Dr. Caroline Leaf Podcast

Pre-order my new book here: https://a.co/d/484tmSeAre FOBO (Fear of Better Options) and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) running your life? The constant chase for the “best” choice can leave you mentally drained, stuck in decision paralysis, and dissatisfied—even when you do decide. In this episode, we break down Barry Schwartz’s Paradox of Choice and uncover the hidden mental costs of overchoice. Learn four powerful strategies—including pre-deciding, setting digital boundaries, and using the Neurocycle—to clear the chaos, simplify decisions, and take back control of your mind. Tune in and start thinking deeply, living intentionally, and hacking your brain for a better life!Sponsors making this episode possible:PUORI: Right now you get an amazing 20% off their health products, or if you choose their already discounted subscription, you get almost a third off the price! Available when you visit my exclusive URL Puori.com/DRLEAFand use my promo code DRLEAF, or save 20% off when you make a one-time pur

Pre-order my new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hurry-Finding-Overwhelmed-Stressed/dp/0801093260/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XDyjiWpiM9uAO4e1rDROIg.2fzlEXTA_MwJYfZP5WYga80TJaLfUfl2Z2lXGclynhA&qid=1738788667&sr=8-1What if a few mindset shifts could change everything? In this episode, I’m sharing 7 life-changing truths that can transform the way you think, feel, and interact with the world. From managing expectations without resentment to setting healthy boundaries, embracing rest, and making kindness your superpower—these insights will help you rewire your mind for more peace, wisdom, and resilience.Sponsors making this episode possible:AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You'll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. So make sure to check out DrinkAG1.com/mentalmess to get this offer! Ancient Nutrition: Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when

Pre-order my new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Help-Hurry-Finding-Overwhelmed-Stressed/dp/0801093260/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XDyjiWpiM9uAO4e1rDROIg.2fzlEXTA_MwJYfZP5WYga80TJaLfUfl2Z2lXGclynhA&qid=1738788667&sr=8-1Want to hack your brain for a better life? In this episode, we’re diving into five science-backed psychological "cheat codes" that can help you build better connections, stop overthinking, and boost confidence—all with the power of neuroscience. From the magic of asking for favors to the game-changing 3-second eye contact rule, these simple tricks are backed by your brain’s wiring. Tune in to learn how to make your mind work for you instead of against you!Sponsors making this episode possible:PUORI: Right now you get an amazing 20% off their health products, or if you choose their already discounted subscription, you get almost a third off the price! Available when you visit my exclusive URL Puori.com/DRLEAFand use my promo co

Is hustle culture crushing your well-being? It’s time to rethink success. In this episode, we dive into the ‘Soft Life’—a movement that isn’t about laziness but radical self-preservation. Learn how rejecting burnout, prioritizing rest, and rewiring your brain can lead to sustainable happiness. I’ll share personal insights, neuroscience-backed strategies, and practical ways to step off the productivity treadmill. Ready to redefine success on your terms? Let’s do it together.Sponsors making this episode possible:Pouri: Right now you get an amazing 20% off their health products, or if you choose their already discounted subscription, you get almost a third off the price! Available when you visit my exclusive URL Puori.com/DRLEAF and use my promo code DRLEAF • Or save 20% off when you make a one-time purchase - still such great savings.Bioptimizers: For an exclusive offer for my listeners go to BiOptimizers.com/drleaf and use code DRLEAF10 during checkout to save 10%. And the great thing

You’ve probably heard me talk about being *wired for love*, but did you know that optimism isn’t just about being positive all the time? That’s not realistic! In this episode, I dive into the science of optimism—how it shapes our brains, boosts resilience, and even improves our health. But here’s the catch: the *right* kind of optimism isn’t just about seeing the bright side—it’s about balancing hope with realism (and yes, even a little bit of pessimism!). I’ll share practical tips to help you develop a mindset that fuels growth, problem-solving, and real success. Let’s find that *Goldilocks* sweet spot together!Sponsors making this episode possible:-Ancient Nutrition: Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/DRLEAF. -Hero: I love that Hero has monthly small batch drops of indulgent favorites like the popular two gram net carb Hero Croissant and new surprises coming each month this year! And for a limited time Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to h

New Year's resolutions? Overdone. Instead, imagine your deathbed. Inspired by a Wall Street Journal article on Panera Bread founder Ron Schaich, this episode explores the power of a premortem—a life audit that ensures you won’t wait until the end to decide if you’re proud of your life. From Buddhist teachings to Oliver Burkeman’s Four Thousand Weeks, I share how this practice reshaped my own priorities after a personal tragedy. What can you do in the next five years that you’ll respect looking back from your deathbed? Tune in for a perspective shift that just might change your life.Sponsors making this episode possible:-PUORI:  I have an amazing deal for you: right now you get an amazing 20% off, or if you choose their already discounted subscription, you get almost a third off the price! Available when you visit my exclusive URL Puori.com/DRLEAF and use my promo code DRLEAF • Or save 20% off when you make a one-time purchase – still such great savings. -BIOPTIMIZERS MUSHROOM BRE

Did you know that ruminating on loneliness is more linked to depression than actual loneliness? In this episode, we dive into the science of QZE—your brain's constant state of growth based on what you focus on—and how to shift your thoughts in the right direction. Learn how a simple "QZE Mindshift" using the Neurocycle can break the rumination-depression cycle and transform loneliness into meaningful connection. Tune in for practical steps and the surprising power of talking to strangers.Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode—it truly helps the show grow.Sponsors making this episode possible:-APOSTROPHE: Get your first visit for only five dollars at Apostrophe.com/DRLEAF when you use our code: DRLEAF. That’s a savings of fifteen dollars! This code is only available to my listeners. 

it’s time for some real talk. In this episode, I dive into a topic that hits close to home for so many of us — childhood trauma and how it shapes who we are today. Let’s face it, what we experience when we're young leaves a lasting impact on our mental, emotional, and even physical health. But here's the thing: just focusing on the bad stuff can keep us stuck in the past.I break down the groundbreaking research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and how they’re linked to long-term health issues. But I also shine a light on something just as important — Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) and how they can help heal and build resilience, even if you've had a rough start in life.Healing isn’t about ignoring the negative, but it’s also not about getting lost in it. I share practical tips like balancing your memories of the past and practicing the 3:1 thought ratio — a powerful tool to help shift your mindset when you're spiraling. Trust me, it works.This conversation isn’t about pretending everything is pe

In this episode, we explore the profound difference between kindness and niceness. While niceness often prioritizes comfort and approval, kindness is rooted in genuine care, bravery, and authenticity. Discover why being kind—not just nice—fosters trust, deeper connections, and long-term growth.You’ll also learn about the science of kindness, from its biochemical benefits like releasing dopamine and oxytocin to its proven impact on mental health. Plus, I’ll share practical tips for incorporating kindness into your daily routine, including the ideal ratio of compliments to criticisms (hint: it’s 5.6:1!) and how acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of well-being.Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode—it truly helps the show grow.Register for my annual New Years Brain Detox Challenge here: https://drleaf.com/pages/brain-detox-challengeSponsors making this episode possible:HERO: Hero Bread is offering 10% off your order. Go to hero.co and use code DRLEAF at checkout.ZO

Have you ever felt triggered, ready to react, but wished for a guiding hand to pull you back to calm? In this episode, Cultivating Calm When Feeling Triggered, we explore how you can become that guiding hand for yourself. Packed with science-backed strategies and personal insights, this episode will empower you to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.Highlights include:"Isn't This Interesting" Technique: Learn how a simple 60-second pause can create space for calm and insight, turning triggering moments into opportunities for growth.The Power of Immediate Gratitude: Discover how practicing gratitude for even the smallest things can shift your mind into healing theta and learning gamma brainwaves, rewiring your perspective.Trigger Sips: A breathing technique designed to soothe your nervous system and bring clarity in moments of distress.Register for my annual New Years Brain Detox Challenge here: https://drleaf.com/pages/brain-detox-challengeSponsors making this episode possible:- PUORI: a

In this podcast, I dive into powerful tips on transforming your relationship with stress by shifting how you perceive and process it. It's a game-changing episode designed to help you start the new year with a fresh mindset and a renewed sense of control. Don't miss this opportunity to turn stress into a tool for growth and resilience!Register for my annual New Years Brain Detox Challenge here: https://drleaf.com/pages/brain-detox-challengeSponsors making this episode possible:-ANCIENT NUTRITION: Ancient Nutrition is offering 25% off your first order when you go to AncientNutrition.com/DRLEAF-AG1: AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You'll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. So make sure to check out DrinkAG1.com/mentalmess to get this offer!Research studies mentioned in this episode:https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180417130111.htmhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23327269/https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3780662

In this podcast I share the one phrase that may be limiting your growth and slowing down your healing. I also share what to say instead, and how to frame words so they don't negatively affect your mental health. Register for my annual New Years Brain Detox Challenge here: https://drleaf.com/pages/brain-detox-challengeSponsors making this episode possible:-PURITY WOODS: Honestly, I have never seen a natural skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point! And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/MENTALMESS or enter MENTALMESS at checkout.-FATTY15: Fatty15 is on a mission to replenish your C15 levels and restore your long-term health! You can now get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to fatty15.com/DRLEAF and using code DRLEAF at checkout for an additional 15% off your first order! -AG1: AG1

Felling a relationship lull? In this episode I share my favourite and most effective tip to supercharge any relationships.Register for my annual New Years Brain Detox Challenge here: https://drleaf.com/pages/brain-detox-challengeSponsors making this episode possible:-ZocDoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/LEAF and download the Zocdoc app for FREE. Then start your search for a top-rated doctor today. Many are available within 24 hours!

Register for my annual New Years Brain Detox Challenge here: https://drleaf.com/pages/brain-detox-challengeIn this episode I share 6 scientific and effective strategies to stop fights before they begin. These helped me, and hopefully will help you avoid so much unnecessary pain! Sponsors making this episode possible:-BETTERHELP:  Become your own soulmate, whether you’re looking for one or not. Visit BetterHelp.com/drleaf today to get 10% off your first month. 

In this episode I interview my good friend, best-selling author, and top podcast host Shawn Stevenson about: The #1 exercise that's clinically proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.Understand the critical connection between sleep quality and mental health.Learn which nutrients to prioritize daily to protect your mental and metabolic health.And more! Learn more about Shawn here: https://themodelhealthshow.com/Sponsors making this episode possible:-IHERB: For a limited time, my listeners get 22% off their first order when you use code DRLEAF at iherb.com/shop/DRLEAF. Existing customers receive 15% off!

In this episode I interview Certified Neurocycle Facilitator Elana Van Deventer on how to end the cycle of procrastination by finding the root issue, and creating better and more sustainable time-management habits. Contact Elana: https://www.instagram.com/elanavdeventer/?hl=enTo watch this episode ad-free, and many other webinars to help you on your healing journey download the Neurocycle app here: https://www.neurocycle.app/Sponsors making this episode possible:-PURITY WOODS: Honestly, I have never seen a natural skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point! And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/MENTALMESS or enter MENTALMESS at checkout.-BIOPTIMIZERS: Become your own soulmate, whether you’re looking for one or not. Visit BetterHelp.com/drleaf today to get 10% off your first month. -FATTY15: Fatty15 is on a mission to

In this episode I share some life-saving tips and scientific strategies to help prevent dementia, and reduce the symptoms. Listen to the full episode ad-free on the Neurocycle app here: https://www.neurocycle.appSponsors making this show possible:-BETTERHELP: Become your own soulmate, whether you’re looking for one or not. Visit BetterHelp.com/drleaf today to get 10% off your first month. 

In this episode I interview Neurocycle Facilitator Dawn Wiliams on how to START taking the steps towards healing, and how to use the Neurocycle program to guide your healing journey. To work with Dawn visit: https://www.fourcscounseling.com/To get the Neurocycle app visit: https://www.neurocycle.app/Sponsors making this show possible:-PURITY WOODS: Honestly, I have never seen a natural skincare product of this quality at this reasonable of a price point! And thankfully, the good people at Purity Woods have a special coupon code specifically for my listeners, so you can try it for yourself for 27% off today. Just go to puritywoods.com/MENTALMESS or enter MENTALMESS at checkout.

In this episode I explain what the arrival fallacy is, how it could be holding you back from finding peace, and how to break free from this fallacy!To listen to the full episode (plus hundreds more webinars and resources to help you live your happiest life) AD-FREE download the Neurocycle app here: https://www.neurocycle.app/Sponsors making this show possible:-IRESTORE: So treat yourself to some high-tech self-care with iRestore’s Illumina face mask. For a limited time only, our listeners get 25% off their Illumina Face Mask when you use code DRLEAF25 at https://iRestorelaser.com 

In this episode I interview Certified Neurocycle Facilitator Brenda Kennison about:How to use the Neurocycle method to identify the root of addiction and start healingIdentifying & unlearning harmful behavioursHow the Neurocycle method can help you define your identityHealing childhood traumaCreating the sober life you wantAnd more! To work with Brenda visit: https://www.day1ofsobriety.org/Get the Neurocycle app here: https://www.neurocycle.app/Sponsors making this show possible:-ZOCDOC: So, stop putting off those doctors’ appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/LEAF to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.