This episode is a musical rendition of the forty 'forbidden' words that are under attack right now.

Special shout out to the bravery of Darby Saxbe, a professor at the University of Southern California for sharing the list of forbidden words, as she said on Twitter in her post: "This is a crisis for academic freedom & science."

How might we use art and music to help us understand the significance of these words?

Tricia generated this song as a collaboration with AI and then mixed it in Garageband.

You are welcome to take the song and remix it in any way you'd like.

Can AI help us get better at one of the most challenging human skills—navigating conflict? In this episode, host Tricia Friedman shares the results of her latest experiment: building an AI-powered Conflict Simulator designed to help us rehearse and refine our approach to tough conversations.

From using AI tools like Consensus and Moxie to explore conflict resolution research, to incorporating unexpected wisdom from dog play, Tricia takes listeners through the process of designing and testing a bot that doesn’t just answer questions—but helps us practice how to engage in conflict more effectively.

Listen in as Tricia puts the AI to the test, reflects on the role of synthetic voices, and invites you to experiment with the bot yourself. Whether you avoid conflict at all costs or want to sharpen your skills, this episode explores a fascinating new way to learn through AI.

🔗 Try the Conflict Simulator:https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67b5feb5a74c8191bb26074523bfc77a-conflict-simulator

📩 Share your feedback: [email protected]

📖 Connected, Not Consumed https://resources.techhealthyfamilies.com/ebook

In this conversation, Tricia speaks with Luthern Williams, a futurist and school leader, about the role of creativity and the arts in reimagining education. They discuss the importance of imagination and the need to move away from the factory-age industrial model of education. Luthern shares the story of a school that was intentionally created to be different and emphasizes the importance of preparing students to live together and work towards the common good.

Takeaways

Creativity and the arts are essential for imagining what education can be and moving away from the factory-age industrial model.

Integrated and equitable schools create dynamic and exciting learning environments where children can thrive.

Teachers need to do their own internal work to create a positive culture and climate in the classroom.

Connect with our Guest:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/luthern-williams-64a39ba/

Check out the free guide Tricia mentioned at the start of the episode:

https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/your-free-shifting-schools-guide-more-generative-collaboration-in-2025/

In this conversation, Tricia Friedman and Rio Cortez discuss the themes and creative processes behind Rio's latest work, 'The ABCs of Women's History.' They explore the interdisciplinary approach to women's history, the importance of slow reading, and the joy of writing for children compared to adults. Rio shares insights into her collaborative process with illustrators and the significance of trusting readers to find their own meaning. The conversation concludes with a look at future projects and the potential for more educational works.

Learn more about this book and Rio Cortez:

https://www.riocortez.com/

Learn more about the Leadership Playbook: A Practical Guide to Preventing Burnout in Your Team (BETA) as mentioned at the top of the episode

https://playfulworkdesign.com/store/p/leadership-playbook-a-practical-guide-to-preventing-burnout-in-your-team

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the ABCs of Women's History

07:22 The Importance of Slow Reading

12:08 The Joy of Writing for Children vs. Adults

16:46 The Creative Process of a Poet

23:30 Future Projects and Collaborations

Tricia Friedman speaks with Max Simpson, the founder and CEO of STEPS, an organization dedicated to improving employment outcomes for the neurodivergent community. Max discuss the origins of STEPS, the importance of collaboration and partnerships, and the need for systemic change in education and employment. Max shares insights on the challenges of navigating the business landscape, the significance of branding in social business, and the role of research in fostering neuro inclusion. He also explores the importance of creating healthier work environments and engaging future business leaders in the conversation about neurodiversity.

Ready to connect with Max and STEPS?

https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-simpson/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/stepsthailand/

Catch more from Max at the upcoming SENIA event:

https://www.seniainternational.org/conferences/

Learn more about Tech Healthy Families too:

https://resources.techhealthyfamilies.com/digitalparenting

In this conversation, Professor Neil McArthur discusses the intersection of AI, technology, and human relationships, particularly in the context of dating and companionship. He explores the potential benefits and concerns surrounding AI in romantic settings, the emergence of new sexual identities like digisexuality, and the importance of understanding technology's role in fostering tolerance and acceptance. The conversation also touches on the need for research and community engagement to navigate the complexities of social AI and its applications in various aspects of life, including elder care and mental health.

Professor McArthur has been named one of the most influential voices in AI in Canada (Maclearns Magazine) and they will be a panelist at the 2025 SxSW event.

To learn more about their extraordinary work:

https://neilmcarthur.com/

Discover the free guide talked about at the beginning of the episode from Heather Barnard Consulting:

https://resources.techhealthyfamilies.com/socialmediaquestions

Do you want to reach out to Tricia for requests for upcoming episodes?

Contact her at Tricia (at) shiftingschools.com

Everywhere is Queer is a worldwide map of queer-owned businesses, created by this week's guest: Charlie Sprinkman. The idea for the platform came to Charlie during a year-long road trip, where they were constantly seeking queer spaces. They realized that there was more to queer-owned businesses than just gay bars and wanted to create a platform that connects the queer community with spaces that see them as their most authentic selves. Everywhere is Queer now has over 14,000 queer-owned businesses listed on their app. Charlie has built a strong social media community around the platform and encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to seek support and ask questions.

App is LIVE - iOS and Android

Instagram: @everywhereisqueer

Website: www.everywhereisqueer.com

Map: www.everywhereisqueer.com/map

Learn more about Acey Holmes and the Playful Breaks Deck!

https://playfulworkdesign.com/store/p/playful-breaks-card-deck

In this conversation, Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa discusses her new book, 'How to Chase Change,' emphasizing the importance of embracing limitations and redirecting focus towards personal growth. She introduces a structured 30-day challenge designed to facilitate gradual change, highlighting the significance of relationships and self-advocacy in the process. Alexis also explores the intersection of neuroscience and identity, explaining the difference between the brain and the mind, and how understanding this can empower individuals to take control of their lives. The discussion concludes with practical advice on fostering community learning and accountability in personal development journeys.

You might know of ALEXIS FERNANDEZ-PREIKSA, neuroscientist turned beloved podcast host, known for her no-holds-barred, tough love attitude, and accessible approach to scientifically proven mindset hacks. Her pep talks and deep dives on the hit podcast Do You F*****g Mind? (over 10 million downloads as of 2023!) are like getting advice from a trusted friend and loyal supporter.

Explore her book:

https://www.amazon.com/How-Chase-Change-Master-Mindset/dp/1797171984#:~:text=Book%20details&text=offers%20you%20the%20ultimate%20guide,%2Dstep%2030%2Dday%20program.

Tricia and April explore the connections between cooking and education, emphasizing the importance of personalization, cultural context, and intentionality in both fields. They discuss the significance of feedback, the need for demystifying teaching practices, and the impact of labels on students. Additionally, they address parental fears regarding their children's education and the importance of using positive language to foster problem-solving. In this conversation, April Remfrey and Tricia discuss the complexities of parenting, the impact of labels on children, and the rising anxiety among parents. They explore the overwhelming amount of parenting advice available today and emphasize the importance of creating a parenting manifesto to guide decisions. The discussion also highlights the significance of modeling Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in educational settings and the need for trust and agency in adult learning environments. They conclude by sharing insights on accessibility in professional development and upcoming community events.

Ready to connect with April Remfrey?

https://www.remfrey.com/

Also explore the Playful Strategies resource mentioned at the top of the episode:

https://playfulworkdesign.com/store/p/playful-strategies-card-deck

In this conversation, Tricia and Diana discuss the pressing issues surrounding democracy, the importance of community and friendship in bridging divides, and the emotional toll of political polarization. Diana emphasizes the need for a shift from an outrage mindset to one of engagement and collaboration, highlighting the work of organizations like More In Common. They explore the dynamics of intergroup relationships and the role of friendship in fostering understanding and change. Diana shares insights from her book, advocating for a reimagined democracy built on connection and mutual care, while also reflecting on the challenges and hopes that come with writing and sharing these ideas.

Ready to learn more about the author and book?

https://www.remakingthespace.org/book

Would you like Tricia's new 2025 free resource for leading teams in collaboration?

https://shiftingschools.lpages.co/your-free-shifting-schools-guide-more-generative-collaboration-in-2025/