The Science of Self Help

When I first started this podcast, I was worried that I would run out of material, but after nearly a year of researching and discussing self-help topics, I haven't even gotten close to covering it all. And since I've been at this for close to a full year now—and because this is my last show before baby Sawyer is born—this episode is the perfect one to review what I've learned over this time. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/46

Do you know anyone who struggles with addiction? Are you curious to know more about the topic? Today I'm diving into what science has to say about the different addiction treatment methods out there, from Al-Anon to AA, and how these support groups work. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/45

I'm sure you have heard the word integrity thrown around a lot—especially when it comes to business or working with others—but integrity is more than what a lot of us understand it to be. In this episode, I'll be exploring the topic and breaking down the basics of self-integrity and how to develop it in a way that can really impact your relationship with yourself and others. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/44

Most of the things we do and the decisions we make are tied to a desire for happiness. In this episode, we will examine positive psychology and how happiness may not be what most of us think. You'll get to dig into the actual meaning of happiness, how to create more of it, and how it is not the end-all-be-all when it comes to wellbeing. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/43

If you have heard about flow and want to know what science says about it—or even if you're new to the subject and curious to learn what it is—then this episode is for you. After hearing about flow myself, I was intrigued and decided to look a little deeper into what it really is and how it checks out when it comes to scientific research. Listen in to learn how flow relates to happiness and what you can do to achieve an optimal experience. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/42

Do you know someone who never seems to do much with their natural potential? What about someone who busts their tail to achieve despite having less talent? Are you one of these two? In this episode, I'll share the surprising truth about how little talent actually has to do with achievement and why grit is more important when it comes to reaching your goals. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/41

Do you feel like there's something in your past that is holding you back? For many of us, in one way or another, there's fear, trauma or a triggering event that keeps us from living up to our full potential. This is why I have invited Mark Crandall to share his incredible experience navigating trauma and how he is helping many others cope in a way that ignites their passion and allows them to live an epic life. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/40

Do you have any habits you wish you could change? In this episode, I'll be looking deeper into what habits are, the common misconceptions that surround them, and how they can be changed. You will learn both fascinating and helpful facts about how our brains store information and how we can apply that to adjusting our behavior. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/39

Do you find yourself working endlessly on things but never being satisfied with the results? Do you have a hard time delegating? This is often due to perfectionism, and many of us struggle with it in one way or another. In this episode, I'll unpack the truth about perfectionism, exploring where it is a positive trait and where it can be damaging. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/38

Have you ever pushed through fear to do something because you knew it would be good for you? Is it really necessary to be mentally or emotionally uncomfortable in order to grow? In this episode, I break down the science behind this common self-help theory and explain how discomfort and fear may work in your favor behind the scenes. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/37

Do you wish you were open to new experiences? Do you want to be more easy-going? Is it even possible to change? In this episode, I'll be tackling the question of whether or not you can alter your personality. You'll learn how much of your character is given to you and how much of it you make for yourself. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/36

Have you ever felt disconnected and lonely, or like you should have more friends than you do? Have you ever wanted to make more friends, but you weren't quite sure how? My guest today is here to explain how to address these concerns and more. Dr. Aparna Iyer is a board-certified psychiatrist and assistant professor at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. I first heard her speak last year at the Physician Wellness Winter Retreat, where she discussed loneliness and how it impacts doctors in particular. She joins this episode to break down the negative effect loneliness has our health and well-being, how people get trapped in the loneliness cycle, and what we can do about it. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/35

Take a look around right now. What do your surroundings look like? Are there big open surfaces, or is everything super cluttered? If you're someone who has a tendency toward the cluttered end of the spectrum, then you don't want to miss this episode. I'll be diving into the science behind how clutter affects our well-being, as well as what can lead people to hoard possessions in the first place. Listen in to hear why having too much can create problems, how minimalism can help, and advice for decluttering not only your stuff, but also your life. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/34

Take a peek inside your medicine cabinet – do you have any vitamins or supplements in there? If so, you may be interested in what I'm talking about this episode. I'll be exploring whether or not supplements are good for you and if they actually help. Supplements are often something we use to self-treat, and they can be pretty expensive, so it's important to look into the science behind them and see if they're worth it. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/33

Have you ever pulled up in your driveway, only to realize that you don't remember any of your drive home? Or have you ever gotten incredibly upset over something that really shouldn't have bothered you that much? I think we've all had experiences like this, but the key is understanding what they have in common. Both actions are driven by unconscious thoughts. The truth is that our unconscious dictates much of our lives without us even realizing it. In this episode, I dive into the science behind how our unconscious affects our decisions, the ways thoughts we aren't even aware of can sabotage us, and what you can do to tap into your unconscious and start taking back control of your life. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/32

Are you able to skip meals, or do you forget to eat? Or do you wonder how people do this because all you can think about is your next meal? This week I'll be exploring and explaining the facts behind fasting, specifically how it relates to weight loss. This is a growing trend in the weight loss and self-help communities, and it's definitely worth it to take a deeper look at the research behind it and why it has become so popular. I will go over the basics of fasting and explore the different reasons and methods for doing it in a healthy and safe way. Although there is a lack of up-to-date research, we are able to sift through the data we currently have to come to some solid solutions. You will learn how fasting affects your body, what foods and patterns are recommended while fasting, and who should not be participating in fasting. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/31

Today's episode is a bit different than the usual self-help topics. Rather than focusing on a strategy to help you excel in life, I'm going to cover what to do when you're struggling. More specifically, I'll be talking about depression. I have a long history with this illness, and I'll be sharing my personal story, as well as two wonderful interviews that really shed light on what depression looks like from the inside and from the outside. Listen in to learn what symptoms to watch out for, effective treatment options, and why depression has become a major issue among doctors. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/30

What do you think when you look in the mirror? Take a moment to consider whether your view of yourself is something you're happy with, or if it could use a little improvement. If it's the latter, then this is the episode for you. The way we feel about ourselves is such a huge part of how we experience the world, and it's important for all of us to have a positive self-concept. So today, I'm going to dive into the subject of self-esteem and share what determines how we value ourselves, how to break up negative thought patterns, and what you can do to improve the way you feel every time you look in the mirror. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/29

Things change after having kids and it can become difficult between couples to be on the same page. Jessa Zimmerman is a credentialed sex therapist who helps couples who are struggling with sexual issues – what's working, what's not and how to make things work again. We dig into what sex therapy is, how it works and why Jessa believes it's so important for intimate relationships. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/28

Although acupuncture may not seem like a self-help topic but it is part of the genre of natural medicine that people tend to research and seek out on their own. If you're wondering what acupuncture is, how it works and IF it works, this is the episode for you. I'll talk about peoples' experiences with acupuncture, various forms of acupuncture, where it comes from and how science backs it up. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/27

I have patients that request arnica or teething tablets after surgery. Although these are common remedies, I don't recommend them and in this episode you'll find out why. I will explain the difference between homeopathy and medication and why you should second guess homeopathic remedies. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/26

Do you ever feel like there are just never enough hours in the day and you don't know how to ever get everything done that needs your attention? I get it and so many people feel this way so time management is what I'll be exploring on this episode and how it's actually possible to feel like you have enough time. We will take a look at the research out there and common methods of managing time so you will get some great tips on what works and why it works so well.  It's not about perfection, getting to everything, doing it all or even productivity. You'll learn that it's all about being present, planning and cultivating memories. Maybe this sounds a bit woo woo but I assure you that there's some great reasoning behind this so stay tuned and you'll be able to figure out how to feel like you have more time while getting to all the important stuff. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/25

Have you ever found yourself wondering why you're here? Or maybe you can't help but question what you are supposed to do with the life you've been given. If that sounds familiar, then this is the episode for you. Joining me today to talk about finding purpose is psychologist and life coach, Dr. Kate Siner. The author of Real Answers and Life Fulfillment Formula, Dr. Kate helps people align their lives with their sense of purpose, move past whatever is holding them back, an embrace all they can be. She holds a Ph.D. in psychology, but she also has a lot of education in alternative methods like energy healing, and she helps her clients identify conscious and subconscious blocks that may be keeping them from their ideal lives. Dr. Kate has been featured on NBC, ABC, Fox, and other major networks, and she joins this episode to share the components of a fulfilling life. You'll hear how she helps her clients discover what's truly important to them, the key mindset shift that is necessary to feel fulfilled, and what we all need to figure out in order to set and reach for goals that really matter. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/24

Money, or more specifically - debt, is one of the biggest sources of stress, marriage failure and many other issues. On this episode I'll be unpacking a bunch of the studies behind debt and finding out why it is so common, the health and life issues associated with it, the best methods to get out of debt and much more. You'll get to hear my personal experience with debt and how I was able to get out of it even during difficult financial times. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/23

Whether you are suffering from stress, infection, insect bites, toothaches or pretty much anything else, there's an essential oil recommended to treat it. With the huge popularity of essential oils these days, I thought it would be a great thing to look into and figure out the scientific basis of the benefits these oils provide. You'll learn what they are exactly, how they're made and what they do help with various issues. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/22

When it comes to dreaming, there's a lot of speculation, theories and research out there. There's also a lot that is still very unknown due to the complexity of our brains and factors that make it difficult to track and test. In this episode, I'll be exploring dreams – what they are, why we get them and when we get them. I will also discuss whether or not you can actually interpret dreams and how they can possibly be understood. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/21

When you get a kink in your neck or back, how does that effect your day? How do you usually handle it? Some people turn to self-help methods while many go to chiropractors. I'll go over the basics of chiropractic care and why it may not be what people think it is. Graeson Harris-Young joins me to share another option that looks at the bigger picture and allows you to understand your body better. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/20

Feeding kids is often harder than it should be because of all the conflicting advice and information that's out there. This episode, I'll continue my 3 part series on children by discussing how kids should be fed. I'll share some of the common “knowledge” out there as well as the conflicting opinions that often put too much stress on parents and then work in the scientific backing (or lack thereof) to help you better decide how to feed your kids. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/19

This is the second of the three-episode series that I'm doing on babies. Last week we talked about potty training and this week it's all about sleep! There are many many resources available to help you get your kids to sleep. I'll go over many of these to see how they check-out when it comes to science. I will also be answering some common sleep questions based on specific scientific studies and answers. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/18

These next three episodes I'll be doing something special that is aimed at you mamas out there. I will be focusing on potty training, getting kids to sleep and starting solid foods – all things that we can find plenty advice for but may have a different perspective on when we understand the science and studies relating to them. This show is all about potty training. From how things have worked (and not worked) with my kiddos to outlining some interesting professional opinions on the subject. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/17

Personality tests have become a hugely popular way for people to figure out how they learn, communicate, work and more. They are often used in hiring. In this episode I will go over some of the most popular personality tests and unload some accuracy issues they have. I'll also share the science behind personality testing and some more accurate ways to put these ideas to work for you. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/16

Resilience is actually a widely undisputed topic due to the extensive research and science that has been done to back it up. Follow along as I share some of the important info from these studies and explore further by questioning if resilience can be changed over time. I also introduce micro-resilience which is an awesome concept that I found out about and share some of the strategy and benefits of it. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/15

We tend to think of yoga as just stretching and holding poses, but in truth, it's so much more than that. I'm fairly new to yoga, having started practicing regularly back in January, but it really has helped me decrease my stress and increase my patience, in addition to other notable benefits. But since I'm certainly not an expert on the subject, I have Harvard- and Yale-trained psychiatrist, therapist, and certified yoga teacher Dr. Marlynn Wei on the show today. Co-author of The Harvard Medical School Guide to Yoga: 8 Weeks to Strength, Awareness, and Flexibility, Marylnn has been featured in Cosmo, Shape, Harvard Health, and Huffington Post, and she joins the podcast to share the amazing effects of yoga. Listen in to learn how even practicing for mere minutes a few times a week could have a major positive impact on your life. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/14

Organization is a pretty undisputed way to improve your life in many ways and is a huge part of the self-help world. This week I'll be exploring what kind of effects being organized has on your life and what kind of research is out there (not a lot!) to back it up. I'll also share my journey with organization – how I went from quite a slob to almost too organized and how I maintain balance. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/13

The world of weight loss is full of bad information, bias and confusion. I'm really excited to bring Dr. Katrina Ubell on the show today to help us understand what really works when it comes weight loss. She coaches busy doctors and helps them lose weight and has so much success with this that these doctors are going on to help their patients in the same way. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/12

There are so many coaches and self-help books out there talking about the Law of Attraction and urging you to adopt it into your life. In this episode I'm going to explore the fascinating research behind this concept and explaining how it does and does not work. There are a few scientific concepts that people use to validate it that don't check out completely – I'll explain this as well as what DOES actually validate it. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/11

I was socially awkward growing up and have figured out how to talk with people and position myself in better ways. I know a lot of people deal with insecurity or awkwardness when it comes to talking to and relating to people so I decided to dive into this topic and the science behind charisma. Taking some classic wisdom from Dale Carnegie and combining it with some more recent research, I dig up some great info on how to relate to your fellow humans better. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/10

Making decisions can be really tricky and we often have limitations that get in the way. Today I'm going to explore the science and facts behind intuition since it seems to have quite an important role in the self-help industry and decision making. We use intuition daily but can we rely on it to make important decisions? When and how can we rely on it and how does it work? All these questions will be answered. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/9

Life coaching and therapy have very different stigmas and misconceptions that are common to each area. Dr. Sasha Heinz joins me on the show today to explain the different methodology used in the two and shed some light on why she prefers coaching. Although coaching does not need a particular license, Sasha was drawn to the field and even got her PhD for it. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/8

We talk about things like happiness, sadness, and anger every day, but have you ever stopped to think about what an emotion is and where it comes from? Perhaps even more importantly, have you ever wondered if you can actively change what you're feeling? This episode answers those questions and more. I'll explain the science behind emotions, how they're generated in our brains, and how they impact the way we experience the world. While emotions are complicated and multi-faceted, research has shown that they're not hardwired into our brains—and that means we have the power to control them so they don't control us. Tune in to hear how it all works now. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/7

Much of the self-help advice and theories involve or revolve around willpower, so let's explore where willpower fits in and how it really works according to science. This episode will define willpower and I'll share some instances where you tend to use it regularly. Ultimately I will share how I quit smoking in a way that didn't include willpower. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/6

I'm interviewing Dr. Jack Crossen and Sinead Smyth of the Gottman institute about the science behind couples therapy. Jack and Sinead both come from backgrounds dealing with couples and they both came to realize that most couples therapy was well-intentioned but disorganized and unscientific. In this episode we are going to find out more about scientific research behind how relationships work and learn some solid strategies to improve them. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/5

Hypnosis is an age old technique that has been widely disputed throughout time but many people stand behind it. It can be really hard to tell what is real and what is for show in an industry like this. In this episode I'm going to share my findings and research relating to hypnosis and the scientific side to this mysterious and intriguing method. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/4

When you think of meditation does your mind take you to a peaceful monastery or temple with monks and shrines? In the western world, we often think of meditation as complex, difficult or boring. I found that there's a lot of scientific research behind meditation so we're going to dive into it and put some better context and information behind what meditation truly is and if it can work. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/3

My first reaction to the super popular ‘abundance mentality' concept is that it's a bit uhh.. out there. I noticed there are many articles on how to develop an abundance mentality but not many that explain exactly what it is. I'm going to explore what this concept is exactly, where it came from and what scientific information is (or is not) behind it. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/2

Welcome to The Science of Self-Help with me, Dr. Jenn Greer! People have always wanted to improve themselves and haven't always paid attention to the quality of self-help information that is out there. That is where I come in – I'll be exploring where people get their information, how theories are researched and what the science is (if any) behind many of the self-help methods and theories out there. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://www.scienceofselfhelppodcast.com/1