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Welcome to the Architecture and the Brain episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how the built environment influences the way we think, feel, and connect with others. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind sensory perception and neuroarchitecture, and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers the psychology of shared spaces, the impact of natural light and materials on mood and cognition, and why we’re hardwired to respond to beauty. I’m joined by Antonio, a talented architect, as we explore how thoughtful design can support mental health, foster community, and reflect evolving cultural values. Whether you’re passionate about urban planning, curious about how light and scent influence your brain, or just want to create a more inspiring space, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Bentham, J. (1787). The Panopticon concept.Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1993). The Experience of Nature: A Psychological Perspective.Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207–1212.Galima, S. V., Vogel, S. R., & Kowalski, A. W. (2020). Seasonal affective disorder: Common questions and answers. American Family Physician, 102(11), 668–672.Pjrek, E., et al. (2020). The efficacy of light therapy in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder: A meta-analysis. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 89(1), 17–24. https://doi.org/10.1159/000502891Tao, L., et al. (2020). Light therapy in non-seasonal depression: An updated meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research, 291, 113247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113247Nussbaumer, B., et al. (2015). Light therapy for preventing seasonal affective disorder. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CD011269. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD011269.pub2Do, A., et al. (2022). Blue-light therapy for seasonal and non-seasonal depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 67(10), 745–754. https://doi.org/10.1177/07067437221097903Rolls, E. T. (2015). Limbic systems for emotion and for memory, but no single limbic system. Cortex, 62, 119–157. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cortex.2013.12.005Mori, K., & Sakano, H. (2024). Circuit formation and sensory perception in the mouse olfactory system. Frontiers in Neural Circuits, 18, Article 1342576. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncir.2024.1342576Mills, E. G. A., O'Byrne, K. T., & Comninos, A. N. (2019). Kisspeptin as a behavioral hormone. Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, 37(2), 56–63. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-3400239Gaeta, G., & Wilson, D. A. (2022). Reciprocal relationships between sleep and smell. Frontiers in Neural Circuits, 16, Article 1076354. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncir.2022.1076354Shahsavar, P., Ghazvineh, S., & Raoufy, M. R. (2024). From nasal respiration to brain dynamic. Reviews in Neuroscience, 35(6), 639–650. https://doi.org/10.1515/revneuro-2023-0152
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Welcome to the PCOS episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the science behind Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, a complex hormonal and metabolic condition that affects millions of women worldwide. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the mechanisms behind PCOS and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode features a conversation with Dr. Basma Faris, a board-certified OB/GYN and certified culinary medicine specialist. We discuss why PCOS is not just about cystic ovaries, how insulin resistance contributes to hormonal imbalance, and the ways diet, sleep, and stress management play a role in symptom control. We also talk through the myths, the science, and the danger of wellness misinformation. Whether you're navigating a diagnosis or simply curious about how hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle connect, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
St-Onge, M. P., et al. (2023). The interrelationship between sleep, diet, and glucose metabolism. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 69, 101788. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010061Ehrhardt, N., & Al Zaghal, E. (2018). Behavior modification in prediabetes and diabetes: Potential use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 13(2), 271–275. https://doi.org/10.1177/1932296818790994Hanefeld, M., et al. (2014). Differences in glycemic variability between normoglycemic and prediabetic subjects. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 8(2), 286–290. https://doi.org/10.1177/1932296814522739Dmitrovic, R., et al. (2011). Continuous glucose monitoring during pregnancy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 118(4), 878–885. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0b013e31822c887fTao, M., et al. (2011). Continuous glucose monitoring reveals abnormal features of postprandial glycemic excursions in women with PCOS. Postgraduate Medicine, 123(2), 185–190. https://doi.org/10.3810/pgm.2011.03.2277Merino, J., et al. (2022). Validity of continuous glucose monitoring for categorizing glycemic responses to diet. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 115(6), 1569–1576. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqac026Wyatt, P., et al. (2021). Postprandial glycaemic dips predict appetite and energy intake in healthy individuals. Nature Metabolism, 3(4), 523–529. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42255-021-00383-xZahalka, S. J., et al. (2024). Continuous glucose monitoring for prediabetes: What are the best metrics? Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 18(4), 835–846. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968241242487Basiri, R., & Cheskin, L. J. (2024). Personalized nutrition therapy without weight loss counseling produces weight loss in individuals with prediabetes. Nutrients, 16(14). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16142218Joseph, J. I., et al. (2018). Glucose sensing in the subcutaneous tissue: Correlation with immune response and CGM accuracy. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 20(5), 321–324. https://doi.org/10.1089/dia.2018.0106Jospe, M. R., et al. (2024). Leveraging continuous glucose monitoring as a catalyst for behaviour change. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 21(1), 74. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-024-01622-6Zhu, J. P., et al. (2013). Increased mean glucose levels in patients with PCOS and hyperandrogenemia as determined by CGM. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 92(2), 165–171. https://doi.org/10.1111/aogs.12031Rizos, E. C., et al. (2024). Difference on glucose profile from CGM in people with prediabetes vs. normoglycemic individuals. Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, 18(2), 414–422. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968221123530
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Welcome to the Food and the Brain episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how the food we eat shapes not only our physical health but also our brain, behavior, and social bonds. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind nutrition and neurobiology and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers how taste, smell, and texture stimulate the brain’s reward system, the role of the gut-brain axis in mood and cognition, and how specific nutrients like omega-3s can support mental clarity. I’m joined by Pablo and Alicia, a food-loving couple who bring their own flavor to a discussion on how food influences everything from cravings and memory to connection and romance. Whether you're interested in brain health, emotional eating, or the microbiome, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Swanson, D., Block, R., & Mousa, S. A. (2012). Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA: Health benefits throughout life. Advances in Nutrition, 3(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.111.000893Carabotti, M., Scirocco, A., Maselli, M. A., & Severi, C. (2015). The gut-brain axis: Interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems. Annals of Gastroenterology, 28(2), 203Yano, J. M., Yu, K., Donaldson, G. P., et al. (2015). Indigenous bacteria from the gut microbiota regulate host serotonin biosynthesis. Cell, 161(2), 264–276. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2015.02.047Dash, S., Clarke, G., Berk, M., & Jacka, F. N. (2015). The gut microbiome and diet in psychiatry: Focus on depression. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 28(1), 1–6Peterson, C. T., Sharma, V., Elmen, L., & Peterson, S. N. (2015). Immune homeostasis, dysbiosis and therapeutic modulation of the gut microbiota. Clinical and Experimental Immunology, 179(3), 363–377Calder, P. C. (2010). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes. Nutritional Neuroscience, 13(3), 183–188Ruddock, H. K., Brunstrom, J. M., Vartanian, L. R., & Higgs, S. (2019). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the social facilitation of eating. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 110(4), 842–861Berthoud, H. R., Münzberg, H., & Morrison, C. D. (2017). Blaming the brain for obesity: Integration of hedonic and homeostatic mechanisms. Gastroenterology, 152(7), 1728–1738. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.12.050Post, M. J. (2012). Cultured meat from stem cells: Challenges and prospects. Meat Science, 92(3), 297–301van Huis, A., Van Itterbeeck, J., Klunder, H., et al. (2013). Edible insects: Future prospects for food and feed security. FAO Forestry Paper. FAO: Rome
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Welcome to the Migraine episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the science, stigma, and impact of migraine through the lens of lived experience and neuroscience. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the biology behind migraine and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode features a conversation with Dehenna Davison, former Member of Parliament for Bishop Auckland, who made headlines when she stepped down from her dream job due to chronic migraine. Dehenna shares her journey from suffering in silence to securing the first UK parliamentary debate on migraine since the 1960s. As someone who also lives with migraine, this episode is personal and deeply meaningful. Whether you experience migraine yourself or care about someone who does, this conversation offers scientific insights and emotional validation in equal measure.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Goadsby, P. J., Holland, P. R., Martins-Oliveira, M., Hoffmann, J., Schankin, C., & Akerman, S. (2017). Pathophysiology of migraine: A disorder of sensory processing. Physiological Reviews, 97(2), 553–622. https://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00034.2015Burstein, R., Noseda, R., & Borsook, D. (2015). Migraine: Multiple processes, complex pathophysiology. The Journal of Neuroscience, 35(17), 6619–6629. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0373-15.2015Charles, A. (2018). The pathophysiology of migraine: Implications for clinical management. The Lancet Neurology, 17(2), 174–182. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(17)30435-0World Health Organization. (2022). Headache disorders: Key facts. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/headache-disordersSteiner, T. J., Stovner, L. J., Jensen, R., Uluduz, D., & Katsarava, Z. (2020). Migraine remains second among the world's causes of disability, and first among young women: Findings from GBD2019. The Journal of Headache and Pain, 21(1), 137. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-020-01208-0Buse, D. C., Manack, A. N., Fanning, K. M., Serrano, D., Reed, M. L., & Lipton, R. B. (2012). Chronic migraine prevalence, disability, and sociodemographic factors: Results from the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study. Headache, 52(10), 1456–1470. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2012.02223.xLipton, R. B., Bigal, M. E., Diamond, M., Freitag, F., Reed, M. L., & Stewart, W. F. (2007). Migraine prevalence, disease burden, and the need for preventive therapy. Neurology, 68(5), 343–349. https://doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000252808.97649.21Prince, P. B., Rapoport, A. M., Sheftell, F. D., Tepper, S. J., & Bigal, M. E. (2004). The effect of weather on headache. Headache, 44(6), 596–602. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2004.446011.xFinocchi, C., & Sivori, G. (2012). Food as trigger and aggravating factor of migraine. Neurological Sciences, 33(S1), 77–80. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-012-1046-5Diener, H. C., Holle, D., Solbach, K., & Gaul, C. (2021). Medication-overuse headache: Risk factors, pathophysiology, and management. Nature Reviews Neurology, 17(2), 112–124. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41582-020-00428-0Dodick, D. W. (2018). A phase-by-phase review of migraine pathophysiology. Headache, 58(S1), 4–16. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13300Silberstein, S. D., Holland, S., Freitag, F., Dodick, D. W., Argoff, C., & Ashman, E. (2012). Evidence-based guideline update: Pharmacologic treatment for episodic migraine prevention in adults. Neurology, 78(17), 1337–1345. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0b013e3182535d0cTepper, S. J., & Ashina, M. (2019). CGRP and migraine: The emerging role of CGRP inhibitors. Headache, 59(3), 394–406. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13456Russo, A. F. (2015). Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP): A new target for migraine. Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 55, 533–552. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010814-124701Lipton, R. B., Munjal, S., Alam, A., Buse, D. C., Fanning, K. M., Reed, M. L., & Schwedt, T. J. (2022). The impact of migraine on workplace productivity and the role of novel treatments. Headache, 62(3), 334–345. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.14286
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Welcome to the Neuroplasticity episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the incredible adaptability of the brain and what it means for learning, healing, and growth. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind neuroplasticity and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers the story of JJ, a boy who was born missing key brain structures but still outperformed his peers academically. We use his story to explore how the brain can rewire itself under extraordinary conditions and what that means for you. I also discuss the role of social interaction, sleep, oxytocin, exercise, and gut health in shaping brain function. Whether you're navigating a personal challenge, looking to boost your cognitive abilities, or simply want to understand how resilient your brain really is, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Zhao, J.-L., Jiang, W.-T., Wang, X., Cai, Z.-D., Liu, Z.-H., & Liu, G.-R. (2020). Exercise, brain plasticity, and depression. CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, 26(9), 885–895. https://doi.org/10.1111/cns.13395Damiani, F., Cornuti, S., & Tognini, P. (2023). The gut-brain connection: Exploring the influence of the gut microbiota on neuroplasticity and neurodevelopmental disorders. Neuropharmacology, 109491. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109491Rojczyk, A., Dziewanowska, A., & Maryniak, A. (2020). When the brain looks imperfect: An example of neuroplasticity as seen in a patient with arachnoid cysts—a case study. Frontiers in Neurology, 11, 567. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2020.00567Gulyaeva, N. V. (2017). Molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity: An expanding universe. Biochemistry (Moscow), 82(3), 237–242. https://doi.org/10.1134/S0006297917030013Balouch, S., Rifaat, E., Chen, H. L., & Tabet, N. (2019). Social networks and loneliness in people with Alzheimer’s dementia. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 34(5), 666–673. https://doi.org/10.1002/gps.5063Ma, Y. H., Wang, Y. Y., Tan, L., et al. (2021). Social networks and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 81(1), 263–272. https://doi.org/10.3233/JAD-201202Sachdev, P. S. (2022). Social health, social reserve, and dementia. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 35(2), 111–117. https://doi.org/10.1097/YCO.0000000000000762J Neurosci. (2021). Enriched environment promotes adult hippocampal neurogenesis through FGFRs. Journal of Neuroscience, 41(13), 2899–2910. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2415-20.2021Enriched environment increases neurogenesis and improves social memory persistence in socially isolated adult mice. Journal: Unspecified.Neurobiology of Aging. (2023). Adulthood cognitive trajectories over 26 years and brain health at 70 years of age. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.112386Leuner, B., Caponiti, J. M., & Gould, E. (2012). Oxytocin stimulates hippocampal neurogenesis via oxytocin receptor expressed in CA3 pyramidal neurons. Nature Communications, 8(1), 537. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-017-00764-3Sanchez-Vidaña, D. I., & Chan, A. M. (2012). Oxytocin stimulates adult neurogenesis even under conditions of stress and elevated glucocorticoids. Hippocampus, 22(4), 861–868. https://doi.org/10.1002/hipo.20942Sleep. (2021). Adult hypothalamic neurogenesis and sleep-wake dysfunction in aging. Sleep, 44(2), zsaa173. https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsaa173Wang, L. Y., et al. (2017). Sleep and hippocampal neurogenesis: Implications for Alzheimer's disease. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 45, 35–52. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yfrne.2016.12.002Schoch, H., et al. (2019). Memory consolidation during sleep and adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Neural Regeneration Research, 14(1), 20–23. https://doi.org/10.4103/1673-5374.243697Koehl, M., & Abrous, D. N. (2015). Sleep and adult neurogenesis: Implications for cognition and mood. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, 25, 151–181. https://doi.org/10.1007/7854_2014_308
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Welcome to the New Year Habits episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how to build better routines using neuroscience-backed strategies. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind focus, motivation, and habit formation, and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers how dopamine drives reinforcement, how your prefrontal cortex shapes goal setting, and how small actions can rewire your brain over time. I share five practical, research-based strategies to help you start small, reward progress, build flexibility, embrace accountability, and make decisions in advance. Whether you're trying to build healthier routines, stay off your phone, or finally stick to a New Year's resolution, this episode offers clear and actionable insights grounded in real science.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Wise, R. A., & Jordan, C. J. (2021). Dopamine, behavior, and addiction. Journal of Biomedical Science, 28(1), 83. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12929-021-00766-5Lauretani, F., et al. (2024). Dopamine pharmacodynamics: New insights. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(10), 5293. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105293Berlucchi, G., & Buchtel, H. A. (2009). Neuronal plasticity: Historical roots and evolution of meaning. Experimental Brain Research, 192(3), 307–319. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00221-008-1611-6Talpos, J., & Shoaib, M. (2015). Executive function. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, 228, 191–213. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-16522-6_7
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Welcome to the Love episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the biology behind one of humanity’s most powerful emotions. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind love and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers the three stages of love known as lust, attraction, and attachment. Together with my friend Alejandra, we explore how hormones like oxytocin, vasopressin, dopamine, and cortisol shape our connections and influence everything from butterflies to heartbreak. We also look at the brain’s response to emotional bonding and the evolutionary reasons behind long-term partnerships. Whether you're curious about how love works, why it hurts when it ends, or how biology fuels connection, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Sharma, S. R., Gonda, X., Dome, P., & Tarazi, F. I. (2020). What's love got to do with it: Role of oxytocin in trauma, attachment, and resilience. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 214, 107602. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107602Fisher, H., Aron, A., & Brown, L. L. (2005). Romantic love: An fMRI study of a neural mechanism for mate choice. Journal of Comparative Neurology, 493(1), 58-62. https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.20772Stein, D. J., & Vythilingum, B. (2009). Love and attachment: The psychobiology of social bonding. CNS Spectrums, 14(5), 239-242. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1092852900025384Acevedo, B. P., Poulin, M. J., Collins, N. L., & Brown, L. L. (2020). After the honeymoon: Neural and genetic correlates of romantic love in newlywed marriages. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 634. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00634
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In this episode of Science Savvy, I’m joined by my best friend of ten years, Dasha, to explore the science behind long-term friendship. With warmth, laughter, and a healthy dose of evidence-based insight, we look at how your brain syncs up with your closest companions, why oxytocin makes you feel safe and connected, and how staying close to your friends can actually support your physical health and longevity.
We discuss how friendship shapes the brain, buffers stress, and even extends lifespan. Whether you're curious about how social bonds work or simply love your bestie and want to know why it matters, this episode is packed with heart and science.
Science Savvy is about uncovering the biology behind the relationships, habits, and emotions that define our lives. If you're ready to understand how your friendships literally change your brain, this episode is for you.
Further reading and references:
Dunbar, R. I. M. (2018). Friends: Understanding the Power of Our Most Important Relationships. Little, Brown Spark.Parkinson, C., Kleinbaum, A. M., & Wheatley, T. (2018). Similar neural responses predict friendship. Nature Communications.Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine.Lieberman, M. D. (2013). Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect. Crown Publishers.Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin.Lunn, N. (2021). Conversations on Love. Viking.Holt-Lunstad, J. (2018). Why social relationships are important for physical health: A systems approach to understanding and modifying risk and protection. Annual Review of Psychology.Haslam, C., & Jetten, J. (2014). Social connectedness and health in older adults. Journal of Aging and Health.Roberts, S. G., & Dunbar, R. I. (2011). Communication in social networks: Effects of kinship, network size, and emotional closeness. Personal Relationships.Langan, K. A., & Purvis, J. M. (2020). Long-distance friendship maintenance: An application of expectancy violation theory and the investment model. Current Opinion in Psychology.
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Welcome to the ADHD episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore what it really means to live with ADHD and how science is reshaping the way we understand it. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind attention, dopamine, and neurodiversity, and unpack how it all shows up in everyday life.
This episode covers how neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine influence focus, what makes ADHD more of a difference than a deficit, and how modern life and social media interact with attention challenges. I’m joined by my brother Alex, who has ADHD, for a candid and personal conversation about medication, coping strategies, creativity, and hyperfocus. Whether you’re navigating ADHD yourself, supporting someone who is, or just curious about how attention works, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Lee, Y. C., et al. (2022). Effects of mindfulness-based interventions in children and adolescents with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(22), 15198. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-011-9457-0Arnsten, A. F. T. (2009). The emerging neurobiology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: The key role of the prefrontal association cortex. The Journal of Pediatrics, 154(5), I-S43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpeds.2009.01.018Volkow, N. D., & Swanson, J. M. (2013). Clinical practice: Adult attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. The New England Journal of Medicine, 369(20), 1935-1944. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMcp1212625Faraone, S. V., Biederman, J., & Mick, E. (2006). The age-dependent decline of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A meta-analysis of follow-up studies. Psychological Medicine, 36(2), 159-165. https://doi.org/10.1017/S003329170500471XSwanson, J. M., & Volkow, N. D. (2002). Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of medications for ADHD: A review of stimulant and nonstimulant formulations. Molecular Psychiatry, 8(7), 252-264. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.mp.4001326Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: A review of empirical studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(6), 1041-1056. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2011.04.006Wiklund, J., Yu, W., Tucker, R., & Marino, L. D. (2017). ADHD, impulsivity, and entrepreneurship. Journal of Business Venturing, 32(6), 627-656. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusvent.2017.07.002White, H. A., & Shah, P. (2011). Creative style and achievement in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Personality and Individual Differences, 50(5), 673-677. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2010.12.015Armstrong, T. (2010). The Power of Neurodiversity: Unleashing the Advantages of Your Differently Wired Brain. Da Capo Press.Ashinoff, B. K., & Abu-Akel, A. (2021). Hyperfocus: The forgotten frontier of attention. Psychological Research, 85, 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00426-020-01420-w
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Welcome to the Creativity episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the science behind creative thinking and how the brain fuels imagination. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind creativity and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers the roles of the prefrontal cortex and default mode network, the surprising impact of dopamine on creative flow, and how certain brain states enhance idea generation. Joined by my friend Alicia, an artist and entrepreneur with a background in psychology, we look at how both science and lived experience shape creative expression. Whether you’re an artist, a science enthusiast, or just curious about where great ideas come from, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Adnan, A., Beaty, R., Silvia, P., Spreng, R. N., & Turner, G. R. (2019). Creative aging: Functional brain networks associated with divergent thinking in older and younger adults. Neurobiology of Aging, 75, 150–158. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.11.004Kulisevsky, J., Pagonabarraga, J., & Martinez-Corral, M. (2009). Changes in artistic style and behaviour in Parkinson's disease: Dopamine and creativity. Journal of Neurology, 256(5), 816–819. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-009-5001-1Weinberger, A. B., Green, A. E., & Chrysikou, E. G. (2017). Using transcranial direct current stimulation to enhance creative cognition: Interactions between task, polarity, and stimulation site. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 11, 246. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2017.00246Chi, R. P., & Snyder, A. W. (2012). Brain stimulation enables the solution of an inherently difficult problem. Neuroscience Letters, 515(2), 121–124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neulet.2012.03.012
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Welcome to the Gut Health episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how your gut microbiome does so much more than support digestion. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind the gut-brain connection and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers how gut bacteria influence your mood, mental health, immune function, and even decision-making. I share fascinating research on the relationship between the microbiome and depression, explain the biological pathways linking your gut to your brain, and offer practical tips for improving gut health through diet and lifestyle. Whether you're curious about probiotics, interested in the science of mood, or simply want to understand your body better, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Bercik, P., & Collins, S. M. (2014). The effects of the microbiota on the central nervous system and behavioral disorders. Gastroenterology, 146(6), 1449-1458. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2014.02.037Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2012). Mind-altering microorganisms: The impact of the gut microbiota on brain and behaviour. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 13(10), 701-712. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3346Foster, J. A., Rinaman, L., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). Stress and the gut-brain axis: Regulation by the microbiome. Neurobiology of Stress, 7, 124-136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ynstr.2017.03.001Mayer, E. A., Padua, D., & Tillisch, K. (2014). Altered brain-gut axis in autism: Comorbidity or causative mechanisms. BioEssays, 36(10), 933-939. https://doi.org/10.1002/bies.201400075Clarke, G., Stilling, R. M., Kennedy, P. J., Stanton, C., Cryan, J. F., & Dinan, T. G. (2014). Minireview: Gut microbiota: The neglected endocrine organ. Molecular Endocrinology, 28(8), 1221-1238. https://doi.org/10.1210/me.2014-1108Sampson, T. R., & Mazmanian, S. K. (2015). Control of brain development, function, and behavior by the microbiome. Cell Host & Microbe, 17(5), 565-576. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chom.2015.04.011O'Mahony, S. M., Clarke, G., Dinan, T. G., & Cryan, J. F. (2015). Early-life adversity and brain development: Is the microbiome a missing piece of the puzzle. Neuroscience, 342, 37-54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.09.068Ridaura, V. K., et al. (2013). Gut microbiota from twins discordant for obesity modulate metabolism in mice. Science, 341(6150), 1241214. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1241214Dash, S., Clarke, G., Berk, M., & Jacka, F. N. (2015). The gut microbiome and diet in psychiatry: Focus on depression. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 28(1), 1-6. https://doi.org/10.1097/YCO.0000000000000117Madra, M., & Ringel, Y. (2015). The role of probiotics in treating irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, 44(1), 159-175. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gtc.2014.11.013Jacka, F. N., et al. (2017). A randomized controlled trial of dietary improvement for adults with major depression (the SMILES trial). BMC Medicine, 15, 23. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-017-0791-yStaudacher, H. M., et al. (2017). Probiotic and prebiotic mechanisms to improve mental health via the gut-brain axis. Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 38, 69-77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coph.2018.03.008Kong, X., et al. (2020). Probiotics supplementation during antibiotic treatment reduces the risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 115(6), 921-929. https://doi.org/10.14309/ajg.0000000000000601Mills, J. P., et al. (2017). The impact of cesarean delivery on the diversity of the infant gut microbiome. Microbial Ecology in Health & Disease, 28(1), 13777. https://doi.org/10.1080/16512235.2017.13777
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Welcome to the Consciousness episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore what it really means to be conscious and how self-awareness shapes who we are. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind consciousness and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers everything from classic philosophical ideas like Descartes’ “I think, therefore I am” to modern neuroscience frameworks such as Crick’s Astonishing Hypothesis and Tononi’s information integration theory. We explore how brain chemistry, genetics, and personal experience come together to influence identity, self-esteem, and the feeling of being a self at all. Whether you’re curious about how the brain creates your sense of self or interested in the science behind awareness and emotion, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Crick, F. (1994). The Astonishing Hypothesis: The Scientific Search for the Soul. Scribner.Chalmers, D. J. (1995). Facing up to the problem of consciousness. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 2(3), 200-219.Tononi, G. (2004). An information integration theory of consciousness. BMC Neuroscience, 5(42).Koch, C., Massimini, M., Boly, M., & Tononi, G. (2016). Neural correlates of consciousness: progress and problems. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 17(5), 307-321.Northoff, G., Heinzel, A., de Greck, M., Bermpohl, F., Dobrowolny, H., & Panksepp, J. (2006). Self-referential processing in our brain. NeuroImage, 31(1), 440-457.Lieberman, M. D., & Eisenberger, N. I. (2009). Pains and pleasures of social life. Science, 323(5916), 890-891.Panksepp, J. (1998). Affective Neuroscience: The Foundations of Human and Animal Emotions. Oxford University Press.
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This is one of our early interview episodes. We shared a microphone and the audio is a bit raw, so feel free to check out our latest episodes for a more polished experience.
Welcome to the Love episode, part of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore the biology behind one of humanity’s most powerful emotions. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind love and unpack how it shows up in your daily life.
This episode covers the three stages of love known as lust, attraction, and attachment. Together with my friend Alejandra, we explore how hormones like oxytocin, vasopressin, dopamine, and cortisol shape our connections and influence everything from butterflies to heartbreak. We also look at the brain’s response to emotional bonding and the evolutionary reasons behind long-term partnerships. Whether you're curious about how love works, why it hurts when it ends, or how biology fuels connection, this episode offers clear and engaging insights grounded in real research.
Science Savvy helps you understand the systems shaping your thoughts, health, and behavior. If you're ready to explore your body and brain with a little more clarity, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Sharma, S. R., Gonda, X., Dome, P., & Tarazi, F. I. (2020). What's love got to do with it: Role of oxytocin in trauma, attachment, and resilience. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 214, 107602. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107602Fisher, H., Aron, A., & Brown, L. L. (2005). Romantic love: An fMRI study of a neural mechanism for mate choice. Journal of Comparative Neurology, 493(1), 58-62. https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.20772Stein, D. J., & Vythilingum, B. (2009). Love and attachment: The psychobiology of social bonding. CNS Spectrums, 14(5), 239-242. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1092852900025384Acevedo, B. P., Poulin, M. J., Collins, N. L., & Brown, L. L. (2020). After the honeymoon: Neural and genetic correlates of romantic love in newlywed marriages. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 634. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00634
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In this episode of Science Savvy, we tackle one of the most common yet least understood experiences in women’s health: why do we get periods. From evolutionary theories to hormonal rollercoasters, I explore the biology and history behind menstruation and the science that underlies symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and acne. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down why periods exist in the first place and what they can reveal about your health.
We look at the theories around menstruation as a defense mechanism, the evolution of concealed ovulation, and how different phases of the cycle impact your brain, energy levels, and even your creativity. Whether you’re curious about how your body works or want to better align your lifestyle with your cycle, this episode offers practical insights grounded in biology and evolutionary science.
Science Savvy is here to help you understand your body and brain through a scientific lens. If you’re ready to work with your cycle instead of against it, this episode is for you.
Further reading and references:
Profet, M. (1993). Menstruation as a defense against pathogens transported by sperm. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 68(3), 335-386.Strassmann, B. I. (1996). The evolution of endometrial cycles and menstruation. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 71(2), 181-220.Pawlowski, B. (1999). Loss of oestrus and concealed ovulation in human evolution: The case against the sexual-selection hypothesis. Current Anthropology, 40(3), 257-275.Emera, D., Romero, R., & Wagner, G. (2012). The evolution of menstruation: A new model for genetic assimilation. BioEssays, 34(1), 26-35.Hillard, P. J. A., & Speroff, L. (2019). Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility. Wolters Kluwer Health.Miller, G., Tybur, J. M., & Jordan, B. D. (2007). Ovulatory cycle effects on tip earnings by lap dancers: Economic evidence for human estrus. Evolution and Human Behavior, 28(6), 375-381.Haselton, M. G., & Gildersleeve, K. (2011). Can men detect ovulation. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 20(2), 87-92.Johnson, S., Marriott, L., & Zinaman, M. (2018). Accuracy of an online fertility tracker. Journal of Women's Health, 27(4), 435-442.Wilcox, A. J., Weinberg, C. R., & Baird, D. D. (1995). Timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation. The New England Journal of Medicine, 333(23), 1517-1521.Yang, Z., & Schank, J. C. (2006). Women do not synchronize their menstrual cycles. Human Nature, 17(4), 433-447.Frank-Herrmann, P., et al. (2007). The effectiveness of a fertility awareness-based method to avoid pregnancy in relation to a couple's sexual behavior during the fertile time. Human Reproduction, 22(5), 1310-1319.Berglund Scherwitzl, E., et al. (2017). Fertility awareness-based mobile application for contraception. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care, 22(5), 365-373.
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This is one of our early interview episodes. We shared a microphone and I hadn't yet perfected my audio editing, so feel free to check out our latest episodes for a more polished experience.
In this episode of Science Savvy, I’m joined by my best friend of ten years, Dasha, to explore the science behind long-term friendship. With warmth, laughter, and a healthy dose of evidence-based insight, we look at how your brain syncs up with your closest companions, why oxytocin makes you feel safe and connected, and how staying close to your friends can actually support your physical health and longevity.
We discuss how friendship shapes the brain, buffers stress, and even extends lifespan. Whether you're curious about how social bonds work or simply love your bestie and want to know why it matters, this episode is packed with heart and science.
Science Savvy is about uncovering the biology behind the relationships, habits, and emotions that define our lives. If you're ready to understand how your friendships literally change your brain, this episode is for you.
Further reading and references:
Dunbar, R. I. M. (2018). Friends: Understanding the Power of Our Most Important Relationships. Little, Brown Spark.Parkinson, C., Kleinbaum, A. M., & Wheatley, T. (2018). Similar neural responses predict friendship. Nature Communications.Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine.Lieberman, M. D. (2013). Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect. Crown Publishers.Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin.Lunn, N. (2021). Conversations on Love. Viking.Holt-Lunstad, J. (2018). Why social relationships are important for physical health: A systems approach to understanding and modifying risk and protection. Annual Review of Psychology.Haslam, C., & Jetten, J. (2014). Social connectedness and health in older adults. Journal of Aging and Health.Roberts, S. G., & Dunbar, R. I. (2011). Communication in social networks: Effects of kinship, network size, and emotional closeness. Personal Relationships.Langan, K. A., & Purvis, J. M. (2020). Long-distance friendship maintenance: An application of expectancy violation theory and the investment model. Current Opinion in Psychology.
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This is one of our early episodes. We shared a mic and the audio is a bit raw, so feel free to check out our latest episodes for a more polished experience.
Welcome to the first episode of Science Savvy with Carmen. In this episode, I explore how our brains work as prediction machines to help us make sense of the world around us. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down the science behind how the brain constantly anticipates and adapts to everyday experiences.
This episode dives into how your brain predicts everything from the next note in a song to the social signals in a conversation. I unpack key theories in neuroscience and explain how the brain’s ability to make sense of uncertainty shapes your emotions, perceptions, and actions. If you’ve ever wondered how your brain seems to be one step ahead, this episode offers a practical and research-backed look at why prediction is at the core of everything we do.
Science Savvy is about understanding the hidden systems that guide your thoughts, your feelings, and your health. If you're curious about how your brain works and how that knowledge can empower your everyday life, you're in the right place.
Further reading and references:
Barrett, L. F. (2017). The theory of constructed emotion: An active inference account of interoception and categorization. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 12(1), 1-23. https://doi.org/10.1093/scan/nsw154Friston, K. (2005). A theory of cortical responses. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 360(1456), 815-836. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2005.1622Barbas, H. (2015). Generalization of the prefrontal cortex in primates: Principles and prediction models. Progress in Brain Research, 219, 27-47. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.03.001Kilford, E. J., Garrett, E., & Blakemore, S. J. (2017). The development of social cognition in adolescence: An integrated perspective. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 70, 106-120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.08.016Redgrave, P., & Gurney, K. (2006). The short-latency dopamine signal: A role in discovering novel actions? Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(12), 967-975. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2022Schultz, W. (2016). Dopamine reward prediction error coding. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 18(1), 23-32. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2016.18.1/wschultzIto, M. (2008). Control of mental activities by internal models in the cerebellum. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(4), 304-313. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2332Buckner, R. L. (2010). The role of the hippocampus in prediction and imagination. Annual Review of Psychology, 61, 27-48. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.psych.60.110707.163508Schapiro, A. C., Turk-Browne, N. B., Botvinick, M. M., & Norman, K. A. (2017). Complementary learning systems within the hippocampus: A neural network modeling approach to memory consolidation. Hippocampus, 27(3), 244-256. https://doi.org/10.1002/hipo.22675Rao, R. P. N., & Ballard, D. H. (1999). Predictive coding in the visual cortex: A functional interpretation of some extra-classical receptive-field effects. Nature Neuroscience, 2(1), 79-87. https://doi.org/10.1038/4580Morris, R. G. (2006). Elements of a neurobiological theory of the hippocampus: The role of synaptic plasticity, synaptic tagging, and schemas. The European Journal of Neuroscience, 23(11), 2829-2846. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.04888.xFiorillo, C. D., Tobler, P. N., & Schultz, W. (2003). Discrete coding of reward probability and uncertainty by dopamine neurons. Science, 299(5614), 1898-1902. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1077349Behrens, T. E., Hunt, L. T., Woolrich, M. W., & Rushworth, M. F. S. (2008). Associative learning of social value. Nature, 456(7219), 245-249. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature07538Powers, A. R., Mathys, C., & Corlett, P. R. (2017). Pavlovian conditioning–induced hallucinations result from overweighting of perceptual priors. Science, 357(6351), 596-600. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aan3458Pellicano, E., & Burr, D. (2012). When the world becomes ‘too real’: A Bayesian explanation of autistic perception. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 16(10), 504-510. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2012.08.009Friston, K. J., Shiner, T., FitzGerald, T., Galea, J. M., Adams, R., Brown, H., Dolan, R. J., Moran, R., Stephan, K. E., & Bestmann, S. (2012). Dopamine, affordance, and active inference. PLoS Computational Biology, 8(1), e1002327. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1002327Griffiths, T. L., Lieder, F., & Goodman, N. D. (2015). Rational use of cognitive resources: Levels of analysis between the computational and the algorithmic. Topics in Cognitive Science, 7(2), 217-229. https://doi.org/10.1111/tops.12142Wang, X.-J., & Krystal, J. H. (2014). Computational psychiatry. Neuron, 84(3), 638-654. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2014.10.018Clark, A. (2013). Whatever next? Predictive brains, situated agents, and the future of cognitive science. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 36(3), 181-204. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0140525X12000477Ma, W. J., Beck, J. M., Latham, P. E., & Pouget, A. (2006). Bayesian inference with probabilistic population codes. Nature Neuroscience, 9(11), 1432-1438. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn1790
