The Unchecked Leader: Why High-Quality Decisions Require Checks, Balances, and Empathy (w/ Steven “Steve” Okun)
When stakes are high, one brain isn’t enough. In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and Biotech CMO Michelle O’Brien sit down with Steven “Steve” Okun—ranked #2 on LinkedIn for Geopolitics & International Relations in Singapore (Favikon, July 2025)—to unpack why the best leaders design decision systems: collaboration, diverse input, and real accountability. We dig into decision fatigue, the 8 p.m. mistake window, hyper-partisanship, and how geopolitics and poly-crisis realities collide with business strategy and responsible investing.
What you’ll learn (fast)
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:03 The Weight of Regulatory Decisions
05:59 Balancing Safety and Economic Factors
09:03 Decision-Making in Government
11:59 Differences in Administration Decision-Making
14:47 The Impact of Political Appointments
17:59 Decision Fatigue in Politics
21:07 The Erosion of Bipartisanship
22:05 Hyper-Partisanship and Its Consequences
24:07 Decision-Making in Politics and Business
26:24 Civil Unrest: A Historical Perspective
29:05 Economic Factors and Civil Unrest
30:20 The Power of Decision-Making
32:32 Checks and Balances in Governance
33:51 Geopolitical Implications of Trade Wars
36:35 Navigating the Polycrisis
39:10 Optimism Amidst Challenges
Guest — Steven “Steve” Okun
Senior Advisor (BSR, Global Private Capital Association, Kroll). Former Clinton Administration official; veteran of multiple presidential campaigns. Regular global media analyst on US politics, responsible investing, and geopolitics in the Trump 2.0 era.
LinkedIn: https://sg.linkedin.com/in/stevenokun
Key takeaways for leaders & operators
About the show
Decisions That Count—where The Science & The Soul meet. Dr. Shawn breaks down the neuroscience of decision-making, cognitive overload, and brain optimization; Michelle brings the real-world lens—leadership, athletics, parenting, and performance—so you can act with clarity and conviction.
Listen & follow
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DecisionsThatCount
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DecisionsThatCount
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@decisionsthatcount
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/decisions-that-count-podcast/
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The Race Brain: How Life-or-Death Decisions Rewired Her for Success (with Claire Jedrek)
Ever wondered how elite drivers make split-second choices at 300 km/h—and how those same skills can help you lead teams, parent with calm, and avoid decision fatigue? In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and biotech CMO Michelle O’Brien sit down with Claire Jedrek—Singapore’s first female race car driver, entrepreneur, presenter, coach, and mum—to unpack the science and the soul of high-stakes decision-making.
Claire shares how racing rewired her brain for precision, why “small, graceful moves” beat big emotions, and the playbook she uses off the track to manage cognitive overload: automate the trivial, define roles, delegate smartly, and protect energy like a currency. If you’re navigating fast decisions in business, sport, or family life, this one’s for you.
What you’ll learn
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:53 Rewiring the Brain Through Racing
05:52 Team Dynamics in Racing
10:11 Emotional Management and Decision Fatigue
14:09 Translating Racing Skills to Everyday Life
17:57 The Impact of Burnout on Decision Making
22:10 Finding Balance in High-Intensity Lives
25:56 Motherhood and Evolving Decision-Making
30:07 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth
33:43 The Mental and Decision Load of Parenting
39:19 Delegation and Trust in Parenting
43:12 Finding Balance and Being Present
49:06 Reflections on Decision Making and Life Lessons
About our guest — Claire Jedrek
Website: https://clairejedrek.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/clairejedrek/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-jedrek-41917332/
X: https://x.com/clairejedrek
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaireJedrek/
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
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Decision fatigue is real—and fixable. In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and Biotech CMO Michelle O’Brien sit down with Dr. Miina Öhman (MD, PhD, DipIBLM) to unpack the Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine—nutrition, physical activity, sleep, social connection, stress management, and avoiding risky substances—and show how daily, conscious choices across these pillars reduce cognitive overload, sharpen decision-making, and build lasting brain resilience.
If you’re a leader, athlete, parent, student, creator, or anyone who wants more focus, mental clarity, and energy, this is a practical, science-backed roadmap you can start using today.
What you’ll learn
Time stamps
00:00 Introduction
01:15 Exploring the Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
02:11 The Importance of Social Connections
06:54 The Role of Lifestyle in Chronic Diseases
11:00 Understanding Stress and Its Effects on Health
14:19 The Addiction to Busy Lifestyles
19:00 The Role of Purpose and Meaning in Health
21:51 Challenges in Implementing Lifestyle Changes
27:45 Group Patient Engagement in Healthcare
28:21 The Science of Exercise and Mental Health
29:45 Building Resilience Through Lifestyle Choices
32:11 Preventing Disease with Nutrition and Lifestyle
33:30 Identifying Inflammation in the Body
37:04 The Connection Between Inflammation and Brain Health
38:27 Utilizing the Six Pillars of Health
42:25 The Impact of Alcohol on Health
43:40 Nature Connection as a Seventh Pillar
47:46 The Power of Mindset and Placebo Effect
Key takeaways
About our guest
Dr. Miina Öhman, MD, PhD, DipIBLM — Lifestyle Medicine Physician, Scientist, President, Advisor, Nature Enthusiast, Yoga Teacher
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miina-ohman/ Clinic: https://www.karelia.health/
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
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The Gen Z Compass: How to Beat Decision Fatigue & Choose with Purpose (ft. Holly Smith)
Gen Z is growing up in a world of hyper-choice—and it’s exhausting. In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and Biotech CMO Michelle O’Brien sit down with Holly Smith (impact investing + financial activism) to unpack why modern life overloads the brain—and how to reclaim clarity. We dig into the physiology of decision fatigue, a practical “three currencies” framework (time, energy, money), and value-aligned choices you can actually use today.
If you’re a student, founder, leader, athlete, creator—or simply someone who wants more mental clarity, focus, and intentional living—this conversation blends neuroscience (Science) with human purpose (Soul) to help you make every decision count.
What you'll learn:
Why Gen Z hits decision paralysis: endless options + “save the world” pressure
Decision fatigue is physiological, not a personal failing—and how to spot it
The Three Currencies framework (time, energy, money) for smarter choices
How to align decisions with personal values (and why that’s the first step)
Conscious consumption of social, media, money, and even daily routines
Practical resets to reduce overwhelm: simplify options, set boundaries, protect your best decisions for what matters most
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
13:35 The Three Currencies of Decision Making
19:44 Values-Driven Choices and Generational Gaps
27:29 Defining Work and Life Balance
28:27 Generational Perspectives on Career Building
29:54 Understanding Quiet Quitting
31:22 Intergenerational Work Dynamics
32:20 Navigating Technology and Decision Making
35:09 The Impact of Decision Fatigue
41:24 Burnout and Decision Paralysis
46:04 Recognizing Decision Fatigue as a Collective Issue
50:19 Reassessing Decision-Making Priorities
Holly Smith — Gen Z voice in impact investing, sustainable development, financial activism, and volunteering (CFA UK Certificate in Impact Investing). Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollysmith0/
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
decision fatigue, cognitive overload, decision-making, neuroscience, Gen Z, values, intentional living, mental clarity, focus, productivity, mindful living, biohacking, social media, burnout, financial activism, impact investing, peak performance, habit formation, stress management, cognitive function, brain optimization, gaming, business, athletics, academics
Rewiring Your Inner Compass: Bhavna Toor on Conscious Choice, Mindful Leadership & Decision Fatigue.
Feeling stretched thin by constant decisions? In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien sit down with mindful leadership coach and author Bhavna Toor (Founder & CEO, Shenomics) to unpack conscious choice, values-driven decision-making, and practical ways to reduce decision fatigue and lead with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
We bridge the science (how cognitive overload degrades choices) with the soul (how to realign your goals with your core values) so you can restore mental clarity, focus, and purpose—whether you’re scaling a company, pivoting careers, or simply trying to make better daily decisions.
What you'll learn:
How conscious choices compound into life-changing outcomes
A simple framework to align goals with values (the “goal line” vs the “soul line”)
Why mindfulness strengthens the prefrontal cortex and improves decisions
The trap of external validation (and how to spot memetic desire)
Compassionate leadership: balancing results with people for better decisions
Practical prompts to identify what energizes you vs. what drains you
Why you’re one conscious choice away from change
Author of The Conscious Choice, global mindful leadership coach, and Founder & CEO of Shenomics. Bhavna has spoken at TEDx and at companies like Google, LinkedIn, Target, empowering thousands of women to live and lead with intention.
Connect with Bhavna: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavnatoor/ https://www.instagram.com/bhavnatoor/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Bhavna Tor's Transformative Journey
04:57 Aligning Goals with Soul
11:04 The Role of Values in Decision Making
17:01 Finding Purpose in Daily Choices
22:57 Mindfulness and Decision Fatigue
29:56 Empowering Women Through Courageous Decisions
39:58 Compassionate Leadership and Holistic Decision Making
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
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What if the fastest way to overcome decision fatigue isn’t more willpower—but more community?
In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and biotech CMO/marathon mum Michelle O’Brien sit down with Dr. Rebekah Jade —medical doctor, yoga teacher, Nike trainer, and founder of Pana, a wellness community elevating the health and happiness of the Black community and its allies. We explore how shared spaces, representation, and inclusive practices reduce cognitive overload, strengthen mental resilience, and spark collective decision-making that scales real-world impact. What you'll learn:
Why community combats decision fatigue: the neuroscience of social connection, loneliness, and cognitive load.
Representation as a decision lever: how inclusive imagery and access lower the friction to join healthy spaces.
From individual to collective impact: frameworks for turning personal rituals (yoga, mindfulness, breathwork) into community-level change.
Breathwork you can do anywhere: how the physiological sigh helps down-regulate stress in minutes.
Designing accessible wellness: pricing, online/offline formats, and co-creating with your community to sustain momentum.
Community is a performance enhancer: social connection improves cognitive function and long-term brain health.
Inclusive design (representation, affordability, clear “how to join”) reduces uncertainty—the hidden driver of decision fatigue.
A simple, repeatable breath protocol (inhale + top-off sip + long exhale) quickly shifts you toward calm, focused action.
Move beyond “more information” to embodied practices (yoga, breathwork, mindfulness) that create space for better choices.
Better individual decisions create collective ripples—health equity and culture shift start with the rooms we build.
Dr. Rebekah Jade Lawrence — Medical doctor, yoga teacher, Nike trainer; founder of Pana, a community centered on yoga, movement, and connection for the Black community and allies.
Explore Rebekah’s work:
Website: https://rebekahzeenajade.com/about-rebekah
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebekahzeenajade
Pana: https://wearepana.com/
00:00 Introduction
01:45 Community as a Catalyst for Health
04:08 Personal Journey: From Medical School to Community
10:08 The Importance of Human Connection
11:08 Barriers to Community Engagement
14:51 Creating Accessible Wellness Spaces
17:44 Retreats: A Journey of Healing and Connection
23:00 Expanding Perspectives on Healing
27:49 Breathwork: Bridging Science and Practice
30:02 Practical Breathing Techniques for Overwhelm
35:10 Understanding Yoga Beyond the Physical
41:07 Empowering Community Voices
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
decision fatigue, cognitive overload, decision-making, neuroscience, mental clarity, focus, productivity, mindfulness, breathwork, physiological sigh, yoga, representation, community building, health equity, brain optimization, cognitive function, stress management, peak performance, biohacking, gaming, business, athletics, academics, mental resilience, inclusive wellness, Pana, Dr Rebekah Jade Lawrence, Dr Shawn Watson, Michelle O’Brien, Decisions That Count
The Unforeseen Cost of Connection: Digital Ethics, Algorithms & Decision Fatigue
Is social media quietly taxing your brain’s ability to choose well? In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer–marathoner Michelle O’Brien sit down with cultural critic and brand strategist James Kirkham to explore the ethical, biological, and human consequences of constant connectivity—and how to reclaim your cognitive autonomy.
We unpack how algorithm-driven feeds hijack attention, accelerate decision fatigue, and flatten culture, and we share practical ways to protect mental clarity, improve focus, and make intentional decisions in a hyper-stimulating world.
Why today’s feeds aren’t “social”—they’re algorithmic broadcast engines that drive cognitive overload.
The physiology of decision fatigue: what’s happening at the synapse—and why it’s not just “being tired.”
How endless scrolling drains your morning’s highest-quality decisions (and what to do instead).
The downstream effects on emotional regulation, teams, creativity, and kids’ developing brains.
Simple protocols to regain cognitive autonomy: sleep as a biological reset, “decision lists,” front-loading hard choices, and algo-free windows.
00:00 Introduction
02:50 The Evolution of Social Media and Its Impact
05:51 Creativity vs. Algorithm: The Shift in Content Creation
08:57 The Exhaustion of Digital Consumption
11:50 The Return to Physical Experiences
14:54 Understanding Decision Fatigue
18:06 The Physiological Limits of Decision Making
24:53 The Cost of Decision Fatigue
27:35 Marketing and Decision Fatigue
31:04 The Impact on Children and Society
35:41 Navigating Social Media and Technology
39:28 Long-term Consequences of Decision Fatigue
43:03 Finding Solutions to Decision Fatigue
Guest: James Kirkham — Brand strategist, cultural critic, public speaker & broadcaster LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameskirkham/
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance. Hosted by Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien, we translate neuroscience into actionable strategies for focus, mental clarity, productivity, mindfulness, biohacking, and resilience—across gaming, business, athletics, academics, and everyday life.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #Resilience #Perseverance #DecisionMaking #Neuroscience #PeakPerformance #MentalStrength #Mindfulness #Coaching #OvercomingAdversity
decision fatigue, cognitive overload, digital ethics, neuroscience, algorithm influence, mental clarity, focus, productivity, mindfulness, biohacking, gaming, esports, business, athletics, academics, youth mental health, cognitive function, brain optimization, habit formation, stress management, online behavior, content consumption, digital responsibility
Do your words create clarity—or more noise? In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and biotech CMO/ marathoner Michelle O’Brien sit down with Charles Byrne, Director General of the English-Speaking Union, to unpack oracy—the science and soul of speaking and listening well—and how it reduces decision fatigue, sharpens cognitive clarity, and elevates real-world influence.
You’ll learn how presence, breath, and active listening change the brain’s decision systems, why silence is a performance tool, and what practical oracy drills you can use today to cut through cognitive overload—at work, in leadership, in high-stakes conversations, and at home.
What You'll Learn:
Why oracy is as crucial as literacy and numeracy for modern leadership
How active listening improves judgment and reduces costly miscommunication
The link between cognitive overload, poor decisions, and weakened team dynamics
Why silence and breath reset the brain and boost clarity under pressure
Storytelling as a trust and influence multiplier
Simple, repeatable oracy exercises to apply before your next big conversation
Charles Byrne — Director General, English-Speaking Union (ESU). A cross-sector leader and oracy champion dedicated to empowering people through speaking and listening. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesbbyrne/
ESU: https://www.esu.org/our-staff/charles-byrne/
00:00 Introduction
05:04 The Impact of Poor Communication on Decision-Making
09:48 Generational Shifts in Communication Skills
14:57 The Importance of Listening and Silence
19:58 Navigating Difficult Decisions in Leadership
27:31 Navigating Job Redundancies and Personal Impact
30:27 Cognitive Overload and Decision-Making Strategies
32:59 The Power of Decision Lists
36:12 Understanding Mental Load in Decision-Making
39:09 The Importance of Communication and Connection
44:11 Mindfulness and Presence in Decision-Making
decision fatigue, cognitive overload, oracy, communication skills, active listening, public speaking, leadership, neuroscience, peak performance, mental clarity, focus, productivity, storytelling, mindfulness, biohacking, gaming, esports, business, athletics, academics, cognitive function, brain optimization, stress management, habit formation
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance. Hosted by Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien, we translate neuroscience into actionable strategies for focus, mental clarity, productivity, mindfulness, biohacking, and resilience—across gaming, business, athletics, academics, and everyday life.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #Resilience #Perseverance #DecisionMaking #Neuroscience #PeakPerformance #MentalStrength #Mindfulness #Coaching #OvercomingAdversity
The Anthropologist’s Compass: How Understanding Human Behavior Powers Better Decisions & Social Change What if your most impactful decisions start with seeing people clearly? In this episode of Decisions That Count, Dr. Shawn Watson (neuroscientist & entrepreneur) and Michelle O’Brien (mum, marketer, marathoner) sit down with Dan Walsh, Director of Marketing, Communications & External Affairs at King’s Trust International, to explore how an anthropological lens cuts through cognitive overload, challenges cognitive biases, and fuels ethical, effective decision-making—from marketing strategy to everyday life. We get practical about: reading real human signals (not just survey noise), how online behavior is reshaping our brains, why human connection protects mental wellbeing, and where AI fits in the future of decisions. If you’re a marketer, leader, gamer, athlete, student, or builder who wants more clarity, focus, and impact, this one’s for you.
Anthropology as a decision tool: Use real-world observation and context to design messages and choices that actually resonate—reducing decision fatigue.
Beat cognitive bias: Avoid narrow samples and “focus-group theater”; study your audience in their natural environments.
Online rewires offline: Digital feeds amplify extremes and shape how we think—intentionally create space to decide well.
Ethical marketing = better outcomes: Purpose-aligned campaigns drive social good and long-term trust.
Protect your cognitive energy: Prioritize human connection, reduce notifications, and give your brain room to think.
00:00 Introduction
02:57 The Impact of Online Behavior on Decision Making
05:57 Cultural Contexts and Collective vs Individual Mindsets
09:03 The Influence of Social Media on Masculinity and Identity
12:02 Decision Fatigue in Modern Society
14:58 The Ethics of Marketing: Good vs Evil
18:04 Personal Journeys and Career Reflections
25:09 The Transformative Power of Travel
29:35 Finding Purpose in Career Transitions
32:44 The Art of Decision Making
37:29 The Impact of Technology on Humanity
43:06 The Importance of Human Connection
Dan Walsh — Director of Marketing, Communications & External Affairs, King’s Trust International LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-walsh-7aa979a/ Dan blends anthropology and marketing to craft programs and campaigns that create equity of opportunity and drive meaningful, measurable social impact.
Decisions That Count helps you master the science of decision-making to overcome decision fatigue and reach peak performance. Hosted by Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien, we translate neuroscience into actionable strategies for focus, mental clarity, productivity, mindfulness, biohacking, and resilience—across gaming, business, athletics, academics, and everyday life.
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #Resilience #Perseverance #DecisionMaking #Neuroscience #PeakPerformance #MentalStrength #Mindfulness #Coaching #OvercomingAdversity
The Unseen Layers: How Identity & Purpose Shape Your Decisions.
What if the very decisions that define you are shaped by unseen layers of identity, legacy, and purpose?
In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and co-host Michelle O’Brien sit down with Natalie Duvall—Culture & Events Marketing Manager at Red Bull UK, co-founder of Dragons’ Den–backed March Muses, podcaster with Black Mums Upfront, and a leading voice in diversity & inclusion.
Together, they unpack how identity, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and authenticity uniquely shape decision-making—and how purpose fuels resilience in the face of cognitive overload, systemic challenges, and the mental load of modern life.
✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:- How decisions shape identity, legacy, and future success- Why family history influences personal and professional choices- The hidden impact of motherhood and parenting on decision fatigue- How entrepreneurship thrives on passion, purpose, and authenticity- The emotional cost of representation and diversity in leadership- Why balance is a continuous struggle—and how to build resilience through intentional decisions
This conversation is a powerful reminder that identity and purpose aren’t just personal—they’re the foundation for making every decision count.
🔑 Keywords: decision fatigue, decision making, cognitive overload, identity, motherhood, entrepreneurship, authenticity, resilience, diversity, mental load, legacy, parenting, leadership, neuroscience, peak performance
📌 Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:43 Legacy of Immigrants: Shaping Identity
08:35 The Transformative Power of Motherhood
11:31 Navigating the Mental Load of Motherhood
12:56 Empowering Black Women: A Call to Action
17:33 Decision Fatigue: The Weight of Choices
22:09 The Gift and Curse of Success
24:37 Building a Brand with Purpose
28:56 Managing Time and Decisions in Entrepreneurship
31:11 Navigating Work-Life Balance
32:45 Raising Confident Decision Makers
37:52 Parenting Through Different Stages
40:01 Encouraging Growth Through Mistakes
46:18 The Power of Saying Yes
56:10 Authenticity in Advocacy
01:01:22 Creating Lasting Change
📲 Connect with Natalie Duvall:
Instagram: @natsduv
LinkedIn: Natalie Duvall
Hosts:
Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #Resilience #Perseverance #DecisionMaking #Neuroscience #PeakPerformance #MentalStrength #Mindfulness #Coaching #OvercomingAdversity
When everything tells you to quit, what makes you keep going?In this powerful episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and co-host Michelle O’Brien sit down with Javeno McLean — British fitness coach, online creator, and a global leader in training disabled, sick, and elderly clients.
Known for his unstoppable energy and heart-led approach, Javeno shares what true perseverance looks like and how daily decisions can rewire your brain for lasting resilience.From the basics of human connection to the toughest choices no one ever wants to make, this conversation goes beyond fitness — it’s about mental strength, community, and the courage to keep living fully.You’ll learn:- Why the decision not to quit can transform your brain and your life.- How small, consistent actions build deep resilience.- The simple human needs that fuel strength — being seen, heard, and believed in.- Why presence and connection matter more than anything in adversity.- Coaching insights to turn “I can’t” into “I did.”If you’ve ever faced a moment where giving up felt easier, this episode will change how you think about persistence — and remind you of the power you hold in every choice.00:00 Introduction01:57 Transforming Lives Through Fitness06:00 The Basics of Human Connection10:54 Decision Making Under Pressure14:07 The Strength in Hard Decisions19:45 Finding Joy in the Present23:09 Overcoming Adversity Together29:39 The Importance of Human Connection32:04 Coaching Through Adversity37:45 Building Self-Love and Confidence42:06 Imparting Values to the Next Generation48:11 Finding Joy in Simplicity52:47 The Power of Perseverance🎧 Listen now and make every decision count. 📌 Subscribe for more on decision-making, neuroscience, and peak performance. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — what’s one decision that changed your life?📩 Contact Javeno McLean📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j7healthjaveno/▶️ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSNmFx3ip2FrrJp57_iuoWQ@javeno7🎥 Featured YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1a_kj6eWniw👥 Hosts: Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #Resilience #Perseverance #DecisionMaking #Neuroscience #PeakPerformance #MentalStrength #Mindfulness #Coaching #OvercomingAdversity #BrainOptimization #HumanConnection
Can your gut, stress hormones, and menstrual cycle be the real reason you're struggling with brain fog or decision fatigue? In this powerful episode, Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle are joined by functional health expert Jessica O’Dwyer, trusted by high performers at Barclays, UBS, and Morgan Stanley, to uncover the often-overlooked connection between physical health and cognitive clarity.
🔬 From gut-brain communication and hormonal fluctuations to blood sugar regulation and burnout recovery, this conversation offers science-backed, holistic strategies for navigating cognitive overload, especially for women in high-performance environments.
Whether you're a CEO, athlete, student, or parent juggling multiple roles, you'll walk away with tangible tools to fuel your brain, reduce stress, and make sharper decisions—even on your busiest days.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
• Gut health plays a direct role in mental clarity and decision-making
• Hormonal shifts, sleep, and stress profoundly impact cognitive performance
• Chronic stress and nutrient depletion can hijack your brain’s capacity to function
• Fueling for cognitive load is just as essential as fueling for a workout
• Data-led, personalized health strategies can prevent burnout and boost performance
📌 Topics Covered:
0:00 Introduction
05:30Understanding Cognitive Overload
10:25 Physical Health & Decision-Making
19:12 Fueling Your Brain for Performance
26:24 The Gut-Brain Connection
30:07 Fiber, Hormones & Nutrient Deficiencies
36:14 Personalized Nutrition & Technology
48:28 Empowering High Performers with Data
🧠 Keywords: decision fatigue, cognitive overload, gut-brain connection, stress management, personalized nutrition, mental clarity, hormones, gut health, burnout, high performance, functional health, women’s health, biohacking, brain optimization, focus, productivity
🎙 Guest: Jessica O'Dwyer — Functional Health Practitioner | Trusted by leaders at Barclays, UBS, Morgan Stanley 🔗 jessicaodwyer.co.uk | @jesstalksnutrition🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
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💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #GutBrainConnection #BrainFog #FunctionalHealth #CognitivePerformance #StressManagement #HighPerformance #Biohacking #MentalClarity #BrainOptimization
The Intentional Wardrobe: Transform Your Fashion Choices & Beat Decision Fatigue
Ever stare into a closet packed with clothes and still feel like you have nothing to wear? Welcome to the hidden struggle of decision fatigue—the silent drain on your mental clarity and productivity.
In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and co-host Michelle are joined by Julia K. Dietmar, Co-founder & CEO of OpenWardrobe, to unpack how intentional wardrobe choices can profoundly transform your daily routine and mental wellness.
With over 20 years in retail tech and expertise in sustainable fashion, Julia shares practical strategies for simplifying your wardrobe, reducing cognitive overload, and making smarter, sustainable decisions—whether you're an entrepreneur, a gamer, a CEO, or someone seeking mindful living.
🎯 Key Insights You'll Gain:
How your closet decisions impact your brain and daily performance
Practical strategies for creating a stress-free capsule wardrobe
The role of AI and technology in simplifying fashion decisions
Why sustainability and resale value matter for your wallet and the planet
How reducing fashion-related cognitive load boosts your productivity
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
03:02 Understanding Decision Fatigue in Fashion
05:58 Transforming Choices with Technology
08:53 The Role of AI in Fashion Decisions
12:07 Navigating Online Shopping and Decision Overload
15:05 Creating a Personalized Wardrobe Experience
17:49 The Psychology of Shopping and Creativity
21:06 Sustainable Fashion and Consumer Responsibility
24:07 Mindful Consumption and Capsule Wardrobes
27:18 Sustainability in Fashion: Cost Per Wear and Resale Value
34:44 The Role of Data in Fashion Decisions
36:01 Traceability and Transparency in the Fashion Industry
38:14 Cognitive Load and Fashion Choices
49:17 Living with Intention: Fashion as a Reflection of Identity
From exploring the psychology of online shopping to understanding cost-per-wear and mindful menswear, this episode provides actionable steps to reclaim your mental clarity and live intentionally through your wardrobe.
🌟 About Our Guest: Julia K. Dietmar is the Co-founder and CEO of OpenWardrobe, a pioneer at the intersection of technology and sustainable fashion. With over two decades of experience in retail tech, Julia is passionate about making sustainability accessible and actionable. Her innovative approach combines AI and digital closets to empower consumers to make smarter fashion choices that benefit both their well-being and the environment.
🔗 Connect with Julia:
LinkedIn: Julia K. Dietmar
OpenWardrobe: openwardrobe.co
🔑 Keywords: Decision fatigue, sustainable fashion, wardrobe decisions, cognitive overload, mental clarity, productivity, fashion psychology, capsule wardrobe, mindfulness, sustainability, consumer behavior, AI in fashion, resale value, conscious consumerism🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
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💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #CognitiveResilience #GlobalLeadership #ArunHozack #RedBull #NeurosciencePodcast #PeakPerformance #CrossCulturalLeadership #Podcast #Numin #MentalClarity #DecisionMaking #Mindfulness #Focus #Biohacking #LeadershipPodcast
How Global Leaders Avoid Burnout | Arun Hozack on Cross-Cultural Decision-Making & Cognitive Resilience
What does it take to lead billion-dollar brands across continents without burning out? In this episode of Decisions That Count, Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien sit down with Arun Hozack—former President of Red Bull Asia-Pacific and current CEO of SLS Performance—to unpack how intentional decision-making, cultural fluency, and cognitive resilience have shaped his 25+ year global leadership journey.
From launching Red Bull across 17 markets and decoding Japan’s complex business culture to scaling startups like Juul Labs and now building Numin—a functional beverage to fight decision fatigue—Arun shares hard-won insights into how leaders can thrive amid constant cognitive load and high-stakes choices.
🔍 Key takeaways:
How to decode cultural social codes and make effective decisions across borders
The hidden cognitive costs of global leadership—and how to manage them
Building trust, earning respect, and sustaining resilience over decades
Red Bull’s grassroots marketing philosophy and why authenticity wins
The real impact of decision fatigue—and how Numin is tackling it head-on
Whether you're a founder, executive, or global team leader, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to protect your mental clarity, lead with intention, and make every decision count.
👇 Timestamps & Highlights:
00:00 – Introduction
03:00 – Multicultural roots & early ventures in South Africa 10:00 – Cracking the Japanese market & building trust
22:00 – Decision-making differences: Japan vs the US
30:00 – Red Bull's authentic brand strategy explained
38:00 – Leading Juul through chaos & lessons in resilience 44:00 – Cognitive overload & family sacrifices in international leadership
48:00 – Final reflections on purpose, parenting & global living
👤 About the Guest: Arun Hozack
Arun Hozack is a global growth architect, brand strategist, and co-founder of SLS Performance. He’s led iconic brands including Red Bull and Juul Labs, launched markets across Asia, Africa, and North America, and now heads Numin, a clinically tested functional beverage developed with neuroscientists to combat decision fatigue. Known for his ability to scale vision into impact, Arun thrives where there’s no playbook—only bold ideas and high stakes.
🔗 Connect with Arun: LinkedIn - 🔗 Arun Hozack LinkedIn👥 Hosts: Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner
🚀 Keep Your Brain in Peak Gear - Subscribe for weekly episodes packed with actionable neuroscience, follow us on your favorite platform, and share this episode with someone who can’t afford another autopilot mistake.
🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#DecisionFatigue #CognitiveResilience #GlobalLeadership #ArunHozack #RedBull #NeurosciencePodcast #PeakPerformance #CrossCulturalLeadership #Podcast #Numin #MentalClarity #DecisionMaking #Mindfulness #Focus #Biohacking #LeadershipPodcast
Is Your Silence Sabotaging Your Success? - Penny Locaso on Fear, Leadership & Decision Fatigue
Are you holding back from making a decision that could change everything?
In this powerful episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and co-host Michelle O’Brien sit down with behavioral scientist, leadership coach, and founder of HackingHappy.co, Penny Locaso, to explore the hidden cost of inaction—especially for ambitious women navigating fear, self-doubt, and societal expectations.
We unpack the science behind decision fatigue, the authority gap, and why so many high-achieving women struggle to label themselves as experts—even when they’ve earned it. Penny shares her groundbreaking Intentional Adaptability® framework, insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, and practical strategies to break free from fear-based non-decisions that silently sabotage success.
Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, parent, or simply someone battling the mental load of modern life, this conversation offers deep insights and actionable tools to help you reclaim your voice, your impact, and your decision-making power.
🔍 Key Topics:
The psychology of fear and non-decision
How internalized conditioning silences expertise
Why inaction drains mental energy
Gender dynamics in leadership and pitching
Building resilience and reclaiming expert authority
Practical mindfulness and brain-optimization tools
🎯 You’ll learn:
Why not deciding is a decision
How to dismantle the “ick” factor around expertise
The science behind decision fatigue—and how to overcome it
Simple ways to reset your brain and take intentional action
How to create inclusive environments that empower women to thrive
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
05:52 Conditioning and Gender Dynamics
09:06 – Gender Gap in Leadership
18:02 – Empowerment & Resilience
33:38 – Mindfulness & Brain Resets
46:13 – Disrupting Autopilot Thinking
56:04 – Penny’s Top 3 Takeaways
✨ Guest: Penny Locaso Behavioral Scientist | Leadership Coach | Creator of the Intentional Adaptability® framework 🔗 Explore More from Penny Locaso:
🌐 Website: https://hackinghappy.co💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennylocaso📄 Expert Checklist: https://app.hackinghappy.co/howtobecomeanexpertchecklist📚 HBR Article on VC Bias: https://hbr.org/2017/06/male-and-female-entrepreneurs-get-asked-different-questions-by-vcs-and-it-affects-how-much-funding-they-get
🎧 Hidden Figures Podcast Series: https://hackinghappy.kartra.com/page/hiddenfigures
👥 Hosts: Dr. Shawn Watson – Neuroscientist & Founder Michelle O’Brien – Marketer, Mum, Marathon Runner
🚀 Keep Your Brain in Peak Gear - Subscribe for weekly episodes packed with actionable neuroscience, follow us on your favorite platform, and share this episode with someone who can’t afford another autopilot mistake.
🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
📣 Ready to step into your expertise? Share this episode with a woman you admire—and call her what she is: an expert. 💡 #DecisionsThatCount #DecisionFatigue #Leadership #WomenInLeadership #PennyLocaso #Expertise #Empowerment #Mindfulness #MentalLoad #Neuroscience #CognitivePerformance #IntentionalAdaptability #AuthorityGap
When Everyone Else Says No: How Do You Stand Firm on Decisions That Count for a Sustainable Future?
What does it take to stand firm on your values when the boardroom says otherwise? In this powerful episode of Decisions That Count, Dr. Darian McBain—UN SDG Pioneer, former Chief Sustainability Officer, and global advisor—joins Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle to unpack the mental resilience, ethical conviction, and high-stakes decisions behind corporate sustainability.
From navigating greenwashing and governance failure to reshaping global supply chains and championing human rights, Darian shares candid insights from decades of experience at the intersection of sustainability, ethics, and decision-making.
🔍 You’ll learn:
• How neuroscience supports conviction in difficult ethical decisions
• What greenwashing really looks like inside big corporations
• The mental toll of integrity-driven leadership
• Why your supermarket choices matter more than you think
• What startups can do now to embed sustainability from day one
• How certifications like B Corp and MSC help consumers cut through the noise
• The human cost of fast fashion and poor procurement practices
• How to build sustainable supply chains—without the luxury of a big budget
Whether you’re a CEO, policymaker, student, or conscious consumer, this episode will challenge you to rethink your role in shaping a more sustainable future—one decision at a time.
👉 Hit play if you’ve ever asked:
• Can one person really make a difference in a broken system?
• How do I make ethical choices when the cost feels too high? • What can I do today to drive real, measurable change?
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:49 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Decision-Making
06:03 Corporate Sustainability: Genuine Efforts or Greenwashing?
09:04 The Role of Individuals in Sustainability
12:02 Human Factors in Sustainability
14:58 Decision-Making in the Boardroom
17:52 The Weight of Ethical Decisions
20:56 The Future of Sustainability: Optimism or Pessimism?
28:34 Understanding Greenwashing and Corporate Sustainability
31:53 The Journey Towards Sustainable Fisheries
39:01 Consumer Choices and Collective Impact
48:51 Sustainable Startups and Business Models
55:43 Navigating Supply Chains and Ethical Procurement
🔗 Meet Our Guest: Dr. Darian McBain
Dr. Darian McBain is a globally recognized expert in sustainability, ethical leadership, and responsible supply chains. She is the CEO and Founder of Outsourced Chief Sustainability Officer (OCSO) and has held leadership roles across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors—including with Thai Union, the Monetary Authority of Singapore, WWF, and the NHS. Darian holds a PhD in Social and Environmental Indicators and was named a UN SDG Pioneer, one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business, and one of Asia’s Top Sustainability Superwomen.
📍 Connect with Darian:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianmcbain
Website: https://outsourcedcso.com
Grantham Research Profile: LSE – Darian McBain
Podcast: My Green Future (with Teymoor Nabili)🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time. Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.#DecisionFatigue #EthicalLeadership #Sustainability #Greenwashing #Neuroscience #PeakPerformance #CognitiveOverload #DrDarianMcBain #Bcorp #SupplyChains #MindfulLiving
Autopilot thinking, decision fatigue, and hidden cognitive biases could be sabotaging your judgment right now.
In this episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and co-host Michelle O’Brien sit down with leadership coach, drummer, and author Grant 'Upbeat' Bosnick to reveal science-backed tactics for reclaiming deliberate, high-impact decisions—whether you’re scaling a startup, captaining an esports team, or managing daily life.
🎙️ What You’ll Learn
- Spot & stop autopilot — recognize the tell-tale signs that your brain has slipped into default mode and how to steer it back on course.
- Beat decision fatigue — practical micro-break and “upbeat” drumming drills that reset your prefrontal cortex in minutes.- Neutralize hidden biases — familiarity bias, confirmation bias, and “captain-itis”—and why they silently warp hiring, strategy, and risk calls.
- Flow vs. autopilot — unlock productive flow states without sacrificing critical thinking.
⏱️ Chapters
0:00 Introduction
3:00 From pro drummer to global leadership coach
8:53 Biases, brain science & decision fatigue
15:03 Flow state vs. autopilot
26:20 First-choice fallacy & panel decision hacks
34:41 Leveraging AI to surface diverse viewpoints
43:52 Focus techniques you can use anywhere
52:34 Self-leadership tools & where to learn more
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Autopilot is useful for routine tasks—but disastrous for high-stakes decisions.
- Decision fatigue lives in the prefrontal cortex; short “oscillation” breaks restore performance fast.
- Diverse perspectives (including AI personas) dismantle echo chambers and sharpen outcomes.
- Flow can boost productivity up to 500 %, but leaders must still pause for conscious analysis.
- Self-leadership begins with radical self-awareness of your own biases and mental patterns.
👥 About Our Guest - Grant “Upbeat” Bosnick has spent 25 years in Asia training Fortune 500 leaders to blend rhythm with neuroscience for sharper thinking. His book Upbeat®: Tailored Approaches to Self-Leadership: A bite-sized Approach Using Psychology and Neuroscience explains his trademark drumming method to help teams navigate complexity and thrive in an AI-centric future.
🔗 Connect with Grant → grantbosnick.com
🚀 Keep Your Brain in Peak Gear - Subscribe for weekly episodes packed with actionable neuroscience, follow us on your favorite platform, and share this episode with someone who can’t afford another autopilot mistake.
🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
#decisionfatigue #cognitiveoverload #autopilotthinking #leadership #neuroscience #peakperformance #criticalthinking #flowstate #selfleadership #biases #mindfulness
In this powerful episode of Decisions That Count, neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and biotech CMO Michelle O’Brien speak with serial entrepreneur Kanika Agarwal, founder of MindPeers. Kanika opens up about building a multimillion-dollar business while battling anxiety, decision fatigue, and the hidden toll of relentless ambition.
Together, they explore how cognitive overload affects high performers, why identity gets tied to success, and how to recognize the signs of burnout. You’ll hear real strategies for protecting mental well-being, improving decision-making, and building sustainable success—personally and professionally.
💡 About the Podcast: Decisions That Count is where neuroscience meets real-world decision-making. Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien explore how decision fatigue affects everything from elite performance and business leadership to gaming, academics, and mindful living.
Featuring experts, entrepreneurs, athletes, and practitioners sharing actionable strategies to optimize cognitive function, improve focus, and build mental resilience.
👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation - What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
💬 Drop your questions in the comments — we’ll get Kanika to answer them!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
09:01 Navigating Anxiety and Entrepreneurship
16:55 The Impact of Leadership on Team Dynamics
23:55 Recognizing Cognitive Burnout
28:08 The Physical Limits of the Brain
28:43 Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Comparison Traps
30:55 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
32:54 Resilience and Cognitive Performance in the Age of AI
36:59 The Mind-Body Connection in Mental Health
42:20 Corporate Mental Health Initiatives and Cultural Challenges
45:20 Understanding Decision Fatigue and Its Implications
🔹 About Our Guest – Kanika Agarwal Kanika Agarwal is an entrepreneur and mental health advocate, best known as the founder of MindPeers, a neuroscience-led platform supporting cognitive performance and emotional wellbeing. She’s built multi-million dollar businesses, appeared on Shark Tank India, and now works with companies across Asia and the Middle East to make mental health a leadership priority.
📬 Connect with Kanika: 🌐 Website: kanikaagarwal.substack.com 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kanikaagarwal08
🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
When every decision carries the weight of life and death, how does the human brain cope?
In this powerful episode of Decisions That Count, Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien sit down with emergency physician and healthcare innovator Jean-Francois Couture to explore the cognitive, emotional, and psychological toll of decision-making under extreme pressure.
Drawing from his years in emergency medicine and his near-miss experiences, Jean-Francois offers a rare and vulnerable look inside the high-stakes world of critical care.
We dive deep into:
- The realities of cognitive overload and decision fatigue in emergency medicine
- The emotional aftermath of near-miss medical errors- How task-switching and rapid
-fire decisions impact clinical judgment
- The role of protocols, systems, and technology in reducing errors
- The origin story of Paratus Medical and how it's helping clinicians globally
- The intersection of AI, healthcare innovation, and clinician support tools
🎯 Key Topics: decision fatigue, cognitive overload, emergency medicine, healthcare technology, medical entrepreneurship, clinical decision-making, resilience, medical protocols, AI in medicine, human connection, healthcare innovation, stress management, burnout, entrepreneurship stress, Paratus Medical
🔥Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
09:59 Cognitive Overload in Emergency Medicine
19:55 Emotional Impact of Critical Care Decisions
28:49 Building Tools for Clinicians
29:46 From Medicine to Entrepreneurship: A New Journey
30:14 Logistical Steps in Emergency Care
31:42 The Future of Medical Assistance
33:00 AI in Diagnosis and Treatment
36:28 Offloading Decision Fatigue
38:31 The Human Element in Medicine
40:00 Patient Empowerment through Information
42:02 The Impact of Technology on Healthcare
44:21 Global Applications of Medical Tools
💡 About the Podcast: Decisions That Count is where neuroscience meets real-world decision-making. Dr. Shawn Watson and Michelle O’Brien explore how decision fatigue affects everything from elite performance and business leadership to gaming, academics, and mindful living.
Featuring experts, entrepreneurs, athletes, and practitioners sharing actionable strategies to optimize cognitive function, improve focus, and build mental resilience.
👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
💬 Drop your questions in the comments — we’ll get Jean-Francois to answer them!
🔗 About Our Guest, Jean-Francios:Jean-Francois Couture is an emergency physician from Montreal, Canada. He trained at McGill University where he finished residency in 2013. In addition to working full-time in the emergency department throughout his career, he worked in a community intensive care unit for 8 years, where he was chief from 2018 to 2021. At both hospitals where he has worked, he was responsible for quality improvement and practice evaluation projects. After completing the Resuscitation Leadership Academy fellowship in 2016, he started working on an emergency medical response project which is now called Paratus Medical.
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-francois-couture-b95a97289/
🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
In this episode of Decisions That Count, we dive deep into the high-pressure world of live news broadcasting with Teymoor Nabili, former anchor for Al Jazeera, CNBC, CNN, and the BBC. With over 25 years of experience reporting on world-shaping events, Teymoor shares what it really takes to stay composed, authentic, and mentally sharp while navigating cognitive overload on the global stage.
🎯 Key Topics:
• Decision fatigue in high-stakes environments
• Critical thinking under pressure
• Newsroom bias, heuristics & narrative framing
• How cognitive load impacts real-time reporting
• The role of AI in journalism
• Strategies for maintaining mental clarity • How to combat decision fatigue in your daily life
🎙️ Join Dr. Shawn Watson (neuroscientist & entrepreneur) and Michelle O’Brien (marketer, mum & marathon runner) as they unpack what really goes on in the brain when decisions come fast — and the stakes are sky-high. Whether you’re a journalist, CEO, athlete, or simply navigating your own information-overloaded world, this episode offers powerful insights into how to protect your cognitive bandwidth and make better choices.
🧠 What You’ll Learn:
• Why decision fatigue degrades the quality of your thinking
• How media professionals instinctively process massive information flow
• What shortcuts (heuristics) can cost us in judgment
• Why every decision — big or small — counts
• Practical strategies to reduce cognitive overload and reclaim clarity
🔍 Keywords: decision fatigue, cognitive overload, high-stakes communication, newsroom pressure, AI in journalism, narrative framing, heuristics, critical thinking, mental clarity, burnout, brain optimization, peak performance, neuroscience, biohacking, productivity, stress management
📍 Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:30 Life in the Newsroom
04:44 Breaking News Under Pressure
08:17 Burnout, Bias & Cognitive Decline
12:55 Heuristics & Default Thinking
20:08 Can AI Help Journalism?
29:54 Managing Decisions in the Digital Age
35:25 Daily Protocols for Mental Clarity
49:50 Future of Brain Health & Performance
👇 Let’s Continue the Conversation What resonated most with you? Have you experienced decision fatigue in your role? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you manage high-pressure choices.
🧠 Hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Shawn Watson and marketer-mum-marathoner Michelle, Decisions That Count explores how science-backed insights can help you overcome decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
📱 Follow us on Social Media:
✨ Like what you heard?
✅ Subscribe to Decisions That Count for weekly episodes that empower you to beat decision fatigue and unlock peak performance.
💬 Drop your questions in the comments — we’ll get Teymoor to answer them!
🔗 About Our Guest, Teymoor: Teymoor Nabili has a distinguished history of reporting global news for Al Jazeera English, CNBC, CNN, and BBC Television, where for 25 years his distinctive voice and editorial judgment guided audiences through major world events and complex issues. Today, he leverages his experience and global perspective to advise leaders in the art of persuasive communication, and he creates impactful content exploring themes of sustainability and impact.
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teymoor-nabili/
💡 If you found this episode helpful, like, comment, and subscribe. Share it with someone who could use a reset on how they make decisions. Let’s build better brains together—one choice at a time.
Your decisions shape your life. Make every decision count.
