The Make Your Brain Work Podcast

The Make Your Brain Work Podcast - Episode 5 - How to Stop Overthinking: Practical Tips to Calm Your Mind and Find Focus

“Overthinking: harmless habit or hidden thief?” We all do it—but what’s the real cost of overthinking? Is it just a bit of harmless daydreaming, or is it quietly draining your energy, disturbing your sleep, and affecting your wellbeing? In this episode, we’re taking a deeper look at overthinking—not just as a common habit, but as a mental loop that can stop us from making decisions, staying present, and finding clarity.
We’ll peel back the layers—from what’s actually happening in the brain during those spirals, to the evidence-based strategies that can help break the cycle. We’re answering the questions so many of us have asked: Why does my mind race at night? Why do I get stuck in loops of worry or regret? And are there really proven ways to find calm in the moment?
Join us as we explore the latest research, share real-life stories, and offer practical tools you can start using straight away—to regain focus, feel more in control, and reclaim your peace of mind.

The Make Your Brain Work Podcast - Episode 4 - Effective Ways to Learn New Skills: Tips and Techniques That Work

“Why do some people learn faster than others?” Ever wondered why some people seem to absorb new information effortlessly, while others can barely remember what they had for breakfast? Is it really true that learning gets tougher as we age? And does picking up something new mean you're using up precious ‘brain space’?
In this episode, we’re diving into the science and strategy behind how we learn. Drawing on everything from LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report to Toyota’s innovative training approaches, we’ll explore why learning agility has become an essential skill in today’s world.
We’ll also share practical, research-backed techniques—like spaced repetition, interleaved practice, and the vital role of sleep—to help you make learning stick and truly last.
Whether you’re navigating change, keeping your mind sharp, or simply wanting to learn more effectively, this episode is packed with insights to help you unlock your brain’s full potential.

The Make Your Brain Work Podcast - Episode 3 - Mindset Makeover: The Science of Changing Minds

“What does it really take to change a belief?” Ever wondered what actually makes people shift their thinking—or how to challenge your own deeply held views? Whether it’s reassessing personal values, unpicking long-held assumptions, or breaking out of unhelpful habits, our beliefs often have more control over us than we realise.
In this episode, we’re delving into the science and psychology behind belief change. From the surprising power of the placebo effect—even when people know it’s a placebo—to the ways empathy and deep listening can shift perspectives, we’re exploring what truly drives transformation.
We’ll ask: Are some beliefs more resistant to change than others? How do stories and conversations influence the way we think? And what practical tools—like motivational interviewing—can help us rewrite the beliefs that might be holding us back?
Grounded in research on how beliefs shape everything from mental health to physical performance, this episode offers real insight into how we can influence change, both within ourselves and in others.
Get ready to uncover the hidden mechanics of the mind—and discover how changing your mind might just unlock your greatest potential.

The Make Your Brain Work Podcast - Episode 2 - When to Seek Professional Help for High Stress: Key Signs and Symptoms

“Stress: silent companion or silent alarm?” For many of us, stress has become so familiar we hardly notice it—until it starts disturbing our sleep, impacting our health, or chipping away at our peace of mind. But when does stress stop being a normal part of life and start signalling it’s time to seek support?
In this episode, we’re unpacking the real impact of prolonged stress—on your mental and physical wellbeing, your relationships, and even the way you make decisions. We’ll tackle the big questions: When should you speak to your GP? What options are actually available to help manage stress? And just as crucially, how can you build resilience in a world that never seems to slow down?
From physical warning signs to emotional overwhelm, we’ll help you recognise when stress is no longer something to shoulder alone—and explore the practical tools your GP might recommend (yes, beyond the mythical ‘magic wand’) to help you regain a sense of control.

The Make Your Brain Work Podcast - Episode 1 - The Power of Empathetic Leadership: Weakness or Wisdom?

“Empathy: soft skill or secret weapon?” It’s a word that stirs debate—some see it as too gentle for today’s results-driven world, while others swear by it as the key to real influence and transformative leadership. In this episode, we’re flipping the script on empathy—not as a feel-good extra, but as a strategic edge that drives performance, innovation, and connection.
We’ll dig into the science, challenge common assumptions, and tackle the big questions: Can you lead with empathy and hold the bar high? Can compassion fuel accountability, not dilute it?
You’ll hear real-world stories, expert insights, and practical tools you can use to lead with empathy without losing your edge. Let’s rethink what it really means to be an impactful leader—starting with the heart.

The Make Your Brain Work Podcast - Episode 0 - The Backstory

Two strangers with a shared thirst for knowledge, curiosity in human beings and passion for science thrown together at medical school.
We have remained friends ever since and gone through many life milestones including marriage, children, divorce and everything in between!
Our shared passions eventually resulted in us working together on various projects (upskilling managers with coaching skills in organisations, webinars on stress / resilience, creating behaviour change).