
Emily McDonald: Can You Rewire Your Brain?
From What Now? with Trevor Noah by Trevor Noah
March 19, 2026 · 1h 55m · Season 3 · Episode 28
About this episode
Trevor and Eugene discuss brain function and neuroplasticity with neuroscientist Emily McDonald.
Trevor and Eugene sit down with neuroscientist and content creator Emily McDonald (aka EmOnTheBrain) to explore how our brains shape the way we think, feel, and behave. From the real limits (and possibilities) of neuroplasticity to the surprisingly persistent pull of old habits, McDonald breaks down what’s actually happening inside our nervous systems. Along the way, the trio dive into Emily’s own neurological journey, how elite athletes train their brains for peak performance, and even the spiritual energy of Sedona — all in an effort to understand how we change, and why our brains don’t always make it easy.
People in this episode
Host: Trevor Noah
Guest: Emily McDonald
Topics covered
- neuroscience
- neuroplasticity
- habits
- athlete training
- brain function
- personal journey
Keywords
- neuroscience
- neuroplasticity
- habits
- elite athletes
- brain training
- Sedona
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: EmOnTheBrain
Places: Sedona
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