This week on Stronger Weekly, I wrap up our year-end series with Part 2 — the operating system underneath fitness. In this solo episode, I break down five evidence-based mental health lessons to carry into 2026, drawn from neuroscience, psychology, parenting research, and productivity science. These are not hacks or trends — they’re principles designed to help you think clearly, find balance, and live with more intention in an age of constant noise. We cover: - Dopamine and motivation: why modern life keeps us chasing stimulation, how dopamine actually works, and how to regain control without shame - Sleep as medicine: why poor sleep fuels anxiety, impulsivity, and burnout, and how to protect it realistically - Digital overload: how fragmented attention quietly drives stress, poor focus, and emotional exhaustion - Parenting under pressure: what modern parenting research says about connection, discipline, and simplifying family life - Productivity without burnout: why structure beats intensity, and how time-blocking reduces stress and improves follow-through This episode is built for anyone who feels overwhelmed, distracted, or stretched thin — and wants to build better habits and systems heading into the new year. Let's make 2026 our best, strongest year yet. SPONSORS - Get nutritional supplements that work as hard as you do: www.puristnutrition.com - Bulletproof your drinking with Clutch; medication-assisted treatment from Oar Health: https://bit.ly/OarStrength - Build a world-class home gym with Rep Fitness: www.repfitness.com FOLLOW US ON ALL PLATFORMS - Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4at8Yhn - Spotify Podcasts: https://spoti.fi/3GAGVPJ - YouTube Channel: Stronger Weekly - YouTube - Visit our website here. - Subscribe to our newsletter here. Stronger Weekly is a health and fitness show built for busy people who want real, actionable insights—without wasting time. Whether you’re a working parent, a professional with a full schedule, or both, the goal is simple: help you make better decisions about your training, nutrition, mental health, and overall well-being. Each week, we break down the most important health and fitness news, translating new research, headlines, and trends into clear, practical takeaways. Alongside the news, you’ll hear conversations with leading experts and practitioners who bring facts and real-world guidance to fitness routines, mental health, stress management, the best supplements, and even practical parenting. All in about 45 minutes — because time matters. Hosted by Jesse Carrajat, Certified Health & Fitness Coach, Integrated Healthcare Executive, USMC Veteran, and busy husband and father of three. Life gets busy. Your health still matters. Give us 45 minutes each week, and we’ll help you grow stronger, week by week. #StrongerWeekly