The Brain It On! Podcast

In this episode, we are joined by Dustin Hawes, the Senior Social Media Specialist for the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute. In his role, Dustin is passionate about sharing the stories of cancer patients, caregivers, and researchers to build a supportive and informed online community.We recorded this interview last year, shortly after Dustin created a beautiful social media feature documenting our own medical journey. Today, we are sharing this conversation to discuss the practical and emotional impacts of storytelling in healthcare.Dustin explores why patients choose to share their most vulnerable health journeys, how social media can amplify these stories to drive real action, and how externalizing our experiences can help us find purpose. Whether you are ready to share your own story or learning how to hold space for someone else's, this episode provides a grounded look at how sharing our experiences helps both the speaker and the listener.In this episode, we cover:The Power of Narrative: Why shaping our medical journey into a cohesive story is a key part of the healing process.Vulnerability in Healthcare: Dustin shares firsthand insights on the impact of storytelling and why patients choose to share their experiences.Finding Your Throughline: How to identify the central message of your experience when you are ready to speak out.How to Be a Great Listener: We break down Brené Brown’s core teachings on empathy, including how to avoid an "empathy miss" when supporting a loved one.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Coming Soon... As I hinted at in this episode, we are putting the finishing touches on a project designed to help patients and caregivers. Make sure you are subscribed to the podcast so you don't miss the official launch announcement! Brené Brown on Empathy: Watch the powerful animated short about how to truly show up for someone in pain: https://youtu.be/1Evwgu369Jw?si=HfXIjokpRO61YeO1The Knight Cancer Institute Feature: Check out the beautiful social media feature Dustin created about our journey: https://www.instagram.com/p/DIzOpFtzpPh/Connect with Us: We would love to hear how this episode resonated with you.  Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts to help other caregivers find this community or use the "Text Us" feature in your podcast app to share a piece of your story with us.Send us Fan Mail

What do you do when you’re facing a medical mountain that feels impossible to climb? After a rare Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukemia (MPAL) diagnosis, a bone marrow transplant, and an unexpected relapse, we learned what it truly means to hold onto hope. Against all odds—by the grace of God, the brilliance of our medical team, and a selfless donor from Germany—Thomas' new immune system fought off the cancer, and we just celebrated his one-year milestone in sustained remission!In this episode, we are sharing our story from diagnosis to today. This isn't just a story about surviving—it’s a story about being a steward of a second chance. We discuss the overwhelming gratitude we feel for the doctors and nurses at OHSU and the Bend Cancer Center, the anchor of our faith, the prayers of our community, and the incredible gift of our donor, who changed everything. By exploring the science of Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), we share how we worked to keep our hearts focused on hope during the darkest hours, and why guarding your mindset is a vital part of the healing process.📺 Watch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/BfHTecVzVRE (We share some special visuals and photos, so head over to YouTube if you'd like to see them!)In This Episode, We Share:The Smallest Beginnings: How a simple finger cut led to a diagnosis that changed our lives overnight, and the humor we found in being a "medical advocate."A Debt of Gratitude: Honoring the medical teams and our donor, who bridged the gap when it mattered most.The Logistics of a Miracle: The scary reality of rapidly stopping anti-rejection meds to fight the cancer, and the suspense of getting donor cells across the world.The Science of Hope: A look at how shifting from fear to hope physically supports the body's natural ability to heal.The Gandalf Perspective: Why the ultimate goal isn't just avoiding "bad math," but deciding what to do with the time we are given.Resources Mentioned:Podcast: Blood Cancer UnitedQuote: When Calls the Heart (Hallmark Channel)The Gandalf Quote: J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the RingConnect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrainitonpodcast📱 Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thebrainitonpodcast 🎥If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who is navigating a hard season. ❤️Send us Fan Mail

How do you choose to "Live Fully" when facing a terminal diagnosis? Today, we’re sharing the powerful story of Thomas’ mom, Julie, and the "qualitative research" we did to capture her spirit for her memorial bench in Drake Park.WATCH ON YOUTUBE: See the photos of Thomas' mom Julie, our new memorial bench, and the "Honorary RN" ceremony mentioned in this episode here: https://youtu.be/AWjKiECkPbE Julie was an intuitive master of resilience. We break down the brain science behind her philosophy—Live Fully, Laugh Often, Love Always—and show how these weren't just nice sentiments, but survival strategies that helped her outlive her prognosis by nearly a year.IN THIS EPISODE:The Memorial Bench: The challenge of summarizing a life in three lines.Live Fully: Why doing the action first (Behavioral Activation) creates the feeling of hope.Laugh Often: The "Broaden-and-Build" theory and how humor chemically undoes the effects of stress.Love Always: The Stanford Forgiveness Project and the physiological health benefits of letting go.Marigold’s Great Adventure: A tribute to the children’s book Julie wrote 10 days before she passed.RESOURCES: Check out Julie's book, Marigold’s Great Adventure, and download free coloring pages at:https://www.pawsitivechoices.com/marigolds-adventureHUGE HEALTH UPDATE: Thomas has reached his 1-year milestone and is officially in sustained CNS remission! 🎉Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrainitonpodcast 📱Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thebrainitonpodcast🎥If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who's navigating a hard season. ❤️Send us Fan Mail

How do you find "The Most Wonderful Time of Year" when you’re facing your hardest days?📺 Watch the full video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aPk8j4gjx_s?si=XrHFdMtCmTTUEz-9 In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about reclaiming the holiday spirit while navigating cancer, hospital stays, and grief. Whether you’re spending the holidays in a hospital room or managing the heavy waves of loss at home, we share practical ways to brighten your environment and strategies for holding space for both sorrow and celebration.We truly believe you don’t have to choose between grief and joy—there is room at the table for both.What we discuss in this episode:Navigating the "Grief Wave": Practical strategies for when the holidays feel heavy or unexpected emotions surface.Hospital Holiday Hacks: How simple things like battery-powered lights and cozy blankets can transform a clinical space.The Power of Dressing Up: Why wearing something festive—even in a hospital room—is a powerful tool for mental resilience.Connecting with Care Teams: Small ways to share the spirit with your nurses and doctors.Safe Celebrations: How to stay connected to your community while prioritizing your health.Key Takeaways:Reclaiming the holiday spirit is an active choice, not a location.It is okay to hold space for both grief and celebration at the same time.Small, simple moments of "festive resilience" can change your entire outlook.You are not alone—we are walking this path with you.Resources & Mentions: Blood Cancer United Interview 🩸: https://youtu.be/ek-O6hNKKXc?si=mJypgj5D7YA3F4n0Heated Seats for Outdoors: https://a.co/d/8yfGOA3Colorful KN95s 😷: https://a.co/d/18EGLf9Warm Christmas Jazz 🎄: https://youtu.be/CPFutAYDBTI?si=P9n9vrrDgi4rlcEsInstrumental Christmas Fireplace Ambience: https://youtu.be/qOb0aoWH8DA?si=sHhknTFyMxgKcKAwTranquil Autumn Jazz: https://www.youtube.com/live/2G00EZsE_2w?si=ulBHzFlVPld1TNm-Haunted Pumpkin Porch Ambience 🎃: https://youtu.be/Mq-RRyha5Ag?si=_wS7DuK4Z1ZhyJsvConnect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrainitonpodcast 📱Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thebrainitonpodcast 🎥If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who's navigating a hard season. ❤️#HospitalHolidays #CancerJourney #GriefSupport #HolidayHacks #BrainItOn #MentalHealth #FindingJoy #ResilienceSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, Lindsey shares her personal journey through grief following the loss of her mother-in-law, Julie, who passed away from pancreatic cancer. She discusses the complexities of grief, emphasizing that it encompasses more than just the loss of a loved one. The conversation explores the importance of vulnerability, the necessity of grieving, and the process of finding meaning in loss. Lindsey also highlights the support she and her family have received, the role of faith in their healing, and practical strategies for coping with grief. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that while grief is painful, it is also a testament to the love shared with those who have passed.Key Learnings:Grief is proof of our love.The only cure for grief is to grieve.Love changes its address.God is close to the brokenhearted.Grief is normal, natural, and necessary.Finding meaning is a continuous process.Connect with us on Instagram @thebrainitonpodcast 📱and subscribe to our YouTube channel for videos and behind-the-scenes content! 🎥 If this episode helped you, please leave us a review and share it with someone who's navigating a hard season. ❤️Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we open up about navigating life's seasons, from unexpected disappointments to moments of grace, wisdom, and joy. The conversation begins with a celebration – Thomas is officially in molecular remission from leukemia! This powerful health update sets the stage for an honest exploration of how to embrace life's changing seasons. We share our personal approach to infusing joy into everyday moments, from decorating for fall and creating themed movie nights during difficult health challenges.Drawing from Brené Brown's Atlas of the Heart, we unpack what disappointment really means—those moments when the movie in our head doesn't match reality. You'll discover practical strategies for managing disappointment, including the power of validation and how cultivating appreciation can strengthen your relationships and well-being. We also share how our faith provides a foundation of strength, offering the reassurance that difficult seasons are temporary while love remains constant.This episode reminds us that two things can be true simultaneously: we can acknowledge disappointment while still finding moments of joy. We can also miss certain seasons while appreciating our current chapter. Whether you're facing health challenges, relationship transitions, or simply navigating everyday ups and downs, we hope you'll find comfort and companionship in this conversation. Key LearningsAcknowledge Unmet Expectations: The first step to overcoming disappointment is to honor and process it. Learn to put words to your difficult emotions, understanding that it's a brave and healthy step toward healing and meaningful connection.Cultivate Joy and Appreciation: Discover how actively seeking out the good in your current season—even in small ways like decorating your home or savoring a cup of coffee—can help shift your perspective and boost your brain's feel-good chemicals.Give Yourself Grace: Learn to be a "human being" instead of a "human doing." Give yourself permission to rest and sit with your emotions without judgment, knowing that it's a vital part of navigating life's ups and downs.Resources & MentionsWatch the video version of the episode on YouTube! Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown Some Things Never Change (Song from Frozen 2)Michael and Mom Talk CancerPhilippians 4:11-13Connect with us  on Instagram 📱and subscribe to our YouTube channel for visuals from our journey and behind-the-scenes content! 🎥 If this episode helped you find a way to lean into the good in your own life, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who is navigating a hard season. #embracechange #gratitude #disappointment #mentalhealth #cancerjourney #hope #brenebrown #bothandthinking #brainitonpodcast #atlasoftheheartSend us Fan Mail

What happens when our minds fixate on life's black dots while missing the expansive white space around them? Join us for a deeply personal exploration of finding joy amid serious health challenges.When my husband Thomas received wonderful news that his cerebral spinal fluid showed no evidence of leukemia, I noticed how quickly my mind pivoted to anxiety about pending bone marrow results. This stark example of negativity bias—our brain's tendency to spotlight potential threats—became the catalyst for this episode's powerful message.Drawing from psychology research, personal experiences in hospital rooms, and wisdom from unexpected places, we unpack why our brains gravitate toward problems and how we can intentionally shift our focus without falling into toxic positivity. The science behind this tendency is fascinating: our amygdala functions as the brain's alarm system, keeping us safe but sometimes causing us to miss the beauty surrounding our difficulties.Perhaps most valuable is the concept that "two things can be true at the same time"—we can acknowledge pain while celebrating joy, feel anxiety alongside gratitude, and recognize hardship without letting it consume our entire perspective. As Catherine Price wisely notes, "Our lives are what we pay attention to."Key Learnings:Acknowledge and Process the Black Dots: Learn to honor and feel difficult emotions like sadness and fear, understanding that doing so is a brave and healthy step toward healing.Define Your "Why": Take a moment for honest self-reflection to clarify your purpose. When you know your "why," it becomes easier to say "yes" to what truly matters and "no" to distractions.Find a Way to Help Others: Discover how shifting your focus to the needs of others—even in your darkest moments—can bring a renewed sense of purpose and agency, allowing you to see the "white space" where good can work through you.Resources & Mentions:Undistracted by Bob GoffUnshakeable by Christine Caine: The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie SantosThe 5 Second Rule by Mel RobbinsThe Power of Fun by Catherine PricePart of Life by Ben RectorThe "Invisible Gorilla" experimentConnect with us on Instagram 📱Subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥 Call to Action:If this episode helped you see the expansive white space in your own life, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who is navigating a hard season and needs a reminder that they have the power to choose their focus.#lifeiswhatyoupayattentionto #negativitybias #mindfulness #gratitude #purpose #psychology #mentalhealth #cancerjourney #hopeSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, Thomas and Lindsey take a deep dive into the lessons learned from J.R.R. Tolkien's epic saga, "The Two Towers," and how it resonates with their current journey. While Thomas is in remission from cancer, they've been navigating a new and challenging front: Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD). Join them as they discuss the powerful "two towers" analogy, describing the experience of facing two major battles at once—the lingering threat of cancer and the active fight against GVHD.Through personal stories of making time for therapy, creating an absurd ritual for Thomas's steroid cream application, and finding joy in the small things, Lindsey and Thomas offer powerful takeaways for anyone facing setbacks. This episode is a testament to the power of hope, the importance of finding humor in the absurd, and the resilience that comes from focusing on what you can control.Key Learnings:Seek the Good in the World: Learn to find and cherish moments of joy, connection, and kindness, even in the midst of challenging times.Seek Absurdity: Embrace the illogical and ridiculous as an escape from a goal-driven life, and discover how laughter can bring true fun.Focus on What You Can Control: Find peace and a sense of progress by identifying and acting on the small areas where you have agency, even in overwhelming circumstances.Resources & Mentions:How We Set Up Our Hospital Room for Long-Term Comfort & Healing | Hospital HacksThe Power of Fun by Katherine PriceConnect with us on Instagram 📱Subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥 Call to Action:If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder of courage, faith, and enduring love today.Send us Fan Mail

In a deeply personal and heartfelt surprise episode for her husband, Thomas, Lindsey takes the microphone to celebrate their 11th dating anniversary and mark the one-year "cancerversary" since Thomas' leukemia diagnosis. This episode reveals profound lessons Lindsey has learned from watching Thomas courageously navigate a year filled with intensive treatment, a bone marrow transplant, and Graft Versus Host Disease.Join Lindsey as she shares how their journey began with answered prayers, and how Thomas’ unwavering faith transformed their perspective on life, faith, and the future. From his awe-inspiring acceptance of his diagnosis on a memorable jet ski day, to his quiet acts of support for his mother, and his incredible determination in starting this podcast even amidst painful mucositis mouth sores, this episode showcases the extraordinary man Lindsey prayed for. Amidst the ongoing challenges, they are committed to carrying forward lessons of trust, resilience, and finding joy in every moment.Key Learnings:Patience & God's Timing: Discover the power of waiting on God for your deepest desires and seeing prayers unfold.Trust in the Storm: Learn to find profound faith and accept challenges, believing God can use them for good.Embrace Your New Story: Pivot from old plans and courageously step into an unexpected future with hope.Unyielding Determination & Vulnerability: Witness the strength in pursuing purpose and sharing your journey, even through immense discomfort.Passion for Life & Others: Cultivate enthusiastic joy and selfless support, making every moment meaningful.Resources & Mentions:Cultus Lake: Thomas' favorite place where we found joy amidst uncertainty.Connect with us on Instagram 📱Subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥 Call to Action:If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who needs a reminder of courage, faith, and enduring love today.Send us Fan Mail

Thomas is officially in remission! After months of intense treatment, unexpected complications, and significant uncertainty, this milestone feels nothing short of miraculous. From bone marrow once 94% leukemia cells to being cancer-free, this episode reveals how this journey has transformed our perspective on life and time.Join us as we share the full story behind our recent absence, including dealing with Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD), unexpected ER visits, and the discovery of a brain aneurysm and aortic regurgitation. Amidst these challenges, we found profound joy in the smallest moments—a sunny morning, a good cup of coffee, or simply holding hands during a walk. We'll also dive into Brené Brown's "foreboding joy" and how our faith allows us to hold both deep happiness and lingering uncertainty simultaneously.This isn't a return to our old normal, but a powerful step into a new one. We're committed to carrying forward the lessons learned: practicing mindfulness, finding joy in everyday miracles, and leaning on faith through all of life's ups and downs.Key Takeaways:Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate presence to strengthen your prefrontal cortex.Find Joy in Small Moments: Actively counter "hedonic adaptation" by appreciating everyday pleasures.Acknowledge Vulnerability in Happiness: Embrace "foreboding joy" by focusing on gratitude. Lean on Faith Through Uncertainty: Discover how faith can provide a foundation in challenging times.Resources & Mentions:Brené Brown: Learn more about "foreboding joy" in Daring Greatly Bob Goff: Author of Undistracted Connect with us on Instagram 📱Subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥 Call to Action:If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Share this episode with someone who needs a renewed sense of hope today. Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we draw parallels between our personal journey and the epic tale of "The Lord of the Rings," exploring how stories can inspire resilience. We discuss building supportive fellowships, embracing life's challenges, and choosing how to respond to uncertainty.Discover how J.R.R. Tolkien's classic series offers insights into navigating personal trials, mirroring Thomas's own journey. Learn practical strategies for cultivating strong relationships, reframing hardships, and finding meaning in difficult times. We explore the power of inspiration in literature and art, focusing on understanding your narrative and finding strength in shared experiences. Key Takeaways:Building your "fellowship": Cultivating supportive relationships and understanding your personal narrative.Embracing the "perilous path": Reframing challenges as opportunities for growth.Choosing your response: Finding agency and meaning in difficult circumstances.Additional Resources:Connect with us on Instagram 📱Listen to our episode about emotional agility Watch this episode on YouTube and subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥 Send us Fan Mail

Watch this episode on YouTube and subscribe to our new YouTube channel for visuals from our journey, behind-the-scenes photos, and extra content! 🎥 Episode SummaryIn Episode 8 of The Brain It On! Podcast, Lindsey and Thomas explore the power of celebrating small wins and taking things one step at a time, especially when navigating life's biggest challenges.  This episode offers a deeply personal look at Thomas's journey, sharing how these principles have helped him and Lindsey navigate the complexities of his experience.We feature a moving conversation with Thomas's oncology nurse, Daniel, who provides invaluable insights into the importance of acknowledging every step forward, no matter how small.  Daniel's wisdom highlights how celebrating these seemingly minor milestones can significantly impact morale and overall well-being.Learn how acknowledging progress, even in small increments, can trigger the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation, effectively reinforcing positive behavior and fueling resilience. We discuss how breaking down overwhelming goals into smaller, more manageable steps can reduce anxiety and increase motivation, making even the most daunting tasks feel achievable.Key Takeaways:Celebrating small wins: Why acknowledging progress, no matter how small, is crucial for maintaining motivation and fostering resilience.Taking things one step at a time: Practical strategies for breaking down overwhelming goals into manageable steps.Strengthening your support system: The importance of social connection and how to build a strong network of support.Looking back and celebrating progress:  How to reflect on your journey and acknowledge how far you've come.Navigating the rollercoaster of challenges: How to embrace the ups and downs and find stability amidst change. Additional Resources:Connect with us on Instagram 📱Motivational Posters on Amazon Send us Fan Mail

In this episode we explore how to navigate life's challenges while keeping love and connection strong. We open up about Thomas's recent cancer relapse and the difficult journey we've been on, sharing the ups and downs, the fears, and the moments of hope.We also dive into the power of the 5:1 ratio, a concept from relationship expert John Gottman, which highlights the importance of balancing positive and negative interactions, especially during tough times. This ratio—five positive interactions for every negative one—is crucial for maintaining connection and resilience in any relationship.Key Takeaways:The Power of Laughter: Finding humor in difficult situations and making time for fun can be incredibly healing.The Importance of Touch: Physical touch releases oxytocin and strengthens connection. We share the power of the 20-second hug and the "Three Breath Hug."Open Communication: Honest and vulnerable communication is essential for navigating challenges together.Join us for an honest and hopeful conversation about love, resilience, and finding light in even the darkest of times. We hope our story and the practical tips we share will offer support and inspiration for your own relationships.Additional Resources:Explore John Gottman's resources at The Gottman Institute Check out The Brain it On Instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey Listen to our previous podcast episodesSend us Fan Mail

Ever experienced the unexpected joy of a thoughtful gesture? That’s exactly what happened when my brother took it upon himself to service and detail Thomas' car, reminding us of how small acts of kindness can profoundly touch our lives. We also delve into the story of Thomas' coworker Mistie, who surprised us with a generous bag of gifts from his fellow nurses, illustrating the strength and support of a community that stands together, even from afar. These heartfelt stories set a warm stage for our reflection on kindness and its power to inspire a wave of positivity.As we uncover the ripple effect of kindness, we take you on a journey through inspiring anecdotes—like the comforting words of a nurse or a ukulele player's spontaneous hallway performance—that underscore the significance of making others feel valued and appreciated. We’re challenging you to reach out to someone with a message of gratitude, and see how this simple act can invigorate not only them but also you. These stories highlight how kindness can multiply, enhancing our lives in ways we might not have anticipated.In a world increasingly dominated by technology, we reflect on the balance between digital convenience and genuine human connection. Despite the efficiency of mobile banking or self-checkout, we discuss the unique joy found in engaging with others, even if just through a smile or a simple interaction. Yet, when used thoughtfully, technology can also strengthen connections, as seen in our family FaceTime tradition that brings us closer despite distances. Supported by brain science, we explore how kindness is contagious and can boost happiness, urging us all to embrace the simple yet powerful acts of compassion in everyday life.Additional Resources:•Check out The Brain it On instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey Send us Fan Mail

Join me, Lindsey, on this solo episode as I navigate the intense world of emotions and brain health, sharing a personal update on my husband Thomas’s ongoing health journey. Drawing strength from emotions researcher Susan David, I reveal how understanding emotions can transform those tough days into opportunities for resilience. Learn research-backed techniques to differentiate your identity from your emotional states, bringing a new perspective to life's challenges.As a support person to a loved one battling cancer, I've faced a whirlwind of emotions—sadness, anxiety, and everything in between. By recounting my experiences and drawing inspiration from Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, I’ll guide you through the process of naming emotions to help the brain's emotional and rational parts work together. Discover practical strategies like "Name it to Tame it" to manage emotional turbulence and explore how emotions can shine a light on personal values and boundaries, offering a path to growth and healing.Lastly, we shift focus to positive practices that enhance mental well-being. From the joy of animal therapy and reminiscing on happy memories to the vital role of sunlight and physical activity, embrace the transformative power of simple habits. I share how walking with family and listening to uplifting music have become cornerstones in my journey to better mental health, highlighting how social connections and optimistic anticipation can combat loneliness and foster a hopeful outlook. Join me in crafting a life filled with motivation and joy, amidst the inevitable ups and downs.Additional Resources:•Check out The Brain it On instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we delve into the profound impact of self-compassion on navigating life's challenges, particularly during times of illness and recovery. We explore the concept of "informed" versus "prepared," highlighting the often significant gap between cognitive understanding and emotional experience.Through Thomas' experience following the days after his bone marrow transplant, we discuss the importance of setting realistic goals and reality checking expectations. Drawing on Thomas's expertise as a nurse, we explore the complexities of medical experiences, highlighting the difference between "typical" and "normal" outcomes. We also delve into the power of the mind and the science of neuroplasticity, demonstrating how positive thinking and mindfulness can significantly impact our overall well-being.While information and preparation are essential tools for navigating life's challenges, they cannot fully shield us from the emotional and physical realities of difficult experiences. By understanding the distinction between being informed and being prepared, we can cultivate self-compassion, embrace uncertainty, and ultimately find greater peace and resilience.Key Takeaways:The importance of understanding the gap between being informed and being prepared for challenging life eventsThe power of positive thinking in navigating difficult timesThe significance of self-compassion and setting realistic expectationsThe role of neuroplasticity in shaping our experiences and promoting resilience Additional Resources:Check out The Brain it On instagram page for more tips and pictures of our medical journey Listen to our previous podcast episodesSend us Fan Mail

In this episode, we explore the profound impact of language on our healing journey. By shifting our focus from "pain" to "discomfort," we can rewire our brains and empower ourselves to manage physical challenges more effectively. We delve into the science of psychoneuroimmunology, examining how our thoughts and emotions influence our physical health.Key Takeaways:The Power of Language: We discuss how changing the way we talk about pain can alter our perception and response to discomfort.The Science of Healing: We explore the intricate connection between our minds and bodies, highlighting the role of the nervous system and immune system in the healing process.Practical Strategies for Managing Discomfort: We offer practical tips and techniques, such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, and self-compassion, to help you navigate discomfort with greater ease.The Importance of Patient-Centered Care: We emphasize the need for healthcare providers to listen to patients' experiences and tailor treatment plans to individual needs.Reframing Pain for Children: We share strategies for helping children understand and manage discomfort in a compassionate and age-appropriate way.Additional Resources:Download the "Coping with Discomfort" resource Check out our breathing videos for kidsListen to The PAWsitive Choices PodcastCall to Action:Share this episode with someone who may benefit from a new perspective on pain.Practice mindfulness and self-compassion daily.Follow us on instagram for more resources and behind-the-scenes pictures and videos. By reframing our understanding of pain, we can unlock our innate healing potential and live a more fulfilling life.Send us Fan Mail

Join us as we discuss the power of vulnerability and self-compassion. We'll explore how these qualities can help us navigate life's toughest challenges, drawing inspiration from the insightful work of Brené Brown and Kristin Neff. We'll share updates on Thomas' cancer journey, highlighting his resilience and the role of vulnerability and self-compassion in his healing process after his bone marrow transplant. Key Takeaways:Vulnerability as a Strength: We'll discuss how vulnerability, often misunderstood as a weakness, is actually a courageous act that can lead to deeper connections.The Science of Vulnerability: We'll explore the neurological underpinnings of vulnerability, understanding how our brains respond to emotional openness and the factors that influence our ability to be vulnerable.Practicing Self-Compassion: We'll discuss the importance of self-compassion, especially during challenging times, and provide practical tips on how to cultivate this essential skill.Additional Resources:Explore the work of Brené BrownWatch Kristin Neff's TED Talk on Self-Compassion Read about Dr. Amen's 18-40-60 Rule Listen to TobyMac's song Show Up Choose LoveCheck out our other podcast, The PAWsitive Choices PodcastMental Health Resources: We encourage listeners to seek support from mental health professionals when needed.Send us Fan Mail

Join us, Lindsey and Thomas Kealey, as we share our personal journey through tough life challenges on the inaugural episode of The Brain it On! Podcast. We open up about our experience following Thomas's rare leukemia diagnosis and his mother's terminal pancreatic cancer. Despite these adversities, we have found solace in resilience and the strength of human connection, thanks to our loving support team and the incredible individuals we've met at Oregon Health Science University. Our mission is to equip you with brain health strategies to navigate your own life challenges, whether they are medical, emotional, or relational.Reflecting on moments of joy and gratitude, we recount the emotional impact of coming to terms with Thomas' cancer diagnosis, which reinforced our appreciation for the present. Even during calm periods, cultivating emotional resilience has prepared us to face future challenges. As we embark on this journey of nurturing and loving our brains, we invite you to celebrate the resilience and strength of the human spirit with us. Let's explore how understanding and caring for your brain cannot only offer hope but also transform your life. Thank you for joining us on this path, and we look forward to continuing this conversation, focusing on brain health and well-being.You can learn more gratitude research by reading this Harvard Health Article and listening to our past podcast episode about gratitude practices. Learn more about foreboding joy in Brené Brown's Atlas of The Heart and watch Susan Cain's TED Talk about the hidden power of sad songs and rainy days. Check out our other podcast, The PAWsitive Choices Podcast. Listen to The PAWsitive Choices' podcast episode that we reference, Embracing Joy and Uncertainty: How to Lean Into Gratitude When Experiencing Joy Feels Vulnerable.Send us Fan Mail

Your brain is the powerhouse behind your life, your relationships, and your ability to overcome challenges. On the Brain It On podcast, we explore practical ways to nurture your brain for optimal health and happiness. We delve into strategies to strengthen your connections with loved ones, build resilience, and navigate life's ups and downs with a focus on brain health. From teachers and parents seeking guidance to individuals looking to enhance their personal well-being, this podcast offers actionable tips, emotional regulation techniques, and a trauma-informed approach to help you thrive in all areas of life. Discover how understanding and caring for your brain can transform your relationships and empower you to face any challenge with confidence. Get ready to Brain It On! Send us Fan Mail