In this episode (originally aired on 7/12/23), I sit down with Dr. Aliza Pressman, developmental psychologist, co-founder of the Mount Sinai Parenting Center and the Seedlings Group, professor, and host of the Raising Good Humans podcast. We discuss how Dr. Aliza came to developmental psychology, how her work influences her parenting and vice versa, and her thoughts on parenting “best practices” versus what is actually realistic. She shares the “orchid and dandelion” theory about children, her top four pieces of advice for first-time parents, and the value of process over outcome. Finally, we discuss growth mindsets versus fixed mindsets in children, how to start potty training with your child, and what she finds both difficult and great about parenting teenagers right now. Key Takeaway / Points: What drew Dr. Aliza to developmental psychology On how her work shifted after becoming a parent On “best practices” for parenting vs. what is actually realistic How children can be “dandelions” or ”orchids” Dr. Aliza’s top four pieces of advice for first-time parents On pivoting away from achievement-oriented praise and perfectionism The value of process over outcome On growth mindsets vs. fixed mindsets On not projecting your interests as a parent onto your child Dr. Aliza’s advice for starting potty training What Dr. Aliza finds difficult and great about parenting teenagers Follow Dr.