About 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems, according to the CDC. But Ofosu and Leah (and a few kids!) have a solution you might remember from childhood: the bedtime story. Learn the science of how bedtime stories can work to help anyone fall asleep, and hear about the making of Sleep Journeys, Balance's new take on bedtime stories. More about Sleep Journeys:Sleep Journeys, available in the Balance app, are relaxing, richly imagined tales that combine gentle visualization with nature sounds. Each one features a sleepy adventure that changes a little every night, giving troubled sleepers new sights and sounds to enjoy.

About 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems, according to the CDC. But Ofosu and Leah (and a few kids!) have a solution you might remember from childhood: the bedtime story.  Learn the science of how bedtime stories can work to help anyone fall asleep, and hear about the making of Sleep Journeys, Balance's new take on bedtime stories.  More about Sleep Journeys: Sleep Journeys, available in the Balance app, are relaxing, richly imagined tales that combine gentle visualization with nature sounds. Each one features a sleepy adventure that changes a little every night, giving troubled sleepers new sights and sounds to enjoy.

How to fall asleep

Ofosu and Leah talk with award-winning medical reporter Sophie Scott about how her experience with burnout led to a habit of daily meditation. She shares the science behind forming healthy habits, like why consistency is more effective than intensity, and how to use habit-forming strategies like pairing and rewarding. More about Sophie: Sophie Scott is an award-winning medical reporter, associate professor, and author of the books "Roadtesting Happiness" and "Live a Longer Life." Her mission is to use the latest science to empower people to help themselves feel great physically and mentally every day. You can learn more about her work on her website — https://www.sophiescott.com.au/  — or follow her on Instagram @SophieScott2

Ofosu and Leah talk with award-winning medical reporter Sophie Scott about how her experience with burnout led to a habit of daily meditation. She shares the science behind forming healthy habits, like why consistency is more effective than intensity, and how to use habit-forming strategies like pairing and rewarding. More about Sophie: Sophie Scott is an award-winning medical reporter, associate professor, and author of the books "<a href="https://www.sophiescott.com.au/book/roadtesting-happiness" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Roadtesting Happiness</a>" and "<a href="https://www.sophiescott.com.au/book/live-a-longer-life" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Live a Longer Life</a>." Her mission is to use the latest science to empower people to help themselves feel great physically and mentally every day. You can learn more about her work on her website — <a href="https://www.sophiescott.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sophiescott.com.au/</a>  — or follow her on Instagram @<a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophiescott2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SophieScott2</a>

How to make meditation a habit

Many of us deflect, dismiss, or downplay the compliments we receive, instead of simply accepting the praise. Ofosu and Leah discuss the psychology behind this and share strategies to build our self-esteem. So the next time someone sends kind words our way, we can say thank you, period—and mean it.

Many of us deflect, dismiss, or downplay the compliments we receive, instead of simply accepting the praise. Ofosu and Leah discuss the psychology behind this and share strategies to build our self-esteem. So the next time someone sends kind words our way, we can say thank you, period—and mean it.

How to say thank you, period

In celebration of World Productivity Day, Leah talks with Jessica Holsman, who is an expert in helping people become more productive without sacrificing their health and happiness. Learn practical tips for approaching your days with intention, increasing your overall productivity, and maintaining a healthy balance in your life.More about Leah's Meditation Teacher Training:Find all the details at https://www.leahsantacruz.com/mttMore about Jessica: Jessica Holsman is a best-selling author, content creator, entrepreneur, and speaker, specializing in helping people maximize their productivity and enhance their well-being. You can learn more on her website — www.studywithjess.com — and you can pre-order her new book here: https://amzn.to/3PK25hD

In celebration of World Productivity Day, Leah talks with Jessica Holsman, who is an expert in helping people become more productive without sacrificing their health and happiness. Learn practical tips for approaching your days with intention, increasing your overall productivity, and maintaining a healthy balance in your life. More about Leah's Meditation Teacher Training: Find all the details at <a href="https://www.leahsantacruz.com/mtt" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.leahsantacruz.com/mtt</a> More about Jessica: Jessica Holsman is a best-selling author, content creator, entrepreneur, and speaker, specializing in helping people maximize their productivity and enhance their well-being. You can learn more on her website — <a href="http://www.studywithjess.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.studywithjess.com</a> — and you can pre-order her new book here: <a href="https://amzn.to/3PK25hD" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3PK25hD</a>

How to be more productive

Leah talks to her husband, yoga instructor Paul Teodo, about how moving your body can benefit your mind. Learn how even easy exercises can have a significant effect on your mood and overall well-being.Find out more about Paul and Leah's Meditation Teacher Training at https://www.leahsantacruz.com/mtt More about Paul:Paul Teodo is a yoga and meditation teacher and musician.  Named the #1 Yoga Teacher in Los Angeles in 2016 by the Culture Trip, he leads classes, workshops, and retreats around the world. Follow him on Instagram @teodoyogaguitar

Leah talks to her husband, yoga instructor Paul Teodo, about how moving your body can benefit your mind. Learn how even easy exercises can have a significant effect on your mood and overall well-being. Find out more about Paul and Leah's Meditation Teacher Training at <a href="https://www.leahsantacruz.com/mtt" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.leahsantacruz.com/mtt</a> More about Paul: Paul Teodo is a yoga and meditation teacher and musician.  Named the #1 Yoga Teacher in Los Angeles in 2016 by the Culture Trip, he leads classes, workshops, and retreats around the world. Follow him on Instagram @teodoyogaguitar

How to help your mind with movement

Teens’ mental health is declining, with 44% of U.S. high school students now reporting "persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness,” according to the CDC. Determined to help, Ofosu recently co-led a meditation retreat for teenagers. He talks to Leah about his experience and shares what we can all learn from it.

Teens’ mental health is declining, with 44% of U.S. high school students now reporting "persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness,” according to the CDC. Determined to help, Ofosu recently co-led a meditation retreat for teenagers. He talks to Leah about his experience and shares what we can all learn from it.

How to support "kids these days"

Finances and money management often trigger stress, anxiety, and fear. So to close out Mental Health Awareness Month, Ofosu and Leah address the issue head-on, sharing how money affects their own mental health and discussing tips for how to approach money matters a bit more mindfully. And if, like us, you’re feeling overwhelmed by recent events, we want to remind you of a few past episodes that we hope may give you some space to reflect or find comfort: How to cope when news hits home How to get support when you need it

Finances and money management often trigger stress, anxiety, and fear. So to close out Mental Health Awareness Month, Ofosu and Leah address the issue head-on, sharing how money affects their own mental health and discussing tips for how to approach money matters a bit more mindfully. And if, like us, you’re feeling overwhelmed by recent events, we want to remind you of a few past episodes that we hope may give you some space to reflect or find comfort: <a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1883220/9928135-how-to-cope-when-news-hits-home" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to cope when news hits home </a> <a href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/1883220/10005238-how-to-get-support-when-you-need-it" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to get support when you need it</a>

How to manage financial stress

In continued celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, former plus-sized fashion model Gina Swire joins Ofosu and Leah to discuss the impact body image has on mental health. They dive into personal struggles they've all had with body image, and Gina shares tools you can use to learn to love the way you look. More about Gina: In addition to helping others learn to love their body, Gina Swire is also the author of P.S. I Love Me: 12 Steps for a Self-Love Transformation and the host of the podcast P.S. I Love Me. Follow her on Instagram @ginaswire

In continued celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, former plus-sized fashion model Gina Swire joins Ofosu and Leah to discuss the impact body image has on mental health. They dive into personal struggles they've all had with body image, and Gina shares tools you can use to learn to love the way you look. More about Gina: In addition to helping others learn to love their body, Gina Swire is also the author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/PS-Love-Me-Self-Love-Transformation/dp/1784529583" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">P.S. I Love Me: 12 Steps for a Self-Love Transformation </a>and the host of the podcast <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ps-i-love-me/id1572824080" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">P.S. I Love Me</a>. Follow her on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ginaswire/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@ginaswire</a>

How to be more body positive

Ofosu used to beat himself up for having frequent intrusive thoughts, especially during meditation. He and Leah discuss tools they've learned to treat themselves with kindness when these types of thoughts arise — and how meditation can help.We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at https://www.balanceapp.com/survey

Ofosu used to beat himself up for having frequent intrusive thoughts, especially during meditation. He and Leah discuss tools they've learned to treat themselves with kindness when these types of thoughts arise — and how meditation can help. We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at <a href="https://www.balanceapp.com/survey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.balanceapp.com/survey</a>

How to release unwanted thoughts

In continued celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, psychologist Todd Kashdan joins Ofosu and Leah to discuss how the people we surround ourselves with affect our mental health — both positively and negatively. About Todd Kashdan A professor of psychology and the director of the Well-Being Laboratory at George Mason University, Todd is a leading expert on the psychology of well-being, curiosity, mental flexibility, and social relationships. And he's passionate about translating science into practical tips to help improve our everyday lives. Todd's latest book, The Art of Insubordination, is now available through all major retailers.

In continued celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, psychologist Todd Kashdan joins Ofosu and Leah to discuss how the people we surround ourselves with affect our mental health — both positively and negatively. About Todd Kashdan A professor of psychology and the director of the Well-Being Laboratory at George Mason University, Todd is a leading expert on the psychology of well-being, curiosity, mental flexibility, and social relationships. And he's passionate about translating science into practical tips to help improve our everyday lives. Todd's latest book, <a href="https://toddkashdan.com/the-art-of-insubordination/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Art of Insubordination</a>, is now available through all major retailers.

How to build healthy friendships

Learn practical tips for improving your stress, sleep, focus, and mood. Each week, meditation coaches Ofosu and Leah will turn their own everyday successes and obstacles into chances to explore the science behind health and wellness. Along the way, they'll talk to experts and seek appreciation for the natural ups and downs we all experience. (Brought to you by the makers of Balance: Meditation &amp; Sleep, the top-rated meditation app on Apple's App Store. Learn more at www.balanceapp.com.)

Leah really doesn't like it when people call her "nice." She and Ofosu unpack the hidden cost of being agreeable and discuss ways to support their mental health with more honesty and authenticity.And, as you may know, Leah and Ofosu are also the meditation coaches on Balance, a top-rated meditation and sleep app. In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Balance team is giving away two lifetime memberships to the award-winning app. Follow @balance on Instagram for more details, which will be posted on Tuesday, May 3.

Leah really doesn't like it when people call her "nice." She and Ofosu unpack the hidden cost of being agreeable and discuss ways to support their mental health with more honesty and authenticity. And, as you may know, Leah and Ofosu are also the meditation coaches on Balance, a top-rated meditation and sleep app. In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Balance team is giving away two lifetime memberships to the award-winning app. Follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/balance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@balance</a> on Instagram for more details, which will be posted on Tuesday, May 3.

How to stop being nice (and why)

Comedian Justin Silver joins Ofosu and Leah to talk about how telling jokes about his anxiety has helped him manage it and to share some insightful tools the rest of us can use to turn our own anxieties into sources of strength.You can further explore mental wellness with Ofosu and Leah on the Balance app, where they're the meditation coaches. Learn more at www.balanceapp.com, and all new members can enjoy a free first year.About Justin:Justin Silver is a New York City-based stand up comedian, author, and dog expert. He's the former host of CBS' Dogs in the City and founder of the non-profit Funny For Fido, where the country's top comedians perform to raise money for dog shelters. You can check out more of his work by following him on Instagram @iamjustinsilver or on his website iamjustinsilver.com 

Comedian Justin Silver joins Ofosu and Leah to talk about how telling jokes about his anxiety has helped him manage it and to share some insightful tools the rest of us can use to turn our own anxieties into sources of strength. You can further explore mental wellness with Ofosu and Leah on the Balance app, where they're the meditation coaches. Learn more at <a href="http://www.balanceapp.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.balanceapp.com</a>, and all new members can enjoy a free first year. About Justin: Justin Silver is a New York City-based stand up comedian, author, and dog expert. He's the former host of CBS' Dogs in the City and founder of the non-profit Funny For Fido, where the country's top comedians perform to raise money for dog shelters. You can check out more of his work by following him on Instagram <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=instagram+justin+silver&amp;oq=instagram+justin+silver&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j0i22i30l2.3794j0j4&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@iamjustinsilver</a> or on his website <a href="https://www.iamjustinsilver.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iamjustinsilver.com</a>

How to use anxiety as a power

Ofosu reflects on a moment (caught on tape!) where he was able to say goodbye to a protective persona he'd had for a long time. Then, he and Leah discuss the psychology behind these types of alter egos.We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at https://www.balanceapp.com/survey

Ofosu reflects on a moment (caught on tape!) where he was able to say goodbye to a protective persona he'd had for a long time. Then, he and Leah discuss the psychology behind these types of alter egos. We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at <a href="https://www.balanceapp.com/survey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.balanceapp.com/survey</a>

How to use "The Batman Effect”

New research suggests that taking fewer photos can lead to stronger memories. So Ofosu and Leah put it to the test, resisting the urge to take a photo during a moment when they normally would have. Then, they compare notes to see if it really made a difference.You can further explore mental wellness with Ofosu and Leah on the Balance app, where they're the meditation coaches. Learn more at www.balanceapp.com, and all new members can enjoy a free first year.

New research suggests that taking fewer photos can lead to stronger memories. So Ofosu and Leah put it to the test, resisting the urge to take a photo during a moment when they normally would have. Then, they compare notes to see if it really made a difference. You can further explore mental wellness with Ofosu and Leah on the Balance app, where they're the meditation coaches. Learn more at <a href="http://www.balanceapp.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.balanceapp.com</a>, and all new members can enjoy a free first year.

How to capture memories, not photos

Ofosu and Leah chat with former United Nations emergency responder Nadine McNeil about how to stop burnout before it starts, even during high-stress situations.We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at https://www.balanceapp.com/surveyAbout Nadine:While working as an emergency responder for the United Nations, Nadine helped people recover from natural disasters like the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. She now uses those skills as a coach, yoga instructor, storyteller, and humanitarian. You can learn more about her work, and how you can get coached by her, at https://www.universalempress.com/   

Ofosu and Leah chat with former United Nations emergency responder Nadine McNeil about how to stop burnout before it starts, even during high-stress situations. We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at <a href="https://www.balanceapp.com/survey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.balanceapp.com/survey</a> About Nadine: While working as an emergency responder for the United Nations, Nadine helped people recover from natural disasters like the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. She now uses those skills as a coach, yoga instructor, storyteller, and humanitarian. You can learn more about her work, and how you can get coached by her, at <a href="https://www.universalempress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.universalempress.com/</a>

How to prevent burnout

Ofosu and Leah discuss challenges they've encountered in their own meditation journeys and share tips for how to overcome them.We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at https://www.balanceapp.com/survey

Ofosu and Leah discuss challenges they've encountered in their own meditation journeys and share tips for how to overcome them. We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts at <a href="https://www.balanceapp.com/survey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.balanceapp.com/survey</a>

How to handle meditation obstacles

Ofosu and Leah discuss three tips that can help you manage brain fog—that all-too-familiar feeling of confusion, disorganization, or just a general lack of focus.Tell us what other topics you'd like to hear on the show by emailing us at wellbalanced@balanceapp.com

Ofosu and Leah discuss three tips that can help you manage brain fog—that all-too-familiar feeling of confusion, disorganization, or just a general lack of focus. Tell us what other topics you'd like to hear on the show by emailing us at <a href="mailto:wellbalanced@balanceapp.com">wellbalanced@balanceapp.com</a>

How to reduce brain fog

&lt;truncato_root&gt;Ofosu and Leah try a research-backed technique that can help in moments of decision paralysis. By using it to listen to both your mind and body, you can more confidently know when to say "yes.”Tell us what other topics you'd like to hear on the show by emailing us at wellbalanced@balanceapp.com 

&lt;truncato_root&gt;Ofosu and Leah try a research-backed technique that can help in moments of decision paralysis. By using it to listen to both your mind and body, you can more confidently know when to say "yes.”Tell us what other topics you'd like to hear on the show by emailing us at wellbalanced@balanceapp.com

How to say yes with confidence

Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondson joins Ofosu and Leah to discuss why so many of us have perfectionistic tendencies. She explains how giving ourselves permission to fail can actually lead to more success.Tell us what other topics you'd like to hear on the show by emailing us at wellbalanced@balanceapp.com

Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondson joins Ofosu and Leah to discuss why so many of us have perfectionistic tendencies. She explains how giving ourselves permission to fail can actually lead to more success. Tell us what other topics you'd like to hear on the show by emailing us at wellbalanced@balanceapp.com

How to let go of perfectionism

Many of us change parts of who we are to better fit into different spaces, but there's real power in representing your true self. Ofosu and Leah talk with performance psychology coach Faheem Mujahid about how he's learned to embrace that power of representation as a Black man in the mental wellness space.See more of what Faheem is up to on Instagram @faheemamujahid. Or check out his work on his website, seeballthinkball.com. We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts and enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card in our survey at https://www.balanceapp.com/survey

Many of us change parts of who we are to better fit into different spaces, but there's real power in representing your true self. Ofosu and Leah talk with performance psychology coach Faheem Mujahid about how he's learned to embrace that power of representation as a Black man in the mental wellness space. See more of what Faheem is up to on Instagram @faheemamujahid. Or check out his work on his website, <a href="http://seeballthinkball.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">seeballthinkball.com</a>. We want to know what you think of our show! Please share your thoughts and enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card in our survey at <a href="https://www.balanceapp.com/survey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.balanceapp.com/survey</a>

How to embrace who you are

Learn practical tips for improving your stress, sleep, focus, and mood. Each week, meditation coaches Ofosu and Leah will turn their own everyday successes and obstacles into chances to explore the science behind health and wellness. Along the way, they'll talk to experts and seek appreciation for the natural ups and downs we all experience. (Brought to you by the makers of Balance: Meditation &amp; Sleep, the top-rated meditation app on Apple's App Store. Learn more at <a href="http://www.balanceapp.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.balanceapp.com</a>.)

Well Balanced

The best episodes for anyone looking to learn more about topics such as happiness, fulfillment, depression and psychology/mental health in general. With interviews with industry experts, personal stories of individuals, this topic has lessons applicable to everyone. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best Episodes on Mental Health, Emotions & Thoughts

The best podcast episodes of the most interesting stories and things. From skyping someone while they're in space, to tracking down and meeting a telephone scammer in person, to the story of a Galapagos. These episodes will keep you and all your friends entertained and captivated for hours. Learn something new in every episode! Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!