Raising Good Humans

In this week’s episode, I speak with Professor Michael Pluess, renowned temperament researcher, to explore what it really means to have a "sensitive" child. We break down the science behind sensitivity as a key part of temperament, why some kids are more reactive to both positive and negative experiences, and how parenting can shape their outcomes. We discuss the genetic and environmental roots of...

In this week’s episode I engage in a critical discussion with Imran Ahmed, Head of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, about their alarming study on how teens are using AI chatbots like Chat GPT as companions. We discuss the staggering statistics revealing that over 70% of adolescents use Chat GPT for companionship, with over 50% doing so regularly. We go into the details of the potential dang...

In today's episode, I dive into the critical importance of close relationships and share 10 research-backed strategies to cultivate them. From practicing emotional co-regulation and engaging in 'serve and return' interactions to fostering shared joy and laughter, I discuss practical ways you can improve your connections with your children, partners, and others. You'll learn how predictable routine...

In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist and Equip co-founder Dr. Erin Parks for a clear, compassionate guide to eating disorders. We sort through ARFID vs. picky eating, anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating; early signs to watch for (and what’s normal); how to talk about food and bodies at home; and when to step in and get help—so you know what to worry about, what to let go, and exact...

In this episode, I’m joined by economist and bestselling author Emily Oster for a myth-busting conversation about the science (and sanity) of parenting. We unpack everything from picky eating and sleep training to praise, rewards, and toddler tantrums—exploring what the data actually says and what parents can finally stop worrying about. We also talk about co-sleeping, potty training, and the myth...

In this episode, I’m joined by journalist and author Susan Dominus for a deep dive into the science of temperament, sibling relationships, and what high-achieving families can teach us about raising children. We talk about how two kids raised in the same home can turn out completely different, the limits of parenting, and why temperament may be more hardwired than we think. We also explore how pur...

In this episode, I sit down with one of my favorite guests, Dr. Lisa Damour—psychologist, teen whisperer, and New York Times bestselling author—to talk about what’s really going on when your tween or teen turns you into their emotional dumping ground. We break down what’s typical versus when to worry, how to respond without absorbing it all, and simple scripts that actually help. We also explore D...

I’m joined this week by Caitlin Murray of Big Time Adulting for a special listener Q&A. We’re digging into your most common parenting questions—from knowing when to push kids to try hard things, to handling tantrums without losing it, to navigating bullying and screen time. Caitlin brings her humor and honesty, and I bring the developmental psychologist’s lens, so you’ll walk away with strategies...

In this episode of Raising Good Humans, I interview Laura Modi, founder and CEO of Bobbie. Laura shares her inspiring journey and mission to revolutionize the infant formula industry by setting higher nutritional standards, increasing transparency, and driving accountability. We discuss the emotional and practical challenges of feeding infants, the evolving science behind nutrition, and the import...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Jamil Zaki, a psychology professor at Stanford University and director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab. We discuss the critical role of empathy and kindness in today's world, the importance of narrative in driving empathy, and the distinction between hope and optimism. We also explore how empathy can be a double-edged sword, leading to burnout if not...

In today’s episode I sit down with Dr. Marc Brackett, Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of Permission to Feel and Dealing with Feeling, to get precise about what emotion regulation actually is. We break down the PRIME framework (prevent, reduce, initiate, maintain, enhance), and the Meta-Moment: a brief attentional and physiological reset (pause + breath + values cu...

This week, I sit down with my 101-year-old grandfather, Papa Jack, to hear his extraordinary story of survival and love. Born in Poland in 1924, he describes the beauty of his childhood, the rise of antisemitism, and the devastation that followed when Nazi Germany invaded. He shares what it was like to be forced into a ghetto, separated from family, and pushed into camps where survival often came...

In today’s episode developmental psychologist and temperament expert Dr. Koraly Pérez-Edgar joins us to talk all about temperament. We dive into the science of temperament—how it develops in early childhood, how it shapes the way kids experience the world, and what it means for parenting. We cover the biological basis of temperament, the difference between shyness and social anxiety, and how paren...

In today's episode I'm joined by Alyssa Campbell, co-author of 'Tiny Humans, Big Emotions' and author of the upcoming book 'Big Kids, Bigger Feelings to dive into practical strategies for responding to tantrums across various child age groups, from 18 months to school age. We explore how to handle tantrums based on different temperaments and provide developmentally appropriate expectations. Throug...

In today’s episode I sit down with Dr. Vonda Wright, author of 'Unbreakable: A Woman’s Guide to Aging with Power.' We discuss the importance of bone health, muscle building, and lifelong mobility, particularly for women in their thirties and forties. Dr. Wright emphasizes the need to start addressing bone density and strength early in life to prevent issues in later years. We discuss practical tip...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Christopher Willard, a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School and co-author of College Mental Health 101, to explore how parents can support college-bound teens through the transition to campus life. We get practical with research-backed basics like sleep, movement, medication management, and executive function supports, along with a simple “support...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Marc Berman, the pioneer of environmental neuroscience, to explore the surprising science behind how nature enhances cognitive, physical, and social wellbeing. We dive into how spending time in nature—whether it’s a walk in the park or simply looking at nature photos—can boost attention, memory, and mood. Dr. Berman also shares practical tips for how to inco...

What is gentle parenting, really? And why is it annoying so many parents? I’m joined by Dr. Tina Payne Bryson to unpack the truth behind the trend, clear up major misconceptions, and explain why the real gold standard—authoritative parenting—still matters most. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here: https://bit....

In today's episode I sit down with Dr. Dave Anderson from the Child Mind Institute to discuss cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). We delve into the misconceptions, tools, and techniques of CBT, and how parents and children can benefit from these strategies. Dr. Anderson explains the importance of understanding emotions, practicing mindfulness, and cognitive restructuring. We also share practical a...

In today’s episode I am joined by Yale neuroscientist Dr. Dylan Gee for a fascinating look at what’s actually happening in our children’s brains when we offer support, warmth, and connection. We delve into the neurobiology and neurobiological mechanisms that underpin parent-child interactions, particularly focusing on emotional development. We also dive into the individual differences in children'...

In today's episode I speak with activist Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, about her new book 'Fired Up: How to Turn Your Spark Into a Flame and Come Alive at Any Age'. Shannon shares her journey from corporate PR to leading a grassroots movement against gun violence and discusses how women can discover their core values, ignite personal and professional transformations, and find a sen...

In this episode, Tina and I discuss personal moments of our parenting missteps, explore instances where our reactions didn't align with my expertise and what we might have done differently. We discuss the benefits of imperfections, the power of repair, and the importance of modeling self-compassion for our children. Through our real-life anecdotes, we highlight the challenges and lessons learned f...

In this episode, I’m joined by James Kimmel Jr. JD, a lecturer in psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine and author of The Science of Revenge, to explore what the latest neuroscience tells us about revenge, grievance, and retaliation. We discuss how the brain’s reward system becomes activated in response to perceived harm—often fueling cycles of conflict that begin in childhood. Together, we ex...

In today's episode I dive into one of the most triggering parenting challenges: backtalk. From eye rolls to attitude, I’m sharing 10 practical, research-backed ways to respond to backtalk without damaging your connection with your child. From toddlers asserting independence to teens testing boundaries, I’ll share developmentally informed approaches to help you regulate your response, set respectfu...

Today I sit down with Claire Lerner to discuss practical approaches for parents managing highly sensitive, highly reactive, or 'orchid' children. We address common struggles parents face, such as interpreting sensitive caregiving, setting boundaries, and dealing with tantrums. Using real-life case studies, the importance of creating 'positive discomfort' for growth is emphasized. Tips include sett...