Living On The Edge of Chaos

Aaron Maurer
  • 5.0 (5)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Living On The Edge of Chaos

“Living On The Edge of Chaos,” hosted by Aaron Maurer, is a podcast that takes listeners on an intellectual journey through various facets of education and technology. The show features conversations with experts and innovators like Kevin Eastman, former assistant coach for the Boston Celtics to Lori Mazor, who enlightens on the fusion of Artificial Intelligence and creativity​, Brittany Blackwell, who discusses educator burnout and mental health​, and Laura McBain, exploring the intersections of design and learning​. Through these dialogues, listeners are provoked to ponder on the unfolding narrative of education, making it a unique platform for those curious about the evolving educational landscape. Grab your cup of coffee and join the convo!

  1. Episode 211: Focus, Burnout, and the Psychology of Productivity with Alicia Peña Bizama

    APR 17

    Episode 211: Focus, Burnout, and the Psychology of Productivity with Alicia Peña Bizama

    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.be TakeawaysFocus 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. Chapters00:00 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   ResourcesAlicia Peña Bizama Website Tiny Experiments Podcast 210 where I speak with author of Tiny Experiments and founder of Ness LabsUpcoming 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 Aaron’s Full Podcast Archive

    50 min
  2. Episode 210: Rethinking Goals, Learning, and the Power of Tiny Experiments with Anne-Laure Le Cunff

    APR 8

    Episode 210: Rethinking Goals, Learning, and the Power of Tiny Experiments with Anne-Laure Le Cunff

    All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/ Direct Link to This Episode: www.coffeeforthebrain.com/210 YouTube 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 norms and try new paths. Chapters00:00 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 ResourcesNess Labs Community Tiny Experiments: A Book by Anne-Laure Le Cunff Book websiteAnne-Laure’s Keynote at SXSW Anne-Laure on Twitter/X Aaron’s Full Podcast Archive

    38 min

  3. 12/19/2024

    209: Empowering Educators: The CodeJoy Approach

    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 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   ResourcesCodeJoyCodeJoy on Socials25 Days of MakingThe Artist's WayHans Zimmer Isn't Scared of AI

    48 min
  4. 208: Jordan Turner From Challenge To Change - Creating Space for Vulnerability and Well-Being in Education

    06/05/2024

    208: Jordan Turner From Challenge To Change - Creating Space for Vulnerability and Well-Being in Education

    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.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"Chapters00:00 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 ResourcesChallenge To ChangeGuided MindfulnessSix SecondsJordan Turner BioKCG. Know Choose Give

    51 min
  5. 207: The Importance of Good Writing, Curiosity, Bravery, and the Process of Living

    05/30/2024

    207: The Importance of Good Writing, Curiosity, Bravery, and the Process of Living

    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 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."Chapters00:00 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 ResourcesHere is the slidedeck to check out all the ideas discussed and the ones we did not have time to coverMoxie website to learn about the work and opportunities https://academicinsightlab.org/teamKimberly on LinkedInJessica on LinkedInAnne Lamott book, Bird by Bird10% Happier PodcastAdam Grant PodcastsThe Alchemist book"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

    50 min
  6. 206: Heartfelt Journeys in Education: Cool Cat Teacher, Vicki Davis, Impactful Story

    05/22/2024

    206: Heartfelt Journeys in Education: Cool Cat Teacher, Vicki Davis, Impactful Story

    All platforms and past episodes: https://coffeeforthebrain.com/podcasts/ Slidedeck of her ideas to explore as we did not get to them all https://1drv.ms/p/s!AqtnAB8NPT2-8kpLZWCCEThXQepG YouTube Video TakeawaysVicki 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 future learning.Creating custom GPTs can be a valuable tool for personal and classroom use, but it should be supervised and used ethically.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background 03:22 Vicki Davis' Journey in Education 28:44 Recommendation: AI Dilemma YouTube Video 33:21 Ethics of Autonomous Weapons 34:19 Ethics of AI and Accountability 35:18 Ethics and the Impact of Technology 36:38 Balancing AI Education and Tool Usage 37:35 The Challenge of PD and AI Education 38:28 Teaching the Writing Process and Ethical Use of AI 39:24 Teaching Research Process and Avoiding AI Cheating 40:13 Addressing Knowledge Gaps in Math Education 43:34 The Importance of Conversations and Awareness about AI 46:17 Creating Custom GPTs for Personal and Classroom Use 54:06 The Craft of Teaching and Surrounding Yourself with Positive Influences   Resourceshttps://www.coolcatteacher.com/When I was lucky enough to be on her show!From 2013: ECM Show #13: Teacher Aaron Maurer https://go.shr.lc/4brPIB8From 2017: 5 Ways to Improve STEAM Learning at Your School - https://go.shr.lc/44SUaGBFrom 2019: 25 Days of Making: When Educators Make, Create, and Have Fun - https://go.shr.lc/3KbmlqQChange. Improvement. Technology. Productivity. How her book impacted me.....and reference to Vine(remember that?) Blogging: Why It Matters To Develop The Student Brand

    1h 1m
  7. 205: Teaching, Learning, and Living: A Conversation with Lisa Hawker

    05/07/2024

    205: Teaching, Learning, and Living: A Conversation with Lisa Hawker

    Youtube Versionhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cphiov_RFc&feature=youtu.be ResourcesInspiration 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 Format 03:17 Lisa's Origin Story 08:55 Something That Sparks Excitement: Human Behavior and Social Constructs 16:27 Object of Meaning: Tom Petty's Greatest Hits Album 23:12 Reflecting on a Recent Shift in Perspective: Co-Regulation 35:17 Something That Sparks Excitement: Weezer's 'A Little Bit of Love' 39:43 Weezer and the Power of Music 40:14 Introduction to SCARF 41:28 The Five Domains of SCARF 42:56 Applying SCARF in Education 44:23 Identifying Threat Responses 45:17 Strategic Responses to Threats 46:16 Complex Change Matrix 47:21 Problem Solving and Solution Focus 50:08 Creating Structures for Productive Conversations 54:51 Best Pieces of Advice

    56 min
  8. 204: Embracing Change: How AI Transforms Traditional Roles and Workflows

    04/30/2024

    204: Embracing Change: How AI Transforms Traditional Roles and Workflows

    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 Stage 02:58 The Power of Gratitude in AI 06:13 The Origin Story of Grateful AI 09:23 Navigating the Worries and Fears of AI 16:43 Getting Started with AI: Play and Experiment 21:41 Lessons and Workflows from AI Experts 32:20 Using ChatGPT as a Co-Host and Thought Partner 37:04 Incorporating AI in the Classroom 40:27 Embracing AI to Enhance Learning and Problem Solving 46:56 Exploring the Possibilities of ChatGPT 48:21 The Art of Intelligence 49:21 The Importance of Asking Great Questions 50:41 Embrace Your Unique Flavor 52:41 The War of Art 54:02 Connect with Mark Latimer   Resourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/artofchatgpt/https://www.youtube.com/@OpenAiTraininghttps://solopreneuraicoach.com/

    50 min
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5 Ratings

About

“Living On The Edge of Chaos,” hosted by Aaron Maurer, is a podcast that takes listeners on an intellectual journey through various facets of education and technology. The show features conversations with experts and innovators like Kevin Eastman, former assistant coach for the Boston Celtics to Lori Mazor, who enlightens on the fusion of Artificial Intelligence and creativity​, Brittany Blackwell, who discusses educator burnout and mental health​, and Laura McBain, exploring the intersections of design and learning​. Through these dialogues, listeners are provoked to ponder on the unfolding narrative of education, making it a unique platform for those curious about the evolving educational landscape. Grab your cup of coffee and join the convo!

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