The Ecstasy of an Open Brain
8 November 2024 - 36 minsAs we grow up, there are little windows of time when we can learn very, very fast, and very, very deeply. Scientists call these moments, critical periods. Real, neurological, biological states when our brain can soak up information like a sponge. Then, these windows of learning close. Locking us in to certain behaviors and skills for the rest of our lives. But … what if we could reopen them? Today, we consider a series of discoveries that are reshaping our understanding of when and how we can learn. And what that could mean for things like PTSD, brain disease, or strokes. And cuddle puddles. It’s a mind-bending discussion. Literally and figuratively.
This is the second episode in an ongoing...
Series Episodes
A 4-Track Mind
A neurologist issues a dare to a ragtime piano player and a famous conductor, then the impossible happens.
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2 October Finished
23 Weeks 6 Days
A tiny baby, born at 23 Weeks and 6 days—roughly halfway to full term. And a whole universe of medical and moral questions.
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60 Words
It’s been 25 years since 9/11. Today we talk about the 60 words that ushered in everything that came after.
58 mins
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Dolly Parton's America: Sad Ass Songs
We will always love you, Dolly.
1 hour 4 mins
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