Most of us carry our Monday stress before we even realize it—in a clenched jaw, hiked shoulders, or a tight chest. In clinical psychology, we use Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) to break this cycle. By intentionally creating tension, we teach our nervous system how to recognize and, more importantly, how to fully let go of that "battle-ready" state.

In this 10-minute Mindfulness Monday exercise, we are moving from head to toe to identify and drop the hidden weight you might be carrying. It’s a "bottom-up" approach to mental clarity: when the body settles, the mind often follows.

In this session, we will:

• Identify the physical "bracing" patterns common at the start of the week.
• Practice a guided Progressive Muscle Relaxation sequence.
• Learn to recognize the physical sensation of "neutral" in your body.
• Create a mental check-in point you can use during stressful meetings or deadlines.

Take ten minutes to drop the weight. Your week doesn't have to be a heavy lift.

Connect With Us:

We’d love to hear how these physical resets are working for you!

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

The Sounds of Mindfulness Monday:

To help you find your center, today’s episode featured:

• Intro: Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mardal
• The Exercise: ebb by bomull
• Outro: Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.

New "Mindfulness Monday" episodes drop every Monday morning. Our full-length deep dives continue every Thursday.

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

We break down the clinical "operating system" behind the scenes, covering:

• The Rules of Engagement: Why Verbal Informed Consent is the foundation of a safe partnership.
• The Cultural Soil: A look at the MSJCCs (Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies) and why your specific environment and history matter.
• Steering the Car: A deep dive into Choice Theory and the "Front Wheels" of your behavior—Action and Thinking.

Whether you've been with us since Episode 1 or you're just joining the conversation today, this episode is a challenge to redefine "strength." It’s time to stop waiting for the system to crash and start checking the logs of your own mental health.

Connect With the Show

We want to hear your thoughts on the "Mental Architecture" of your own life.

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

Episode Credits

• Intro & Outro Music: More Now Than Ever by North Sphere (via Epidemic Sound)
• Background Music: Peregrine by Jobii (via Epidemic Sound)

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

We often walk into Monday with our "cups" overflowing—packed with rigid plans, preconceived opinions, and mental shortcuts that help us move fast but keep us from seeing clearly. In psychology, these are our schemas, and while they are useful, they can also become a cage that prevents us from experiencing anything new.

In this 10-minute Mindfulness Monday episode, we explore a classic story about an intellectual professor and a Zen master to uncover the "Beginner’s Mind." We’ll discuss why true resilience requires the ability to "empty your cup" and make room for the unexpected.

In this session, we’ll cover:

• A grounding check-in to identify where you are holding mental clutter.
• The story of the Zen master, the professor, and the overflowing tea.
• How to pivot from a "full" mindset to a "curious" one as you start your tasks.
• A reflection on the difference between being prepared and being rigid.

Don't just start your week—arrive in it. Take ten minutes to make some space.

Connect With Us:

We’d love to hear how these stories are landing for you!

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

The Sounds of Mindfulness Monday:

To help you find your center, today’s episode featured:

• Intro: Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mardal
• The Story: alma by bomull
• Outro: Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.

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

We discuss the concept of the "Internal Detective"—the exhausting manual decoding process that turns every social interaction into a high-stakes investigation—and look at the "Identity Gap" that occurs when we can't rely on our brain's most basic social hardware. Whether you’re curious about neurodiversity or looking for ways to manage the cognitive overhead of social anxiety, this episode offers a mindful look at how we truly "see" one another.

In this episode, we cover:

• The distinction between Acquired and Developmental Prosopagnosia.
• The "Detective’s Toolkit": How secondary identifiers (gait, voice, context) replace facial recognition.
• The reality of social fatigue and the "Invisible Mask" of neurodivergence.
• Modern tools for reframing recognition, including the PI20 Index.

Connect With The Show

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

Music Credits

• Intro/Outro Theme: More Now Than Ever by North Sphere
• Background Ambience: Soft Weight of Slow Desire by Jay Taylor
• Music sourced via Epidemic Sound.

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

When the Monday momentum takes over, how do you take it back?

Most of us start our week in a "reactive" state—answering pings, dodging deadlines, and letting the morning’s energy dictate our internal pace. This creates a physical "buzz" in the nervous system that can leave us feeling frayed before lunch.

In this 10-minute Mindfulness Monday exercise, we are moving from reactive to proactive. We’re using a high-performance breathing technique—the Box Breath—to consciously decelerate the nervous system and regain a sense of steady, quiet control. It’s a simple, tactical tool used by everyone from athletes to first responders to find focus in the middle of a storm.

In this session, we will:

• Transition out of the "Monday rush" with a grounding soft entry.
• Learn the 4-4-4-4 Box Breathing technique.
• Practice several guided cycles to physically lower your heart rate and settle your mind.
• Create a mental "anchor" you can use anytime your day starts to feel too loud.

Take ten minutes to reset your internal rhythm. You’re in the driver’s seat today.

Connect With Us:

We’d love to hear how these exercises are helping you navigate your week.

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

The Sounds of Mindfulness Monday:

To help you find your center, today’s episode featured:

• Intro: Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mardal
• The Exercise: ebb by bomull
• Outro: Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.

New "Mindfulness Monday" episodes drop every Monday. Our full-length deep dives continue every Thursday.

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

In this episode, we travel back to the summer of 1954 to look at one of the most famous—and controversial—studies in social psychology: Muzafer Sherif’s Robber’s Cave Experiment. We’ll follow twenty-two "well-adjusted" boys as they are split into two groups, the Rattlers and the Eagles, and watch how quickly a few simple competitive "nudges" from the researchers turned a summer camp into a literal war zone.

But this isn't just a history lesson. We’re pulling the thread forward to today to look at how the news we watch and the algorithms in our pockets are using these same psychological "survival strategies" to keep us divided for profit. More importantly, we’ll talk about how we can start pulling our own "food truck out of the ditch" by recognizing our shared humanity.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The traumatic backstory of Muzafer Sherif and how it shaped his view of conflict.
• The three phases of the Robber's Cave Experiment: In-group formation, friction, and integration.
• Why "peace talks" failed and what actually worked to bring the groups together.
• How modern media algorithms act as the unseen "counselors" of our own social experiments.
• Practical steps to reclaim your attention and shift your own personal algorithm.

Connect with the Podcast:

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

Music Featured in this Episode (via Epidemic Sound):

• More Now Than Ever – North Sphere (Intro/Outro)
• Everyday Love – J.F. Gloss
• Paranormal Activities – Jon Björk
• Entangled in the Past – pär
• My Little Brother's Keeper – Arthur Benson
• In the Mirror – Ebb & Flod
• Blindfold – Edward Karl Hanson
• One More Chance – Experia
• Augmented Waves – Blue Saga
• Back on Earth – August Wilhelmsson

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

We’ve all had those Mondays where it feels like our efforts are vanishing into thin air. You’re showing up, you’re puting in the work, and you’re staying consistent—yet the results seem stuck just out of reach. It’s easy to feel like you’re failing when you can’t see the growth.

In this 10-minute Mindfulness Monday episode, we explore a story of radical patience and a specific type of growth that happens entirely out of sight. It’s a perspective shift for anyone who feels like they are currently "watering dirt."

In this session, we’ll cover:

• A grounding exercise to help you arrive in the present moment.
• The story of a growth cycle that looks like "nothing" for years.
• Why the most important work you do this week might be completely invisible to everyone else.
• A moment of reflection to honor the "roots" you are building today.

Don't mistake a lack of visibility for a lack of progress. Take ten minutes to trust the process.

New "Mindfulness Monday" episodes drop every Monday. Our full-length deep dives continue every Thursday.

The Sounds of Mindfulness Monday:

To help you find your center, today’s episode featured:

• Intro: Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mardal
• The Story: Nine Times around the Heart by Rand Aldo
• Outro: Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.

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

In this Thursday Deep Dive, we’re peeling back the layers on one of the most misunderstood biological signals in the human experience: Loneliness. It’s not just a "sad feeling"—it’s a sophisticated, ancient, and expensive survival alarm.

We explore the "Sentinel Brain," investigating how the dACC and Anterior Insula map social rejection onto the same neural pathways as physical pain. From the 10,000-year-old archaeological mystery of the Nataruk Massacre to the modern "empty calories" of Social Snacking, we’re looking at why your brain treats isolation as a metabolic emergency.

Finally, we discuss Social Baseline Theory and the "Battery-Sharing" analogy. You’ll learn why your brain is more efficient when it’s near your tribe and how we can move from "Neural Static" back into a state of Biological Flourishing.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Sentinel State: Why the lonely brain is "Wired but Tired."
• The Vagal Brake: How isolation causes our physiological engines to redline.
• Neural Dissimilarity: Why the "Default Mode Network" struggles to find a signal in a vacuum.
• Co-Regulation: The biological "math" of why we are safer together.

Connect with the Show

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this Deep Dive.

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

Music Credits

Featured music in this episode provided by Epidemic Sound:

• More Now Than Ever – North Sphere
• Through the Storm – Savvun
• Soundbed – Blue Saga
• Vroom Vroom – Ruiqi Zhao
• Solution in Sight – Kikoru
• Sunrise (Instrumental Version) – Victor Lundberg
• Indulgence (Instrumental Version) – Janset
• Warning Signal – Max Anson

Next Week: We’re diving into the infamous Robbers Cave Experiment to see what happens when the "Sentinel Brain" meets a rival tribe. You won't want to miss it.

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

In this Mindfulness Monday exercise, we are hitting the manual reset button. This isn't about "fixing" how you feel; it’s about stepping out of the planning mind and back into the physical foundation that supports you.

The Sounds of Mindfulness Monday:

To help you find your center, today’s episode featured:

• Intro: Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mardal
• The Journey: Equanimity by 369
• Outro: Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.

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

In this episode, we move beyond the clinical fog of the "refrigerator mother" era and into the high-fidelity reality of the Intense World Theory. We explore the staggering neurobiology of the "high-resolution" brain—where 50% more local connectivity turns every sensory input into a lightning strike.

We also dive into the high-stakes reality of the Intersectional Lens, discussing the dangerous misinterpretation of the Black autistic experience and the quiet grief of the "Lost Generation" of adults finally finding their homecoming. Finally, we look at the internal tug-of-war of the AuDHD mind: the friction between a drive for deep order and a hunger for constant novelty.

It’s time to stop trying to dial down the volume to fit a world set to low. It’s time to see the mind in high definition.

In This Episode:

• The Lost Maps: Why Grunya Sukhareva’s 1925 research was ignored for decades.
• The Lightning Strike: Understanding the "Intense World Theory" and neural micro-circuits.
• The Empathy Paradox: Dismantling the myth of the "unfeeling" heart through the lens of Affective Empathy.
• Double Masks & High Stakes: The critical intersection of autism, race, and systemic bias.
• The AuDHD Seesaw: Navigating the internal friction of Autism and ADHD.

Connect With Us:

• Website: www.yourmindon.com
• Email: feedback@yourmindon.com
• Instagram: @yourmindonpodcast

Music Credits:

• More Now Than Ever – North Sphere (Intro/Outro)
• Thyone – Ben Elson
• Polygon – Ben Elson
• Eupheme – Ben Elson
• UNIX 82 – Ben Elson

All music sourced via Epidemic Sound.

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

On a typical Monday morning, your mind can feel less like a peaceful sanctuary and more like a crowded room. To-do lists, 'what-ifs,' and that low-level hum of anxiety can sometimes drown out the voices of your presence and capability.

In this week's Mindfulness Monday mini-episode, we dive into a timeless story about the battle that wages within all of us. This simple, ancient parable holds the key to changing how we navigate our entire workday.

Your week is starting now. Take ten minutes to set the tone and decide which version of yourself you are bringing to the day.

New "Mindfulness Monday" episodes drop every Monday. Our full-length deep dives continue every Thursday

The Sounds of Mindfulness Monday:

To help you find your center, today’s episode featured:

• Intro: Spent a Whole Day in My Head by Rebecca Mardal
• The Story: lilja by bomull
• Outro: Finetuned Fiesta by Dusty Decks

Music provided by Epidemic Sound.

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

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

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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.

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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!

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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. 

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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)

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.