The Science Behind Why Leaders Get Stuck—and How to Break Through with Dr. Heather Collins

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Dr. Heather Collins, a cognitive neuroscientist who has spent her career bringing cutting-edge brain science out of the lab and into real-world leadership. With more than 50 peer-reviewed publications and work ranging from Alzheimer’s to NASA astronaut cognition, Heather offers a rare blend of scientific rigor and practical insight. Together, they explore what leaders need to know about the brain, how it really works, why most of us operate far below our potential, and what simple, research-backed strategies can transform focus, memory, innovation, and decision-making. Heather explains why capacity is the hidden performance advantage, how fear and cognitive overload disrupt leadership, and why curiosity is one of the most powerful habits a leader can build. Listeners will appreciate Heather’s engaging stories and clear explanations, from memory “chunking” to the neuroscience of belonging and culture. She also shares practical tools leaders can use immediately, such as reducing decision fatigue, strengthening daily cognitive fitness, and fostering more meaningful connection in hybrid and remote teams. The episode closes with Heather’s most important advice for aspiring leaders: – Build confidence by revisiting your wins – Strengthen your brain with daily cognitive habits – Stay curious, because curiosity drives growth and innovation Join us in this episode to understand how the brain shapes leadership and how any leader can harness neuroscience to think more clearly, decide more effectively, and unlock greater capacity in themselves and their teams. Connect with Dr. Heather Collins: Website LinkedIn