The Paul Taylor Podcast

In an enlightening conversation, I sit down with Nick Wignall, a seasoned clinical psychologist, to discuss critical aspects of emotional resilience, stress management, insomnia, and the power of values. We delve into the nuances of emotional intelligence, challenge the conventional wisdom of stress management, and offer practical strategies to enhance mental well-being. What You'll Learn: Emotional Intelligence: Overrated or Misunderstood? Nick argues that while EQ is essential, it's often glamorised and misunderstood. He emphasises the need for emotional resilience over EQ, advocating for a balanced view where emotional fitness—a combination of resilience and fitness—plays a crucial role. Emotional resilience isn't just about understanding emotions; it’s about developing the capability to handle emotional challenges effectively. The Power of Values in Building Emotional Fitness: Nick introduces the concept of “emotional fitness,” akin to physical fitness, where consistent effort and practice lead to growth. The discussion highlights the role of values in guiding behaviour and building resilience. Paul shares personal anecdotes about how tapping into values like authenticity helped him address habits such as reducing alcohol consumption. Both agree that values serve as a compass, providing motivation and direction, especially during challenging times. Rethinking Stress Management: Challenging the notion of stress management, Nick and Paul suggest that instead of merely managing stress, individuals should address underlying stressors. They emphasise viewing stress as a potential growth area rather than something inherently negative. By shifting focus from managing symptoms to addressing roots, individuals can transform stress into a catalyst for development. Insomnia: More Than Just a Sleep Problem: Nick redefines insomnia, not as a sleep disorder, but as an anxiety-based problem. He underscores that insomnia often stems from excessive effort to control sleep, which paradoxically disrupts rest. Instead of intricate sleep rituals, the focus should be on reducing anxiety around sleep, adopting practices that encourage relaxation. The Scheduled Worry Practice: A Game Changer for Anxiety: Nick introduces the concept of a daily scheduled worry practice, proposing it as more effective than drugs or therapy for chronic anxiety. By dedicating specific time to acknowledge worries through writing, individuals can minimise their grip on daily life. This method, akin to exposure therapy, trains the brain to face worries head-on, reducing overall anxiety levels. Key Takeaways: Emotional intelligence is meaningful but thrives best when combined with active emotional resilience practices. Values are fundamental, serving as a guiding force in decision-making and personal growth, and are crucial for authentic living. True stress management involves addressing stressors, not just symptoms. This proactive approach transforms stress into an opportunity for growth. Viewing insomnia through the lens of anxiety highlights the importance of relaxation over rigid sleep routines. Scheduled worry practice offers a structured approach to deal with anxiety, promoting resilience and mental clarity. Resources: Explore more about emotional resilience and scheduled worry practice at ScheduledWorry.com and learn from Nick Wignall's insights on mental health. Subscribe to Nick's newsletter, The Friendly Mind, for practical advice on emotional well-being and mental health challenges. Support and share: If you found this discussion insightful, subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your preferred podcast platform to help us continue bringing vital conversations to light. Share this post with someone who might be grappling with stress, seeking better sleep, or wanting to harness emotional intelligence; these insights provide a roadmap for personal and emotional growth. 01:25 Debunking Emotional Intelligence 02:56 Emotional Resilience vs. Emotional Intelligence 03:35 The Importance of Emotional Fitness 06:41 Critique of Traditional Therapy Approaches 12:38 Understanding Emotional Fear Learning 17:56 The AVA Method for Emotional Resilience 23:32 The Role of Values in Overcoming Anxiety 25:49 The Power of Values in Daily Life 30:45 Understanding Boundaries in Communication 32:25 The Misconception of Stress Management 38:13 The Importance of Incrementalism 49:45 Rethinking Insomnia as an Anxiety Issue 56:15 Scheduled Worry Practice for Anxiety 01:00:15 Conclusion and ResourcesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's podcast on anti-aging strategies, I explore cellular senescence - what it is, how it's useful when we're young but promotes poor health when we age, and some things we can do to mitigate it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we become aware of our innate human nature and stop trying to control something that isn't controllable, we can break away from the mental prison we often find ourselves in and start to recognise that we have more freedom than we thought. Carly draws on the wisdom of psychotherapist, Irvin Yalom and existential philosopher, Jean-Paul Satre to help you gain insight into your human nature and recognise the freedom you have to choose how you live your life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this enlightening conversation, I sat down with Corey Jackson, a prominent figure in mindfulness research and emotional regulation, to explore the intricate world of mindfulness and metacognitive approaches to emotion. We traversed through the realms of Buddhist psychology, the impact of mindfulness on anxiety and depression, and the importance of attentional control. What You'll Learn: Mindfulness and Metacognitive Therapy: Corey discussed the differences between traditional cognitive-behavioural models and metacognitive models. He detailed how the latter focuses on metacognitive beliefs and how adjusting these beliefs can affect anxiety and depression more effectively. This model, often overlooked, offers a promising avenue for those dealing with mental health challenges. Attention and Its Role: Corey and I delved into the critical aspect of attention in shaping our reality. Drawing parallels with William James's theories and contemporary neuroscience, we examined how controlled attention can lead to better emotional regulation. Corey emphasised the importance of knowing not just what you pay attention to, but how you attend to it, and how this awareness can transform your emotional and psychological well-being. Traditional vs. Modern Mindfulness Practices: A significant portion of our conversation focused on comparing traditional Buddhist mindfulness practices with the modern, often simplified versions popularised in the West. Corey highlighted the rich history and depth of traditional practices, which often encompass a broader system of mental cultivation beyond just breath awareness. The Importance of Judgments: We explored the role of judgments in our mental and emotional lives. Corey challenged the popular Western notion of nonjudgmental awareness, explaining how traditional practices encouraged good judgment to guide behaviour aligned with personal goals and virtues. The Role of Emotions: Corey shared insights from his work with emotional balance, particularly how emotions serve as signposts indicating important events. We discussed strategies from both Eastern and Western philosophies to manage emotions, transform emotional states, and cultivate a balanced emotional life. Key Takeaways: Mindfulness as a Multifaceted Tool Attention and Emotional Control Judgment is Crucial Traditional Practices Hold Rich Insights Emotions are Indicative, Not the Enemy Resources: Visit Corey Jackson's website for more about his work and offerings. Explore Amishi Jha's research on mindfulness and attention for further insights into the neuroscience behind these practices Support and Share: If you found this conversation insightful, consider exploring Corey's online courses to further your understanding and practice of mindfulness and emotional balance. Cultivating emotional balance is a skill that benefits everyone, and Corey’s expert guidance offers a valuable path toward achieving it. 00:59 PhD Journey and Challenges 02:45 Exploring Mindfulness Mechanisms 04:30 Metacognitive Model and Therapy 08:15 Traditional vs. Modern Mindfulness 10:13 Brooding vs. Reflective Rumination 12:45 Contemplative Practices and Wisdom 17:26 Secularisation of Mindfulness 29:08 Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Observing Thoughts 29:59 Comparing Buddhist and Tibetan Views on Thought Observation 31:23 Attention and Attentional Control in Various Fields 33:20 The Role of Attention in Tibetan Buddhism 35:07 Managing Anger and Emotional Reactions 37:28 The Stoic Approach to Anger 39:14 Paul Ekman's Insights on Emotions 44:17 Controlled vs. Captured Attention 50:41 Brain Activity Patterns in Meditators 53:15 Corey Jackson's Work and Online Programs 55:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future ProjectsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today I discuss another one of the Hallmarks of Aging - chronic systemic inflammation, and more importantly, what we can do to combat it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you , or someone you know, living a complaints-based life? In this episode, Carly Taylor talks through why we complain, how to get into solution mode (if there is one) and taking responsibility for how we ride the urge to complain wave. She'll leave you with a challenge - stop complaining for a day and notice what happens.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a groundbreaking dialogue, I sat down with Dr. Matt Bernstein, a veteran psychiatrist and the CEO of Accord, to explore how metabolic health impacts mental well-being. This illuminating conversation delves into the innovative field of metabolic psychiatry, revealing how metabolic interventions offer a new frontier for treating mental health disorders. What You'll Learn: •    Understanding Metabolic Psychiatry: Dr. Matt Bernstein introduces the concept of Metabolic Psychiatry, emphasising how the brain's energy consumption is pivotal to mental health. We dive into how psychiatric conditions can stem from compromised metabolic health, transforming our approach to treatment. •    Training for Psychiatry: Dr. Bernstein takes us through his journey to becoming a psychiatrist, highlighting gaps in nutrition education throughout his extensive medical training. •    Metabolic Health and Psychiatry: We delve into how metabolic health is crucial for brain function. Dr. Bernstein discusses the energy needs of the brain and how metabolic strategies can serve as powerful interventions for mental conditions.   Key Takeaways: •    Metabolic Health as a Mental Health Cornerstone: Dr. Bernstein advocates for a foundational approach, building mental health treatments around metabolism. •    The Critical Role of Lifestyle: Emphasising the influence of exercise, diet, and light exposure, Dr. Bernstein highlights the potential of lifestyle modifications to transform mental health care. •    Pioneering Research and Future Directions: Dr. Bernstein is optimistic about ongoing research that promises to further validate and explain the efficacy of metabolic mental health interventions. However, concerns loom about mainstream psychiatry's willingness to adopt such approaches, reminiscent of challenges faced in epilepsy treatments. Resources: Explore Accord MH to learn more about their innovative approach and services in metabolic psychiatry. Connect with Dr. Matt Bernstein through LinkedIn to follow his journey and contributions to the field of mental health.   Support the Conversation: If you found this discussion insightful, subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your preferred podcast platform to help us continue bringing vital conversations to light. Share this post with someone who might benefit from understanding the connections between metabolic and mental health—knowledge is powerful, and this could spark a significant change in someone's life.   00:40 Journey to Becoming a Psychiatrist02:43 Metabolic Psychiatry Explained03:32 Historical Context of Metabolic Treatments03:52 Ketogenic Diet and Epilepsy08:45 Challenges in Psychiatric Training14:15 Personal Story: Son's Mental Health Journey17:19 Rethinking Psychiatric Diagnoses21:40 Metabolic Treatments for Mental Health24:01 Human Evolution and Modern Health Challenges29:43 Role of Ketogenic Diet in Mental Health35:50 Ketogenic Diets and Autophagy35:58 Reducing Oxidative Stress36:43 Impact of Simple Carbohydrates37:26 Neuroinflammation and Mental Health38:19 Ketogenic Diet and Neurotransmitters42:00 BDNF and Brain Health44:39 Microbiome and Gut-Brain Axis50:01 Hormetic Polyphenols53:23 Personalised Nutrition and Gut Health54:50 Mitochondria and Metabolic Health57:47 Accord's Comprehensive Mental Health Program01:01:10 Future of Mental Health InterventionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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David Reynold's, author of Constructive Living, has taken the philosophies of Morita Therapy and Naikan to create an approach to life by the same name. In this episode, Carly talks about the action side of CL, where instead of waiting to feel better before we take action, we do what needs to be done, despite how we feel. This is sound, practical advice for daily living.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this engaging episode of "The You Project," host Craig Harper catches up with Paul Taylor, sharing an intimate look at Paul's recent health challenges and the lessons learned along the way. Paul's candid discussion offers valuable insights on resilience, perspective, and the power of the human spirit during life's trials. What You'll Learn: Paul's Heart Surgery and the Lead-Up: Paul Taylor discusses his heart condition diagnosis, the decision-making process for surgery, and the unexpected hurdles he faced before undergoing a Ross Procedure. Hear how a simple conversation with a cardiologist friend led to a life-changing discovery about a congenital heart defect. Facing Adversity: Throughout the episode, Paul emphasizes the importance of facing challenges head-on. Motivated by stoic philosophy and personal experiences, he reflects on how adversity can serve as a worthy opponent that tests and strengthens us. Lessons in Health and Resilience: Paul highlights the significance of being proactive about one's health. From understanding medical options to managing recovery, he describes the integral role of meticulous research and tailored strategies in his health journey. The Role of Perspective: Drawing on the teachings of stoic philosophers and history with military training, Paul shares the mental frameworks he employed to view his health crisis as a challenge rather than a setback. This perspective empowered him to plan his recovery and focus on aspects within his control. Navigating Recovery: Fast-tracking his return to work, Paul explains his unconventional recovery approach—defying standard medical advice with carefully calculated risks. Discover the integrative therapies and lifestyle modifications that accelerated his progress. Key Takeaways: Hardiness is built by actively engaging with challenges, transforming fear and uncertainty into purposeful action.  A proactive, informed approach to health can empower individuals to make better healthcare decisions and facilitate recovery.  Perception influences reality: reframing challenges as opportunities can profoundly impact our experiences and outcomes. Self-care and strategic recovery are vital in overcoming health obstacles and returning to normalcy. Resources: For more insights from Paul Taylor, visit his website and explore his book, "Death by Comfort." For additional information on Craig Harper and "The You Project," tune in to his episodes and explore the diverse range of topics they cover extensively. Support the Podcast: If you found this episode inspiring or insightful, please consider subscribing to "The Paul Taylor Podcast" and leaving a review. Your support helps keep these important conversations coming. Sharing this episode with someone who may benefit from these insights could make a meaningful difference in their life, especially those navigating personal health challenges or seeking resilience. Connect with Paul Taylor: Website: https://www.paultaylor.biz/ Connect with Craig Harper: Website: https://craigharper.net/ For more engaging content, check out "The You Project" and follow Craig Harper for his motivational talks and varied guest interviews. 00:42 Paul's Health Journey Begins 01:23 Discovering the Heart Defect 03:00 Preparing for Surgery 05:15 Post-Surgery Reflections 08:24 Recovery and Resilience 20:32 Hospital Challenges and PTSD 25:54 Introduction to the Ross Procedure and Medication 26:41 Experiencing Severe Side Effects 29:00 Deciding to Leave the Hospital 30:54 Reflecting on Health and Recovery 37:42 Philosophical Reflections on Life and Death  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.