He studies memory for a living, but the real twist is what we should forget.
Dr. Charan Ranganath is one of the world’s leading memory scientists, and his groundbreaking research reveals how the key to happiness isn’t holding on — it’s letting go.
In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, Dr. Ranganath joins Mercedes and Anastasia to break down the science of memory, the connection between remembering and happiness, and how understanding your brain can completely change how you live and go through daily life. From why we remember the bad more than the good, to how to reframe painful memories, and why forgetting might actually be one of the brain’s greatest superpowers - this episode will make you see your past in a whole new way.
In this episode:
Why we’re wired to forget - and how that helps us.
The link between memory and happiness.
Tips to boost your memory (and protect it long-term).
Hacks to reframe negative memories so they no longer define you.
The impact of socialization on mood & memory
Whether you’re healing from the past, studying for an exam, or just want to better understand your mind, Dr. Ranganath’s wisdom will remind you that every memory, good or bad, can be used to build a better, happier you.
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Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with sleep expert, Dr. Wendy Troxel. In this episode, Dr. Troxel unveils the impact that sleep has on happiness, hacks for those nights where you can't stop tossing and turning, + debunks sleep myths: https://open.spotify.com/episode/73V8oVRD1ZbfAeeWC2mgGp?si=dbdB2SlkRKW7Ud1y8taFqQ
(00:00) Welcome, Dr. Charan Ranganath!
(01:41) What Shaped Dr. Ranganath?
(06:06) Is There A Connection Between Memory & Happiness?
(08:25) The Impact of Gratitude On Memory & Happiness!
(09:30) How We Remember vs What Actually Happened
(13:06) Do Teens Process Memories Differently From Kids and Adults?
(21:02) EVERYONE Should Know THIS About Brain Health
(22:30) Your Guide To The Different Types of Memory
(24:54) What We're Wired To Remember vs Forget
(28:11) Hacks To Boost Your Memory
(30:57) Why Do Certain Scents + Songs Trigger Memories?
(33:59) Can I Rewire My Brain To Forget Bad Memories?
(41:27) Study Tips For Teen (and adult) Brains
(47:41) How Will AI Impact Human Memory?
(52:34) How Can I Become More Curious?
(55:27) Debunking The Biggest Memory Myths
(56:13) Want To Become A Researcher? Start HERE
(58:54) If Dr. Ranganath Had A Time-Machine, He'd Revisit This Memory
(59:33) Dr. Ranganath To His Teenage Self
(1:02:18) What Brings Dr. Ranganath A Small Bit of Happiness?
(1:02:36) Dr. Ranganath's Motivational Quote
(1:03:42) Find Dr. Ranganath Here
(1:04:46) Key Takeaways