Thrive the Podcast

After deep reflection and meaningful conversations, Rebecca Case is closing this podcast chapter—one filled with vulnerability, insight, and courageous healing. In this final episode, Rebecca shares her heartfelt gratitude for every listener, every message, and every connection made along the way. She explains the inspiration behind her decision to refocus her energy on new projects, from writing more books to expanding the Trauma Therapist Institute and developing business coaching for therapists and wellness entrepreneurs.Rebecca leaves you with her most important reminders: while we can’t control everything happening around us, we can nurture our well-being, set meaningful boundaries, and show up bravely for ourselves. She offers wisdom from the serenity prayer and encourages listeners to keep building lives that their nervous systems love—because individual healing ripples outward and impacts others.Though it’s time for this podcast to take its final bow, Rebecca invites you to stay connected and keep doing the brave work. Follow her continued journey at rebeccacase.com, traumatherapistinstitute.com, or on Instagram and Facebook.Thank you for being part of this transformative journey. Until next time—may you live a life that truly allows you to thrive.

Unlocking Trauma Healing & Nervous System Wisdom: A Conversation with Erica Bonham | Thrive the PodcastIn this empowering episode of Thrive the Podcast, host Rebecca welcomes distinguished guest Erica Bonham—certified somatic and attachment-focused EMDR clinician, ketamine-assisted psychotherapist, licensed professional counselor, and bestselling author of “Always Enough, Never Done.” Erica is respected nationwide for her expertise in trauma recovery, abuse healing, nervous system regulation, and her compassionate support of the LGBTQ+ community. She’s a sought-after speaker, creator of leading online courses, and a pioneer in the fields of somatic therapy and collective healing.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How somatic EMDR and body-based modalities heal trauma at a deeper levelThe science and wisdom of the vagus nerve and nervous system regulationThe role of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in integrating therapeutic breakthroughsStrategies for breaking cycles of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and never-enoughnessUnderstanding ancestral and intergenerational trauma—and why it matters todayHow collective and community-based healing create lasting changePractical exercises for self-worth, embodiment, and transformationErica and Rebecca explore the intersection of social justice, ancestral healing, and neuroscience. Drawing from “Always Enough, Never Done,” they discuss how to move from intellectualizing pain to embodied wisdom, why curiosity and self-compassion are crucial for transformation, and how healing is both a personal and collective journey.Listeners passionate about trauma recovery, nervous system health, LGBTQ+ mental health, ketamine therapy, or breaking cycles of burnout and self-judgment will find actionable insights and deep reassurance here.About Erica: In a world that often prioritizes perfectionism and binary thinking, Erica Bonham brings a both/and approach to healing—blending deep clinical insight with joy, nuance, and sometimes difficult truth. She’s passionate about walking folks through the messy, beautiful process of remembering our true nature: that we are always and already enough, lovable, worthy, and interconnected—and, we all have work to do.Whether leading workshops, delivering keynotes, or working one-on-one, Erica offers a grounded, humorous, and heartfelt style that invites both personal growth and collective evolution.She is a certified somatic and attachment-focused EMDR clinician and trainer, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapist, nervous system regulation and wisdom coach, and Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado. She specializes in serving the LGBTQ+ community, abuse recovery, and trauma rooted in systemic injustice and spiritual harm.Erica is a nationally sought-after speaker, creator of multiple online courses, and the author of the bestselling book Always Enough, Never Done—a guide to healing your nervous system, transforming wounds into wisdom, and living a bold, empowered life. She’s committed to reimaging a world rooted in beauty, equity, nonviolence, compassion, and collective liberation.LINKS:Download Erica's FREE polyvagal handout with links videos of powerful nervous system regulation exercises and a bonus of 6 guided meditations: https://www.avoscounseling.com/freebieCheck out her book, workbook, and coaching packages here: (If you order from her website, you can still get a free limited-edition signed copy:-)https://www.avoscounseling.com/coaching-packagesFeatured Topics: Trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, polyvagal theory, nervous system regulation,

Ever wonder why you get a bad vibe from someone you just met, or why certain places just feel “off” (or totally comforting) for reasons you can’t quite name? In this episode of Thrive the Podcast, trauma therapist, author, and yoga teacher Rebecca Kase unpacks the fascinating science of neuroception—a key principle from Polyvagal Theory introduced by Dr. Stephen Porges. Discover how your nervous system is always scanning your environment to detect safety and danger—without you even realizing it.Join Rebecca as she explains how neuroception influences intuition, relationships, and emotional regulation, and learn practical tools to tune into your body’s cues and foster a greater sense of safety. You’ll walk away with insights on how to navigate triggers, shift your awareness to cues of safety, and leverage your body’s natural wisdom for healing and growth.Key topics covered:What neuroception is, and why it matters for trauma healing and everyday lifeHow your body interprets signals of safety or danger (often before your mind catches on)The three domains of neuroception: people, places, and your internal environmentPractical exercises and tips to increase nervous system regulation and resilienceStories from Rebecca’s professional and personal experience, plus a sneak peek at her upcoming book, The Polyvagal SolutionIf you’re seeking to understand the hidden language of your nervous system, and move from surviving to thriving, you’ll love this episode!Subscribe to Thrive the Podcast for more neuroscience, psychology, and practical inspiration from Rebecca Kase.

Unlock the Secrets of Your Autonomic Nervous System—Fight, Flight, and Freeze ExplainedCurious about how your nervous system shapes your mood, stress responses, and healing journey? In this essential episode of The Thrive Podcast with Rebecca Kase, trauma therapist, author, and yoga teacher Rebecca guides you through the science and spirit of the three key pathways—fight, flight, and freeze—that define the autonomic nervous system. Whether you’re a trauma therapist, healer, yogi, or anyone seeking nervous system regulation and lasting resilience, this episode reveals actionable insights to help you thrive—not just survive.Discover:Polyvagal theory explained: How your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems work and what the vagus nerve means for your emotional health.Physiological state decoded: Learn how your body’s state influences anxiety, depression, shutdown, or thriving, and why “fight, flight, and freeze” aren’t just buzzwords—they’re your biology in action.Why neuroception matters: Unlock how subconscious threat detection shapes emotion, behavior, and healing, plus how you can intervene for greater safety and presence.Real tools for nervous system regulation: Simple tips (breath work, movement, finding moments of safety and joy) to activate your ventral vagal pathway and shift from survival mode to grounded thriving.Science meets spirituality: Blending neuroscience with lived experience, Rebecca offers hope, neuroplasticity insights, and micro-practices for lasting transformation.If you’re recovering from trauma, supporting others through healing, or simply searching for more balance and connection in life, tune in for empowering strategies you can use today.Don’t miss Rebecca’s new book "The Polyvagal Solution"—explore even more powerful tools for nervous system healing, coming soon from New Harbinger.🧠 Listen and thrive: The Thrive Podcast with Rebecca KaseKeywords: polyvagal theory, autonomic nervous system, fight flight freeze, vagus nerve, trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, neuroscience, emotional health, ventral vagal, neuroplasticity, Rebecca Kase, mental health podcast, healing, resilience

 Ready to thrive—not just survive? In this episode of Thrive the Podcast, I break down the science of polyvagal theory in a practical, approachable way. Learn how your vagus nerve and autonomic nervous system impact your emotions, relationships, and daily stress. Explore core concepts like neuroception, the social engagement system, and the vagal paradox—and learn how understanding these can empower trauma therapists, wellness professionals, and healing humans alike. Whether you're curious about nervous system regulation, mental health, or how to find balance in a chaotic world, this episode offers insights and tools you can use right now. Discover how working with your biology—not against it—can be the key to lasting transformation. Thrive On,Rebecca

In this episode, we’ll explore why sleep is not a luxury or a badge of honor to sacrifice. It’s a biological necessity. I’ll break down what’s happening in your brain and body while you sleep, why a dysregulated nervous system can sabotage rest, and what to do when you’re stuck in tired-but-wired mode.You’ll learn:Why sleep is the pillar of health; how sleep supports neuroplasticity; and why "I'll sleep when I'm dead" couldn't be more wrongWhether you’re a therapist, a high-achiever running on fumes, or someone who just wants to feel like yourself again — this one’s for you.Because when you understand the science of sleep, you stop blaming yourself for being tired — and start building a body that can finally rest.Thrive On,Rebecca

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on The Polyvagal Solution — my brand new book that’s been years in the making.You’ll hear the real story behind why I wrote it, what makes this book different from other trauma and self-help resources, and how understanding your nervous system can change everything — from how you heal to how you live, lead, love, and create.This isn’t just a book launch — it’s an invitation to rethink the way you relate to stress, success, and your sense of safety. Whether you’re a therapist, a high-functioning human trying to keep it together, or someone on a healing path… this episode is for you.Let’s explore how your biology holds the key to your freedom — and why this book might just be the companion your nervous system’s been waiting for.

Welcome back to Thrive.It’s been a minute — and I’ve missed you.In this episode, I’m sharing where I’ve been, what’s changed, and what’s coming next. You’ll hear about why I took a break, what rest revealed, and why I’m returning with a whole new fire and a brand new book: The Polyvagal Solution.We’re entering a new season — one rooted in nervous system wisdom, personal transformation, and neuro-informed living. If you're ready to stop pushing through and start living in alignment with your body, your energy, and your purpose… you’re in the right place.Let’s catch up, reconnect, and regulate — together.Rebecca

Here is what was covered in this episode: I got this request from a podcast listener! Let’s learn what codependency is, how it relates to attachment, and why we’re prone to it as relational creatures.Codependency is a condition where someone relies too much on another person in an unhealthy and self-destructive way.Human beings are wired to form attachments and relationships for survival. We are wired to attach, even to people that aren’t good for us.Codependency can feel like relationship addiction, but unlike other addictions, we need relationships to survive.Even people from healthy childhood backgrounds can fall into codependent relationships because everyone is wired to connect.Signs of codependency include prioritizing others’ needs over your own, losing a sense of self, feeling guilty for doing things for yourself, and needing your partner to feel happy.People may stay in harmful relationships because their neurobiology prefers attachment, even to unhealthy partners, over being alone.Childhood experiences, such as witnessing dysfunctional relationships, can shape our relationship patterns in adulthood.Codependent relationships are often filled with drama, emotional destruction, and cycles of extreme highs (honeymoon phases) followed by intense lows (drama and danger).The brain, particularly the amygdala, can drive unhealthy attachment by perceiving the potential loss of a relationship as a survival threat.Codependent relationships can trigger a constant need for reassurance and fear of abandonment, making it difficult to leave.It’s important to get therapy or coaching from someone who can be honest about the situation and help you break the cycle.Codependence Anonymous (CoDA) and 12-step programs can also be helpful in navigating these issues.Remind yourself that you deserve love, happiness, and safety, even if you don’t fully believe it at first. Start by telling yourself that you do deserve better.Helpful Links: CODACodependent No More

Here is what was covered in this episode: I’m back! I took a break after completing my manuscript for The Polyvagal Solution, which will teach people how to manage stress using polyvagal theory.In today’s episode, I cover insights gained from spiritual practices that will help you be a better human.Most importantly, living on your own terms is essential—this is your one life, so don’t let others dictate how you should live.Learn why not taking things personally is a game changer.Be accountable is key. When you make a mistake, it’s important to take responsibility and make amends.Learning to let go is crucial. Life is full of cycles, and things, people, and situations will come and go. Holding on too tightly causes unnecessary suffering.Grief is a natural part of life’s cycles, but clinging to what was can prevent growth and healing.Recognizing that everyone is trying to survive can help foster empathy and understanding. Despite differences, most people want the same core things: happiness, health, safety, and joy.We should start conversations from a place of shared humanity, focusing on common goals like happiness and safety rather than on divisions.Not taking things personally doesn’t mean avoiding responsibility. It’s about understanding what is really about you and what isn’t.Letting go of people and relationships that no longer serve you is part of life’s natural process. It’s okay for relationships to end or evolve over time.Embrace life’s impermanence, and accept that nothing lasts forever. This mindset can help with moving forward from losses.Strive to be a better human by being curious, accountable, and compassionate toward yourself and others.Helpful Links: The Four Agreements

Here is what was covered in this episode: Introduction of Kristen Gmerek, who worked with my company before starting a new path in social work. We discussed how our connection evolved and how I encouraged Kristen’s career shift.Kristen (they/them) shared their journey of identity discovery, starting with a sense of confusion about gender roles as a child and how this led to embracing a non-binary identity.We explored the concept of identity crises and how societal constructs, like gender norms, can limit personal growth and self-expression.Kristen discussed their experiences with gender expression, the fluidity of pronouns, and how embracing their identity helped them thrive.We reflected on how questioning norms, gender-affirming care, and self-acceptance can be empowering, while acknowledging societal pressures.I shared my personal experience of coming out as bisexual later in life and how I navigated the internal and external aspects of this realization.We discussed the complexities of coming out, societal expectations, and how these constructs can make identity journeys more difficult.Kristen encouraged listeners to find safe spaces for self-reflection and questioning, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments in thriving.

Here is what was covered in this episode: My top five lessons learned from my 20 years as a trauma therapist.I share my background, including my education and experiences in trauma therapy, starting from grad school.Hear how I became interested in trauma work, initially sparked by my own experiences and further deepened by reading “Trauma and Recovery” by Judith Herman.Neuroplasticity and how our brains can change and heal through new experiences and coping strategies is an incredible human asset to have!The power of human resilience and how people are often much stronger than we assume, even after experiencing severe trauma, is humbling.Don’t make meaning of someone else’s story or path! Let people find their own way, for it is only through the process of healing that we can discover some of the most valuable lessons.Find balance in helping others, ensuring not to walk someone else’s path for them, but to support and empower them.I stress the significance of relationships in therapy, especially the unique, safe, and supportive relationship between a therapist and a client.

Here is what was covered in this episode: I share personal and professional experiences with overcoming survival modeLearn why growth and comfort cannot coexistLearn the concept “window Of tolerance” from psychotherapy and how to use it to fund your growth edgeExplore the research on trigger warnings and their potential to contribute to avoidance behaviorsResearch indicates trigger warnings may increase anxiety rather than reduce itWhy healing from trauma requires facing discomfort and that therapy is inherently triggering but necessary for growthLearn why avoiding discomfort can prevent personal growth and create more sufferingHow to challenge yourself in the right way so you can transform and live a kick-ass lifeHelpful Links: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/21677026231186625https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-10-17/are-trigger-warnings-useless-new-study-says-yeshttps://www.newyorker.com/news/our-columnists/what-if-trigger-warnings-dont-work

Here is what was covered in this episode: I discuss betrayal trauma, emphasizing that it can occur in various forms beyond infidelity, such as in friendships, relationships, and family dynamics.I share some of my personal experiences with betrayal trauma.We talk about how betrayal trauma is essentially trust trauma, caused by someone close violating that trust.Emphasizes that betrayal trauma is not about the victim but rather the betrayer’s ego and selfish needs.Betrayal trauma can manifest in physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, manipulation, dishonesty, and stealing.Discuss the symptoms of betrayal trauma, including depression, shame, guilt, self-blame, difficulty trusting others, hypervigilance, and emotional dysregulation.I introduce the concept of “betrayal blindness,” where individuals avoid acknowledging betrayal to protect themselves from the pain.Healing from betrayal trauma requires time and space, allowing the nervous system to heal and process the grief.Stresses the importance of feeling and processing emotions through activities like journaling, therapy, and physical exercise.I highlight the duality of people and experiences, acknowledging both the good and bad in relationships to maintain a balanced perspective.I encourage listeners to keep moving forward and remind them that betrayal trauma is not about them but about the betrayer’s issues.

Here is what was covered in this episode: Important concepts from yoga philosophy and Buddhist studies.The Thrive Five framework includes spiritual practices.Spiritual belief systems help make sense of suffering in life.Suffering is an inevitable part of life.Acceptance of suffering helps in dealing with it effectively.Attachment can increase suffering.Everything in life is impermanent. This can be really scary but also really freeing, depending on how you look at this perspective.The story of “maybe” illustrates that events cannot be immediately classified as good or bad.Life is happening for you, not to you.Helpful Links: Insight meditation community: https://imcw.org/

Here is what was covered in this episode: I share 3 valuable lessons from my personal and professional journey.Lesson 1: Take responsibility for your own happiness; no one else can save you.Relying on external validation and regulation is ineffective.Self-reliance and personal accountability are key.Lesson 2: Sustainable change comes from small, consistent habits over time.Neuroplasticity allows for the creation of new neural pathways through repetition.Set realistic, attainable goals to build successful habits.Lesson 3: Believe in yourself, even if just a little.Small shifts in self-belief can significantly impact outcomes.Failure is a learning opportunity; maintain a positive mindset to keep trying.

Links to free resources: Understanding the Nervous System free download: https://kaseandco.com/resources-and-downloads/Here is what was covered in this week’s episode: Polyvagal theory and it’s relationship with wellness and therapy.An introduction to Steven Porges, the developer of polyvagal theory, and his research on the vagus nerve and heart rate variability.Explanation of the vagus nerve, its functions, and how it affects physical and emotional health.The concept of the vagal paradox: the vagus nerve’s role in both health and potential danger (bradycardia).Polyvagal theory as a framework to understand the nervous system and its responses to safety and danger.Overview of the autonomic nervous system and its branches: sympathetic (mobilization) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems.Detailed explanation of the vagus nerve pathways: ventral vagal (safety and social engagement) and dorsal vagal (shutdown and immobilization).The fight, flight, freeze, and faint responses mediated by the vagus nerve.Importance of vagal tone and how it influences the body’s response to stress and relaxation.Techniques and activities to improve vagal tone: yoga, meditation, exercise, breath work, mindfulness, and maintaining healthy relationships.Helpful Links: Polyvagal-Informed EMDR: A Neuro-Informed Approach to Healing Book:https://www.amazon.com/Polyvagal-Informed-EMDR-Neuro-Informed-Approach-Healing/dp/1324030313The Applied Polyvagal Theory Flip Chart: A Psychoeducational Tool to Harness the Power of the Vagus Nerve for Emotional Balance, Self-Regulation, and Resilience: https://www.amazon.com/Applied-Polyvagal-Theory-Chart-Psychoeducational/dp/1683737547Webinar with Stephen Porges and Unyte: https://kaseandco.com/unyte/

Here is what was covered in this episode: Meet my friend Taz Vazquez: an EMDR therapist, retired airforce veteran, and emotional freedom technique practitioner. She teahes us all about EFT and takes us through a self-help technique to use at home. Explanation of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping, is a technique that involves tapping on acupuncture points to calm the nervous system.We chat about how EFT helps reprocess and integrate emotions, traumas, and other psychological issues.EFT is supported by research and evidence!EFT is a useful technique for trauma, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, phobias, postpartum depression, addictions, pain, and performance enhancement.Importance of consistent practice to maintain benefits and create new neural pathways.Helpful Links: Taz’s website:https://tazvazquez.com/Articlehttps://www.forbes.com/health/mind/eft-tapping/Resourcehttps://eftinternational.org/

Links to free resources: Thriveology Quizhttps://tr2vhgt9f7y.typeform.com/to/QLSljJaVWhy Mindset Matters: https://rebecca-kase-3d4c.mykajabi.com/mindset-free-resource-3ae938dd-25cb-4b28-b1ed-6ec489ad5fd6Here is what was covered in this episode: Rebecca shares her first experience with yoga at 15 and how it became a significant part of her life.Describes how yoga has been a constant source of emotional and physical support, especially during times of trauma.Recounts a personal story where a yoga mat provided physical protection during a storm.Highlights how yoga taught her interoception, the awareness of inner body sensations.Discusses the importance of finding safety and comfort through breathwork.Explains the concept of non-attachment and its significance in dealing with life's impermanence.Shares her struggle with arthritis in her feet, which led to a change in her yoga practice and identity.Mentions how this challenge opened the door to new forms of self-care, like weightlifting.Clarifies that yoga is not just about physical poses but includes practices like philosophy, breathwork, and meditation.Outlines various forms of yoga classes, including Hatha, Vinyasa, Restorative, Yin, and Kundalini.Offers advice for those interested in starting yoga, suggesting local studios, online resources, and exploring yoga's history.Concludes by emphasizing the comprehensive benefits of yoga for mental, physical, and emotional health and the potential to find community through practice.Encourages listeners to explore yoga in their own way and integrate its principles into their lives.

Links to free resources: Thriveology Quizhttps://tr2vhgt9f7y.typeform.com/to/QLSljJaVWhy Mindset Matters: https://rebecca-kase-3d4c.mykajabi.com/mindset-free-resource-3ae938dd-25cb-4b28-b1ed-6ec489ad5fd6Here is what was covered in this episode: Podcast intro: focusing on combining neuroscience, psychology, spirituality, and personal experience to help listeners thrive.Special guest Leah Dawang discusses the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) from Unite, explaining its benefits for the nervous system.Leah explains the SSP, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, which uses specially filtered music to aid in nervous system regulation.Both Rebecca and Leah share personal experiences with SSP, noting improvements in eye contact and emotional regulation.The discussion covers how SSP can be integrated with various therapeutic practices like EMDR, CBT, and more.Leah highlights research backing SSP, initially focused on autism spectrum disorders, with broad applications for various conditions.Information on SSP training for mental health professionals, featuring an 8-hour online course that includes theoretical and practical aspects.Guidance on finding qualified SSP practitioners through Unite's website for those interested in experiencing SSP.The episode concludes with a discussion on the human need for connection and how SSP facilitates this, encouraging listeners to consider both experiencing and training in SSP.

Links to free resources: Thriveology Quizhttps://tr2vhgt9f7y.typeform.com/to/QLSljJaVWhy Mindset Matters: https://rebecca-kase-3d4c.mykajabi.com/mindset-free-resource-3ae938dd-25cb-4b28-b1ed-6ec489ad5fd6Here is what was covered in this episode: Rebecca discusses managing overwhelming emotions like anxiety, panic, depression, and loneliness.Shares her personal struggles with depressive episodes and toxic relationships from her teenage years and how these experiences led her to therapy and eventually to become a counselor.Emphasizes emotions as neurophysiological processes that are natural and necessary for making informed decisions and enriching life experiences.Introduces the concept of interoception—the ability to notice and make sense of what's happening inside one's body—as a key skill for emotional intelligence and managing feelings.Suggests practices to develop interoception, such as body scans, breath work, and mindful yoga or working out, focusing on staying present with the body's sensations.Encourages viewing emotions and sensations as valuable information and messages from the nervous system, aiding in decision-making and identifying needs like connection, rest, or safety.Discusses reframing the relationship with uncomfortable emotions by recognizing them as temporary states that will naturally rise, fall, and change.Highlights how recurring uncomfortable emotions can serve as trailheads for personal growth and discovery, leading to valuable insights.Debunks the myth that suppressing emotions is a sign of strength, advocating instead for acknowledging and working through emotions as a true display of courage and a pathway to thriving.Encourages seeking therapy and confronting emotional challenges as brave steps towards personal growth and wellness.

Links to free resources: Thriveology Quizhttps://tr2vhgt9f7y.typeform.com/to/QLSljJaVWhy Mindset Matters: https://rebecca-kase-3d4c.mykajabi.com/mindset-free-resource-3ae938dd-25cb-4b28-b1ed-6ec489ad5fd6Here is what was covered in this episode: Introduction to thriving beyond survival mode, combining neuroscience, psychology, spirituality, and personal experience.Discussion with Alison Leslie on the human-animal bond, highlighting the importance of pets in our lives for emotional and neurobiological support.Exploration of how pets, particularly dogs and cats, contribute to our well-being by offering unconditional love, constant engagement, and co-regulation.Insight into the neurobiology behind our connection with pets and how they help us feel safe, calm, and connected.The emotional impact and process of grieving the loss of a pet, acknowledging the depth of these relationships, and the intense grief that can accompany such a loss.Practical advice on how to consciously engage with and appreciate our pets to enhance our emotional and psychological well-being.Closing thoughts on the significance of pets in our lives, and an invitation to listeners to reflect on and deepen their relationships with their animals.

Have you heard the buzz about the vagus nerve? Maybe you have, maybe you haven’t but just know this…your vagus nerve has a WHOLE lot to do with your health and wellness. This often overlooked nerve is responsible for regulating our physical and emotional well-being, making it a key player in our ability to thrive. By understanding how the vagus nerve works, we can tap into its potential to improve various aspects of our mind and body.In this podcast episode, we delve deep into the world of the vagus nerve and explore its functions, connections, and ways to optimize its performance. Here is what was covered in this episode: The importance of the vagus nerve and what the heck polyvagal theory is.The anatomy and function of the vagus nerve, describing its extensive reach in the body.The impact of the vagus nerve on physical and emotional health.The concept of fight, flight, and freeze responses which are regulated by the vagus nerve!The benefits of having a "toned" vagus nerve for managing stress and achieving emotional and physical well-being.Practical tips for toning the vagus nerve, including cold water therapy, exercise, mindfulness, nature exposure, relationships, prayer, and other wellness activities.Helpful Links: https://www.webmd.com/brain/vagus-nerve-what-to-knowhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0149763422002007

Learn my go to physical health habits that I practice almost every day. These are tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years that help me thrive within the physical domain of the Thrive 5. Learn what I prioritize, the daily habits that are part of my routine, and easy but effective strategies to support your physical health and wellness.Here is what was covered in this episode: Sleep is #1! I share how I prioritize my sleep and what my sleep hygiene looks like.Work out those issues in your tissues with daily stretching. Learn how I get a few minutes in every day to stretch and move.I LOVE lifting weights. Learn why I love it so much and why it can be so, so good for your body.Rebecca’s morning routine which includes electrolytes and quick dose of cold water therapy.Learn why drinking caffeine right when you get up can increase your stress levels.Get my tips for maximizing your sleep hygiene practices to get a restful night’s sleep.Self-reflection for your physical health habits. Helpful Links: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/6-cold-shower-benefits-considerhttps://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-time-to-drink-coffee#cortisol-coffee

Link to free resource: Mindset Free Resource Mindset is perhaps one of the most important factors for thriving and transforming your life. Why is that? Because your mind is incredibly powerful and can be your biggest ally or your greatest adversary. In this podcast, we will explore the impact of mindset on our daily lives and how mindset interacts with your neurobiology. Learn how your nervous system responds to your thinking styles and how the saying “thoughts have a vibration” relates to your neurobiology.Here is what was covered in this episode: Learn what mindset is and how it relates to your well being..Explore what "monkey mind" is and strategies to manage it.Get to know how your mindset can influence your perception of others, the world, and yourself!Dive into the metabolic effects of negative versus positive thinking styles on your neurobiology.Get in touch with your thinking through reflection and introspection! A few tips for assessing your mindset and identifying areas for growth.Helpful Links: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0238457

Learn from an internationally acclaimed author and EMDR expert, just what the heck EMDR therapy is! EMDR is an evidence-based therapy for trauma and PTSD. Learn what this therpy is, how it works, and what it can help treat. Join Rebecca as she dives into the neuroscience of EMDR therapy and shares some of her personal and professional successes with this treatment method. Here is what was covered in this episode: Learn about the origin and developer of EMDR therapy.Learn how bilateral stimulation, a vital component to EMDR therapy, works.Dive into how EMDR works and the positive effects it can have on a client.Examine the research supporting EMDR therapy and the science behind this treatment.Journey with Rebecca through personal experiences and case studies illustrating EMDR's impact.Learn the many applications of EMDR beyond PTSD, including depression, anxiety, and various psychological stresses.Get recommendations on where to learn more and find a therapist!Helpful Links: EMDRIA.orgkaseandco.com

Learn my framework for creating a lifestyle that allows me to thrive! In this episode, learn about Rebecca’s Thrive 5 and how to use them every day. Thriving is an active process, not a passive one, and requires you to create a lifestyle of habits that allow you to grow, transform, and become your best self. Dive into an introduction to the Thrive 5 in this episode, and start using this framework to create positive change for yourself today!Here is what was covered in this episode: Introduction to the Thrive 5 - a lifestyle framework aimed at cultivating habits that promote thriving.Understand the significance of sleep, nutrition, hydration, and exercise for overall health.Explore ways to understand and manage emotions as part of the Thrive 5.Learn the influence that mindset and internal self-talk have on your quality of life.Dive into why having a spiritual belief system is so important, and how it can help you thrive through adversity.Learn why relationships are so important and medicinal for your nervous system and capacity to thrive.Start applying this information to your life by reflecting on how the Thrive 5 shows up in your life already, and how you can engage with it more. Helpful Links: Check out this article on the importance of sleep hygiene.Learn why relationships are so important for your health. 

In this episode, we dive into understanding what the heck trauma really is and how it affects us. Join trauma expert Rebecca Kase, as she explains why our definition of trauma historically has been all wrong, why emotional trauma is still traumatic, and insights we can learn from the ACE study. You’ll also learn that healing is possible and how adversity can give birth to resilience through the concept of post-traumatic growth.Here is what was covered in this episode: Definition of trauma.Personal and professional understanding of trauma.The difference between trauma as an event and as a response.Differentiation between "big T" and "little t" traumas, with examples.Discussion on the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study and its findings.Impact of trauma on mental and physical health, lifestyle, and behavior.The role of implicit memory in storing trauma.Importance of addressing both emotional and physical aspects of trauma.The concept of post-traumatic growth and its potential benefits.Encouragement for personal healing and overcoming trauma.Helpful links: https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/about.htmlhttps://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/03/02/387007941/take-the-ace-quiz-and-learn-what-it-does-and-doesnt-meanPost Traumatic Growth Inventory

In this episode, Rebecca shares why it’s all about the nervous system. What’s your nervous system got to do with thriving? Everything! Learn why befriending your nervous system is so important, how to work with it, and why you should always keep it front and center.Here is what was covered in this episode: The critical role of the nervous system in emotional and physical health.Insights into how trauma affects neurobiology and strategies for healing.The importance of sleep, diet, and hydration for keeping your nervous system healthy and nourished.Techniques for improving your sleep and a few nervous system nutrition tips.Why relationships are so important for our nervous system.The connection between the autonomic nervous system, stress, and trauma processing.Practical advice for enhancing life quality through neurobiological understanding.

Click here for the Thriveology Quiz!Welcome to our first show! Today, we dive into what it means to thrive and examine the difference between surviving and thriving. Meet Rebecca Kase, a force of nature, healed human, expert in Polyvagal Theory, EMDR Therapy, and 7 figure business owner. She’ll share with you why she started this podcast, and how she plans to support you use neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality to live your best life. Told through the authentic voice and spirit of a mover and shaker, this first episode is sure to leave you with some curiosities for introspection and growth.Here is what was covered in this episode: Meet Rebecca Kase, a licensed clinical social worker, trauma expert, yoga instructor, and author.Rebecca integrates neuroscience, psychology, spirituality, and personal experience beyond traditional psychotherapy.Why psychotherapy has limitations.What does it mean to thrive? Let’s explore some definitions.Learn Rebecca’s Thrive Five, which are domains to focus on building positive habits to effect change in your life.Explore the interconnectedness of these domains and their impact on overall well-being.Are you surviving or thriving, and what’s the difference? Acknowledgment of systemic challenges and privileges affecting one's ability to thrive.Why focusing on the control you do have is more powerful than the control you don’t have when it comes to thrivingWhat to expect from this podcast and episodes to come

Stay tuned for our first episode coming Monday February 5th!