Understanding Feelings, Overcoming Fears

Martin Inderbitzin, a neuroscientist, entrepreneur, and cancer survivor, captivated his audience with an inspiring, thought-provoking and deeply personal talk on fears, resilience, mindset, and the power of purpose at ETH Zürich’s Treffpunkt Science City on 23 March 2025 at ETH Hönggerberg Campus at an auditorium packed with more than 300 participants. Through a blend of storytelling, scientific insights, and interactive moments, he guided attendees on a journey of self-reflection and empowerment, showing how even the most daunting challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth.

Here are a few thought-provoking questions when being confronted and dealing with fear that Martin raised to begin his talk with:

1. What happens in the brain?
2. What happens in the body?
3. What can we do?

Martin shared his own experience of being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, a moment that turned his world upside down. Instead of surrendering to fear, he decided to approach his illness with curiosity and a growth mindset. “We don’t always get to choose what happens to us, but we do get to choose how we respond,” he told the audience, emphasizing the power of perspective. His reflections weren’t just theoretical; they were deeply rooted in his own battles, making his message resonate on a profoundly human level.

The talk wasn’t just a one-way conversation, Martin actively engaged with the audience, prompting them to think about their own challenges and the stories they tell themselves. Through thought-provoking questions and interactive moments, he encouraged participants to reflect on how they deal with setbacks and whether they see obstacles as roadblocks or stepping stones. “Adversity is not the enemy; it’s an invitation to grow,” he remarked, challenging attendees to rethink their mindset. His ability to connect with individuals on a personal level turned the event into an intimate and impactful experience.

He posed another set of questions related to crisis and challenge in front of the attendees to concretely ponder over:

1. What is so difficult?
2. Who or what is standing in your way?
3. What do you feel when you think about this crisis?

One of the most powerful themes of the talk was the importance of setting meaningful goals, even in the face of adversity. Martin recounted how, during his cancer treatment, he set himself the challenge of completing a triathlon, an ambitious goal that seemed impossible at the time. Yet, by focusing on small, achievable steps and maintaining a positive outlook, he not only regained his physical strength but also discovered a newfound sense of purpose. “You don’t need to see the whole path to take the first step,” he reminded the audience, encouraging them to take action despite uncertainty.

In addition to his personal experiences, Martin brought a scientific perspective to the discussion. As a trained neuroscientist with a research background at ETH Zürich, his work has focused on neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize itself in response to new experiences. He explained how cultivating a growth mindset can physically change neural pathways, reinforcing positive behavioural patterns. His research has contributed to a deeper understanding of how mental training, motivation, and purpose-driven actions can shape our thoughts and our physical well-being.

Throughout the session, Martin masterfully wove these scientific principles into his narrative, making complex concepts accessible and relatable. He also found ways to bring humour and lightness into the discussion, keeping the audience engaged. In a particularly memorable moment, he referenced a well-known children’s song “Kopf, Schulter, Knie und Fuss” (Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes) to illustrate the mind-body connection. The playful reference served as a reminder that even serious topics can be approached with a sense of curiosity and fun. The following children song that Martin brought up also goes in the similar line: “Die Affen rasen durch den Wald, der eine macht den andern kalt. Die ganze Affenbande brüllt: Wo ist die Kokosnuss, wo ist die Kokosnuss, er hat die Kokosnuss geklaut? ”(The monkeys are racing through the forest, one chases the other. The whole troop of monkeys shout: Where is the coconut, where is the coconut, he stole the coconut?).

By the end of the talk, it was evident that he had left a lasting impression. Attendees walked away not just with inspiration, but with practical tools to reframe their own challenges and cultivate a mindset of growth and possibility. His talk was a testament to the incredible power of perspective, and how the stories we tell ourselves can shape our reality.

As the audience dispersed, many approached him at the “Meet the Scientist” point outside the auditorium and continued discussing the ideas he had shared, proof that his words had ignited something profound within them.

Watch Martin’s talk (in German) on our YouTube channel

Martin Inderbitzin is a neurobiologist and ETH alumnus. He shares his journey with pancreatic cancer and the strategies that have helped him cope with uncertainty and fear over the last twelve years. Learn everything about Martin’s book “Mut zur Leben” (Courage to Live), from ordering information to his website and exclusive resources: https://www.martininderbitzin.com/mut-zum-leben-verkauf