After5NewYork - What Your Brain Is Doing While You Sleep

Join a neuroscientist and science communicator for What Your Brain Is Doing While You Sleep, an exploration into one of the strangest and most unsettling experiences the human mind can create. From vivid hallucinations and shadow figures to lucid dreaming and disrupted REM sleep, we’ll uncover what’s actually happening inside the brain when sleep turns terrifying.

More than a science talk, this is an immersive look at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, culture, and human fear. Why do so many people across the world describe eerily similar “sleep paralysis demons”?

This isn’t a dry academic lecture. It’s a fascinating, discussion-driven experience that connects cutting-edge sleep science with the deeply human experience of fear, dreams, and the unknown. Expect surprising insights, relatable moments, and plenty of “wait… that happens to other people too?” reactions along the way. Curiosity encouraged.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with your After5Society.

About The Speaker:
Mia Soviero is a neuroscientist, science communicator, and entrepreneur focused on making complex scientific topics accessible and engaging for wider audiences. A graduate of Barnard College with a background in neuroscience and behavioral research, she has worked in research environments including NYU Langone Health and Columbia University Zuckerman Institute. She is also the founder of Research Girl, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting students pursuing scientific research and education. Through her work, Mia combines neuroscience, psychology, and storytelling to create conversations that make science feel approachable, relevant, and deeply connected to everyday human experience.

Good to know before you come:

• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email
• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled
• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward
• This is a participatory event
• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate

Info: Arrive early to grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the atmosphere. Early birds get the best seats and a head start on mingling!

Info: Dive into an engaging, interactive session with our speaker. Participate, observe, or simply soak it all in - it's your experience to enjoy.

Info: Stick around to chat with fellow attendees, swap ideas, or just relax with a drink. Great conversations often happen after the main event!

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher After 5 Society