Hardiness with Dr Paul Taylor

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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/connect@drrimka.com 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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In this episode, Carly explores the concept of anxiety and how we can approach it in a new way. She discusses the idea that anxiety isn't something to be eliminated, but rather a natural response to uncertainty and responsibility. Carly dives into the work of psychologist Rollo May, who saw anxiety as a signal that something matters. She explains how attentional control can help us break the cycle of anxiety and reconnect with 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_coachingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a repeat episode from a couple of years ago, because it was absolutely brilliant. In this conversation, Dr Stuart Shanker discusses his journey in understanding self-regulation and stress through the lens of neuroscience. He explains the intersection of neuroscience and human behaviour, exploring concepts like the interbrain, homeostasis, and the impact of stress on emotional regulation and development. Key Takeaways: Stress and Human Behaviour: Understanding how stress affects human behaviour and the importance of self-regulation in managing stress effectively. Neuroscience Insights: Insights into the limbic system and midbrain, and their roles in emotional regulation and stress response. Global Knowledge Dissemination: The importance of spreading knowledge about stress and self-regulation both in Canada and globally. Homeostasis and Stress: The concept of homeostasis and how excessive stress can lead to imbalance in the body's systems. Practical Applications: Practical strategies for self-regulation that can improve mental and physical well-being.   Resources MEHRIT Centre Self-Reg GLOBAL Website: https://self-reg.ca/ Stuart  is the author of the Self-Reg trilogy: Calm, Alert and Learning: Classroom Strategies for Self-Regulation (Pearson 2012), Self-Reg: How to Help Your Child (and You) Break the Stress Cycle and Successfully Engage with Life (Penguin 2016); Reframed: Self-Reg for a Just Society (UofT Press 2020), and with Susan Hopkins, Self-Reg Schools: A Handbook for Educators (Pearson 2019). LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartshanker/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StuartShankerSelfReg/ 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. 03:41 Stuart Shanker's Journey and the Merit Centre 09:23 The Evolution of Neuroscience and Human Behaviour 17:33 Understanding the Interbrain and Its Role 25:25 Homeostasis and Its Impact on Behaviour 27:54 Understanding Homeostatic Imbalance 33:15 Self-Regulation vs. Self-Control 35:18 Recognising Stress in Children 38:27 The Importance of Calmness 42:27 Allostatic Overload and Its Implications 48: 54 Adaptive vs. Maladaptive Self-Regulation 57:52 The Role of Exercise in Self-Regulation      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.