Dr. Maryellen MacDonald is the Donald P. Hayes Professor Emerita of Psychology and Language Sciences at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and is a renowned cognitive scientist. Her work in psycholinguistics explores how we comprehend, produce, and learn language—one of the most remarkable aspects of being human. Dr. MacDonald's research has examined language across the entire lifespan, from children and young adults to older adults and individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. In her book, "More than Words", she explores the science around how and why we talk, and how this impacts our lives.

In this episode, host Shay Beider and Dr. Maryellen MacDonald discuss the surprising power of talking—not just with others, but to ourselves. Dr. MacDonald explains that turning our internal state into words is a complex brain process that sharpens attention, calms the limbic system, and helps us follow through on goals. Dr. MacDonald shares that naming our thoughts and emotions can bring clarity, reduce stress, and tune the brain for better focus. She highlights how listening is easier than talking, a "desirable difficulty," and stresses the importance of mastering the art of listening and talking. From children developing language and school readiness through conversation, to older adults keeping their brains engaged, talking shapes cognition across the lifespan. This episode encourages us to embrace conversation, self-talk, and journaling as tools to better understand ourselves and connect with others.

Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing

Show Notes:

• Learn more about Dr. MacDonald

• Read her book, "More than Words" here

This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity.

Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org