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 comes to learning environmentsWhy the culture you build in teams, families, or classrooms matters more than any productivity app“If you give someone one thing to work on, they’ll overthink it. But give them a second task and the creativity starts to breathe. It’s always about the other thing.” – Steven Puri (modified from the convo)Why This Episode MattersSteven brings a rare blend of technical depth, storytelling mastery, and raw honesty. He talks candidly about failure, what he learned from Hollywood burnout, and why he believes today's generation is at risk of having their lives stolen by the scroll.For educators, this episode offers real-world insight into how to design space for curiosity, not just content delivery. And for leaders, it's a reminder that trust, clarity, and mission-driven work beat micromanagement every time.If you're a teacher, creator, parent, or just someone navigating the chaos of modern work and life this episode will shift how you think about focus, learning, and growth.Resources MentionedThe Sukha – https://www.thesukha.coJoin The Sukha community – 34K+ members and countingBook: The Net and the Butterfly by Olivia Fox Cabane and Judah PollackRelated Episode: Podcast 213: Tools, Totems, and TotalitiesFollow Steven:Instagram: @the_sukha_coTwitter/X: @stevenpuriMedia + bio: www.thesukha.co/mediaEpisode Highlights[00:01] Steven’s Hollywood-to-tech origin story[00:09] Why creativity is never “on demand” and how boredom fuels innovation[00:15] The “two-problem” rule for creativity & the neuroscience of distraction[00:22] Designing remote teams around flow, not control[00:30] Culture, mission, and what makes people actually show up[00:38] How education and corporate systems both crush curiosity and what we can do about itOne Final Thought“Productivity isn’t about squeezing more out of your day—it’s about creating space for what really matters. Including your life.” – Steven Puri (modified from the convo)

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, listening, and authentic face-to-face human interaction.AI may reduce imagination by boxing in our thinking and we must stay aware of its limitations.Reflection and reconnection found as time around a dinner table or time in nature can reset our human values.Buy the book Tools, Totems, and Totalities and explore the deeper social and cultural dimensions of technology.Reach out to Dr. Batteau at a.batteau@wayne.edu for further conversation. Dr. Allen Batteau Bio:Allen W. Batteau, PhD is a cultural anthropologist, professor at Wayne State University's Department of Anthropology, and former director of the University's Institute for Information Technology and Culture. He is the author of The Anthropology of Aviation and Flight Safety (2001), Anthropological Approaches to Culture, Aviation, and Flight Safety (2002, and numerous other books and articles including Technology and the Common Good in a Democratic Society (2020). A certified private pilot, his research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, the US Air Force, the National Aeronautics and Space Ad-ministration, and numerous other corporate and international bodies. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.

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 Student Voice33:45 - Bringing the Public into the Classroom37:19 - Tools, Frameworks, and First Steps for Teachers42:00 - Final Reflections and Where to Learn MoreResourcesAuthentic Learning AllianceJoin the NetworkHer book, The Improvement GameFollow Laura: @mrswilliams21c on IG, X, LinkedIn, Bluesky, TikTok

 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 realign.Chapters00:00 Alicia’s Journey into Psychology and Education06:00 Applying content from Tiny Experiments into her practice12:30 Focus & Excitement for Learning,14:00 Power of Vulnerable Spaces and Moving Into Education Spaces17:30 Procrastination?20:00 Burnout in High-Pressure Academic and Workplace Settings24:55 Building Systems That Align With Wellbeing31:00 Cell Phones In Classrooms36:00 Less Tolerance For Boredom39:00 Final Thoughts and Ideas Worth Sharing43:00 Misconceptions of Engaged vs. Learning and the Perception of Either ResourcesAlicia Peña Bizama WebsiteTiny ExperimentsPodcast 210 where I speak with author of Tiny Experiments and founder of Ness LabsUpcoming Sessions with AliciaUnderstanding ADHD and Strategies to Improve Focus and ProductivityFriday 09.05.25 at 15:00–16:00 UK timeMonday 12.05.25 at 15:00–16:00 UK timeCheck Eventbrite or her website for registrationAaron’s Full Podcast Archive

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 norms and try new paths.Chapters00:00 Welcome + Introduction of Anne-Laure03:10 Linear Thinking vs. Nonlinear Exploration06:15 Anne-Laure's Shift from Corporate Life to Purpose-Driven Curiosity10:50 The Origins of Tiny Experiments14:20 Power of Community and Learning in Public2o:45 Neuroscience of Learning and Curiosity with Plus, Minus, Next26:00 The Beauty of New Learning With Published Book30:30 How to Start a Tiny Experiment TodayEducators as Explorers, Not Just ExecutorsResourcesNess Labs CommunityTiny Experiments: A Book by Anne-Laure Le CunffBook websiteAnne-Laure’s Keynote at SXSWAnne-Laure on Twitter/XAaron’s Full Podcast Archive 

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 Education System: Kelsey's Journey11:53 Innovative Approaches to Teacher Engagement15:02 Creating Interactive Learning Experiences18:06 The Role of Social Learning in Education21:01 Reframing Teacher and Student Roles in Learning26:33 The Nature of Learning and Experience27:50 Human Evolution and Learning Challenges28:50 Creating Safe Spaces for Learning30:12 The Importance of Iteration and Failure32:35 The Role of Experience in Education34:35 Creativity and Trust in Learning36:48 The Intersection of AI and Education39:22 Shifting Focus from Performance to Ideas42:10 The Human Experience in Education46:09 Building Trust and Community in Learning ResourcesCodeJoyCodeJoy on Socials25 Days of MakingThe Artist's WayHans Zimmer Isn't Scared of AI

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 Background10:30 The Work of Challenge to Change23:07 Creating Space for Self-Reflection27:40 Challenges of Bringing Mindfulness Practices into Schools29:36 The Importance of Emotions in Education33:55 Managing Emotions in Challenging Situations38:14 Bringing Emotional Intelligence into the Classroom44:48 Creating a Culture of Empathy and UnderstandingResourcesChallenge To ChangeGuided MindfulnessSix SecondsJordan Turner BioKCG. Know Choose Give

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 Background02:55 The Role of AI in Education08:06 Navigating the Challenges of AI in Education16:00 Exploring Topics in AI and Education25:59 The Importance of Good Writing in Academia29:12 Putting the Audience First: Effective Communication30:57 The Power of Process: Enhancing Writing Skills35:46 Embracing Bravery: Pursuing Goals and Taking Risks39:35 Advancements in AI Technology: The Impact of Claude III42:47 Influential TV Shows and Movies: The Sound of Music and GhostResourcesHere 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 

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 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 Background03:22 Vicki Davis' Journey in Education28:44 Recommendation: AI Dilemma YouTube Video33:21 Ethics of Autonomous Weapons34:19 Ethics of AI and Accountability35:18 Ethics and the Impact of Technology36:38 Balancing AI Education and Tool Usage37:35 The Challenge of PD and AI Education38:28 Teaching the Writing Process and Ethical Use of AI39:24 Teaching Research Process and Avoiding AI Cheating40:13 Addressing Knowledge Gaps in Math Education43:34 The Importance of Conversations and Awareness about AI46:17 Creating Custom GPTs for Personal and Classroom Use54:06 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 

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 Reflecting on a Recent Shift in Perspective: Co-Regulation35:17 Something That Sparks Excitement: Weezer's 'A Little Bit of Love'39:43 Weezer and the Power of Music40:14 Introduction to SCARF41:28 The Five Domains of SCARF42:56 Applying SCARF in Education44:23 Identifying Threat Responses45:17 Strategic Responses to Threats46:16 Complex Change Matrix47:21 Problem Solving and Solution Focus50:08 Creating Structures for Productive Conversations54:51 Best Pieces of Advice