#101: Martin Keen, CEO of Focal Upright Furniture

Host Brad Kearns talks with Martin Keen, CEO of Focal Upright Furniture—a cutting edge company headquartered in Rhode Island. Focal Upright is responsible for a wildly popular line of functional furniture products, including their unique leaning and mobile seats and assorted upright desk options. Martin discusses the many health hazards of prolonged sitting (electrical activity ceases in your leg muscles, fat metabolism enzymes decline by 90%, calorie burning minimizes, blood flow to brain is reduced, spine is compressed, hip flexors tighten, etc.) and how assuming an upright position can deliver exceptional health benefits. 

Unlike other standup desk setups that are all-or-nothing propositions and can often represent too daunting a transition from decades of sitting at work, Martin asserts that the Focal Mogo leaning chair allows you to transition into an upright work setup without needing a chair as a safety valve. This is because the Mogo can support all of your weight when desired, while promoting a stable and elongated spine position. Interestingly, none of the Focal employees have chairs, but they do have a designated lounge (with couches, etc.) where they can go to take a true and authentic break from work. When they return to their desks, they put they bodies, and minds, into an optimal position to focus and get work done! Enjoy this interesting conversation with one of the leaders in the dynamic workstation movement!