Living On The Edge of Chaos

ACCESS THE SHOW All platforms & past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/ [https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/] Direct Link to This Episode: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/212/ YOUTUBE TAKEAWAYS Authentic learning is about process, not polish. Messy work is real work. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel—we need to reconnect with what matters in learning. Students need to see themselves in their work and communities. Teachers are not meant to be the sole experts—bring in community voices. There’s power in learning “out loud” and sharing what we don’t know. Start with tiny experiments and let curiosity lead. Real change in schools begins with relationships and relevance. CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro to Laura Williams and Authentic Learning 04:38 - What Does “Authentic” Really Mean in Education? 08:22 - Lessons from Educator Partnerships 12:10 - Connecting Students with Community Experts 16:55 - Project-Based Learning Without Perfection 21:43 - Barriers to Authenticity in School Systems 26:02 - Starting with Tiny Experiments 29:11 - The Role of Curiosity and Student Voice 33:45 - Bringing the Public into the Classroom 37:19 - Tools, Frameworks, and First Steps for Teachers 42:00 - Final Reflections and Where to Learn More RESOURCES Authentic Learning Alliance [http://www.authenticlearningalliance.org/] Join the Network [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXe9SSzaG6Fh7Yq_kQZS7TRI66dOGW9q1vATw7H0Wv5Ugp9w/viewform] Her book, The Improvement Game [https://www.theimprovementgame.com/] Follow Laura: @mrswilliams21c [https://www.instagram.com/mrswilliams21c/] on IG, X, LinkedIn, Bluesky, TikTok

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/]