The Dr. Jud Podcast

Meditation is Associated with Increased Brain Network Integration explores how mindfulness meditation enhances brain connectivity. 

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and his colleagues discuss their EEG-based study comparing novice and experienced meditators. Their findings reveal that experienced meditators exhibit significantly higher brain network integration in the alpha frequency band, suggesting improved information exchange between brain regions. These results provide key insights into how meditation may foster cognitive resilience and enhance mental well-being. Join us as we break down the neuroscience behind meditation and its transformative effects on the brain.

Reference:
van Lutterveld R, van Dellen E, Pal P, Yang H, Stam CJ, Brewer JA. Meditation is associated with increased brain network integration. NeuroImage. 2017;158:18-25. doi:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.06.071

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Craving to Quit: Psychological Models and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness Training as Treatment for Addictions

In this episode, Dr. Jud explores the intricate relationship between psychological models, neurobiological mechanisms, and mindfulness training in treating addictions, as detailed in the paper Craving to Quit: Psychological Models and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness Training as Treatment for Addictions by Judson A. Brewer, Hani M. Elwafi, and Jake H. Davis. Learn how mindfulness disrupts the addictive loop by targeting craving at its core, reshaping habits, and promoting long-term behavioral change. Dr. Jud also highlights the convergence of ancient Buddhist insights and modern neuroscience, offering a fresh perspective on managing addictions like smoking and substance use disorders. Join us to uncover innovative approaches to dismantling harmful habits and improving lives.

Reference:
Brewer, J. A., Elwafi, H. M., & Davis, J. H. Craving to Quit: Psychological Models and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Mindfulness Training as Treatment for Addictions. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, 2012.

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Mindfulness and Behavior Change explores how mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) support sustainable health behavior change. 

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and colleagues examine the neuroscience behind mindfulness, emphasizing motivation, learning, self-regulation, and habit formation. The study presents an integrative model that links mindfulness with neural mechanisms governing cognitive control, emotion regulation, and self-related processing. By reducing maladaptive behaviors—such as smoking, overeating, and substance use—mindfulness enhances self-awareness and facilitates long-term behavior change. Tune in to discover the science behind mindfulness as a powerful tool for improving mental and physical well-being.

Reference:
Schuman-Olivier Z, Trombka M, Lovas DA, Brewer JA, Vago DR, Gawande R, Dunne JP, Lazar SW, Loucks EB, Fulwiler C. Mindfulness and Behavior Change. Harvard Review of Psychiatry. 2020;28(6):371-394. doi:10.1097/HRP.0000000000000277

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Feeling is Believing: The Convergence of Buddhist Theory and Modern Scientific Evidence Supporting How Self is Formed and Perpetuated Through Feeling Tone (Vedanā)

In this episode, Dr. Jud dives into the convergence of ancient Buddhist psychology and modern neuroscience, as explored in the paper Feeling is Believing: The Convergence of Buddhist Theory and Modern Scientific Evidence Supporting How Self is Formed and Perpetuated Through Feeling Tone (Vedanā) by Judson A. Brewer. Discover how reward-based learning connects with the Buddhist concept of dependent origination and how understanding feeling tone (vedanā) can illuminate pathways to break free from habits and addictions. Dr. Jud also discusses practical interventions, such as mindfulness-based apps, that disrupt craving loops, reduce suffering, and foster self-awareness. Tune in to learn how cutting-edge science and ancient wisdom can reshape our understanding of self and behavior.

Reference:
Brewer, J. A. Feeling is Believing: The Convergence of Buddhist Theory and Modern Scientific Evidence Supporting How Self is Formed and Perpetuated Through Feeling Tone (Vedanā). Contemporary Buddhism. 2018. https://doi.org/10.1080/14639947.2018.1443553

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The Psychological Benefits of Reconceptualizing Music-Making as Mindfulness Practice

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Matthew Steinfeld explore the deep connection between mindfulness and music-making. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and contemplative traditions, this study argues that playing music can serve as a mindfulness practice, fostering presence, flow states, and emotional resilience. By shifting attention from self-judgment to the embodied experience of sound, musicians can reduce performance anxiety, enhance focus, and deepen their connection to their craft. Whether you're a professional musician or a casual player, tune in to discover how mindfulness can transform your musical experience.

Full Reference:
Steinfeld, M., & Brewer, J. A. (2015). The Psychological Benefits of Reconceptualizing Music-Making as Mindfulness Practice. Medical Problems of Performing Artists, 30(2), 84–89.

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Pretreatment Brain Activation During Stroop Task Is Associated with Outcomes in Cocaine-Dependent Patients

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer explores the relationship between brain activity and treatment outcomes for cocaine addiction. The discussion highlights a groundbreaking study that used functional MRI to measure brain activation during a cognitive control task, the Stroop test, prior to treatment. Findings reveal that activation in specific brain regions, including the anterior cingulate cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and striatum, correlates with abstinence, treatment retention, and drug-free outcomes. Dr. Brewer dives into how these neural patterns provide deeper insights into addiction recovery, showcasing the brain's role in predicting treatment success and refining behavioral therapies for substance dependence.

Full Reference:
Brewer, J. A., Worhunsky, P. D., Carroll, K. M., Rounsaville, B. J., & Potenza, M. N. (2008). Pretreatment brain activation during Stroop task is associated with outcomes in cocaine-dependent patients. Biological Psychiatry, 64(11), 998–1004. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2008.05.024

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Development and Validation of the Behavioral Tendencies Questionnaire

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Nicholas Van Dam discuss the creation of the Behavioral Tendencies Questionnaire (BTQ), a novel tool for assessing personality traits based on behavioral approach, avoidance, and equivocation. Rooted in both contemporary psychology and ancient Buddhist typologies, the BTQ categorizes individuals into three primary temperaments: Greedy/Faithful (approach-oriented), Aversive/Discerning (avoidance-oriented), and Deluded/Speculative (equivocation-oriented). This study validated the BTQ using modern psychometric techniques, demonstrating its utility for personality research and mindfulness-based interventions. Tune in to learn how these behavioral tendencies shape our interactions, decision-making, and well-being.

Full Reference:
Van Dam, N. T., Brown, A., Mole, T. B., Davis, J. H., Britton, W. B., & Brewer, J. A. (2015). Development and Validation of the Behavioral Tendencies Questionnaire. PLoS ONE, 10(11), e0140867. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0140867

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Mindfulness: An Emerging Treatment for Smoking and Other Addictions?

In this episode, Dr. Jud unpacks the groundbreaking insights from the paper Mindfulness: An Emerging Treatment for Smoking and Other Addictions? by Judson Brewer and Lori Pbert. Discover how mindfulness leverages ancient practices to combat modern addictions by targeting the neurological reward-based habit loops. Learn how this approach fosters awareness, disenchants harmful behaviors, and supports individuals in riding out cravings. The discussion also highlights the promising results of mindfulness-based programs compared to traditional treatments, paving the way for innovative methods in addiction recovery. Tune in to explore the future of mindfulness in behavioral health and its transformative potential.

Reference:
Brewer J and Pbert L. Mindfulness: An Emerging Treatment for Smoking and Other Addictions? J Fam Med. 2015; 2(4): 1035.

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The Science of Advanced Meditation: Transforming Mental Health and Consciousness

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and Dr. Matthew Sacchet explore the cutting edge of meditation research, revealing how advanced meditation practices can fundamentally reshape the brain, enhance well-being, and provide deep psychological transformation. As meditation science enters a new phase, researchers are uncovering how deep states of awareness—once thought to be exclusive to monks and mystics—can be studied, measured, and even cultivated in everyday life. From advanced concentrative absorption meditation (ACAM) to EEG and fMRI studies mapping the brain during self-transcendent states, this conversation dives into the neuroscience behind enlightenment and its potential applications for mental health. Tune in to learn how meditation may one day revolutionize clinical treatments for anxiety, depression, and beyond.

Full Reference:
Sacchet, M. D., & Brewer, J. A. (2024). An emerging science of advanced meditation could transform mental health and our understanding of consciousness. Scientific American, July/August 2024, 70–75.

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Mindfulness Training for Smoking Cessation: Moderation of the Relationship Between Craving and Cigarette Use

In this episode, Dr. Jud Brewer and colleagues discuss a randomized clinical trial evaluating mindfulness training (MT) as a smoking cessation intervention. The study demonstrates how mindfulness decouples the link between craving and cigarette use by disrupting the addictive loop reinforced by craving. Results showed that increased mindfulness practice—both formal and informal—significantly reduced cigarette consumption and moderated the relationship between craving and smoking behavior. By teaching participants to observe and accept cravings rather than suppress them, MT offers a powerful, evidence-based approach to addiction treatment.

Full Reference:
Elwafi, H. M., Witkiewitz, K., Mallik, S., Thornhill, T. A., & Brewer, J. A. (2013). Mindfulness training for smoking cessation: Moderation of the relationship between craving and cigarette use. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 130(1-3), 222–229. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2012.11.015

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