Send a textRead the companion article What if saying "no" is as biologically fundamental as saying "yes"?Groundbreaking neuroscience research reveals that the female brain contains specialized "rejection neurons" in the ventromedial hypothalamus—distinct circuits dedicated to active, defensive boundary-setting that can even override hormonal signals.In this episode, we explore: • How fiber photometry lets scientists watch rejection neurons "light up like fireworks" • Why the brain uses two independent "dimmer switches" instead of one on-off toggle • How progesterone levels trigger these specialized neural circuits • What optogenetics reveals about controlling behavior with light • The evolutionary advantages of dual acceptance/rejection systems • Implications for understanding human consent, autonomy, and social behavior • Future possibilities for treating social anxiety and boundary difficultiesThis isn't just about reproduction—it's about understanding the sophisticated architecture of choice itself.The interplay between sexual desire and relationship functioningSexual desire's complex role—how it can connect yet also divide those in a romantic relationshipThis is Heliox: Where Evidence Meets EmpathyIndependent, moderated, timely, deep, gentle, clinical, global, and community conversations about things that matter.  Breathe Easy, we go deep and lightly surface the big ideas. Support the showDisclosure: This podcast uses AI-generated synthetic voices for a material portion of the audio content, in line with Apple Podcasts guidelines. We make rigorous science accessible, accurate, and unforgettable. Produced by Michelle Bruecker and Scott Bleackley, it features reviews of emerging research and ideas from leading thinkers, curated under our creative direction with AI assistance for voice, imagery, and composition. Systemic voices and illustrative images of people are representative tools, not depictions of specific individuals. We dive deep into peer-reviewed research, pre-prints, and major scientific works—then bring them to life through the stories of the researchers themselves. Complex ideas become clear. Obscure discoveries become conversation starters. And you walk away understanding not just what scientists discovered, but why it matters and how they got there.Independent, moderated, timely, deep, gentle, clinical, global, and community conversations about things that matter. Breathe Easy, we go deep and lightly surface the big ideas. Spoken word, short and sweet, with rhythm and a catchy beat.http://tinyurl.com/stonefolksongs