Max Gaenslen is a practitioner and trainer of Integral Transformative Practice (ITP), created by Esalen visionaries George Leonard and Michael Murphy. After joining the ITP International management team in 2006, Max co-designed and led the 10-year ITP Mastery program. Max has presented ITP and Leonard Energy Training (LET) at Esalen Institute, national conferences, and in diverse educational and therapeutic settings.

Max is also a certified Hoffman Process teacher and coach, and coordinator of Esalen’s Center for Theory and Research. A passionate advocate for human potential, his life’s work is guided by a powerful question: “What makes the difference between people who connect to their inner spark and bring their gifts into the world — and those who don’t?” This question, which came to him in 2004, continues to inform his teaching and personal journey.

With a background in creativity and entrepreneurship, Max later shifted his focus to transformative education and adolescent development. He spent 13 years working in San Mateo County’s Therapeutic Day School and has taught for IONS, Greenheart Transforms, and other organizations.

Also a drummer, Max brings rhythm, insight, and an infectious love of awakening body, heart, and soul into everything he does.