In this episode, we peel back the layers of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to move beyond the "moral defect" myths of the past. We explore the fascinating neurobiology of the "Dopamine Chase" and the evolutionary history of the nomadic hunter, reframing ADHD as a specialized operating system built for a high-intensity world.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• The Evolution of the Explorer: How the DRD4 7R "Nomadic" allele provided a survival advantage 45,000 years ago.
• The Dopamine Harbor: Understanding Reward Deficiency Syndrome and why "boring" tasks feel like physical torture.
• Theta vs. Beta States: The science of why the ADHD brain "falls asleep" during meetings but "unlocks" during hyperfocus.
• The Volume Knob of Emotion: A deep dive into Emotional Dysregulation and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).
• The High Cost of Masking: Why "performing normal" leads to chronic burnout and how to stop wasting your battery.
• Hardware Hacks: Practical, evidence-based strategies for "Case Modding" your environment and your workflow.

Connect with the Show

I love building this community of divergent thinkers. If you have a question, a story about your own "ADHD Hardware," or a topic suggestion, please reach out!

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com
• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast
• Web: yourmindonpodcast.com (Stream episodes, read show transcripts, and learn more about the show).

Music Credits

Theme and background music provided by Epidemic Sound.

• Main Theme: More Now Than Ever by North Sphere
• Ambient Underscore: Lost in Thought by Amaranth Cove

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or episode suggestions!

Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Music for this episode:

Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mordal

Sow by Harbours & Oceans

Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Don't for get to like, comment, download, and share with friends and family!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Topics Covered:

• The History of "Sickness of the Heart": How early physicians treated nostalgia with leeches and public shaming.

• The Reminiscence Bump: Why our brains are hardwired to prioritize memories from ages 10 to 30.

• Restorative vs. Reflective Nostalgia: Learning to distinguish between the desire to rebuild the past and the ability to savor it with "aesthetic distance."

• The Olfactory "Fast-Pass": Why smell is the only sense that bypasses the brain’s traditional relay station to hit your emotions directly.

• Virtual Reconstruction: How we use digital tools and simulation to "export" our memories into virtual spaces.

• The Nostalgia Audit: A three-step process to identify your triggers, check your lens, and build a continuity bridge to your present self.

Connect with the Show:

• Website: yourmindonpodcast.com

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Music & Sound Credits:

• Ashen by Luba Hilman

• Honorable Salute by Sage Oursler

• More Now Than Ever by North Sphere

• The Light from Within by Howard Harper-Barnes

Next Week: We shift our focus to the present as we explore the "Gift" of ADHD—reframing it from a deficit to a specialized "operating system" designed for a high-speed world.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform to help us spread the word!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or episode suggestions!

Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Music for this episode:

Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

lilja by Bomull

Don't for get to like, comment, download, and share with friends and family!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive deep into the clinical research behind the CAT-Q framework, exploring the three pillars of camouflaging: Masking, Compensation, and Assimilation. We’ll also discuss the Double Empathy Problem and the physiological reality of burnout—moving past "feeling tired" into the science of the HPA axis and hypocortisolism.

Stick around for our closing segment, where we share a moving listener story in our "Safe Space" vent session, exploring the intersection of parenting, advocacy, and the beauty of Kintsugi.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The difference between "fitting in" and clinical masking.
• Why camouflaging is often a "survival strategy" rather than a choice.
• The "Double Jeopardy" faced by BIPOC individuals in the healthcare system.
• How the "biological bill" of masking leads to physical and mental burnout.

Connect with the Show: We want to hear your stories. If you have a "vent" you’d like to share anonymously, or if you have questions about a topic we've covered, reach out to us:

• Email: YourMindOnPodcast@gmail.com
• Social Media: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @YourMindOnPodcast
• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credits:

• Band: North Sphere
• Song: More Now Than Ever

Disclaimer: While this show explores psychological research and is hosted by a student of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, it is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a therapeutic relationship.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or episode suggestions!

Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Music for this episode:

Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mordal

Equanimity by 369

Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Don't for get to like, comment, download, and share with friends and family!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re diving into the incredible world of Neuroplasticity. From the "Father of Neuroscience" to the singing brains of canaries, we explore how our minds are actually dynamic, living landscapes capable of growth at any age. We’ll break down the "Miracle-Gro" of the brain (BDNF), how stress acts as a molecular muzzle, and why learning a new skill is like installing high-speed fiber optics in your head.

Whether you’re looking to heal, grow, or just stay sharp, remember: your past is not your sentence. Your brain is a masterpiece that’s never actually finished.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The transition from "fixed" brain theory to a growth-based model.

• How cortisol and stress physically impact your neural connections.

• The "Miracle-Gro" protein (BDNF) and how to trigger it.

• The role of learning and exercise in building a resilient mind.

🎵 Music Credits:

• Song: More Now Than Ever
• Artist: North Sphere

📬 Connect with the Show:

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Website: yourmindonpodcast.com

I’m always open to corrections if I get a detail wrong or miss a specific vibe you’re going for! The best way to do this is to just tell me what I got wrong, or what I need to know.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or episode suggestions!

Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Music for this episode is Fields by Shuta Yasukochi

Don't for get to like, comment, download, and share with friends and family!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive deep into the history of hegemonic masculinity, the psychological "pillars" that often keep men isolated, and why the bravest thing a man can do is dismantle the idea that vulnerability is a weakness. Whether you are a man navigating these pressures or someone supporting a man in your life, this conversation offers a roadmap toward a more authentic, emotionally healthy way of living.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The transition from the "Protector/Provider" role to the "Emotional Guardian."
• The origins and consequences of the "Man Box."
• Why the "Man Up" culture is failing our boys.
• Actionable steps for reclaiming emotional freedom.

Connect With Us

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Reach out and join the conversation!

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com
• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast
• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credits

Intro and outro music graciously provided by North Sphere.

• Song: More Now Than Ever
• Artist: North Sphere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we cover:

• The real story behind the Kitty Genovese murder and the "38 witnesses" myth.

• The 5-stage model of intervention: Why we fail to notice or act.

• Psychological barriers: Pluralistic ignorance and evaluation apprehension.

• Neurological triggers: Mirror neurons and the "freeze" response.

• Practical tools: The four intervention strategies from OHSU and the BIFF method of communication.

Connect with the Show:

• Website: yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Join our new "Collective Exhale" segment: Life is heavy, and we all need a place to set that weight down. If you need a safe, anonymous space to vent about life's stressors, record a voice memo or write an email and send it to hello@yourmindonpodcast.com.

Note: This segment is for general venting and "life stuff." If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or considering self-harm, please reach out to a professional or a crisis hotline immediately.

Music Credits:

• "More Now Than Ever" by North Sphere

Special Thanks:

• A huge thank you to Emma and the Real Life Ghost Stories podcast for their incredible support of this show.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host John Shaw takes a deep dive into the world of "therapy speak." We explore the fine line between using language for self-awareness and using it as a tool for power negotiation and psychological control. We’ll break down why misusing these terms doesn't just spread misinformation—it actually minimizes the lived experiences of those dealing with severe clinical conditions.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Boundaries vs. Ultimatums: Why a boundary is about protecting yourself, while an ultimatum is about controlling someone else (featuring the infamous Jonah Hill text controversy).

• The Myth of "Everyday OCD": Why liking a clean desk isn't a disorder, and how casual use of the term trivializes a debilitating condition.

• Gaslighting & Narcissism: How to tell the difference between a jerk who lies and a true clinical diagnosis.

• The "Triggered" Debate: A personal perspective from a combat veteran on why being "offended" isn't the same as being "triggered."

• Concept Creep: Understanding how the definitions of trauma and abuse have expanded and why that can sometimes rob us of our own personal agency.

Join us for a straight-talk session on how to move past the buzzwords and get back to real, authentic communication.

Connect with the Show:

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credit: Intro/Outro Music: More Now Than Ever by North Sphere.

If you found this episode helpful, please leave a rating in your preferred listening app to help us grow the community!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, host John Shaw dives into the world of mindfulness—a topic that has become a major "buzzword" in the last decade but actually finds its roots in ancient practices. We’re moving past the "hippy-dippy" stereotypes of incense and kittens to explore mindfulness as a practical cognitive skill that can help you reclaim control from your "autopilot" brain.

In this episode, we explore:

• The Science of Stress: How mindfulness impacts cortisol levels and why it is particularly vital for physical health.

• The 8 Core Attitudes: From "Beginner’s Mind" to "Self-Compassion," we break down the mental framework needed to start your practice.

• Mindfulness in the "Real World": Why activities like fishing, cooking, or even sitting in traffic can be powerful forms of mindfulness.

• Weekly Homework: A simple, 5-minute daily exercise to help you start strengthening your "mental muscles" right now.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a seasoned practitioner, join us as we learn to let go of stress and embrace a calmer state. Remember: understanding your mind is the first step to changing your life.

Connect with the Show:

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credit: Intro/Outro Music: More Now Than Ever by North Sphere.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating in your preferred listening app to help others find the show!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Your Mind On, we’re diving deep into the "Great Generational Stress Gap." We explore how upbringing, global events, and technology have created distinct emotional frameworks for the four generations currently in the workforce.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The "Why" Behind the Tropes: From "latchkey" Gen Xers to "digital native" Gen Z, we break down the history that shaped each generation's work ethic and emotional regulation.

• The Five Dimensions of Emotional Intelligence: How self-awareness, empathy, and motivation differ across age groups.

• The Stress Statistics: Why a staggering 91% of Gen Z employees report feeling stressed and what that means for the future of work.

with the Show

• Website: yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Remember, understanding your mind is the first step to changing your life. Be kind to yourself! 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers on codependency. It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot, but what does it actually look like in our daily lives—especially at work or in our closest relationships? We dive into the difference between healthy interdependency and the "helper" roles we often fall into, like the Caretaker, the Rescuer, and the Enabler.

Whether you’re a self-proclaimed "fixer" or just someone who cares deeply, this episode offers a gentle look at how to start reclaimed your identity while still being a supportive friend, partner, and colleague.

Connect With Us:

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com
• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast
• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Resources Mentioned:

• Codependents Anonymous (CoDA): Find meetings and resources at coda.org
• The CoDA Workbook: Available through the CoDA website or major book retailers.

Music Credits:

• Band: North Sphere
• Song: More Now Than Ever
• Music provided by Epidemic Sound

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive deep into the psychology and neuroscience behind the disorder, discussing:

• The Greek myth of Narcissus and its modern-day metaphors.

• The difference between "grandiose" and "vulnerable" narcissism.

• How narcissism impacts relationships through the phases of idealization, devaluation, and discard.

• The "perfect, psychologically unhealthy match" between narcissism and codependency.

• Practical coping strategies, including the "Gray Rock" method and "BIFF" communication.

• Why it is vital to distinguish true narcissism from neurodivergence, C-PTSD, or simple burnout before using the term as a weapon.

Join us for a conversation that aims to turn down the "professor" and turn up the "friend" to help you better understand the human mind and navigate your Thursday morning.

Music Credit:

• Band: North Sphere
• Song: More Now Than Ever

Connect with the Show:

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Sources mentioned in this episode:

• Can neuroscience help to understand narcissism? A systematic review of an emerging field – Emanuel Jauk and Philipp Kanske: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34124536/
• Distinguishing Between Overt Vs Covert Narcissism – Bay Area CBT Center: https://bayareacbtcenter.com/overt-vs-covert-narcissism/
• Narcissistic Abuse Cycle: Stages, Impact, and Coping – Sanjana Gupta: https://www.verywellmind.com/narcissistic-abuse-cycle-stages-impact-and-coping-6363187
• Narcissistic Gaslighting: How to Identify and Cope – Dr. Raffaello Antonino: https://therapy-central.com/2025/03/27/surviving-narcissistic-gaslighting-signs-and-coping-strategies/
• PSYCHOLOGY WORKS Fact Sheet: Narcissism – Canadian Psychological Association: cpa.ca/psychologyfactsheets
• Strategies for dealing with narcissistic behaviors in co-parenting: https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/blog/how-co-parent-narcissist-strategies-cheat-sheet
• The Damage Done: Dealing with Narcissists in the Workplace – Brian O'Connell: https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/managing-smart/damage-done-dealing-narcissists-workplace
• The Grey Rock Method: Techniques & How to Use It – Kaytee Gillis, LCSW-BACS: Choosing Therapy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the anatomy of gaslighting. We explore the origins of the term from the 1938 stage production Gas Light to its modern-day usage popularized by Dr. Robin Stern. We also break down the specific tactics used in this form of emotional abuse—such as denial, countering, and trivializing—and discuss how to distinguish a genuine misunderstanding from systematic manipulation. Whether it’s in intimate relationships, the workplace, or even medical settings, understanding how gaslighting works is the first step to reclaiming your reality.

Connect with the Show:

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Credits:

• Host: John Shaw

• Intro Music: "More Now Than Ever" by North Sphere.

• Topic Suggestion: A special thank you to Mike for suggesting this week’s topic.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Your Mind On, host John Shaw dives deep into the chronology of those six days—from the initial "arrests" to the psychological warfare and eventual breakdown of the simulation. We explore:

• The "John Wayne" Persona: How stereotypes and researcher influence may have shaped the guards' sadistic behavior.

• The Abu Ghraib Parallel: A look at how the SPE’s findings on systemic "bad barrels" were later mirrored in the real-world abuses in Iraq.

• Modern Critiques: Was the experiment a groundbreaking discovery or a scripted performance? We examine recent reports of faked breakdowns and direct researcher manipulation.

• Personal Reflections: John shares insights from his own military deployment in Iraq and discusses how these psychological principles apply to current challenges in law enforcement and professional oversight.

Contact the Show: We want to hear your thoughts on this episode!

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credits: Intro and Outro music: "More Now Than Ever" by North Sphere.

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating or review in your favorite podcast app to help us grow the show!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re moving past the casual "mood swing" labels to explore what it’s actually like to live between two extremes—from the "superhuman" rush of mania to the heavy, suffocating weight of deep depression. We’ll dive into the history of the diagnosis, the fascinating (and controversial) link between the disorder and creativity, and the vital role that routine and support systems play in management. Whether you’re here to learn for yourself or to better understand someone in your life, this episode is all about finding grace in the highs and the lows.

Connect with the Show:

• Webpage: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credits:

• Intro/Outro Music: "More Now Than Ever" by North Sphere

A Note of Caution: I am not a licensed mental health professional. This episode is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are struggling, please reach out to a licensed professional. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Then, we dive into our first deep-dive case study: the "Co-Ed Killer," Edmund Kemper. We explore the psychological "pressure cooker" created by years of maternal abuse and paternal abandonment, and examine the clinical labels—from Antisocial Personality Disorder to the rare Pseudobulbar Affect—that define one of history’s most "high-functioning" predators.

Connect with the Show:

• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Creits:

• Intro Music: "More Now Than Ever" by North Sphere (Used with permission)

• Recommended Listening: Timesuck Episode 123 (Edmund Kemper)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host John Shaw moves beyond the simple "shy vs. life of the party" stereotypes to explore the fundamental psychological and biological truths that drive these personalities. Rooted in the pioneering work of Carl Jung and enhanced by the biological theories of Hans Eysenck, this episode dives into:

• The Energy Source: Why extroverts are energized by the external world of people and activity, while introverts draw their strength from the internal world of thoughts and reflection.

• The Brain Science: The fascinating roles of neurotransmitters like Dopamine and Acetylcholine, and how differences in cortical arousal and brain blood flow shape our social needs.

• The "Introvert Hangover": Understanding the physical and mental exhaustion that comes from overstimulation, and why the COVID-19 pandemic was a starkly different experience for each type.

• Navigating the World: Practical insights on how these traits manifest in the workplace and in romantic relationships, and the importance of finding a "balance of energy" during high-stress times like the holiday season.

Whether you are an introvert, an extrovert, or an adaptive ambivert, this episode is an essential guide to understanding your own "social battery" and building more empathetic relationships with those around you.

Connect With Us:

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast
• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com
• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Credits:

• Intro Song: "Now More Than Ever" by North Sphere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join host John Shaw as he explores the emerging phenomenon known as "AI Psychosis" or "LLM-induced psychological destabilisation." We examine how specific AI behaviors—like sycophancy, "hallucinations," and false intimacy—can inadvertently reinforce delusions and foster unhealthy attachments. From "Messianic Missions" to feelings of persecution, we discuss the startling ways these interactions are shaping human psychology.

Plus, stay tuned for a special segment where we turn the tables and conduct an "interview" with Google’s Gemini AI to get its own take on the risks it poses and how users can protect themselves. Tune in to understand the hidden psychological challenges of the digital age.

Contact Us:

• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast
• Email: hello@yourmindonpodcast.com
• Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com

Credits:

• Theme/Intro Music: Now More Than Ever by North Sphere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deep-dive episode, we cut through the sensationalism of films like Split and historical cases like Sybil to explore the complex reality of DID. We separate the clinical facts from the fiction, providing context for students and professionals, while keeping the topic accessible for everyone.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The Clinical Shift: Why the diagnosis moved from Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) to Dissociative Identity Disorder.
• The Two Competing Models: A balanced look at the Trauma Model versus the Sociocognitive Model (SCM) of DID.
• Healing the Fragmented Self: The three-phase approach to treatment and how recovery is possible.
• Cross-Cultural Connections: We explore the fascinating inclusion of the Possession Form of DID in the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, and how culture interprets radical personality shifts.

This episode is a call for compassion and a clear look at how the human mind survives prolonged, severe trauma.

Connect With Us

• Podcast Website: www.yourmindonpodcast.com
• Instagram: Share your thoughts with us @yourmindonpodcast
• Questions, Comments, & Topic Suggestions: Email us at hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Music Credit

• Intro Music: "More Now Than Ever" by North Sphere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we will discuss holiday stress. This time of year there is more than enough stress to go around, so it's important to identify what those stressors are and ways to manage them to ensure that your holidays are shiny and bright instead of overwhelming you with stress.

You can contact the podcast at hello@yourmindonpodcast.com and now on Instagram as well.

Credit to North Sphere for the intro music titled Now More Than Ever

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Please be sure to follow the podcast, and please leave comments and ratings whenever possible as it really helps the show grow!

You can reach out to the show with comments, questions, or criticisms at hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Theme music is Now More Than Ever by North Sphere

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thank you all for listening.

You can reach out via email at hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Credit to North Sphere for the intro music, the full song can be found on major music platforms like Spotify and is titled Now More Than Ever.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special thanks this week to my wife, my daughter, my parents, my therapist, and everyone else around me that has helped me through this challenging year and supported me as I began this journey to podcasting.

Credit to North Sphere for the intro music. The song is titled Now More Than Ever.

Reach out at hello@yourmindonpodcast.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.