

Hardiness with Dr Paul Taylor
Paul Taylor
Host Dr Paul Taylor, a Psychophysiologist, Neuroscientist, Exercise Scientist, and Nutritionist interviews experts from around the world on cutting edge research and practices related to improving hardiness in your mind, body and brain to become your best self.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 28, 2025 • 7min
Mojo Monday - Fear is Not a Time to Freeze: It’s a Time to Listen and Show Up
In this week's Mojo Monday, Carly talks about fear as an example of finding emotional balance. There is always a message in our emotions, but we often aren't listening. When we do listen, we find that even our most intense emotions are pointing us to what we deeply care about. From there, we have a compass to point us to the path to take and how we can show up fully, even when we feel like running the other way. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 26, 2025 • 58min
The ABCD of true resilience, with Dr Alia Bojilova - Part One
Here is the link for more information and to sign up for the exclusive Hardiness workshop and 6-week program - and here is a link to the research paper on the details and benefits of the program.. In today's episode, I’m joined by Dr. Alia Bojilova, a renowned psychologist and resilience expert, as we explore the complex and multifaceted nature of resilience. Drawing from her extensive experience wotking with the SAS in New Zealand and her new book, "The Resilience Toolkit," Dr. Bojilova shares her profound insights on resilience as a dynamic, necessary process rather than a fixed trait. We delve into the critical concepts of awareness, belonging, curiosity, and drive, while recounting gripping personal anecdotes, including Dr. Bojilova's intense experience of being taken hostage during her service in Syria. This discussion offers practical tools and rich perspectives on cultivating resilience in everyday life. What You'll Learn: Understanding Resilience: Dr. Bojilova debunks the notion that resilience is a fixed trait, describing it instead as an essential, ever-evolving process that must be nurtured. Awareness and Attention: Discover the importance of being grounded in the present moment and having a clear direction. Learn to differentiate between alertness and awareness and how mindful attention can enhance resilience. Belonging and Community: Understand the pivotal role of belonging, both to oneself and a larger community, in fostering resilience. Explore how shared values and connections with a tribe strengthen our ability to cope with stress. Facing Challenges: Hear about Dr. Bojilova’s life-defining experience in Syria, which underscores the significance of staying composed and responsive under pressure. Responding vs. Reacting: Learn strategies for developing the ability to respond to life’s challenges with intentionality rather than merely reacting. Key Takeaways: Resilience is a Process: It's essential to view resilience as an ongoing journey that involves nurturing and developing through life experiences. Awareness is Key: Being present and clear about our goals is crucial. It requires intentionality in our responses to the challenges we face. Belonging Matters: A strong sense of belonging and shared purpose can significantly impact our ability to handle stress and adversity. Engage with Challenges: Embrace life's difficulties as opportunities for growth and development. Practical Tools for Resilience: Developing awareness and attention control, understanding your triggers, and building community connections are all practical steps toward resilience. Resources For more on resilience and to purchase Dr. Bojilova's book, "The Resilience Toolkit," check your favourite local bookstore. Connect with Dr. Alia Bojilova on LinkedIn for updates and potential speaking engagements. Corporate inquiries can be directed to B2B Speakers, a speaking bureau in New Zealand. Support the Podcast By changing the narrative around resilience from a static attribute to a dynamic process, this conversation aims to empower listeners to better navigate their personal and professional lives. Share this episode with those who might benefit from a renewed perspective on resilience. Your engagement could inspire and spark meaningful change. 00:50 Parallels in Our Journeys 01:19 Growing Up in Eastern Europe 02:45 Discovering Viktor Frankl 03:33 Defining Resilience 07:34 A Life-Changing Experience in Syria 08:33 Surviving Hostage Situation 22:12 Lessons from the Ordeal 23:37 Writing the Resilience Toolkit 26:06 Veteran Mental Health and Debriefing 28:13 Reflecting on a Shared Experience 31:37 The Importance of Awareness 35:54 Mindful Attention and Cognitive Fitness 40:51 Responding vs. Reacting 45:52 Embracing Challenges and Building Resilience 51:09 The Role of Belonging in Resilience See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 23, 2025 • 14min
Wisdom Wednesdays: Exercise and heat exposure - are there beneficial effects?
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Sep 21, 2025 • 6min
Mojo Monday - Be Where Your Feet Are With Carly Taylor
In this week's Mojo Monday, Carly Taylor introduces the concept of 'be where your feet are' to help manage feelings of overwhelm and stress. Want to know more about Carly? Visit her website: carlytaylorcoaching.com.au or follow her on Insta: carly_taylor_coaching. Loving the podcast? Please consider leaving a review on your favourite platform. We not only love hearing from our listeners, but it also helps us to keep the podcast going. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 19, 2025 • 1h 6min
Decoding Brainwaves: The Power of Light, Sound, and Neuroplasticity
In this captivating podcast episode, I sit down with Dr. Patrick Porter, a pioneering figure in brainwave entrainment and neuroplasticity. Dr. Porter shares his extensive experience and groundbreaking work with BrainTap, a device that utilises light and sound to enhance cognitive function, improve sleep, and boost overall brain performance. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of brainwaves, the impact of external stimuli on neuroplasticity, and how cutting-edge technologies are reshaping the way we approach mental and physical health. What You'll Learn: Understanding Brainwaves: Gain insights into the different brainwave states—alpha, beta, theta, delta, and gamma—and their effects on our daily functioning. Neuroplasticity Unveiled: Discover how the brain can rewire itself at any age, especially when exposed to new stimuli like sound and light. The Potential of BrainTap: Explore how this innovative tool can improve mental acuity, physical health, and emotional resilience, making it a game-changer for all users. Scientific Living: Learn how the integration of light, sound, and modern technology can elevate your lifestyle and health regime. Key Takeaways: Brainwaves are crucial for various cognitive functions, and maintaining a balance among them can lead to optimal mental health and performance. Light and sound therapies offer non-invasive ways to enhance brain activity and promote well-being. BrainTap is accessible for a wide range of uses, from boosting workplace productivity to enhancing athletic performance and aiding in cognitive therapy. A holistic approach combining technology, nutrition, and exercise can maximize brain health and prevent neurological decline. For those interested in diving deeper into the world of brain fitness and discovering how you can integrate these cutting-edge techniques into your life, check out Dr. Porter's work with BrainTap and his latest book, "Brain Fitness Blueprint." Resources Connect with Dr. Patrick Porter Website: BrainTap Instagram Facebook Website: Dr. Patrick Porter Instagram Facebook Books: Available on Amazon and other retailers/ Brain Fitness Blueprint Support the Podcast If you found this episode insightful, please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review to help us reach more listeners with discussions that inspire and inform. Share this episode with someone who might benefit from it, as understanding and optimising brain function is more vital than ever in our fast-paced world. 00:22 Dr. Porter's Background and Early Career 00:54 Invention of the MC Square and Brainwave Synchronisation 02:27 Understanding Brainwave Patterns 02:50 The Role of Neurotransmitters and Brain Health 05:51 The Importance of Sleep and Brainwave Cycles 06:57 The Science of Brain Frequencies and Neuroplasticity 23:40 The Impact of Light and Sound on the Brain 33:38 Understanding the Monkey Mind 34:26 The Role of Light in Meditation 35:49 The Science Behind Light Therapy 38:13 Brain Synchronisation and Pain Management 49:40 The Importance of Sleep and Brain Detox 59:14 Applications and Benefits of BrainTap See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 17, 2025 • 24min
Wisdom Wednesdays: New research on the benefits of 3, 4 and 7-day water fasts - and a suggested hack from me
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Sep 14, 2025 • 7min
Mojo Monday - How to Reframe Stress With Carly Taylor
Carly Taylor will help you discover how shifting from threat mode to challenge mode can change the way you handle stress.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 12, 2025 • 42min
Unpacking Longevity and Cellular Health: A Conversation with Dr. Jon Brudvig - Part Two
Here is the second part of my conversation with biochemist Jon Brudvig to delve into the fascinating world of longevity and contemporary health interventions. We tackle topics ranging from SGLT2 inhibitors and their unexpected benefits to the controversial nature of microplastics in our environment. This dialogue is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the intersections of health, science, and longevity. What You'll Learn: Exploring SGLT2 Inhibitors: Discover the multifaceted benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors, originally diabetes drugs, for heart, kidney, and possibly cognitive health. Metformin: A Mixed Bag: Get an overview of the metformin debate, examining its potential benefits and the contentious nature of the research. Fasting Fundamentals: Gain insights into intermittent fasting, its impact on metabolism, potential benefits, and the critical role of resistance training to mitigate muscle loss. Microplastics: An Underestimated Threat: Learn about the insidious presence of microplastics in human tissues and their potential health repercussions. Potential Interventions: Hear about experimental approaches to reducing microplastics in the body, including the potential role of sulforaphane. Key Takeaways: SGLT2 inhibitors: These drugs have shown promising longevity benefits beyond their initial purpose for diabetes management. Metformin's Controversy: While some data suggests potential longevity benefits, criticism exists regarding its exercise interference and study methodologies. The Role of Fasting: Intermittent fasting can be beneficial, particularly for metabolic health, but must be carefully balanced with nutritional needs and physical activity. Microplastics Concern: Ubiquitous in the environment, microplastics are potentially linked to inflammation and adverse health outcomes, necessitating further research and interventions. Self-Experimentation: Personal health experiments, like those done by Jon Brudvig, highlight the importance of understanding one’s own biology in response to health interventions. Resources: Connect with Dr. Jon Brudvig for more insights into longevity and health: LinkedIn: Jon Brudvig Substack: https://jonbrudvig.substack.com/ Support the Podcast: If you found this episode valuable, please consider subscribing to our podcast and leaving a review. Your feedback helps us continue bringing important conversations like these to a wider audience. Whether you're driven by personal health challenges or broader scientific curiosity, this conversation provides a unique peek into the current and future possibilities of living healthier, longer lives. Share this with individuals passionate about health and longevity, and join the ongoing dialogue to advance our understanding and well-being. 00:12 Understanding SGLT2 Inhibitors 02:51 Mendelian Randomization and SGLT2 Inhibitors 06:24 Benefits and Mechanisms of SGLT2 Inhibitors 09:47 Discussion on Metformin 14:36 Intermittent Fasting and Ketone Supplements 17:46 Fasting, Autophagy, and Muscle Health 22:38 Exploring Glycine and N-Acetyl Cysteine 24:48 Microplastics: A Growing Concern 26:25 The Impact of Microplastics on Health 31:54 Self-Experimentation with Sulforaphane 38:33 Final Thoughts and Future Work See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 9, 2025 • 10min
Wisdom Wednesdays: Cool new research on the impact of omega 3 fatty acids on the health of your arteries
Protect your heart and arteries with this one powerful nutrient. In this episode, we dive into fascinating new research showing how omega-3 fatty acids like DHA can stabilize arterial plaque and dampen inflammation - reducing your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Timestamps:- 00:45 - How arterial plaque buildup causes inflammation and instability - 02:30 - Study on DHA's effects on plaque inflammation - 04:15 - How DHA reduces immune cell invasion and inflammation - 06:00 - DHA encourages immune cells to leave plaque- 07:30 - How much DHA we should be taking Key Takeaways:- Unstable arterial plaque prone to rupture causes most heart attacks/strokes- DHA reduces inflammatory immune cell invasion into plaque - DHA dampens inflammation by reducing NF-kB activation- Recommendations on supplements Don't miss this fascinating deep dive into using omega-3s like DHA for heart and artery health. Tune in now to protect yourself against cardiovascular disease!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sep 7, 2025 • 9min
Mojo Monday - How Glimmers Can Help Regulate and Balance your Nervous System With Carly Taylor.
This week Carly explores the power of glimmers—those tiny moments that calm your nervous system and begin to shift you out of stress. Learn how to spot them, why they matter, and how becoming a glimmer hunter can change the way you experience everyday life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


