Make Your Mind

In this episode, Jess and Duncan Anderson explore the current state of mental health, focusing on the concept of learned helplessness. They discuss how society's emphasis on recognising and reacting to negative stimuli may contribute to declining mental health, advocating for a return to principles of cognitive behavioural therapy. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they explore the importance of emotional regulation, gratitude practices, and proactive problem-solving as means to foster a healthier mindset and more fulfilling relationships.As always, here are a few questions for you to reflect on after listening to this episode.First, in what moments do you prioritise comfort over growth,and how are you seeing these ideas play out in society more broadly?And then second, what does the idea of self care mean to you, and are there any aspects of it that you might want to adjust or reconsider after hearing the ideas shared?This episode was edited by David Willett of Double T Media

In this episode of the 'Make Your Mind' podcast, Jess interviews Professor Brock Bastian, a social psychologist and author of 'The Other Side of Happiness.' They explore the idea that the pursuit of happiness often leads to discontentment and discuss how embracing struggle and discomfort can be vital to a well-lived life.Bastian delves into cultural narratives and how they shape our emotional perceptions, highlighting the importance of accepting pain as part of the human experience. The episode also considers communal activities and rituals as pathways to genuine connection and fulfilment.And the prompt that we'd like to leave you with today is this:"How have the expectations of my life shaped the way that I feel, and in what ways has this helped me or hurt me? The purpose of reflective prompts deepens our understanding. When we apply ideas to ourselves, we can think about concepts through a new lens. And if you want to take this one step further, use this question to spark a conversation with someone else. When we talk through ideas and concepts, we give ourselves a chance to reflect and to crystallise the wisdom that we've learned.So it's a win-win. Not only are you passing the knowledge onto someone else, but you're also deepening your understanding.Why we need pain to feel happiness | Brock Bastian | TEDxStKildahttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_x9cbrdgnw&t=724s&ab_channel=TEDxTalks

In this episode, I speak with Imi Lo, psychotherapist, author, and thinker whose work explores the intersection of emotional intensity, neurodivergence, and sensitivity.Her book Emotional Sensitivity and Intensity felt like a roadmap to me—a warm invitation to appreciate the diversity of minds and a guide for how to work with and uplift sensitivity, rather than see it as something that needs to be pathologised.Imi holds master’s degrees in mental health and Buddhist studies as well as researching Jungian theories, art therapy, global cultures, mentalization, and mindfulness-based modalities. She describes her professional life as a decade-long pursuit of one central question: “What do people who are emotionally sensitive and intense need?” I think this framing alone is something really special.This conversation unpacks a wide range of topics, from the impact of psychological labels like ADHD, autism, and anxiety to how language can both empower and limit. We explore themes of intuition, trauma, and the importance of having our internal experiences mirrored and validated.Topics we cover:– The problem with pathologising personality– Why sensitivity is not weakness– The risk of over-identifying with diagnosis– How to honour your intuition– Healing relational wounds through new experiences– The tension between individualism and community in a post-religious, post-COVID world– Positive disintegration and the power of inner chaos– Creating a life that fits your natureImi’s work has stayed with me in all the best ways, and I hope this conversation does the same for you.You can explore more of her work at www.eggshelltherapy.comFind her on Medium: imilo.medium.comOr check out her books, this is her first one Emotional Sensitivity and Intensity which she suggests as an introduction to her work. Or the The Gift of Intensity her second book.

If you’ve ever found yourself obsessing over someone—you can't stop thinking about them, you're building out fantasies in your head, and your thoughts are starting to feel more like an addiction —you may have experienced limerence.In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Tom Bellamy breaks down the mechanics of limerence, explaining how it relates to addiction, reward systems, and emotional regulation. He explores why some people are more prone to limerence, how uncertainty fuels romantic obsession, and what strategies we can use to manage or overcome these overwhelming feelings.What You’ll Learn:​ What limerence is and how it differs from love​ The brain’s role in romantic obsession​ Why uncertainty and hope intensify limerence​ The connection between limerence and addiction​ How to recognise and navigate limerence in relationshipsWhere can you learn more? Check out Tom's incredible work and community on his website and YouTube channel. His resources and rich with information and very engaging. ​ Dr. Tom Bellamy’s website: livingwithlimerence.com​ Dr. Bellamy’s YouTube channel: Dr. Tom Bellamy on YouTubeThis podcast is hosted by Jess Leondiou, brought to you by Archley’s - tools for, writing, introspection and connection. www.archleys.com

Darren Fleming, a behavioral scientist and psychologist, shares his insights on redefining mental health paradigms. He encourages stepping back from conventional labels and rigid goals to embrace a more intuitive approach to personal growth. Fleming emphasizes tuning into body sensations and letting go of self-imposed stories. He critiques overthinking in therapy and promotes present-centered awareness instead of goal fixation. The conversation also touches on the importance of emotional processing through journaling, enhancing self-awareness and fostering genuine progress.

Gayle Hardie, a globally recognized leadership expert and co-founder of the Global Leadership Foundation, dives into the nuances of emotional health and leadership. She discusses the three centers of intelligence—head, heart, and gut—and their roles in effective decision-making. Gayle highlights how the Enneagram can foster self-awareness and facilitate personal growth, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. Listeners will also discover practical strategies for enhancing emotional wellness, including reflective writing and mindfulness practices.