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Educating the Human Potential

The American Montessori Society Podcast

Journey into the future of learning with two pioneering educators as they unlock the secrets of human potential through captivating conversations on education’s biggest challenges.

Explore “Educating the Human Potential,” where Educational Psychologist Nicole Coman and renowned Montessori Educator William “Biff” Maier guide you through transformative discussions that are reshaping how we think about education. This podcast from the American Montessori Society sparks insightful conversations about the future of learning, featuring thought-provoking discussions with educational and cultural trailblazers.

Educating the Human Potential challenges the status quo in education—because how we learn shapes society itself. Each episode dives into the critical issues shaping education today, blending research, lived experience, and bold ideas. Whether it’s rethinking classroom models, exploring the psychology of learning, nurturing curiosity and resilience in children, or unpacking social and cultural forces at play in education, Educating the Human Potential delivers engaging, accessible conversations for parents, educators, policymakers, and lifelong learners alike.

All Episodes:

The Power of Social Identity with Dr. Jay Van Bavel: How Groups Shape Learning, Bias, and Belonging

March 24, 2025

Why Rules Fail: The Montessori Approach to Raising Disciplined Children

March 11, 2025

Raising Kids in a Hypersexualized Digital World with Dr. Sharon Maxwell & Chelsea Maxwell

March 3, 2025

Lisa Ling on Journalism, Curiosity, and the Power of Storytelling

February 19, 2025

Introducing Educating The Human Potential

February 6, 2025

Most Recent Episode

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How does social identity influence the way we learn, form biases, and navigate the world? In this episode, Dr. Jay Van Bavel, NYU professor and coauthor of The Power of Us, joins us to explore the psychology and neuroscience behind identity formation.

Hosts Nicole Coleman and Biff Maier discuss with Dr. Van Bavel:

  • How group identity impacts learning, motivation, and cognitive performance
  • The role of social media in shaping and reinforcing identities
  • Strategies to reduce bias and build inclusion in schools and communities
  • How leaders can foster unity instead of division

With insights from neuroscience, psychology, and education, this episode reveals how understanding identity can transform classrooms, parenting, and even society itself.

And read Jay’s book: The Power of Us: Harnessing Our Shared Identities to Improve Performance, Increase Cooperation, and Promote Social Harmony, by Jay J. Van Bavel and Dominic J. Packer

Dr. Jay Van Bavel

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Meet Our Hosts

Nicole Coman
Nicole Coman (she/her) is one of the co-hosts of the Educating the Human Potential podcast, produced by AMS. As a licensed educational psychologist, Nicole brings a wealth of expertise in school psychology and child development. Her experience with educational practices, Montessori education, and child development allows for an ever-captivating and insightful dialogue.
William “Biff” Maier
Biff Maier (he/him) is one of the co-hosts of the Educating the Human Potential podcast, produced by AMS. Biff is an AMS Living Legacy, a former Montessori head of school, and a former teacher education program director. These deep-rooted connections with Montessori education, his passion for Montessori principles, and his legacy within AMS make him the perfect addition to our podcast team.