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In this engaging episode, Ed Parcaut sits down with publishing expert, author, and former film & TV producer Aurora Winter to explore the power of books as authority builders and business growth tools. Discover Aurora's journey from screenwriting and producing television in Canada to launching multiple successful businesses through publishing—plus her deep dive into the neuroscience of communication and why storytelling matters more than data alone. You'll learn practical tips on using books (and even short books) as lead magnets, how to turn your expertise into a compelling story that attracts your ideal clients, and why self-publishing could be the smartest route for experts and entrepreneurs. Aurora shares case studies and her personal method for transforming a single interview into a business-launching book, as well as insights on translating books into courses, TV series, and more. Whether you're an aspiring author, entrepreneur, or established pro ready for your next pivot, this episode is packed with wisdom on building authority, connecting with your audience, and creating content that lasts. Plus, if you're curious about turning your book into a potential TV or streaming series, Aurora brings her unique publishing-to-Hollywood perspective to the table. Highlights: The neuroscience-backed formula for unforgettable messaging How Aurora's burnout led to a new business and a bestselling book—using her own lead magnet technique Turning books into courses, podcasts, media opportunities, and even Hollywood pitches Real-life tips for boosting your authority in any industry Ready to amplify your impact? Don't miss Aurora's free resources at turnwordsintowealth.com. Tune in for a blend of strategy, inspiration, and actionable steps to elevate your business and brand! *Contact Ed Parcaut:** -
Episode SummaryIn this Think Thursday episode, Molly explores why December feels so emotionally intense and why anticipation plays such a powerful role in our thoughts, feelings, and habits. Anticipation is not just psychological. It is driven by the brain's predictive systems that simulate the future long before it arrives.Using findings from neuroscience, including research highlighted in Neuron, University College London, Stanford University, and studies on dopamine and reward processing, Molly explains how imagining the future changes our emotional state in the present. She shows how anticipation can create craving, heighten anxiety, and influence behavior before anything even happens.Importantly, she connects this science to behavior change. When we understand anticipation, we gain the ability to shape our emotional experience, support our habit goals, and build a stronger relationship with our future selves.What You Will LearnWhy the brain is not reactive but predictiveHow the prospection network simulates possible futuresWhy anticipation activates the same regions involved in memory and emotionHow dopamine spikes during anticipation more than during rewardWhy the holidays intensify emotional forecastingHow the brain treats future you similarly to a strangerHow anticipation contributes to cravings, stress, and anxietyPractical strategies for using anticipation intentionally in behavior changeKey Insights from the EpisodeAnticipation is a physiological experience. Heart rate, dopamine, and emotional readiness all shift based on prediction.December amplifies anticipation because the brain is projecting ahead using vivid emotional memories from past holidays.Many habit patterns with alcohol, eating, and spending are anticipatory rather than reactive in the moment.The medial prefrontal cortex becomes less active when imagining the distant future, which explains why future you feels separate.Mental rehearsal activates the same neural pathways as actual behavior and can support intentional change.Anticipatory framing can influence how stressful events are interpreted afterward.Practical Tools from the Episode1. Anticipate the emotional landscape, not the event. Shift from worrying about what will happen to planning for how you want to feel.2. Rehearse your chosen identity. Imagine yourself acting in alignment with your values to strengthen the neural pathways that support follow-through.3. Shorten the distance to future you. Ask questions like:What will tonight's me thank me forWhat does tomorrow morning's me need4. Anticipate urges with curiosity. Recognize that urges are forecasts of relief, not emergencies.5. Create micro anticipations that ground you. Examples include expecting the first sip of warm tea, a quiet step outside, or the feeling of waking up proud the next morning.Studies and Sources Mentioned2023 review in Neuron on the prospection networkUniversity College London study on dopamine release during anticipatory uncertaintyStanford University research on future self representation in the brainStudies from the University of Michigan and Max Planck Institute on dopamine and anticipation2024 Psychological Science study on anticipatory framing and stress interpretation ★ Support this podcast ★
Your Hope-Filled Perspective with Dr. Michelle Bengtson podcast
Episode Summary: Have you ever noticed that sometimes the waiting feels almost better than the having? A child counting down the days until Christmas morning… the thrill of planning a vacation… even the little rush when you hear your phone buzz with a new message. That’s anticipation at work. But what if I told you that the very chemical in your brain that makes anticipation so powerful was actually designed by God to teach us something about Advent? Today we’re going to talk about dopamine, anticipation, and the kind of holy hope that not only prepares us for Christmas, but points us to the greater joy of Christ’s return. As we step into this Advent season, I want to share something that’s been on my heart—how anticipation affects our brain chemistry, our spiritual lives, and even the way we approach hope. Specifically, I want us to consider the beautiful connection between anticipation, dopamine, and Advent hope. Quotables from the episode: Did you know your brain starts celebrating before the party even begins? That’s right—long before you open the gift, taste the dessert, or hug the loved one, your brain is already releasing dopamine, the chemical of anticipation. But here’s the deeper truth: God wired us that way on purpose. Advent is the season where science and faith collide, inviting us to see how holy anticipation points our hearts beyond the moment to the eternal. In this episode of Your Hope Filled Perspective, you’ll learn how your brain chemistry mirrors the biblical call to wait with joyful hope. Anticipation is the act of looking forward to something. It’s more than just waiting—it’s waiting with expectancy. It’s that feeling when you know something is coming, and you start to prepare for it in your heart, in your mind, and sometimes even in your body. Think about a child waiting for Christmas morning. They might count down the days, peek under the tree, maybe even have trouble falling asleep on Christmas Eve. That’s anticipation. Anticipation can be both positive and negative. We can anticipate a joyful event—like a wedding, the birth of a child, or a holiday gathering—or we can anticipate something difficult, like a doctor’s appointment or a hard conversation. But here’s the key: anticipation changes the way we think, feel, and behave, even before the actual event takes place. Now let’s bring in a bit of brain science. You’ve probably heard of dopamine. It’s often referred to as the “feel-good chemical,” but that’s not entirely accurate. Dopamine isn’t about pleasure itself—it’s about anticipation of pleasure. When our brains release dopamine, it motivates us to pursue something. It’s tied to the reward system in our brains. For example, when you anticipate a delicious meal, your brain releases dopamine—not when you’re eating the food, but when you think about eating it. Dopamine helps us focus, motivates us to take action, and gives us energy to pursue what we expect will be rewarding. Here’s an example: Have you ever noticed that planning a vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself? That’s because anticipation—through dopamine—creates joy, motivation, and excitement. Now here’s where it gets interesting. When we lack healthy anticipation—when we don’t have things to look forward to—dopamine levels can drop, leading to discouragement, low motivation, and even depression. But God, in His wisdom, created us with this system of anticipation for a reason. He designed our brains to look forward, to seek reward, to long for something beyond the present moment. Advent is a season of holy anticipation. For centuries, Christians have marked the four weeks before Christmas as a time of preparation, reflection, and expectation. We look back and remember the long anticipation of Israel waiting for the promised Messiah. And we look forward in anticipation of Christ’s second coming. Advent teaches us not to rush through waiting but to savor it, to sit in it, to let it shape our hearts. In the same way dopamine motivates us to move toward something good, Advent hope motivates us to move toward God’s promises. Think about Simeon and Anna in Luke chapter 2. They spent their lives anticipating the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die before seeing the Lord’s Christ. Imagine the daily anticipation he must have lived with. And then one day, he held the baby Jesus in his arms and declared, “My eyes have seen your salvation.” That is the fulfillment of holy anticipation. And yet, we too live in anticipation. We celebrate Jesus’ birth, yes—but we also anticipate His return. That’s what Advent reminds us: we live between the “already” and the “not yet.” Jesus has come, and Jesus is coming again. Here’s the challenge. In our culture, anticipation often gets hijacked. We anticipate Amazon packages, text message replies, or the next social media notification. Those things give us little dopamine hits, but they don’t satisfy our souls. If we’re not careful, we can train our brains to anticipate the wrong things—things that don’t last, things that can’t fulfill us. But Advent invites us to retrain our anticipation. Instead of craving fleeting rewards, we can learn to anticipate eternal hope. So, let’s ask ourselves: What am I anticipating most right now? Is it something temporary, or is it something eternal? How can I align my anticipation with God’s promises? Romans 8:24–25 says, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” That’s the essence of anticipation: waiting with patience, grounded in hope. Let me suggest a few practical steps: Build rhythms of anticipation. Light an Advent candle each week. Read the Scriptures that point to Christ’s coming. These small practices create anticipation and remind your brain and your spirit of the greater hope to come. Practice gratitude in the waiting. Each time you feel anticipation rising—whether for a holiday gathering or even for your morning coffee—use it as a cue to thank God for something eternal. Gratitude shifts dopamine toward holy anticipation. Anchor your anticipation in God’s promises. Write down verses about Christ’s return. For example, John 14:3, where Jesus says, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” Let those promises fuel your waiting. Fast from empty anticipations. Maybe that means stepping back from constant scrolling or instant gratification. Fasting helps retrain our brains to anticipate what truly matters. Invite others into your anticipation. Just as Israel anticipated the Messiah together, we’re called to wait together. Share your Advent reflections with a friend or family member. Encourage one another with the hope of Christ’s return. When we put all this together, here’s what we see: Neuroscience shows us that anticipation releases dopamine, motivating us to move toward something good. Scripture shows us that God designed us to live in anticipation of His promises. Advent reminds us to direct our anticipation toward Christ—His birth, His presence in our lives today, and His return. When we align our brains’ natural anticipation system with God’s eternal hope, we experience deeper joy, stronger faith, and renewed strength to endure seasons of waiting. Friend, whatever you’re anticipating right now, I encourage you to lift it before the Lord. Maybe you’re anticipating something wonderful, or maybe you’re anticipating something hard. Either way, God meets us in our waiting. As we journey through Advent, let’s allow anticipation to become not a source of stress or distraction, but a holy reminder that our ultimate hope is in Christ. Would you pray with me? “Heavenly Father, thank You for designing our minds and our hearts to anticipate. Thank You for sending Jesus, the fulfillment of centuries of anticipation, and thank You for the promise that He will come again. Help us, Lord, to direct our anticipation toward what is eternal and true. Strengthen us in seasons of waiting and fill us with hope as we remember that You are faithful to every promise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” As you move through this Advent season, may you live with holy anticipation—not just for the joys of Christmas, but for the greater joy of Christ’s return. Scripture References: Romans 8:24–25 (NIV)“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
FREEBIE: 20 Brain Boosting Gifts - a Simple Guide: https://mailchi.mp/295b0b8e10a7/20-gifts-that-boost-the-brain-this-christmasUPDATED: The Christmas Survival Guide https//:lchi.p0/cd832/050matechristmasglistmakingandsurvivalkitJoin me as I share my personal journey through grief, stress, and the importance of choosing positive thoughts. I discuss the impact of the holiday season on mental health, the significance of forgiveness, and the power of community support. I'll also offers practical advice on nurturing mental wellness through thoughtful gifts and self-care practices, emphasizing the need for a positive mindset and the ability to rewire your brain for better emotional health."Choose to think, it's not easy.""Give yourself permission to feel.""Your thoughts are brain food."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Choosing to Think03:26 Navigating Grief and Stress06:06 The Importance of Mindset and Neural Pathways09:11 Coping with Stress and Finding Balance11:52 Choosing to Think During the Holidays14:38 Self-Care and Health Awareness17:39 The Power of Forgiveness and Repentance20:24 Community Support and Connection23:05 Gifts for Mental Wellness26:08 Practical Tips for Brain Health28:43 Conclusion and EncouragementCONNECT WITH VICTORIA:PODCAST WEBSITE: www.choose2thinkpodcast.comMINISTRY WEBSITE: www.choose2think.coFACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/groups/choose2thinkINSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/victoriadwalkerlydon/EMAIL: choose2think@gmail.com *BOOKS:CHOOSE 2 THINK 365-DAY DEVOTIONAL: https://amzn.to/3Hcl7v1CHOOSE 2 THINK JOURNAL: https://amzn.to/3Hcl7v1Pickleball Passion A Marriage Devotional: 21 Days to a Stronger Connection on and off the Court https://amzn.to/48wnvaV*When you click on these Amazon affiliate links, I may earn a teeny commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!DISCLAIMER: Choose 2 Think: A Christian Podcast on Neuroscience, Mindset, Thoughts, and Emotional Health is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult your physician or doctor for all medical advice and counsel.Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/victoria-d-lydon/messageSUPPORT CHOOSE 2 THINK MINISTRIES AND PODCAST HERE: PATREON: Patreon.com/Choose2Think
Sign up for the free webinar on January 8, 2026 at 11am ET with Marcia Reynolds. In this episode, Brian Miller is joined by Dr. Marcia Reynolds, former president of the International Coaching Federation and globally recognized thought leader on emotional intelligence and coaching presence. Together, they explore how neuroscience explains co-regulation—the subtle emotional exchange between coach and client that determines trust, safety, and transformation. Marcia shares practical ways coaches can regulate their own emotions, influence the energy in the coaching space, and trigger the brain chemistry that opens clients to deeper insight and growth. Key Highlights Coaching presence is emotional, not just cognitive. True presence isn't about paying attention—it's about radiating curiosity, compassion, and care that the client feels. Energy precedes words. Before a coach says anything, the client's brain detects safety or threat based on the coach's tone, body, and emotional state. Co-regulation is constant. We always regulate to the person with the most emotional influence in the room—often the coach or leader. The brain's chemistry shapes trust. Compassionate connection releases oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine, which calm anxiety and open creativity and insight. Judgment, fear, and impatience break presence. These emotions start in the body before the brain and must be noticed, released, and replaced intentionally. Takeaways Regulate yourself first. Your emotional state sets the tone. Enter sessions grounded, curious, and compassionate. Safety is felt, not declared. Saying "you're safe here" doesn't build trust—your calm presence does. Track with curiosity. Listen beyond the story for values, fears, and contradictions that reveal transformation points. Choose your energy intentionally. Notice where emotion shows up in your body, breathe, and return to curiosity and care. Lead with "big light." Like Marcia's mentor said, your job is to model presence and emotional maturity—even when others don't.
This is a Men in the Arena podcast highlight from EP 940, Your Brain is Sabotaging Your Marriage w/ Ron Deal: 4 Steps from Neuroscience to Break Your Toxic Patterns. Check it out! Jim's newest book, Guardrails: Ten Boundaries for an Unbreakable Marriage will be releasing in April 2026. Sign up to be notified when it's available at https://meninthearena.org/guardrails. This episode is sponsored by Compassion International. Our goal is for the Men in the Arena tribe to sponsor 1,000 boys over the coming year! Help us reach that goal and make a difference in a child's life today. When you sponsor a child using our link, you'll receive a free copy of Jim's book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God! We are also sponsored by MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, a Christian-owned fitness app. This app, combined with diet, has helped Jim get in the best shape of his life! Get 6 weeks free with the code ARENA30 at MTNTOUGH.com. Every man needs a locker room. Apply to join an exclusive brotherhood of like-minded men in The Locker Room, our monthly live Zoom Q&A call! We meet in the Locker Room once a month for community, fellowship, laughter, and to help each other find biblical answers to life's difficult questions. Locker Room members also get access to monthly exclusive leadership trainings, historically only available to the staff team at Men in the Arena. Membership is by application only. Go here to apply: https://patreon.com/themeninthearena Get Jim Ramos' USA TODAY Bestselling book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God (https://tinyurl.com/dialedinbook)
Podcast Highlights: 1) Diane's groundbreaking work with autistic telepathic savants 2) a glimpse into the future of human evolution 3) overlap between autism and naturally elevated DMT 4) are autistic telepathy and extraterrestrial telepathy relatedDr. Diane Hennacy is here today - the renowned neuropsychiatrist, consciousness researcher, and the medical doctor and scientist you hear throughout The Telepathy Tapes podcast. In the next few minutes, you're going to discover why her groundbreaking work with autistic savants, telepathy, and non-local consciousness is reshaping our understanding of the human mind. Stay with us, because what Dr. Hennacy reveals will challenge neuroscience, expand your sense of reality, and offer a glimpse into the future of human evolution. To learn more: https://drdianehennacy.com/ Donate Venmo: @AutismsafehavenEnter a world of channeling, ET's, metaphysics & multidimensional truth. Dare to Dream reveals what most shows won't touch — and what your soul's been asking for.Travel aboard the Celebrity Cruise with Debbi and other magnificent presenters for a Mystery School at Sea experience going to Greece and Turkey - March 2026. Cabins are booking now: https://mysteryschoolatsea.com/ (Use Debbi Dachinger under referral)Join Dr. Diane Hennacy and Debbi speaking live February 20-23, 2026, L.A. Conscious Life Expo. Tickets on sale now: https://debbidachinger.com/cleShamanism Level One is filling up, taught and led by Debbi, only 14 seats are left. Learn shamanism practices and tool. Starts January 6, 2026: https://debbidachinger.com/L1Free Starseed Report: debbidachinger.com/starseed IG: @daretodreampodcast @debbidachingerHosted by Debbi Dachinger, award-winning broadcaster, shamanic healer, & book launch mentor for authors ready to rise. #DianeHennacy #autism #savantsyndrome #telepathy #ESP #neuroscience #consciousness #PostMaterialist #PsiResearch #neuropsychiatry #spiritualscience #NonlocalMind #simulationtheory #ETTelepathy #daretodreampodcast #debbidachinger #remoteviewing #autistic #neurodivergentBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dare-to-dream-with-debbi-dachinger--1980925/support.
The brain acts in strange ways during wartime. Even in active combat situations, when soldiers are one mistake away from death, many can’t fire on their enemies because their brain is triggering compassion centers against other soldiers. Studies of World War II show that while soldiers were willing to risk death, only 15% to 20% fired their weapons in intense combat, indicating a reluctance to kill. That’s why successful military leaders were able to motivate their soldiers with ideas of unfairness and justice, that their enemies weren’t human to make them better at fighting and killing. All this goes to show that if you want to understand war, you have to understand how the brain makes sense of it. Does war make all of us retreat to our lizard brain and act on pure instinct – so the only way to win is pumping out manipulative propaganda to the masses and use modern technologies like AI and social media exploit the brain's cognitive vulnerabilities? Well, many nations like Russia and China are already using these to their advantage. Or can we bring higher thinking to the matter? Is a researcher like Robert Sapolsky right when he argues that we can stop wars by persuading enough people that it is bad and pointless. Today’s guest is Nicholas Wright, author of “Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain.” He’s a neuroscientist and advisor to the Pentagon. We explore how our brains respond under pressure and how these instincts can shape everything from battlefield outcomes to boardroom decisions. He argues that while conflict is inevitable, it’s not unmanageable - if we understand how the brain drives fear, trust, aggression, and judgment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Good sleep so complicated. There are endless tips about screens and supplements and gadgets that promise better rest, but most of us aren't thinking about the three biggest levers that actually move the needle. The quality of your sleep is really a reflection of how you lived your day. When you challenge yourself physically, challenge yourself mentally and clear the things that are weighing on you, your body naturally shifts into deeper, more restorative rest. Sleep improves when your body is tired in the right ways, your mind has worked enough to want a break and your stress is addressed instead of pushed to the side. Today we are breaking sleep down to three simple, powerful habits that human performance experts say will help you get the best sleep of your life by focusing on how you show up during the day. Human performance experts like Chris Williamson, Alex Hormozi, Gary Brecka and Casey Means all point to the same truth Hack 1: Exhaust yourself physically during the day • When your body is physically spent, you fall asleep faster and sleep deeper. • Being busy is not the same as being physically active. Movement creates real sleep pressure. • Getting steps in, lifting something heavy, walking more, sweating a little and staying on your feet helps your body crave rest at night. • Huberman and Matthew Walker both explain that daily movement increases adenosine, which builds the urge to sleep. • Kelly LeVeque and Casey Means show how balanced blood sugar from movement reduces nighttime cortisol spikes. • Gary Brecka talks about completing the physiological stress cycle so the nervous system knows it's safe to shut down. • Examples: long walks, workouts, organizing or cleaning days, anything that gets your heart rate up or keeps you consistently moving. Hack 2: Exhaust yourself mentally by challenging your brain • Most people feel mentally busy but not mentally challenged, which leaves the brain restless at night. • Learn something, solve something, try something new, figure something out, read, study, dive into a topic. • When you grow mentally and make progress, your brain feels complete and ready for rest. • Chris Williamson says nighttime overthinking often comes from not using the mind in a meaningful way during the day. • Alex Hormozi emphasizes that progress, even small progress, lowers internal friction and mental clutter. • Casey Means explains how real cognitive engagement stabilizes dopamine, which lowers the nighttime seeking behavior that keeps people scrolling instead of sleeping. • Neuroscience research shows that learning increases the brain's need for REM sleep because it needs to file those memories. • Examples: learning new systems, improving a process, starting a new skill, working on something that feels mentally tricky or step heavy. Hack 3: Solve your problems during the day so your mind can rest at night • Nothing disrupts sleep more than unresolved stress or conversations that still need to be had. • The crumbs metaphor works perfectly here. Just like crumbs irritate you all night, unresolved issues do the same mentally. • Have the conversations, apologize, forgive, clear the air, make progress on debt, take one step toward the thing you've been avoiding. • Gary Vee talks often about how anxiety comes from avoiding the very thing we know we need to do. • Dave Ramsey points out that money problems are one of the biggest sleep killers and even a simple plan reduces that load. • Gary Brecka explains how mental stress raises cortisol and keeps your system in high alert, which blocks deep sleep. • Huberman suggests cognitive unloading, writing everything down, to calm the brain before bed. • Matthew Walker reminds us that sleep cannot negotiate with an anxious mind. • Suggestions: write everything down, even if you can't talk to the person yet, get clarity in writing, pick one step toward solving your biggest stressor so you can rest knowing you are in motion. •Inhale the good, exhale the bad. When you really think about these three habits, you realize that great sleep isn't just a nighttime routine. It's the natural reward for how intentionally you live your day. When you move your body, challenge your mind and clear the things that are weighing on you, your system settles in a way that no gadget or supplement can replace. You go to bed feeling complete instead of overwhelmed, tired in the right ways instead of drained in the wrong ones. These three simple practices will change the way you rest and the way you wake up. Better sleep leads to better days, and better days lead to a better life. You truly can create the best sleep of your life by designing the kind of day that makes peaceful rest the obvious, automatic outcome.
I'm thrilled to share this meditation designed to help you explore your BIG vision through visualizing your perfect day.The narratives we tell ourselves shape our reality.Visualization is a powerful practice that allows you to plant the seeds of new narratives you wish to grow in your life.Do the narratives you're creating serve your goals and aspirations?Mindfulness enables you to recognize your narratives - whether they're supporting or limiting you.This guided meditation invites you to connect with the narratives that are shaping your experience.I hope this guided meditation serves you well.
Do you ever wonder why it is so hard to change? Have you ever wondered why even after you committed to change, you struggle? Today on Like It Matters Radio Mr. Black is going to cover the structure and power of our Belief Systems. Everything we do, or do not do, is driven by a belief. Your brain is not fixed. Your beliefs are not permanent. Your paradigm should not be a prison! A paradigm is a pattern of thinking, a system of lower-level beliefs that construct a structure that has power to build or destroy, to construct or to destruct! Listeners of today’s hour of power will receive an understanding of some of the WHYs and HOWs of what we do. Mr. Black will go over the logical levels of change- the structure of our experience. Listeners will hear about Viktor Frankl, Alfred Adler, Robert Dilts, and Donald Hebb. Listeners will learn about Neuro Linguistic Programming, Neuroscience, paradigms and the structure of beliefs. Mr. Black will also be joined by a graduate of Leadership Awakening from 3 years ago, who talks about the change that happened in class 3 years ago and that has grown into an incredibly changed life! Mr. Black will share his expertise of working in the human potential field for over 32 years. Mr. Black says, “if you have a WHY, then all you need is an understanding of the HOW. That is what I bring to you, your people and your organization- the power of People knowledge and People skill”. Tune into Like it Matters Radio for an hour of Power where listeners can expect: Inspiration, Education and Application and reminded- When you live life, LIKE IT MATTERS- it does! Be sure to Like and Follow us on our facebook page!www.facebook.com/limradio Instagram @likeitmattersradioTwitter @likeitmatters Get daily inspiration from our blog www.wayofwarrior.blog Learn about our non profit work at www.givelikeitmatters.com Check out our training website www.LikeItMatters.Net Always available online at www.likeitmattersradio.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you've ever found yourself repeating the same patterns in your relationships - the same types of partners, the same conflicts, the same thoughts and feelings - this episode is for you. Thais Gibson is an expert in relationships, neuroplasticity, the subconscious mind, attachment theory and more. She's also a former "Fearful Avoidant" who successfully rewired her own attachment patterns to build a secure marriage, and created a massive following by teaching people even the most core components of how we relate to others can be changed. In this conversation, you'll hear: How the subconscious mind shapes our relationships and how to change limiting beliefs in as little as 21 days What attachment styles are and how they affect us practical ways to deal with conflict the stages each relationship goes through and how to move through them without getting stuck and more For more from Thais, head here For Story Club live on Youtube, copies of So What, Now What? and more from Osher, head hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We sit down with Jordan Ellenberg, a world-class geometer, who takes us on a far-ranging exploration of the power of geometry, which turns out to help us think better about practically everythingHis writing has appeared in Slate, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and the Boston Globe, and he is the New York Times bestselling author of How Not to Be Wrong – but in this episode we will discuss his new book, Shape: The hidden geometry of information, biology, strategy, democracy and everything else.Kitted Executive AcademyJordan Ellenberg's WebsiteJordan Ellenberg's Academic WebsiteJordan Ellenberg's TwitterShapeHow Minds ChangeDavid McRaney's TwitterDavid McRaney's BlueSkyYANSS TwitterShow NotesNewsletterPatreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Holiday Overstimulation: How the Season Hijacks Your Dopamine—And What Your Brain Actually NeedsIf December leaves you anxious, numb, restless, or overwhelmed, your brain is not malfunctioning. It's responding to a season that pushes your dopamine system into overdrive. In this episode, I show you how holiday pressure, comparison posts, sugar and alcohol spikes, bright lights, noise, and overloaded schedules shift your nervous system from a state of regulation into survival mode.Overstimulation isn't just emotional. It's neurological. When your reward pathways fire too rapidly, the prefrontal cortex can't keep up, and your stress tolerance drops fast. That's when small tasks feel big, social interactions drain you, and you lose the motivation and presence you normally rely on.You will learn what this miswiring looks like on a brain map, why December triggers hyperarousal and shutdown, and how simple, intentional rhythms can bring your system back into balance. Slow dopamine, safe sensory input, daily rituals, and micro-moments of quiet are not luxuries this time of year — they are medicine for an overstimulated brain.If you want to see your own brain's stress patterns and learn how to restore regulation, visit drtrishleigh.com to get your Brain Map and begin rewiring for calm, clarity, and connection this season.Send us a textSupport the showHi. I am Dr. Trish Leigh, a Cognitive Neuroscientist, and Sex Addiction Recovery Coach. I am on a mission to help people heal their brains from porn use.My podcasts are designed to help you learn that:
“Neuroscientists who stand up and say ‘we have souls' are few and far between,” says pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Egnor.“But when you look carefully at the neuroscience—the best neuroscience over the past century—it clearly points to the existence of the soul and to the existence of aspects of our mind that don't come from the brain.”Egnor himself started off as a materialist and atheist. But 40 years and more than 7,000 brain surgeries later, he concluded that reason and free will do not reside in the brain. In this episode, he reveals what he's found.“Neuroscience is just fundamentally wrong in a lot of ways … because of the materialist bias in neuroscience. We can't get away from this machine analogy, [but] we're not machines, and we don't work like machines work. And there's overwhelming evidence in neuroscience for the existence of a soul,” he says.Dr. Egnor is a professor of neurosurgery and pediatrics at Stony Brook University, a senior fellow at the Discovery Institute, and the co-author of the book “The Immortal Mind: A Neurosurgeon's Case for the Existence of the Soul.”Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and the guest, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Have you ever handled a situation so poorly that you wished you could rewind and do it all over again? What happens when your stress, assumptions, or emotions collide with real-life challenges in your marriage? In this week's expert interview, Jim Ramos brings in expert Ron Deal for insight on how men can avoid assumptions or reactions that sabotage communication. This honest, practical conversation gives every man tools to lead with humility, clarity, and emotional wisdom. You'll get practical steps for owning your mistakes and rebuilding trust, and learn how to respond with wisdom instead of emotion in tough moments. Check our Ron Deal's book 'The Mindful Marriage'. This episode is sponsored by Compassion International. Our goal is for the Men in the Arena tribe to sponsor 1,000 boys over the coming year! Help us reach that goal and make a difference in a child's life today. When you sponsor a child using our link, you'll receive a free copy of Jim's book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God! We are also sponsored by MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, a Christian-owned fitness app. This app, combined with diet, has helped Jim get in the best shape of his life! Get 6 weeks free with the code ARENA30 at MTNTOUGH.com. Every man needs a locker room. Apply to join an exclusive brotherhood of like-minded men in The Locker Room, our monthly live Zoom Q&A call! We meet in the Locker Room once a month for community, fellowship, laughter, and to help each other find biblical answers to life's difficult questions. Locker Room members also get access to monthly exclusive leadership trainings, historically only available to the staff team at Men in the Arena. Membership is by application only. Go here to apply: https://patreon.com/themeninthearena Get Jim Ramos' USA TODAY Bestselling book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God (https://tinyurl.com/dialedinbook)
What has research proven regarding meditation?Meet Brittany Hopkins Switlick!Brittany is an Author, Speaker, seasoned Yoga educator and Personal Development Coach. She is the founder of Lotus School of Yoga (formerly Container Collective Yoga), where she has led hundreds of students and aspiring teachers in transformative classes, workshops, trainings and retreats that go far beyond the physical practice of yoga.Through thousands of hours of teaching students to navigate the dance between ego and higher self, she empowers them to live with purpose and authenticity. Brittany helps people break free from default patterns to live and lead with purpose.Listen as Brittany shares:- how meditation alters brain chemistry- deepening practice, self-awareness, and impact- recognize ego-driven reactivity- shift into conscious, empowered action- lead with clarity, authenticity, and compassion- reconnect with who they truly are- gratitude and its impact on your brain- lead from your Higher Self- re-language judgement and how you see others...and so much more!Connect with Brittany,Website: https://www.brittanyhopkins.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMtYalwiEsVzY3sC1pWSMxQAdditional Resources:"Dancing With Our Selves" by Brittany Hopkins SwitlickListen to the Podcast, subscribe, leave a rating and a review:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-meditation-changes-the-brain-w-brittany-hopkins/id1614151066?i=1000739800559 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3C2zx1ZXXeejBWqvSr2pBc?si=x3sSyVa_RBaYN8OuAOHDxA YouTube: https://youtu.be/KB1_KOhFVdE
Sylvie Legere sits down with Dr. John Prunskis to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and pain management. This episode unpacks the role of AI in identifying and treating chronic pain, particularly through innovative therapies like spinal cord stimulation. Dr. Prunskis shares his expertise on how AI is not only enhancing patient care but also transforming how healthcare is delivered, with a specific focus on reducing dependency on opioids. Dr. Prunskis discusses the mechanism of spinal cord stimulation, a procedure leveraging AI to dynamically interact with a patient's activity, offering personalized, non-invasive pain relief. By implementing AI, patients experience improved quality of life without the irreversible changes caused by traditional surgeries. The conversation also touches on potential hurdles, regulatory frameworks, and the exciting future of AI in healthcare, setting the stage for broader discussions at The Policy Circle Summit on AI's role across sectors. Dr. John Prunskis Dr. John V. Prunskis, MD, FIPP, is a double-board-certified interventional pain physician internationally recognized for his leadership in pain management, regenerative medicine, and healthcare innovation. He is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Illinois Pain & Spine Institute, established in 1992, and currently serves as Director and Chair of the Medical Executive Committee at DxTx Pain and Spine, which he co-founded in 2020. Under his leadership, DxTx has expanded to more than 60 clinics across 10 states and delivered over one million patient visits. A 25-year Castle Connolly “Top Doctor” honoree as voted by his peers, Dr. Prunskis has dedicated his career to advancing evidence-based, minimally invasive treatments for chronic pain. Beyond clinical practice, he has played a pivotal role in shaping national policy, serving as a Presidential White House appointee to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Pain Management Best Practices Task Force and co-authoring its landmark 2019 Final Report. He also served three consecutive four-year terms in the Lithuanian Parliament/World Lithuanian Community Commission representing 900,000 Lithuanian Americans. For his philanthropic and professional contributions, he was bestowed the Knight of the Order of Merit by the President of Lithuania. He is Vice Chair of the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience's Artificial Intelligence (AI) Division, serves on the Advisory Board of Hippocratic AI, and is the founder of The Regenerative Stem Cell Institute. With over four decades of expertise, Dr. Prunskis bridges clinical excellence, innovation, and thoughtful public policy to expand access to ethical, effective, and technology-driven healthcare. Check out the Illinois Pain and Spine Institute's website.
Science editor Ian Sample sits down with co-host Madeleine Finlay and science correspondent Hannah Devlin to hear about three eye-catching stories from the week, including a study showing that the brain has five ‘eras', with adult mode not starting until our early 30s. Also on the agenda is new research showing the shingles vaccine not only protects against dementia but could actually slow its progress, and a paper exploring how ants sacrifice themselves when they become infected with pathogens to protect their healthy relatives. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
Hey Winner, In this episode, I'm joined by Ashriel Huber, founder of Called & Curious and creator of Love Moves, a 6-minute brain-body reset that blends neuroscience, movement, and prayer. We're talking about what it means to “think prettier thoughts” ... not fake positivity, but truth-filled, hope-filled thoughts that bring peace in the middle of real life. If you've ever felt stuck in a thought spiral or exhausted by your own inner dialogue, this conversation is for you. Rooting for you ~ Gabe New to the podcast? Start here: https://redhotmindset.com/podcast-start/ LISTEN TO HEAR: How to “press pause” and settle your thoughts—even in the middle of chaos. Why thinking “prettier thoughts” isn't fake positivity—it's choosing truth over spirals. A simple reset practice you can do in minutes to shift your mind, body, and spirit. LINKS MENTIONED IN EPISODE: Ashriel's website: https://www.calledandcurious.com/ Get the Stress Less Peace Pill — Ashriel's free 6-minute calm reset from Called & Curious: https://calledandcurious.myflodesk.com/bv6kw5001y CONNECT WITH ME: ➡️ Website: https://redhotmindset.com/ ➡️ Join the Red Hot Accountability Club: https://redhotmindset.com/rha/ ➡️ Free mini course: Craft Your Marketing Strategy Without Social Media: https://redhotmindset.com/marketing/ ➡️ Free workshop: 3 Secrets to Making Progress on Your Goals without Burnout—Even When Life Feels Chaotic: https://redhotmindset.com/goals/
Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor magazine.Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!This special episode was originally recorded for the Vertical MRO Podcast. The information in the recording was so valuable, I felt the Hangar Z community needed to hear it. Ronnie Ries, a co-host of the Vertical MRO Podcast, and I, sit down with Jamie Wood, CEO and founder of the bio-technology platform Autonomic.Jamie is changing the way people think and learn about their brains. Through neuroscience-based products and cutting edge technologies, her mission is to elevate human potential by bringing personalized brain health solutions to the masses. Jamie's work focuses on supporting driven individuals in high-demand environments that rely heavily on their cognitive abilities. This includes helicopter pilots, tactical flight officers, maintenance engineers, executives, leaders, employees, athletes, and students. Jamie is a speaker, mentor, brain performance expert, and researcher. Having bootstrapped her brain performance technology company and brought a scientifically proven cognitive enhancement solution to market, Jamie understands the unique demands placed upon the brains of highly driven individuals in high-performance environments. Jamie has worked with some of the most exciting up-and-coming leaders in tech, gaming, extraction, marketing, student organizations, and big data. Jamie has led groundbreaking research studies looking at brain health in high-stress environments using Mobile EEG, and sits on the cutting edge of brain health technology working alongside world leading neuroscientists. She has worked with over 100 founders and is a sought after speaker for Fortune 500 companies and top tech conferences including the Vertical MRO Conference. During the conversation we explore the critical role of cognitive performance in aviation maintenance and operations. Jamie shares her work with aviation maintenance colleges and organizations, where she has built effective programs to help address burnout and improve focus and mental sharpness. Together, we unpack how fatigue, hydration, nutrition, and sleep, directly affect safety and high performance in the hangar and beyond.This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about human performance, aviation safety, and creating an environment that empowers teams to thrive.Thank you to our sponsors Canyon AeroConnect, Precision Aviation Group and Summit Aviation.
If you've ever felt like you're failing while trying your hardest, this conversation will feel like a breath of grace.Victoria Lydon welcomes Jennifer Renee Watson, author of You're Doing Better Than You Think. Together, they explore the realities of mental health, the tension of being both “a mess and a masterpiece,” and the ongoing journey of healing from trauma.Jennifer opens up about her experiences with depression, anxiety, and shame—and the freedom that comes when we choose to release shame instead of rehearsing it. The conversation highlights the healing power of community support, the importance of setting boundaries with toxic relationships, and practical tools for emotional wellness such as affirmations, gratitude, self-care, and mindful grounding.Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to embrace their struggles, honor their progress, and recognize their worth as they pursue healing and personal growth.You have permission to be both a mess and a masterpiece.Sometimes the bravest thing you do is simply getting out of bed.Shame can be released, not rehearsed.Community support is a lifeline for healing.Small, practical steps can build emotional wellness.Affirmations and gratitude shift your mindset and your mood.Walking away from toxic relationships is necessary for growth.Self-care is not indulgent—it's essential for mental health.Recognizing your worth is a journey, not a moment.Healing takes time, intention, and compassion.00:00 — Introduction to Jennifer Renee Watson02:21 — Embracing Imperfection and Authenticity03:43 — Introduction and Personal Struggles06:23 — The Journey to Authenticity09:26 — Finding Help and Healing12:04 — Understanding Shame and Anxiety14:47 — The Power of Community and Truth17:25 — Practical Steps for Mental Wellness19:08 — Daily Affirmations and Self-Care21:50 — Walking Away from Toxicity24:31 — The Importance of Mindfulness26:40 — Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts35:47 — OutroConnect with Jenniferhttps://www.jenniferreneewatson.com/*Take a look at her book: You're Doing Better Than You Thinkhttps://amzn.to/48x7JhlCONNECT WITH VICTORIA:PODCAST WEBSITE: www.choose2thinkpodcast.comMINISTRY WEBSITE: www.choose2think.coFACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/groups/choose2thinkINSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/victoriadwalkerlydon/EMAIL: choose2think@gmail.com *BOOKS:CHOOSE 2 THINK 365-DAY DEVOTIONAL: https://amzn.to/3Hcl7v1CHOOSE 2 THINK JOURNAL: https://amzn.to/3Hcl7v1Pickleball Passion A Marriage Devotional: 21 Days to a Stronger Connection on and off the Court https://amzn.to/48wnvaV*When you click on these Amazon affiliate links, I may earn a teeny commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!DISCLAIMER: Choose 2 Think: A Christian Podcast on Neuroscience, Mindset, Thoughts, and Emotional Health is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult your physician or doctor for all medical advice and counsel.Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/victoria-d-lydon/messageSUPPORT CHOOSE 2 THINK MINISTRIES AND PODCAST HERE: PATREON: Patreon.com/Choose2Think
Dr. Marc Lewis is a neuroscientist, psychologist, and psychotherapist who taught developmental psychology at the University of Toronto for over 20 years. He's the author of "Memoirs of an Addicted Brain" and "The Biology of Desire: Why Addiction Is Not a Disease". Drawing from both his personal recovery journey and decades of research, Dr. Lewis offers a revolutionary perspective on addiction neuroscience.WHAT WE DISCUSSEDNEUROSCIENCE INSIGHTS:Why dopamine isn't a "pleasure chemical" and what it actually does in addictionThe real difference between healthy learning and addictive learningHow the striatum, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex create compulsive behaviorWhy different types of emotional pain lead to different substance choicesThe neuroplasticity principle: "what fires together, wires together"THERAPEUTIC PERSPECTIVES:Why addiction is NOT a chronic relapsing brain diseaseInternal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and how it heals addictionThe three parts: The Critic, The Firefighter, and The Exile (inner child)Why self-compassion is non-negotiable for recoveryHow to talk to the different "parts" of yourselfMark's approach with his 20-30 weekly therapy clientsPERSONAL WISDOM:Mark's 8-10 year journey through heroin and cocaine addictionHis daily practices for staying present and connected at age 74How he faced a terrible year (divorce, family estrangement, illness) with IFS toolsWhy connection (not sobriety) is the opposite of addictionPractical steps for breaking bad habits and building new neural pathwaysPARENTING & PREVENTION:How to talk to kids about drugs in a way they'll actually listenWhy loneliness is the biggest risk factor for addictionThe critical importance of movement, sleep, and feeling understoodWhy some childhood experimentation is actually healthyKEY INSIGHTS:"The opposite of addiction is not sobriety. It's connection" - Johann Hari"We have different parts of our personality, and they often polarize in addiction.""You can heal at any age—with presence, breath, and self-love.""Stop thinking of addiction as a disease. It's learned behavior."RESOURCES MENTIONEDBOOKSThe Biology of Desire: Why Addiction Is Not a Disease" by Marc Lewis (available in Romanian: "Biologia Dorinței")Memoirs of an Addicted Brain" by Marc Lewis"Chasing the Scream" by Johann HariPROGRAMS & PEOPLELiminal Learning program by Isabela Granic Dr. Gabor Maté - Compassionate InquiryDr. Dick Schwartz - Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapyJohann Hari's TED Talk: "The Opposite of Addiction is Connection"Sat Dharam Kaur - Compassionate Inquiry practitionerTHERAPIESInternal Family Systems (IFS)Compassionate Inquiry (CI)Acest episod este produs și distribuit cu susținerea E.ON Energie România. Episodul este creat în colaborare cu Compassionate Inquiry România, parte din inițiativa ReConnect 2025, un eveniment dedicat tratării și prevenirii adicțiilor. (00:00) Introduction(04:09) Mark's Journey: Addict → Scientist → Therapist(09:50) The Dopamine Myth Debunked(12:52) Addictive Learning vs. Healthy Learning(16:05) Why Some Get Addicted & Others Don't(19:59) Connection: The Opposite of Addiction(23:50) Genes vs. Environment in Addiction(29:20) The Most Important Thing Parents Can Do(36:50) How to Talk to Kids About Drugs(39:55) Different Pain = Different Addictions(46:53) The Neuroscience of Alcohol(51:21) Why Addiction Isn't a Disease(56:27) Different Paths to Recovery from Addiction(01:03:03) Internal Family Systems Therapy Explained(01:05:12) The Three Parts: Critic, Firefighter, Exile(01:07:52) Self-Compassion as the Engine of Healing(01:14:25) Processing Trauma Later in Life(01:17:50) Mark's Daily Healing Practices(01:21:33) The Science of Breaking Bad Habits(01:28:54) Can You Heal Without Self-Love?(01:34:59) Three Questions to Transform Addiction Treatment
In today's episode, I'm opening the first chapter of what I believe is the most important series I've ever created — a deep dive into progesterone and why it became the heart of my medical practice. For more than 20 years, I've watched this “simple, humble hormone” transform women's lives in ways most conventional medicine overlooks. What started in two small treatment rooms has grown into a 25,000 sq ft facility, and the core of our success comes down to understanding progesterone's impact on the female brain, stress response, and emotional resilience. In this episode, I break down: Why progesterone is far more than a reproductive hormone How it regulates the female stress response (amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex) Why anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and emotional overwhelm often map directly to progesterone decline Why so many women feel “unraveled” in their 40s — and why it's not their fault The science behind oral vs. sublingual progesterone (and why I use troches) How conventional medicine often misses the root cause The importance of physicians showing their work, their data, and their citations The lived stories and clinical outcomes that changed how I practice medicine If you've ever felt dismissed, unseen, or told that your anxiety or mood changes are “just stress,” this episode is for you. This is the beginning of a 7-part series where I break down the neurobiology, endocrinology, testing, dosing, delivery methods, breast health, perimenopause, and more. Citations: Brinton, Roberta Diaz, et al. “Neurosteroids and Brain Function.” Steroids, vol. 81, 2014, pp. 61–78. Epperson, C. Neill, et al. “New Insights into Perimenopausal Depression: A Neuroendocrine Vulnerability Framework.” The Lancet Psychiatry, vol. 9, no. 2, 2022, pp. 110–118. Frye, Cheryl A. “Neurosteroids—Endogenous Modulators of GABA_A Receptors.” Pharmacology & Therapeutics, vol. 116, no. 1, 2007, pp. 58–76. Genazzani, Andrea R., et al. “Progesterone, Stress, and the Brain.” Human Reproduction Update, vol. 16, no. 6, 2010, pp. 641–655. Meeker, John D., et al. “Environmental Endocrine Disruptors: Their Effects on Human Reproduction and Development.” Reproductive Toxicology, vol. 25, 2008, pp. 1–7. Mellon, Stanley H. “Neurosteroid Regulation of Central Nervous System Development.” Pharmacology & Therapeutics, vol. 116, 2007, pp. 107–124. Mizrahi, Romy, et al. “The Role of Allopregnanolone in Stress, Mood, and Trauma.” Neurobiology of Stress, vol. 11, 2019, 100198. Paul, Steven M., and Graziano Pinna. “Allopregnanolone: From Molecular Pathways to Therapeutic Applications.” Current Opinion in Neurobiology, vol. 48, 2018, pp. 90–96. Pluchino, Nicoletta, et al. “Progesterone and Allopregnanolone: Effects on the Central Nervous System in the Luteal Phase and in Perimenopause.” Gynecological Endocrinology, vol. 36, no. 6, 2020, pp. 441–445. Rasgon, Natalie L., et al. “Perimenopausal Changes in the Brain and Mood: A Review.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, vol. 107, no. 4, 2022, pp. 1120–1134. Reddy, Doodipala Samba. “The Neurosteroid Allopregnanolone and GABA-A Receptor Modulation in Epilepsy and Mood Disorders.” Frontiers in Neuroscience, vol. 12, 2018, 933. Schiller, Crystal E., et al. “The Neuroendocrinology of Perimenopausal Depression.” Trends in Neurosciences, vol. 44, no. 2, 2021, pp. 119–135. Schumacher, Michael, et al. “Neuroprotective Effects of Progesterone and Its Metabolites.” Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, vol. 33, 2012, pp. 415–439. Selye, Hans. “The General Adaptation Syndrome and the Diseases of Adaptation.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology, vol. 6, no. 2, 1946, pp. 117–230. Sheng, Jun, and György Buzsáki. “Neuronal Firing and Theta Oscillations in the Amygdala During Fear Conditioning.” Neuron, vol. 53, 2007, pp. 653–667. Smith, Sheryl S. “Progesterone Withdrawal Increases Neuronal Excitability in the Hippocampus: A GABA_A Mechanism.” Journal of Neuroscience, vol. 28, 2008, pp. 10171–10179. Snyder, Jonathan S., et al. “Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Stress Regulation.” Nature Reviews Neuroscience, vol. 12, 2011, pp. 1–9. Stanczyk, Frank Z., and Jerilynn C. Prior. “Progesterone and Progestins: A Review of Pharmacology, PK, and Clinical Use.” Steroids, vol. 82, 2014, pp. 1–8. Tu, Ming-Je, et al. “Oral, Vaginal, and Transdermal Progesterone: PK, Metabolism, and Tissue Distribution.” Drug Metabolism Reviews, vol. 52, no. 2, 2020, pp. 1–28. Wang, Jun, et al. “Stress, Amygdala Plasticity, and the Neuroendocrine Interface.” Nature Neuroscience, vol. 10, 2007, pp. 1093–1100. Weinstock, Marta. “The Hippocampus and Chronic Stress.” Neurochemical Research, vol. 42, 2017, pp. 1–12. World Health Organization. Progesterone and Reproductive Function: Clinical Perspectives. WHO, 2019. Dr. Brendan McCarthy is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Arizona. With over two decades of experience, he's helped thousands of patients navigate hormonal imbalances using bioidentical HRT, nutrition, and root-cause medicine. He's also taught and mentored other physicians on integrative approaches to hormone therapy, weight loss, fertility, and more. If you're ready to take your health seriously, this podcast is a great place to start.
Have you ever wondered when creating distance from a parent becomes an act of protection rather than abandonment? Or why stepping back can bring both a deep sense of calm and a quiet ache that lingers beneath the surface? This emotional crossroads is not only psychological. It is profoundly neurological.In this episode of the Dr. Leaf Show, I break down the rising phenomenon of cutting off parents and what actually happens inside the mind and brain when connection stops feeling safe. We explore why distance can regulate the nervous system, why grief often shows up even when the decision is necessary, and how attachment pathways continue to fire long after contact ends. You will walk away with a grounded, compassionate understanding of this experience along with practical tools to navigate guilt, clarity and emotional steadiness.What you'll learn in this episode:✅ The neuroscience behind why estrangement activates both relief and grief✅ How chronic relational stress reshapes threat pathways in the brain✅ Why familiarity pulls you back even when the relationship was harmful✅ How guilt forms when old attachment networks search for new direction✅ Practical Neurocycle strategies to process the mix of calm, confusion and loss✅ How to rebuild inner coherence whether you stay, step back, or seek repair
What if uncertainty isn't something to fear… but one of the greatest advantages you have as a leader? In this episode of The BrainVault Podcast, Larry Olsen sits down with Scott Stirrett — best-selling author of The Uncertainty Advantage, founder of Venture for Canada, and a rising force in modern leadership. Scott's journey from leaving Goldman Sachs at 22 to building a national organization reveals one powerful truth: leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about how you navigate the unknown. Together, Larry and Scott explore how clarity, self-compassion, and purpose can transform the way you lead yourself and others. You'll learn why focusing on the journey builds more momentum than fixating on outcomes, how to quiet the pull of comparison, and why your “true north” becomes the anchor that guides every decision you make. Scott shares the mindset that helped him impact thousands of lives, and Larry brings forward insights that remind us: growth isn't about perfection. It's about who you bring to the moment. If you're ready to lead with more confidence, purpose, and vision—this conversation opens the door. Press play and step into a new perspective on the power of uncertainty.
In this walk-with-me-Wednesday episode of Raising Wild Hearts, Ryann is exploring the science — and the lived experience — behind compassion, intuition, and the frequencies we carry into our daily lives. You'll hear:• The museum moment that revealed how “electric” we truly are• How meditation strengthens empathy centers in the brain• What to make of energetic frequencies like love and compassion• Why belief shapes reality more than we think• The parenting stat that every overwhelmed mom needs to hear• How to stay grounded in compassion — even on the messy daysSupport The Mission:
For the human brain, we all have a negativity bias. It's not a flaw; it's actually a survival mechanism. So, it's not that your clients are necessarily overreacting, it's more that their biology is perceiving a threat when none might even be there. Tessa Santarpia. In this episode of Top Advisor Podcast, my guest Tessa … Continue reading #103 – Rewire Your Brain: The neuroscience behind the emotions and beliefs that drive financial decisions with Tessa Santarpia →
In this episode of the ThoughtStretchers podcast, host Drew Perkins talks with Dr. Barbara Oakley, distinguished professor of engineering and co-instructor of the celebrated Learning How to Learn course, to discuss her critical opinion piece: Censorship Hurts Our Brains: Why Neuroscience Confirms the Importance of Free Speech. They dive deep into the neural mechanisms behind free expression, the challenges facing K-12 education, and the dangers of sacrificing liberty for perceived order. Links & Resources Mentioned In This Episode + Video Podcast Show Notes & Main Discussion Points: Neuroscience and Free Speech: Dr. Oakley explains that exposure to differing viewpoints is essential for cognitive flexibility and how emotional upset literally impedes rational thought when we engage with challenging ideas. The 'Cult of Safety': We examine how the modern pursuit of "safe spaces" can ironically lead to a heightened acceptance of hostility toward people with different political views. K-12 Education & Free Speech: We explore the difficulty of promoting civic thought in K-12, noting the tension between academic freedom and the need for interventions to overcome ineffective educational practices. Critique of Constructivism: Dr. Oakley argues that pure constructivism in education is "completely opposed... to neuroscience," and suggests a balanced "knowledge-rich inquiry" model, guided by Socratic questioning, as a more effective path to true learning. Order vs. Liberty: Finally, we discuss how a perceived loss of public safety and order can make a population more willing to compromise essential liberties, including free speech. Time-Stamped Highlights: The Neuroscience of Free Speech (00:07:01): Dr. Oakley explains how engaging with opposing viewpoints—especially through her free Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on the neurocognitive perspective of free speech—is vital for building cognitive flexibility. The Cult of Safety (00:20:17): Barbara Oakley discusses the "cult of safety" and how the swift transition from the pursuit of safe spaces to the acceptance of hostility toward people with differing political beliefs is a worrying trend. Emotional Upset vs. Rational Thought (00:23:15): A key takeaway from the neuroscience perspective is that emotional upset makes rational, conscientious engagement with an upsetting topic extremely difficult. The best approach is to manage emotions and seek to understand why people hold their beliefs. The Dilemma of K-12 Civic Education (00:10:59): Drew Perkins highlights the struggle to promote civic thought and enlightenment tradition principles in schools, noting that the lack of connection to test scores often pushes these initiatives aside. Government Intervention & 'Paradigm Cartels' (00:13:37): They discuss the tension between academic freedom and the occasional necessity of legislative intervention to overcome entrenched, ineffective beliefs in education, citing the "reading wars" and the mandate of phonics instruction as an example. The Dangers of Anti-Liberal Movements (00:30:52): Drew Perkins explores the growing "post-liberal and/or anti-liberal" movements on both the political right and left, expressing concern that these forces are dangerously pushing against the fundamental issue of free speech. Constructivism vs. Neuroscience (00:39:41): Dr. Oakley argues that the pervasive influence of pure constructivism in K-12 is "completely opposed... to neuroscience," citing negative learning outcomes in places like New Zealand, where a student-centered approach has been extensively applied. The Power of Knowledge-Rich Inquiry (00:45:29): They align on a knowledge-rich inquiry model, where a teacher uses Socratic questioning to narrow the "potential solution space," leading the student to the final 'aha' moment and strengthening the neural connection, which is a key part of effective teaching. Loss of Order and Compromising Liberty (00:38:40): The conversation concludes by linking the loss of public order and stability to a population's increased willingness to sacrifice liberties, like free speech, in exchange for a feeling of safety and for the metaphorical "trains to run on time."
We rely on our memories for so much. Memory is the foundation of our sense of self, ability to learn new information, and stay safe. But our memories are also highly suggestible, and we often misremember events or fabricate memories entirely. In this episode, host Samantha Laine Perfas talks with science researcher Dan Schacter, Alzheimer's expert Margaret O'Connor, and neuroscientist Venki Murthy about the science of memory – and how we can remember better.
Your vision used to light you up—so why does it feel heavy now? We dig into the brain-based reason excitement fades and explain how stealth expectations quietly condition you to delay joy, confidence, and fulfillment until you hit the next milestone. If you've found yourself chasing goal after goal for a quick high that never lasts, this conversation offers a practical path to break the loop and rebuild a stable inner foundation.We share why the nervous system becomes hooked on short-lived dopamine spikes, how that fuels the burnout cycle, and the subtle ways high achievers move the finish line without realizing it. Then we pivot to a grounded approach for choosing your emotional state first, using proof stacking and small daily reps to train your brain that happiness, confidence, and fulfillment are available now—not later. You'll learn to spot hidden rules like “I can't feel successful until X,” run a clear audit of your beliefs, and replace external validation with internal cues that actually sustain momentum.If this helped, follow the show, share it with a friend who's stuck in the grind, and leave a quick review so more people can find these tools. Want support applying the audit? DM me on Instagram at Dr. Reana Mulcahy and tell me what you uncovered.Have a question that you want answered on the show? Send us a text!Connect with me on social: Facebook or Instagram!Like this episode? Share it in your stories and tag me @dr.reanamulcahyLove the show? Leave a 5-star review, and let me know what was most helpful for you.Discover more ways I can support you in breaking the burnout cycle. Visit my website.
Discover the extraordinary journey of Doug Noll — award-winning lawyer, mediator, author, martial artist, neuroscience researcher, and co-founder of the groundbreaking Prison of Peace project. In this powerful episode of The Mike Litton Experience, Doug reveals how childhood disabilities, elite education, a 22-year legal career, martial arts training, and neuroscience transformed him into one of the world's leading experts in de-escalation, empathy, and conflict resolution. From helping settle impossible disputes to training thousands of incarcerated men and women with a zero recidivism rate, Doug shares insights that will completely reshape how you think, lead, and communicate—especially in an age dominated by AI. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Dartmouth's early computer science program shaped Doug's analytical mind The case that used linguistics and AI-style analysis decades before AI existed Why a law degree builds unmatched critical-thinking skills How martial arts and Tai Chi broke his arrogance and reshaped his worldview The emotional-listening breakthrough that changed his life in 2005 The neuroscience behind conflict, emotions, and why rationality is a myth The origin and global expansion of Prison of Peace Why empathy is the most powerful leadership skill of the 21st century Whether you’re a leader, a parent, a communicator, or simply someone who wants deeper human connection, this episode delivers practical wisdom you can apply immediately. If you enjoy this episode, don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to The Mike Litton Experience so you never miss inspiring conversations that push your life and career forward. Connect with Doug Noll: Doug@DougNoll.com Learn more: DougNoll.com
The Science of Trauma & Joy with Dr. MaryCatherine McDonald - Trauma Researcher, Speaker and Author
What if the key to selling with confidence, clarity, and joy isn't another strategy — but a shift in your brain's neural pathways? In this episode of Superhuman Selling, Elyse sits down with leadership coach and neuroscience expert Emilia Ferreira to unpack the surprising science behind emotional regulation, trust-building, and high-performance decision-making.You'll learn:Why your brain defaults to fear — and how to rewire it for joyThe neuroscience of trust, safety, and authentic leadershipHow emotional regulation directly impacts your sales calls and closing ratiosPractical ways to activate the parts of your brain that create momentumWhy “being in your head” sabotages performance (and how to get out of it)This conversation blends deep emotional wisdom with research-backed neuroscience so you can lead yourself — and your clients — from a place of grounded power. If you're ready to show up as the most aligned, joyful, and impactful version of yourself, this episode is required listening.
In this episode: Lifestyle Design, Mindfulness, Financial Independence, Entrepreneurship, Location Independence with Jess Fick from The Fioneers.Jess Fick from The Fioneers discusses her path to financial independence and her transition toward mindful living. She emphasizes the value of identifying your true needs and building a life aligned with your values instead of racing to the finish line. Jess also offers actionable advice on lifestyle design and developing three unique life paths to explore various possibilities.Guest BioJess from The Fioneers is a blogger focused on financial independence and lifestyle design who promotes mindful and intentional living. As an entrepreneur, speaker, and coach, she empowers people to build a life they love now instead of waiting for FI.Resources & Books MentionedJess' Upcoming Slow FI Retreat"Designing Your Life" by Bill Burnett and Dave EvansConnect with JessWebsite: TheFioneers.comRetreat : Slow FI RetreatTwitter: @thefioneersInstagram: @thefioneersKey TakeawaysLifestyle design involves introspection, generating ideas, and experimentation.Develop three different life paths to explore various possibilities and encourage curiosity.Use an improv approach of "yes and" to brainstorm ideas without judgment.Mindfulness means being kind, curious, and receptive to whatever emerges.Consider your ideal day/week/month/year and memorable experiences to identify your passions.Monitor your activities and evaluate them to make adjustments and discover what brings you joy.
"Leadership grows like tall trees. It needs both toughness and flexibility - toughness for accountability - flexibility to adapt changes with a compassionate & caring heart for self and others."― Amit Ray Check Out These Highlights: During today's episode, my guest and I are going to explore the future of human potential—where neuroscience, cutting-edge technology, and deep personal transformation intersect. She shares how integrating brain-based tools with emotional and spiritual intelligence can unlock rapid growth, clarity, and aligned leadership. This conversation dives into how leaders can thrive by operating from a place of wholeness, purpose, and elevated consciousness. About Dr. Amy Albright: Amy is a pioneer in human potential, integrating neuroscience, business strategy, health, and spirituality. As CEO and co-founder of Holon, she combines advanced neurofeedback with transformative development practices to help leaders unlock rapid growth, clarity, and alignment. Her work leverages cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual intelligence (IQ, EQ, PQ, SQ) to drive high performance. Dr. Amy also speaks and facilitates for purpose-driven organizations worldwide. How to Get in Touch with Amy Horenstein: Websites: https://www.holonexperience.com/ Email: concierge@holonexperience.com Free Gift: http://holonexperience.com/ Stalk me online! LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/conniewhitman Subscribe to the Enlightenment of Change podcast on your favorite podcast streaming service or YouTube. New episodes are posted every week. Listen to Connie explore new sales and business topics or address problems you may have.
In this episode, Dr. Sharon Niv discusses her work at Joyus, a public benefit company focused on revolutionizing mental health care through personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments. Dr. Sharon explains the history of ketamine as a treatment for mental health, its mechanisms of action, and the importance of community support in the healing process. Nick asks Dr. Sharon questions that address common concerns and stigma surrounding ketamine treatment, emphasizing its low risk and potential benefits. Their conversation also explores the role of neuroplasticity in mental health recovery and the future of AI in therapy. Dr. Sharon provides insights into personalized treatment protocols and encourages both patients and therapists to consider the benefits of ketamine therapy. Key Takeaways: Dr. Sharon Niv is a cognitive psychologist bridging neuroscience and therapy. Joyus offers personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments. Ketamine was first synthesized in the 1950s and is used safely in medical settings. The drug has shown promise in treating severe depression and suicidality. Ketamine works primarily on the glutamate system, unlike traditional psychedelics. Lower doses of ketamine can provide therapeutic benefits without destabilizing experiences. Community support is crucial for individuals undergoing ketamine treatment. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to change and adapt, which is enhanced by ketamine. Personalized treatment protocols are essential for effective ketamine therapy. AI has potential in mental health, but should not replace human therapists. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sharone Niv and Her Work 02:58 The Journey to Psychology and Entrepreneurship 05:47 The History and Safety of Ketamine 08:45 Ketamine as a Treatment for Mental Health 11:36 Understanding Ketamine's Mechanism and Effects 14:44 The Psycholytic State and Its Benefits 17:40 Addressing Stigma and Concerns Around Psychedelics 20:48 The Joyus Approach to Microdosing Ketamine 23:24 Personal Experiences and Emotional Release 26:45 The Importance of Connection and Exploration 27:14 Exploring Psychoactive Substances and Their Impact 28:14 The Tragic Story of Matthew Perry 32:56 Neuroscience and Mental Health: The Role of Neuroplasticity 39:45 Personalized Treatment Protocols for Mental Health 45:22 Community Support in Mental Health Treatment 47:48 The Future of AI in Therapy 53:07 The Dark Side of AI in Mental Health 54:37 Innovative Uses of AI in Therapy 56:09 Training Therapists for New Technologies 59:43 The Journey of Integrating Ketamine Treatment 01:02:09 Encouragement for Patients and Therapists 01:04:22 Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Ketamine 01:09:52 Navigating the Decision to Try Ketamine 01:12:08 Practical Considerations for Microdosing Ketamine Find Dr. Sharon Niv here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyous.team/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyous.friends Website: https://www.joyous.team/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-niv/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/joyousteam/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/ UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/ Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/
Motherhood is often sold as “natural” and intuitive - but for so many women, it feels overwhelming, confusing and nothing like they expected. In this episode of A Millennial Mind, I sit down with parenting expert Zoe Blaskey to explore the real, science-backed identity shift of motherhood, from hormonal changes and brain remodelling to the emotional load no one prepares us for. We talk about why becoming a mum can feel like a second adolescence, how societal pressure fuels burnout, and why guilt shows up even when we're doing our best. Zoe shares practical tools for setting boundaries, finding yourself again, strengthening your partnership, and making motherhood feel lighter, calmer and more intentional. If you're a mum, planning to be one, or simply curious about the truth behind the transition into motherhood, this conversation will help you feel seen, supported and less alone. Who This Episode Is For ✨ Mums feeling tired, overwhelmed or burnt out Women struggling with the identity shift of motherhood (matrescence) Anyone carrying “good mother” guilt or pressure Parents wanting healthier boundaries and calmer homes People curious about the science behind motherhood What You'll Learn ✨ Why motherhood feels harder than we're told The science of matrescence (your “second adolescence”) How to set boundaries without guilt How to lighten the mental load How to strengthen your partnership after kids Practical ways to enjoy motherhood more of the time 00:00 Introduction to Motherhood Myths 00:08 Guest Introduction and Initial Reactions 00:17 Understanding Mares Essence 00:53 The Neuroscience of Motherhood 01:39 Podcast and Book Journey 03:44 Personal Development and Coaching 04:58 Navigating Motherhood Challenges 06:36 Self-Compassion and Resilience 29:26 Debunking the 'Having It All' Myth 41:26 The Guilt of Self-Care for Moms 42:38 The 'One for Me, One for You' Tool 43:55 Challenging the Selfless Mother Narrative 45:32 The Concept of Minimum Viable Needs 46:17 The Mental Load and Super Mom Myth 47:17 Mother Kind Toolkit: Identifying Pressure Sources 51:10 Navigating Family Expectations and Boundaries 01:08:39 The Value of Caregiving and Shared Responsibilities 01:14:42 The Physiological Changes of Parenthood 01:17:47 Final Thoughts and Self-Compassion
Now I was back on my own, just me, myself, and I. But my attention stayed with my breath as it continued to flow in and out of me. "As long as I'm breathing, I'll know that I'm still alive," I thought. Now, I had been meditating for many, many years, and part of that practice is to focus on your breath, but this was completely different. Before, the breath was a calming presence. Now, it was literally my lifeline. Breathing no longer felt like an automatic process and I made no assumptions about it. As each breath went out, it was clear that the next one might not be coming in. Instead of just feeling an automatic, mechanical motion, it felt more and more like each breath coming into me was like I was receiving some kind of a consciously given gift. After some time, I started feeling a little better. My eyesight problem was still the same, but my system seemed to have stabilized a little. I got up and walked around the pool for a bit. I kept feeling better and better, but I still could barely see. I could make out the time on my watch and was surprised to see that the whole episode had happened in about 30 minutes. My wife, Sally, hadn't even come down to the pool yet. I decided to relax and see if I kept feeling better. Maybe my eyesight would clear up and it would all just pass. Sally came down about ten minutes later and she was pretty alarmed when she saw me. I felt a lot better, but she was very concerned. After a little while, she convinced me to go back up to our apartment with her and get into bed. I must have dozed off for a while because the next thing I knew, our family doctor walked into our bedroom. He was actually a member of our pool and when he got there for the day, some friends told him what was happening with me. He called Sally and she asked him to come up and give me a quick exam. I was surprised to see him. I asked him if he was planning on playing any golf over the weekend. He didn't answer. He just took one look at me and said, "You're going to the hospital right now. " He took my pulse and said to Sally, "Go get an ambulance and tell them it's urgent." When I heard the word "ambulance" I said to Sally, "Make sure they're taking me to Lankenau and not Roxborough," Our condo is on the border between two hospitals. Lankenau is much more of a suburban hospital and Roxborough is located within the city limits. They always tell you to pick Lankenau if you get your choice. She came back in the room in a matter of moments. "OK," she said to me, "They're on their way over and they're taking you to Lankenau." "Is that for certain?" I asked. "Absolutely," she answered. "They understood completely. There's no question about it at all." At that point, a whole different momentum started and I realized that my responsibilities in the world had just come to an end. I was about to become a patient, and the only thing I had to do was cooperate with the people who were about to take care of me. Whatever they told me to do, I would do. It was all out of my hands now. Was I going to live? Or was I about to die? Who could say? I thought I had been feeling better, but from the look on my doctor's face, it was obvious that I was clearly in serious trouble. All that I had left now was my breath. It was the only thing that I could rely upon. "As long as I can feel my breath, I'll know I still have a body," I thought. "If I'm still conscious, but I can't feel my breath anymore, then I'll know the change has happened and I'll just have to take it from there. But as long as I'm still breathing, I'm still here." The ambulance came within a few minutes and I was on my way. The next 36 hours were pretty much of a blur. Sally told me later that I wasn't given any drugs or sedatives at all, but I kept drifting in and out of consciousness. They took me to Lankenau, which is one of the top hospitals in our area. But after a CAT Scan, they immediately decided that my condition was critical and rushed me downtown to the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital of Neuroscience in the middle of the night. They determined that I was long past the point where they could have given me a "clot buster" to take care of the stroke. There was absolutely nothing they could do now but put me in intensive care and monitor me closely. While they hoped for the best, they gravely told Sally to prepare for the worst. "Stay with him. Hold his hand. Talk to him," they said. "We might lose him tonight. Just…just don't let him slip away…" The next thing I became aware of, I was lying in a hospital bed and Sally was holding my hand. When I opened my eyes and looked at her, she looked like she had really been through hell. She told me that I had been out of it for about 36 hours. "You've had a stroke," she said. "But you're going to be alright," she assured me calmly and kept holding my hand. I looked around. I was obviously in an intensive care room. I moved every part of my body to see if everything was working okay and it was. I actually felt fine. Two close friends of mine had been through small stroke episodes over the past year. They were mini-strokes. They had to stay in the hospital overnight and then they went home. They were told that it wasn't a big deal. I was pretty sure that's what had happened to me. I felt completely fine. My vision had cleared up, except I had lost a small part of my upper left peripheral vision. But other than that, I seemed fine. Doctors and nurses came and went over the next half hour. They seemed happy to see that I was awake and gave me some very quick exams. One of them told Sally that I seemed to be doing pretty well and that she could take a break. I don't know how long she had been there for, but she decided to go stretch her legs a little and get some coffee. The room that I was in had no windows, so it was impossible to tell what time of day it was. One of the nurses suggested that I relax and doze off for a little. Soon, I was lying in the room by myself. I closed my eyes to take it easy, but I had a funny experience. I found that I had some kind of inner vision. I could clearly see images inside of myself with my eyes closed. I saw an endless parade of black and white sketches. They were all of rabbis dressed in religious clothing, all from centuries long ago. It was crystal clear. There must have been hundreds of them, one right after another. Black and white sketch after sketch. It went on for a really long time. Then suddenly, instead of sketches, a small grey statue appeared. It was the image of the Madonna holding the Holy Child and it was really exquisite. As I stared at it, it rotated, giving me several different views. Then, all of a sudden, a full color figure burst out of the Madonna part of the statue. And to my shock and surprise, it was Wonder Woman, the comic book character. She was in her red, blue and gold outfit and she was wearing her bright gold crown on her head. She was standing on the ledge of a mountain and I noticed that she was holding a large grey sack. She looked at me, pulled her gold crown down over her eyes like a visor and flew into my brain. I watched as she methodically pulled glob after glob of bloody tissue out of my brain and put it into her sack. This went on for quite a while. Finally, she flew back out of my brain, and landed on the ledge of the mountaintop. She lifted the visor of her crown off of her eyes and put it back on top of her head. She looked at me and even though she was a miniature version of herself, she seemed to be the embodiment of raw power. She gave me a strong salute, grabbed the bag full of bloody brain material and flew away. I must have drifted off to sleep after that, because the next thing I knew, I awoke to Sally holding my hand again. She said I'd been out for about an hour. * * * Sometime a bit later, a very important looking doctor came walking into the room. He looked like he was in his middle sixties and was surrounded by about five medical students who were obviously studying under him. He introduced himself to me and told me that he was the actual head of the hospital. He gave me a quick examination and said a few things to his students. Then he sat down on the bed and looked me straight in the eyes. "David," he began. "It's really important that you understand something. What you had was not a mini-stroke or a TIA or anything like that. What you had was a major neurological episode that could have killed you in about three seconds, or maimed you permanently for the rest of your life. "You could have been blinded, paralyzed, lost your ability to speak, or all of it at the same time." I was completely taken by surprise. I had no idea that any of that was true. I had basically been in a very comfortable, dreamy state, with absolutely no sense of danger. "Now it looks like you're going to walk away from this whole thing basically unharmed. But you're going to have to take care of your Atrial Fibrillation. The stroke was a direct result of it," he concluded. "Really?" I asked. "Absolutely," he replied. "There's no question about it. The clot came straight from your heart." I had been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat, about six months earlier. I had been treated with medication, but apparently it didn't help. "Listen, the chances of walking away unscathed from a stroke of this magnitude are less than one in a thousand. You can't reach back into the deck and pull out another card like this again. You have to take care of the A-Fib when you get out of here. "Which brings me to another point," he continued. 'We're keeping you here for another ten days until we know your blood has been thinned down. We have to protect you from having another stroke. "The next forty-eight hours are critical though. Even though the worst is over, it's still possible that you can have some swelling of the brain or even some brain bleeding. There can be damaged tissue involved. It's not uncommon with a stroke. So we're going to keep a really close watch on you. Suddenly, in my mind, I flashed on an image of Wonder Woman. As if sending me a message, she triumphantly held up the bag full of bloody material she had pulled out of my brain. "But as it is, you're looking pretty good," the doctor concluded and gave me a big smile. He looked over at a bulletin board on the wall. There was a sign that said," David, Your Assignment Today Is To EAT." "Oh yeah," he said and pointed to the sign. "Eat, David. Eat up! You haven't had anything in your system for a long time. You have to make up for it." He gave me another very kind smile and walked out of the room, the five medical students trailing behind him. They closed the door and I was left alone in the dimly lit environment. I took a few breaths and let this new information sink into me. I had survived a major neurological episode that could have killed me in a matter of seconds or seriously injured me on a permanent basis. But now, according to this major medical authority, all was well. It was all way too much for me to process at that point but for some reason, I suddenly flashed on Wonder Woman holding that bagful of bloody brain matter, and her look of absolute assurance as she put her crown back on her head and gave me a warm salute that seemed to convey a deeply positive essence, rooted in the very power behind infinity. And as I intuitively let go of it all, I could feel the breath continue coming into me and going out. Coming in and going out. It was the same as it ever was, only very different…
Wesley Billion Dollar Virgin Podcast Millionaire Midnight RANT
First-Ever AI App That Manifests Your Dreams Subconsciously—Download NOW! http://www.manifesteverythingai.com/manifest-ai Script To Manifest Your Dreams: www.wesleyvirgin.com Get ready to meet the king of internet marketing and the overnight millionaire, Wesley Virgin! With over 1 billion views on social media, he's taken the online world by storm. Wesley's known for his knack for making money online and has created some of the most famous programs in the biz, including "Overnight Millionaire," "Genie Script," and "Done for You Affiliate Services." But that's not all! Wesley also runs the epic "Millionaire in Training" community where thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs gather to learn the secrets of financial success. When he's not busy building wildly profitable online businesses, you can find him living the high life on Instagram @wesleymilliondollarvirgin. He's not just a show-off though, Wesley takes the time to educate his followers on how to make money fast. With his massive influence and digital mentorship, Wesley is truly a global expert in the online business world. Get ready to learn, laugh, and make some serious cash with Wesley Virgin!
Mike Palmer returns to the Thanksgiving table to serve up a side of applied neuroscience. Powered by the recently released Gemini 3, he examines the "gratitude cocktail," a potent neurochemical mix of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin that mimics the effects of antidepressants and strengthens social bonds. Beyond the chemistry, Mike explores the psychological framework of The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. He explains how measuring progress against an ideal future creates unhappiness, while measuring against the past generates resilience and satisfaction. The conversation shifts from theory to practice, detailing why gratitude stories are more effective than rote lists and how specific "Notice, Think, Feel, Do" protocols rewire the brain. Mike also debunks the tryptophan myth, explaining how carbohydrates and compelling narratives—like football—actually drive the post-meal nap. Finally, he reflects on the origins of Trending in Education, shares updates on the new Trending in Higher Ed feed, and previews upcoming live events from SXSW EDU to Alexandria, Virginia. Key Takeaways The Gratitude Cocktail: Gratitude activates the brain's reward centers. Dopamine drives motivation, serotonin stabilizes mood similar to SSRIs, and oxytocin fosters trust and bonding. Mindset Shift: "Gap thinking" focuses on the distance between your actual self and an unreachable ideal, leading to burnout. "Gain thinking" measures your actual self against your past self, highlighting progress and abundance. Stories Over Lists: Rote gratitude lists often lead to mechanical habituation. Constructing gratitude narratives creates stronger neural pathways and emotional connections. The Science of the Nap: It isn't just the turkey. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, but the heavy carbohydrate load and the relief of social bonding are the real drivers of sleepiness. Podcast Expansion: Trending in Education is expanding its network with a dedicated Trending in Higher Ed feed to allow listeners to dive deeper into specific verticals. Why You Should Listen This episode moves beyond the platitudes of "giving thanks" to reveal the biological mechanisms that make gratitude a high-performance tool. If you find yourself doomscrolling or fixating on what you haven't achieved, the "Gap and The Gain" framework offers a practical method to reset your cognitive baseline. Mike connects these mental models to tangible brain health, offering a compelling argument for why gratitude is essential fuel for resilience and innovation. Like, follow, and subscribe to Trending in Education wherever you get your podcasts. Visit us at TrendinginEd.com for more. Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Neuroscience of Gratitude 00:49 The Science Behind Gratitude 02:01 Neurochemistry and Brain Health 04:01 The Gap and the Gain Framework 07:05 Practical Applications of Gratitude 09:18 Gratitude in Daily Life 13:48 Personal Stories and Reflections 19:49 Upcoming Projects and Gratitude 25:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
What you complain about, you create more of. Are you unknowingly shrinking your prefrontal cortex? The world doesn't need more people pointing out what's broken. It needs people who are wired to see what's possible. “What's one small shift in my self-talk that would train my brain toward gratitude, courage, and better choices today?” What is one thing you're grateful for right in this moment? I'd love to hear it.
J'ai le syndrome de la bonne élèves. Et ça a un gros désavantage d'être la bonne élève : c'est qu'on n'a pas l'habitude de se planter. Alors aujourd'hui, j'ai envie de vous parler de l'échec, de la peur de l'échec, de pourquoi c'est vraiment un sujet à traiter, de l'impact que cette peur a réellement sur nos résultats, de comment faire pour dépasser cette peur, et puis aussi de comment faire ben quand on se plante justement. Autres épisodes qui pourraient vous plaire :Savoir se vendre avec Jenny ChammasComment la résilience transforme les défis en opportunitéEpisode du Tim Ferris Show avec Arnold Schwarzenegger---------------
How much control do we have over our actions and decisions? For most of us, it's likely that the answer is that, of course, all of the choices we make are our own. But it's long been argued by some scientists and philosophers that this isn't the case at all. Could it be that the trajectories of our lives are largely already written into our biology, genes and neural circuitry before we're even born? In this episode, we're joined by Dr Hannah Critchlow, a neuroscientist and author based at the University of Cambridge and recipient of the 2026 Humanist Society's Rosalind Franklin Medal. She explains how our personalities, beliefs and actions are deeply influenced by our ancestry, genes and upbringing, what's happening in our brains when we make a decision, and how current research is showing that accepting our predispositions can likely help us all make the most of who we are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Welcome to today's ICYMI, where we kick off the week with a quick game-changing tip from past episodes that you might have missed. If you're feeling stuck, super down, or struggling with seasonal depression, this throwback advice for boosting your mental health and pulling yourself out of a spiral is exactly what you need right now. We cover how mindfulness, breathwork, and cold therapy can rewire your mood, because sometimes you need to make self-care and wellness your entire personality to help get you out of your head and into your body.Listen to our full episode here.Tune in every Monday for an expert dose of life advice in under 10 minutes.For advertising and sponsorship inquiries, please contact Frequency Podcast Network. Sign up for our monthly adulting newsletter:teachmehowtoadult.ca/newsletter Follow us on the ‘gram:@teachmehowtoadultmedia@gillian.bernerFollow on TikTok: @teachmehowtoadultSubscribe on YouTube
Anthony and Jeff take a look at two new breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.Support the show and get bonus episodes, videos, Discord community access and more! http://patreon.com/wehaveconcernsJeff on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcannata.bsky.socialAnthony on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/acarboni.bsky.social
The Neuroscience of Flow: Why Stillness Fuels Your DopamineIf you feel overstimulated, tense, or stuck in control mode, your brain is not the problem. It's your rhythm. In this episode, I show you how your nervous system shifts from chaos to coherence when you stop forcing and start flowing.Flow is not a mindset. It's a biological state in which your brain waves, heart rhythm, and emotional circuits sync. When that harmony returns, your dopamine stabilizes, your focus strengthens, and you feel fully present again.You will learn what flow looks like on a brain scan, why stillness creates clarity, and how simple rhythms in your breath and body can bring you back into balance.If you want to see your own brain's rhythm and learn how to restore it, visit drtrishleigh.com to get your Brain Map and begin rewiring for coherence.Send us a textSupport the showHi. I am Dr. Trish Leigh, a Cognitive Neuroscientist, and Sex Addiction Recovery Coach. I am on a mission to help people heal their brains from porn use.My podcasts are designed to help you learn that:
Your pelvic floor impacts everything, from core strength, posture, and digestion to sex, hormones, and even your confidence. Yet most women never think about it until something goes wrong. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Amy Osborne to uncover the truth about pelvic floor health and why it matters for every woman, not just those who are pregnant or postpartum.We dive into the common signs of dysfunction, why many women have an overactive or weak pelvic floor without even realizing it, and the everyday habits that could be silently sabotaging your strength and comfort. You'll also learn expert strategies you can start using immediately to support your pelvic floor, reduce pain, prevent leaks, and feel stronger from the inside out.Whether you've experienced symptoms or just want to optimize your body, this episode is a must-listen!ABOUT OUR GUESTDr. Amanda (“Amy”) Osborne is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the founder of Apto Physical Therapy & Wellness in Wheat Ridge, Colorado — a multidisciplinary clinic dedicated to bridging the gap between orthopedic rehab, pelvic health, strength training, and integrative wellness.With a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Northwestern University, Amy brings more than a decade of specialized experience in pelvic floor rehabilitation. She is recognized by the APTA with a Certificate of Achievement in Obstetric Physical Therapy and has completed extensive post-doctoral training across multiple pelvic health methods, dry needling, and visceral/lymphatic techniques.A lifelong mover, Amy has been an ACE-certified personal trainer and fitness instructor for over 20 years. She is especially passionate about supporting pregnant and postpartum athletes, teaching courses on diastasis recti rehabilitation, progressive load, and return-to-sport protocols. Her unique clinical lens comes not only from her training, but from personal experience—she has navigated her own journey with chronic low-back and hip pain, which fuels her mission to help people rebuild strength and trust in their bodies.Beyond the clinic, Amy is an energetic educator and speaker, regularly presenting for professional organizations and healthcare teams on functional nutrition, pain science, behavior change, and pelvic health. She collaborates with partners like Craig Hospital to enhance pelvic health education for clinicians working with individuals recovering from spinal cord injury—one of her deepest areas of clinical passion. She is also a Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner, Restorative Wellness Practitioner, and ACE Behavior Change Specialist, currently pursuing the Personalized Medicine Certification through the University of South Florida.When she's not in the clinic or classroom, you'll likely find Amy lifting heavy things, teaching group fitness, or sharing evidence-based wellness insights on her blog, dramyozborne.com.https://www.instagram.com/dramyosborne/https://www.aptophysicaltherapy.com/Do you feel like your metabolism has slowed down? Get my FREE course to truly learn how your body works so you can see long term success. Enroll here.Shop my FAVE things HEREWant access to exclusive content? Sign up for my newsletter here!
Prepare to get meta, I'm going to walk you through my creative, divergent thinking process while explaining the neuroscience of creativity and divergent thinking! We do need our brains and bodies to be in sync for this to be meaningful, illuminating, give you (and I) an “aha!” moment. Please note, divergent thinking means you think in a way that is not typical or standard, so I apologize if I'm hard to follow, however it is necessary to illustrate the point I'm making. I want you to know that you don't have to understand every single detail, however you should focus on the actual “route” my mind is taking - the “figure 8.” Thank you so much to The Allen Institute for inviting me to Neuroscience 2025 in San Diego, I am beyond grateful and appreciative for the experience. I encourage everyone to check out their website, as well as their mission, because science (and creativity) truly are for everyone. The Allen Institute: https://alleninstitute.org/ New Book Club Information: https://www.patreon.com/posts/new-book-for-143088045 Resources: This Is What It Sounds Like - Susan Rogers and Ogi Ogas Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us - Susan Magsamen & Ivy Ross Horror in Architecture: The Reanimated Edition - Joshua Comaroff + One Ker-Shing Future Tense: Why Anxiety Is Good for You (Even Though It Feels Bad) - Tracy Dennis-Tiwary, PhD This is the book I recommended on arousal state splitting off into excitement or anxiety. A neurocomputational model of creative process https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763422001452 Functional Fixedness: When We Stick to What We Know https://nesslabs.com/functional-fixedness This is not the Time Magazine article but it also covers functional fixedness and how it impacts creativity Sensorimotor experience and verb-category mapping in human sensory, motor and parietal neurons https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0010945217301491 Mental time travel, language, and evolution https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028393219302441 Isometric Handgrip Exercise Speeds Working Memory Responses in Younger and Older Adults https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10238670/ This article does include hand exercises for younger adults, most however are focused on improving working memory for older populations Analogy: Definition, Examples, and Usage https://www.grammarly.com/blog/literary-devices/analogy/ Learning from the Double Diamond: How Divergent and Convergent Thinking Can Improve Collaboration and Problem-Solving in Museums https://www.aam-us.org/2024/04/05/learning-from-the-double-diamond-how-divergent-and-convergent-thinking-can-improve-collaboration-and-problem-solving-in-museums/ On the emergence of interdisciplinary scientific fields: (how) does it relate to science convergence? https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048733324000751 A Global Map of Science Based on the ISI Subject Categories https://www.leydesdorff.net/map06/texts/index.htm The Brain Science of Elusive ‘Aha! Moments' https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-elusive-brain-science-of-aha-moments/ Recommended Books: The Geometry of Grief - Michael Frame The Tao of Physics - Fritjof Capra The Gentrification of the Mind - Sarah Schulman On the Art and Craft of Doing Science - Kenneth Catania The Meaning of Proofs: Mathematics as Storytelling - Gabriele Lolli The Botany of Desire - Michael Pollan The Story Grid: What Good Editors Know - Shawn Coyne When Narcissism Comes to Church - Chuck DeGroat Humour - Terry Eagleton The Knowledge Illusion: Why We Never Think Alone - Philip Fernbach & Steven A. Sloman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Today, we're welcoming back Ian Ziskin, President of EXec EXcel Group, a leader with more than 40 years of experience as a business executive, board advisor, coach, consultant, and author. Ian has held senior leadership and Chief Human Resources Officer roles at three Fortune 100 companies, written extensively about the future of work, HR, and leadership, and continues to influence how organizations develop people and purpose.Ian's Website Ian first joined us on Your World of Creativity back in 2022, when he shared insights from another collaborative anthology project that brought together diverse voices in leadership. Today, he returns to discuss his new book, Lives Lost and Leadership Found, just released by Routledge. The book blends neuroscience, survey insights from 150 professionals, and deeply personal essays from dozens of contributors to explore how grief, loss, and connection can actually deepen our leadership capacity — and how our ‘special somebodies' may be our most powerful teachers.Why This Book, and Why Now?Ian, you've written and spoken extensively about leadership and HR — but Lives Lost and Leadership Found takes a much more personal and emotional turn. What inspired you to write this book, and why was now the right time?Neuroscience, Grief, and GrowthThe book explores how neuroscience rewires our leadership capacity through experiences of loss. What did you discover about the connection between grief, empathy, and leadership resilience?Collaborative Creativity, Round TwoYou were last on the podcast in 2022 discussing another anthology you co-created. How has that collaborative creative process worked for you over the years — and what lessons did you carry forward into this new project?Leading Together — The Power of Many VoicesIn Lives Lost and Leadership Found, you serve as the lead author but included essays from dozens of contributors. What were the benefits — and maybe the challenges — of weaving so many perspectives into a single narrative?Lessons from the Data and the StoriesYou surveyed 150 professionals and featured essays from leaders and coaches across industries. What key lessons or themes emerged — and were there any surprises in how people transformed loss into growth?Music, Reflection, and RenewalYou even wrote and recorded a song for the book, “Here and Gone,” to honor your parents and brother. Tell us about the story behind that song — and why you encourage readers to write their own essays about their “Special Somebodies.Thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee — fueling creative conversations everywhere. Listeners, enjoy 10% off your first order at whitecloudcoffee.com.And before you go, remember to download your free e-book of Your World of Creativity when you visit mark-stinson.com.