SMP LeaderTalks

#155 | Brain Myths and Facts

SMP LeaderTalks

22. July 2026

Georgiy Michailov meets Dr. Jens Foell

On Intelligence, Free Will, and Success.

1h 13 Min

“The brain learns by restructuring itself.”

Our brain is with us throughout our entire lives. Yet numerous myths—long since disproved by science—persist. We talk about the left and right hemispheres of the brain, believe the myth that we use only 10% of our brain, or assume that intelligence determines our life path almost entirely. But which of these claims is actually backed by science? And what are the consequences of misunderstanding our most important organ? Anyone who wants to make better decisions, maintain long-term performance, and continue to grow personally should first understand how our brain really works and why it changes throughout our lives.

The brain is not a computer. It's more like a social network.

Dr. Jens Foell has been working in the fields of neuropsychology and science communication for many years. Following his research work in the United States, he explains complex scientific concepts in an accessible way, dispelling numerous common misconceptions along the way. In a conversation with Georgiy Michailov, he explains why neuroplasticity shapes our thinking, why intelligence is often overestimated, and why scientific findings are usually much more nuanced than public debates suggest. Foell covers a wide range of topics, from brain research and psychology to philosophy and artificial intelligence. The two also discuss phantom pain, sleep as the most effective biohacking tool, and the influence of our culture on our thinking.

*Video only in German

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