In this episode, I am joined by Alicia Peña Bizama—a Chartered Counselling and Occupational Psychologist, teacher, ADHD assessor, and lifelong educator. With 35+ years of experience across clinical, educational, and organizational settings, Alicia offers deep insight into what it means to focus, manage energy, and build a life that supports sustainable productivity and wellbeing. Alicia and I discuss the rising impact of ADHD in both academic and work environments, and how self-regulation and psychological skills are essential for managing transitions, avoiding burnout, and thriving as learners. Drawing from her years in higher education and her passion for lifelong learning, Alicia shares compassionate strategies for improving focus and designing systems that honor both performance and wellness.
All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/
Direct Link to This Episode:
YouTube Version:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_l_Kht8WObY&feature=youtu.be
Focus is not about more effort—it’s about better strategy and self-awareness.
ADHD is not a deficit in intelligence but a challenge in managing attention and regulation.
Productivity must include mental health, not come at the cost of it.
Transitions—into university, new careers, or independent learning—can be overwhelming without support systems.
Reflective practices, safe spaces, and collaborative environments are essential for real learning and growth.
Understanding the why behind distraction helps build better habits and not just guilt cycles.
Psychologically informed practices help students and professionals reclaim autonomy in high-demand environments.
Burnout often stems from mismatched expectations and lack of recovery.
Compassionate teaching starts with giving ourselves permission to pause, reflect, and realign.
00:00 Alicia’s Journey into Psychology and Education
06:00 Applying content from Tiny Experiments into her practice
12:30 Focus & Excitement for Learning,
14:00 Power of Vulnerable Spaces and Moving Into Education Spaces
17:30 Procrastination?
20:00 Burnout in High-Pressure Academic and Workplace Settings
24:55 Building Systems That Align With Wellbeing
31:00 Cell Phones In Classrooms
36:00 Less Tolerance For Boredom
39:00 Final Thoughts and Ideas Worth Sharing
43:00 Misconceptions of Engaged vs. Learning and the Perception of Either
Upcoming Sessions with Alicia
Understanding ADHD and Strategies to Improve Focus and Productivity
Friday 09.05.25 at 15:00–16:00 UK time
Monday 12.05.25 at 15:00–16:00 UK time