Dr. Jodi Richardson sits down with Yale and Stanford researcher Dr. Emma Seppälä to explore the profound science behind human connection and its impact on our mental wellbeing.

Dr. Seppälä, author of "The Happiness Track," shares groundbreaking research on how compassion and social connection serve as powerful antidotes to anxiety, stress, and burnout in our increasingly isolated world. From explaining the neurological mechanisms that make kindness feel good to debunking common misconceptions about happiness and success, this conversation offers practical wisdom backed by cutting-edge science.

Discover why:

• True resilience stems from compassion rather than toughness
• Our loneliness epidemic may be more dangerous than smoking
• Technology is simultaneously connecting and isolating us
• Simple breathing techniques can rapidly calm your nervous system
• Compassion meditation can rewire your brain for greater wellbeing

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling disconnected in our digital age, or simply seeking evidence-based strategies for greater happiness, Dr. Seppälä's insights provide a roadmap to living a more connected, compassionate, and joyful life.

Don't miss this powerful conversation about the science of connection and how rekindling meaningful human bonds might be the most important health intervention of our time.

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In this gripping first installment of a two-part series, Dr. Jodi Richardson welcomes Yale and Stanford researcher Dr. Emma Seppälä, who reveals the traumatic 9/11 experience that changed her life forever. When traditional anxiety remedies failed her, a skeptical scientist discovered an ancient breathing practice that not only healed her own PTSD but would later transform the lives of war veterans who'd lost all hope.

Dr. Seppälä shares how "sovereignty" - making your inside stronger than your outside - can help anyone navigate life's chaos. From witnessing the Twin Towers fall to pioneering breakthrough trauma research, her journey proves that our greatest potential often emerges from our darkest moments. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Dr. Richardson's own anxiety surfaces during recording, leading to a powerful demonstration of the breathing techniques being discussed.

Listen to discover the science behind reclaiming your inner power, how a simple 40-day practice changed everything, and why self-compassion outperforms self-criticism in every metric. Just as the story reaches its most profound revelation, we pause... leaving you breathless for Part 2.

Don't miss the conclusion where Dr. Seppälä' will reveal the extraordinary story of her friend Etel's unimaginable trauma and remarkable transformation through sovereignty.

More on Emma Seppälä':

https://www.emmaseppala.com/

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Dr. Jodie is joined by Sarah Macdonald, founder and director of Canine Comprehension, a pioneering organisation that uses therapy dogs to support emotional literacy and mental health in school communities across Victoria, Australia.

Sarah shares her own mental health journey and opens up about how her personal experiences have shaped her passion for helping young people — especially those struggling to regulate emotions, engage at school, or feel seen in the classroom. With warmth and honesty, Sarah talks about the powerful impact of Canine Comprehension's programs, the trust they build with students and teachers, and the long-term relationships they’ve developed in schools over the years.

Topics covered include:

• How therapy dogs help kids feel safe, seen, and supported

• The emotional toll of anxiety and the importance of showing up anyway

• How parents and teachers can advocate for school wellbeing programs

• Practical ways to access funding through Victoria’s Schools Mental Health Menu

• The joy of long-term school partnerships (and the many dog mascots left behind!)

Want to get in touch or learn more?
Visit: www.caninecomprehension.com.au
You’ll find videos, program information, and contact details to start a conversation about bringing Canine Comprehension to your school.
They're also on Facebook and LinkedIn, and happy to chat directly.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply passionate about kids’ mental health, this episode will leave you inspired by the powerful combination of empathy & education.

Connect with me:

https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQ

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.