Guests discuss the ethics of lying to children, exploring the impact of parental lies on development. They navigate truth and deception in parenting, examining cultural differences and setting boundaries. The podcast fact-checks the Santa Lie, compares households with dogs vs children, and shares listener feedback on neuroticism. The episode concludes with teasers for the next show on being 'cool'.

Award-winning science journalist Melinda Wenner Moyer explores effective parenting strategies for raising good individuals, including building resiliency in kids by allowing them to fail and emphasizing effort over ability. She also discusses strategies for responding to misbehavior, teaching empathy, and using mediation to promote cooperation during conflicts.

Melinda Wenner Moyer, author and contributing editor at Scientific American, shares her insights on raising empathetic kids. She discusses the importance of validating emotions to foster emotional intelligence and the balance between parental involvement and independence. Moyer emphasizes teaching children to navigate modern relationship challenges, including cyberbullying. Additionally, she addresses the need for conversations about race with kids, advocating for open discussions to combat stereotypes and enhance understanding.