Upward Spiral

By Michelle O'Brien

Life after alcohol, how to create and maintain upward momentum in your life. 'Upward Spiral' with Michelle O'Brien explores actionable micro-habits, mindset tweaks, & strategies that build lasting... more

· Society & Culture

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FAQs about Upward Spiral:

How many episodes does Upward Spiral have?

The podcast currently has 55 episodes available.

Upward Spiral episodes:

January 14, 202535. Brain Mapping: The Secret to Peak Performance? with Santiago Brand
Brain Hack Your Way to Success: Unveiling Your Brain's Potential with Santiago Brand
Discover the secrets of your own mind! 🧠
Ever wondered what's REALLY going on inside your head? 🤔 Join Michelle O'Brien in this eye-opening episode of the Upward Spiral podcast as she dives deep into the world of brain mapping with special guest, Santiago Brand!
Santiago, a renowned sport and clinical psychologist specializing in brain optimization, guides Michelle through a live brain mapping session – and the results are fascinating! 🤯 They uncover surprising insights about Michelle's cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, and peak performance potential.
In this episode, you'll discover:
The power of brain mapping: A non-invasive tool that reveals your brain's unique patterns and potential.

The truth about mental health: Why personalized approaches are crucial, and how brain training can lead to transformative changes.

The heart-brain connection: How heart rate variability influences brain function and practical strategies to enhance both.

And much more! Including the impact of sleep, anxiety, and even social dynamics on your mental well-being.
Tune in now and unlock your brain's potential!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
05:49 Exploring Brain Functionality and Performance
11:58 Personalizing Mental Health Interventions
17:51 Understanding EEG and Brain Activity
23:56 The Default Mode Network and Attention
39:40 Understanding Genetic Predispositions and Health Risks
40:32 The Importance of EEG in Brain Mapping
41:30 Distinguishing Between Diagnosis and Guidance
42:27 Identifying Neuromarkers for Peak Performance
44:20 The Double-Edged Sword of Ambition
46:36 Enhancing Peak Performance Without Compromising Health
48:29 Language Production and Cognitive Functions
49:50 The Myth of Multitasking and Its Implications
51:42 Impulse Control and Decision-Making
53:09 Social Anxiety and Trauma Markers
55:35 Regulating Emotional Responses and Dopamine Levels
57:30 Stabilizing Brain Patterns for Better Mental Health
58:57 The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Mental Health
01:00:51 Understanding Dyslexia and Cognitive Challenges
01:01:47 Brain Processing Speed and Intelligence
01:02:40 Self-Regulation and Sensory Processing
01:04:06 Cognitive Flexibility and Stubbornness
01:06:28 Finding Balance Between Ambition and Personal Life
01:08:55 Training the Brain for Better Decision-Making
01:10:54 Connectivity in the Brain and Its Implications
01:12:45 The Role of the Client in Therapy
01:14:09 Embracing Self-Improvement and Personal Growth
01:15:36 Understanding ADHD Tendencies
01:17:30 Creating an Action Plan for Mental Wellness
Don't forget to:
Subscribe to the Upward Spiral podcast for more inspiring episodes!

Leave a review and share your thoughts on this episode.

Check out Santiago Brand's YouTube channel (link below) for more brain-boosting tips!

Visit the New Leaf Counseling Center (link below) to schedule your own brain mapping session in Singapore.
#brainmapping #peakperformance #mentalhealth #upwardspiral #selffimprovement #neurofeedback #braintraining #cognitivethealth #anxietyrelief #dopamine
...more
1h 21min
January 07, 202534. How to Find Confidence After Hitting Rock Bottom? With Samantha Gold
Ever felt like you're stuck in a downward spiral? In this episode of the Upward Spiral podcast, Michelle O'Brien talks to Samantha Gold, CEO and founder of Motette, about overcoming personal struggles, the power of community, and the transformative journey of self-forgiveness.
Samantha opens up about her experience with alcoholism, hitting rock bottom, and the challenges and triumphs of rebuilding her life and career. From navigating relationships to rediscovering confidence and launching a new business, Samantha's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope.
Key takeaways:
The different faces of alcoholism: Samantha challenges the stereotypes and shares her unique experience.

Asking for help is crucial: It's the first step to breaking free from negative patterns.

Community is key: The power of support and connection in recovery and personal growth.

Self-forgiveness is essential: Healing and moving forward with self-compassion.

Recovery is a journey: It's about continuous growth and self-discovery.
Resources:
Connect with Samantha Gold on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-gold-45251137/

Follow Samantha on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/samanthabgold

Follow Motette on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopmotette/

Find an AA meeting near you: https://www.aa.org/

Need support? Reach out to Michelle or Samantha - we're here to help!
Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who needs a dose of inspiration! ✨
#recovery #personalgrowth #alcoholism #resilience #community #selfimprovement #motherhood #transformation #upwardspiral #mentalhealth #sobriety #entrepreneurship #communitysupport #confidence #wellness #addiction
...more
52min
December 30, 202433. Can Functional Drinks Put You In The Flow State? with Kevin Law-Smith
Ready to ditch the afternoon slump and unlock peak performance? 🚀 In this episode of the Upward Spiral podcast, host Michelle O'Brien sits down with Kevin Law-Smith, the dynamic founder of AYA Drinks, to explore the power of functional beverages for enhancing your physical and cognitive well-being. 🌱
Kevin, a yogi, free diver, and XPT coach, shares his incredible journey of revolutionizing the beverage industry with AYA's unique blend of turmeric, green tea, and B vitamins. 🧘‍♂️🍵 Discover how these ingredients can boost your energy, reduce inflammation, and support your overall health – without the added sugars or artificial sweeteners found in many traditional drinks.
Key Takeaways:
Time is finite, but you can influence your energy levels.

True energy and focus come from within, not from substances.

Functional beverages can provide amazing benefits without alcohol.

Understanding ingredient transparency is essential for consumers.

Sustainability in sourcing ingredients is becoming increasingly important.

Don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔 Let us know in the comments what your favorite functional beverage is and how you incorporate it into your routine. 👇
#functionalbeverages #wellness #personalgrowth #healthtransformation #nonalcoholicdrinks #energy #lifestylechange #turmeric #greentea #healthcommunity #supplements #bioavailability #healthbenefits #peakperformance #flowstate
...more
1h 6min
December 18, 202432. Biohacking Your Energy for Peak Performance (with Elika Tasker)
Join Michelle O'Brien and energy optimization specialist Elika Tasker as they delve into the transformative power of biohacking your energy for peak performance and wellbeing.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Why inner work and emotional awareness are crucial for sustainable personal growth.

How to reframe your energy as your most valuable currency.

Practical strategies to optimize your energy levels and avoid burnout.

The importance of testing and integration in your health journey.

Why collaboration is key to unlocking your full potential.
Elika shares her incredible journey from corporate burnout to becoming an energy optimization expert, offering invaluable insights and actionable advice.
Key takeaways:
Ditch traditional resolutions and embrace sustainable growth.

Inner work is essential for holistic wellbeing.

Understand your energetic body to fuel personal growth.

Create space for emotional awareness.

Outsource tasks to free up valuable time and energy.

Build a supportive network to enhance your growth.

Conduct an energy audit to identify drains on your vitality.

Biohacking involves understanding and optimizing your biology.

Testing is crucial before making significant health changes.

Integration of knowledge and practices is essential for progress.

Embrace fear as a natural part of your journey.

Personal growth is a lifelong journey; enjoy the process!
Ready to create your own Upward Spiral? Hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share this episode with your friends!
Connect with Elika:
Subscribe to Newsletter: https://elika.co/monthly-newsletter/

Elika's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elikat

Signature program: https://elika.co/healthconcierge/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elikahealth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elika.health/

Chapters
00:00 The Intersection of Eastern and Western Wisdom
10:00 Navigating Burnout and Personal Growth
19:58 Understanding Energy as a Currency
30:04 The Four Layers of the Energetic Body
30:56 Aligning with Opportunities
34:53 Understanding Biohacking
39:26 The Importance of Testing
43:39 Integration and Personalization
48:54 Overcoming Fear and Control
55:37 The Journey of Personal Growth
58:57 Key Takeaways for 2025
#biohacking #energyoptimization #personalgrowth #burnoutrecovery #emotionalawareness #innerwork #positivechange #holistichealth #sustainablehabits #quantumphysics #humandesign #wellness #energy #integration #testing #collaboration #emotionalhealth #functionalmedicine #upwardspiralpodcast
...more
1h 2min
December 10, 202431. From Rock Bottom to Sober Entrepreneur, a Conversation with Chris Marshall
In this episode of the Upward Spiral podcast, host Michelle O'Brien interviews Chris Marshall, a pioneer in the alcohol-free movement and founder of Sans Bar. They discuss Chris's journey from struggling with alcohol dependency to creating a thriving alcohol-free business. The conversation explores themes of community, connection, and the importance of mental health, as well as the cultural expectations surrounding alcohol consumption. Chris shares his personal experiences and insights on recovery, the need for inclusive spaces, and the evolving conversation around alcohol use.
In this conversation, Chris Marshall discusses:
The sobriety spectrum and the importance of understanding where one fits within it.

The inspiration behind Sans Bar, a non-alcoholic bar that fosters community and connection.

The significance of creating enjoyable experiences without alcohol.

Practical tips for navigating social situations, especially during the holiday season.

Empowering advice for his younger self, reinforcing the idea that personal growth is a journey filled with potential and connection.
Key Takeaways:
The feeling of community often drives alcohol consumption.

Seeking connection can lead to unhealthy drinking habits.

Recovery is a journey that requires serious commitment.

Mental health plays a crucial role in addiction recovery.

Creating safe spaces for socializing without alcohol is essential.

Cultural expectations around drinking can be challenging to navigate.

Non-alcoholic alternatives can foster a sense of belonging.

The stigma around alcohol dependency is slowly changing.

Entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for positive change.
Subscribe to the Upward Spiral Podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice on personal growth.
Leave a review and share this episode with your friends.
Visit Sans Bar online to learn more about Chris Marshall and his work.
https://www.thesansbar.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sans_bar/
Let's create a world where everyone feels empowered to live their best lives. Keep spiraling upwards!
...more
1h 1min
December 03, 202430. Alcohol-Free Holidays & a Purposeful New Year with Hannah Kissel
Ready to ditch the holiday hangover and create a festive season filled with joy, connection, and purpose?
In this episode of The Upward Spiral podcast, I'm joined by the incredible Hannah Kissel, former LinkedIn leader and certified coach, to explore how to navigate the holidays and the new year with intention and clarity.
Whether you're rethinking your relationship with alcohol, already embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle, or simply seeking to make more mindful choices, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiring insights to help you thrive!
Here's what you'll discover:
Hannah's inspiring journey to sobriety and the changes she made at LinkedIn to create a more inclusive workplace culture.

Practical tips for attending holiday parties alcohol-free while still having fun and making connections.

Strategies for setting boundaries with family and friends to prioritize your well-being during the festive season.

How to manage stress and avoid burnout without turning to alcohol.

Using the new year as a catalyst for positive change in your career and personal life.

Actionable steps to achieve your goals and maintain momentum throughout the year.
Ready to unlock your potential and create an upward spiral in your life?
🎧 Listen now! 🎧
#alcoholfree #holidayseason #intentionalliving #sobercurious #mindfuldrinking #personalgrowth #newyeargoals #careercoach #leadership #wellbeing #upwardspiral #podcast
➡️ Subscribe to The Upward Spiral podcast for more inspiring conversations and practical strategies for personal growth. ⬅️
...more
1h 6min
November 26, 202429. Can the Holidays Actually Be BETTER Without Alcohol? with Myles Faulkner
Surviving the Holidays Sober: Tips & Tricks for Alcohol-Free Festivities
Feeling the pressure of the holiday season? Worried about navigating social gatherings without alcohol? Don't let the festive season derail your upward spiral! 🥂🚫
In this episode of the Upward Spiral Podcast, I'm joined by Myles Faulkner, the mastermind behind The Modern Substitute, a fantastic newsletter curating the best non-alcoholic drinks. Myles shares his inspiring journey to sobriety and offers practical tips for staying alcohol-free during the holidays.
We dive deep into:
Mindful drinking & the power of non-alcoholic alternatives: Discover how to socialize without alcohol, manage expectations, and handle those tricky questions about sobriety.

The exploding world of NA beverages: Myles shares his top picks for festive non-alcoholic spirits, beers, wines, and ready-to-drink options. Get ready for some delicious recommendations!

Creating an inclusive holiday experience: Learn how to be a supportive host and create a welcoming environment for all guests, regardless of their drinking preferences.
Key takeaways:
Mindset shifts are crucial for maintaining sobriety during the holidays.

Planning ahead and bringing your own NA drinks can empower you in social situations.

You are in control of your social interactions and can choose to leave when you feel uncomfortable.

The non-alcoholic beverage industry is booming with innovative and delicious options.
Ready to create your own upward spiral this holiday season? ✨
Listen now and discover how to thrive during the festivities, alcohol-free! 🎧

LINKS:
- The Modern Substitute newsletter: https://www.themodernsubstitute.com/
- The Modern Substitute Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themodernsubstitute/
- Myles Faulkner LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/myles-faulkner-a728756/
...more
1h 5min
November 20, 202428. This is Your Brain on Alcohol (Brain Scans Revealed!) with Santiago Brand
Ever wondered what alcohol REALLY does to your brain?
Join Michelle O'Brien on the Upward Spiral podcast as she dives deep with Santiago Brand, a sports and clinical psychologist and expert in brain mapping and neurofeedback, to uncover the shocking truth about alcohol's impact on cognitive function, memory, and decision-making.
In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover:
The REAL effects of alcohol on your brain: See actual brain scans and learn how alcohol can impair your cognitive abilities, memory, and decision-making.

The link between alcohol and mental health: Understand how alcohol can worsen existing mental health conditions and contribute to anxiety, depression, and even addiction.

How to break free from alcohol's grip: Gain practical tips and strategies for creating and maintaining an alcohol-free lifestyle, including the power of community support and rewiring your brain for positive change.

The importance of sleep optimization: Discover why sleep is your secret weapon for overall mental health and how to improve your sleep quality for optimal brain function.
Plus, Santiago shares his personal journey with alcohol and the cultural implications of drinking, offering a unique perspective on the societal pressures surrounding alcohol consumption.
This episode is a MUST-WATCH for anyone who:
Is questioning their own drinking habits

Is on an alcohol-free journey

Wants to optimise their cognitive function and mental health

Is interested in personal growth and intentional living
Chapters:
00:00 The Bidirectional Relationship Between Alcohol and the Brain
03:00 Understanding Brain Mapping and Neurofeedback
05:52 Cultural Influences on Alcohol Consumption
09:03 Personal Experiences with Alcohol and Its Consequences
11:48 The Impact of Alcohol on Cognitive Function
15:10 The Lies We Tell Ourselves About Alcohol
17:49 Rewiring the Brain for Positive Change
36:43 The Importance of Community and Personal Growth
39:40 Embracing Discomfort for Sustainable Change
44:50 Understanding the Impact of Alcohol on the Brain
56:39 The Cycle of Addiction and Mental Health
01:10:39 Practical Tips for Optimizing Mental Health
🔗 Watch now and unlock your brain's full potential!
Don't forget to subscribe to the Upward Spiral podcast for more inspiring conversations and actionable insights on creating positive change in your life.
#soberbrain #alcoholfree #mentalhealth #brainhacking #personalgrowth #upwardspiral
...more
1h 14min
November 12, 202427. Your Brain on Booze: How Alcohol Hijacks Your Decisions
Ever wondered how that extra glass of wine affects your choices? Join us on Upward Spiral as we dive deep into the neuroscience of decision-making with Dr. Shawn Watson, a leading expert in neurophysiology.
We uncover how alcohol impairs your brain and explore the fascinating concept of decision fatigue. Discover how to make smarter choices, protect your brain health, and unlock your full potential!
Key takeaways:
Intentional living is key: Discover how mindful choices can transform your life.

Alcohol's hidden impact: Learn how alcohol affects your decision-making abilities.

Decision fatigue is real: Understand how this modern challenge impacts your choices.

Practical strategies: Gain actionable tips to improve your decision-making and brain health.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
10:12 Understanding Decision Science
16:30 Alcohol's Impact on the Brain
22:05 Neurotransmitters and Decision Making
25:22 The Impact of Alcohol on Decision-Making
33:51 Understanding Decision Fatigue
42:37 Strategies to Combat Decision Fatigue
46:43 The Importance of Reducing Negative Habits
Links:
Connect with Dr. Sean Watson: [Insert Link]

[Insert Links to relevant studies]
Ready to take control of your choices and unlock your full potential? Hit that subscribe button, leave a review, and join our amazing community! Let's embrace the upward spiral together! ✨
#intentionalliving #alcohol #decisionmaking #neuroscience #brainhealth #decisionfatigue #neurophysiology #mentalclarity #cognitivehealth #emotionalresilience #mindfulness #habits #cognitivefunction #mentalhealth #choices #productivity
...more
52min
November 05, 202426. Raising Resilient Kids: Alcohol-Free Parenting with Michelle Lim
Ever feel like you're raising kids in a world obsessed with alcohol? Join me, Michelle O'Brien, as I chat with re-parenting coach Michelle Lim about navigating the challenges of mindful parenting in an alcohol-centric world.
We dive deep into:
The subtle ways alcohol can shape family dynamics (even without abuse!)

Breaking generational cycles and fostering open communication about alcohol

Practical strategies for creating a safe space for kids to talk about ANYTHING

Re-parenting yourself while raising your kids to make mindful choices
Key takeaways:
Mindful parenting is KEY in a society that normalises alcohol.

Open communication and trust are essential for healthy family dynamics.

Generational trauma around alcohol IS real, but we CAN break the cycle!

Leading by example is the most powerful way to influence our children's choices.

Self-awareness and kindness are crucial on the re-parenting journey.
Ready to raise resilient kids who make empowered choices? Hit play and let's spiral upwards together!

LINKS:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-lim-wan-ru/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themindfullparent
...more
56min

FAQs about Upward Spiral:

How many episodes does Upward Spiral have?

The podcast currently has 55 episodes available.