

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

May 7, 2024 • 41min
#63: Exercise and Executive Function
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, Darius Namdaran and Dr. Erica Warren explore the connection between exercise and executive function. They delve into research that reveals how acute (single session) and chronic (regular) aerobic exercise can enhance executive functions across various age groups. Studies indicate that acute exercise significantly improves cognitive functions like inhibition and selective attention, while chronic exercise supports working memory, attention, and flexibility. The hosts also discuss the potential mechanisms behind these effects, such as increased brain oxygenation and neurotransmitter release, and analyze what these findings imply for students and professionals.Links:The Effects of Acute Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function: A Meta-Analysis:https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/behavioral-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2022.957677/full Acute Exercise and Cardiovascular Fitness Modulate Cognitive Performance With Selective Effects on Executive Function in Preadolescents:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1469029214000818 Exercise and Children's Intelligence, Cognition, and Academic Achievement:https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10648-007-9057-0 The Effects of Acute Aerobic Exercise on Cognitive Function: A Meta-Analysis:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006899312004003 Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/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 29, 2024 • 47min
#42: Exploring Sequential, Simultaneous, Reflective Logical, and Verbal Ways of Processing
In this episode of The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, Erica and Darius guide us through the dynamic world of visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic processing. As we navigate our everyday lives, our brains and executive functions decode the world around us via multiple sensory channels. Dive in as we unpack each processing type, providing a comprehensive understanding of how we interpret visual stimuli, sounds, tactile experiences, and movement. This episode will also provide valuable strategies to accommodate and enhance these unique learning pathways, promoting more effective, inclusive, and immersive learning experiences. Whether you're a visualizer or a kinesthetic learner, there's something for everyone in this sensory symphony. Get ready to embark on a journey of cognitive exploration and self-improvement.LinkSEQUENTIAL – Sequential learners like information to be presented in a series of steps or a specific order.SIMULTANEOUS – Simultaneous learners wants to see “the BIG picture.” Information should be related & connected.REFLECTIVE/LOGICAL – Reflective learners like to think about and analyze material that they encounter. They like to think things through and create mental concepts or models.Learn more about teaching mindfulness and reflective thinking with my Mindfulness Bundle.Headspace: Headspace is an app that uses fun, cartoon videos to teach meditation. teens and older kids, but it does offer some short meditations for younger children.Calm: offers a new meditation every day, as well as meditation programs like “7 Days of Calming Anxiety” or “7 Days of Focus.”VERBAL – Verbal learners like to think aloud. They need to talk about their thoughts and academic material to themselves and others.Use voice to text technology such as Google Docs Voice Typing. Use other voice to text options such as: Co-writer Universal, Mac Dictation, Dragon NaturallySpeaking, and TalkTyper.Use graphic organizers from Connected Mind, Kidspiration, Inspiration, Lucidchart, Mind Meister, Notability, or XMind.Use The Ultimate Mindful and Editable Planner and AgendaUse Google Keep to organize ideas and manage to do lists.Consider purchasing Planning Time Management and Organization for Success.Study with friends on Skype, Zoom or another video-based chatting platform.For more: assistive technology, homework resources, and free educational games.Use Inspiration outlines to organize ideas.Use The Ultimate Mindful and Editable Planner and AgendaConsider purchasing Planning Time Management and Organization for SuccessUse sites like Khan Academy for step by step academic support through videos and activities.Use Google Keep or Google Calendar to organize ideas and to create lists.Use the free app, PhotoMath, to take a picture of math problems. The app will provide the answer, but it can also define the sequence of steps it takes to reach the answer.Memory Strategies:https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/memory-strategies-for-students?_pos=1&_sid=57e320c4c&_ss=r Working Memory Screener:https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?_pos=1&_sid=9691d7fd7&_ss=r&q=executive%20functioning%20assessments&type=product Working Memory Exercises:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/working-memory-bundle?_pos=3&_sid=3819a2940&_ss=r Eclectic Learning Approach and Student Processing Inventory:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/student-processing-inventory-2?_pos=2&_sid=bb241d1c7&_ss=r A Workshop on Multisensory Teaching: Accommodating Each Learner's Best Ways of Processing: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/multisensory-learning-workshop Executive Functioning Assessment:https://mymemorymentor.com/efcs/ One to one sessions with Dr. Warren:https://learningtolearn.biz/ One to one sessions with Darius:www.ivvi.appBulletMap Academy:https://bulletmapacademy.com/Learning Specialist Courses:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/Executive functions and Study Skills Course:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Good Sensory Learning:https://goodsensorylearning.com/Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:https://tinyurl.com/4sx3eh3fhttps://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/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.bizhttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/

Apr 29, 2024 • 48min
43: Exploring Interactive, Indirect Experience, Direct Experience, Rhythmic Melodic Ways of Processing
Tune into this enlightening episode of The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast where hosts Erica and Darius journey into the diverse realms of Interactive, Indirect Experience, Direct Experience, and Rhythmic Melodic processing. Understanding these unique cognitive styles can vastly improve our executive functions, and how we interpret and interact with the world. From collaborative brainstorming of interactive learners, to the in-person approach of direct experience learners, to the rhythm-driven minds of melodic learners, we explore strategies to accommodate each unique style. Whether you're drawn to shared experiences or beat-driven patterns, there's something to learn and apply in this exciting exploration of brain processing.LinksChatGPT- https://chat.openai.com/chat Socratic Method: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socratic_methodMemory Strategies:https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/memory-strategies-for-students?_pos=1&_sid=57e320c4c&_ss=r Working Memory Screener:https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?_pos=1&_sid=9691d7fd7&_ss=r&q=executive%20functioning%20assessments&type=product Working Memory Exercises:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/working-memory-bundle?_pos=3&_sid=3819a2940&_ss=r Eclectic Learning Approach and Student Processing Inventory:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/student-processing-inventory-2?_pos=2&_sid=bb241d1c7&_ss=r A Workshop on Multisensory Teaching: Accommodating Each Learner's Best Ways of Processing: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/multisensory-learning-workshop Executive Functioning Assessment:https://mymemorymentor.com/efcs/ One to one sessions with Dr. Warren:https://learningtolearn.biz/ One to one sessions with Darius:www.ivvi.appBulletMap Academy:https://bulletmapacademy.com/Learning Specialist Courses:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/Executive functions and Study Skills Course:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Good Sensory Learning:https://goodsensorylearning.com/Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:https://tinyurl.com/4sx3eh3fhttps://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/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.bizhttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/

Apr 29, 2024 • 42min
#44: AI Capabilities with Memory and Processing
Dive into the world of AI with Erica and Darius as they discuss how AI interacts with memory systems, the functions of language models like GPT, and the impact of AI on personal and professional lives. Explore the versatility of AI text generation, its role in cognitive flexibility, memory, and emotional regulation, and its potential as a learning companion. Discover how AI can replicate the Socratic teaching style and support individuals with unique cognitive profiles like dyslexia.

Apr 29, 2024 • 41min
#45: AI and the Socratic Method
Dr. Erica Warren discusses using AI for out-of-the-box thinking and enhancing executive function skills. They explore the Socratic Method's role in fostering curiosity, exploration, and understanding. Learn how AI can be a tool for personal growth and challenge conventional learning paradigms through inquiry and reflection.

Apr 29, 2024 • 59min
#50: Executive Function and Voice Typing Apps
Explore the cognitive benefits of voice typing, its applications for dyslexia and ADHD, and practical strategies for productivity. Learn about assistive technology, future of note-taking apps, and ways to streamline writing process. Discover how voice typing enhances inhibitory control, focus, working memory, and cognitive flexibility.

Apr 29, 2024 • 34min
#51: Revamped SATs: How the New Format Affects Students' Executive Functioning
In this episode, Erica and Darius unpack the upcoming SAT overhaul. What's changing, and why? How will it impact students with learning differences and executive function? We explore the pros and cons of timed testing, the role of test accommodations, and innovative ways assessments can empower neurodiverse minds. Join us for an insightful discussion on the past, present and future of the SAT - and what this transformation could mean for students everywhere.Links:Executive Functioning Assessment:https://mymemorymentor.com/efcs/ One to one sessions with Dr. Warren:https://learningtolearn.biz/ One to one sessions with Darius:www.ivvi.appBulletMap Academy:https://bulletmapacademy.com/Learning Specialist Courses:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/Executive functions and Study Skills Course:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Good Sensory Learning:https://goodsensorylearning.com/Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:https://tinyurl.com/4sx3eh3fhttps://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/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.bizhttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/

Apr 29, 2024 • 45min
#54: Executive Function and Tablet Note Taking Apps
In this episode, Darius and Erica investigate note-taking apps and their impact on executive function. They explore how these digital tools are gateways to improved attention and preparedness, offering a variety of helpful features. Join them as they uncover a series of tips and tricks.Links:One note:https://www.onenote.com/?public=1 Notability:https://notability.com/ Goodnotes:https://www.goodnotes.com/ Executive functions and Study Skills Course:https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies The Study Processing Inventory and the 12 Ways of Processing:https://mymemorymentor.com/spi/Procreate:https://procreate.com/ Canva:https://www.canva.com/ My planner:https://my-planner.in/ Frixion pen:https://www.pilot-frixion.uk/uk/ Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:https://tinyurl.com/4sx3eh3fhttps://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/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 29, 2024 • 56min
#55: Nurturing Executive Functioning Skills in Modern Organizations
Discussions on applying executive functions in educational and organizational contexts, roles of educators in effective meeting strategies, practical methods for strengthening executive functions, recognizing diverse processing styles in teams, and transformative impact of working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility on individuals and groups.

Apr 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
#57 Executive Functioning & Gamification
In this episode of "The Executive Function Brain Trainer," Darius and Erica explore gamification and Executive Function (EF). They discuss how games increase motivation and happiness as well as foster a shift from passive to active learning. In addition, they talk about how games can develop essential skills like working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. Their conversation covers practical strategies for different age groups, from preschool to adults, ensuring that learning is inclusive, adaptable, and resonates with everyone's unique journey. Whether you're a parent, educator, practitioner, or tutor, join us to discover how EF games can create a safe, engaging environment for developing crucial life skills, and ultimately, shaping conscious learners who are motivated, flexible, and ready for life's challenges.Link to Games:Following Directions the Fun and Easy Way:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/following-directions-primary-beginners-intermediate-bundle?_pos=2&_sid=307c952d5&_ss=r Reading Games: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/reading-games-bundle?_pos=1&_sid=5ff496882&_ss=r Executive Functioning Library: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-activities The Visualization Game:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/the-visualization-game?_pos=4&_sid=538c44f17&_ss=r Reversing Reversals:https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/dyslexia-help-reversing-reversals Hey What’s the Big idea:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/hey-whats-the-big-idea-main-idea-and-detail-game-download Cash Flow: https://a.co/d/3w4BvrL Piggy Banking:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/money-game-piggy-banking-digital-download?_pos=1&_sid=cab868194&_ss=r MPower Games: https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/mpower?_pos=1&_sid=a62e0fc8e&_ss=r Memory Match Game: https://amzn.to/48CSuC5Set: https://amzn.to/3GX1rKu Blink: https://amzn.to/3GXVtsH Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza: https://amzn.to/47hWyGP Memory Match Games: https://amzn.to/3RWymFs Scattergories: https://amzn.to/48wDwO5 Qwitch:https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3725/qwitch Scrible: https://www.scrible.com/Developing Executive Functions & Study Strategies: A Comprehensive Approach: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Dr. Warren’s other Executive Functioning Resources: https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/executive-functioning-skills-training Executive Functioning Competency Screener: https://mymemorymentor.com/efcs/ Join Dr. Warren’s Newsletter for updates: https://goo.gl/fXfuEZ MPower Games:https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/mpower?_pos=1&_sid=a62e0fc8e&_ss=r Memory Match Game:https://amzn.to/48CSuC5 Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:https://tinyurl.com/4sx3eh3fhttps://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/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 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