217. Genein Letford - Brain Matters

"Generosity is good for the brain.”

”Be intentional and ask yourself, 'When was the last time I did something for the first time?'”

“We have to intentionally put ourselves in new spaces.”

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The next best time is today.”

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Intercultural Creativity
• 02:53 The Journey of Genein Letford
• 05:55 Understanding Intercultural Creativity
• 09:01 The Importance of Cultural Awareness
• 11:57 Benefits of Expanding Awareness
• 15:00 The Role of the Brain in Creativity
• 18:03 Emotional Intelligence and Learning
• 20:57 The Arts as a Justice Issue
• 23:57 Lifelong Learning and Curiosity
• 26:58 Practical Steps for Creative Engagement
• 30:25 Unlocking Hidden Potential Through Music
• 32:20 The Power of Emotional Regulation and the Arts
• 34:38 Recharging the Brain: The Importance of Breaks
• 37:48 Seven Pillars of Brain Health
• 39:19 The Importance of Creativity in Education
• 42:51 Curiosity and Generosity: Keys to a Fulfilling Life
• 46:14 Prismatic Leadership: Seeing Hidden Talents
• 51:17 Legacy of Intercultural Creativity

Episode Summary:

In this conversation, Genein Letford, a pioneer in intercultural creativity, shares her journey from being an elementary school teacher to becoming a leading voice in creative and intercultural competencies. She discusses the importance of understanding our cultural lenses and how they affect our perception of creativity. Letford emphasizes the need for curiosity and lifelong learning, highlighting the role of the arts in brain development and emotional intelligence. She provides practical advice on how to engage with different cultures and expand one's awareness, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and creative approach to education and leadership. In this conversation, Genein Letford discusses the importance of music, emotional regulation, and creativity in personal and educational development. She emphasizes the need for breaks to recharge the brain, the significance of integrating arts into education, and the role of curiosity and generosity in leading a fulfilling life. Letford also highlights the concept of prismatic leadership, which involves recognizing and nurturing the hidden talents of team members, and shares her vision for a legacy centered around intercultural creativity.

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips:

• Expose yourself to different cultural lenses to influence your creativity.
• Travel and make connections with diverse cultures.
• Curiosity is a key driver of personal and professional growth.
• The brain benefits significantly from engagement in the arts.
• Emotional intelligence and brain safety is foundational for effective learning.
• Arts education is a justice issue that impacts brain development.
• Lifelong learning should include artistic experiences.
• It's never too late to invest in creativity and learning.
• Practical engagement with new experiences can rewire the brain. 
• Emotional regulation is crucial for success.
• Dementia prevention starts in early education.
• Generosity has positive effects on the brain.
• Great leaders recognize hidden talents in others.
• Flourishing creatively is key to a fulfilling life.

Guest Bio:

Genein Letford is a pioneer in the field of Intercultural Creativity™ and a national award-winning educat