About Us

What is the Science of Connection?

Social connection is the exchange of energy between people when they feel visible, relevant and accepted by others. In turn, the person is nourished and fortified by the relationship, which supports them to thrive and evolve.

Global research studies prove that people who are more socially connected have lower levels of anxiety and depression, higher self-esteem, greater empathy, extended longevity, stronger immune systems and become more trusting and co-operative.

At the heart of every thriving individual, team or business lies one simple, powerful truth: human connection drives performance.

The Science of Connection specialises in unlocking the full potential of people, teams, leaders, and cultures through a deep, research-backed understanding of human relationships, belonging, engagement and performance.

In today’s fast-paced, tech-saturated business landscape, connection has become both more elusive and more essential. When people feel seen, heard, and valued, they don’t just work harder—they work smarter, collaborate better, innovate more boldly, and stay longer.

Whether you're navigating personal growth, organisational change, building stronger leadership, or enhancing employee engagement, our approach is grounded in one mission: to help your people connect better—so they can perform better.

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Who Are We

Kerry Mahoney

A qualified Psychologist, specialist coach and human behaviour expert, my focus is on helping you to produce the results that matter – driving behavioural change for the corporate, team or individual which leads towards clarity, energy and purpose.

With over 25 years of experience, my specialist skills lie in facilitating a more authentic approach to life, work and self by using strategies which expand self-awareness, leadership, acceptance, curiosity and build emotional resilience that leads to more empowering and nurturing relationships in every sphere of your life.

Kerry is a registered Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsychBA), a Member of the Australia Psychology Society (APS) in addition to the International Society for Coaching Psychology (ISCP). She uses a cognitive-behavioural approach (CBT) and is also certified as a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).

Kieran Plasto

Kieran Plasto is a seasoned ‘people professional’ adept at navigating and resolving intricate and complex workplace dynamics to drive enhanced performance and foster employee engagement. With over thirty-five years of experience spanning roles as a Psychologist, Senior Leader in Human Resources and Safety across global mining and heavy industry sectors, and a distinguished career in Law Enforcement as a Criminal Investigator and Police Negotiator, Kieran possesses a profound understanding of human behaviour in organizational settings.

His expertise lies in deciphering the complexities of human interaction, empowering leaders at all levels to cultivate environments conducive to productivity and satisfaction. A former appointed Detective, accredited as a Mediator, Internationally Certified Coach, Conflict Coach, and Harvard- trained Negotiator, Kieran brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table.

By leveraging his innate ability to discern motivations, dismantle barriers, and nurture effective communication, Kieran equips businesses with the tools necessary to cultivate engaged and fulfilled employees through the analyses and resolution of all types of workplace complexities. Through his guidance, leaders and teams develop the essential tools to cultivate resilient, agile teams, along with fostering attributes and skills required to enhance business results through elevated people performance.

Zarife Hardy

Zarife Hardy is an internationally acclaimed expert in professional presence and business etiquette. Through her workshops, she teaches a comprehensive range of communication and presentation skills – all of which drive tangible business benefits.

Zarife works with blue chip clients across a diverse range of sectors including legal, accounting and finance, hospitality, sport, automotive and wholesale.

Prior to founding ASOE in 2010, Zarife studied at The University of Sydney, The Trinity College in London, and Etiquette Outreach in New York. She now delivers professional presence workshops across Australia, New Zealand, UK, the USA and beyond – and her training has been integrated into the business advantage programme at QUT. Zarife is also frequently called upon for her expert opinion by media channels including Channel 7, Channel 9, 2GB, 2UE, ABC and SMH.