disabling disorders by the World Health Organization. It's NOT “just a headache”. We'll explain trigeminal nerve activation, neuroinflammation, vasodilation.💊 Migraine treatments and how they actually work at a molecular level: From triptans and CGRP inhibitors to Botox (botox??) and anticonvulsants (did she say convulsions?)⚖️ Access to migraine care: The frustrating barriers to treatment and the policy changes we desperately need💡 The emotional toll of migraine: How it impacts careers, relationships, and mental health🌍 Migraine advocacy: Why raising awareness is crucial for millions suffering in silence
As someone who also lives with migraine, this episode is deeply personal to me. If you or someone you love suffers from migraine attacks, THIS is the episode you need to hear.
🔗 Share this episode to help raise awareness!
#MigraineAwareness #ChronicMigraine #Neurology #BrainHealth #InvisibleIllness #DehennaDavidson #SciencePodcast #ScienceSavvy #HealthAdvocacy #HeadacheDisorders #Neuroscience #MigraineTreatment #PodcastForWomen #MentalHealthMatters #HealthPolicy
 
Bibliography / references / further reading:
Goadsby, P. J., Holland, P. R., Martins-Oliveira, M., Hoffmann, J., Schankin, C., & Akerman, S. (2017). Pathophysiology of migraine: A disorder of sensory processing. Physiological Reviews, 97(2), 553–622. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00034.2015
Burstein, R., Noseda, R., & Borsook, D. (2015). Migraine: Multiple processes, complex pathophysiology. The Journal of Neuroscience, 35(17), 6619–6629. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0373-15.2015
Charles, A. (2018). The pathophysiology of migraine: Implications for clinical management. The Lancet Neurology, 17(2), 174–182. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(17)30435-0
World Health Organization (WHO). (2022). Headache disorders: Key facts. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/headache-disorders
Steiner, T. J., Stovner, L. J., Jensen, R., Uluduz, D., & Katsarava, Z. (2020). Migraine remains second among the world's causes of disability, and first among young women: Findings from GBD2019. The Journal of Headache and Pain, 21(1), 137. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-020-01208-0
Buse, D. C., Manack, A. N., Fanning, K. M., Serrano, D., Reed, M. L., & Lipton, R. B. (2012). Chronic migraine prevalence, disability, and sociodemographic factors: Results from the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study. Headache, 52(10), 1456–1470. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2012.02223.x
Lipton, R. B., Bigal, M. E., Diamond, M., Freitag, F., Reed, M. L., & Stewart, W. F. (2007). Migraine prevalence, disease burden, and the need for preventive therapy. Neurology, 68(5), 343–349. https://doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000252808.97649.21
Prince, P. B., Rapoport, A. M., Sheftell, F. D., Tepper, S. J., & Bigal, M. E. (2004). The effect of weather on headache. Headache, 44(6), 596–602. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2004.446011.x
Finocchi, C., & Sivori, G. (2012). Food as trigger and aggravating factor of migraine. Neurological Sciences, 33(S1), 77–80. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-012-1046-5Migraine Treatment: Acute and Preventative Strategies
Diener, H. C., Holle, D., Solbach, K., & Gaul, C. (2021). Medication-overuse headache: Risk factors, pathophysiology, and management. Nature Reviews Neurology, 17(2), 112–124. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41582-020-00428-0
Dodick, D. W. (2018). A phase-by-phase review of migraine pathophysiology. Headache, 58(S1), 4–16. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13300
Silberstein, S. D., Holland, S., Freitag, F., Dodick, D. W., Argoff, C., & Ashman, E. (2012). Evidence-based guideline update: Pharmacologic treatment for episodic migraine prevention in adults. Neurology, 78(17), 1337–1345. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0b013e3182535d0c
Tepper, S. J., & Ashina, M. (2019). CGRP and migraine: The emerging role of CGRP inhibitors. Headache, 59(3), 394–406. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13456
Russo, A. F. (2015). Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP): A new target for migraine. Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 55, 533–552. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010814-124701
Lipton, R. B., Munjal, S., Alam, A., Buse, D. C., Fanning, K. M., Reed, M. L., & Schwedt, T. J. (2022). The impact of migraine on workplace productivity and the role of novel treatments. Headache, 62(3), 334–345. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.14286

Lasting habits I think you should build or Neuroplasticity 101

Your Brain is a Badass. It can literally rewire itself in the face of a challenge! In this episode, we dive into JJ’s inspiring story—a young boy who was born missing key structural elements of his brain but still managed to get better grades than his schoolmates... How? Learn how neuroplasticity (your brain’s ability to adapt) works, and more importantly, how you can use this knowledge to level up your life. Tune in to find out how to make your brain as sharp and flexible as your 2025 goals!
 
References / Further reading:
Zhao, J.-L., Jiang, W.-T., Wang, X., Cai, Z.-D., Liu, Z.-H., & Liu, G.-R. (2020). "Exercise, brain plasticity, and depression." CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, 26(9), 885–895. WILEY ONLINE LIBRARY
Damiani, F., Cornuti, S., & Tognini, P. (2023). "The gut-brain connection: Exploring the influence of the gut microbiota on neuroplasticity and neurodevelopmental disorders." Neuropharmacology, 109491. PUBMED
Rojczyk, A., Dziewanowska, A., & Maryniak, A. (2020). "When the brain looks imperfect: An example of neuroplasticity as seen in a patient with arachnoid cysts—a case study." Frontiers in Neurology, 11, 567.
Gulyaeva, N. V. (2017). "Molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity: An expanding universe." Biochemistry (Moscow), 82(3), 237–242.
"Social Networks and Loneliness in People with Alzheimer's Dementia." Balouch S, Rifaat E, Chen HL, Tabet N. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2019 May;34(5):666-673.
"Social Networks and Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers of Alzheimer's Disease." Ma YH, Wang YY, Tan L, et al. J Alzheimers Dis. 2021;81(1):263-272.
"Social Health, Social Reserve, and Dementia." Sachdev PS. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2022 Mar;35(2):111-117.
"Enriched Environment Promotes Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis through FGFRs" Journal: J Neurosci. 2021 Mar 31;41(13):2899-2910.
"Enriched Environment Increases Neurogenesis and Improves Social Memory Persistence in Socially Isolated Adult Mice"
"Adulthood Cognitive Trajectories Over 26 Years and Brain Health at 70 Years of Age" Journal: Neurobiology of Aging (2023)
"Oxytocin stimulates hippocampal neurogenesis via oxytocin receptor expressed in CA3 pyramidal neurons" Journal: Nat Commun. 2017 Sep 14;8(1):537.
Oxytocin stimulates adult neurogenesis even under conditions of stress and elevated glucocorticoids" Journal: Hippocampus. 2012 Apr;22(4):861-8.
"Adult hypothalamic neurogenesis and sleep-wake dysfunction in aging" Journal: Sleep. 2021 Feb 12;44(2):zsaa173.
"Sleep and hippocampal neurogenesis: Implications for Alzheimer's disease" Journal: Front Neuroendocrinol. 2017 Apr;45:35-52.
"Memory consolidation during sleep and adult hippocampal neurogenesis" Journal: Neural Regen Res. 2019 Jan;14(1):20-23.
"Sleep and adult neurogenesis: implications for cognition and mood". Journal: Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 2015;25:151-81.

Make 2025 your b!tch: Brain hacks to build lasting habits

Ready to make 2025 your most focused, productive, and fulfilling year? In this episode of Science Savvy, we’re diving into the neuroscience of habit formation, focus, and motivation. Learn five brain-backed strategies to start small, reward yourself, build flexibility, embrace accountability, and pre-decide your goals—all designed to help you stick to your resolutions and create lasting change. Whether you're looking to build healthier routines, master a new skill, or manage your relationship with social media, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you harness the power of your brain. Tune in and discover how to make this year your best one yet!
Bibliography:
Wise RA, Jordan CJ. Dopamine, behavior, and addiction. J Biomed Sci. 2021 Dec 2;28(1):83. This study discusses the role of dopamine in habit formation and learning, emphasizing its function in reinforcing behaviors through long-term potentiation (LTP). PMID: 34852810
Lauretani F, et al. Dopamine Pharmacodynamics: New Insights. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 May 13;25(10):5293. - Explores the role of dopamine in neuromodulation and its ability to influence synaptic plasticity, highlighting its relevance in habit formation. PMID: 38791331
Berlucchi G, Buchtel HA. Neuronal plasticity: historical roots and evolution of meaning. Exp Brain Res. 2009 Jan;192(3):307-19. - This article traces the concept of neuroplasticity and its link to learning and habit formation through synaptic changes. PMID: 19002678
Talpos J, Shoaib M. Executive function. Handb Exp Pharmacol. 2015;228:191-213. - Examines the role of the prefrontal cortex in executive function, including goal setting and habit regulation. PMID: 25977083

All you need is LOVE

In this episode of Science Savvy, we're diving into the science of love—beyond just romance. From the neuroscience that drives attraction to the biology behind long-term bonding, we explore the fascinating mechanisms behind one of humanity’s most powerful emotions. Together with my friend Alejandra, we break down the stages of love—lust, attraction, and attachment—and discuss the roles of hormones like oxytocin, vasopressin, and dopamine in shaping how we connect with others. We also touch on the physical effects of love and how heartbreak can feel like real, physical pain. Whether you’re curious about why you get butterflies or how love helps us thrive, this episode offers both a deep dive into the science and a personal touch.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out the references below for further reading.
Further Reading:
Helen Fisher’s work on the neuroscience of love
Research on oxytocin and vasopressin related to bonding and attachment
Studies on dopamine and cortisol in romantic relationships
Evolutionary psychology texts on the biological purpose of love
Research on the effects of heartbreak on brain activity and emotional regulation
References:
Sharma, S. R., Gonda, X., Dome, P., & Tarazi, F. I. (2020). What's love got to do with it: Role of oxytocin in trauma, attachment, and resilience. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 214, 107602. DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107602
Fisher, H., Aron, A., & Brown, L. L. (2005). Romantic love: An fMRI study of a neural mechanism for mate choice. Journal of Comparative Neurology, 493(1), 58-62. DOI: 10.1002/cne.20772
Stein, D. J., & Vythilingum, B. (2009). Love and attachment: The psychobiology of social bonding. CNS Spectrums, 14(5), 239-242. DOI: 10.1017/s1092852900025384
Acevedo, B. P., Poulin, M. J., Collins, N. L., & Brown, L. L. (2020). After the honeymoon: Neural and genetic correlates of romantic love in newlywed marriages. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 634. DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00634

The Science of Friendship: Giggles, Bonding, and Learning

Join us for lots of giggles and lots of science! In this episode of Science Savvy, I am joined by my bestie of 10 years, Dasha, to dive into the science behind long-term friendships. We explore how your brain syncs up with your closest friends, how oxytocin makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, and why those group chats and weekend hangouts are actually boosting your health and happiness. Find out how your bestie might just be the key to living a longer, healthier life!
Further Reading and References:
Dunbar, R. I. M. (2018). Friends: Understanding the Power of Our Most Important Relationships. Little, Brown Spark.
Parkinson, C., Kleinbaum, A. M., & Wheatley, T. (2018). "Similar neural responses predict friendship." Nature Communications.
Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). "Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review." PLoS Medicine.
Lieberman, M. D. (2013). Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect. Crown Publishers.
Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). "Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis." Psychological Bulletin.
Lunn, N. (2021). Conversations on Love. Viking.
Holt-Lunstad, J. (2018). "Why social relationships are important for physical health: A systems approach to understanding and modifying risk and protection." Annual Review of Psychology.
Haslam, C., & Jetten, J. (2014). "Social connectedness and health in older adults." Journal of Aging and Health.
Roberts, S. G., & Dunbar, R. I. (2011). "Communication in social networks: Effects of kinship, network size, and emotional closeness." Personal Relationships.
Langan, K. A., & Purvis, J. M. (2020). "Long-distance friendship maintenance: An application of expectancy violation theory and the investment model." Current Opinion in Psychology.

Attention, Please - What ADHD Can Teach Us About the Brain

What does ADHD actually feel like? Is it really a deficit, or could it be a difference? And how does social media and modern life play into attention struggles? In this episode of Science Savvy, I sit down with my brother Alex, who has ADHD, to explore these questions and more. Together, we dive into the science behind ADHD, including how neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine shape attention, and we discuss coping mechanisms, the role of medication, and even some surprising ADHD superpowers like hyperfocus and creativity. This episode is personal, insightful, and packed with practical tips. Join us for a candid sibling chat that breaks down the myths and empowers you to see ADHD in a whole new light.
 
Further reading / references:
Mindfulness-based interventions in ADHD: Lee, Y. C., et al. (2022). Effects of mindfulness-based interventions in children and adolescents with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(22), 15198. DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215198
van der Oord, S., Bögels, S. M., & Peijnenburg, D. (2012). The effectiveness of mindfulness training for children with ADHD and mindful parenting for their parents. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 21(1), 139-147. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-011-9457-0
Norepinephrine and ADHD: Arnsten, A. F. T. (2009). The emerging neurobiology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: The key role of the prefrontal association cortex. The Journal of Pediatrics, 154(5), I-S43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpeds.2009.01.018
Dopaminergic System in ADHD: Volkow, N. D., & Swanson, J. M. (2013). Clinical practice: Adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. The New England Journal of Medicine, 369(20), 1935-1944. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMcp1212625
Pharmacology of ADHD Medications: Faraone, S. V., Biederman, J., & Mick, E. (2006). The age-dependent decline of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis of follow-up studies. Psychological Medicine, 36(2), 159-165. https://doi.org/10.1017/S003329170500471X
Swanson, J. M., & Volkow, N. D. (2002). Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of medications for ADHD: A review of stimulant and nonstimulant formulations. Molecular Psychiatry, 8(7), 252-264. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.mp.4001326
Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: A review of empirical studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(6), 1041-1056. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2011.04.006
ADHD and Entrepreneurship: Wiklund, J., Yu, W., Tucker, R., & Marino, L. D. (2017). ADHD, impulsivity, and entrepreneurship. Journal of Business Venturing, 32(6), 627-656. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusvent.2017.07.002
White, H. A., & Shah, P. (2011). Creative style and achievement in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Personality and Individual Differences, 50(5), 673-677. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2010.12.015
Neurodiversity Perspective of ADHD: Armstrong, T. (2010). The Power of Neurodiversity: Unleashing the Advantages of Your Differently Wired Brain. Da Capo Press.
Hyperfocus and ADHD: Ashinoff, B. K., & Abu-Akel, A. (2021). Hyperfocus: The forgotten frontier of attention. Psychological Research, 85, 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00426-020-01420-w

Wired for Wonder - Neuroscience of Creativity

Join me, Carmen, your host of Science Savvy, as I dive into the fascinating science of creativity! In this episode, I’m joined by my friend Alicia, a psychology-trained artist and entrepreneur, as we unpack how the brain fuels creativity from a medical and scientific perspective. We’ll explore the roles of the prefrontal cortex and default mode network, the surprising ways dopamine affects creative flow, and how simple lifestyle tweaks can unlock more imaginative thinking. Whether you’re an artist, a science enthusiast, or just curious, tune in to discover how creativity works and learn tips to boost your own creative potential.
 
Further reading / references:
Adnan, A., Beaty, R., Silvia, P., Spreng, R. N., & Turner, G. R. (2019). Creative aging: Functional brain networks associated with divergent thinking in older and younger adults. Neurobiology of Aging, 75, 150–158. doi:10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.11.004.
Kulisevsky, J., Pagonabarraga, J., & Martinez-Corral, M. (2009). Changes in artistic style and behaviour in Parkinson's disease: Dopamine and creativity. Journal of Neurology, 256(5), 816–819. doi:10.1007/s00415-009-5001-1.
Weinberger, A. B., Green, A. E., & Chrysikou, E. G. (2017). Using transcranial direct current stimulation to enhance creative cognition: Interactions between task, polarity, and stimulation site. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 11, 246. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2017.00246.
Chi, R. P., & Snyder, A. W. (2012). Brain stimulation enables the solution of an inherently difficult problem. Neuroscience Letters, 515(2), 121–124. doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2012.03.012.