Athena Stevens and Dr. Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa
Neuroblast!
Neuroblast! is a lively and accessible podcast where Athena Stevens and Dr. Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa bust common brain myths and dive into the fascinating world of neuroscience. With wit, warmth, and a touch of humor, each episode explores a new topic about the brain—demystifying complex concepts, debunking misconceptions, and uncovering the incredible potential of the human mind. Whether you're a science enthusiast, a curious learner, or someone looking for practical ways to harness the power of your brain, Neuroblast offers insights and inspiration to keep you learning and growing. Perfect f...
Be sure to visit the podcast's website and support the creator: www.neuroblastpod.com
Author
Athena Stevens and Dr. Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
May 20, 2025
Where to listen?
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Episodes
AI is Ruining Everything Video 20.05.2025 27:53
In this episode of Neuroblast! Dr. Tracey and Athena discuss the impacts of AI on our brains, brain health, jobs and the workplace, and if we're really at risk of being taken over by bots. Tink your brain is just like a computer? Think again! Original music by: Julian Starr
Left Brain, Right Brain: Are Your Skills Really Only in One Hemisphere? Video 13.05.2025 26:42
This episode debunks the myth that people are either “left-brained” or “right-brained.” Neuroscience reveals that skills like creativity and logic are distributed across interconnected brain networks. Believing in hemisphere dominance can limit potential. The brain functions as a whole, enabling everyone to develop diverse abilities through integrated processing. Original music by: Julian Starr
Cool Head - Better Decisions? Video 06.05.2025 31:42
In this Neuroblast episode, Athena and Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa debunk the myth that emotions hinder good decision-making. They explain how emotions and logic work together in the brain, influencing attention, memory, and judgment. Rather than avoiding emotions, embracing them can actually lead to wiser, more balanced decisions in real life. Original music by: Julian Starr
Trauma: In Your Body and Your Brain Video 29.04.2025 37:29
This Neuroblast episode debunks the myth that trauma is purely psychological. Athena and Tracey explain how trauma physically alters the brain and affects the body, leading to lasting health impacts. They advocate for trauma-informed care that addresses both mind and body to support true, holistic healing and recovery. Original music by: Julian Starr
Sleep Perchance to Learn Video 22.04.2025 27:45
In this episode of Neuroblast , Athena and Tracey explore how sleep supports learning. They debunk myths about sleep-learning, explain how REM sleep consolidates memory, and highlight the role of dreams in creativity and problem-solving. The takeaway? Quality sleep is essential for effective learning, focus, and brain health. Original music by: Julian Starr
You Are What You Eat! Your Brain is Hungry Video 15.04.2025 21:56
This episode of Neuroblast busts the myth that diet doesn't affect brain function. Hosts Athena and Tracey explore how proper nutrition—especially complex carbs, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich foods—directly supports memory, focus, and cognitive health, while debunking the hype around sugar, junk food, and supplements. Original music by: Julian Starr
Bilinguals: Are They More or Less Intelligent? Video 08.04.2025 24:17
This episode of Neuroblast debunks the outdated myth that bilinguals are less intelligent. Athena and Tracey explore how modern neuroscience reveals bilingualism actually boosts brainpower—enhancing memory, executive function, and long-term cognitive health—while also celebrating its cultural and social benefits. Bilingual brains aren’t weaker—they’re supercharged. Original music by: Julian Starr
Gender and the Brain: Are There Differences? Video 01.04.2025 24:01
Episode 12 of Neuroblast! challenges the myth that gender differences in the brain determine intelligence or abilities. Hosts Athena and Tracey explore its historical roots, reveal how modern neuroscience shows more similarities than differences, and discuss how outdated beliefs reinforce stereotypes. They advocate for focusing on individual potential, not gender-based assumptions. Original music...
There Are NO Differences in Intelligence Based on Race Video 25.03.2025 21:56
In this episode of Neuroblast! we debunk the myth that intelligence varies by race, tracing its roots to flawed eugenics and biased IQ tests. Athena and Tracey highlight modern research proving intelligence is shaped by environment, not genetics. They discuss the harmful consequences of this myth and advocate for educational equity. Original music by: Julian Starr
Nature via Nurture: They're in this Together Video 18.03.2025 21:30
This episode of Neuroblast explores the age-old Nature vs. Nurture debate with guest Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa. It debunks the myth of inherited intelligence, explaining how genes and environment interact ( nature via nurture ). Through real-world examples and research, the hosts highlight how enriched environments can unlock potential, proving learning isn’t just genetic! Original music by: Julian...
Intelligence: Set for Life? Video 11.03.2025 18:57
This Neuroblast episode explores whether intelligence is purely genetic or shaped by experience. Athena and Tracey debunk the myth that mental capacity is fixed at birth, highlighting the role of environment, education, and brain plasticity in lifelong learning. They reveal how intelligence is a dynamic blend of nature and nurture. Original music by: Julian Starr
Neuroplasticity Video 05.03.2025 19:57
This Neuroblast episode debunks the myth that brain plasticity ends after adolescence. Hosts Athena and Tracey explore how the brain continues to adapt, learn, and recover throughout life. They discuss scientific findings, the harmful effects of this myth, and practical ways to support lifelong neuroplasticity and cognitive growth. Original music by: Julian Starr
Is There Really a Critical Learning Period for Learning Video 25.02.2025 21:25
The Neuroblast podcast debunks the myth of critical periods in learning, explaining that while the brain undergoes developmental changes, its adaptability—neuroplasticity—allows learning at any age. Hosts Athena and Tracey explore the origins of this misconception, its societal impact, and why lifelong learning remains both possible and essential. Original music by: Julian Starr
The Cost of Neuromyths Video 18.02.2025 22:56
This episode of Neuroblast explores the real-world consequences of neuromyths, from lost opportunities to economic costs. Athena shares her personal story of overcoming misconceptions about her cognitive abilities, while Tracey highlights the broader societal impact. Together, they discuss how evidence-based science can dismantle harmful myths and unlock human potential. Original music by: Julian...
Learning Styles: Fact or Fiction Video 12.02.2025 18:09
Episode 5 of Neuroblast debunks the learning styles myth, revealing that teaching to visual, auditory, or kinesthetic preferences doesn’t improve learning. Tracey and Athena explore the origins of this misconception, highlight the brain's adaptability, and emphasize the importance of diverse, evidence-based learning strategies to unlock greater educational potential. Original music by: Julian Star...
Heart vs. Brain: Who Really Runs the Show? Video 04.02.2025 20:59
Episode 4 of Neuroblast debunks the myth that emotions come from the heart, highlighting the brain’s role in generating both thoughts and feelings. Athena and Tracey explain how brain chemicals, sensory perception, and memory shape emotions, offering insights into emotional intelligence, decision-making, and the brain’s remarkable power. Original music by: Julian Starr
Left Brain, Right Brain: Two Sides, One Whole Video 28.01.2025 18:16
In this episode of Neuroblast , hosts Athena and Tracey debunk the left-brain/right-brain dominance myth. They explore how early research on hemispheric specialization was oversimplified, clarifying that both hemispheres work together in most cognitive tasks. Tracey emphasizes a whole-brain approach to learning and offers tips for engaging both sides of the brain. Original music by: Julian S...
The Brain: Not a Muscle But Just as Mighty Video 21.01.2025 14:36
In this episode of Neuroblast! , Athena and Tracey debunk the myth that the brain is a muscle. They explain the brain's true nature, its ability to adapt through neuroplasticity, and how we can "exercise" the brain by learning, solving problems, and maintaining good sleep and nutrition for optimal function. Original music by: Julian Starr
The 10% Myth: More Brain, Less Fiction Video 21.01.2025 13:01
In this episode of Neuroblast!, Athena and Tracey debunk the myth that we only use 10% of our brains. They explore the myth’s origins, discuss modern brain research showing full brain activity, and highlight the brain’s neuroplasticity. Original music by: Julian Starr
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