In our second episode we take a journey into the brain, and talk about the fascinating ways it is constantly interacting with the body. Liri Haram is in conversation with Dr. Anlys Olivera - dedicated researcher, neurology and psychiatry resident, and beloved professor at Teachers College, Columbia University. 

We know that the brain is an incredibly complex organ that controls and produces our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. But how does it work? And what is it made of? 

In this Introduction to the Brain, we focus on the central nervous system, with a particular focus on the brain itself. We start by navigating through different types of brain cells, how neurons communicate with each other, the crucial role of the brain’s protective barrier, and how the brain and body are always in communication. To top it all off, we discuss how biology and neuroscience underlie our daily lives and share some tips for managing the stress that so many of us are holding. 

Dr. Anlys Olivera graduated from Emory University with a PhD in Neuroscience. Her graduate research focused on the interactions between the immune system and the brain and the development of novel antidepressants. She completed a medical degree at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and is currently completing her residency in the Combined Neurology and Psychiatry program at NYU Langone Medical Center. She is brilliant. We know.

The Synapse was founded by Mahima Golani, Noam Ekhaus, Sarah Bennett & Liri Haram from the Neuroscience & Education master’s program at Teachers College, Columbia University. We hope you enjoy! 

Links & resources //

VIDEO: Crash Course: The Nervous System, Part 1

VIDEO: Crash Course: The Nervous System, Part 2

VIDEO: 2-Minute Neuroscience: The Neuron

VIDEO: 2-Minute Neuroscience: Synaptic Transmission

BOOK: The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge, M.D.

BOOK: Neuroplasticity by Moheb Costandi

BOOK: Neuroanatomy Through Clinical by Cases Hal Blumenfeld

Thank yous & credits // 

Interview by Liri Haram

Audio Editing by Mahima Golani

Cover Art by Noam Ekhaus with image by the Beckmann Institute 

Production by Mahima Golani, Sarah Bennett, Noam Ekhaus and Liri Haram

Technical support provided by the Digital Futures Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University with audio engineering from Mara Danoff, and additional support from Moira Mccavana and Billy Collins 

Supported by The Neuroscience and Education Program at Teachers College, Columbia University Special thanks to ⁠Basman Tenenbaum Design Studio ⁠

If you have any questions, comments, or want to learn more, reach out to us on Instagram @the.synapse.nyc