What if your brain’s most natural state isn’t problem-solving or goal-chasing—but simply thinking about people? In this episode of the Professor P Podcast, we explore the science of human connection and the neuroscience that makes us profoundly social beings.

📘 Part 1 – Book Spotlight

🧠 Part 2 – Expert Conversation with Dr. Jordan Grafman

🎓 Part 3 – Student Reflection with Mila Chavez

✨ Key Takeaway:

🧘‍♂️ Reflection Questions for Listeners:

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Act of Kindness: Give someone a compliment.

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Dr. Jordan H. Grafman is a distinguished American neuropsychologist and cognitive neuroscientist, widely recognized for his groundbreaking work on the human prefrontal cortex and its role in social cognition, moral reasoning, and belief systems. Born in 1950, he completed his Ph.D. in Human Neuropsychology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and began his career as a Captain in the United States Air Force, contributing to the historic Vietnam Head Injury Study at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. His early work established the foundation for a lifelong focus on how brain injuries and neurological conditions affect human thought, behavior, and social functioning.

Dr. Grafman went on to serve for more than two decades at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), where he was Chief of the Cognitive Neuroscience Section. Later, he directed Traumatic Brain Injury Research at the Kessler Foundation in New Jersey. Since 2012, he has led Brain Injury Research and the Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago—ranked the #1 rehabilitation hospital in the United States—and holds professorships in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Neurology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, as well as in Psychology at Northwestern’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences.

His research has spanned the neural basis of social cognition, moral judgment, structured event complex theory, brain plasticity, and the impact of traumatic brain injury on human behavior. With over 500 published scientific articles and an h-index above 130, Dr. Grafman’s scholarship has had lasting influence in both cognitive neuroscience and clinical neuropsychology. He also serves as co-editor of the prestigious journal Cortex and has edited multiple authoritative volumes on the frontal lobes, traumatic brain injury, and human beliefs.

Throughout his career, Dr. Grafman has been honored with numerous awards for his scientific contributions. These include the Humboldt Research Award (2011), as well as recognition from the U.S. Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health for his pioneering work in neuropsychology and rehabilitation science. More recently, he has been named among the top scientists in psychology and neuroscience by Research.com’s U.S. Leader Awards (2023–2025). His enduring impact lies not only in advancing our scientific understanding of the social brain but also in shaping clinical approaches that improve the lives of individuals with brain injuries and neuropsychiatric conditions.

What if true happiness had nothing to do with fame, luxury, or power—and everything to do with simplicity, friendship, and peace of mind?

In this episode, we step into the Garden of Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher who was often misunderstood as a champion of indulgence, yet in reality, taught one of the most healing and grounded philosophies of life. Far from excess, Epicurus emphasized freedom from fear, modest living, and the transformative joy of friendship.

Happiness in Simplicity — Why less often means more, and how decluttering your life can create space for joy.

Freedom from Fear — A liberating perspective on death, anxiety, and living fully in the present.

Friendship as the Foundation — Why Epicurus placed loyal relationships above wealth, success, and recognition.

Living Modestly, Thinking Deeply — How mindful consumption and reflection cultivate peace.

Philosophy for Everyday Life — Practical tools to bring wisdom down from abstraction into action.

“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.”            This episode blends ancient philosophy with modern challenges, offering you practical steps to reset your priorities, reclaim inner peace, and live with gratitude.   Tune in, reflect, and take one simple step toward a more meaningful life.

How do the brain mechanisms behind pleasure and reward influence motivation? 

“Celebrate your small wins—they train your brain to stay on track. And stay aware of how temptations can sneak in and trigger your reward system.” — Dr. Kent Berridge

Pleasure is more than a fleeting feeling—it’s a driving force that shapes our choices, fuels our motivation, and even determines the habits we form. In this episode, we sit down with world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Kent Berridge, whose groundbreaking research on the brain’s reward system has transformed our understanding of “liking” vs. “wanting,” cravings, and motivation.

From the subtle ways dopamine guides our daily behavior to the brain’s ability to rewire habits, Dr. Berridge unpacks the science behind why we pursue certain goals, how we can better manage temptations, and what it takes to sustain motivation even when rewards feel distant. His insight—“Reward your small steps toward your goal and be mindful toward your temptation”—becomes the guiding principle for the conversation.

We explore:

How the brain’s reward system shapes motivation and productivity.

Neuroscience-backed strategies for managing cravings and temptations.

The role of pleasure in relationships and social bonding.

What burnout does to the brain—and how to reset motivation.

The balance between indulgence and discipline in a world of instant gratification.

How to reignite joy in simple activities and protect ourselves from the pull of social media.

In the first segment, we review How Pleasure Works, a fascinating exploration of why humans take pleasure in art, food, love, and even seemingly odd activities. The book challenges the idea that pleasure is purely sensory—arguing instead that our beliefs, cultural context, and personal history shape how much we enjoy something. Whether it’s a glass of wine, a favorite song, or a family tradition, the meaning we attach to it is just as important as the sensation itself.

This lens beautifully complements Dr. Berridge’s work, showing that the neuroscience of pleasure isn’t just about brain chemistry—it’s about how the mind and culture interact to create meaning.

In our final segment, my former student Meghan Fouad offers a fresh, personal reflection on the topic. She shares how learning about the neuroscience of pleasure and reward reshaped her view of motivation, how she applies “rewarding small steps” in her own goals, and why understanding our brain’s wiring can make self-discipline feel less like a battle and more like a game we can win.

Listen in for a blend of cutting-edge science, thought-provoking ideas, and practical takeaways that will help you rethink how you pursue pleasure, manage cravings, and keep your motivation alive.

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*Act of kindness: Connect with kindness with others ; Receiving compliment from someone

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Dr. Kent C. Berridge is a world-renowned neuroscientist and the James Olds Collegiate Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of Michigan. For over three decades, he has been at the forefront of research on the brain mechanisms of pleasure, reward, motivation, and addiction. His pioneering work introduced the influential distinction between “liking” and “wanting,” showing how separate neural systems control the pleasure we experience and the desire that drives our behavior.

Dr. Berridge’s research has shed light on topics ranging from how cravings are triggered to how habits form, and his insights have influenced fields as diverse as psychology, psychiatry, behavioral economics, and public health. He has received numerous honors, including election to the National Academy of Sciences, the APS William James Fellow Lifetime Achievement Award, the Grawemeyer Award for Psychology, and the APA Award for Distinguished Scientific Contributions.

In this inspiring episode, we explore the remarkable life of Ferenc Csik—a Hungarian Olympic gold medalist who became a war-time physician. Beyond his athletic triumphs, Csik’s legacy is one of deep moral conviction and service. From the roar of Olympic applause to the silence of battlefield sacrifice, his story is a call to all of us: greatness lies not just in what we win, but in what we give. Discover how his life can guide us toward courage, excellence, and purpose in our own paths.

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Ferenc Csik (1913–1945) was a Hungarian Olympic swimmer and physician, born in Kaposvár, Hungary. At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, he won the gold medal in the 100-meter freestyle, becoming a national icon. A gifted academic, Csik also studied medicine and became a physician. When World War II broke out, he served as a medical doctor. Despite his fame, he chose to go to the front lines to care for the wounded. He died in 1945 during an air raid while treating patients, embodying his deep belief in service over self. His life remains a powerful reminder of courage, humility, and responsibility.

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Fun fact: At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Ferenc Csik’s gold medal victory in the 100m freestyle came by the slimmest of margins—just 0.1 seconds—in a nail-biting finish that stunned the crowd. What made it even more remarkable was that Csik wasn’t considered the favorite; his win was a combination of strategic pacing and a perfectly timed final surge. His upset became one of the most thrilling moments of those Games, earning him instant international fame and solidifying his status as a Hungarian sports legend.

در این قسمت از پادکست، با داستان پُرشور و انگیزه‌بخش دانیال شه‌بخش، پیشگام بوکس ایران همراه می‌شوید؛ جوانی که از شهر زاهدان برخاست و با اراده‌ای تسلیم‌ناپذیر و تمرینی مستمر، به اولین ایرانی تبدیل شد که مدال تاریخ‌سازی در مسابقات جهانی بوکس به دست آورد. گفت‌وگوی ما با دانیال، دریچه‌ای است به زندگی او: از مبارزه با محدودیت‌های اجتماعی و اقتصادی در زادگاهش تا رویارویی با فشارها و توقعات در مسیر حرفه‌ای‌اش. همچنین روایت‌گر تجربه‌ی حضور او در المپیک ۲۰۲۰ توکیو هستیم—جایی که او نه‌تنها نماینده‌ی توانایی‌هایش بود، بلکه با درس‌هایی ارزشمند بازگشت و فلسفه‌ای تازه در باب آمادگی ذهنی و جسمی در رقابت‌های جهانی ارائه داد. در ادامه، با شنیدن چشم‌انداز او برای آینده‌ی بوکس ایران، از برنامه‌ها، اهداف و ایده‌هایی رونمایی می‌شود که می‌تواند مسیر این ورزش را در سطح ملی و بین‌المللی تغییر دهد. این اپیزود، فراتر از روایت یک مسابقه یا قهرمانی است؛ داستانی واقعی از تلاش بی‌وقفه، امید زنده، و شکستن مرزهای ممکن در راه تحقق رؤیاها.

Kobe Bryant was more than a basketball legend—he was a philosopher of excellence, a craftsman of the mind, and a fierce believer in the power of daily discipline. In this episode, we dive deep into the five most powerful lessons from Kobe’s life—from loving the grind to mentoring the next generation. We’ll explore how the “Mamba Mentality” applies far beyond sports—into leadership, creativity, and personal evolution.

Hear imagined reflections in his voice, revisit his iconic words, and walk away with daily, practical steps you can apply to your own journey. This is more than a tribute—it’s a call to rise.

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Kobe Bryant (1978–2020) was an American professional basketball player, entrepreneur, and storyteller whose influence extended far beyond the hardwood. Born in Philadelphia and raised partly in Italy, Kobe entered the NBA at just 17 years old, becoming one of the most celebrated athletes in history. Over a 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, he won five NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and was named an All-Star 18 times. But Kobe was more than his accolades—he was a fierce competitor, relentless learner, and tireless worker who inspired millions with his philosophy known as the “Mamba Mentality.”

After retiring, Kobe reinvented himself as a storyteller and creative visionary. He founded Granity Studios, wrote books for young athletes, and even won an Academy Award for his animated short film Dear Basketball. He became a dedicated father and coach to his daughters, most notably Gianna, who shared his love for the game.

Kobe’s life was tragically cut short in a helicopter crash in 2020, but his legacy lives on—in the game he transformed, in the stories he told, and in the countless lives he inspired through his example of discipline, drive, and purpose.

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Fun fact: Kobe Bryant gave himself the nickname “Black Mamba” after watching the movie Kill Bill, where the snake symbolized speed, precision, and lethal focus. He used the persona to separate his intense, competitive basketball identity from his personal life—a psychological tool to handle pressure and adversity. The “Mamba Mentality” became a philosophy embraced by athletes and professionals worldwide, symbolizing relentless self-improvement and inner fire.

In this powerful episode of the Professor P Podcast, we sit down with one of the most decorated judokas in history — Alexander Mikhaylin. A 3× World Champion, 6× European Champion, and Olympic Silver Medalist, Mikhaylin takes us deep inside the mind of a champion.

From his early days in Russia discovering judo, to standing on the Olympic podium after a legendary final against Teddy Riner, Alexander opens up about what it takes to stay at the top in one of the world’s most intense combat sports. But this episode isn’t just about winning — it’s about enduring, overcoming doubt, and training the mind as much as the body.

We explore:

The mental game behind world-class judo

How he built unshakable discipline and resilience

What was going through his mind during the Olympic final

His philosophy on pressure, failure, and legacy

The life lessons that transcend the mat — into leadership, business, and personal growth

Alexander’s mantra is clear: “It is all in your mind.” Whether you’re an athlete, coach, leader, or anyone striving for greatness, this episode will leave you with practical wisdom and deep insight into the psychology of elite performance.

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Alexander Mikhaylin is one of the most decorated judokas in history, known for his technical skill, strategic mindset, and resilience in competition. Competing in the +100 kg heavyweight division, he dominated the sport for over a decade, becoming a three-time world champion and a ten-time European champion.

Mikhaylin’s career was marked by his ability to adapt and outmaneuver some of the sport’s biggest names. His most notable achievement came at the 2012 London Olympics, where he earned a silver medal after an intense final against Teddy Riner, one of judo’s greatest athletes.

Beyond competition, Mikhaylin is recognized for his mental toughness, discipline, and ability to push through setbacks, making him a powerful voice in discussions on high-performance psychology and resilience.

Kamara James was more than an Olympian—she was a scholar, a fighter, and a deeply human spirit. In this heartfelt episode, we explore her rise from humble beginnings to the Olympic stage, her intellectual brilliance, and her quiet battle with mental illness. Her story challenges our definitions of success and reminds us that strength isn’t the absence of struggle—it’s the courage to keep going. Tune in to honor a life of power, complexity, and enduring inspiration.

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Kamara James (1984–2014) was an American Olympic épée fencer and mental health advocate. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York, she began fencing at age 11 and quickly rose to elite levels, earning a full scholarship to Princeton University and representing the U.S. in the 2004 Athens Olympics. After the Games, she pursued international relations at Harvard but began experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia. Despite these challenges, she became a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and dignity. Kamara passed away at age 29, but her legacy endures as a story of brilliance, bravery, and boundless human potential.

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Fun fact: In high school, Kamara James scored an exceptionally high 1500 on the SAT (out of 1600 at the time), demonstrating her brilliance not just on the fencing strip but in academics as well. She was offered multiple Ivy League scholarships, ultimately attending Princeton and then Columbia. Her story highlights a rare fusion of athletic excellence and intellectual achievement, making her a role model for young women aiming to defy expectations in every arena.

What does it take to compete on the world’s biggest stage? Olympic volleyball star Sanja Malagurski knows firsthand. From stepping onto the court at just 18 in the 2008 Beijing Olympics to winning European gold and playing for elite clubs worldwide, Sanja has carved an inspiring path in professional volleyball. But her journey wasn’t just about medals—it was about resilience, mental toughness, and the evolution from an athlete to a leader in the sport.

In this episode, we dive into the pressures of Olympic competition, overcoming injuries, the psychology of elite performance, and her transition from player to mentor. Tune in as Sanja shares the highs, the challenges, and the mindset required to thrive at the Olympic level and beyond.

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A professional athlete turned visionary leader, Sanja Malagurski is a Serbian volleyball icon, Olympian, European champion, entrepreneur, mentor, and sports management professional. Born on June 8, 1990 in Subotica, Serbia, Sanja rose to elite status as an outside hitter on the Serbian national volleyball team from 2007 to 2018.

In a stellar sports career, she represented Serbia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and secured a gold medal at the 2011 European Championship. She also helped claim European League titles in 2009 and 2011 and a bronze medal in the 2011 FIVB World Grand Prix. On the club circuit, Sanja notched major wins in Serbia, Slovenia, Romania, Italy, Poland, Brazil (Molico Osasco), Turkey, and Italy again with Bergamo, including a silver finish at the 2014 FIVB Club World Championship.

Since retiring, Sanja has seamlessly transitioned into entrepreneurship and sports administration. She founded the clothing brand PersonalbySM, serves as PR & Projects Coordinator for Volleyball Nations League in Serbia, mentors athletes through UNICEF and Junior Achievement, and leads volleyball camps across Europe.

In her feature on the GESP Podcast, Sanja opened up about the challenges of retirement, identity shifts, and how athletes can reinvent themselves beyond competition—emphasizing leadership, mental resilience, and the lasting power of sport’s life lessons

In this episode, we celebrate the life and lessons of Sir Peter Snell, one of New Zealand’s most legendary middle-distance runners and a quiet titan of Olympic history. With three Olympic gold medals and a record-breaking career, Snell wasn’t just fast—he was deeply focused, mentally disciplined, and grounded in humility.

But what made him truly remarkable was how he carried his greatness: with quiet strength, unshakable discipline, and a lifelong commitment to human performance—both on the track and in the lab. After retiring young, he went on to become a respected sports scientist, turning his passion into knowledge to uplift others.

This episode distills the top five life lessons from his extraordinary path—exploring the mindset, training ethic, and humble leadership that powered his success. From embracing simplicity to respecting preparation, Peter Snell’s story is a masterclass in purposeful living.

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Sir Peter Snell (1938–2019) was a New Zealand middle-distance runner and one of the most dominant athletes of his era. He won three Olympic gold medals—one in the 800 meters at the 1960 Rome Olympics and two (800m and 1500m) at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Coached by the legendary Arthur Lydiard, Snell was known for his explosive speed, stamina, and strategic race execution. He held world records in the 800m, 1000m, and mile.

After retiring at age 26, he moved to the United States and earned a Ph.D. in exercise physiology, later teaching and researching at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Knighted in 2002, Snell is remembered as a national icon in New Zealand and an enduring symbol of modest greatness.

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FUN FACT: Despite being known for his explosive speed, Sir Peter Snell originally struggled to make his school’s track team and only began to take running seriously after being encouraged by coach Arthur Lydiard, who spotted his raw talent. Within just a few years, Snell rose from an overlooked teenager to an Olympic champion, showing that sometimes greatness emerges not from early success, but from the right mentorship and relentless self-belief.