CalmWaves: Brain Health and Performance

Dallas Cowan and Dr. Doug Cowan
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
CalmWaves: Brain Health and Performance Podcast

Unlocking Brain Potential: Dive deep with Dr. Doug Cowan and Dallas Cowan, leveraging his 35 years of expertise in mental health, as we explore cutting-edge technologies, innovative techniques, and holistic philosophies to enhance brain health and performance. From optimizing athletic prowess to aiding veterans with PTSD, discover ways to amplify your brain's capacity and agility.

Episodes

  1. 5 SEPT

    011: Ex-NFL O-Lineman Dustin Stanton on Finding Purpose After a Career-Ending Injury

    Summary Dustin Stanton, a former professional football player, shares his journey from being a tight end to becoming an offensive lineman in the NFL. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a career-ending injury, and how he found a new purpose in helping athletes transition to life after sports. Stanton emphasizes the importance of community and shifting one's perspective to see challenges as opportunities for growth. He encourages athletes to embrace the next chapter of their lives with an abundance mindset and a focus on serving others. In this conversation, Dustin and Dallas discuss the importance of mental health and mindset training for athletes. They explore the challenges athletes face, such as pressure and external noise, and how these can impact performance. They also highlight the need for mental health support to be integrated into athletes' training programs. Dustin shares his vision for the future, where mental health and mindset training are as essential as physical training. They emphasize the power of the mind and the potential for athletes to reach their full potential with the right support. Athlete ER: https://www.athleteer.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dustinstanton_?igsh=MTA2cXp4NTlyZjR5eQ== Takeaways Transitioning from being an athlete to life after sports can be challenging, but having a supportive community can make a significant difference. Shifting one's perspective and seeing challenges as opportunities for growth can help navigate the transition more effectively. Finding a new purpose and focusing on serving others can bring fulfillment and a sense of direction in the next chapter of life. Seeking support from others who have gone through similar experiences can provide valuable guidance and empathy. Mental health and mindset training are crucial for athletes to reach their full potential. Athletes face challenges such as pressure and external noise, which can impact their performance. The future of sports includes mental health support being integrated into athletes' training programs. The power of the mind is essential for athletes to overcome obstacles and achieve success. Athletes need resources and tools to support their mental well-being and optimize their performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 13:46 Transitioning from Athlete to Life After Sports 25:55 Shifting Perspective and Embracing Challenges 33:22 Finding Purpose in Serving Others 37:22 Building Perseverance and Character 42:09 Pressure and External Noise 46:34 The Impact of NIL on College Athletes 52:47 Integrating Mental Health Support in Sports 56:30 The Power of the Mind in Overcoming Obstacles 01:00:11 Empowering Athletes to Reach Their Full Potential

    1h 1m

  2. 19 MAR

    010: Endurance Athlete Andy Vickers of the Keep Going Foundation Shares His Story of Faith, Healing, and Endurance

    Summary Andy Vickers shares his journey from being a professional wakeboarder to experiencing burnout and depression, and eventually finding healing and purpose. He discusses the importance of relationships and the support he received during his recovery. Andy also talks about his current endeavors, including training for endurance races and his nonprofit organization, the Keep Going Foundation. He emphasizes the role of faith in his journey and how surrendering to God's plan has brought him peace and a heart to serve others. In this conversation, Andy Vickers shares his personal journey of overcoming struggles and finding purpose. He emphasizes the importance of staying in a posture of submission and letting God carry the burdens. Andy also discusses the significance of human capital in business success and the role of effective leadership. He shares his positive experience using the Calm Box and how it has improved his cognitive function and sleep. Lastly, Andy highlights the impact of mindset on performance and the importance of focusing on potential and reducing interferences. Link to CalmBox: https://www.calmwaves.com/calmbox Link to follow Andy: https://www.instagram.com/keep.going.andy/ Takeaways Burnout and mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of their achievements or success. Rebuilding relationships and surrounding yourself with supportive people is crucial for recovery. Finding a purpose bigger than yourself can be a motivating factor in overcoming challenges. Faith and surrendering to God's plan can bring healing and a renewed sense of purpose. Stay in a posture of submission and let God carry your burdens. Human capital is crucial for the success of any organization. The CalmBox can improve cognitive function and promote better sleep. Mindset plays a significant role in performance, and reducing interferences can lead to peak performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Origin Story 04:03 Struggles and Burnout 07:34 Recovery and Restarting 11:43 Rebuilding Relationships 16:02 Current Endeavors 24:13 Spiritual Journey 28:06 Reflection on Difficult Times 30:05 Lessons from Personal Struggles 33:24 The Importance of Human Capital in Business 38:24 The Benefits of Using the Calm Box 50:19 The Impact of Mindset on Performance 55:19 How to Connect with Andy Vickers

    56 min

  3. 14 MAR

    009: PGA Tour Mental Performance Coach Rick Sessinghaus on Flow, Focus, and the Mental Game

    Summary In this episode, Dallas interviews Rick Sessinghaus from Flowcode (https://theflowcode.com/golf-academy/), a mental performance coach. They discuss the importance of mental performance in various aspects of life, including sports and daily life. Rick shares his journey into this profession and how he helps athletes and coaches improve their performance. They also talk about the concept of flow state and how to achieve it. They emphasize the importance of being present, finding passion, and understanding one's motivation. In this conversation, Dallas and Rick discuss the importance of curiosity and how it can enhance performance. They explore the connection between physical and mental fatigue in sports, and the need to manage both effectively. They also discuss the mental aspects of golf and what separates amateurs from professionals. The conversation highlights the role of gratitude in improving both the golf game and life. They also touch on the potential of brain tech and tools to enhance cognitive performance and help athletes overcome external factors and stresses. Rick shares his approach to working with clients and the importance of finding the right fit. Takeaways Rick Sessinghaus is a mental performance coach who helps athletes and coaches improve their performance. Mental performance is important not only in sports but also in daily life. Flow state is a state of optimal performance where individuals are fully immersed and focused on the task at hand. To achieve flow state, it is important to be present, find passion, and understand one's motivation. Curiosity is a key trait that can enhance performance in any field. Managing both physical and mental fatigue is crucial for optimal performance in sports. Gratitude is a powerful tool that can improve both golf game and life. Brain tech and tools have the potential to enhance cognitive performance and help athletes overcome external factors and stresses. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:35 Getting into Mental Performance Coaching 03:28 The Mental Game in Different Sports 04:55 The Gap in Mental Game Coaching 06:22 Transition to Mental Performance Coaching 07:47 The Importance of Playing Lessons 09:41 Pursuing a Master's and Doctorate in Applied Sports Psychology 11:02 Learning to Manage Anger and Frustration 13:24 The Power of Curiosity over Criticism 15:10 Post-Round and Post-Performance Routines 19:58 Motivation and Intrinsic Rewards 22:10 Finding Passion and Purpose 24:42 The Joy of Helping Others Succeed 27:07 The Power of Curiosity 27:41 Identifying the Performance Gap 28:13 Filling the Gap with Mental Skills 28:41 Interference Equals Result or Performance 29:18 The Importance of Mental and Emotional Skills 29:46 Training Mental Skills 30:15 Physical and Mental Fatigue 30:45 Recovery Skills 31:15 The Mental Warfare in Golf 31:40 Heart Rate and Recovery Skills 32:23 The Impact of Mental and Emotional State on Performance 32:34 The Equation of Interference and Performance 33:22 Differentiating Nervousness and Excitement 33:53 The Mental Game and State Management 34:24 The Role of Gratitude in Golf and Life 35:15 Playing Within Your Skillset 36:08 Making Better Decisions on the Golf Course 37:13 The Difference Between College, Amateur, and Pro Golfers 38:33 The Foundation for Improving Golf and Life 39:17 The Hardware and Software of the Brain 40:31 The Future of Mental Performance Training 42:55 The Importance of Gratitude and Journaling 44:13 The Integration of Brain Tech and Mental Performance Training 45:23 The Evolution of Golf Coaching and Mental Performance Training 48:11 The Potential of Virtual Reality and AI in Mental Performance Training 49:38 The Importance of Motivation and Doing the Work 53:03 How to Connect with Rick Sessinghaus 54:46 The Power of Gratitude in Golf

    56 min

  4. 11 MAR

    008: Keith Holmes on Healing Humans and Horses with Direct Neurofeedback

    Keith Holmes shares his journey of helping people and horses through his unique approach to healthcare. He combines bioenergetic testing, direct neurofeedback, and other therapies to support the body and mind. Keith's program aims to provide alternative solutions for clients who have not found success with traditional Western medicine. He also applies direct neurofeedback to horses, helping them overcome anxiety and perform better. Clients have experienced positive results, including reduced anxiety and improved mental health. In this conversation, Keith Holmes discusses the use of neurofeedback to reduce anxiety and improve mental well-being. He shares a case study where a client was able to apply coping mechanisms and tools more effectively after neurofeedback sessions. Keith also explains the number of sessions and simulations required for noticeable results and the importance of operator comfort and experience. He highlights the surprising benefits of neurofeedback, such as improved blood pressure and enhanced perception of colors. Keith envisions the technology being used in wellness centers, education, and various therapeutic settings. He also addresses side effects and the future of neurofeedback technology. Takeaways: Keith Holmes combines bioenergetic testing, direct neurofeedback, and other therapies to provide alternative healthcare solutions. Direct neurofeedback has been effective in reducing anxiety and improving mental health in both humans and horses. Keith's program focuses on addressing the root causes of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms themselves. Client experiences with direct neurofeedback have been positive, with noticeable improvements in anxiety levels and overall well-being. Neurofeedback can help reduce anxiety and improve mental well-being by allowing individuals to apply coping mechanisms and tools more effectively. The number of sessions and simulations required for noticeable results may vary, but consistent sessions can lead to longer-lasting effects. Operator comfort and experience are important factors in the success of neurofeedback sessions. Neurofeedback can have surprising benefits, such as stabilizing blood pressure and enhancing the perception of colors. The technology has potential applications in wellness centers, education, and various therapeutic settings. Side effects of neurofeedback are generally mild and may include temporary tiredness or increased anxiety. The future of neurofeedback technology lies in its integration into existing healthcare practices and the development of sustainable business models. Word of mouth and client testimonials are powerful tools for promoting the benefits of neurofeedback. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 01:33 Helping Horses' Brains 08:04 Bioenergetic Testing and Quest 10:27 Adding Direct Neurofeedback to the Program 24:45 Client Experiences with Direct Neurofeedback 26:12 Reducing Anxiety and Applying Coping Mechanisms 27:33 Number of Sessions and Simulations 29:41 Operator Comfort and Experience 30:45 Surprising Results and Benefits 33:12 Potential Applications in Wellness Centers and Education 36:35 Side Effects and Overstimulation 38:51 Future of Neurofeedback Technology 41:01 Improving Academic Performance and Therapist Response 44:09 Sustainable Business Model and Word of Mouth 46:55 Contact Information and Conclusion

    48 min

  5. 08/12/2023

    007: Fighter Pilots and Special Forces Mental/Brain Training: A Journey with Justin Foster into Neurocognitive Training

    Summary In this episode, host Dallas Cowan interviews Justin Foster, an expert in neurocognitive training and brain performance. They discuss the evolution of mental performance, the relationship between mental performance, neurocognitive training, and brain performance, and the implementation of neurocognitive training in organizations. They also explore the future of brain performance and the importance of data-driven approaches. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of training the mind and body together to unleash one's potential and improve performance in various contexts. Takeaways Mental performance has evolved to include data-driven training and objective feedback, which allows for more effective assessment and progress tracking. Neurocognitive training focuses on training the way athletes see, decide, and execute, incorporating sports vision training and perceptual-cognitive training. Brain performance is crucial for optimal performance and involves factors such as sleep, nutrition, and emotional regulation. Implementing neurocognitive training can be done through specialized facilities, integrating it into physical training, or working one-on-one with individuals. The future of brain performance lies in combining mental and physical training, using technology to provide objective feedback, and addressing mental health and wellness alongside performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Origin Story 10:41 The Evolution of Mental Performance 17:43 Relationship Between Mental Performance, Neurocognitive Training, and Brain Performance 26:59 Implementation of Neurocognitive Training 31:32 The Future of Brain Performance 38:12 Conclusion and Call to Action

    41 min

  6. 01/12/2023

    006: The Future of Neurofeedback and CES in Mental Health

    The CalmWaves podcast, hosted by Dallas Cowan, features discussions on brain health and performance, focusing on technologies and systems that influence these areas. This episode features Dr. Doug Cowan, who shares his extensive experience and insights into various methods of neurofeedback and their applications in mental health and performance enhancement. Introduction to Neurofeedback (Start - 01:30): Dr. Doug Cowan shares his initial skepticism and subsequent embrace of neurofeedback for ADHD treatment. Traditional Neurofeedback Explained (01:30 - 03:48): Dr. Cowan discusses the principles and effectiveness of traditional neurofeedback in clinical settings. Shift to Direct Neurofeedback (03:48 - 05:51): The transition from traditional to direct neurofeedback and its improved efficacy. Clinical Applications of Neurofeedback (05:51 - 10:20): Real-world examples of neurofeedback positively impacting mental health treatments. Cranial Electrical Stimulation (CES) (10:20 - 13:48): Introduction to CES and its role in treating various mental health conditions. Veterans, PTSD, and Neurofeedback (13:48 - 17:02): Discussion on the benefits of neurofeedback and CES for veterans with PTSD. Enhancing Athletic Performance (17:02 - 20:02): How CES and neurofeedback can be used to improve focus and performance in athletes. Comparing EMDR and Neurofeedback (20:02 - 25:18): Dr. Cowan compares the effectiveness of EMDR and neurofeedback in treating trauma. Success Stories and Case Studies (25:18 - 30:25): Sharing of impactful case studies demonstrating the transformative power of neurofeedback. Future Prospects and Conclusion (30:25 - End): Insights into the future of neurofeedback and CES in mental health and performance enhancement. This comprehensive overview provides a detailed account of the key points discussed in the "CalmWaves: Brain Health and Performance" podcast, showcasing the potential and versatility of neurofeedback and CES technologies in various applications.

    58 min

  7. 10/11/2023

    005: Ethan Harris's Olympic Pursuit, What Success Looks As a Jesus Following D1 Athlete, and Why The Time Of Day Matters For What You Do

    This episode features host Dallas Cowan and guest Ethan Harris, discussing Ethan's journey from basketball to high jumping and his pursuit of the Olympics: Introduction (00:01): Dallas introduces Ethan Harris, an Olympic hopeful high jumper, and the focus of the podcast on Ethan's background and journey. Ethan's Early Sports Career (01:11): Ethan shares his transition from aspiring basketball player to discovering his talent in high jumping. Facing Rejection and Pivoting Sports (03:06): Ethan discusses dealing with rejection in basketball and how it led him to track and field. First Success in High Jump (05:24): Ethan describes his unexpected success in high jumping, leading to his decision to take it seriously. Becoming a National Champion (07:10): Ethan recalls his journey to becoming a national champion in high jumping. Training for the Olympics (08:18): Discussion on the challenges and standards of Olympic-level high jumping. Mindset and Preparation (10:02): Ethan talks about his mental approach to competitions and overcoming challenges. Transition to Grand Canyon University (14:14): Ethan shares his decision to transfer to GCU for growth and spiritual opportunities. Prioritizing Faith in Sports (16:12): The conversation shifts to balancing athletics with faith and starting a Bible study group. Ethan's Journey at GCU (19:08): Ethan discusses his experiences and growth during his time at GCU. Post-Collegiate Training Challenges (25:12): Ethan talks about the challenges he faced after his collegiate career, including training and dealing with injuries. Olympic Trials Experience (33:08): Ethan shares his experience at the Olympic trials and the emotional journey surrounding it. Post-Trials Reflection and Growth (40:24): Ethan reflects on his journey after the trials, focusing on personal growth and his relationship with God. Continuing High Jump and Career Decisions (48:12): Discussion on Ethan's decision to continue high jumping and balancing it with work commitments. Productivity and Training Insights (01:01:17): Ethan talks about his approach to training and productivity, especially with a full-time job. The podcast provides a comprehensive look at Ethan Harris's sports career, his struggles, achievements, and how he balances his athletic pursuits with his personal growth and faith.

    1h 10m

  8. 26/10/2023

    004: Installing Brain Centers into Football Programs, Non-Profits Orgs, and More.

    Welcome to the CalmWaves podcast, where we dive deep into the innovative world of brain technology and its profound implications. In this episode, Dallas Cowan, our host, sits down with Dr. Doug Cowan to explore the landscape of installing brain centers in various facilities and the potential advantages they bring to a range of sectors, from football programs to nonprofit endeavors. Timestamps: 00:03.151 - Dallas introduces the episode's topic and guest. 00:59.554 - Dr. Douglas Cowan delves into what brain centers are, ranging from small solo private practices for therapists to major athletic programs. He explains the primary aim of these tools and his personal experience in benefiting clients with their use. 02:43.41 - Douglas touches on current proposals for large-scale implementations of these tools, such as aiding inner-city youth and addressing PTSD stemming from their daily challenges. 04:07.699 - Dallas emphasizes the scalability that brain centers bring, especially against the backdrop of the increasing push for mental health awareness. He highlights the challenges of scaling traditional methods like talk therapy, referencing a study involving national champion football teams. 06:32.347 - Dallas poses a question regarding the role of these brain technologies in bridging the gap between traditional talk therapy and brain therapy. 06:38.126 - Douglas explains the power and self-sufficiency of these brain technologies. He describes various tools, from devices that improve oxygenated blood flow to the brain to vagus nerve stimulators that are FDA approved for depression, anxiety, and more. 09:04.894 - Further exploration of the technologies, including those requiring supervision, such as direct neurofeedback and low energy neural feedback systems. 09:58.215 - Dallas inquires about the process and approach for introducing these tools on a large scale, such as within a football team. 10:43.83 - Douglas elaborates on the phased implementation plan for these technologies, discussing the necessary facilities, staffing, and logistics of integration. 12:51.202 - Introduction of the "Mendy," a blood flow trainer. Douglas explains its working, its feedback mechanism, and its use cases, including its role in NASA's astronaut training. Conclusion: The Calm Waves podcast continues to provide illuminating insights into the ever-evolving field of brain technology. Whether you're an athlete, a therapist, or simply intrigued by the future of mental health and performance enhancement, there's no doubt that these technologies are poised to revolutionize our approaches. Stay tuned for more in-depth conversations on upcoming episodes.

    49 min

  9. 23/10/2023

    003: The Difference Between Brain Performance and Mental Performance, Neurofeedback Today, What Has Surprised Us After 2 Years of Started CalmWaves

    Summary:In this inaugural episode of the Calm Waves podcast, Dallas Cowan dives into the fascinating realm of brain health and performance, sitting down with Dr. Douglas Cowan, a mental health veteran with decades of experience. The father-son duo sheds light on the significance of neurofeedback, highlighting the distinction between brain performance and mental performance, and discusses Dr. Cowan's transformative journey in the field. This engaging conversation also touches upon ADHD awareness and the potential of various neurofeedback technologies. Timestamps and Show Notes: 00:01.766 - Dallas opens the podcast, introducing the show's focus on brain health and performance. 01:03.854 - Dr. Douglas Cowan shares his background: Over 35 years in mental health. Licensed marriage and family therapist with a doctorate in psychology. Experience running a psychiatric hospital. Decades of work in neuro biofeedback and brainwave biofeedback. Past roles in ministry. 02:37.954 - Dallas prompts Dr. Cowan to share how he ventured into brainwave biofeedback. 02:56.586 - Dr. Cowan recounts his initial skepticism towards brainwave biofeedback for ADHD treatment and how a challenge from a concerned mother led him to connect with Siegfried Othmer, a pivotal figure in the field. 06:43.019 - Dr. Cowan explains the advantages of neurofeedback over traditional medications, emphasizing the lasting benefits of training the brain, analogous to weightlifting for muscles. 11:55.41 - Dallas recalls growing up with an awareness of brain training and expresses surprise at the lack of widespread knowledge about neurofeedback's potential. 13:45.046 - Dr. Cowan touches on his extensive experience, having conducted over 30,000 brain improvement sessions throughout his career. 14:00.467 - Dallas outlines upcoming discussion topics: Differentiating brain performance from mental performance. Insights from conversations with various professionals. In honor of ADHD awareness month, they'll delve into strategies for managing ADHD. 15:15.47 - Dallas prompts a deeper exploration into the nuances between brain and mental performance. Note: The podcast continues beyond the provided transcript. Stay tuned for further discussions and insights on brain health and performance!

    1h 1m

  10. 21/02/2022

    002: What is brain performance?

    In this episode, Dr. Doug talks about "what is brain performance?" and how it impacts our lives. He goes into detail about how goals impact the way our brain works and by having a purpose we are able to perform at our best.

    28 min

  11. 21/02/2022

    001: The Origin Story

    In this episode of the CalmWaves podcast, Dallas and Dr. Doug talk about why they are doing the podcast and the story about how CalmWaves came to be. It is a great intro to what direction CalmWaves is going.

    36 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

Unlocking Brain Potential: Dive deep with Dr. Doug Cowan and Dallas Cowan, leveraging his 35 years of expertise in mental health, as we explore cutting-edge technologies, innovative techniques, and holistic philosophies to enhance brain health and performance. From optimizing athletic prowess to aiding veterans with PTSD, discover ways to amplify your brain's capacity and agility.

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