Exploring Brain and Mind

Elke Wallace
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Brain and mind are intrinsically connected but often seen as separate. Every week, “Exploring Brain and Mind” will combine neuroscience research, tips to keep brain and mind healthy and functioning well as well as talks with guests in different professions from science, coaching, leadership, healing and spirituality. Join your host Elke Wallace, founder of Mastering Your Mind Matters, on her mission to help as many people as possible to understand how their brain and mind work so they can take more control of their lives and make better choices. Follow and subscribe to "Exploring Brain and Mind" on Apple, Spotify and all other podcasts and find more information about Mastering Your Mind Matters on www.masteringyourmindmatters.com.

  1. 5H AGO

    Episode 37 - Sect or Cult: What’s the Difference?

    Episode Summary In this episode of Exploring Brain and Mind, I unpacks the often-confused terms “sect” and “cult.” While both can be groups that branch away from mainstream religious or spiritual traditions, their origins, beliefs, leadership and relationships with society differ in significant ways. Listeners will learn how sects typically emerge as reform movements within established religions and how cults often arise as radical new movements characterised by authoritarian leadership and manipulation. I also explore examples from history and world religions from the Essenes and Montanists to the Anabaptists and the Baha’i Faith to illustrate how sects and cults form, evolve and sometimes blur into one another. Key Takeaways ·      Understand the academic distinction between sects and cults. ·      Learn the defining features of sects, including their roots in existing religions and emphasis on doctrinal purity. ·      Explore the characteristics of cults, including charismatic leadership, control, and manipulation. ·      Hear examples of sects and cults from different cultures and time periods, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. ·      Recognise the common themes of disillusionment, charismatic leaders, separation from society and persecution. SEO Keywords cults vs sects, sect definition, religion, cult definition, psychology, history of cults, history of sects, religious movements, Exploring Brain and Mind, podcast, Essenes, Montanists, Kharijites, Anabaptists, Baha’i faith, Mahayana vs Theravada, Digambara vs Svetambara, Sikh sects Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: Exploring Brain and Mind is currently a one-person venture with limited financial resources.. Therefore, donations would be greatly appreciated to help improve services. Donation link: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/a91052d4-5b30-406a-a41c-158c4b5f9cc0/donations To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    28 min

  2. SEP 9

    Episode 36: Meditation and Mindfulness Part 2 – Indigenous Parallels and Practices

    Episode Summary In this follow-up episode, I take listeners beyond Eastern traditions to discover how mindfulness and meditation resonate with indigenous wisdom worldwide. From Native American vision quests to Hawaiian Hoʻoponopono, from African drumming ceremonies to Aboriginal Dadirri, we see striking parallels in practices that emphasise presence, connection and holistic well-being. These traditions remind us that mindfulness is not just about individual calm but also about community, nature and spiritual alignment. I highlight the importance of honouring these practices with respect and avoiding cultural appropriation while learning from their timeless insights. Key Takeaways ·      Many indigenous cultures practise mindfulness-like traditions rooted in nature, community and spirit. ·      Native American: Vision quests, smudging, drumming and chanting. ·      Hawaiian: Hoʻoponopono, Lomi Lomi massage and the Aloha Spirit as mindful presence. ·      Pacific and Māori: Breath practices, chants and holistic health concepts like hauora. ·      Taoist traditions in China: Qigong, wu wei and Zuo Wang meditation. ·      African practices: Yoruba Ifá, Orí contemplation, drumming and communal healing. ·      Aboriginal Australians: Dadirri (deep listening), Dreaming, songlines and meditative art. ·      Common threads: present-moment awareness, holistic well-being, deep listening and non-judgmental observation. ·      A call for respect and gratitude when engaging with cultural wisdom. SEO Keywords Indigenous Practices, Native American Mindfulness, Hawaiian Hoʻoponopono, Lomi Lomi, Aloha Spirit, Taoist Meditation, Qigong, Wu Wei, Yoruba Ifá, Orí, African Drumming, Aboriginal Dadirri, Dreamtime, Songlines, Indigenous Wisdom, Cultural Parallels in Mindfulness, Spiritual Healing. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    31 min

  3. SEP 2

    Episode 35: Meditation and Mindfulness Part 1 – Origins and Practices

    Episode Summary In this episode, I explore the foundations of meditation and mindfulness. From their Eastern roots in Hinduism and Buddhism to their spread into modern Western culture, you’ll learn how these practices evolved into powerful tools for well-being. I break down different meditation techniques and explains what mindfulness really means, hinting at how science has validated these age-old practices. You’ll also hear practical tips on how to start and sustain your own meditation or mindfulness routine, plus an honest discussion of challenges and ethical considerations. Key Takeaways Meditation is about training the mind – not stopping thoughts.Different meditation types (concentration, insight, visualisation, loving-kindness, walking, body scan).Mindfulness is more than practice – it’s a way of being marked by acceptance, curiosity and equanimity.Historical roots in Hinduism and Buddhism, spread to the West through figures like Jon Kabat-Zinn.Neuroscience findings: grey matter growth, reduced amygdala activity and neuroplasticity.Benefits span mental health, physical health and cognitive function.Mindfulness can be integrated into everyday activities and professional settings.Important considerations: patience, realistic expectations and cultural respect. SEO Keywords Meditation, Mindfulness, History of Meditation, Buddhist Practices, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, MBSR, Mindful Living, Meditation Benefits, Eastern Philosophy, Neuroplasticity, Brain and Mind, Stress Reduction, Emotional Regulation, Mindful Workplace. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    26 min

  4. AUG 26

    Episode 34 - Feeling Lonely in a Connected World – Exploring the Effects of Loneliness

    Episode Summary In this episode of Exploring Brain and Mind, I take a closer look at the paradox of loneliness in our modern, hyper-connected world. Despite unprecedented access to social networks, messaging apps and virtual communities, feelings of isolation are on the rise across the globe. We explore why digital connections often fail to replace authentic human bonds, how loneliness shows up differently across cultures and the profound impact it has on both physical and mental health. From increased risks of heart disease and dementia to its role in depression, anxiety, and sleep disruption, loneliness emerges as far more than an uncomfortable feeling – it is a major public health challenge. I also share practical steps to help us move towards meaningful connections, reminding us that while solitude can be healthy, loneliness calls for compassion, openness and deliberate action. Key Takeaways The paradox of modern life: More digital connections don’t necessarily mean deeper connections—loneliness is rising worldwide.Global and cultural differences: Experiences of loneliness vary across individualistic and collectivist cultures, as well as between age groups.A hidden health risk: Chronic loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, with increased risks for heart disease, dementia, weakened immunity, and early mortality.Neurological effects: Loneliness heightens brain activity in threat-detection areas, fuelling withdrawal and reinforcing isolation.Mental health impact: It is strongly linked to depression, anxiety, rumination, and poor sleep quality.The way forward: Building authentic connections, prioritising quality over quantity in relationships, and embracing healthy solitude can help counter loneliness.Keywords Loneliness, physiological effects, psychological effects, mental health impact, loneliness and brain, effects of loneliness, loneliness and health risks, loneliness epidemic, loneliness and mental health, social isolation effects, loneliness and dementia, loneliness and heart disease, cultural differences in loneliness, overcoming loneliness, brain and loneliness, loneliness podcast, emotional well-being and loneliness. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    24 min

  5. AUG 19

    Episode 33 - Unseen Wounds: The Human Cost of Crime

    Episode Summary Being a True Crime follower, I observe time and time again that any crime is never an isolated event. Beyond the headlines and courtroom drama lies a network of lives forever changed – victims and their families reliving trauma, police officers and first responders carrying invisible scars, families of offenders grappling with stigma and grief and communities shaken to their core. In this week’s episode, we explore the ripple effects of crime through the lens of neuroscience and emotional intelligence. We examine how the brain and mind respond to trauma, how different groups are affected and the kinds of support that can help promote healing and resilience. This is a conversation about understanding, compassion and recognising the unseen human cost that crime leaves behind. Key Takeaways ·      Crime creates far-reaching ripples that impact victims, law enforcement, families of offenders and entire communities. ·      Victims often face long-term effects such as PTSD, anxiety, depression and hypervigilance. ·      Law enforcement officers experience vicarious trauma, burnout and emotional withdrawal due to repeated exposure to distressing events. ·      Families of offenders may endure stigma, shame, financial strain and deep emotional conflict, with children particularly vulnerable to long-term effects. ·      Communities can suffer collective trauma, leading to fear, mistrust and social division. ·      Trauma-informed care, emotional intelligence development and supportive networks are essential for recovery and rebuilding trust. Keywords crime, victims, trauma from crime, victim brain response, law enforcement mental health, families of prisoners, community trauma, emotional intelligence and trauma, neuroplasticity recovery, PTSD and crime, ripple effects of crime, trauma-informed support UK, brain and mind trauma, brain response to fear, psychological safety after crime Tune in and Subscribe: Don’t forget to download the episode and subscribe to “Exploring Brain and Mind” for more fascinating discussions on leadership, mindset, some neuroscience and more subjects closely or loosely linked to the subject. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who could benefit from Andy’s story and strategies. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    38 min

  6. AUG 12

    Episode 32 – Thriving in Education: A Conversation with Tem Ezimokhai of “Helping Teachers Thrive”

    Episode Summary: In this insightful episode, Elke Wallace hosts Tem Ezimokhai, the founder of the "Helping Teachers Thrive" podcast. Tem, a secondary education teacher with 16 years of experience, shares her journey into teaching, driven by a desire to help people and avoid a traditional 9-to-5 office job. The discussion delves into the evolving challenges faced by teachers, including increased workload, administrative tasks and behavioural issues in the classroom, often stemming from students' struggles with anxiety post-Covid. Tem highlights the importance of well-being and work-life balance for teachers, which prompted her to start her podcast. The conversation also touches on the increasing prevalence of special educational needs (SEN) in schools and the need for better staff awareness and training regarding conditions like ADHD and autism. Both Tem and Elke emphasize the significance of empathy and understanding the unseen struggles of students and parents. Key Takeaways: ·      Passion for Teaching: Tem Ezimokhai became a teacher out of a love for helping people and the desire for a dynamic, unpredictable work environment outside of a typical office setting. ·      Challenges in Education: Teaching has become more challenging due to increased workload, administrative burdens, and a rise in student behavioural issues and anxiety, especially after Covid. ·      Importance of Support Systems: Supportive leadership and well-being initiatives within schools are crucial for teachers. ·      Teacher Well-being: Prioritizing work-life balance and learning to say no are essential for teachers to prevent burnout. ·      Dealing with Negativity: Teachers should avoid taking things personally, recognizing that students and parents may be projecting their own struggles. ·      Celebrating Small Wins: Keeping notes of positive feedback and small achievements can serve as powerful reminders on challenging days. ·      Special Educational Needs: There is a growing need for greater understanding, awareness, and specific training for teachers on various special educational needs, beyond just hyperactivity for conditions like ADHD. ·      Collaboration and Creativity: Teachers should collaborate and share resources to find creative ways to engage students, especially those with diverse learning needs, by linking lessons to their interests. Guest Bio: Tem Ezimokhai is a passionate secondary education teacher with 16 years of experience. Driven by a desire to support her colleagues, she founded the "Helping Teachers Thrive" podcast. Through her podcast, webinars and exclusive content, Tem aims to empower teachers with strategies for time management, classroom confidence, behaviour management and overall well-being to combat burnout and promote a healthier work-life balance. She can be found on all social media channels, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. Resources and Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ag/podcast/helping-teachers-thrive/id1681843058   Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0tcyu2Y1I4vKJwTotxmOQp?si=f516b4d21c2d4004 The Helping Teachers Thrive Hub:  https://www.patreon.com/c/thehelpingteachersthrivehub?view_as=patron  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Keywords: Teaching, Education, Teacher Well-being, Work-Life Balance, Classroom Management, Behaviour Management, Special Educational Needs (SEN), ADHD, Autism, Professional Development, Teacher Support, Burnout Prevention, Mental Health, Secondary Education, Podcast. Tune in and Subscribe: Don’t forget to download the episode and subscribe to “Exploring Brain and Mind” for more fascinating discussions on leadership, mindset, some neuroscience and more subjects closely or loosely linked to the subject. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who could benefit from Andy’s story and strategies. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    38 min

  7. AUG 5

    Episode 31 - Supporting Educators Through Brain Health with Tamiko Askew

    Episode Summary: In Episode 31 of Exploring Brain and Mind, Elke Wallace speaks with Tamiko Askew, a Texas-based brain health educator and wellness coach with a heart for helping teachers. As Elke’s first overseas guest, Tamiko shares her inspiring journey from classroom educator to business owner and coach, focusing on preventing burnout and promoting brain health in the education sector. Together, they explore the intersection of brain health, emotional well-being and professional sustainability for educators and leaders alike. This uplifting conversation highlights the critical importance of self-care and brain-based strategies for teachers, offering practical advice and a passionate perspective on wellbeing, nutrition and resilience. Key Takeaways: ·      The Power of Brain Health in Education: Tamiko discusses how educator well-being directly affects student outcomes. ·      Burnout Prevention: Insights into why teacher burnout is on the rise globally and what can be done to mitigate it. ·      Self-Care as a Strategy: Why protecting your own energy and cognitive health is essential before supporting others. ·      Holistic Wellness: The role of sleep, movement, hydration and nutrition in maintaining optimal brain function. ·      Professional Transitions: How Tamiko’s career journey led her from teaching into coaching and entrepreneurship. ·      Common Ground Across Borders: Reflections on global similarities in education and well-being challenges. Guest Bio: Tamiko Askew is a brain health educator and wellness coach based in Texas, USA. With a background in elementary education, Tamiko now supports teachers and school staff to manage stress, avoid burnout and prioritise brain health. She is the founder of her own wellness business, where she combines her passion for neuroscience, self-care and coaching to help others build sustainable, empowered careers in education and beyond. Resources and Links: Website: www.puremodish.com Email: puremodishllc@gmail.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tamiko-askew Instagram: @tsaskew2018 Keywords: brain health, educator wellness, burnout prevention, teacher stress, neuroscience, brain-based strategies, self-care, wellbeing in education, emotional resilience, holistic wellness, nutrition for the brain, global education Tune in and Subscribe: Don’t forget to download the episode and subscribe to “Exploring Brain and Mind” for more fascinating discussions on leadership, mindset, some neuroscience and more subjects closely or loosely linked to the subject. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who could benefit from Andy’s story and strategies. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    45 min

  8. JUL 29

    Episode 30 - Inside the Criminal Mind: Why People Become Criminals

    Episode Summary: Why do people commit crimes? What causes someone to develop a “criminal mind”? In this thought-provoking episode, Elke Wallace explores the complex interplay of brain development and experiences, belief systems and social environments that contribute to criminal behaviour. From early childhood trauma to distorted thinking patterns and even extreme ideological beliefs, this episode unpacks the many factors that can shape criminal tendencies - and the hopeful truth that, in many cases, change is still possible. As coach and practitioner with a passion for understanding the mind, Elke draws on insights from psychology and neuroplasticity to help listeners reflect not only on criminal behaviour, but on how all of us are shaped by the stories we tell ourselves.  Key Takeaways ·      The biological and neurological factors behind criminal tendencies ·      How trauma, neglect, and environmental stress can shape behaviour ·      The role of personality disorders, including narcissism, and emotional detachment ·      How poverty, inequality, and lack of belonging fuel crime ·      Why belief systems—especially extreme ones—can justify violence ·      How distorted thinking patterns and low self-awareness contribute to criminal acts ·      Whether (and how) a criminal mind can be changed through mindset, emotional intelligence, and brain-based interventions SEO Keywords: ·      Crime ·      Criminal minds ·      Why people become criminals ·      What causes criminal behaviour ·      Criminal mind explained ·      Psychological causes of crime ·      Nature vs nurture in crime ·      Brain and crime ·      Extreme beliefs and violence ·      How trauma leads to crime ·      Rehabilitation interventions ·      Can criminals change? ·      Nature and nurture ·      Personality disorders and traits ·      Social and cultural aspects ·      Thoughts beliefs mindsets Links to favourite YouTube podcasts on the Daybell case in the U.S.: Hidden True Crime: https://www.youtube.com/@HiddenTrueCrime East Idaho News: https://www.youtube.com/@Eastidnews Tune in and Subscribe: Don’t forget to download the episode and subscribe to “Exploring Brain and Mind” for more fascinating discussions on leadership, mindset, some neuroscience and more subjects closely or loosely linked to the subject. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who could benefit from Andy’s story and strategies. Further information and links about Host Elke Wallace: To find out more about Mastering Your Mind Matters and its range of services, please visit www.masteringyourmindmatters.com. Email: welcome@masteringyourmindmatters.com To find out more about the host you can follow Elke Wallace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elke-a-wallace Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElkeWallaceBusiness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@e.ahttps://www.instagram.com/elkeawallace/.wallace?lang=en Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/exploring-brain-and-mind/exclusive-content

    24 min
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About

Brain and mind are intrinsically connected but often seen as separate. Every week, “Exploring Brain and Mind” will combine neuroscience research, tips to keep brain and mind healthy and functioning well as well as talks with guests in different professions from science, coaching, leadership, healing and spirituality. Join your host Elke Wallace, founder of Mastering Your Mind Matters, on her mission to help as many people as possible to understand how their brain and mind work so they can take more control of their lives and make better choices. Follow and subscribe to "Exploring Brain and Mind" on Apple, Spotify and all other podcasts and find more information about Mastering Your Mind Matters on www.masteringyourmindmatters.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Elke Wallace
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Exploring Brain and Mind