FROG TALK

What if leadership wasn’t about mindset—but about brain health? In this episode of Frog Talk, we dive deep into how neuroscience is reshaping leadership, organizational culture, and decision-making at every level. I’m joined by internationally acclaimed brain coach and leadership neuroscience expert Dominika Staniewicz, who has advised presidents, negotiated national labor policies, and spent decades bridging science with real-world performance. We unpack why traditional leadership development falls short, how neuroplasticity really works, and why emotional regulation is the foundation of trust, influence, and resilience. From high-stakes government negotiations to boardrooms and teams, this conversation challenges how we think about growth, change, and human potential. Guest Introduction: Dominika Staniewicz is an internationally recognized elite brain coach, leadership neuroscience expert, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author. With nearly two decades of global experience, she has advised governments, consulted for the European Union, and served as a C-level HR executive. As the founder of Your Brain Coach D, Dominika designs neuroscience-based programs that transform leadership, emotional regulation, and performance across individuals and organizations worldwide. Key Takeaways: You can’t lead people effectively if you can’t regulate your own emotions first. Brain health—not mindset—is the foundation of sustainable leadership and performance. Neuroplasticity works both ways: what you consume and who you surround yourself with actively rewires your brain. Real change happens through small, focused shifts—not constant, chaotic transformation. Safety and stability are prerequisites for growth, creativity, and innovation. Chapter Markers: 0:00 Intro & Welcome to Frog Talk 1:00 Guest Introduction: Dominika Staniewicz 2:30 From Government & HR to Brain-Based Coaching 5:00 Why Traditional Leadership Development Fails 8:00 Emotional Regulation, Energy, and Trust in Leadership 10:00 What Neuro-Encoding Is (and Why It Works) 14:00 Neuroplasticity, Environment, and Human Behavior 18:30 Growth vs. Safety: Why Too Much Change Backfires 23:30 Leadership Integrity Under Pressure 27:00 Brain Science, Policy, and Organizational Design 31:00 Final Thoughts & Closing Keywords: Frog Talk podcast, Nader Safinya, Dominika Staniewicz, leadership neuroscience, brain-based leadership, neuroplasticity, emotional regulation, executive coaching, organizational culture, leadership development, brain health, neuro-encoding, high-performance leadership