Join 321,000 subscribers who receive our free weekly newsletter!
Episodes/David Eagleman - Brain Expert & Entrepreneur | The Science Behind Peak Mental Performance
April 23, 20251:30:13

David Eagleman - Brain Expert & Entrepreneur | The Science Behind Peak Mental Performance

David Eagleman - Brain Expert & Entrepreneur | The Science Behind Peak Mental Performance

0:001:36:03

References & Resources

David Eagleman

Neuroscientist, Author, Science Communicator, Adjunct Professor at Stanford University, CEO of Neosensory

This episode features neuroscientist and author David Eagleman, who delves into the science behind peak mental performance and the mysteries of the brain. He discusses brain plasticity, common brain myths, the impact of habits on brain health, and how our brains perceive time and handle the unknown. The conversation also touches on the future of neuroscience and technology, including his work at Neosensory.

Books Mentioned

Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain

by David Eagleman

Buy on Amazon →

Livewired: The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain

by David Eagleman

Buy on Amazon →

Key Topics

Brain Plasticity and AdaptationMental Performance and HabitsConsciousness and PerceptionNeuroscience and TechnologyBrain Health and Disorders

Companies & Organizations

Neosensory

A company developing wearable devices to expand human sensory experiences.

Show Notes

David Eagleman is a neuroscientist, author, and science communicator known for his work on brain plasticity, time perception, and consciousness. He is an adjunct professor at Stanford University and the CEO of Neosensory, a company developing wearable devices to expand human sensory experiences. Eagleman is also the author of several bestselling books, including Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain and Livewired: The Inside Story of the Ever-Changing Brain. Through his research, writing, and public speaking, he bridges the gap between complex neuroscience and everyday understanding.

➡️ Talking Points

00:00 Intro

03:24 David’s Most Fascinating Brain Discovery

05:33 The Biggest Brain Myth We Believed

09:53 How Fast Can the Brain Adapt?

13:02 Human vs Animal Brains: What’s the Difference?

16:12 How the Brain Handles the Unknown

24:59 Is Beating Fear Like Learning a Skill?

30:25 Can We Prevent Alzheimer’s?

36:57 Habits That Harm Your Brain

42:26 Why We Sabotage Our Future Selves

48:41 Tricks to Stay Loyal to Your Future Self

53:26 Motivation Is a Scam

55:55 Die Every Day to Reach Your Goals

58:55 What Negative Thoughts Do to Your Brain

1:02:01 David’s Life-Changing Lesson

1:03:15 Gut Instinct vs. Bias

1:05:37 Why Time Feels Different for Everyone

1:09:30 Can We Trust Our Memories?

1:17:05 What Keeps David Up at Night

1:28:54 David’s Life Advice to His Kids