

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 23, 2024 • 47min
#68 Overwhelm and Executive Function
In this episode of the Executive Functioning Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran delve into the relationship between overwhelm and executive function. They explore practical strategies to manage overwhelm, focusing on the use of technology like Apple Notes to clear mental clutter and improve productivity. The discussion includes real-life scenarios and metaphors to illustrate key points, making it ideal for parents, educators, and learners of all ages.Links:Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/Learn Mindmapping: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes EF Coaching with Darius: https://www.ivvi.app/coachingEF Student Coaching with Erica: https://learningtolearn.biz/ EF Adult Coaching: https://dropintoyourbestself.com/coaching 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/Executive Functioning Coaching Course: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Executive Functioning Resources: https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/executive-functioning-skills-trainingExecutive Functioning Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCAHow to Teach Executive Functions in Grades 1-6: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/how-to-teach-executive-functioning-to-elementary-and-middle-school-students-and-make-it-fun Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz

Jul 4, 2024 • 59min
#67: Losing Things and Executive Functions
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran delve into the challenges of losing important items like keys, wallets, and rings, particularly for those with dyslexia or ADHD. They discuss how executive function impacts these behaviors and explore effective strategies to create reliable habits. From pocket systems to visual cues and habit-stacking methods, the hosts offer practical advice to help listeners design workflows tailored to their cognitive styles, ultimately saving time and reducing stress.Links:Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/Learn Mindmapping: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes EF Coaching with Darius: https://www.ivvi.app/coachingEF Student Coaching with Erica: https://learningtolearn.biz/ EF Adult Coaching: https://dropintoyourbestself.com/coaching Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Cognitive Flexibility: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/dyslexia-and-executive-function Executive Functioning Coaching Course: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Executive Functioning Resources: https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/executive-functioning-skills-trainingExecutive Functioning Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCAHow to Teach Executive Functions in Grades 1-6: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/how-to-teach-executive-functioning-to-elementary-and-middle-school-students-and-make-it-fun Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz

Jun 20, 2024 • 53min
#66: Diet and Executive Functioning
In this episode of the Personal Brain Trainer Podcast, Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran explore the impact of diet on executive functioning. Erica shares her personal journey with diet changes that helped her overcome colitis and cancer. They discuss essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, with supportive research on their cognitive benefits. Various diets, including the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, Mediterranean Diet, and Ketogenic Diet, are investigated for their potential to enhance cognitive function. The hosts also emphasize the importance of avoiding processed foods and sugars to maintain optimal brain health. Tune in to learn practical tips for improving your diet and cognitive performance.Links: Breaking the Vicious Cycle: https://amzn.to/4e04tx3 Carnivore Diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/carnivore-diet Ketogenic Diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ketogenic-diet-101 Mediterranean Diet: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mediterranean-diet-meal-plan The Impact of the Mediterranean Diet on the Cognitive Functioning of Healthy Older Adults: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2161831322006895 Ketogenic diet and cognition in neurological diseases: https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article-abstract/79/7/802/6044704?redirectedFrom=fulltext Eat to Beat Disease:https://drwilliamli.com/book-li/Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/Learn Mindmapping: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes EF Coaching with Darius: https://www.ivvi.app/coachingEF Student Coaching with Erica: https://learningtolearn.biz/ EF Adult Coaching: https://dropintoyourbestself.com/coaching Executive Function: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/tagged/executive-functioning Executive Functioning Coaching Course: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Executive Functioning Resources: https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/executive-functioning-skills-trainingExecutive Functioning Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCAHow to Teach Executive Functions in Grades 1-6: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/how-to-teach-executive-functioning-to-elementary-and-middle-school-students-and-make-it-fun Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz

Jun 4, 2024 • 1h 8min
#65: The New CHAT GPT 4.0: Impact on Processing
Welcome to the Executive Function Braintrainer Podcast with hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran. This episode dives into the new release of ChatGPT 4 O and its significant potential to revolutionize support for individuals with dyslexia, ADHD, and executive function challenges. The discussion includes how AI's advanced multimodal capabilities can provide personalized, real-time feedback and scaffolding for various learning functions. They emphasize the importance of leveraging AI to make educational processes easier and more accessible, while also calling for investment and development in AI tools tailored to specific neurodiverse needs. The episode envisions a future where AI acts as an intelligent co-pilot, facilitating efficient and effective learning and problem-solving for all users.Links:Sal Kahn using AI to tutor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnIgnS8Susg Blackberry Movie: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BlackBerry_(film) Dyslexia Quiz: https://bulletmapacademy.com/dyslexia-quiz/Dyslexia Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/Learn Mindmapping: https://www.bulletmapacademy.com/mindmap-beginners Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/executive-functioning-games-for-groups-and-classes EF Coaching with Darius: https://www.ivvi.app/coachingEF Student Coaching with Erica: https://learningtolearn.biz/ & https://dropintoyourbestself.com/EF Adult Coaching: https://dropintoyourbestself.com/coaching Executive Functioning Coaching Course: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Executive Functioning Resources: https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/executive-functioning-skills-trainingExecutive Functioning Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCAHow to Teach Executive Functions in Grades 1-6: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/how-to-teach-executive-functioning-to-elementary-and-middle-school-students-and-make-it-fun Brought to you by:https://ivvi.apphttps://goodsensorylearning.comhttps://learningspecialistcourses.comhttps://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessmenthttps://dropintoyourbestself.com/www.learningtolearn.biz

May 23, 2024 • 48min
#64: How Sleep Powers Executive Functions
Explore the crucial connection between sleep and executive functions, how sleep deprivation affects cognitive abilities and decision-making, practical strategies for better sleep and managing insomnia, benefits of eye masks and environmental adjustments for quality rest, optimizing the sleep environment, comparison of latex mattresses vs memory foam, and lifestyle factors that influence sleep quality.

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/behavioralneuroscience/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/S1469029214000818Exercise 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 Productivity Coaching: http://dyslexiaproductivitycoaching.com/Executive Functioning Coaching Course: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/teaching-EF-and-study-strategies Executive Functioning Resources: https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/executive-functioning-skills-trainingExecutive Functioning Assessments: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCAHow to Teach Executive Functions in Grades 1-6: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/how-to-teach-executive-functioning-to-elementary-and-middle-school-students-and-make-it-fun Inner Voice: https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/inner-voice-appEF Coaching with Darius: https://www.ivvi.app/coachingEF Student Coaching with Erica: https://learningtolearn.biz/ EF Adult Coaching with Erica: https://dropintoyourbestself.com/coaching 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.LinksMemory Strategies:https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/memory-strategies-for-students?_pos=1&_sid=57e320c4c&_ss=r Executive Functioin | Working Memory Screener:https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCA Working Memory Exercises: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=working+memory Eclectic Learning Approach and Student Processing Inventory: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=YPPIA Workshop on Multisensory Teaching: Accommodating Each Learner's Best Ways of Processing: https://www.learningspecialistcourses.com/courses/multisensory-learning-workshop Executive Functioning Remedial Assessment: https://goodsensorylearning.com/search?type=product&q=EFCA 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.


