As developers, we’re always looking for ways to improve and optimise our code. Yet we often neglect our body’s hardware and software. In this episode, I was joined by Rob West, to chat about how we can use mindfulness, nutrition, and exercise to upgrade our brain’s operating system. A large part of our discussion was about our ability to focus, why are brains naturally struggle with this, especially in the modern world - and techniques to help us with this. We did, of course, also chat about coffee! ☕️

Rob is a seasoned software engineering leader, transformational coach, and competitive track cyclist with over 15 years of experience in senior technology roles. He has worked with high-profile clients like Pepsi, Sky, Historic Royal Palaces, and the Open University, driving innovation and results across diverse sectors. Rob’s academic foundation in psychology and philosophy fuels his coaching practice, where he blends insights from neuroscience and mindfulness to empower individuals to excel and find greater purpose in their lives.

Rob’s contact links

• LinkedIn
• Double Loop Coaching
• Double Loop Coaching on Instagram

Links from the show

• Oxford Mindfulness
• Call Newport’s “Deep Work” book
• Call Newport’s “Slow Productivity” book
• The Cal Newport podcast episode we mentioned (re. office hours)
• Matthew Walker’s “Why we Sleep” book
• Huberman Lab
• Study where subjects were giving a highly processed diet (mentioned in this podcast)
• Profile of my coffee!

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