Dr. Terry Sejnowski: How to Improve at Learning Using Neuroscience & AI

In this episode, my guest is Dr. Terry Sejnowski, Ph.D., professor of computational neurobiology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. He is world-renowned for exploring how our brain processes and stores information and, with that understanding, for developing tools that enable us to markedly improve our ability to learn all types of information and skills.

We discuss how to learn most effectively in order to truly master a subject or skill. Dr. Sejnowski explains how to use AI tools to forage for new information, generate ideas, predict the future, and assist in analyzing health data and making health-related decisions.

We also explore non-AI strategies to enhance learning and creativity, including how specific types of exercise can improve mitochondrial function and cognitive performance. Listeners will gain insights into how computational methods and AI are transforming our understanding of brain function, learning, and memory, as well as the emerging roles of these tools in addressing personal health and treating brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

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*Timestamps*
00:00:00 Dr. Terry Sejnowski
00:02:32 Sponsors: BetterHelp & Helix Sleep
00:05:19 Brain Structure & Function, Algorithmic Level
00:11:49 Basal Ganglia; Learning & Value Function
00:15:23 Value Function, Reward & Punishment
00:19:14 Cognitive vs. Procedural Learning, Active Learning, AI
00:25:56 Learning & Brain Storage
00:30:08 Traveling Waves, Sleep Spindles, Memory
00:32:08 Sponsors: AG1 & David
00:34:57 Tool: Increase Sleep Spindles; Memory, Ambien; Prescription Drugs
00:42:02 Psilocybin, Brain Connectivity
00:45:58 Tool: ‘Learning How to Learn’ Course
00:49:36 Learning, Generational Differences, Technology, Social Media
00:58:37 Sponsors: LMNT & Joovv
01:01:06 Draining Experiences, AI & Social Media
01:06:52 Vigor & Aging, Continued Learning, Tool: Exercise & Mitochondrial Function
01:12:17 Tool: Cognitive Velocity; Quick Stressors, Mitochondria
01:16:58 AI, Imagined Futures, Possibilities
01:27:14 AI & Mapping Potential Options, Schizophrenia
01:30:56 Schizophrenia, Ketamine, Depression
01:36:15 AI, “Idea Pump,” Analyzing Research
01:42:11 AI, Medicine & Diagnostic Tool; Predicting Outcomes
01:50:04 Parkinson’s Disease; Cognitive Velocity & Variables; Amphetamines
01:59:49 Free Will; Large Language Model (LLM), Personalities & Learning
02:12:40 Tool: Idea Generation, Mind Wandering, Learning
02:18:18 Dreams, Unconscious, Types of Dreams
02:22:56 Future Projects, Brain & Self-Attention
02:31:39 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter

#HubermanLab #Neuroscience #AI

[hubermanlab]

Thank you for watching. If you enjoyed this topic and episode, please click the "like" button below the episode title, and subscribe to our channel here on YouTube. Thank you for your interest in science! -- Andrew

[Sarahdawna]

PLEASE have him back! He was a delight to listen to.

[spamdumpster]

so key takeaways here:
1. get sleep for spindles
2. ask AI to deal in the future
3. speak politely to LLM
4. Take the learn how to learn course\
5. move to learn better
anything else?

[AshFaran-deqh]

I’m a big admirer of the Huberman Lab Podcast and all the incredible value it brings to its audience. Dr. Huberman’s deep knowledge and ability to communicate complex topics in an accessible way is one of the reasons I keep coming back for more. It’s clear that he pours a lot of thought and effort into every episode, and I appreciate how much I learn each time.

That said, in this particular episode, I noticed something that felt a bit different. It seemed like Dr. Huberman interrupted his guest more often than usual. While I understand that he’s excited to share insights and build on what the guest is saying, it came across as though he was enjoying the sound of his own thoughts a bit more than usual, perhaps at the expense of allowing his guest to fully elaborate on theirs.

I hope this feedback is taken in the spirit of appreciation—it’s only because I respect and value the podcast so much that I felt compelled to share my thoughts. I’m looking forward to many more episodes and the incredible content Dr. Huberman consistently delivers!

[Duck_Bidiyani]

I’m 15 yeas old and decided about one week ago that my career path would be computational neurobiology rather than neurobiology itself. Perfect timing as always Mr. Huberman! On my way to Stanford

[onick]

I was wondering where I knew Dr. Sejnowski from. Turns out he actually made the course (Learning how to learn) which I took 1 week before entering medical school, since I was scared of being incapable to study all the material! Last year I graduated and am now in residency :)

[kelvinmontage]

WOW THIS CANNOT GET ANY BETTER. Learning how to learn was a great book!

[sinataslim]

Hi Dr. Huberman,

I really enjoyed the topic of this episode and the guest you brought on. That said, I noticed there were more interruptions than usual, especially in the first half, which made it harder for the guest to fully dive into their answers. It felt like the conversation jumped between topics a bit too quickly.

I’d love to hear this subject explored again in more depth. Your podcast has been such a valuable resource for me, and I truly appreciate all the effort you put into it.

Thank you for the incredible work you do!

[chriskanan]

It's great to see Terry on your channel! He has been a great mentor and collaborator to me, and he is genuinely one of the most generous and inspiring scientists I've had the privilege to interact with.

[valinoe]

Dr. Huberman and Dr. Sejnowski - 24 year old here. I got my first phone at 12 or 13 yo. Social media drains my energy exactly how Dr. Huberman described it. And I still can't seem to stop using it. It's exhausting.

[mhlorenzo]

As I was listening to this, I registered for the Learning to Learn and I am completing the modules... I'm loving it. I know so many people who could benefit from this! For starters, as a 49 years old Hispanic woman who just went through Grad school, with an upcoming board exam in the horizon, I can't think of a more relevant topic...
I continue to be amazed of how timely your deliveries are, sir. Please keep "blabbing" about the things you're passionate about, sir. I'm definitely forwarding this episode to all of my college professors who are sensitive to cultural factors that impact learning, so they can further share these resources with people like me!!!!

[Joe.Richard.Saunders]

Dr. Sejnowki also contributed to Independent Component Analysis (ICA) in unsupervised machine learning. I found that out during my wikipedia deep dive in grad school. The Barbara Oakley coursework was also interesting for learning. Great guest!

[Leiter]

Love this one. After listening to it I started the Learning to Learn course. Thank you all!

[LadyAsmodeus]

damn, I ALWAYS forget that its monday and there is a new podcast episode, so its always taking me by suprise and then I realize its monday

[richardthompson]

A breath of fresh air. Thank you Dr. Sejnowski

[haleyuliasz]

Thank you for all the great content in your podcasts. Could you do a podcast on the difference between carbohydrate sources, like vegetables/fiber vs grains/starch vs sugars/sucrose and how our bodies utilize these differently. This came up as a dinner table conversation on what are the best carbs to be eating for fitness inclined individuals that might want to optimize their diet based on activities and really sculpt there abdominal muscles.
Thanks!!

[metehansahin_]

Hi Dr. Huberman, I was wondering if by any chance you can make an episode about diabetes, specifically type 1?

[adamtrybus]

Terry is also behind the newest specialisation on coursera dealing with critical thinking. I was fortunate to have collaborated with him and Barb putting this specialisation together.

[zasta]

Andrew, you look lively again. So glad for you.

[SkyFitTalk]

Loved this episode! The idea of conversing with AI like a friend totally resonates with me. I’ve been interacting with AI in a friendly manner regularly, and it's true—it doesn’t drain my energy by the end of the day, even with heavy use. Plus, the point about learning at a pace faster than normal reading is incredibly relatable.
🙏Thank you! Dr. Huberman and Dr. Sejnowski for sharing such great knowledge and wisdom!🙏