26. Memory Champion Nelson Dellis Helps Steve Train His Brain

26. Memory Champion Nelson Dellis Helps Steve Train His Brain

From People I (Mostly) Admire by Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher

June 13, 2026 · 35 min · Episode 26

About this episode

Memory champion Nelson Dellis shares his techniques for improving memory with host Steve.

He’s one of the world’s leading competitors, having won four U.S. memory tournaments and holding the record for most names memorized in 15 minutes (235!). But Nelson Dellis claims he was born with an average memory and that anyone can learn his tricks. Steve gives Nelson’s techniques a shot, without much hope — and is surprised by the result. This episode originally aired on May 7, 2021.

People in this episode

Host: Steve

Guest: Nelson Dellis

Topics covered

  • memory techniques
  • brain training
  • memory competition
  • self-improvement
  • cognitive skills

Keywords

  • memory
  • memory champion
  • brain training
  • Nelson Dellis
  • cognitive skills
  • memory techniques
  • self-improvement

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