As parents, we dream of raising kids who are self-sufficient, driven, and living with purpose—not just checking boxes or chasing paychecks.

In this episode, Scott Schimmel flips the script on how we talk to our kids about their future. Instead of asking, “What do you want to do when you grow up?” he challenges us to ask something much deeper:
👉 “What problem do you want to solve?”

This question unlocks something powerful: intrinsic motivation. The kind of drive that doesn’t depend on grades, job security, or pleasing others—but comes from within.

Scott breaks down:

Why typical “career planning” talk often backfires 🧠

How to spot real frustration as a clue to your kid’s purpose 🔍

The link between internal drive and the science of self-determination 💥

Practical ways parents can guide, reflect, and encourage deeper reflection 🙌

If you want your kid to grow up passionate, persistent, and grounded in who they are—this episode is a must-listen.

00:00 – The future we really want for our kids
02:10 – The myth of choosing based on grades or job trends
04:30 – The power of inner drive: where it really comes from
07:45 – Asking better questions: “What problem do you want to solve?”
10:00 – Scott’s story: a dream turned nightmare (that saved him)
13:15 – Self-Determination Theory: autonomy, competence, connection
17:05 – Intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation
20:40 – How to help your kid reflect on real frustration
25:00 – What good mentors do: listen, reflect, challenge
28:10 – Final thoughts: imagination > job titles

Ask this at dinner tonight:
“If someone gave you $10 million to solve a problem in the world, what would you fix?”
Then just listen. You might be surprised what your kid says.

What problem did YOU want to solve as a kid? Drop it in the comments below! ⬇️