#104: Intelligence Beyond the Brain - Nikolay Kukushkin, PhD
Can cells outside the brain learn, remember, and make decisions? In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Nikolay Kukushkin shares groundbreaking research that shows even non-neuronal cells can recognize patterns, count, and store information in ways strikingly similar to brain cells. We explore: Why memory may not be limited to the brain What sea slugs can teach us about human cognition How prediction and perception shape our sense of self The parallels between AI and biological intelligence Whether trauma could be “stored” in cells outside the nervous system Dr. Kukushkin's work suggests we rethink intelligence, not as something exclusive to the brain, but as a fundamental property of life. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Nikolay Kukushkin, PhD 5:10 | Memory in Seaslugs 10:25 | Cells Can Recognize Patterns 20:28 | Memory Defined 23:02 | Do Cells Store Trauma? 30:40 | Treatment for Neurological Conditions 38:40 | Brain & Memory Connection 42:25 | Optimal Interval for Superior Memory 44:52 | Layering of Predictions 50:35 | AI Inspired by Neuronal Behavior 52:27 | Cellular Cognition & Memory 54:47 | Intelligence of Non-Brain Cells 58:38 | Consciousness in Microtubules 1:06:15 | Where to Follow His Work Website: https://www.nikolaykukushkin.com One Hand Clapping Book: https://www.nikolaykukushkin.com/press-1 Follow on X: https://x.com/niko_kukushkin
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#103: The Divided Brain, Attention & Meaning - Iain McGilchrist
Dr. Iain McGilchrist, a psychiatrist, philosopher, and author, joins the FitMind Podcast to explain how the brain’s two hemispheres shape our perception, attention, and consciousness. He explores how the left brain’s dominance in modern culture leads to a fragmented, analytical worldview, while the right hemisphere offers a more connected, meaningful experience of reality. We discuss the moral and spiritual dimensions of attention, the limits of language, the nature of consciousness and the self, and how walking supports fluid thinking. McGilchrist also shares insights from his recent work with biologist Mike Levin on emergence and form. This episode combines neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, inviting a shift toward a more balanced and integrated perspective on the world. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org SHOW NOTES 0:00 | Intro to Iain McGilchrist 2:09 | Attention in Left & Right Brain 17:00 | How the Left Brain Came to Dominate 19:08 | Brain Hemispheres & Happiness 25:25 | Why Right Brain is the True Master 34:30 | Great Truths 35:19 | Morality of Attention 41:44 | Explaining Sacred 45:12 | Shortcomings of Language 51:28 | Distinct vs. Divided 56:20 | Balancing Brain Hemispheres 1:06:31 | Sense of Self & Relations 1:12:15 | Mirror Neurons 1:14:32 | Walking for Fluidity of Thought 1:23:34 | Consciousness Theory 1:31:07 | Water Analogy 1:35:52 | Work with Mike Levin 1:46:22 | Where to Follow His Work Substack: https://iainmcgilchrist.substack.com/ Website: https://channelmcgilchrist.com
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#102: The Science of Self-Compassion - Kristin Neff, PhD
Psychologist and leading self-compassion researcher Dr. Kristin Neff shares how treating yourself with kindness, especially in moments of failure, can boost motivation, resilience, and mental health. We explore the science behind self-compassion, its impact on performance and emotional regulation, and how to shift from self-criticism to a more constructive inner voice. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to Dr. Kristin Neff 3:52 | Compassion vs. Empathy 8:12 | 3 Core Components of Self-Compassion 13:52 | Role of Personal Responsibility 16:52 | Healthier Alternative to Self-Esteem 20:07 | Common Misconceptions 23:16 | Learning, Flow & Performance 28:32 | How Self-Compassion Impacts Others 31:40 | Physical Touch 33:42 | Depression, Anxiety & Grief 41:14 | Steps to Cultivate Self-Compassion 46:00 | Self-Compassion Break (Exercise) 55:13 | Forgiveness 1:01:06 | Taking Action 1:02:48 | Explore more resources from Dr. Neff at 🔗 self-compassion.org
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#101: Movement as Meditation - George Thompson
Tai Chi master and filmmaker George Thompson shares how movement became a form of meditation and a path to healing. From training with a Taoist monk in the mountains to recovering from a knee injury using only internal awareness, George explores how mindful movement can transform our thoughts, breath, and daily lives. We discuss: How Tai Chi helped him heal chronic pain Breath and body awareness as daily meditation Taoist perspectives on the universe and emptiness Internal Family Systems and labeling your inner “parts” Why facing life’s challenges with integrity is the real practice FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to George Thompson 9:58 | Meeting Master Gu 12:56 | Tai Chi Training 15:45 | Healing Knee Pain 20:12 | Breath Awareness Exercise 22:09 | How Taichi Transforms Thought 29:40 | Emptiness Described 34:10 | Taoist Origin Story of the Universe 38:26 | Patterns 41:55 | Daily Practices 47:58 Breathwork Practices 50:04 | Applying Daily Mindfulness 56:10 | Internal Family Systems - Labeling Parts 57:47 | Documentary Message & Inspiration 1:01:02 | Consciousness 1:10:00 | Facing Challenges 1:15:33 | Life of Service & Integrity 1:21:25 | Where to Find More on George 🎥 Watch George’s documentary “The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KArWcMldPM 🌿 Learn more about George’s retreats and teachings: https://www.balanceispossible.com/ & https://www.taoistwellness.online/
In this episode, neuroscientist and clinical researcher Dr. Justin Feinstein discusses the fascinating science and therapeutic potential of flotation therapy. Often misunderstood and mislabeled as “sensory deprivation,” Dr. Feinstein explains why this is a misnomer and what’s truly happening inside the float tank. Instead of depriving the senses, floating creates an environment of deep physical and mental rest, allowing the nervous system to reset. We explore Dr. Feinstein’s pioneering research on using float therapy to help individuals with PTSD and high anxiety sensitivity. He also shares insights into how flotation therapy could become a valuable tool in the public health system, especially for trauma survivors and people with severe anxiety. Dr. Feinstein highlights compelling case studies, including patients with anorexia nervosa who experienced meaningful relief through floating, as well as its growing popularity among high-performing athletes looking to optimize recovery and mental performance. Whether you’re new to flotation therapy or familiar with the practice, this conversation reveals its untapped potential and emerging role in both mental health and peak performance. FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind Website: www.fitmind.org Show Notes 0:00 | Intro to Justin Feinstein, PhD 2:55 | Floating & PTSD treatment 18:02 | More Stress, More Effective Floating 20:02 | Anxious People's Struggle With Meditation 31:58 | High Anxiety Sensitivity 43:41 | Peak Performance Through Flotation 47:12 | How Long Benefits of Floating Last 52:29 | Floating & Meditation 54:31 | Out-of-Body Experiences 58:03 | Anorexia Nervosa & Floating 1:01:40 | Effects on Nervous System 1:04:07 | Altered States & Brainwaves in the Tank 1:19:26 | Importance of Early Intervention 1:24:17 | Respiration 1:27:30 | Links: https://www.mauicalm.org/, https://www.clinicalfloat.org/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-feinstein/
Über The FitMind Podcast: Mental Fitness, Neuroscience & Psychology
Expert insights on the science of mental fitness. Topics include psychology, neuroscience, mental health, mindfulness meditation, productivity, brain technologies, Stoicism, happiness hacking, and more.
Liam McClintock, the Founder of FitMind, talks with leaders in their fields, from neuroscientists and psychologists to Buddhist monks and professional athletes.
At FitMind, we believe that the next great human frontier is the mind. FitMind combines ancient techniques with western psychology to provide mental fitness training that is taught at Fortune 500 companies, addiction centers, schools, government organizations, and on the FitMind meditation app.
Liam McClintock received a B.A. from Yale and worked in finance before traveling to Asia to study meditation full-time. He is currently completing an MS in Applied Neuroscience at King’s College London. Liam is an RYS Certified Yoga & Meditation Instructor and has trained in various meditation styles. He has been featured in Time, Vice, Daily Mail, Cosmopolitan, NBC, and Men’s Health.
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