
Hosted by Paul Taylor · EN
Host Dr Paul Taylor, a Psychophysiologist, Neuroscientist, Exercise Scientist, and Nutritionist interviews experts from around the world on cutting edge research and practices related to improving hardiness in your mind, body and brain to become your best self.

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In this episode, I chat with Dr. Jeremy Thompson as we delve into the complexities of identity and mental health. We explore how early life experiences shape our self-perception and the importance of understanding one's true self. Jeremy shares insights from his extensive experience in family medicine and psychological medicine, emphasising the need to separate negative self-perceptions from one's core identity. The conversation touches on the impact of societal labels, the role of upbringing in mental health, and practical approaches to fostering a positive self-image. Key Takeaways Self-identity as a dynamic, compartmentalised system People’s sense of self is best understood as a mix of core positives and externalised negatives, which should be separated rather than conflated. Childhood trauma’s impact is modifiable through focused reframing Traumatic childhood experiences leave lasting imprints, but their influence can be softened by actively re-examining and challenging negative beliefs formed early on. Authentic self-awareness guides positive choices over societal expectations Aligning daily actions with one’s true self and natural inclinations, rather than external pressures or shoulds, promotes genuine well-being. Labelling mental health issues risks entrenching identities over understanding Applying diagnostic labels too readily risks turning complex mental states into fixed identities, which can hinder recovery and self-growth. Cultivating inner energy through awareness enhances alignment with true self Attuning to moments of positive energy signals alignment with your authentic inclinations, serving as a compass for satisfying pursuits. The oversimplification of mental health through excessive diagnoses dilutes treatment efficacy The proliferation of mental health diagnoses, many wishy-washy and overlapping, obscures understanding and can lead to self-labelling that hampers progress. The balance of nurturing positive traits while managing negatives is central to resilient identity Strong resilience arises from affirming and cultivating your best qualities while consciously managing and externalising negative forces. Time Stamps 02:57 Understanding Mental Health and Chronic Stress 06:02 The Importance of Identity in Mental Health 08:53 The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences 12:08 The Mixed Bag Concept of Self-Identity 14:53 Building Positive Relationships and Resilience 18:00 The Role of Mental Health Professionals 21:08 Reflecting on Childhood Experiences 23:55 Values, Virtues, and the Real Self 28:46 Understanding Personal Desires vs. Societal Expectations 32:00 The Complexity of Human Nature and Selfishness 34:55 The Dangers of Labels and Identity 38:18 Finding Your True Self and Identity 42:31 Navigating Change and Personal Growth 46:59 The Role of Identity in Health and Well-being Resources Dr Jeremy Thompson’s new book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Understand-Your-Identity-Jeremy-Thompson/dp/1636986277/ Website - https://understandyourtrueidentity.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-thompson-41a47969/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/DrJeremyThompson Support the Podcast If you found this conversation valuable, consider subscribing and leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you insightful discussions on important health topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor living nearly 2,000 years ago, yet his private journal reads remarkably like modern psychological coaching. In this episode, Carly explores a powerful passage from Meditations and unpack what Stoicism, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Morita Therapy can teach us about managing difficult thoughts and emotions. If you’ve ever felt hijacked by overthinking, caught in emotional spirals, or trapped in the stories your mind creates, this episode offers a practical, stoic framework for stepping back, seeing reality more clearly, and choosing your next move with intention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode with TJ Power, the discussion delves into the impact of modern lifestyle on mental health, focusing on conditions like mild anxiety and depression. TJ Power, a neuroscientist, shares insights from his book "The Dose Effect," which explores how dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins can be optimised to improve well-being. The conversation covers TJ's personal journey with dopamine addiction and how he developed a protocol to rebalance brain chemistry. We also discuss the importance of evolutionary biology, the role of technology in mental health, and practical steps to enhance connection and reduce stress in today's fast-paced world. Discover practical strategies to optimise brain chemistry, overcome modern lifestyle disorders, and foster deeper human connection. Key Takeaways Impact of modern lifestyle on mental health Role of dopamine in motivation and addiction Oxytocin and human connection Serotonin's influence on body-brain health Endorphins and stress relief through exercise Practical strategies for neurochemical balance The importance of behavioural first approaches The science of shared suffering and bonding Effects of technology and social media on dopamine Strategies for lifestyle changes to improve mental health Time Stamps 01:12 Modern Lifestyle Disorders and the Dose Effect 02:04 TJ Power's Journey and the DOSELAB 04:16 Research Challenges and Funding 06:05 In-Person vs. Online Interventions 08:02 Understanding Dopamine 10:01 Dopamine's Role in Motivation and Anticipation 11:58 The Impact of Modern Rewards on Dopamine 13:54 Fast vs. Slow Dopamine 16:05 The Consequences of Low Dopamine 18:02 Behavioural Approaches to Mental Health 20:00 The Importance of Action in Motivation 21:55 Practical Challenges for Dopamine Optimization 23:50 Phone Fasting and Digital Detox 25:36 Dopamine and ADHD 28:37 Understanding ADHD and Dopamine 31:59 The Role of Oxytocin in Human Connection 38:36 The Power of Connection in Adversity 46:37 Cultivating Oxytocin in Daily Life 48:43 Exploring Serotonin and Body-Brain Connection 01:01:24 The Impact of Endorphins on Well-being Resources Website: DOSELab The DOSE Effect: https://geni.us/UFOm – TJ Power’s book LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjpowerneuroscience/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tjpower/ Website: https://tjpower.co.uk/ Support the Podcast If you found this conversation valuable, consider subscribing and leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you insightful discussions on important health topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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This week on Mojo Monday, Carly explores the power of language in shaping our experiences. She delves into the concept of relational frame theory, which suggests that our minds create connections and meaning through language, influencing how we feel about our lives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you think ease and comfort are the keys to happiness, think again. This episode explores how deliberately embracing life's challenges—through movement, fasting, cold exposure, and mental resilience—can transform your health, happiness, and purpose. Grant Schofield, an esteemed researcher and author, reveals that life's true reward lies in choosing the hard path, strong in the knowledge that it leads to a more vibrant, resilient life. Choose your path, and in doing so, choose your future. And for those ready to take action, Grant’s new book Choose Your Hard distils these powerful principles into actionable step because the path to a better life is a deliberate choice. 00:00 The Role of an Emeritus Professor 02:57 The Academic Publishing Industry 05:54 Understanding Misogi and Personal Challenges 09:00 Fasting and Autophagy Explained 12:01 The Science of Metabolism and Immune Function 15:04 Psychological Aspects of Fasting 17:58 Preparing for a Fast: Strategies and Mindset 20:58 Physical Responses and Adaptations During Fasting 25:51 The Role of Stress in Health 27:28 Choosing Your Hard: Embracing Life's Challenges 35:19 Agency and Responsibility in Health 40:10 Movement: The Foundation of Health 46:43 Dopamine: The Devil's Seesaw 52:41 Hard vs. Soft Dopamine: Resetting the System 53:28 The Irony of Pleasure and Pain 55:24 Facing the Elements: Hot and Cold Exposure 01:01:38 Understanding Emotions and Their Ownership 01:05:18 Finding Meaning and Purpose in Life Resources Grant’s latest book – Choose Your Hard Available on Amazon Website -https://profgrantschofield.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-schofield-32512728/ X - https://x.com/grantsnz Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Prof.Grant YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PREKURE Support the Podcast If you found this conversation valuable, consider subscribing and leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Your feedback helps us continue to bring you insightful discussions on important health topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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