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Simple Ways to Sharpen Your Memory, Learning & Thinking with Dr. Therese Huston

Therese Huston, PhD is a cognitive scientist at Seattle University, she has received her BA from Carleton College and her MS and PhD in cognitive psychology from Carnegie Mellon University. She received a prestigious post-doctoral fellowship in cognitive clinical neuroscience at the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, and most recently, she graduated from a program in Organizational Leadership at the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford.

Early in her career, Therese was an assistant professor of psychology, teaching everything from Cognitive Neuroscience to Research Methods in Developmental Psychology.  She went on to found the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Seattle University.

In her talks and in her latest book, Sharp, she blends rigorous research in neuroscience and psychology with clever, actionable strategies so you can make the most of the brain you’ve got.


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What if your brain’s sharpness wasn’t just luck—but something you could train?

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Therese Huston, cognitive scientist and author of Sharp: 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science. We dive into practical, science-backed techniques to boost your focus, decision-making, and memory—without burning out.

You’ll learn why multitasking is secretly sabotaging your performance, how a 40Hz binaural beat can dial in your concentration, and why picturing the process (not just the outcome) can crush procrastination. Dr. Houston also shares the neuroscience behind emotional regulation, what exercise snacks can do for cognitive fatigue, and even why dark chocolate may be your brain’s new best friend.

Whether you’re a student, leader, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode will help you create a sharper brain day—one small shift at a time. You’re not stuck with the brain you have. You can build it. And today, we’ll show you how.

/ / / Are you ready to take the next step on your brain optimization journey? / / /

Choose your own adventure. Below are the best places to start:

>>> Kwik Mind Supplement

>>> Discover Your Unique KWIK BRAIN C.O.D.E To Activate Your Genius

Take your first step by choosing one of the options above, and you will find everything you need to ignite your brilliant brain and unlock your exceptional life, allowing you to achieve and surpass all of your personal and professional goals.

Selected links from the episode:

Books mentioned

Sharp: 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science

Mediation techniques mentioned

KwikState by NuCalm (use code KWIK for 15% off)

Yoga Nidra

Podcast episodes mentioned

The Secret to Using Your Whole Brain with Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor & Jim Kwik

The Neuroscience of Calm: Harnessing Your Brain’s Optimal State with NuCalm

Dr. Therese Huston

Subscribe To My Podcast:

**This week’s show notes are taken from the video — enjoy!**

 

[4:37] The ultimate myth people cling onto when it comes to maintaining brain health

[7:35] Single most effective tool that will swing you into full focus mode

[10:56] 3 quick ways to sharpen your mind when you’re completely drained

[13:56] Your brain advantages and disadvantages at 25 vs 55 years

[18:43] Can emotional regulation make us more effective learners? 

[24:05] Do this calming vagus nerve exercise before important decision making 

[29:07] Brain science behind why we procrastinate and what to do about it

[32:06] Therese’s morning and evening routine for enhanced brain performance

[35:17] 2 discoveries that changed how Therese approaches life and brain health

[37:45] Top 3 metrics you should monitor when improving your cognitive performance

[40:00] Therese’s learning list

 

Take a screenshot, tag us (@jimkwik & @drtheresehuston) and share your biggest takeaway.

 

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