Mirrors: Tara Swart, Neuroscientist
The AdaMarie Mirrors reflect back to us the many roads (often winding, never smooth) to success! Real stories of real women to see yourself reflected in. At first, you’ll see Tara in this mirror, but eventually, we hope you’ll see yourself.
Welcome, Tara Swart!
Neuroscientist, Author, Executive Coach, Podcaster - Dr. Tara Swart helps us imagine new possibilities for ourselves.
Getting to Know You:
Field of Work: Neuroscientist, Author, Executive Coach, Podcaster
Your STEM letter: S
Expertise In: Neuroplasticity, manifestation & reinvention
Current Company: Tara Swart, Inc
Job Title: Neuroscientist
One-liner about what you’re working on: My podcast ‘Reinvent Yourself with Dr Tara’.
Currently geeking out over: Psychedelics in mental health & AI
STEM hero (alive or dead!): Baroness Professor Susan Greenfield
Tell us about your professional journey – how did you get where you are now?
I went to medical school at King's College, London and then took 3 years out to do a PhD in Neuroscience. I completed my MD at Oxford University, and then specialized in psychiatry for 7 years. I made my career change to executive coaching 15 years ago, and over time, I added in public speaking, writing books, teaching at MIT Sloan, and launching a podcast. I am also an ambassador for brands in beauty, fashion, luxury hotels, and wellbeing.
We’re also curious to know your personal story and upbringing. What has made you “you”?
I was brought up in a Hindu household in London and encouraged to go to medical school and do a PhD in Neuroscience. This eventually led to me combining spirituality with science in my personal and professional life.
We know that real life isn’t a smooth and linear journey. What was your initiating moment that led you to your calling - can you tell us about that moment, what helped you move forward, what you learned/discovered?
I became disillusioned with psychiatry but didn’t think I could do anything else. I asked for help from friends and family. I was advised to write a list of 100 other jobs I could do.
Then, a friend introduced me to the concepts of business psychology and executive coaching, and I took the leap!
You’re a working woman in a performance-driven industry. Where do you find balance?
I follow my passions and I prioritise self-care as I know I will perform better if I do.
If you were a part of the human body, what would you be? The Limbic System.
If you were something in Outer Space, what would you be? The Sun.
If you were a scientific process or phenomenon, what would you be? A Catalyst.
We’d love to feature your work! How can we spread the word about what you’re doing?
Book • The Source - The Secrets of the Universe, The Science of the Brain
Podcast • Reinvent Yourself with Dr Tara
Online Program • Neuroscience for Business (at MIT!)