Abundant empirical evidence demonstrates the harmful effects of captive, impoverished environments across a wide range of species. In this talk, Lori will discuss the negative effects of confinement in zoos and aquariums on the brains of long-lived, large-brained mammals (i.e., elephants, cetaceans) and ways to remedy these consequences. Lori will present and discuss the general neurobiological effects of chronically stressful, impoverished, and highly artificial environments and how these effects impact the known welfare issues observed in cetaceans and elephants confined to concrete tanks and small enclosures. she will then conclude with a discussion and update about how authentic sanctuaries can remedy many of the observed welfare problems of “big brains" in small spaces.