On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with the brilliant Dr. Caroline Leaf, a true pioneer in the science of the mind, brain, and body connection. Caroline’s work has changed how we think about mental health, self-regulation, and transformation and today, she joins me to share insights from her latest book, Help in a Hurry.

We dive right into what inspired this new book: those frantic moments when you feel like you’re about to lose it, stuck in regret, overwhelmed, people-pleasing, or on the verge of snapping in the middle of a tough meeting. Caroline unpacks the real science behind why those first 60 seconds matter so much, and she gives practical—often life-changing—techniques you can use to take back control in the heat of the moment.

Caroline walks me through her process for validation, mind shifting, and conscious breathing, sharing stories from her own life (yes, even the experts lose their cool sometimes!) and the research that led to this 63-second miracle. We talk burnout, pressurized living, the myth of waiting for a vacation to “restore” yourself, and how just a one-minute “thinker moment” can completely reset your brain and body.

We get into the difference between the mind and the brain (Caroline makes this fascinating and easy to grasp!) and the importance of tuning into your soul and spirit to find genuine peace even quoting some powerful scripture along the way.

Whether you’re struggling in your relationships, facing chronic burnout, or just want to bring more mental strength and peace to your day-to-day, this conversation is filled with accessible strategies, inspiration, and hope. Caroline’s wisdom will help you reclaim the next moment (and maybe the next 63 days), moving you from chaos and helplessness to clarity and empowerment.

If you’ve ever felt like you need “help in a hurry,” or you want a 911 strategy for your thoughts and feelings, this episode is your go-to guide.

 

About Dr. Caroline Leaf,

Dr. Caroline Leaf is a communication pathologist, audiologist, clinical and research neuroscientist with a Masters and PhD in Communication Pathology and a BSc Logopaedics, specializing in psychoneurobiology and metacognitive neuropsychology. Since the early 1980s she has researched the mind-brain connection, the nature of mental health, and the formation of memory. She was one of the first in her field to study how the brain can change (neuroplasticity) with directed mind input. 

Pre-Order Dr. Caroline's book, Help in a Hurry, out August 5th here!

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