Interview begins @ 4:03
In this episode, Ellen Petry Leanse and John discuss the fascinating dual dynamics of the brain-analyzing the up/down, front/back, left/right structures-and how these reflect in our politics, gender roles, and broader societal interactions. Ellen shares insights from her early days at Apple, emphasizing the company's innovative spirit and its role as a pioneer in the digital space. We explore the complex differences between male and female brains, addressing the contentious debates surrounding gender and sex in neuroscience. A key theme of our discussion is the concept of mutuality over polarity, symbolized aptly by the yin/yang, suggesting that integration and cooperation lead to stronger societal bonds.
The conversation also ventures into the sensitive topic of "cancel culture," exploring its impact on ethical development and how it may stifle the diversity of thought. Ellen argues that many societal divisions, particularly around gender, are less pronounced in other cultures, offering valuable lessons on inclusivity. Highlighting the importance of maintaining curiosity and openness, Ellen criticizes the tendency towards rigidity when curiosity fades, and discusses the neurological underpinnings of the "amygdala hijack"-the brain's threat response mechanism. We explore how these responses manifest differently in men and women. Finally, we touch on the intriguing subject of psychedelics and their role in returning us to a state of awe and wonder, emphasizing the transformative power of these experiences.
Bio:
An acclaimed Silicon Valley innovator, former Stanford University instructor, TEDx speaker, and published author, Ellen Petry Leanse works at the crossroads of creative and scientific inquiry. Her career at Apple established her as a digital pioneer and the catalyst of history’s first online connection between a technology company and its users. Continuing on this course, she challenged assumptions as an entrepreneur, as a leader at Google, in venture capital, and as a global innovation advisor.
Ellen is the author of “The Happiness Hack” a neuroscience-based guide to life satisfaction, the originator of popular Stanford courses including “The Neuroscience of Creativity and Innovation,” a TEDx speaker (“Happiness by Design”) ( • Happiness by design | ... ), and a globally followed keynote presenter. She contributes articles on ethics, leadership, functional neuroscience, and gender equality to publications including Huffington Post, Business Insider, Inc.com, CNBC, Self, and Women’s Health. After leaving a C-level role at a technology company in 2022, she relocated to New Mexico to deepen her inquiry into indigenous philosophy and sustainable lifeways. During this time, her coaching practice shaped future-facing leadership for founders, C-Suite executives, non-profit leaders, and investors in the US, Europe, and the Global South. In 2023 Ellen launched “The Brain and
Beyond,” a podcast awakening audiences to time-proven ways of leading, living, and maintaining mental wellness. She maintains an active Buddhist practice and is the mother of three adult sons.
www.ellenleanse.com
thebrainandbeyond.com
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