Dr. Terry Sejnowski: How to Improve at Learning Using Neuroscience & AI

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In this episode, my guest is Dr. Terry Sejnowski, Ph.D., professor of computational neurobiology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. He is world-renowned for exploring how our brain processes and stores information and, with that understanding, for developing tools that enable us to markedly improve our ability to learn all types of information and skills.

We discuss how to learn most effectively in order to truly master a subject or skill. Dr. Sejnowski explains how to use AI tools to forage for new information, generate ideas, predict the future, and assist in analyzing health data and making health-related decisions.

We also explore non-AI strategies to enhance learning and creativity, including how specific types of exercise can improve mitochondrial function and cognitive performance. Listeners will gain insights into how computational methods and AI are transforming our understanding of brain function, learning, and memory, as well as the emerging roles of these tools in addressing personal health and treating brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

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About this Guest

Dr. Terry Sejnowski

Terry Sejnowski, Ph.D., is a professor of computational neurobiology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.

  • 00:00:00 Dr. Terry Sejnowski
  • 00:02:32 Sponsors: BetterHelp & Helix Sleep
  • 00:05:19 Brain Structure & Function, Algorithmic Level
  • 00:11:49 Basal Ganglia; Learning & Value Function
  • 00:15:23 Value Function, Reward & Punishment
  • 00:19:14 Cognitive vs. Procedural Learning, Active Learning, AI
  • 00:25:56 Learning & Brain Storage
  • 00:30:08 Traveling Waves, Sleep Spindles, Memory
  • 00:32:08 Sponsors: AG1 & David
  • 00:34:57 Tool: Increase Sleep Spindles; Memory, Ambien; Prescription Drugs
  • 00:42:02 Psilocybin, Brain Connectivity
  • 00:45:58 Tool: ‘Learning How to Learn’ Course
  • 00:49:36 Learning, Generational Differences, Technology, Social Media
  • 00:58:37 Sponsors: LMNT & Joovv
  • 01:01:06 Draining Experiences, AI & Social Media
  • 01:06:52 Vigor & Aging, Continued Learning, Tool: Exercise & Mitochondrial Function
  • 01:12:17 Tool: Cognitive Velocity; Quick Stressors, Mitochondria
  • 01:16:58 AI, Imagined Futures, Possibilities
  • 01:27:14 AI & Mapping Potential Options, Schizophrenia
  • 01:30:56 Schizophrenia, Ketamine, Depression
  • 01:36:15 AI, “Idea Pump,” Analyzing Research
  • 01:42:11 AI, Medicine & Diagnostic Tool; Predicting Outcomes
  • 01:50:04 Parkinson’s Disease; Cognitive Velocity & Variables; Amphetamines
  • 01:59:49 Free Will; Large Language Model (LLM), Personalities & Learning
  • 02:12:40 Tool: Idea Generation, Mind Wandering, Learning
  • 02:18:18 Dreams, Unconscious, Types of Dreams
  • 02:22:56 Future Projects, Brain & Self-Attention
  • 02:31:39 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter

This transcript is currently under human review and may contain errors. The fully reviewed version will be posted as soon as it is available.

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