Will Henshall: Transform Distraction into Peak Focus with Functional Music

Will Henshall: Transform Distraction into Peak Focus with Functional Music

Author: Abel James June 5, 2025 Duration: 1:03:33
Do you find yourself more distracted than ever? 

You’re not alone. In the rapid-fire, hyper-connected, dopamine-driven modern world, harnessing true focus is a rare superpower… 

But understanding the subtle mechanics of human attention might just be the most valuable skill in our increasingly distracted world.

Today, we're exploring the extraordinary work of Will Henshall - a guy who doesn't just create music, but deconstructs how sound interacts with our neurological operating system. Will is a musician, inventor, and entrepreneur who went from writing global #1 hit songs to reverse-engineering human focus like it's a complex guitar solo. 

It's not about talent. It's about seeing the world from a unique and different perspective - and having the guts to build something when everyone else says it can't be done. 

In this episode, you’ll discover:
  • Why different brain types require unique sonic approaches to maintain concentration, especially if you have ADHD
  • How to choose music to aid focus, flow, and productivity based on your brain type
  • Why AI and generative art can't replicate the emotional power of live human creativity and performance
  • And much more…
Abel James explores the fascinating intersection of music, technology, and entrepreneurship with guest Will Henshall. Will, a musician turned inventor, shares his journey from writing global hit songs with the band London Beat to founding Focus at Will, a music streaming service designed to enhance concentration. The conversation delves into the science of human attention, the role of music in productivity, and how different brain types require unique sonic approaches to maintain focus. Will also discusses the entrepreneurial mindset, emphasizing the importance of seeing opportunities where others see obstacles and the relentless pursuit of one's purpose.

The discussion further explores the impact of AI on creativity, the irreplaceable emotional power of live human performance, and the potential renaissance of live music in a digital age. Will shares insights into his work with the METAL MEN group, highlighting the value of community and collaboration among like-minded individuals. The episode offers a rich tapestry of ideas on how music and technology can be harnessed to improve focus and productivity, while also celebrating the timeless magic of human creativity and connection.

This episode is brought to you by:
Troscriptions - Go to troscriptions.com/WILD or enter WILD at checkout for 10% off your first order.
iRestore.com - Go to iRestore.com and save on the Illumina Face Mask with code WILD.
Caldera Lab - Go to calderalab.com and use code: WILD for 20% off your 1st order.

To stay up to date on our next live events, masterminds, shows and more in Austin, TX and beyond, sign up for my newsletter at AbelJames.com, and check out my substack at abeljames.substack.com

For over a decade, the Abel James Show has served as a deep and often surprising conversation space where health, business, and human potential intersect. Rather than offering quick fixes, this podcast delves into the nuanced strategies and personal philosophies of top performers across diverse fields. You’ll hear candid, long-form interviews with hundreds of pioneers, from biochemists like Dr. Casey Means and longevity experts like Dr. Mark Hyman to entrepreneurial minds such as Tim Ferriss and James Clear. The discussions naturally explore the practical connections between metabolic health, cognitive performance, and building a meaningful career or business. Launched back in 2012, the show has evolved from its original, playful focus into a broader exploration of what it means to live well and work smart. Tuning in provides a unique blend of actionable science for your body and innovative thinking for your ventures, all framed through Abel’s engaging and curious perspective. Each episode feels like a chance to sit in on a private masterclass, stripping away the hype to examine what truly works for optimizing a modern life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Abel James Show
Podcast Episodes
Itamar Marani: How to Turn Setbacks into Secret Weapons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:24
When everything is on the line, ever wonder why some otherwise incredible athletes choke spectacularly? Why did Michael Jordan consistently sink game-winning jump shots at the buzzer when everyone else was throwing up br…
Dr. Ann Shippy: Fertility, Longevity and Mold Detoxification [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:31
Have you considered how the choices you make today shape the health and destiny of your children before they’re ever born?What if the most important gift you could ever give your future child is the health and resilience…
Dr. Sabine Hazan: How Microbes Shape Memory, Mood, and the Mind [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:35
What if the secret to unlocking the mysteries of our minds, our health, and even our happiness is hiding in the most unexpected place—our own gut? Could the answers to our most stubborn health mysteries—and maybe even th…
David Page of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on Eating Nose-To-Tail [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:18
What’s the secret to shedding fat as a foodie who refuses to sacrifice joy or flavor? This week’s guest changed the way we think about food and mom and pop businesses in America. He’s a legend in journalism and beloved i…
Ben Greenfield: Stem Cells, Botox, and Biohacking Blunders [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:35
What if the key to an extraordinary life is becoming radically, unapologetically yourself? Today, we’re here with the one-and-only Ben Greenfield, a man who has been pushing the boundaries of human performance for decade…
Jay Yang: You Can Just Do Things [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:01
What if success isn’t just about working hard, but about creating your own opportunities? Today we’re here with teen phenom and author of the new book, You Can Just Do Things, Jay Yang. I met Jay last year through our fr…
Dr. Ryan Lazarus: How to Survive a Near-Death Experience [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:45
Have you ever had a near death experience? I sincerely hope not. But as long-time listeners know, I’ve had a couple of close calls.A simple twist of fate or freak accident can alter the course of your life. But if you le…
James Swanwick: How to Break Free from Alcohol [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:06
Do you ever feel like you’re losing your edge?Today we’re here with my friend James Swanwick, creator of Alcohol Free Lifestyle, a movement guiding high-achievers like you to sidestep the sauce.In this episode, we’re exp…
Ben Azadi: How Toxins Like Glyphosate Sabotage Your Metabolism [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:38
What if being overweight isn’t the problem, but actually a symptom of deeper dysfunction?The body doesn't lose weight to get healthy; it gets healthy to lose weight. And reclaiming your metabolic freedom may just save yo…