Guest Episode
September 30, 2024

Dr. Charan Ranganath: How to Improve Memory & Focus Using Science Protocols

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In this episode, my guest is Dr. Charan Ranganath, Ph.D., professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of California, Davis, and a world expert on the neuroscience of memory. We discuss how memory works, what causes diseases of dementia like Alzheimer’s, and science-based strategies to reduce age-related cognitive decline. We also cover the essential role of curiosity and the dopamine-curiosity link that can assist memory formation and neuroplasticity.

We then discuss challenges with attention and focus, and how to overcome them, as well as how to manage task-switching and create home and work environments more conducive to cognitive health and longevity. Additionally, we explore the emotional aspect of memories, tools for overcoming rumination, and strategies for reframing past negative experiences.

This episode will be of interest to anyone seeking to improve and maintain their cognitive health, focus, and memory across their lifespan, as well as for those struggling with ADHD.

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About this Guest

Dr. Charan Ranganath

Charan Ranganath, Ph.D. is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at University of California, Davis and a world expert on the neuroscience and role of memory in our lives.

  • 00:00:00 Dr. Charan Ranganath
  • 00:02:06 Sponsors: David, Levels & Waking Up
  • 00:06:48 Memory: Past, Present & Future; Sleep
  • 00:13:23 Self, Memory & Age, Neuroplasticity
  • 00:18:50 Tool: Curiosity & Dopamine
  • 00:26:55 Dopamine, Forward Movement
  • 00:33:09 Sponsor: AG1
  • 00:34:22 Dopamine, Learning; Curiosity & Appraisal
  • 00:40:31 Memory, Hippocampus
  • 00:43:34 Prefrontal Cortex & Memory, Aging
  • 00:50:07 Aging, Prefrontal Cortex & Memory; Depression, Rumination
  • 00:58:53 Sponsor: Function
  • 01:00:40 Tool: Lifestyle Factors, Minimizing Age-Related Cognitive Decline
  • 01:09:39 Exercise, Brain Function; ADHD
  • 01:17:26 Sense of Purpose, Tool: Values, Goals, Navigating ADHD
  • 01:23:31 Forgetting, Intention vs. Attention
  • 01:30:10 Tool: Smartphones, Task-Switching, Forgetfulness
  • 01:36:36 Tool: Pictures, Memories, Intention
  • 01:45:46 Deep Focus, Dopamine
  • 01:49:36 Hearing, Vision, Oral Hygiene, Inflammation, Brain Health, Alzheimer’s
  • 01:59:51 Déjà Vu
  • 02:09:00 Serotonin, Reframing Memories, Trauma
  • 02:19:05 Psychedelics, Neuroplasticity, Perspective, Group Therapy
  • 02:27:53 Rumination, Trauma, Nostalgia, Narrative
  • 02:30:30 Music, Pavlov’s Dogz Band
  • 02:36:27 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter

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