Living On The Edge Of Chaos

ACCESS THE SHOWAll platforms & past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Direct Link to This Episode: https://coffeechug.simplecast.com/episodes/2134Resources Referenced in PodcastBook referenced in podcast: The Net and the ButterflyPodcast 213: Tools, Totems, and TotalitiesLearn More & Connect:Learn more about Steven: www.TheSukha.co/mediaCommunity: Join over 34K members at The SukhaInstagram: @the_sukha_coTwitter/X: @stevenpuri What We Talked AboutThis is not your typical education or leadership interview. This conversation has us chatting about:How Hollywood taught Steven the true art of collaborationThe myth of “just work harder” and why outcomes and not hours matter mostHis “Two-Problem Creativity” strategy and what neuroscience reveals about ideas in the showerThe power of having dedicated spaces and rituals to unlock deep workWhy being bored is essential for creativity and how education might be missing this entirelyWhat Transformers and middle school students have in common when it

What We Talk About:Why “technology” means more than just toolsThe role of totems in identity (think: cars, smartphones, fashion tech)How totalities define entire systems in education and societyThe enchantment of technology—and how it competes with human connectionAI as artificial “ignorance” and the narrowing of imaginationThe lost art of boredom and its role in creativityWhat convivial design looks like in daily life (yes, the family dinner table!)Practical takeaways for teachers, parents, and anyone seeking digital balanceKey Takeaway:This episode is a reminder to educators and humans alike: if we want deeper learning, richer relationships, and authentic joy, we must intentionally create space for boredom, presence, and human connection.Technology is more than tools as it also shapes identity and entire systems.Conviviality (connection and community) is a powerful counterforce to tech hegemony.Educators should challenge assumptions that students are digital natives.We must create space for boredom, listeni

ACCESS THE SHOWAll platforms & past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Direct Link to This Episode: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/212/YouTubeTakeawaysAuthentic 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.Chapters00:00 - Intro to Laura Williams and Authentic Learning04:38 - What Does “Authentic” Really Mean in Education?08:22 - Lessons from Educator Partnerships12:10 - Connecting Students with Community Experts16:55 - Project-Based Learning Without Perfection21:43 - Barriers to Authenticity in School Systems26:02 - Starting with Tiny Experiments29:11 - The Role of Curiosity and

 ACCESS THE SHOWAll platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Direct Link to This Episode: YouTube Version:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_l_Kht8WObY&feature=youtu.beTakeawaysFocus 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 re

All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Direct Link to This Episode: www.coffeeforthebrain.com/210YouTube Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gM0arJOqDbE TakeawaysLinear 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

TakeawaysLearning 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to CodeJoy and Kelsey Derringer03:10 The Importance of Lifelong Learning in Education05:57 Vulnerability in Learning: A Personal Perspective09:01 Breaking the Edu

TakeawaysMindfulness 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.S

TakeawaysAI 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 wantsFocus on the writing process and experiment with different strategies to improveEmbrace bravery in pursuing goals and trust in the support of othersStay updated on advancements in AI technology and leverage them for feedback and guidanceRecognize the influence of TV shows and movies in shaping personal experiences and perspectivesSound 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 star

All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Slidedeck of her ideas to explore as we did not get to them allhttps://1drv.ms/p/s!AqtnAB8NPT2-8kpLZWCCEThXQepGYouTube VideoTakeawaysVicki Davis believes that students should be at least 17 or 18 years old before getting cell phones.She emphasizes the negative impact of unrestricted cell phone access on students' mental health, sleep patterns, and social interactions.Vicki recommends watching the AI Dilemma YouTube video to gain a better understanding of AI technology and its ethical implications. Autonomous weapons raise ethical concerns and the need for human accountability in AI decision-making.Understanding AI ethics and the impact of technology is crucial for shaping the conversation and making informed decisions.AI education should focus on the process rather than just tools, and educators should address the ethical use of AI.Addressing knowledge gaps in math education is essential to ensure students have a solid foundation for futu

Youtube Versionhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cphiov_RFc&feature=youtu.beResourcesInspiration of show format from Tim Ferriss PodcastLife Lessons from Taylor Swift, Conquering Anxiety, Coaching Teens, Career Reinvention, Supposedly Gay Bulls, Your Shadow Side, and More — Soman Chainani (#720) https://tim.blog/2024/02/06/soman-chainani/ Slides of all topics shared and not shared due to timehttps://1drv.ms/p/s!AqtnAB8NPT2-9HrD7fxxexgmUAV6Previous Podcast With Lisa111: Happiness Advantage Roundtable Discussion Part 1 https://coffeeforthebrain.com/111/116: Happiness Advantage Roundtable Discussion Part 2 https://coffeeforthebrain.com/116/Spotify Daylist is Blowing Up—Too Bad the Creator Was Laid Off Tom Petty Greatest HitsA Little Bit Of Love by Weezer SCARFClear Thinking bookMississippi Bend AEAChapters00:00 Introduction and Experimental Format03:17 Lisa's Origin Story08:55 Something That Sparks Excitement: Human Behavior and Social Constructs16:27 Object of Meaning: Tom Petty's Greatest Hits Album23:12 Re

 Access The ShowAll platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Direct Link:YouTube:TakeawaysGratitude can be a powerful foundation for AI, guiding its use and ensuring a positive impact.Play and experimentation are key when getting started with AI, allowing for creative exploration and learning.AI tools like ChatGPT can be used as thought partners and co-hosts, enhancing productivity and creativity.Incorporating AI in the classroom can provide new opportunities for learning and problem-solving.Embracing AI can enhance learning, problem-solving, and productivity, leading to a better future. Curiosity and experimentation are key to discovering the full potential of ChatGPT.The art of intelligence involves using personal creativity and making unique connections.Asking great questions is crucial for getting useful and usable output from ChatGPT.Embrace your unique flavor and don't be discouraged by the idea that everything has already been done.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the S

Access The ShowAll platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/TakeawaysThe current system of recognizing learning and competence is narrow and leaves many people behind.Credentials should include the expertise and affiliations of the content creators to provide more transparent and meaningful signaling.Considering different perspectives and ideas is crucial for a healthy democracy and society. Malformation and propaganda can distort the way facts are used and understood.The current information infrastructure, driven by the attention economy, shapes behavior and power dynamics in society.There is a need to create a new infrastructure that values the quality of attention and knowledge.Education should be valued beyond its immediate application in work and school.The economic value of intellectual data should be recognized and protected.Proof of human knowledge is essential in a world where fabrication and misinformation are prevalent.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:47 The Pr

TakeawaysCombining AI with sound educational practices can enhance the learning experience.The problem is not AI itself, but how we use class time and design learning experiences.AI can be leveraged to support students in the writing process and develop their skills as learners.Effective instructional practices, such as blended learning and student agency, are essential for empowering students and creating meaningful learning experiences. AI has thepotential to bring about much-needed change in education.Teachers should consider alternative instructional models to meet the diverse needs of students.Resistance to change can hinder progress in education.Taking small steps and focusing on one aspect at a time can lead to success.Engaging in physical activity can bring joy and help disconnect from work. Chapters Introduction and BackgroundThe Importance of Combining AI with Sound Educational PracticesThe Problem is How We Use Class Time, Not AIThe Idea for the Book: Shifting Writing into the ClassroomThe Importan

TakeawaysPlay is not just for young children, but a natural and necessary part of learning for people of all ages.Playful learning experiences engage the brain and help information stick, making learning more effective and enjoyable.Play can be rigorous and challenging, but it should not be rigid or boring. It can foster creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.Integrating play into education requires a shift in mindset and a willingness to embrace a playful approach to teaching and learning.Start small and look for opportunities to infuse play into daily classroom activities, gradually building a culture of playfulness.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Excitement00:55 Jed's Background and Work03:41 The Importance of Play06:33 Defining Play and Its Impact on Learning11:13 The Need for Play in Education17:00 The Power of Playful Learning Experiences20:06 Making Playful Learning Accessible23:21 The Connection Between Play and Innovation25:23 The Misconception of Play in Education29:43 Dabbling in Play

TakeawaysHow to shift perspective on how we examine the world around usHow we sometimes take visual art for grantedAI is being advertised as a solution for artists, but it is also seen as a threat to the creative industry.Seeking out and appreciating discarded, low-budget, and niche art can provide a unique and fascinating experience.Life and experience lifeChapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:33 Claire's Journey into the Comic Industry07:03 The Importance of Visual Storytelling15:36 The Power of Creativity and Enjoying Life25:04 Giving Yourself Permission to Have a Nice Time35:09 Analyzing and Critiquing Media43:21 The Fascination of Inquiry and Wonder44:03 The Impact of AI on the Creative Arts45:53 Reassessing What It Means to Be Human46:13 The Environmental Impact of AI46:36 AI as a Threat to Artists and Creatives47:47 The Economic Destruction of the Creative Industry48:59 The Importance of Protecting Art as an Industry49:49 The Gruesomeness of AI-Generated Art50:22 The Value of Human Output and Try

TakeawaysStorytelling is a powerful tool in education and can help create connections and understanding.Understanding the neuroscience behind communication and relationships can lead to more effective teaching and learning.Trust and play are essential in creating safe and engaging learning environments.The intersection of technology and humanity offers both opportunities and challenges.Reading the classics and embracing a growth mindset can enhance personal and educational development.Winter swimming can be an adventurous and invigorating activity that promotes well-being. Health benefits play a crucial role in overall well-being.Understanding the neurotransmitter cocktail can help optimize brain function. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:00 The Power of Story03:01 Exploring What It Means to Be Human in a Global Age of Technology06:05 The Role of Neuroscience in Communication and Relationships10:03 The Importance of Trust and Play in Education13:05 Creating Safe and Engaging Learning Spaces19:13 The Impact of Oxy

TakeawaysHeather Cooper's background in education and her love for reading and storytelling have influenced her approach to tech writing and content creation.Visual communication is a powerful tool for breaking down complex information and making it accessible to a wide range of audiences.AI has the potential to revolutionize education by providing personalized learning experiences and supplementing traditional teaching methods.Educators should embrace AI as a tool to enhance learning and provide additional support to students, rather than viewing it as a form of cheating.Heather emphasizes the importance of empathy, adaptability, and resilience in navigating different fields and learning new skills. Twitter was a great platform for Heather to learn how to condense ideas and write effectively.Compelling titles, hooks, and images are essential for grabbing people's attention and conveying the main idea.Heather curates and shares information using various tools, such as summary tools and AI platforms.She aims t

Personal takeaways from his book191: Chaos Sparks: Embracing the Black Sheep Within "Authenticity resonates at a different frequency... when you experience real authenticity, you feel a sense of connection that is so much more powerful than what we experience on a daily basis." - Brant Menswar"If you don't do the work, then you don't know who you are. You know a reflection of what everybody else says you are. But you don't know you." - Brant Menswar"Real change requires real work. It's hard, but it's getting better, you build those habits." - Brant Menswar"You're never going to outperform your inner circle... it should make you think long and hard about who you let in your inner circle." - Brant Menswar"Stop being so self-absorbed. Stop worrying about what you're doing next and live in that present for just a second... I promise you, you're gonna go to bed that night going, this was a good day." - Brant MenswarChapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:10 Transition from Music to Speaking02:12 Writing 'Black

Access The ShowAll platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/Direct Link:There is not video for this episode.TakeawaysPrivacy is a fundamental right that should be protected and respected.Algorithms can limit our exposure to new ideas and perspectives, leading to echo chambers and confirmation bias.Building trust online requires responsible technology development and platforms that prioritize user needs.Education plays a crucial role in understanding the implications of technology and fostering critical thinking.Considering the ethical implications of technology is essential to ensure its positive impact on society. Privacy is a crucial aspect of our lives in the digital age, and we need to be aware of the potential consequences of technology.Biometric data, such as voice and facial scans, can be misused for deepfakes and scams, highlighting the importance of protecting personal information.Data breaches can have severe implications, and individuals should be cautious about the infor

Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:00 Creating Robo Wunderkind08:00 The Importance of STEM Education13:00 Promoting Diversity in STEM18:00 Approaches to STEM Education in Different Countries23:00 Goals of Robo Wunderkind28:00 Success Stories and Impact33:00 Best Piece of Advice35:00 Raving about Something Awesome41:00 Conclusion and AppreciationResources Mentioned In Showhttps://www.robowunderkind.com/us/homehttps://iowastem.org/Scale-Uphttps://www.linkedin.com/in/annaiarotska/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/For_All_Mankind_(TV_series)