Why do teens sometimes push back—or seem unmotivated? In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino dives deep with Dr. David Yeager, a leading developmental psychologist, educator, and father of four, on how to motivate tweens, teens, and young adults today.
Dr. Yeager—professor of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and co-founder of the Texas Behavioural Science and Policy Institute—shares cutting-edge insights from his book “10 to 25:
The conversation explores:
- Why how we give feedback matters more than we think
- The surprising truth about adolescent hormones and behaviour
- The connection between device use, discipline, and mental health
- How parents can tackle bullying and foster open communication
- Why teaching consent and healthy relationships early is essential
- The power of high expectations + emotional support

DR. DAVID YEAGER
Developmental Psychologist
Professor of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin
Co-founder, Texas Behavioural Science and Policy Institute
Research areas: adolescent development, engagement, motivation and mental health
Former grade school teacher
Author
Father of four
“Once you realize that the problem is not just that Gen Z is broken or that society these days has ruined everything, and you instead realize that there’s a perennial conflict between adults who think they know what’s better for young people and young people who may not agree.”
