Brain Plasticity in Action - Exploring the Work of Donalee Markus, Ph.D.

Donalee Markus, Ph.D. & Designs For Strong Minds
  • 4.3 (6)
  • SCIENCE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Brain Plasticity in Action the podcast that delves into the tools and techniques for developing and enhancing brain plasticity. Together we’ll explore the science behind cognitive transformation—based on the pioneering work of Dr. Donalee Markus. At Designs for Strong Minds, we believe that anyone can unlock their brain’s potential with the right approach. Whether you’re curious about how brain training works or looking for ways to enhance your own cognitive abilities, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of brain plasticity!

Episodes

  1. 11/13/2024

    Designs for Strong Minds - Maximize Intellegence and Catalyze Creativity

    In this episode, we dive into the Designs for Strong Minds program, which focuses on enhancing cognitive skills and creativity through brain plasticity. Whether it’s for rehabilitation after a brain injury or simply improving everyday cognitive abilities, this program provides tailored exercises and workshops to boost visual processing, spatial reasoning, and memory. By encouraging risk-taking and embracing failure as a part of growth, Designs for Strong Minds fosters inclusive learning environments where diverse thinking styles can thrive. Tune in to learn how this innovative approach can help you unlock your cognitive potential and adapt to any challenge. Designs for Strong Minds About Donalee Markus, Ph.D.

    5 min

  2. 11/13/2024

    Unlocking Cognitive Power: How Paper and Pencil Brain Games Boost Focus, Planning, and Strategic Thinking

    Designs for Strong Minds offers a diverse range of paper-and-pencil brain games that enhance cognitive abilities, particularly in visual imagery and analytical perception. These context-free exercises help individuals and classrooms develop skills in selecting relevant information, planning, and problem-solving. Additionally, the Designs for Strong Minds provides a suite of digital games for iPads, tailored to various age groups and skill levels, with a focus on improving memory, concentration, and critical thinking. Paper and Pencil Visual Imagery Exercises: Paper and Pencil Brain Games Digital Brain Games: Digital Brain Games

    22 min

  3. 11/13/2024

    Why Can’t We See Eye-to-Eye?

    This podcast is based on Dr. Markus’s article in Psychology Today, "Why Can’t We See Eye-to-Eye?" which explores the use of neurocognitive exercises, specifically visual analogies, as a non-threatening method for improving communication. These exercises help individuals identify and understand their own thought processes and how their mental models impact their perception of information. The article uses the example of a visual puzzle to illustrate how analyzing differences and applying rules can lead to a better understanding of various perspectives.

    14 min

  4. 11/13/2024

    Catalyzing Creativity

    This episode emphasizes the importance of visual imagery, risk-taking, and embracing failure as essential elements for nurturing and fostering creativity. The podcast explains that these qualities are crucial for individuals to take charge and achieve success, suggesting that failing is an integral part of the creative process and that true success requires a willingness to experiment and learn from setbacks.

    5 min

  5. 11/04/2024

    Big Think Article

    Dr. Donalee Markus has developed a method of brain restructuring using visual puzzles. By having clients replicate abstract images, Markus identifies their unique neural pathways and helps them rewire their brains to improve cognitive functions and even heal from traumatic brain injuries. This method, while unusual, has helped a variety of individuals, from children diagnosed with autism to high-achieving professionals. Markus' approach focuses on activating underutilized parts of the brain through deliberate practice, much like working out muscles. While her method is not without its critics, Markus has gained a loyal following and continues to advocate for her unique approach to brain stimulation and healing.

    9 min

  6. 10/21/2024

    Treatment, Mediation & Brain Plasticity

    This episode explores the effectiveness of the Designs for Strong Minds (DSM) cognitive rehabilitation program in helping patients with mild to moderate posttraumatic head injuries regain cognitive function. The author begins by discussing the impact of head injuries on cognition and the challenges of addressing secondary brain damage. The article then presents the DSM program, outlining its unique approach based on mediation, visual puzzles, and a focus on the patient's pre-injury cognitive abilities. The article includes detailed case studies and examples of DSM exercises to illustrate how the program helps patients recover various cognitive skills, such as attention, memory, and problem-solving.

    17 min
  • 6 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to Brain Plasticity in Action the podcast that delves into the tools and techniques for developing and enhancing brain plasticity. Together we’ll explore the science behind cognitive transformation—based on the pioneering work of Dr. Donalee Markus. At Designs for Strong Minds, we believe that anyone can unlock their brain’s potential with the right approach. Whether you’re curious about how brain training works or looking for ways to enhance your own cognitive abilities, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of brain plasticity!

Information