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Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day
A groundbreaking guide to master everyday fear and anxiety.
Mary Poffenroth, PhD, is a scientist, professor, and fear expert who has spent her career researching how we can all live more courageously, every day. With anxiety rates tripling and depression rates quadrupling since 2019, Brave New You could not be timelier as it gives readers actionable steps to navigate the underlying cause of our current mental health fear. Not fight-or-flight, but the kind of pervasive, debilitating everyday fears triggered by problems, stresses, and challenging issues we all face in our day-to-day lives.
Along with the author’s personal stories about overcoming her fears, Brave New You combines the latest research in biology and psychology to help readers identify the hidden sources of struggle while teaching them to use neurohacks that will give them all the tools and strategies they need to live a fuller, happier life.
Awards for Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day
-BookFest’s Third Place Award for Nonfiction - Health & Wellness - Mental Health
Mary Poffenroth, PhD, is a scientist, professor, and fear expert who has spent her career researching how we can all live more courageously, every day. With anxiety rates tripling and depression rates quadrupling since 2019, Brave New You could not be timelier as it gives readers actionable steps to navigate the underlying cause of our current mental health fear. Not fight-or-flight, but the kind of pervasive, debilitating everyday fears triggered by problems, stresses, and challenging issues we all face in our day-to-day lives.
Along with the author’s personal stories about overcoming her fears, Brave New You combines the latest research in biology and psychology to help readers identify the hidden sources of struggle while teaching them to use neurohacks that will give them all the tools and strategies they need to live a fuller, happier life.
Awards for Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day
-BookFest’s Third Place Award for Nonfiction - Health & Wellness - Mental Health
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 8, 2024
8 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Mary Poffenroth, Ph.D.
4 books9 followersDr. Mary Poffenroth, a biopsychologist, fear/courage researcher, and first-generation college student, began her career in the astrobiology unit at NASA Ames Moffett Field, supporting payload experiments for STS-107, the 28th flight of Space Shuttle Columbia. Backed by one of the world’s largest publishers, Mary’s first mass-market book, Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day (Hachette, 2024), offers readers an innovative solution for moving past stifling everyday fear and into a life filled with brave choices that result in transformational outcomes. Mary holds a doctorate in psychology and three master's degrees (biology, psychology, and science communication) and has taught nearly 20,000 university students as biology faculty at San Jose State University since 2007. A Salzburg Global Fellow, Mary has spoken at TEDx London, Harvard, and SXSW, INBOUND, and her work has been featured in legacy media outlets such as TIME magazine, Forbes, Science, Entrepreneur, the Wall Street Journal, Cosmopolitan, SUCCESS Magazine, and Fast Company.
Awards for Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day
-BookFest’s Third Place Award for Nonfiction - Health & Wellness - Mental Health
Awards for Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day
-BookFest’s Third Place Award for Nonfiction - Health & Wellness - Mental Health
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 19, 2025
Really impressive! Brilliantly written.
The dedication of this book is so beautiful and inspiring and felt like it was written personally for me.
The first part deals with "Reimagining Fear and Courage". I liked how she describes the types of fear with examples of her personal life and also provides us with neuro hacks to deal with it. Valuable insights about courage and how it helps us overcome anxiety and questions about our lives. What do you value the most?! Really Thought-provoking.
The second part deals with "The Cages of Fear" where the author describes the types of fear, the ones we grow up with, the ones the others put us into and the ones we create for ourselves.
I really liked how the author wrote this book as a mix of her research work and personal anecdotes. How she herself experienced fear and anxiety and how her search on this topic helped her in overcoming these. Her strategies are really worth reading.
The third and the last part provides various techniques and hacks termed as "The Keys to Courage."
I've heard for the first time about these techniques and the best part is they are not preachy, they back backed by science and sound worth adapting in life.
Fav quotes:
"But what if being fearless isn’t actually possible? What if fearless is just a facade?*
*Next time you find
yourself mired in the fear of failure, try to redefine that imagined worst-case scenario as an opportunity or an experiment instead of a hindrance.*
"When overloaded, we’re more likely to accept information that is incorrect, biased, or agenda-driven without considering the reliability
of the source or alternative data.*- I agree with this one, the overwhelming information we are consuming is hindering our growth as the excess of it is causing anxiety issues.
A *worth giving a try* book.
I got a review copy for this book and leaving this review voluntarily.
The dedication of this book is so beautiful and inspiring and felt like it was written personally for me.
The first part deals with "Reimagining Fear and Courage". I liked how she describes the types of fear with examples of her personal life and also provides us with neuro hacks to deal with it. Valuable insights about courage and how it helps us overcome anxiety and questions about our lives. What do you value the most?! Really Thought-provoking.
The second part deals with "The Cages of Fear" where the author describes the types of fear, the ones we grow up with, the ones the others put us into and the ones we create for ourselves.
I really liked how the author wrote this book as a mix of her research work and personal anecdotes. How she herself experienced fear and anxiety and how her search on this topic helped her in overcoming these. Her strategies are really worth reading.
The third and the last part provides various techniques and hacks termed as "The Keys to Courage."
I've heard for the first time about these techniques and the best part is they are not preachy, they back backed by science and sound worth adapting in life.
Fav quotes:
"But what if being fearless isn’t actually possible? What if fearless is just a facade?*
*Next time you find
yourself mired in the fear of failure, try to redefine that imagined worst-case scenario as an opportunity or an experiment instead of a hindrance.*
"When overloaded, we’re more likely to accept information that is incorrect, biased, or agenda-driven without considering the reliability
of the source or alternative data.*- I agree with this one, the overwhelming information we are consuming is hindering our growth as the excess of it is causing anxiety issues.
A *worth giving a try* book.
I got a review copy for this book and leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2025
I will be honest at the start! I am not a fan of self-help books. However, at this juncture of my life, I find myself seeking out help to be more stable and get going in life. In these tough times I came across Brave New You, and this is exactly what I was trying to be, a Brave New Me!
This is such a lucid read, extremely easy to grasp. The book can percolate in your life via many tangible ways. It makes you realize your strength and pitfalls at the same time. This is indeed a guide to build a braver you! It lets you overcome the unnecessary burden you are carrying due to your past. The “neurohacks” are a great way to better your day-to-day interactions and feelings. Being a scientist myself, I loved how the book has papers referenced with. I would recommend everyone to pick this up and give it a read!
This is such a lucid read, extremely easy to grasp. The book can percolate in your life via many tangible ways. It makes you realize your strength and pitfalls at the same time. This is indeed a guide to build a braver you! It lets you overcome the unnecessary burden you are carrying due to your past. The “neurohacks” are a great way to better your day-to-day interactions and feelings. Being a scientist myself, I loved how the book has papers referenced with. I would recommend everyone to pick this up and give it a read!
August 28, 2024
I recently read an advanced reader copy of this book, and I was impressed by how well the author combines personal stories with solid research on fear and anxiety. The strategies and neurohacks she shares are clearly thought out and could be really helpful for someone looking to live more courageously. While I haven’t personally dealt with significant anxiety, I can see the value in the tools and techniques presented. It’s a timely and insightful book that I’d recommend to anyone interested in understanding and managing everyday fears.
July 21, 2025
My thanks to author Mary Poffenroth for a review copy of this book and additional materials via BookTasters.
Fear is a natural emotion that all of us experience in a variety of situations and for a variety of reasons, one that can serve as a warning or assist us in other ways, yet it is an emotion that is not only seen as undesirable but also associated with shame and disgrace, mostly as a consequence of social perceptions and prescriptions. Mary Poffenroth’s Brave New You (2024) sets out to bust these myths about fear, enable the reader to understand and recognize it, and to use it as an ally to discover oneself, grow, and live a richer and more fulfilling life.
Fear can be of numerous kinds, biological, cultural, personal—some factual but also some fictional, which exist in our minds rather than the physical world. While all of these may in their own ways be valid, rather than being at their mercy, the book encourages us to be aware of and embrace them, working with them to improve our lives. In this journey, courage is of essence but it too, as the book demonstrates, isn’t necessarily something we are born with and is certainly not inherent. It can be learned, practiced and cultivated. Like fear, courage also has different facets, relating to physical, moral, social, and cultural, among other aspects. Sometimes, physical courage proves the easiest to come by while standing by one’s convictions or against social norms may prove far harder.
Comprising eleven chapters arranged in three parts, the first section of the book focuses on myth busting, making readers aware of the role and forms of fear and courage, the social perceptions (or misperceptions) prevalent about them, and the neurological bases for these systems. In this process we need to identify our core values and learn to recognize the kind of relationships we form (or don’t) which may be indicative of underlying insecurities, addressing which also enhances our levels of courage. The second section explores the cages around us, which lead us to experience fear: our biological wiring/system; society; and ourselves. While some parts of our brain like the Amygdala keep record of past fears and triggers off fear responses, society in the form of popular perceptions, fearmongering (in the media and social media though comparison), and information overload among others too can set off or enhance fear in us. Our own minds likewise can get caught in a variety of traps (some of which all of us would have experienced in one or other form)—automatic negative thinking in response to triggers, catastrophizing, blaming others or ourself, or the pursuit of perfectionism, among others. The final section sets out some tools or paths that help to create/build courage and open the way to improving our lives and bringing dreams/hopes to fruition. These include the RAIN method proposed by the author which takes us through steps from recognizing to navigating our fears, biological hacks/methods from massage to sound and float therapies, and psychological methods including developing connections and strong relationships and engaging in play and practices like gratitude. The final chapter explores the possibilities opened up if people choose to live courageously, both at a personal level and for broader society also proposing certain ‘pillars’ to live by including embracing one’s vulnerabilities and showing self-compassion.
The author goes into the science of these aspects in some detail, explaining the functions of the different parts of the nervous system and hormones, but she also includes is also a short recapitulating chart of these in the next chapter (chapter 5) which would especially benefit those who may not be up to reading all the details. In understanding, recognizing and identifying our fears, we are encouraged to be specific rather than general with helpful charts and wheels which can enable us to name our experiences more appropriately. Throughout the book, there are also interspersed small exercises and nerve hacks—including tapping and massages, as well as journalling suggestions which can provide immediate relief in an intense or panic-inducing situation. The author has used experiences and stories from her own life with which readers can connect at a more real level and which also help one see how these hacks and methods can be applied in practice. Facing/Navigating one’s fears and building courage is by no means an easy process and isn’t one where one necessarily ever reaches an optimal stage—rather it is a continual one where each new experience and each new attempt will play a role in that direction and in one’s growth.
Reading the book proved helpful on many levels, from awareness to understanding. For instance, while I might have known generally that courage can be of various kinds and even named them, reading the author’s classification and examples helped clarify what each kind entailed and where perhaps I needed to work on myself (including trying to choose the least familiar way). Likewise while I knew in general what values are relevant to me, the author’s questions and lists to help one make this identification enabled more streamlining and precise identification (though narrowing down may be was not an easy exercise involving comparing and weighting against). The discussion on attachment styles helped pinpoint what I needed to work on. I could draw some reassurance from learning the fact that primates have an engrained fear of snakes: which means it isn’t just me (yay) but doesn’t mean that I don’t need to work on it (still trying).
The variety of methods and hacks proposed in the book means that there will be something that appeals to and may work for everyone, perhaps depending also on one’s needs but also nature and interests (from art, to music, to journalling, and sport—including more challenging ones like scuba diving and mountaineering). For instance, the idea of forest bathing or Shinrin Yoku has appealed to me ever since I came across it and would be one I would also consider turning to for stress relief besides other benefits. Likewise, a more conscious understanding of the role of gratitude practice in this context definitely encouraged me to be more regular with my own.
Each of us, especially given the way current-day life is and its demands and pressures, experiences fear, stress, or anxiety in some form or other and to some extent or other. Brave New You helps recognize and understand these better from causes to the forms these may manifest in (for instance, one aspect which I felt was simply my nature/character trait, seemed to turn out to be anxiety-linked as well) as well as to take active steps to address it and start living a better life. A book that I certainly think can benefit each of us in one way or other!
Fear is a natural emotion that all of us experience in a variety of situations and for a variety of reasons, one that can serve as a warning or assist us in other ways, yet it is an emotion that is not only seen as undesirable but also associated with shame and disgrace, mostly as a consequence of social perceptions and prescriptions. Mary Poffenroth’s Brave New You (2024) sets out to bust these myths about fear, enable the reader to understand and recognize it, and to use it as an ally to discover oneself, grow, and live a richer and more fulfilling life.
Fear can be of numerous kinds, biological, cultural, personal—some factual but also some fictional, which exist in our minds rather than the physical world. While all of these may in their own ways be valid, rather than being at their mercy, the book encourages us to be aware of and embrace them, working with them to improve our lives. In this journey, courage is of essence but it too, as the book demonstrates, isn’t necessarily something we are born with and is certainly not inherent. It can be learned, practiced and cultivated. Like fear, courage also has different facets, relating to physical, moral, social, and cultural, among other aspects. Sometimes, physical courage proves the easiest to come by while standing by one’s convictions or against social norms may prove far harder.
Comprising eleven chapters arranged in three parts, the first section of the book focuses on myth busting, making readers aware of the role and forms of fear and courage, the social perceptions (or misperceptions) prevalent about them, and the neurological bases for these systems. In this process we need to identify our core values and learn to recognize the kind of relationships we form (or don’t) which may be indicative of underlying insecurities, addressing which also enhances our levels of courage. The second section explores the cages around us, which lead us to experience fear: our biological wiring/system; society; and ourselves. While some parts of our brain like the Amygdala keep record of past fears and triggers off fear responses, society in the form of popular perceptions, fearmongering (in the media and social media though comparison), and information overload among others too can set off or enhance fear in us. Our own minds likewise can get caught in a variety of traps (some of which all of us would have experienced in one or other form)—automatic negative thinking in response to triggers, catastrophizing, blaming others or ourself, or the pursuit of perfectionism, among others. The final section sets out some tools or paths that help to create/build courage and open the way to improving our lives and bringing dreams/hopes to fruition. These include the RAIN method proposed by the author which takes us through steps from recognizing to navigating our fears, biological hacks/methods from massage to sound and float therapies, and psychological methods including developing connections and strong relationships and engaging in play and practices like gratitude. The final chapter explores the possibilities opened up if people choose to live courageously, both at a personal level and for broader society also proposing certain ‘pillars’ to live by including embracing one’s vulnerabilities and showing self-compassion.
The author goes into the science of these aspects in some detail, explaining the functions of the different parts of the nervous system and hormones, but she also includes is also a short recapitulating chart of these in the next chapter (chapter 5) which would especially benefit those who may not be up to reading all the details. In understanding, recognizing and identifying our fears, we are encouraged to be specific rather than general with helpful charts and wheels which can enable us to name our experiences more appropriately. Throughout the book, there are also interspersed small exercises and nerve hacks—including tapping and massages, as well as journalling suggestions which can provide immediate relief in an intense or panic-inducing situation. The author has used experiences and stories from her own life with which readers can connect at a more real level and which also help one see how these hacks and methods can be applied in practice. Facing/Navigating one’s fears and building courage is by no means an easy process and isn’t one where one necessarily ever reaches an optimal stage—rather it is a continual one where each new experience and each new attempt will play a role in that direction and in one’s growth.
Reading the book proved helpful on many levels, from awareness to understanding. For instance, while I might have known generally that courage can be of various kinds and even named them, reading the author’s classification and examples helped clarify what each kind entailed and where perhaps I needed to work on myself (including trying to choose the least familiar way). Likewise while I knew in general what values are relevant to me, the author’s questions and lists to help one make this identification enabled more streamlining and precise identification (though narrowing down may be was not an easy exercise involving comparing and weighting against). The discussion on attachment styles helped pinpoint what I needed to work on. I could draw some reassurance from learning the fact that primates have an engrained fear of snakes: which means it isn’t just me (yay) but doesn’t mean that I don’t need to work on it (still trying).
The variety of methods and hacks proposed in the book means that there will be something that appeals to and may work for everyone, perhaps depending also on one’s needs but also nature and interests (from art, to music, to journalling, and sport—including more challenging ones like scuba diving and mountaineering). For instance, the idea of forest bathing or Shinrin Yoku has appealed to me ever since I came across it and would be one I would also consider turning to for stress relief besides other benefits. Likewise, a more conscious understanding of the role of gratitude practice in this context definitely encouraged me to be more regular with my own.
Each of us, especially given the way current-day life is and its demands and pressures, experiences fear, stress, or anxiety in some form or other and to some extent or other. Brave New You helps recognize and understand these better from causes to the forms these may manifest in (for instance, one aspect which I felt was simply my nature/character trait, seemed to turn out to be anxiety-linked as well) as well as to take active steps to address it and start living a better life. A book that I certainly think can benefit each of us in one way or other!
October 7, 2024
Brave New You is a very educational and interesting read about a very relevant topic that concerns everyone: Fear and Anxiety.
This book does a wonderful job in explaining why our brains react a certain way to fear, touching a lot of topics, some of them more technical, but it’s written in such a way that it’s very easy to understand even if you don’t have previous knowledge about the subject.
The stories the Author shares make this book feel very personal and entertaining, enabling us to Connect even more to the book.
The Tips or “Neurohacks” shared are very helpful and easy to follow and apply in our Daily lives.
It is certainly a book everyone should read! I loved it!
This book does a wonderful job in explaining why our brains react a certain way to fear, touching a lot of topics, some of them more technical, but it’s written in such a way that it’s very easy to understand even if you don’t have previous knowledge about the subject.
The stories the Author shares make this book feel very personal and entertaining, enabling us to Connect even more to the book.
The Tips or “Neurohacks” shared are very helpful and easy to follow and apply in our Daily lives.
It is certainly a book everyone should read! I loved it!
October 9, 2024
An Exceptional Read!
“Brave New You” is an exceptional guidebook on how to overcome anxiety and fear in everyday life. The author has a refreshing take on the concept of both fear and fearlessness. She describes it as “reimagining fear and courage.” We as a society have been taught to see fear as a negative emotion; something to escape from or hide from other people. We don’t discuss it enough, and often feel like we’re the only ones struggling with fear and anxiety. Not so!
The author stresses that fear doesn’t have to be seen as a bad thing; in fact, there are some positive aspects to it. It helps lead you towards finding out your inner strengths and potential, and come up with new solutions and discoveries in life. It also literally is for survival, as our bodies all have a built-in “fight-or-flight” reflex.
The author also describes her own personal struggles with anxiety and fear, and how she used her love of science and research to figure out how to overcome it. She discovered the 3 main sources of fear (biological, cultural, and personal) and how they develop in our lives. She later found “neurohacks” (physical and psychological shortcuts that will boost memory, focus, and creativity) that help you rewire the way that you think. It helps reduce stress, increase creativity and motivation, and helps you learn more quickly and effectively. An example is the technique she describes of using your five senses to overcome a panic attack.
It’s all about changing your body’s reaction to stress and fear, and learning not to get rid of fear but rather accept it, manage it, and use it to your advantage.
This is an excellent straightforward guidebook that we can all relate to. We learn what types of fear-based thoughts are rational and fact-based, and what are irrational. The author also stresses the importance of building up your self-esteem, finding your strength within, and not to seek acceptance or reassurance from other people. Create boundaries with others and express your feelings and needs honestly. This all takes strength and courage, which we all have inside of us.
If you’re looking for a helpful guide in overcoming fear and anxiety, I highly recommend reading this book. I’ve dealt with debilitating fear and anxiety for many years myself, so I know what works and doesn’t work for me. These are all great strategies, and I’ve learned even more helpful tips throughout this book. I believe it can help you as well.
“Brave New You” is an exceptional guidebook on how to overcome anxiety and fear in everyday life. The author has a refreshing take on the concept of both fear and fearlessness. She describes it as “reimagining fear and courage.” We as a society have been taught to see fear as a negative emotion; something to escape from or hide from other people. We don’t discuss it enough, and often feel like we’re the only ones struggling with fear and anxiety. Not so!
The author stresses that fear doesn’t have to be seen as a bad thing; in fact, there are some positive aspects to it. It helps lead you towards finding out your inner strengths and potential, and come up with new solutions and discoveries in life. It also literally is for survival, as our bodies all have a built-in “fight-or-flight” reflex.
The author also describes her own personal struggles with anxiety and fear, and how she used her love of science and research to figure out how to overcome it. She discovered the 3 main sources of fear (biological, cultural, and personal) and how they develop in our lives. She later found “neurohacks” (physical and psychological shortcuts that will boost memory, focus, and creativity) that help you rewire the way that you think. It helps reduce stress, increase creativity and motivation, and helps you learn more quickly and effectively. An example is the technique she describes of using your five senses to overcome a panic attack.
It’s all about changing your body’s reaction to stress and fear, and learning not to get rid of fear but rather accept it, manage it, and use it to your advantage.
This is an excellent straightforward guidebook that we can all relate to. We learn what types of fear-based thoughts are rational and fact-based, and what are irrational. The author also stresses the importance of building up your self-esteem, finding your strength within, and not to seek acceptance or reassurance from other people. Create boundaries with others and express your feelings and needs honestly. This all takes strength and courage, which we all have inside of us.
If you’re looking for a helpful guide in overcoming fear and anxiety, I highly recommend reading this book. I’ve dealt with debilitating fear and anxiety for many years myself, so I know what works and doesn’t work for me. These are all great strategies, and I’ve learned even more helpful tips throughout this book. I believe it can help you as well.
February 15, 2025
"Brave New You' by Mary Poffenroth, Ph.D., is an inspirational memoir and guidebook on how to help overcome anxiety.
This book is an exceptional read for anyone wanting to learn more about anxiety and how to try and have a happier and healthier life. I found this book to very educational and feel it would be a great read for anyone studying any field of therapy too.
The author shares many personal stories, with vulnerability, demonstrating how we are all at some point scared of something and how we can overcome our fears. Mary describes fears as a good thing, as it is embedded into our DNA for survivability, when we display a 'fight-or-flight' mode. I loved how Mary showed humour, even when she was faced with threatening situations, and think that anyone can relate to the events shared. Mary shares heartbreaking experiences, such as the death of her mother and how life sometimes can throw us into a state of anxiety, when we have to make difficult choices.
This insightful book is brilliantly presented with scientific theories, blended with personal accounts and applications for use, creating an engaging and empathetic connection with the reader. It is full of interesting and enlightening passages, which will have you highlighting quotes to inspire you 'fear isn't a roadblock, it's a stepping stone to an extraordinary life.'
This book has wonderful and easy exercises to practice, to help with coping mechanisms when experiencing anxiety and also, to discover more about yourself, 'by embracing it, questioning it, and working to understand it.' This book is brimming with neurohacks to instill new habits and behaviours, to have a healthier and happier mindset. I really enjoyed all the exercises throughout this book and will continue practicing them, as they helped me become calmer.
I especially loved, how in one example, with the neurohack of journaling and writing, we can transform an ugly moment that occurred to us, into a beautiful fairytale, and at the same time, heal wounds, which often lead us onto crippling anxiety. (I think the author should also write children's books, as the fairytale story was spot on!)
Highly recommend this book to everyone, as we all suffer with anxiety, even though we at times deny it. This guidebook is a fantastic tool which will help you reflect and add practicable neurohacks, to help with anxiety.
"When you change yourself, you change the world."
This book is an exceptional read for anyone wanting to learn more about anxiety and how to try and have a happier and healthier life. I found this book to very educational and feel it would be a great read for anyone studying any field of therapy too.
The author shares many personal stories, with vulnerability, demonstrating how we are all at some point scared of something and how we can overcome our fears. Mary describes fears as a good thing, as it is embedded into our DNA for survivability, when we display a 'fight-or-flight' mode. I loved how Mary showed humour, even when she was faced with threatening situations, and think that anyone can relate to the events shared. Mary shares heartbreaking experiences, such as the death of her mother and how life sometimes can throw us into a state of anxiety, when we have to make difficult choices.
This insightful book is brilliantly presented with scientific theories, blended with personal accounts and applications for use, creating an engaging and empathetic connection with the reader. It is full of interesting and enlightening passages, which will have you highlighting quotes to inspire you 'fear isn't a roadblock, it's a stepping stone to an extraordinary life.'
This book has wonderful and easy exercises to practice, to help with coping mechanisms when experiencing anxiety and also, to discover more about yourself, 'by embracing it, questioning it, and working to understand it.' This book is brimming with neurohacks to instill new habits and behaviours, to have a healthier and happier mindset. I really enjoyed all the exercises throughout this book and will continue practicing them, as they helped me become calmer.
I especially loved, how in one example, with the neurohack of journaling and writing, we can transform an ugly moment that occurred to us, into a beautiful fairytale, and at the same time, heal wounds, which often lead us onto crippling anxiety. (I think the author should also write children's books, as the fairytale story was spot on!)
Highly recommend this book to everyone, as we all suffer with anxiety, even though we at times deny it. This guidebook is a fantastic tool which will help you reflect and add practicable neurohacks, to help with anxiety.
"When you change yourself, you change the world."
October 10, 2025
An Empowering and Insightful Guide to Living with Courage...
Brave New You is a very refreshing and empowering book on the topics of fear and courage. Dr Mary Poffenroth brings both the rigour of a scientist and the empathy of someone who has lived the struggle of managing fear every day. I personally felt that this was more than just another self-help book; it is like a compassionate companion for anyone who has ever felt held back by worry, self-doubt, or the need to play it safe.
What I really liked the most was how relatable and human it felt. Mary does not write from an ivory tower; she shares her own vulnerabilities, stories of fear, loss, and growth, and turns them into powerful lessons. Her storytelling is vivid and personal, yet deeply grounded in neuroscience and psychology. The idea that fear can be our ally, not our enemy, is handled beautifully and supported by practical tools and the term she calls “neurohacks” that genuinely make sense in everyday life.
The book is structured around awareness, knowledge, and wisdom, each stage giving the reader a deeper understanding of how to work with fear rather than against it. I found the Courage Quests and Bravery Breaks particularly helpful: small, actionable exercises that make courage a habit rather than a lofty ideal.
My biggest takeaways were:
Fear is not weakness; it is data that helps us navigate life.
Courage is not the absence of fear; it is the practice of moving forward despite it.
Our brains can be rewired towards bravery through small, consistent actions.
Vulnerability and authenticity are not opposites of strength; they are strength.
Reading Brave New You felt like a conversation with a wise, encouraging mentor who wants you to live fully, not fearlessly. It blends science, story, and sincerity in a way that few books manage. I finished it feeling not only informed but genuinely uplifted, and far more compassionate towards my own fears.
Therefore, I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in personal growth, psychology, or leadership, or simply anyone ready to live a little more courageously every day.
Brave New You is a very refreshing and empowering book on the topics of fear and courage. Dr Mary Poffenroth brings both the rigour of a scientist and the empathy of someone who has lived the struggle of managing fear every day. I personally felt that this was more than just another self-help book; it is like a compassionate companion for anyone who has ever felt held back by worry, self-doubt, or the need to play it safe.
What I really liked the most was how relatable and human it felt. Mary does not write from an ivory tower; she shares her own vulnerabilities, stories of fear, loss, and growth, and turns them into powerful lessons. Her storytelling is vivid and personal, yet deeply grounded in neuroscience and psychology. The idea that fear can be our ally, not our enemy, is handled beautifully and supported by practical tools and the term she calls “neurohacks” that genuinely make sense in everyday life.
The book is structured around awareness, knowledge, and wisdom, each stage giving the reader a deeper understanding of how to work with fear rather than against it. I found the Courage Quests and Bravery Breaks particularly helpful: small, actionable exercises that make courage a habit rather than a lofty ideal.
My biggest takeaways were:
Fear is not weakness; it is data that helps us navigate life.
Courage is not the absence of fear; it is the practice of moving forward despite it.
Our brains can be rewired towards bravery through small, consistent actions.
Vulnerability and authenticity are not opposites of strength; they are strength.
Reading Brave New You felt like a conversation with a wise, encouraging mentor who wants you to live fully, not fearlessly. It blends science, story, and sincerity in a way that few books manage. I finished it feeling not only informed but genuinely uplifted, and far more compassionate towards my own fears.
Therefore, I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in personal growth, psychology, or leadership, or simply anyone ready to live a little more courageously every day.
November 15, 2024
Practical tips on mastering fear written with authority.
Doctor Mary Poffenroth writes this book with clarity and authority. Her doctorate is in psychology and she makes no claim to being a medical doctor, yet this text is packed with practical, quickly implementable tips and strategies to embrace fear and use it to improve yourself, outlook and relationships.
Her authority comes not just from the clear exposition of the underlying science of fear and courage, but because she has lived it and used what she describes herself. It is searingly honest, which is why I have given five stars to my copy which lacks the promised index and has page 000 placeholders as references within the text and some sections incomplete. Mary is such a perfectionist that she and her team, to whom she gives generous credit will rectify these in the copy you will have.
It is set out logically to explain the utility of fear and how you can become trapped into a chronic fear state. Harmful physical and psychological effects result. Recognising these and wanting to take action despite the fear (not freezing or running away) is the crux of her method for RAINing on fear's parade. The ways we trap ourselves into a fear mindset are discussed in detail and alongside you are given ways of changing the cycle or breaking out of the cage.
The third section is also a smorgasbord of techniques and strategies of how to make fear a friendly stimulus instead of a dreaded dead-end. Courage challenges and Bravery boosts are peppered throughout in appropriate parts of the text. Each chapter has an appropriate quotation to open it and the references are given at the end in chapter sections as befits the science background. The bravery boosts are "neurohacks" which can swiftly alter your psycho-physical state for the better. The lessons here are applicable to all stages of life, but my opinion is they will do most good for students so they have a positive start to life.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Doctor Mary Poffenroth writes this book with clarity and authority. Her doctorate is in psychology and she makes no claim to being a medical doctor, yet this text is packed with practical, quickly implementable tips and strategies to embrace fear and use it to improve yourself, outlook and relationships.
Her authority comes not just from the clear exposition of the underlying science of fear and courage, but because she has lived it and used what she describes herself. It is searingly honest, which is why I have given five stars to my copy which lacks the promised index and has page 000 placeholders as references within the text and some sections incomplete. Mary is such a perfectionist that she and her team, to whom she gives generous credit will rectify these in the copy you will have.
It is set out logically to explain the utility of fear and how you can become trapped into a chronic fear state. Harmful physical and psychological effects result. Recognising these and wanting to take action despite the fear (not freezing or running away) is the crux of her method for RAINing on fear's parade. The ways we trap ourselves into a fear mindset are discussed in detail and alongside you are given ways of changing the cycle or breaking out of the cage.
The third section is also a smorgasbord of techniques and strategies of how to make fear a friendly stimulus instead of a dreaded dead-end. Courage challenges and Bravery boosts are peppered throughout in appropriate parts of the text. Each chapter has an appropriate quotation to open it and the references are given at the end in chapter sections as befits the science background. The bravery boosts are "neurohacks" which can swiftly alter your psycho-physical state for the better. The lessons here are applicable to all stages of life, but my opinion is they will do most good for students so they have a positive start to life.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2025
Fear is that uninvited guest that shows up at the worst times—before big presentations, during difficult conversations, and sometimes, for no reason at all. Dr. Mary takes fear by the hand and showed that, actually, it’s not here to ruin our lives. Instead of being something to fight against, fear can be understood, managed, and even turned into an advantage.
This book is part science, part self-help, and part pep talk from a very smart friend. Sheblends personal stories with research in biology and psychology, breaking down fear from an evolutionary standpoint. It turns out our brains are wired to keep us safe, but sometimes they go into overdrive, making us afraid of things that aren’t actual threats. The good news? She offers plenty of "neurohacks" to help recalibrate that system and navigate fear more effectively.
One of the most refreshing aspects of this book is how it reframes courage. It’s not about being fearless (which, biologically, isn’t even possible), but about learning to act despite fear. Poffenroth argues that courage isn’t a fixed trait but a skill you can build, like learning a language or training a muscle. She shares small, actionable exercises—called Courage Quests and Bravery Breaks—that help you practice bravery in everyday life. Whether it’s through strategic breathing techniques, shifting thought patterns, or understanding how the amygdala (the brain’s fear center) operates, she makes fear feel less like an enemy and more like an old friend who just needs some boundaries.
What makes this book work is how approachable it is. Poffenroth isn’t some fearless guru pretending she has it all figured out. She shares her own struggles, making the advice feel human and relatable. The writing is engaging, balancing science with humor and warmth. Even when she’s explaining complex neurological processes, it never feels like a textbook—more like a conversation with someone who genuinely wants to help.
This book is part science, part self-help, and part pep talk from a very smart friend. Sheblends personal stories with research in biology and psychology, breaking down fear from an evolutionary standpoint. It turns out our brains are wired to keep us safe, but sometimes they go into overdrive, making us afraid of things that aren’t actual threats. The good news? She offers plenty of "neurohacks" to help recalibrate that system and navigate fear more effectively.
One of the most refreshing aspects of this book is how it reframes courage. It’s not about being fearless (which, biologically, isn’t even possible), but about learning to act despite fear. Poffenroth argues that courage isn’t a fixed trait but a skill you can build, like learning a language or training a muscle. She shares small, actionable exercises—called Courage Quests and Bravery Breaks—that help you practice bravery in everyday life. Whether it’s through strategic breathing techniques, shifting thought patterns, or understanding how the amygdala (the brain’s fear center) operates, she makes fear feel less like an enemy and more like an old friend who just needs some boundaries.
What makes this book work is how approachable it is. Poffenroth isn’t some fearless guru pretending she has it all figured out. She shares her own struggles, making the advice feel human and relatable. The writing is engaging, balancing science with humor and warmth. Even when she’s explaining complex neurological processes, it never feels like a textbook—more like a conversation with someone who genuinely wants to help.
March 11, 2025
Reading "Brave New You" by Dr. Mary Poffenroth completely changed how I view fear. Instead of seeing it as something to avoid, I learned how to use it as a tool for growth. As a biopsychologist, Poffenroth dives deep into the science behind fear, explaining how it affects our minds and bodies. She introduces “neurohacks”—practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety—helping me realize that fear isn’t the enemy; it’s actually a key to unlocking creativity and motivation. Her mix of research and personal experiences made the book engaging, and I found myself rethinking my relationship with fear in ways I never had before.
One of the most powerful parts of the book was her distinction between factual fears (real dangers) and fictional fears (self-doubt and worry). She shares a gripping story about a bear encounter at Mount Whitney, which perfectly illustrates how fear can be both necessary and overwhelming. Her message is clear: we can’t eliminate fear, but we *can* reshape how we respond to it. Through interactive courage-building exercises, I felt encouraged to step out of my comfort zone, question my own fears, and take action rather than letting anxiety hold me back.
This book resonated with me because fear has shaped so many of my decisions, often keeping me from taking risks. Poffenroth highlights how fears of failure, rejection, and uncertainty can limit personal growth, but she also shows that courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about acting despite fear. She explores different types of courage—emotional, intellectual, and social—and provides practical ways to develop a braver mindset. By the end, I felt empowered to face challenges with a new perspective. "Brave New You" isn’t just a book; it’s a guide to breaking free from fear’s grip and stepping into a more fulfilling life.
One of the most powerful parts of the book was her distinction between factual fears (real dangers) and fictional fears (self-doubt and worry). She shares a gripping story about a bear encounter at Mount Whitney, which perfectly illustrates how fear can be both necessary and overwhelming. Her message is clear: we can’t eliminate fear, but we *can* reshape how we respond to it. Through interactive courage-building exercises, I felt encouraged to step out of my comfort zone, question my own fears, and take action rather than letting anxiety hold me back.
This book resonated with me because fear has shaped so many of my decisions, often keeping me from taking risks. Poffenroth highlights how fears of failure, rejection, and uncertainty can limit personal growth, but she also shows that courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about acting despite fear. She explores different types of courage—emotional, intellectual, and social—and provides practical ways to develop a braver mindset. By the end, I felt empowered to face challenges with a new perspective. "Brave New You" isn’t just a book; it’s a guide to breaking free from fear’s grip and stepping into a more fulfilling life.
September 25, 2024
Fear is not a weakness. There are no fearless people. Fearlessness is a myth. Unfortunately, we are taught that fear IS, in fact, a sign of weakness, but fear is actually our ally, because it alerts us to danger and motivates us to take action. Finally, mastering ordinary fear is the key to unlocking success and happiness. These are the principal lessons taught by Mary Poffenroth in her book, Brave New You.
This book instructs about the parts of the brain that stimulate the fear response. It suggests that a good starting point in dealing with fear is defining your core values, because doing so will provide you clarity and confidence. It also suggests that you examine your style of attachment t others, because this can tell you a lot about yourself.
When dealing with fear:
There exist three "tiers" of fear - biological (fear generated by genuine danger felt by all) cultural (those things society suggests that we need to be afraid of) and personal (those fears that we generate ourselves, such as loneliness, failure, rejection, uncertainty and abandonment). Ms. Poffenroth presents methods by which we deal with each. She created an acronym - RAIN - meaning Recognize the fear, Assign it, Identify why it is occurring, and Navigate it. She provides numerous "neurohacks", or "bravery breaks" which include face tapping, connecting senses, and using specific aromas, all of which serve to suppress stress.
This book is a unique look into the aspects of fear and the development of courage to confront it, and, to this rank amateur on the subject of psychology, it makes a lot of sense.
This book instructs about the parts of the brain that stimulate the fear response. It suggests that a good starting point in dealing with fear is defining your core values, because doing so will provide you clarity and confidence. It also suggests that you examine your style of attachment t others, because this can tell you a lot about yourself.
When dealing with fear:
There exist three "tiers" of fear - biological (fear generated by genuine danger felt by all) cultural (those things society suggests that we need to be afraid of) and personal (those fears that we generate ourselves, such as loneliness, failure, rejection, uncertainty and abandonment). Ms. Poffenroth presents methods by which we deal with each. She created an acronym - RAIN - meaning Recognize the fear, Assign it, Identify why it is occurring, and Navigate it. She provides numerous "neurohacks", or "bravery breaks" which include face tapping, connecting senses, and using specific aromas, all of which serve to suppress stress.
This book is a unique look into the aspects of fear and the development of courage to confront it, and, to this rank amateur on the subject of psychology, it makes a lot of sense.
February 24, 2025
Mary Poffenroth's "Brave New You Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day" isn't about eliminating fear, but transforming our relationship with it. Fear, far from being a debilitating force, is an inherent part of our survival mechanism, woven into our very DNA.
Poffenroth breaks down the complex nature of fear into three easily digestible categories: biological, cultural, and personal. This framework allows readers to understand the multifaceted origins of their anxieties, moving beyond simple surface-level explanations.
What truly sets "Brave New You Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day" apart is its emphasis on practicality. Poffenroth doesn't just theorise about fear; she provides concrete, quickly implementable tools and strategies to navigate and leverage it. The book is filled with wonderful and easy-to-practice exercises designed to build effective coping mechanisms for anxiety. These aren't abstract concepts, but tangible actions readers can take to reclaim control.
For those struggling with anxiety and fear, it offers a lifeline. It provides a compassionate and empowering approach to understanding the roots of fear and developing the skills to manage it effectively.
It's a perfect guidebook for anyone who wants to live courageously and fearlessly, not by eliminating fear, but by harnessing its power. Poffenroth's work has given me new tools to try, and I believe it will do the same for countless others. If you're looking for a practical, insightful, and relatable guide to understanding and transforming your relationship with fear, this book is an essential read.
Poffenroth breaks down the complex nature of fear into three easily digestible categories: biological, cultural, and personal. This framework allows readers to understand the multifaceted origins of their anxieties, moving beyond simple surface-level explanations.
What truly sets "Brave New You Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day" apart is its emphasis on practicality. Poffenroth doesn't just theorise about fear; she provides concrete, quickly implementable tools and strategies to navigate and leverage it. The book is filled with wonderful and easy-to-practice exercises designed to build effective coping mechanisms for anxiety. These aren't abstract concepts, but tangible actions readers can take to reclaim control.
For those struggling with anxiety and fear, it offers a lifeline. It provides a compassionate and empowering approach to understanding the roots of fear and developing the skills to manage it effectively.
It's a perfect guidebook for anyone who wants to live courageously and fearlessly, not by eliminating fear, but by harnessing its power. Poffenroth's work has given me new tools to try, and I believe it will do the same for countless others. If you're looking for a practical, insightful, and relatable guide to understanding and transforming your relationship with fear, this book is an essential read.
July 13, 2025
Several things stand out after reading "Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day", by Dr. Mary Poffenroth:
- We all experience Fear in our lives
- We all can turn Fear into Courage
- Fear is all around us and, yes, the media and companies use it to sell us their products
What the author does in the eleven chapters that make up her book is explain to us how to turn that primal Fear that often plagues us in our lives, hindering us from achieving our goals, and often preventing us from living a full life, into Courage, into a call to action to shake us from that state of inertia, turning things around and, thus, domineering our Fear.
Delving into her own life story, Dr. Poffenroth shows us a way and some tricks to go beyond our initial primal response to flee when subjected to Fear and any of its manifestations, recognizing the sensation, and then pushing on. As the habit develops, our self-assuredness and confidence grow.
Fear is the result of a serious of impulses sent by the brain to our body and, simply put, we can all learn to control them, so we don't get overwhelmed by any situation and, instead, we respond appropriately.
I found the book entertaining, filled with interesting concepts. It reminded me of Anatomy and Biology classes from my past and, when reliving the concepts and how our brain works, how it all comes together filled me again with awe at the perfection of our nervous system, a silent guardian that keeps us alive.
Feeling Fear in our lives is completely normal; it is with books like this one that we can find ways to overcome it. For that, thank you, Dr. Poffenroth.
- We all experience Fear in our lives
- We all can turn Fear into Courage
- Fear is all around us and, yes, the media and companies use it to sell us their products
What the author does in the eleven chapters that make up her book is explain to us how to turn that primal Fear that often plagues us in our lives, hindering us from achieving our goals, and often preventing us from living a full life, into Courage, into a call to action to shake us from that state of inertia, turning things around and, thus, domineering our Fear.
Delving into her own life story, Dr. Poffenroth shows us a way and some tricks to go beyond our initial primal response to flee when subjected to Fear and any of its manifestations, recognizing the sensation, and then pushing on. As the habit develops, our self-assuredness and confidence grow.
Fear is the result of a serious of impulses sent by the brain to our body and, simply put, we can all learn to control them, so we don't get overwhelmed by any situation and, instead, we respond appropriately.
I found the book entertaining, filled with interesting concepts. It reminded me of Anatomy and Biology classes from my past and, when reliving the concepts and how our brain works, how it all comes together filled me again with awe at the perfection of our nervous system, a silent guardian that keeps us alive.
Feeling Fear in our lives is completely normal; it is with books like this one that we can find ways to overcome it. For that, thank you, Dr. Poffenroth.
September 15, 2024
In Brave New You, Mary Poffenroth dives into the complexities of fear and anxiety that many of us face daily. As a scientist and fear expert, she brings together her research in biology and psychology to present a practical guide on how to live more courageously. What I found particularly interesting is how the book goes beyond the typical fight-or-flight response, focusing instead on the kind of persistent, everyday fears triggered by our modern challenges. The book offers neurohacks and strategies to help readers uncover the root causes of their anxieties and develop tools to lead a fuller life.
I appreciated how Poffenroth made scientific concepts easy to understand, blending them with her personal stories in a way that felt both engaging and relatable. Her experiences added a genuine touch to the book, making it easier to connect with the material. The advice is actionable and feels especially relevant given the recent increase in anxiety and depression rates. There were moments where the information felt a bit dense, but overall, the tone remained encouraging and provided a sense of hope.
Brave New You is an insightful read for those looking to better understand and manage their fears. It’s an interesting guide that combines research, practical tips, and personal narratives effectively.
I appreciated how Poffenroth made scientific concepts easy to understand, blending them with her personal stories in a way that felt both engaging and relatable. Her experiences added a genuine touch to the book, making it easier to connect with the material. The advice is actionable and feels especially relevant given the recent increase in anxiety and depression rates. There were moments where the information felt a bit dense, but overall, the tone remained encouraging and provided a sense of hope.
Brave New You is an insightful read for those looking to better understand and manage their fears. It’s an interesting guide that combines research, practical tips, and personal narratives effectively.
February 21, 2025
Nobody is immune to fear of some kind. If you think you are, you're kidding yourself. My fear in life that causes me the most difficulties stems from claustrophobia. I have not had this fear, but being in poor relationships left a scar, and this was the scar. It has kept me from participating in many activities. One time I was in an interactive museum and broke down crying. One of my peers started utilizing the tapping method, which is mentioned in this book to help calm me down. It did help me, but I still had to remove myself from the group and go outside. Since the pandemic, I feel like I have gotten worse instead of better, but this book gave me some new tools to try out, and plan to do so. The box breathing does not work for me, but I feel like analyzing the situation with my senses may do the trick. I liked the various techniques given in the book.
For some reason the personal experiences of the author didn't seem as helpful to me, but that's just me. I probably could have done without that because I like my non-fiction books to just get to the point. However, I think the author may have been writing this in order to overcome her own demons, in which case, kudos to her. Not only did she defeat her own fear, she will help others overcome their own, and be more brave than they ever thought possible.
For some reason the personal experiences of the author didn't seem as helpful to me, but that's just me. I probably could have done without that because I like my non-fiction books to just get to the point. However, I think the author may have been writing this in order to overcome her own demons, in which case, kudos to her. Not only did she defeat her own fear, she will help others overcome their own, and be more brave than they ever thought possible.
xx-dnf-skim-reference
October 26, 2025I catastrophize when having trouble sleeping. I've tried labeling it worry or anxiety and looked for help using those terms. Exercise, meditation, breathing, things like that do help. But not enough. So I tried the label fear and chose this book. I think it's a good book, probably even great for the right audience, but I don't think fear is the right word either. The author designed a 'wheel of fear' and the spokes that apply most to me are dread and panic... but those seem like awfully strong words for what is, ultimately, not a major source of stress in my life. I did read through her lists of 'neurohacks' and they seem reasonable, especially people who are just starting their journey to better mental health.
But I'm not just starting. I've fought this crap, and mild to moderate depression, for decades. The label that fits best is 'weary.' I'm tired of always having to remember to eat right, exercise, breathe, maintain sleep hygiene, etc. Where's the flexibility for fun or joy or passion in this kind of life? Ah well. I don't even know what I actually want to do besides escape into books anyway. I'm sure if I ever do figure something out, I'll find a way to make it happen. And then, maybe, I'll have less room in my life for fretfulness.
October 2025
But I'm not just starting. I've fought this crap, and mild to moderate depression, for decades. The label that fits best is 'weary.' I'm tired of always having to remember to eat right, exercise, breathe, maintain sleep hygiene, etc. Where's the flexibility for fun or joy or passion in this kind of life? Ah well. I don't even know what I actually want to do besides escape into books anyway. I'm sure if I ever do figure something out, I'll find a way to make it happen. And then, maybe, I'll have less room in my life for fretfulness.
October 2025
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2024
Anxiety levels are going up in present-day America. Can anything be done to combat this everyday fear and anxiety?
The author looks at the various kinds of courage (there's more than one). She explores what happens, internally, when the body's Fight or Flight response is triggered. Much of today's marketing and advertising revolves around fear. The author looks at perfectionism, imposter syndrome and what a person "should" do. Are you one of those people who always takes the blame for everything, or always blames other people for everything?
What can a person do about these fears and anxieties? Get out of your comfort zone, on occasion. Take just one of your fears (whether its heights or public speaking or a fear of failure). Do what is necessary to reduce its severity. If you can totally eliminate that fear, good for you. It will not go away on its own. On both hands, massage the area between your thumb and first finger. It's supposed to reduce stress.
This is an excellent book. It is written in easy-to-digest chunks. For those with lots of fears and anxiety, reading this book is a very good idea.
The author looks at the various kinds of courage (there's more than one). She explores what happens, internally, when the body's Fight or Flight response is triggered. Much of today's marketing and advertising revolves around fear. The author looks at perfectionism, imposter syndrome and what a person "should" do. Are you one of those people who always takes the blame for everything, or always blames other people for everything?
What can a person do about these fears and anxieties? Get out of your comfort zone, on occasion. Take just one of your fears (whether its heights or public speaking or a fear of failure). Do what is necessary to reduce its severity. If you can totally eliminate that fear, good for you. It will not go away on its own. On both hands, massage the area between your thumb and first finger. It's supposed to reduce stress.
This is an excellent book. It is written in easy-to-digest chunks. For those with lots of fears and anxiety, reading this book is a very good idea.
December 15, 2024
“To know courage, we must know fear."
When I tell you this book was life changing, I'm not even joking. This was my first ever nonfiction read, and IT👏🏻DID👏🏻 NOT 👏🏻DISAPPOINT . I truly believe this book goes over so many fears and feelings that we always overlook in our everyday lives and they aren't talked about enough. I loved how I could relate to so many parts of it, especially with how the author would add glimpses of her own personal experiences, which made it truly comforting while reading to know that "hey, I thought I was the only one who did that? Guess not!". I also admired the Bravery Breaks and Courage Quests in the middle! They were so fun and felt like a reward for every part of the book. I absolutely loved how it wasn't just directed for people who suffer from clinical anxiety or depression, it actually discusses the everyday fears, challenges and insecurities that we all go through. The practicality and simplicity of this book made it so touching and I feel truly enlightened after reading it. If you're human, read this book. Special thanks to Mary Poffenroth for writing this masterpiece<3
When I tell you this book was life changing, I'm not even joking. This was my first ever nonfiction read, and IT👏🏻DID👏🏻 NOT 👏🏻DISAPPOINT . I truly believe this book goes over so many fears and feelings that we always overlook in our everyday lives and they aren't talked about enough. I loved how I could relate to so many parts of it, especially with how the author would add glimpses of her own personal experiences, which made it truly comforting while reading to know that "hey, I thought I was the only one who did that? Guess not!". I also admired the Bravery Breaks and Courage Quests in the middle! They were so fun and felt like a reward for every part of the book. I absolutely loved how it wasn't just directed for people who suffer from clinical anxiety or depression, it actually discusses the everyday fears, challenges and insecurities that we all go through. The practicality and simplicity of this book made it so touching and I feel truly enlightened after reading it. If you're human, read this book. Special thanks to Mary Poffenroth for writing this masterpiece<3
June 12, 2025
Brave New You is a refreshing, science-backed guide that helps you rethink fear—not as a weakness, but as a natural and useful part of life. Mary Poffenroth, a scientist and educator, strips away the myth of being “fearless” and instead encourages readers to build real courage by understanding how fear works in the brain and body. The book is both smart and relatable, blending neuroscience with personal stories, practical tools, and reflection exercises.
What stands out is the author’s honest tone—she doesn’t pretend it’s easy to be brave, but shows you how it’s possible, one step at a time. Whether you fear public speaking, failure, or change, this book teaches you how to respond instead of react. You’ll learn tools like the RAIN method, vagus nerve hacks, and how to separate cultural fear from personal fear.
It’s not a typical self-help book—it feels like a conversation with a wise friend who also happens to be a scientist. By the end, you’re left with a clear message: courage isn’t the absence of fear, but your ability to act anyway. If you’re ready to stop letting fear drive your choices, this book is your roadmap.
What stands out is the author’s honest tone—she doesn’t pretend it’s easy to be brave, but shows you how it’s possible, one step at a time. Whether you fear public speaking, failure, or change, this book teaches you how to respond instead of react. You’ll learn tools like the RAIN method, vagus nerve hacks, and how to separate cultural fear from personal fear.
It’s not a typical self-help book—it feels like a conversation with a wise friend who also happens to be a scientist. By the end, you’re left with a clear message: courage isn’t the absence of fear, but your ability to act anyway. If you’re ready to stop letting fear drive your choices, this book is your roadmap.
October 12, 2024
“There is no fear too great or too small. All fears are valid, but we don’t have to be at their mercy. Here’s the secret to mastering any fear: Instead of ignoring it—embrace it, question it, and work to understand it. Is it rational or irrational? Where is this fear coming from? As we dive deeper into these questions, we find that there are three main sources of fear: biological, cultural, and personal.” This right here pretty much sums up the book. Wow! What a great read! As someone who struggles with crippling anxiety both rational and irrational fears, this book is not just a great read but an eye opener. My biggest go to is YOU CAN PROTECT, WITHOUT INSTILLING FEAR. You can love, without instilling fear. Just like you can walk in rain without getting wet. As individuals and as a society, we must dive into our fears and embrace them, that is if you want to come out the other side of it all!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2024
Thanks to @booktasters and @MaryPoffenroth for the ecopy in exchange of an honest review.
It's a guidebook on how to overcome anxiety and fear in daily life backed with the latest research in biology and psychology. Mary Poffenroth, PhD, is a scientist, professor and fear expert. She provides practical tools and neurohacks for the readers to be braver and live a fuller and happier life.
An absolutely helpful guide for people struggling with anxiety and fear. It's been a while since I read such a witty, informative and practical nonfiction book. I loved the bravery breaks, tips and practically everything about this book. I really am going to get the physical copy of it!
Perfect for beginners who want to read nonfiction but are afraid that it's boring--trust me, this one is far from boring!
"The economy of fear thrives on the idea that we are always in danger and that the only way to protect ourselves is to purchase products that promise us security and help us mitigate risk."
It's a guidebook on how to overcome anxiety and fear in daily life backed with the latest research in biology and psychology. Mary Poffenroth, PhD, is a scientist, professor and fear expert. She provides practical tools and neurohacks for the readers to be braver and live a fuller and happier life.
An absolutely helpful guide for people struggling with anxiety and fear. It's been a while since I read such a witty, informative and practical nonfiction book. I loved the bravery breaks, tips and practically everything about this book. I really am going to get the physical copy of it!
Perfect for beginners who want to read nonfiction but are afraid that it's boring--trust me, this one is far from boring!
"The economy of fear thrives on the idea that we are always in danger and that the only way to protect ourselves is to purchase products that promise us security and help us mitigate risk."
October 27, 2024
This was a very interesting book to read. It talks in depth about fear, the different types of fear, why we experience them, with exercises designed to help us conquer our fears, and feel both calmer and braver. The book talks a lot about fear in a scientific context, and I found that really interesting and enlightening.
As a person who still struggles to take steps out of my comfort zone, this book really resonated with me. Whatever we fear, it can often feel like we are alone with that fear, but a book like this helps us to understand that it's okay to feel afraid, but also okay to be brave and conquer our fears too.
I really enjoyed reading this, and I think many readers would find it useful.
As a person who still struggles to take steps out of my comfort zone, this book really resonated with me. Whatever we fear, it can often feel like we are alone with that fear, but a book like this helps us to understand that it's okay to feel afraid, but also okay to be brave and conquer our fears too.
I really enjoyed reading this, and I think many readers would find it useful.
June 9, 2025
This is one of those books that sets out a lot of what we already know about fear and why we can live in a high state of fear in this modern world but does it in a way that is friendly and supportive along with steps to help address where the fear has come from and things we can do to try and mitigate the fear and also to not live in it which is damaging to our mental health. I will definitely be using the connect 4 (find four things that you can see, here, feel and taste) and also the RAIN (recognise, assign, identify and navigate) tools to help me come out of the flight feeling and start to relax until I can face the situation with a clear head and face everything. This is simple to read with some great steps to help fill up your courage jar which is useful for everyone!
October 8, 2024
The book deals with how to overcome our fears and anxieties over real or imagined problems. It helps you identify, and understand your fears better thereby offering ways to overcome them. It emphasizes identifying and understanding the issue which helps us in finding remedies. The author has given very apt examples from her life and with her knowledge of biology as well as a doctorate in psychology she is well-placed to give practical tips and advice on how to overcome our fears and gain control over our life. It is a very well-researched and thoughtful that everyone should read
Thank you for providing this book for review consideration via BookSirens All opinions are my own
Thank you for providing this book for review consideration via BookSirens All opinions are my own
May 20, 2025
This book is an absolute treasure trove of tools and information to help you live your best, most courageous life. The book lists all of the common types and sources of fear, and gives biohacks to deal with those fears, and help you create new habits and behaviors. It is especially helpful in this climate. It specifically addresses topics such as doomscrolling and information overload. There is a list of common mind traps that we have that set us up for failure and how to break that cycle. There are worksheets throughout for you to fill out so you can apply what you are learning to fit your own life.
September 24, 2024
In today's world, many people are suffering from anxiety issues. What does this anxiety all about? Why do people go thourh such problem in their young age? Is it a generic or a hereditary? And how to ofcourse get rid of it?
You can get answers easily from this book. This is one of the fine personality development book, espacially for young generation people. Author clearly explains in this book how to be courageous and face every difficulties they face in their life. This explanation very convincing both biologically and psychologically.
You can get answers easily from this book. This is one of the fine personality development book, espacially for young generation people. Author clearly explains in this book how to be courageous and face every difficulties they face in their life. This explanation very convincing both biologically and psychologically.
October 23, 2024
Fantastic
This book is a fantastic tool and guide to conquering fear and learning to live your life without the chains of fear weighing you down.
I have lived with fear and anxiety for as long as I can remember. At times it has been almost crippling. So full of self doubt, fear, and anxiety I wasn't loving life.
This book has helped me understand those fears and fight for courage to conquer my fears.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who deals with fear and anxiety.
This book is a fantastic tool and guide to conquering fear and learning to live your life without the chains of fear weighing you down.
I have lived with fear and anxiety for as long as I can remember. At times it has been almost crippling. So full of self doubt, fear, and anxiety I wasn't loving life.
This book has helped me understand those fears and fight for courage to conquer my fears.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who deals with fear and anxiety.
November 12, 2024
I went into this book a bit skeptical, and came away wowed and inspired. I was given an advanced copy of the book and I could immediately tell the time, energy, and dedication this book took to write. It is a deep dive into the biological and psychological responses to fear, and how to overcome them. I found this book immensely practical, down to earth, and inspiring. If you are looking (or not looking) for a book regarding mental health that is full of sage advice and understanding, I would highly recommend Brave New You.
May 24, 2025
I really didn't care for this book. I would give it 2.5 stars. I felt the neuro-hacks given can be found with many more on Instagram. I really didn't connect with the author at all. Chapter 7 on personal fear did have a little bit of value but overall I just didn't enjoy the book. The part that bothered me the most was how the author was constantly humble bragging/name (location) dropping. It really turned me off to the message. When I was deep sea diving in Costa Rica or when I was skydiving in Singapore... It just didn't feel genuine or geared to the average human. Don't bother
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