In this episode of Reaching Minds: Thoughts for Your Life Journey, we explore something that shapes every decision we make - our brain.

I’m joined by Christopher Samsa, positive psychologist specialising in applied neuroscience and Professor of Executive Education at Hult International Business School. Together, we unpack how understanding the brain can help us lead with greater clarity, empathy and intention.

Neuroscience can often feel complex or distant from everyday life. In this conversation, Chris demystifies the science and makes it deeply practical. We explore how our brains operate in either a “toward” (reward) state or an “away” (threat) state — and how those states influence our thinking, creativity, collaboration and decision-making.

We also examine:

• How growth and fixed mindsets map onto brain states

• Why leaders struggle under pressure

• The neuroscience of habit formation and why change feels uncomfortable

• How implementation intentions (“if–then” plans) can support behavioural change

• The importance of self-awareness and feedback in senior leadership

• Why legacy thinking can shift how leaders show up

• The intersection of neuroscience and positive psychology

• The difference between happiness and contentment

Chris shares practical insights for anyone navigating leadership, personal growth, or organisational change - and reminds us that growth is always possible when we understand how our brains are wired.

This episode is for leaders, professionals and anyone curious about how to work with their brain rather than against it.

If this conversation resonates, I’d love to hear from you.