

Living On The Edge of Chaos
Aaron Maurer
“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.
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Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 30, 2024 • 50min
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 Stage02:58 The Power of Gratitude in AI06:13 The Origin Story of Grateful AI09:23 Navigating the Worries and Fears of AI16:43 Getting Started with AI: Play and Experiment21:41 Lessons and Workflows from AI Experts32:20 Using ChatGPT as a Co-Host and Thought Partner37:04 Incorporating AI in the Classroom40:27 Embracing AI to Enhance Learning and Problem Solving46:56 Exploring the Possibilities of ChatGPT48:21 The Art of Intelligence49:21 The Importance of Asking Great Questions50:41 Embrace Your Unique Flavor52:41 The War of Art54:02 Connect with Mark Latimer Resourceshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/artofchatgpt/https://www.youtube.com/@OpenAiTraininghttps://solopreneuraicoach.com/

Apr 26, 2024 • 57min
203: Readocracy - Redefining Credentials in a Connected World With Mario Vasilescu
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 Problems with Credentials, Verifiability, and Status Signaling14:39 Reflecting on a Recent Shift in Perspective: Democracy through Socrates' Eyes34:20 Rethinking How We Value Learning37:34 Creating a New Infrastructure for Society44:19 The Economic Value of Intellectual Data48:49 Proof of Human Knowledge55:06 The Forward from 'Amusing Ourselves to Death'ResourcesThe Readocracy ManifestoA humble proposal to turn the internet upside downIntros to Infobesity and Information WellnessBrowse Mario knowledge profile: www.readocracy.com/marioNeil Postman Amusing Ourselves To Death bookCal Newport Slow Productivity book

Apr 16, 2024 • 45min
202: Navigating the New Wave: Blended Learning and AI with Dr. Catlin Tucker
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 Importance of Intentional Design and Leveraging AIThe Need to Rethink the Classroom ExperienceAI as an Editor of ThinkingThe Promise and Misconceptions of AIThe Learnership and Developing LearnersThe Need for Effective Instructional PracticesThe Need for Change in EducationBarriers to Effective LearningTeachers' Resistance to ChangeThe Potential of AI in EducationReigniting Passion for TeachingThe Best Piece of AdviceFinding Joy in Physical ActivityConnecting with Catlin Tucker

Apr 12, 2024 • 47min
201: Rekindling Joy: A Playful Revolution in Education and Life with Jed Dearybury
Jed Dearybury is an education consultant and author known for his books on playful learning. He emphasizes that play is essential for all ages, enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills. The conversation critiques rigid education systems and advocates for joy-filled learning environments. Jed suggests starting small to incorporate play in classrooms and discusses how it fosters innovation and collaboration. He shares personal anecdotes about the power of creativity in education and highlights his artistic endeavors, like unique doodles that resonate with others.

Apr 4, 2024 • 1h 2min
200: Claire Napier Unleashing Creativity: The Role of Visual Arts in Shaping Independent Minds
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 Trying51:21 The Appeal of the Unknown and Strange52:46 The Fascination of Bizarre Artifacts54:41 Seeking Weird and Niche Art55:17 The Value of Discarded and Low-Budget Art56:40 Encouraging Creativity and Artistic Expression57:26 The Process and Dedication of Artists58:57 The Resurgence of Independent and Niche Art01:00:23 The Hope for a Renaissance of Humanity01:02:24 Challenging AI with Handmade Art01:03:05 Taking on the Challenge of Creating by Hand01:03:29 The Power of Vulnerability and Sharing Art01:04:36 Where to Learn More About ClaireResourceshttps://www.clairenapier.com/

Mar 26, 2024 • 43min
199: Mind, Motivation, and Method: Yvette Larsson on Neuroscience, Education, and the Human Connection
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 Oxytocin, Dopamine, and Cortisol on Learning and Relationships22:43 The Intersection of Technology and Humanity29:29 The Value of Reading the Classics and Embracing Growth Mindset36:47 The Immersive Experience of Winter Swimming44:14 The Importance of Health Benefits45:03 Connecting on LinkedIn and InstagramResourcesWebsiteInstagramLinkedInAHA! Website

Mar 19, 2024 • 55min
198: Visually AI with Heather Cooper
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 to make these tools accessible to regular people and help them navigate the overwhelming amount of information available.Heather explores different art styles using AI models and emphasizes the importance of understanding the techniques and vocabulary associated with each style.She encourages others to start their projects and not wait for the perfect time, as tomorrow is never promised.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:27 Heather's Journey and Approach to Education04:12 Transition to Writing and Creativity07:02 Learning Coding and Tech Writing09:01 Using Visual Content and AI in Education13:47 Heather's Superpower17:13 Applying Skills and Mindset to AI19:14 Overcoming Hurdles in AI Education23:18 Bringing People Together with AI28:02 Curating and Processing Information29:06 Sharing Information and Tools36:03 Organizing and Managing Information39:01 Creating and Organizing AI Artwork40:37 Prompt Creation and Exploration42:20 Analyzing Prompts and Effects43:48 Using Emojis as Prompts45:11 Testing Prompts on Different Generators46:07 Combining Art and Mechanics47:31 Exploring Different Perspectives and Lenses48:27 Applying Traditional Photography Techniques to AI Art49:21 Expanding Vocabulary and Language Use50:26 Embracing Change and Learning New Skills51:17 Don't Wait, Just Get Started53:46 Raving About Heather's YouTube Platform56:18 Where to Find Heather's WorkResourcesVisually AI Newsletter by HeatherVisually AI YouTube ChannelHeather on Twitter/X

Mar 1, 2024 • 49min
The Art of Authenticity: Living Out Loud with Brant Menswar
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 Sheep' and its Impact03:29 Superpower: Connection and Hope05:06 Navigating Grief and Finding Hope06:20 Choosing Your Inner Circle08:06 The Importance of Self-Care09:33 Real Change Requires Real Work11:25 Discovering Non-Negotiable Values13:22 Knowing and Speaking Your Values15:10 Living with Deliberate Intention17:19 Choosing Your Purpose19:31 Differentiating Between Really Important and Non-Negotiable23:19 The Power of Choosing Your Purpose26:05 Expanding the Message and Impact40:24 Focusing Energy and Linear Progression42:02 Raving about Positive Impact45:12 Controlling Your Own Narrative48:05 Authentic Connections and Impact49:08 Encouraging Others and Passing on the MessageResourcesBrant Menwwar Website - https://www.brantmenswar.com/ Black Sheep: Unleash the Extraordinary, Awe-Inspiring, Undiscovered You Discover Your Non Negotiables

Feb 22, 2024 • 52min
196: Lydia Knab - Silent Witnesses: The Unseen Trackers of Our Digital Footprints
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 information they share online.Privacy education is essential to help people understand the risks and make informed decisions about their data.The internet never forgets, and individuals should be mindful of what they post online, as it can have long-lasting consequences.Literature can provide insights into privacy violations and data bias, encouraging readers to think critically about these issues.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Importance of Privacy03:00 The Role of a Privacy Officer08:18 The Misconception of Having Nothing to Hide11:33 The Limitations of Algorithms and Trust Online16:00 The Need for Champions of Digital Trust20:09 The Impact of Algorithms on Content Quality23:20 The Importance of Human Connection on Social Media27:05 The Need for Responsible Technology Development32:14 The Importance of Education and Broadening Perspectives37:21 The Role of Humans in Technology40:29 Considering the Ethical Implications of Technology41:32 Privacy and Technology43:09 Biometric Data and Deepfakes44:16 Data Breaches and Consequences47:04 Lack of Privacy in the Digital Age49:14 Importance of Privacy Education51:31 The Internet Never Forgets52:12 Data Bias and Privacy Violations in Literature aka Harry PotterResourcesLydia Knab on LinkedIniRobot Deal With AmazonTrust 3.0 - 2024 Crystal Ball Full WebinarMy personal LinkedIn favorite post - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7154604738360016897-dia-?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktopHow about we start to try to make humans better instead of trying to build the ultimate « intelligent » machine …? Not by biohacking and transhumanism but by 😱 … wait for it … EDUCATION..?. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7154496626118594560-s6RJ?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktopDANGERS OF ENSHITTIFICATIONhttps://www.linkedin.com/posts/activity-7151966112228786176-cK40?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktophttps://americandialect.org/2023-word-of-the-year-is-enshittification/Cory Doctorow Tiktok's enshittificationInvisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men

Feb 13, 2024 • 40min
195: Anna Iarotska - Shaping the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
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)