Super Brain

Modern life can estrange us from what truly matters. We chase goals that look like success but feel hollow – and before we know it, we’re overwhelmed, reactive and disconnected from our own internal compass.In this episode of Super Brain, Sabina Brennan explores meaning and purpose through a neuroscience lens and offers a powerful practical tool: make an appointment with yourself.You’ll learn why your sense of self is essentially a story your brain constructed from data (some brilliant, some expired), why memory isn’t a recording device and how clarity changes what your brain notices.By the end, you’ll have a simple, repeatable ritual to audit the story of you, update limiting beliefs and take one small action aligned with what matters most.In This EpisodeWhy meaning and purpose aren’t found by doing moreHow stress pushes your brain into survival modeWhy your sense of self is a story built from old dataThe myth of memory as a “video file”How limiting beliefs are often narrative errorsA step-by-step “appointment with yourself” ritualHow clarity becomes a neural filter for what you want nextCall to ActionIf this episode landed for you, schedule your appointment with yourself today – even 30 minutes is enough.For a deeper dive into these ideas, explore The Neuroscience of Manifesting.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary:Why do some people seem to attract good fortune? In this episode, I explore the neuroscience of serendipity – those chance discoveries and happy accidents that change everything. From Alexander Fleming’s mouldy petri dish to the role of the brain’s default mode network in connecting unrelated ideas, this episode uncovers the science behind what we call “luck.”You’ll learn how curiosity, openness, and cognitive flexibility make us more likely to notice opportunity when it crosses our path – and how to train your brain to do just that.In this episode:How the term serendipity was born from a Persian fairy taleWhat neuroscience reveals about “accidental” discoveriesWhy “lucky” people simply notice more (Wiseman, 2003)How creative insights emerge from brain network interplay (Beaty et al., PNAS, 2018)Why our digital lives might be shrinking our chances for serendipity – and how to get it backThe Three Tools for Your Super Brain Kit to invite more insight, connection, and creative luck into your lifeThree Tools for Your Super Brain Kit:Expand your input – curiosity feeds connection.Practise attentive openness – notice what others miss.Reframe setbacks as openings – mistakes can be portals to discovery.Referenced research:Beaty, R. E. et al. (2018). PNAS, “Robust default–executive coupling supports creative cognition.”Wiseman, R. (2003). The Luck Factor.Busch, C. (2020). The Serendipity Mindset.Key Quote:“Serendipity isn’t just luck – it’s the brain’s brilliance at connecting the unconnected.”Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Dr Sabina Brennan explores how generative AI changes learning. She looks at why effortful thinking is the engine of mastery, how AI can create an illusion of competence and practical ways to use AI as a tutor rather than a crutch.Key takeaway: Learning sticks when it’s hard – AI works best when it helps you reach insights, not when it replaces the work.Source: Brian W. Stone (2025), The Conversation – “How does AI affect how we learn? A cognitive psychologist explains why you learn when the work is hard”.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If New Year’s resolutions leave you inspired one day and flattened the next, it’s not a willpower problem – it’s a nervous system problem. In this episode, Sabina shares three tiny, science-backed “micromoment” resets that help your brain feel safe enough to begin, plus a menu of quick interventions for common January traps like overthinking, doomscrolling, self-doubt, catastrophising, comparison, over-planning, worry and procrastinationIn this episode, you’ll learnWhy big resolutions can trigger your threat system, even when you want changeHow micromoments build safety and agency, which is how the brain rewiresA fast sensory reset for spiralling thoughts, plus a 10-minute action that restores controlA two-minute “toe dip” that breaks procrastination without shameA “threat to choice” switch for doomscrolling and catastrophisingKey takeawaysYour brain is a prediction machine – it prefers the status quo because it’s easier to predict and therefore feels safer.When change equals discomfort, uncertainty or not being instantly good at something, the threat system can hijack behaviour into avoidance, scrolling or over-planning.The antidote isn’t more pressure – it’s small, repeatable experiences that teach your nervous system: “This is safe. This is enough. I can do the next step.”The 3 tools (quick reference)Tool 1 – The 3–3–3 reset + 10-minute agencyName 3 things you can see, 3 you can hear, 3 you can feel against your skinThen do one thing you can influence in the next 10 minutes (single-task timer)Finish with: “I didn’t solve everything, but I did choose and complete one thing.”Tool 2 – The two-minute toe dip (procrastination reset)Set a timer for 2 minutesDo only the first step (open the doc, write one line, open the bill, clear one corner)Stop with permission – the win is starting, not finishingTool 3 – The threat to choice switch (doomscrolling + catastrophising)Choose a daily cue (kettle, getting into bed, sitting on the loo, waking up)Name it: “I’m checking for threat.”Flip the action for 2 minutes (stretch, step outside, drink water, slow breaths)For catastrophising: Worst case → most realistic → best case (restore range)If this episode helped, share it with someone whose brain might benefit and follow Super Brain so next week’s episode lands straight in your feed.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode summaryWhat happens when you close your eyes and try to “see” something in your mind? For some people it’s a full-colour mental movie. For others it’s hazy, fleeting or completely blank. In this episode, Dr Sabina Brennan explores the neuroscience of mental imagery, including eigengrau (that grainy ‘intrinsic grey’ most people notice in darkness), the spectrum from aphantasia to hyperphantasia and why visualisation is less about forcing pictures and more about learning how your brain constructs experience.In this episode, Sabina coversWhy “seeing nothing” when you visualise doesn’t mean you’re bad at imaginationEigengrau – what that smoky grey tells us about baseline visual activityAphantasia and hyperphantasia – two ends of the imagery vividness spectrumMental imagery in brain terms: top-down simulation meeting bottom-up perceptionWhy worry is often a “mental movie” and how imagery can amplify emotionHow imagery is used in sport, performance, rehab and therapyTools in Three: how to work with imagery whatever your baselineKey takeawaysImagery varies hugely between people and it’s normal.Visualisation isn’t just visual – sound, touch, movement, emotion and language can carry imagination too.The goal isn’t perfect pictures, it’s intentional rehearsal that shapes attention, expectation and behaviour.The most effective visualisation tends to be process-focused, not just outcome-focused.Tools in Three1. Know your baseline – stop forcing a cinema screen. Work with your strongest channel (words, sensation, sound, movement).2. Build a multisensory practice – start with a real object, then recreate it with eyes closed. Add texture, temperature, weight, sound. Pair calming imagery with slow breathing.3. Apply imagery intentionally and aim for process – rehearse the steps, the likely wobble moments and how you’ll recover, not just the “trophy scene”.Memorable lines (pull quotes)“Imagination isn’t about pictures. It’s about possibility.”“Worry is often imagery too – the brain running mental movies of what might go wrong.”“Aphantasia is not an imagination failure. It is a different format for thinking.”References (as cited in the episode)Zeman A, Dewar M, Della Sala S. Lives without imagery – Congenital aphantasia. Cortex. 2015.S6E6 - Visualisation beefed up …Pearson J. The human imagination: the cognitive neuroscience of visual mental imagery. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2019.Milton F, et al. Aphantasia and hyperphantasia: extreme differences in visual imagery vividness. Cortex. 2021.Tagsvisualisation, mental imagery, aphantasia, hyperphantasia, eigengrau, neuroscience of imagination, memory, anxiety, sport psychology, mental rehearsal, guided imagery, manifesting, brain predictionSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever walked into a room and thought, “Any minute now they’re going to realise I’ve no idea what I’m doing”?In this episode of Super Brain, psychologist and neuroscientist Sabina Brennan unpacks what’s often called imposter syndrome – and why the original researchers actually called it the impostor phenomenon instead.Drawing on brain science and real-world examples, Sabina explores what’s happening in your threat circuits, reward system and perfectionist wiring when you’re constantly bracing for the “fraud police” to knock on the door. You’ll hear how early messages about being “the smart one” – or never quite smart enough – can set up a lifelong gap between how others see you and how you see yourself.Most importantly, you’ll learn three practical tools to add to your Super Brain kit:– Name it, don’t shame it – shifting from “I am a fraud” to “I’m having an impostor moment”– Rewire the self-doubt circuits – using neuroplasticity, self-compassion and “good enough” experiments– Change the context, not just yourself – noticing when your discomfort is data about an exclusionary systemThe impostor phenomenon isn’t proof that you’re a con artist. It’s a protective brain story that you can gently update. You’re allowed to be a work in progress – and you’re allowed to be here while you’re learning.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode summary:“Brain rot” was named the Oxford Word of the Year 2024 – a tongue-in-cheek term for that fried feeling after too much scrolling or streaming. But what’s really going on in the brain when constant digital stimulation leaves us feeling empty and unfocused?In this episode, Dr Sabina Brennan unpacks the neuroscience of brain rot – how dopamine loops, cognitive overload and attention fatigue are reshaping our mental landscape – and what you can do to reclaim your focus and creativity.You’ll learn:Why “brain rot” isn’t just slang – it reflects a real neurological tug-of-warHow dopamine drives endless scrolling and decision fatigueWhy your attention and memory pay the price for multitaskingThe difference between brain fog (physiological) and brain rot (behavioural)Why daydreaming and mental white space are the healthiest “apps” on your mental home screenThree Tools for Your Super Brain Kit:🧩 The Friction Rule – add small barriers to scrolling and let your brain catch up.⚡ Dopamine Reset – replace passive hits with active rewards like learning or movement.🌿 Stillness Practice – schedule unstructured thinking time to reboot your focus.Mentioned in this episode:Beating Brain Fog by Dr Sabina Brennan – for deeper insights into how clarity and focus are restored in the brain.Oxford University Press Word of the Year 2024: “Brain Rot”.Research on dopamine, attention fatigue and the Default Mode Network.Connect:💬 Share your thoughts and experiences with #SuperBrain📚 Read more: www.sabinabrennan.ie🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcastsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

pisodic-like memory• How dog ageing helps us understand human dementia• Why your dog is a genuine co-regulator of your nervous systemTools in ThreeMicro-moments matter — a glance, a rub, a kind wordStress buffer — swap doom-scrolling for a dog cuddleShared routines — walk, play, repeatTakeaway:Every pat, cuddle, and walk is brain medicine — for both of you.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary (short version): Why does winter feel heavier for some of us? In this episode, we explore the neuroscience of Seasonal Affective Disorder — from circadian rhythms and serotonin pathways to evolutionary quirks and the strange possibility that humans may still carry traces of ancient hibernation biology. Learn why your brain struggles with short days, how morning light acts as a natural antidepressant, and practical strategies to help your winter self thrive.I share my own experience with winter mood shifts, what the science says about why they happen, and — most importantly — the tools we can use to reclaim our energy and wellbeing during darker months.Three Tools for Your Super Brain Kit:Light before screens — Get bright light within 30 minutes of waking (10–20 minutes outdoors or a 10,000-lux lamp).Anchor your day — Keep wake and sleep times consistent to stabilise your circadian rhythm.Reverse-winter habits — Add small dopamine-rich rewards before difficult tasks, not after, to counter low motivation.Each episode explores what’s really going on inside your brain when you do the things you do — from the everyday to the extraordinary — and gives you three tools for your Super Brain kit. Sabina's books The Neuroscience of Manifesting Still Me 100 Days to a Younger Brain Beating Brain Fog Brain Gym in a BoxSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are we so much harsher on ourselves than we are on others? In this episode of Super Brain, I explore the neuroscience of self-compassion — what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s the antidote to self-criticism.Drawing on the work of Dr Kristin Neff and Buddhist philosophy, we’ll look at self-compassion as a three-part skill: self-kindness, mindfulness, and social connection. I’ll share research showing how self-compassion reduces stress, quiets the amygdala, and activates brain regions linked to empathy and emotional regulation.I’ll also explain why self-criticism is a form of self-harm, and why self-compassion is a foundation for flourishing and manifesting happiness, resilience, and contentment.As always, I’ll wrap up with my Tools in Three — simple ways you can start turning up your brain’s kindness switch today.Each episode explores what’s really going on inside your brain when you do the things you do — from the everyday to the extraordinary — and gives you three tools for your Super Brain kit. Sabina's books The Neuroscience of Manifesting Still Me 100 Days to a Younger Brain Beating Brain Fog Brain Gym in a BoxSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Psilocybin — the psychedelic compound in so-called “magic mushrooms” — has exploded into headlines and social media feeds. Some call it a miracle cure for depression, others dismiss it as hype. In this episode, I take a clear-eyed look at what the science really says.I’ll start with Sarah’s story — a young scientist whose life was turned upside down by a cycling accident and who found hope again through a psilocybin clinical trial at Johns Hopkins. Her words: “This trial changed my life.”From there, I explore:The history of psilocybin, from ancient rituals to 1960s psychiatry to today’s “psychedelic renaissance.”The online buzz, where psilocybin is hyped as everything from a creativity booster to a trauma cure.The scientific evidence, from small pilot trials to the largest modern RCTs.The neuroscience, showing how psilocybin may “reset” rigid brain networks, boost plasticity, and even dampen inflammation.The risks, including panic, paranoia, and psychosis in vulnerable people.Finally, I’ll share my Tools in Three so you can separate the real promise from the hype.Featured ResearchCarhart-Harris RL, et al. doi: 10.1016/S2215-0366(16)30065-Carhart-Harris RL, et al. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2032994Davis AK, et al. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.3285Goodwin GM, et al. S 10.1056/NEJMoa2206443Additional insights from Nature Medicine (Carhart-Harris, 2021) and New Scientist on brain plasticity and inflammation.Each episode explores what’s really going on inside your brain when you do the things you do — from the everyday to the extraordinary — and gives you three tools for your Super Brain kit. Sabina's books The Neuroscience of Manifesting Still Me 100 Days to a Younger Brain Beating Brain Fog Brain Gym in a BoxFollow Sabina Brennan on InstagramSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do we put off the very things that matter most? In this episode of Super Brain, I explore procrastination — the irrational gap between what we want to do and what we actually do. From ancient Greek philosophy to modern neuroscience, we’ll unpack why our brains resist long-term goals in favour of short-term mood fixes.I’ll share two leading theories that explain procrastination, what’s happening in the brain when we delay, and why the closer the deadline, the more motivated we become.And of course, my Three tools for your Super Brain kit will give you practical strategies to shrink tasks, hack your “future you”, and harness the magic of deadlines.Procrastination is deeply human — but it doesn’t have to rule your life.References:📖 The Neuroscience of Manifesting (Dr Sabina Brennan) – on making your goals personal and vivid so they feel worth acting on today.📚 Research on procrastination from psychology, philosophy, and neuroscience.Each episode explores what’s really going on inside your brain when you do the things you do — from the everyday to the extraordinary — and gives you three tools for your Super Brain kit. Sabina's books The Neuroscience of Manifesting Still Me 100 Days to a Younger Brain Beating Brain Fog Brain Gym in a BoxFollow Sabina Brennan on InstagramSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever wondered why you do the things you do, you’re going to love Season Six of Super Brain. In each episode, psychologist and neuroscientist Dr Sabina Brennan takes you inside your brain to explore what’s really going on when you laugh, cry, procrastinate, or connect. You’ll discover how understanding your brain helps you understand yourself — and unlock your true potential. This season, Sabina introduces a new format: each episode explores one fascinating aspect of human behaviour, and ends with Three Tools for Your Super Brain Kit — practical, science-based strategies to help you do it better, do it less, or not do it at all.Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and have each new episode drop straight into your playlist.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan has a fascinating conversation with Prof John Cryan stress neurobiologist and co-author of the Psychobiotic Revolution about the gut and the brain and how bacteria and the food we eat contribute to and are influenced by stress, anxiety, depression and more.The Psychobiotic RevolutionYou can follow Prof Cryan on Twitter @JFCryanYou can read more about his research and access his publications https://www.ucc.ie/en/apc/people/johncryan/Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to journalist Marianne Power about the year she spent following the advice of one self-help book per month. -The book is like reading a Bridget Jones script only better, you'll laugh and cry and thanks to Marianne's no hold's barred honesty you will recognise yourself on every page. I loved chatting to Marianne and I know you will love listening to our chat.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to 20 year old Dr Mya-Rose Craig about her memoir Birdgirl. Already a woman if substance this young woman who has achieved so much in such a short period of time describes herself as a British-Bangladeshi birder, environmentalist, diversity activist, writer, speaker and broadcaster.Mya-Rose's memoir Birdgirl is available in print, e-book and audiobook online and in stores. You can read about Mya-Rose's work and achievements on www.birdgirluk.comYou can follow her on instagram as @birdgirluk and on twitter as @birdgirlukSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan takes a look into secret research.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan explores the psychology and neuroscience of control, impulsivity, self-control, taking control and relinquishing control.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to NHS doctor, Sunday Times best-selling author and host of the The Doctor's Kitchen podcast about how he overcame a life-changing diagnosis and avoided heart surgery by adjusting his lifestyle and changing his diet. In this frank interview Rupi admits that it can be tough to maintain a healthy lifestyle in times of stress and shares the daily habits that help him to get back on trackThe Doctor's Kitchen PodcastDownload the Doctors Kitchen App to get access to personalised recipes, with specific suggestions tailored to your health needs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Super Brain podcast returns with this audio documentary produced and presented by Super Brain host Dr Sabina BrennanDr Edward O'Sullivan, Director of the Migraine Clinic at Cork University Hospital takes us inside the migraine brain offering a medical and scientific perspective and Dr Sabina Brennan shares her own experience of living with chronic migraine. Migraine is the 7th most debilitating condition in the world (WHO) affecting 10-12% of the population. Vox pops threaded through the doc illustrate the misconceptions and misappropriation of migraine. This audio documentary aims to bust the myth that migraine is just a headache and get people to think twice about appropriating this neurological condition to describe a hangover or pull a sickie." Producer/Presenter Sabina BrennanEditor Emily BurkeAssistant Producer Angela MezzettiSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Super Brain is back. Season 5 kicks off March 21st 2022 with the audio documentary produced and presented by Dr Sabina Brennan.Super Brain Episodes will drop every third Monday in the MonthSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this, the final episode of Season 4 Dr Sabina Brennan talks about the benefits of talking to strangersSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan and multi-award-winning script writer and actor Mark O'Halloran discuss strength and weakness through the lens of his amazing films, Viva and Adam and Paul.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan takes a look at synaesthesia a fascinating neurological phenomenon where certain sensory inputs such as words, letters, numbers or music automatically trigger the additional senses like colour, sound, taste and smell.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to performing artist, activist and sex worker Kate McGrew about her passion for performing, sex work, and the need to make sex work safe.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eureka moments are a specific form of creativity. They don't just materialise from the ether – it’s simply the work of the human brain. In this booster Dr Sabina Brennan shares some scientific insights into this kind of creativity and offers some tips on how to super charge your own creativity.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BP Walter's Sunday Times best seller, The Dinner Guest is one of the best books I've read in quite some time. As soon as I finished it I felt compelled to contact the author to see if he would be a guest on Super Brain because I wanted to get inside the head of such a fabulous author. I must admit I was utterly blown away to discover that BP aka Barnaby is only 29 years old! This episode is all about thriving in life, having dreams and working hard to make them come true. His new book, another excellent read, The Woman on The Pier, comes out 11th November 2021. Check out www.sabinabrennan.ie for links to his four books, full transcripts of the episode and other bits and bobs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan hands the mic for this booster to sex therapist and self-confessed sez geek Emily Power Smith who shares her top 4 tips for great sexEmily is a professional member of the World Association of sexual health. Emily is absolutely passionate about providing current and factual information about sexuality, so that people are equipped to make good choices about their own sexual health, their well being and their safetySupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I've had a clitoris all of my life and never knew that what we refer to as the clitoris is actually only the sensitive tip of an extensive internal organ that is capable of erection. The clitoris was removed from anatomy manuals in the beginning of the 20th century because its only purpose is pleasure. This video by Betty Dodson sketches out the full extent of the clitoris that is absent from text and medical books.I've learned so much from my guest this week, sexologist and sex therapist Emily Power Smyth who is on a mission to make sure that the sex we have is safe, consenting and above all pleasurable.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan explores savant syndrome and the circumstances in which humans can demonstrate extraordinary capabilities, usually in art, music and mathematics. As promised within the episode this the Scientific article on Sudden Savant syndromeSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lauren White-Murphy, aka @lolopopworld was a successful ghost writer signed with Warner Bros whose music had featured on hit shows like American Horror Story when her own horror story struck just weeks before her 30th birthday, Multiple sclerosis not only had her falling down at work but failing to find the words that had helped her become a successful lyricist in Hollywood. Alone with a diagnosis she initially saw as a life sentence she felt an incredible urge to buy art materials and paint..... Scroll forward 3 years and Lauren's art hangs in the homes of the rich and famous in Hollywood. Lauren is now an MS Ambassador who is living proof that while MS is life changing it can be life-enhancing. Lauren feels happier than ever but also tells it like it is admitting that it's not all plain sailing. Despite seeming to have endless energy MS does take its toll and while Lauren may have to take to her bed when symptoms strike she is never far from finding a silver lining. Lauren's life sparkles like her smile and her artwork which is currently on exhibit in the IFSC Custom House Plaza in Dublin. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this booster shot Sabina Brennan explains how specialised brain cells that only fire in certain places help us to navigate the world around usSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan speaks to Irish Trinidadian author Amanda Smyth about her new book Fortune, about being rootless and untethered, about chance meetings and living life in technicolour rather than in black and white.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan makes a surprising discovery about Monday's guest Norma SheahanSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sabina Brennan shoots the breeze with multi-talented actor, writer, voiceover artist, Norma SheahanHer weekly podcast is Heal Your Hole with Norma Sheahan - which is also the name of this episode.Norma is currently in Gaiety performing “Shirley Valentine” - Unlike COVID you'll want to catch it if you can.. She’s RADA trained and has performed in most theatres. She won best actress for Enda Walsh’s ‘Bedbound’. TV roles include The Clinic, Mooneboy, Bridget & Eamon, Damo & Ivor, Dead Still, Holding, Women on the Verge, can’t cope won’t cope… and so much more.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan speaks with Michael Kaplen, a personal injury lawyer, who specialises in representing individuals who have sustained a traumatic brain injury. We speak at length about the often debilitating, long-lasting and often misunderstood consequences of one of the most common forms of brain injury, concussion. We explain why children are particularly vulnerable and why we are passionate that parents and others involved in sport be aware of the risks and consequences of concussion on their developing brains.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan shares some recent research that shines a light on how the brain detects untruths and why we shouldn't always trust our gut.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A brief update from my hotel room in London plus some tips on how to protect your most precious organ - your brainSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan and Dr Mary McGill continue their conversation about social media with a particular focus on distortion, dehumananisation, selfie-taking, self-esteem, censorship and cancel culture. Mary also makes a case for stoicism.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sleep loss can lead to weight gain. Did you gain weight during the pandemic? Have you been struggling to lose it? Have you tried and failed at dieting? Perhaps poor sleep or insomnia are at the root of your weight gain and the reason you are struggling to shift the excess. In this episode Dr Sabina Brennan explains the neuroscience behind poor sleep, appetite, willpower, weight gain and obesity.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Super Brain host Dr Sabina Brennan chats to Dr Mary McGill author of The Visibility Trap about gender-based online abuse, the need to ethical checks, surveillance, self-monitoring, visibility and exposure.Check out the Super Brain blog for full transcripts, links and videos.Get Super Brain ad-free on PatreonNo time for ads? Go ad free. For the price of a coffee once a month you get Monday' and Thursday episodes without annoying interruptions or supporter messages. For a little more you can get access to a monthly live Q&A, free audio book, Super Brain merch and more.You will also get my thanks and appreciation for supporting Super BrainSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Continuing on from the themes of identity and motherhood discussed in Monday's interview with Melissa Hogenboom, Dr Sabina Brennan looks for silver linings and explains how the identity challenges faced by women and mothers more particularly can actually bestow an advantage because they make us more resilient in times of change and transition such as those we have faced throughout the pandemic and our return to life after lockdown.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to award-winning BBC science journalist Melissa Hogenboom about her new book The Motherhood Complex and the science behind mothering.Melissa and Sabina chat openly and honestly about how challenged they felt as mothers of two young children. There's a good dose of science and myth busting too - as Melissa says - becoming a mother may be an everyday occurrence but it is an extra-ordinary experience.If you are a mum, have a mum, or plan to be a mum then this episode is for you. Melissa Hogenboom explains how the changes we experience during pregnancy and motherhood shifts our sense of self, and changes how others see us. From the way our brain changes during pregnancy and the psychological impact of our changing body, to the true cost of the motherhood workplace penalty and the intrusion of technology on family life,#mother #mum #mothering #motherhood #motherhoodcomplex #pregnancy #parent #parenting #parenthood #mentalhealth #brain #neuroscience #thepill #psychologist #neuroscientist #science #sciencejournalistThe Super Brain blog has the full transcript, links to Melissa's website and book as well as some video clips from the podcast recodingSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building on Monday's fascinating episode on psychosomatic illness with Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan, Dr Sabina Brennan shares her own experiences and more of Suzanne's insights about the physical manifestations of psychological factors.#psychosomaticillness #hypochondria #malingering #mentalhealth #neurology #neuroscience #psychology #psychologicalillness #psychological #brain #brainhealthSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to neurologist Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan in this fascinating episode about psychosomatic illness, psychogenic disorders and mass hysteria.My favourite books, films and TV shows are mysteries, detective stories and psychological thrillers. As a psychologist I’ve learned not to let the psychological inaccuracies spoil my fiction fun. But I had to do no such thing with Suzanne O’Sullivan’s new book The Sleeping Beauties. Although Suzanne writes non-fiction her books are equally, if not more fascinating and thrilling than any fiction book I’ve ever read.Suzanne is a detective of sorts who unravels real life mysteries by delving deep into the brain and the social, cultural and psychological factors that can bring about physical symptoms and illness. Suzanne is a neurologist who drew on her 20 year career seeing 1000s of patients to write her first two books - the first 'It’s all in your Head' won the Wellcome prize in 2016, her second 'Brainstorm' explores the intricacies of the human brain through epilepsy and other seizures. Suzanne has a rare gift for insightful storytelling which makes her third book The Sleeping Beauties, a wonderful journey of discovery both physically and metaphorically to explore incredible mysterious psychosomatic illness and mass hysteria - from children in Sweden who fall a sleep for years, high school students in NY with contagious seizures and several embassy officials with headache and memory loss following assault by non-existent sonic weapons. The stories are fascinating but what sets this book apart is the ease with which Suzanne lets the reader inside her own brain as she solves these mysteries and wrestles with her own prejudices and the failings of her chosen profession.Check out the Super Brain blog for this episode for more.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 4 of Super Brain kicks off Monday September 6th,I chat to an impressive group of inspiring and fascinating guests this seasonThis trailer gives you a little taster of whats in store with short clips from:S4E1 - The Brain Detective with Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan🕵️‍♂️ 🧠🕵️‍♂️ 🧠🕵️‍♂️ 🧠🕵️‍♂️ 🧠S4E2 - Happy Mum - Happy Baby with Melissa Hogenboom🤱🤱🤱🤱🤱🤱🤱🤱🤱S4E3 - The Visibility Trap Dr Mary McGill😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎@melissasuzanneh@newislandbooks@picadorbooks@acastpodcasts#superbrain #brainfog #brainhealth #mentalhealth #wellness #psychosomatic #chronicpain #allinyourhead #psychological #malingering #mum #mothering #parenthood #pregnancy #baby #socialmedia #selfie #cancelculture #sex #surveillance #neurology #neuroscience #Irishpsychologist #irishneurologistSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

National Rescue Dog Day which aims to encourage people to adopt dogs from shelters and rescues, as well as educating children about animals and their benefits. As mother to 4 rescue dogs Dr Sabina Brennan shares her personal positive experience and presents some of the science that backs up what we already instinctively feel about the benefits of being around dogs.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan talks to comedian, actor and broadcaster PJ Gallagher about loving motorbiking racing and his weekly courtship with death, hating standup and embracing honesty.For bonus materials, transcripts and more check out the Super Brain podcast blog.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week is Mental Health Week and the theme for 2021 is nature, Dr Sabina Brennan explores the neuroscience underlying the mental health benefits of natureTSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Sabina Brennan chats to Anna Geary about her career choices, her goals, her hopes for the future and body image, particularly the importance of looking after your body for functionality rather than for aesthetics, Watch out for Anna's upcoming RTE documentary which explores the reasons teenage girls drop out of sport.For bonus materials, transcripts and more check out the Super Brain podcast blogSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/superbrain. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.