Raising Good Humans

Ethan Kross, aUniversity of Michigan professor and director of the Emotion and Self-Control Lab, dives deep into emotion regulation. He shares practical strategies for parents to help children navigate anger and anxiety without suppressing feelings. Kross emphasizes viewing emotional challenges as growth opportunities, using tools like music for emotional management, and highlights the vital role of family culture in fostering resilience. Discover how understanding emotions can empower both parents and kids to thrive.

Kelly Corrigan, a NYT bestselling author and host of "Kelly Corrigan Wonders," shares her wisdom on supporting loved ones in crisis. She discusses practical tools for offering help, from thoughtful texts to meaningful conversations. The power of community during tough times is highlighted, emphasizing empathy and connection. Corrigan also explores navigating emotions amidst crises and the delicate balance of personal support while maintaining boundaries. Her insights inspire us to be present and show kindness when it matters most.

In this engaging discussion, Jenny Anderson, an award-winning journalist with over 25 years of experience, tackles the alarming disengagement crisis among students. She highlights how boredom and overwhelm are driving kids away from learning. Jenny categorizes students into four types and emphasizes the need for innovative strategies to reignite their curiosity. She advocates for a balanced lifestyle, safe tech, and fostering children's agency to foster a lifelong love of learning. Curious parents, take notes!

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Matt Nock, a Harvard professor renowned for his research on self-harm and suicide, sheds light on a challenging topic. Parents learn to identify risk factors and foster open conversations about suicide, breaking down stigma. Dr. Nock explores the significance of discussing mental health openly and tackles the complexities surrounding suicide contagion and media portrayal. He also emphasizes the role of technology in predicting suicidal behavior and highlights the importance of providing support for both parents and children.

Dr. Kurt Gray, a Professor at the University of North Carolina, dives into the art of teaching kids strong values while respecting differing opinions. He discusses the importance of empathy in moral development and offers practical strategies for navigating moral dilemmas. The conversation emphasizes open dialogue over judgment, especially in discussions about complex issues like bullying. Gray also highlights how fostering independence in teens can enhance their moral growth, blending individual beliefs with understanding broader perspectives.

In this lively conversation, John Legend, a celebrated singer and father of four, shares heartwarming insights into fatherhood and his new children’s album, 'My Favorite Dream.' He discusses the joys and challenges of parenting, including navigating his son's type 1 diabetes. John emphasizes the importance of music in their family life, how it fosters creativity and emotional bonding, and highlights his advocacy for arts in education. He also reflects on family holiday traditions and the excitement of touring during the festive season.

Drew Barrymore, iconic actress and producer, shares her insights on navigating holiday traditions while raising children. She discusses the delicate balance of instilling gratitude amidst materialism and addresses the challenging questions about Santa Claus. Barrymore emphasizes fostering meaningful rituals, like a gratitude tree, and highlights the importance of kindness over judgment in parenting. With personal anecdotes, she inspires listeners to integrate gratitude practices year-round, ensuring the holiday magic and values continue to thrive.

Dr. Jaffe, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist at Mount Sinai, tackles the intricate world of ADHD and anxiety in children. He highlights the importance of parental intuition in seeking help and discusses when medication may be necessary. The conversation dives into genetic and environmental factors affecting mental health, strategies for fostering resilience, and managing online safety for teenagers. Dr. Jaffe also emphasizes the significance of effective communication about treatment options while reducing stigma surrounding mental health.

Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor and author, delves into the science of conversation. She shares tools for parents to help children, regardless of their social nature, build essential communication skills. Topics include using humor to engage in serious discussions and reframing anxiety into excitement. Brooks emphasizes the significance of active listening and personalized topics to strengthen connections. She also provides strategies to empower anxious kids and navigate tough conversations, ensuring children thrive socially and emotionally.

Dr. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist and director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, shares fascinating insights on happiness and well-being. He emphasizes the profound impact of relationships on health, revealing that strong social bonds can enhance longevity. Waldinger discusses the importance of secure attachments in parenting, which shape adult relationships. He also highlights the need for balance between personal achievement and nurturing connections, advocating for self-reflection and fostering joy amid uncertainties in parenting.