What is creativity, really? In this episode of the Smooth Brain Society, we dive deep with Dr. Keith Sawyer—MIT-trained computer scientist, jazz pianist, and leading creativity researcher and Professor in Educational Innovations at the University of North Carolina—to unravel the psychology of creative thinking. From the neuroscience of flow states to the myth of the lone genius, Dr. Sawyer breaks down how creativity happens in the mind, in collaboration, and in the classroom. We explore his many books on creativity including his 2024 book Explaining Creativity: The Science of Human Innovation, known as "the creativity bible," and his latest publication, Learning to See: Inside the World's Leading Art and Design Schools, a groundbreaking account of how nationally known artists and designers teach. Join us as we learn why stepping away from work might be the most productive thing you do.

Oh! and that apple story about Newton? Not quite what you think.

https://keithsawyer.com/

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In this in-studio episode of Smooth Brain Society, Sahir and Neil are joined by Dr. Kate Messenger as they explore the fascinating world of language acquisition. They discuss why children seem to pick up languages effortlessly, the challenges adults face when learning new languages, and even how bilingual brains store and mix languages. Expect a lively discussion about the theories behind language learning, including the critical period hypothesis and the role of environmental input, along with humorous takeaways about accents, passive constructions, and the everyday struggles of translating between languages. Tune in for a blend of scientific insight and casual banter that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening.

Apologies for the audio quality, there were issues with the original file.

Dr. Kate Messenger's profile: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/psychology/about-us/people/katherine-messenger

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Merch and all other links: Linktree
email: thesmoothbrainsociety@gmail.com

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Chris Bryant—executive director of Bryant Research and an expert in alternative proteins—to unpack the science, psychology, and politics behind the future of food. From lab-grown meat and plant-based alternatives to the social and environmental challenges of industrial farming, we explore Dr. Bryant's research on how the “protein transition” is reshaping everything from policy to plate. Expect sharp insights, dumpster-diving research methods, and a few sausage-related revelations along the way.

Check out Bryant research: https://bryantresearch.co.uk/

Dr. Bryant and Team have published their a lot of their research in Psychology of Human Animal Intergroup Relations: https://phair.psychopen.eu/index.php/phair

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Support us and reach out!
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email: thesmoothbrainsociety@gmail.com