Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast
Darius Namdaran and Dr Erica Warren
The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, co-hosted by Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran, is a biweekly exploration into improving executive functions. The series transforms complex brain science into accessible, practical strategies for enhancing cognitive skills. It investigates areas like boosting memory, improving cognitive flexibility, and offers tailored strategies. The podcast also examines lifestyle factors and technology on cognitive performance. Aimed at a diverse audience, from students to professionals, this podcast offers a practical guide for enhancing mental capabilities.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 22, 2025 • 60min
#91: Building Executive Functioning Skills over Breaks
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren welcomes back guest Kim Sorise to discuss effective strategies for building executive functioning skills during breaks. The conversation covers various tactics, such as actively engaging children in tasks like co-piloting during road trips, cooking, reading maps, and even gardening to foster cognitive flexibility, planning, sequencing, and emotional regulation. The hosts emphasize the importance of stepping away from screens, playing games, volunteering, and integrating art into daily activities to enhance executive functioning skills both for children and adults. Links Kim Sorise email contact: metagcognitiveminds@gmail.com SPI and YPPI Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=YPPI E-Fun Cognitive Flexibility: Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/e-fun-cognitive-flexibility-executive-function-workbook-for-kids E-Fun Inhibitory Control: Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/inhibitory-control-executive-function-workbook-for-kids E-Fun Working Memory: Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/e-fun-working-memory-executive-function-workbook-for-kidsPraise Can Be Dangerous by Carol Dweck: https://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/PraiseSpring99.pdf Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/https://learningtolearn.biz/
Jul 14, 2025 • 60min
#90: Using Executive Functions to Learn Golf
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran explore practical strategies to exercise and strengthen executive functions. The discussion highlights Darius's personal journey of learning golf, emphasizing principles over sequential learning and externalizing processes as strategies to navigate challenges. The conversation delves into the importance of praising effort over inherent ability to foster growth, leveraging natural strengths, and using various processing techniques like kinesthetic and verbal cues. The episode also touches on the broader implications of these strategies in educational settings and personal development.Links SPI and YPPI Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=YPPI E-Fun Cognitive Flexibility: Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/e-fun-cognitive-flexibility-executive-function-workbook-for-kids E-Fun Inhibitory Control: Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/inhibitory-control-executive-function-workbook-for-kids E-Fun Working Memory: Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/e-fun-working-memory-executive-function-workbook-for-kidsPraise Can Be Dangerous by Carol Dweck: https://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/PraiseSpring99.pdf Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/https://learningtolearn.biz/
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 4min
#89: What is it like to be an Executive Functioning Coach?
In this episode of the Executive Function Braintrainer Podcast, host Dr. Erica Warren is joined by fellow executive functioning coach, Kim Sorise, to discuss the intricacies of executive functioning across different life stages, from elementary age to the elderly. They explore the importance of developing executive skills early, the impact of COVID-19 on these skills, and strategies to bolster them in various populations. Specific focus is given to children, middle and high school students, college students, and adults, with practical tips on improving motivation, managing academic workloads, and leveraging technology to aid in learning and memory retention. The conversation emphasizes proactive approaches, the benefits of gamification in learning, and the value of self-advocacy and metacognition.Links: Executive Functioning Games for Groups and Classes: https://amzn.to/3TqDcKR Kim Sorise email contact: metagcognitiveminds@gmail.com Walden School: Walden-School.org Speechify: https://share.speechify.com/mzxDU3e Use this link to get $60 off Speechify and 1 month FREE when they sign up for Premium.Shovel: Shovel Referral ID for 20% off: Go to https://shovelapp.io/dig/108/ Use coupon code:DRWARREN Student Processing Profile: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=yppi Your Professional Processing Inventory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=yppi Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/https://learningtolearn.biz/
Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 11min
#88: How AI and Assistive Technology can take the Dis out of Disabilities Recorded
In this episode of the Executive Function Braintrainer Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Dr. Erica Warren explore how AI and assistive technology are revolutionizing the landscape of learning disabilities. They discuss the potential of AI tools like Speechify, Google Classroom, and Notebook LM in leveling the playing field for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences. The conversation delves into how these technologies can turn traditional disabilities into strengths by accommodating various processing styles and offering personalized learning experiences. Additionally, they touch on the concept of executive dysfunction and the potential for AI to aid in developing better organization and planning skills. The episode aims to provide insights into how AI can empower both students and educators to enhance learning and teaching experiences.LinksSpeechify: https://share.speechify.com/mzxDU3e Use this link to get $60 off Speechify and 1 month FREE when they sign up for Premium.Shovel: Shovel Referral ID for 20% off: Go to https://shovelapp.io/dig/108/ Use coupon code:DRWARREN Student Processing Profile: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=yppi Your Professional Processing Inventory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=yppi Voice Dream Reader: https://www.voicedream.com/ Elevenlabs: https://elevenlabs.io/ Bookshare: https://www.bookshare.org/ Learning Ally: https://learningally.org/ Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/https://learningtolearn.biz/
May 27, 2025 • 1h 4min
#87: Become the Expert on your Challenge
Learn to embrace your unique challenges and strengths as the hosts discuss the power of self-advocacy in navigating dyslexia and ADHD. They explore how understanding different learning styles and incorporating movement can boost focus and enhance engagement. Technology plays a role too, with tools that transform lectures into interactive experiences. Anecdotes shared highlight the transformative impact of tailored coaching, emphasizing personal growth and effective strategies for success. Dive into practical ways to optimize learning and productivity while honoring your individuality!
May 6, 2025 • 50min
#86: Future-Proof Your Mind: 5 essential Executive Function Skills
In this episode, we dive into a fascinating report outlining the top 5 skills that will dominate the global job market over the next 5 years. These skills are all deeply rooted in executive functions—the mental processes that enable us to plan, focus, adapt, and manage tasks effectively. We’ll explore why these skills are in such high demand, how they connect to our ability to think critically and flexibly, and what you can do to cultivate them. Whether you're a student, professional, or lifelong learner, this episode will equip you with actionable insights to future-proof your career and thrive in an ever-changing world.E-Fun Cognitive Flexibility: Executive Function Workbook for Kidshttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/e-fun-cognitive-flexibility-executive-function-workbook-for-kids?E-Fun Inhibitory Control: Executive Function Workbook for Kidshttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/inhibitory-control-executive-function-workbook-for-kids?Executive Function Games for Groups and Classes.https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classesFuture of Jobs Report 2025: https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdfMy mindmap of it: https://ivvi.dev/sh-78e3022a79c714ffExecutive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz
Apr 22, 2025 • 54min
#85: Conscious Awareness: A Key to Managing Executive Functions
Dive into the fascinating interplay between conscious awareness and executive functions. Discover how 95-99% of our behaviors are driven by the subconscious. The hosts discuss tools like breathwork to shift from reactivity to conscious regulation. Explore the unique learning needs of individuals with disabilities and the benefits of visual strategies. Learn how conscious choices can empower decision-making, especially in high-stress professions. This enlightening conversation provides strategies to enhance cognitive flexibility and personal growth.
Apr 8, 2025 • 56min
#84: The Power of No for Executive Function
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran tackle the critical yet paradoxical topic of learning to say no in the context of executive functions. They discuss how saying no can actually help in achieving goals by enhancing working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. Through engaging analogies, personal stories, and practical advice, they explore the balance between saying yes and no, and how this dynamic interplay is essential for effective self-management, focus, and adaptability. Sponsored by ivvi and Good Sensory Learning, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their cognitive skills and executive functioning.Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz
Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 22min
#83: Transition to College and the Impact of Executive Function
In this episode of The Executive Function Braintrainer Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Dr. Erica Warren explore the crucial transition from high school to college and its impact on executive functions. They discuss the importance of planning, organization, and independence, comparing approaches in the UK and the US. Using the metaphor of a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis, they emphasize the need for students to develop their executive skills to navigate the challenges of college life effectively. Practical strategies, tools like Shovel and ivvi, and tips for parents and educators to support this transition are also discussed to help students build a solid foundation for success.links:Get 20% a membership of Shovel’s digital planner you must use this link: https://shovelapp.io/dig/108/ and coupon code DRWARREN Your Professional Processing Inventory (YPPI) https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/your_professional_processing_inventory Student Processing Inventory (SPI): https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=SPI Remarkable: https://support.remarkable.com/s/article/Desktop-app Goodnotes: https://www.goodnotes.com/ Notability: https://notability.com/ ivvi: https://www.ivvi.app/ Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz
Mar 11, 2025 • 57min
#82: “Flare and Focus”for Executive functions:
In this episode of 'The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast,' hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran explore the concept of 'flare and focus' and its impact on executive functions. The discussion delves into how the terms, commonly used in design thinking, can be applied to cognitive processes like brainstorming, prioritizing, organizing, and time management. Through engaging analogies and stories, like the behaviors of honeybees and the double diamond design process, they highlight the importance of balancing divergent (flaring) and convergent (focusing) thinking. The episode offers practical insights for students, educators, and professionals on how to optimize this balance for effective problem-solving and creativity.Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Inhibitory Control: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/poor-executive-functioning?_pos=3&_sid=19d2b3888&_ss=r Visualization: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/the-key-to-improved-attention-and-memory-for-optimal-learning?_pos=8&_sid=a9d61809a&_ss=r Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-app?_pos=1&_sid=604e0b13e&_ss=r Working Memory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/working-memory Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz
