The Brain Factor Wed, 12 Aug 2026 07:58:25 -0400 https://www.mbhci.org en-us © 2026 The Brain Factor yes 650647b8-708d-5a71-93c9-48429b6fdd66 Meridian episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) mental health, wellness, self help, resillency, my brain, i need help, Meridian https://storage.buzzsprout.com/7n1jaafjaelp7mwhidug5ovb38dh?.jpg The Brain Factor https://www.mbhci.org Episode #60 ~ The One About Doom Scrolling Episode #60 ~ The One About Doom Scrolling In this episode Joy and Laura are joined by CEO or Meridian Behavior Health, Lauren Cohn. They take a deep look at anxiety produced from doom scrolling. 

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura are joined by CEO or Meridian Behavior Health, Lauren Cohn. They take a deep look at anxiety produced from doom scrolling. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-19636090 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 07:00:00 -0400 1994 full false Episode #59 ~ The One About Using Anxiety as a Superpower Episode #59 ~ The One About Using Anxiety as a Superpower In this episode Joy, Laura, And Lauren are ready to show you how to channel your anxiety for the greater good. 

]]> In this episode Joy, Laura, And Lauren are ready to show you how to channel your anxiety for the greater good. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-19463361 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 07:00:00 -0400 1309 1 59 full false Episode #58 ~ The One About Being The First Liker Episode #58 ~ The One About Being The First Liker   In this episode Joy and Laura are joined by Lauren Cohn to discuss the impact of being the first liker in a relationship.

]]>   In this episode Joy and Laura are joined by Lauren Cohn to discuss the impact of being the first liker in a relationship.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-19324048 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1654 full false Episode #57: The One About Identity Episode #57: The One About Identity In this episode Joy and Laura uncover ways you can build and re-build your identity. 

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura uncover ways you can build and re-build your identity. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-19169014 Wed, 13 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400 1419 full false Ep. 56: The One Where Anxiety Strikes At Night Ep. 56: The One Where Anxiety Strikes At Night This Month Laura and Joy tackle the real monster coming to your bed in the night - Anxiety...

]]> This Month Laura and Joy tackle the real monster coming to your bed in the night - Anxiety...

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-18980062 Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 1581 full false Ep. 55 ~ The one about non-negotiables Ep. 55 ~ The one about non-negotiables In this episode Joy and Laura discuss how to make sure your non-negotiable boundaries stay in tact. 

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura discuss how to make sure your non-negotiable boundaries stay in tact. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-18828529 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400 1317 1 55 full false EP. 54: The One About Your Most Important Relationship EP. 54: The One About Your Most Important Relationship This month Joy and Laura discuss how important it is to make sure you take care of the longest lasting relationship you can possibly have in your life: Your relationship with yourself

]]> This month Joy and Laura discuss how important it is to make sure you take care of the longest lasting relationship you can possibly have in your life: Your relationship with yourself

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-18661260 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 1914 full false Episode #53 ~ The One About The Arrival Fallacy Episode #53 ~ The One About The Arrival Fallacy In this episode, we explore the illusion of the “arrival”—the belief that happiness lies just beyond the next milestone. We break down why this pattern is so common, how it impacts mental health, and how listeners can shift toward enjoying their daily journey rather than chasing the next finish line.

]]> In this episode, we explore the illusion of the “arrival”—the belief that happiness lies just beyond the next milestone. We break down why this pattern is so common, how it impacts mental health, and how listeners can shift toward enjoying their daily journey rather than chasing the next finish line.

]]> Buzzsprout-18505693 Wed, 14 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500 1580 full false Ep. 53: The One About All the Effort Ep. 53: The One About All the Effort In this episode, Joy and guest Lauren Cohn explore why recognizing our daily effort is essential for mental wellness and resilience. We break down the science behind celebrating small wins, discuss why people overlook their own progress, and offer strategies for shifting to a more self-supportive mindset.

]]> In this episode, Joy and guest Lauren Cohn explore why recognizing our daily effort is essential for mental wellness and resilience. We break down the science behind celebrating small wins, discuss why people overlook their own progress, and offer strategies for shifting to a more self-supportive mindset.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-18329602 Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500 1471 1 53 full false Ep. #52: The One About Taking Up Space Ep. #52: The One About Taking Up Space This month Joy and Laura bring brack guest host Lauren Cohn as they discuss the importance of taking up space, not only in the workplace but during day-to-day interactions as well

]]> This month Joy and Laura bring brack guest host Lauren Cohn as they discuss the importance of taking up space, not only in the workplace but during day-to-day interactions as well

]]> Buzzsprout-18328355 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 20:00:00 -0500 1399 full false EP. 51: The One About Not Being Anxiety EP. 51: The One About Not Being Anxiety We are tackling an imprortant midset shift: You are not your anxiety.  You are simply experiencing a moment of uncertainty.  We are breaking down the difference between owning anxiety as part of your identity and seeing it as a temporary state that you can move through. 

]]> We are tackling an imprortant midset shift: You are not your anxiety.  You are simply experiencing a moment of uncertainty.  We are breaking down the difference between owning anxiety as part of your identity and seeing it as a temporary state that you can move through. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-17976674 Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400 1092 1 51 full false Ep. 50: The One Recent Trends in Mental Health Ep. 50: The One Recent Trends in Mental Health The Brain Factor // Episode #50 ~ The One Recent Trends in Mental Health

]]> The Brain Factor // Episode #50 ~ The One Recent Trends in Mental Health

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-17820098 Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400 1848 full false EP. 49: The One About Intentional Kindness EP. 49: The One About Intentional Kindness In this episode, Joy and guest host Stephanie go over the different ways it's important to be kind to yourself, and others with intention.

]]> In this episode, Joy and guest host Stephanie go over the different ways it's important to be kind to yourself, and others with intention.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-17663610 Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400 1487 full false EP. #48: The one about the Hero's Journey in Mental Health EP. #48: The one about the Hero's Journey in Mental Health The one about the Hero's Journey in Mental Health

]]> The one about the Hero's Journey in Mental Health

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-17475918 Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400 1766 full false EP 47: The One About Suffer Culture and Preventing Burnout EP 47: The One About Suffer Culture and Preventing Burnout In this episode: Joy and Laura go over the importance of maintining balance between working hard, and working TOO hard leading to burnout.

]]> In this episode: Joy and Laura go over the importance of maintining balance between working hard, and working TOO hard leading to burnout.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-17318513 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0400 1413 full false EP. 46: The one about Supporting Your Friends EP. 46: The one about Supporting Your Friends On this episode of The Brain Factor in recognitions of Mental Health Awareness month Joy and Laura discuss ways in which you can support people who are struggling. 

]]> On this episode of The Brain Factor in recognitions of Mental Health Awareness month Joy and Laura discuss ways in which you can support people who are struggling. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-17156368 Wed, 14 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 1452 1 46 full false EP. 44: The One About Physical Trauma EP. 44: The One About Physical Trauma Joy and Laura take a deeper look at the impact from various physical traumas.

]]> Joy and Laura take a deeper look at the impact from various physical traumas.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-16944846 Wed, 09 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400 1295 full false EP 44: The One With Stephanie EP 44: The One With Stephanie This episode features special guest, who transformed her mental health by committing to physical fitness, connecting with nature, and other protective factors. She has completed a couple of marathons on her journey, highlighting motivation, discipline, and the cyclical nature of progress and setbacks.

]]> This episode features special guest, who transformed her mental health by committing to physical fitness, connecting with nature, and other protective factors. She has completed a couple of marathons on her journey, highlighting motivation, discipline, and the cyclical nature of progress and setbacks.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-16777447 Wed, 12 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 1779 full false EP 43: The One About Don't Be Sorry EP 43: The One About Don't Be Sorry This episode focuses on making a shift from self-criticism to self-compassion—treating ourselves the way we would treat a close friend. Instead of saying “I’m sorry,” we can say “Thank you” and give ourselves the grace to take up space without constant apology.

]]> This episode focuses on making a shift from self-criticism to self-compassion—treating ourselves the way we would treat a close friend. Instead of saying “I’m sorry,” we can say “Thank you” and give ourselves the grace to take up space without constant apology.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-16608003 Wed, 12 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500 1296 full false Ep. 42: The one about the comeback Ep. 42: The one about the comeback This episode explores the journey to recovery from addiction through the lens of a married couple who have both experienced and overcome substance use challenges. Now in sustained recovery, they serve as Peer Specialists, helping others. They share their story of resilience in additction recovery.

]]> This episode explores the journey to recovery from addiction through the lens of a married couple who have both experienced and overcome substance use challenges. Now in sustained recovery, they serve as Peer Specialists, helping others. They share their story of resilience in additction recovery.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-16400946 Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500 2188 full false Episode 41: The One About Finding Purpose Episode 41: The One About Finding Purpose In this episode, Joy and Laura discuss finding purpose and fulfillment beyond traditional success, showing how it evolves through life stages. They address challenges like comparison and share tools like the VIA Character Strengths Survey and Ikigai to inspire self-reflection, exploration, and openness to new possibilities.

]]> In this episode, Joy and Laura discuss finding purpose and fulfillment beyond traditional success, showing how it evolves through life stages. They address challenges like comparison and share tools like the VIA Character Strengths Survey and Ikigai to inspire self-reflection, exploration, and openness to new possibilities.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-16258308 Wed, 11 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500 1398 1 41 full false Episode 40: The One About The Teenage Brain Episode 40: The One About The Teenage Brain This episode explores the neuroscience behind adolescent behavior, focusing on how brain development affects decision-making, risk-taking, and emotional regulation. It also dives into how social influences, peer pressure, and generational differences shape teenage experiences and resilience.

]]> This episode explores the neuroscience behind adolescent behavior, focusing on how brain development affects decision-making, risk-taking, and emotional regulation. It also dives into how social influences, peer pressure, and generational differences shape teenage experiences and resilience.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-16092860 Wed, 13 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500 1698 1 40 full false Episode 39: The One About Finding Purpose Episode 39: The One About Finding Purpose Joy and Laura take a deep look at a subject that anyone in the world can relate to: Finding Purpose. 

]]> Joy and Laura take a deep look at a subject that anyone in the world can relate to: Finding Purpose. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-15894549 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1826 1 39 full false Episode: 38: The One About Feelings Episode: 38: The One About Feelings In this episode Joy and Laura take a deep dive into feelings - using a tool called the "Feelings Wheel", which catagorizes our feelings into groups and levels. 



To see more about The Feelings Wheel visit: https://feelingswheel.com/ 

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura take a deep dive into feelings - using a tool called the "Feelings Wheel", which catagorizes our feelings into groups and levels. 



To see more about The Feelings Wheel visit: https://feelingswheel.com/ 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-15732296 Wed, 11 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1148 1 38 full false Episode #37 ~ The One About Grounding Episode #37 ~ The One About Grounding In this Episode Joy and Laura discuss the ways you can stay grounded. 

]]> In this Episode Joy and Laura discuss the ways you can stay grounded. 

]]> Buzzsprout-15581141 Wed, 14 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1534 1 37 full false Episode #36: The One About Trauma Episode #36: The One About Trauma Dr. Maggie Labarta joins Joy and Laura  on this eye opening episode about trauma. Be prepared to get a better understanding of trauma and the impact it can have your life and your body.

]]> Dr. Maggie Labarta joins Joy and Laura  on this eye opening episode about trauma. Be prepared to get a better understanding of trauma and the impact it can have your life and your body.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-15389235 Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1624 1 36 full false Episode 35: The One About Celebrating Failure Episode 35: The One About Celebrating Failure In this episode Joy and Laura discussing the importance of embracing...failure. They discuss ways you can use failure to grow, and how throwing away the fear of failure can lead you to finding new things in life you love doing, and are good at!

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura discussing the importance of embracing...failure. They discuss ways you can use failure to grow, and how throwing away the fear of failure can lead you to finding new things in life you love doing, and are good at!

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-15235161 Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1169 1 35 full false Episode 34: The One About Enoughness Episode 34: The One About Enoughness What is Enoughness? Joy and Laura explore what the new term means, how you can maintain it, and how you can appreciate what you have and still be ambitious.

]]> What is Enoughness? Joy and Laura explore what the new term means, how you can maintain it, and how you can appreciate what you have and still be ambitious.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-15030580 Wed, 08 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1403 1 34 full false Episode 33: The one about the bias Episode 33: The one about the bias On this Episode Joy and Laura deep dive into the world of bias: Your internal bias, how your bias is influenced by the world around you and social media, and how you should navigate the way these biases make you feel. 

]]> On this Episode Joy and Laura deep dive into the world of bias: Your internal bias, how your bias is influenced by the world around you and social media, and how you should navigate the way these biases make you feel. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-14860612 Wed, 10 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1390 1 33 full false Episode 32: The one about not doing things Episode 32: The one about not doing things In this episode Joy and Laura discuss procrastination - and how to structure your life in a way where you can manage your time and achieve goals in a way that relieves stress.

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura discuss procrastination - and how to structure your life in a way where you can manage your time and achieve goals in a way that relieves stress.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-14679880 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400 1651 1 32 full false Episode 31: The One About Digital Communication Episode 31: The One About Digital Communication In this episode Joy and Laura discuss the ways communicating in a digital world can make things easier, but also be a challenge.  From work e-mails, to texts with your children, and even when a phone call is more convinient or more of a hassle!

]]> In this episode Joy and Laura discuss the ways communicating in a digital world can make things easier, but also be a challenge.  From work e-mails, to texts with your children, and even when a phone call is more convinient or more of a hassle!

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-14501715 Wed, 14 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500 1660 1 31 full false Episode 30: The one about stress relief from laughter Episode 30: The one about stress relief from laughter Laughter relieves stress, it's no joke.  Whether you're  laughing at a sitcom or giggling at a cartoon, laughing does your health a favor.  Believe it or not, laughter has short term benefits for your body may also have long term health benefits.  Laughter just might be the best medicine.

]]> Laughter relieves stress, it's no joke.  Whether you're  laughing at a sitcom or giggling at a cartoon, laughing does your health a favor.  Believe it or not, laughter has short term benefits for your body may also have long term health benefits.  Laughter just might be the best medicine.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-14282830 Wed, 10 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500 920 1 30 full false Episode 29: The one about the eight dimensions of wellness Episode 29: The one about the eight dimensions of wellness Health vs. Perfection. Joy and Laura dive into the eight dimension of wellness and discuss a model that extends wellbeing beyond physical health.

]]> Health vs. Perfection. Joy and Laura dive into the eight dimension of wellness and discuss a model that extends wellbeing beyond physical health.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-14137855 Wed, 13 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0500 1240 1 29 full false Episode 28: The One About Being Happy Episode 28: The One About Being Happy What did you say?  There are levels of happiness? Join Laura and Joy as they unpack how you can discover your character strengths and use those strengths to level up on happiness.

]]> What did you say?  There are levels of happiness? Join Laura and Joy as they unpack how you can discover your character strengths and use those strengths to level up on happiness.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-13930037 Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500 1387 1 28 full false Episode 27: The one about crushing stigma Episode 27: The one about crushing stigma Are you faking your illness? It's your own fault you must be lazy. The weather is crazy! You must be seeking attention. We are crushing stigma and talking about all things stigma this month. Where it comes from, if we stigmatize ourselves, and how it can impact your overall wellness.

]]> Are you faking your illness? It's your own fault you must be lazy. The weather is crazy! You must be seeking attention. We are crushing stigma and talking about all things stigma this month. Where it comes from, if we stigmatize ourselves, and how it can impact your overall wellness.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-13753801 Wed, 11 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 1590 1 27 full false Episode 26: The one about being resilient Episode 26: The one about being resilient Are you going to cry about it or are you going to boss up? Maybe do both. On this episode of The Brain Factor Joy and Laura rewind and do a refresher on resilience and evidence based protective factors.

]]> Are you going to cry about it or are you going to boss up? Maybe do both. On this episode of The Brain Factor Joy and Laura rewind and do a refresher on resilience and evidence based protective factors.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-13580582 Wed, 13 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400 1341 1 26 full false Episode 25: The one about the work family Episode 25: The one about the work family Mentor, nemisis, frenemy? Work-life relationships can be just as important as our personal relationships, and they can have a significant impact on our overall well-being and success.  Joy and Laura discuss the importance of work relationships, what they look like, and what they can mean to us.

]]> Mentor, nemisis, frenemy? Work-life relationships can be just as important as our personal relationships, and they can have a significant impact on our overall well-being and success.  Joy and Laura discuss the importance of work relationships, what they look like, and what they can mean to us.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-13365949 Wed, 09 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400 1481 1 25 full false Episode 24: The One About Talking To Yourself Episode 24: The One About Talking To Yourself On this episode of The Brain Factor, the one about talking to yourself, Joy and Laura discuss positive self talk.  Do you talk to yourself? If not, maybe you should, there just might  be something good in it for you

]]> On this episode of The Brain Factor, the one about talking to yourself, Joy and Laura discuss positive self talk.  Do you talk to yourself? If not, maybe you should, there just might  be something good in it for you

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-13206213 Wed, 12 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400 1641 1 24 full false Episode 23: The one about how to deal Episode 23: The one about how to deal This episode of The Brain Factor, the one about how to deal, addresses the protective factor coping skills. Laura and Joy discuss minimizing chronic stress and its importance for overall health. Is stress normal? Managing stress and learning how to cope with the feelings that stress creates is essential to our health and wellbeing. chronic stress harms health and increases your risk of health conditions such as heart disease, anxiety disorders, and depression.

]]> This episode of The Brain Factor, the one about how to deal, addresses the protective factor coping skills. Laura and Joy discuss minimizing chronic stress and its importance for overall health. Is stress normal? Managing stress and learning how to cope with the feelings that stress creates is essential to our health and wellbeing. chronic stress harms health and increases your risk of health conditions such as heart disease, anxiety disorders, and depression.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-13046947 Thu, 15 Jun 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1676 1 23 full false Episode 22: The one about control Episode 22: The one about control In this episode, Joy & Laura discuss the difference between the things that are within our contol and things that are out of our control. 

]]> In this episode, Joy & Laura discuss the difference between the things that are within our contol and things that are out of our control. 

]]> Buzzsprout-12819286 Wed, 10 May 2023 03:00:00 -0400 1298 1 22 full false Episode 21: The one about emotional clutter Episode 21: The one about emotional clutter This episode of The Brain Factor, the one about emotional clutter, addresses the protective factor good problem solving and coping skills. Laura and Joy discuss built environment, how we set up our spaces, and how there are similarities between our environment being cluttered and our emotional clutter. What's cluttering your mind?

]]> This episode of The Brain Factor, the one about emotional clutter, addresses the protective factor good problem solving and coping skills. Laura and Joy discuss built environment, how we set up our spaces, and how there are similarities between our environment being cluttered and our emotional clutter. What's cluttering your mind?

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-12633610 Wed, 12 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0400 1504 1 21 full false Episode 20: The one about Sleep Episode 20: The one about Sleep On this episode of The Brain Factor, Joy and Laura talk about healthy diet, exercise, and development/ national sleep awareness.

]]> On this episode of The Brain Factor, Joy and Laura talk about healthy diet, exercise, and development/ national sleep awareness.

]]> Buzzsprout-12404048 Wed, 08 Mar 2023 19:00:00 -0500 1346 1 20 full false Episode 19: The One About Loving Yourself Episode 19: The One About Loving Yourself In this episode of The Brain Factor, Joy Riddle is joined by a special guest and friend, Dr. Maggie Labarta! They discuss the importance of loving yourself in order to love others, and how you can do so, especially with Valentine's Day coming up!

]]> In this episode of The Brain Factor, Joy Riddle is joined by a special guest and friend, Dr. Maggie Labarta! They discuss the importance of loving yourself in order to love others, and how you can do so, especially with Valentine's Day coming up!

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-12207629 Wed, 08 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500 1411 1 19 full false Episode 18: The One About Fun at Work Episode 18: The One About Fun at Work On this episode of The Brain Factor, Joy and Laura talk about having fun at work while still following the rules at home school, and work.

]]> On this episode of The Brain Factor, Joy and Laura talk about having fun at work while still following the rules at home school, and work.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-12020739 Wed, 11 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500 807 1 18 full false Episode 17: The One About New Year, New You Episode 17: The One About New Year, New You What do new year's resolutions look like in a way that is emotionally healthy?  In this episode, Laura and Joy are going to discuss permission to not participate at all.  Motivation to do it? What is it? Is there a way to do that in a healthy way without setting ourselves up for more guilt or shame?  

]]> What do new year's resolutions look like in a way that is emotionally healthy?  In this episode, Laura and Joy are going to discuss permission to not participate at all.  Motivation to do it? What is it? Is there a way to do that in a healthy way without setting ourselves up for more guilt or shame?  

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-11863809 Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500 1272 1 17 full false Episode 16: The One About the Hustle and Bustle Episode 16: The One About the Hustle and Bustle In this episode of the brain factor Joy and Laura address the protective factors of good coping skills and problem-solving skills. It’s a busy time of year and it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all. What can you do to create some calm in the chaos?

]]> In this episode of the brain factor Joy and Laura address the protective factors of good coping skills and problem-solving skills. It’s a busy time of year and it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all. What can you do to create some calm in the chaos?

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-11660264 Wed, 09 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500 1553 1 16 full false Episode 15: The One About Your Head Episode 15: The One About Your Head This episode of the brain factor addresses the protective factor of emotional and physical health. It’s important to focus on your healthy and preventative care. Laura and Joy discuss topics like Mental Health First Aid, healthcare screenings, nutrition, and their impacts on your daily life.

]]> This episode of the brain factor addresses the protective factor of emotional and physical health. It’s important to focus on your healthy and preventative care. Laura and Joy discuss topics like Mental Health First Aid, healthcare screenings, nutrition, and their impacts on your daily life.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-11478622 Wed, 12 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400 1104 1 15 full false The One About the Money The One About the Money This episode of The Brain Factor addresses economic and financial responsibility: paying off debt, funding retirement, discussing the best ways to save, and staying on track!

]]> This episode of The Brain Factor addresses economic and financial responsibility: paying off debt, funding retirement, discussing the best ways to save, and staying on track!

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-11331184 Fri, 16 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0400 1582 1 14 full false Episode 13: The one about coping and problem-solving. Episode 13: The one about coping and problem-solving. This episode of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: good coping and problem-solving skills. Laura and Joy discuss self-care in the workplace. Are you communicating effectively with your employees? And are you, as an employee, communicating effectively to your supervisor? We'll explore those questions, and more, on this episode of The Brain Factor.

]]> This episode of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: good coping and problem-solving skills. Laura and Joy discuss self-care in the workplace. Are you communicating effectively with your employees? And are you, as an employee, communicating effectively to your supervisor? We'll explore those questions, and more, on this episode of The Brain Factor.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-11111019 Wed, 10 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400 1184 1 13 full false The one about self-care as a lifestyle. The one about self-care as a lifestyle. Episode 12: The one about self-care as a lifestyle. This episode of the brain factor addresses the protective factor: good coping skills and problem-solving skills.  Laura and Joy discuss self-care as a lifestyle. Do you beat yourself up when you take some time for yourself?  Or do you celebrate what might feel self-indulgent? Self-care looks different to everyone.  Join the conversation about some less than traditional self-care tactics on this episode of The Brain Factor!

]]> Episode 12: The one about self-care as a lifestyle. This episode of the brain factor addresses the protective factor: good coping skills and problem-solving skills.  Laura and Joy discuss self-care as a lifestyle. Do you beat yourself up when you take some time for yourself?  Or do you celebrate what might feel self-indulgent? Self-care looks different to everyone.  Join the conversation about some less than traditional self-care tactics on this episode of The Brain Factor!

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-10950994 Wed, 13 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400 1664 full false The one about men’s mental health with Alan Paulin, LCSW. The one about men’s mental health with Alan Paulin, LCSW. Episode 11 of the Brain Factor addresses the protective factors: good coping skills, problem-solving skills, and connection to others.  June is Men’s Mental Month and Alan Paulin LCSW joins in the conversation about #mensmentalhealth.  What stands out for men that may be different for women? Are men less likely to reach out for help professionally? Learn more on this episode of The Brain Factor!

]]> Episode 11 of the Brain Factor addresses the protective factors: good coping skills, problem-solving skills, and connection to others.  June is Men’s Mental Month and Alan Paulin LCSW joins in the conversation about #mensmentalhealth.  What stands out for men that may be different for women? Are men less likely to reach out for help professionally? Learn more on this episode of The Brain Factor!

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-10754353 Wed, 08 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400 1511 1 11 full false The one about access to support The one about access to support Episode 10 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: access to support services.   May is Mental Health Awareness month so we are talking about how to access care.   Quality mental healthcare is essential and we know that, Meridian has been providing quality healthcare for 50 years!  On this episode, we take a look at how to access healthcare and other types of support services.

]]> Episode 10 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: access to support services.   May is Mental Health Awareness month so we are talking about how to access care.   Quality mental healthcare is essential and we know that, Meridian has been providing quality healthcare for 50 years!  On this episode, we take a look at how to access healthcare and other types of support services.

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-10594695 Wed, 11 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400 1441 1 10 full false The one about 8 emotional self-regulation hacks The one about 8 emotional self-regulation hacks Episode 09 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: emotional self-regulation.   It can be really hard to maintain your composure when you are in the moment and your emotions are getting the best of you.  It involves taking a pause between a feeling and an action.  On this episode, Joy and Laura share with you eight of their favorite ways to hack their emotions.  Deep breathing, the knock out punch, PMR, mental games, box breathing, the pre-plan attack, the pause button, and the big guns.  
 

]]> Episode 09 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: emotional self-regulation.   It can be really hard to maintain your composure when you are in the moment and your emotions are getting the best of you.  It involves taking a pause between a feeling and an action.  On this episode, Joy and Laura share with you eight of their favorite ways to hack their emotions.  Deep breathing, the knock out punch, PMR, mental games, box breathing, the pre-plan attack, the pause button, and the big guns.  
 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-10418696 Wed, 13 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400 1327 1 9 full false The one about financial wellness with Gil Levy The one about financial wellness with Gil Levy Episode 8 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: Economic and Financial Security.   Good financial habits can bring security and peace of mind. Often affording us the opportunity to experience leisure time and fun activities, it can have a positive effect on well-being. Being able to work and pay bills regularly can ease pressure, though not everyone is able to do that.  So how can we become more financially secure?

]]> Episode 8 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: Economic and Financial Security.   Good financial habits can bring security and peace of mind. Often affording us the opportunity to experience leisure time and fun activities, it can have a positive effect on well-being. Being able to work and pay bills regularly can ease pressure, though not everyone is able to do that.  So how can we become more financially secure?

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-10212858 Wed, 09 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0500 1700 1 8 full true The one about messy communication The one about messy communication Episode 07 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: Connection to others.  Communication is one way that we connect to others.  Join us as we discuss constructive and destructive communication.   

]]> Episode 07 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: Connection to others.  Communication is one way that we connect to others.  Join us as we discuss constructive and destructive communication.   

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-9860931 Wed, 09 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500 1552 1 7 full false The one about nutrition insights with RD Katelyn Greenleaf The one about nutrition insights with RD Katelyn Greenleaf Episode 6: The Brain Factor takes a look at the protective factor: Healthy diet, exercise, and development.  Registered Dietician Katelyn Greenleaf provides expert advice and insights into the nutrition that our bodies need to support our overall wellness.  

You can find the recipes discussed in the episode at https://www.nuleaf.pro/



]]> Episode 6: The Brain Factor takes a look at the protective factor: Healthy diet, exercise, and development.  Registered Dietician Katelyn Greenleaf provides expert advice and insights into the nutrition that our bodies need to support our overall wellness.  

You can find the recipes discussed in the episode at https://www.nuleaf.pro/



]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-9686161 Wed, 12 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500 1607 1 6 full false The one about holiday stress and expectations The one about holiday stress and expectations Episode 5 of The Brain Factor is a special holiday edition.  The focus is on managing expectations around the holidays. 

]]> Episode 5 of The Brain Factor is a special holiday edition.  The focus is on managing expectations around the holidays. 

]]> Meridian Buzzsprout-9685897 Wed, 08 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0500 1305 1 5 full false The one about energy and stress management The one about energy and stress management Episode 4 of The Brain Factor takes a look at the protective factor: good coping skills and problem solving.  The focus is on overwhelm and an explanation of both the mental and the physical experience.

]]> Episode 4 of The Brain Factor takes a look at the protective factor: good coping skills and problem solving.  The focus is on overwhelm and an explanation of both the mental and the physical experience.

]]> Joy Riddle Buzzsprout-9254212 Wed, 08 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500 1453 full false The one about movement The one about movement Episode 3 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: healthy diet, exercise, and development. Certified Personal Trainer, model, and former law enforcement officer Mandy Spurlin let's us know that it's not just exercise or “working out” but rather small ways we can incorporate body movement into work and home. We give details about the benefits of movement and also share practical examples and personal experiences. 

]]> Episode 3 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: healthy diet, exercise, and development. Certified Personal Trainer, model, and former law enforcement officer Mandy Spurlin let's us know that it's not just exercise or “working out” but rather small ways we can incorporate body movement into work and home. We give details about the benefits of movement and also share practical examples and personal experiences. 

]]> Joy Riddle Buzzsprout-9254195 Wed, 10 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500 1466 full false The one about optimism and toxic positivity. The one about optimism and toxic positivity. Episode 02 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: optimism.  Optimism is great, but sometimes it can become unhealthy, that's toxic positivity.  Learn what toxic positivity is, what it might look like in real life, and hear about some specific ways to combat it.

]]> Episode 02 of The Brain Factor addresses the protective factor: optimism.  Optimism is great, but sometimes it can become unhealthy, that's toxic positivity.  Learn what toxic positivity is, what it might look like in real life, and hear about some specific ways to combat it.

]]> Joy Riddle Buzzsprout-9236499 Wed, 13 Oct 2021 05:00:00 -0400 1462 1 2 full false The introductory one about why the podcast was created. The introductory one about why the podcast was created. Episode 01 of The Brain Factor is an introduction to the podcast and protective factors as a science, and why the podcast was created.

]]> Episode 01 of The Brain Factor is an introduction to the podcast and protective factors as a science, and why the podcast was created.

]]> Joy Riddle Buzzsprout-9236340 Fri, 01 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400 1178 1 1 full false