#56: Mastering Flow in a Distracted World: Insights from Steven Puri
Sun Jan 11 2026
In this episode of See Beyond, Mika Tienhaara hosts Steven Puri, founder and CEO of The Sukha Company, to explore the concept of flow states and their role in productivity, creativity, and well-being in an increasingly digital and distracted world. Steven shares his fascinating journey from Hollywood film production—where he worked on blockbuster movies like Independence Day—to becoming a tech entrepreneur focused on helping people achieve deep work and fulfillment.
The conversation touches on:
* Origins of the See Beyond podcast during the pandemic as a way to give back and foster meaningful discussions.
* Steven’s personal story: overcoming cancer, becoming a parent, and shifting from entertainment to tech with a mission to help people focus.
* The science and psychology of flow, based on Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s seminal work, and why it’s essential in a world where repetitive tasks are increasingly automated by AI.
* Practical tools and triggers for entering flow states, including music (60–90 BPM, non-vocal), environmental sounds (rain, coffee shop ambience), and distraction blockers.
* The importance of community and accountability in sustaining focus, drawing parallels to Nike Run Club and creative hubs like coffee shops.
* Steven’s platform, The Sukha, which integrates timers, curated music, and community features to help users achieve flow and accomplish meaningful work.
Key Takeaways
* Flow State Defined: A mental state of deep focus where time perception fades, distractions disappear, and productivity peaks.
* Why Flow Matters: In an era of AI and automation, creativity and deep work remain uniquely human advantages.
* Triggers for Flow:
* Music with specific characteristics (60–90 BPM, instrumental, repetitive patterns).
* Environmental cues like rain sounds or coffee shop ambience.
* Tools to minimize distractions (e.g., Chrome extensions).
* Community Amplifies Success: Shared accountability and encouragement help individuals sustain focus and achieve goals.
* Practical Access: The Sukha platform offers free trials, curated playlists, and a supportive community to help users build a flow practice.
* Mindset Shift: Moving from passive consumption (social media) to intentional creation is key to personal fulfillment.
Any own experiences or best practices to share, how to make your working day (especially for remote work) free from distractions and both productive and healthy?
Please share in the comments!
/Mika Tienhaara, creator and host of the SEE BEYOND.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mikatienhaara.substack.com
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In this episode of See Beyond, Mika Tienhaara hosts Steven Puri, founder and CEO of The Sukha Company, to explore the concept of flow states and their role in productivity, creativity, and well-being in an increasingly digital and distracted world. Steven shares his fascinating journey from Hollywood film production—where he worked on blockbuster movies like Independence Day—to becoming a tech entrepreneur focused on helping people achieve deep work and fulfillment. The conversation touches on: * Origins of the See Beyond podcast during the pandemic as a way to give back and foster meaningful discussions. * Steven’s personal story: overcoming cancer, becoming a parent, and shifting from entertainment to tech with a mission to help people focus. * The science and psychology of flow, based on Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s seminal work, and why it’s essential in a world where repetitive tasks are increasingly automated by AI. * Practical tools and triggers for entering flow states, including music (60–90 BPM, non-vocal), environmental sounds (rain, coffee shop ambience), and distraction blockers. * The importance of community and accountability in sustaining focus, drawing parallels to Nike Run Club and creative hubs like coffee shops. * Steven’s platform, The Sukha, which integrates timers, curated music, and community features to help users achieve flow and accomplish meaningful work. Key Takeaways * Flow State Defined: A mental state of deep focus where time perception fades, distractions disappear, and productivity peaks. * Why Flow Matters: In an era of AI and automation, creativity and deep work remain uniquely human advantages. * Triggers for Flow: * Music with specific characteristics (60–90 BPM, instrumental, repetitive patterns). * Environmental cues like rain sounds or coffee shop ambience. * Tools to minimize distractions (e.g., Chrome extensions). * Community Amplifies Success: Shared accountability and encouragement help individuals sustain focus and achieve goals. * Practical Access: The Sukha platform offers free trials, curated playlists, and a supportive community to help users build a flow practice. * Mindset Shift: Moving from passive consumption (social media) to intentional creation is key to personal fulfillment. Any own experiences or best practices to share, how to make your working day (especially for remote work) free from distractions and both productive and healthy? Please share in the comments! /Mika Tienhaara, creator and host of the SEE BEYOND. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit mikatienhaara.substack.com