In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Dr. Erica Warren explore the impact of organizing systems on executive functions. They discuss various strategies and tools, including Google Docs, Google Keep, and ivvi, to help with managing ideas, materials, technology, and assignments. The episode emphasizes the importance of hyperlinks, cognitive flexibility, and personalized systems to improve productivity and efficiency. Darius and Erica also share their insights into color-coding, folder structures, and the evolving role of AI in creating adaptable, user-friendly interfaces. Listener engagement and feedback are encouraged to further the discussion.
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In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran focus on the vital role of teachers as champions of executive functioning. They share personal teaching experiences and discuss the significant challenges educators face, including political and parental pressures, and high rates of burnout. The episode explores practical strategies for integrating executive function skills into classroom teaching, emphasizing the importance of metacognition, explicit instruction, and facilitating different ways of processing information. Erica and Darius also highlight the use of technology and AI in helping students and educators manage workload efficiently. They conclude with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of teachers everywhere.
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In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer podcast, host Erica Warren welcomes back Kim Sorise for an insightful discussion on executive functioning resets at the start of new semesters. They emphasize the importance of reflecting on the prior semester to identify what worked and what didn’t, and how this reflection fosters resilience and cognitive flexibility in students. The conversation covers practical strategies like organizing lockers, desks, and using digital tools such as Google Calendar and Keep for better management. They also delve into study techniques, leveraging AI tools, maintaining productive routines, and the significance of adding playtime and downtime in busy schedules. The episode is packed with valuable tips for students to start the new semester on the right foot.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Dr. Erica Warren discuss the importance of becoming an expert on one's challenges and strengths. They explore the intersection of executive functions with conditions like dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, emphasizing the need to self-advocate and accommodate personal needs. The conversation touches on the significance of understanding processing styles—such as kinesthetic, interactive, and sequential—and utilizing tools like AI and Google Keep to optimize learning and productivity. Additionally, they share insightful anecdotes and practical strategies for enhancing self-awareness and leveraging individual strengths.
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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.
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In this episode of the Executive Function Braintrainer Podcast, hosts Darius Namdaran and Dr. Erica Warren dive into the essential topic of conscious awareness and its impact on executive functions. They discuss various perspectives on conscious awareness, including neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology, highlighting the startling fact that 95-99% of our daily behaviors and thoughts are subconscious. The conversation covers the importance of increasing consciousness to take control of one's life, the tools to shift from reactivity to conscious regulation such as breathwork and visualization, and how therapies and coaching contribute to cognitive flexibility. The hosts also explore the balance between autopilot and intentional decision-making, providing listeners with insights and strategies to optimize their executive functions.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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In this episode of The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast,' hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran delve into the controversial yet crucial topic of supplements and executive functioning. The discussion highlights key nutrients like iron, vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, choline, and zinc. They explore how these elements affect cognitive abilities, mood, and overall brain health, offering practical advice and metaphors to create a deeper understanding. The episode also covers supplements with cognitive benefits, including Ginkgo Biloba, turmeric, acetyl carnitine, caffeine, L-theanine, and CoQ10, aiming to help listeners make informed decisions about their dietary intake and supplement choices for optimal executive function.
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In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran delve into the innovative features of Notebook LM, a language model smart notebook by Google. They discuss its potential in creating efficient study guides, interactive podcasts, and timelines to help with tasks like preparing for exams, managing projects, and planning events. The hosts also explore the AI's multimodal processing capabilities, its impact on enhancing executive functions, and its potential applications for students, professionals, and personal goal setting.
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In this episode of The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran discuss the critical role of automaticity in executive functions, particularly how it impacts movement and multitasking. They delve into how practicing sequences to automaticity can enhance productivity, whether in sports, learning, or professional settings. The conversation touches on the example of driving, dancing, and sports coaching, emphasizing the importance of tailored learning strategies. They also highlight how integrating movement can benefit cognitive tasks and overall executive functioning.
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Chat GPT:
EF Coaching with Darius:
EF Student Coaching with Erica:
EF Adult Coaching:
Executive Function Assessments:
Cognitive Flexibility:
Dyslexia Quiz:
Inhibitory Control:
Visualization:
Inner Voice:
Brought to you by:
- https://goodsensorylearning.com
- https://learningspecialistcourses.com
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessment
- https://bulletmapacademy.com
- https://ivvi.app
- https://dropintoyourbestself.com/
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/student-self-assessment
In this first episode of the year, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran discuss the transformative role of AI agents in 2025 and how they will impact executive functions. They explain the evolution of AI from simple tasks to complex processes and emphasize the importance of active engagement to strengthen cognitive skills. The episode also explores the potential for AI to revolutionize daily tasks, improve productivity, and support neurodiverse individuals by automating repetitive work, thus allowing more time for strategic thinking and executive decision-making.
Links:
Chat GPT:
EF Coaching with Darius:
EF Student Coaching with Erica:
EF Adult Coaching:
Cognitive Flexibility:
Dyslexia Quiz:
Inhibitory Control:
Visualization:
Inner Voice:
Brought to you by:
- https://goodsensorylearning.com
- https://learningspecialistcourses.com
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessment
- https://bulletmapacademy.com
- https://ivvi.app
- https://dropintoyourbestself.com/
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/student-self-assessment
In this episode of The Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran discuss the latest advancements in artificial intelligence with a focus on OpenAI's O1 model. They detail how this new model is trained differently, integrating metacognitive processes for better decision-making. They explore how AI can support executive functions like planning, time management, and cognitive flexibility. The episode also delves into the potential future capabilities of AI, including its applications in emotional regulation and personal assistance, while raising questions about ethical usage.
Chat GPT:
EF Coaching with Darius:
EF Student Coaching with Erica:
EF Adult Coaching:
Cognitive Flexibility:
Dyslexia Quiz:
Inhibitory Control:
Visualization:
Inner Voice:
Brought to you by:
- https://goodsensorylearning.com
- https://learningspecialistcourses.com
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessment
- https://bulletmapacademy.com
- https://ivvi.app
- https://dropintoyourbestself.com/
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/student-self-assessment
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, hosts Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran delve into the impact of the autonomic nervous system on executive functions. They explore the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches, offering practical tools like breathing exercises, yoga nidra, mindfulness, and even the therapeutic potential of walking and EMDR. They also shared personal anecdotes and actionable strategies to help listeners regulate their nervous systems and improve their executive functioning, all while emphasizing the balance between arousal and relaxation.
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Autonomic Nervous System:
Sympathetic Nervous System:
Parasympathetic Nervous System:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing:
Hypnosis:
Yoga Nidra:
Wim Hof Method:
Diaphragmatic Breathing:
Box Breathing:
4-7-8 Breathing:
EF Coaching with Darius:
EF Student Coaching with Erica:
EF Adult Coaching:
Cognitive Flexibility:
Dyslexia Quiz:
Inhibitory Control:
Visualization:
Inner Voice:
Brought to you by:
- https://goodsensorylearning.com
- https://learningspecialistcourses.com
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessment
- https://bulletmapacademy.com
- https://ivvi.app
- https://dropintoyourbestself.com/
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/student-self-assessment
In this episode of the Executive Function Brain Trainer Podcast, Dr. Erica Warren and Darius Namdaran discuss the foundational elements of executive functioning, like working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility, and how these skills are crucial at various stages of life—from elementary kids to adults. The hosts explore practical strategies, including note-taking, time management, and using technology to enhance productivity. They emphasize the importance of personalizing coaching to fit individual needs, highlighting the differences between teaching and coaching, and the unique challenges faced by different age groups.
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Executive Functionings for Groups and Classes:
EF Coaching Course:
EF Coaching with Darius:
EF Student Coaching with Erica:
EF Adult Coaching:
EF Library:
Executive Functioning Activities:
Executive Functioning Assessments:
Brought to you by
- https://goodsensorylearning.com
- https://learningspecialistcourses.com
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/products/executive-functioning-coaching-assessment
- https://bulletmapacademy.com
- https://ivvi.app
- https://dropintoyourbestself.com/
- https://goodsensorylearning.com/collections/student-self-assessment