Shows
The Self-Driven ChildCh. 8: "Seven Principles" for Supporting Student & Teacher Autonomy in SchoolsIn this episode, I’m joined by my dear friend and co-author, Dr. Bill Stixrud. We dive into a topic that’s been at the heart of so many recent conversations: how schools can do a better job supporting students’ mental health, motivation, and overall well-being.Bill and I have spent a lot of time lately visiting schools, giving talks, and listening—really listening—to what kids are telling us about their experience in today’s education system. We’re talking chronic stress, anxiety, and a relentless pressure to perform that’s robbing too many students of joy and curiosit...2025-04-2242 minThe Self-Driven ChildHow To Redesign Schools to Unleash Extraordinary Learning For AllIf you’ve ever looked at your kid’s school and thought, “Is this really the best we can do?”—this episode is for you. I sat down with the incredible Jenee Henry Wood, a national leader in community-based school design, and co-author of Extraordinary Learning for All. We dive deep into why our current educational system—designed a hundred years ago for a very different world—often fails to meet the needs of today’s young people, and what it would look like to redesign schools to actually serve them better.Jenee brings so much wisdom, humor, and hope...2025-04-1629 min
No Guilt Mom | Overcoming Mom Guilt, Parenting Tips, & Self Care for Moms356: Your Kid’s Not Doomed—You’re Just Anxious (And Here’s What to Do) with William R. Stixrud, Ph.D. & Ned JohnsonEver find yourself getting into a battle of wills with your kid and wondering where you went wrong? In this episode, we interview Bill Stixrud, Ph.D., a clinical neuropsychologist, and Ned Johnson, who is a regular guest and friend of ours here at No Guilt Mom.Ned & Bill have co-authored several national best-sellers and now have a new book out, The Seven Principals for Raising a Self-Driven Child (A Workbook), in which they discuss how parents can avoid getting into arguments with their kids and put connection first, rather than correction.2025-04-0145 min
The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast1KHO 451: Trust Your Kids More and Worry About Them Less | Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson, The Self-Driven ChildTrust Your Kids More and Worry About Them Less isn’t just advice—it’s a revolutionary mindset that could change your parenting forever. In this powerful episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Ginny Yurich sits down with Ned Johnson and Dr. William Stixrud, authors of The Self-Driven Child and The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child, to explore what children really need to thrive in today’s high-pressure, performance-driven culture. Drawing from decades of experience in neuropsychology, education, and working with families, Ned and Bill share a deeply hopeful and science-backed message: when kids feel a sense of...2025-03-2658 min
TILT Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent ChildrenTPP 435: William Stixrud and Ned Johnson on the Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven ChildI’m thrilled to welcome back two favorite podcast guests and just all-around wonderful humans, Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson. You might know them from their bestselling book The Self-Driven Child, which I often refer to on this show as one of the most important resources in my parenting life. Well, Bill and Ned have a new phenomenal resource that I can’t wait to share with you — a workbook based on their beloved book called The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child. Today’s episode features a rich and deep conversation about some...2025-03-2550 minTILT Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent ChildrenTPP 435: William Stixrud and Ned Johnson on the Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven ChildI’m thrilled to welcome back two favorite podcast guests and just all-around wonderful humans, Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson. You might know them from their bestselling book The Self-Driven Child, which I often refer to on this show as one of the most important resources in my parenting life. Well, Bill and Ned have a new phenomenal resource that I can’t wait to share with you — a workbook based on their beloved book called The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child. Today’s episode features a rich and deep conversation about some...2025-03-2550 minThe Self-Driven ChildOur New Book! The Seven Principles For Raising a Self-Driven Child: A WorkbookIn this very special episode, I sit down with my friend and co-author Dr. Bill Stixrud to celebrate the arrival of our third “baby” — our brand new book, The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child: A Workbook. If you’ve ever read our earlier books (The Self-Driven Child and What Do You Say?), and found yourself thinking, “I love these ideas, but how do I actually apply them?”—this episode (and this book!) is for you. We created this workbook to help you go beyond the theory and actually make the Self-Driven Child way your way.Bill and I unp...2025-03-2539 min
Learning Unboxed267. Empowering Kids: Rethinking Grades and Stress with Ned JohnsonIn this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Ned Johnson, co-author of “The Self-Driven Child” and “What Do You Say?”. Ned’s unique blend of experience as a successful academic tutor and a dedicated advocate for student autonomy helps us explore how control and agency shape a child’s mental health and intrinsic motivation.We discuss why a student’s sense of control matters more than we might initially think. Through real-life examples and solid research, Ned shows us how an overemphasis on grades can sometimes mask underlying issues such as anxiety, ADHD, or dysle...2025-03-1733 minLearning Unboxed267. Empowering Kids: Rethinking Grades and Stress with Ned JohnsonIn this episode of Learning Unboxed, we sit down with Ned Johnson, co-author of “The Self-Driven Child” and “What Do You Say?”. Ned’s unique blend of experience as a successful academic tutor and a dedicated advocate for student autonomy helps us explore how control and agency shape a child’s mental health and intrinsic motivation.We discuss why a student’s sense of control matters more than we might initially think. Through real-life examples and solid research, Ned shows us how an overemphasis on grades can sometimes mask underlying issues such as anxiety, ADHD, or dysle...2025-03-1733 minThe Self-Driven ChildFrom Damsel in Distress to Superhero: The Making of a Teen Mental Health Advocate For StudentsIf you've ever felt like the challenges of school, stress, and expectations are just too much, you’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Riana Alexander, a college freshman and mental health advocate, who turned her own struggles into a movement for change. Riana opens up about her journey—from a high-achieving student battling anxiety and depression to the founder of Arizona Students for Mental Health, a nonprofit dedicated to improving mental health resources in schools. We also dive into her fight for change within her school district, the resistance she faced, and the powe...2025-02-2553 minThe Self-Driven ChildA Superhero For Student Autonomy in Schools: Talking With Mike Nicholson About What WorksHey folks, Ned here! You know how much we all want our kids and students to thrive, but sometimes, despite our best efforts, it feels like we’re stuck in the same old patterns that just don’t work. That’s why I’m thrilled about today’s episode. We’re talking about the concept of student autonomy—why it’s crucial for engagement, learning, and even mental health. And joining me is someone who’s not just talking about change but making it happen: longtime educator and reformer Mike Nicholson.Mike has spent decades in education, from being a teach...2025-02-1850 min
Empowered Through Compassion: EMDR and IFS Informed TherapyNed Johnson and Bringing Compassionate into Schools and Test PrepA re-uploaded version.
Welcome to this new episode. I had the pleasure of speaking with Ned Johnson, a wonderful educator, author, and speaker. He is an expert in helping teens and tweens navigate the transition to adulthood, by bringing them the tools they need to be both successful and happy.
Ned has found that some of the leading causes of poor test performance is the stress and pressure that youths feel to get good grades, and perform well. What is the solution? Can the solution really be as simple as helping youth feel connected, getting t...2025-02-111h 00Empowered Through Compassion: EMDR and IFS Informed TherapyNed Johnson Fixed AudioA re-uploaded version.
Welcome to this new episode. I had the pleasure of speaking with Ned Johnson, a wonderful educator, author, and speaker. He is an expert in helping teens and tweens navigate the transition to adulthood, by bringing them the tools they need to be both successful and happy.
Ned has found that some of the leading causes of poor test performance is the stress and pressure that youths feel to get good grades, and perform well. What is the solution? Can the solution really be as simple as helping youth feel connected, getting t...2025-02-081h 00The Self-Driven ChildWhat I Learned About Motivation From "Ghost Buster" Yegor Denisov-blanchWhat if some of the people on your team weren’t actually working—but just good at looking busy? In this episode, I sit down with Yegor Denisov-Blanch to discuss a fascinating and troubling trend in the tech world: ghost engineers. These are software developers whose productivity is so low that they barely contribute—yet they manage to stay employed. Yegor, a researcher dedicated to improving software engineering performance, dives into what causes this phenomenon, why it’s more common than you’d think, and how it affects company culture, team morale, and overall efficiency. But instead of just calling th...2025-02-0448 minThe Self-Driven ChildStudent Autonomy in School: Yep, It's Possible!In this episode, I sit down with Amy Buckman, an incredible educator and school counselor from Ohio. Amy has spent 19 years helping students navigate everything from mental health challenges to career counseling, all while motivating them to achieve their goals. We dive deep into the concept of student autonomy and how it’s transforming schools through an innovative three-year grant program aimed at fostering student engagement and agency.Amy shares how her district is reimagining education by focusing on what really motivates students, exploring concepts like Flex Fridays, and even shadowing students to understand their daily challenges. If...2025-01-2452 minThe Self-Driven ChildThe Disengaged Teen Part 2In this follow-up episode, I continue my conversation with Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson, authors of The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better. We dive deeper into the strategies parents and educators can use to support kids who feel stuck in “passenger mode.” From fostering autonomy to the importance of relational health, Rebecca and Jenny share actionable insights grounded in science and their own life experiences.We also explore what it takes to help kids move from disengagement to becoming true “explorers,” igniting curiosity and confidence. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply...2025-01-1437 minThe Self-Driven ChildThe Disengaged Teen Part 1Are you worried about how engaged your child is in school and their learning? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Self-Driven Child Podcast, I sit down with two powerhouse guests—Rebecca Winthrop and Jenny Anderson—authors of the book The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better. Together, we dive into the alarming trends of disengagement among kids as they transition from tots to teens and why so many high schoolers feel disconnected from their education.Rebecca and Jenny share their personal experiences, surprising research findings, and practical strategies that empowe...2025-01-0734 minThe Self-Driven ChildIndependent Travel: A low-cost, high-impact way to prepare teens for college and lifeReady to ignite your child’s wanderlust? In this episode of The Self-Driven Child Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Blake Bole, an expert in self-directed learning and international travel for teens and young adults. From unschooling to transformative travel experiences, Blake shares how navigating the world independently helps young people develop autonomy, financial responsibility, and stress tolerance—essential skills for life. We explore the power of independent travel, the magic of gap years, and how simple, unstructured adventures can foster confidence and resilience. Episode Highlights:[00:56] - Introducing Blake Bole...2024-11-2252 minThe Self-Driven ChildThe SAT, ACT, and Other Four-Letter Words: What Do You Say When Your Kid's Scores are Low?Let’s talk about a reality that many parents and teens face: handling disappointing standardized test scores. It’s a topic that stirs up all kinds of feelings—stress, doubt, frustration—and how we as parents respond makes all the difference. I share how common phrases, despite being well-intentioned, can unintentionally add pressure or shut down meaningful conversations. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what to say to your teen when they’re disappointed and how to be that steady, supportive presence they need most. Whether it’s the PSAT, SAT, ACT, or any high-stakes test, your words mat...2024-11-1222 minThe Self-Driven ChildA Sense of Control Continued: How Students Achieve Academic Success With Less StressIn this continuation episode, I’m back with Dr. Bill Stixrud for part two of our discussion that digs into the realities of raising kids in high-pressure academic environments. We explore the subtle yet powerful concept of being a “non-anxious presence” as a parent and what that really means when guiding children through challenges. Bill and I touch on real stories from our practices and new strategies that emphasize motivation without pushing too hard—helping kids build resilience, autonomy, and self-confidence in a world brimming with expectations. Episode Highlights:[0:00] Introducti...2024-11-0524 minThe Self-Driven ChildA Sense of Control: How Students Achieve Academic Success With Less StressIn this episode of The Self-Driven Child Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Bill Stixrud, co-author of The Self-Driven Child and What Do You Say? We dive into the challenges parents face around academic pressure, mental health, and helping kids find their way without being overwhelmed by stress. Bill shares powerful insights on why a sense of control is so essential to young people's mental well-being, and we explore practical strategies for fostering resilience, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in children.This episode is perfect for parents, educators, or anyone working with kids who wants to le...2024-10-2431 minThe Self-Driven ChildGrades, Rakes, and Reflection: Helping Kids Do Less To Do Better - With Teacher & Writer Tim DonahueIn this episode, I sit down with Tim Donahue, a seasoned high school English teacher and a writer, to dive into the pressures of grade inflation, the impact on student resilience, and why kids today feel overwhelmed by academic and extracurricular demands. Tim’s unique perspective, drawn from years in the classroom and as a published writer, sheds light on how grade inflation and the drive for high grades may actually be compromising students' learning and mental health.Together, we explore how students and parents can navigate the academic landscape to foster genuine learning, creativity, and stress to...2024-10-0849 minThe Self-Driven ChildBrainless Education: A Conversation About the Brain Science Too Often Ignored in Most SchoolsWelcome to The Self-Driven Child podcast! In this episode, I chat with Dr. William Stixrud, co-author of The Self-Driven Child, to explore the concept of “brainless education” and why the way we approach learning in schools often overlooks the very organ meant to do the learning: the brain. We explore how prioritizing stress reduction, sleep, and autonomy for students can revolutionize not just their academic success, but also their mental health and intrinsic motivation.Together, we discuss how giving kids more control over their learning and personal lives can foster better stress tolerance and deeper engagement with educ...2024-10-0147 min
Your Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 154: How to talk to our kids? with Ned Johnson (Part 2)Send us a textPart 2 with Dr Ned Johnson where we discuss strategies for motivating children to do chores and homework, such as involving them in decision-making and offering support rather than control. We also talk about the big picture---where we hope to form strong relationships with our children, and also have children who grow into independent, self-reliant adults. The conversation concludes with the reminder that the time spent with children during their upbringing is crucial and should be focused on building trust, support, and independence. Ned Johnson is an author, speaker, and founder of Pr...2024-09-3026 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 153: How to fostering autonomy in our children, with Ned Johnson, co author of "The Self-Driven Child"Send us a textEpisode 153 with Ned Johnson, co-author of 'The Self-Driven Child' discusses the importance of giving children autonomy and control over their own decisions. He explains that a low sense of control is the most stressful thing a person can experience and can lead to anxiety and other negative outcomes. Johnson emphasizes the need for parents to shift from protecting their children to helping them protect themselves, allowing them to develop problem-solving skills and resilience. He also highlights the importance of being a "non-anxious presence" in our children's lives. To help them, consider playing the ro...2024-09-2332 minThe Self-Driven ChildParental (Over) Involvement & The Start of College - A Conversation with Jess LaheyIn this episode of the Self Driven Child podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome back one of my favorite voices in parenting, Jess Lahey. Jess is a New York Times bestselling author, an educator, and someone who's been on the front lines of both teaching and parenting. We discuss the emotional rollercoaster that is the transition from high school to college—not just for our kids, but for us as parents too. We talk about the balance between supporting our children and giving them the space to grow into their own people. Jess shares personal anecdotes about her own...2024-09-0345 minThe Self-Driven ChildWhat Do You Say? Why we LOVE Book #2!In this episode, I sit down with my co-author, Dr. William R. Stixrud, to do an origin story into the key concepts from our latest book, "What Do You Say?: How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home". We discuss the crucial importance of connection between parents and children, exploring how empathy and validation can transform relationships and foster mental well-being. Bill shares insights from our research and experiences, highlighting the profound impact of close relationships on kids' stress levels and overall happiness. Tune in as we unpack practical strategies for effective communication...2024-08-0627 min
The Self-Driven ChildThe Self-Driven Child: How We Got There (aka The Marvel Origin Story)Today we are talking about the roots of "The Self Driven Child" with my co-author, Dr. William R. Stixrud. Discover how our understanding of autonomy and control transformed our approach to parenting and education. We explore the neuroscience behind stress and motivation, sharing our journey from initial insights to the profound impact our work has had globally. Join us as we recount our Marvel origin story and reveal the science and anecdotes that shaped our bestselling books.Dr. William Stixrud, a clinical neuropsychologist, joins me, Ned Johnson, as we discuss the key principles of our collaboration. From...2024-07-0934 minThe Self-Driven ChildChoosing a New School: Why, When, and HowHey everyone, welcome back to The Self-Driven Child Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly insightful Wendy Wilkinson, a parent educator and admissions expert with decades of experience. Wendy shares her wisdom on how to find the right school for your child, navigating the complex world of school choices, and understanding what makes a good fit for different types of learners. Whether you're a parent feeling the pressure of school admissions or just curious about the process, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.Episode Highlights:2024-06-1844 min
The Peaceful Parenting PodcastHow to Help Kids Manage Stress and Difficulty with Ned Johnson: Episode 156In this episode of The Peaceful Parenting Podcast, I interview one of my favourite people and author of two parenting books, Ned Johnson. We discuss how to talk to kids to build stress tolerance, manage anxiety, build intrinsic motivation, and self regulate screen time. Ned has been on the podcast twice before- be sure to check out the other two episodes linked below once you’re done listening to this one. We talk about: 2:17 How you can get access to a live Q&A with Ned 6:35 Increasing stress tolerance in kids...2024-06-121h 02The Self-Driven ChildLessons on Self-Directed Learning with "Adventure Kaity!" Part 2Welcome back to the Self Driven Child Podcast! In this episode, we're continuing our incredible conversation with Kaity Broadbent, head of learning at Prenda. Kaity's insights into creating nurturing learning environments are game-changing, and in this second part, we dive even deeper. We discuss the importance of relatedness, competence, and autonomy in child development and how these principles can transform both home and school settings. Kaity's passion and wisdom are truly inspiring—this is an episode you don't want to miss!Kaity shares profound stories and practical strategies for parents and educators to foster a supportive environment wh...2024-06-1132 minThe Self-Driven ChildLessons on Self-Directed Learning with "Adventure Kaity!" Part 1Today, I'm thrilled to have Kaity Broadbent, an extraordinary educator and parent, joining us. Kaity is the head of learning at Prenda, an organization dedicated to creating micro-schools that empower students and parents alike. In this episode, we dive into Kaity's unique approach to education, the psychology of motivation, and the incredible benefits of mastery-based learning. Join us as we discuss how to transform the traditional learning environment into one that fosters autonomy, intrinsic motivation, and lifelong learning. Kaity shares her insights on the importance of relatedness, competency, and autonomy in education, and how Prenda’s micro-schools are...2024-06-0431 min