The Neuroscience of Change: How to Lead People Through Uncertainty - with Hilary Scarlett

What if you could lead change with confidence, grounded in how the brain actually works?

In this powerful conversation, Hilary Scarlett, author of Neuroscience for Organizational Change, shares how applying neuroscience can dramatically improve the way organisations approach change. 

HIlary introduces the SPACES model - a practical, evidence-based framework built around what people need to adapt and thrive during times of uncertainty.

You’ll learn how core human needs like social connection, fairness, and purpose shape how people respond to change. 

Hilary explains why employees would rather receive bad news than be left in the dark, and why involving them in the process is critical for success. 

This isn’t theory - it’s real insight into how leaders can design more resilient, engaged, and high-performing workplaces.

 Whether you're a leader managing transformation or part of a team navigating uncertainty, this conversation offers strategic and science-based guidance to help you lead change more effectively.

Key themes are reflected in The Sixsess Consultancy’s PEOPLE change leadership and management framework, built to support modern organisations through complex transformation and for which the book Neuroscience for Organizational Change is a recommended reference.

https://sixsess.org/training/people-change-management-leadership-framework-course/

Key Takeaways:
• Neuroscience provides vital insights for managing organisational change
• The SPACES model is a proven framework for change planning
• Social connection is essential for engagement and performance
• People prefer bad news over uncertainty
• Interbrain synchronisation can strengthen collaboration
• Gut feelings play a valuable role in decision-making under pressure
• Employee involvement leads to better outcomes
• Communication is critical throughout the change process
• Neuroscience supports the creation of a healthier workplace culture

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Neuroscience in Organizational Change
05:34 The SPACES Model Explained
11:49 Understanding the Human Brain's Response to Change
18:00 Engaging Stakeholders in the Change Process
22:54 Future Directions in Neuroscience for Change
24:29 The Impact of Face-to-Face Interaction
27:54 Understanding Interoception and Decision Making
30:07 Neuroscience in the 21st Century Workplace

Useful Links

Hilary Scarlett’s LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilaryscarlett/

Hilary Scarlett’s webpage
https://www.scarlettandgrey.com/

Neuroscience for Organizationation Change 3rd edition
https://www.koganpage.com/hr-learning-development/neuroscience-for-organizational-change-9781398621282

 The Sixsess Consultancy’s Training Courses
https://sixsess.org/training/

Keywords:
neuroscience, organisational change, SPACES model, social connection, team dynamics, decision making, Hilary Scarlett, change management, employee engagement, workplace psychology, The Sixsess Consultancy, PEOPLE framework, leadership development, workplace neuroscience, transformation strategy

I hope you really enjoyed our podcast and found it to be inspiring and insightful.

Please remember to LIKE our podcast and please DO SUBSCRIBE !!

I really look forward to reading and replying to your thoughts and comments.

Many thanks

Kindest regards

Barry