Coaching Through the Brain: How Positive Emotional Attractors Drive Real Change

In this edition of The Coaching Edge Podcast, cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Irena O’Brien unpacks the latest research on how our brains create lasting behavior change. Drawing on Richard Boyatzis’ work, she explains why coaches (and leaders) should spend roughly two-thirds of every conversation in the default-mode network—the space of vision, imagination, and the Positive Emotional Attractor—before shifting to the task-focused central-executive network.Listeners will learn practical ways to toggle between these networks, including heart-rate-variability breathing, self-compassion practices, and bringing personal values to the forefront. The result? More creativity, energy, and sustainable change—for clients and coaches alike.Watch the full episode here: https://thecoachingedgepodcast.com/coaching-through-the-brain-how-positive-emotional-attractors-drive-real-change/