Today, I’m joined by the incredibly insightful Donna Jackson Nakazawa, a science journalist and bestselling author whose work bridges the worlds of neuroscience, storytelling, and personal transformation. Donna has a unique gift for translating complex brain science into real-life strategies—and she’s not afraid to weave in her own powerful journey, from childhood trauma and autoimmune challenges to her fierce quest for hope and healing.Episode Timestamps:Podcast introduction and episode overview ... 00:00:00Chronic stress, childhood adversity, and lifelong health ... 00:07:04Microglia as the link between stress and brain changes ... 00:10:47Protector vs destroyer: microglia’s dual role in the brain ... 00:11:21Neuroplasticity and hope for healing at any age ... 00:15:19Modern stressors and impacts on kids’ brain health ... 00:17:25Safety, rumination, and reshaping the brain’s wiring ... 00:18:22Donna’s personal journey with trauma and autoimmune illness ... 00:38:00How to break rumination: the MIST framework ... 00:47:40The science and power of language on health ... 01:01:00Daily practice tips to disrupt negative thought cycles ... 01:07:26Rethinking longevity: focus on healthspan and connection ... 01:10:03How to preorder the book and connect online ... 01:11:38Podcast outro and disclaimer ... 01:13:02Our Amazing Sponsors:Ultimate GI Repair by LVLUP Health — a research-backed blend of peptides, zinc carnosine, and gut-support compounds designed to strengthen your gut lining, improve digestion, and support resilience from the inside out; head to lvluphealth.com and use code NAT for 20% offMassZymes by BiOptimizers – A full-spectrum digestive enzyme formula with 4x more protease to help break down protein into usable amino acids so your body actually benefits from what you eat—try it risk-free with a 365-day money-back guarantee and save 15% at bioptimizers.com/bionat with code BIONAT.Vita Zero-Age Exosomes by Vitali Skincare — a regenerative “stacking” formula with exosomes, GHK-Cu, niacinamide, and glutathione designed to support your skin at a cellular level rather than just the surface; go to www.vitaliskincare.com/?ref=Nat20 and use code NAT20 for 20% off.Nat's Links:YouTube ChannelJoin My Membership CommunitySign up for My NewsletterInstagramDr. Bill Lawrence Episode