
Raising Good Humans
As a parent, do you ever wish someone could just whisper some realistic and trustworthy support in your ear? And not make you feel awful for not having all the answers? Well, that’s what I’m here for.
I'm Dr. Aliza Pressman, developmental psychologist, parent educator, asst. clinical professor, and co-founder of both Mount Sinai Parenting Center and SeedlingsGroup. And I'm a mom... trying to raise two good humans myself, so I'm in this with you!
In each episode, we'll go deep (but brief) with both experts and parents to share the most effective approaches and tools and talk about the important bigger picture of raising good humans. My goal is to make your parenting journey less overwhelming and a lot more joyful!
Please join me every Friday for new episodes of Raising Good Humans.
Latest episodes

Aug 16, 2024 • 58min
How we can use Uncomfortable Emotions to our Advantage
Dr. Tracy Dennis-Tiwary, a scientist and psychologist, explores the heavy toll of achievement culture on modern parenting. She discusses the struggle between supporting children's emotional growth while managing societal pressures. The conversation dives into the importance of resilience, allowing failure as a learning experience, and fostering intrinsic motivation over external validation. Tracy emphasizes the need for open dialogues about mental health and prioritizing meaningful relationships, urging parents to trust their instincts amidst overwhelming advice.

257 snips
Aug 9, 2024 • 1h 1min
The Science of Motivating Young People w/ Dr. David Yeager
Dr. David Yeager, a developmental psychologist and author of "10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People," shares cutting-edge insights on motivating youth. He emphasizes the dangers of 'groansplaining' and the importance of a mentor mindset. The conversation dives into rethinking anxiety as a growth tool and understanding the nuanced motivations of young people. Yeager also offers practical strategies for parents to balance expectations with support, helping to nurture resilience and autonomy in adolescents.

12 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 46min
Does my Child have ADHD? When & Why to Intervene
In this insightful discussion, Dr. Dave Anderson, lead psychologist at the Child Mind Institute and ADHD expert, shares valuable insights for parents navigating ADHD. He highlights how to recognize signs in children, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and support. Listeners learn strategies for nurturing strengths and developing effective routines. Dr. Anderson also addresses common misconceptions and stresses the significance of creating a supportive community for children, ensuring they thrive in their unique ways.

7 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 36min
How to Use Stress to Your Advantage & Help Kids Perform Under Pressure
Dr. Sian Beilock, President of Dartmouth College, discusses using stress to advantage & helping kids perform under pressure. Topics include distinguishing good vs. bad stress, parental influence on education choices, breaking perfectionism cycle, balancing rewards & grades, practicing under pressure, and encouraging challenges for growth.

11 snips
Jul 19, 2024 • 58min
Why We Need to Find the Middle Ground in Parenting with Gary Vee
Entrepreneur and father Gary Vaynerchuk discusses finding middle ground in parenting, raising resilient children, setting boundaries, and emphasizing empathy in family connections. The importance of balance, challenges of extreme parenting philosophies, societal influences, resilience, empathy, and self-regulation are highlighted in this insightful conversation.

26 snips
Jul 12, 2024 • 1h 6min
How to Foster Friendship Among Siblings & Resolve Sibling Rivalry
Renowned child psychiatrist Dr. Joshua Sparrow shares tips on fostering harmony among siblings, managing sibling rivalry, ensuring fairness, and introducing new siblings without chaos. The podcast covers building trust, supporting children in transitions, addressing conflicts with empathy, and co-parenting dynamics. It also discusses GAB phones for kids, creating balanced family dynamics, and strategies for managing behavioral challenges in children.

Jul 5, 2024 • 1h
How the Science of Spirituality can be the Antidote to Mental Health Struggles
Dr. Lisa Miller discusses the link between spirituality and teen mental health, emphasizing its protective benefits. Practical ways for parents to nurture spirituality in children and exercises to implement. Also includes discussions on air quality solutions and empowering kids through limited internet access.

Jun 28, 2024 • 55min
Cultivating Bravery with Kelly Corrigan
Bestselling author Kelly Corrigan discusses modern parenting, 'kitchen table bravery,' and evolving norms. The podcast explores the balance between guidance and uncertainty, attunement in personal moments, physical touch's significance, connecting through music, mother's influence, self-confidence, and shifting focus to wonder and curiosity.

Jun 21, 2024 • 31min
How to Handle “Defiant” Behavior in Kids
Learn how to handle defiant behavior in kids with tips on setting loving limits, navigating challenging moments, and maintaining a compassionate yet firm approach. Explore strategies like offering choices, validating feelings, and implementing consequences within a close parent-child relationship.

25 snips
Jun 14, 2024 • 39min
The Truth about Raising Boys
Author Ruth Whippman discusses raising boys, addressing societal norms, the importance of empathy, and fostering emotional health. Topics include conflicting messages on masculinity, positive role models, and practical strategies for parents.