Experible with Krati Mehra

In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges of staying positive when the world feels like it's falling apart. Whether it's the constant stream of negative news, personal struggles, or global tragedies, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. 

Join me as I share practical steps to protect your mental space, cultivate a positive mindset, and thrive even in the toughest times. We discuss the impact of constant exposure to negativity, stress, and dark content on our mental health and why it’s so hard to break free from that cycle. From understanding the fascination with dark content to actionable strategies like cognitive restructuring, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay strong and hopeful. Plus, hear the inspiring story of Dadarao Bilhore, who turned personal tragedy into positive action. Tune in and discover how you can create a mental environment that helps you flourish, no matter what life throws your way.

If you found this episode helpful, please consider leaving a review on your favourite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue creating content that supports your mental well-being.

SHOWNOTES -

00:00:00 - The current crisis

00:02:50 - How dark content and negative emotions can be addictive

00:05:53 - The deep and lasting impact of negativity and stress

00:07:45 - The first crucial step

00:09:55 - Healthily responding to hopelessness + Dadarao Bhilore’s story

00:13:03 - Dealing with personal struggles

00:14:50 - it’s not nice to complain

00:16:30 - The magic of gratitude & how to do it right!

00:20:21 - Ceasing your power through perspective

00:24:35 - Cognitive restructuring

00:26:50 - Let the possibilities in!

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this episode, Dr. Katharina Lederle, a renowned sleep and body clock scientist, author, and sleep coach dedicated to transforming sleep into an act of self-care, discusses the critical role of sleep in enhancing our daily performance, health, and emotional stability, the subtle yet impactful ways chronic sleep deprivation affects our lives, from diminished mental acuity and emotional well-being to strained relationships. We explore practical strategies for identifying our very individual  sleep needs, managing sleep debt, and understanding the importance of sleep in maintaining healthy circadian rhythms. Additionally, Dr. Kat offers actionable advice on improving sleep, and discusses the latest research findings that might change how we think about sleep and productivity. 

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00 - Guest and Episode Introduction

00:01:50 - How sleep deprivation affects performance, health, & relationships

00:04:10 - How much sleep do we really need?

00:12:43 - Understanding the sleep data & how it differs for the two genders

00:15:55 - Understanding the different sleep stages

00:19:55 - Tracking your sleep + sleep trackers

00:23:05 - Understanding & coping with Insomnia

00:26:05 - Circadian rhythms, sleep patterns, & overall health

00:32:40 - Importance of exposure to sunlight in the mornings & possible alternatives

00:36:15 - Mental & physical illnesses caused by sleep deprivation

00:41:55 - Impact of alcohol and medication on sleep

00:50:30 - How hormonal changes impact sleep

00:55:25 - Can you manage your biological processes for better performance?

01:02:55 - Strategies to improve sleep

01:07:05 - Work with Dr. Kat

01:08:38 - Surprising research findings

CONNECT WITH DR. KATHARINA LEDERLE - 

Website - www.drkatsleep.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drkatsleep

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinalederle/

Sleep Sense by Dr. Kat - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sleep-Sense-Improve-Health-Empower/dp/1925820939

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of solitude with Dr. Thuy-Vy Nguyen, an expert researching the nuanced impacts of solitude on emotional and cognitive experiences. Discover how solitude, distinct from loneliness, can regulate emotions, potentially boost creativity, and influence our daily lives. From exploring the boundaries of solitude and social interactions to understanding its profound effects on personal well-being and performance, this conversation sheds light on why and how we can harness the power of being alone. 

Dr. Thuy-vy T. Nguyen is the principal investigator of the Solitude Lab and a psychology professor at Durham University. Her research is focused on the impact of solitude on daily life, wellbeing, and mental/physical health, which is detailed in her recent book Solitude: The Science and Power of Being Alone (co-authored with Netta Weinstein and Heather Hansen). In addition to being invited to lecture about her research all over the world, her work has been featured on the Guardian, the New York Times, NPR, TEDx, and other podcasts and news outlets worldwide.

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00 - Guest and episode introduction

00:01:57 - Dr. Nguyen’s journey into solitude research & key findings

00:07:55 - Solitude's effect on creativity, emotional regulation, & stress relief

00:11:15 - Methodologies used in solitude research

00:15:15 - Defining and differentiating solitude from loneliness

00:21:40 - How our perceptions of solitude shape our experiences

00:26:35 - Traits of solitude-loving individuals & their life choices

00:31:50 - Limits of healthy solitude: How much is too much?

00:36:10 - Common struggles with embracing solitude

00:41:10 - Discussing overstimulation, impatience, & solitude's potential benefits

00:47:40 - The effects of anxiety & depression on one's capacity for solitude

00:53:00 - Rise in single adult household and loneliness (Are the two connected?)

00:58:00 - Identity & self-understanding during periods of solitude

01:06:50 - How solitude influences motivation

CONNECT WITH DR. THUY-VY NGUYEN -

Website - http://www.thuyvytnguyen.com/

Solitude Lab - http://www.solitude-lab.com/

Solitude: The Science and Power of Being Alone - https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009256599

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this episode we learn about Charles Assisi's journey, a seasoned journalist whose career began quite unexpectedly. Once aspiring to enter medical school, Charles's fascination with the dynamic world of journalism led him down a different path. In this conversation, he shares candid insights into the non-linear trajectory of his career, the adrenaline of the newsroom, and his observations on how media has evolved with the digital age.

From the dot com boom to today's complex media landscape, Charles discusses the importance of integrity in journalism, the challenges young content creators face, and his personal take on balancing opinion and reporting in today's hyper-connected world.

Charles Assisi is also the co-founder of Founding Fuel, a media and learning platform, and co-author of The Aadhaar Effect: Why The World’s Largest Identity Project Matters. Charles is also a columnist for  Hindustan Times, and he has been published in several peer reviewed journals such as Association for Computing Machinery  and Shaastra, a brainchild of IIT (Madras). 

SHOWNOTES - 

00:01:35 - Allure of the newsroom, challenges of journalism, & the rare highs of bylines and recognition

00:08:50 - Advice for content creators on maintaining journalistic integrity

00:13:25 - Decline in media scrutiny & the current state of editorial standards

00:19:00 - How podcasters & YouTubers shape public discourse on complex topics 

00:27:40 - Expressing opinions in healthier ways

00:32:20 - Aiming for growth and virality while maintaining integrity

00:35:31 - Is Charles a free speech absolutist?

00:47:45 - Favourite authors and thinkers

00:52:00 - The one man Charles wants to interview

CONNECT WITH CHARLES ASSISI - 

Website - https://assisi.io/

Founding Fuel - http://www.foundingfuel.com 

The Aadhaar Effect - https://amzn.to/2YNThAC

Twitter - @c_assisi

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this conversation with Sam Laura Brown, a perfectionism coach who delves into the often misunderstood world of perfectionism, we unravel the negative implications of being a perfectionist and how it differs from striving for excellence. We discuss perfectionism as a shield from shame, the signs of perfectionistic behaviour, and how it manifests in both personal and professional contexts. Sam offers transformative approaches to overcome perfectionistic tendencies, advocating for a growth mindset and practical tools to improve productivity and well-being. This episode provides valuable strategies to foster a healthier, more balanced approach to personal and professional challenges.

Sam Laura Brown is a coach for perfectionist entrepreneurs. She is the host of the top-rated podcast The Perfectionism Project and founder of the Perfectionists Getting Shit Done coaching program which has helped over 1,000 perfectionist entrepreneurs get out of their own way in their business.

00:00:00 - Guest and episode Introduction

00:02:20 - Common misconceptions about perfectionism

00:06:16 - 5 signs of perfectionism

00:08:00 - Striving for excellence vs Perfectionism

00:13:19 - Avoidant behaviours like procrastination & over-preparation

00:19:00 - What life is really like for perfectionists

00:28:40 - Why do the big successes burnout (no, it’s not necessarily the work)

00:32:00 - Output-tied brain & clean rest (a helpful perspective)

00:44:35 - Growth goals and power planning

00:51:00 - The identity shifts that accompany a truly worthy goal

01:01:35 - Perfectionists as leaders

01:07:35 - Perfectionism in personal relationships

01:12:10 - Typical personality markers of a perfectionist

01:16:50 - Perfectionism and internet addiction

01:23:10 - How overcoming perfectionism has transformed Sam's professional & personal life

The Perfectionism Project podcast - samlaurabrown.com/podcast

The Perfectionism Quiz - samlaurabrown.com/quiz

Perfectionists Getting Shit Done - perfectionistsgettingshitdone.com

Instagram - instagram.com/perfectionismproject

Free training on how to plan properly as a perfectionist - samlaurabrown.com/plan

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this episode of Experible, we dive deep into Alyssa Age's transformative journey and how she went from thinking she wasn’t cut out for sports to competing on national stages. We uncover the mental shifts that accompany physical training, the impact of fitness on self-esteem, Alyssa's insights on overcoming self-imposed limitations, and how she challenges the traditional narratives around body image and strength. Alyssa's story is not just about physical strength but a profound psychological evolution. 

Alyssa Ages is a journalist whose work has appeared in GQ, ELLE, SELF, Men’s Health, Slate, The Globe and Mail, and others. She is a former personal trainer and group fitness instructor, as well as a strongman competitor, marathoner, triathlete, and occasional rock climber. A born-and-raised New Yorker, she now lives in Toronto with her husband and two daughters.

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00 - Guest and Episode Introduction

00:01:40 - Early challenges and journey to strongman competition

00:05:33 - How strength training impacted Alyssa’s self-image and confidence.

00:07:15 - Connection between confidence, body image, & physical performance

00:09:55 - Facing and redefining failures

00:12:25 - Importance of strength training & how to get started

00:20:00 - Cultivating a healthy relationship with food and exercise

00:24:25 - Ageing & cues that indicate body fatigue

00:28:30 - Trying different techniques to up your performance

00:33:00 - A helpful perception towards body size

00:41:50 - Mindset for pursuing challenging goals

00:51:40 - Helping children build a positive relationship with food and exercise 

00:56:00 - Navigating personal goals amidst societal expectations

CONNECT WITH ALYSSA AGES - 

Website - alyssaages.com

Secrets of Giants by Alyssa Ages - https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/707130/secrets-of-giants-by-alyssa-ages/

Instagram / Twitter / Threads / TikTok - @alyssaages

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this episode, distinguished sociologist, Salvatore Babones help us understand Indian democracy’s complexities. This conversation spans the positive aspects and challenges within India’s democratic framework, voter influence through media and political campaigns, and the significant role of religious politics. Salvatore provides a balanced critique on the potential risks to India's democratic integrity, highlighting the impact of biased information sources and the contentious nature of religious and political narratives. From dissecting how elections are swayed to discussing the potential erosion of democratic values amidst rising communal tensions, this episode offers a panoramic view of the forces shaping India’s future.

Salvatore Babones is an associate professor at the University of Sydney and executive director of the Indian Century Roundtable. He is a quantitative comparative sociologist whose current research focuses on the political sociology of democracy. In the past he has also published on economic development in post-socialist transition economies and quantitative methods for cross-national comparisons. He is the author or editor of fourteen books and several dozen academic research articles. He earned his MS (statistics) and PhD (sociology) from the Johns Hopkins University. He is currently researching a book on Indian democracy.

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00  - Episode and Guest Introduction

00:01:35 - Prof. Salvatore’s fascination with Indian democracy

00:05:55 -  Role of English in India & impact on political & social structures

00:13:45 - Biggest challenges facing the Indian democracy

00:17:35 - Economic Leadership: Manmohan Singh vs Narendra Modi

00:19:45 - BJP’s anti-democratic moves and should we be concerned?

00:23:55 - How voters are influenced

00:28:00 - Dispelling the myth of rising communal violence

00:38:50 - Understanding the vote bank politics

00:43:00 - What drives voting behaviour

00:46:20 - Resources for understanding Indian political & social dynamics

00:49:30 - The media and academia bias 

00:55:00 - Handling combative interviews with grace

00:58:50 - Democratic integrity in a global context

RESOURCES RECOMMENDED -

Modi And India: 2024 and the Battle for Bharat by Rahul Shivshankar  - https://www.amazon.in/Modi-India-2024-Battle-Bharat/dp/0670098612

DHARMIC NATION: Freeing Bharat, Remaking India by Raghavan Jagannatha - https://www.amazon.in/DHARMIC-NATION-Freeing-Bharat-Remaking/dp/9355209762

Bharat Rising (Dharma, Democracy, Diplomacy) by Utpal Kumar - https://www.amazon.in/Bharat-Rising-Dharma-Democracy-Diplomacy/dp/9392209762

The Great Hindu Civilisation: Achievement, Neglect, Bias and the Way by Pavan K. Varma - https://www.amazon.in/Great-Hindu-Civilisation-Achievement-Neglect/dp/9390679966

Bhārat: India 2.0 by Gautam R. Desiraju - https://www.amazon.in/Bh%C4%81rat-India-Gautam-R-Desiraju/dp/9390961157  

CONNECT WITH SALVATORE BABONES - 

Website - https://www.salvatorebabones.com/

Newsletter - https://newsletter.salvatorebabones.com/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SalvatoreBabones

X - https://x.com/ProfBabones

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

This episode delves into the heart of modern parenting challenges, providing practical advice and psychological insights on nurturing resilient, independent children in an era often dominated by fear and restriction. From dismantling the culture of fear and overprotection to understanding the vital concept of interdependence, Bonnie Harris, a parenting coach, speaker, podcaster, teacher, the director of Connective Parenting, and the author of several parenting books, sheds light on how we can better nurture resilience, responsibility, and a sense of community in our children. We explore the profound impact of parental emotions on child development, the misconceptions around independence, and practical ways to embrace challenges outside the digital landscape. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone invested in the well-being of the next generation.

SHOWNOTES -

00:00:00 - Episode & Guest Introduction

00:02:02 - Impact of negative and fearful thinking on children

00:04:45 - Importance of cultivating interdependence

00:05:35 - How changing societal norms have altered childhood

00:09:20 - How parental energy & psychology shapes a child's personality

00:18:00 - Boundaries that strengthen the parent-child bond

00:24:00 - Don’t assume responsibility for your kid’s happiness

00:28:30 - Strategies for managing use of digital devices & social media

00:39:10 - Balancing authority with companionship in parenting

00:45:10 - Disciplining kids without punishment

00:52:30 - Addressing the academic pressures & societal expectations

01:06:20 - Integrity vs Harmony Kids

01:09:55 - Decoding severe behavioural issues + reestablishing trust

01:16:05 - Why you shouldn’t protect your kids from natural consequences

01:17:50 - Early sexual maturity

01:12:!0 - How to talk to your kid + Invite honesty

01:25:40 - Work with Bonnie Harris

CONNECT WITH BONNIE HARRIS -

Website - https://bonnieharris.com/

Books - https://bonnieharris.com/books-etc/

Book a coaching session - https://calendly.com/bhsessions

Podcast - https://bonnieharris.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of trauma, its profound impact on our lives, and the transformative power of therapy. Janet Bayramyan, a licensed clinical social worker and a certified EMDR, and brainspotting psychotherapist explains a range of therapeutic approaches. We discuss how these therapies work not just to heal but to fundamentally change how we process our past experiences, the nuanced ways in which trauma can manipulate our choices, and recognizing and managing trauma. Join us as we uncover how to control over our narratives and move towards a more empowered and self-aware future.

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00 - Episode and guest introduction

00:01:32 - Therapeutic modalities: Brain Spotting, Havening Technique, & EMDR

00:13:50 - Necessity of resolving past trauma

00:16:40 - How our beliefs impact our well-being & choices

00:18:45 - Role of social connections & support systems in healing

00:21:45 - Navigating the balance between solitude & social interaction

00:27:25 - Healing vs endurance vs resilience

00:33:40 - Effective mindsets for therapy & the risks of over-reliance

00:37:10 - Limitations of therapy

00:39:30 - How trauma alters the nervous system

00:42:00 - Safety and considerations in self-identifying trauma

00:43:50 - Effect of trauma on self-perception & personal narrative

00:54:10 - Cultural and societal impacts on mental health + intergenerational trauma

01:01:40 - Links between unresolved emotions, violence, & societal unrest

01:06:40 - Personal qualities that foster resilience

01:08:40 -What trauma recovery feels like

01:14:00 - Janet’s personal wellness practices

01:15:30 - How to connect with Janet

CONNECT WITH JANET BAYRAMYAN - 

Website - https://road2wellness.co/

Instagram - https://instagram.com/therapy_with_janetb

Facebook - www.facebook.com/therapywithjanetb

CONNECT WITH ME -

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

A special episode for Mental Health Awareness Month with guest expert, Dr. Sally Spencer Thomas, a clinical psychologist, inspirational speaker, podcaster, and impact entrepreneur. Known as an innovator in social change, she has helped start multiple large-scale, gap-filling efforts in mental health, including “Construction Working Minds” and the award-winning Man Therapy campaign. She currently serves as the president of United Suicide Survivors International.

In this episode, we discuss the complexities of navigating mental health amidst a culture that often rewards victimhood, tangible solutions for those feeling lost in the currents of modern life's uncertainties, the unique challenges faced by men who suddenly find themselves lost in a rapidly changing world that offers little clarity about their roles and identities, and warning signs of suicide and steps for prevention. It's a must-listen for those of us struggling with mental health issues, trying to understand the pain of our loved ones, and for men who are frustrated by the confusing social expectation. It is also a call to redefine strength and identity in an age where both seem fraught with contradiction.

SHOWNOTES - 

00:00:00 - Episode & Guest Introduction

00:01:33 - Dr. Sally's self-care & wellness strategies

00:06:00 - Current biggest threats to mental health

00:10:16 - Effective mental health solutions & overcoming divisiveness

00:17:20 - Is therapy still a great mental health tool?

00:27:05 - Using the power of storytelling to heal (and avoid the victim trap)

00:34:00 - Traditional norms of masculinity and the modern man

00:40:30 - Addressing loneliness and identity in men

00:49:35 - What do men really need & the success of Man Therapy

00:57:30 - Navigating self-expression and social judgement

01:00:50 - Warning signs and risk factors of suicide

01:11:30 - Helping someone contemplating suicide

01:14:15 - Is fear controlling your choices?

01:15:15 - What keeps Dr. Sally hopeful and optimistic

01:18:00 - Recommended resources

MENTIONED RESOURCES - 

Man Therapy - mantherapy.org

Construction Working Minds - https://constructionworkingminds.org/

Workplace Suicide Prevention - https://workplacesuicideprevention.com/

Hope Certification - https://www.hopecertification.com/

Hope Illuminated Podcast by Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas - https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/hope-illuminated-podcast

Headspace for the Workplace Podcast by Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas - https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/headspace

CONNECT WITH DR. SALLY SPENCER-THOMAS -

Website - https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DrSallySpeaks

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallyspencerthomas/

CONNECT WITH ME -

For more, visit - https://www.kratimehra.com/experible/

Take the EmoPersona Quiz - https://www.kratimehra.com/emopersonaquiz/

Subscribe to the Newsletter - https://www.kratimehra.com/newsletter/