Loading...
Tue, 30 Jun 2026, 19:00 – 21:00
Big Belly Bar & Comedy Club London
Who are you, really? And how does this link to the nervous system? Explore identity, agency and the brain in a relaxed, thought-provoking night of science & conversation. This event is part of the Mind Circles 'Sip n Learn' series, our live ideas platform where leading clinicians, researchers and thought leaders deliver accessible, evidence based talks in relaxed social spaces. For this months event topic, neuroscientist and psychologist Louise Spurgeon joins us to explore one of the most powerful questions in psychology and neuroscience. How is the self actually formed and maintained? Many of us describe ourselves in fixed terms: “I am anxious.” “I am driven.” “I avoid conflict.” But what if those traits are not fixed at all? What if they are nervous system patterns shaped by genetics, early relationships, culture and experience? Louise brings both professional expertise and lived insight to this conversation. Louise has worked across diverse sectors ( e.g. mental health, investment banking, coaching and higher education) utilising this experience to challenge societal norms. Her work focuses on nervous system mastery as an ongoing practice and the need to collectively respect brain capital. She supports individuals and organisations understand how biology shapes behaviour, leadership and culture.In this relaxed setting, we will explore how the nervous system constructs identity, where agency and biology are entwined to allow for you to reshape your story. Expect science grounded in research, space for reflection, and a thoughtful discussion that may leave you seeing yourself differently. No prior knowledge required. Just curiosity. Come for the drink. Leave with new perspective. Event SchedulePlease arrive by 19:15 to check in and get settled before the talk begins, door will close at this time so we can start the talk promptly at `19:30. 19:00 – 19:30 Arrival & Warm-Up Activity Guest arrival and informal connection. A guided warm-up activity (optional) to help you notice your own nervous system patterns before the talk begins 19:30 – 20:15 Talk: The Concept of Self — Who Are You Really? Louise explores how identity is shaped through biology, experience and culture, and how we can participate in updating those patterns 20:15 – 20:30 Q&A A chance to ask questions and deepen the conversation 20:30 – 21:00 Optional Networking Continue the discussion What You’ll Learn• How neuroscience understands the construction of the “self” • Why repeated nervous system states can start to feel like personality • The role of genetics, attachment and culture in shaping regulation • How both positive and challenging experiences shape neurophysiology • What agency really means from a biological perspective • A simple framework to question automatic reactions and expand flexibility Ticket Options Early Bird: Discounted early-access ticket. Includes in-person entry, livestream access, and recording. Community Ticket: Lower-cost ticket for students, lower-income attendees, carers, or anyone currently facing financial barriers. Includes in-person entry, livestream access, and recording. General Admission: Standard in-person ticket. Includes livestream access and recording. Final Release: Final allocation of in-person tickets. Includes livestream access and recording. Bring a friend (admits 2): Grab a +1 and share the fun! Includes in person tickets, livestream access and recording for both. Livestream & Recording: ONLY remote access ticket with livestream and recording included.All recordings will be shared privately within 4 weeks of the event. Venue: Big Belly Bar UNIT 6 & 7 30 Stamford Street London SE1 9LQ Getting There The venue is a short walk from several central London stations: • Waterloo Station – approx. 8 minute walk • Southwark Station – approx. 6 minute walk • Blackfriars Station – approx. 10 minute walk Please allow a little extra time if travelling during peak hours, major sporting events, or potential travel disruption. At the time of publishing, there are no planned strike actions. However, this may change, so we recommend checking your route before purchasing tickets if you may be affected, as tickets are non-refundable. https://tfl.gov.uk/campaign/strikes For venue information, please visit: https://www.thebigbellybar.co.uk/ Age & IDs: the event takes place in a bar venue, you may be asked to show valid ID to purchase alcoholic drinks. Please bring identification if you look under 25.Ticket Enquiries & Waitlist: Please do not contact the speaker or founder directly regarding tickets. Use the Eventbrite contact function or join the waitlist.If events sell out, additional dates may be released. Waitlist members should monitor their inbox, including spam or junk folders. Ticket offers remain valid for 6 hours before being released to the next person. On-the-Day Tickets: No tickets will be available at the door.Livestream Access: A livestream option is available. Access details will be shared with ticket holders ahead of the event. Photography & Recording: Photos and recordings may be taken for promotional and archival purposes.If you’d prefer not to be included, please email us in advance or speak to the team on the day. Talk Recording: The talk will be recorded and shared privately with attendees within 4 weeks. The recording is for personal use only.If you haven’t received it within 4 weeks, please check your spam or junk folder before getting in touch. Arrival Time: Please arrive by 19:15 and be seated before the talk begins to avoid disruption. Stay in the Circle: You’ll be added to the Mind Circles Talks mailing list after booking. You can opt out at any time. Get Early-Release Tickets: Join our Inner Circle WhatsApp broadcast channel for early-release tickets and Mind Circles Talks updates: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb88bk9IHphC26a10B14