Beliefs, Behaviors Communication, and the Brain: Communicating What Matters

Coparenting with Emotional Intelligence with Jarrett Thomas

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I sit down with Jarrett Thomas, entrepreneur, podcast host, and father, for a conversation about co-parenting, emotional intelligence, and raising children after relationships change.
Together, we explore the importance of honest communication, self-awareness, and putting children first while building healthy co-parenting and blended family relationships. Jarrett also shares lessons from his own parenting journey and why authenticity, presence, and emotional growth matter for both parents and children. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on communication, healing, and creating stability for the people who matter most.  
Key Takeaways 
Relationships Open Doors That Credentials Alone Cannot – Success is often built through genuine relationships, not just skills, titles, or cold outreach. When you focus on creating real connections, serving people well, and showing up consistently, opportunities have a way of finding you.  
Authenticity Comes with a Cost, but It Creates Better Outcomes – Being honest is not always the easiest choice, especially when the truth may disappoint someone you care about. But avoiding difficult conversations often creates more hurt in the long run. 
Putting Your Child First Makes Healthy Co-Parenting Possible – Co-parenting does not require perfect agreement or the absence of hurt feelings. What matters is a shared commitment to putting your child’s needs above personal conflict. 
You Cannot Be the Parent You Want to Be If You Are Not Being Yourself – Staying in a situation that leaves you disconnected from who you are can eventually affect how you show up for the people you love. 
Being Present Matters More Than Just Providing – Financial support is important, but children also need your time, attention, and presence. The moments spent showing up to games, creating traditions, sharing experiences, and simply being there are often what children remember most. No amount of money can replace the value of a parent who is actively involved in their child's life. 
About the Guest 
Jarrett Thomas is an entrepreneur, speaker, and podcast host known for his work in personal branding, marketing, and authentic storytelling. As the host of the More Than A Title podcast, he creates conversations that go beyond job titles and explore the real experiences, challenges, and lessons that shape people’s lives and careers. A devoted father and advocate for healthy co-parenting, Jarrett is passionate about emotional intelligence, honest communication, and building meaningful relationships both at home and in business. 
 
Connect with Jarrett: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrettthomas1 
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-title/id1680061927  
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha  
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha  
 

Grief and Growth: Two Sides of the Same Coin

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I talk about the connection between grief and growth and why both are often messy, nonlinear experiences. I share personal stories about loss, healing, and single motherhood while exploring how grief can resurface in different seasons of life and how growth often happens beneath the surface. Tune in for a conversation on emotional healing, self-awareness, and learning to honor both grief and growth at the same time. 
 
Key Takeaways 
Grief and Growth Often Happen Together – Grief and growth are rarely linear experiences. Healing can feel messy, cyclical, and unpredictable, with emotions resurfacing in different seasons and moments of life. At the same time, growth is often happening inside of that process. 
Grief Can Resurface Even After Years of Healing – Healing is not always a one-time experience. Certain memories, life changes, or unexpected moments can reopen emotions we thought we had already processed. Grief over lost relationships, unmet expectations, painful childhood experiences, or major life transitions can resurface in layers over time, reminding us that healing is often ongoing and deeply connected to our personal growth. 
Healing Happens in Layers – Grief can resurface unexpectedly through memories, places, conversations, or experiences that reconnect us to loss. Instead of seeing those moments as setbacks, they can be reminders that healing happens in layers. 
Growth Is Still Happening Even When You Cannot See It – Personal growth does not always happen in obvious ways. Sometimes it looks like doing the small daily work, healing, setting boundaries, reflecting, and staying consistent even when progress feels slow. Just because growth feels up and down does not mean it is not happening. 
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha  
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha  

The Authentic Career Transition with Madison Butler

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, Dr. Maiysha sits down with Madison Butler for a conversation about burnout, career transitions, and the emotional attachment so many people develop with work. Together, they explore how workplace culture, overperformance, and tying identity to productivity can quietly impact mental, emotional, and physical health.
Madison also shares her personal journey of stepping away from corporate life, learning to detach self-worth from work, and creating a life centered around presence, boundaries, and authenticity. Tune in for a conversation on redefining success, protecting your peace, and remembering that work is something you do, not who you are. 
Key Takeaways 
Detaching Your Worth From Work Protects Your Well-Being – Many people are taught to tie their value to productivity, job titles, and achievement, but centering identity around work often leads to burnout and emotional exhaustion. Learning to care about your work without attaching your entire self-worth to it creates healthier boundaries, better mental health, and a fuller life outside of your career. 
Your Humanity Matters More Than Your Productivity – A career should never require the abandonment of your health, identity, or peace. The pressure to constantly prove your worth through performance often leads to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and disconnection from self. Real sustainability begins when work becomes something you do, not the measure of who you are. 
Sometimes, Relief Is the Soul Telling the Truth – There are seasons where exhaustion becomes so normalized that people no longer recognize how much of themselves, they have sacrificed just to keep performing. Feeling relief after walking away from something once tied to identity can reveal how deeply survival has replaced peace. No title, paycheck, or achievement is worth losing the ability to be present for the people, moments, and life that make being alive meaningful. 
Growth Will Eventually Ask You to Choose Yourself – There comes a point when achievement and external success no longer feel worth the cost of your peace and presence. The most authentic transitions happen when you stop clinging to old expectations and begin saying yes to the life, freedom, and values that truly align with who you are becoming. 
About the Guest: 
Madison Butler is a workplace culture strategist, speaker, and former Chief People Officer passionate about helping people build healthier relationships with work. Through her coaching, consulting, and content, she speaks openly about burnout, psychological safety, authenticity, and creating work environments where people can thrive without losing themselves in the process. Madison is also the author of Let Them See You and host of Crash Out With Me, where she shares honest conversations about work, identity, and life beyond corporate culture. 
Connect with Madison Butler
Website: https://crashoutwithme.co 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashoutwithme
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thecrashoutcoach 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crashoutwithme
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha 

Behind Conflict Resolution: Giving Grace & Opening Conversations

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I reflect on the power of giving grace, emotional awareness, and keeping conversations open during moments of tension and disagreement. Inspired by a recent trip to Japan with a close friend, I share how accountability, self-reflection, and courageous conversation helped us navigate conflict while deepening trust and connection.
Tune in for a conversation on emotional intelligence, conflict repair, and building stronger relationships through compassion and open dialogue. 
Key Takeaways 
Giving Grace Creates Space for Healthy Communication – Even in strong relationships, tension and disagreements are inevitable. What strengthens connection is the ability to pause, give one another grace, and create space to process emotions before reacting. By approaching conflict with understanding instead of blame, conversations become more productive, respectful, and healing. 
Open Conversations Strengthen Relationships – Difficult moments do not have to damage relationships when both people are willing to communicate with honesty, grace, and respect. By taking time to reflect on their emotions instead of reacting impulsively, Dr. Myesha and her friend were able to openly discuss moments of tension, acknowledge each other’s experiences, and deepen their connection. Emotional intelligence begins with recognizing what we truly feel, giving ourselves space to process it, and returning to the conversation with compassion and accountability. 
Pause Before Reacting – Conflict and tension can bring up strong emotions, but taking a moment to pause and reflect can make a big difference. What feels like anger on the surface may actually be hurt, sadness, or disappointment underneath. By slowing down, being honest about what we are feeling, and approaching each other with respect, we create space for healthier conversations, understanding, and stronger relationships. 
Helpful Resources: 
Progress Over Perfection Keeps Relationships Strong – Healthy relationships are not about avoiding conflict or having perfect conversations. They are built through honesty, adaptability, and a willingness to repair when tension arises. By keeping conversations open, acknowledging feelings, and giving each other grace, difficult moments can become opportunities to strengthen trust, deepen connection, and move forward together in both personal and professional relationships. 
Healing Relationships Starts with Accountability and Grace – Some relationships can be repaired through honest communication, reflection, and accountability, while others may require closure instead of reconnection. Whether in personal or professional relationships, growth happens when we take responsibility for our emotions and approach conflict with respect, courage, and compassion. Stronger relationships are built not through perfection, but through the willingness to keep practicing and showing up with grace. 
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha   
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha  
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha  
 

The Value of Vulnerability in Leadership with Desha Dickson

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I sit down with Desha Dickson, Vice President of Community Wellness at Tower Health, for a conversation on emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and leadership in healthcare. We explore how community wellness goes beyond hospital walls and why understanding people’s lived experiences shapes better care and stronger systems. We also discuss how asking questions, staying open, and leading with humanity can create psychological safety within teams. Tune in for a conversation on leadership, communication, and the power of showing up with both clarity and compassion. 
Key Takeaways 
Empathy Deepens When We Step Into People’s Real Environments - True understanding is not formed through data alone but through context. When healthcare professionals spend time in the communities they serve, they begin to see the everyday realities that shape behavior such as how people access food, move through unsafe or uneven spaces, and live their daily lives outside of clinical settings. This awareness shifts care from assumption to accuracy, allowing guidance and support to reflect what is actually possible within a person’s lived experience. 
Vulnerability Strengthens Leadership and Psychological Safety - Vulnerability is often misread as weakness, especially in healthcare settings where emotions are minimized. In truth, asking questions, admitting what you do not know, and showing up authentically builds trust and stronger teams. When leaders model humility and openness, they create psychological safety where others feel safe to learn, speak up, and grow. 
Psychological Safety Requires Discernment and Communication - Psychological safety is not only about encouraging people to ask questions or share ideas. It also requires understanding the environment and the people involved. Leaders need to recognize when it is helpful to speak up, when to pause, and how others may receive questions or feedback. Without this awareness, even good intentions can be misunderstood, so communication must be both open and intentional. 
Modeling Leadership Shapes Culture and Behavior - When leaders consistently model emotional intelligence, curiosity, and human-centered communication, it influences how others lead. Teams begin to reflect those behaviors in how they support their own staff, handle difficult conversations, and prioritize work-life balance. Over time, this modeling helps shape a culture where people lead with empathy, ask better questions, and approach challenges with a more human perspective. 
Supportive Leadership Strengthens Confidence - When leaders feel seen and supported by their own leaders, it builds confidence to make decisions and lead well. This kind of support reduces fear and allows for more authentic, steady leadership. 
Effective Leadership Requires Letting Go - As teams grow, leaders must learn to step back and allow others to take ownership. Holding on too tightly to every task or decision can limit the growth of emerging leaders. When leaders understand their strengths and trust others with responsibility, it creates space for the team to grow and for work to move beyond one person’s control. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
Vulnerability Builds Connection Across Life Roles - Leadership, parenting, and relationships all reflect the same truth that vulnerability strengthens connection. When people are given space to express emotions without judgment, it creates trust and openness over time. Learning to listen, be present, and allow others to share at their own pace helps build safer and more honest relationships across both home and work. 
Boundaries and Communication Teach Emotional Responsibility - Asking for help, setting boundaries, and expressing needs are essential parts of healthy relationships. When people learn to communicate clearly about what they can and cannot take on, it creates balance, respect, and shared responsibility. These practices help individuals function better as a team at home and at work while also strengthening emotional awareness and accountability. 
Resilience and Self-Belief in the Face of Resistance - Growth often requires standing alone, especially in environments where you feel different or unheard. When external validation is limited, learning to rely on your own voice and values becomes essential. Even without constant affirmation or agreement, staying grounded in purpose builds resilience, confidence, and the ability to keep moving forward through both wins and setbacks. 
About the Guest 
Desha Dickson is the Vice President of Community Wellness at Tower Health, where she leads efforts in health equity, whole-person care, and community engagement. She built the Community Wellness department from a one-person role into a 60+ member team. 
With a background in community development, she brings an empathetic, people-centered approach to healthcare leadership. She is known for her emotionally intelligent leadership, focus on psychological safety, and commitment to building strong, human-centered teams. 
 
Connect with Desha Dickson: 
Web: https://towerhealth.org/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desha-dickson/ 
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha 

Your Emotions Are Not Bad, They Are Information

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I talk about emotions and what is really behind the way we make decisions, respond, and communicate with others. I explain how our conditioning from childhood to the workplace shapes how we see and express emotions, and why they are often misunderstood.  
Tune in for a conversation about seeing emotions as information, learning how to name what you feel, and using that awareness to strengthen your relationships and everyday interactions. 
Key Takeaways 
Emotional Conditioning Shapes How We Express Feelings - In some cases, even joy is limited so a person does not appear “too much.” Over time, this conditioning leads people to mask their emotions instead of understanding them, which carries into adulthood, relationships, and the workplace. 
Emotions Drive Most of Our Decisions - Whether it is fear, frustration, contentment, or excitement, emotions influence what we choose and how we act. Logic still plays a role, but emotions are often what truly motivate our decisions. 
Emotions Are Information, Not Problems - Emotions are not good or bad, they are signals that give us important information. They can show us when our values or boundaries are being crossed, or when something is going well.  
Emotions Help Us Understand What We Need - Anger or frustration can show unmet needs or crossed boundaries, and fear can point to where we do not feel safe. Instead of suppressing emotions, we can stay curious and ask what is underneath them. This helps us improve communication, repair relationships, and better understand ourselves and others. 
 
Helpful Resource: 
Practice Emotional Awareness Through the Body – We need to pay attention to what is happening in our body because emotions show up physically before we fully understand them. Notice sensations in your shoulders, chest, belly, or head as you go through your day. Name the emotion, then ask what it is trying to tell you. When others show emotion, stay curious instead of shutting it down. The goal is to see emotions as information, not something to suppress. 
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha 

Community as a Cure for Loneliness with Ashley Berger

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, we sit down with Ashley Berger, founder of Sweet Pea Lifestyle, to explore how intentional community and everyday connection shape our experience of loneliness and belonging.
We talk about the power of simple gatherings, creating spaces where people feel safe to show up as they are, and how communication rooted in care builds stronger trust in relationships. We also reflect on boundaries as self-respect and how protecting your softness helps you stay open without losing yourself.  
Tune in for a conversation on choosing connection with intention and learning how small meaningful moments can reshape how we relate, lead, and live. 
Key Takeaways 
Simple Hospitality Creates Real Connection - Hosting does not need to be expensive, elaborate, or perfectly styled to be meaningful. When gatherings are driven by pressure to impress, the focus shifts away from genuine connection. Simple food and an open, welcoming space are often enough to make people feel comfortable and at ease.  
Healthy Community Requires Discernment - Not every gathering or group creates safe or meaningful connection, so wisdom is needed in choosing where to engage. True community is not about saying yes to everything, but about recognizing spaces where trust, safety, and mutual respect are present.  
Boundaries Protect Your Softness - Boundaries help protect your emotional well-being and inner peace. They guide how much of yourself you give based on safety, alignment, and trust. Sometimes that means staying guarded, and other times it means opening up intentionally.  
Loneliness Requires Intentional Connection - Loneliness can be hard to recognize in ourselves and others, which is why connection needs to be intentional. Simple, consistent check-ins help remind people they are not alone, even in quiet or withdrawn seasons.  
Self-Hosting Comes Before Community Hosting - Learning to host yourself through presence, rest, and intentional care strengthens how you show up for others. When you create space to be with yourself without distraction, you gain clarity about what matters in your relationships and environments.  
 
Helpful Resources: 
Hosting Is the Energy You Bring to Every Space - Hosting is not only about inviting people into your home but about how you show up in every interaction. Each space becomes an opportunity to create safety, kindness, and connection. 
Connection Is Sustained Through Respectful Consistency - Meaningful relationships are not built on constant availability, but on consistent care that respects capacity and boundaries. 
About the Guest: 
Ashley Berger is the founder of Sweet Pea Lifestyle, a hospitality and lifestyle brand based in Asheville, North Carolina, focused on simple and intentional gathering around the table. She is known for her practical approach to hosting that removes pressure and perfection so everyday meals and moments can become spaces of warmth, ease, and real connection. Her work emphasizes that hospitality is about presence, care, and helping people feel seen and comfortable. 
 
Watch Ashley's TEDx talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApJdsC9_x6s 
 
Connect with Ashley: 
Website: https://sweetpealifestyle.com/  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetpealifestyle/  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetpealifestyle/  
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sweetpealifestyle  
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sweetpealifestyle/  
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha  
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmaiysha  

Behind Emotional Maturity: The Three Stages of Emotional Responsibility

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I talk about emotional maturity and what is really behind the way we respond, react, and communicate.
I walk through the three phases of emotional bondage, emotional entitlement, and emotional liberation, and how each one shows up in our relationships, leadership, and everyday interactions.
Tune in for a conversation about reconnecting with your emotional intelligence, taking responsibility for your responses, and learning how to express your emotions in ways that build trust, safety, and stronger connections. 
Key Takeaways 
Emotional Maturity Is Rooted in Emotional Intelligence - People are naturally born with the ability to feel and express emotions, but this connection can weaken over time due to life experiences and conditioning. When individuals lose touch with their emotional awareness, it becomes harder to respond and communicate in healthy ways. 
Emotional Intelligence Helps You Communicate Better - Emotional intelligence means noticing what you feel, being honest about it, and not ignoring it. It also includes naming your emotions and managing them in the moment. 
Emotional Bondage Keeps You Stuck in Your Feelings - This phase happens when emotions control your actions. You feel something and immediately react, believing you have no choice or control. 
Emotional Entitlement Ignores the Impact on Others - This phase happens when you fully accept your emotions but express them without considering how they affect others. It can look like saying or doing anything just because “my feelings are valid.” 
Emotional Liberation Allows You to Respond with Intention - This phase is where emotional maturity is fully practiced. You can notice what you feel, accept it, and respond in a calm and thoughtful way. 
 
Helpful Resource: 
Creating Space for Emotions Builds Better Communication - There is a balance between ignoring emotions and allowing them to take over. Healthy communication makes room for emotions while still moving forward with clarity. 
 
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 
 Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrMaiysha 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/DrMaiysha 
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DrMaiysha     
 

Emotions Don't Belong in the Workplace, Especially if You Are a Man. Dismantling Emotional Toxicity

In this episode of Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication, and the Brain, I talk with Jarrod Jones about emotional intelligence and the beliefs men are taught about emotions. We challenge the idea that emotions are a weakness or don’t belong in the workplace, and unpack how these patterns are learned and passed down.
We also talk about why many struggle to express emotions, how unprocessed feelings show up in communication, and what it looks like to pause, reset, and respond with intention. Jarrod shares simple, practical ways to better understand emotions and communicate them in a healthy way.
Tune in for a conversation about breaking old patterns, improving communication, and becoming more aware of how emotions shape everyday interactions. 
 
Key Takeaways 
Emotions Cannot Be Separated from Who We Are – Emotions are not something we can simply switch off or leave behind, because they live in the body and shape how we think, respond, and relate to others. When emotions are pushed aside in favor of logic or cultural expectations, a part of the self is also being left behind. 
Happiness Becomes Hard to Define When Emotions Are Suppressed – Many people struggle to clearly identify what happiness means for them and often explain it by saying what it is not. Anger becomes the more familiar emotion because it is linked to strength, habit, and what has been passed down through generations. 
Trauma Responses Can Be Learned and Passed Down – Trauma responses do not always come from direct experience; they can also be taught through observation and environment. Behaviors and reactions can be passed from parent to child, even when the same events were never personally lived. 
Emotions Are Often Misunderstood as Control or Weakness – Many people are taught that emotions do not belong in certain spaces and that expressing them makes someone vulnerable. This creates the belief that emotions control behavior, especially in men who are expected to stay composed. 
Emotions Point to What Still Needs Healing – You cannot always change what happened to you, but you can choose how you respond. Emotions often show where old wounds are still present and need attention. When triggers show up, they are signals, not failures. 
 
Helpful Resources: 
Small Stress Builds Until It Becomes Too Much – People often think it is one moment that causes a breakdown, but it is really the weight of everything that has been carried before it. Even strong people have limits, and unprocessed stress adds up over time. 
Healthy Leadership Starts with Emotional Awareness and Communication – Change in the workplace begins with recognizing emotions instead of ignoring them. When someone feels triggered or disrespected, the goal is to pause, recalibrate, and respond with clarity. 
Unspoken Emotions Build Over Time – Many people wait too long to speak up because they are unsure how to express what they feel. Over time, small issues build up until they become overwhelming. 
About Our Guest Jarrod Jones is the Lead Trainer & Architect of The Centered Experience, where he helps men and organizations develop emotional intelligence, nervous system awareness, and real-time regulation tools for healthier communication and leadership. With over 20 years of experience in the field, he supports individuals in recognizing emotional patterns, recalibrating in moments of tension, and building practical skills to recover from emotional overload. His work bridges emotional science and everyday application, challenging long-held beliefs about emotions in men and in the workplace while promoting accountability, self-awareness, and emotional clarity. 
 
Connect with Jarrod Jones: Web: https://www.thecenteredexperience.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrod-jones-3468013a7 Email: mr.j.jones@hotmail.com  
 
Follow Dr. Maiysha on Social media 
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LinkedIn: 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
 

Allowing Ourselves to Evolve: Navigating Maturing Values

Thank you for staying with me in every episode, newsflash: we rebranded to Beliefs, Behaviors, Communication and the Brain!
In this special episode celebrating my upcoming birthday, I talk about growth, changing values, and the role of community in that process. I share reflections from my recent TEDx talk and what it taught me about support, connection, and allowing others to show up for you. 
I walk through my journey from being independent to learning how to receive and build intentional community, and how that shift has shaped both my life and my work. I also introduce the evolution of the podcast, including a rebrand that reflects a deeper focus on beliefs, behaviors, communication, and neuroscience. 
Tune in for a conversation about personal growth, shifting priorities, and stepping into new seasons of life with intention while thinking about the legacy you are creating. 
Key Takeaways 
Community Strengthens Growth and Connection - Growth becomes more meaningful when it happens in community rather than in isolation. Support, encouragement, and shared presence help people feel seen and valued, even from a distance. Learning to receive that support requires openness and trust, but it deepens relationships and makes the journey more life-giving and impactful. 
Independence Can Limit Connection if Left Unexamined - Strong independence often develops from early experiences and learned beliefs about self-reliance. While it can build resilience, it can also create the mindset that support is not needed or cannot be trusted. 
Values Evolve with Life Seasons and Shape Your Purpose - What feels most important can shift as life changes. Earlier seasons may focus on personal success and impact, while later seasons can bring a deeper focus on family, healing, and collective growth. 
Growth Leads to Legacy Thinking - As values mature, the focus begins to shift from personal goals to lasting impact. Growth brings a deeper awareness of what is being built and what will remain for others. 
 
Helpful Resource: 
Growth Adds Depth and Value Over Time - As you evolve, what you offer becomes richer and more meaningful. New seasons of life, relationships, and community experiences shape your perspective and deepen your impact. Growth is not just change, it is a process that adds value to who you are and what you leave behind. 
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