What makes high achievers anxious — even when everything looks “fine” on the outside? In this episode, Brandon sits down with Alycia Bueche, a licensed counselor specializing in trauma, anxiety, and brain mapping, to break down why stress, fear, and restlessness are so common in driven people. Alycia explains how early life experiences silently wire the brain, why vulnerability feels unsafe for so many men and women, and how anxiety often becomes a coping mechanism rather than a warning sign. They explore how high performers learn to outrun discomfort through productivity, why presence is so hard in a fast-paced culture, and how unhealed emotional wounds quietly shape communication, relationships, and decision-making. This conversation digs into brain development, trauma across life stages, fear of failure, and the myth that anxiety is required for success. Alycia also shares how learning to sit with discomfort — instead of numbing or avoiding it — creates more peace, clarity, and long-term performance without dulling ambition. Why anxiety is common in high achievers — and when it becomes harmful How childhood experiences shape adult stress responses and behavior The difference between working from anxiety vs. working from peace Why vulnerability feels unsafe and how to rewire that response How fear and anxiety steal focus, energy, and mental bandwidth Practical ways to build presence without losing drive or discipline About Alycia Bueche Alycia Bueche is a licensed counselor who works with individuals and couples on trauma, anxiety, emotional regulation, and brain mapping. Her approach focuses on helping high-functioning people heal underlying wounds so they can operate with clarity, presence, and purpose. Who this episode is for High achievers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone who feels constantly “on,” stressed, or restless — and wants to perform better without living in anxiety. 👉 Follow the podcast, leave a rating, and share this episode with someone who’s always pushing forward but rarely at peace. Keywords: anxiety, high achievers, trauma, brain mapping, counseling, fear of failure, emotional healing, performance mindset, presence, stress management
