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Dr. David Yeager is the Raymond Dickson Centennial Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. He earned his Ph.D. from Stanford University. His groundbreaking research focuses on the processes that shape adolescent development, examining how social cognitive factors interact with structural and physiological elements to influence youth trajectories. Dr. Yeager is also dedicated to uncovering ways to positively impact these psychological processes to enhance developmental and educational outcomes for young people. As co-Principal Investigator of the National Study of Learning Mindsets, the Texas Mindset Initiative, and the Texas Behavioral Science and Policy Institute, Dr. Yeager is at the forefront of efforts to translate cutting-edge psychological research into practical strategies for educators and policymakers.

He is also the author of 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, a book that distills the latest insights on how to inspire and empower the next generation.

💡 5 Things You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How the adolescent brain processes motivation and why this is key to unlocking their potential.
The core principles of the Mentor Mindset framework: high standards paired with high support.
Why belonging, purpose, and respect are critical drivers of adolescent success.
How short, strategic interventions can have lasting impacts on student resilience and achievement.
The role of EdTech tools in motivating youth and the potential pitfalls of AI-driven advice.

✨ Episode Highlights:

[00:02:51] Dr. Yeager’s path from teaching to research leadership.
[00:04:34] What the Mentor Mindset is and why it works.
[00:08:46] How short interventions create long-term impact.
[00:14:08] Understanding the adolescent brain and motivation.
[00:17:35] The traits of great mentors: tough but supportive.
[00:25:59] The power of role models and near-peer influences.
[00:35:50] Addressing fear and fostering aspiration in youth.
[00:41:40] AI’s role in motivating and supporting students.
[00:45:26] A call for ethical AI in education technology.

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🎉 Presenting Sponsor:

This season of Edtech Insiders is once again brought to you by Tuck Advisors, the M&A firm for EdTech companies. Run by serial entrepreneurs with over 25 years of experience founding, investing in, and selling companies, Tuck believes you deserve M&A advisors who work as hard as you do.

How to Motivate Young People: The Mentor Mindset Framework by Dr. David Yeager

Edtech Insiders