Tom Schlesinger is an internationally respected story coach and educator operating at the intersection of neuroscience, justice, and transformational storytelling. With a background in theater arts (MFA, UCLA) and decades of experience in film, television, and documentary, Tom assists scientists, clinicians, and creative professionals in crafting emotionally compelling narratives that connect intellect and empathy.

He recently gave a talk at the Society for Neuroscience Annual Conference in Chicago, inspiring researchers to translate complex data into stories that engage, persuade, and heal. His unique approach is helping neuroscience labs, medical centers, and research institutions reframe how they communicate with the public, policymakers, and funders.

Tom has served as story coach on multiple acclaimed films, including Prom Night in Mississippi (HBO, with Morgan Freeman), A Small Act (HBO), and Caroline Link’s Oscar-winning Nowhere in Africa. He teaches narrative strategy at Pixar, Disney, Lucasfilm, Red Bull, and the American Film Institute, and leads international workshops such as Art as Transformation at UCLA and The Writer’s Room Experience at the International Film School in Cologne, Germany.

Tom’s mission is to empower storytellers in every field to shape stories that entertain, spark social change, and awaken consciousness.