The Make Your Brain Work Podcast

The Change Conundrum: Unpacking Why Transformation Is Tough
 
Why is change so hard? We set goals, commit to new habits, and promise ourselves things will be different—only to slip back into old patterns. Frustrating, predictable, and all too human.
But here’s the truth: your struggle to change isn’t a failure—it’s biology. Your brain is designed to resist transformation, clinging to the familiar and conserving energy. That’s why new behaviours often feel like pushing a boulder uphill.
In this episode, we uncover the science of transformation. From neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself—to the role of loss aversion in keeping us stuck, you’ll learn what’s really standing in the way of lasting change. More importantly, you’ll discover practical strategies for designing your environment, reframing your mindset, and using behavioural science to make change not just possible—but easier.
If you’re ready to stop battling your brain and start working with it, this episode is for you.

Ever promised yourself you’d eat better, exercise more, or finally get that side project done—only to find your best intentions mysteriously derailed? You’re not alone. The truth is, it’s not a lack of willpower—it’s the way your brain is wired.
In this episode, we explore the behavioural science behind effortless change. From decision fatigue and loss aversion to procrastination and self-sabotage, you’ll discover the hidden forces shaping your daily choices. More importantly, you’ll learn how to design your environment and habits so that change becomes easier, not harder.
Join us as we uncover practical, science-backed strategies for nudging yourself towards success—without relying on endless self-control. If you’re ready to stop fighting your brain and start working with it, this episode is for you.

Ever feel like your to-do list is never-ending? Like you're constantly busy, but never truly getting ahead? In this episode, we explore why modern life feels so overwhelming—and what we can do about it.
We dive into the neuroscience of prioritisation, uncover why your brain struggles to focus under stress, and explain how constant busyness might be holding you back rather than helping you thrive.
You'll also hear practical, research-backed strategies to help you cut through the noise, focus on what really matters, and finally take back control of your time and energy.
If you've ever said, "I have so much to do, I don’t even know where to start," this episode is for you.

Stress—it’s everywhere. From packed diaries to restless nights, most of us are feeling the pressure. But are we really managing stress in the right way?
In this episode, we explore what neuroscience has to say about stress relief and prevention. From mindfulness and movement to music and breathing, we unpack what actually works to calm your brain—and what might be doing more harm than good.
Is exercise more effective than meditation? Can daily habits rewire your nervous system? And how do we stop stress from taking over in the first place?
Whether you’re constantly overwhelmed or just need better ways to unwind, this episode is your science-backed guide to feeling more grounded, more often.

Who are you without your job? If your title vanished tomorrow, would you still recognise yourself?
In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the neuroscience of identity and the complex relationship between who we are and what we do for a living. From career breaks and retirement to job loss and reinvention, we examine why our professions often become such a core part of our self-worth—and whether that’s a good thing.
Join us as we explore the risks of over-identifying with work, the psychological effects of career change, and how to build a more balanced, fulfilling sense of self beyond your CV.
If you've ever felt adrift without work or questioned where your true identity lies, this one's for you.

“Cognitive load: the hidden weight behind mental fatigue.” Ever find yourself mentally exhausted, struggling to make even the simplest decisions after a long day? What if the real issue isn’t just tiredness—but cognitive load? That’s the mental strain caused by processing too much information or juggling too many choices—and it could be silently impacting everything from the quality of your decisions to your emotional resilience, especially when the pressure’s on.
In this episode, we’re diving into how cognitive load affects your brain, your focus, and your ability to stay sharp under stress. We’ll explore big questions like: Should we really just ‘toughen up’? Is technology easing the load, or just adding more noise? And more importantly—how can you manage your mental bandwidth to make clearer, more strategic decisions?
We’ll break down the latest research and share practical strategies for reducing overwhelm, recharging your cognitive energy, simplifying choices, and leveraging the power of team support to lighten the load.
Tune in for smart, actionable insights to help you thrive in a fast-paced, decision-heavy world—because sometimes, thinking clearly starts with thinking less.

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.