What if you could rewire your brain for resilience and joy?
In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Hilary Russo—one of only 50 certified havening trainers in the world, trauma-informed holistic practitioner, and host of the globally top-rated “Holistically Speaking” podcast. Hilary reveals the neuroscience behind self-healing, the transformative power of gratitude, and how her “Hug It Out” method can help you reclaim your mind’s safe space.
Discover how humor, understanding, and gratitude can become your daily tools for emotional well-being. Hilary’s journey is both deeply personal and universally inspiring—this conversation will change the way you think about healing, self-care, and the stories we tell ourselves.
What You’ll Learn:
- The “Hug It Out” Method: How humor, understanding, and gratitude can transform your emotional landscape.
- Havening Techniques: The science-backed self-soothing practice that rewires your brain for safety and calm.
- Gratitude’s Power: Why two minutes of gratitude each morning can change your entire day.
- Music & Healing: How rhythm and song activate your vagus nerve and regulate emotions.
- Resilience in Adversity: Lessons from trauma, storytelling, and finding joy—even in the hardest moments.
Timestamps:
- 00:00 — Hilary Russo: The Journey to Healing and Resilience
- 02:10 — What Is Havening? The Science of Creating a Safe Mind
- 07:45 — The Hug It Out Method: Humor, Understanding, Gratitude
- 13:20 — Self-Healing vs. Self-Care: Starting with Gratitude
- 17:05 — Music, Rhythm, and Emotional Regulation
- 22:30 — Lessons from War Movies: Finding Strength in Adversity
- 28:15 — The Power of Storytelling: Big Fish, Grief, and Legacy
Guest Links:
- Website: https://hilaryrusso.com
- Podcast: HIListically Speaking (https://hilaryrusso.com/podcast)
- Events & Trainings: https://hilaryrusso.com/events
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/hilaryrusso
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hilaryrusso
- Book (upcoming): “Hug It Out” (details on website)
Junaid Ahmed is a multi-passionate creator, storyteller, and home studio architect who believes your voice can change your world. As the host of Hacks and Hobbies, he dives deep into the journeys of people turning passion into purpose — from garage inventors to global entrepreneurs.
The podcast began as a simple idea: record honest conversations about side projects, creativity, and the hustle behind the scenes. Years later, it’s become a movement — showcasing the real, raw, and inspiring stories of everyday innovators.
Whether he’s building pro-level studios or geeking out over podcast gear, Junaid’s mission is clear: help people show up with confidence, clarity, and character.
🎧 New episodes weekdays. New perspectives in every story.
