In this month's Cell Podcast, we learn about altering neuronal circuits depending on the environment, with Cori Bargmann (0:00) (Forthcoming Cell Symposia on Neuromodulatory Mechanisms), the role of mitochondria in diabetes, with Orian Shirihai (8:30) (Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism September Special issue), and how the power of the placebo has evolved over time, with Nicholas Humphrey (15:05) (Current Biology September Special issue). Plus, sample a selection of the hottest new papers from Cell Press (25:20).