Facts in Mind

Episode 3 - A Conversation about Lifelong Learning, Featuring Dean Nancy Coleman

Join Kimia and Amber for Episode 3 of Facts in Mind featuring Dr. Nancy Coleman Ed.D, Dean of Extension School and the Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University. In this episode, we explore the power of lifelong learning and how Harvard DCE supports learners of all ages—offering flexible, high-quality education through both degree and certificate programs. From high school students as young as 16 attending Harvard Summer School, to adult learners pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees through the Extension School, to professionals earning certificates in specialized fields, and retirees engaging in enriching courses through the Institute for Learning in Retirement—DCE is built for everyone. Whether you’re advancing your career, changing paths, or learning just for the love of it, this conversation highlights how education at every stage of life can be accessible, meaningful, and transformative. Dr. Nancy Coleman is the Dean of Harvard Extension School and Continuing Studies at Harvard University. Learn more about her experience as an executive, in leadership, and a staunch advocate for innovation in education. Facts in Mind is a podcast for curious minds. We explore everything from science, psychology, and technology to education, culture, and public health. Be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss an exciting episode with the latest thoughts and research from our expert guests!

Episode 2 - Advocacy in Action: Transforming Autism Care, featuring Arzu Forough

In Episode 2 of Facts in Mind, we’re honored to feature Arzu Forough, founder and CEO of Washington Autism Alliance (WAA)—a true force for change in autism policy and community advocacy. What began as a mother’s fight for her children’s rights has evolved into a statewide movement reshaping public policy, education, and healthcare access for autistic individuals across Washington—and beyond. 💡 In this powerful episode, Arzu shares: * How she led groundbreaking legal action to ensure autism is covered under mental health parity laws * Her success in ending harmful seclusion and restraint practices in public schools * Her role in shaping national policy through the Affordable Care Act * The urgent need for Medicaid reform and access to neuro-affirming care * Why we need inclusion at every level—from classrooms to Capitol Hill 📣 Get Involved: Washington Autism Alliance is seeking virtual volunteers and interns to support legislative advocacy, social work, nonprofit operations, and community engagement. 🌐 Apply here: washingtonautismalliance.org/take-action 📩 Interns & Volunteers may receive recommendation letters and documentation of service hours. For More Info on Enhanced Behaviors Support Homes : https://washingtonautismalliance.org/?s=Enhanced+behaviors+support+homes+ Whether you're a student in psychology, law, public health, education, or nonprofit management—or simply passionate about neurodiversity and equity—this is a powerful way to take action. 🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more. Linktree: https://linktr.ee/factsinmind [https://linktr.ee/factsinmind] Facts in Mind is a podcast for curious minds. We explore everything from science, psychology, and technology to education, culture, and public health. Be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss an exciting episode with the latest thoughts and research from our expert guests!

Episode 1 – Why AI is So Captivating—and Why it May Never Fully Live Up to its Hype, featuring Dr. Max Krasnow

In this engaging and thought-provoking debut episode, Kimia and Amber sit down with Dr. Max Krasnow to unpack the science behind what it means to “understand”—and whether AI models like ChatGPT actually do. Dr. Krasnow begins by distinguishing true understanding from mere mimicry. He explains that while large language models (LLMs) can produce fluent, convincing language, they lack internal representations and the ability to make genuine inferences, which are crucial for human-like understanding. Using the classic Chinese Room thought experiment, he illustrates how AI may appear intelligent but doesn’t comprehend meaning the way humans do. The conversation explores why humans so readily assign minds to machines. Dr. Krasnow introduces Error Management Theory, which suggests that our brains evolved to over-detect agency as a survival mechanism—it’s safer to assume a presence than to miss a threat. This leads to our tendency to interpret chatbots as having thoughts or feelings simply because they “talk” like us. Kimia draws out key distinctions between how AI and humans recognize and apply patterns, prompting Dr. Krasnow to explain why human understanding goes beyond surface-level associations. Her questions help clarify what current AI models are missing—like context, intent, and real-world experience. Amber brings in the education angle, asking how we can help the public better understand AI without confusion or hype. In response, Dr. Krasnow emphasizes that fluency doesn’t equal intelligence and encourages hands-on engagement with AI to reveal its limitations. He cautions against mistaking confident output for genuine understanding or consciousness. Throughout the episode, the hosts and guest stress the importance of keeping humans in the loop. Dr. Krasnow compares AI to a calculator: useful, efficient, but ultimately a tool—not a mind. He warns that trusting AI without scrutiny could lead to poor decision-making if users mistake surface-level fluency for deep understanding. Facts in Mind is a podcast for curious minds. We explore everything from science, psychology, and technology to education, culture, and public health. Be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss an exciting episode with the latest thoughts and research from our expert guests!

Introducing Facts in Mind

Facts in Mind is a podcast for curious minds. We explore everything from science, psychology, and technology to education, culture, and public health. Each episode breaks down complex ideas into thoughtful, accessible conversations—designed to spark curiosity, promote deeper understanding, and support inclusive learning for all. Facts in Mind is a podcast for curious minds. We explore everything from science, psychology, and technology to education, culture, and public health. Be sure to follow and subscribe so you don’t miss an exciting episode with the latest thoughts and research from our expert guests!