Behind Beliefs, Behaviors and The Brain: Your Communication Podcast

Episode 72: Behind Communication: What Does It Feel Like to Be On The Other Side of You

In this episode, Dr. Shaq Anthony joins the conversation to explore the powerful question: What does it feel like to be on the other side of you? Together, we dive into the importance of understanding intention versus impact, creating space for curiosity and conversation, and leading yourself before leading others. This heartfelt discussion reminds us that leadership starts with self-awareness and how we show up in all areas of life. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
The First Person You Lead Is You – Leadership isn't just about having a team or holding a title. It starts with how you lead yourself, your choices, your habits, and your discipline. Before you can guide others, you have to be honest about how you show up in your own life. Self-leadership is the foundation for every other kind of leadership. 
 
What Does It Feel Like to Be Around You? – This simple question invites you to see yourself through the eyes of those who love you. It’s a gentle reminder to be more present, more giving, and more thoughtful even in the little things. 
 
Don’t Just Correct, Celebrate Too – It’s easy to point out what needs fixing, but growth also comes from being seen and celebrated. Acknowledging the good, especially in kids, builds confidence, encourages effort, and reminds them they’re more than just a work in progress. 
 
Make Room for Curiosity – Curiosity is a bridge to growth. When we slow down and make space for questions, we invite deeper connection, learning, and trust. Quick answers may solve a moment, but thoughtful conversations shape a lifetime. 
 
Intent vs. Impact – We judge ourselves by our intentions but others experience us through our impact. If how you meant it doesn’t match how it landed, it’s the impact that needs care. True growth comes from asking, “How did that make you feel?” and being willing to adjust, not just explain. 
 
Embrace Feedback as a Gift – Feedback isn’t criticism but a chance to see ourselves clearly and improve. When given kindly and at the right time, feedback helps us grow from good to great. Creating a culture where feedback is welcomed helps everyone become their best selves.  
 
Helpful Resource:  
Trust Is the Foundation of Success – Trust is the key that unlocks strong relationships and effective teamwork. Without it, feedback is hard to give, and collaboration falls apart. Whether at work or home, building trust creates the safety and connection needed to achieve real growth and success. 
Trust Grows When We Act on What We Hear – Listening isn’t just hearing words, it’s about showing you care by taking action. When people share their struggles, they’re trusting you with something precious. Responding by making real changes shows you value them and builds lasting trust. Without action, listening alone can break trust and silence voices. 
Awareness Shapes Your Impact – The way people experience you is tied to the impact you leave in their lives. Becoming aware of how you show up, especially on tough days, builds stronger self-leadership and better relationships.  
 
About Our Guest: 
Dr. Shaq Anthony is a family man, speaker, author, and culture strategist who helps organizations build inclusive, collaborative environments. As owner of Anthony Solutions, he specializes in leadership and culture development to help people and teams grow. Guided by his mission to discover, develop, and share gifts, Shaq brings passion and insight to every conversation. 
 
Follow Dr. Shaq Anthony 
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/shaquille.anthony.7 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdrshaqanthony/ 
Email: drshaqanthony@gmail.com 
 
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 

Episode 71: Behind The Contraints That Influence Our Listening & Speaking

In this episode, we explore the three powerful constraints that shape every conversation we have: the neurological, the social, and the individual. I’ll walk you through how each constraint functions, why they matter, and how recognizing them can transform everyday communication. If you’ve ever struggled to feel heard or misunderstood by others, this conversation will give you the insight and tools to shift those patterns for yourself, your relationships, and your leadership. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
Filters Shape the Way We Communicate - Every conversation runs through filters, how we hear, see, and process what’s happening. Understanding these filters helps us become more aware of how we respond and how others might be experiencing the same moment differently. 
 
Neurological Constraint: What Our Bodies Can Sense - Our senses have limits. We only hear, see, or feel what our nervous system allows. Just because something isn’t noticed doesn’t mean it isn’t there. This helps us stay compassionate when someone misses something we find obvious. 
 
Social Constraint: What We Were Taught Growing Up - Our social environments teach us rules—some spoken, some unspoken. These shape how we interact. When we step into new spaces, these old patterns can limit us unless we choose to grow past them. 
 
Individual Constraint: What We’ve Personally Lived - No two people experience life the same way. Even when we share a moment, we bring different memories, histories, and emotions. Recognizing this can help us stop expecting people to “just get it.” 
 
Helpful Resource:  
Misunderstanding Comes from Unseen Limits - Most conflict doesn’t come from bad intentions—it comes from invisible limits. Being unaware of our own or others’ filters can lead to assumptions, miscommunication, or tension. 
Conscious Communication Builds Bridges - When we pause to ask, clarify, and really listen, we open up space for better conversations. This level of communication helps us resolve conflict, reduce misunderstandings, and build stronger trust. 
Practice Naming Your Filters in Real Time - Start noticing your own reactions. Say to yourself—or even out loud—what’s coming up: “This feels like a survival response,” or “I’m reacting based on my past.” Naming it gives you power to choose a better path forward. 
 
Notable Highlights: 
“If we're going to expand our capacity to be flexible in our communication, we need to understand the mechanism that goes on so that we can interrupt it.” 
“Sometimes error in communication is due to lack of awareness, and sometimes it’s due to lack of access to our internal resources at the time.” 
 
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 

Episode 70: R.E.M.A.P™: A Foundational Framework for Transforming How We Communicate

In this episode, you will discover how simple practices like pausing to reflect, recognizing emotions, and embracing progress over perfection will change the way you connect and communicate. As we explore the R.E.M.A.P™Framework, you will learn tools to build trust, repair relationships, and lead with greater courage and kindness. Tune in as we break down each step and uncover practical ways to bring more empathy and growth into every conversation. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
What Is the R.E.M.A.P™ Framework? – R.E.M.A.P™ is a simple and powerful guide that helps you communicate better, lead with care, and build stronger relationships. Each part of the framework offers a way to grow in how you connect with others and with yourself. 
 
Recognize, Reflect and Respect – The first step is about pausing to notice your thoughts and feelings. When you take time to reflect and treat others with respect, conversations become more thoughtful and human, even when you don't agree. 
 
Emotional Awareness and Encourage – Feelings are a natural part of life. This part means learning to notice and understand your own feelings and the feelings of others. It helps you find the courage to stay present during hard moments, speak honestly, and stand up for what is right with honesty. This step builds strength, trust, and kindness in leadership, even when things get tough. 
 
Model, Mirror, and Mend – Leading by example matters. When you model healthy behavior, mirror the emotions of others with care, and mend what gets broken, you help create a safe and respectful space for everyone. 
 
Adaptability, Accountability, and Acknowledgment – Being open to change, taking ownership of your actions, and recognizing the truth all help create space for healing and growth. It’s not just about having good intentions, but about showing up with honesty and responsibility. 
 
Practice Progress Over Perfection – You don’t have to get it all right. What matters is the effort to keep learning and growing. This part of the framework encourages you to be gentle with yourself and others as you move forward, one step at a time. 
 
Notable Highlights: 
"When we have recognition without reflection, it could be reactive. When we have recognition with respect, it honors relationships and it honors humanity." 
"The Recognize, Reflect and Respect pillar allows us to have a mindful noticing of internal cues and body sensations, emotions and behaviors. It invites a pause of this sort of critical self-inquiry and conscious thought before action." 
"Emotional awareness helps us track our own and others' emotional states." 
"Courage gives us permission to stay present through discomfort, speak our truths, and challenge systems or behaviors with integrity." 
"Accountability supports the ownership of our impact on others, positive or negative. We can be accountable without defensiveness and without ongoing shame because that doesn't actually change the outcome." 
"We can give feedback that helps us expand and grow, but we can also give feedback when things are going well." 
"Learning is a practice that emphasizes commitment, repetition, and resilience." 
 
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 

Episode 69: I See You - Behind Authentic Connection with Dr. Dr Nondumiso Makhunga- Stevenson

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson, founder of Ubuntu Doctor Coaching, for a deeply heart-centered conversation about authentic leadership, cultural wisdom, and reclaiming our humanity through connection. We explore how the ancient African principle of Ubuntu, “I am because you are”, can transform the way we lead, collaborate, and relate to one another. This dialogue is a reminder that healing doesn’t always require more doing, it often requires more seeing. 
Dr. Nondumiso shares her journey from medical doctor in South Africa to leadership coach in the U.S., and how she integrates Ubuntu into her work with physicians and teams worldwide. Whether you're in healthcare, corporate spaces, or community leadership, this episode will challenge you to ask: What becomes possible when we truly see one another? 
Key Takeaways: 
Ubuntu Is Humanity in Action  Ubuntu is more than a philosophy, it’s a lived experience of honoring our interconnectedness. At its core, it teaches that “I am because you are.” We rise when we help others rise. Leadership through Ubuntu is not about power over others, but power with others. 
True Leadership Starts with Seeing  When leaders begin with empathy and see their teams for who they are, not just what they do, they unlock loyalty, creativity, and collaboration. Co-creating with people, not just delegating to them, brings out the best in everyone. 
Legacy Is About People, Not Position  What we leave behind isn't just in programs or projects, it’s in the people we’ve uplifted and empowered. Ubuntu reminds us to lead with intention, because our influence is often the most meaningful part of our legacy. 
This Is Not Woo, It’s Wisdom  Ubuntu is ancient knowledge. Its roots are spiritual, intuitive, and deeply human. It’s not about religion or performance, it’s about restoring wholeness in how we relate to each other across cultures, organizations, and generations. 
Notable Highlights 
“I see you. I see all those who walk with you.”  “Ubuntu means my humanity is tied to your humanity.”  “Let people contribute to the process, and they become co-owners of the outcome.”  “When we let go of micromanaging and lead from connectedness, leadership becomes a joy.”  “Ubuntu isn’t just African, it’s universal. We’ve just forgotten.” 
About Dr. Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson Dr. Nondumiso is a South African-trained physician, leadership coach, and founder of Ubuntu Doctor Coaching. She works with physicians and organizations around the world, helping them integrate the principles of Ubuntu to create cultures of empathy, collaboration, and authentic leadership. She was the first doctor to become certified in Ubuntu Coaching, and she brings deep wisdom, cultural grounding, and personal humility to every conversation. 
 
Work with Dr. Nondumiso  Website: https://www.ubuntudoctorcoaching.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/physicianleadershipdevelopmentcoach  
 
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 elevate the way you lead, connect, and collaborate, check out our Communication That Transforms course. You’ll learn how to build psychological safety, navigate crucial conversations, and foster trust with intention. 
Explore the course at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc Or view the full program catalog at www.mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue Schedule a call at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs 

Episode 68: Behind Healing: Releasing Our Pain Through Deep Work with Jamie Green

In this episode, we welcome Jamie, founder of Sunshine Soul Vibes, to explore the powerful journey of healing from past trauma. We clear up some common myths about hypnotherapy and talk about how real healing begins when you’re truly ready. Tune in as we unpack the emotional layers behind self-sabotage, discuss the difference between awareness and action, and explore what it really takes to rewire your mind for healing and growth. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
What Is Timeline Therapy? – Timeline Therapy is a gentle way to heal from heavy feelings like anger, guilt, or shame. It helps you find where the pain began, change how you see that moment, and let it go. With each step, you feel lighter, stronger, and more ready to step into a brighter future. 
 
Let Go of Worries – Worries can stay in our minds all day and night. Real peace comes when we stop holding on and change how we think about them. Then, we can feel better and move forward. 
 
The Real Power of Hypnotherapy – Many people imagine hypnotherapy as mind control or silly stage tricks. But real hypnotherapy is gentle and respectful, and you stay fully awake and in control the whole time. It’s not something done to you; it’s a team effort where you participate and agree every step of the way. 
 
The Meaning Behind “Sunshine Soul Vibes” - “Sunshine Soul Vibes” means finding your inner light, even in dark times. Jamie chose this name during her own struggles, not yet seeing the peace others saw in her. Through healing, she discovered that light was always inside, just hidden. Now, she helps others shine their light too. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
Being Open Is the First Step to Hypnotherapy -  Hypnotherapy won’t work if you don’t believe it can help. If you’re scared of it or think it’s fake, it’s harder for your mind to relax. But if you’re open and curious, it can really help. You don’t have to understand everything—just be willing to try. 
Meditation with a Goal - Hypnotherapy feels like a deep, quiet moment—like meditation. But instead of just relaxing, you focus on something specific, like letting go of fear or building confidence. You’re always in control. It just helps your mind get quiet enough to listen. 
 
About Jamie Green 
Jamie Green is a USAF veteran and founder of Sunshine Soul Vibes. She’s passionate about helping people heal from past trauma and break free from negative patterns. With her mix of trauma release techniques, hypnotherapy, NLP, and Reiki, Jamie creates a warm, safe space where clients can find confidence, clarity, and true transformation. 
 
Follow Jamie Green 
Website: https://sunshinesoulvibes.com/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunshinesoulvibes/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550961717387# 
 
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 

Episode 67: Behind Rigid Thinking - Newtonian vs Einstein Mindset

In this episode, we will talk about the difference between rigid and flexible thinking. We’ll use the ideas of Newton and Einstein to show how our mindset shapes how we lead, connect, and communicate. We’ll also explore why it’s important to pay attention to how we think so we can listen better, respond with care, and build more trust in our relationships. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
The Limits of Rigid (Newtonian) Thinking – Newtonian thinking views life as predictable and fixed, where every action has an equal and opposite reaction. This rigid mindset can restrict how we see people and situations, making it harder to adapt or understand complexity. 
The Power of Flexible (Einsteinian) Thinking – Einsteinian thinking sees life as flexible and open, emphasizing that we actively shape our experiences. By changing how we think, we can build trust, create safety, and nurture better relationships. 
Our Thinking Shapes Our Actions – How we listen and think influences how we behave, so by becoming aware of our mental filters, we can choose to shift from rigid to flexible thinking and respond in healthier ways. 
We Are Architects of Our Reality – Adopting flexible thinking means taking responsibility for how we shape our lives and interactions, allowing us to create safer, more trusting environments for ourselves and others. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
Changing Old Beliefs Is Possible – Just because something has always been done a certain way or we have long-held beliefs about people or situations doesn’t mean we have to keep thinking or acting that way; we can rewrite our views and open up new possibilities. 
Perspective Taking Builds Connection – Seeing things from different points of view helps us break free from fixed thinking and fosters cooperation, trust, and better communication in our relationships and communities. 
 
Notable Highlights: 
“No problem can be solved from the same consciousness that created it.” 
“Actions have consequences, but they’re not always predictable, predetermined, or straightforward and linear.” 
“Newtonian thinking can perpetuate oppressive systems because of its fixed framework that can inadvertently marginalize certain populations.” 
 
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

Episode 66: The Value of a Multi-Disciplinary Team Approach with Thea Blystone PharmD

In this episode with Dr. Thea Blystone, I talk with a longtime friend and trailblazing clinical pharmacist who is transforming how healthcare teams collaborate. We talk about the power of a multidisciplinary team, how pharmacists can show up beyond the dispensing role, and why honoring each member’s lane strengthens the entire system. If you’re in healthcare or passionate about changing it, this one’s for you.
 
Key Takeaways:  
Working Together is Better Than Competing – When egos get in the way, people suffer. You can be the smartest in the room, but if you’re not willing to work with others, you’ll miss the best of things. Remember, no matter your skill, you’re stronger with a team. Success means little if it hurts others, but working together helps everyone win and changes lives. 
 
The Danger of Rigid Mindsets - We're trained to stay in our “lane,” but those lanes become mental prisons. Instead of boundaries that protect, we build walls that isolate. And slowly, we forget how to connect, collaborate, or even ask for help. 
 
The Chaos of Complexity - The world moves fast, and one-lane thinking won’t cut it anymore. The more lanes we create, the more coordination we need, not control. If you try to lead everything, you’ll crash into burnout. 
 
The Fear of Not Knowing - We’re taught to hide uncertainty like it’s a flaw. But the strongest leaders ask questions, look things up, and admit what they don’t know. 
 
Delegating lets everyone shine - Trying to do everything alone is a fast track to burnout and failure. When you let others step up, you multiply your power. Everyone has a unique gift waiting to shine but about handing over the baton, not holding it tight because teams thrive when they trust each other to run their part of the race. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
The Value of Teamwork and Being Open to Others - Sometimes, people feel scared to work with others because they worry about losing what they have. But the real lesson is that working together can make things better for everyone. When we share the load and help each other, we don’t have to do everything alone. 
“Winning” Traps You in a Crowded Fight - Playing to win means you’re stuck in a crowded arena, fighting over scraps. You don’t have to crush anyone to succeed. Sometimes, creating space is the ultimate power move. 
Put Others First- When working with others, the most important thing is to focus on the people who need help. Instead of arguing or focusing on ourselves, we should work together for the best outcome.  
 
About Thea Blystone PharmD 
Dr. Thea Blystone is a passionate pharmacist and mentor who turned a season of homelessness and hopelessness into a powerful mission. After experiencing burnout in traditional pharmacy, she found a better path by using her skills in value-based care. Today, she helps other pharmacists move beyond insurance calls and quotas, build meaningful consulting careers, and create lives filled with purpose, flexibility, and impact. 
 
Follow Thea Blystone PharmD 
Website: tmpharmacyconsulting.com 
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/TheaBlystone.PharmD 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thea-pierce-blystone 
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media: 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/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  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Episode 65: Communication as a Dance Rather Than an Algorithmic Formula

In this episode, I’ll walk you through simple yet powerful tips on how to truly listen with your body, understand your emotions, and communicate more clearly. I’ll share how communication is much like a dance, where listening, emotional awareness, and flexibility play a huge role in creating trust and connection. Tune in and learn how small changes in how you communicate can make a big difference in how you connect with others. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
Communication is like dancing – In salsa dancing, both people have to trust each other, listen closely, and stay in sync. The same goes for having a good conversation. It’s not about one person leading all the time. It’s about working together, paying attention to each other, and adjusting your steps along the way.  
Listening is more than just using your ears – When we think of listening, we usually think about hearing words. But real listening means using more than just your ears. It means watching someone’s face, their hands, and how they move to how they say things. 
There’s no perfect script for talking – Following rigid steps can make communication feel robotic. The best way to communicate is to be yourself, stay present, and respond naturally to the moment. That means paying attention to how the other person is feeling and adjusting how you speak based on what’s happening right now.  
 
Helpful Resources: 
What makes you a better communicator? –  Being emotionally smart When you can recognize and understand your own feelings, it helps you talk in a way that builds trust and connection, especially when things get tense. This is called emotional intelligence.  
A bigger vocabulary leads to better conversations – Knowing more ways to ask questions and express thoughts helps keep conversations open and respectful. It allows you to guide tough conversations without shutting others down. 
 
Notable Highlights: 
"Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize what's going on in our body. It gives us a bit of behavioral flexibility inside of the communication." 
"The most effective communicators actually dance inside of the interaction." 
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/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 

Episode 64: Early Empowerment of Mental Well-Being in Our Youth with Dr. Marie Dona

In this episode with Dr. Marie Donna, we talk about why kids’ mental health matters and how early support can change everything. Dr. Donna shares how anxiety, depression, and ADHD can show up as tummy aches or behavior changes. We also talk about the power of kind words, curiosity, and how raising emotionally healthy kids starts with us. 
 
Key Takeaways:  
Mental Health Is Primary Care - Mental health deserves the same priority as physical health and shouldn’t be treated as an afterthought or a specialty service. When we view mental wellness as part of our routine care, early intervention becomes possible, even before visible symptoms arise.  
 
Kids Show Stress Differently - Children often express anxiety or depression through stomach aches, headaches, or changes in behavior. Since they may not have the language to explain how they feel, it's important for parents to pay attention, ask thoughtful questions, and make it safe for kids to talk about what’s going on. 
 
Vulnerability Builds Trust - When parents share their own experiences with sadness or mental health, it helps children feel safe to open up. This kind of honest conversation can lead to early support and connection, reminding kids they’re not alone in what they’re feeling. 
 
Look Beyond the Behavior - What looks like misbehavior is often a child’s response to trauma or unmet mental health needs. Early intervention, understanding their background, and recognizing the signs of conditions can shift the narrative from blame to support. 
 
The Impact of Self-Belief on a Child's Performance - When children begin to believe they are "dumb" or a "problem," it can severely affect their motivation and performance. Parents should listen closely to their child's self-talk and address any negative beliefs early.  
 
How Therapy Supports Early Emotional Wellness - Therapy is not just for crises. It can be a regular check-in that helps children feel safe, heard, and supported. When done early and consistently, it encourages open conversations and addresses issues before they grow. 
 
Helpful Resource: 
Addressing Bias and Encouraging Open Communication - Sometimes, teachers may have biased views that affect how they see a child. Parents should ask their child what happened to hear their side of the story, helping clear up misunderstandings and ensure their child feels heard. 
Parents Must Do Their Inner Work - Breaking cycles of trauma starts with parents doing their own healing so they can listen better and support their children more wisely. 
 
Notable Highlights: 
"Mental health should be a primary care. It's treated like it's specialty care, but it really should be primary care." 
"People's mental health, their well-being is such a huge contributing factor to someone's life, their overall enjoyment of it, their ability to live through it." 
 
 
About Dr. Marie Dona 
Dr. Marie R. Dona is a triple board-certified psychiatrist who works with children, teens, adults, and women during and after pregnancy. She treats a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and more. With years of training and experience in hospitals and mental health settings, Dr. Dona provides thoughtful, personalized care to people of all backgrounds. 
 
Follow Dr. Marie Dona 
Website: https://www.donawellnessclinic.com/ 
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Email: psychiatry@donawellnessclinic.com 
 
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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 

Episode 63: Behind Identity: Why People Resist Change

In this episode, I talk about the role of identity in how we relate to change, communication, and each other. I share how identity is not something we are born with, but something shaped over time through the beliefs we inherit, the values we are taught, and the behaviors that are modeled to us. When we understand identity as something constructed, we begin to see why people often resist change. It is not always about the change itself. It is about the fear of losing who we think we are. 
I walk through the developmental stages of identity formation and explain how belonging becomes a central part of our survival brain. When our place in a group feels uncertain, the nervous system reacts as if it is unsafe. That reaction impacts how we communicate and how we show up in conversations. I share examples of what happens when our identities are challenged and how these moments often trigger defensiveness, avoidance, or resistance. 
 
Key Takeaways: 
What Is Identity? – We aren’t born knowing who we are. From childhood, we absorb beliefs, values, and behaviors from our families, schools, and communities. Over time, these shape our sense of identity. 
Our Identity Makes Us Feel Safe 
Even if we built it without realizing, identity gives us stability. It helps us know who we are, where we belong, and what we stand for. That’s why any threat to it can feel dangerous. 
Identity and Belonging 
Our sense of self and belonging is tied to the groups we are a part of. In the past, being part of a group was essential for survival, as straying from the pack could be dangerous. This need for belonging is still deeply rooted in us today. 
Threat to Identity = Threat to Security 
When someone's identity is challenged, it feels like a threat to their security and place in the world. The brain reacts to this threat as it would to physical danger, which can lead to defensive behaviors and resistance to change. 
 
Helpful Resources (Questions for Reflection):  
Where in my life do I feel a threat to my identity or role? 
What am I afraid of losing or not receiving? 
How can my identity grow to include something new while honoring where I have come from? 
What support or development do I need to feel grounded in this growth? 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media: 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha  YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/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