CalmWaves: Brain Health and Performance

Dallas Cowan and Dr. Doug Cowan
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

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.

  1. 023: The Importance of Self-Awareness in Career Success with Cliff Jones

    11/18/2025

    023: The Importance of Self-Awareness in Career Success with Cliff Jones

    Summary In this episode of the Calm Waves podcast, Dallas Cowan and Cliff Jones explore the complexities of modern life, focusing on mentorship, self-awareness, and emotional health. Cliff shares his experiences mentoring young professionals, discussing the challenges they face and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in their careers. The conversation delves into the significance of self-care, community support, and the power of gratitude, while also emphasizing the need for continuous learning and personal growth through reading and introspection. Find Cliff Jones at https://cliffordjones.com Takeaways Cliff Jones emphasizes the importance of mentorship for young professionals. Self-awareness is crucial for personal growth and emotional health. Many young executives struggle with finding meaning in their careers. Emotional maturity and stability are key challenges for young adults. The Shift framework helps individuals navigate their personal and professional lives. Curiosity and gratitude are essential for a fulfilling life. Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for being present for others. Community support plays a vital role in mental health. Reading and lifelong learning are crucial for personal development. It's okay to not have all the answers; embracing uncertainty is part of growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:15 Cliff's Journey and Mentoring Young Executives 05:22 Challenges and Opportunities for Young Professionals 10:00 The Importance of Self-Awareness 16:35 Framework for Personal Growth: Shift 22:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 22:33 The Energy of Service and Self-Care 24:48 Health as a Personal Responsibility 26:46 Gratitude and Community Support 28:27 Family Values and Open Communication 29:28 Proactive Approaches to Life's Challenges 30:50 The Importance of Reading and Lifelong Learning 31:50 Timeless Wisdom from Classic Literature 34:46 Navigating Modern Individualism and Community 39:00 Connecting with Cliff Jones

    41 min
  2. 022: From Trauma to Triumph: A Journey with Direct Neurofeedback in El Salvador

    10/09/2025

    022: From Trauma to Triumph: A Journey with Direct Neurofeedback in El Salvador

    In this episode, Tiffany Lewis, a marriage and family therapist, discusses her work with direct neurofeedback in El Salvador. She shares inspiring stories of transformation and hope, highlighting the impact of neurofeedback on children with complex trauma and the development of a foster care program. neurofeedback, trauma therapy, El Salvador, foster care, mental health Direct neurofeedback can emotionally stabilize individuals, improving sleep and reducing anxiety.Tiffany Lewis's journey into neurofeedback began by accident but has transformed her therapeutic approach.Neurofeedback has shown remarkable results in children with complex trauma, including improved mood and behavior.The foster care program in El Salvador aims to provide better support for children with complex trauma.Neurofeedback is helping children with cerebral palsy and other conditions achieve developmental milestones.Tiffany's work in El Salvador is driven by a passion for helping children and families in need.The impact of neurofeedback extends to staff and caregivers, improving their ability to support children.Tiffany's dream is to expand neurofeedback access to more communities in El Salvador.The episode highlights the importance of choice and consent in trauma therapy.Listeners are encouraged to support Tiffany's mission to bring hope and healing to more children.

    45 min
  3. 021: Pastor Burnout: Understanding the Real Causes

    09/20/2025

    021: Pastor Burnout: Understanding the Real Causes

    In this episode of the CalmWaves Podcast, hosts Dallas Cowan and Dr. Doug Cowan delve into the often-overlooked challenges faced by pastors in their demanding roles. They explore the high turnover rates in ministry, the emotional and mental toll on clergy, and the critical need for brain performance support. Drawing from personal experiences and research, they discuss innovative tools and strategies to help pastors manage stress and improve their well-being, ensuring they can continue to serve their communities effectively. Join us for an insightful conversation on sustaining longevity in ministry. Find out more at CalmWaves.com

    37 min
  4. 020: The Fragility of Life: Embracing Grief and Growth

    09/18/2025

    020: The Fragility of Life: Embracing Grief and Growth

    In this episode of the CalmWaves Podcast, hosts Dallas Cowan and Dr. Douglas delve into the complex emotions surrounding grief and loss. From personal stories to professional insights, they explore how individuals process grief, the impact of sudden and expected losses, and the importance of presence and support. Join them as they discuss the role of wisdom and kindness in navigating life's challenges and the value of treating every human life with dignity and respect. Whether you're dealing with personal grief or seeking to support others, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives and practical advice. Visit us at CalmWaves.com for more information.

    34 min
  5. 019: The Brain's Dance with Uncertainty with Dr. Doug Cowan

    08/29/2025

    019: The Brain's Dance with Uncertainty with Dr. Doug Cowan

    In this conversation, Dr. Douglas Cowan and Dallas Cowan explore the complexities of OCD, the brain's processing of uncertainty, and the role of neurofeedback in mental health treatment. They discuss how trauma affects brain function and the importance of goal setting in personal development. The dialogue emphasizes the interplay between brain chemistry and electrical activity, highlighting innovative approaches to therapy and the future of mental health care. Chapters 00:00 Understanding OCD and Uncertainty 02:36 Brain Function and Decision-Making 05:20 Brain Waves and Mental Health 07:24 Neurofeedback and Brain Optimization 10:07 The Role of Trauma in Brain Function 12:19 Pharmaceuticals vs. Neurofeedback 14:32 The Future of Brain Health Treatments 17:19 Modulation and Brain Functionality 19:59 Indicators of Brain Health 23:31 Understanding Physical Injuries and Their Root Causes 25:32 The Role of Neurofeedback in Healing 27:39 Optimizing Brain Function for Better Therapy Outcomes 29:46 The Connection Between Trauma and Brain Function 33:44 Navigating Emotional Responses and Trauma 35:23 Integrating Technology with Therapy 38:39 Enhancing Decision-Making Through Brain Optimization 40:35 Goal Setting for Personal and Professional Growth Takeaways OCD is linked to difficulties in processing uncertainty. The brain seeks patterns to navigate uncertainty. Neurofeedback can enhance brain function and decision-making. Trauma impacts brain function and emotional responses. Self-talk influences brain wiring and performance. Effective goal setting can lead to personal growth. Prioritizing sleep and relationships is crucial for well-being. Gamifying tasks can improve productivity and motivation. Understanding brain waves can inform treatment strategies. The future of mental health may involve a holistic approach to brain health.

    46 min
  6. 018: Neuroscience PhD Student Nate Roy: Bullying, Brain Wiring, and the Science of Resilience

    06/19/2025

    018: Neuroscience PhD Student Nate Roy: Bullying, Brain Wiring, and the Science of Resilience

    Summary In this episode of the Calm Waves podcast, host Dallas Cowan engages with Nate Roy, a PhD student in neuroscience, to explore the intricate relationship between adversity, brain development, and resilience. They discuss Nate's research on the effects of social adversity during adolescence, particularly focusing on the dopamine system and its implications for mental health. The conversation delves into the nature versus nurture debate, the significance of behavioral phenotypes, and the long-term effects of resilience. They also touch on the importance of emotional expression, the impact of bullying, and the role of physical activity in brain development. The episode concludes with insights on parenting and fostering resilience in children during critical developmental periods. Takeaways Nate Roy is a PhD student in neuroscience focused on adolescent psychiatry. Adversity can significantly affect brain development, particularly the dopamine system. Positive stimuli during adolescence may protect against negative developmental outcomes. Behavioral phenotypes can help identify resilience and susceptibility in individuals. Resilience in the short term may lead to negative long-term effects on brain development. Emotional expression is crucial for healthy brain development and mental health. Bullying during adolescence is linked to worse cognitive outcomes in adulthood. Physical activity may buffer the negative effects of social adversity on cognitive development. Understanding stress appraisal can help in developing resilience in children. Adolescence is a critical period for neurodevelopment, requiring supportive environments. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neuroscience and Adversity 03:09 Exploring Nature vs. Nurture in Adolescence 08:01 Understanding Behavioral Phenotypes in Mice 13:17 Resilience vs. Susceptibility in Social Adversity 19:01 The Importance of Emotional Expression 21:11 The Impact of Bullying on Cognitive Outcomes 26:45 Physical Activity as a Buffer Against Adversity 33:34 Parenting Strategies for Resilience

    39 min
  7. 017: NFL Coach-Turned-Consultant Jamey Mroz on the Mindset of Elite Leaders

    05/30/2025

    017: NFL Coach-Turned-Consultant Jamey Mroz on the Mindset of Elite Leaders

    In this episode of the Calm Waves podcast, Dallas Cowan interviews Jamey Mroz, a former NFL strength and conditioning coach turned business consultant. They discuss Jamey's journey from playing football to coaching at the highest level, and how he transitioned into helping business leaders maximize their performance through mental game strategies. The conversation explores the similarities and differences between the NFL and the business world, the importance of active listening, and the key traits that contribute to long-term success in both fields. In this conversation, Jamey Mroz discusses the essential qualities for high performance, including self-regulation, perspective, and hope. He emphasizes the importance of discipline in achieving desired results, the ability to view situations from multiple angles, and the necessity of maintaining hope in challenging circumstances. The discussion also touches on the significance of being present and creating fluctuations in focus to enhance productivity. Mroz shares insights on how these qualities can be applied in both sports and business environments, highlighting the adaptability required for success.

    37 min
  8. 016: NFL 1st Round Pick Shane Ray on His Journey Through Pain, Purpose, and Performance

    04/01/2025

    016: NFL 1st Round Pick Shane Ray on His Journey Through Pain, Purpose, and Performance

    In this episode of the Calm Waves podcast, host Dallas Cowan interviews Shane Ray, a former NFL player, discussing his journey from Kansas City to becoming a Super Bowl champion. Shane shares his experiences with adversity, the importance of family support, and the lessons learned from failures and injuries. He emphasizes the significance of tenacity, self-belief, and continuous personal growth throughout his career. In this conversation, Shane Ray shares his journey of resilience and self-belief, emphasizing the importance of overcoming doubt and adapting to challenges. He discusses his experiences with injuries, the mental game of being an athlete, and how he found strength in adversity. The conversation also highlights the innovative use of the CalmBox for mental clarity and focus, showcasing its impact on performance and anxiety management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Meeting Shane Ray 03:02 Shane Ray's Journey: From Kansas City to the NFL 06:14 Overcoming Adversity and Embracing Failure 09:09 The Role of Family and Internal Motivation 12:02 Lessons Learned from Injuries and Setbacks 15:00 The Importance of Tenacity and Self-Belief 24:13 Overcoming Doubt and Believing in Oneself 28:51 The Journey of Resilience and Self-Belief 30:48 Adapting to Challenges and Finding Strength 34:02 The Value of Perspective and Personal Growth 37:15 Innovative Healing: The CalmBox Experience

    42 min
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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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