Raising Good Humans - podcast cover

Raising Good Humans

Dear Media, Aliza Pressmanart19.com
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.

Episodes

10 Ways to Encourage Collaboration and Teamwork

In this solo episode, I’m diving into the different ways you can help your child develop collaboration and teamwork skills. I break down ten actionable strategies that encourage kids to work together, navigate group dynamics, and build a sense of community. From engaging in team sports and group projects to practicing conflict resolution and celebrating shared achievements, I go through simple yet powerful ways to foster these essential life skills. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The ...

Mar 07, 202536 minSeason 5Ep. 10

Validation: The Skill That Changes Everything with Dr. Caroline Fleck

In this episode we sit down with clinical psychologist Dr. Caroline Fleck to talk about the power of validation—what it really means, why it’s so important, and how we can use it to strengthen our relationships with our kids, others, and even ourselves. Dr. Caroline Fleck breaks down the science behind validation, shares practical tools from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and clears up common misconceptions—like how to validate without reinforcing bad behavior. She also opens up about her o...

Feb 28, 20251 hr 3 minSeason 5Ep. 9

The Foundations for Discipline

In this special episode, we feature a chapter of "The 5 Principles of Parenting," focusing on the foundational aspects of discipline. Tune in to learn the keys to discipline that respect both the child’s feelings and the parent’s expectations, how to navigate discipline at different ages, and how to understand your child’s moral development stage. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit.ly/3rM...

Feb 21, 202536 minSeason 5Ep. 8

10 Ways to Encourage Adaptability and Flexibility

In this solo episode I discuss the different ways you can cultivate adaptability and flexibility in children. I break down ten actionable strategies for parents to encourage these skills, such as modeling adaptability, introducing new experiences, encouraging problem-solving, and practicing mindfulness. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit.ly/3rMLMsL Subscribe to my free newsletter for pare...

Feb 14, 202534 minSeason 5Ep. 7

Are Stay-at-Home Moms Giving Up? Are Working Moms Selfish? Let’s Talk w/ Neha Ruch

In today’s episode I am joined by Neha Ruch, author of The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break after Kids and Come Back Stronger Than Ever , to unpack the long-standing tension between stay-at-home and working moms. Together, we explore the myths, societal pressures, and hidden labor behind both choices—while challenging the idea that ambition and motherhood are at odds. Neha shares how taking a career pause can be a power move, why it’s time to end the shame around different parenting paths...

Feb 07, 202539 minSeason 5Ep. 6

Managing Your Emotions So They Don't Manage You w/ Ethan Kross

Emotions are a fundamental part of being human—but how do we help kids navigate them without rushing to fix or suppress their feelings? This week, we sit down with emotion regulation expert Ethan Kross, author of  Shift: Managing Your Emotions So They Don’t Manage You , to break down the science of emotions and self-regulation. From handling anger and anxiety to fostering emotional resilience, this conversation is packed with practical tools and insights for parents and kids alike. I WROTE ...

Jan 31, 20251 hrSeason 5Ep. 5

How to Show Up for Others When They Need You Most

In today’s joint episode with Kelly Corrigan, NYT bestselling author and host of the podcast Kelly Corrigan Wonders, we explore how we can best support loved ones during times of crisis, inspired by the devastating LA wildfires. We discuss practical tools for showing up—whether through a thoughtful text, asking meaningful questions, or simply being present—and discuss the importance of connection, empathy, and understanding.  I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of ...

Jan 24, 202543 minSeason 5Ep. 4

The Disengagement Crisis: Why Kids Are Falling Out of Love With Learning—and How to Change That

In this episode award-winning journalist and author Jenny Anderson joins us to discuss the alarming disengagement crisis among today’s students. Together, we explore why so many kids are checking out of learning, the hidden ways disengagement manifests, and the practical steps parents can take to reignite curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit...

Jan 17, 202555 minSeason 5Ep. 3

Understanding Suicide and Self-Injury: What Parents Need to Know

In this important episode, Harvard professor Dr. Matt Nock joins us to tackle the difficult yet crucial topic of suicide and self-harm. Drawing from decades of groundbreaking research, Dr. Nock shares actionable insights on how parents can approach these conversations, identify risk factors, and foster hope. Whether or not this topic has touched your life directly, this episode offers essential guidance and support for parents navigating these challenging issues. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order you...

Jan 10, 202555 minSeason 5Ep. 2

Navigating Moral Differences: How to Help Guide Your Child’s Moral Compass without Moral Righteousness with Professor Kurt Gray

How do we teach our kids to hold strong to their values while respecting those who think differently? In this episode, Dr. Kurt Gray joins us to explore the delicate balance of instilling moral convictions in our children without fostering judgment. We dive into the research behind moral development, the importance of empathy, and practical strategies to help kids navigate a world of differing opinions.  I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essent...

Jan 03, 202546 minSeason 5Ep. 1

John Legend on Fatherhood, Music, and Spreading Holiday Joy

Happy Holidays!In this episode, John Legend speaks about his experiences as a father of four, his involvement in his children's lives, and how parenthood inspired his new children's album, 'My Favorite Dream.' He shares insights into his interactions with each of his children, the challenges they face, including managing his son's type 1 diabetes, and his children's unique personalities and interests. John delves into his musical upbringing, his children's passion for music, and how it connects ...

Dec 27, 202445 minSeason 4Ep. 55

Holiday Talks with Drew Barrymore: Is Santa Real, Creating Meaningful Traditions, and Tips on How to Cultivate Gratitude

Drew Barrymore thinks about the holidays, the pressure and the meaning. Also we are tackling some of the inevitable questions that come up during the holiday season, from making meaning, underplaying materialism, enjoying rituals, and what to say to our children about Santa. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit.ly/3rMLMsL Subscribe to my free newsletter for parenting tips delivered straight...

Dec 20, 202452 minSeason 4Ep. 54

To Medicate or Not to Medicate? Dr. Jaffe on ADHD & Anxiety: Finding the Right Path for Your Child

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jaffe, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist at Mount Sinai Hospital. Dr. Jaffe discusses the complexities of diagnosing and treating ADHD and anxiety in children, the importance of parental intuition, and when to seek professional help. He also addresses medication and when and why medication may be the best option. We also discuss the impact of environmental and genetic factors, and strategies for fostering resilience and healthy h...

Dec 13, 202450 minSeason 4Ep. 53

The Science of Conversation: Tools for Parents and Kids

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Social Connection . We explore how parents can help their kids—whether they’re naturally chatty or more reserved—develop essential communication skills to thrive socially and emotionally. Alison shares practical tools for reframing anxiety, fostering meaningful connections, and using humor and warmth to navigate even the toughest conversations. Whether you’re raising an a...

Dec 06, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 4Ep. 52

The Secrets to Building a Happy Life and Raising Happy Kids w/ Dr. Robert Waldinger

This week, join me in conversation with Dr. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and the director of the longest-running study on happiness and well-being, to discuss the secrets to building a happy life and raising happy kids. Dr. Waldinger shares insights from the study and offers practical advice on how to cultivate strong relationships, find purpose and meaning in life, and create a positive environment for children to thrive in. This is an episode you won't want to miss as we di...

Nov 29, 202459 minSeason 4Ep. 51

10 Ways to Prevent Entitlement and Cultivate Gratitude

In this solo episode, I’m sharing 10 science-backed, practical ways to foster gratitude and prevent entitlement in kids. As the season of giving approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how we can help our children appreciate what they have while staying grounded. I’ll cover everything from modeling gratitude in everyday moments to teaching kids the value of chores, delayed gratification, and empathy. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essenti...

Nov 22, 202439 minSeason 4Ep. 50

From Sleeping in Their Own Beds to Ordering at Restaurants: How to Stop Rescuing Our Kids from Anxiety So They Can Learn to Rescue Themselves-- Part 2 w/ Dr. Eli Lebowitz

We’re back for part two with the Yale Child Study Center's Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program, Dr. Eli Lebowitz. Today we dive deep into the fine line between supporting our kids and over-accommodating their anxiety. We go through scenarios like kids sleeping in their own beds, to building confidence in social situations like ordering at a restaurant. We also dive into family systems, and how to manage anxiety within them.  I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Princi...

Nov 15, 202454 minSeason 4Ep. 49

Everything You Need to Know to Help Kids Manage their Anxiety with Renowned Yale Psychologist Dr. Eli Lebowitz

In today's episode I sit down with child and adolescent psychologist and director of the Yale Child Study Center's Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program, Dr. Eli Lebowitz. We dive into everything you need to know about anxiety in children. We explore what anxiety looks like—from everyday worries to more severe cases—and tackle the delicate balance between being a supportive parent and inadvertently accommodating a child’s fears. Using powerful metaphors, Dr. Lebowitz helps us understand h...

Nov 08, 202456 minSeason 4Ep. 48

10 Practical Ways to Boost Listening and Cooperation in Kids

In this solo episode, I’m diving into 10 practical tips to help make listening and cooperation with your kids easier. I’ll walk you through straightforward strategies for strengthening connection and communication, plus I’ll share a quick mindfulness exercise to keep you feeling centered, even on the toughest days. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit.ly/3rMLMsL Subscribe to my free newslet...

Nov 01, 202444 minSeason 4Ep. 47

The Truth about Supplements: Science and Safety

Today we are joined by Katerina Schneider, who is the founder and CEO of Ritual, a health company that is setting a new standard in the supplement industry through traceable science and traceable sourcing. We discuss the challenges consumers face in choosing supplements, the importance of third-party testing, and the misleading use of terms like “clinically studied.” Kat also offers insights into essential nutrients for different life stages and emphasizes balance over perfection in health and p...

Oct 28, 202429 minSeason 4Ep. 46

Guiding Our Kids Through Life's Ups and Downs with Dr. Tovah Klein

In this special LIVE episode we sit down with Dr. Tovah Klein to explore how we can foster resilience in our children. We discuss how to navigate uncertainty, foster emotional adaptability, and build trust in the parent-child relationship. From handling life’s everyday challenges to guiding children through difficult moments, Dr. Tovah Klein offers empowering insights and practical strategies to help parents raise resilient, confident kids. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Prin...

Oct 25, 20241 hrSeason 4Ep. 45

How To Be Less Annoying to Your Kids: 10 Simple Steps

Join me in a solo episode where I discuss 10 essential tips on how to be a less annoying parent to your kids. Learn simple, practical strategies to reduce nagging, improve cooperation, and create stronger connections with your children. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit.ly/3rMLMsL Subscribe to my free newsletter for parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox:  https://dralizapr...

Oct 18, 202437 minSeason 4Ep. 44

How to Raise Confident and Resilient Kids with Jay Shetty

Join us for a special joint episode with Jay Shetty, host of the podcast On Purpose . We delve into how to find your values when you’re approaching parenting, fostering a strong parent-child bond, and how to adapt to your child’s unique needs. We also discuss the best ways we can help develop confidence, and how to approach discipline.  Listen to On Purpose with Jay Shetty HERE I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good H...

Oct 11, 20241 hr 20 minSeason 4Ep. 43

Redefining Boy Culture & How We Can Raise Our Kids with Deep Curiosity and Connection

In today's episode, Dr. Niobe Way- internationally recognized professor of developmental psychology and the founder of the Project for the Advancement of Our Common Humanity at NYU joins us for a conversation on boyhood, curiosity, and connection. We explore how boy culture is shaped by societal expectations and how we can redefine it for the better, and how to foster emotional growth and resilience in boys while challenging outdated norms. We also discuss how, in today’s world, raising kids wit...

Oct 04, 202459 minSeason 4Ep. 42

Is Your Kid Running the Show? How to Put an End to Power Struggles

A Roadmap to End Power Struggles, Increase Cooperation, and Find Joy in Parenting Young Children with Claire Lerner Director of Parenting Resources at Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families. I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here:  https://bit.ly/3rMLMsL Subscribe to my free newsletter for parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox:  https://dralizapressman.s...

Sep 27, 20241 hr 9 minSeason 4Ep. 41

Between 'Everything is Possible' and 'Nothing is Possible': Kate Bowler on Supporting Our Kids Through Challenges—Both Theirs and Ours

Today we are joined by Kate Bowler, Duke professor and bestselling author, who shares her story on living with uncertainty, embracing imperfection, and finding beauty in the messiness of life. Diagnosed with stage four colon cancer, Kate opens up about how her journey reshaped her views on faith, parenting, and human connection. We discuss the importance of truth-telling with our children, even in the most difficult times, and how to steer away from toxic positivity.  I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK!...

Sep 20, 202450 minSeason 4Ep. 40

OCD: Everything You Need to Know

In today’s episode we are joined by Dr. Laura Braider, assistant professor at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra Northwell and expert in OCD treatment. We dive deep into understanding obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), debunking common misconceptions, and offering insights for those of us navigating the challenges of OCD in children. From exploring the early signs in toddlers to dealing with school-age and adolescent behaviors, Dr. Braider sheds light on how parents can approach treatmen...

Sep 13, 202450 minSeason 4Ep. 39

When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic and What We Can Do About It

Is the drive for success pushing us and our kids too far? In today's episode we sit down with Jennifer Wallace, author of Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic. We break down the hidden dangers of achievement culture and how it can become toxic, leading to burnout, anxiety, and an unhealthy obsession with "doing more." We explore the impact this mindset has on mental health, self-worth, and relationships, and discuss why constantly chasing success might be doing more harm than goo...

Sep 06, 202446 minSeason 4Ep. 38

Parenting is a Team Sport with Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy

In today’s episode we sit down with Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General and father of two for a deep dive into the unprecedented challenges facing parents today. From skyrocketing stress levels to the silent epidemic of loneliness, Dr. Murthy sheds light on why so many parents are feeling overwhelmed—and what we can do about it. We discuss the power of small, intentional connections, the importance of prioritizing your own well-being, and why embracing a "team sport" approach to parenting can...

Aug 30, 202457 minSeason 4Ep. 37

How To Decrease “Fragility” with Positive Psychiatrist Dr. Samantha Boardman

In today’s episode we are joined by positive psychiatrist and author Dr. Samantha Boardman to dive into the complexities of managing emotions in parenting. We talk about the potential pitfalls of over-focusing on feelings, the importance of fostering resilience, and how to balance sensitivity with empowering kids to navigate their challenges. We also discuss the power of positivity and focusing on one’s strengths vs. their shortcomings.  I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Pr...

Aug 23, 202456 minSeason 4Ep. 36