Living On The Edge of Chaos

ACCESS THE SHOW All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/ [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/] Direct Link to This Episode:  YouTube Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_l_Kht8WObY&feature=youtu.be TAKEAWAYS 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. CHAPTERS 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   RESOURCES Alicia Peña Bizama Website [https://aliciapenabizama.com] Tiny Experiments [https://nesslabs.com/book] * Podcast 210 [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/210/] where I speak with author of Tiny Experiments and founder of Ness Labs 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 Check Eventbrite or her website for registration [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/understanding-adhd-strategies-to-improve-focus-and-productivity-tickets-1323890434929?aff=oddtdtcreator] Aaron’s Full Podcast Archive [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/]

All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/ [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/] Direct Link to This Episode: www.coffeeforthebrain.com/210 YouTube Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gM0arJOqDbE  TAKEAWAYS Linear goal-setting can trap us in burnout and a deficit mindset. Learning and growth are nonlinear—curiosity and experimentation create deeper impact. Traditional definitions of success often limit creativity and autonomy. Tiny experiments help reclaim control, joy, and discovery in our personal and professional lives. The education system can benefit from embracing experimentation over rigid outcomes. Community and conversation are powerful tools for mental health and learning. Neuroscience helps explain why curiosity and self-compassion are crucial for sustainable progress. Instead of obsessing over perfection, we can focus on consistent iteration and playful learning. Self-defined success leads to healthier productivity and long-term well-being. Educators and knowledge workers alike need safe, brave spaces to question norms and try new paths. CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome + Introduction of Anne-Laure 03:10 Linear Thinking vs. Nonlinear Exploration 06:15 Anne-Laure's Shift from Corporate Life to Purpose-Driven Curiosity 10:50 The Origins of Tiny Experiments 14:20 Power of Community and Learning in Public 2o:45 Neuroscience of Learning and Curiosity with Plus, Minus, Next 26:00 The Beauty of New Learning With Published Book 30:30 How to Start a Tiny Experiment Today Educators as Explorers, Not Just Executors RESOURCES Ness Labs Community [https://community.nesslabs.com/feed] Tiny Experiments: A Book by Anne-Laure Le Cunff [https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Experiments-Freely-Goal-Obsessed-World/dp/0593715136] * Book website [https://nesslabs.com/book] Anne-Laure’s Keynote at SXSW [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCIT1L5muoQ&t=1002s] Anne-Laure on Twitter/X [https://x.com/neuranne] Aaron’s Full Podcast Archive [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/] *

TAKEAWAYS * Learning is a vulnerable experience that requires admitting what you don't know. * Creating engaging learning experiences is essential for both students and teachers. * Trust and faith in the learning process are crucial for transformative education. * Experience is the best teacher, and learning should be experiential. * The education system needs to be remade to support teachers effectively. * AI can enhance learning but does not replace the need for human creativity and experience. * Creating a safe space for failure is necessary for real learning to occur. * Communal learning experiences foster trust and collaboration among educators and students. * Professional development should focus on what teachers are doing, not just what they are being told to do. * Education should prioritize ideas and personal expression over performative tasks. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to CodeJoy and Kelsey Derringer 03:10 The Importance of Lifelong Learning in Education 05:57 Vulnerability in Learning: A Personal Perspective 09:01 Breaking the Education System: Kelsey's Journey 11:53 Innovative Approaches to Teacher Engagement 15:02 Creating Interactive Learning Experiences 18:06 The Role of Social Learning in Education 21:01 Reframing Teacher and Student Roles in Learning 26:33 The Nature of Learning and Experience 27:50 Human Evolution and Learning Challenges 28:50 Creating Safe Spaces for Learning 30:12 The Importance of Iteration and Failure 32:35 The Role of Experience in Education 34:35 Creativity and Trust in Learning 36:48 The Intersection of AI and Education 39:22 Shifting Focus from Performance to Ideas 42:10 The Human Experience in Education 46:09 Building Trust and Community in Learning   RESOURCES * CodeJoy [https://www.codejoy.org/] * CodeJoy on Socials [https://www.codejoy.org/about] * 25 Days of Making [https://sites.google.com/view/25daysofmaking/day-17] * The Artist's Way [https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Way-25th-Anniversary/dp/0143129252/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.j2bNWhJKONpFlTX6-ONeNXMvz_M8SdRQ-gEzLZk27SCzw12uLInHhi-Hc6DEJuUHBVXbQuQsSxHBhowYXR4wlHcRKoRSFAhQpMd_3BulyEC1dk-PMnDpScTDkQCU_fcNFgJ_LQK2IxuH9a-OI2T53yzEatksxhDhgHfz05U26cJP7OzN4zLyNn4_iniwKDbM9Me2H4jk8EjlXcisDfDEuVKl7X-QWMjklP6UFFxb4Pc.a_sOFFD6HvPUktqnTYw-wFagLixJZNoT2fCjgQF22kU&dib_tag=se&hvadid=598610639748&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9018656&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14937950075255114479&hvtargid=kwd-10490767817&hydadcr=15494_13558566&keywords=the+artist%27+way&qid=1734623001&s=books&sr=1-1] * Hans Zimmer Isn't Scared of AI [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hans-zimmer-isnt-scared-of-ai/id1469394914?i=1000674488065]

TAKEAWAYS * Mindfulness and emotional intelligence are essential in education to support the well-being of both students and educators. * Establishing a noble goal and understanding one's why can help educators stay connected to their purpose and navigate challenges. * Taking the time to pause, reflect on emotions, and choose self-care strategies can help educators manage stress and prevent burnout. * Providing space for vulnerability and self-care in the education system is crucial for the overall well-being of educators and students. Educators need to prioritize their own well-being and practice self-awareness and self-care. * The KCG framework (Know Yourself, Choose Yourself, Give Yourself) can help educators navigate difficult situations and manage their emotions. * Emotions are data and should be acknowledged and understood. * Education should focus on the whole child and provide educators with the tools and support they need. * Showing up for others and spreading love can have a profound impact on individuals and communities. SOUND BITES * "Mindfulness and emotional intelligence are essential in education." * "Establishing a noble goal and understanding one's why can help educators stay connected to their purpose." * "Taking the time to pause, reflect on emotions, and choose self-care strategies can help educators manage stress and prevent burnout." * "Emotions that are in your body for like six seconds."\"KCG: Know Yourself, Choose Yourself, Give Yourself" CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 10:30 The Work of Challenge to Change 23:07 Creating Space for Self-Reflection 27:40 Challenges of Bringing Mindfulness Practices into Schools 29:36 The Importance of Emotions in Education 33:55 Managing Emotions in Challenging Situations 38:14 Bringing Emotional Intelligence into the Classroom 44:48 Creating a Culture of Empathy and Understanding RESOURCES * Challenge To Change [https://www.challengetochangeinc.com/] * Guided Mindfulness [https://www.challengetochangeinc.com/guided-mindfulness-kids-meditations] * Six Seconds [https://www.6seconds.org/] * Jordan Turner Bio [https://www.challengetochangeinc.com/staff/jordan-turner] * KCG. Know Choose Give [https://www.6seconds.org/education/kcg/]

TAKEAWAYS * AI can be used as a tool for augmentation in education, supporting academic writing and research. * Curiosity is a powerful driver of learning and exploration in the AI space. * Simulations can help students test their research ideas and understand the implications of their decisions. * Good writing in academia involves the ability to synthesize research, support claims, and communicate effectively. Prioritize the audience in communication and understand their needs and wants * Focus on the writing process and experiment with different strategies to improve * Embrace bravery in pursuing goals and trust in the support of others * Stay updated on advancements in AI technology and leverage them for feedback and guidance * Recognize the influence of TV shows and movies in shaping personal experiences and perspectives SOUND BITES * "It's not just about AI. It's about thinking and learning and articulation and how we leverage emerging technology to continue to push what's potential." * "You don't have to be a technical person to start an AI EdTech company. You can learn on your own." * "The ability to create simulations for students so they can test their research ideas and understand the implications of their decisions." * "Put the audience as your primary priority and put what you wanna say on the back burner and understand what the audience needs or wants to hear." * "Good writing is about process, not just product." * "Being brave also means collectively trusting that you are surrounding yourself with people who are going to have your back and who can do things that you can't." CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:55 The Role of AI in Education 08:06 Navigating the Challenges of AI in Education 16:00 Exploring Topics in AI and Education 25:59 The Importance of Good Writing in Academia 29:12 Putting the Audience First: Effective Communication 30:57 The Power of Process: Enhancing Writing Skills 35:46 Embracing Bravery: Pursuing Goals and Taking Risks 39:35 Advancements in AI Technology: The Impact of Claude III 42:47 Influential TV Shows and Movies: The Sound of Music and Ghost RESOURCES * Here is the slidedeck to check out all the ideas discussed and the ones we did not have time to cover [https://1drv.ms/p/s!AqtnAB8NPT2-8kaXqhE0kCP6uRQ7] * Moxie website to learn about the work and opportunities https://academicinsightlab.org/team [https://academicinsightlab.org/team] * Kimberly on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlypacebecker/] * Jessica on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaparker/] * Anne Lamott book, Bird by Bird [https://www.amazon.com/Bird-Some-Instructions-Writing-Life-ebook/dp/B000SEGI8Q/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34A7OPXWWS0MO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XX2kyvUxSkaOSsrTrlzSuEWddPpWD9IpK3goWJpjJG3ZZyAg1uLh4aUM2HCxrr3Z7bQbooZ-X42Xhmj_DIJRP0CmJXSA1em-Mop6XilDHCgSjzp9xKDl1Vvhqez4KeG-n7qaKBTHQfWWuk8mxT1MO3CFPmiBQuY2gilijwqztLc4csU0GMUZ8z7UabwEjgC4BrWc7W48otUtF6fHqz75W-WbdvE03LVfO_suhFxT2Gw.pefd-DEJv3svGBO3z7ITntrAzzhOlnglTm9WG7Tfjdg&dib_tag=se&keywords=anne+lamott+shitty+first+draftd+by+bird&qid=1717078453&s=books&sprefix=anne+lamott+shitty+first+draftd+by+bir%2Cstripbooks%2C537&sr=1-1] * 10% Happier Podcast [https://www.tenpercent.com/podcast] * Adam Grant Podcasts [https://adamgrant.net/podcasts/] * The Alchemist book [https://www.amazon.com/Alchemist-Paulo-Coelho/dp/0061122416] * "What you seek is seeking you", a quote from Rumi * "Follow your values and not your passions becase your passions will change but your values tend to stay the same" * 197: The Art of Authenticity: Living Out Loud with Brant Menswar  [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/197-2/]