Travels From New South Wales
Speaker Topics
Focus, Attention and Peak Performance
Attention is our brain’s most valuable resource, yet it is constantly under threat from technology, distraction and overload. This talk explores the neuroscience of attention, how we can improve it with by practicing mindfulness. We also learn the brain’s natural inefficient tendencies, and how to work with our brain to boost productivity, strengthen focus, and reduce cognitive overload.
Read lessStress, Burnout and Brain Health
Dr Hayley explains the neuroscience behind the stress response, how a little bit of stress can be helpful and how chronic stress affects the brain and body. Audiences learn practical tools to regulate the nervous system, build resilience, and protect long-term mental health and performance.
Read lessThe Neuroscience of Uncertainty: Remaining Adaptable with Change
The brain is designed to predict the future, which is why uncertainty can trigger stress and hesitation. This keynote explains how the brain responds to change and shows audiences how to harness neuroplasticity, regulate stress, and build resilience to navigate uncertainty with confidence.
Read lessUnderstand Your Brain to Improve Wellbeing and Performance
In this keynote, neuroscientist Dr Hayley North takes audiences on a journey inside the brain to understand how it shapes our thoughts, behaviour, and mental health. Audiences learn how neuroplasticity works and discover practical strategies to care for their brain, improve wellbeing, and build healthier habits for long-term performance.
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Dr Hayley North
Neuroscientist and Mental Health Expert
Dr Hayley North is a neuroscientist, TEDx speaker, and founder of Understand Your Brain, dedicated to helping people understand how their brain works and how to use that knowledge to improve mental health, wellbeing, and performance.
She defies the stereotype of a conventional neuroscientist with her infectious enthusiasm, humor, and knack for simplifying intricate concepts and captivating audiences to inspire positive, enduring change.
With a PhD in neuroscience and current positions as a Research Fellow at Neuroscience Research Australia and a conjoint lecturer at the University of New South Wales, Hayley spends her time investigating the biological mechanisms underlying mental health. Her laboratory research explores the molecular and genetic changes involved in mental illness and cognition, contributing to a deeper scientific understanding of the brain and how it adapts to stress, challenge, and change.
Alongside her academic work, she has become a sought-after keynote speaker who translates cutting-edge neuroscience into practical strategies people can apply immediately. Through her organisation, Understand Your Brain, she delivers evidence-based keynotes and workplace programs designed to help individuals and organisations improve wellbeing, manage stress, prevent burnout, and sustain high performance.
Her work spans diverse sectors including law, finance, energy, consulting, government, and universities. By combining rigorous science with real-world application, Hayley helps leaders and teams understand the neuroscience behind resilience, focus, sleep, and behaviour change, equipping them with tools to thrive in demanding and rapidly changing environments.
Hayley is also widely recognised in the media for making neuroscience accessible and relatable. She is a regular guest on Channel 7’s Sunrise, Australia’s leading morning show, where she explains the science behind everyday challenges such as stress, sleep, motivation, and mental wellbeing.
Beyond the stage and the laboratory, Hayley also facilitates brain health and wellbeing retreats at the renowned Gwinganna Retreat, where she helps participants apply neuroscience principles to restore balance, improve mental clarity, and build resilience.
A competitive sailor as well as a scientist, Hayley brings a unique perspective on adaptability and performance under pressure. Whether navigating unpredictable conditions on the ocean or exploring the complexities of the brain in the lab, she understands firsthand the importance of resilience, focus, and mental agility.
Her presentations blend science, storytelling, and actionable strategies, leaving audiences with a deeper understanding of their brain and practical tools to improve wellbeing, sustain performance, and thrive in an increasingly complex world.