In this must-listen episode of The Becca Holland Show, Becca sits down with Dr Brian Pennie, a neuroscientist, author, and mental resilience expert whose journey from heroin addiction to academic excellence is nothing short of extraordinary. They explore the connection between metabolic health and mindset, how to build lasting habits, and why true resilience starts with understanding your body and brain.

Brian shares the science behind energy management, overcoming self-sabotage, and the power of belief in shaping reality. They also discuss the impact of movement on mental clarity, the role of fasting in metabolic health, and why discomfort is a tool for growth.

If you’re ready to challenge your thinking, optimise your health, and break free from limiting patterns, this episode is packed with insights you can apply to your daily life.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction – Becca welcomes Dr Brian Pennie and discusses his transformation from addiction to neuroscience, and how metabolic health became a key part of his journey.

[03:20] Metabolic Health & Energy – Why energy is the foundation for success in life and how to manage it.

[07:40] The Mind-Body Connection – How movement, nutrition, and mindset shape our health and resilience.

[12:30] The Role of Exercise in Brain Health – The neuroscience behind movement, mental clarity, and longevity.

[18:50] Building Resilience & Overcoming Challenges – Why embracing discomfort is the key to growth and transformation.

[23:10] Rewiring Your Thinking for Success – How belief systems dictate our reality and how to shift them.

[29:30] Self-Sabotage & Behaviour Change – How to move past all-or-nothing thinking and make sustainable progress.

[35:15] Fasting, Blood Sugar & Metabolic Health – The impact of intermittent fasting and how to personalise it.

[42:40] The Power of Self-Awareness – How tuning into your body and thoughts can help you make better decisions.

[50:10] The Placebo Effect & the Power of Belief – The science behind how perception shapes physical and mental health.

[56:20] Lessons from Addiction & Mental Strength – How Brian changed his relationship with anxiety and built mental resilience.

[1:05:40] Final Thoughts & Book Recommendations – Brian’s top books for personal growth, mindset shifts, and resilience.

Where to Connect:

📌 Follow Becca Holland:

Instagram: @healthwithholland

Podcast Instagram: @thebeccahollandpod

📌 Follow Dr Brian Pennie:

Instagram: @brianpennie78

Website: brianpennie.com

Watch out for his upcoming RTÉ documentary The Science of Addiction / Hooked airing in April–May 2025.

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