The Sound Mind

• Ep. 11 From Perfect Pitch to Amusia: How the Brain Hears Music

  Why can some people name any note out of thin air, while others can’t tell when a melody goes up or down? In this episode, we explore the fascinating spectrum of pitch perception — starting with perfect pitch, often called a “musical superpower,” and ending with amusia, a condition where music may sound confusing or even meaningless. From the brain science and cultural influences to real listener stories and mental health insights, this episode is all about the many different ways people experience music — and why all of them matter.CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro02:06 What Is Perfect Pitch and Who Has It?06:18 Nature vs Nurture: Can You Train Perfect Pitch?15:57 Perfect Pitch in Practice: The Perks and the Pitfalls21:47 Listener Stories: Your Experiences With Perfect Pitch29:44 What Is Amusia?36:59 How the Brain Processes Music40:48 Summary and OutroFollow us on Instagram: @thesoundmindtalks

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• Ep. 10 Why Does Music Give You Goosebumps? The Science Behind Musical Chills

  Why does music give us goosebumps? This episode explores the science behind frisson — that spine-tingling sensation we get from powerful songs. From sudden key changes to sweeping melodies and personal memories, we break down the psychological and neurological triggers that cause chills. Plus, we dive into the personal traits and environmental factors that shape who feels them and why.CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro01:31 What Are Goosebumps and Why Do We Get Them?16:18 The Neuroscience of Frisson22:07 How Mood and Environment Affect Goosebumps25:54 Why Some People Feel It More Than Others31:36 Cultural Context and Personal Music Taste34:29 Listener Submissions: Songs That Give You Chills40:06 Summary and OutroFollow us on Instagram: @thesoundmindtalks

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• Ep. 9 Why Do Sad Songs Feel So Good? The Paradox of Musical Melancholy

  Why does sad music make us feel good, even when it brings us to tears? In this episode, we explore the paradox of why we willingly seek out melancholic melodies, how they stir deep emotions without overwhelming us, and what makes them so uniquely powerful. We dive into the psychology behind this phenomenon, from catharsis and emotional regulation to aesthetic beauty and personal meaning. Plus, we break down what’s happening in the brain when we listen to sad songs and how our individual traits shape how we experience them.CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro01:19 What Makes a Song Feel Sad?06:05 The Aesthetic Appeal11:53 Catharsis and Emotional Processing19:00 Your Brain on Sad Music: The Neuroscience Behind the Feels24:58 Who Loves Sad Music and Why?36:55 Summary and OutroFollow us on Instagram: @thesoundmindtalks

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• Ep. 8 Why Songs Get Stuck in Your Head: The Science of Musical Earworms

  Why do certain songs get stuck in our heads on repeat? Whether it’s a catchy pop chorus or a random jingle from years ago, earworms are a universal experience — but what’s really happening in our brains? In this episode, we explore the psychology and neuroscience behind musical earworms, uncover why some people are more prone to them, and break down the surprising triggers that make a tune stick. Plus, we’ll share science-backed strategies to finally shake off that stubborn song looping in your mind.CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro01:20 What Are Earworms?07:02 Why Do Songs Get Stuck? Common Triggers & Patterns12:32 The Evolutionary Purpose of Earworms21:00 The Neuroscience: What’s Happening in the Brain?25:38 Who Gets More Earworms?32:15 How to Stop an Earworm36:44 Summary and OutroFollow us on Instagram: @thesoundmindtalks

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• Ep. 7 The Science of Music and Memory: Why Throwback Songs Feel Like Time Machines

  Why does hearing an old song instantly transport you to another time and place? This episode explores the powerful connection between music, memory, and nostalgia. We unpack the science behind those vivid throwback moments, the brain chemistry that makes music unforgettable, and why nostalgia is both comforting and bittersweet. Plus, we dive into how music can become the final thread of connection for people living with dementia — offering moments of clarity, joy, and identity when everything else fades.CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro01:37 How Music Unlocks Your Memories07:36 The Neuroscience of Music Memory21:37 Music and Nostalgia28:27 The Last Thing We Forget: Music and Dementia37:07 Summary and OutroPlaylist For Life resources: https://www.playlistforlife.org.uk/resources/Follow us on Instagram: @thesoundmindtalks

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