Sue interviews Dr. Hosein Kouros-Mehr, a physician scientist and author of the book "Breakthrough: Master Your Default Mode and Thrive." Dr. Kouros-Mehr delves into the concept of the default mode network in the brain, explaining how it impacts mental health, productivity, and success. He also discusses the importance of recognising and understanding the default mode network to heal and utilise it effectively, as well as managing stress, loneliness, compassion, and retraining the brain to shift from the default mode to the central executive network.  KEY TAKEAWAYS The default mode network is a key part of the brain that can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues when overactive. By cultivating the observing mind through practices like mindfulness, meditation, and journaling, individuals can retrain their brains to spend more time in the central executive network, leading to increased peace of mind and productivity. Stress is a significant contributor to physical and mental health problems. By engaging in relaxation exercises that promote GABA production, individuals can counteract the effects of stress and prevent the stress response from occurring. Loneliness, a common issue exacerbated by the default mode network, can be reversed by cultivating compassion, empathy, and gratitude. These practices can help individuals break down walls of separation and reduce feelings of loneliness. Parenting can be a source of high expectations and self-criticism. By embracing compassion, surrendering to love, and being present, individuals can navigate the challenges of parenting with more peace and understanding. BEST MOMENTS "We all need a healthy DMN to get through our day to be successful. But for many of us, the default mode is on all the time, and it prevents us from being present and it can get in the way and really contribute to things like anxiety, depression, addiction, and a host of other mental health problems."  "I feel like everything we learn about the evolution of our brains and how we work. I feel like everything tells me it worked in the past, but it doesn't work in modern life."  "There are times where my default mode is on all the time."  VALUABLE RESOURCES I’d love to hear your thoughts on the show, topics you’d like to discuss and guests you recommend. DM / follow me: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-parker-msc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamsueparker/ Website: https://sueparker.net YOUR HOST Sue Parker is a mum of 3, entrepreneur, podcaster and global speaker. As a former tech leader and equality & diversity champion, Sue went from burnout to breakthrough. Her journey of becoming an entrepreneur has seen her take the highs and lows life has to offer. From her unspoken post natal depression to opening the WIT global conference speaking to 100k women in 50 countries. She’s hit imposter syndrome, limiting beliefs and had to unlearn and relearn to start creating a life with more financial freedom and aligned to her values. Still working on her mindset today and supporting other freedom seekers, including side hustlers, career women and business owners. Sue shares her personal challenges, the key lessons and wisdom we can all use to manifesting our life by design.