

Building Resilience
Leah Davidson
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when you're dealing with anxiety, stress, a dysregulated nervous system, or constant overthinking.But here's the good news: you're not alone, and relief is possible.I'm Leah Davidson, a nervous system resilience coach and speech-language pathologist, and I'm here to help you navigate life's ups and downs by teaching you practical tools for nervous system regulation. On this podcast, you'll learn how to manage anxiety, reduce stress, stop overthinking, and support a healthier, more regulated nervous system.Together, we'll share inspiring stories, practical tips, and compassionate support to build resilience and create a life filled with purpose, joy, and connection.Ready to befriend your nervous system and reclaim your peace? Let's get started! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 1, 2025 • 16min
My Travel Companions
Have you ever felt a pull between staying safe in what's familiar and venturing into the unknown? It's a common experience to wrestle with the tension between who you've been and who you're becoming. As we step into 2025, how can we navigate this journey with trust, intention, and resilience?On this episode of Building Resilience, we'll get into the concept of your past, present, and future selves as your travel companions on the journey of life. I share a powerful visualization to help you better understand the roles these "selves" play, and how each can support your growth. You'll discover how to thank your past self, trust your future self, and navigate your present with compassion and courage. It's not too late to sign up for my free workshop, It's Not Just Your Thoughts, It's Your Nervous System (With a Creative Twist)! Join me on January 2 and 3.Resources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 25, 2024 • 14min
Deliberate Gratitude
Have you ever noticed how gratitude can transform even the toughest moments? It’s not just about saying “thank you” or counting blessings—it’s a profound practice that connects us to resilience, hope, and joy. But how do we lean into gratitude when life feels heavy, or when challenges arise that seem insurmountable?On this episode of Building Resilience, we get into the concept of deliberate gratitude. I share personal stories and practices, from meaningful holiday traditions to life-changing experiences that taught me the power of gratitude, even in adversity. We’ll talk about simple, actionable ways to cultivate gratitude, explore its impact on the nervous system, and discover how it can be a source of healing and connection.It’s not too late to sign up for my free workshop, It's Not Just Your Thoughts, It's Your Nervous System (With a Creative Twist)! Join me on January 2 and 3.Links:Ep. 110: The Zone of ResilienceResources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 2024 • 22min
The Power of Creativity for Nervous System Health
Creativity isn't just for artists --- it can be an amazing tool to help calm your nervous system and expand your resilience. When life feels overwhelming, unlocking your creative side might be the unexpected solution you need.On this episode of Building Resilience, I’m teaching about the power of creativity for nervous system health. I'll explain how creative activities can signal safety to your brain, reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels, and reconnect you with joy and playfulness. Plus, I share practical strategies for incorporating creativity into your daily life --- even if you don't consider yourself a creative person. From five-minute creativity breaks to mindful practices, I’ll give you some simple ways to nurture your nervous system through creativity.Links:Workshop: It's Not Just Your Thoughts, It's Your Nervous System (With a Creative Twist): Sign up for free!Resources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 11, 2024 • 26min
The Mother-in-Law, Daughter-in-Law Connection With Special Guest Leann Austin
We all know the stereotypes: the controlling mother-in-law, the aloof daughter-in-law. Why is this relationship often painted as inherently difficult, fraught with tension and unmet expectations? And what if it didn't have to be that way?On this episode of Building Resilience, I'm joined by LeAnn Austin, a master-certified life coach who specializes in helping women create more connection and fun, particularly with their daughters-in-law. Together, we explore the often complex dynamics of the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship. Leann shares insights on expectations, communication styles, and the importance of connection. As Leann says, "You either love someone, or you don't understand them." Guest Links:Visit Leann Austin's website: leannaustin.comCheck out her podcast, Lovin My Daughter-in-LawGrab Leann's Connection Blueprint and One Question Guide at leannaustin.comFollow Leann on Instagram: @leannaustincoaching Resources:The "Memory Matters" course: cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution": a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress. Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform: it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram, or find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 2024 • 19min
Focus on Wellness, Not Disease
So often, we get caught up in managing symptoms, treating disease, and reacting to challenges---but what if the key to lasting wellness lies in flipping that script? What if, instead of focusing on reducing danger, we focused on increasing safety and resilience to heal ourselves.On this episode of Building Resilience, I explore the profound impact of adopting a wellness-centered mindset. We'll dive into how our language shapes health experiences, why the nervous system plays a pivotal role in resilience, and practical strategies to prioritize health and wellness over illness and disease. Drawing from concepts like salutogenesis, I share insights into how small changes in focus---like reframing our language and investing in daily nervous system resets---can lead to transformative growth. Don't miss the upcoming "Doodle Your Nervous System" workshop on January 2nd and 3rd at 1 p.m. Eastern. Join me for a fun and interactive session where you'll explore creativity as a tool to reset your nervous system. Bring your favorite art supplies, and let's get doodling! (Replays will be available for a limited time)Links:Ep.127 - Affect LabelingResources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27, 2024 • 18min
Insights About Happiness
Happiness often feels like an elusive goal, something we're constantly striving for but never quite reaching. Is it about material wealth, ticking off life's achievements, or something deeper? And how do we cultivate it in a world that often feels overwhelming?On this episode of Building Resilience, I delve into the science of happiness, drawing from the groundbreaking research of Ed Diener and Robert Waldinger. Together, we explore the myths and truths about happiness, examining how perspective, connections, and aligning with personal values contribute to a fulfilling life. I share actionable insights about the power of micro-habits, gratitude, and finding purpose in everyday moments. Whether you're looking to deepen your relationships, prioritize what truly matters, or just embrace more joy in your life, this episode has something for you.Links:Ep. 110: The Zone of ResilienceResources: The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable. The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives. My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 20, 2024 • 38min
Your Nervous System Matters Series with special guests Lexie Hill and Erin Wallen
Your nervous system shapes your daily life behind the scenes. It’s easy to overlook, but your nervous system is the hidden powerhouse behind your responses, emotions, and capacity to handle life’s challenges. When you understand and take care of it, it can unlock a whole new level of resilience and clarity.On this episode of Building Resilience, I sit down with two incredible guests, Lexie Hill and Erin Wallen, who share their transformative journeys in nervous system regulation. They discuss practical tools and techniques for nervous system resilience, including "game day tools" for in-the-moment regulation. From understanding the power of the vagus nerve to realizing how a regulated nervous system can enhance relationships, Lexie and Erin reveal why this knowledge is essential for thriving, not just surviving.Guest Links:Connect with Lexie Hill on her website and Instagram.Connect with Erin Wallen on Instagram or other socials.Resources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 2024 • 21min
The Power of Micro Habits
Ever feel overwhelmed by the big goals you set for yourself? Sometimes, the smallest actions can be the most powerful, helping us make meaningful progress without getting lost in the stress of it all. But how can we break down our aspirations into manageable, daily steps?On this episode of Building Resilience, we're exploring the transformative impact of micro habits. I'll share how incorporating tiny, intentional actions throughout the day can build up to substantial change. By the end, you'll have a bunch of practical strategies to introduce more micro habits in your life, making real progress one small step at a time.Links:Ep. 127: Affect LabelingEp. 110: The Zone of ResilienceResources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 2024 • 14min
I Don’t Know How, But I Know It’s Possible
Life doesn't give us the answers we want, at least not right away. Facing challenges without knowing how things will work out can feel overwhelming. But what if, instead of focusing on the how, we focused on the simple belief that it's possible?On this episode of Building Resilience, we'll break down the mantra, "I don't know how, but I know it's possible." I share personal stories, including my son's journey and the profound lesson he taught me, and a reminder that sometimes we need to remember that the absence of something in your life can be a sign that its opposite exists.Links:Ep. 185: Embracing UncertaintyResources:The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable.The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives.My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 30, 2024 • 19min
The Emotional Bank Account
Ever felt like relationships can sometimes leave you emotionally drained or uplifted without understanding why? There's a subtle but powerful concept that might just hold the key to balancing these interactions---much like a real bank account, your emotional bank account determines the quality of your connections.On this episode of Building Resilience, I dive into the idea of the emotional bank account. This metaphor unpacks how everyday words, actions, and behaviors can either deposit or withdraw. Plus, I explore how the emotional bank account ties into your nervous system, helping you regulate stress and build resilience.Links:Ep. 125 - Understanding the Role of Neuroception (AKA Your Internal Surveillance System)Resources: The "Memory Matters" course---cherish and protect your memories, they're invaluable. The Advanced Nervous System Resilience training---join the waitlist! Dive deep into understanding the nervous system and its role in our lives. My video series, "The 30 Second Burnout Solution"---a lifeline for those grappling with stress and burnout, especially compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress.Connect:Could you do me a favor? Please leave a review on your preferred podcast platform---it helps me reach more and more people. I'd also love to hear any insights or questions you have.You can also pay me a visit on Facebook or Instagram. You can also find me on my website and book a mini session with me! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


