Rhythms of Focus
Kourosh Dini
Join psychiatrist, musician, and productivity strategist Dr. Kourosh Dini on a journey to transform your relationship with work, creativity, and focus. "Rhythms of Focus: for Wandering Minds, ADHD, and Beyond" explores the intersection of meaningful work and the art of engaging creativity and responsibility without force, particularly for wandering minds, ADHD, and beyond.
Each week, Dr. Dini weaves together insights from psychiatry, mindfulness practices, and creative experiences to help you develop your own path beyond productivity, and to mastery and meaningful work. Whether you're neurodivergent or simply seeking a more authentic approach to engaging the world, you'll discover practical strategies for:
- Building supportive environments that honor your unique way of thinking
- Transforming resistance into creative momentum
- Developing personalized workflows that actually stick
- Understanding and working with your mind's natural rhythms
Drawing from his experience as both a practicing psychiatrist and creative artist, Dr. Dini offers a compassionate perspective on productivity that goes beyond traditional time management techniques. You'll learn why typical productivity advice often falls short and how to craft approaches that genuinely resonate with your mind's natural tendencies.
Each week, Dr. Dini weaves together insights from psychiatry, mindfulness practices, and creative experiences to help you develop your own path beyond productivity, and to mastery and meaningful work. Whether you're neurodivergent or simply seeking a more authentic approach to engaging the world, you'll discover practical strategies for:
- Building supportive environments that honor your unique way of thinking
- Transforming resistance into creative momentum
- Developing personalized workflows that actually stick
- Understanding and working with your mind's natural rhythms
Drawing from his experience as both a practicing psychiatrist and creative artist, Dr. Dini offers a compassionate perspective on productivity that goes beyond traditional time management techniques. You'll learn why typical productivity advice often falls short and how to craft approaches that genuinely resonate with your mind's natural tendencies.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 27, 2025 • 16min
Decision Overload
Explore the intriguing dilemma of decision overload and its ties to emotional complexity, especially for those with ADHD. Discover how compulsive behaviors stem from a need for relief rather than just instant gratification. The podcast introduces the anchor technique to help lighten decision fatigue in hectic moments. Moments of mindful pause are emphasized to sort through feelings and bring clarity to chaotic choices. Plus, enjoy an original piano piece, 'Veranda,' reflecting the journey from overwhelm to calm.
13 snips
Aug 21, 2025 • 13min
The Ultimate Trick Will Ultimately Fail
Shortcuts for motivation may sound appealing, but they often backfire, eroding our self-confidence. The discussion reveals how genuine trust in ourselves is built through mindful practice, not fleeting tricks. Embracing manageable risks can serve as powerful stepping stones toward mastery. Delve into the significance of facing challenges to bolster confidence, while enjoying a unique piano composition that underscores this journey. Discover a more sustainable path to motivation that encourages intentional living and personal growth.
Aug 14, 2025 • 17min
The Power of Doing Nothing
Discover the surprising benefits of embracing inactivity and the art of 'visiting' your tasks without pressure. This discussion highlights how allowing yourself to simply be can spark motivation and clarity. Learn to face your fears and procrastination, while thoughtful pauses enhance creativity and reveal new insights. Each 'visit' promotes agency and self-compassion, reminding us that true progress often sprouts in moments of stillness.
17 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 21min
Comments on ADHD as an "Erectile Dysfunction of the Mind"
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Kourosh Dini dives into the complexities of ADHD, drawing parallels to the concept of 'erectile dysfunction of the mind.' By challenging the typical views on willpower, the conversation shifts toward fostering self-trust and agency. Listeners discover the importance of engaging with tasks through compassion and emotional awareness. The podcast highlights innovative practices, like the 'daily visit,' to maintain momentum even in low motivation moments. It concludes with a reflection on music's role in shaping focus and connection.
26 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 30min
The Magnified Mind
The conversation dives into the nature of the wandering mind, revealing how it can be both a challenge and a source of creativity. Personal experiences with ADHD are explored, highlighting the importance of subjective understanding over traditional metrics. A captivating metaphor compares the lens of an eye to consciousness, emphasizing the impact of mental distractions on focus. The discussion also covers emotional depth and offers practical techniques for managing a wandering mind, culminating in a lively musical improvisation that embodies these concepts.
11 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 12min
Avoiding a Taskmaster
Struggling with procrastination? This discussion dives deep into the frustrations of relying on others for reminders, revealing the emotional cycle of resentment that can develop. It highlights the challenges of managing tasks, especially with ADHD, and introduces a fresh perspective on being present with work. By breaking the cycle of dependency, listeners can foster productivity and harmony in task completion. The conversation wraps up with an exploration of the musical piece 'Wooded Hills,' adding an artistic touch to the journey.
Jul 10, 2025 • 35sec
Taking a break...
I'm taking a break! I should be back in a few weeks (end of July/beginning of August)
8 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 11min
Procrastination, ADHD, and I'll Come Up With the Rest of this Title Later
Dive into the fascinating psychology behind procrastination, especially for those with ADHD. Discover how avoidance can serve as a recovery mechanism rather than a flaw. Learn why traditional productivity strategies often backfire and how a rhythm-based, gentle approach can enhance focus. Gain actionable insights to shift your mindset and reclaim your agency without shame. Plus, enjoy an original piano composition designed to support your creative journey and reflection.
27 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 57min
An Interview with Dr. Joel Anderson - Philosophy and the Wandering Mind
In this engaging dialogue, Dr. Joel Anderson, a leading philosopher specializing in moral psychology, delves into the intricacies of wandering minds and procrastination with host Dr. Kourosh Dini. They explore 'agentic play' and how well-designed environments can enhance creativity. The conversation balances agency with emotional engagement, addressing how emotions can guide motivation. They also discuss self-binding strategies for resisting temptation and fostering self-trust, ultimately reflecting on how these insights can transform our approach to work and life.
8 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 15min
Calm Focus, Not Crisis: Reimagining Productivity for ADHD
Explore the curious phenomenon of how looming deadlines can both elevate and drain focus, particularly for adults with ADHD. Discover the hidden costs of a 'last-minute mode' and how to embrace a kinder, gentler approach to productivity. Replace pressure with self-compassion and learn to 'visit' your projects without the burden of completion. Reframe deadlines as prompts rather than stressors to foster natural focus. Plus, enjoy an original piano composition that invites warmth and gentle growth.
