Shows
The Self-Driven ChildMattering: an interview with Jennifer Wallace If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the right things—checking boxes, meeting expectations—yet still wondering whether any of it really matters, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I sit down with New York Times bestselling author and researcher Jennifer Wallace to explore one of the most fundamental human needs we rarely name directly: mattering.Jennifer joins me to talk about her latest work and the research behind why feeling valued—for who we are, not just what we do—is essential for resilience, mental health, and motivation. Together, we unpack how mattering...
2026-01-2945 minThe Self-Driven ChildAdolescents Are Identity Scientists: Exploring With Chris BalmeIn this episode, I sit down with education leader, parent, and author Chris Balme for a deep, thoughtful, and often funny conversation about what adolescents are really doing during the middle school and teen years. We explore why this stage of life is less about “figuring kids out” and more about understanding the intense social, emotional, and neurological work they’re already doing every day. Chris offers a powerful frame that I love: adolescents as identity scientists, running experiments to answer one core question—who am I, and where do I belong?We talk about how adul...
2026-01-1635 minThe Self-Driven ChildWhy We Sleep - The Great Sleep ChallengeIn this episode of The Self-Driven Child Podcast, I sit down with my longtime partner, co-author, and neuropsychologist Dr. William Stixrud to dig deep into something hiding in plain sight: sleep. We talk about why so many kids, teens, and frankly adults are walking around chronically exhausted—and what that’s quietly doing to learning, emotional health, and overall well-being. This conversation grew out of a powerful question a student asked us after we issued a real-world “sleep challenge,” and it opened the door to a fascinating look at how sleep actually works in the brain. Bill and I exp...
2025-12-1638 minThe Self-Driven ChildHow to Have Happy Holidays: What Science SuggestsIn this episode, I dig into one of my favorite topics—what really makes us happy—and why the holidays are the perfect time to rethink how we create joy for ourselves and our kids. If you’ve ever wondered why the things you anticipate don’t always end up being the things that actually fill your heart, you’re not alone. I explore the science behind pleasure versus happiness, why we confuse the two, and how small intentional choices can make the holiday season feel richer, calmer, and more meaningful.Rather than chasing quick hits of dopamine...
2025-11-2517 minThe Self-Driven ChildGreat Parenting Advice From Lenore Skenazy ("America's Worst Mom") Or, "Why I Let My 9 Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone"Ever wonder if we’re raising our kids with too much fear and not enough freedom? In this episode, I’m joined by Lenore Skenazy—founder of Let Grow, author, and self-described “America’s Worst Mom”—to dig into what’s really holding our kids back. We talk about the shift from play-based to phone-based childhoods, and how we, as parents and educators, can reverse course by letting kids take back some independence—without feeling like we’re putting them in danger.We explore how anxiety, both in kids and adults, is often fueled by overprotection, and how letting kids do...
2025-11-1145 minThe Self-Driven ChildWhat Are They Thinking?: The Neuroscience of Nagging in Parents and TeensIf you've ever caught yourself reminding your kid—again and again—to get that homework done, check in with the coach, or finally read that book, this episode is for you. I dive deep into the psychology and brain science behind why we nag, how it impacts both our stress levels and our kids’ behavior, and what we can do instead to be more effective, compassionate, and calm.I share a personal story from my own household (yes, I'm guilty too!) and explore what’s really going on in the minds of both the "nagger" and the "nag-ee."...
2025-10-2416 minThe Self-Driven ChildStress Relief vs. Stress Release: What We All Need In Anxious TimesHey folks, Ned here. If you’ve ever felt like life’s got you underwater—like you’re just barely catching your breath before the next wave crashes in—this one’s for you. In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend, partner, and co-author Dr. William Stixrud to talk about something that’s more relevant now than ever: how we actually relieve stress—not just dodge it.We unpack the critical difference between stress relief (those momentary escapes) and stress release (the tools that really let the pressure out), and why both are necessary. We also dive int...
2025-10-0729 minThe Self-Driven ChildWise Effort with Diana HillWe all want our kids to thrive—not just survive the pressure of school, sports, and life. But let’s be honest, it’s not easy. Too often we fall back into the same old habits, even when we know better. That’s why I was so excited to sit down with two incredible people: my friend and co-author, Dr. Bill Stixrud, and psychologist Dr. Diana Hill. Diana’s new book Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most shows us that our kids—and we parents too—don’t have to choose between doing well and being w...
2025-09-2341 minThe Self-Driven ChildDream School: Finding the College That's Right for YouIn this episode of The Self-Driven Child Podcast, I sit down once again with my good friend and New York Times bestselling author Jeff Selingo. You probably know Jeff from his book Who Gets In and Why, which cracked open the mysterious college admissions process. But now, he’s back with a powerful new guide, Dream School: Finding the College That’s Right for You.We explore the realities behind the college admissions frenzy—the pressures, the myths, and the real indicators of student success. Jeff and I dive deep into why so many students and families narrow...
2025-09-0956 minThe Self-Driven ChildYour Child Is Ready For College. Are You?Hey folks, Ned here! In this episode, I sit down once again with my friend and co-author Dr. Bill Stixrud for a candid, real-world conversation not just about whether your kid is ready for college—but whether you are too. While we’ve talked before about student readiness, today we focus on the parent side of the equation.We dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of sending a kid off to college—especially that first semester. From managing your own stress and expectations to shifting your role from fixer to consultant, we cover the principles that help young...
2025-09-0245 minThe Self-Driven ChildChallenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School AwesomeAs parents, we often think of middle school as a gauntlet—something our kids just need to survive. But my guest today, education leader, author, and school founder Chris Balme, sees it differently. To him, middle school is an extraordinary time of growth and self-discovery—a period where young people’s brains are changing at their fastest pace since early childhood, making it the perfect time to nurture creativity, agency, and resilience.Chris joins me to share ideas from his new book, Challenge Accepted: 50 Adventures to Make Middle School Awesome—a guide for kids themselves to turn these ye...
2025-08-1252 minThe Self-Driven ChildSchool Phone Policies With An Educator Who Helped Craft ThemWhat happens when schools set boundaries on student phone use—not to punish, but to empower learning? In this episode, I sit down with Julie Yang, President of the Montgomery County, Maryland Board of Education, to explore the increasingly complex relationship between students, smartphones, and learning environments. Julie brings both personal and professional insights from her roles as an educator, board leader, and parent to help us unpack how thoughtful school policies can shape healthier, more focused, and less anxious learning experiences.We dive into how schools are navigating the pros and cons of technology in classrooms, wh...
2025-07-2948 minThe Self-Driven ChildSummer Downtime: The Power of Trees and the Default Mode NetworkIt’s summer, and that means more time outside—and for me, that means time with trees. In this episode, I dive deep into how trees, those quiet giants of our world, can actually help us and our kids develop healthier minds and deeper self-awareness. I unpack some fascinating science behind what nature, especially time spent among trees, does for our brains, our stress levels, and even our test scores.Inspired by Peter Wohlleben’s The Hidden Life of Trees, I explore not just the hidden life of trees, but the hidden life in trees—and what it can t...
2025-07-1520 minThe Self-Driven ChildA Teen Perspective on Teen School Phone PoliciesHey folks, Ned here. If you're anything like me, you're always curious about how the younger generation views the world we're handing them—including the phones we put in their pockets and the social platforms we love to worry about. In this episode, I sit down with two remarkable high school students, Ellie and Flair, to talk not just about screen time and school phone policies, but how they really experience technology, anxiety, education, and what it means to grow up today.Ellie and Flair are bright, honest, and totally engaging. They bring a much-needed perspective on te...
2025-07-0153 minThe Self-Driven ChildReimagining Education with Dr. Stuart SlavinHey folks, Ned here! This episode is a continuation of our eye-opening conversation with Dr. Stuart Slavin, a pediatrician, medical educator, and mental health advocate who's making waves in education reform. We dive deep into the hidden stressors in elite academic environments and explore what happens when you challenge the status quo.In Part Two of our discussion, Stuart unpacks his groundbreaking research on high-performing high schools and reveals the sobering mental health statistics that too often go unnoticed. We also talk about real, practical solutions—from pass/fail grading to autonomy-supportive school cultures—that can drastically impr...
2025-06-1748 minThe Self-Driven ChildDr. Stuart Slavin: Simple Curricular Changes That Decreased Student Depression by 85% AND Raised Board ScoresIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Stuart Slavin—pediatrician, medical educator, and a true superhero in the world of educational reform. Stuart’s groundbreaking work has shown that yes, we can dramatically improve student mental health without compromising academic performance—and he has the results to prove it.We get into why today's high schoolers are more stressed than med students, how maladaptive perfectionism is quietly damaging our youth, and what it really means to build resilience that lasts. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just someone who cares deeply about kids and learning, you don’t...
2025-06-0332 minThe Self-Driven ChildSix Steps to Being a Non-Anxious PresenceHey folks, Ned here. In this episode, I’m diving into something that feels more essential now than ever—how to be a non-anxious presence for the people who count on you. Whether it’s your kids, students, partner, or even yourself, being that calm, steadying force can make all the difference. I know from personal experience and years of working with families that this isn’t easy, especially when the world feels like it’s spinning off its axis.So, I break down six practical, research-backed steps you can take to help yourself stay grounded, build emotional...
2025-05-2027 minThe 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...
2025-04-1628 min
Full-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...
2025-03-2546 minFull-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...
2025-03-2546 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...
2025-03-2538 min
Step Inside The Thrilling Full Audiobook Experience!The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child by William Stixrud PhD, Ned JohnsonPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/243022to listen full audiobooks.
Title: The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child
Author: William Stixrud PhD, Ned Johnson
Narrator: Ned Johnson, William Stixrud PhD
Format: mp3
Length: 5 hrs and 2 mins
Release date: 03-25-25
Ratings: Not rated yet
Genres: Child Psychology
Publisher's Summary:
Authors William Stixrud and Ned Johnson have watched firsthand as the crisis around education and the mental health crisis in childhood have converged in the postpandemic years. Using material from their current work with parents and children, and pulling essential principles from the science in The Self-Driven Child, this workbook...
2025-03-255h 02
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 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...
2025-02-2552 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 CompassionNed 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 CompassionNed 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...
2025-02-0447 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...
2025-01-2451 min