Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and The Brain: Your Communication Podcast

Behind Beginnings: R.E.M.A.P. Reflections on Endings and Beginnings

Episode Description: 
In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors, and the Brain, I reflect on the role of completion and new beginnings as we close out a year and look ahead. Instead of focusing on resolutions, I explore how endings in relationships, work, and seasons of life invite reflection, emotional awareness, and growth.
I share why honoring what worked, what did not, and who you became matters as much as setting intentions for what comes next. Tune in to learn how reflection, repair, and intentional practice can help you move forward with clarity and purpose. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
Completion Holds Both Grief and Possibility - Completion often brings grief and uncertainty, but it also opens the door to what comes next. When you honor what is ending and reflect on what worked, you create space for growth, clarity, and new possibilities to take shape. 
Healthy Respect Comes from Reflection - Taking time to reflect helps us see not just what happened, but how we showed up along the way. Acknowledging what worked and honoring who you became builds respect for your own growth, even when the outcome was not perfect. Top of FormBottom of Form 
Emotions Move in Waves, Not Timelines - Change often brings endings and beginnings at the same time, and that mix can stir excitement, grief, and uncertainty all at once. Emotions rise and fall like waves, and they cannot be rushed or controlled. Emotional awareness, flexibility, and courage allow you to name what you feel, honor it, and move through transitions without blocking joy in what is beginning. 
Model the Future Through Repair - New beginnings are shaped by how you close what came before. Reflecting on what worked and what did not, taking responsibility for harm, and engaging in repair allows you to model the behaviors, values, and relationships you want to carry forward. Repair is not weakness. It is a courageous practice that creates healthier foundations for what comes next. 
 
 Helpful Resources: 
Progress Grows Through Practice, Not Perfection - Every new beginning invites a beginner’s mindset. Growth happens through practice, small consistent actions, and ongoing learning, not by getting everything right. When you give yourself grace and honor your humanity, even small efforts can lead to meaningful progress and lasting change. 
Accountability Sustains Growth - Clarity about what you are committed to is strengthened through accountability. Trusted partners help reflect who you are becoming, support your growth, and remind you to care for yourself along the way. Accountability is not about pressure. It is about shared responsibility that keeps progress moving, even when the pace is slow. 
Intentional Reflection Helps Remap the Future - Pausing to reflect on endings and beginnings allows you to reset direction, clarify priorities, and intentionally shape what comes next instead of repeating old patterns. 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships. Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort.
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 

Lemons, Lemonade & Laughter: How to Not Let Feelings Get in the Way of Fun

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors, and the Brain, I talk about why honoring your feelings does not mean letting them run your life. Through lessons from my trip to Japan, I share how frustration, setbacks, and unexpected moments can be met with intention, perspective, and even laughter.
I also explain why choosing joy and play is a form of regulation, not avoidance, and how it helps us stay engaged, clear, and effective in our relationships, leadership, and daily responsibilities when the world feels heavy. Tune in to learn how to make space for your feelings while still protecting your capacity for joy and purpose. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
 
Lemonade and Laughter Require Choice – Joy and connection do not just happen when life gets easier. Without intention and a deliberate mindset, frustration and worry often take over. Choosing to see the lessons in difficult moments and allowing space for laughter turns challenges into opportunities to learn, connect, and restore energy instead of letting circumstances dictate our experience. 
 
Laughter Requires Intention – Life often puts us on tight timelines, with expectations and plans that don’t always go as expected. It’s easy to let frustration take over in these moments, but choosing to bring in laughter and perspective transforms how we experience challenges.  
 
Protecting Joy Takes Intentionality – Feeling good doesn’t just happen, especially with all the stress and chaos around us. By creating intentional spaces at home, in our communities, and even in how we use social media, we can protect moments of joy and laughter. Honoring our feelings without letting them take over helps us stay present, clear, and able to show up fully in life. 
 
Infusing Daily Life with Joy While Respecting Your Feelings – It’s possible to honor your emotions while also creating space for laughter and joy. Being intentional about noticing bright spots and carving out time for play helps you stay balanced and energized. Even if daily moments aren’t always possible, setting aside time once or twice a week can make a real difference. 
 
 Helpful Resources: 
Joy Requires Intentional Spaces – Joy and laughter don’t just happen automatically. Creating intentional spaces at home, in communities, or even online allows us to access moments of play and connection, even during busy or stressful times. 
Accessing Joy Supports Giving – Experiencing joy isn’t ignoring challenges. It’s a form of restoration that helps us continue to give, serve, and lead in every space, from advocacy and education to family and community care. 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships. Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 
 

Behind Rest: Recognizing the Kind of Rest you Need

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors, and the Brain, I talk about why rest is not a luxury but essential for staying healthy, connected, and effective. Inspired by Dr. Sandra Dalton Smith’s book Sacred Rest, I break down the different kinds of rest we often miss and share real-life examples of how constant stimulation, emotional effort, and unplanned time can quietly drain us.
Tune in to learn how to recognize the rest you really need and set up simple routines that help rest become a regular and renewing part of your life, especially during the holiday season and beyond. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
Rest Requires Structure – Rest does not just happen when life slows down. Without intention and planning, rest is often the first thing sacrificed during busy seasons. Creating structure allows rest to become consistent instead of optional. 
Rest is Multidimensional – True restoration goes beyond sleep or quiet time. Our minds and bodies need sensory, emotional, and social rest to recover from constant stimulation, emotional labor, and social demands. This kind of rest allows emotions to be felt and released, overstimulation to calm, and the nervous system to fully recharge. 
The Power of Creative Rest - Creative work consumes significant mental energy, even when it feels fulfilling. Creative rest is not disengagement or laziness. It is the intentional pause that allows ideas to settle, integrate, and mature. Stepping away from active creation creates space for clarity, insight, and more sustainable creativity to emerge. 
Structure Protects Your Rest - Rest requires intentional planning and structure. Without scheduling it, daily tasks and “just one more thing” moments can easily push rest aside, reducing its effectiveness and leaving us exhausted.
 
 Helpful Resources: 
Spiritual Rest Requires a Flexible Structure - Spiritual rest looks different for everyone. It may be attending a place of fellowship or engaging in daily rituals like gratitude writing or yoga. The key is to recognize your structure for spiritual connection and allow flexibility, balancing alone time and community practice to feel replenished. 
Rest Doesn’t Always Require Complex Routines - Stepping outside into nature, wandering through a store, or immersing yourself in music can provide mental, creative, and even spiritual rest. The key is to recognize what helps you recharge, have it ready, and intentionally create dedicated time to step away and rest. 
Be Intentional About Your Rest - To truly benefit from rest, start by asking yourself what you need and which types of rest will serve you best. Identify the tools or practices that support that rest, implement them consistently, and create disciplined structures, like an accountability partner, to ensure you follow through, not just for the holidays but for the year ahead. 
 
Resources Mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Rest-Recover-Energy-Restore/dp/1478921676 
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 

Behind Life's Detours: Letting Go of Expectations to Experience Freedom

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors, and the Brain, I share the power of letting go of expectations and how it can create freedom, presence, and connection in our lives.
Using a personal story from traveling in Japan, I explore how detours, big or small, can reveal new possibilities and help us trust ourselves, embrace flexibility, and align with our true purpose. Tune in to learn practical insights for releasing limiting expectations and creating flow, trust, and meaningful connection in every area of life. 
 
Letting Go of Expectations Frees Us – Holding tightly to how things “should” go often leads to disappointment, tension, and frustration. When we release rigid expectations, we create space to experience freedom, joy, and connection in the moment. 
The Ripple of Tension - Our emotions silently affect those around us through a phenomenon called limbic resonance. Micro expressions and subtle body movements communicate our inner state, so tension we carry can spill over, shaping the mood of others. Holding onto expectations confines both our experience and the energy we share. 
Freedom in the Detour - Sometimes plans go off track, and the natural reaction is tension or frustration. Yet when we let go of rigid expectations and embrace the detour, a new space opens. Relaxing allows laughter, connection, and unexpected discoveries to emerge. What initially seemed like a setback can become an experience richer than the original plan. 
Trust Yourself and Your Path – Letting go of expectations starts with trusting ourselves. Trust that we can handle unexpected turns, adapt, and still reach meaningful destinations.  
 
Helpful Resources: 
Expectations Are Often Inherited – Many of the standards we try to meet come from parents, teachers, or society rather than our own desires. Recognizing which expectations are ours versus inherited helps us make choices that resonate with our heart’s purpose. 
Courage to Trust the Path - Freedom begins when we let go and trust, ourselves, the journey, and the guidance of those who genuinely care for us. By releasing expectations that don’t align with our heart, we open space to follow our true purpose. Courage and resilience guide us along paths that may be less traveled but ultimately lead to fulfillment. 
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 

Behind Reality Strategies: How We Construct Reality and How to Communicate Accordingly

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and the Brain, I explore reality strategies, mental models, and how they shape the way we communicate, connect, and understand one another. We break down how our brains construct reality from past experiences, values, culture, and environment, and how this affects our daily interactions. I share practical tools to listen across different realities, clarify understanding, and keep conversations open, whether in leadership, family, or community settings.  
 
Key Takeaways: 
Reality Strategies Shape Everything – Every person sees the world through a unique lens, called a reality strategy or mental model. Understanding that each person’s reality is different helps us approach conversations without judgment and allows us to better connect with others, even when their perspective is different from our own. 
 
Listening That Bridges Perspectives – Listening is more than just hearing words; it is about trying to understand the other person’s world. Staying curious and genuinely open during conversations allows us to bridge gaps between different perspectives. This kind of listening creates space for connection, reduces misunderstandings, and helps relationships grow stronger. 
 
Clarifying Understanding – Communication is a mix of words, tone, and body language. Sometimes what we say is not exactly what the other person hears. Clarifying understanding ensures that both people are on the same page and prevents confusion, frustration, and unnecessary conflict. 
 
Speak in Pictures: The Power of Metaphors – Sometimes words alone are not enough to explain what we mean. Using examples, stories, or metaphors can help the other person picture what we are trying to say. Metaphors and examples help bridge the gap between different mental models, making it easier for people to understand and connect. 
 
Protecting Yourself While Connecting – Not every situation or person requires deep communication across reality strategies. It is important to protect your own emotional space and recognize your triggers, while still being open where connection matters.  
 
Helpful Resources:  
Avoid Ranking Realities as More or Less Valid – When engaging with others, recognize their reality as simply different, not inferior. Listening without judgment allows for clearer understanding and reduces conflict caused by comparing perspectives.  
Practical Tools for Meaningful Connection – Intentional communication can transform relationships at work, at home, and in the community. By listening carefully, asking clarifying questions, using metaphors, and observing responses, we can create trust and understanding.  
Developing curiosity and Active observation Enhances Communication – Observing how others respond, paying attention to body language, and asking clarifying questions encourages curiosity and helps you understand their reality. This keeps conversations open and prevents misunderstandings. 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 

Behind Grief, Navigating Grief and Loss with Dr. Chinasa Elue

In this powerful episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and The Brain, I sit down with Dr. Chinasa Elue, award-winning professor, grief coach, and founder of True Titans Consulting Group, for a deeply human and necessary conversation about grief. We explore how grief shows up not only through the loss of loved ones but also through life transitions, identity changes, workplace shifts, collective trauma, and even the loss of public figures we never personally knew. 
Dr. Elue shares her own story of losing her mother in 2019, an experience that unfolded just before the global grief of the pandemic. She walks us through the emotional, relational, and physiological realities of grief and highlights why grief remains one of the most avoided conversations in society. Together we discuss why individuals fear collapsing under the weight of grief, how to support people without overstepping, and how organizations can create compassionate space for employees experiencing loss. 
This episode invites us to humanize grief, understand its many forms, and learn how to honor it within ourselves and one another. 
 
Key Takeaways 
Grief Goes Far Beyond the Loss of Loved Ones 
Grief shows up in many life experiences including layoffs, career transitions, retirement, divorce, medical diagnoses, surgeries such as hysterectomy or mastectomy, friendship changes, children leaving home, and loss of identity. Recognizing the breadth of grief helps us name what we are actually feeling. 
We Are Still Living in a State of Collective Grief 
The world has not fully recovered from the emotional impact of the pandemic. People continue to navigate chronic stress, uncertainty, and losses of normalcy, safety, and connection. This ongoing grief influences how people show up in relationships and workplaces. 
People Avoid Grief Because They Fear It Will Stop Their Lives 
Many worry that if they allow themselves to feel grief, they will fall apart and be unable to function. This perception leads people to suppress emotion rather than create space for healing. Yet suppressed grief often resurfaces in anxiety, irritability, or emotional shutdown.  
Vicarious and Parasitocial Grief Are Real and Often Unnamed 
Grief can also appear when a beloved public figure or celebrity dies. Even without personal connection, the emotional impact can be significant because of the meaning or memories attached to that person. These feelings are legitimate and deserve acknowledgment. 
Supporting Someone Who Is Grieving Is About Presence, Not Words 
There are no perfect words to make grief disappear. Avoid platitudes like “they are in a better place.” What matters most is presence, listening, acts of service, and gentle check-ins. Simple gestures like bringing food or helping tidy the home can offer real comfort.  
Organizations Must Recognize and Accommodate Grief 
Most workplaces offer minimal bereavement policies and expect immediate performance afterward. Leaders can help by offering workload adjustments, flexible schedules, gradual return plans, temporary redistribution of responsibilities, and ongoing check-ins. Compassionate leadership reduces harm and supports long-term wellbeing. 
Grief Shows Up in Behavior and Communication 
Signs of grief can include irritability, withdrawal, distractedness, missed deadlines, lowered motivation, or increased emotional reactions. Recognizing shifts in behavior and approaching with care can open supportive dialogue.  
Grief Lives in the Body 
Physical symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, fatigue, and tension are common in grief. Movement can help regulate the nervous system. Even ten to fifteen minutes of walking or gentle activity supports emotional processing. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
Creating Space for Grieving Employees 
Leaders can support team members by normalizing conversations about grief, asking what support is needed, and offering temporary adjustments without penalizing performance. A human-centered approach fosters trust and psychological safety. 
How to Care for a Grieving Friend or Colleague 
Presence, heartfelt listening, practical acts of service, and marking important dates such as holidays or anniversaries can make a tremendous difference. Small gestures remind people that their loved one is not forgotten. 
 
 
About the Guest 
Dr. Chinasa Elue is an award-winning professor, TEDx speaker, grief coach, and CEO and Founder of True Titans Consulting Group. Her work centers on creating spaces for authentic conversations about grief to foster more holistic and compassionate support in our communities. Through her grief coaching practice, she walks alongside individuals navigating loss of all kinds, helping them move forward with empathy and care. 
Dr. Chinasa Elue, is hosting a powerful Grief Retreat this December here in Atlanta. If you or someone you know could benefit from a supportive, healing space during a difficult season, I encourage you to check it out and share it with others who may need it.
You can find the flyer and full details here:👉 https://www.drchinasaelue.com/come-alive-retreat
 
Follow Dr. Chinasa Elue 
Website: www.drchinasaelue.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchinasaelue  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drchinasaelue    
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media  
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha  
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha  
  
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne  
Most communication breakdowns happen not because people don’t talk—but because they don’t connect. They don’t feel safe to tell the truth, to ask questions, and they don’t always know how to repair the relationship when rupture occurs. R.E.M.A.P.™ gives leaders and teams a shared language and simple practices to create psychological safety in real time—so people feel seen, heard, and valued while work moves forward. 
 
Learn more and take our trauma-informed communication assessment now at https://mindremappingacademy.com/what-is-the-r-e-m-a-p-framework  
  
Schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at: https://calendly.com/remapyourmind/organizations-drmaiysha 

Behind Difficult Conversation Part 3: How Different Personalities Handle Conflict

In this episode, I talk about how different people see and handle conflict. You'll learn how personality types like introverts, extroverts, thinkers, and feelers approach tough conversations and why that matters. We’ll also look at how our past experiences shape how we deal with conflict. By the end, you’ll have tools to listen better, respond with care, and find solutions that help everyone feel respected and understood. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
Society Often Frames Conflict as Dangerous – Media and culture often show conflict as dramatic and harmful, making many people fear or avoid it. In reality, it’s often just a difference in opinion or perspective. When we begin to shift the story around conflict, we can start seeing it as a chance for understanding and growth. 
 
Everyone Has a Different Perception of the Same Interaction – Every person brings their own lens, shaped by experiences, beliefs, and emotions, to every interaction. What one person hears and feels during a conflict may be completely different from the other person’s experience. Understanding this helps us avoid assumptions and encourages empathy. 
 
Conflict Can Feel Like a Threat to Safety – For those with past trauma, conflict may feel unsafe and trigger fear, avoidance, or aggression. Understanding this helps us respond with compassion instead of taking it personally. 
 
Not All Difficult Conversations Are Conflict – Tough conversations don’t always mean someone is angry or there’s a fight. Sometimes it’s just an uncomfortable topic or a disagreement that doesn’t escalate. Learning to differentiate between discomfort and danger is essential in improving how we communicate. 
 
Helpful Resources:  
Personality Affects Conflict Styles – Our personality preferences strongly shape how we handle conflict. Using the Myers-Briggs framework, we can understand how people process, express, or avoid conflict based on whether they’re more introverted, extroverted, logical (thinker), or relationship-focused (feeler). 
Thinkers and Feelers Can Challenge and Support Each Other – Thinkers may need to practice tuning into people’s emotions and honoring the relationship, not just the facts. Feelers may need to learn to assert facts and advocate for their needs without giving up their values. When both sides grow in these areas, conflict becomes more productive and respectful. 
The Goal of Conflict Is Connection, Not Control – The point of a disagreement is not to dominate, win, or prove who’s right. It’s to understand each other, find common ground, and make progress. Healthy conflict leads to growth and clarity.  
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 

Behind Powerful Questioning: The Assumptions Behind our Questions with Dr. Conor Hughes

In this episode of Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and the Brain, I sit down with Dr. Conor Hughes, human catalyst, NLP master practitioner, and expert in using questions to unlock growth. We explore the powerful role questions play in shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and communication. Dr. Conor breaks down the neuroscience behind how our brains process questions and the hidden assumptions we carry. We discuss how asking the right questions can create meaningful change and how certain questions can unintentionally risk retraumatization. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
The Art and Science of Asking Better Questions - Asking questions is something we all do every day. We ask about the time, what’s for dinner, or where something is. But asking better questions is both an art and a science. It’s about learning how to ask in a way that makes people think deeply, find answers, and grow.
How Questions Paint Pictures in the Mind - Every time we ask a question, we help the other person imagine something in their mind. It’s like painting a picture that shows what we’re talking about.
Every Question Carries Hidden Meaning – Every time we ask a question, there’s an idea behind it. When someone asks, “How sad do you feel?” the brain starts to remember times of sadness. This can help bring understanding, but it can also reopen painful memories. That’s why asking questions with care matters, it shapes how people think and feel.
The Power of “What” and “How” Questions – The words we use in questions shape how people think. What and how questions open the mind, while yes-or-no questions close it. Instead of asking, “Have you ever felt confident?” ask, “What makes you feel confident?” This helps the brain focus on strength and solutions.
The Power of “How” and “Why” Questions – “How” and “why” are the strongest questions we can ask. Why takes us to the past to understand reasons, while how moves us toward the future to find solutions.
When the Body Answers Before Words Do - In therapy, real change often shows before words. A person’s face, posture, or eyes shift when a question reaches something deep. The real answer is not always found in words. It often shows up in the body. That is why great therapists do more than listen. They watch how a person responds because the body and the brain work together to reveal truth beyond language.
 
Helpful Resources: 
Asking Questions That Grow Leaders - Good questions do more than find answers; they help people think deeply and become stronger leaders. When leaders ask the right questions, they guide others to discover their own solutions instead of simply following directions. This builds confidence and develops leadership skills.
The Power of Curiosity in Mentorship - In mentorship, questions are just as important. A good mentor does not hand out lessons but helps mentees uncover what they truly need to learn. By asking thoughtful questions, both the mentor and mentee grow. Real learning begins when curiosity leads the way to understanding.
About the Guest
Dr. Conor Hughes is a partner at CR Squared, a pioneer in designing hybrid learning systems for business and professional development. With extensive experience in NLP, she equips trainers to create world-class, engaging programs that combine online and in-person learning. Her approach leverages cutting-edge technology, interactive content, and real-time progress tracking to help NLP practitioners expand their reach, enhance their impact, and compete with the best globally.
 
Follow Dr. Conor on Social media
Website: https://www.crsquared.co.za/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drconorhughes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conor.hughes.16/
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort.
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs

Behind Weaponization of Religion

In this episode with Jay Bohanon, we follow his journey through religion and how curiosity shaped his mission to help people understand different beliefs without fear or judgment. We discuss the weaponization of religion, the impact of interpretation on beliefs, and how understanding others’ perspectives fosters connection and grace. Jay also shares his love for Kansas, lessons from his travels, and the power of treating everyone with empathy, even when viewpoints differ. Tune in to see how curiosity, compassion, and connection can transform how we understand religion, culture, and the world. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
Curiosity is the foundation of growth – Asking questions early teaches you to seek answers and understand the world. When adults don’t have the answer, looking for information in books or other sources helps you learn on your own and build confidence. 
 
Religion and beliefs are often more similar than different – Despite diverse practices, many religions share foundational principles such as values, morality, and community. Recognizing similarities allows for empathy, reduces fear of “otherness,” and promotes connection across cultural or spiritual differences. 
 
Different paths can lead to the same truth – People may practice their beliefs in different ways, but at the core, many religions share similar values. Understanding this helps you focus on your own personal spirituality rather than getting stuck on differences. 
 
Passion grows from early experiences – Developing a deep love or commitment often starts in childhood through exposure and meaningful experiences. Early engagement, whether through family, school, or community traditions, can ignite a lifelong passion to represent, improve, or change the perception of something important to you. 
 
Values and Identity Evolve Over Time – Our values and sense of self are not fixed. They change as our lives, experiences, and priorities shift. What mattered in one season may not matter in the next. Allowing ourselves grace to evolve helps us grow, connect with others, and resist rigid systems that try to control or limit personal growth. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
Be aware of how religion can be used for control – Organized religion can sometimes shift from its original teachings and be used to wield power over people. Understanding that interpretations, traditions, and texts can be manipulated helps you critically examine beliefs and recognize when dogma is being weaponized rather than guiding genuine spiritual growth. 
Culture and religion are deeply intertwined – Cultural context shapes the interpretation and practice of religion. Many conflicts or misunderstandings attributed to faith are actually rooted in culture rather than core spiritual teachings. Distinguishing between the two can clarify misconceptions and reduce unnecessary division. 
Focus on Shared Humanity to Bridge Divides – Changing harmful uses of religion or beliefs doesn’t come from arguing or proving someone wrong. It starts by seeing others as people, showing grace, and building genuine connections. By finding common values and what everyone truly wants, we can work together and create understanding over time. 
  
About the Guest 
Jay (he/they) is a diversity, equity, and inclusion professional with over ten years of social justice advocacy. They help workplaces become more equitable through workshops, keynotes, and programs on LGBTQ+ inclusion, psychological safety, belonging, and allyship. Jay has created award-winning programs, educated employees at multiple organizations, and cohosts the podcast Religiously Literate. 
 
Follow Jay on Social media 
Website: https://www.jaybohanon.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaybohanon/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jbo.bohanon  
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 

Behind Expectations: When Getting Lost is the Lesson (Lessons from Japan Part 1)

What began as a family adventure turned into a deeper exploration of how our beliefs, expectations, and communication patterns shape our experiences. From missed trains to meaningful encounters with strangers, each detour revealed something powerful about flexibility, discovery, and the importance of letting go of rigidity in order to find freedom.  
In this episode, I share reflections from my recent trip to Japan and the unexpected lessons that came from getting lost, literally and figuratively. Together, we uncover how “being lost” can transform into an opportunity for growth, in our travels, our relationships, and our communication. Tune in to learn how curiosity and openness can turn uncertainty into clarity, and how getting lost might just be the path to finding your way. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
Lost Can Be the Lesson – Getting lost is often seen as failure, but it can be one of life’s greatest teachers. When the path we expect suddenly changes, we are given a chance to slow down, observe, and understand more deeply what surrounds us. Losing direction can shift our focus from reaching a destination to appreciating the process itself. 
Challenging Expectations – Expectations shape how we experience the world, but they can also blind us to what is actually unfolding. When reality does not align with what we imagined, it can reveal the biases and assumptions that quietly guide our thoughts.  
Discovery Through Getting Lost – Getting lost challenges the need for certainty. It invites us to be flexible, to adapt, and to find our footing in unfamiliar territory. When we stop resisting and begin to explore, we learn that not every moment needs to be perfectly directed. The openness that comes from being lost encourages creativity, curiosity, and a renewed sense of trust in the unfolding process. 
Finding Wonder in the Unexpected – Frustration often marks the beginning of discovery. What starts as inconvenience can become an opportunity to witness beauty we might have overlooked. When we release the need for everything to go as planned, we begin to notice details that spark joy. 
Communication as Exploration – In conversation, being “lost” can feel uncomfortable, but it also opens the door to deeper understanding. When we stop striving for perfection in what we say or hear, we begin to listen with curiosity instead of fear. This mindset transforms communication into a shared exploration rather than a performance. 
 
Helpful Resources:  
Exploring Beyond Comfort – When conversations or circumstances feel unstable, the instinct is often to retreat. But stepping forward instead can lead to discovery and greater understanding. By leaning into curiosity rather than control, we learn to see discomfort not as a threat but as an invitation to stretch beyond what feels familiar.  
Transforming Communication and Culture – When communication is built on psychological safety and mutual respect, it strengthens both relationships and systems. Every conversation has the potential to restore connection, repair misunderstanding, and cultivate belonging. True transformation begins when communication becomes a tool for healing and shared purpose. 
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha Youtube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
 
Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne 
Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort. 
 
See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs