Episode Notes:
In this solo episode of The NeuroLeadership Edge, Claire Hayek dives deep into the science of self-sabotage and how to rewire your brain to quiet the inner critic. Drawing from real client stories and cognitive neuroscience, Claire reveals how to shift from judgment to empowerment using a 3-step “Critic to Coach” tool that works in under a minute. You’ll walk away with a simple daily practice and a 5-day challenge to start building the mental muscle of confidence and clarity.

Topics Covered:

• The neuroscience of the inner critic
• How the DMN and TPN shape your self-talk
• Cortisol’s role in sabotaging confidence
• The 3-step “Critic to Coach” tool (Catch – Reframe – Coach)
• Why labeling thoughts changes brain chemistry
• How to rewire self-talk in just 60 seconds
• A 5-day brain training challenge to build mental fitness

Timestamps:
00:04 – Welcome + why this episode matters
04:00 – Story: VP loses a deal due to inner critic
07:24 – What is mental fitness?
08:07 – Brain science explained (DMN, TPN, cortisol)
12:45 – Introducing the “Critic to Coach” tool
13:07 – Step 1: Catch the inner critic
15:24 – Step 2: Reframe with empathy
17:00 – Step 3: Coach statement & brain wiring
20:00 – 5-day challenge + daily brain practice
24:14 – Voice Mapping Session invite
25:26 – Final message: Rewire your voice, rewire your life

Connect with Claire → All links and resources here | LinkedIn | IG: @claire.hayek
Have a question? info@mspteambuilding.com

The NeuroLeadership Edge Podcast is produced by Claire Hayek. All opinions are those of the host and guests. For more leadership resources, visit www.mspteambuilding.com.