S4e17: Max Gaenslen – Connecting to Our Depth

Beloved Hoffman Process teacher and coach, Max Gaenslen, holds this question as the focus for his life and life’s work: “What is the difference between people who really connect to that divine spark within them and find fertile soil for that seed to grow in the world – and people who don’t?” The question first came to him in 2004 while riding on a Greyhound bus. Once it hit him, he immediately knew he needed to live this question.

Today, the common thread running through all that Max does is the belief that the Light exists in everything and that we all have innate genius and gifts.

In conversation with Sharon, Max explores what lights him up – human potential and the journey of awakening into the body. He shares a multitude of viewpoints from which to look at the process of spiritual awakening and emphasizes awakening our body and heart. You will hear Max’s infectious love of his life’s work.

One of Max’s other joys is drumming. At the age of eleven, Max first heard the drum solo in All the World’s a Stage, by Rush. It was then that he decided he wanted to become a drummer.

More About Max Gaenslen:

Along with being a Hoffman teacher and coach, Max Gaenslen is a Senior teacher and trainer of George Leonard and Michael Murphy’s Integral Transformative Practice and George Leonard’s Leonard Energy Training. He is the Coordinator of Esalen Institute’s Center for Theory & Research. Max is also a California state-certified “Education Specialist.”  

Max is also a drummer and percussionist.  

After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in creativity and entrepreneurship, Max began his career in business consulting. Max did the Hoffman Process in 2005, then shifted his career direction to focus on transformative education and workshops for adults, and working extensively with adolescents in a therapeutic context. He worked for thirteen years in San Mateo County’s Therapeutic Day School program and has taught workshops and programs for such organizations as Esalen Institute, ITP-International, Greenheart Transforms, and The Institute of Noetic Sciences.

As Mentioned in This Episode:

The Future of the Body: Explorations Into the Further Evolution of Human Nature, by Michael Murphy.

Quotes Max shares:
“The winds of grace are always blowing, but you have to raise the sail.” — Ramakrishna

“The flesh, itself, is waking up.” — Michael Murphy

Transcendence (“Up and out”):
When we transcend, we move up and out of the body.

Embodiment (“Down and in”):
Moving down into the body and deeper into its interior.

Drumming as a way to bash!
Max talks about drumming as a way to bash negative patterns. Bashing is one told to use during Expression, how we let go of our patterns. We exercise our free will – choose to step out of a pattern, and take action using our Voice, Body, and Intention.