How does your work fulfill you, your purpose in life?
My work in behavior change and neuroscience aligns deeply with my purpose of helping people overcome obstacles and achieve lasting transformation. As an enrolled citizen of the Minnesota Ojibwe tribe and a physician, I'm driven to address health disparities and empower individuals to take control of their well-being. Every time I see someone break free from self-limiting beliefs and embrace their potential, I feel fulfilled knowing I've contributed to that change.
Do you have any sleep tips?
Absolutely! Based on my research on the habenula and its role in sleep regulation, I recommend maintaining consistent sleep schedules, even on weekends. Avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime, as blue light can disrupt your circadian rhythm. I also suggest practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or gentle stretching to calm your mind and prepare for restful sleep. Remember, good sleep is crucial for regulating the habenula and maintaining motivation.
When are you most in flow, productive and energized?
I find my flow state when I'm deep in research, writing, or speaking to audiences about behavior change. There's something energizing about connecting complex scientific concepts to practical, real-world applications. I'm also at my best when I'm collaborating with my team at Fresh Tri, iterating on new ways to help people transform their lives.
Do you meditate or practice mindfulness? If so, how?
Yes, mindfulness is a key part of my daily routine. I practice a form of meditation that focuses on observing thoughts without judgment, which helps regulate the habenula and promote neuroplasticity. I also incorporate mindful moments throughout my day, taking brief pauses to center myself and stay present. This practice not only benefits my own well-being but also informs my work on behavior change.
What keeps you up at night? I'm deeply troubled by the prevalence of chronic diseases and health disparities in our society. It pains me to see so many people struggling to make lasting behavior changes, often due to systemic barriers or lack of effective support. I'm constantly thinking about how to make my research and methods more accessible to those who need them most, especially underserved communities. The potential for positive change is enormous, and that drives me to keep pushing forward.
How do you define a good work / life balance, and how important do you think it is? For me, a good work/life balance isn't about rigid separation, but rather about integration and iteration. It's about finding a rhythm that allows me to pursue my passion for behavior change science while also nurturing my personal relationships and well-being. I apply the principles of the “Iterative Mindset Method” to my own life, constantly making small adjustments to maintain energy, productivity, and personal fulfillment. Balance is crucial because it allows us to be sustainable in our efforts and to model the healthy behaviors we're advocating for. It's not about perfection, but about continuous improvement and self-compassion.
Are you married, partnership, have kids? How have relationships impacted your balance?
I'm a mother so balancing my role as a parent with my professional pursuits has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. My children have taught me so much about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of leading by example. They've also been my greatest motivation for developing practical, accessible tools for behavior change. Navigating co-parenting and blended family dynamics has given me firsthand experience in applying iterative thinking to relationships, which has deeply informed my work and my personal growth.
What’s some advice you would give to new or struggling entrepreneurs/hustlers that seem out of balance? First, remember that balance isn't a destination, it's a journey. Adopt an iterative mindset - make small adjustments, observe the results, and keep refining your approach. Don't fall into the trap of performative hustle culture; it's not sustainable and often backfires. Instead, focus on progress over perfection. Pay attention to your habenula - if you're feeling constantly demotivated or stuck, it's a sign you need to reframe your approach to failure and success. Lastly, prioritize self-care and connection. Your well-being is your most valuable asset as an entrepreneur.
What advice would you tell your younger self? 'd tell my younger self to trust the journey, even when it doesn't make sense. Every experience, even the painful ones, is shaping you for your purpose. Don't be afraid to iterate - life isn't about getting it right the first time, it's about continuous learning and growth. Embrace your unique perspective as an indigenous woman in medicine and science; your voice matters. And remember, your worth isn't tied to your achievements or others' approval. Be kind to yourself, especially when you're struggling. The path to becoming unstoppable starts with self-compassion.
What is one issue you are out to change in the world? I'm committed to revolutionizing how we approach behavior change, both in healthcare and in personal development. Too many people are stuck in cycles of trying and "failing," leading to disempowerment and poor health outcomes. I want to change the narrative around failure and empower people with neuroscience-based tools to make lasting positive changes in their lives. Professionally, this means continuing to develop and refine the Iterative Mindset Method and making it accessible to diverse populations. Personally, it means advocating for more inclusive, culturally sensitive approaches to health and well-being, especially for indigenous communities and other underserved populations. My ultimate goal is to create a world where everyone has the tools and support they need to become truly unstoppable in pursuing their healthiest, most fulfilling lives.
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