The Neuro Network
Episodes
The Power of Storytelling in Science- Dr. Trevor Day
24 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Is science failing at storytelling?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Trevor Day to explore why great research isn’t enough anymore, and why stor...
The Neuroscience of Communication- Dr. Michael Platt
29 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of The Neuro Network, we sit down with Dr. Michael Platt, Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology and Director of the Wharton Neurosc...
What it Means to Be Human- Dr. Christof Koch
10 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we sit down with Dr. Christof Koch- one of the world’s most influential neuroscientists and a pioneer in the scientific study of con...
Why Fentanyl Stops the Breath, Not Just the Brain
06 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Your brain says “breathe,” but your body can’t.In this episode, we break down how fentanyl hijacks the nervous system-shutting airways, stiffeni...
Ep.52 What Makes a Theory of Consciousness Scientific? With Dr. Joel Snyder
12 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Joel Snyder joins us to unpack his recent Nature Neuroscience paper challenging Integrated Information Theory (IIT). We dive into...
EP.51 The Truth Behind Dopamine Addiction
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Is dopamine really the "pleasure molecule"? Or have we been getting it all wrong? In this episode, we dive into the neuroscience behind craving, motiv...
Ep.50 Fentanyl is doing more than you think it is...
30 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we take a look into a new feature of fentanyl and other opioids in the body. What do they do? How do they work? And why could they be devas...
Ep.49 Brain vs. Donut: How Orexin Neurons Push Us to Exercise
16 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore how orexin neurons in the brain help us prioritize exercise over tempting distractions like delicious food. Discover the s...
Ep.48 The Science of Sleep at Altitude
15 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we explore the world of sleep at high altitudes. Discover how thin air impacts breathing and sleep patterns, and delve into scientific stud...
Ep.47 Is the Universe Locally Real? State-Dependency of Consciousness
04 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week, we dive into the enigma of whether the universe is locally real, exploring the profound ways our perceptions mold reality and how neural ne...
Ep.46 Training and Injuries: Broken Clavicles and Drowning with Zach and Mark
26 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we're talking all things injuries. How do you train with an injury? How do you prevent injuries? And how do you come back from an injury? Ni...
Ep.45 Pain, Podcasts, and the Power of Neuroscience: Understanding Opioids with Jamie Moffa
29 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into the complex world of pain, exploring the intricate neuroscience behind opioids and understanding their impact on the bra...
Ep.44 Biohack or Bioquack? Alkaline and Hydrogen Water
15 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Zach is back and we're talking all things alkaline and hydrogen water. Does it really help? Can changing the pH of your water unlock an elixir to eter...
Ep.43 Biowarfare in Jiu-Jitsu, Robotics, and the Scientific Review Process
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Zach is back. Join us on this illuminating journey where we discuss the intoxicating smells of Jiu-Jitsu, construction of simple electronic and roboti...
Ep.42 The Surprising Truth About Weight Loss and the Science of Calories
02 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into the intricate science of weight management, exploring beyond the notion of calories in, calories out. We examine how var...
Ep.41 From Beams to Bones: The Light-Driven Future of Stem Cell Research
11 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into the cutting-edge realm of optogenetics. In this episode we explore how light is being used to sculpt the future of stem cell research. We di...
Ep.40 The Interconnected Mind: Exploring Social Neurons in Action
04 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of neural networks that govern social interactions. Join us as we explore groundbreaking research...
Ep.39 Hidden Hazards in Environmental Neurotoxins with Dr. Pamela Lein
20 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Pamela Lein, a renowned neurotoxicologist from UC Davis, to delve into the intricate world of environmental neur...
Ep.38 Brain Gains: Aging, Exercise, and Motor Cortex Plasticity
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into the dynamic relationship between aging and brain health in this enlightening episode, where we explore a pivotal study on how exercise influ...
Ep.37 Neuroscience, Neurology, and Conquering Neurophobia with Dr. Michael Kentris
30 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Michael Kentris joins to delve deep into the symbiotic relationship between neuroscience research and clinical neurology, explori...
Ep.36 Whispers in the Night: How Our Sleeping Minds Communicate
23 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we journey into the mysterious world of sleep, challenging long-held beliefs about our brain's disconnect during slumber. Delving int...
Ep.35 From Habit to Hooked- Understanding Drug-Seeking Behavior and Addiction with Dr. Chris Olsen
09 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Joining us this week is Chris Olsen, PhD, Associate Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Medical College of Wisconsin. In this episode Dr. ...
Ep.34 Targeting the Opioid Epidemic - One Breath at a Time
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Explore the intricate relationship between opioids and respiratory health as we dive into the comparative effects of Morphine and Fentanyl on breathin...
Ep.33 Global Pressure: Understanding Hypertension from Cells to Societies with Dr. J Brian Byrd
18 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. J Brian Byrd to delve deep into the world of hypertension. Together, we explore the clinical and sc...
Ep.32 Unraveling the Body's Secrets Through Functional Anatomy with Julian Baker
11 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we journey through the intricate landscape of the human body with Julian Baker, a pioneer in the realm of functional anatomy. Delving...
Ep.31 Breathing Life into Neuroscience: Exploring Neural Control with Dr. Kevin Yackle
04 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Yackle, to delve into the cutting-edge world of neural circuits and their role in breathing and vocalizati...
Ep.30 Beyond the Trip: Psychedelics, Neuroplasticity, and the Future of Depression Treatment
28 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we delve deep into groundbreaking research that explores the profound relationship between psychedelics, neuroplasticity, and the BDN...
Ep. 29 Controlling Our Gaze: How the Brain Suppresses Distractions in the Real World
21 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into the intricate world of neuroscience as we explore a groundbreaking study on the dopaminergic system and its influence on attention. Discover...
Ep.28 Understanding Brain Dynamics through Computational Neuroscience with Dr. Scott Rich
14 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dr. Scott Rich, a computational neuroscientist, to delve into the intricacies of the brain. We explore ...
Ep.27 Unraveling the Mysteries of the Brain: Exploring Neuronal Rhythms with Dr. Ricardo Erazo-Toscano
07 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ricardo Erazo-Toscano to unravel the mysteries of the brain. We discuss his research on neuronal rhythms, the pow...
Ep.26 Mind, Body, Theory: 10 Life Lessons from Sports, Jiu-Jitsu, and Science
24 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Zach and Nick as they illuminate the often-overlooked commonalities and life-enhancing teachings found in the sports, the grit of Jiu-Jitsu, and ...
Ep.25 Astrocytes, AI & Aerospace: Unveiling the Future with Dr. Serena Michaels-Pitman
17 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into an enlightening discussion with Serena Michaels-Pitman, PhD as we explore the intersection of neuroscience and artificial intelligence. This...
Ep.24 Fit, Fun, and Social: A Lighthearted Dive into Fitness and Weight-loss in the Social Media Age
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join us in this engaging podcast episode where we delve into the intersections of social media, weight-loss drugs, and fitness. We keep it light-heart...
Ep.23 From Grants to Chimps: A Journey Through Urban Jungle & Techno Zoology
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Nick and Zach embark on a vibrant discourse journey, starting with the intricacies of grant funding, and navigating through the trials of driving in S...
Ep.22- Mastering the Art of Persuasion: A Conversation with Debate Coach, Brier
05 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dive into the fascinating world of debate with our special guest, Brier. In this illuminating episode, we dissect the art and science of constructing ...
Ep. 21- John Kahan, Translating data into hope: Advancements in the battle against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
29 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
John Kahan joins us for an in-depth dive into the advancements in the battle against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). John is the Chief Data Analy...
Ep.20 Comparative Biology with Zach
16 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Zach and Nick dive into all things comparative biology. Topics include dog anal glands, giraffe cardiovascular physiology, dolphin research, and poni...
Ep.19 BJJ tournament, Science Conference, and Farm Strength with Zach
08 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Zach and Nick talk about their recent Jiu-Jitsu tournament, a trip to LA for a science conference, and what it means to be farm strong. Other topics i...
Ep.18 Dr. Kirstyn Grams- Surviving the Goat Lab and Adaptation to High CO2
01 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Kirstyn Grams, PhD joins us to talk about surviving a PhD tenure in the goat lab and her groundbreaking research into the effects of CO2 on the body a...
Ep.17 Neural Networks and Opioids
24 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How do our brains control breathing during opioid exposure? We take a deep dive into the neural networks controlling our breathing and how they're eff...
Ep.16 Dr. Trevor Day- High Altitude and Extreme Physiology Research
10 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Trevor Day, PhD joins us for a dive into the world of high altitude physiology research. Learn what it takes to conduct human physiological research o...
Ep.15 Gym Talk and the Secret to Effective Training with Zach
03 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Nick and Zach chat about strength training, mixing sports without compromising performance, testing the limits of the digestive system during compound...
Ep.14 All things CBD with Jon Vought
27 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Jon Vought is a firefighter, paramedic, host of the Rescue 1 podcast, and the founder of Rescue 1 CBD. Nick and Jon dive into the science and applicat...
Ep.13 Psychotherapy Through Exercise with Sam Louie and Zach
20 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Sam Louie is a psychotherapist, author, and Emmy-Award Winning former television journalist. Sam and Zach join us to discuss the interplay between men...
Ep.12 Optogenetics- Mind Control with Lasers?
13 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How do we control the brain with lasers? Optogenetics has revolutionized the field of neuroscience and opened to the door to understanding specific ne...
Ep.11 Dr. Brock Grill- Rare Disease Models and Receptor Signaling
06 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Brock Grill, PhD joins us for an in-depth look at what it takes to develop rare disease models and study novel receptor signaling pathways. Brock is a...
Ep.10- Tracy and Peter Flucke, Ultra Endurance Cycling on a Tandem Bike
27 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Ultra endurance athletes Tracy and Peter Flucke join us for a dive into the world of extreme endurance. Together they biked across the entire U.S. whi...
Ep.9 Coltan Scrivner, PhD- The Science of Fear and Morbid Curiosity
20 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Coltan Scrivner, PhD of the Recreational Fear Lab joins us for a fascinating dive into the neuroscience and psychology of fear. Learn what makes human...
Ep.8 What Happens to Your Body During Exercise?
13 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Nick and Zach as they dive into the foundations of exercise physiology. Topics discussed include energy utilization, cardiac function, muscular u...
Ep.7 Ben Armstrong, The Art and Science of Fear
06 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Ben Armstrong of Netherworld Haunted House joins us to discuss the art and science of fear. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Netherworld is one of the mos...
The Truth about Weight Loss
30 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Two former fat-guys, Nick and Zach dive into the mindset of obesity. Together they've lost a total of 270lbs. Listen in to hear about the trials, trib...
Neuromodulation, Cocaine, & Learned Helplessness
23 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Nick and Zach dive into neuromodulators, cocaine addicted mice, and when the "fight or flight" system fails. Papers:https://www.nature.com/articles/nn...
Fascia, the Secret to Better Performance w/Christopher Rodousakis
16 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What is fascia? Christopher Rodousakis joins us to discuss the innerworkings of the essential tissue layer beneath our skin. Christopher is an exercis...
Memory and Cannibalism with Zach
08 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How are memories formed? Can cannibalistic worms eat the memories of others? Zach and Nick discuss the basic unit of memory within the brain.Papers:Pl...
The Neuroscience of Breathing Pt.2
26 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Part two of the Neuroscience of Breathing. Can modulating our breath change our brain behavior? We take a dive into the neural circuitry connecting yo...
The Neuroscience of Breathing
19 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In with the good, out with the bad. In this episode we discuss the ins and outs of the respiratory control network. Why do we breathe? How do we breat...