EP268: Our Connected Species with Mark A. Williams

EP268: Our Connected Species with Mark A. Williams

Author: Kristen Manieri October 18, 2023 Duration: 52:34

We are a connected species, and our innate drive for belonging can be a double-edge sword. It brings us together but it also divides us. In his new book, The Connected Species: How the Evolution of the Human Brain Can Save the World, Mark A. Williams, PhD draws from his over 25 years of research and experience as a professor of cognitive neuroscience to explore the human brain's specialization for connection and how we can use it to expand our in-group and extend multicultural societies for the good of our planet. 

 

Guest Bio

Mark A. Williams, PhD, is a professor of cognitive neuroscience with over 25 years' experience conducting behavioral and brain imaging research. Mark has published more than 70 scientific articles and received numerous high-profile fellowships and grants. He has made many TV and radio appearances to discuss topics including emotions, technology, education, racism, and even why we can't tickle ourselves. His research has been featured in outlets globally including The New York Times, The Economist, The Guardian, and New Scientist. Mark has worked with thousands of students, teachers, health professionals, and company directors keen to understand how their brain works, how to perform optimally and maintain a healthy brain. He regularly runs programs on the neuroscience of learning, the neuroscience of emotions, how our brains create our reality, and the impact of modern technologies on our brains. See https://www.drmarkwilliams.com/ for more details..

 

For episode homepage, resources and links, visit: https://kristenmanieri.com/episode268 

 

Learn more about coaching: Kristen@kristenmanieri.com 

 

Mentioned in this Episode

Guest's book: The Connected Species: How the Evolution of the Human Brain Can Save the World Hardcover – August 15, 2023 by Mark A. Williams (Author)

 

https://www.amazon.com/Connected-Species-Evolution-Human-Brain/dp/1538179008 

 

Guest's website: https://www.drmarkwilliams.com/ 

 

Host Bio

Kristen Manieri is a coach who works with teams to increase both productivity and wellbeing. She also helps individuals navigate transition with clarity and confidence. Her areas of focus are: stress reduction, energy management, mindset, resilience, habit formation, rest rituals, and self-care. As the host of the weekly 60 Mindful Minutes podcast, an Apple top 100 social science podcast, Kristen has interviewed over 200 authors about what it means to live a more conscious, connected, intentional and joyful life. Learn more at kristenmanieri.com/work-with-me. 

 

Learn more about coaching: Kristen@kristenmanieri.com 

Connect with the 60 Mindful Minutes podcast  








In a world that often feels rushed and fragmented, 60 Mindful Minutes offers a space to slow down and reconnect with what matters. Host Kristen Manieri sits down with best-selling authors and thinkers, not for abstract theory, but for practical conversations about weaving intention into the fabric of daily life. This podcast lives at the intersection of science, health, and social connection, exploring how small shifts in awareness can lead to profound changes in our well-being and relationships. Each episode feels like a deep, personal dialogue, where guests share their insights on living with greater consciousness and purpose. You’ll hear tangible ideas for fostering deeper connections with others and with yourself, all grounded in accessible wisdom. The aim is to leave you reflecting on your own patterns and possibilities-questioning how you might engage with the world more fully. By dedicating this time to mindful exploration, the podcast becomes a tool for personal evolution, one thoughtful conversation at a time. Tune in for a consistent source of inspiration that challenges you to examine your habits, your relationships, and your inner landscape, all through the lens of living deliberately.
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