James Garrett
Founder, Brain by Design
James Garrett lives and breathes neuroplasticity. “I’ve spent the past 22 years pursuing my fascination with the brain and have gone on some wild adventures trying to understand the outer limits of human potential. I’ve studied, searched, unearthed, unpacked; and relentlessly experimented with this question in my own life.”
As a researcher, James spent years working with some of the world’s best psychologists in labs at Columbia, Tufts, and Yale Universities, but ultimately left academia to pursue his passion for getting the science of behavior change out of the lab and into people’s lives.
He founded Brain by Design in 2016 and began teaching courses and coaching individuals on how to use the most cutting-edge brain science to achieve their goals. He has coached hundreds of clients—from struggling teens to stressed-out executives—trained thousands of coaches, consulted for top companies, and spoken to audiences worldwide. His broad expertise in behavior change spans multiple disciplines, and his passion for unlocking human potential is infectious.
James’s knowledge of what it looks and feels like to create lasting change is also deeply personal. Having struggled with OCD since childhood, for James, the idea that the brain could rewire itself was a lifeline, and his deep dive into neuroscience became a healing journey that animates and informs everything he does today. In 2019 he launched the Deep Change Project, a quest to build unshakeable confidence and overcome fear through experimentation with exciting new technologies, ancient mindfulness practices, and a wide array of evidence-based tools.
“I am awed and inspired by the beauty and resilience of the human brain. And I have really wrestled personally with what it means to apply the most cutting-edge brain science to improve mental health, overcome adversity, enhance performance, and unlock the potential of individuals and groups. I absolutely love sharing the hopeful message of neuroplasticity—that we’re not condemned to live within the neurological limits of our birth.”
Here's what James's clients are saying...
“James gave me very practical tools that I could implement immediately, which saved me years of trial and error trying to do it myself. James was incredible to work with. He is full of wisdom and love, which was exactly what I needed. If you’re considering working with James I would not hesitate. He will get you where you want to go!”
-Brock Painter, Entrepreneur
“Working with James Garrett has been a game-changer, and I am forever grateful for the transformative impact he has had on my personal and professional journey.
Through insightful conversations and thought-provoking exercises, James has helped me gain a deep sense of self-awareness and a clear understanding of my potential. With his unwavering support and cheerful encouragement, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery that has led to enhanced self-confidence, improved decision-making, and a greater ability to inspire and motivate those around me.
I have experienced extraordinary personal and professional growth, achieving milestones that I once thought were beyond my reach. With his help, I have become a more empowered, resilient, and influential leader. He pushed me beyond my comfort zone. He encouraged me to embrace change, explore new perspectives, and foster a growth mindset. I have been able to shed self-limiting beliefs, redefine my goals, and unleash my true potential.
I have often referred to my coaching sessions with James Garrett as my new ‘Superpower’ and I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking to elevate their leadership skills and achieve their full potential—both professionally and personally.”
-Susan Condie, Managing Director of Sales, Covenant Corp