Mary Poffenroth

Dr. Mary Poffenroth is a biopsychologist, professor at San Jose State University, and an acclaimed author, speaker, and researcher specializing in fear, courage, and innovation. Her company, rooted deeply in neuroscience and psychology, focuses on helping people redefine their relationship with fear through cutting-edge strategies known as "neurohacks."

Mary believes that our understanding of fear, particularly everyday, non-clinical fear, is fundamental to personal and professional transformation. Instead of viewing fear as a barrier, her approach treats fear as a powerful tool for growth, innovation, and success. Her book, Brave New You: Strategies, Tools, and Neurohacks to Live More Courageously Every Day, empowers individuals to harness their fears rather than simply manage or avoid them.

Mary's methods are grounded in rigorous scientific research and practical experiences from her dynamic career journey. From a first-generation college student and early experiences at NASA to becoming a leading voice in biopsychology and courage research. Her transformative techniques equip individuals and teams to convert fear into actionable courage, creativity, and innovation.

Featured in prestigious media such as Forbes, TIME, TED, National Geographic, and Entrepreneur, Mary’s work resonates because it addresses a universal challenge: transforming everyday fears into stepping stones toward achieving personal and organizational goals. Her passionate, science-backed approach doesn't just help people cope: it empowers them to thrive in uncertain and fast-changing environments.