reSee.it Podcast Summary
In this episode of Armchair Expert, Dax Shepard and Monica Padman welcome Jud Brewer, an MD and PhD, who is a psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author. Brewer is the director of research and innovation at Brown University's Mindfulness Center and has developed an app-based program for treating anxiety, overeating, and smoking. He discusses his book, *The Craving Mind*, which explores the nature of cravings and how to break bad habits.
Brewer shares insights about the brain's functioning, particularly how it processes information and forms habits. He explains the "two-body problem" in academia, where couples struggle to find jobs in the same location. Brewer reflects on his upbringing in Indiana, emphasizing the influence of his mother, a single parent who became a successful patent attorney. This experience shaped his feminist views and his interest in neuroscience and psychiatry.
The conversation delves into the replication crisis in psychology, where many studies fail to be replicated, leading to questions about their validity. Brewer highlights the importance of understanding that correlation does not imply causation, using examples like the misconception linking vaccines to autism. He discusses how fear can cloud judgment and lead to irrational beliefs.
Brewer emphasizes the significance of mindfulness in understanding and changing habits. He explains that cravings are often tied to context and that awareness can help individuals recognize the true reward value of their behaviors. He introduces his app, Eat Right Now, which encourages users to pay attention to their eating habits, helping them realize that unhealthy foods may not provide the satisfaction they expect.
The discussion also touches on the difference between excitement and contentment, with Brewer arguing that modern society often equates excitement with happiness, leading to a cycle of craving and dissatisfaction. He advocates for finding joy in the journey rather than focusing solely on outcomes.
Brewer shares his research on mindfulness and addiction, revealing that mindfulness training can significantly help individuals quit smoking and manage cravings. He explains how meditation can quiet the brain's self-referential networks, allowing for a more expansive experience of life.
The episode concludes with a discussion on the impact of technology and food engineering on human behavior, emphasizing the need for awareness and mindfulness to navigate these challenges. Brewer encourages listeners to explore their own habits and find intrinsic rewards in their lives, ultimately fostering a sense of contentment and connection.