Birth of a Parent Podcast

Birth of a Parent is a podcast from the Van Leer Foundation and Early Childhood Matters that explores how caring for a child reshapes the adult brain, body, identity, relationships, and sense of self. Across 12 episodes, the series brings together leading scientists, writers, and public thinkers to examine one powerful question:

What if becoming a parent is a form of human development?

Drawing on insights from neuroscience, evolutionary biology, psychology, anthropology, philosophy and public policy, the podcast reveals how the transition to parenthood changes us in ways that are only beginning to be understood.

This is not a parenting advice show. Instead, it is a science-driven, story-rich exploration of one of the most profound transformations of adult life, and why understanding it matters not only for families, but for society as a whole.

About the Podcast

Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a leading researcher, writer or public intellectual whose work sheds light on a different dimension of parental transformation. Through accessible science, personal stories and thoughtful conversation, the series uncovers how parenthood shapes the people raising children and the communities they help build.

Host

Michael Feigelson is Chief Executive of the Van Leer Foundation and host of Birth of a Parent. Drawing on decades of work advancing early childhood development around the world, Michael brings curiosity, openness and personal experience as a father to conversations that connect cutting-edge research with the realities of everyday family life.

Listen Now

You can listen to on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.