Notes From a Neuro Nerd: The Science Behind Living Your Best Life - podcast cover

Notes From a Neuro Nerd: The Science Behind Living Your Best Life

Monica Mangelsonaustinandmonica.com

Welcome to Notes from a Neuro Nerd, where brain science meets practical tools for living with purpose, clarity, and joy. Join Monica—a certified life-purpose coach and neuroscience enthusiast—and her partner, Austin, as they explore the mindset shifts, habits, and tools that can help you build a fulfilling life.


Tune in to uncover the ‘why’ behind your thoughts and behaviors and get actionable, science-backed strategies to boost your well-being. If you're ready to design your best life, you’re in the right place!

Episodes

144. Reclaiming Your Power After Trauma | Interview with Amy Pease

In this episode, I chat with the amazing Amy Pease—a coach, speaker, and survivor who broke free from years of manipulation and emotional abuse. Amy shares her powerful story of walking away from a toxic family, raising her son with autism on her own, and slowly rebuilding her life from the ground up. Her healing journey is honest, brave, and full of hard-won wisdom. We talk about what manipulation really looks like, how to break free from abusive relationships, and how to help loved ones in you...

May 08, 202555 min

143. Life Radically Changed | Matt Potratz

Matt Potratz was a pro snowmobiler when he got caught in an avalanche that should’ve killed him. It didn’t—but it left him with a broken neck, brain trauma, and a life forever changed. In this conversation, Matt shares what happened that day, the long road to recovery, and the lessons he learned about pain, purpose, and resilience. We talk about what it really takes to survive life’s darkest moments, the power of community, focusing on what you can change, and how to keep going when life feels i...

Apr 30, 202549 min

142. You Know Sleep Matters—Here’s How to Actually Get It

We all know sleep is important. That’s not news. The real question is: why is it so hard to get enough of it? In this episode, I talk with Caitlin Shure about what messes with our sleep and what actually helps. You’ll learn what your body and brain need to sleep well, and what habits quietly ruin it. And most importantly, how to start fixing it. Links from this episode: mytone.io Visit Caitlin Shure's website Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a f...

Apr 23, 202531 min

141. Reframing Is a Skill

Reframing means seeing a situation from a different angle. It doesn’t mean pretending everything’s fine when it’s not. In this episode, I talk about how reframing has helped both me and Austin. It’s not about slapping a positive quote on a hard day. It’s about asking better questions like, “What else could be true?” or “What do I actually need right now?” When you change how you see something, you change how you feel about it. That’s not fake—it’s neuroscience. Book your FREE discovery call with...

Apr 16, 202523 min

140. What a Low Body Budget Does to You

Your brain tracks your energy like a budget. It’s always asking: Do I have enough to get through the day? If you feel tired, overwhelmed, irritable, or numb, your body budget is probably low. Things like poor sleep, skipping meals, constant stress, or scrolling too much all drain it. In this episode, I explain how the body budget works and what happens when it’s off balance. You’ll learn how to tell when yours is running low and what to do to build it back up. It’s simple. When your body gets wh...

Apr 09, 202517 min

139. The Magic of Music | Katie San Diego

Music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a brain booster, a mood lifter, and even a secret weapon for learning. In this episode, I sit down with my sister and music instructor Katie San Diego to explore how music shapes us physically, emotionally, and cognitively. We dive into its role in language learning, social anxiety, and overall mental well-being. This episode is guaranteed to change the way you think about the power of music. Tune in! 🎶🧠 Connect with Katie: Get Katie's Freebie Instagram @san...

Apr 02, 202544 min

138. Real Healing Starts When You Stop Feeding Your Stress

For a long time, I thought healing was just about managing stress—deep breathing, meditation, journaling. But no amount of self-care was going to help if I kept letting the same stressors into my life. In this episode, I’m talking about the shifts that made the biggest difference for me—letting go of fear-based beliefs, setting real boundaries (even when it was hard), and being mindful of what I let into my mind. Because healing isn’t just about what you add —it’s also about what you remove . Bo...

Mar 26, 202520 min

137. How Chronic Stress Showed Up in My Body (And Might Be Showing Up in Yours Too!)

For years, I thought my body was just difficult —random stomach aches, migraines, jaw tension, constant fatigue. Turns out, it was all stress. In this episode, I’m sharing the sneaky ways chronic stress showed up in my body and how I finally connected the dots. If you’ve ever dealt with unexplained symptoms or felt off no matter what you try, this one's for you. Plus, I’ll share some simple ways to start resetting your nervous system. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------...

Mar 20, 202535 min

136. How to Reset When You're Feeling Stressed

Several people have written in to me recently asking about how to reset when you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed. We don't always feel like we have the time, budget, or space to do the things we know will relax and reconnect us. But the thing it, you don't have to do anything big! This week, I invited guests onto the Notes From a Neuronerd podcast to share what they do when feeling stressed and need to reset - listen in for new strategies you can try today! Book your FREE discovery call with ...

Mar 12, 202514 min

135. Emotional Regulation - How to Keep Your Cool When Life Gets Messy

Ever feel like your emotions have a mind of their own? Today I'm talking about emotional regulation and how to keep your nervous system from running the show. I'll give you simple tricks to calm your body along with mindset shifts that help you handle stress like a pro, and I'm breaking it all down in a way that actually makes sense. No science degree required—just an open mind and maybe a deep breath or two. Links mentioned in the episode: Episode 123. Why Your Emotions Are Low-Key Amazing Book...

Mar 06, 202535 min

134. Make Creativity a Habit | Mike Brennan

Ever feel like life’s gotten a little too serious? Like creativity and fun are distant memories buried under to-do lists and deadlines? It’s time to bring fun back! Mike Brennan—author, creative consultant, and master of making life playful—joins me to share how creativity isn’t just for artists, it’s for everyone. Links mentioned in the episode: Visit Mike's website: www.mikebrennan.me Make Fun a Habit book Join the Daily Creative Habit Book your FREE discovery call with me! -------------------...

Feb 26, 202542 min

133. The Hidden Reason You Keep Losing Momentum

Do you ever feel like you start strong on your goals but then hit a wall—and suddenly, all that momentum is just gone? There’s a hidden reason for this, and today we’re going to uncover it. Want to join my goal setting masterclass on March 1st ? Visit https://coachingbymonica.com/unstoppable Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me at my home on the web for ...

Feb 19, 202510 min

132. The One Mistake Holding You Back from Your Goals

What if I told you there's ONE mistake you've been making that's keeping you from hitting your goals? Listen in to find out why relying on momentum is that one mistake and more importantly, what to do about it! Want to join my goal setting masterclass on March 1st ? Visit https://coachingbymonica.com/unstoppable Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me at my...

Feb 12, 202513 min

131. Why Goal-Setting Feels So Hard (And How to Make It Easier)

Did you know that about only 8% of people's New Year's Resolutions last more than a month ? Goal setting (or goal keeping rather) is a challenge for many - but this week I'm gonna talk about how to set goals that stick and actually change you as a person! Want to join my goal setting masterclass on March 1st ? Visit https://coachingbymonica.com/unstoppable Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Yo...

Feb 05, 202515 min

130. Women's Health Part 3: The Mindset of Losing Weight as a Woman

Losing weight is about more than just food and exercise—it’s a mindset shift. In this episode, I’m sharing my personal health journey, the challenges I’ve faced, and the mental breakthroughs that have made all the difference. Tune in for a raw, real conversation on how to approach weight loss from a place of empowerment, not restriction. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Mak...

Jan 29, 202519 min

129. Wellness That Fits | Cassie Groeschl

Today I sit down with Cassie Groeschl, a registered dietitian and wellness coach who specializes in helping busy moms overcome exhaustion and burnout through holistic nutrition and sustainable wellness routines. Cassie shares actionable tips for creating healthy, flexible meals that nourish both body and soul while cutting meal prep time in half. We discuss how to break free from the cycle of overwhelm, reclaim energy, and prioritize what truly matters. Links & Resources: Explore Cassie's He...

Jan 22, 202546 min

128. Women's Health Part 1: The Gut Brain Conection

Did you know your gut and brain are in constant conversation? For women, this connection plays a huge role in everything from mood and hormones to overall health. In this episode, I'm unpacking the gut-brain connection and its unique impact on women’s wellness. Let’s dig into the science—and the solutions—behind feeling your best from the inside out. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut...

Jan 15, 202517 min

127. Antifragility: We’re Wired to Get Stronger Through Struggle

Our brains are incredible—they're designed not just to bounce back from challenges but to grow stronger because of them! In this episode, we’re diving into the science of antifragility and how our minds thrive under pressure. Let’s explore what it really means to have a brain built for resilience! Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me at my home on the we...

Jan 08, 202515 min

126. What Happened to Us in 2024

2024 brough some major changes to our lives - some major curveballs for sure! In this episode, we're reflecting on the moments that shaped the year—the good, the tough, and what we're carrying into 2025. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me at my home on the web for more resources....

Jan 01, 202516 min

125. Ms. World Traveler Spills the Tea | Kerry Damiano

Get ready to be inspired! Kerry Damiano—aka Ms. World Traveler— dives into her incredible journey through pageants, globe-trotting adventures, and faith. Kerry shares her insights on facing fears, building confidence, and stepping into opportunities with grace and courage. Connect with Kerry: Ms. World Traveler on Youtube Instagram @kerrymsworldtraveler Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your ...

Dec 25, 202432 min

124. Let's Talk About Triggers...

Triggers aren’t just random annoyances—they’re signals pointing to wounds that still need healing. In this episode, we’ll unpack how to handle triggers in the moment (or after the fact), why it’s okay to feel all the feels, and how journaling, self-reflection, and even a letter to your younger self can help you heal. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me ...

Dec 18, 202413 min

123. Why Your Emotions Are Low-Key Amazing

In a world that shames us for feeling, we’ve learned to push emotions away—but what if they’re our secret superpower? This episode dives into why your feelings, even the tough ones, are essential for better decisions, deeper connections, and lasting motivation. Learn to stop bottling it up, embrace the stress cycle instead, and finally let yourself feel it all. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Tru...

Dec 11, 202419 min

122. Starting with Strategy | Interview with Morgan Rutledge

This week we sit down with social media strategist Morgan Rutledge to explore why having a plan is everything—not just for building your brand online and business growth, but for life in general. Morgan breaks down how a solid strategy is the foundation for achieving goals with purpose, focus, and success across all areas of life. This conversation is packed with insights on making your next move with intention. Connect with Morgan: Instagram: @mg.mediagroup Website: mgmediagroup.org LinkedIn: M...

Dec 04, 202433 min

121. The 4 Levels of Growth to Go From Surviving to Thriving

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed in your personal growth? One big secret to lasting change is knowing where you fall in the 4 levels of growth and self development. Let’s break down the 4 levels of growth that will take you from just surviving to truly thriving. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me at my home on the web for more resources....

Nov 27, 202414 min

120. A No-Nonsense Guide to Setting Holiday Boundaries

Holidays with family can be incredible—or incredibly draining. In this episode, we’ll dive into why setting boundaries with loved ones is an absolute game-changer for your peace and sanity. Setting boundaries is about focusing on the actions YOU can take, not trying to change someone else's behavior. Tune in for the tools you need to set boundaries that stick, so you can make this season feel truly joyful. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free...

Nov 20, 20248 min

119. Staying Present During the Holidays

In the holiday rush it’s easy to get lost in to-do lists and perfectionism. In this episode, we chat about how to stay grounded and fully present, creating space for true connection and joy. Listen in to learn how to release holiday stress, embrace gratitude, and focus on what truly matters, so you can celebrate the season with intention and peace. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut D...

Nov 13, 202424 min

118. The Mindset Hack That Changed My Life

Ever wondered what simple mindset shifts could make a huge impact on your life? In this special collaborative episode, we asked our listeners to share the one mindset hack that transformed the way they see the world, and wow, did they deliver! Tune in to find your next life-changing perspective, inspired by our incredible community! Learn more about our guests: Belky Laureano www.belkylaureano.com Bonnie Bartlett www.TheMindfulLivingSpace.com Christy Ashby www.christyashbyphotography.zenfoliosit...

Nov 06, 202416 min

Introducing Notes From a Neuro Nerd (formerly Profitable Nomad Couple)

The Profitable Nomad Couple is now called Notes From a Neuro Nerd 🎉 This podcast will explain how to live your best life and get into the nitty gritty science backed explanations behind why you do what you do (and better yet, how to change it for the better) Why did we change the name, and what other changes are coming with this new podcast rebrand? It's all explained in the episode. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Moni...

Nov 01, 20247 min

117. Making it Happen Against the Odds | Interview with Pamela Wagner

There's little that Pamela hasn't done yet at the age of 32. Just to mention a few accomplishments: She's been to 100 countries, bootstrapped and built a 6-figure agency with no entrepreneurial background, worked at Google, been featured multiple times in Forbes, got a Master's degree from Harvard Extension School, and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro. Pamela now heads Ajala Digital, a global marketing agency focused on adding value to competitive businesses with Google and Meta advertising. Pamela runs ...

Oct 30, 202429 min

116. Desperation vs. Abundance

Get ready for a mindset makeover in this episode as we dive into desperation versus abundance! We’ll uncover how these two perspectives shape our lives, and we’ll share tips to help you swap out scarcity for a life bursting with possibilities. Book your FREE discovery call with me! ----------------------------------- Schedule a free Coffee Chat with Monica! Get access to my Trust Your Gut Decision Making Guide . Visit me at my home on the web for more resources....

Oct 23, 202422 min
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