Inside Information About Your Brain with Dr. Jud Brewer

Do you feel stuck in worry loops that drain your energy and pull you out of the present moment? In this episode of The Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill talks with neuroscientist and psychiatrist Dr. Judson Brewer about “inside information” on the brain—especially the default mode network and how self-focused rumination and worry activate the posterior cingulate cortex. They explore new, encouraging research showing that experienced meditators don’t show the same activation during worry recall, and that even beginners can deactivate this brain region quickly using a simple mindfulness “noting” practice (labeling seeing, hearing, feeling, thinking). Diana and Jud also discuss using technology to interrupt addictive habit loops (like compulsive checking) and how moving beyond anxiety can open the door to integrity, kindness, and flourishing—grounded in the reminder that “your actions are your only belongings.” ## **Listen and learn:** - Your brain has a “me network” that can drain your energy. - Noticing changes your relationship to experience. - The goal is not just less anxiety, but more integrity, energy, and flourishing. - “My actions are my only belongings.” ## **Suggested Next Episode:** Busting Brain Myths With Dr. Judson Brewer ## Related Resources Get enhanced show notes for this episode - Become a Wise Effort Community member - Sign up for my newsletter - Order my book, Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, and receive special bonus gifts. - Want to become more psychologically flexible? Take Diana's "Foundations of ACT" course. ## Diana's Events - See Diana at an upcoming event ## Connecting With Diana - Subscribe for free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. - Leave a 5-star review on Apple so people like you can find the show. - Follow Diana on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Diana’s website. Thanks to the team, Craig and Ashley Hiatt, and Benjamin Gould of Bell & Branch for your beautiful music. Mentioned in this episode: **Join The Wise Effort Community.** The Wise Effort Community exists to help people keep doing the work — applying ACT and contemplative practice to a real life — long after the book is closed, the workshop is done, and the retreat is over. The thing they're buying is sustained, guided practice with me and with each other, so the insights don't evaporate. The Wise Effort Community is your guided home for ongoing Wise Effort practice — monthly live teaching with me, a weekly practice rhythm, an on-demand library, and a community of people doing the work alongside you. Also, sustaining members get “Member’s Special" early access and special pricing to Diana’s In-Person Events, including Diana’s gatherings, courses, programs, and retreats. Wise Effort Community