January Podcasts I Listened to So I Can Become a Better Version of Myself

If you’d told me a few months ago that I’d become a podcast person, I would’ve laughed and said, Who has time for that? But then life handed me a game-changer: a job at my local university, complete with a walkable campus and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Suddenly, my hour-long lunch breaks became more than just a chance to sneak in a workout—they became my golden hour for personal growth. Now, as I jog, lift, or power-walk my way through campus, I’ve got my headphones in, soaking up wisdom from podcasts that challenge what I think I know and push me to be the best version of myself. This past January, I dove into three incredible episodes that did just that—so let’s talk about what I learned!

Podcast #1: What’s The Juice? with Olivia Amitrano, Become Emotionally Bulletproof, how to master your emotions, rely on yourself, & take control of your life with Evy Poumpouras

In Episode 91 of the “What’s The Juice” podcast, titled “BECOME EMOTIONALLY BULLETPROOF- host Olivia Amitrano engages in a profound conversation with Evy Poumpouras, a former U.S. Secret Service agent and multimedia journalist. Here are five key takeaways from their discussion:

1. Self-Reliance and Problem-Solving: Evy emphasizes the importance of taking personal responsibility and developing the ability to solve problems independently. She advocates for the mindset that “no one is going to come to save you,” encouraging individuals to trust in their own capabilities.
2. Reevaluating the Focus on Self: The discussion highlights that an excessive focus on oneself can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. Evy suggests that shifting attention away from constant self-analysis can lead to improved mental health.
3. Healthy Failure: Evy discusses the concept of “failing well,” viewing failures as valuable learning experiences rather than setbacks. This perspective encourages resilience and continuous personal growth.
4. Boundaries and Empathy: The conversation delves into the idea that being an empath isn’t inherently positive if it leads to poor boundaries. Evy stresses the importance of setting healthy boundaries to maintain emotional well-being.
5. Action Over Confidence: Evy advises against waiting to feel confident before taking action. She suggests that action can build confidence and that individuals should proceed with their goals even without self-assurance.

These insights offer practical guidance on mastering emotions, fostering self-reliance, and taking proactive steps toward personal empowerment.

Who is Evy Poumpouras?

Evy Poumpouras is a former U.S. Secret Service special agent, author, speaker, and media personality known for her resilience, leadership, and communication expertise. During her time in the Secret Service, she was part of the protective details for multiple U.S. presidents, including George W. Bush and Barack Obama. She also worked in criminal investigations and was trained in lie detection and behavioral assessment.

Beyond her law enforcement career, Evy is a journalist and TV contributor, frequently providing commentary on national security, law enforcement, and crisis management. She is the author of Becoming Bulletproof, a book that teaches mental toughness, emotional resilience, and strategies for handling high-pressure situations. With a psychology and forensic science background, Evy combines her real-world experience with research-based strategies to help people develop mental strength and confidence.

Podcast #2: Doctor Joe Dispenza: Your Thoughts Are Making You Sick! You Must Do This Before 10 AM to Fix It

In the podcast episode from The Diary Of A CEO, Dr. Joe Dispenza shares transformative insights on the mind-body connection and personal well-being. Here are five key takeaways to enhance your life:

1. The Power of Thoughts on Health: Dr. Dispenza emphasizes that thoughts significantly influence physical health. Negative thinking can lead to stress and illness, while positive thoughts can promote healing and well-being.
2. Breaking Free from Negative Emotions: He discusses how individuals often become addicted to negative emotions such as anger, frustration, and jealousy. Recognizing and overcoming these emotional addictions is crucial for personal growth and emotional health.
3. The Importance of Morning Intentions: Dr. Dispenza suggests that setting clear intentions and practicing meditation before 10 AM can align your mind and body, setting a positive tone for the day. This morning routine fosters brain and heart coherence, leading to a sense of wholeness.
4. Reprogramming the Subconscious Mind: By the age of 35, much of our behavior is habitual and unconscious. Becoming aware of these unconscious thoughts and behaviors is the first step toward meaningful change. Through mental rehearsal and meditation, we can reprogram our subconscious mind to adopt healthier patterns.
5. Elevating Emotions to Create Change: Combining a clear intention with elevated emotions can lead to lasting transformation. By rehearsing desired thoughts, actions, and feelings and practicing slowing down brain waves, one can reprogram oneself for a better life.

Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help you harness the power of your mind to improve your health and overall quality of life.

Who is Dr. Joe Dispenza?

Dr. Joe Dispenza is a neuroscientist, author, and speaker known for his work on the mind-body connection, neuroplasticity, and the power of thought in shaping health and reality. He first gained recognition after appearing in the documentary What the Bleep Do We Know!? And later authored bestselling books such as Becoming Supernatural, You Are the Placebo, and Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself.

Dr. Dispenza’s work focuses on how meditation, visualization, and changing thought patterns can rewire the brain and promote healing. He combines neuroscience, quantum physics, and epigenetics research to teach people how to break free from negative habits and create lasting change in their lives. His teachings emphasize the importance of aligning thoughts and emotions to manifest desired outcomes and improve well-being.

Podcast #3: Dr. Martha Beck: Access Your Best Self With Mind-Body Practices, Belief Testing & Imagination

In the podcast episode from the Huberman Lab, Dr. Martha Beck shares valuable insights on connecting with one’s authentic self and living a fulfilling life. Here are five key takeaways to help you become the best version of yourself:

1. Listen to Your Body’s Signals: Dr. Beck emphasizes the importance of tuning into your body’s responses. Feelings of relaxation or tension can indicate whether something aligns with your true self. By paying attention to these physical cues, you can make choices that resonate with your core values.
2. Practice the “Perfect Day” Visualization: Engage in the “Perfect Day” exercise by imagining your ideal day in detail, without any limitations. This practice helps uncover your deepest desires and values, guiding you toward actions that align with your authentic self.
3. Align Actions with Personal Integrity: Conduct an “integrity cleanse” by ensuring that your actions are consistent with your core values. This alignment fosters a sense of wholeness and authenticity, leading to greater fulfillment.
4. Develop Self-Compassion: Cultivate kindness toward yourself through positive self-talk and nurturing internal dialogues. This practice enables you to align your actions with your inner truth and enhances your overall well-being.
5. Challenge Societal Expectations: Recognize and question societal pressures that demand conformity over authenticity. Embracing your true self may require letting go of roles or identities that don’t align with your personal integrity.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can connect more deeply with your authentic self and pursue a path that leads to genuine fulfillment.

Who is Dr. Martha Beck?

Dr. Martha Beck is a Harvard-educated sociologist, life coach, and bestselling author known for her work in personal development, intuition, and living authentically. She has written several books, including The Way of Integrity, Finding Your Own North Star, and Steering by Starlight, which focus on helping people align their lives with their true purpose.

A former faculty member at Harvard University, Dr. Beck shifted her career to focus on guiding individuals toward self-discovery and transformation. She combines research in psychology, neuroscience, and spirituality to teach mind-body practices that help people overcome fear, break free from societal conditioning, and live in integrity with their authentic selves. She is also a regular contributor to O, The Oprah Magazine, and has been a featured guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Podcasts Aren’t for Everyone, but You Never Know Until You Try

Who knew an hour-long lunch break could become my personal masterclass? What started as a way to use my time better has become something I genuinely look forward to each day. With every treadmill session or campus stroll, I’m not just getting stronger physically—I’m expanding my mind, too. These three podcasts were just the beginning, and now I’m hooked. So, if you’ve ever felt like you don’t have time for podcasts, I challenge you to take a second look at your routine. You might find that the best version of yourself is waiting on the other end of a great episode.

Stay tuned for the podcasts I will listen to in February. Please leave podcast recommendations in the comments. Happy listening!