Dr. Charan Ranganath: How to Improve Memory & Focus Using Science Protocols

Huberman Lab

In this episode, my guest is Dr. Charan Ranganath, Ph.D., professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of California, Davis, and a world expert on the neuroscience of memory. We discuss how memory works, what causes diseases of dementia like Alzheimer’s, and science-based strategies to reduce age-related cognitive decline. We also cover the essential role of curiosity and the dopamine-curiosity link that can assist memory formation and neuroplasticity.

We then discuss challenges with attention and focus, and how to overcome them, as well as how to manage task-switching and create home and work environments more conducive to cognitive health and longevity. Additionally, we explore the emotional aspect of memories, tools for overcoming rumination, and strategies for reframing past negative experiences.

This episode will be of interest to anyone seeking to improve and maintain their cognitive health, focus, and memory across their lifespan, as well as for those struggling with ADHD.

Access the full show notes for this episode at hubermanlab.com.

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Timestamps

00:00:00 Dr. Charan Ranganath

00:02:06 Sponsors: David, Levels & Waking Up

00:06:48 Memory: Past, Present & Future; Sleep

00:13:23 Self, Memory & Age, Neuroplasticity

00:18:50 Tool: Curiosity & Dopamine

00:26:55 Dopamine, Forward Movement

00:33:09 Sponsor: AG1

00:34:22 Dopamine, Learning; Curiosity & Appraisal

00:40:31 Memory, Hippocampus

00:43:34 Prefrontal Cortex & Memory, Aging

00:50:07 Aging, Prefrontal Cortex & Memory; Depression, Rumination

00:58:53 Sponsor: Function

01:00:40 Tool: Lifestyle Factors, Minimizing Age-Related Cognitive Decline

01:09:39 Exercise, Brain Function; ADHD

01:17:26 Sense of Purpose, Tool: Values, Goals, Navigating ADHD

01:23:31 Forgetting, Intention vs. Attention

01:30:10 Tool: Smartphones, Task-Switching, Forgetfulness

01:36:36 Tool: Pictures, Memories, Intention

01:45:46 Deep Focus, Dopamine

01:49:36 Hearing, Vision, Oral Hygiene, Inflammation, Brain Health, Alzheimer’s

01:59:51 Déjà Vu

02:09:00 Serotonin, Reframing Memories, Trauma

02:19:05 Psychedelics, Neuroplasticity, Perspective, Group Therapy

02:27:53 Rumination, Trauma, Nostalgia, Narrative

02:30:30 Music, Pavlov’s Dogz Band

02:36:27 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter

Disclaimer & Disclosures