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The Empowered Brain

Vanessa Calderon: Physician, Educator, Master Coachwww.vanessacalderonmd.com
The Empowered Brain is the only podcast that uses science, psychology and coaching to help you rewire your brain, become more effective create a happier life. Listen and learn how to master your mind, master your emotions, thrive amidst daily stressors, and master time. Dr. Vanessa Calderón is a Harvard grad, Physician, Master Coach, and mother of 2. She has over 20 years of clinical and leadership experience and is the founder of the The Journey (to your empowered brain). The Journey uses the latest science in neuroplasticity, resiliency and psychology to help people: (1) Master their Mind and become more effective in all areas of their lives; (2) Master their Emotions and heal from past traumas; (3) Master Stress and Resilience and thrive amidst life's everyday stressors (4) Master Time, create healthy boundaries and have more time for people they love. Learn more at: www.vanessacalderonmd.com/join
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Episodes

187. Exciting News and Updates

In this heartfelt episode of The Empowered Brain, I’m sharing some very exciting news. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How healing generational trauma and reconnecting with your ancestors can be transformative How to redefine success so it’s aligned with your core values and purpose The neuroscience behind fulfillment and why serotonin, not dopamine, should drive our goals Four actionable steps you can take today to start living and working in alignment with your definition of success Come join m...

Apr 17, 202529 min

186. How to Feel Less Guilt today and in the New Year

In this episode, I’m diving into the pervasive and often misunderstood emotion of guilt. Whether it’s guilt for setting boundaries, guilt tied to cultural or religious conditioning, or simply guilt for not meeting self-imposed standards, it’s something most of us face. Together, we’ll explore practical ways to identify, process, and release guilt so it no longer controls your life. What You’ll Learn The difference between rational and irrational guilt and how to identify them in your life. How c...

Dec 22, 202420 min

185. Creating your Identity on Purpose

In this transformative episode, I share actionable insights on creating your identity intentionally, especially as we prepare for a new year. We explore why crafting your identity matters, the obstacles that often hold us back, and a step-by-step guide to aligning your actions with your desired self. This process is about living authentically, reducing inner conflict, and creating a fulfilling life. Whether you're striving for personal growth or professional success, this episode provides the to...

Dec 15, 202430 min

184. The Joy Deficit: Why You Don't Make Time for Joy and How to Get it Back

In today’s episode, we’re diving into joy. We’re tackling why so many of us struggle to make time for joy, the science behind why joy is so good for us, and practical steps to bring it back into our lives. If you have been feeling like you’re ready to uplevel your life, or like something is missing, this one is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why joy feels inaccessible for so many people, especially high achievers, women, and caregivers. The brain and body benefits of joy. Practical t...

Dec 08, 202425 min

183. Understanding and Rewiring Negative Thought Patterns so you can Break Free from Guilt, Imposter Syndrome and Insecurity

In this episode, I dive into the science and solutions behind why negative thought patterns like guilt, imposter syndrome, and insecurity, seem to stick around even when we’re aware of them. These thought loops don’t define us, and I share actionable steps to help you break free and rewire your brain for lasting change. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The three big reasons why negative thought patterns persist. Why awareness is essential but not enough for true change. A step-by-step guide to...

Dec 01, 202432 min

182. How to Prepare for Holiday Stress: Managing Difficult People, Triggering Conversations, and Avoiding Re-traumatization

In this episode, we dive deep into preparing for holiday stress—covering difficult conversations, managing triggering relationships, and avoiding re-traumatization. Holidays can bring joy but also carry stress due to heightened expectations and unresolved family dynamics. I provide simple and practical tools to navigate these challenges. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why family dynamics trigger deep emotions The science of triggers Handling difficult conversations Setting and maintaining bo...

Nov 24, 202443 min

181. Lessons to Improve Emotional Resilience, Inner Peace, and Success

In this episode, I’m breaking down three big takeaways that came to me as I traveled, juggled commitments, and faced some personal reflections. From practicing gratitude to honoring my own needs, these lessons reminded me of the power we hold in our daily choices. Sometimes, it’s the simple shifts in perspective that make all the difference. What You’ll Learn: The value of everyday freedoms The impact of gratitude Practical ways to honor your needs The importance of being present and flexible Gr...

Nov 17, 202424 min

180. The Gifts of Self-Compassion

In this episode, I return to the ever-relevant topic of self-compassion, exploring why it is essential for our mental and emotional well-being and how it impacts our daily lives. Self-compassion isn’t a one-time achievement but a lifelong practice. Drawing from Dr. Kristin Neff's foundational research, I delve into the three core components of self-compassion and offer easy, accessible methods to cultivate it within our busy lives. These practices are designed to help us lead with kindness, resi...

Nov 10, 202432 min

179. The Messy Middle: How to Not Quit When Things Get Hard and Uncomfortable (when you are creating a new habit or self-improvement)

In today’s episode, I dive into what I call the "messy middle"—that challenging, often uncomfortable phase of growth and transformation. Whether it's setting boundaries or rewiring our thoughts, the messy middle is an unavoidable, sometimes frustrating stage. We talk through the steps to recognize and navigate this space without quitting, even when discomfort and self-judgment arise. Mentioned in this Episode: Take my free Training: How to be more effective without burning out Register Here You'...

Nov 03, 202418 min

178. How to Get Your Time Back for YOU!

In this episode, I dive into time management strategies tailored for busy professionals juggling careers, parenting, and personal growth. Based on my coaching experiences, I explore how to clarify priorities, analyze how you’re currently spending your time, and create space for what matters most to you. I share real-life examples and tools to help you break free from the “I don’t have time” mindset and make intentional choices to reclaim your schedule.

Oct 27, 202422 min

177. You matter too: Servant Leadership vs Martyrdom, What Are You Practicing?

In this episode, I discuss the importance of recognizing your own value in the midst of serving others. Through personal stories and coaching insights, I explore the difference between being a servant leader and being a martyr, and why it's essential to set boundaries and care for yourself. If you often put others' needs before your own and struggle with feelings of guilt when you take time for yourself, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Understanding the difference between servant leaders...

Oct 13, 202435 min

176. Redefining Your Relationship With Weakness

In this episode, I explore the recurring theme of how we define weakness and how it often ties into our misunderstanding of femininity. I guide you through rethinking this mindset, showing how balancing the masculine (yang) and feminine (yin) energies brings more flow, peace, and creativity into our lives. What You’ll Learn: How the words "weak" and "feminine" are often misunderstood and vilified. The difference between masculine and feminine energies, and why we need both for balance. Simple wa...

Oct 06, 202420 min

175. The Power of Ritual and how to incorporate them into your daily life

In this episode, I dive deep into the concept of rituals, how they differ from habits, and why they're so important in our lives. I'll be sharing practical suggestions on how to start incorporating rituals into your daily routine and explaining the science behind them. We’ll explore how rituals protect your energy, help you feel grounded, and honor special occasions. By the end of the episode, you'll have actionable tips to create your own meaningful rituals. Key Takeaways: The key difference be...

Sep 29, 202428 min

174. The RAIN Pneumonic: How to process and be with difficult thoughts, feelings, and moments

In this episode, I dive into the importance of allowing yourself to sit with your emotions and embrace the process. Plus, I introduce you to the RAIN technique by Dr. Tara Brach, which has been a game-changer for me in processing emotions and fostering self-compassion. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How being present with your actions can shift your perspective on success. Why reframing failure has been key to my growth as an entrepreneur. The steps to using the RAIN technique to help you ma...

Sep 22, 202422 min

173. Invalidating Your Emotions: Why you do it, how it's effecting you and how to stop

In this episode, we explore why we tend to invalidate our emotions. We discuss the psychological roots of emotional invalidation and the science behind the benefits of acknowledging and feeling our emotions. You'll also learn practical strategies for emotional validation and the risks of suppressing feelings. What You'll Learn: Common ways we unknowingly invalidate our emotions and why this happens. The psychological and cultural reasons behind emotional suppression. The importance of emotional ...

Sep 15, 202429 min

172. Reconnecting To Your Intuition: A Guide to Your Inner-Knowing

In this episode, I take you on a journey to rediscover your intuition. We dive deep into what disconnects us from our inner knowing and how we can rebuild that connection. From personal stories to practical advice, I share insights on trusting yourself, overcoming fear, and creating space for intuition to thrive. This episode is all about empowering you to listen to your own inner voice, guiding you toward a more intentional and self-aligned life. Key Takeaways: Your intuition is always present,...

Sep 08, 202442 min

171. What are you choosing to believe and why?

In this episode, I explore the power of choosing what you believe and how those choices shape your reality. I share personal stories to illustrate how the beliefs we hold can either empower us or keep us stuck in fear. This episode encourages you to pause and reflect on whether the thoughts you’re accepting as truth are serving you or holding you back, and how to consciously choose beliefs that align with your true self. What You’ll Learn: How to discern whether your beliefs are driven by fear o...

Sep 01, 202422 min

170. The Powerful Practice of Surrender

In this episode, I dive into the concept of surrender—a practice that’s often misunderstood but can be incredibly powerful when done right. By embracing surrender, I’ve found greater inner peace, a stronger connection to my intuition, and the ability to live more fully in the present moment. What You’ll Learn: What surrender really means and how it differs from resignation or defeat. How you can incorporate surrender into your life while still achieving your goals. The power of living in the pre...

Aug 25, 202427 min

169. How to React to Your Negative Thoughts: Liberate Yourself From Negative Thoughts and Elevate your Consciousness

In this episode, I delve into the nature of negative thoughts and how we can effectively manage and transform them. I share insights on how thoughts shape our reality and offer practical strategies to develop awareness, acceptance, and compassion towards our thinking patterns. I also provide actionable steps to neutralize negative thoughts and replace them with intentional, positive ones. What You Will Learn in This Episode: How to create awareness of your thoughts and feelings. Practical steps ...

Aug 18, 202426 min

168. Why Verbalizing Your Goals Matters: How to Prime Your Brain for Success

In this episode, I dive into the transformative power of speaking your goals into existence. Drawing from personal anecdotes and scientific studies, I explain how verbalizing your goals can prime your brain for success, increase your commitment, and activate neural pathways that help you achieve your objectives. I provide practical tips on daily affirmations, sharing goals with trusted individuals, and visualizing success to harness the full potential of this powerful practice. What You Will Lea...

Aug 11, 202419 min

167. The Fulfillment Deficit: How to know if you are experiencing it and what to do about it

In this episode, I dive deep into the concept of the "fulfillment deficit," discussing why many successful professionals feel something is missing despite their achievements. I'll explore the reasons behind this pervasive sense of dissatisfaction, how to recognize it, and actionable steps to address it. Key Takeaways: The inspiration for this episode stems from my clients' recurring feelings of being stuck and missing fulfillment. Understanding the fulfillment deficit and why it happens. Practic...

Aug 04, 202425 min

166. Simple Practices for Happiness and Inner Peace

In this episode, I share simple, science-backed practices to help you create more happiness, inner peace, and success in your life. From the Inner Ease technique to the Hawaiian forgiveness prayer, these methods are designed to fit seamlessly into your daily routine, fostering a sense of fulfillment and well-being. Key Takeaways: Introduction to simple, effective practices for happiness and inner peace. The importance of gratitude and forgiveness in daily life. Techniques to improve your mental ...

Jul 28, 202436 min

165. Overwhelm: Why You Feel It and How to Not Let it Get in Your Way

In this episode, we delve into the pervasive feeling of overwhelm, especially how it affects high-achieving individuals. Our host breaks down the cognitive thought model to uncover the root causes of overwhelm and provides actionable strategies to manage and move past this paralyzing emotion. By understanding the triggers and physiological effects of overwhelm, listeners can learn to hold space for their feelings and shift towards more productive and empowering states of mind. What You’ll Learn:...

Jul 21, 202417 min

164. Competition, Jealousy, Envy: Why you do it and How to stop

In this episode, we delve into the pervasive feelings of competition, jealousy, and envy, particularly among high achievers. We explore why these feelings arise, how they differ between genders, and the deep-seated impacts they have on our well-being. We'll also provide practical strategies for overcoming these negative emotions and fostering a more peaceful and collaborative mindset. Key Takeaways: Understanding Competition and Envy Gender Differences in Competition Impact of Scarcity Mindset, ...

Jul 14, 202428 min

163. The Selfishness Lie: How to stop believing it and start choosing you

In today's episode, we explore the pervasive and often misunderstood concept of selfishness, especially as it affects women. We'll dive into the historical context of how selfishness has been used to control and limit women's roles, examine the impact of these beliefs on both women and men, and discuss practical steps for dismantling these harmful thought patterns. By the end of the episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of where these ideas come from and how to start prioritizing your own ...

Jul 07, 202427 min

162. Allowing the Magic: Intersection between Spirituality and Science with Dr. Rashmi Schramm

In this episode, I'm doing something a little different and sharing an interview I did on Dr. Rashmi Schramm's podcast. I don't always cross-post my interviews, but this one is special because I shared some valuable insights that I believe you will benefit from. We dive into the continuous journey of life, the integration of spirituality and professional success, and the importance of ongoing personal growth. Through our conversation, you'll learn about my path to finding inner peace and how com...

Jun 30, 202445 min

161. Ancestral and Generation Trauma: How to know if you have it and How to Heal

In this enlightening episode, we delve deep into the concepts of ancestral and generational trauma, exploring their scientific foundations, how they manifest in our lives, and practical steps for healing. Our discussion includes insights into epigenetics, neuroscience, and the profound impact of trauma across generations. The episode is designed to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of these traumas and actionable strategies for starting their healing journey. What You’ll Learn...

Jun 23, 202431 min

160. How to do a Results Audit (Is Self-Mastery important to me and how do I start)

In this episode, we delve into the importance of thoughtwork and self-mastery to create results you desire for more abundance, fulfillment and success. Dr. Calderón provides a comprehensive overview of how the brain works, including the roles of the conscious, subconscious, and autonomic brain. The episode concludes with a practical exercise called a "results audit" to help you align your actions with your desired outcomes. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Understanding the different parts o...

Jun 16, 202432 min

159. How to Allow Your Success to be Easy (instead of thinking it always has to be hard)

In this episode, I explore why many high achievers struggle to let their success come easily. I delve into how societal beliefs, cultural values, and personal experiences contribute to this struggle. You’ll also learn actionable strategies to help you embrace your success without self-sabotage. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The five main reasons why people struggle to let success come easily The negative effects of not allowing success to be easy, including anxiety, stress, and burnout. How...

Jun 09, 202423 min

158. Permission To feel Sad: Why You Avoid Feeling Sad, and What to Do Instead

In today's episode, we delve into the emotion of sadness, discussing why it's essential to feel and process it rather than avoiding it. We explore the societal and psychological reasons behind our tendency to suppress sadness and provide practical strategies for acknowledging and managing this fundamental human emotion. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why avoiding sadness is detrimental to your mental and physical health. The societal expectations and psychological defense mechanisms that lea...

Jun 02, 202425 min
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