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Our speakers:
A Blend of Expertise and Lived Experience
At Mindful Talks, we believe that true wisdom comes from a combination of formal education and real-world experience. While many of our speakers bring advanced degrees and academic credentials, we also proudly embrace voices that come from diverse backgrounds, shaped by lived experiences. We recognize that knowledge isn't confined to the classroom—it is also born from personal journeys, challenges, and growth.
Our speakers offer a rich variety of perspectives, each contributing invaluable insights that are grounded in both expertise and authenticity.
Together, we create an inclusive space where learning goes beyond theory, encouraging practical wisdom that can truly make a difference in everyday life.
Dr. Guy Shpak
Neuroscientist, Research, Educator
Dr. Guy Shpak is a neuroscientist with a deep passion for understanding the connection between the brain, body, and behavior. With over 30 years of experience in martial arts—karate, krav maga, and tai chi—he combines his scientific expertise with practical insights into how movement and mindfulness can improve mental well-being.
He holds a master’s and PHD. in neurophysiology, where he studied how the brain processes social information through the sense of smell. Later, as a postdoctoral researcher at Erasmus Medical Center’s psychiatry department in Rotterdam, he focused on the brain’s role in mental health disorders. He has also inspired students as a lecturer and course coordinator at Erasmus University College’s Life Sciences department.
In addition to his academic and martial arts background, Dr. Shpak has explored Chinese medicine, Shiatsu, and NLP, all of which deepen his understanding of health and balance. He practices what he preaches, keeping himself energized through meditation, ice baths, and cycling.
As a speaker, he brings this wealth of experience to life, inspiring audiences to harness the mind-body connection and create meaningful, positive change.
Anna Jenkins
Neuro Change Practitioner Coach
With a unique journey that began as a professional figure skater and evolved into a corporate executive role, Anna brings her diverse experience to Mindful Talks as a Wellness & Performance Coach and Neuro Change Practitioner.
Her approach combines neuroscience with practical, actionable strategies to help individuals and corporate teams master stress, cultivate balance, and unlock their full potential.
She is passionate about holistic wellbeing and turned her love for yoga into a profession as a Certified Yoga Teacher, integrating restorative practices into her coaching to offer a truly transformative experience.
Discover Anna's approach and see her results—click here to learn more.
George Hlavax
Human Mind Institute Founder and Author
George is a dedicated research writer with a passion for understanding the unconscious mechanisms that shape our mental and physical states. Each year, he delves into hundreds of studies, books, and expert articles to uncover how our moods, energy, emotions, and cognition are regulated—and how we can consciously influence them.
After years of rigorous investigation, George discovered that the most valuable insights into human behavior are scattered across disciplines. To bridge this gap, he synthesized knowledge from over 25 leading experts and authored The Human Mind—a groundbreaking book that brings together the most important findings on mental state control.
As the founder of the Human Mind Institute , George now shares this transformative knowledge through accessible, science-backed content, helping others navigate their minds with clarity, purpose, and practical tools.
Maurits Unkel
PhD Computational Neuropsychiatry
Maurits Unkel is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning, blending scientific curiosity with a deep dedication to self-development. With a background in bioinformatics, neurobiology and psychiatry, he brings a powerful interdisciplinary perspective to his talks.
Currently working as a bioinformatician in a predominantly wet lab environment, Maurits bridges the gap between experimental biology and programming logic. His passion for biotechnological advancement fuels his vision of a flourishing future — one where science empowers humanity. In his first Mindful Talk, he explores how the brain’s complexity inspires artificial intelligence and invites us to reflect on what it means to be truly intelligent.
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Annebet Nolen
Trauma Therapist and Coach
Annebet Nolen is a highly skilled and compassionate psychosocial and creative therapist who brings a wealth of experience to Mindful Talks. Drawing from a range of therapeutic approaches, including NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), Transactional Analysis, and Family Constellations, Annebet empowers individuals to heal, grow, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Her work is deeply rooted in mindfulness and meditation, and she is also a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, specializing in trauma recovery.
Annebet’s extensive training includes esteemed institutions such as Phoenix Opleidingen in Utrecht, the EMDR Institute, Weisfelt, BIVT (Psychosocial and Medical Education), and the Bert Hellinger Institute. Her dedication to professional excellence is further highlighted by her membership in respected associations like NVPA and RBCZ. She is passionate about helping individuals, particularly those who have experienced trauma, transform their lives by addressing emotional wounds and fostering inner resilience.
She was deeply honored when renowned trauma expert Dr. Gabor Maté browsed through her book ‘Kijk eens’, a touching collection of simple yet profound illustrations, that beautifully captures the power of love and connection in overcoming life-changing experiences. Annebet’s unique blend of creative and therapeutic techniques, along with her warm and empathetic approach, makes her an inspiring source of knowledge and support. For contact or purchasing her book click here
Domenica Z. Das
MSc Brain & Cognitive Sciences
Domenica Zaffarano Das is a Behavioral Neuroscience researcher currently completing her Master’s at the University of Amsterdam and the Co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Krishnaye Kare Inc.
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences and a strong interdisciplinary background, she has cultivated a lifelong passion for classical studies, neurophilosophy, and the mysteries of human consciousness and cognition.
Her work highlights the transformative power of EI, emphasizing how understanding, regulating, and integrating emotions can profoundly shape personal growth, relationships, and the quality of overall life.
Her research delves into the lasting impact of childhood experiences on adult emotional regulation and brain health, unraveling the intricate connections between emotional healing, resilience, and self-awareness.
By bridging the gap between science and spirituality, Domenica explores innovative ways to foster deeper emotional understanding and balance, inviting individuals to rethink the true essence of intelligence.
Her work encourages a shift in perspective—placing EI at the heart of how we navigate life’s complexities, connect with others, and ultimately achieve fulfillment.
Sofia van Buuren
Medical Student & Researcher
Meet Sofia, a biohacker and medical student with a passion for optimizing health and performance. Frustrated by the gaps in traditional healthcare, she took matters into her own hands—diving deep into research and discovering biohacking, a science-driven approach to enhancing physical and cognitive well-being.
Now, three years later, Sofia is on a mission to share her insights with the world. She simplifies cutting-edge health research into actionable, easy-to-follow strategies that empower people to take control of their well-being. From optimizing energy levels to enhancing brain function, she translates the latest scientific findings into everyday habits that make a difference.
At Mindful Talks, she’ll guide us through the science of sleep and how that impacts stress and emotional regulation—uncovering how small adjustments to our nightly routine can lead to a more balanced, mindful life.
Next, Sofia is taking the TEDx stage to discuss the profound impact of sleep on mental resilience.