The Adaptive Mind

Neurture
  • 5.0 (9)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to The Adaptive Mind, a podcast dedicated to exploring the science of behavioral change and overcoming unwanted habits or addictions. Each episode dives into practical strategies for breaking habits, the latest research on behavior and addiction, and inspiring first-hand accounts from individuals and professionals alike. From therapists and clinicians to authors and entrepreneurs, we bring you diverse perspectives and actionable insights to support your journey toward positive change. Visit https://neurtureapp.com for free tools to reducing or breaking habits.

  1. 11/18/2025

    Understanding Gambling Addiction with Jody Bechtold, LCSW

    In this episode of The Adaptive Mind, host Brady Dowling is joined by Jody Bechtold, founder of Better Institute, to discuss the growing issue of gambling and problematic gambling. They explore the impact of expanded legalized gambling across the United States, the normalization of gambling among younger demographics, and the psychological aspects that make gambling addictive. Jody shares insights into the challenges of addressing gambling addiction, the stigma surrounding it, and the resources available for those seeking help. https://betterinstitute.com/ https://neurtureapp.com https://theadaptivemind.com

    38 min

  2. 10/21/2025

    Unpacking Video Game Addiction: Insights with Matt Missar LCSW

    Join us in this episode of "The Adaptive Mind" as we dive into the world of video gaming with Matt Missar. Explore the addictive nature of modern games, the psychology behind game design, and how to maintain a healthy relationship with gaming. Whether you're a gamer or a concerned parent, this conversation offers valuable insights into the balance between gaming and life. Tune in for an engaging discussion that unpacks the complexities of gaming today. Matt and the Powered Up Player Course https://betterinstitute.com/ https://theadaptivemind.com https://neurtureapp.com

    33 min

  3. 09/30/2025

    Inner Peace Through Breathwork with Anthony Abbagnano

    Unlock the power of breath in this transformative episode of "The Adaptive Mind" with special guest Anthony Abbagnano, author of "Outer Chaos, Inner Calm." Discover how to turn inner emptiness into resilience, even when outward success suggests the contrary. Gain insights into: How breathwork can be a tool for breaking free from addictive cycles and finding peaceThe essential role of self-compassion in healing and personal growthReclaiming fragmented parts of our identity for true wholeness and integrationAnthony shares his personal journey from thriving on the outside to finding true calm within, aided by significant illness that became a catalyst for change. Listen as he offers practical breathwork techniques that build resilience and confront addictive patterns, emphasizing breath as both a physiological process and a spiritual force. Featuring highlights: Anthony's path from material success to inner fulfillmentBreathwork as a tool for addiction recoveryPracticing self-compassion and integration of past traumasEmbarking on your own hero's journey and becoming an agent of changeAnthony Abbagnano, a respected breathwork facilitator and transformative guide, merges ancient wisdom with contemporary practice to inspire personal empowerment. Ready to transform your mindset and explore inner peace? Press play and embark on your journey to a more adaptive mind. Chapters for this episode: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:30 Anthony's Journey 00:05:45 Gift of Illness 00:06:51 Breathwork Techniques 00:12:46 Rebirthing Concept 00:19:15 Breath as Inspiration 00:22:11 Practicing Self-Compassion 00:25:37 Healing Trauma 00:29:14 Wholeness Through Integration 00:36:50 Hero's Journey 00:39:15 Future Opportunities 00:42:09 Book and Resources Visit theadaptivemind.com to sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive content and updates.

    44 min

  4. 07/16/2025

    Mindfulness Techniques for Overcoming Addictive Behaviors with Sarah Bowen, PhD

    Discover the secret to conquering urges with expert insights from Dr. Sarah Bowen, a leading clinical psychologist specializing in mindfulness-based practices for overcoming addictive behaviors. 🎧 Press play to learn practical, life-changing techniques! 🎯 What You'll Gain: Learn to "ride the wave" and handle urges without giving inExplore how mindfulness-based relapse prevention can transform livesDiscover tools to apply mindfulness in everyday situations🧘 Key Takeaways: Urge surfing is a powerful metaphor that helps you manage discomfort without impulsive reactions.Understand the natural wave of urges and learn to surf them using mindfulness techniques.Practical applications of mindfulness can be used for any addictive behavior, from stress eating to doom scrolling.👩‍⚕️ About Our Guest:Dr. Sarah Bowen brings over 20 years of experience in treating addictive behaviors with mindfulness. A respected voice in clinical psychology and research, she's here to share her valuable knowledge and insights. Visit https://theadaptivemind.com to sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive content and updates. Links from this episode: https://www.mindfulrp.com/ 🔢 Chapters for Easy Navigation: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:42 Mindfulness And Addictions 00:02:04 Urge Surfing Explained 00:04:35 Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention 00:06:01 Wave Metaphor Steps 00:09:51 Practical Applications 00:14:27 Urge Surfing Vs White Knuckling 00:15:50 Intensity Of Urges 00:18:29 Meditation And Senses 00:20:00 Tracking Progress 00:21:06 Self-Reflection Techniques 00:24:08 Mindfulness Misconceptions 00:26:57 Broader Applications 00:29:54 Resources And Conclusion Dive into this enlightening episode and unlock the potential of mindfulness in your life! 🎙️🧠

    32 min

  5. 06/25/2025

    Avoiding WFH Isolation with Dr. Craig Knight

    Tired of feeling isolated or micromanaged while working from home? Discover how to thrive in remote work environments with insights from workplace psychologist Craig Knight. In this revealing episode, Craig debunks common remote work myths and shares the three critical elements that make any work environment successful: Autonomy, Resource, and Trust (ART). The Real History of Remote Work Remote work isn't new—it's one of humanity's oldest work models! Craig explains how COVID became "a great emancipator," democratizing the freedom to work from anywhere that was previously reserved for executives. Why Managers Want You Back in the Office Learn the uncomfortable truth about why some leaders push for return-to-office mandates (hint: it's more about control than productivity). Craig exposes the toxic surveillance tactics some companies use to monitor remote workers and how these practices destroy trust. Finding Your Remote Work Sweet Spot Whether you're fully remote, hybrid, or considering a work-from-home position, Craig provides practical guidance on: Creating meaningful social connections while working remotelyAvoiding isolation and maintaining work-life boundariesEvaluating potential employers based on their remote work policiesUnderstanding what truly drives performance (happiness, not productivity metrics!) Chapters for Easy Navigation: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:41 Introduction to Remote Work 00:02:39 Challenges of Home Working 00:06:03 Remote Work Productivity 00:08:49 Social Connections Online 00:10:24 Autonomy, Resource, Trust 00:13:04 Managerial Control Issues 00:15:25 Flaws in Productivity Metrics 00:17:59 Happiness and Performance 00:20:10 Empowerment and Autonomy 00:24:15 Evaluating Remote Job Offers 00:25:53 Creating Positive Work Environments 00:28:22 Balancing Remote and Office Work 00:29:23 Final Thoughts on Work Happiness This episode is essential listening for anyone working remotely or considering a remote position. Discover how to create a fulfilling work experience based on trust rather than surveillance, and learn why happy workers are always the most productive. Visit https://theadaptivemind.com to sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive content and updates.

    30 min

  6. 06/11/2025

    Common Mindfulness Myths and Real Practice with Dr. Alice Rizzi

    In this episode of The Adaptive Mind, I talk with Dr. Alice Rizzi, a psychologist and mindfulness expert who helps demystify mindfulness practice. Dr. Rizzi explains her refreshing definition of mindfulness as "being present in the moment with awareness, acceptance, kindness, compassion, curiosity, and non-judgment" - a practice that embraces imperfection rather than requiring perfect focus. Links & Resources https://www.dralicerizzi.com/https://be.togethermindful.com/products/courses/view/1134910https://www.togethermindful.com/Access detailed show notes at https://theadaptivemind.com/. Get the App This episode is brought to you by Neurture, the #1 science-based app to help you cut back or break habits. Install it for free today. Install Neurture on AndroidInstall Neurture on iPhoneFollow Us The Adaptive Mind on SpotifyThe Adaptive Mind on Apple MusicThe Adaptive Mind on YouTubeNeurture on InstagramNeurture on X (Twitter)Neurture on YouTube

    35 min

  7. 05/21/2025

    Breathwork & Meditation for Skeptics with Jaleel Mackey

    In this episode of The Adaptive Mind, I talk with Jaleel Mackey, a sales leader turned meditation and business coach who discovered meditation at age 17 while struggling with depression. Jaleel explains how breathwork helped him release "30 years of trauma in one hour" and shares techniques anyone can use to find calm amid life's chaos. Links from This Episode jaleelmackey.comThe Untethered Soul by Michael Singer: https://www.amazon.com/Untethered-Soul-Journey-Beyond-Yourself/dp/1572245379HeartMath: https://www.heartmath.com/Breath by James Nestor: https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615/Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn: https://www.amazon.com/Wherever-You-There-Are-Mindfulness/dp/B0C1T9JNM2Access detailed show notes at https://theadaptivemind.com/. Get the App This episode is brought to you by Neurture, the #1 science-based app to help you cut back or break habits. Install it for free today. Install Neurture on AndroidInstall Neurture on iPhoneFollow Us The Adaptive Mind on SpotifyThe Adaptive Mind on Apple MusicThe Adaptive Mind on YouTubeNeurture on InstagramNeurture on X (Twitter)Neurture on YouTube

    43 min

  8. 05/07/2025

    How Solo Music Listening Fulfills Social Needs with Dr. Elaine Paravati, PhD

    Ever noticed how much better you feel after listening to your favorite songs? There's science behind that feeling! In this eye-opening episode of The Adaptive Mind, host Brady Dowling sits down with Dr. Elaine Paravati Harrigan to explore fascinating research showing how solo music listening can actually boost our social wellbeing. Dr. Paravati's groundbreaking research reveals that listening to music alone isn't just entertaining—it fulfills our basic human need for social connection through three powerful pathways: • Parasocial relationships: The one-sided bond you develop with artists ("Taylor Swift gets me!") • Immersion: That feeling of being transported to another world when you're enveloped in music • Reminder of connections: How songs trigger memories of people and experiences in your life What makes this research so exciting is that you don't need musical talent to benefit. Whether you're tone-deaf or a virtuoso, your favorite songs can fill your "social bucket" even when you're completely alone. This accessible wellbeing tool requires minimal effort (just press play!), costs little, and has virtually no side effects. Perfect for those 2 AM moments when you feel completely alone or when you're trying to break difficult habits and need emotional support. Dr. Paravati explains how this differs from social media's often problematic connections. Music provides the social benefits without the comparison traps and addiction cycles that can come with scrolling through feeds. The conversation explores how creating personalized playlists ahead of time—whether nostalgic high school anthems, songs that remind you of loved ones, or tracks from your favorite artist—can be an intentional strategy for managing difficult moments. Most importantly, this research empowers you to become a scientist in your own life, discovering which music fills your social needs at different points in your journey. As Dr. Paravati notes, just five minutes of your favorite music can make a measurable difference in how connected you feel. Visit https://theadaptivemind.com to sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive content and updates.

    29 min
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5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Adaptive Mind, a podcast dedicated to exploring the science of behavioral change and overcoming unwanted habits or addictions. Each episode dives into practical strategies for breaking habits, the latest research on behavior and addiction, and inspiring first-hand accounts from individuals and professionals alike. From therapists and clinicians to authors and entrepreneurs, we bring you diverse perspectives and actionable insights to support your journey toward positive change. Visit https://neurtureapp.com for free tools to reducing or breaking habits.

Information

  • Creator
    Neurture
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Neurture
  • Show Website
    The Adaptive Mind