Talks with Dr Shafer

Latest Episodes:

Feeling Shipwrecked? You're Not Alone Mar 20, 2025

Show notes

Feeling Shipwrecked? You're Not Alone.

Join Dr Shafer on the Short Talk on Talks with Dr. Shafer where she discusses how when we are feeling shipwrecked on a deserted island, we are never truly alone. While we may feel isolated, we are not alone in our struggles. Through the story of six Tongan boys who survived on a deserted island for 15 months, Dr Shafer illustrates the importance of community, resilience, and human connection in overcoming life's challenges. The conversation highlights how sharing our experiences can alleviate feelings of isolation and foster support among individuals facing similar hardships, and help us create stronger communities and a better understanding of the incredible strength we all have within us.

Takeaways

We often feel isolated, but we are not alone.
Shame can prevent us from sharing our true experiences; we can learn to let go of shame and connect authentically with others through our struggles.
Community is essential for our development, wellbeing and growth.
The story of the Tongan boys exemplifies resilience and the value of community.
Our nervous systems are wired for community living.
Difficult times can lead to deep connections.
We can learn from each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Reclaiming our stories helps us grow and heal.

What did you take away from today's short talk?

Let Dr Shafer know!

What times in your life did you feel alone, only to recognize later the community that you were building through your struggles and perseverance?

Dr Shafer Stedron, MD is a musician turned Neurologist, a mom, a Jay Shetty-Certified Life Coach, an Author, Publisher, and so much more. Dr Shafer is passionate about helping others reclaim their stories and build their most beautiful future, unlocking their fullest potential informed by her background in neurology, psychology, business and entertainment.

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credits: Shafer Yost, Impulse

A Traveler's Mindset: Bringing Home Joy Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

Join Dr. Shafer and Special Guest Kat Medina, travel expert and author of The Joys of Jet Lag for an engaging discussion about bringing the joys of travel home. Dr Shafer and Kat explore the concept of a traveler's mindset, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and finding joy in unexpected travel hiccups and applying these skills to everyday life. Kat shares her experiences of traveling to over 40 countries and how these adventures have shaped her life perspective, and how she leaned into bringing her kids along on her adventures as life changed. They discuss actionable strategies for cultivating a mindset that allows individuals to appreciate the present moment, even amidst difficulties.

Takeaways:

Applying a traveler's mindset can help bridge the gap between who we are at home and who we are on vacation.
Embracing challenges during travel can lead to memorable experiences.
Participating in the moment can enhance our experiences, whether at home or abroad.
Life's challenges often lead to deeper connections and understanding.
Expecting the unexpected can help us navigate life's unpredictability.
Mindset is crucial in how we perceive and respond to challenges.
Traveling with family offers new perspectives and opportunities for connection.
Finding joy in mundane tasks can transform our daily experiences.
Being open-hearted can lead to meaningful interactions during travel.

Thank you to our Special Guest Kat Medina for being on the show!

Connect with Kat Medina on her website here:

https://www.katmedina.com/

Connect with Kat Medina on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynmedina/

and Instagram:

@katmedinawriter

Get Your Copy of Kat Medina's Book, The Joys of Jet Lag:

At Bookshop.org and Amazon

https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-joys-of-jet-lag-how-to-use-a-traveler-s-mindset-to-not-be-an-a-hole-in-daily-life/18843055?ean=9798986876306

Dr Shafer Stedron, MD is a musician turned Neurologist, a mom, a Jay Shetty-Certified Life Coach, an Author, Publisher, and so much more. She is passionate about helping others reclaim their stories and build their most beautiful future, unlocking their fullest potential informed by her background in neurology, psychology, business and entertainment.

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credits: Shafer Yost, Impulse

Plastic Pollution and Your Brain Mar 13, 2025

Show notes

In this short talk on Talks with Dr. Shafer, Neurologist and Author Dr Shafer discusses the alarming presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in our environment and their potential impact on brain health. Drawing from recent studies, Dr. Shafer highlights the association between microplastic exposure and neurological disabilities, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures. The conversation covers the origins of microplastics, their accumulation in human brains, and practical steps individuals can take to reduce exposure to these harmful substances.

Takeaways:

Microplastics are pervasive in our environment.
High levels of microplastics coastal communities are associated with increased rate of neurological issues in a recent study.
Nanoplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier.
Accumulation of Nanoplastics in the brain found to be increasing over time in a recent study.
Dementia patients have higher nanoplastic levels in their brains in recent study.
Nanoplastics may block blood flow in capillaries.
Avoid heating food in plastic containers.
Using filtration systems can help reduce microplastic exposure.
Being mindful of food sources can decrease microplastic and nanoplastic intake.

What did you take away from today's talk? Dr Shafer wants to know!

Leave your comments and what you plan to do with the helpful tips from today's discussion.

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credits: Shafer Yost, Impulse

When Home Isn't Safe: Identifying Risks for Femicide Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

Trigger Warning: Femicide, Homicide, Domestic Violence are discussed in this episode.

In this engaging guest episode on Talks with Dr Shafer, Dr. Shafer welcomes Special Guest Clare Laxton, Host of Killer in the Family, Advocate for victims of femicide and domestic violence whose research on femicide and the Criminal Justice system in the UK is helping us better understand the risks for femicide and how we can respond to signs to help prevent future tragedies. Dr Shafer and Clare Laxton delve into the critical issues surrounding domestic abuse, particularly focusing on coercive control as a seed for future abuse and violence. Clare shares her extensive experience in the charity sector, advocating for victims and raising awareness about the dangers of coercive control. Dr Shafer and Clare Laxton discuss alarming statistics regarding femicide, the barriers victims face in reporting abuse, and the importance of professional training in recognizing and responding to domestic violence. They also explore the empowering role of physical activity for women, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on domestic violence rates, and the need for advocacy and storytelling to drive change in societal attitudes towards abuse.

Takeaways:

Coercive control is a significant risk factor for domestic homicide and domestic violence.
The most dangerous time for women is when they leave an abusive relationship.
Awareness of coercive control is crucial for prevention.
Creating safe spaces for victims is essential for support.
Over 51,000 women and girls were killed by family members in 2023.
Physical activity can empower women and reclaim their autonomy.
Employers have a role in supporting victims of domestic abuse.
Isolation can exacerbate domestic violence situations.
Awareness and training for professionals are crucial in addressing domestic abuse.
Storytelling can be a powerful tool for advocacy and change.

Thank you to Carrie Bower for being a guest on the show!

Connect with Clare Laxton on her website here:

clarelaxtonconsults.co.uk

Listen to Clare Laxton on the Killer in the Family Podcast on Spotify and wherever you enjoy podcasts:

https://open.spotify.com/show/7N2MJbfns5w7DvM8Pnvy0m?si=8422317180df48bf

Connect with Clare Laxton on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-laxton-003bb937/and

Instagram:

@Ladylaxton

Are you a victim of domestic violence?

If you are in danger, call 9-1-1 or your country's emergency number and get help.

You matter, and you deserve to be safe.

National Domestic Violence Hotline Information: https://www.thehotline.org/

1-800-799-SAFE

Subscribe to Talks with Dr Shafer where you enjoy podcasts for more inspiring short talks to help you master your mindset, and weekly inspiring guest episodes with people who have reclaimed their stories and are living life to the fullest.

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors the Cracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your copy at ⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠!

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse

"Can I Tell You Something?" Spotting Cruelty Masked as Honesty Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

On this week's Short Talk on Talks with Dr. Shafer, Neurologist, Author, and Jay Shetty Certified Life coach Dr Shafer tackles those relationships where "can I be honest?" is used as a weapon. The conversation explores how some individuals use honesty as a guise for unkindness and blame, leading to mixed signals that can be damaging. Dr. Shafer emphasizes the importance of recognizing toxic relationships, setting boundaries, and trusting one's own instincts and nervous system to help navigate these challenges and identify when "honesty" is really something else. Takeaways

Honesty can be weaponized to inflict harm.
Effective communication requires kindness and clarity.
Mixed signals in relationships can lead to confusion.
Recognizing toxic relationships is crucial for emotional health.
Setting boundaries is essential for self-protection.
Trusting your nervous system can guide you in relationships.
Not all advice is constructive; some can be harmful.
Honesty should come from a place of love and respect.
You have the power to choose which conversations to engage in.
Personal growth involves learning to navigate difficult relationships.

What did you take away from today's show? Dr Shafer wants to know!

Follow Dr Shafer on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok and be sure to leave a comment about what you learned and examples of how reframing your relationship to anger has changed your life for the better.

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors the Cracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your hardcopy at ⁠⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠⁠, and kindle edition on Amazon.

Coming May 2025, Dr Shafer shares her children's book, The Boy and His Brightly Colored Blocks, about a young boy whose mother helps him through tricky transitions and the trouble of having to do anything other than play with his beloved blocks. Perfect for the preschooler in your life, your schools and library! #PDAAwareness #letthemplay

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse

Abuse in Later Life: A Growing Problem Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

Abuse In Later Life: A Growing Problem

Trigger Warning: This episode contains information about domestic abuse and domestic violence.

In this informative conversation on Talks with Dr Shafer, Dr. Shafer welcomes special Guest Carrie Bower, Registered Social Worker with Social Work England, accredited trauma informed trainer, and the host of the Let's Get Visible Podcast and Founder of Visible Later Lives, which specializes in raising awareness about domestic abuse and trauma in later life. Carrie Bower and Dr Shafer discuss the often-overlooked issue of domestic abuse, particularly in older adults. They explore the importance of data in understanding the prevalence of domestic abuse, the need for a broader definition of abuse, and the significance of recognizing red flags that we may come across be it in our professional or personal lives. Carrie shares personal stories and insights from her work, emphasizing the need for safe spaces and validation for victims. The discussion highlights the role of healthcare professionals in identifying and supporting victims, as well as the importance of prevention and awareness in addressing domestic abuse.

Sound Bites

"Domestic violence is scarcely discussed."
"We need to make older victims visible."
"Data is crucial for understanding the problem."
"You can't be what you can't see."
"Only one in 24 cases is reported."
"Trust your instinct if something feels off."
"Conversations like this are a great start."
"Creating a safe space is essential."
"Validation is very empowering."
"We need to prevent abuse before it starts."

National Domestic Violence Hotline in the United States⁠https://www.thehotline.org/⁠⁠inkedin.com/in/carrie-bower-visible-later-lives-0a18b0171⁠

"Pre-pandemic sources estimated approximately one in 10 Americans age 60+ have experienced some form of elder abuse, a more recent study found that 1 in 5 older adults reported elder abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic. Another study estimated that only 1 in 24 cases of abuse are reported to authorities."-National Council on Aging

https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-elder-abuse/

Thank you to Carrie Bower for being a guest on the show!

Connect with Carrie Bower at Visible Later Lives here:

https://carrie-bower.mykajabi.com/

Listen to Carrie Bower on the Let's Get Visible Podcast on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/5Feq3Mz44VwoEPL5zfTQqZ?si=ddb15edfeb654ceb

Connect with Carrie Bower on LinkedIn:

linkedin.com/in/carrie-bower-visible-later-lives-0a18b0171

What did you take away from today's show? Dr Shafer wants to know!

Follow Dr Shafer on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok and be sure to leave a comment about what you learned and examples of how reframing your relationship to anger has changed your life for the better.

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors the Cracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your copy at ⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠!

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse

Anger: Learning to Embrace Big Emotions Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

In this week's Short Talk on Talks with Dr Shafer, Neurologist and Jay-Shetty Certified Lifecoach Dr. Shafer discusses the importance of creating a new relationship with an emotion as old as time: anger. Through mastering our mindset, particularly focusing on the emotion of anger, Dr Shafer explains how we can learn to move through anger and other challenging emotions so that we can access our higher-level processing centers when triggered by anger. Dr Shafer introduces a framework for acknowledging and accepting emotions, emphasizing the need for self-regulation and the use of tools like breathing techniques and cognitive reframing to help regain control over our responses to our anger. Dr Shafer discusses how listeners can use her tool, the BUT Wheel, to help change the directionality of their thoughts to help get out of the loop of the limbic system and into the more reasoned regions of our brain. The discussion highlights the significance of understanding and processing emotions to foster personal growth and reclaim one's narrative from a neuroscience-informed perspective.

Takeaways:

Anger is a natural emotion that needs acknowledgment.
Suppressing anger can lead to explosive outbursts.
Self-regulation is key to managing emotions effectively.
Shame often accompanies feelings of anger.
Using a framework can help navigate difficult emotions.
Breathing and visualization can aid in emotional regulation.
Reframing negative thoughts can change emotional responses.
Growth occurs when we confront and process our emotions.
Understanding the purpose of anger can provide insights.
Practicing emotional tools in calm moments prepares us for challenges.

What did you take away from today's show? Dr Shafer wants to know!

Follow Dr Shafer on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok and be sure to leave a comment about what you learned and examples of how reframing your relationship to anger has changed your life for the better.

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors the Cracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your copy at ⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠!

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse

Keys to Calm Parenting Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of Talks with Dr Shafer, Dr. Shafer welcomes Special Guest and Calm Parenting Advocate Kirk Martin. Kirk Martin is the Founder of CalmParenting.com and the inspiring host of the podcast Calm Parenting, where he helps parents to work towards parenting in a calm and centered manner. Dr Shafer and Kirk Martin discuss effective parenting strategies for managing strong-willed children, elaborating on the differences between a childhood meltdown and tantrum and how to approach these behaviors to help kids learn to navigate their emotions and come back to a place of calm and connection. Dr Shafer and Kirk Martin also discuss the importance of emotional regulation and fostering connection over correction. Kirk shares personal experiences and practical techniques that empower parents to navigate challenging behaviors while maintaining a supportive environment. The discussion emphasizes the significance of humility, realistic expectations, and building a community of support for parents. Dr Shafer shares her family's secret for a "reset" in times of conflict and disconnection.

Takeaways:

Strong-willed children can teach parents about their own triggers and areas for personal development.
Using physical activities can help redirect children's energy during meltdowns.
It's important to validate children's feelings rather than dismiss them.
Setting realistic expectations for children's behavior can reduce frustration for parents.
Humility in parenting allows for growth and connection with children.
Creating opportunities for connection can help diffuse tense situations.
Building a supportive community can help parents feel less isolated in their parenting challenges.

Sound Bites:

"Motion changes emotion."
"Kids are supposed to be impulsive."
"Let's all reset."

Thank you to Kirk Martin for being on the show!

You Can Connect with Kirk Martin, Founder of CelebrateCalm.com, at ⁠www.CelebrateCalm.com⁠

Follow the Calm Parenting Podcast on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/calmparentingpodcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Listen to the ⁠Calm Parenting Podcast⁠ here, and where you enjoy podcasts!

Let us know what your favorite episodes of Talks with Dr Shafer and the Calm Parenting Podcast are. We love hearing from you!

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors the Cracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your copy at ⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠!

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Impulse, Shafer Yost

You Are What You Absorb: Why Your Environment Matters Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

On this week's Short Talk on Talks with Dr. Shafer, Neurologist and Life Coach Dr Shafer discusses the profound impact of our environment on personal growth and self-identity. Emphasizing the importance of being mindful about what we allow into our lives, Dr. Shafer explains that in order to take ownership of our growth journey, we must be intentional about the influences we bring into our lives, from relationships to media consumption. The conversation also touches on the role of mirror neurons in learning and the necessity of surrounding ourselves with positive influences that align with our growth journey. We hope this episode serves you as a call to action to evaluate your environment and make necessary changes to foster personal development.

Takeaways:

You are influenced by your environment.
We can choose what we participate in.
Developing a strong sense of self is crucial for a fulfilled and authentic life.
Our surroundings impact our beliefs and values.
Mirror neurons help us learn from others.
Changing environments when necessary can lead to personal growth.
Growth requires taking risks and making changes: sometimes if we have outgrown a relationship or set of circumstances, we need to "repot."

What have you learned from today's episode? Let Dr Shafer know!

Comment on social media and let us know the important takeaways from today's episode and what actionable steps you are going to take.

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors the Cracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your copy at ⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠!

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse

Reclaim Your Story and Design Your Life Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

In this inspiring episode ofTalks with Dr. Shafer, Dr Shafer welcomes Special Guest Naomi Mamiye, Interior Designer who specializes in creating welcoming and healing spaces in the Healthcare setting. Naomi Mamiye shares her inspiring journey from personal life challenges from multiple deaths of her caregivers in early life and an early, unsupportive marriage to reclaiming her story and becoming a successful interior designer focused on healthcare environments. Naomi Mamiye discusses the importance of mindset and resilience in her journey, and her passion for creating healing spaces that cater to the emotional and physical needs of both patients and staff. Naomi also emphasizes the significance of mentorship in the design industry, helping aspiring designers find their path and succeed in their careers.Takeaways

Naomi faced significant personal challenges, including the loss of family members and a difficult divorce.
Naomi emphasizes the importance of mindset in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Creating healing environments in healthcare is a core focus of Naomi's design work.
She believes in designing spaces that are calming and welcoming for patients and staff.
Naomi advocates for the importance of staff environments in healthcare settings.
Naomi Mamiye tailors her designs to fit the demographics and needs of the communities she serves.
Mentorship is a key aspect of Naomi's work, helping aspiring designers on their journeys, as well.
Naomi Mamiye encourages others to focus on gratitude and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Transforming Healthcare Through Design
The Journey of an Interior Designer

Thank you to Naomi Mamiye for being on the show!

Learn more about Naomi Mamiye on her website:

https://www.naomimamiyedesign.com/

and follow her on Instagram:

@naomimamiyedesign

Released January 2025, Dr Shafer co-authors theCracking the Rich Code 16th Edition, endorsed by Tony Robbins. Order your copy at ⁠⁠www.drshaferstedronova.com⁠⁠!

Connect with Dr. Shafer: ⁠⁠https://drshaferstedronova.com/⁠⁠

To watch inspiring and informative Talks with Dr Shafer head to her YouTube Channel: / @talkswithdrshafer

This episode does not offer individualized medical advice. Opinions discussed are for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice.

Little House Of Dreams Entertainment, LLC, 2025.

Music Credit: Shafer Yost, Impulse

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected