Hardiness with Dr Paul Taylor

In this episode, I chat with Thoryn Stephens, a data visionary and keynote speaker, about the intersection of human behaviour, biology, and artificial intelligence. Thoryn shares his journey from studying biotechnology and molecular biology to optimising human performance through data science. The discussion delves into the importance of wearable technology in measuring and enhancing personal health metrics, such as heart rate variability and sleep quality. Thoryn emphasises the significance of recovery and Behavioral design in achieving peak performance, whether in athletics or corporate settings. The conversation also explores the potential of AI in advancing healthspan and mindspan, highlighting both the promising and challenging aspects of integrating technology with human biology. Takeaways Wearable biometrics and HRV measurement accuracy The role of peptides in health and longevity Behavioral design for health and performance AI and brain-computer interfaces in medicine Strategies for preventing dementia and neurodegeneration   03:06 The Intersection of Data Science and Human Performance 05:57 Wearable Technology and Health Metrics 09:03 Balancing Performance and Recovery 11:55 Micro and Macro Recovery Strategies 15:04 Understanding Lifespan, Healthspan, and Mindspan 18:04 AI's Role in Health and Recovery 20:57 Personal Recovery Experiences and Insights 23:55 The Impact of Genetics and Lifestyle on Health 24:58 Understanding Dementia and Its Prevention 26:28 Personalised Health Protocols and AI Integration 28:55 The Evolving Landscape of Peptides 30:08 Navigating the Legal Status of Peptides 31:54 The Role of Continuous Monitoring in Health 34:01 Resistance Training and Its Importance 38:02 Behavioral Design for Health Improvement 41:55 The Future of Health Monitoring and AI   Resources Connect with Thoryn Stephens: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thoryn/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ragearea brain.one - https://brain.one/ peptides.one - https://peptides.one/ Galen Buckwalter's Neural Implants - https://caltech.edu/research/neural-interfaces   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.

Here are the links to the research papers mentioned in the podcast: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35187864/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28698222/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26817506/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve all had moments where we reacted in ways we later regret. In this episode, Carly explores a simple Stoic idea: you don’t rise to the moment, you fall to the level of your training. Drawing on Seneca’s quote, “If you would not have a man flinch when the crisis comes, train him before it comes,” this episode is about preparing for life’s challenges so you can respond with intention, not reactivity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most of us are missing the true signs of brain health—and it's a costly mistake. In this episode I have a fascinating discussion with  neurotherapy pioneer Lara Schulz expose the hidden truth: how advanced brain assessments like EEG and ERP are revolutionising diagnosis and treatment, revealing biological signatures that conventional psychiatry ignores. If you've ever wondered why mental health conditions are expanding without clear biological markers, this episode offers a compelling, science-backed perspective—plus a glimpse into the future of mental health care rooted in true brain science. You’ll discover how neurotherapy uses precise tools like QEEG, ERP, and AI database comparisons to differentiate between trauma, dementia, and psychiatric diagnoses that often are wrongfully assumed. Lara shares real-world stories of uncovering trauma profiles in elderly patients mistaken for neurodegenerative diseases—and how targeted neurostimulation can rewire the brain without drugs. Learn about the cutting-edge protocols involving transcranial stimulation, vagus nerve therapy, and light modulation that are transforming recovery in depression, PTSD, ADHD, and autism. Takeaways Insights from Brain Signatures Disrupt Diagnosis The Deep Dive Into Psychophysiology is Essential Trauma’s Lasting Biological Imprint Requires Psychophysiological Intervention Brain-Heart Communication Is a Two-Way Street Moving from Sledgehammer to Gentle Brain Reset Approaches The Future Requires Brain Assessment in Every System The Paradigm Shift from Diagnosis to Functional Brain Optimisation   00:00 Understanding Neurotherapy: A New Approach to Mental Health 02:57 The Role of Psychophysiology in Diagnosis 05:57 The Impact of Trauma on Mental Health 09:06 The Importance of Childhood Experiences 12:08 Assessment Tools in Neurotherapy 18:59 Intervention Techniques in Neurotherapy 28:29 Understanding Brain Responses to Treatment 29:08 ADHD: A Growing Concern 30:40 The Impact of Lifestyle on Mental Health 33:42 Building Foundations for Mental Health 35:00 Identifying Biological Signatures in Autism 37:01 Transformative Success Stories in Treatment 40:23 The Role of Educators in Diagnosing ADHD 42:30 The Future of Brain Assessment in Schools 48:37 The Importance of Understanding Patient History 50:34 Integrating Different Therapeutic Approaches 55:24 Expanding Access to Neurostimulation Therapy Resources Connect with Lara Schulz: https://www.ncau.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/neurotherapy_clinics_australia/ https://www.facebook.com/people/Neurotherapy-Clinics-Australia/61560817288119/ https://www.ncau.com.au/blog/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-s-32420bb/ https://www.neurofieldneurotherapy.com/ - Dr Nicholas Dorgis & Dr Tiff Thompson https://fherehab.com/ ANSA Conference, Gold Coast 12-13 September 2026: https://appliedneuroscience.org.au/event-6569067 School of Neurotherapy Bootcamp 14-18 September 2026: https://www.schoolofneurotherapy.com/australia-bootcamp-training-september-2026   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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Carly shares the story of the Chinese farmer, made popular by Alan Watts, to explore how quickly we label life’s events as “good” or “bad.” When something happens, we often jump to conclusions and attach meaning straight away, reacting as if we already know how it will turn out. But the reality is, we rarely have the full picture. This episode is a reminder to create a pause between what happens and the story we tell ourselves about it. Instead of reacting instantly, try holding your interpretation more lightly. A simple shift in perspective that can change how you move through your week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I chat with Deborah Rozman and we discuss the fascinating topic of heart rate variability (HRV) and heart coherence. Deborah shares her journey from a young age, driven by a desire to serve and understand human attitudes, leading her to become a behavioural psychologist. She explains how her work with HeartMath Institute focuses on the connection between the heart and brain, emphasising the importance of HRV as a reflection of emotional states and overall health. We delve into the science behind HRV, explaining how it reflects the interaction between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. We discuss the concept of heart coherence, where the heart's rhythm becomes synchronized, promoting optimal performance, emotional balance, and resilience. Deborah highlights the role of positive emotions like gratitude and love in achieving coherence, which can be measured using biofeedback devices.   Key Takeaways The role of heart rate variability (HRV) in health and emotional flexibility How heart coherence influences stress, decision-making, and resilience The two-way communication between the heart and the brain Techniques to improve heart coherence without equipment The future of wearable technology and biofeedback for emotional regulation How positive emotions like gratitude and love recalibrate autonomic nervous system balance   00:30 - Deborah's background in child psychology and heart science origin story02:22 - The development of biofeedback tools and understanding emotional states  through HRV04:56 - Deep dive into what heart rate variability is and its importance for health06:26 - The influence of the autonomic nervous system on HRV and health07:48 - Patterns of HRV and what they reveal about emotional and physical resilience09:23 - The impact of emotions on HRV and the 1995 cardiology study findings10:56 - Heart's intrinsic nervous system and its role in emotion regulation12:34 - The significance of positive emotions in heart coherence and health13:14 - Using biofeedback devices to manage stress and induce coherence15:03 - The bidirectional interaction between brain and heart during coherence states16:41 - The heart's "little brain" and its independent functioning17:52 - How stress and trauma cause autonomic dysregulation and ways to restore balance22:09 - The concept of flow, coherence, and optimal performance states24:28 - Brainwave patterns associated with heart coherence, especially alpha waves27:31 - How coherence enhances intuitive, creative, and decision-making abilities30:32 - Practical techniques for improving coherence without devices, focusing on positive emotions and breathing33:01 - Resilience versus stress management, building energy capacity for life's challenges34:22 - Simple coherence exercises anyone can do, even without biofeedback tools38:01 - The promising future of research, wearable tech, and global heart coherence initiatives Resources & Links: HeartMath Institute HeartMath Techniques HeartMath App Peer-reviewed research on HRV and emotional health How to Practice Heart Coherence (Free Techniques) Connect with Deborah Rozman: LinkedIn Twitter 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A repeat episode from a couple of years ago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, I speak with Dara Simkin, and Tane Hunter to explore the complexities of burnout, the impact of modern work conditions, and the importance of play and curiosity in fostering mental health. They discuss the concept of achievement syndrome, the role of information diet in shaping our perspectives, and practical strategies for improvement. The discussion emphasises the need for intelligent optimism and the significance of creating supportive environments for personal and professional growth.   Key Takeaways: Burnout is a systemic issue that requires a granular approach. Achievement syndrome leads to a slow slide towards burnout. Modern work conditions contribute significantly to stress and burnout. An information diet is crucial for mental well-being. Hope and intelligent optimism are essential for resilience. Play and curiosity can enhance creativity and innovation. Philosophy can help in understanding and reframing our thoughts. Challenging assumptions is vital for personal growth. Creating supportive environments can improve mental health. Micro practices can lead to significant changes in work culture.   04:16 The Importance of Play in Professional Life 10:22 Understanding Burnout and Achievement Syndrome 15:20 VUCA World: Navigating Uncertainty and Stress 21:43 The Impact of Conditions on Capacity and Capability 24:39 Strategies for Managing Information Diet and Negativity 30:26 Seeking Solutions in a Negative World 32:45 The Power of Attention and Control 39:20 The Neurobiology of Hard Work 44:32 Building Resilience Through Play and Curiosity 52:42 The Role of Hope and Optimism 01:00:14 Challenging Assumptions and Applied Philosophy   Resources Full Stack Human:  https://www.culturehero.co/full-stack-human-book  Connect with Dara: https://www.instagram.com/culturehero.co/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/dara-simkin-culture-hero/ https://open.spotify.com/playlist/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB-Dw-uVuEYCL1xn69-i_2w/videos Connect with Tane: https://www.instagram.com/futurecrunch/ https://www.facebook.com/futurecrunch/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/future-crunch/?originalSubdomain=au https://www.youtube.com/@futurecrunch   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.

This week I discuss a fascinating research paper that changes how we think about salt and blood pressure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Mojo Monday, Carly explores something many of us experience: replaying conversations in our minds and wondering if we said the right thing. Why do social interactions sometimes leave us doubting ourselves? Carly reflects on the quiet pressure we often place on ourselves to be interesting, articulate, or insightful in conversations, and how that pressure can fuel our inner critic. Drawing on ideas from Japanese psychology, particularly Morita therapy, she shares a simple shift that can help conversations feel more natural: moving our attention away from how we’re performing and toward genuine curiosity and presence with the person in front of us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Graeme Cowan shares his personal journey through mental health challenges and discusses the importance of mental well-being in the workplace. He highlights the impact of stress and burnout, the role of leadership in fostering psychological safety, and practical strategies for self-care and mindset shifts. Graeme emphasises the interconnectedness of mental and physical health and provides actionable insights for individuals and leaders to create a supportive work environment.   Takeaways Graeme Cowan experienced severe depression after a business downturn. The impact of mental health extends to loved ones, not just the individual. Workplace programs can leverage large numbers of participants for mental health awareness. Storytelling is a powerful tool in mental health advocacy. Many managers experience severe stress, affecting team engagement. Psychological safety is crucial for team performance and innovation. Self-compassion can enhance resilience and risk-taking. A growth mindset encourages continuous learning and improvement. Intentional actions significantly influence our mood and well-being. Building supportive relationships is essential for mental health.   00:00 The Journey to Mental Health Awareness 11:00 Understanding Workplace Stress and Burnout 17:00 Leadership and Psychological Safety in the Workplace 22:35 The Origins of Team Effectiveness 27:32 Mindset and Self-Compassion 33:14 The Great Leaders Care Mindset 43:40 Practical Steps for Individuals and Teams   Resources Graeme Cowan’s latest book; Great Leaders Care Weblink: https://graemecowan.com.au/     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecowan1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graemecowan/   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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you ever shrink yourself because someone else seems further ahead, more confident, fitter, happier, or more successful? In this episode of Mojo Monday, Carly explores the psychology behind comparison and the idea of an inferiority complex through the lens of Hardiness. Rather than trying to stop comparing, she explains why it’s a normal human response and how the real power lies in how we interpret it. When comparison is seen as a threat, we withdraw. When it’s viewed as a challenge, we move into action. This episode is a practical reminder to shift your focus to what’s in your control and take one small step forward, even when discomfort is present.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a repeat episode with the rock star, neuroscientist Ken Mogi as I felt it was so good, I’m playing it again! We discuss the concept of Ikigai, which translates to 'a reason to live.' Ken explains how Ikigai encompasses more than just work, emphasising the importance of starting small, releasing oneself to achieve flow, and finding joy in little things. Ken outlines the five pillars of Ikigai, which include harmony and sustainability, and the significance of being present in the moment. He encourages listeners to reconnect with their inner child to discover their Ikigai and live a fulfilling life. Timestamps: 04:00 Understanding Ikigai: More Than Just Work 07:56 The Five Pillars of Ikigai: Starting Small 14:52 Releasing Yourself: The Flow State Connection 28:05 Harmony and Sustainability in Life 34:59 The Joy of Little Things 40:48 Being in the Here and Now 53:00 Final Thoughts on Finding Your Ikigai   Resources Connected with Ken Mogi Books Think Like a Stoic The Little Book of Ikigai https://www.instagram.com/qualiaken/?hl=en https://x.com/kenmogi?lang=en 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all have regrets — moments we wish we could redo, words we wish we could take back, choices that cost us something. In this week’s Mojo Monday, Carly explores how regret can either keep us stuck in self-criticism or become a powerful teacher. Drawing on Stoic wisdom and the framework of Hardiness, she shares how looking back with awareness can help us grow forward with intention. If there’s something you’ve been holding onto, this episode offers a new lens — one that turns regret into growth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode I chat with Dr. Stephanie Rimka who shares her extensive knowledge on mental health, emphasising the importance of understanding the brain's role in mental wellness. She discusses her journey from traditional medicine to functional approaches, highlighting the significance of nutrition, particularly zinc, in brain function. Dr. Rimka explores the impact of modern diets, technology, and chronic stress on mental health, advocating for neurofeedback as a powerful tool for treatment. She also emphasises the need for a holistic approach that includes play, movement, and proper nutrition to rebalance the nervous system and promote overall well-being. Key Takeaways: Mental health issues are fundamentally brain issues. Zinc deficiency is prevalent and can significantly affect behaviour. Neurofeedback can be a powerful tool for mental health treatment. The modern diet often lacks essential nutrients for brain health. Understanding the interplay of zinc and copper is crucial for mental wellness. Anxiety can often be misdiagnosed and is linked to biological factors. Chronic stress leads to dysregulation of the nervous system. Relaxation is not the same as recovery; true recovery requires active engagement. The impact of technology and media on mental health is profound. Nutrition, particularly animal-based foods, is vital for brain health.   Resources Dr Stephanie Rimka’s new book: The Dance of Feminine Power Connected with Dr Stephanie Rimka drimka.com https://drrimka.com/[email protected] https://www.instagram.com/dr_rimka/ https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.rimka/ https://www.youtube.com/c/drrimka https://www.tiktok.com/@rimkatalks   01:10 Early Career and Experiences in Mental Health 02:37 Transitioning from Traditional Medicine to Functional Approaches 04:00 Understanding the Brain and Mental Health 06:10 The Role of Zinc in Brain Function 07:23 Dopamine, Zinc, and Mental Health 12:02 The Impact of Modern Lifestyle on Mental Health 16:03 The Importance of Nutrition and Diet 20:35 The Connection Between Physical Health and Mental Well-being 25:28 Neuroplasticity and Interventions for Mental Health 25:56 Understanding Nervous System Dynamics 32:48 The Impact of Modern Life on Stress Responses 38:14 Tools for Rebalancing the Nervous System 44:44 Neurofeedback and Empowering Change 52:28 The Importance of Play in Movement 55:12 Nutrition as the Foundation of Health 57:06 The Role of Animal-Based Foods in Mental Health 01:00:11 Circadian Biology and Its Impact on Well-Being 01:03:00 The Power of Nature and Imagination 01:08:08 Empowerment Through Understanding and Coaching   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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Mojo Monday, Carly explores three powerful lenses we can use to make sense of our emotional suffering — Blame, Brain and Environment — and explains why understanding ourselves through multiple perspectives, rather than a single narrow narrative, can restore agency, clarity and direction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I chat with Dr  Kevin Tracy, a renowned researcher and inventor, about his journey in medicine and the significance of the vagus nerve in health. Kevin shares personal anecdotes, including the impact of his mother's illness on his career path. The discussion delves into the vagus nerve's role in regulating inflammation, heart rate variability, and its potential in treating autoimmune diseases through vagus nerve stimulation. Kevin emphasises the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and the need for further research in this promising field. Key Takeaways: The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation. Heart rate variability is a measure of vagal tone but has limitations. Vagus nerve stimulation shows promise in treating autoimmune diseases. Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation. The vagus nerve connects the brain and immune system, influencing health. Cold exposure may activate the vagus nerve and reduce inflammation. Healthy lifestyle choices are essential for overall well-being. Future research may uncover more applications for vagus nerve stimulation.   02:49 Personal Journey into Medicine 08:37 The Vagus Nerve: A Key to Health 14:50 Heart Rate Variability and Vagal Tone 31:28 The Inflammatory Reflex and Vagus Nerve 45:46 Clinical Applications of Vagus Nerve Stimulation 51:11 Future Directions in Vagus Nerve Research   Resources Connected with Dr Kevin Tracey Kevin's latest book: The Great Nerve: The New Science of the Vagus Nerve and How to Harness Its Healing Reflexes https://feinstein.northwell.edu/institutes-researchers/our-researchers/kevin-j-tracey-md LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjtraceymd/ X https://x.com/KevinJTraceyMD    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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re often told to “just stay positive” when things get tough. But what if that advice actually makes it harder to cope? In this Mojo Monday, Carly explores the difference between positive thinking and realistic optimism, drawing on the Stockdale Paradox and a powerful personal story from her family’s experience navigating serious illness. This episode is about facing reality honestly, without losing hope, and why accepting what is can be the first step toward meaningful action. If you’ve ever felt stuck between how life is and how you wish it were, this one’s for you. Carly Taylor is a counsellor and mindset coach with a Master of Counselling. Trained in Japanese Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and a member of the Australian Counselling Association, she helps people develop practical tools to live purposeful, engaged lives. To find out more about Carly, visit www.carlytaylorcoaching.com.au.Follow her on Instagram: carly_taylor_coaching    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast episode, Professor Sonja Lyubomirsky discusses her extensive research on happiness, including defining happiness and the historical context of its study. She elaborates on the two components of happiness: experiencing positive emotions and believing that life is good. Sonja also outlines the genetic, circumstantial, and behavioural influences on happiness and addresses the impact of mental health issues. The conversation covers cultural factors, the role of social connection, and various strategies to boost happiness, such as acts of kindness, gratitude, and engaging conversations. Key Takeaways Positive Social Connections Are Crucial: Developing strong social ties and feeling connected with others are significant contributors to a person's overall happiness. Small Acts, Big Impact: Engaging in simple acts of kindness can boost happiness for oneself and others. This practice fosters a sense of connection and community. Personalisation of Happiness Strategies: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to happiness. It's important to find what works best for you, as happiness strategies can be tailored to one's personality and preferences. Gratitude and Mindfulness: Integrating gratitude into daily routines and savouring positive experiences can profoundly impact overall life satisfaction. Biological and Psychological Interaction: Understanding that biology and psychology are intertwined helps highlight the importance of holistic approaches to improving mental health. Life Circumstances and Happiness: While genetics and personality play a role, life circumstances and how one responds to them can significantly influence one's happiness levels. Resources Connect with Professor Sonja Lyubomirsky Website: https://sonjalyubomirsky.com/ Buy How To Feel Loved:    https://howtofeelloved.com/buy-the-book/ Take the 5 Mindsets Quiz:  https://tally.so/r/Pd1l0d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonjalyubomirsky/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonja-lyubomirsky-21283bb/   00:34 Journey into Happiness Research 01:55 Defining Happiness 03:00 Genetics and Happiness 05:31 Life Stages and Happiness 10:15 Cultural Influences on Happiness 22:34 Gratitude and Happiness 29:33 Awe and Gratitude in Everyday Life 30:23 The Neuroscience of Gratitude 31:12 Acts of Kindness and Their Impact 34:03 The Role of Biology in Mental Health 36:29 Designing Experiments on Happiness 38:45 Personality Traits and Happiness 40:58 Cultivating Happiness Through Daily Practices 47:25 The Complexity of Human Behaviour 52:53 Future Directions in Happiness Research    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A simple process for when emotions feel like too much. Carly shares MOVE, a practical way to respond to difficult feelings and keep living your life. Carly Taylor is a counsellor and mindset coach with a Master of Counselling. Trained in Japanese Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and a member of the Australian Counselling Association, she helps people develop practical tools to live purposeful, engaged lives. To find out more about Carly, visit www.carlytaylorcoaching.com.au.Follow her on Instagram: carly_taylor_coaching  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unlock the truth about modern mental health—why nearly all psychiatric diagnoses are scientifically meaningless and how the system is big business, not care. Dr. John Read exposes the flaws in DSM diagnoses, the influence of pharmaceutical money, and the harm of treatments like ECT and antidepressants. If you're tired of quick fixes and want real understanding, this episode offers practical insights into trauma, social factors, and safer, evidence-based approaches to well-being. Perfect for those questioning the status quo, seeking genuine help, or interested in transforming mental health care. Tune in to discover how to reclaim agency over your mental health and challenge the dominant, profit-driven system. Key Takeaways: Diagnoses and Understanding: Recognising the scientific flaws in psychiatric labels and focusing on individual experiences for effective care. Overdiagnosis and Resources: The impact of expanding diagnostic criteria on resource allocation and personal agency. Trauma and Social Factors: The need to acknowledge trauma and social influences in mental health, moving beyond the biomedical model. Psychiatric Treatments: Critiquing the use of ECT and advocating for evidence-based, humane alternatives. Pharmaceutical Influence: Understanding how drug company funding distorts mental health practices and the importance of transparency. Social Connection and Lifestyle: Emphasising social activities and lifestyle changes as paths to mental health. Ethical Treatment and Consent: The importance of informed consent and trauma-informed care in mental health practices.   Resources Connect with Professor John Read: X: https://x.com/ReadReadjInternational Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal Hearing Voices Network, England                                                                                                       University of East London   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.   01:54 The Flaws in Psychiatric Diagnoses 07:03 The Evolution of the DSM 10:10 The Overdiagnosis Problem 18:05 The Impact of Labels on Mental Health 24:20 Alternatives to Diagnosis 27:10 The Side Effects of Antidepressants 32:46 Navigating Withdrawal from Antidepressants 37:07 The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care 43:39 The Controversy of ECT 51:19 The Role of Placebo in Treatment 55:47 The Future of Mental Health Care    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Mojo Monday, Carly shares practical tips to help you tackle feelings of overwhelm. She explains how our language can either exacerbate or alleviate stress, and suggests reframing our thoughts to create a sense of structure and control. Carly also introduces the Pomodoro technique, a time-blocking method that combines focused work with regular movement breaks to boost productivity and energy. By implementing these strategies, you'll learn to work effectively alongside your emotions, rather than getting caught up in them.  Carly Taylor is a counsellor and mindset coach with a Master of Counselling. Trained in Japanese Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and a member of the Australian Counselling Association, she helps people develop practical tools to live purposeful, engaged lives. To find out more about Carly, visit www.carlytaylorcoaching.com.au.Follow her on Instagram: carly_taylor_coachingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. John Osborne, a renowned preventative cardiologist, joins me to discuss the intricacies of heart health. We delve into heart anatomy, common cardiovascular issues, and the role of cholesterol and plaque in heart disease. Dr. Osborne explains the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods and highlights the advantages of advanced imaging techniques like cardiac CT. The conversation also covers valve disorders, treatment options, and the future of cardiology with AI and advanced imaging. Key Takeaways: We literally have the cure for heart disease. We don't look for the cancer early. Waiting for symptoms is detrimental to health. Chest pain is a late indicator of heart disease. Stage 4 cancer is akin to late-stage heart disease. Early detection can save lives. Proactive healthcare is essential. Medical research has advanced significantly. Awareness of symptoms is crucial. Preventative measures can lead to better outcomes.   Resources Social Handles: Website: https://clearcardio.com/ Facebook: Clear Cardio Instagram: Clear Cardio YouTube: ClearCardio YouTube   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.   03:01  Understanding Heart Anatomy and Common Issues 06:01  The Limitations of Traditional Cardiac Testing 09:04  The Evolution of Cardiac Imaging Technology 11:50  The Role of Cardiac CT in Modern Medicine 15:02  Comparing Cardiac CT and Other Imaging Techniques 18:04  Leaky Valves and Their Implications 21:06  Pathological vs. Physiological Heart Changes in Athletes 28:24  Understanding Aortic Valve Issues 31:01  The Importance of Proactive Health Checks 33:03  Aortic Aneurysms and Their Risks 35:33  The Role of Plaque in Heart Disease 42:01  Cholesterol: A Poor Indicator of Heart Health 49:10  The Future of Preventive Cardiology  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, I examine the implication for human health of a recent research paper titled: Effects of Exercise Training on Mitochondrial and Capillary Growth in Human Skeletal Muscle: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression. Here is the link to the paper.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do we accept ourselves without giving up on growth? In this Mojo Monday episode, Carly talks about why acceptance isn’t resignation, how purpose shows up through action, and how self-compassion creates space for meaningful change. Carly Taylor is a counsellor and mindset coach with a Master of Counselling. Trained in Japanese Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and a member of the Australian Counselling Association, she helps people develop practical tools to live purposeful, engaged lives. To find out more about Carly, visit www.carlytaylorcoaching.com.au.Follow her on Instagram: carly_taylor_coachingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a twist from the normal Saturday interview, Carly takes the reins and interviews Paul on the concept of Hardiness. Topics discussed: The difference between Hardiness and resilience Why Paul had Hardiness as a topic for his PHD and book The 4 C’s of psychological hardiness Physiological hardiness and how  it interacts with psychology Can people learn to be hardier? Developing hardy kids See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.