Emily Oster Breaks Down the Myth of the “Right Way” to Parent

In this rerun episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira Eisenberg sits down with economist, bestselling author, and parenting data sage Emily Oster for a conversation filled with surprising truths, hard-earned wisdom, and the kind of advice that actually helps. Emily shares how she applied her data-driven brain to everything from optimal sleep schedules to discipline strategies, allowance systems, and even pet ownership (her kids gave a PowerPoint presentation that ultimately landed them with pet snails). They talk bedtime math, caffeinated tea mishaps, and whether butthole is really a bad word. Emily explains why parents should embrace "pleasure data"—what works for you, not just the kids—and makes the case that locking your child inside is no safer than letting them walk to the bagel store. She also shares insights from her newest book The Unexpected, covering the reality that nearly half of pregnancies involve complications, and how isolating that experience can be. Plus, you'll hear about the time her son accused her of loving marathon training more than him, and what it means to raise kids with freedom in a culture obsessed with control. If you've ever frozen a snail egg or wondered whether Trader Joe’s ginger chews count as medical advice, this one’s for you.

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