PODCAST · education
Brianna Approved
by Dr. Brianna Diorio
Brianna Approved is a podcast dedicated to helping you think better so you can build a life you're obsessed with. Through the lens of integrative psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, each episode bridges the gap between research and real life—breaking down how your brain works, why you do what you do, and how to create lasting change through practical tools you can actually apply...delivered with equal parts evidence, directness, and humor.Hosted by Dr. Brianna Diorio, PhD—Integrative Medicine, MS Clinical Nutrition, FDN, Herbal Practitioner, and Life Coach
Episodes
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Ep 92: Najwa Zebian: The One Who Broke You Can’t Heal You
In episode 92 of the podcast, I sit down with author and educator Dr. Najwa Zebian to talk about emotional depth, letting go, and her newest book, The One Who Broke You Can’t Heal You. We get into being a “hopium addict,” confusing someone’s potential with who they actually are, and what happens...
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Episode 91: The Hidden Cost of Keeping Your Options Open
In Episode 91, we're diving into Why Maximizers Stay Stuck, Satisficers Move Forward, and the Freedom of Choosing. In this episode, we cover: The psychology of maximizers vs. satisficers and why some people stay stuck while others move forward. Why more options don't always lead to better...
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Episode 90: The Certainty Trap—Your Brain Wants Certainty, Your Life Requires Uncertainty
If you’ve ever felt stuck, indecisive, or like you’re waiting for clarity before making a big life decision, this episode is for you! In this episode, we will cover: Why you feel stuck: your brain prioritizes certainty over happiness Predictive processing: your brain runs mostly on internal...
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Episode 89: The Neuroscience of Grief — How to Navigate Loss, Sadness, and Heartbreak
In episode 89 of the podcast, we discuss why grief isn’t just emotional….it’s neurological. In this episode, we discuss: Why grief can feel physically painful and what’s happening in the brain when we experience loss in any form (Nerd Alert Segment) Why grief tends to come in waves rather than a...
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Episode 88 - Evidence Over Emotion: How to Stop Letting Feelings Run the Show
In Episode 88, we’re talking about how to stop letting feelings hijack your choices, and how to start using evidence — not impulse — as your compass. In this episode, we break down: Why emotional intensity is not the same thing as truth Nerd Alert: The brain systems behind emotions vs feelings…
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Episode 87 - Why Your Brain Loves Bad Habits (and How to Rewire Them for Good)
In episode 87, we are going over all things habits! Bad habits aren’t a willpower issue — they’re a brain wiring issue. In this episode, we break down why your brain automates patterns that don’t serve you, why trying harder doesn’t work, and how to actually rewire habits using neuroscience (not...
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Episode 86 — The Neuroscience of Anxiety: Dopamine, Procrastination & the Sunday Scaries Explained
In this episode, we break down the real neuroscience behind anxiety, avoidance, procrastination, and the Sunday Scaries — and give you practical tools to interrupt the patterns your brain keeps running on autopilot. You’ll finally understand what your brain is doing, why it’s doing it, and how to...
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Episode 85: Friendship Breakups: The Silent Heartache We Don’t Talk About
We talk about dating breakups all the time — but almost no one talks about the heartbreak of losing a friend. In this episode, we unpacks the hidden grief of friendship endings, the roles we unconsciously play, and how to know when a friendship has simply expired. You’ll learn: • Why friendship...
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Episode 84: Why You Can’t Let Go: The Psychology & Neuroscience of Holding Onto What Hurts You
Have you ever known something was bad for you—a relationship, a job, a habit—but kept going back anyway? In this episode, we unpack the hidden psychology and brain science that keep you stuck in cycles you know aren’t serving you. By the end, you’ll not only understand why you cling to what...
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Episode 83- Your Brain Is Lying to You: 10 Mental Biases Quietly Sabotaging Your Life
Your brain is running the show… but it’s using outdated software. In this episode, I break down 10 cognitive biases — the mental shortcuts that once kept us safe but now quietly sabotage your choices in relationships, careers, and everyday life. In this episode: 10 mental biases quietly…
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Episode 82 - The Currency of Your Life: Time, Energy, Perspective
Everything costs something. The real question is—what are you actually paying for? The price is usually your peace, your energy, your time... and your future clarity. In this episode, we explore: -Why your “free time” isn’t really free—and the hidden ways you leak energy -You’re not tired. You’re...
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Episode 81 – The Psychology of Post Traumatic Growth
In Episode 81, we are diving into Post Traumatic Growth (aka pain as a portal), the Region Beta Trap, and the Neuropsychology of Thriving After Rupture. We’ll break down why hitting rock bottom can be more motivating than staying “fine,” how trauma rewires your brain, and why you need 3-5…
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Episode 80- Cognitive & Ego Loops: Why You’re Stuck in the Same Thought Patterns (and How to Break Them)
In the 80th episode of the podcast we are diving into something I know many of us wrestle with: cognitive loops. In the episode, I discuss: What a cognitive loop actually is and why your brain gets hooked on them The role your ego plays in keeping you stuck in loops like the validation loop,...
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Episode 79 - High Achiever Burnout & The Productivity Trap
In episode 79 of the podcast, we will explore the high achiever’s baseline effect and the neuroscience behind why high performers struggle to rest (and why burnout ensues). We'll break down the trap of tying self-worth to productivity, how to rewire the subconscious belief that rest is...
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Episode 78 - The (Neuro)Science of Intentional Change & Habit Formation
In episode 78 we are getting into the science (and neuroscience) of change aka self-directed neuroplasticity! I discuss how change actually happens in the brain, why discipline is more important than motivation, how to create and stick to habits, and why systems and processes are more important...
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Episode 77 - Transformational Vocabulary: The Power of Words in Shaping Your Reality
My favorite solo episode to date! In this episode I will introduce the concept of transformational vocabulary and dive into how the words you chose shape your emotions, behaviors, perceptions and ultimately quality of life. We will explore practical tools for elevating emotional vocabulary…
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Episode 76- John Scafiddi Jr, Creative Director At War World Worldwide
It is the first episode of 2025, of course we are talking about mental health! In episode 76 I sit down with John Scafiddi Jr, founder & creative director At War World Wide & host on The Journey Podcast. We talk about being at war with yourself and how they can be a catalyst for personal growth…
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Episode 75 - Positive Psychology & The Art of Happiness
In episode 75 of the podcast, we are talking all things Positive Psychology, which is the scientific study of optimal human functioning. In this epsiode I disucss: Positive Psychology 101 (5 Core Pillars) Improving the Quality of Your Life Happiness Is A Skill Redefining Failure ___ Be sure to...
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Episode 74- Understanding How Your Menstrual Cycle, Mood and Skin Health Are Connected
In episode 74 I am talking all things menstrual cycle! I discuss: The 4 Phases Of Your Menstrual Cycle The Connection Between Your Skin Health & Period Hormones Impacting Your Mood Menstrual Cycle Hormones 101 ___ Be sure to follow my Instagram @briannadiorio for all the Brianna Approved...
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Episode 73 - Sleep Health, Circadian Rhythm & Sleep Cycles
In episode 73 we are talking all things optimizing sleep, circadian rhythm & sleep cycles. In this episode, I discuss: -Circadian Rhythm 101 -The Importance of Slow Wave Sleep / Deep Sleep -Science Behind The Importance Of An Early Bedtime -Why All Blue Light Isn't Bad -Hormonal Peaks During…
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Episode 72 - Steven Kahn, Product Development Scientist at Onnit
In episode 72 I sit down with Steven Kahn, Product Development Scientist at Onnit, a supplement company focusing on total human optimization and scientifically proven ingredients. We discuss: -Supplement Formulation Basics -Standardized Ingredients Vs Proprietary Blends -Avoiding Supplement...
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Episode 71- Daryl Nault, Integrative Health Research Expert
On episode 71 of the podcast, I sit down with Daryl Nault, a researcher at Examine.com, the largest database of nutrition and supplement research on the internet. In this episode, we discuss: Hierarchy of scientific evidence Research literacy How to reduce research biases Cherry-picking…
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Episode 70- The Science of Vibes & Nervous System Co-Regulation
In episode 70 I break down the actual science of vibes! I discuss co-regulation of the nervous system, limbic resonance, emotional residue and the heart-brain connection. I also get into why we rise to the occasion when we are surrounded by the right people (The Pygmalion Effect), how to increase...
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Episode 69- Dr. John Douillard, DC, Ayurvedic Health Expert & Founder of LifeSpa
Dr. John Douillard, DC, CAP is a globally recognized leader in the fields of natural health, Ayurveda, and sports medicine, and has been teaching Ayurvedic wisdom for 40 years. He is the creator of LifeSpa.com, where ancient Ayurvedic wisdom meets modern science. LifeSpa.com is one of the leading...
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Episode 68 - Gena Bradshaw, Holistic Health & Energy Coach
In episode 68 I sit down with Gena Bradshaw, a holistic health and energy coach, two-time cancer survivor, and author of A Survivors Story, A Holistic Healing Journey Through Cancer. In this episode, we discuss: -Understanding your “energy bucket” -Chakra System Basics -Prioritizing Healing...
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Episode 67 - Berberine, Not Nature’s Ozempic, But an Amazing Plant Compound & GLP-1 Basics
In this episode I discuss all things Berberine and why I love it as a plant compound! I discuss Berberine's MOA, benefits, GLP1 basiscs/ how that relates to Ozempic, cellular, and molecular targets for Berberine (such as AMPK + Sirtuins) how it works on dosage and contraindications. -Berberine...
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Episode 66 - Isaiah Frizzelle, Behavior Change Specialist: Trickle Down Therapy
In episode 66 I have a return guest and one of my favorite homies for life, Isaiah Frizzelle. In this episode, we talk about: -Embracing Being By Yourself -Communication Vs Comprehension -Friendship Breakups -Transparency vs Vulnerability You can watch the full YouTube video here and watch our...
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Episode 65- Trickle Down Therapy with Doreen Korba, Psychologist & Business Coach
In my first segment of Trickle Down Therapy, I sit down with my favorite people (and Brianna Approved homies) to have some meaningful conversations, purposely ponder life, and hopefully have a few laughs and nuggets of wisdom along the way! I sit down with Doreen Korba, psychologist, business and...
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Episode 64- The Neuroscience Behind Doing Hard Things
In episode 64 we are talking about the neuroscience behind doing hard things. I also discuss why doing hard things is actually good for your brain, why you should embrace becoming an imperfectionist, and 5 tips for tricking your brain into doing things it doesn’t want to do! Nerd Alert:...
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Episode 63 - Brendan Vermeire, Metabolic Solutions CEO & Creator of The Mental M.A.P™️
In episode 63 I sit down with Brendan, a Mental and Metabolic Health Scientist & Researcher, Functional Medicine Educator, Writer, and Speaker. Brendan is the owner and founder of the Metabolic Solutions Institute for Functional Health and Fitness Practitioners and the creator of the Functional...
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Episode 62- Marni Salup, On The Move Media Founder; Brand Development, Communication & Marketing
In episode 62 I sit down with Marni Salup, entrepreneur, triathlete, brand Builder, marketing and PR pro, and thought leader. Marni is also the founder of The Salup Group, founded in 2000, a brand development, partnership, and communications agency, founder of media brand On The Move Media, and...
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Episode 61 - WeNatal Founders, Ronit Menashe and Vida Delrahim; Supporting Prenatal, Fertility & Pregnancy Journey
In episode 61 I sit down with Ronit Menashe and Vida Delrahim, the founders of WeNatal, a prenatal supplement company intentionally designed for women and men. WeNatal aims to change the narrative surrounding fertility and pregnancy, shifting the focus from "me" to "we." We discuss leveling up...
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Episode 60 - Productivity Optimization
In my 60th episode of the podcast, I am sharing some of my favorite tips that will help you 10x your productivity this year! I explain the differences between habits and routines and give you 4 tips on developing a new (and lasting) habit. I then share with you 5 techniques for optimizing...
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Episode 59 - Rob Crews, CEO Complete Game, Human Development & Mental Strength
In episode 59 I sit down with Rob Crews, founder and CEO of Complete Game, Player Development Company. We talk about improving mental strength, the importance of knowing and accepting yourself (as both an athlete and a person), the concept of human development instead of just player development,...
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Episode 58 - Kiran Krishnan, Microbiologist & Gut Health Expert
In episode 58 I sit down with Kiran Krishnan, microbiologist, researcher, co-founder of Microbiome Labs, and gut-health expert with 20 years of experience in nutrition and dietary supplements. In this episode, we discuss : What matters most when picking a probiotic (CFUs vs Strains) and why…
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Episode 57- Mike Crowson, Brand Marketing and Business Growth Expert
In episode 57 I sit down with Mike Crowson, owner of ARFUNNEL.io, Fit Legacy Marketing Agency. We discuss figuring out when and why is the right time to walk away from a business venture, redefining failure and success as an entrepreneur, finding balance between pursuing your passion and making…
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Episode 56- Epic Dental Founder & CEO, Donald Bailey
In episode 56 we are talking dental health! I sit down with Epic Dental founder and CEO, Donald Bailey. We discuss how to find a good dentist, what causes cavities, why brushing and flossing aren’t the only things that matter for your teeth, and Donal explains the benefits of incorporating…
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Episode 55 - California Poppy - Herbal Relaxant & Emotional Nutrition
In episode 55 I discuss one of my favorite herbal relaxants and nervines, California Poppy! I discuss its mechanisms of action, one of the main constituents and its indicated health benefits. I also include a Botanical Bri Tea- my Soothing Poppy Tea! I am also adding a new segment to the show...
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Episode 54- Dr. TJ Abrams & Clint Price - Chiropractic & Acupuncture Care
In episode 54 I sit down with chiropractor Dr. TJ Abrams and Acupuncturist Clint Price to discuss all things creating a healing team! Dr. TJ and Clint both discuss HOW chiropractic care and acupuncture work on the body (mechanism of action), patient compliance, and how both of these modalities…
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Episode 53- Dr. Tina Yang, Adrenal Support & Chinese Medicine
In episode 53 I have my first return guest, Dr. Tina Yang; Acupuncturist, Chinese Medicine Doctor, and Fertility & Women’s Health Specialist. In this episode, Dr. Tina discusses the adrenal glands, how adrenal health is viewed in Chinese medicine, and the importance of understanding your...
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Episode 52 - Hawthorn & Motherwort: Heart Supporting Herbs
In honor of Heart Health Month (and my birth month) episode 52 is talking about herbs to support the cardiovascular system! I discuss Hawthorn and Motherwort, two botanicals that can support both the physical and emotional heart. I discuss the main actions, herbal energetics, taste, and key...
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Episode 51 - Katey Kristabelle, Holistic Esthetician
Katey Kristabelle (faces by Katey on IG) is the founder of Mindful Beauty, a safe no judgment space for you to receive guidance towards skin and soul healing. Katey is a holistic esthetician specializing in “glowing skin and fluffy brows”. She has been practicing her craft for a decade and…
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Episode 50 - Feelings Vs Emotions, Mental Health Prompts & Getting Your Mindset Right for the New Year
In this episode, I am talking about getting your mindset right! I discuss the idea of emotional resiliency, the difference between feelings and emotions (and why your feelings don’t always matter), the different parts of the brain involved in feelings and emotions, and why you should absolutely...
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Episode 49- Anthony Renna - Fitness Expert & Strength Coach Podcast Host
In episode 49 I sit down with Anthony Renna, an expert in the fitness industry for over 20 years. Anthony is the author of Be Like the Best, a guide to reaching the top in the fitness profession. Anthony is also the host of the Strength Coach Podcast, which consists of Interviews with the Top...
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Episode 48 - Cassie Aurora: Understanding Homeopathy
In episode 48 of the podcast I sit down with Cassie Aurora, a professional astrologer, reiki master, sound healer, and holistic integrative coach. In this episode Cassie dives into all things understanding Homeopathy, which includes explaining what Homeopathy actually is (and why she believes it…
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Episode 47 - Benefits of Ginger & Supporting the Large Intestine in Chinese Medicine
In episode 47 I am discussing one of my favorite OG botanicals, ginger root! Since we are in the Autumn season I discus the role of the large intestines from a Chinese Medicine standpoint including its emotional meaning, the physiological importance and function of the large intestines, the...
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Episode 46- Wood Betony- Emotional Herbal Support & 4 Tips for Getting Your Mind Right
In episode 46 we are talking emotional support! I discuss the concept of emotional residue and why things just feel off sometimes. I discuss different categories of emotional support from an herbal perspective. In my Botanical Bri section I dive into one of my favorite herbs to support emotional...
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Episode 45- Why You Struggle With Change & Accepting Newness
In episode 45 of the podcast (my favorite episode I have recorded to date) I am talking all things change, resistance and acceptance! I discuss some main reasons why you struggle with change in general, why you need to have “seasons” of emptiness and loneliness in your life to create newness, and...
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Episode 44- David Neagle, Success Mindset Coach
In episode 44, I sit down with Davin Neagle, Success Mindset Coach and we talk all things life and business success! David explains the importance of failure when scaling your business, the 3 P’s of spending your time and energy, why you need to be alone for some parts of your entrepreneurship...
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Episode 43- JD Wilson, Founder of Lead U
In episode 43 I sit down with JD Wilson, the founder of Lead U, a company that focuses on creating personalized empowerment experiences for students, school staffs, sports teams, and business corporations. We discuss how Lead U was created and how to turn your passions and skills into your…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Brianna Approved is a podcast dedicated to helping you think better so you can build a life you're obsessed with. Through the lens of integrative psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, each episode bridges the gap between research and real life—breaking down how your brain works, why you do what you do, and how to create lasting change through practical tools you can actually apply...delivered with equal parts evidence, directness, and humor.Hosted by Dr. Brianna Diorio, PhD—Integrative Medicine, MS Clinical Nutrition, FDN, Herbal Practitioner, and Life Coach
HOSTED BY
Dr. Brianna Diorio
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Brianna Approved have?
Brianna Approved currently has 94 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Brianna Approved about?
Brianna Approved is a podcast dedicated to helping you think better so you can build a life you're obsessed with. Through the lens of integrative psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, each episode bridges the gap between research and real life—breaking down how your brain works, why you...
How often does Brianna Approved release new episodes?
Brianna Approved has 94 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Brianna Approved?
You can listen to Brianna Approved on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Brianna Approved?
Brianna Approved is created and hosted by Dr. Brianna Diorio.
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