Stompcast Pt 2: This Nerve Could Be the Key to Managing Your Stress | Jane Ollis
Sep 9, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jane Ollis, a neurotech pioneer and developer behind the Sona vagus-nerve stimulation device, dives deep into the fascinating world of the vagus nerve. She explains its critical role in stress management and resilience building. Jane shares insights from her device's development, including the surprising clinical effects observed. They also touch on practical strategies to combat stress and the importance of mindset and physiology in enhancing resilience. The conversation is filled with transformative ideas for personal growth!
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Vagus Nerve As A Stress Thermostat
- The vagus nerve helps keep us in an optimal 'middle' stress zone between lethargy and hyper-focus.
- Technology can assist by speeding recovery and helping you return to that balanced state faster.
Pair Breath With Tech For Faster Recovery
- Use breath techniques as a first-line tool to downregulate stress because they're simple and powerful.
- If breath alone isn't enough, consider technology to enable faster short recovery windows and boost learning via neuroplasticity.
Early Proof Of Concept Changed Brain And HRV
- Jane described early studies using ear stimulation that changed prefrontal asymmetry and increased HRV after a single session.
- That proof-of-concept led to grant funding and product development but the clinical pathway remains long.