The Mentor Mindset: How to Lead, Parent, and Communicate with Purpose with Dr. David Yeager, PhD.

In this insightful episode of The Better With Age Podcast, we welcome Dr. David Yeager, PhD, developmental psychologist and author of 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, for a deep dive into the art and science of mentorship, leadership, and purposeful communication.

Drawing from decades of research in developmental psychology, Dr. Yeager unpacks the mentor’s dilemma, explores three powerful styles of mentorship and leadership, and reveals what most generations misunderstand about "kids these days." We explore how feelings of status and respect shape adolescent and young adult behavior, and what separates mentor superstars—those rare educators, coaches, and parents who consistently inspire growth—from the rest.

You’ll also hear a thought-provoking discussion on stress reframing, language, and mindset. Building on themes from a previous episode with Dr. Jeremy Jamieson, Dr. Yeager shares how our interpretation of stress—not the stress itself—can enhance or impair performance and well-being.

Other highlights include:

• What is a synergistic mindset, and how does it improve motivation and performance?

• How can parents connect purpose to perseverance when their child asks, “Why do I need to do this boring schoolwork?”

• How can you become the kind of mentor that inspires others to thrive?

This episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, coaches, and leaders seeking evidence-based strategies to guide, support, and inspire the next generation with intention and compassion.