Mapping Complex Mind States: EEG Neural Substrates of Meditative Unified Compassionate Awareness

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Poppy Schoenberg explore the neural mechanisms behind advanced meditative states, specifically those linked to non-duality, emptiness, and awakened awareness. Using EEG, this study mapped brain activity during different stages of Indo-Tibetan essence-of-mind meditation, revealing decreased self-referential processing and increased executive control in regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex and insula. The findings suggest that meditative states of deep compassion and awareness involve distinct neural patterns, challenging conventional models of consciousness. Tune in to discover how meditation transforms the brain and fosters selfless awareness.

Full Reference:
Schoenberg, P. L. A., Rufa, A., Churchill, J., Brown, D. P., & Brewer, J. A. (2018). Mapping complex mind states: EEG neural substrates of meditative unified compassionate awareness. Consciousness and Cognition, 57, 41–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.concog.2017.11.003

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A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Psychosocial Interventions for Persons with Comorbid Anxiety and Substance Use Disorders

In this episode, Dr. Jud dives into the comprehensive findings of a meta-analysis on psychosocial interventions for individuals facing the dual challenge of anxiety and substance use disorders. This research sheds light on the efficacy of treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and integrated care in addressing anxiety, alcohol consumption, and substance use. Join us as we explore the transformative potential of these interventions, the complexities of treating co-occurring conditions, and the pressing gaps in research for broader substance categories like opioids and methamphetamines.

Reference: Nardi, W. R., Kelly, P., Roy, A., Becker, S., Brewer, J., & Sun, S. (2024). A systematic review and meta-analysis of psychosocial interventions for persons with comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders. Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment, 165, 209442. DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209442

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A Computational Account of Borderline Personality Disorder: Impaired Predictive Learning About Self and Others Through Bodily Simulation

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer, Dr. Sarah Fineberg, and Dr. Philip Corlett explore an innovative computational psychiatry model of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Social dysfunction is a core feature of BPD, and this study proposes that individuals with BPD struggle with predictive learning about self and others due to deficits in embodied simulation—using one's own bodily experiences to infer the mental states of others. The discussion covers how computational models can help explain emotional dysregulation, attachment disruptions, and the instability of interpersonal relationships in BPD, offering new insights into treatment approaches. Tune in to discover how neuroscience, machine learning, and psychiatry intersect to deepen our understanding of personality disorders.

Full Reference:
Fineberg, S. K., Steinfeld, M., Brewer, J. A., & Corlett, P. R. (2014). A computational account of borderline personality disorder: Impaired predictive learning about self and others through bodily simulation. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 5, 111. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2014.00111

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Mindfulness Training and Stress Reactivity in Substance Abuse: Results from a Randomized, Controlled Stage I Pilot Study

In this episode, Dr. Jud delves into groundbreaking research comparing mindfulness training (MT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with substance use disorders. This pilot study investigates the role of mindfulness in managing stress and addiction, highlighting its potential to reduce psychological and physiological stress responses. Learn how MT could become a viable treatment option alongside traditional therapies, the challenges faced during the study, and what these findings mean for the future of addiction treatment.

Reference: Brewer, J. A., Sinha, R., Chen, J. A., Michalsen, R. N., Babuscio, T. A., Nich, C., ... & Rounsaville, B. J. (2009). Mindfulness Training and Stress Reactivity in Substance Abuse: Results from a Randomized, Controlled Stage I Pilot Study. Substance Abuse, 30(4), 306-317. DOI: 10.1080/08897070903250241

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Mindfulness and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: State of the Evidence, Plausible Mechanisms, and Theoretical Framework

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Eric Loucks explore the growing body of research on mindfulness and its potential role in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. With CVD remaining the leading cause of mortality worldwide, this integrative review examines how mindfulness may impact key risk factors such as smoking, diet, physical activity, obesity, blood pressure, and diabetes regulation. The discussion also unpacks the plausible mechanisms—improved attention control, emotion regulation, and self-awareness—that could explain mindfulness’s effects on heart health. Tune in to discover how mindfulness could be a game-changer for preventive cardiology and overall well-being.

Full Reference:
Loucks, E. B., Schuman-Olivier, Z., Britton, W. B., Fresco, D. M., Desbordes, G., Brewer, J. A., & Fulwiler, C. (2015). Mindfulness and cardiovascular disease risk: State of the evidence, plausible mechanisms, and theoretical framework. Current Cardiology Reports, 17(112). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-015-0668-7

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Awareness, Affect, and Craving During Smoking Cessation: An Experience Sampling Study

In this episode of the Dr. Jud podcast, we explore the groundbreaking study on how mindfulness impacts smoking cessation. Researchers examined the role of awareness, positive and negative affect, and craving through an experience sampling method. With real-time data from smokers using a mindfulness-based app, the study reveals fascinating insights into how awareness can influence craving, mood, and smoking behavior. Join Dr. Jud and his guests as they unpack the findings and discuss the potential of mindfulness to transform smoking cessation efforts.

Reference: Sala, M., Roos, C. R., Brewer, J. A., & Garrison, K. A. (2021). Awareness, Affect, and Craving During Smoking Cessation: An Experience Sampling Study. Health Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1037/hea0001105

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Contemplating Mindfulness at Work: An Integrative Review

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and his colleagues explore the growing impact of mindfulness in the workplace. As organizations like Google, Aetna, and the U.S. Army integrate mindfulness programs, research is uncovering how mindfulness enhances attention, emotional regulation, decision-making, and resilience. This study presents a comprehensive framework linking mindfulness to key workplace outcomes, including performance, leadership, teamwork, and employee well-being. Whether you’re a leader, employee, or researcher, tune in to discover how mindfulness is reshaping the way we work, manage stress, and cultivate healthier workplace cultures.

Full Reference:
Good, D. J., Lyddy, C. J., Glomb, T. M., Bono, J. E., Brown, K. W., Duffy, M. K., Baer, R. A., Brewer, J. A., & Lazar, S. W. (2015). Contemplating Mindfulness at Work: An Integrative Review. Journal of Management, 20(XX), 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1177/0149206315617003

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Feasibility of a Smartphone App with Mindfulness Training for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Craving to Quit (C2Q)-Teen

In this episode, Dr. Jud highlights a groundbreaking pilot study that examines the feasibility of a mindfulness-based smoking cessation app tailored for teenagers. Based on the paper Feasibility of a Smartphone App with Mindfulness Training for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Craving to Quit (C2Q)-Teen by Lori Pbert et al., the episode delves into how mindfulness helps teens recognize and manage cravings. Despite similar abstinence rates across the app, a non-mindfulness app, and written materials, the Craving to Quit app stood out for reducing cigarette consumption in adolescents who continued to smoke. Dr. Jud explores the implications of these findings and the potential of app-based mindfulness interventions to provide accessible and impactful smoking cessation tools for adolescents.

Reference:
Pbert, L., Druker, S., Crawford, S., Frisard, C., Trivedi, M., Osganian, S. K., & Brewer, J. Feasibility of a Smartphone App with Mindfulness Training for Adolescent Smoking Cessation: Craving to Quit (C2Q)-Teen. Mindfulness. 2019. DOI: 10.1007/s12671-019-01273-w

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What Defines Mindfulness-Based Programs? The Warp and the Weft explores the essential and flexible elements of mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and colleagues discuss their framework for defining MBPs, distinguishing between core components (the “warp”) and adaptable elements (the “weft”). The paper outlines the key characteristics of MBPs, including their scientific and contemplative foundations, structured meditation practices, and the role of the teacher in maintaining program integrity. Tune in to gain clarity on what makes a mindfulness program truly evidence-based and how these programs can be effectively implemented across diverse settings.

Reference:
Crane RS, Brewer JA, Feldman C, Kabat-Zinn J, Santorelli S, Williams JMG, Kuyken W. What Defines Mindfulness-Based Programs? The Warp and the Weft. Psychological Medicine. 2017;47(6):990–999. doi:10.1017/S0033291716003317

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Craving to Quit: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Smartphone App–Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation

In this episode, Dr. Jud discusses the results of a pioneering randomized controlled trial on the efficacy of the Craving to Quit app for mindfulness-based smoking cessation. Drawing from the paper Craving to Quit: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Smartphone App–Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation, by Kathleen Garrison et al., the episode unpacks the impact of app-based mindfulness training on cravings and smoking behavior. While the app did not outperform controls in long-term abstinence, it demonstrated a promising ability to weaken the association between cravings and smoking. Dr. Jud explores the implications of these findings, emphasizing how leveraging mindfulness through technology offers a scalable, accessible option for tackling smoking addiction.

Reference:
Garrison, K. A., Pal, P., O’Malley, S. S., Pittman, B. P., Gueorguieva, R., Rojiani, R., Scheinost, D., Dallery, J., Brewer, J. A. Craving to Quit: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Smartphone App–Based Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation. Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/nty126

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