The neuroscience of focus in the age of distraction
Dr Harry Waterstone helps leaders and teams work with, not against, the human brain. Through science-based keynotes and workshops, he shows how to excel in spite of distraction and overload, and how to build productivity in hybrid work for lasting performance.
Trusted by forward-thinking organisations across Europe.
Why Harry
Science meets strategy
Harry bridges neuroscience, philosophy and practical training experience to decode how people focus, decide and perform under pressure. He translates complex research into simple, usable tools that leaders can apply the very next day, whether on-site or online.
Audiences he serves:
Executives • HR and Learning Leaders • Team Offsites • Leadership Summits • Future-of-Work Conferences
Keynotes
Signature Talks
1. The Neuroscience of Focus
Why our brains are wired for distraction and how to regain control.
Takeaways:
Understand the science behind attention and overload.
Learn habits that protect focus in high-pressure settings.
Redesign your workday to sustain clarity and momentum.
2. Designing for Deep Work in the Hybrid Era
How to create cultures and spaces that support energy, creativity and meaningful productivity.
Takeaways:
Build hybrid routines that balance autonomy and connection.
Identify environmental triggers that drain attention.
Lead by example through cognitive-friendly work design.
3. From Productivity to Performance
Doing more isn’t the goal - doing better is.
Takeaways:
Apply lessons from neuroscience to motivation and goal-setting.
Replace busyness with strategic productivity and recovery.
Shift teams from reactive work to high-impact output.
4. Future-Ready Leadership
What neuroscience reveals about adaptability and decision-making in the age of AI.
Takeaways:
Manage uncertainty and cognitive bias in leadership.
Use scientific insights to strengthen resilience.
Build trust and clarity in tech-driven change.
“Harry’s expertise and guidance significantly enriched the skills and abilities of our doctoral candidates and group leaders.”
Formats:
Keynotes (30–60 min) | Half-day or full-day workshops | Executive retreats | Online sessions
Workshops & Programmes
Focus Labs: High-Performance Training for Teams
Harry facilitates immersive workshops that help teams build habits of attention, energy and collaboration. Participants leave with actionable routines, not theory.
Popular formats:
Reclaiming Focus in a Distracted World (2 h / half-day)
Leadership Habits for Deep Work (half-day / full-day)
Hybrid Productivity Sprint (3 × 90-minute online series)
About
Originally from Ireland and now based in Germany, Harry blends his background in neuroscience, philosophy and theatre to make complex science human and memorable. He holds a PhD from LMU Munich, where he researched attention and decision-making under uncertainty. Through Waterstone Training, he works with companies across Europe to translate brain research into everyday performance.
Core belief:
“The way we work shapes the way we live. When we align work with how our brains actually function, it unlocks the door for people to thrive and organisations to evolve.”
Contact
Book Harry for your next event.
Talks available in English and German
Typical response within 24 hours
Book Dr Harry Waterstone for your next event
Bring the science of focus and performance to your stage, conference or team.
Complete the short form below and Harry’s team will get back to you within one working day.