Something You Should Know

SYSK TRENDING – How to Make Yourself Smarter

June 16, 2026·21 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

What if becoming smarter had less to do with intelligence and more to do with a handful of everyday habits? Researchers are discovering that many of the things that most influence brain performance are surprisingly simple—and often completely within your control. Research continues to show that the brain is far more adaptable than scientists once believed. It’s become clear that the choices you make every day can have a significant impact on memory, focus, creativity, learning, and decision-making. The encouraging news is that improving brain performance doesn't require genius-level IQ or expensive biohacks. In many cases, relatively simple lifestyle changes can produce measurable improvements in how your brain works and how you feel. Dr. David Bardsley joins me to explain the science behind keeping your brain sharp, boosting cognitive performance, and protecting your mental abilities as you age. In our conversation, he discusses some of the most powerful—and often overlooked—factors that influence brain health, why many people unknowingly sabotage their own cognitive performance, and what you can start doing today to think more clearly, learn more effectively, and stay mentally strong for years to come. Dr. Bardsley is author of Smarter Next Year: The Revolutionary Science for a Smarter, Happier You (https://amzn.to/2tUXcK8). If you've ever wondered whether you could improve your memory, focus, mental sharpness, or overall brain performance, this conversation offers practical, science-backed insights that may help you get more out of the brain you already have. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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