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Meditation & Mental Fitness Training

FitMind: Neuroscience

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.

The FitMind Podcast: Mental Fitness, Neuroscience & Psychology

In this episode, Dr. Shamil Chandaria, an expert in consciousness, neuroscience, and AI, shares insights from his work on human experience and the intersection of technology and well-being.
 
He discusses the Bayesian brain theory and the free energy principle, explaining how the brain constructs reality by predicting and updating perceptions to reduce uncertainty and surprise.
 
Chandaria also explores how meditation helps break habitual thought patterns, offering a deeper awareness of how the brain shapes our experience and revealing profound insights into consciousness.
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 
Website: www.fitmind.org
 
 
 
Show Notes
 
0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Shamil Chandaria
 
3:38 | Spiritual Awakening in Human Flourishing
 
4:31 | How the Brain Predicts Reality - Bayesian Brain Explained
 
9:26 | AI & the Human Brain
 
21:33 | Free Energy Principle in Wellbeing
 
37:30 | Befriending Difficult Emotions
 
43:30 | Boundless Awareness
 
54:00 | Effortless Action
 
57:17 | Psychedelics & Bayesian Brain
 
1:07:29 | Default Mode Network & Predictive Processing
 
1:13:12 | Gamma Brain Waves in Long-Term Meditators Research

#97: Predictive Processing & Ultimate Well-Being - Shamil Chandaria, PhD

In this episode, psychologist Adam Dorsay, PsyD, explores the importance of human connection and its impact on well-being. He introduces the four types of connection and examines their role in resilience and life satisfaction.
 
The discussion highlights the science behind relationships, the role of vulnerability in building meaningful bonds, and the value of awe in deepening connections. Dr. Dorsay provides practical insights for fostering connection in personal relationships, work, and the natural world, offering strategies to enhance purpose and well-being.
 
 
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 
Website: www.fitmind.org
 
 
 
Show Notes
 
0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Adam Dorsay
 
1:45 | 4 Types of Connection
 
10:02 | Neuroscience of Connection
 
21:09 | How to “Know Thyself”
 
25:44 | Vulnerability & Courage
 
29:24 | Connection to the World
 
39:50 | Amazement & Awe
 
49:00 | Connect to Your Work
 
59:59 | Effective Communication Strategy

#98: The Science of Connection - Adam Dorsay, PsyD

This episode features Dr. Philippe Douyon, a board-certified neurologist specializing in neuroplasticity, brain health, and cognitive resilience.
 
We discuss the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize, challenging misconceptions like the belief that cognitive change is limited to early life. 
 
Dr. Douyon explains how inherited mindsets shape thought patterns and how intentional habits can rewire the brain for better cognitive function.
 
Key strategies for brain health, including diet, fasting, exercise, and lifelong learning, are explored, along with neurodegenerative disorders and the effects of chronic stress.
 
Practical approaches to mental fitness and stress management highlight how individuals can enhance cognitive resilience and take control of their brain health.
 
 
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 
Website: www.fitmind.org
 
 
 
Show Notes
 
0:00 | Introduction to Dr. Philipe Douyon
 
4:18 | Neuroplasticity Explained
 
6:00 | Myths About Neuroplasticity
 
10:01 | Inherited Mindset 
 
12:13 | Taking Charge of Your Brain
 
15:21 | Lifestyle Changes for Brain Health
 
23:50 | Fasting
 
26:55 | Diet
 
30:13 | Life-Long Learning 
 
38:36 | Neurological Disorders: Strokes & Dementia
 
42:32 | Pseudo-Dementia
 
46:26 | Flow States
 
48:47 | Benefit of Learning New Things
 
53:55 | Role of Emotions
 
56:22 | Chronic Stress Management
 
1:06:41 | Rapid Fire Questions

#99: Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Superpower - Philippe Douyon, MD

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/

#100: Float Therapy: Science, Healing & Peak Performance - Justin Feinstein, PhD

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/

#101: Movement as Meditation - George Thompson

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

#102: The Science of Self-Compassion - Kristin Neff, PhD

GMAC holds the record for surfing the largest wave in the world. We discuss flow states, what it's like surfing a 100-foot wave, and how to execute on a vision in life.
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 Website: www.fitmind.com

#13: Surfing & Flow States - Garrett "GMAC" McNamara

Scott Ste Marie is the founder of Depression to Expression, a mental wellness company that has reached over 20 million people. We discuss the impact of social media on mental health, how to deal with depression, the importance of curiosity and more.
 
Scott’s research and work makes it clear that we need inter-personal connection in order to thrive psychologically.
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 Website: www.fitmind.com

#14: Depression, Social Media & Curiosity - Scott Ste Marie

Marc Lesser is the CEO of ZBA Associates, the author of four books and holds an MBA degree from NYU. He was a resident of the San Francisco Zen Center for 10 years and helped develop Google's mindfulness and emotional intelligence program.
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 Website: www.fitmind.com

#15: The Zen CEO - Marc Lesser

Robert Waggoner is an expert on the science and practice of lucid dreaming.
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind
 Website: www.fitmind.com

#16: Lucid Dreaming - Robert Waggoner

Dr. Rick Hanson is a psychologist, Senior Fellow of UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, and New York Times bestselling author.
 
He’s lectured at NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard, and taught in meditation centers worldwide. An expert on positive neuroplasticity, Dr. Hanson's work has been featured on the BBC, CBS, NPR, and other major media. He also founded the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom.
 
Topics in this episode include neuroplasticity, negativity bias, the HEAL model, our internal good and bad wolves, and so-called "neurodharma."
 
FitMind Neuroscience-Based App: http://bit.ly/afitmind 
 
Website: www.fitmind.com

#60: Self-Directed Neuroplasticity - Rick Hanson, PhD

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