The PedsDocTalk Podcast: Child Health, Development & Parenting—From a Pediatrician Mom

The Parenting Revolution Around Puberty: How to Talk to Your Kids About Puberty Without Shame

Wed, 13 May 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Parents often want to talk to their kids about puberty and periods, but many don’t know where to start. In this episode, I’m joined by pediatric and adolescent gynecologist Dr. Charis Chambers to talk about how we can change the way families approach these conversations. From stigma and misinformation to the fear of saying the wrong thing, we break down why avoiding these discussions can leave kids confused, scared, or learning from the wrong sources.

We discuss how to introduce puberty and body changes in age-appropriate ways, why boys should be included in these conversations, and how parents can shift from one awkward “talk” to an ongoing dialog that builds trust. Dr. Chambers also explains the science behind periods, addresses common misconceptions about hormonal therapy, and shares powerful stories from her clinical experience that highlight why this education matters for a child’s long-term relationship with their body and health.

In this episode we discuss:

✔️ Why many kids feel scared when their first period starts

✔️ How to start puberty conversations earlier and more naturally

✔️ Why boys should learn about periods too

✔️ The difference between privacy and secrecy when talking about bodies ✔️ How stigma around periods gets passed down through generations

✔️ Why hormonal therapy is often misunderstood

✔️ How open conversations build trust between parents and kids

To connect with Dr. Charis Chambers follow her on Instagram @theperioddoctor, check out all her resources at https://theperioddoctor.com and buy her new book: https://www.amazon.com/Period-Puberty-Parenting-Revolution-Conversation/dp/1464233802?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn1W3WTCmZ7O5OBTdANGfFNf3Qt3tBhR3ysalxz3dPwNe50CLKDpwfK9vbRiY_aem_POnDC67y5COyXEaA3xsKVQ

00:00 Why Puberty and Period Talks Matter 02:16 Meet Dr. Charis Chambers and Her New Book 04:01 Why She Wrote The Puberty and Period Parenting Revolution 06:17 Why Kids Need to Learn About Bodies From Parents First 08:42 Is There Such a Thing as Talking Too Early About Puberty? 10:54 Why Boys Need to Be Part of Period Conversations Too 12:35 Privacy vs Secrecy, How Parents Can Normalize Periods 14:00 How Media and Shame Shape Period Stigma 18:40 Why This Needs to Be an Ongoing Conversation, Not One Talk 22:31 How to Explain Anatomy Without Making It Awkward 28:15 What Happens When Kids Are Left in the Dark About Periods 33:54 Hormonal Therapy vs Birth Control, What Parents Should Know 41:29 How to Build Trust When Parents Feel Nervous or Behind 45:05 What Dr. Charis Hopes This Book Changes for Families

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

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And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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The Follow-Up: Anxiety or Are They Just Shy?

Mon, 11 May 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Many parents worry when their child seems shy. But is it actually shyness, or something more?

In this episode, we unpack the difference between a “slow to warm” temperament and an anxiety disorder. We talk about why labeling kids as shy can unintentionally limit them, how social expectations play a role, and what supportive parenting really looks like in those hesitant moments.

We discuss:

• What “slow to warm” actually means
• The key difference between temperament and anxiety
• Why the word shy can become a self-fulfilling label
• How to support kids in new or overwhelming situations
• The importance of preparation and gentle exposure
• When behavior differences across settings may signal anxiety
• Signs of selective mutism and more serious anxiety concerns
• Why evidence-based therapy should include parent involvement

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Myth of the "Perfect" Mom: Embracing Ambivalence in Motherhood

Wed, 06 May 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Motherhood is often painted as pure joy, endless patience, and unconditional love.

But what about the moments of frustration? The resentment? The overwhelm? The quiet thought of, “I love my child… but this is really hard.”

In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Dr. Margo Lowy to talk about maternal ambivalence – the completely normal experience of holding love and difficult emotions at the same time. We unpack the difference between ambivalence and indifference, why so many mothers feel guilt for being human, and how naming these emotions actually strengthens connection rather than weakens it.

If you’ve ever questioned yourself because motherhood didn’t feel magical 100 percent of the time, this conversation will feel like exhaling.

We discuss:

• What maternal ambivalence really means and why it’s misunderstood • Why loving your child and feeling frustrated can coexist • The myth of the “perfect, selfless mother” • How social media fuels unrealistic expectations • Why naming difficult emotions reduces shame • The power of community and choosing supportive voices • How humor and lightness protect us in hard seasons • Why responding instead of reacting changes everything • The importance of modeling emotional honesty for our children

To connect with Dr. Margo Lowy follow her on Instagram @drmargolowy, check out all her resources at https://drmargolowy.com/ and buy her books: https://drmargolowy.com/book/

00:00 – Intro: Why Difficult Feelings in Motherhood Matter

01:21 – Introducing Dr. Margo Lowy and Maternal Ambivalence

02:57 – What Maternal Ambivalence Actually Means

06:00 – Ambivalence vs Indifference: A Critical Difference

07:49 – The Myth of the Perfect, Selfless Mother

09:08 – Why Suppressing Difficult Emotions Backfires

11:01 – Letting Go of Perfection in Parenting

13:09 – The Moment You Realize Your Child Is Separate From You

17:08 – Do Fathers Experience Parenting Ambivalence Too?

19:03 – Why Parenting Plans Rarely Go as Expected

22:49 – The Power of Community and Support in Motherhood

29:11 – Social Media and the Pressure to Be the “Perfect Mom”

33:30 – How Accepting Imperfection Strengthens Parenting

43:16 – Naming Ambivalence and Finding Compassion for Yourself

49:22 – Final Takeaway: Why Naming Your Feelings Changes Everything

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Is EMDR for Me?

Mon, 04 May 2026 06:00:00 -0000

A question I get often is: “How do I know if EMDR might be right for me?”

In this episode, we break down what EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) actually is, who it can help, and what a session really looks like.

Originally developed to treat PTSD, EMDR is now used to support people struggling with birth trauma, childhood experiences, anxiety, panic, phobias, depression, parenting triggers, and more. You do not need a formal diagnosis to benefit from it. Many parents come in simply feeling reactive, overwhelmed, or triggered in ways they do not fully understand.

We discuss:

• How trauma and intense experiences are stored in the brain
• Why certain parenting moments can feel disproportionately triggering
• What “reprocessing” actually means
• The science behind bilateral stimulation and REM sleep
• The phases of EMDR therapy
• What safety and preparation look like before starting
• What a session may involve, including eye movements, tapping, or tones
• Why EMDR is about healing, not retraumatizing

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why Self-Love Starts in Childhood (And How Caregivers Shape It)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

In this solo episode, I reflect on a question that stopped me in my tracks: Why am I not worthy of my own love? Inspired by the passing of James Van Der Beek and a clip that deeply moved me, this conversation opens up a bigger discussion about self-love, self-worth, and how both begin taking shape in childhood.

As a pediatrician and mom, I share why helping our children build a strong sense of worth may be one of the most important things we ever do. We talk about how unconditional love, emotional validation, secure attachment, and the way we speak to our kids, and ourselves, all shape the inner voice they carry for life. I also explore how comparison, shame, performance-based praise, and dismissed emotions can quietly chip away at self-worth over time.

What I discuss:

Why self-love and self-worth begin forming in childhood
How unconditional love helps children feel secure and worthy
The link between secure attachment and lifelong self-worth
Why tying worth to grades, behavior, or achievement can backfire
How dismissed emotions can shape a child’s inner voice
The harm of comparison, and what to say instead
Why kids learn self-love by watching how we treat ourselves
Small ways parents can model self-compassion at home
How the way we speak to our children becomes the way they speak to themselves

00:00 Intro, The Inner Voice Kids Carry for Life 01:16 The James Van Der Beek Question That Sparked This Episode 04:43 Why Self-Love Shapes a Child’s Whole Life 08:06 How Self-Worth Gets Chipped Away in Childhood 09:58 Unconditional Love and Secure Attachment Build Self-Worth 11:54 Why Kids Should Not Tie Their Worth to Achievement 13:17 Emotional Validation, Comparison, and Protecting a Child’s Sense of Self 15:45 How Kids Learn Self-Love by Watching Us

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Dads and Postpartum

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:30:00 -0000

We talk a lot about maternal mental health postpartum. But we do not talk enough about dads.

In this episode, my husband joins me for an honest conversation about paternal mental health, birth trauma, pressure, and what it felt like to become a father while navigating medical complications and the early days of the pandemic.

We discuss the silent expectations placed on fathers to be “the strong one,” to go back to work quickly, to provide, and to hold everything together — often without anyone asking how they are actually doing.

This episode is about normalizing the fact that postpartum mental health affects both parents.

We talk about:

• Why paternal mental health is often overlooked

• The impact of traumatic birth experiences on dads

• The pressure to return to work quickly, especially in medicine

• Sleep deprivation, financial stress, and identity shifts

• How the pandemic intensified anxiety for healthcare workers

• Why therapy is not just for crisis, but for maintenance

• Reparenting yourself while parenting your children

• How prioritizing mental health makes you a more present partner and parent

Want more? Listen to the full, ⁠⁠⁠original episode⁠⁠⁠.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and⁠ ⁠⁠⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠⁠⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the⁠ ⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

IVF, Ovulation, and Fertility Facts and Myths Everyone Should Know with Dr. Lucky Sekhon

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

This week on The PedsDocTalk Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Lucky Sekhon, board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, OB-GYN, and author of The Lucky Egg, for a conversation about the fertility basics so many adults were never actually taught. We talk about the fertility knowledge gap, what ovulation really means, how to time intercourse more effectively, and when it may be time to stop waiting and get support.

We also get into one of the biggest misconceptions people hear all the time, that every fertility treatment is IVF. Dr. Sekhon breaks down the difference between cycle tracking, medicated IUI, and IVF, and explains what the fertility workup is actually looking at, from ovulation and uterine structure to sperm factors and age-related egg quality.

We discuss:

• Why so many adults reach the point of trying to conceive without really understanding fertility

• Signs in your cycle that may be worth paying attention to earlier • Why the fertile window is smaller than many people realize

• Why temperature tracking alone may miss the best timing

• What ovulation predictor kits are actually picking up

• What lifestyle habits may help support fertility

• The difference between prenatal vitamins, folic acid, and fertility supplements

• When to see a fertility specialist based on age, cycle regularity, and how long you’ve been trying

• How IVF differs from IUI and other treatment options

• The emotional reality of infertility and secondary infertility

To connect with Dr. Lucky Sekhon follow her on Instagram @lucky.sekhon check out all her resources at https://theluckyegg.com and buy her new book: https://linkly.link/2TYtU

00:00 IVF myths and the truth about IVF babies 00:00:56 Welcome and why this fertility conversation matters 00:04:31 The fertility knowledge gap nobody teaches 00:06:37 Ovulation basics and the small fertile window 00:09:20 Who Dr. Lucky’s book is really for 00:11:34 Why fertility advice online can make people more anxious 00:14:42 How to actually track ovulation 00:17:53 Why temperature tracking can miss the moment 00:19:19 Lifestyle habits that support fertility 00:23:32 Supplements, prenatal vitamins, and what may actually help 00:25:38 Does stress really cause infertility? 00:26:52 When to stop waiting and see a fertility specialist 00:30:15 Dr. Mona’s secondary infertility story 00:32:42 What IVF is, and how it differs from IUI 00:39:35 The emotional reality of IVF and fertility preservation 00:42:22 Why sharing infertility stories helps, and hurts 00:45:43 What happens at the first fertility specialist visit 00:49:55 IVF stigma, false guarantees, and harmful myths 00:56:42 Are IVF babies different? What the data actually says 01:00:11 Final takeaways and where to find Dr. Lucky

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: I Just Had a Baby, Now What?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Bringing home a new baby can feel equal parts joyful and overwhelming. In this Follow Up episode, I revisit a favorite past conversation, I Just Had a Baby, Now What?, and share practical newborn guidance through the lens of both a pediatrician and a mom.

We talk about what newborns really need in the early weeks, how to recognize common cues for hunger, sleep, and interaction, and why simple routines like feeding, diaper changes, tummy time, and cuddles matter more than perfection. I also share insights from a recent parent survey in partnership with Angelcare and Diaper Genie about the products and routines families say helped them most in those early months.

I discuss:

What the fourth trimester means
The core needs of a newborn
Reading hunger, sleep, and play cues
Why babies cry, and it is not always hunger
Feeding on demand in the early weeks
Simple routines that support connection
Easy ways to engage your newborn
Why holding your baby does not spoil them
How to ease stress in the newborn stage

To learn more about Angelcare and Diaper Genie products visit https://diapergenie.com

and https://angelcarebaby.com. And don’t forget to follow @angelcare and @diapergenieofficial

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Stop Passing Your Emotional Baggage to Your Kids

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Parents carry their past into their parenting, often without realizing it. In this episode, I sit down with relationship therapist and author Eli Harwood to talk about how emotional baggage forms, how it quietly shows up in the way we respond to our kids, and what it actually looks like to break those patterns in real time. We get honest about triggers, shame, defensiveness, and the parts of ourselves we learned to tuck away long before we ever had children.

Eli breaks down how emotional inheritance works, why our bodies react before our brains catch up, and how to shift from reactive parenting to connected parenting. This isn’t about perfection or never getting activated. It’s about noticing, pausing, and choosing something different so our kids don’t have to carry what we never had support for. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I passing this on?”, this conversation will help you see the patterns with compassion and give you tools to change the story.

What we talk about:

Why emotional baggage forms and how it shows up in parenting
How your childhood coping strategies become adult triggers
The difference between reacting and responding
Why kids activate the parts of us we haven’t healed
How shame keeps patterns going
Practical steps to interrupt the cycle
Why slowing down is the most powerful parenting tool
How to repair with your child when you slip into old patterns

To connect with Eli Harwood follow her on Instagram @attachmentnerd, check out all her resources at https://www.attachmentnerd.com/ and buy her book “How to Deal with Your ___ So Your Kids Don’t Have To: https://www.amazon.com/Deal-Your-____-Kids-Dont/dp/1632175967

00:00 – The Core Idea: Kids Feel What We Don’t Heal

05:23 – From Secure Kids to Secure Parents

09:18 – The Five Gifts of a Secure Parent
14:06 – Showing Up Without Making Kids the Burden
23:14 – When Your Stuff Spills Out

25:58 – Hidden Baggage: Denial, Over-Apologizing, and Self-Doubt

27:28 – Bias, Blind Spots, and Long-Term Connection

36:40 – Emotional Maturity in Real Life

41:17 – “I Want Mommy”: Rejection and Attachment Preferences

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Extinction Sleep Training

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Sleep training can feel like a lightning rod topic, especially when it comes to the cry it out method.

In this episode, I talk with a mom who used extinction sleep training with both of her sons at different ages. She shares what it actually looked like night by night, why other methods did not work for her family, and how sleep training ultimately changed their home for the better.

In this conversation, we cover:

• What the extinction method actually looks like
• How long crying lasted and what progress looked like
• Why Ferber did not work for her baby
• The role of timing and developmental readiness
• When night feeds may be appropriate to drop
• Why sleep quality affects mood, tantrums, and regulation
• How to handle judgment around sleep choices

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode called Momma Needs Some Sleep! How different moms approached sleep-training where we discuss various approaches to sleep-training.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Friendship Hurts: How to Talk to Kids About Bullying, Boundaries, and Self-Worth

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Friendship heartbreak hits differently when it’s your child. In this episode, I sit down with child development specialist Dr. Robyn Silverman to talk about bullying, boundaries, rejection, and what to say when your child feels left out. We dive into the moments that trigger us as parents, especially when their pain mirrors our own childhood wounds, and how to respond with steadiness instead of panic.

If you’ve ever felt your chest tighten when your child says, “They don’t want to play with me,” this conversation is for you. We talk about helping kids define what a good friend actually is, building identity from the inside out, and supporting them through social struggles without bulldozing the situation or blaming them. This episode is about raising confident kids who know they are enough, even when friendships shift.

What we discuss:

• Why fifth grade and early adolescence can feel like a social turning point

• How to help kids define what a true friend looks like

• Why proximity friendships don’t always work long term

• The power of identity and “I am” statements

• How negative self talk creates a confidence feedback loop

• What to say when your child says they’re being bullied

• What not to do in the heat of the moment

• How to respond without escalating the situation

• Supporting social skill growth without labeling your child as the problem

• The importance of repair when we as parents don’t handle it perfectly

• Why parenting always offers a do over

To connect with Dr. Robyn Silverman follow her on Instagram @drrobynsilverman, check out all her resources at https://drrobynsilverman.com/ and buy her book “How to Talk To Kids About Anything”: https://parenting.drrobynsilverman.com/book#heading-t_xdY060m2H

00:00 – When Friendship Hurts: The Question Every Parent Faces

01:10 – Meet Dr. Robyn Silverman: Helping Parents Navigate Hard Conversations

02:22 – Why Talking About Friendship and Bullying Matters

03:06 – The Childhood Experience That Inspired Dr. Silverman’s Work

07:08 – Teaching Kids What a Good Friend Actually Is

10:52 – Why Kids Stay in Friendships That Don’t Treat Them Well

12:28 – Helping Kids Find Friendships That Fit Who They Are

15:02 – How Self-Identity Shapes Social Confidence

19:47 – What To Do When Your Child Says They’re Being Bullied

21:13 – The First Words to Say When Your Child Opens Up

25:34 – Rebuilding Self-Worth After Friendship Rejection

27:11 – When Your Child Feels Like No One Wants to Be Their Friend

31:13 – Avoiding the Blame Trap When Kids Struggle Socially

33:37 – Parenting Is the Ultimate Do-Over

36:12 – A Simple Exercise to Help Kids Choose Better Friends

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Why Independent Play Matters

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever felt guilty for not entertaining your child 24/7, this conversation is going to feel like a deep exhale.

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest modern parenting misconceptions: that good parents are constant playmates. Somewhere along the way, many of us absorbed the idea that we need to be fully engaged, fully available, and fully entertaining at all times. But that shift has come at a cost, both for kids and for parents.

We talk about why independent play is not neglect. It is developmental gold. When children play alone or without adult direction, they are practicing creativity, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and flexibility. That kind of play is not second best. It is often the highest level of developmental work they can do.

We also explore the other side of the equation. When adults skip meals, chores, work, or rest to constantly entertain their child, stress builds. Resentment builds. Exhaustion builds. That is not healthy for anyone.

In this episode, we cover:

✔️ Why you are not required to play all day ✔️ The difference between connection and constant entertainment ✔️ Why some kids struggle more with independent play ✔️ How to break the entertain-me cycle ✔️ A practical step-by-step plan to build this skill ✔️ Why consistency matters more than intensity

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Co-Sleeping, Sleep Training, and the Conversation We Need to Have About Infant Sleep

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Infant sleep has become one of the most polarizing topics in modern parenting. In this thoughtful and nuanced conversation, I sit down with sleep consultant and family therapist Chrissy Lawler to unpack co-sleeping, sleep training, safety data, and the emotional charge surrounding these decisions. As a pediatrician, I was trained to follow AAP safe sleep guidelines, but real-world parenting, cultural practices, and honest conversations with families have pushed me to approach this topic with more openness and clarity.

We discuss what the data actually shows, where the gaps exist, and why shame and fear-based messaging don’t help families make safer decisions. Whether you co-sleep, sleep train, or are still figuring it out, this episode focuses on evidence, harm reduction, attachment, parental well-being, and finding what works for your unique family system.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why co-sleeping is so controversial, especially coming from a pediatrician
AAP guidelines vs cultural sleep practices around the world
The dangers of polarized, shame-based sleep messaging
Harm reduction principles for families who choose to co-sleep
Risk factors that increase sleep-related infant deaths
What the data does and does not tell us about co-sleeping safety
The “Safe Sleep Seven” and its limitations
Sleep training myths, cortisol concerns, and attachment
Why parental sleep and mental health matter just as much as baby sleep
The impact of sleep deprivation on relationships and long-term family dynamics
How to filter social media noise and make evidence-based decisions
Foundational newborn sleep strategies to reduce desperation and unsafe practices
The role of resilience, stress tolerance, and “good enough” parenting

To connect with Chrissy Lawler follow her on Instagram @the.peaceful.sleeper, check out all her resources at https://www.thepeacefulsleeper.com/ and buy her book “The Peaceful Sleeper: An Intuitive Approach to Baby Sleep”: https://www.thepeacefulsleeper.com/book

00:00 – Intro

01:15 – A Pediatrician’s Experience With Unsafe Sleep

02:07 – Why Parents Secretly Bedshare

02:54 – Introducing Chrissy Lawler and Her Work

05:04 – Why Safe Sleep Messaging Often Misses Real Life

07:03 – The Cultural Differences Around Infant Sleep

11:03 – Why Parents Feel Pressure Around Sleep Training

16:04 – What Actually Makes Co-Sleeping Dangerous

20:01 – Harm Reduction: If Families Choose to Bedshare

28:00 – Sleep Training Myths and Misunderstandings

38:00 – The Emotional Side of Infant Sleep Decisions

39:01 – How Shame Impacts Honest Conversations With Pediatricians

45:01 – Practical Ways to Make Infant Sleep Safer

48:02 – The Bigger Takeaway: Safety, Support, and Informed Choices

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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The Follow-Up: Biting, Hitting, Throwing Explained

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Few things trigger parents faster than physical behavior. It can feel embarrassing, frustrating, and sometimes even personal. But what if these behaviors are less about “bad behavior” and more about a brain that simply isn’t ready yet?

In this episode, we break down why toddlers lean into physical, reactive behaviors when big feelings take over. Their emotional capacity is growing quickly, but their ability to pause, regulate, and explain what they’re feeling is still catching up. So they use what works fast - their bodies.

We talk about how to respond in the moment without shaming, lecturing, or asking rhetorical questions toddlers cannot answer. Instead of saying “Why are you biting me?” or “That’s not nice,” we explore how to set firm boundaries while still guiding the skill that is developing.

You’ll learn how to:

✔️ Separate the action from the intention ✔️ Redirect behavior without minimizing the need behind it ✔️ Offer appropriate outlets for physical impulses ✔️ Reinforce correct behavior at home, even if incidents are happening at daycare ✔️ Partner with teachers to prevent behaviors before they escalate ✔️ Avoid common mistakes like shaming, over-talking, or making it personal

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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Surrogacy Explained, Facts, Feelings, and Family Building

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Surrogacy is often talked about in headlines or celebrity news, but rarely explained in a way that helps people truly understand the experience behind it. In this episode, I’m joined by surrogacy consultant Jessie Jaskulsky, founder of Surrogacy Simplified, to talk openly about what the surrogacy process actually looks like, the misconceptions that surround it, and the emotional reality many families face while trying to grow their family.

Jessie shares her personal path through pregnancy loss, infertility, and ultimately two surrogacy journeys that helped her welcome her daughters. From navigating the logistics and cost to managing grief, uncertainty, and public judgment, this conversation brings compassion and clarity to a topic that is often misunderstood.

In this episode, we discuss:

What surrogacy actually means and the difference between gestational and traditional surrogacy
Common misconceptions about why families pursue surrogacy
Why public conversations about surrogacy can be filled with judgment and misinformation
The emotional toll of infertility, pregnancy loss, and long fertility journeys
How intended parents cope with uncertainty and lack of control during a surrogacy pregnancy
What the financial reality of surrogacy can look like and ways families plan for it
How to begin exploring surrogacy if it’s something you’re considering
The bond between parents and babies born through surrogacy
How friends and family can better support someone going through this process

To connect with Jessie Jaskulksy follow her on Instagram @surrogacysimplified, check out all her resources at linktr.ee/surrogacysimplified

You can also join her free Intended Parent Community: https://tally.so/r/mORv9A

00:00 Surrogacy, Stigma, and the Comments Families Shouldn’t Face

02:00 What Most People Get Wrong About Surrogacy

05:49 Gestational Carrier vs Surrogate Explained Simply

08:07 The Real Reasons Families Turn to Surrogacy

10:16 Why Celebrity Surrogacy Stories Spark So Much Judgment

13:07 Infertility, Anxiety, and the Emotional Side of This Process

15:34 What Surrogacy Really Costs, and Why

22:11 The First Steps for Families Considering Surrogacy

25:22 The Hardest Part, Letting Go of Control

30:06 Bonding, Love, and the Truth About Surrogacy Babies

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Dr. Mona on Charting Pediatrics Podcast

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

In this special follow-up episode, Dr. Mona shares the full live conversation recorded at Children’s Hospital Colorado in front of more than 100 clinicians. The discussion centers on a reality many pediatricians and parents are facing every day: families are no longer walking into the exam room with just their child, they are also bringing TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, viral clips, and online comment sections with them.

In this episode, we discuss:

How social media is reshaping the pediatric exam room
Why misinformation spreads so effectively among parents
Common mistakes clinicians make when responding to hesitant families
How validation can lower defensiveness without validating false claims
Vaccine conversations, trust-building, and shared decision-making
Why pediatricians need to understand the digital world parents live in
How AI, telehealth, and online education may shape the future of care

Check out the video of this episode on Charting Pediatrics YouTube page.

Want more episodes of Charting Pediatrics?

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Olympic Champion Elana Meyers Taylor on Winning a Gold Medal, Motherhood and the Power of a Village

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

What does it look like to balance Olympic competition, motherhood, and the unexpected realities of parenting? In this episode, I sit down with Olympic gold medalist Elana Meyers Taylor to talk about raising two children with disabilities, leaning on support, and how motherhood changed the way she thinks about success, identity, and resilience.

We also talk about representation in sport, using ASL as a family, and the mental health side of chasing big goals. It is an honest conversation about what it takes to keep showing up as both an elite athlete and a mom.

In this episode, we cover:

What it felt like to finally win Olympic gold after years of coming close
Why the right village matters in motherhood and elite sport
Parenting two children with disabilities and using ASL as a family
How representation can help other families feel less alone
What sport taught her about parenting through uncertainty
How motherhood changed her identity, perspective, and relationship to winning
The realities of being a Black athlete in winter sports
Why access and inclusion in sports still matter
What she hopes her children take away from watching her story
How she prepares for the post-Olympics emotional crash and protects her mental health

To connect with Elana Meyers Taylor follow her on Instagram @elanameyerstaylor, check out all her resources at https://www.elanameyersusa.com.

Purchase the shirt Dr. Mona is wearing here.

00:00 Intro: Elana Meyers Taylor on Gold, Motherhood, and Perspective

02:58 The Gold Medal Moment After a Fifth Olympics

07:50 Why Success in Motherhood Takes a Village

10:43 Building the Right Support System as a Mom and Athlete

14:13 Raising Deaf Children, Disability Advocacy, and Representation

18:09 How Sports Prepared Her for Medical Parenting

20:49 How Motherhood Changed Her Identity as an Athlete

24:38 Breaking Barriers in Winter Sports as a Black Olympian

29:17 What She Hopes Her Children Learn from Her Story

31:02 Finding Joy in Ordinary Mom Life After Olympic Gold

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: When Kids Won’t Sleep Alone

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

We’re talking about independent sleep for older babies and kids, why it often gets harder with age, and how to approach it in a way that supports both your child and your family. This is not about shutting the door and ignoring your child. It’s about teaching a skill gradually, consistently, and in a way that fits your child’s temperament.

We discuss why earlier can be easier when it comes to removing sleep associations, but also why there is no hard deadline. Independent sleep is not about emotional distance. It is about helping your child fall asleep without needing a specific person, place, or condition that can make life harder later, especially during travel, sleepovers, camp, or when caregivers change.

In this episode, we cover:

✔️ Why sleep associations can become more challenging as kids grow ✔️ How language and mobility make older kids more persistent at bedtime ✔️ When to consider anxiety or separation issues before starting sleep changes ✔️ Why location matters, especially transitioning from your bed to theirs ✔️ The “camping out” method and how to gradually reduce your presence ✔️ Why consistency beats intensity every time ✔️ How middle of the night wake-ups often improve after bedtime changes

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From I Do to We Do: Marriage, Communication, and Parenting After Kids

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Parenting changes everything, including your relationship. In this episode, I sit down with therapist and author Eli Weinstein to talk honestly about why couples feel so disconnected after kids, what actually fuels resentment, and the small shifts that bring you back to each other. We cover expectations, invisible labor, communication traps, and why the first year with a new baby can shake even the strongest partnership. Eli also walks through practical tools like the five-minute check in, full communication, and his favorite phrase for opening up hard conversations without them turning into fights.

This episode is real, relatable, and grounding. If you’ve ever thought, “We love each other, so why does this feel so heavy?”, you’re not alone. Eli shares stories from his own marriage, the couples he supports, and the tiny moments that rebuild connection when life feels chaotic. Whether you’re new parents, in the thick of it, or years past the baby stage, this is a conversation that brings clarity and hope.

What we talk about:

Why the first year after a baby strains even healthy relationships
Expectations vs perception vs reality
The invisible load and why it feels so uneven
How resentment quietly builds
The five-minute daily check in
Full communication (and why hints don’t work)
Rhombus moments for airing feelings safely
Fighting fair and repairing in front of kids
Why couples don’t need perfection, just honesty
Small gestures that matter more than grand romantic moments

To connect with Eli Weinstein follow him on Instagram @thedudetherapist, check out all his resources at linktr.ee/dudetherapist and buy his book “From I Do To We Do”: https://www.eliweinsteinlcsw.com/book

00:00 Intro: When Partners Start Feeling Like Roommates 02:35 Meet Eli Weinstein and Why This Topic Matters 03:53 What Inspired From I Do to We Do 05:13 Why the First Year After Baby Can Hit a Relationship Hard 08:06 Why Your Relationship Is the Foundation of Family Life 12:11 Expectations, Perceptions, and the Dishes Problem 14:11 The 5-Minute Daily Check-In That Prevents Resentment 18:14 Making Communication Work With Opposite Schedules 22:09 Mental Load, Invisible Labor, and Why Scorekeeping Fails 26:09 The "Rhombus Moment" for Hard Conversations 32:31 Pillow Talk 2.0, Curiosity Over Criticism 43:57 Letting Kids See Repair, Not Perfection 49:14 Why Real Love Is Not Disney, and What Teamwork Really Looks Like

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Skills Kids Learn From Traveling

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0000

Travel is often framed as a luxury or a break from real life, but in this conversation we explore how it can be a powerful developmental tool for kids. Beyond sightseeing, travel becomes a classroom for empathy, adaptability, and connection. We talk about how exposure to new cultures, languages, and environments helps children grow socially and emotionally, even when trips don’t go as planned. The goal is not perfect itineraries, but meaningful experiences that stretch comfort zones and strengthen family bonds.

We also highlight how many of these lessons can happen with or without international travel. Curiosity about the world, honoring others’ needs, and learning to navigate discomfort are skills families can practice anywhere. Travel simply magnifies those opportunities, giving kids real-time chances to build resilience, perspective, and compassion.

What we discussed:

Using travel as an opportunity for education and growth
Building curiosity about other cultures and people
Exposure to diversity through real-life experiences
Learning empathy through cultural connection
Creating global awareness even from home
Turning curiosity into advocacy and compassion
Practicing flexibility when plans fall apart
Modeling calm problem-solving during stress
Kids learning adaptability from unexpected setbacks
Honoring individual needs within a group
Taking turns and negotiating shared experiences
Respecting parents’ and siblings’ preferences
Practicing patience and compromise
Learning to feel comfortable being different
Building empathy for newcomers and outsiders
Growing confidence in unfamiliar environments
Prioritizing family connection over perfection
Choosing time together as a core value
Managing resources like time and energy intentionally
Strengthening family identity through shared experiences

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

All About Allergies, Myths, and Online Education as a Doctor with Dr. Zachary Rubin @Rubin_Allergy

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

What happens when an allergist steps into the online world and starts breaking down headlines in real time?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Zachary Rubin, board certified allergist and immunologist, content creator, and now author of All About Allergies. We talk about why allergy misinformation spreads so easily, why “allergy” is not a catch all term, and how social media has unexpectedly made him a better clinician.

We also get honest about the current state of medicine. Burnout. Insurance barriers. The time crunch in clinic. And why rebuilding trust between families and physicians starts with better communication, humility, and human connection.

This is a conversation about nuance in a world that craves certainty, and why meeting families where they are matters more than ever.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why “sensitization does not equal allergy” and what that actually means

• The difference between allergy, intolerance, and sensitivity

• Why food sensitivity tests are often misleading

• The truth about local honey and seasonal allergies

• Shellfish allergy and contrast dye myths

• Egg allergy and flu vaccine misconceptions

• Why 90 percent of reported penicillin allergies are not true allergies

• How timing and rash characteristics matter when evaluating antibiotic reactions

• The explosion of biologic medications and the hidden burden of insurance approvals

• How social media can improve doctor patient communication

• The role of humility and nuance in rebuilding trust

• Humanizing doctors and why connection is powerful medicine

To connect with Dr. Zachary Rubin follow him on Instagram @rubin_allergy, check out all his resources at linktr.ee/rubin_allergy and buy his book “All About Allergies!”: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/790561/all-about-allergies-by-zachary-rubin-md

00:00 Allergy Is Not a Catch-All Term

02:37 Why Dr. Rubin Went Online

09:27 Why This Book Had to Exist

12:59 What Parents Are Most Anxious About Today

15:10 Why Food Allergy Testing Is Often Misused

16:38 Allergy vs. Intolerance vs. Sensitivity

22:01 The Obsession With Blood Work

24:57 The Systems Problem in Medicine

34:08 Rebuilding Trust in Medicine

38:51 How Social Media Made Him a Better Doctor

43:53 Allergy Myths That Need to Go

48:57 The Penicillin Allergy Problem

50:55 Rashes, Timing, and True Drug Reactions

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Are Time Outs Bad?

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Timeouts have become one of the most misunderstood discipline tools in modern parenting conversations. In this episode, we unpack why timeouts are being labeled as harmful online and how that claim does not match decades of research. The real issue is not that timeouts damage attachment, but that many parents were never taught how to use them correctly. When done properly, a timeout is not punishment or shame. It is a structured pause that helps a child and parent calm down so learning can actually happen.

We also talk about discipline as a layered system, not a single tactic. Timeouts are only one small part of a bigger parenting framework built on connection, attention, praise, and natural consequences. The conversation highlights nuance, temperament differences, and why no single method works for every child. Instead of vilifying tools, we focus on using them thoughtfully, consistently, and in ways that support regulation and growth.

What we discussed:

Why timeouts are being criticized in gentle parenting spaces
Claims about attachment damage and trauma, and what research actually shows
The difference between punitive timeouts and regulatory timeouts
Why most parents are never taught how to use timeouts correctly
Discipline as teaching, not shaming
The discipline pyramid and where timeouts fit
The foundation of connection and one-on-one attention
Catching positive behavior with praise and rewards
Using natural and logical consequences
Why timeouts are a last-tier tool, not a first response
Temperament differences and individualized discipline
Neurodivergent children and why some tools matter more
Evidence-based parenting programs that include timeouts
Situations where timeouts are appropriate, like safety concerns
Situations where timeouts are not helpful, like full meltdown tantrums
The importance of calming the nervous system before teaching
Avoiding threats, shame, and over-talking during discipline
Giving children space when they need separation to regulate
Why parenting tools should expand, not shrink

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Talking to Kids About Race and Bias, Why Everyday Moments Matter

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

As parents, many of us want to raise kind, empathetic kids, but we don’t always feel equipped to talk about race, bias, and identity in everyday life. In honor of Black History Month, this conversation feels especially important. I sit down with culturally responsive therapist Anjali Ferguson to unpack how early children begin noticing differences and how small, ordinary moments shape their understanding of the world.

We talk about the discomfort adults feel, the fear of saying the wrong thing, and why silence often teaches more than we realize. This episode is not about blame. It is about giving families tools to move forward with intention.

Dr. Ferguson brings both professional expertise and deeply personal experience as a South Asian woman raising biracial South Asian and Black children. Together we explore how culture, trauma, and identity intersect in parenting, and why these conversations are not optional extras, but foundational to raising emotionally healthy kids. Her children’s book, An Ordinary Day, shows how subtle bias can show up in everyday childhood experiences and how families can use those moments to build empathy instead of fear.

My hope is that this episode helps parents feel less frozen and more ready to start small, stay curious, and keep showing up.

We discussed:

• Why kids notice race and differences earlier than most adults expect

• How racial bias forms in early childhood

• The gap in culturally responsive parenting resources

• Growing up between cultures and identity formation

• Raising biracial children and protecting cultural identity

• Everyday microaggressions and their long-term impact

• How racism creates chronic stress in the body

• Generational trauma and epigenetic effects

• The role of racial socialization in protecting children

• Why avoiding conversations about race harms kids

• How parents can respond when bias shows up in real time

• Teaching empathy through ordinary daily moments

• Building diverse environments through books, toys, and media

• Supporting kids when they experience exclusion or bias

• Why parents don’t have to be perfect to start

• Practical ways families can talk about race at any age

To connect with Dr. Anjali Ferguson follow her on Instagram @dranjaliferguson, check out all her resources at https://draferguson.com/ and buy her book “An Ordinary Day”: https://www.amazon.com/Ordinary-Day-Dr-Anjali-Ferguson/dp/B0B8BDNXVK

Additional Resources:

www.parentingculture.org

00:00 The Hidden Impact of Microaggressions 00:56 Why This Conversation Matters During Black History Month 02:57 Representation in Parenting Spaces 06:34 Dr. Anjali’s Personal Story: Culture, Trauma, and Identity 10:42 Racism as Trauma: A Professional Awakening 14:30 Parenting Biracial Black Children 19:32 When Do Kids Notice Race? 24:56 Inside An Ordinary Day and Why It Matters 31:37 Chronic Stress, Racism, and Long-Term Health 37:13 What to Say When Bias Happens 42:51 Why Every Family Must Talk About Race 47:18 You Will Mess Up, And That’s Okay

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Formula Shaming

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Feeding choices carry an enormous emotional weight for new parents, often shaped more by online narratives and cultural pressure than by balanced evidence. In this conversation, we unpack formula guilt, breastfeeding myths, and how distorted risk messaging fuels shame. We talk about how understanding research in context can help parents move away from fear-based thinking and toward informed, values-based decisions that support both parent and baby.

The episode also explores the long-term impact of early feeding shame on maternal confidence. Feeding is often the first major parenting decision, and how a parent navigates it sets the tone for future choices. We focus on strengthening self-trust, rejecting stigma, and recognizing that child outcomes are driven by complex environmental and social factors, not a single feeding method.

What we discussed:

Why parents feel guilt around formula feeding
How online activism shapes feeding narratives
Evaluating whether sources of information are trustworthy
Misleading statistics and risk exaggeration
Relative risk vs absolute risk in infant illness
The psychological harm of formula shaming
Why stress can worsen milk supply struggles
Breastfeeding benefits in realistic context
Why breastfed babies still get sick
The role of environment and exposure to germs
Myths about allergies, IQ, and milestone differences
How child development is multifactorial
Socioeconomic factors in feeding research
Sibling comparison studies and feeding outcomes
Why shame damages maternal bonding
Strengthening decision confidence early in parenting
Owning feeding choices without apology
How openness reduces stigma for other parents
Modeling self-trust for the parenting journey
Letting go of guilt about long-term outcomes

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Check out Mallory's new book, "Bottle Service": https://www.amazon.com/Bottle-Service-Encouragement-Guilt-Free-Successful/dp/1668088762

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Food Positivity, Picky Eating, and Raising Kids Who Trust Food

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

If mealtimes feel heavier than they should, this episode is going to make a lot click. I sit down with dietitians Diana and Dani to unpack how diet culture quietly slips into everyday parenting and shapes how kids see food, their bodies, and themselves. Their new book offers a roadmap for raising kids who trust their bodies and feel safe at the table, and our conversation goes far beyond picky eating. We talk about the language we use, the pressure we don’t realize we’re applying, and how small daily moments build a child’s long-term relationship with food.

What we discuss:

Why diet culture starts affecting kids as early as preschool
The “invisible curriculum” kids absorb from our modeling, messaging, and moments
What food positivity actually means and how it goes beyond food neutrality
How the Division of Responsibility supports trust and self-regulation
Common ways parents accidentally misapply feeding advice
Why labeling foods as good or bad backfires long term
The connection between pressure, restriction, and future dieting patterns
Reframing picky eaters as “learning eaters”
Why fewer than 5 percent of so-called picky eaters are truly nutrient deficient
How values like control vs connection influence feeding decisions
Small shifts parents can make to protect a child’s relationship with food

To connect with Diana Rice follow her on Instagram @anti.diet.kids and check out all her resources at https://tinyseednutrition.com/

Follow Dani Lebovitz at @kid.food.explorers and visit her website: https://kidfoodexplorers.com/

Their new book “Food Positivity: How to Ditch Diet Culture and Talk to Kids About Food“ is available for pre-order: https://www.amazon.com/Food-Positivity-Ditch-Culture-About/dp/1394335202/

Enjoy Diana Rice’s first episode, “Your kid doesn’t need a diet“ on the PedsDocTalk podcast. https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/your-kid-doesnt-need-a-diet-approaching-conversations-about-our-childs-weight-and-health-in-a-productive-way/

00:00 Welcome + What Is Food Positivity? 02:29 Meet Diana and Dani 04:24 How Diet Culture Starts in Early Childhood 06:09 The Invisible Curriculum: Modeling, Messaging, Moments 07:59 Food Positivity vs Food Neutrality 14:43 Division of Responsibility Made Simple 18:59 Why Red Light, Green Light Backfires 20:15 Felt Safety, Trust, and Confident Food Leadership 33:22 Rethinking “Picky Eating” as Learning Eating 38:10 Pressure, Restriction, and Self-Regulation 42:01 Small Shifts to Protect Your Child’s Relationship with Food 48:43 Where to Get the Book + Final Takeaways

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Sleep Training Evidence

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Sleep training is one of the most emotionally charged parenting topics online, and this conversation pulls it back to what actually matters, evidence. We talk about how social media amplifies fear and confusion, why parents are told to “trust” personalities instead of data, and how looking directly at research helps cut through the noise. While opinions are loud, the body of evidence around behavioral sleep interventions is far less controversial than the internet suggests.

We also walk through what the data says about timing, safety, and developmental readiness. From common myths about brain development to the fear of letting a baby cry, this episode centers on nuance. Sleep training is not all-or-nothing, not one rigid method, and not a replacement for parenting. It is a flexible set of tools families can adapt based on temperament, comfort, and goals.

What we discussed:

Why social media creates confusion around sleep training
The importance of trusting research over personalities
What the literature says about behavioral sleep interventions
Why there is less scientific debate than people think
Typical age ranges supported by evidence, around 4 to 6 months
Developmental readiness and self-soothing ability
The difference between sleep training and night weaning
Why babies vary widely in temperament and sleep patterns
The myth about prefrontal cortex development
Why infants are capable of learning sleep skills
Fear-based messaging and misuse of scientific language
How parental anxiety gets amplified by misinformation
Modifying sleep training methods to match family comfort
Graduated extinction, parental presence, and flexible approaches
The role of compromise between caregivers
The core goal, helping a child fall asleep without active intervention
Why sleep training does not replace responsive parenting

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Paul Offit on the State of Vaccines in America and What Parents Need to Understand Now

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

This episode is one of the most important conversations I’ve had about vaccines. I sit down with a leading vaccine expert to slow down the noise and talk honestly about where we are right now in America. We discuss how vaccines went from one of the greatest public health successes in history to something many families feel unsure about, and what that shift means for children. This is not about politics or headlines. It’s about what I see as a pediatrician, what clinicians across the country are experiencing, and why protecting kids still has to be the center of the conversation.

We talk about fear, misinformation, and the very real consequences of falling vaccination rates. I share personal stories from training and practice that still stay with me, and we unpack how trust eroded, how Covid changed the landscape, and what parents deserve to understand moving forward. My hope is that this episode helps families step back from the chaos and reconnect with the core goal we all share: keeping children safe, healthy, and out of hospitals whenever we can.

What we discuss:

The current state of vaccines in America
Why vaccines are a victim of their own success
How misinformation spreads faster than evidence
Turning points that eroded public trust in vaccines
The impact of Covid on vaccine perception
Real clinical consequences of falling vaccination rates
Stories of vaccine-preventable illness from practice
Why personal choice affects community safety
Changes to vaccine recommendations and public messaging
What parents should understand about risk vs benefit

To connect with Paul Offit follow him on Instagram @pauloffitmd and check out all his resources at https://www.paul-offit.com/

00:00 Opening Message: The Real Risk of Skipping Vaccines 02:12 Meet Dr. Paul Offit 03:30 The Current State of Vaccines in America 05:04 Vaccines Are a Victim of Their Own Success 06:12 Why We Still Need Vaccines for “Rare” Diseases 08:27 Where Modern Vaccine Distrust Began (1982 Turning Point) 10:34 Pandemic Fallout and Vaccine Hesitancy 12:02 Frontline Stories from COVID 15:06 Denial in the Face of Evidence 17:11 How Vaccine Communication Should Change 19:00 Operation Warp Speed and Scientific Breakthrough 21:13 Politics and Public Health History 23:18 Measles Deaths Are Not “The Cost of Doing Business” 25:20 Medical Freedom vs Public Responsibility 28:23 Schedule Changes and Shared Decision Making 32:49 Life Before Rotavirus Vaccine 34:02 RSV Breakthroughs and Modern Progress 38:31 The Emotional Toll of Vaccine Misinformation 40:02 Residency Stories: When Prevention Fails 43:30 A Message to Vaccine-Hesitant Parents 45:35 What Keeps Dr. Offit Fighting 47:04 Final Takeaway: Vaccines Succeeded So We Forgot

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Partner Resentment

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Motherhood can quietly shift the emotional balance in a partnership. In this conversation, we explore why resentment toward a partner is so common after having a baby and why it is not a personal failure, but a researched, predictable relationship stress point. The transition to parenthood often exposes invisible labor, unequal expectations, and emotional strain that many couples were never taught how to name, let alone fix.

We also talk about practical starting points for repairing connection. From making invisible labor visible, to changing how conflict is communicated, this episode focuses on teamwork, fairness, and ongoing conversations that prevent resentment from hardening into distance. The goal is not perfection or 50-50 equality, but shared understanding and intentional partnership.

What we discussed:

Why resentment often grows after becoming parents
The emotional and physical load many mothers carry
Research showing relationship dissatisfaction in the first year postpartum
How partnership dynamics affect postpartum mental health
The concept of making invisible labor visible
Dividing responsibilities in a way that feels agreed upon, not forced
Why equality is not always 50-50, but fairness still matters
Separating the partner from the problem
Communicating needs without blame or accusation
How suppressed resentment turns into bitterness
The value of weekly relationship check-ins
Addressing partners who resist conversations about workload
Explaining impact instead of arguing details
How shared labor improves emotional and physical intimacy
Why connection is built through everyday support, not grand gestures

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parenting Like It’s 1996 in a 2026 World

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

In this solo episode, I reflect on how parenting has changed since the 90s, and not always for the better. This episode is not about going backward or rejecting progress. It is about blending what we know now about emotions and development with what used to work well, giving kids space, time, and trust to grow.

I explore how constant comparison, nonstop information, overscheduling, and screens have shifted parenting toward fear and control, often leaving parents exhausted and kids overwhelmed. I share why boredom matters, why independence is built in small moments, and how parenting feels lighter when it is guided by values instead of perfection.

In this episode, I talk about:

Why independence is a skill kids build through small, age-appropriate freedoms
Why bullying feels heavier now, and how protecting home as a safe space matters
How overscheduling crowds out confidence, creativity, and rest
Why boredom is not a problem, but a skill kids need to practice
A values-based approach to screens, using them intentionally instead of automatically
Why errands, car rides, and everyday moments are real opportunities for growth
Why doing less can help both kids and parents feel calmer and more confident

00:00 Parenting Like It’s 1996 01:39 The Park Moment and Independence 02:56 Fear, Comparison, and Information Overload 05:45 Overscheduling and the Loss of Boredom 07:16 Screens Then vs Screens Now 11:15 Why Boredom Builds Confidence 13:00 Kids Belong in the Real World 13:58 What Parenting Has Improved 16:09 The Permission to Do Less 17:12 Letting Go of Perfect Parenting

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Baby Won't Stop Crying

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0000

In this Follow-Up episode, Dr. Mona revisits one of the most stressful early parenting experiences, an inconsolable newborn. She breaks down what colic actually means, why the label is often misunderstood, and how to tell the difference between normal newborn fussiness and signs that need medical attention. The goal is not to dismiss crying, but to give parents a framework so they feel informed instead of brushed off.

Dr. Mona walks through what’s happening developmentally in those early weeks, why many babies hit a fussy peak around 6 weeks, and how to run a calm mental checklist at 2 a.m. She also covers red flags that deserve a pediatric visit, from fever to poor feeding to blood in the stool. Most importantly, this episode centers parents. Fussiness is common, phases pass, and support matters. You are not failing if your baby cries and you can’t fix it instantly. You are learning your baby in real time.

Key takeaways

✔️ Colic is a real pattern of crying, but it should never replace a thoughtful medical check
✔️ Most newborn fussiness peaks between 2 to 8 weeks and improves with time
✔️ Wet diapers, weight gain, and periods of calm are reassuring signs
✔️ Fever in a baby under 2 months always deserves a call to your pediatrician
✔️ Persistent crying with poor feeding, major spit up, or blood in stool needs evaluation
✔️ Not all crying is hunger, babies also cry from overstimulation and adjustment
✔️ Newborns are not spoiled by being held and comforted
✔️ Parents need pauses too, caring for yourself helps you care for your baby

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising Kids Beyond Grades: How Achievement Culture Is Harming Our Children

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

What happens when achievement stops motivating and starts measuring worth?

In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Wallace to talk about how achievement culture quietly shapes our kids and us based on her New York Times Best Selling Book Never Enough:When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It. We unpack why so many high-performing kids struggle with anxiety, burnout, and a constant never-enough feeling, even when they look successful on the outside. We also preview her newest book, Mattering, which explores a simple but powerful idea: kids do better when they feel valued for who they are and when they see how they add value to others. That sense of mattering acts as a buffer against pressure, comparison, and setbacks. We also talk about the bigger picture, how economic pressure, school culture, and social media fuel comparison, and why parents are not failing for feeling stuck in this system.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why high-achieving kids are at higher risk for anxiety and burnout

• How achievement culture shapes long-term self-worth

• Clean fuel vs fear-based motivation

• Why mattering supports resilience and mental health

• How comparison takes hold and how social media adds pressure

• How parents can support healthy striving without pressure

• Why kids should not worry alone and the role of adult support

To connect with Jennifer Wallace follow her on Instagram @Jenniferbrehenywallace, check out all her resources at Jenniferbwallace.com and buy her books “Mattering” https://www.jenniferbwallace.com/preorder and “Never Enough” https://www.jenniferbwallace.com/about-never-enough .

00:00 Why praise alone does not build self worth 00:40 Why this conversation matters for parents today 02:16 The hidden cost of achievement culture 03:37 How achievement came to define childhood 05:05 From teen pressure to adult never enough 07:14 What achievement culture looks like later in life 07:50 Dirty fuel vs clean fuel for motivation 11:13 When self worth becomes tied to success 12:08 What the research shows about high achieving kids 16:33 Why pressure feels worse now 18:18 What resilient kids have in common 39:07 Redefining achievement as mattering

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Potty Training

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Potty training can feel smooth one day and completely off track the next. In this Follow Up episode of the PedsDocTalk podcast, Dr. Mona revisits a favorite potty training conversation while actively potty training her own youngest child and dealing with very real regressions.

Dr. Mona is joined by Allison Jandu, founder of The Potty Training Consultant, to break down readiness, timing, and how to choose a method that fits your child and your family. They talk through the average age for potty training, common signs of readiness, and why age alone should not drive the decision.

This episode compares gradual approaches and shorter weekend-style methods, explores why some kids resist even when they seem ready, and explains how pressure, timers, and rewards can sometimes backfire. You will also hear practical guidance on floor potties versus toilet seats, using daily routines to support learning, and helping kids feel more in control through play and choice.

If potty training feels confusing, frustrating, or messier than expected, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and realistic support.

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Staying Fired Up in Parenthood, Work, and Life with Shannon Watts

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Watts to talk about something so many parents and caregivers quietly wrestle with, how to stay fired up in the middle of responsibility, burnout, and the weight of shoulds.

Shannon is the founder of Moms Demand Action and the author of Fired Up, and our conversation goes far beyond advocacy. We talk about identity, purpose, and what happens when women are taught to put obligation ahead of desire for most of their lives. This episode is about what it looks like to reconnect with yourself, not by blowing up your life, but by getting honest about what matters.

Topics we cover include:

Why so many women are taught to fulfill obligations before desires
How guilt, fear, and perfectionism drain motivation
The difference between purpose and being purposeful
Imposter syndrome and fear of public failure
Parenting, fulfillment, and modeling self trust for kids
Community as a key part of sustainable change
Why wanting more does not mean you are ungrateful

To connect with Shannon Watts follow her on Instagram @shannonrwatts, check out all her resources at https://shannonwatts.org/home/ and buy her book “Fired Up” https://www.firedupbook.com/.

00:00 – Choosing Hope Over Cynicism 00:38 – Why This Conversation Matters Right Now 01:31 – Meet Shannon Watts 02:55 – Staying Fired Up Without Burning Out 03:36 – Leaving California and Finding Community 05:55 – Talking Across Differences 07:17 – Why Women Feel Stuck in Obligation 08:35 – The Moment Everything Changed 10:22 – Desire vs Obligation 12:45 – It Is Never Too Late 15:13 – Rethinking Legacy and Guilt 18:06 – What Kids Really Learn From Us 20:12 – Losing Forward and Redefining Failure 23:21 – Handling Blowback and Shame 25:27 – Imposter Syndrome and Being the First 27:59 – Values, Abilities, and Desires 32:18 – Finding Your People 37:22 – Parenting, Purpose, and Modeling Fire 40:48 – The First Step to Living on Fire 42:51 – Final Reflections

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Parenting Without Perfection

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

Parenting already asks a lot of us. So why does it feel like our generation is carrying so much more pressure, doubt, and noise?

In this Follow-Up episode, I’m revisiting one of our most listened-to conversations, a real, late-night talk with my husband Gaurav that hit a nerve for so many parents. We talk honestly about how comparison culture, constant advice, and fear of getting it wrong have made parenting feel heavier than it needs to be.

We Talk About

Why our generation feels intense pressure to parent “the right way”
How social media and constant access to other people’s lives fuels comparison
Why more information does not always lead to more confidence
How external voices can drown out parental intuition
The problem with chasing a narrow definition of success for our kids
Why perfection is not only impossible, but unnecessary
How reconnecting with yourself can quiet parenting anxiety
What it really means to be “doing your best” as a parent

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy: Resigning From My Clinical Job and What’s Next for Me

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

In this solo episode, I am opening up about a big life change. I recently resigned from my clinical job. On paper it may sound simple, but the story under it holds a lot of layers, emotion, and growth.

I talk about what led to my decision, what it brought up from my childhood, and how this shift is changing the way I raise my kids. If you grew up chasing safety, grades, or approval, parts of this will feel familiar.

I get into:

Why leaving a “stable” job can feel scary even when it is the right move
Growing up with fear of failure and how that shaped my choices
How the healthcare system wore me down over time
The grief that comes with leaving patients, residents, and a place that shaped me
Panic, burnout, and the signs your body gives you before your mind catches up
How I want my kids to think about failure, risk, and self trust
Why security matters and why quitting is not always simple or possible
What it means to choose alignment even when fear is in the room

Check out more on Poppins as I step into a new role there

00:00 – What Bravery Really Means 01:06 – Welcome and Finding Joy Returns 02:35 – Growing Up With Fear of Failure 03:48 – Why Medicine Felt Safe 04:25 – Burnout and Losing Alignment 04:46 – Building PedsDocTalk 05:31 – Signs It Was Time to Leave 06:45 – Choosing Risk and Entrepreneurship 07:46 – Grief, Loyalty, and Letting Go 09:09 – When the System Moves On Without You 09:53 – Breaking Generational Patterns 10:15 – What I Want My Kids to Learn 11:44 – Choosing Yourself Despite Uncertainty 12:45 – Questions to Find Your Own Alignment 13:30 – Closing and What’s Next

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: What Reinforces Behavior

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

In this Follow-Up episode, Dr. Mona revisits one of the most downloaded PedsDocTalk conversations, her discussion with Dr. Loretta Breuning on how rewards and threats shape a child’s brain.

They break down why yelling, pleading, and bribing often backfire, and how attention itself can accidentally reinforce behaviors parents want to stop. You will hear why giving in after resistance makes behaviors stronger over time, and how inconsistency trains kids to escalate.

This episode focuses on building healthier reward pathways with clarity and consistency, without fear, shame, or constant power struggles. If certain parenting moments feel stuck on repeat, this conversation helps explain why and what to do differently.

Want more? Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What ER Doctors Wish Parents Knew, Advocating for your health (and Why We Love The Pitt) with Dr. Beachgem

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

You are never wrong for being worried about your child. You are allowed to ask questions, ask for help, and ask for another set of eyes. Advocacy is not confrontation, it is care. And the doctors caring for your family are human too, carrying both expertise and emotion into every room they enter.

In this episode, I sit down with pediatric ER physician and creator Dr. Beachgem for a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what families often misunderstand about emergency care, how to advocate for yourself and your child in the hospital, and what it really looks like to practice medicine on both sides of the stretcher.

And yes, we also talk about The Pitt, why it resonates so deeply with healthcare workers, and why humanizing medicine matters more than ever.

We discuss:

• What pediatric ER doctors really want parents to know before walking into the ER • Why waiting in the ER does not mean no one cares • How and when to advocate for a second opinion in the hospital • What “Condition H” or rapid response means for patients and families • How social media has changed how doctors listen to patients • Why ER doctors often see risk differently than outpatient pediatricians • Common injuries ER doctors wish families understood better • The emotional toll of emergency medicine and how clinicians cope • Why humanizing doctors matters for the future of healthcare • What gives hope in a system that feels broken

To connect with Dr. Beachgem follow her on Instagram @dr.beachgem10 and check out all her resources at linktr.ee/beachgem10

00:00 – The emotional weight ER doctors carry
01:00 – Why this episode, and why The Pitt hits so hard
02:40 – What medical dramas get right (and wrong) about the ER
03:45 – Meet Dr. Beachgem, training, career, and why she creates content
07:30 – Burnout, misinformation, and why showing up online matters
09:20 – Advocacy as a patient, when speaking up saves lives
12:50 – Condition H and how to ask for a second opinion in the hospital
14:05 – What parents often misunderstand about ER wait times
16:15 – Triage explained, why waiting doesn’t mean no one cares
18:15 – Risk colored glasses, injuries ER doctors never forget
22:00 – Trampolines, e-bikes, helmets, and real-world safety patterns
26:10 – Why The Pitt humanizes medicine better than most shows
31:00 – COVID flashbacks, grief, and emotional survival in the ER
36:35 – Coping with loss, compartmentalization, and burnout
43:30 – What gives ER doctors hope, and a message for parents

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Three Things Every Child Needs

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, I break down the three core needs every child has to feel secure, confident, and connected with their parents: safety, respect, and connection.

These are not soft ideas or permissive parenting. They are the foundation of authoritative parenting and the reason kids are more likely to listen, trust, and stay connected to us as they grow.

In this episode, I discuss:

Why safety, respect, and connection are the foundation of effective parenting
The difference between authoritative and authoritarian parenting
How emotional safety and predictability build trust
Why routines matter more than many parents realize
How to set boundaries while still respecting your child
Consent, choices, and body autonomy across ages
Respectful approaches to meals and picky eating
Why public shaming damages confidence and trust
The importance of apologizing and repairing
Simple ways to build connection without needing more time
How these principles reduce power struggles and anxiety

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Mona on the Elevated Thoughts Podcast: On Vaccine Safety and Politicization of Public Health

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

As the year wraps up, I’ve been looking back at some of my favorite chats from the shows I visited this season. New episodes return January 7.

On this episode of the Elevated Thoughts podcast, I sat down with two thoughtful first-time dads to talk about the topics parents are wrestling with right now. We got into the messy middle of vaccine hesitancy, why so many families feel caught between loud opinions, and how I work through those conversations in my practice with honesty and calm. We also talked about what it’s really like to raise kids in an online world where everyone feels permission to comment on your choices.

I shared my own experience as a pediatrician and mom. Why I struggled with decisions around my son’s early medical care, how I think about benefit and risk, and why empathy has to stay at the center of these discussions. We moved into milestones, feeding, toddler chaos, and the everyday pressure parents feel to get everything “right.”

We discuss:

My own experience with hesitancy after my son’s traumatic birth
The rise of online misinformation and why parents feel so unsure
What the vitamin K refusal trend is actually putting babies at risk for
Government involvement in vaccines and where things get complicated
The truth about financial incentives for pediatricians
Milestones, late walking, and why parents shouldn’t blame themselves
How humor and connection help parents through the daily grind
Why dads’ voices matter in parenting spaces and how they shape the culture

Elevated Thoughts is restoring positive discourse between right & left. Politics, history & culture. New episodes every Wednesday at 4PM EST

For more visit www.elevatedthoughtspod.com

Check out the original episode on Elevated Thoughts’ YouTube page: https://youtu.be/rvTp1cAsyLg

00:00 – Coming Up

00:55 – Why I re-aired this conversation

02:49 – Meet the hosts of Elevated Thoughts

03:34 – Why dads need parenting conversations too

04:32 – Why I started PedsDocTalk

06:28 – What parents are actually looking for

07:53 – Being both a pediatrician and a parent

08:49 – My own vaccine hesitation as a mom

11:27 – Why vaccine conversations became so charged

13:04 – How I talk about benefit vs risk

16:05 – Making informed choices without shaming

18:05 – Talking to vaccine hesitant families

21:10 – Why flexibility keeps families engaged in care

24:55 – Government, mandates, and public health

28:41 – Why the vitamin K shot matters

33:53 – How vaccine studies actually work

41:59 – Milestone anxiety and late walking

45:49 – Letting go of parental guilt

49:15 – What parenting is really about

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Do I Need to Sleep Train?

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we talk about one of the most loaded parenting topics out there, baby sleep.

Do babies need to be taught to sleep, or is sleep something you should just let happen? And if a family wants support, when does it actually make sense to work on sleep skills?

I sit down with a pediatric sleep expert to unpack what sleep teaching really means, why there is no single right approach, and how families can make choices that fit their needs without guilt or pressure. We break down the idea that sleep is a learned habit, not a moral issue, and why both feeding to sleep and teaching independent sleep can be loving choices depending on the family.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why sleep does not have to be all or nothing
The difference between newborn sleep shaping and independent sleep skills
When families often decide sleep support feels helpful
How feeding, timing, and consistency affect sleep
What research shows about sleep teaching, stress, and attachment
Why sleep regressions are about growth, not failure
How better sleep can support parental mental health and reduce burnout
How sleep habits connect to toddler behavior and boundaries later on

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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Dr. Mona on The Dude Therapist Podcast: The Pediatrician’s Guide to Parenting

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

As we close out 2025 and step into a fresh year, I’ve been thinking back on some of the conversations I loved most from guest spots on other shows. New episodes pick back up on January 7.

On this episode of The Dude Therapist, I joined Eli Weinstein for a conversation that moved through so many parts of real-life parenting — the worries, the humor, the triggers, and the growth that comes with raising kids. We talked about why parents get so locked into metrics, how to zoom out and see the whole child, and what it looks like to pause, observe, and guide instead of jumping in. I shared how becoming a mom shifted my own approach, from sleep to feeding to managing my triggers, and why self insight matters just as much as the strategies we offer our kids. It was an honest, grounded chat about raising kids while raising ourselves too.

We discuss:

Why parents get stuck on numbers like weight percentiles and milestones.
How giving kids space to try and struggle helps them grow.
How boredom supports play and problem solving.
How a parent’s own childhood shapes reactions and triggers.
What healthy boundaries look like without shame or fear.
How to handle online misinformation with calm and clarity.
The importance of steady check-ins and flexible routines at home.

Eli Weinstein, LCSW is a therapist, speaker, and creator of The Dude Therapist podcast. His work focuses on making mental health and relationship topics accessible, relatable, and grounded in real life. His upcoming book, From I Do to We Do (Wiley, March 2026), is a compassionate, practical guide for couples navigating the challenges of parenting while trying to stay connected as partners.

Learn more about Eli and his work here: https://www.eliweinsteinlcsw.com

Pre-Order Eli’s Book:Connect With Eli:

From I Do to We Do: Navigating Marriage Through Parenting Years Pre-order + freebies: https://www.eliweinsteinlcsw.com/book

Instagram: @eliweinstein_lcsw

Podcast: The Dude Therapist

00:00 – Coming Up

01:24 – Re-air intro: why this episode is for overwhelmed parents

01:46 – Meet Eli Weinstein and why this conversation hits differently

04:01 – Dr. Mona’s parenting philosophy and lighthouse parenting

05:50 – Why sleep is foundational for kids and parents

07:03 – Teaching kids skills by stepping back

09:56 – Overparenting vs building independence

11:27 – What parents worry about too much

14:11 – Big picture growth vs number based parenting

15:41 – Milestones, timelines, and unnecessary panic

17:01 – Giving kids space to develop and problem solve

21:19 – Parenting as a professional vs parenting your own kids

23:32 – Breaking generational patterns in parenting

40:41 – Core takeaways for confident parenting

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Teaching Kids Responsibility

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Ever clean up the toys, turn around, and somehow the mess is worse? Or feel like you are the only one picking things up?

In this Follow Up episode, Dr. Mona is joined by Tyler Moore, also known as Tidy Dad, to talk about how to involve kids in household routines in ways that actually work for real life. Not rewards. Not sticker charts. Just teamwork.

They break down how chores build belonging, how to set developmentally appropriate expectations, and simple system changes that help kids help more, from tidying toys to getting out the door with less stress.

If you are trying to declutter, simplify routines, or stop feeling like the household manager of everything, this episode is for you.

We discuss:

Why involving kids in routines builds belonging, not just responsibility
How to think about chores as teamwork instead of punishment
What kids can realistically help with at different ages
Why breaking tasks into small steps reduces frustration for everyone
How to set up your home so kids can help independently
Simple system changes that make mornings and clean up easier
Why resistance often means a skill is missing, not defiance

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy: Breaking the Cycle of Anger in Parenting

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this final episode of 2025, I’m sharing something deeply personal - my relationship with anger, where it came from, and how I’ve worked to change it. This is one of the most vulnerable solo episodes I’ve ever recorded, because anger is a feeling so many of us carry quietly, especially in parenthood.

This episode is for the parent who feels ashamed after snapping. For the one who feels tense all the time. For the one who is scared they might repeat what they grew up with. Your anger does not make you a bad parent. It makes you human. And change is possible.

I discuss:

✔️ How anger showed up in my early life and why it became my default response

✔️ The moment with our puppy that forced me to see my patterns clearly

✔️ How stress, trauma, and burnout can pull old reactions back to the surface

✔️ What I learned through coaching, therapy, and eventually EMDR

✔️ How this work changed my nervous system, my parenting, and my day-to-day mindset

✔️ The brain science behind anger and why your body reacts before your thoughts do

✔️ What often sits underneath explosive reactions

✔️ How your window of tolerance affects everything

✔️ The real tools I use when I feel overwhelmed

✔️ How I teach my kids that feelings are allowed, but hurtful behavior is not

00:00 Scary parents are scared parents
01:10 Why anger shows up in parenting
02:49 When anger becomes a problem, not a protector
03:09 The moment I knew I had to change
05:44 Trauma, motherhood, and why anger came back
06:59 How therapy helped me find peace
08:48 Fear, the nervous system, and the science of anger
10:59 Breaking the cycle while raising kids
12:14 Tools to handle anger in the moment
14:13 Teaching kids that feelings are ok, harmful behavior is not
17:03 Repair, progress, and modeling growth
19:48 When to seek support and why it matters
21:41 You are not broken, change is possible

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Motherhood Insomnia

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever spent the whole day dreaming about going to bed, only to climb under the covers and lie wide awake, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. I’m joined by sleep psychologist Dr. Shelby Harris to talk about the tired-but-wired cycle so many mothers fall into and why it’s more common than you think.

We unpack the real reasons your brain won’t shut off at night, from revenge bedtime procrastination to the mental load that follows moms everywhere. Dr. Harris explains how habits, overstimulation, and our constant push to “catch up” all get in the way of rest, even when we’re desperate for it. And most importantly, she shares the science-backed strategies that actually work for an overwhelmed parent who needs sleep but can’t find the off switch.

Whether you’re dealing with the occasional rough night or months of broken sleep, this conversation brings clarity, relief, and doable steps that don’t add more pressure to your already full plate.

In This Episode, We Cover:
✔️ Why moms feel exhausted all day yet can’t fall asleep at night ✔️ The psychology behind “tired but wired” ✔️ Revenge bedtime procrastination and why it hits mothers so hard ✔️ How over-stimulation and unfinished to-dos keep your brain awake ✔️ Simple sleep hygiene habits that truly help ✔️ What to do when your phone is sabotaging your nights ✔️ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): who it helps and why ✔️ When to consider medication and what that process looks like ✔️ How our own sleep habits shape our kids’ sleep long term

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Modern Parenting: What We’re Getting Right & What We Might Be Overthinking

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this episode, I sit down with retired pediatrician and grandmother Dr. Bubbie, whose 40 years in pediatrics give her a rare, steady perspective on the highs and lows of raising kids today. We talk about what modern parents are doing well, why so many of us feel anxious even when we’re doing a good job, and how social media has quietly changed the way we parent.

Dr. Bubbie shares what she has learned from decades of caring for families and what surprised her when she stepped into the online world after retiring. We get into the pressures parents feel to get everything right, the fear of making mistakes, and how comparison steals the calm that most families are craving. We also talk honestly about grandparents, boundaries, discipline, and the tension between wanting to follow all the new information out there while trying to honor our own instincts.

We also cover: ✔️ What today’s parents truly excel at ✔️ How finances, childcare, and social media shape stress ✔️ Why intuition gets quieter when we’re overloaded ✔️ What past generations did well that’s worth bringing back ✔️ How to think about milestones without panicking ✔️ The rise of gentle parenting, what it gets right, and where it goes sideways ✔️ Why some kids seem “behind” online when they’re actually right on track ✔️ Vaccine misinformation, raw milk trends, and the danger of online “experts” ✔️ How pediatricians actually make decisions, and why the team approach matters

To connect with Dr. Bubbie follow her on Instagram @askbubbie and check out all her resources at linktree.com/askbubbie

TBD Chapters

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Strong-Willed Toddler Strategies

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Power struggles feel like part of the toddler job description, but they don’t have to run the whole house. In this episode, I break down what’s really happening in those intense moments and how small shifts in tone, control, and connection can turn things around. This isn’t about “winning” a battle. It’s about helping your child feel capable while keeping your own sanity intact.

We talk through the everyday situations that spark the most battles, why strong-willed kids push back as hard as they do, and how to meet them with calm authority instead of getting pulled into the chaos. You’ll learn how to give healthy control without giving up your boundaries, how to use your child’s growing cognitive skills, and how to de-escalate when emotions spill over on both sides.

If you’re tired of standoffs at mealtime, bedtime, the bathroom, or anywhere in between, this episode will help you feel more steady, more clear, and less stuck in the tug-of-war.

In This Episode, We Cover:
✔️ Why it takes two to have a power struggle ✔️ When to give control and when to step in ✔️ How to offer choices without losing structure ✔️ Simple scripts that shift the tone instantly ✔️ Using cognitive development to your advantage ✔️ Redirecting repetitive demands without escalating ✔️ How to recover when things go sideways ✔️ Playfulness as a tool for reducing tension

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

STEM, Speaking Up, and Redefining Motherhood: Emily Calandrelli (The Space Gal) on Breaking Barriers and Raising Science-Loving Kids

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

What does it look like to raise kids who believe they belong in science, who feel confident speaking up, and who see women as leaders in fields that have long pushed them out?

I first came across Emily Calandrelli’s work years ago on social media, and her mix of joy, honesty, and curiosity pulled me in immediately. Her voice reminded me that advocacy doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful and that our kids are always watching how we chase our own dreams. She is now one of my favorite examples of what it means to model confidence and curiosity for the next generation.

On today’s episode, Emily and I talk about finding her way in a male-dominated STEM world, what she learned from losing her Netflix show, and how creating her own YouTube series changed everything. She also shares the story behind her viral TSA moment, how it sparked federal legislation, and what it meant to finally launch into space after dreaming about it for two decades.

We discuss:

✔️ How representation in STEM shapes kids’ beliefs about what’s possible ✔️ Why speaking up matters, even when it’s uncomfortable

✔️ The pressure mothers face when they pursue big goals

✔️ What her spaceflight taught her about wonder and perspective

✔️ How parents can spark scientific thinking and curiosity at home

To connect with Emily Calandrelli follow her on Instagram @thespacegal and check out all her resources at https://www.thespacegal.com/

00:00 Intro 00:51 Welcome + How Emily Sparked TSA Policy Change 01:50 Raising Confident Science-Loving Kids 03:22 Emily’s Path From MIT to TV 05:03 Breaking Into Science Media as a Woman 06:25 Losing a Netflix Show and Starting Over 09:30 Building Emily’s Science Lab on YouTube 11:22 Redefining Success Beyond Algorithms 14:44 Motherhood, Identity, and Letting Go of Guilt 18:36 The Spaceflight Story She Worked 20 Years For 22:31 How She Funded Her Own Ticket to Space 24:11 What Seeing Earth From Space Feels Like 25:00 The Gendered Backlash After Her Spaceflight 31:01 The TSA Incident That Went Viral 32:31 Turning Viral Attention Into Real Legislation 38:12 STEM Representation for Kids Today 43:13 How Parents Can Model Curiosity at Home 46:47 Why Meeting Girls in STEM Fuels Her Work 49:21 Closing Thoughts + Where to Find Emily

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Foster Autonomy and Build Confidence

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this follow up episode, we revisit one of the most loved ideas on the show, because parents tell me again and again that it changed the way they show up for their kids. We’re talking about the Independence Before Intervention principle, a simple shift that helps kids build confidence, resilience, and trust in themselves while still knowing we’re right there when they need us.

Inspired by watching her own kids obsess over the transformation of caterpillars, Dr. Mona explores how struggle is a natural and necessary part of growth. Babies, toddlers, big kids, even adults, all move through moments that feel tough. The goal isn’t to remove every frustration. It’s to help kids see that effort isn’t failure and that they’re safe trying, adjusting, and trying again.

Inside this episode, Dr. Mona breaks down how this principle looks across different ages and real life moments, including:

✔️ Newborns learning to pass gas and poop
✔️ Babies connecting sleep cycles without immediate intervention
✔️ Infants and toddlers brushing teeth with growing independence
✔️ Problem solving during play, frustration, and puzzles
✔️ How verbal coaching builds emotional skills and persistence

Want more? Check out the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Glucola (Glucose test) & Safe Foods in Pregnancy: Busting Myths and Easing Fears

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Pregnancy comes with a lot of rules, warnings, and fear based posts online. But how much of that advice is actually rooted in science, and how much is leftover noise that keeps parents stressed for no reason?

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Knurick, a nutrition researcher and registered dietitian who has spent years breaking down food myths in the pregnancy and postpartum space. Together we walk through the biggest areas of confusion, why so much misinformation spreads so fast, and how to make calmer, more confident choices during pregnancy.

We talk about:

The most common food rules that get blown out of proportion
Why certain foods get labeled as “dangerous” without context
What the real risk of listeria looks like, and how to lower it
Sushi, soft cheese, runny eggs, deli meat, and why the blanket rules don’t tell the full story
How to think about risk in pregnancy without spiraling
The truth about the glucose test and why the alternatives online fall short
What high mercury fish means and why fish is still an important part of pregnancy nutrition
Where fear based content online pulls parents in and how to protect your headspace

To connect with Dr. Jessica Knurick follow her on Instagram @drjessicaknurick and check out all her resources at https://www.jessicaknurick.com/

My Experience with Gestational Diabetes: https://youtu.be/QCtGft6p7c0

00:00 Why fear around food and the glucose test is rising 01:25 Why Dr. Jessica Knurick’s work matters in pregnancy nutrition 03:44 How misinformation spreads during pregnancy 06:13 The gray area behind food rules and risk 08:36 Soft cheese, deli meat, and runny eggs: what’s actually risky 11:06 The truth about listeria and real foodborne illness risks 14:12 Sushi, fish, mercury, and what research actually shows 17:04 How to approach food safety without spiraling 20:29 Real life examples of weighing pros and cons in pregnancy 23:34 What the glucose test really measures 25:53 Why screening happens at 24–28 weeks 27:52 Common myths about the glucose drink 30:30 Alternatives like jelly beans, pancakes, and OJ: why they don’t work 33:54 When at home monitoring is appropriate 42:17 A helpful tip for managing symptoms after the test 43:24 Final message on protecting your mental space in pregnancy

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Overcoming Percentile Anxiety

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

In this Follow Up episode, I’m opening up about something I’ve counseled countless parents through yet still had to face myself: the emotional weight of percentiles. After my daughter Vera was born, a mix of postpartum complications, exclusive pumping, and constant worry about her petite size pulled me into a spiral I didn’t see coming.

This episode walks through that experience with honesty and compassion. I share what feeding looked like in those early weeks, how comparison added pressure, how anxiety shaped her feeding behavior, and the turning points that helped me step back into a steadier perspective.

Most importantly, we revisit what matters far more than the number on a chart: the big-picture signs of a thriving baby. If you’ve ever left a checkup feeling shaky or second-guessing yourself, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we talk about:

What percentile anxiety actually sounds and feels like for parents
How postpartum complications and exclusive pumping layered into worry
The comparison trap and why it hits so hard in early parenthood
How anxiety can accidentally shape feeding behavior (and how to reset)
The real indicators of healthy growth beyond the chart
When to seek support for both your baby and your own mental health
Why you are not failing your child, even when the numbers feel scary

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Truth About Raising Securely Attached Kids: What Most Parents Get Wrong

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

What does it really mean to raise securely attached kids? I first came across Eli Harwood’s book Raising Securely Attached Kids on a solo trip, and it completely re-energized how I think about connection and parenting. Her words reminded me that so much of raising emotionally healthy kids starts with how we show up, not how perfect we are. It is now one of my most favorite parenting books out there.

On today’s episode, Eli and I talk about the real meaning of secure attachment, how it shows up in everyday moments, and why so many of us misunderstand it. She shares her own story of growing up with a cycle-breaking mom, how that shaped her work, and the lessons she now passes on to parents everywhere.

We discuss:

✔️ What secure attachment actually means in daily life

✔️ The four main attachment styles and how they develop

✔️ How to tell if your child feels emotionally safe with you

✔️ Why repair after conflict is one of the most powerful parenting tools

✔️ How to build lasting connection through small, consistent moments

To connect with Eli Harwood follow her on Instagram @theattachmentnerd, check out all her resources at https://attachmentnerd.com/ and purchase her books here: https://attachmentnerd.com/books

Upcoming mother daughter journal “Uniquely Us”

https://attachmentnerd.com/books/uniquely-us

Upcoming encyclopedia style book called “How to Deal With Your ____ so Your Kids Don’t Have To” created to help parents develop healthy emotional patterns!

https://attachmentnerd.com/books/how-to-deal-with-your-so-your-kids-dont-have-to

EMDR Podcast Episode: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/trauma-therapy-why-you-may-need-emdr/

0:00 What Secure Attachment Really Is 1:00 Why One Safe Caregiver Changes Everything 1:58 How Dr. Mona Found Eli Harwood 3:12 Eli’s Story and Becoming Attachment Nerd 7:58 How Attachment Theory Shapes Family Patterns 10:12 Why Connection and Communication Matter 12:18 What Secure Attachment Looks Like Day to Day 19:39 The Four Attachment Styles Explained 30:13 How To Tell If Your Child Feels Emotionally Safe 32:35 Real-Life Parenting Mistakes and Repair 37:59 Four Daily Habits That Build Secure Attachment 42:56 Listening, Feedback, and Emotional Language 43:55 Repairing After Messy Moments 50:24 Final Takeaways and Where To Learn More

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Helping Kids Feel Proud

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Raising kids who feel proud of who they are, not just what they do, is one of the biggest gifts we can give them. In this Follow-Up episode, I revisit my conversation with Dr. Becky Kennedy, recorded back when I was a new mom trying to understand how to raise a confident child. Now, with Ryaan heading into six, these lessons hit even deeper.

We talk about what real confidence looks like for kids, why outcome-based praise can backfire, and how to help our children find pride from the inside out. Dr. Becky breaks down how to shift the focus from grades, goals, and achievements to the qualities that matter most: effort, curiosity, and the internal spark that keeps them trying.

You’ll hear:

Why kids who shine early aren’t always the ones with the strongest sense of self
How over-relying on praise tied to performance can lead to pressure or perfectionism
Simple swaps you can use today to build true confidence
The power of noticing the process, not the product
How to shift your questions so your child learns that good feelings start from within, not from outside approval

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Motherhood Unmasks Neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism)

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

More and more women are getting diagnosed with ADHD later in life, often after becoming parents, and it’s not because ADHD is “trending.” It’s because we’ve missed it for decades.

In this conversation, I talk with psychiatrist and author Dr. Sasha Hamdani about why ADHD in girls and women often goes unnoticed, how hormones and motherhood reveal hidden symptoms, and why self-understanding can be so freeing. We discuss stigma, emotional regulation, anxiety, and how parenting can bring clarity to our own neurodiversity.

If you’ve ever wondered why things got harder after kids, or why your child’s diagnosis suddenly made your own life make more sense, this episode will feel like a deep exhale.

We discuss:

Why ADHD in girls and women often gets overlooked
How hormonal shifts during puberty, postpartum, and perimenopause can unmask ADHD
The difference between anxiety-driven distraction and true ADHD
How parenting adds new executive function challenges that make symptoms more visible
The role of emotional regulation in ADHD—and why it’s missing from the diagnostic criteria
How a late diagnosis can change the way you see yourself and parent your kids

To connect with Dr. Sasha Hamdani follow her on Instagram @thepsychdoctormd and

check out all her resources at https://www.drhamdanimd.com/.

00:00 - Intro 01:55 - Meet Dr. Sasha Hamdani: psychiatrist, ADHD specialist, and creator 04:00 - Rediscovering ADHD during medical school 06:00 - From burnout to advocacy: how social media changed her work 06:45 - Getting diagnosed as an adult woman and the emotions that followed 10:30 - How ADHD was misunderstood in the 90s—and still is for many girls 12:00 - Why diagnoses often appear after motherhood and hormonal shifts 16:30 - Parenting stress, executive function overload, and ADHD symptoms 18:20 - How girls are taught to mask and why that delays diagnosis 22:00 - ADHD, anxiety, and the “chicken or egg” challenge 27:00 - How self-understanding reshapes parenting and connection 35:15 - Why “superpower” isn’t the right framing—but awareness is powerful 41:20 - The missing piece: emotional regulation in ADHD and Sasha’s upcoming book 47:16 - Dr. Mona’s reflections on self-awareness, parenting, and compassion

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Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

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The Follow-Up: How to Sleep Train

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Sleep training might be one of the most debated topics in parenting but it doesn’t have to be so polarizing. In this Follow-Up episode, I revisit my most downloaded episode, “We’re Losing Sleep Over Our Kids’ Sleep,” to talk honestly about what sleep training really means, the methods that exist, and how to decide what’s right for your family.

You’ll learn:
✔️ What “sleep training” actually means (hint: it’s not one-size-fits-all)
✔️ The differences between the cry-it-out, Ferber, and gradual methods
✔️ Why crying doesn’t mean cruelty—and how boundaries are loving
✔️ How to spot when a method isn’t working for your baby
✔️ Why our generation’s obsession with baby sleep may be adding more stress than it solves

Want more? Listen to the original full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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Raising Body-Positive Girls in a Filtered World

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

We’re raising girls in a world where filters are the norm, “what I eat in a day” videos flood their feeds, and puberty hits earlier than ever. It’s no wonder body image struggles start young.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Melisa Holmes to talk about how parents can help their daughters build confidence in their changing bodies without shame, fear, or comparison. We’ll cover how to talk about puberty in age-appropriate ways, what to do when kids start noticing body differences, and how to handle tricky moments like when your child says, “I feel fat.”

You’ll also learn:

Why body image starts long before puberty
What not to say (and what helps instead)
How your own body talk shapes how your child feels about theirs
How social media is shaping kids’ self-worth—and what parents can do about it

To connect with Dr. Melisa Holmes check out all her resources at https://girlology.com/. Follow her on Instagram at @dr.melisa.holmes and @girlology.

For 20% off an annual subscription (after a free 7 day trial) go HERE and use this code: PedsDocTalk to activate your discount.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – The First Signs of Body Image Struggles

02:03 – Welcome, Dr. Melisa Holmes

03:06 – Breaking the Silence Between Generations

04:01 – Media, AI, and the Shifting Ideal

04:48 – Why It Starts So Young

07:02 – Boys, Girls, and Body Pressure

08:33 – Growing Up in a Filtered World

09:34 – Teaching Media Literacy and Self-Protection

12:07 – Modeling Confidence from the Start

15:23 – How Parents Pass Down Body Shame

20:22 – Reclaiming Joy in Food and Movement

22:49 – Puberty Talks Without the Awkwardness

26:51 – Raising Compassionate Boys Too

30:33 – Supporting Emotional Changes in Puberty

33:33 – What Every Girl Should Know About Her Body

36:22 – Parents, Schools, and the Role of Education

38:40 – Final Takeaway

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

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The Follow-Up: Intimacy After Baby

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0000

No one prepares you for how much your relationship changes after having a baby. The exhaustion, hormones, mental load, and body changes all take a toll on desire and closeness, and it’s rarely talked about honestly.

In this Follow Up episode, Dr. Mona talks with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish about what really happens to intimacy after baby. They unpack why desire often dips postpartum, how to reconnect emotionally and physically, and why great sex isn’t about frequency. It’s about connection, communication, and redefining what intimacy looks like now.

This episode is for any parent who’s ever thought something’s changed between us and I don’t know how to fix it. You’re not broken, you’re human, and this conversation will help you find your way back to each other.

Why desire often drops after childbirth and how to understand it without shame
How hormones, sleep, and stress affect intimacy
The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire
How to start rebuilding emotional connection in 10 minutes a day
The role of small rituals like check-ins, laughter, and simple touch in rekindling closeness
Why there’s no normal amount of sex, only what feels right for you and your partner
Ways to talk openly about what you both want and need

Dr. Tracy's new book, "You, Your Husband, and His Mother" is now on sale: Order your copy here.

Want more? Check out the full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Benefits and risks of Chiropractic care in pediatrics: Does your kid need to see a chiropractor?

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

What happens when a chiropractor decides to go to medical school? In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Richard Schoonmaker, a former chiropractor turned osteopathic medical student, to talk about why he made the switch, what he learned about evidence-based care, and how chiropractic and medicine can actually work together when done responsibly.

What We Discuss:

Why Dr. Schoonmaker left chiropractic to pursue medicine
The difference between chiropractic and osteopathic training
How to spot red flags in online chiropractic content
The truth about chiropractic care for babies and kids
What evidence-based, collaborative care could look like
How modern medicine can build trust by listening better

To connect with Richard Schoonmaker follow him on Instagram at @richs_oms2 and TikTok at @rich_oms2.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro

02:00 – Meet Dr. Richard Schoonmaker

03:00 – From Chiropractic to Medicine

07:15 – What He Took From Chiropractic Into Medicine

08:15 – Evidence-Based Chiropractic vs. Online Myths

10:00 – Why Some Chiropractors Go Viral (and Off the Rails)

16:00 – How Chiropractors Are Trained (and Where Gaps Exist)

21:20 – The Lack of Oversight in Pediatric Chiropractic Care

24:00 – The Supportive (Not Substitutive) Role of Chiropractic

28:30 – Common Reasons Parents Seek Chiropractic Care for Kids

33:10 – What the Research Actually Supports

36:30 – Understanding OMM in Osteopathic Medicine

40:00 – Why Context Matters: Symptom Relief vs. Causation

43:00 – The True Meaning of Holistic Care

45:00 – Calling Out Misinformation Responsibly

48:00 – The Real Reason Patients Seek Alternative Care

49:40 – Building a Better Relationship Between Chiropractors and Physicians

51:45 – How Parents Can Find a Safe, Evidence-Based Chiropractor

54:50 – Final Thoughts and Where to Find Richard

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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The Follow-Up: Is Breast Best?

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

We’ve all heard the phrase breast is best. But is it really that simple? In this episode, I sit down with an expert to talk honestly about what the research actually says about breastfeeding and where the science gets murky.

We break down what’s fact, what’s myth, and why so much of the “breast is best” messaging comes from data that’s more correlation than causation. From IQ to obesity to immune health, we unpack what studies really measure (and what they don’t).

I also share my own story as a pediatrician who planned to breastfeed but ended up formula-feeding my son after a difficult birth and ICU stay. That experience shaped how I talk to parents today because feeding your baby should never come with shame.

We discuss:

Why most breastfeeding research isn’t based on randomized trials
How socioeconomic factors shape the data we see on long-term “benefits”
The difference between short-term and long-term outcomes
What sibling studies tell us about IQ, weight, and immunity
Why guilt over feeding choices can actually take away from connection
The importance of supporting all feeding journeys—breast, bottle, or both

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Discipline Reframe Every Parent Needs: Teach Don’t Punish

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever wondered why traditional discipline like timeouts, threats, punishments feel off or doesn’t actually work, this episode will change the way you see toddler behavior.

I’m joined by Devon Kuntzman, toddler expert and founder of Transforming Toddlerhood, to talk about how we can move from managing our kids’ behavior to teaching through it. We unpack why toddlers act out, how to handle power struggles without punishment, and how parents can stay calm (and human) in those messy moments. Devon shares her framework for effective discipline, the difference between natural and arbitrary consequences, and the long game of raising emotionally intelligent kids.

We discuss:

Why toddlerhood isn’t “terrible”—it’s transformational and what’s really happening in the toddler brain
Why punishment feels effective short-term but harms long-term growth
The 3 parts of effective discipline: connection, limits, and teaching skills
How to pause before reacting when you’re triggered and the power of noticing positive behavior
How to reframe “bad” behavior as communication
The one question that can change how you discipline

To connect with Devon Kuntzman check out all her resources at https://www.transformingtoddlerhood.com/. Follow her on Instagram at @transformingtoddlerhood. And purchase her brand new book “Transforming Toddlerhood” available now: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/TTBook

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – The mindset shift: Teach, don’t punish 01:10 – Welcome & introduction to Devon Kuntzman 02:30 – Why toddlerhood isn’t terrible—it’s teachable 05:00 – Understanding your toddler’s brain and behavior 07:40 – Behavior as communication: decoding what kids are telling us 09:00 – From control to connection: the real purpose of discipline 10:45 – The recipe for effective discipline (connection, limits, teaching) 13:20 – Natural vs. logical vs. arbitrary consequences 17:00 – Why quick fixes don’t work and the long game of discipline does 25:30 – How to pause, stay grounded, and model emotional regulation 29:15 – Dr. Mona’s “bubble hack” and real-life calm-down strategies 31:30 – Positive reinforcement: noticing the behavior you want to see 35:00 – The ultimate reframe: what skill does my child need to learn? 37:00 – You’re human, your child’s human—progress over perfection 38:00 – Closing reflections and where to find Devon’s book

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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The Follow-Up: Understanding Autism Characteristics

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

As a pediatrician, I know how stressful it can feel when you’re filling out those developmental questionnaires at your child’s checkup. You check a few “no” boxes, and suddenly you’re spiraling! What does this mean? Should I be worried?

In this episode, I sit down with an autism specialist to talk through what some of those screening questions actually mean and how they’re meant to be interpreted. We look at common items from the M-CHAT like pointing, pretend play, and responding to their name and unpack why these aren’t simple yes-or-no milestones.

We talk about what’s typical, what might be worth keeping an eye on, and how to bring up your concerns in a productive way with your child’s doctor. Most importantly, we discuss why one missed skill doesn’t equal a diagnosis, and how to focus on the whole picture of your child’s development.

We discuss:

Why the M-CHAT can sometimes create more confusion than clarity
What “joint attention” looks like in real life (and why it matters)
Why pretend play is about creativity, not just copying
What finger posturing means—and why it’s often a self-soothing behavior
When to worry about your child not responding to their name
How delayed babbling fits into speech and language development
How to ask your child’s clinician the right follow-up questions when you’re worried

Want more? Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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Autism: Is Tylenol to Blame? Is Leucovorin the Answer? A conversation with a fellow pediatrician and developmental behavioral pediatrician

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

This week, I sit down with two incredible guests to unpack one of the most talked-about (and misunderstood) press conferences in recent months. I’m joined by Dr. Tanya Altmann, pediatrician and founder of Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, and Dr. Anshu Batra, developmental-behavioral pediatrician and autism specialist, to separate fact from fear when it comes to Tylenol, leucovorin, and autism.

We talk about what the latest research actually shows, what parents should know, and why conversations about autism deserve more nuance and empathy than political headlines.

We discuss:

What current research tells us about autism’s causes, including the strong role of genetics and the complex mix of environmental and developmental factors.
Why studies on Tylenol and autism don’t prove causation, and how correlation has been misunderstood in headlines and online discussions.
How leucovorin (folinic acid) may support some children with autism, why it’s not a cure, and what doctors are actually seeing in practice.
The connection between micronutrients, gut health, and neurodevelopment, plus real barriers families face in getting lab work and supplements covered.
What early screen exposure can do to developing brains, and why less screen time and more real-world interaction matter for young children.
Where research and funding need to go next, from identifying subtypes of autism to improving access to early intervention and therapeutic schools.

To connect with Dr. Tanya Altmann check out all her resources at Drtanya.com. Follow her on Instagram at @drtanyaaltmann.

00:00 Introduction 02:05 Meet the Guests 04:09 The Tylenol Controversy 06:41 What We Know About Autism Causes 09:02 Advances in Autism Research 14:15 The Role of Genetics and Environment 18:15 What Is Leucovorin 22:25 What Parents Are Seeing 27:10 Who Might Benefit 29:20 Micronutrients, Gut Health, and Screen Time 38:28 What Research Still Needs to Happen 45:54 Reactions to the White House Press Conference 52:41 Final Takeaways for Parents and Clinicians 55:29 Outro and Reflection

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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The Follow-Up: Why the School System is Broken

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

The American school system was built to measure performance but at what cost? In this Follow Up episode, Dr. Mona sits down with Lauren Smith, a former educator and nationally certified school psychologist, to unpack how our current approach to education fuels anxiety, burnout, and perfectionism in kids.

They dive into the ripple effects of over-testing, constant competition, and the push to perform that begins as early as kindergarten. From standardized tests to college rankings, the conversation explores how a culture obsessed with metrics is stealing creativity, rest, and joy from learning — and what real change could look like.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why kids are more anxious than ever about school and grades
How over-testing and Common Core shape classroom pressure
The downstream effects of perfectionism on teens and college students
How teacher burnout connects to testing culture
What other countries are doing differently — and better
Why “slowing down” might be the most radical educational reform

Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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How Sensory Processing Shapes Kids’ Behavior

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Sensory processing isn’t always easy to spot, but it affects how kids experience the world in a big way. From clothing struggles to party meltdowns, what looks like “behavior” can often be a child’s nervous system asking for help. That’s why I sat down with occupational therapist Laura Petix, who specializes in sensory processing and works with families online to support kids with unique sensory needs.

We talk about what sensory processing really means, sensory processing differences, how parents can recognize differences, and why shifting from “disorder” to “differences” matters for kids’ self-esteem and support. Laura shares her own parenting experiences as a neurodivergent mom raising a neurodivergent child, and we break down myths that leave parents feeling judged or confused.

We cover:

What sensory processing is and how it shapes daily life for kids
The difference between typical toddler behavior and sensory differences
Red flags that suggest a child might need more support
The “sensory cup” analogy for understanding overstimulation and meltdowns
Why discipline doesn’t fix sensory needs, and what actually helps
Practical ways parents can validate, regulate, and advocate for their kids

To connect with Laura Petix check out all her resources at https://theotbutterfly.com/. Follow her on Instagram at @theotbutterfly.

00:00 Intro & Dr. Mona’s Story 03:15 Meet The OT Butterfly (Laura Petix) 06:45 What Sensory Processing Really Means 10:40 Typical vs. Sensory-Driven Behavior 16:00 From Disorder to Difference 20:00 Early Signs in Babies and Toddlers 23:40 Parent Stories & The Sensory Cup Analogy 31:00 Supporting Kids (and Yourself) 34:00 Myths and Misunderstandings 41:00 When to Seek Help & Encouragement for Parents

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Managing Health Anxiety

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:03:00 -0000

When my son had a stroke and seizures as a newborn, every moment felt uncertain. Once things stabilized, that deep anxiety finally eased until the first time he got sick again. I remember walking into his room and feeling that old fear rush back.

If you’ve ever felt your heart race when your child spikes a fever or starts coughing, you’re not alone. Even if your child’s never been seriously ill, that drop in your stomach is real. Health anxiety is something many parents carry, especially after the pandemic reminded us how fragile health can feel.

In this episode, I share what helped me work through that anxiety—both as a pediatrician and as a mom who’s lived it. I talk about the mindset shifts that changed everything:

Accepting that I can’t control every outcome for my child
Trusting that I’m doing my best with the resources I have
Remembering that back-to-back viruses mean my child’s immune system is learning
Focusing on what’s in my control, not the scary “what-ifs”
Finding hope, even when it’s hard

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Public Health, Politics, and Gen Z Leadership with the Youngest Congressman Maxwell Frost

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Politics and public health haven’t always been so divided, but in today’s world, even science and vaccines have become political battlegrounds. That’s why I sat down with Congressman Maxwell Frost, the youngest member of Congress and a voice for Gen Z leadership, to talk about where we go from here.

We dig into what it means to lead in such a polarized time, the dangers of politicizing health, and how younger generations can push for change. Congressman Frost opens up about his perspective on the vaccine mandate debate in Florida, the role of misinformation, and why community and courage matter more than ever.

We cover:

How public health became politicized—and why that’s so dangerous
The impact of Covid-19 on trust in science and communication missteps we can learn from
The real stakes of rolling back vaccine mandates in states like Florida
Why Gen Z’s voice and skepticism can be a strength in leadership
How grassroots advocacy, calls, and community action can still influence policy
Congressman Frost’s perspective on staying hopeful and grounded in the fight for public health and democracy

To connect with Congressman Maxwell Frost check out all his resources at https://frost.house.gov/. Follow him on Instagram at @repmaxwellfrost

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Health care at risk: Frost’s opening 00:33 – Dr. Mona on vaccine rollbacks and misinformation 02:08 – Meet Rep. Maxwell Frost: Gen Z in Congress 04:32 – How public health became politicized 07:25 – Mistrust, disinformation, and Covid’s lasting impact 11:36 – The pediatrician’s perspective on burnout and broken systems 18:32 – Communication failures during the pandemic 21:23 – Vaccine mandates in Florida and political agendas 28:09 – What real advocacy looks like: calls, town halls, showing up 34:07 – Gen Z leadership, corruption, and the fight for change 43:08 – Division, anger, and re-centering community 50:26 – Radical optimism and final reflections

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Making Mom Friends is Hard

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Friendships after motherhood can feel complicated. Before kids, hanging out with friends might have been as easy as grabbing brunch or planning a last-minute outing. But now? Time, energy, and support look very different.

In this Follow Up episode, Dr. Mona revisits her conversation with relational health educator Danielle Bayard Jackson, author of Fighting for Our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women’s Relationships. Together, they break down why building and maintaining friendships as a mom feels harder—and how to approach it with more grace and intention.

Listen to the full episode.

You’ll hear about:

The three biggest reasons friendships fade after kids: lack of time, lack of practice, and lack of support
Why connection (even small, everyday moments) matters just as much as long-standing friendships
How to reframe expectations around old friendships that have shifted
Practical steps to nurture the friendships you want, from “autopilot” routines to finding weak ties that still bring value
The importance of reciprocity and how to express your needs without guilt

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Car Seat Mistakes Most Parents Make (And How to Fix Them)

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Car seat safety is one of those topics that feels overwhelming…so many straps, rules, and confusing instructions and yet it’s one of the most important things we do as parents.

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and child passenger safety technician, Michelle Pratt from Safe in the Seat, to talk about the most common car seat mistakes parents make and how to fix them. We both share our own missteps (yes, even as a pediatrician and as a safety expert!) and the lessons that changed how we buckle our kids in.

We cover:

Why “winging it” with installation is risky, and how to practice before you leave the hospital
Chest clip placement, shoulder strap positioning, and the “one-inch rule” every parent should know
Rear-facing myths, what age to turn forward, and why “rear until 2” isn’t the full story
The truth about aftermarket products (like those head straps) and why they can be dangerousHow to empower kids to notice and speak up about their own car seat safety

To connect with Michelle Pratt check out all her resources at https://www.safeintheseat.com/. Follow her on Instagram at @safeintheseat.

Car Seat Finder Tool: https://www.safeintheseat.com/find-your-best-car-seat

Safe to Switch: https://courses.safeintheseat.com/offers/uufJeUvJ/checkout

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Why Car Seat Safety Feels Overwhelming 01:00 – Dr. Mona Introduces Michelle Pratt and Their Connection 04:40 – Car Lines, Backpacks, and Real-Life Safety Struggles 08:20 – Michelle’s Origin Story and Why She Started Safe in the Seat 12:00 – The Hospital Discharge Mistake Almost Every Parent Makes 17:45 – Chest Clip Placement Explained 23:00 – Teaching Kids to Be Their Own Safety Advocates 26:00 – Survivor Bias and Distracted Driving Today 27:00 – The One-Inch Rules Parents Don’t Know 33:20 – Shoulder Strap Placement: Rear vs Forward Facing 37:00 – Why Reading the Manual Actually Matters 41:15 – Rear-Facing Until Four: The Physics and Development Behind It 46:30 – Real-Life Exceptions: Motion Sickness, Car Fit, and Caregiver Needs 59:00 – Resources from Safe in the Seat 1:00:15 – Final Thoughts and How to Share This Episode

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Popular Parenting Styles

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Parenting styles are everywhere on social media—gentle, attachment, positive, even FAFO (that’s “f around and find out”) parenting. But what does the research actually say about these labels? And is there really one “right” way to raise kids?

In this follow-up episode, Dr. Mona revisits her conversation with clinical psychologist and Parenting Translator, Dr. Cara Goodwin. Together, they unpack what science tells us about parenting styles, where trendy terms fall short, and why connection plus boundaries is what really matters.

Listen to the full episode.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why “gentle parenting” isn’t well-defined in research
The three parenting styles psychologists actually study—and which one predicts the best outcomes
Why mixing and matching strategies is often the healthiest approach
The problem with rigidly sticking to one style (especially with spirited or neurodivergent kids)
Tools like timeouts, rewards, and praise—why research shows they can be helpful, not harmful
What behaviors are never okay, no matter your style (think spanking, threats, or shaming)

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Big Kids, Bigger Feelings: Navigating Defiance, Meltdowns, and Anxiety to Raise Confident, Connected Kids

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Big kids mean big feelings and sometimes that shows up as defiance, meltdowns, or even anxiety. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really going on beneath the surface and why it’s not just “bad behavior.” We often think school-aged is cruising with emotions but big feelings are common.

I’m joined by returning guest Alyssa Campbell, a child development expert, to provide the right tools for when emotions can feel overwhelming. We’ll talk about how age bias often shapes the way adults respond to older kids’ emotions, why yelling or punishment backfires, and how collaborative emotional processing can help kids feel understood while still respecting boundaries.

You’ll learn:

Why defiance is often a sign of unmet needs, not disrespect
The role of age bias in how we label behavior in older vs. younger kids
How collaborative emotional processing helps kids regulate big emotions
Practical, evidence-based ways to respond to meltdowns, worry, and pushback using her “F.A.C.T.S.” method
How to raise kids who feel both confident and connected

To connect with Alyssa Campbel check out all her resources at https://www.seedandsew.org/about. Follow her on Instagram at @seed.and.sew. Buy her new book “Big Kids, Bigger Feelings” here: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/big-kids-bigger-feelings-alyssa-blask-campbellrachel-stuart-lounder?variant=43408468377634

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – The “Easy Years” Myth
01:16 – Why 5–12 Isn’t Smooth Sailing
02:38 – Meet Alyssa Blas Campbell
03:11 – Parents Feel Blindsided
05:28 – Big Kid Development Shifts
07:25 – What Big Meltdowns Look Like
09:12 – Do We Expect Too Much?
11:04 – 9 Senses & Nervous System
15:23 – Different Kids, Different Needs
18:08 – Handling Defiance With Compassion
22:53 – Sibling Differences in Regulation
25:48 – The F.A.C.T.S. Acronym
31:29 – Amusement Park Example
34:53 – Why Age Bias Misleads Us
38:18 – The S.I.P. Method Explained
42:12 – Rethinking Respect & Defiance
44:40 – Parenting Is a Relationship
46:22 – Closing Thoughts & Resources

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Your Baby in the NICU

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Having a baby in the NICU is something no parent plans for. Whether your child is born premature, needs extra support after delivery, or faces unexpected medical challenges, the NICU experience can feel overwhelming and full of unknowns.

Listen to the full episode.

You’ll learn:

Why babies are admitted to the NICU (and what that first moment feels like for parents)
What doctors, nurses, and staff monitor day-to-day to support growth and healing
How NICU rounds work and the key questions parents can ask
Why every care plan is individualized—and how parents are essential members of the team
The emotional side of being a NICU parent, from guilt to uncertainty, and how staff help families feel supported

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Childhood Anxiety: From Symptoms to Support in a Time of Rising Rates

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Anxiety in kids doesn’t always look like worry. Sometimes it shows up as stomachaches, sleep struggles, irritability, or even constant visits to the school nurse. As pediatricians, we know this is one of the most common challenges families face today and parents are often left wondering: Is this normal? Do I need to be worried? What do I do next?

In this episode, I’m joined by pediatrician and author Dr. Natasha Burgert, who just released Managing Childhood Anxiety For Dummies. We talk about how anxiety can look different in kids, when parents should reach out for help, and the many supportive steps families can take before medication is even on the table.

We cover:

The many faces of anxiety in children (it’s often a chameleon)
How to talk to your child about anxiety without making it scarier
Why early screening matters and what those forms really mean (spoiler: not a label)
Common myths about medication and how SSRIs actually work
How school transitions (hello, September stomachaches) can trigger anxiety

To connect with Dr. Natasha Burgert check out all her resources at https://kckidsdoc.substack.com/. Follow her on Instagram at @kckidsdoc. Buy her “Managing Childhood Anxiety For Dummies” book here: https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F4dYyaim&e=AT16kIumYZsC0TK4slk9a-qlSR7mzOsrHwpM4fOhdheESkam-cNuVmg2csHv-v6wgf8dHsUidIsW79nQA45rMXUvzxKmwOktxXr63UcHi-2Fxwq2

Another great listen: What is the gut-brain axis and how does anxiety play a role

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

0:00 – Understanding Childhood Anxiety: The Great Mimicker 01:21 – Welcome & Why Anxiety Matters for Kids Today 03:19 – Recognizing Signs: What Anxiety Looks Like in Children 08:00 – Talking to Kids About Anxiety in a Supportive Way 09:51 – Screening, Diagnosis & Why Rates Are Rising 17:33 – First Steps After a Positive Screen (Beyond Medication) 21:28 – Medications, Myths & How SSRIs Actually Work 30:17 – Parental Mental Health, Myths, and Back-to-School Anxiety

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: 5 Things to Stop Doing as Parents

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this week’s Follow Up, Dr. Mona revisits one of her earliest and most popular episodes: 15 Things We Need to Stop Doing as Parents. This quick-hit version pulls out 5 powerful reminders that every parent needs to hear.

From the viral Instagram post that sparked thousands of saves and shares, Dr. Mona brings back the tough love truths that free parents from comparison, guilt, and perfection obsession.

You’ll hear why it’s time to:

Stop comparing your child to others
Stop spanking as a form of discipline
Stop trying to be your child’s “friend” instead of their parent
Stop chasing the “perfect” kid
Stop neglecting your own needs and your partnership

Listen to the full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Healthy Kids Need Healthy Policy: The Case for Advocacy with Senate Hopeful and Pediatrician Dr. Annie Andrews

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

What happens when politics ignores kids? Pediatrician and South Carolina Senate hopeful Dr. Annie Andrews joins me to talk about why children’s health depends on more than just doctor’s visits - it depends on the policies shaping their lives. From Medicaid cuts to paid leave, gun safety, and the cost of insulin, Dr. Andrews explains why neutrality in medicine isn’t an option and why pediatricians, and parents, have a responsibility to speak up.

We discuss:

Why Dr. Andrews made the leap from pediatrics to politics
How policies like Medicaid cuts directly hurt children, families, and the health care system
Why pediatricians and parents need to get louder in advocacy
How healthcare has become political and why we need to be louder for our kids’ future
The child tax credit and other policies that could transform children’s futures
How better policy can prevent burnout among doctors and improve care for every family

To connect with Dr. Annie Andrews follow her on Instagram @annieandrewsmd, check out all her resources at https://drannieandrews.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Why Advocacy Alone Isn’t Enough 01:11 – Politics Is Already in Our Lane 02:32 – Meet Dr. Annie Andrews: Pediatrician, Mom, Senate Hopeful 04:04 – From Clinic to Campaign: Why She Ran 07:06 – Kids Left Behind in Red vs. Blue States 09:30 – Why Staying Neutral Can Hurt Kids 12:22 – Advocacy vs. Politics: What Really Creates Change 15:26 – Looking Ahead: Policy Priorities if Elected 16:50 – Medicaid Cuts and What They Mean for Families 22:02 – How Cuts Affect Doctors, Patients, and the Whole System 25:14 – Burnout, Reimbursement, and a Broken System 28:15 – Why Pediatricians Must Step Into Politics 30:17 – Fixing the Workforce Crisis in Pediatrics 33:52 – Final Call to Action: Getting Loud for Kids 35:30 – How to Connect With Dr. Annie Andrews 38:21 – Closing Thoughts: Hope Through Action

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Newborn Tips Every Parent Needs

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Bringing a newborn home is equal parts magical and overwhelming. The days are long, the nights are unpredictable, and you’re suddenly trying to decode every little cry, yawn, and wiggle. In this Follow-Up episode, I’m sharing the practical newborn guidance I give families every day in my clinic and in my own parenting life.

I’ll cover:

Feeding in the early weeks (when to wake vs. when to feed on demand)
How to recognize your baby’s sleepy, hungry, and ready-to-play cues
Why overtired babies are harder to soothe and what to do about it
The truth about cuddling: you can’t spoil a newborn
Ways to engage your baby: tummy time, talking, reading, and even singing
How infant massage and early routines support both bonding and calm

Listen to the full episode.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Toddler to Teen: Building Confidence, Resilience, and Emotional Strength with Lighthouse Parenting

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

How to raise kids who are confident, resilient, and emotionally strong without controlling their every move?

Dr. Ken Ginsburg, pediatrician, adolescent medicine specialist, and author of Lighthouse Parenting, joins me to share how parents can be a stable guiding presence while still giving kids the space to learn, fail, and grow. His “lighthouse” approach is grounded in decades of science and rooted in one clear goal: to help children thrive through love, boundaries, and trust.

In this episode, we break down what every parent should know about raising confident, capable kids while building an enduring bond that lasts through adolescence and beyond.

We cover:

How lighthouse parenting balances guidance, protection, and trust
Why boundaries, connection, and listening are the foundation for resilience
The 7 Cs of resilience and how to weave them into everyday life

To connect with Dr. Ken Ginsburg check out all his resources at Fosteringresilience.com and

Parentandteen.com . Follow him on Instagram at @parentandteen. Buy his Light House parenting book here: https://www.amazon.com/Lighthouse-Parenting-Raising-Guidance-Lifelong/dp/1610027191

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Why parenting styles swing between extremes 01:30 – Authoritative vs. Lighthouse Parenting: What’s the difference? 03:18 – Meet Dr. Ken Ginsburg: The origin of Lighthouse Parenting 06:06 – Self-care, balance, and being the steady shoreline 14:04 – Building safety, respect, and boundaries from toddler years 21:08 – Happiness vs resilience: Teaching kids to handle big feelings 28:26 – Listening, repair, and the power of real apologies 38:26 – The 7 C’s of resilience every parent should know 44:32 – Final message: Why self-care is not selfish

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: How to Handle a Tantrum

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Tantrums are a universal parenting challenge—they can feel overwhelming, embarrassing, or downright exhausting. But what if you had a simple, practical way to respond that actually helps your child learn to calm down?

In this follow-up episode, I’m joined by Chris Lake, educator, child development expert, and founder of Behavior Booster. Chris breaks down his “Lake Method” of de-escalating tantrums in a way that makes sense for both kids and parents.

We cover:

What to do first when a tantrum starts (hint: safety comes before soothing)
Why letting your child move through the crying cycle matters
How to avoid common pitfalls that accidentally reinforce tantrums
The power of validating emotions without caving to demands
What an “extinction burst” looks like and why it’s actually a sign of progress

Listen to the original, full episode.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What Is the Gut-Brain Axis And How Does Anxiety Play a Role?

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Ever wonder why your child’s “mystery” stomach aches keep coming back even when every test comes back normal?Dr. Ali Navidi is a GI psychologist who specializes in the gut-brain connection in kids. He’s on a mission to change how we understand and treat chronic belly pain, nausea, IBS, and other gut issues that don’t always have an obvious medical cause.

In this episode, we break down what every parent should know about the gut-brain axis. How the “little brain” in the gut talks to the “big brain” in the head and how stress, anxiety, and past experiences can turn real stomach sensations into ongoing pain cycles.

We cover:

Gut-brain connection in kids and why stomach pain is real, even with normal test results
How parenting responses and visceral hypersensitivity affect chronic belly pain
Why this often goes undiagnosed and how anxiety plays a role
Proven treatments for gut-brain disorders, from targeted CBT to clinical hypnosis

To connect with Dr. Ali Navidi follow him on Instagram @gipsychusa, check out all his resources at Gipsychology.com and schedule a free consultation here: www.GIPsychology.com/free-consultation/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 - Welcome to the PedsDocTalk podcast 02:16 - Meet Dr. Ali Navidi, GI psychologist 03:35 - Why GI psychology was created 05:45 - How gut-brain issues show up in kids 06:21 - Explaining the gut-brain axis for parents 08:15 - What is functional abdominal pain? 10:14 - Why kids’ pain is real, not “all in their head” 13:00 - Why kids feel anxiety in their stomachs 14:00 - PTSD of the gut explained 16:11 - Stress, IBS, and real-life examples 18:13 - Visceral hypersensitivity: why pain feels worse 19:43 - How parents’ reactions shape pain cycles 22:39 - Teaching kids coping skills early 27:26 - IBS, vomiting, and gut-brain examples 30:12 - How to respond when your child has pain 33:18 - Treatments that actually help (CBT & hypnosis) 36:34 - Final advice for parents: kids don’t need to “just live with it” 38:38 - Where to find help with GI psychology 40:00 - Closing thoughts and takeaways

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: When Breastfeeding Isn’t Easy

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

There’s a lot of pressure to breastfeed but not nearly enough conversation about what to do when it doesn’t go as planned.

In this honest and compassionate episode, Dr. Mona sits down with lactation counselor and mom of two Kaia Lacey to talk about low milk supply, combo feeding, and the emotional weight of unrealistic feeding expectations. Whether you’ve struggled with supply, felt shamed for using formula, or wondered if you're the only one doing “a little of both,” this one’s for you.

They cover:

The difference between primary and secondary low milk supply
What IGT (insufficient glandular tissue) is and how it’s often missed
Why combo feeding isn’t a failure—it’s a valid, supported choice
How internalized “breast is best” messages can lead to shame and burnout
What parents really need: support, diagnosis, and honest information

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Hesitant to Hopeful: Why Some Parents Don’t Vaccinate—and How We Bridge the Gap

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Ever paused at a vaccine insert, googled an ingredient, or felt torn between fear and science?

Dr. Elisabeth Marnik (@sciencewhizliz) wasn’t vaccinated as a child. She grew up in an anti-vax household—but today, she’s a scientist, professor, and mom who vaccinates her own children and helps others feel informed, not fearful.

🧬 In this episode, we talk about what changed her mind—and how we move the conversation on vaccines away from shaming and toward shared values like protecting our kids.

We cover:

What it was like growing up unvaccinated and how becoming a mom changed her entire perspective
How mistrust in larger systems (schools, government, healthcare) fuels vaccine resistance
What people often get wrong about vaccine hesitancy—and why yelling never changes minds
The difference between being anti-vax and vaccine-hesitant—and why reducing it to a binary doesn’t help anyone
Her powerful quote: “The reason my mom didn’t vaccinate is the same reason I chose to vaccinate—because I want to protect my kids.”
How science communicators can do a better job at discussing vaccines

This conversation was inspired by one of her Substack pieces: 📖 Read it here

To connect with Dr. Liz Marnik follow her on Instagram @sciencewhizliz, check out all her resources at https://open.substack.com/pub/fromthescienceclass and https://www.elisabethmarnikphd.com/.

Check out the PedsDocTalk Vaccine Guide: https://pedsdoctalk.com/vaccine-guide/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

0:00 – Understanding the Roots of Vaccine Hesitancy

3:09 – Fear vs. Mistrust: What’s Really Going On?

6:27 – How Systemic Bias Shapes Medical Trust

9:30 – The Problem with the “Just Trust Us” Approach

12:37 – Too Much Information Can Backfire

15:35 – Common Parent Fears About Vaccines

18:45 – Conversations That Actually Shift Perspective

21:42 – Validating Without Agreeing

24:57 – When Curiosity Builds More Trust Than Convincing

28:00 – Small Wins That Add Up

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Vaccine Truths from Two Docs

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of National Immunization Awareness Month, Dr. Mona brings back one of her most important conversations—this time with fellow pediatrician and vaccine advocate, Dr. Nicole Baldwin.

Together, they break down:

Why they vaccinate their own kids
What parents misunderstand about vaccine risks
The real stories of vaccine-preventable illnesses they’ll never forget
Why pediatricians aren’t “trained for half a day on vaccines” (and other wild myths that won’t die)
What families need to know to make informed, confident choices

This episode gets personal, practical, and powerful because in a world full of misinformation, hearing directly from two doctors who live this every day can make all the difference.

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breastfeeding Tips Pediatricians Don’t Always Share (with a Fellow IBCLC and Pediatrician)

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Think your pediatrician has all the breastfeeding answers? The truth is, most don’t and that’s not a knock on them. It’s a reflection of the limited lactation training in pediatric residency.

That’s why I sat down with Dr. Lauren Hughes, founder of Bloom Pediatrics and a double threat: pediatrician and IBCLC. Together, we unpack the myths, the mental load, and the real deal about breastfeeding support that parents deserve but don’t always get in those early days.

We talk about:

Why pediatricians often give confusing (or just plain wrong) advice around lactation
How the term “nipple confusion” creates shame instead of support and what’s really going on with flow preference
How pumping, pacifiers, and supplementation can all fit into a successful feeding planWhy protecting a parent’s mental health is just as important as protecting their milk supply

To connect with Dr. Lauren Hughes follow her on Instagram @bloomdcp and check out all her resources at https://www.drlaurenhughes.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro

03:08 – Meet Dr. Lauren: Pediatrician and IBCLC

05:29 – Breastfeeding Training Gaps in Pediatrics

07:57 – What Parents Deserve in Feeding Support

10:20 – How DPC Supports Better Lactation Care

12:11 – Why Pediatricians Should Also Be IBCLCs

14:23 – The Pacifier Panic: When to Introduce It

17:13 – Formula Stigma and Feeding Shame

20:11 – Healing from Birth and Feeding Trauma

22:30 – “Science Milk”: Reframing Formula

24:12 – How to Talk About Pacifiers (Without Judging Moms)

26:25 – Exclusive Pumping is Still Breastfeeding

27:58 – The Role of Policy in Feeding Goals

29:11 – Supplementing Wisely: When and How

31:15 – Pumped Milk vs. Formula: Stop the Math Game

33:18 – Babies Aren’t Robots

35:15 – The Problem with Overtracking Feeds

36:05 – Protecting Supply: What Pediatricians Miss

37:11 – Triple Feeding: What Actually Helps

40:33 – The Sleep Trap: Prioritizing Baby Sleep Over Supply

41:08 – Realistic Overnight Routines for Pumping Parents

42:54 – Twin Feeding Realities + Supply Building

43:34 – Time Limits at the Breast: Who Are They For?

45:46 – One Last Myth: Formula Before Bed = Better Sleep?

47:19 – Final Words: Your Worth Isn’t Measured in Ounces

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: The Trouble with Triple-Feeding

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Triple feeding (nursing, pumping, and supplementing) might sound like a solid plan on paper. But for many parents, it turns into a nonstop cycle that’s physically draining, mentally exhausting, and emotionally overwhelming.

In this Follow-Up episode, Dr. Mona talks with lactation consultant and author Victoria Facelli about why triple feeding is often recommended, why it’s not always sustainable, and what we should be doing instead.

They discuss:

The real reason triple feeding gets suggested so often (even by well-meaning pediatricians and lactation consultants)
Why it can feel like torture and rob families of sleep, sanity, and bonding
How to protect both milk supply and mental health
What responsive feeding really looks like—and why connection matters more than perfection

This episode originally aired in honor of World Breastfeeding Week, and it’s here to remind you: feeding your baby shouldn’t mean losing yourself.

Check out Victoria's book (now available in paperback) Feed the Baby: https://www.amazon.com/Feed-Baby-Inclusive-Bottle-Feeding-Everything/dp/1682689662/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Screens in Education: Balancing Necessity and Well-Being

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Conflicted about your child using screens in school? From iPads in kindergarten or digital homework apps in middle school we’ll cover how to balance the reality of tech with what your child truly needs developmentally.

I’m joined by Emily Cherkin, M.Ed., former teacher, author, and “The Screen Time Consultant,” who’s leading the charge on tech-intentional parenting and education. Together, we unpack how screens in schools have gone from occasional tools to everyday defaults and why that shift might be hurting our kids more than helping them.

We talk about:

How the pandemic accelerated a trend that was already in motion: more tech, younger kids, fewer real-life skills
What we’re giving up when screen-based learning replaces play, paper, and people
The difference between being anti-tech and tech intentional and how to advocate for your child without feeling adversarial

To learn your rights about opting out check out https://edtech.law/

To connect with Emily Cherkin follow her on Instagram @thescreentimeconsultant, check out all her resources including her newsletter at https://thescreentimeconsultant.com/. Emily also offers free monthly webinars: https://thescreentimeconsultant.com/events

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – From No Phones to Full Screens: A Teacher’s Wake-Up Call

01:09 – When iPads Replaced Pencils in Kindergarten

03:13 – Meet Emily: Educator, Parent, Screen Time Consultant

06:28 – Skills Before Screens: Why Development Comes First

07:52 – Big Tech in a Sweater Vest? Yep, That’s EdTech

09:15 – Kids Know How to Copy-Paste, But Not Type

10:34 – Safety & Inappropriate Access in Schools

11:06 – Pre-Screen Childhoods vs. Today’s Reality

12:08 – Is All This Tech Really Necessary in Schools?

14:09 – If It’s So Great, Why Don’t Tech Execs Use It?

15:15 – Learning Takes Struggle, Not Just Speed

17:15 – Libraries, Labs, and What We’ve Lost

18:29 – Kids’ Data for Sale? Yes, Even in School Apps

19:15 – Turning Down Big Tech as a Pediatrician

21:13 – Less is More, Later is Better

23:58 – Bring Back the Computer Lab

26:25 – Opting Out: The Power of One (Fish)

29:18 – Parenting with Intention in a Screen World

33:02 – Why Asking for Paper is “Revolutionary” Now

35:01 – Home Habits that Protect Kids

38:24 – Final Takeaway: You’re Not Alone

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: What Causes Picky Eating

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Most parents think picky eating starts in toddlerhood. But according to Jenny Best, founder of Solid Starts, the roots go much deeper and earlier.

In this Follow-Up episode, Jenny and I dig into the real reasons picky eating happens, what behaviors unknowingly contribute to it, and why feeding is so much more than just offering food. It’s emotional. It’s behavioral. It’s developmental. And yes—it’s totally fixable.

Together they discuss:

Why gagging isn’t always a red flag (and how it helps build skills)
The science behind chewing and why purees don’t teach it
How spoon-feeding past a certain age can delay oral development
Why how we feed is just as important as what we feed
The sneaky role anxiety and pressure play at mealtimes
What Jenny wishes more pediatricians (and parents) understood

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Early Puberty: Causes, Endocrine Disruptors, and What’s Actually True

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Do you know what a bone age is? If you’ve ever found yourself spiraling over early puberty headlines or wondering if plastic cups and lavender lotion are harming your child’s hormones this episode is for you.

I’m joined by Dr. Sarah Hart Unger, a pediatric endocrinologist, mom of three, and co-host of the Best of Both Worlds and Best Laid Plans podcasts. Together, we cut through the confusion and misinformation around early puberty, endocrine disruptors, and what’s actually backed by science.

We dive into:

What early puberty actually looks like including what’s normal vs. concerning, the difference between true puberty and adrenal changes, and when to seek evaluation.
Real vs. rumored causes like the roles of body fat, genetics, and endocrine disruptors like BPA and lavender without spiraling into fear or guilt.
When medical treatment is needed, when reassurance is enough, and why chasing puberty “delays” can sometimes do more harm than good.

To connect with Sarah Hart-Unger check out all her resources at https://linktr.ee/the_shubox

And enjoy our previous episode: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/i-wish-my-kid-was-a-little-bit-taller-height-and-kids/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro: Why earlier puberty headlines are everywhere 01:45 – Meet Dr. Sarah Hart-Unger: Pediatric endocrinologist and mom 04:30 – What is actually considered early puberty? 06:10 – The rise in early puberty: Is it real or just more noticed? 08:00 – Are endocrine disruptors to blame? 10:45 – The role of stress, trauma, and environment 13:10 – What “normal” puberty looks like across ages and genders 15:40 – Should you be worried about lavender lotion and plastic cups? 18:30 – What parents Google vs. what pediatricians actually test for 21:00 – What’s a bone age scan, and when is it helpful? 23:00 – When to worry: True red flags for early puberty 25:40 – The problem with over-testing and over-fearing 28:10 – Why Dr. Hart-Unger prioritizes calm, not panic 30:00 – Navigating puberty in boys vs. girls 32:45 – Language for talking about puberty without shame 35:00 – Helping your child feel confident in a changing body 37:10 – Final thoughts and what Dr. Hart-Unger wants parents to remember

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Kindergarten Readiness Is Not What You Think

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If the phrase “kindergarten readiness” sends you into a spiral of flashcards and phonics drills, this one’s for you.

In this follow-up episode, I chat with Susie Allison (@busytoddler), former kindergarten teacher and mom of three, to reframe how we think about school prep. Spoiler: it’s not about who can write their name in cursive or recite the alphabet backwards.

We talk about:

Why academic checklists miss the bigger picture
The real skills that help kids thrive in school (like asking for help and taking turns)
Why earlier isn’t always better when it comes to reading
How to raise kind, confident kids without burning yourself out trying to be their full-time teacher

Whether your child is starting kindergarten soon or you’re just feeling the pressure to “keep up,” this episode is your permission slip to focus on what actually matters.

🎧 Download, follow, and share this episode with a friend who needs the reminder.

📌 Want the full episode? Head to pedsdoctalk.com for more!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Problem Isn’t Just BMI: How Weight Bias Is Harming Kids in the Exam Room

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever felt confused, judged, or overwhelmed by how weight is discussed at your child’s doctor’s visits? Whether your child is in a larger body, a smaller body, or somewhere in between this episode is for anyone who wants to raise healthy kids without harmful messaging.

I’m joined by Dr. Tommy Martin, a physician, educator, and passionate advocate for reframing weight and health conversations with compassion and clarity. Together, we explore why BMI was never meant to guide pediatric care, how weight bias shows up in medical settings, and what parents can do to protect their child’s body confidence without ignoring health.

We dive into:

Why BMI was never meant for individual kids and how outdated growth charts still shape care today
The lasting harm of weight bias in healthcare, from missed diagnoses to internalized shame as early as age 3
How to reframe conversations around health without numbers or labels and practical ways to advocate for your child

To connect with Dr. Tommy Martin follow him on Instagram @dr.tommymartin, check out all his resources at https://link.me/dr.tommymartin

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro: Why weight conversations in pediatrics matter 02:10 – Meet Dr. Tommy Martin and his backstory 04:50 – Growing up in a larger body and the roots of weight stigma 06:45 – Subtle messages kids absorb at the doctor’s office 09:00 – Hurtful comments from family, peers, and culture 13:45 – Dr. Mona’s story: Smaller body, different pressure 15:30 – The impossible standards of body image 17:00 – Why pediatricians weigh kids and how Dr. Mona reframes it 18:30 – Dr. Tommy’s patient-first approach to weight discussions 21:45 – What BMI gets wrong (and how it still shows up) 25:20 – The harm of casual body comments 27:00 – Genetics, hormones, and the science of food noise 30:00 – The stigma and science behind GLP-1 medications 33:00 – How Dr. Mona talks to families about elevated labs without shame 40:00 – Why she never sets weight goals for kids 43:00 – Helping kids fuel for function, not aesthetics 46:00 – Modeling healthy habits in everyday life 48:00 – Weight bias in healthcare and missed diagnoses 50:00 – Long-term harm of labels like “obese” or “underweight”

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: My Birth Story Changed Everything

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Five and a half years ago, I became a mother.
But the day my son was born wasn’t the best day of my life... it was the worst.

In this deeply personal Follow-Up episode, I revisit the story that changed everything for me: my traumatic birth experience with my son Ryaan, the complications that followed, and how it impacted me as a mother, a pediatrician, and a human.

Whether your birth went sideways slowly or spiraled in an instant—this episode is for you.

I share:

The moment I knew something was wrong
What I experienced during 13 painful days in the hospital
How trauma shaped my identity, my anxiety, and my approach to parenting
The invisible grief many parents carry
Why birth trauma deserves to be seen, supported, and spoken about

If you’ve ever felt like your story didn’t “count” because you survived… this one is for you.

💛 You are not alone. Your story matters. And healing is possible.

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don’t Scroll, Stay Safe: Summer Water Safety Tips Every Parent Needs

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever assumed that being near your child at the pool meant they were safe, this episode might just change the way you see water forever.

I’m joined by Lindsay Mondick, Director of Aquatic Safety for the YMCA of the USA and a lifelong advocate for drowning prevention. We talk about what drowning really looks like (spoiler: it’s not like the movies), why so many tragic incidents happen with adults present, and how something as simple as putting your phone down can be the difference between life and death.

She joins me to discuss: • Why drowning is quick, silent, and often missed even with supervision nearby • The “Phones Down, Eyes Up” campaign and what every caregiver needs to know • How to build layers of water safety from swim lessons to life jackets to water watchers

Whether you’re a pool regular, weekend beachgoer, or backyard splash pad fan—this conversation is a must-listen for every parent this summer.

To connect with the YMCA follow them on Instagram @ymca; TikTok @ymcaofficiall; Facebook @TheY and YouTube @ymca. Learn more at Phonesdowneyesup.org

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – 01:18 Why This Conversation Matters

01:19 – 02:37 Meet Lindsay: A Lifelong Water Safety Advocate

02:38 – 04:35 The Pandemic’s Impact on Drowning Risk

04:36 – 06:14 Why Proximity Isn’t Enough

06:15 – 08:32 Active Supervision: What It Looks Like

08:33 – 10:16 Are Lifeguards Enough?

10:17 – 12:14 Strong Swimmers Still Need Supervision

12:15 – 13:41 The Hidden Dangers of Lakes and Open Water

13:42 – 15:53 What Drowning Really Looks Like

15:54 – 19:55 The Power of Prevention and Real-Life Stories

19:56 – 22:31 Swim Lessons: How Early Is Too Early?

22:32 – 27:14 Teaching Adults to Swim (And Why It Matters)

27:15 – 30:07 Bridging the Gap in Underserved Communities

30:08 – 32:04 One Simple Habit That Can Save a Life

32:05 – 36:15 Minimizing Distraction Without Guilt

36:16 – 39:10 Final Thoughts + Taking Action

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: The Science Behind Why Your Child Copies You

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

You’ve probably seen it—your toddler pretending to cook after watching you in the kitchen, or mimicking your sighs after a long day. It’s not just cute—it’s neuroscience. In this powerful follow-up episode, Dr. Mona sits down with educator Chris Lake to unpack mirror neurons, the brain’s fascinating mechanism for learning through observation.

Together, they explore how these neurons shape everything from crawling and speech to empathy and emotional regulation—and how everyday moments of modeling can support your child’s development more than any app ever could.

Whether you’re wondering how screen time affects speech, why your toddler copies your every move, or how to introduce new toys and skills more effectively, this conversation offers both science and simple strategies for parents to put into practice.

What You’ll Learn:

The surprising research behind mirror neurons and observational learning
Why our kids learn best through watching (not just being told)
How mouth-gazing helps with speech development—and why screens fall short
Why modeling behaviors like sharing and play matters more than we think
The link between demonstration, confidence, and child mastery
The truth about screen time’s impact on social and language skills

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Reflux Remedies: Exploring Craniosacral Therapy & Holistic Solutions

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever felt dismissed, overwhelmed, or unsure about your baby’s feeding challenges, this conversation is a validating, eye-opening listen.

I’m joined by Mallory Roberts, a licensed speech-language pathologist, infant feeding specialist, and craniosacral therapist. We dive into the misunderstood world of infant reflux including what’s really going on beneath the surface, why “they’ll outgrow it” isn’t always the full story, and how a holistic, body-based approach can change everything about how a baby feeds, feels, and thrives.

She joins me to discuss:

Why reflux is often misunderstood and why medication shouldn’t always be the first step
How feeding position, parental stress, and early body tension play a major role in symptoms
What craniosacral therapy is, and how gentle, connection-based care can transform feeding struggles

To connect with Mallory Roberts follow her on Instagram @thefeedingmom.method, check out all her resources at https://www.thefeedingmom.com/

00:00 – Intro

02:06 – What Is Craniosacral Therapy?

03:01 – Meet Mallory Roberts

07:45 – What’s Missing in Traditional Reflux Care

10:08 – Feeding Position Matters

12:14 – A Holistic Reflux Plan

17:47 – Red Flags for Reflux

23:10 – What Happens in a Craniosacral Session

28:00 – The Parent’s Energy Matters

33:13 – Where She Places Her Hands (and Why)

37:11 – How to Find a Therapist (or Learn Yourself)

41:23 – Final Encouragement for Parents

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: What Makes ISR Lessons So Different?

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

What’s the real difference between ISR (Infant Swimming Resource) and traditional swim lessons and is one really safer?

In this episode, I sit down with a certified ISR instructor to break down what ISR actually is, how it works, and why it’s not the “throw-your-baby-in-the-pool” method people assume it is. With drowning being the leading cause of accidental death in kids ages 1–4, this conversation is a must-listen for any parent near water.

We cover:

The history and science behind ISR
How ISR teaches self-rescue and survival skills
How it compares to traditional swim classes (including one-on-one lessons)
Why lessons are just 10 minutes a day and why that works
Common misconceptions: trauma, tears, and floating myths
What to look for in a swim instructor
When babies and toddlers can safely start ISR

Whether you’re a pool owner, beach-goer, or just a parent exploring water safety, this episode will help you make informed decisions and feel more confident in protecting your child around water.

Listen to the original, full episode.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why "They'll Eat if They're Hungry" Doesn't Always Work for Picky Eaters

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

“They’ll eat if they’re hungry.” This CAN be true for many kids when it comes to feeding and picky eating, but for some kids it’s not great advise. I welcome Dr. Taylor Arnold, a PhD, registered dietician, and founder Growing Intuitive Eaters and she is on a mission to foster a healthy relationship with food and teach adults how to talk to kids about food in a positive way.

She joins me to discuss:

Why this advice can lack a lot of nuance
When to know or be concerned your child may have an underlying issue regarding feeding solids
Why online guidance around feeding sometimes lacks necessary nuance

To connect with Dr. Taylor Arnold follow her on Instagram @growing.intuitive.eaters, check out all her resources at https://msha.ke/growingintuitiveeaters

00:00 – Intro

01:29 – Meet Dr. Taylor Arnold

03:45 – Let’s Break It Down: Why That Phrase Fails Some Kids

06:09 – Medical and Sensory Red Flags to Watch For

08:11 – So What Should Parents Do Instead?

10:56 – Red Flags That Signal It’s Time to Act

13:32 – A Pediatrician and Parent’s Perspective on Feeling Brushed Off

15:05 – Feeding, Sleep, and Behavior: The Pediatric Trifecta

15:58 – A Final Feeding Pet Peeve: School Nutrition Assignments

20:03 – Final Takeaway: If You’re Not Being Heard, Get Louder

21:54 – Where to Find Dr. Taylor Arnold’s Free Resources

22:55 – Dr. Mona’s Closing Reflections

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Unlearning and Re-parenting Together

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

This episode is personal.

My husband and I sit down for an open, honest, and vulnerable conversation about what it means to reparent ourselves while raising our son. It’s a raw look at how childhood experiences—good and bad—shape us as adults, and how we can consciously break harmful cycles for the next generation.

In this conversation, we explore:

✨ What “reparenting” really means—and why it’s not about blame, but awareness and healing
😡 How anger, yelling, and emotional reactivity from childhood show up in our parenting—and what we’re doing to change it
🧠 The long-lasting impact of body image comments, even when they seem “harmless”
📊 Navigating comparison, perfectionism, and pressure—especially in achievement-focused households
❤️ The power of modeling emotional regulation, self-acceptance, and growth mindset for our son
🔄 How we still slip up—and how accountability and grace keep us moving forward

This episode is for any parent who’s looked in the mirror (or at their child) and thought: I want to do things differently.

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being conscious. It's about healing. And it’s about choosing a more connected, compassionate way to parent—starting with ourselves.

🎧 Listen in, reflect with us, and share with someone who's breaking cycles too.

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parenting Burnout: Science-Backed Strategies to Thrive, Not Just Survive

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Ever felt like you’re running on fumes, snapping at your kids, or just going through the motions of parenting with no joy left in the tank? You’re not broken. You’re burned out.

In this episode, Dr. Flora Sinha joins me to break down what parenting burnout really is from a psychological and physiological perspective and why it’s so common (especially for moms). More importantly, she shares actionable, research-backed strategies to help you move from survival mode to a place of more clarity, connection, and peace.

We discuss:

The difference between normal exhaustion and true burnout
What’s not helping (looking at you, hustle culture)
How to find small but powerful pockets of recovery in real life
Mindset shifts and scripts to release the guilt and reclaim your joy

If you would like to listen to Dr Flora's the Beyond podcast series, receive her free newsletters, sign up for her REwritten coaching program, you can do all of that here: https://linktr.ee/florasinhamd

Follow Dr. Flora on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drflorasinha/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 Intro

03:03 Personal Stories + Signs to Watch For

08:20 Burnout, Depression, and the Guilt Spiral

14:23 The Pressure to Do It All

22:48 Micro Breaks, Macro Relief

29:41 Boundaries, Self-Talk, and Asking for Help

36:01 Starting Small + Next Steps

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Making Pumping Work at Work

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Returning to work while breastfeeding? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own either.

In this episode, we break down the essentials of pumping and transitioning back to work with your feeding goals intact. Whether you're just starting to think about pumping or already mapping out a return-to-work plan, this episode covers what you need to know to make it work at work—with less stress and more support.

We discuss:

🍼 Your legal rights to pump at work (hint: it’s not an “accommodation”)
🧾 What to talk to your employer and HR about before returning
👜 A practical packing + pumping checklist for the workday
🕒 How much time to block off (spoiler: 30-minute breaks are ideal!)
🧊 Storage, cleaning, and coolers—figuring out logistics for any job site
💡 When and how to start pumping before you return to work
💞 Tips for building a freezer stash without spiraling into oversupply
🧠 Encouragement for the emotional side—because this transition is a lot

Most importantly? We bust the myth that it’s “all or nothing.” If you need to supplement with formula, that’s okay—and you can absolutely still nurse at home and pump what you can. Flexibility is not failure.

Whether you're planning ahead or feeling overwhelmed, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and equipped for the next step in your breastfeeding journey.

🎧 Tune in and share with another working parent who needs this pep talk!

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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Zoom Out Parenting: The Mindset Shift Every Overwhelmed Parent Needs

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Is parenting starting to feel like one giant checklist you’re constantly failing?

In this episode, I introduce a powerful mindset shift called Zoom Out Parenting, a way to ditch the guilt, the hyper-tracking, and the unrealistic expectations that make modern parenting feel overwhelming. From picky eating to screen time guilt, wake windows to milestone anxiety, I explore why we spiral into perfectionism and how to step back and focus on what actually matters.

You’ll learn:

What Zoom Out Parenting really means
Why zooming in too closely fuels guilt and anxiety
Real-life examples of how to reframe everyday parenting struggles
The one question that can stop a parenting spiral in its track

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Welcome & Episode Intro

01:05 – Why We Need to Zoom Out

02:18 – What Zooming Out Really Means

03:06 – When Tracking Becomes Hypervigilance

04:04 – Guilt, Control, and Letting Go

05:05 – Zoom In vs. Zoom Out: Real Parenting Examples

08:03 – Development Is a Landscape, Not a Checklist

09:20 – The Cost of Always Zooming In

09:56 – Tips to Reframe in Real Time

10:39 – Zooming Out Isn’t Denial—It’s Clarity

11:03 – Intentional Parenting Over Perfect Parenting

11:43 – Final Thoughts & Takeaway

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Pelvic Floor Care After Baby

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever brushed off leaking when you laugh, pain during sex, or lingering constipation as “just part of being a mom,” this episode is your permission slip to stop normalizing what’s treatable.

I’m joined by a pelvic floor physical therapist who breaks down why your pelvic floor deserves attention—not just after vaginal birth, but after any pregnancy. We talk about how these muscles are essential to everyday life: from pooping and peeing to core strength, intimacy, and even your mental health.

You’ll learn:

Why peeing a little when you sneeze isn’t something to just “deal with”
The truth about C-sections and pelvic floor dysfunction
How scar tissue can impact your recovery—and what to do about it
Simple tricks to improve pooping and peeing posture (yes, even your toddler can benefit!)
Why lifting while holding your breath can be sneaky pelvic floor sabotage
What “power peeing” is—and why you should stop doing it

Whether you’re newly postpartum or years into motherhood, it’s never too late to prioritize this part of your health. This conversation is all about demystifying pelvic floor therapy and empowering you with proactive, shame-free strategies to feel better in your body.

💛 Know better, do better—and let’s break the silence around postpartum recovery.

Check out Dr. Sara's new book!

Floored: A Woman's Guide To Pelvic Floor Health At Every Age And Stage The definitive guide to pelvic floor health, written by pelvic floor physical therapist and creator of the Vagina Whisperer, Dr. Sara Reardon.

⁠Pre-Order Today! ⁠ Save 15% with code FLOORED:15

Listen to the original, full episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Allergy Tests: When It’s Needed and When It’s Not

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wondered whether your child really needs an allergy test? Or have you been tempted by those flashy direct-to-consumer kits, this conversation is a must-listen. Let’s tackle the rise of at-home “food sensitivity” tests, the difference between IgE and IgG, and why a detailed history matters more than any panel of results.

In this episode, I’m joined once again by pediatric allergist Dr. Dave Stukus to break down what parents really need to know about allergy testing. From food allergies to seasonal sniffles, we dive into when testing is actually helpful—and when it leads to confusion, false positives, and unnecessary food restrictions.

We discuss:

Why most at-home food sensitivity tests are misleading—and what to do instead
When allergy testing is truly helpful (and when it backfires)
How to tell the difference between food allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities

To connect with Dr. Dave Stukus follow him on Instagram @allergykidsdoc, check out all his resources at https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/find-a-doctor/profiles/david-r-stukus

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro

01:16 – Why History Matters More Than Tests

03:00 – When Should You Test?

05:26 – False Positives and the Limits of Testing

07:03 – Blood vs. Skin Testing: What's the Difference?

09:07 – Eczema in Infants: To Test or Not to Test?

11:01 – Seasonal Allergies and the Right Time to Test

12:08 – Myth: “Allergy Tests Aren’t Reliable in Infants”

14:20 – The Problem with Food Sensitivity Tests

17:13 – The Red Flags of Unvalidated Testing

20:07 – The Real Harm of Over-Testing

22:35 – Final Takeaway: Ask Questions, Follow the Science

23:27 – The Truth About Panel Testing

25:10 – Can You Test for Seasonal Allergies Year-Round?

26:05 – Where to Follow Dr. Stukus

26:53 – Dr. Mona’s Reflection and Wrap-Up

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: The Hidden Impact of Poor Sleep

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Does your child snore, mouth breathe, or seem “wired” instead of tired? Are they struggling with sleep—or is something bigger going on?

In this follow-up episode with sleep expert Dr. Shelby Harris, we dive deep into the connection between sleep, behavior, and diagnoses like ADHD. If you’ve ever felt unsure whether your child’s sleep issues are causing daytime struggles—or if the behavioral struggles are disrupting sleep—this episode is for you.

We cover:

🧠 How sleep deprivation can mimic ADHD symptoms
😴 When to suspect sleep apnea—and what signs often get missed
👃 Why mouth breathing in babies and toddlers isn’t “just cute”
🕵🏽‍♀️ The questions to ask before jumping to medication or a diagnosis
💊 A balanced, science-based look at melatonin (when it can help—and when to pause)
🛏️ Real-life stories from Dr. Shelby and Dr. Mona’s parenting journeys

Plus:
💬 How sleep quality impacts everything from emotional regulation to anxiety—and what to look out for at every age.

This episode is all about empowering you with information, not guilt. Because before we assume it’s “just behavior,” we need to explore what’s happening at night.

🎧 Tune in, take notes, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your child’s sleep. It just might be the missing piece.

Struggling with your child's sleep? The Essential Guide to Children's Sleep: a Tired Caregiver’s Workbook for Every Age and Stage offers expert tips and easy tools for every age and stage-so you (and your kid) can finally rest.

Written by three psychologists (Drs. Roth, Shale and Harris) who are specialists in pediatric behavioral sleep medicine and child psychology, this book is packed with information to help anxious kids and tired parents learn the necessary tips and tricks to help everyone on the road to better sleep.

Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

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Vitamin K Shot: Separating Science from Social Media Myths

Wed, 28 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Why do newborns get a vitamin K shot—and why has it become the center of so much misinformation online? If you’ve ever hesitated about this newborn standard, this is the episode that brings clarity and calm.

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Jessica Knurick who has a PhD in Nutrition Science to break down the real reason this shot is recommended at birth, the science behind preventing Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (VKDB), and where social media gets it wrong. From safety concerns to conspiracy theories, we’re cutting through the noise with evidence, history, and a healthy dose of common sense.

We discuss:

Why the vitamin K shot is critical for preventing dangerous bleeding in newborns.
The science behind VKDB and how misinformation spreads online.
Evidence-based answers to common myths about vitamin K shot ingredients and safety.

To connect with Dr. Jessica Knurick follow her on Instagram @drjessicaknurick, check out all her resources at https://www.jessicaknurick.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro and Welcome

01:45 – How Dr. Knurick Got Involved in Vitamin K Education

03:00 – “Eyes and Thighs” and What’s Actually in That Bundle

04:10 – What Does the Vitamin K Shot Actually Do?

09:35 – Is VKDB Really That Rare? Let’s Do the Math

12:00 – Real Clinical Cases of VKDB

14:55 – A Pediatrician’s Perspective on Preventable Harm

17:05 – Why Babies Bleed Without Trauma

20:20 – Shot vs. Oral Vitamin K: What the Data Says

23:00 – Compliance, Safety, and Why Simplicity Matters

25:10 – Advice for Parents Feeling Overwhelmed by Conflicting Info

28:00 – Final Thoughts and Where to Find Dr. Knurick

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: The Default Parent Dilemma

Mon, 26 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Ever feel like you're the one who just knows when the Band-Aids are running low? The one who remembers the pediatrician’s number, tracks school spirit days, and anticipates every snack, schedule, and meltdown?

You might be the default parent—and you’re not alone.

In this week’s Follow-Up episode, we dig into the invisible labor of parenting: who carries it, how it ends up falling on one partner (often moms), and what it takes to shift those dynamics without resentment.

We talk about:

What the default parent role actually is—and how to know if you're in it
Why moms in particular fall into this role (hint: it’s not just about who works more)
How cultural expectations of “intensive mothering” set us up for burnout
The slow unraveling of guilt, identity, and control so many of us face
Practical strategies and mindset shifts that help partners share the load

Whether you're feeling overstretched or trying to find more balance in your home, this episode is a validating, honest, and empowering listen.

Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why Food Allergies Are Rising—and What Actually Helps

Wed, 21 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Are you still hearing that you should wait days between introducing new foods—or that food causes eczema? Are you stressed about feeding your baby the top 9 allergens?

In this episode, I sit down with pediatric allergist Dr. Dave Stukus to bust the biggest myths about food allergies. We’re talking real science, not fear: when to introduce allergens, why elimination diets can do more harm than good, and what’s actually driving the rise in allergies today.

We discuss:

Early allergen introduction helps prevent food allergies.
Food doesn't cause eczema—here’s what actually does.
Vaccines don’t cause allergies—here’s what’s behind the rise.

To connect with Dr. Dave Stukus follow him on Instagram @allergykidsdoc, check out all his resources at https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/find-a-doctor/profiles/david-r-stukus

00:00 – Meet Dr. Dave Stukus
03:50 – Myth: Delay Introducing Allergenic Foods
06:23 – Feeding Should Be Fun, Not Fearful
08:05 – Are Babies More at Risk for Severe Reactions?
10:15 – Parking Lot Peanut Butter & Allergy Anxiety
11:01 – Benadryl vs. Modern Antihistamines
13:02 – What a True Food Allergy Looks Like
15:31 – The Truth About Food and Eczema
18:13 – The Exception, Not the Rule
22:19 – Eczema and Future Allergy Risk
24:11 – When to Start Solids for Prevention
25:08 – Why Food Allergies Are Rising
27:55 – Final Takeaways & Stay Updated

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: The Truth About Cry-It-Out and Cortisol

Mon, 19 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

You’ve probably heard the claim that sleep training—especially methods like "cry-it-out"—can flood babies with toxic stress. But is that actually what the science says? In this episode, I sit down with a leading developmental expert to unpack the research on cortisol, stress, and infant development. We cover how the stress response system works, what truly qualifies as toxic stress, and why common fears about sleep training may be missing important context. Whether you're team sleep-train or not, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and evidence-backed guidance.

Key Takeaways:

Cortisol is a normal, necessary hormone that helps us respond to stress.
Not all stress is toxic—especially when it’s brief and supported by a caregiver.
There's no evidence linking sleep training with long-term harm.
Misinterpreting small or flawed studies can create unnecessary fear for parents.
Sleep training, when developmentally appropriate, can be a positive and adaptive experience for both babies and parents.

Listen to the full, original episode.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠!

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We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Parent Strong-Willed Kids Without Power Struggles

Wed, 14 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Do you have a strong-willed child? How do you know you have one? Are you approaching their behavior in a positive way? I have recorded a solo episode about strong-willed children and power struggles and I always enjoy it when I can chat with fellow parenting coaches about it.

I welcome back Zack Kasabo who is a certified school counselor and parent coach. He was on the show before talking about how to encourage positive behaviors in kids without enabling them.

We discuss:

Misconceptions about strong-willed children and parenting strong-willed children
The power of “mutual submission"
The number one rule when addressing strong-willed children

To connect with Zack Kasabo follow him on Instagram @coachkasabo, check out all his resources at https://coachkasabo.info/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Modeling Cooperation
00:22 – Intro: Parenting Strong-Willed Kids
00:50 – Meet Zack Kasabo
02:28 – What Makes a Child Strong-Willed?
05:00 – Reframing Strong-Willed as a Strength
06:45 – The Problem with Labels
08:18 – Parenting Starts with You
09:44 – Breaking Generational Patterns
12:11 – Power Struggle Example: Clean Your Room
14:10 – Why Lectures Don’t Work
17:27 – Teaching Through Experience
20:21 – Start Before Grade School
22:02 – Don’t Ignore “Normal” Behavior
23:05 – Final Tips & Where to Find Zac
24:11 – Encouragement for Parents

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: What Makes a Marriage Work

Mon, 12 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this honest and personal episode, I’m joined by my husband, Gaurav, as we open up about what makes our marriage work—especially through the chaos of parenting, career shifts, and everyday life.

We talk about:

The power of balancing each other’s strengths and weaknesses
How we’ve navigated trauma, including our son's birth and postpartum period
Our nightly “State of the Union” check-ins—and why they’ve changed our relationship
What we’ve learned about love languages, communication styles, and unmet expectations
How we’ve moved from trying to “fix” each other to simply understanding and growing together

Marriage isn't always picture-perfect—and that’s exactly why these kinds of conversations matter. Whether you're partnered, married, or navigating love while raising kids, this episode offers a real-world look at building connection, even in the messy moments.

Want more? Listen to the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Expert Insights and Real Stories for Parents Navigating This Rare Food Allergy

Wed, 07 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

If you’ve ever felt alone navigating an FPIES diagnosis—or if you’re wondering what FPIES even is—this episode is for you.

I’m joined by Dr. Taylor Arnold, pediatric dietitian and mom of two children who had FPIES, and Dr. Manisha Relan, board-certified allergist and immunologist. Together, we break down what FPIES actually is, why it’s so often misdiagnosed, how it differs from typical food allergies, and what families can do to manage it confidently. Whether you're a parent seeking answers or a clinician wanting to deepen your understanding, I hope this conversation leaves you feeling more empowered, prepared, and less alone.

We discuss:

What FPIES is, how it differs from typical food allergies, and why diagnosis is often delayed.
Navigating food introductions, managing reactions, and reducing anxiety around FPIES.
Practical tips for daycare, social situations, and long-term support for children with FPIES.

To connect with Dr. Taylor Arnold follow her on Instagram @growing.intuitive.eaters, check out all her resources at https://msha.ke/growingintuitiveeaters

To connect with Dr. Manisha Relan follow her on Instagram @pedsallergymd, and check out all her resources at https://www.101beforeone.com/ and her new book: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Leads-Way-Evidence-Based-Introducing/dp/1610027620

Additional Resources:

https://fpiesfoundation.org/

https://www.fpies.org/

https://kidswithfoodallergies.org/living-with-food-allergies/what-is-a-food-allergy/food-protein-induced-enterocolitis-syndrome-fpies/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro & Why This Matters

02:00 – Meet the Experts

03:05 – What FPIES Is and Isn’t

08:20 – Hallmark Symptoms & Why It’s Missed

10:10 – Personal Story: Misdiagnosis & Learning Curve

15:00 – Diagnosing FPIES

18:30 – What Causes FPIES?

20:00 – What Parents & Pediatricians Should Know

23:30 – Figuring Out Food Triggers

25:00 – Managing Feeding Anxiety After Diagnosis

29:00 – Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies

32:00 – Practical Tips for School, Daycare & Social Events

35:00 – Emotional Support for Parents

38:00 – Outgrowing FPIES & What Comes Next

42:00 – Final Takeaways & Encouragement

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: How Phones and Social Media Impact Kids

Mon, 05 May 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this insightful follow-up episode, Dr. Mona is joined by Bill Brady—CEO of Troomi Wireless and a father of five—for a powerful conversation about the realities of kids and phones. They discuss the benefits of tech, the very real risks of social media, and how parents can introduce devices with intention. From self-esteem and screen-time addiction to practical steps for safe tech use, this episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the digital age.

What We Cover:

The pros and cons of giving kids phones
Why it’s not about a specific age, but developmental readiness
The impact of social media on teen mental health and self-esteem
Why kids today are facing an “always on” culture of bullying
How to safely ease children into tech (and what that actually looks like)
The importance of parental controls, gradual access, and media literacy
Dr. Mona’s take on being a content creator—and the mental health toll it can take

Want more? Enjoy the full episode at ⁠PedsDocTalk.com⁠

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising Kids After Watching Adolescence on Netflix: What Every Parent Needs to Know

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

After watching the Netflix series Adolescence, I was left gutted, moved, and full of questions—just like many of you who reached out. “I watched it. I was shocked. I was moved… but now what do I do with these big feelings I’m having and this information?” Whether you’re raising a boy or a girl, this show forces us to reckon with disconnection, violence, and parenting in the digital age.

In this conversation, I sit down with Ruth Whippman and Dr. Zabina Bhasin to explore what the show reveals about masculinity, emotional disconnection, and how boys are often left emotionally starved in today’s culture. We talk about parenting, school systems, and online influences—and most importantly, how we can start doing better for our kids.

We discuss:

How the Netflix series Adolescence reflects the emotional isolation many boys experience—and why it’s a cultural crisis.
How masculinity, parenting, school systems, and online influences shape how boys express (or suppress) their feelings.
Practical, compassionate strategies to help parents, educators, and adults raise emotionally safe, connected boys in today’s world.

To connect with Ruth Whippman follow her on Instagram @ruthwhippman, check out all her resources at http://www.ruthwhippman.com/, join her Substack: I Blame Society and purchase her book Boy Mom. Ruth Whippman has previously been on the PedsDocTalk Podcast: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/masculinity-and-politics-exploring-the-connection-between-gender-ideals-and-voting-trends/

https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/raising-boys-and-redefining-toxic-masculinity-and-how-it-impacts-friendships-and-emotional-health/

To connect with Dr. Zee follower her on Instagram @drzee_md and @listen2thekidz_, and check out all her resources at https://www.dr-zee.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 Introducing Guests: Ruth Whippman and Dr. Z – Experts on masculinity, emotional safety, and parenting.

00:02:59 Themes from the Show

00:06:06 Cultural Crisis

00:07:28 Emotional Starvation

00:09:43 Nature vs. Nurture

00:11:51 Raising Emotionally Healthy Boys

00:15:17 Cultural Messaging

00:20:00 Behavioral Conditioning vs. Biology

00:24:11 Friendships, Brotherhood, and Vulnerability

00:30:44 Teaching Emotional Literacy

00:35:40 Hope for the Future

00:42:10 The Need to Be Seen

00:50:11 Action Steps for Parents

00:56:00 Closing Reflections

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Vaccines, Trust, and Pediatric Care Across Continents

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this special “East Meets West” follow-up, I sit down with an inspiring pediatrician from India to explore how different cultures approach vaccines, public health, and the doctor-patient relationship.

We talk about:

Vaccine acceptance in India vs. the U.S.
How trust and education impact vaccine decisions
What India’s polio success story can teach us
The power of gratitude and connection in medicine
Why kindness matters just as much as science

This is more than a conversation about medicine — it’s a shared love letter to the families we care for, and a reminder that compassion, respect, and a simple “thank you” can cross any border.

Whether you're a parent, pediatrician, or just curious about how different systems work, this episode will leave you with hope and a deeper appreciation for the healing power of human connection.

Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Presence vs. Purpose: What Do Our Kids Really Need from Us?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode, I’m getting deeply personal about something so many of us carry but rarely talk about: mom guilt. After speaking at the Mom 2.0 Summit and leaving home with a sick child, I found myself questioning everything—again. Can I be a present, loving mom and still pursue the work that lights me up?

I explore the tension between purpose and presence, and how we can reframe guilt as a sign of how deeply we care—not proof that we’re failing. I also dive into the concept of the “good-enough mother,” the power of modeling joy, and why slowing down doesn’t mean giving up. If you’ve ever felt torn between who you are and who you’re becoming, this episode is for you.

I discuss:

Why mom guilt isn’t always a red flag—it’s often a sign of growth and purpose.
How modeling joy and ambition can actually strengthen your child’s emotional development.
What it means to embrace shifting seasons in motherhood without losing yourself.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Welcome and Why This Episode Matters

01:20 – Guilt, Motherhood, and the Summit

03:21 – Speaking to Moms as Whole People

04:21 – The Return of Finding Joy

05:08 – The Good Enough Mother

06:18 – Purpose Beyond Motherhood

07:46 – When Purpose Feels Out of Reach

08:36 – Modeling Fulfillment for Our Kids

10:20 – Wholeness is the Legacy

12:49 – Integration, Not Sacrifice

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: 5 Science-Backed Parenting Principles

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Aliza Pressman (@raisinggoodhumanspodcast), developmental psychologist, author, and host of the Raising Good Humans podcast, to break down her science-backed framework for parenting: the 5 R’s — Reflection, Regulation, Rules, Repair, and Relationship.

These five simple but powerful principles aren’t just theory — they’re practical tools you can apply to everyday challenges like screen time, sibling fights, and meltdowns. Dr. Pressman shares how these core ideas help build strong, connected relationships with our kids, even when things get messy.

We also talk about:

Why repair is more powerful than perfection
How to stay grounded when parenting triggers old wounds
What makes parenting advice helpful vs. overwhelming
How to parent with intention, not fear

Whether you're deep in toddler tantrums or navigating the teen years, this episode will help you feel more confident, calm, and connected.

Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com

00:00 – Welcome to The Follow Up with Dr. Mona

00:32 – Meet Dr. Aliza Pressman and the 5 Principles of Parenting

01:13 – What Are the 5 R’s and Why Do They Matter?

02:08 – Applying the 5 R’s to Real Life (Example: Screen Time)

05:56 – How to Regulate Yourself Before Setting Limits

07:02 – Why It Feels Hard—But Gets Easier

08:35 – Parenting Is a Long Game

09:13 – Finding the Balance Between Advice Overload and Chaos

10:39 – What the Science Says (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

11:48 – Developmental Nuggets That Shift Perspective

12:56 – When In Doubt, Come Back to the 5 R’s

13:07 – Final Words + Where to Learn More from Dr. Aliza

13:18 – Dr. Mona’s Closing Message

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fact or Fiction? Child Sleep Science with a Pediatric Neurologist and Sleep Specialist

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

There is a lot of terminology and misconceptions thrown around in the pediatric sleep world especially on social media. Can they self- settle? Are wake windows a real thing? And what about regressions?

I welcome back Sujay Kansagra who is a pediatric neurologist and sleep medicine physician at Duke who has dedicated his life to helping kids (and their parents) sleep better. He knows sleep and the importance of it. He was on my show before on an episode called Sleep-training: What the evidence does or doesn't say.

He joins me to discuss:

If genetics play a role in sleep and if there is such a thing as a “good” or “bad” sleeper
If “wake-windows” are evidence-based
If there’s a certain age we would expect a baby to “sleep through the night”
The truth behind sleep regressions

To connect with Sujay Kansagra follow him on Instagram @thatsleepdoc and purchase his book My Child Won’t Sleep: A Quick Guide for the Sleep-Deprived Parent

Additional Resources About Sleep:

Review of Sleep Training Data: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17068979/

Cortisol and Sleep Training Research Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27221288/

Short Sleep Gene: https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2019/08/415261/after-10-year-search-scientists-find-second-short-sleep-gene

"Sleeping Through the Night" Article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20974775/

Wide Range of Normal Sleep During First Year: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12563055/

Sleep Regressions and Data Behind Fixed Months for Regression: https://www.babysleep.com/sleep-advice/what-is-a-sleep-regression/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro

01:17 – Meet Dr. Sujay Kansagra: Pediatric Sleep Doc at Duke

04:38 – Do Genetics Impact How Children Sleep?

06:05 – Why Labels Like “Bad Sleeper” Can Be Harmful

08:06 – What’s the Deal with Wake Windows?

10:31 – Why Overtired Kids Have Trouble Falling Asleep

12:55 – Are Sleep “Crutches” Like Nursing or Rocking Bad?

15:00 – When and How to Phase Out Sleep Associations

16:33 – The Parent Sleep Guilt Spiral—And Why It’s Not Helping

18:05 – Social Media Pressure and Parenting Choices

19:30 – When Should Babies Sleep Through the Night?

23:04 – Is There a Minimum Weight for Sleep Training?

25:19 – Why Sleep Isn’t Just Sleep: Feeding, Temperament, and More

25:59 – What Science Says About Sleep Regressions

28:44 – Why Modern Parenting Creates Fear Around Normal Sleep

30:08 – Don’t Pathologize Your Parenting Journey

30:52 – Final Message: Sleep Is Hard—Even for Sleep Experts

32:14 – Where to Learn More from Dr. Kansagra

33:02 – Wrapping Up: Science, Sanity, and Sleep Confidence

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: Tips for Labor, Delivery, and Postpartum Recovery

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Whether you're preparing for birth or in the thick of postpartum recovery, this episode is packed with real talk and practical advice. We’re joined by Liesel from Mommy Labor Nurse (@mommy.labornurse) to answer some of the most common questions about labor, C-sections, vaginal delivery, and what actually happens after the baby is born.

We cover:

How to advocate for yourself during labor (without conflict)
Must-have items for C-section and vaginal birth recovery
How to care for stitches and prevent infection
What no one tells you about postpartum bleeding
Pain management tips and why you shouldn't try to be a hero
Why stool softeners are your best friend (seriously)

From grabber tools to emotional resilience, this is the kind of candid postpartum prep we all deserve.

Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com

00:00 – Welcome & Episode Preview

00:46 – Advocating for Yourself During Labor

03:04 – C-Section Recovery Must-Haves

05:28 – Postpartum Tips for Vaginal Deliveries

07:12 – How to Care for Stitches (C-Section & Vaginal)

10:28 – One Thing I Wish I Knew Postpartum

13:47 – Why the First 24 Hours Postpartum Are Wild

14:22 – Surprised by Postpartum Bleeding? You’re Not Alone

15:16 – Wrap Up & Takeaways

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Food Marketing: Myths, Buzzwords, and Fear-Based Messaging

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Buzzwords like “non-GMO” and “all natural” can make a product appear like a good choice but with confusing marketing how do we curb the overwhelm and make good food decisions for our kids? Whether you're navigating snack aisles or Instagram reels, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants real, evidence-based guidance on feeding their family well.

I’m joined by Dr. Adrian Chavez, who has a Ph.D. in Nutrition and Health Promotion, to discuss:

How fear-based marketing and social media myths mislead parents.
How to decode buzzwords like "organic" and "non-GMO" and make informed choices without the guilt.
Practical, judgment-free tips to build healthy habits for your family—without the overwhelm.

To connect with Dr. Adrian Chavez follow him on Instagram @dr.adrian.chavez and check out all his resources at https://dradrianchavez.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

00:00 – Meet Dr. Adrian Chavez

02:29 – How Adrian Got Into Nutrition (And Unlearning Misinformation)

05:14 – What Sparked His Social Media Mission

07:49 – Education vs. Debunking Online

10:00 – Social Media Fear Tactics and Food Shaming

13:12 – Is the “Healthier” Option Worth It?

16:15 – How to Spot Buzzwords and Misleading Labels

20:41 – The Reality of Organic Food Labels

21:00 – Marketing Tricks That Make Junk Food Look Healthy

24:05 – Why Education Beats Regulation

27:03 – Movement vs. Nutrition in Kids’ Health

29:07 – How Packaging & Characters Influence Kids’ Food Choices

31:56 – What Real Nutrition Education Should Feel Like

34:22 – Are There Hidden Additives in Kids’ Foods?

38:23 – Final Message: Start Small & Stay Consistent

43:05 – Where to Find Dr. Adrian Chavez

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Follow-Up: How to Handle Food Throwing, Hitting, and Big Toddler Emotions

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

In this The Follow-Up episode with the incredible team behind @biglittlefeelings, we're diving deeper into the everyday power struggles parents face — food throwing, hitting, biting, meltdowns, and more. I'm joined by Kristin and Deena to break down practical, compassionate scripts for managing these challenging behaviors without yelling, shaming, or losing your cool.

You’ll learn:

What to actually say when your toddler throws food
How to respond calmly and effectively to hitting and biting
Why trying to teach in the middle of a meltdown doesn’t work
The difference between setting a boundary and escalating a situation
How validating emotions can prevent anxiety and support long-term emotional health

Whether you're parenting a 1-year-old or a 5-year-old, these tools are grounded in developmental psychology, trauma-informed care, and real-world parenting experience. If you’ve ever wondered why your child isn’t “listening” or felt stuck in a cycle of frustration, this episode is for you.

Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Data-Driven Parenting: Finding Balance in Information Overload

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0000

What does it really mean to parent with data—and how do you do it without losing your mind?

Let’s unpack the power and pitfalls of data-driven parenting in a world full of misinformation and clickbait. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by studies, headlines, or trying to “do it right,” this episode will bring clarity, nuance, and a whole lot of reassurance.

Today, I’m joined by Emily Oster, an economist and NYT best-selling author, to discuss:

How data can guide parenting decisions—without demanding perfection or causing overwhelm.
Ways to navigate conflicting research, misinformation, and fear-based headlines in today’s media landscape.
Practical tips for building data literacy, knowing when to seek evidence, and trusting your instincts as a parent.

To connect with Emily Oster follow her on Instagram @profemilyoster and check out all her resources at parentdata.org

00:00 – Introduction to Emily Oster

02:49 – How Emily Got Started in Parenting Data

04:16 – The Promise and Limits of Data-Driven Parenting

07:02 – Sleep, Solids, and the Complexity of Parenting Choices

08:08 – Honesty About Data Limitations

09:02 – When the Data Doesn’t Exist

10:09 – Media Panic & Screen Time Headlines

11:27 – Building Data Literacy as a Parent

13:32 – The Rise of Pseudoscience & Misinformation

14:55 – How to Tell If a Study Is Legitimate

16:28 – Parasite Cleanses & Misused Studies

19:03 – Competing With Clickbait

22:27 – Vaccine Conversations & Honest Health Communication

24:25 – The Hope for a Nuanced Future

27:01 – How to Stay Informed Without Overwhelm

29:00 – Parenting as a Process of Figuring It Out

30:08 – What Really Feels Overwhelming

33:08 – Trusting Lived Experience Over Data Alone

34:12 – The Search for Certainty vs. Embracing the Mess

35:48 – You’re Not Going to Mess Up Your Kid

37:59 – Closing & Where to Find Emily

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is "Make America Healthy Again" Actually Helping Public Health?

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Is America REALLY less healthy than it used to be? Or is that just a myth?

Lately, the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement has been romanticizing the past—but was it really a "healthier" time? 🤔 Higher infant mortality, shorter life expectancy, and limited medical advancements suggest otherwise.

Today, I’m joined by Nini Munoz, Science & Risk Communicator, and Dr. Jessica Knurick, Dietitian & Nutrition Scientist, to break down:

The myth of the 'healthier past'—why public health was worse, not better.
Misinformation & fear-based narratives—how MAHA spreads harmful myths about vaccines, food, and disease.
The real problem with food policy—why fixating on seed oils & food dyes distracts from real issues like ultra-processed food and food deserts.
The wellness industry’s role—how influencers profit off fear with detoxes, supplements, and misinformation via predatory wellness.
What actually improves health—real solutions like healthcare access, school lunch reform, and food subsidies.

It’s time to stop falling for misguided nostalgia and start focusing on evidence-based solutions that actually improve public health. Tune in now!

To connect with Jessica Knurick follow her on Instagram @drjessicaknurick and check out all her resources at https://linktr.ee/drjessicaknurick

To connect with Nini Munoz follow her on Instagram @niniandthebrain and join her on Substack: https://techingitapart.substack.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 — Misleading Comparisons: Japan, Fluoride, and Health Outcomes

00:00:52 — Welcome to the Show: What MAHA Gets Wrong

00:01:39 — Fear-Based Distractions vs. Real Public Health Solutions

00:02:53 — Meet the Experts: Dr. Jessica and Nini Munoz

00:03:23 — Are Americans Less Healthy Now? Breaking Down the Data

00:07:01 — Why Living Longer Means Facing Chronic Disease

00:09:51 — Screening, Diagnostics, and Better Detection—Not a Health Decline

00:11:13 — The Missing Conversation: America’s Broken Food Environment

00:14:15 — Red Dye 40 & Skittles: Why This Isn't Solving Chronic Disease

00:17:39 — Targeted Marketing & Food Access: A System Built Against Low-Income Families

00:22:00 — Poverty, Policy, and Public Health Failures

00:27:01 — Lessons From Colombia: How Classism and Privatization Worsen Health Outcomes

00:31:31 — Vaccines, Autism, and Recycling Disproven Theories

00:37:08 — Why Some Pediatricians Push Alternative Schedules

00:39:10 — Predatory Wellness: The Business of Fear and False Solutions

00:43:13 — The Wellness Industry Formula: Scare, Distract, Sell

00:46:30 — When Wellness Fails: Who Do We Turn To?

00:49:10 — Healthcare Reform & Public Trust: Fixing the Root Problems

00:51:12 — Final Thoughts: Real Solutions for a Healthier America

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How Teaching Neurodiversity Helps Kids Understand and Embrace Differences

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000

Every child deserves to feel understood and included! Teaching kids about neurodiversity early fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and helps them embrace differences. By normalizing accommodations and shifting perspectives, we create a more accepting world where everyone can thrive.

Today, I’m joined by Laura Petix, a Neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, to discuss how we can build a future of true inclusion starting with ourselves and our kids.

We discuss:

How neurodivergent individuals, including children, experience the world differently due to variations in brain wiring.
That teaching kids about neurodiversity from a young age helps normalize differences, reduce stigma, and foster empathy.
True inclusivity means creating environments where accommodations are normalized rather than seen as special exceptions.

To connect with Laura Petix follow her on Instagram @theotbutterfly and check out all her resources on https://theotbutterfly.com/ and purchase her new book A Kids Book About Neurodiversity

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 – Intro: Why Every Parent Needs to Understand Neurodiversity

01:26 – Meet Laura Petix & Her Powerful New Book

03:13 – The Dinner Table Example & Why Neurodiversity Matters

05:32 – Shifting the Narrative: Teaching Neurotypical Kids Compassion

08:06 – Kids Are Ready: Why Early Conversations Matter

09:40 – Busting Myths: Common Misconceptions About Neurodivergent Kids

13:43 – The Cost of Misunderstanding: Impact on Mental Health & Self-Esteem

19:02 – Rethinking Classrooms & Playgrounds: Creating Comfortable Spaces

24:42 – Labels, Language & Empowerment: How Parents Can Do Better

36:22 – Laura’s Hope for the Future: Inclusion Without Conditions

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Help Kids Process Trauma and Feel Safe After a Disaster

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0000

How can parents create an emotionally safe space for their child when their home is no longer secure? Environmental crises like the LA fires have displaced families, leaving parents navigating uncertainty while trying to comfort their children.

Today, I’m joined by fellow pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, who experienced the loss of his own home, to discuss how we can support children in processing trauma and building resilience after life-altering events.

We discuss:

How parents can support children through difficult experiences by acknowledging their emotions, using age-appropriate language, and allowing them to express their fears and grief in a safe environment.
That acknowledging emotions and using age-appropriate language can help children express fears and grief in a safe environment
How to help them regain a sense of control and security after traumatic events

To connect with Dr. Harvey follow him on Instagram @happiest_baby and check out all his resources on https://www.happiestbaby.com and purchase his best-selling book The Happiest Baby on the Block

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

00:00:00 The Emotional Impact of Natural Disasters on Kids

00:01:05 Understanding the Grief of Losing a Home

00:03:06 Navigating Loss as a Pediatrician, Parent, and Community Member

00:05:46 What Helps (and Hurts) When Supporting Someone After a Disaster

00:09:27 Talking to Kids About Natural Disasters Without Creating Fear

00:12:05 The Power of Emotional Validation in Parenting

00:17:19 Helping Kids Cope with the Aftermath of Trauma

00:22:51 Encouraging Kids to Be Helpers and Build Resilience

00:26:22 Teaching Kids About Environmental Stewardship

00:33:55 Final Thoughts: Creating Connection Through Loss

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Top Reasons kids end up in the Pediatric ICU and how to manage health anxiety when you're there

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0000

No parent ever wants to end up in the Pediatric ICU; but we know it happens and we want you to be informed and know what to expect.

I invited my social media friend and Pediatric Critical Care Doctor, Dr. Anita Patel on the show to chat about the Pediatric ICU and what to expect.

We discuss:

The common reasons children end up in the Pediatric ICU and what to expect
The questions to ask your care team in the ICU
How we manage health anxiety as a pediatric ICU doctor and general pediatrician

To connect with Dr. Anita Patel follow her on Instagram @anitakpatelmd and check out all her resources on https://linktr.ee/anitakpatelmd.

00:00 Introduction & Why This Conversation Matters

02:00 Meet Dr. Anita Patel

04:10 Common Reasons for Pediatric ICU Admissions

10:46 What Happens Inside the PICU?

14:23 Navigating the ICU Experience as a Parent

20:27 Key Questions Parents Should Ask the Care Team

24:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents & Doctors

31:14 Balancing Medical Knowledge with Parenting Anxiety

35:16 Final Thoughts & Words of Encouragement

37:59 Where to Follow Dr. Anita Patel & Closing Remarks

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Surprising Factors that Impact Your Child's Dental Health

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Is dental health genetic, or can I help prevent issues? Can I pass cavity-causing bacteria to my child? When should my child stop using a pacifier or bottle? Does mouth breathing affect dental health?

This week, I welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a board-certified pediatric dentist, to answer all these dental questions and more. Throughout our discussion she encourages a balanced, judgement-free approach focusing on progress over perfection.

She joins me to discuss:

The importance of early oral care and developing good habits
How genetic factors and parents’ dental health affects children
Tips on brushing, flossing, prolonged bottle use and limiting sugar.

To connect with Dr. Ashley Lerman follow her on Instagram @pediatric.dentist.mom and check out all her resources on https://yourfirstgrin.com/.

Ask Doctor Mona: Toddler Tooth-brushing Battles

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Culprits of Cavities

02:03 Meet Dr. Ashley Lerman: A Passion for Pediatric Dentistry

04:00 The Role of Genetics in Oral Health

06:29 Can Cavities Be Contagious? Parent-Child Transmission

09:36 Diet, Nutrition, and Their Effect on Teeth

10:57 Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Bottle Use

14:45 Mouth Breathing: Myths, Facts, and Health Concerns

22:01 The Importance of Early Dental Hygiene Habits

25:44 Fluoride & Other Key Takeaways for Parents

27:49 Closing Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How VapoSteam Can Ease Coughs and Improve Sleep for Kids and Families

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Cold and flu season can be especially tough on parents, with sleepless nights, restless children, and the constant challenge of managing symptoms like congestion and cough. A humidifier, paired with soothing steam, can be a game-changer in making those difficult nights more manageable.

This week, I welcome Stacey Ishman, a pediatric otolaryngologist, to discuss the benefits of humidification and Vicks products like VapoSteam and humidifiers for improving sleep, especially during cold and allergy seasons.

She joins me to discuss:

The benefits of using a humidifier during illness
How soothing ingredients like camphor and menthol help create a calming bedtime routine for your family
That your child can breathe easier and sleep better with Vicks

To connect with Vicks on Instagram @vicks_usa and check out their products VapoSteam Core, VapoSteam Lavender, and Cool Relief Humidifier.

00:00:00 Introduction & Importance of Sleep During Colds

00:01:10 The Science Behind Vicks Vapor Steam

00:02:29 Meet Dr. Stacy Ashman: Pediatric Sleep Expert

00:06:40 Why Coughs Get Worse at Night

00:08:11 Is Vapor Steam Safe for All Kids?

00:14:03 How to Incorporate Vapor Steam into a Bedtime Routine

00:18:55 The Role of Humidification in Cold & Allergy Season

00:21:32 Final Thoughts & Takeaways

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When Sad Stories Hit the News: How Parents Can Talk to Kids Without Fear

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Talking to kids about the news requires honesty while maintaining a sense of security. Open conversations help build trust, allowing kids to ask questions and process difficult topics in a supportive environment.

This week, I welcome Rebecca Jarvis, contributing anchor at Good Morning America, to discuss how parents can provide age-appropriate explanations for real-world concerns while ensuring their kids feel safe.

She joins me to discuss:

The importance of honesty, security, and age-appropriate conversations about the news.
How she navigates being present with her kids while managing a demanding career.
How small positive actions can help us find purpose in uncertain times.

To connect with Rebecca Jarvis follow her on Instagram @rebeccajarvis and watch her on Good Morning America on ABC.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parent Yourself First: Break Generational Cycles for Better Parenting

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Unresolved childhood wounds can influence your reactions and relationships with your children. By breaking generational cycles and cultivating self-awareness, parents can create more empathetic, connected and supportive environments for their families.

This week, I welcome back Bryana Kappadakunnel, author of the book Parent Yourself First, to discuss how to combine self-compassion, accountability and intentional parenting to nurture both the child within and the child in front of you.

She joins me to discuss:

How addressing personal past wounds allows you to be a more present and empathetic parent
The need to stop unhealthy family patterns and break generational cycles
Practical strategies to nurture emotional connection and raise self-aware children

To connect with Bryana Kappadakunnel follow her on Instagram @consciousmommy, check out all her resources at https://www.consciousmommy.com/, and purchase her book Parent Yourself First.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Creating a Skin-Healthy Routine: Diapers, Wipes, and Beyond

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

My daughter struggled with diaper rash after diaper rash until I switched her to Coterie diapers. Diapers are on our babies’ sensitive skin 24/7 and finding a product that is high-quality, clean and safe will ensure their skin health.

This week, I welcome Jess Jacobs, the CEO of Coterie, to discuss a healthy skin care routine for your baby and how Coterie’s innovative brand challenges industry norms by consistently exceeding expectations in product safety and performance.

She joins me to discuss:

Coterie’s commitment to offering high-quality, clean and safe products designed to alleviate worries for parents
Her personal experiences as a mother including her kids’ sensitive skin issues
That it is important for brands to set a high standard for their products and to empower parents with clear and straightforward education about skin health

To connect with Coterie on Instagram follow them at @coterie and check out their products at https://www.coterie.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Masculinity and Politics: Exploring the Connection Between Gender Ideals and Voting Trends

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

There has been a growing shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics, driven by feelings of alienation from progressive narratives that often overlook and dismiss their struggles. The right has capitalized on this by promoting hyper-masculine ideals that resonate with this demographic.

This week, I welcome back Ruth Whippman, author of the book Boy Mom, to discuss how to foster emotional connections, have open dialogue and reimagine boyhood to help boys develop healthier and more inclusive identities.

She joins me to discuss:

The noticeable shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics
How the left has struggled to effectively communicate a positive and inclusive narrative for boys and men
That messages celebrating hyper-masculinity have resonated with young men, filling in a gap left by progressive movements

To connect with Ruth Whippman follow her on Instagram @ruthwhippman, check out all her resources at http://www.ruthwhippman.com/, join her Substack: I Blame Society and purchase her book Boy Mom.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Navigate Career Pauses and Balance Family Life with Intentionality

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

Balancing family life with personal ambitions is no small feat, especially when career pauses are part of the journey. Redefining success and embracing your evolving identity can be powerful steps toward personal growth—even during time away from paid work.

This week, I welcome Neha Ruch, the founder of Mother Untitled, the leading platform for ambitious women leaning into family life, to discuss the challenges and rewards of navigating career pauses.

She joins me to discuss:

Embracing and redefining personal identity during career pauses
The importance of support systems, self-compassion, and intentional choices
The evolving dynamics of gender roles in caregiving

To connect with Neha Ruch follow her on Instagram @motheruntitled, check out all her resources at https://www.motheruntitled.com/ and purchase her book new book: The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids--and Come Back Stronger Than Ever

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Six Ways to Raise a Resilient Kid

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

I believe resilience is about teaching children to handle challenges, adapt to change, and recover from setbacks while respecting their emotions. We can model resilience by demonstrating healthy coping skills, fostering a growth mindset, and helping children develop emotional awareness and problem-solving abilities. By supporting them through difficulties and validating their feelings, we empower children to face life's challenges with confidence!

I discuss:

How to model resilience and demonstrate healthy coping skills
That it’s important to encourage children to embrace their feelings
The need to promote problem-solving and support by allowing children to tackle challenges independently, while offering guidance and reassurance.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Mona on The Sakara Life Podcast: Raising Children Who Know Their Bodies

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025, I’m reflecting on some of my favorite guest appearances on other shows. New episodes will be back on January 8th! This past June, I had the pleasure of joining Danielle and Whitney on The Sakara Life Podcast, where we delved into pediatric nourishment and explored ways to help our children become mindful eaters.

During the episode, we discussed:

What it means to raise a child who knows their body-in terms of health, sleep needs, and food
Strategies for raising children with a healthy food mindset
The best language to use when talking to kids at mealtimes
How to re-frame picky eating and promote a positive body image for our little ones

Use code PEDSDOCTALK for 20% off the Signature Nutrition Program from Sakara

Check out the Sakara Life Podcast featuring “curated conversations that dig deep into the ancient rituals and modern research we can all use to build lives we love living”.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Mona on The Sleepopolis Podcast: Sleep Talking With Dr. Shelby: The Fourth Trimester and Sleep

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000

As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025, I’m reflecting on some of my favorite guest appearances on other shows. New episodes will return on January 8th! This past March, I had the pleasure of joining Dr. Shelby Harris on the Sleep Talking with Dr. Shelby podcast, where we explored why the advice to “sleep when the baby sleeps” isn’t always realistic.

During our conversation, we discussed:

Why getting rest during the "fourth trimester" can feel nearly impossible
How hormonal changes postpartum can impact your already limited sleep
Practical tips and tricks for actually getting some much-needed rest

Check out Sleep Talking with Dr. Shelby where “Dr. Shelby Harris, talks with experts and real people about the sleep challenges keeping them awake – and solutions that will help them get the rest they deserve”.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Help Reduce Risk of Serious RSV Lung Infection for Your Baby

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Did you know while hospitalization is uncommon, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of hospitalization for babies under 1? RSV season is typically fall – spring but can vary by local areas and today I'm sharing about a preventative antibody which can help protect against severe RSV lung infections. I'm joined by Shawn Johnson East and Dr. Natalie Barnett, Vice President of Clinical Research at Nanit, to discuss the importance of RSV protection for babies. They share personal experiences, including Shawn's family's journey with RSV, and offer expert insights on how parents can help protect their little ones during RSV season.

They join me to discuss:

How RSV is common and can be a serious virus for infants.
Beyfortus (nirsevimab-alip) 50mg and 100mg Injection, a preventative antibody that helps give babies an extra layer of protection against severe RSV lung infection for babies under age 1 born during or entering their first RSV season and certain kids up to 24 months. Your child should not take Beyfortus if your child has a history of serious allergic reactions to nirsevimab-alip or any of the ingredients in Beyfortus. Beyfortus may not protect all children.
That parenting can be scary but navigating the journey with monitors like Nanit, and knowledge of prevention measures for RSV can be empowering.

To connect with Shawn Johnson East follow her on Instagram @shawnjohnson. Visit Nanit.com to see their products and learn more about their research. For more about Beyfortus visit http://beyfortus.com.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

INDICATION

Beyfortus is a prescription medicine used to help prevent a serious lung disease caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in:

Newborns and babies under 1 year of age born during or entering their first RSV season.
Children up to 24 months of age who remain at risk of severe RSV disease through their second RSV season.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Your child should not take Beyfortus if your child has a history of serious allergic reactions to nirsevimab-alip or any of the ingredients in Beyfortus.

Before your child receives Beyfortus, tell your healthcare provider about all of your child’s medical conditions, including if your child:

has ever had a reaction to Beyfortus.
has bleeding or bruising problems. If your child has a problem with bleeding or bruises easily, an injection could cause a problem.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines your child takes, including prescription and over-the- counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your infant should not receive a medicine called palivizumab if they have already received Beyfortus in the same RSV season.

Serious allergic reactions have happened with Beyfortus. Get medical help right away if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:

swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue
difficulty swallowing or breathing
unresponsiveness
bluish color of skin, lips, or under fingernails
muscle weakness
severe rash, hives, or itching

The most common side effects of Beyfortus include rash and pain, swelling, or hardness at the site of your child’s injection. These are not all the possible side effects of Beyfortus. Call your healthcare provider if you have questions about side effects.

Full Prescribing Information: https://products.sanofi.us/beyfortus/beyfortus.pdf

Patient Information: https://products.sanofi.us/beyfortus/beyfortus_patient-info.pdf

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Personal Finance Expert Explains How to Navigate Financial Stress in Parenting

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000

There’s more to being rich than the number in your bank account, but finances are still important. Stress around money can impact our parenting, and kids are quick to notice. How can we talk to them about budgets and responsible spending without passing down our anxiety?

This week, I welcome Farnoosh Torabi, a personal finance expert, to discuss how to foster open and honest conversations about money with children and help them develop a healthy relationship with finances.

She joins me to discuss:

What inspired her ambition and shaped her understanding of hard work
The importance of fostering curiosity about finances in children
How being “rich” encompasses more than just financial status

To connect with Farnoosh Torabi follow her on Instagram @farnooshtorabi, check out all her resources at https://farnoosh.tv/ and listen to her podcast So Money with Farnoosh Torabi.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website. .

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Caring Across Generations: Grandparents and Modern Parenting

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0000

A new baby creates new roles…parent, of course, but also grandparent. A happy family dynamic starts with proactive discussions before baby is even born about the roles both parent and grandparent will have and everyone’s expectations. This week, I welcome Dee Dee Moore, a grandparenting expert, to discuss how to foster healthy relationships and promote open communication between new parents and their parents.

She joins me to discuss:

The need for effective communication between grandparents and parents
How discussing roles and expectations early on is important for a positive relationship
The pressures modern parents face from abundant information and social media

To connect with Dee Dee Moore follow her on Instagram @morethangrand and check out all her resources at morethangrand.com and get her New Grandparent Essentials Guide

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SIDS Uncovered: Facts, Risk Factors, and Safe Sleep Tips for Parents

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

SIDs is scary but research has shown us there are many ways to reduce the risk. We’ll discuss the “ABCs” of sleep and how evidence-based information can help reduce the number of SIDs cases there are. This week, I welcome Dr. Darria Gillespie, an ER doc and mom of three, to discuss how safe sleep practices can greatly reduce the risk of SIDs in your home.

She joins me to discuss:

Safe sleep practices including the ABCs of sleep for infants
How factors like bed sharing, sleep surfaces and infant age influence the risk of SIDS
The importance of using evidence-based data to inform parent choices and reduce anxiety

Books by Paul Offit

https://www.jpma.org/

To connect with Dr. Darria Gillespie follow her on Instagram @drdarria and check out all her resources at https://drdarria.com/. For more safety tips, purchase Dr. Darria’s baby-proofing course at nopanicparenting.com. Use PEDSDOCTALK for 15% off her course.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why Kids Lie and How to Encourage Honest Conversations

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Lying is a common behavior in young children, especially as they begin to explore their imagination and test boundaries. In this episode, I share insights on why kids lie, including developmental stages and emotional motivations. Teach how to respond with empathy, encourage honesty, and create a safe space for your child to tell the truth. Whether your child is exaggerating a story or avoiding consequences, discover practical strategies for building trust and fostering open communication in your family.

I discuss:

Why young children lie and how it’s part of their developmental process.
Effective strategies for responding to lying with empathy and understanding.
Tips for fostering honesty, trust, and open communication in your family.

The Three Things Every Child Needs from the Grown Ups in their life

To connect with Dr. Mona Amin follow her on Instagram @pedsdoctalk.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising Boys and Redefining Toxic Masculinity and how it impacts Friendships and Emotional Health

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Society wants us to raise our boys to be “tough” but boys are more complex and as parents we need to help them navigate the cultural pressures and protect their emotional well-being. We need to understand the impact of feeling inadequate and the importance of fostering empathy towards boys during their development. This week, I welcome Ruth Whippman, an author, essayist and cultural critic, to discuss how we can support boys in embracing their emotions and navigating their growth.

She joins me to discuss:

How boys face indirect societal pressures that discourage emotional expression
Why feelings of inadequacy regarding masculinity can trigger harmful behaviors, including violence.
The need to recognize boys’ struggles and foster a positive narrative that empowers them.

To connect with Ruth Whippman follow her on Instagram @ruthwhippman and Substack @ruthwhippman. Check out all her resources at https://www.ruthwhippman.com/. For more, purchase Ruth’s book BoyMom: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are there practical ways to prevent food allergies during infancy?

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Parents have many stressors and fears when starting solids: the mess, what to give, how to give it, schedules, gagging and choking, and allergies. The fear of allergies can make parents AVOID giving allergenic foods when that can actually be more of a detriment. I welcome Malina Malkani who is pediatric registered dietitian, mom of three, and author of the new book Safe and Simple Food Allergy prevention

We discuss:

Parental fears surrounding food allergies and how to overcome this
How we can reduce the risk of food allergies in babies
What it means to introduce allergenic foods early, often, and consistently

To connect with Malina Malkani follow her on Instagram @healthy.mom.healthy.kids, check out all her resources at https://www.malinamalkani.com/. Get Malina’s new book (pre-order until release on 11/12/24) Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention: A Baby-Led Feeding Guide to Starting Solids and Introducing Top Allergens.

Read about the LEAP study research from The New England Journal of Medicine and Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) .

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Struggling with intimacy after a baby-why it happens and what to do

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Intimacy after childbirth is…COMPLICATED.There are so many societal pressures for postpartum sex but what is more important is to have open communication about desires and readiness. We need to redefine sexual experiences beyond intercourse to include emotional connection and playful touch. This week, I welcome Dr. Tracy Dalgleish, a couples therapist, to discuss how healthy relationships positively impact parenting and what’s needed to reconnect with your partner post-baby.

She joins me to discuss:

Misconceptions about postpartum intimacy, such as societal pressures and readiness for sex
Why a strong partnership positively influences parenting
How to redefine intimacy to focus on small, meaningful moments

To connect with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish follow her on Instagram @drtracyd, check out all her resources at https://www.drtracyd.com/. Check out the two books Dr. Tracy mentioned: Come as You Are and Better Sex Through Mindfulness

Dr. Tracy's new book, "You, Your Husband, and His Mother" is now on sale: ⁠Order your copy here⁠.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From Whining to Winning: Strategies to Curb Whining

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Dealing with a whiny child can be challenging, often leading parents to feel overwhelmed. I emphasize that whining is developmentally normal and a sign that your child is still learning how to communicate their emotions. Instead of giving in to the whining, which reinforces the behavior, I encourage parents to adopt strategies to encourage better communication.

Today I’ll discuss:

How to recognize and understand your child’s triggers
The need to stay calm and to remind yourself that this is a moment that can be navigated without escalating
Tips to promote preferred communication
The importance of consistency

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is it OCD or typical early childhood behavior?

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Is your four-year old lining up toys? Do they love washing their hands over and over? Does your child get frustrated if routines are broken? Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a diagnosis we see, but not all behaviors are considered OCD. In honor of OCD Awareness Week, I welcome Michelle Massi who is a mom and a therapist (LMFT) specializing in working with kids, families and adults who struggle with anxiety, OCD and OC related disorders.

She joins me to discuss:

The definition and characteristics of OCD
If an “inflexible” toddler is a sign of OCD
Misconceptions surrounding OCD
Management strategies for OCD

To connect with Michelle Massi follow her on Instagram @anxietytherapyla, check out all her resources at https://anxietytherapyla.com/. Visit the International OCD Foundation at https://iocdf.org/ for additional resources.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Decoding Tantrums - Understanding, Navigating, and Regulating the Emotions Underneath

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

I have a shared love of child behavior and development with Alyssa Blask Campbell-CEO of Seed & Sew and host of the Voices of Your Village Podcast. She has a master’s degree in early childhood education and she joins me today to really get into the WHY behind tantrums and find more peace in the process.

She joins me to discuss:

The different sensory systems we have and why knowing your child’s go-to can help BEFORE and DURING a tantrum
How we can sometimes “over-do it” as a parent in the tantrum
Why AFTER a tantrum and moments of dysregulation are most important

To connect with Alyssa Blask Campbell follow her on Instagram @seed.and.sew, check out all her resources at https://www.seedandsew.org/ and take her free quiz: https://seedquiz.com

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parenting ADHD: Tips and real talk with ADHD parenting experts

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0000

October is ADHD awareness month and I invited Lori Long and Katie Severson founders of The Childhood Collective an online resource to help parents of children with ADHD. Whether you or your child has ADHD or not; we discuss some very important parenting strategies that you may find useful even if your child does not have ADHD.

We discuss:

What to remember about the ADHD brain and how to better approach your child with ADHD
Why some parenting discipline strategies like gentle parenting may not work with children with ADHD and what they may need instead
How to approach ADHD parenting with prevention versus consequences

To connect with Dr. Mallory Yee and Dr. Lori Long follow them on Instagram @thechildhoodcollective, check out all their resources at https://www.thechildhoodcollective.com/ and download their free guide: 6 Keys to Parenting a Happy and Independent Child with ADHD.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pediatricians: What do we REALLY know?

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

What does your Pediatrician ACTUALLY know? It seems on social media this is the narrative: “They have no education on lactation!” “They make money if they vaccinate our kids!” “They know nothing about nutrition.” “They know nothing about child safety!” “And why do they keep asking how my child is sleeping??!” I welcome Dr. Krupa Playforth, fellow pediatrician and mom and owner of her own practice to hash out all of these things and separate fact from fiction.

We discuss:

What pediatricians really know from our training about lactation, car seat education, sleep, and nutrition
Why your pediatrician cares about your child’s sleep
Misconceptions about pediatricians especially on social media (*ahem* We don’t get paid by big pharma to push vaccines)

To connect with Dr. Krupa Playforth follow her on Instagram @thepediatricianmom, check out all her resources at https://www.thepediatricianmom.com/ and purchase her book Eyes, Nose, Belly, Toes.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Encouraging positive behaviors in kids without enabling

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

As parents in the modern age; we want to undo a lot of the things that didn’t serve us as children and sometimes in our attempts to do better we can swing completely in the other direction and over-validate our children and enable undesired behaviors rather than encourage positive ones. I welcome Zack Kasabo who is a certified school counselor and parent coach.

We discuss:

What enabling of behaviors actually means
Why children are learning “learned helplessness”
What corrective validation is and how to use it

To connect with Zack Kasabo follow him on Instagram @mybehaviorguide and check out all his resources at https://coachkasabo.info/.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sleep-training: What the evidence does or doesn't say

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

There is a lot of division and polarizing views when it comes to sleep and things like sleep-training. Sleep training is not a necessity; but many families want to approach it and want to know what the evidence does or doesn’t show. I welcome Sujay Kansagra who is a pediatric neurologist and sleep medicine physician at Duke who has dedicated his life to helping kids (and their parents) sleep better. He knows sleep and the importance of it.

He joins me to discuss:

Terminology and what sleep-training is or isn’t
What data and resources we do have surrounding sleep-training and various methods
Misconceptions surrounding sleep-training

Resources:

Review on Sleep Training Data

Controlled Cortisol and Sleep Training Research Study

“Sleeping Through the Night” Article

Wide Range of Normal Sleep Article

PedsDocTalk Podcast Cry Babies: Cortisol Research and Secure Attachment

To connect with Dr. Sujay Kansagra follow him on Instagram @thatsleepdoc and check out all his resources at https://linktr.ee/thatsleepdoc.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Handling Infant and Toddler Sleep Regressions" on YouTube.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Change doesn't have to be so hard: A Five Step Framework for Navigating Life Transitions

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0000

We are constantly going through life transitions and as a new parent it can feel like it’s a CONSTANT. As your child develops, you are constantly going through major transitions as well. Becoming a new mom (or caregiver), maybe going back to work, your child starting school, health issues, etc. Change is constant in our lives but it can sometimes FEEL so hard. I welcome Dr. Krista Klein who has a PhD in interdisciplinary education, scholar, and mother dedicated to supporting other women who are navigating major transitions in their personal and professional lives.

She joins me to discuss:

Why change is hard and how we can take control of change
The “SNAP to Impact” framework for change and why it’s helpful
Why processing stress, burnout, and trauma is important in managing major life transitions

To connect with Krista Klein follow her on Instagram @drkristaklein and head to https://www.drkristaklein.com/ for more resources.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to start talking to your kids about SEX

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Early and open conversations with children about sex are important and especially key to start from a young age. Using proper anatomical terms avoid shame and foster safety. I welcome moms Mary Flo Ridley and Megan Michelson from Birds & Bees, who are helping parents stop feeling nervous about these conversations and instead find empowerment through their guidance and practice.

We discuss:

That open and continuous dialogue about sex and bodily autonomy helps normalize these topics
How age-appropriate small discussions and explanations are better than having a single, potentially overwhelming conversation like “The Talk” later on.
The importance of teaching children boundaries like “no means no” in all contexts, including sexual situations

To connect with Megan and Mary Flo follow them on Instagram @birds_bees and purchase The Birds & Bees Online Course - use code PEDSDOCTALK20 to get 20% off.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why we hate triple-feeding and what to do instead

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

If you have ever had to triple feed OR if someone ever recommends 'triple feeding,' you need to listen to this episode. Triple feeding is when a mom nurses, pumps, and supplements breast milk or formula, and IT IS EXHAUSTING and not sustainable. I welcome Victoria Facelli, a fellow IBCLC-lactation consultant and author of Feed the Baby, who is changing how we talk about feeding babies.

We discuss:

What triple feeding is and why it’s not sustainable
The problem with lactation education and how we got to triple feeding as an option in the first place
How someone can balance milk production, feeding the baby, and sleep

To connect with Victoria Facelli follow her on Instagram @victoria.facelli.ibclc and purchase her book “Feed the Baby”.

Follow me @pedsdoctalk on Instagram for entry information to this week's giveaway.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"They Called us Exceptional:" The downfall of the model-minority narrative

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

The model-minority myth is harmful to our mental health, particularly within immigrant communities. The myth promotes an idealized image of Asian Americans as universally successful, hardworking, and problem-free, which sets unrealistic standards and pressures individuals to conform to a narrow definition of success. I welcome Prachi Gupta to talk about the model-minority narrative and the impact it has on all of us and on the changes needed for future generations.

We discuss:

How her personal family dynamics led her to investigate the impact of the model-minority myth
The mental health struggles that come with pressure from parents
Why we need to provide acceptance and love rather than pressure and perfectionism

To connect with Prachi Gupta follow her on Instagram @prachigu. For more resources visit the Prachi.co or purchase her debut memoir “They Called Us Exceptional” on Bookshop.org. Hardcover copies are available now or paperback is available for pre-order and out in stores Aug 20.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Robin Arzón on Finding Joy as a Mom by Sharing the Care with Her Village

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0000

#PhilipsPartner Sharing the responsibilities during the fourth trimester is crucial, especially when balancing motherhood and a career. Prioritizing self-care while leaning on baby’s care team helps you find joy in everyday moments.

In this episode, I chat with Robin Arzón, a Peloton instructor and mother of two, to discuss:

The importance of maintaining physical and emotional well-being through movement, breath work, and self-care practices
The critical role of a support network in balancing the demands of motherhood with her career
How using Philips Avent bottles allowed Robin the flexibility to switch between breastfeeding and bottle feeding
And so much more!

Connect with Robin on Instagram @robinnyc. To learn more about Philips Avent and their suite of baby products that allow you to share the care, visit avent.com #ShareTheCare

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Red Light, Green Light foods: Why labeling foods as “good” or “bad” can do more harm than good

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

The Red Light, Green Light food labeling system has been around to categorize foods as good and bad and was initially created to support weight loss in children with obesity. However, there are many flaws to this system that can backfire when it comes to child health. I welcome Dr. Taylor Arnold, a PhD, registered dietician, and founder of Growing Intuitive Eaters. She is on a mission to foster a healthy relationship with food and teach adults how to talk to kids about food in a positive way.

She joins me to discuss:

Why labeling systems for food is not conducive to creating a healthy relationship with food
Why “talking less and showing more” can be a helpful strategy to encourage balanced eating
Phrases to avoid when talking about foods with kids

Connect with Dr. Taylor Arnold on Instagram @growing.intuitive.eaters and visit growingintuitiveeaters.com for more resources.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is my child shy or is it anxiety?

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Some children jump right into new situations, and some are slow to warm. But when is it shyness? And when is it something more? I welcome Dr. Melissa Giglio, a child clinical psychologist, author, and director of a private practice in Hong Kong.

We discuss:

How are shy kids misunderstood
The difference between shyness and anxiety
Strategies to support our slow-to-warm or anxious children in new situations

Connect with Dr. Melissa Giglio on Instagram @braverygrows and visit bravemightyminds.com for more resources.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why Strength Training is Important in Pregnancy and Beyond

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

On this show, I welcome guests to chat about parenting and parental health, especially maternal physical and mental health. Taking care of ourselves is just as important as caring for our children. On this episode, I welcome sisters Amy Kiefer and Krystle Howald, founders and creators of Expecting and Empowered. They join me to discuss:

Why strength training is important in various stages of our life
Mindset shifts and reframing to approaching strength training and working out during pregnancy and postpartum
How to build strength training into our busy lives

Connect with Amy and Krystle on Instagram @expectingandempowered. For more resources, visit expectingandempowered.com.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How Newborn Feeding Challenges Impact Mental Wellness in the 4th Trimester and How to Navigate

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

#PhilipsPartner The fourth trimester is hard for many reasons, and feeding difficulties can impact a parent’s mental well-being. But how so, and why do feeding difficulties play a role in our mental state?

On this episode, I’ll discuss:

How challenges in newborn feeding can impact maternal mental well-being.
Why we need to utilize our support system and #ShareTheCare postpartum.
How to protect our mental well-being AND focus on our postpartum feeding goals.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mirror Neurons: Why They're Important in Child Development

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Mirror neurons are one of the keys to child development. Our babies and kids are watching and observing us and how we interact with them, others, and ourselves. On this episode, I welcome Chris Lake, a young childhood development expert and educator, and founder of Behavior Booster, to discuss:

The science behind mirror neurons
How we as parents can use mirror neurons to our benefit in child development and parenting
Why modeling for our kids is so important

Connect with Chris on Instagram @behaviorbooster.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsors page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Co-sleeping to Independent Sleep: Strategies for Success!

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000

As a board-certified pediatrician in the U.S., the recommendations are usually independent sleep for a baby. But I know firsthand that many families do co-sleep and, at some point, want to transition their baby out of co-sleeping. I welcome Ashley Olson, a certified pediatric sleep consultant and founder of @heavensentsleep.

We discuss:

The biggest mistake parents make when going from co-sleeping to independent sleep
What “habit-stacking” is and how to implement
What parents may struggle with when transitioning to an independent sleep space and how to approach

Connect with Ashley on Instagram @heavensentsleep, and check out her website for more resources.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Is Sleep Training Harmful?" YouTube video.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Lessons A Father of 11 KIDS Has Learned

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000

I created this podcast because I believe we can learn so much through community and hearing people’s stories, whether we are experiencing something similar or not. I connected with Moshe Popack, a real estate entrepreneur, the co-founder of a national community gardens non-profit that serves to enrich and empower children, and the father of 11 kids.

He joins me to discuss:

The importance of “chief adaptability” as a parent
Non-negotiables to his family and relationship with self and his partner
What he hopes all parents would let go of as a father of 11 children himself

Connect with Moshe on Instagram @mpopack and listen to the Common Denominator Podcast. Check out the non-profit organization Neighborhood Farms USA.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The power of play for kids and why you’re likely overthinking it

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Does ‘playing’ with your kids stress you out? Are you overthinking what play should look like, or if you have enough time for play? Playing with your kids does not have to be stressful, and we’re here to take the stress out of it and normalize a few things when it comes to play. I welcome Tammy Schamuhn, a child psychologist and co-founder of the Institute of Child Psychology and co-author of the new book, THE PARENTING HANDBOOK: Your Guide to Raising Resilient Children.

We discuss:

What play can show us about a child
Why being bored and under-scheduled is important for kids
How and why play can look different in boys and girls

Connect with Tammy on Instagram @instituteofchildpsych. Check out the new book, and for more resources, visit the Institute of Child Psychology website.

Check out Dr. Mona's "Open Ended Toys: Best Kids Toys And Why" on YouTube.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Power of Practical Optimism

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Do you consider yourself an optimist? Although some people may be more optimistic than others, you can learn to foster an optimistic mindset – a key tool for parents to build resiliency and navigate the unexpected. I welcome Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist, cognitive behavioral therapist, and author of the new book, Practical Optimism: The Art, Science and Practice of Exceptional Wellbeing.

We discuss:

What is practical optimism, and how it differs from toxic positivity and pessimism
If there is a genetic component of optimism or if it can be learned
How some people survive, even thrive, despite profound challenges
The 8 Pillars of optimism and the 3Ps of pessimism
How optimism can help with dealing with the unexpected, especially as parents

Connect with Dr. Varma on Instagram @drsuevarma. Remember to check out her book and visit her website for more resources.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising inclusive kids: Why food allergies should matter to everyone

Wed, 29 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

May is Food Allergy Awareness Month, and part of that is recognizing that even if you or a family member may not have a food allergy, someone you know may have food allergies. I welcome Ina Chung, a food allergy mom, educator, and author of A Kids Book about Food Allergies, who is passionate about food allergy inclusivity.

She joins me to discuss:

Why food allergy inclusivity is important
Top 3 misconceptions people who don’t have food allergies have about food allergies
A four-step framework to safely include children with allergies in events such as parties

Connect with Ina on Instagram @theasianallergymom. Remember to check out her book, and for more resources, visit her website!

For more info on food allergies check out Dr. Mona's "Food Allergies and Kids" YouTube video.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it's not just typical postpartum adjustment but postpartum anxiety or depression

Wed, 22 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I am continuing this series on ways to take care of our mental health so we can better care for ourselves and our children. It’s common to experience some postpartum blues and adjustment as you navigate having a new baby. But when is it something more?

On this episode, I welcome Chelsea & Caitlin, founders of Mama Psychologists. They are best friends, authors, Registered Psychologists, and moms to discuss:

The line between normal postpartum adjustment and PPD and PPA
Postpartum blues
Signs of postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression
When to know you need more help and how to get that help

You can connect with Chelsea & Caitlin on Instagram @mamapsychologists. Check out their book, Not Your Mother's Postpartum Book and for more resources, visit the Mama Psychologists website.

If you are dealing with postpartum mental health concerns and need help, visit Postpartum Support International.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trauma Therapy: Why you may need EMDR

Wed, 15 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in honor of my advocacy for more open conversation surrounding Mental health, I will be featuring episodes on ways to take care of our mental health so we can better care for ourselves and our children. Therapy is highly beneficial, and various modalities are used. EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is an evidence-based approach that has been shown to help in processing traumatic events and changing negative patterns and helping people with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and OCD. I personally started EMDR earlier this year, and in honor of Maternal Mental Health Month, I invited Dr. Cassidy Freitas, who is a licensed marriage and family therapist who also does EMDR.

We discuss:

What EMDR is and the steps of EMDR
Who would be a good candidate
Examples of how EMDR helped me and Dr. Cassidy

For more resources on EMDR: EMDR Institute, Psychologytoday.com, and EMDRIA.

You can connect with Dr. Cassidy on Instagram @drcassidy, and for more resources, check out Dr. Cassidy's website.

If you are dealing with postpartum mental health concerns and need help, visit Postpartum Support International

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“But What Will People Say?” Breaking cultural stereotypes surrounding mental health conversations

Wed, 08 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Do you know the cultural differences that can exist being immigrant parents and the mental health issues that are unique? Whether you come from an immigrant household or not, this episode is a must to really dive into the cultural stereotypes that exist surrounding mental health and, subsequently, how we show up for our children. I welcome Sahaj Kaur Kohli who is the founder of Brown Girl Therapy (@browngirltherapy), the first and largest mental health and wellness community organization for adult children of immigrants, a licensed therapist, and author of the Book, But What Will People Say: Navigating mental health, identity, love, and family between cultures.

She joins me to discuss:

The difference between collectivist and individualistic cultures and why the distinction is important
Why diversity in mental health and parenting resources is important
What struggles immigrant parents have that may be unique

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dads can struggle with postpartum mental health too

Wed, 01 May 2024 06:00:00 -0000

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and just as much as we need to focus on maternal mental health, we also need to recognize that dads and non-birthing partners also can struggle postpartum as well. 7% and 9% of new fathers develop postpartum depression. I invited my husband back on the show to chat about postpartum mental health and mental health concerns in general in men.

We discuss

Why men and women can struggle with their mental health postpartum
Why men don’t talk about their mental health struggles or seek help as much as women may
The cultural barriers that exist that normalize seeking mental health help
How we’re raising our kids to undo this cycle of mental health stigma
How consistent therapy has helped my husband and myself

For more on postpartum mental health for all caregivers, visit this resource. If you are dealing with postpartum mental health concerns and need help, visit Postpartum Support International.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

East meets West: The differences and similarities of child health and parenting in India and the U.S.

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

India is home to over 1.4 BILLION people and over 470 million children. There are more children in India than our entire population in the U.S. so I needed to have a pediatrician to chat with from India! I reached out to Dr. Imran Patel, a Pediatrician in India, and one the most followed and loved Pediatricians in the world with over 4.6 million followers on Instagram and 1.5 million followers on YouTube.

We discuss:

If vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaccine sentiment exist in India
The cultural differences in approach to sleep and kids
How he wishes more families would approach feeding solid foods
What motivates us as colleagues a world apart doing similar work

Connect with Dr. Imran Patel on Instagram @drimranpatelofficial

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why Are Friendships After Becoming a Mom So Hard To Make and Maintain?

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Have you felt yourself drift from your friends pre-motherhood? Or have you found making new and meaningful friendships hard after becoming a mom? I welcome Danielle Bayard Jackson, a relational health educator who has made a career out of studying what the research has to say about creating quality platonic relationships. She also has a new book coming out called, Fighting for Our Friendships: The Science and Art of Conflict and Connection in Women's Relationships.

She joins me to discuss:

The three reasons why friendships after motherhood are so hard to make and maintain
Why having meaningful and strong female connections is important for our mental health
How to handle “passive” friendships
Practical ways to find meaningful connections with peers amidst the mental load and business of our lives

Connect with Danielle on Instagram @daniellebayardjackson. Check out her book!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 'Default Parent' Dilemma: Strategies for Shifting Dynamics

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

The “Default parent” seems like modern parenting terminology, but it’s a real role. It can sometimes be associated with feelings of resentment and overwhelm if it’s not communicated. I welcome Erica Djossa, the CEO and founder of Momwell and the author of Releasing the Mother Load: How to Carry Less and Enjoy Motherhood More.

We discuss:

What the default parent is, and how someone knows they’re the default parent
Why, in heterosexual relationships, have mothers taken on this role?
How couples can communicate better to share the mental load and roles

Connect with Erica on Instagram @momwell. Check out her new book!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 5 Principles of Parenting – Science-Backed Tools to Raise Good Humans with Dr. Aliza Pressman

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Do you ever feel you’re overdoing or overthinking parenting? Dr. Aliza Pressman, developmental psychologist, co-founder of the Mount Sinai Parenting Center, host of the podcast Raising Good Humans, and author of the newly released New York Times bestseller The 5 Principles of Parenting, joins me to reflect on parenting and discuss her new book.

We discuss:

How parents overdo it and how to keep it simple
The five principles of parenting that can be applied to many different situations
Why parents shouldn’t always focus on “getting it right”

Connect with Dr. Aliza Pressman on Instagram @raisingoodhumanspodcast and check out The 5 Principles of Parenting Book.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Three Things Every Child Needs from the Grown Ups in their life

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000

Struggling with boundary setting?

Wanting to foster secure attachment with your child?

Want a relationship with your child as they get older?

Issues in school, with peers, etc., and trying to find out why?

You’re going to want to listen to this episode.

I dive deep into three things children need in relationships with their grown up. Whether it's a parent, teacher, or other caregiver; our children want to feel safe, respected, and connected.

I dive deep into how this shows up in parenting and offer insight and stories as well.

I discuss:

How kids can feel unsafe in their home and how it’s not just physical safety
Why one-way respect parenting is outdated and why we have to respect our kids for them to respect us
How to build secure attachment and why it’s needed

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The BEST Conversation With My Four-Year-Old!

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000

This is a completely impromptu episode I had to release because it shares my love for all children (and, of course, my kiddos) with all of you! My son, Ryaan, is four years old and loves playing with my podcast mic. So, the other day after preschool, I had him join me for a conversation.

We talk about normal four-year-old things!

Car washes
Favorite foods and vegetables
What makes us feel better when we’re sad
And, of course, we sing a song from Frozen

This episode is kid-friendly, and I encourage you to listen to it with your toddlers or preschoolers!

Disclaimer: the word penis is said because we teach our son anatomic body parts, and it came up in this impromptu conversation!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising Brave Kids: How and how much should I push my child?

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0000

The goal of parenting should be to foster the growth and development of the child in front of us, and part of this is guiding them through experiences and things that may make them more anxious. I welcome Dr. Melissa Giglio, a child clinical psychologist, author, and director of a private practice in Hong Kong.

We discuss:

How we can nurture bravery and confidence in our children
Strategies to “push’ our child in healthy ways
Ways to validate their experience as they grow through new situations

For more about Dr. Melissa Giglio, check out her website Bravemightyminds.com.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Balancing the Benefits and Concerns of Kids and Phones

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0000

We live in a digital age, and at some point, our children will have access to phones, but it is our responsibility as parents to balance the benefits and risks of phone use. I welcome Bill Brady, who is the CEO and Co-founder of Troomi Wireless, a mobile phone platform designed to improve kids’ mental health through a safe and balanced relationship with technology.

We discuss:

The benefits and risks of allowing our child to have a phone for use
Is there a magical age at which they should be allowed a phone?
How to create healthy boundaries with access to a phone and safety and other activities

For more check out Dr. Mona's "Is Screen Time Harmful?" video on YouTube.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is it Sleep Apnea, ADHD, or Lack of Parental Sleep Boundaries?

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Sleep apnea and ADHD can greatly impact sleep, but are often not discussed when discussing a sleep quality evaluation. On this episode, I welcome back Dr. Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist who is board-certified and specializes in behavioral sleep medicine.

We discuss:

How sleep apnea and ADHD affect your child’s sleep and behavior
When to be concerned about your child’s sleep
Is it parenting or something more?

Connect on Instagram @sleepdocshelby

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why Connection is The Core of Finding Joy As a Parent

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000

“Finding Joy” episodes on this podcast tackle more than just parenting topics, but real-life mindfulness topics to be the best version of ourselves so we can better show up for ourselves and the people in our life. In this episode, I discuss connection.

What exactly is connection?
Why is connection with self so important?
How to incorporate meaningful connections in our busy lives.
How to know if you’re feeling disconnected with yourself.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy: Jennifer Gates Nassar on Paving Her Own Path

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Jennifer Gates Nassar is the eldest daughter of Bill and Melinda French Gates. She has grown up with privilege but is paving her own path as a medical student and soon-to-be doctor and mother. For this Finding Joy episode, I welcome her on to discuss:

How her parents instilled work ethic and grit in her despite growing up with privilege
The single most important thing her parents did in raising her that she’s grateful for
How she’s found her own identity and calling
What she hopes her daughter sees in her as she grows up

Follow Jenn on Instagram @jenngatesnassar

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Starting Solids and Picky Eating: A Conversation with Solid Starts founder Jenny Best

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Solid Starts was founded in 2020 to revolutionize the way we feed our babies and toddlers. Their FREE first food database provides nutrition information and preparation information for the foods we eat and how we can make it accessible and safe for babies to eat from the time they start solids. I welcome the founder of Solid Starts, Jenny Best, to talk about Solid Starts and feeding babies and toddlers.

We discuss:

How we as parents and our parenting style can impact feeding
Why feeding is an incredibly important milestone
Why self-feeding is important for babies

You can also watch this episode on YouTube!

Check out all the Solid Starts resources: Free First Foods Database, Solid Starts App, Starting Solids Bundle

Connect on Instagram @solidstarts

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What exactly causes childhood trauma?

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Childhood trauma has unfortunately become a buzzword across social media where sometimes things are labeled as “trauma” that may not exactly be. Or maybe a parent is inadvertently doing something that can lead to trauma. On this episode I welcome Kobe Campbell, a licensed trauma therapist and author, to discuss :

What is the definition of childhood trauma
How not all crying is trauma
How to ask yourself if something you’re doing is traumatizing your child
Holding your child for vaccines, giving meds, brushing teeth. Is this trauma?
Sleep-training-Is this trauma?

Check out Kobe's website at kobecampbell.com or connect on Instagram @kobecampbell_

For more check out Dr. Mona's "Is Sleep Training Harmful?" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why we shouldn’t put “sweets" and "treats” on a pedestal

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000

Sweet and treats are part of our lives. Even if we may not eat a lot of them in our home; our children will be exposed to these foods in school and at parties and it’s important we don’t put sweets and treats on a pedestal. I invite Jennifer Anderson, a registered dietitian and founder of Kids Eat in Color.

We discuss:

How we put food on pedestals
What it means to have a healthy relationship with food
Why labeling of foods as “good” or “bad” can backfire

Find out more about Kids Eat in Color at kidseatincolor.com or connect on Instagram @kids.eat.in.color

For more check out Dr. Mona's "Stop Doing This When Talking About Food" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy: Letting Go Of Control

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0000

It’s 2024: And the goal of this year for my community and listeners is learning to “let it go” for the things that are not serving us or blocking our joy.

I discuss:

Why controlling tendencies can occur especially in motherhood
Why motherhood is the ultimate struggle for those of us who grew up loving control
How control looks like in motherhood
Ten steps to learn to let go of control

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parenting is hard enough: Why are we making it harder?

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000

In this final episode of 2023, I welcome my husband, Gaurav, to chat about how we as a generation are making parenting harder on ourselves. He has joined me for two episodes already about Marriage and Parenting and Re-Parenting ourselves as we parent our children and on this episode we discuss:

How we can tap back into our intuition as parents
How we have created a skewed view of success as parents
How we can simplify parenting again

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Skills kids learn from traveling

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Traveling with kids can feel overwhelming, but it does provide many benefits to kids and your family. I welcome Preethi Harbuck who is a mom of six, avid traveler, and creator of @localpassportfamily a blog and social media platform to support families as they travel to discuss:

How travel changes our kid’s world for the better
What they learn by travel (both locally and internationally)
The one thing not to forget when traveling with kids

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Tips for Traveling with Toddlers" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are Time-outs OUT in parenting?

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Time-Outs get a bad rap on social media, however when done correctly they can be effective for some children. On this episode, I welcome Dr Jenicka Engler, developmental neuropsychologist, clinical scientist, and mom to discuss:

Why Time-outs get a bad rap
When time-outs can be effective
When NOT to use time-outs
How parents misuse time outs

Find Dr. Jenicka on Instagram @drjenicka

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to involve kids in routine to create a clutter free home

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Keeping your home clutter free and “tidy” doesn’t have to be a scary task and you can utilize your children in developmentally appropriate ways to do it. I welcome Tyler Moore known as @tidydad on Instagram, who is a teacher, father of three, and writer who helps families find a rhythm, system, and routine to complement the current state of life that they’re in.

We discuss:

How to incorporate our kids into household routines
Why chores don’t need to be rewarded
Tips for things like getting out of the house or tidying up toys

Find out more about Tyler Moore at thetidydad.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest @tidydad

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy: Overcoming Weight and percentile anxiety for my daughter

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

I have spoken about weight and percentile anxiety many times both on my social media channels and on this podcast and now I am experiencing it. On this episode, I get candid about percentile anxiety and how it impacted my postpartum.

I discuss:

How my percentile anxiety negatively impacted me postpartum
How anxiety over my daughter’s weight led to her having temporary feeding aversions
How to manage percentile and weight anxiety
What it means to look at the big picture when it comes to weight gain

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Your Parenting Path with Artist Brooke Ring

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0000

#PhilipsPartner

Today on the podcast, we're joined by artist Brooke Ring, in collaboration with Philips Avent's Parent's Path Art Collection. We'll explore how art aided her postpartum journey and the positive effects of creative outlets on mental health. The Philips Avent's Parent's Path Art Collection features custom artwork by mom artists, highlighting their motherhood experiences with self-expression, self-care, and a community support for new parents. #ParentYourWay

To enter the Philips Avent giveaway, offering you the chance to win $500 of Philips Avent products, follow @PhilipsAvent on Instagram, and then share a picture of your personal parenting path using hashtag #AParentsPath before November 15th for a chance to win. Terms and Conditions apply and can be found at Philips Avent's link in bio on their Instagram page.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does independent sleep need to be taught?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Independent sleep? Co-sleeping? Parental assistance with sleep? There are a lot of opinions all over the place. On this episode, I welcome Dr Shelby Harris, a licensed clinical psychologist who is board certified and specializing in behavioral sleep medicine to discuss if there is an age where a child needs to be taught independent sleep if they haven’t learned it on their own.

We discuss:

The age or signs that independent sleep skills need to be taught
Common concerns for an older child who isn’t able to fall asleep or connect sleep cycles on their own
Where to begin with approaching independent sleep skills with a child who hasn’t

Find out more about Dr. Shelby Harris and her book “The Women’s Guide to Overcoming Insomnia” at drshelbyharris.com or connect on Instagram or TikTok @SleepDocShelby

For more on sleep issues watch Dr. Mona's "Handling Infant and Toddler Sleep Regressions" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Partner resentment in motherhood and how to overcome

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000

On this show, you will find guidance on all things parenting, health, and development for our kids AND important conversations surrounding parental mental health and communication. Part of this conversation is around resentment that may happen with partners after having children.

On this episode, I welcome Ashurina Ream - a licensed clinical psychologist, mom, and founder of Psyched Mommy. She joins me to discuss:

Why partner resentment can happen
How to communicate with your partner to avoid the snowball effect of resentment
Why handling resentment is important for the entire family

Learn more about Dr Ashurina Ream and Psyched Mommy at psychedmommy.com or connect on Instagram @psychedmommy

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why you may want to see that Pelvic floor PT after having kids

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy is still a relatively unknown specialty and yet it is incredibly important. On this podcast, we discuss parenting and child health and development, but also health and mental health for caregivers. And pelvic floor health is part of that! I welcome Dr. Sara Reardon, a pelvic floor physical therapist who was recently featured in TIME magazine, and founder of @the.vagina.whisperer

She joins me to discuss:

Why pelvic floor PT may be beneficial to you
How pregnancy (and not just delivery) impact the pelvic floor
How to find a pelvic floor PT
Tips on pooping and peeing during pregnancy and postpartum that can save your pelvic floor

Learn more about Dr. Sarah and how to take care of your pelvic floor at TheVagWhisperer.com or follow on Instagram @the.vagina.whisperer

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rewards and threats: how they shape a young brain

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0000

What is the science of rewards and threats to the brain, especially to the child's brain? On this episode, I welcome Dr. Loretta Breuning, an author and Founder of the Inner Mammal Institute, to discuss :

How rewards and threats shape the young brain
How to build healthy reward pathways in your kids
Why yelling, pleading, and bribes can create reward systems and why we want to limit these things

Silverette

Join me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order!

Find out what The Inner Mammal Institute has to offer at InnerMammalInstitute.org and see Videos, podcasts, books, blogs, multimedia, a training program, and a free five-day happy-chemical jumpstart.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The connection between the lack of postpartum sleep and postpartum depression

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Sleep deprivation postpartum (and in general) has a deep impact on our mental health. On this episode, I welcome Dr. Harvey Karp who is a world renowned pediatrician and child development expert. He is the co-founder and CEO of Happiest Baby and the creator of SNOO Smart Sleeper. He is also the author of the best-selling parenting guides The Happiest Baby on the Block and The Happiest Toddler on the Block.

We discuss:

How sleep and mental health go hand in hand especially for new parents
Why the fourth trimester can be difficult for new parents
What parents really need in that fourth trimester to feel and do their best

Silverette

Join me and countless other moms who have experienced the incredible difference Silverette Silver Cups can make. Just place them over your nipples in-between breastfeeding, and let them work their magic. The silver cups protect, soothe, and promote healing, all while letting your skin breathe. Remember to buy only the original and authentic Silverette. Visit their website today at Silveretteusa.com and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save 10% off your order!

Find out more about Harvey and the SNOO Smart Sleeper at happiestbaby.com or connect on Instagram @happiest_baby

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tips to De-escalating a tantrum

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We’ve all been there. TANTRUMS. But, there is a way to de-escalate a tantrum and it involves us to be ready to do it. On this episode I welcome Chris Lake, a young childhood development expert and educator and founder of Behavior Booster to discuss:

The L.A.K.E Method of de-escalating tantrums
Why you play a huge role in behavior modification
What not to do during a tantrum

Silverette

Find out more about Chris Lake and Community for a Cause at communityforacause.org or connect on Instagram @community_for_a_cause.

Read Chris Lake's Book: Help Your Toddler Meet Their Milestones: 101 Behavior Hacks

For more on tantrums watch Dr. Mona's "Toddler Tantrums in Public: Tips on Prevention and Management" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What to do when picky eating persists past toddlerhood

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Picky eating is a very common phase children go through, but what happens when it goes past what’s “normal” and persists past toodlerhood? I welcome Jennifer Friedman, Registered Pediatric Dietician and picky eating expert, and founder of @feedingpickyeaters to discuss:

How our mindset impacts if a picky eater will try new food
How to use child-based play to introduce new foods
How to bridge preferences with new food exposure

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Does Spoon-Feeding Create Picky Eaters?" video on YouTube.

Silverette

Little Spoon

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Learn more about Jennifer Friedman and Feeding Picky Eaters at jennyfriedmannutrition.com, Instagram and Pinterest @feedingpickyeaters

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The things they don't teach you about breastfeeding in the hospital

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Breastfeeding is not always as straightforward as some may say. And part of this is managing expectations on what to expect at the hospital in terms of breastfeeding education. On this episode I welcome Kelly Kendall, a nurse, IBCLC, a founder of the @balancedboob to discuss structural limitations of breastfeeding education in hospitals. We discuss:

Why we can’t rely on learning everything we need to know about breastfeeding in a hospital
Top tips for setting yourself up for success in early days of breastfeeding in the hospital
How to best prepare if you want to breastfeed your newborn

For more watch Dr. Mona's "The Worst Breast-Feeding Tip" video on YouTube.

Silverette

Little Spoon

Sign up to Kelly's breastfeeding course Boob School and more on her website thebalancedboob.com or connect on Instagram @thebalancedboob

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Being a mindful mama when everything around you is a dumpster fire

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Mindfulness seems to be the IT word lately, but why does it feel so daunting and overwhelming? I welcome Helene Kusman who is a mom, yoga teacher, reiki healer, with a masters in education to discuss how to be a mindful mama and why it helps us in a chaotic world.

We discuss:

Misconceptions about mindfulness
Building mindfulness into your life
Mindfulness tips with newborns and beyond

Cozy Earth

Get ready for the ultimate upgrade in comfort and luxury with CozyEarth's bedding, loungewear and pajama collections! From cooling bamboo viscose sheets and indulgent silk pillows to cozy and stylish loungewear, Cozy Earth brings comfort to busy moms.

Right now, get up to 35% off site-wide using the code PEDSDOCTALK and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort at CozyEarth.com

Helene Kusman

Do Helene's 5 day Meditation Challenge, find out more at helenekusman.com or connect on Instagram @helenekusman

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The newborn hearing screen: why early detection and intervention of pediatric hearing loss is important

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Did you know newborn hearing screens are routine tests done in the hospital before your baby goes home? Sometimes, parents don’t realize it happens because they’re sleep-deprived but it does and it’s so important. I welcome Kelsey Kerkhove, a pediatric audiologist, to discuss:

What happens during a newborn hearing screen and why it’s important
What happens if a baby doesn’t pass the screen
Risk factors for congenital hearing loss
Signs of childhood hearing loss later in childhood

Tabeeze

No more squeezing that onesie over your baby’s delicate head or twisting their little arms in and out of sleeves. With Tabeeze you simply unsnap the shoulder snaps and you're instantly ready to breastfeed or snuggle + it's made of 100% GOTS Certified Organic cotton! Visit Tabeeze.com and get 20% OFF your first order today by entering the promo code PDT20 at checkout.

Little Spoon

LITTLE SPOON is a one stop shop for healthy, easy mealtime and snacktime for your baby, toddler and big kid, delivered right to your door. Think: hidden veggie mac + cheese, chicken nuggets and adventurous eats like potstickers, gnocchi and more! Go to Littlespoon.com/pedsdoctalk and enter our code PEDSDOCTALK at checkout to get 30% OFF your first order.

Kelsey Kerkhove

Find out more about Kelsey at kelseykerkhoveaud.com or connect on Instagram @kelseykerkhove_aud

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Simplifying meal prep, planning, and feeding our kids

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Meal planning, shopping, prepping, and feeding our families can be met with a lot of stress. And it’s important to find ways to REMOVE the stress from the equation and bring joy back to meal-times.

On this episode, I welcome Amy Palanjian. She is a mom, founder of Yummy Toddler Food, and author of the new book Dinnertime S.O.S. She joins me to discuss:

How to streamline meal prep for your family
How to reduce cost and waste when shopping
How to bring joy back to meal times (and less stress)

Cozy Earth

Right now, get up to 35% off site-wide using the code PEDSDOCTALK and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort at CozyEarth.com

Amy Palanjian

Learn more about Amy and Yummy Toddler Food for tips and recipes at yummytoddlerfood.com or connect on Instagram @yummytoddlerfood

Get Amy's Book: Dinnertime SOS:100 Sanity-Saving Meals Parents and Kids of All Ages Will Actually Want to Eat

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why are breastfeeding rates so low in America?

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

The United States has the lowest breastfeeding rates of most developed countries. And this is a fault of the systemic issues at play. I invited Amanda Gorman, founder and chief clinical officer at Nest Collaborative and Pediatric NP, to discuss:

Why our rates of breastfeeding are so low in the U.S.
How the lack of paid family leave impacts these rates
How we can advocate for breastfeeding families

For more watch Dr. Mona's "The Worst Breast-Feeding Tip" video on YouTube.

Tabeeze

No more squeezing that onesie over your baby’s delicate head or twisting their little arms in and out of sleeves. With Tabeeze you simply unsnap the shoulder snaps and you're instantly ready to breastfeed or snuggle + it's made of 100% GOTS Certified Organic cotton! Get 20% off your first order today by entering the promo code PDT20 at checkout >>> Tabeeze.com

Amanda Gorman

Find out more about Amanda and Nest Collaborative at nestcollaborative.com , listen to Amanda's Podcast Breastfeeding unplugged or connect on Instagram @nestcollaborative

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Not your Mother's Postpartum Book: The things no one talks about in the postpartum period

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We need to discuss some things about postpartum so we can normalize experiences.

On this episode, I welcome Chelsea & Caitlin, founders of Mama Psychologists. They are best friends, authors, Registered Psychologists, and moms to discuss:

The things people don’t always talk about in postpartum
Why it’s important to discuss these things
How feeling less alone helps us as moms

Cozy Earth

Right now, get up to 35% off site-wide using the code PEDSDOCTALK and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort at CozyEarth.com

Chelsea & Caitlin

Get the book: Not Your Mother’s Postpartum Book

Find out more about Mama Psychologist at mamapsychologists.ca or connect on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest or Twitter @mamapsychologists

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breast Milk production is not "easy" for everyone

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0000

There is a misconception that breastfeeding comes easy to everyone who wants to do it. As an IBCLC, I know this is not the truth. I welcome Kaia Lacy, a certified lactation counselor, partner of The Low Milk Supply Foundation, and mother of two to normalize low milk supply in breastfeeding.

We discuss:

The difference between primary and secondary low milk supply
Misconceptions about breastfeeding that can negatively impact a feeding journey
How combo-feeding can be helpful to many

For more watch Dr. Mona's "The Worst Breast-Feeding Tip" video on YouTube.

Junobie

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Kaia Lacy

Find out more about Kaia and sign up to her workshops about Breastfeeding, Mindful Weaning and Combo-Feeding at lowsupplymom.com

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How Positive Parenting Positively impacts kids

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Parenting requires compassion and self-reflection and on this episode I welcome Kobe Campbell, a licensed trauma therapist and author, to discuss ways positive parenting impacts our kids. We discuss:

What positive parenting is
How it positively impacts kids and families
Why fear-based parenting doesn’t work
Why playfulness is so important for kids and parents

KicKee Pants

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Kobe Campbell

Find out more about Kobe at www.kobecampbell.com or connect with her on Instagram @kobecampbell_

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Misconceptions about Bilingualism and Multilingualism

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Bilingualism and multilingualism is common in many households, yet there are many misconceptions about it. On this episode I welcome Alisha Gandhi, a bilingual speech language pathologist and clinical assistant professor of Communicative Sciences and Disorders at NYU, to discuss :

Misconceptions about bilingualism
Benefits of bilingualism and multilingualism
How a parent can approach teaching multiple languages in the home

Connect with Alisha on Instagram @alishabg_slp

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 things you may not know about organic food that will surprise you

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Organic food marketing has led to many to believe that it is superior to non-organic foods; but this is not necessarily the case.

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Jess Steier and Dr. Andrea Love, hosts of The Unbiased Science Podcast. Dr. Jess has a doctorate in public health with specialization in health policy evaluation and Dr. Andrea has a phD in Immunology and microbiology. They join me to discuss:

Marketing misinformation surrounding organic food
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and biases they hold in education (especially surrounding organic foods)
Misconceptions about non-organic and organic foods

Learn more about Dr Jessica and Dr Andrea and listen to the Unbiased Science Podcast at unbiasedscipod.com. Or follow on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube @unbiasedscipod

Lucky and Me is a clothing brand styled with kids comfort in mind. So your kiddos can focus on being kids and not uncomfortable in their clothes. Check out lucky and me by visiting Luckyandme.com and use code PEDSDOCTALK15 for 15% off for all new customers.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Top 5 tips on traveling by plane with kids

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Traveling with kids can be daunting, especially traveling by plane. I welcome Preethi Harbuck who is a mom of six, avid traveler, and creator of @localpassportfamily a blog and social media platform to support families as they travel to discuss:

Why lowering expectations matters in travel
Things you should always have on board
Reframing when you’re feeling anxious about traveling by plane with kids

Learn more about Preethi Harbuck and Local Passport Family at localpassportfamily.com and on Instagram @localpassportfamily

And check out the Global Children's Book Club, a free monthly virtual book club highlighting a different country each month.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

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Magic Spoon

Are you a cereal lover looking for a delicious cereal with no added sugar? Enter Magic Spoon. I never thought it was possible to find a cereal that tastes DELICIOUS but is high in protein and contains 0g of sugar.

Check out their cereals and various flavors like fruity, blueberry muffin, frosted, maple waffle, birthday cake, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and my favorite cocoa — magicspoon.com/pedsdoctalk and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save today!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What the research says about popular parenting styles

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

On social media, there are many distinct parenting styles noted on various accounts—Positive parenting. Gentle parenting. Attachment parenting. But, is one really superior than the other?

I welcome Cara Goodwin (@parentingtranslator) who is a clinical psychologist, mom, and who translates the research on child development and parenting in an easy-to-understand way for parents to chat all about the types of shows our kids watch. We discuss:

What we know about popular parenting styles and what we don’t know
What does the research say about gentle parenting?
What is NOT okay to do in any parenting style you choose?

Find Dr. Cara Goodwin on Instagram @parentingtranslator or visit her website parentingtranslator.org

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

SPONSOR

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I wish my kid was a little bit taller: height and kids

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Health is a vital sign. It is an important thing we monitor at well visits, which is why routine check-ups are important. But when is growth a concern? Tune in to hear me talk with Dr. Sarah Hart-Unger, a Pediatric Endocrinologist, about height and kids. We discuss:

How percentiles play a role in height
Average growth trajectory for kids
Workup if height trajectory is a concern including imaging and labs
When Growth Hormone is Recommended

You can find Sarah's Podcasts 'The Best of Both Worlds' and 'Best Laid Plans' and lots more at theshubox.com

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

SPONSOR

Order now and get a 20% discount at iproven.com/pedsdoctalk.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Why am I so angry?:" Perinatal rage in motherhood

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Motherhood can be a time of great joy and love; yet it is not uncommon for feelings of irritability and rage to set in either during pregnancy or during those postpartum months and beyond.

On this episode, I welcome Ashurina Ream-a licensed clinical psychologist, mom, and founder of Psyched Mommy. She joins me to discuss:

What is perinatal rage and why can it happen
How to recognize you need support
How to communicate your needs with loved ones including your partner

Learn more about the Dr. Ashurina Ream and Psyched Mommy at psychedmommy.com or follow on Instagram and Facebook @psychedmommy

Episode Links and Resources:

Postpartum Support International

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

SPONSOR

Are you a cereal lover looking for a delicious cereal with no added sugar? Enter Magic Spoon. I never thought it was possible to find a cereal that tastes DELICIOUS but is high in protein and contains 0g of sugar.

Check out their cereals and various flavors like fruity, blueberry muffin, frosted, maple waffle, birthday cake, cinnamon roll, peanut butter, and my favorite cocoa — magicspoon.com/pedsdoctalk and use promo code PEDSDOCTALK to save today!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Getting ahead of your child’s picky eating

Wed, 31 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Picky eating is a very common phase children go through, but there are things we as parents can consider BEFORE we get to these stages. I welcome Jennifer Friedman, Registered Pediatric Dietician and picky eating expert, and founder of @feedingpickyeaters to discuss:

3 simple things you can do to approach picky eating before it starts
How to get unstuck when you’re in a menu rut
Factors that can increase and decrease the likelihood of picky eating

Learn more about Jennifer Friedman and Feeding Picky Eaters at jennyfriedmannutrition.com , Instagram and Pinterest @feedingpickyeaters

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Does Spoon-Feeding Create Picky Eaters?" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

SPONSOR

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Normal progression of speech sounds in toddlers and kids

Wed, 24 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We often focus on the number of words a child says, but oftentimes parents have the question: ”Is HOW my child is saying this developmentally appropriate?”

On this episode, I welcome Melissa Minney, Speech Language Pathologist and Founder of Raising Little Talkers to discuss:

The difference between speech and language
Normal progression of speech sounds in the toddler/preschool years
Do parents need to correct every word and how do they do it if they do?
When a parent should be concerned about certain speech sounds

Learn more about the Raising Little Talkers Course at raisinglittletalkers.com or follow Melissa on Instagram and Facebook @raisinglittletalkers

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Why Developmental Milestones Matter" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

SPONSOR

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Early Intervention: What it is, why it's important, and how to get services

Wed, 17 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Early Intervention is an incredible service for young children under 5, but accessing it and knowing WHEN to access it can often be confusing. I welcome Amanda Selogie who is a special education lawyer and the Executive Director and Co-founder of the Inclusive Education Project.

She joins me to discuss:

What Early Intervention is
How can a parent get early intervention services for their child in the U.S.
How age matters in regards to these services
Cost, wait times, and access for Early Intervention

Learn more about the Inclusive Education Project at inclusiveeducationproject.org or on Instagram @inclusiveeducationproject

Episode Links and Resources:

CDC Early Intervention

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 ways to raise a child with a growth mindset

Mon, 15 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We can’t protect our kids from failure, but we can guide them to how to learn from failure and part of this is having a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset. Join me on this important episode as I discuss:

The difference between a growth and fixed mindset
5 ways to raise our child with a growth mindset from the toddler years and beyond
Why a growth mindset is beneficial to children

Episode Links and Resources:

Study by Schroeder et. al about power of a growth mindset in school-aged children

Are you a toddler parent looking for more parenting and tantrum guidance, check out my course Toddlers & Tantrums for more tips to connect and compassionately discipline your toddler child

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is praise ruining our kids?

Wed, 10 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Is praising our children okay? Will they end up seeking a life of external validation? On this episode, I welcome Dr Jenicka Engler, developmental neuropsychologist, clinical scientist, and mom to discuss:

If praise is really all bad?
How to effectively use praise
What the research tells us about praise

Find Dr. Jenicka on Instagram @drjenicka

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"When Motherhood feels like a never-ending checklist"

Mon, 08 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Motherhood can feel like a never-ending checklist. On this episode, I speak with Nicole—a mom from the PDT community—about handling the guilt and stress of the never-ending checklist.

We discuss:

How to get our minds out of “checklist-mode”
The importance of communication with partner, support system, and asking for help
Ways to free up time when time seems scarce

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Things a labor and delivery nurse needs you to know about labor, delivery, and postpartum

Wed, 03 May 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Labor, delivery, and postpartum are filled with a roller coaster of activity and being informed about this process is crucial. I welcome my friend and social media powerhouse, Liesel Teen, who is a labor and delivery nurse and founder of Mommy Labor Nurse to educate you about 5 things she wants you to know about labor, delivery, and postpartum

She joins me to discuss:

Fear women have about pooping in the delivery room
Tearing during vaginal deliveries
C-section misconceptions
Just because you want an epidural, timing doesn’t allow it
Sizing for babies and vaginal deliveries

Thank you to our episode sponsor, Philips Avent. Check out Philips Avent products by visiting www.Philips.com/avent and using promo code ParentYourWay20 for 20% off today!

Get the Free Birth Prep Workshop or find out more about Liesel and Mommy Labor Nurse on YouTube, Instagram or TikTok @mommy.labornurse

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erielle Reshef on finding joy as a mom and ABC News National Correspondent

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

On the Finding Joy Episodes of this podcast I talk about real-life good and not so good of being a parent, particularly sharing my perspective as a mom and woman. I share ways to navigate feelings of judgement, mom guilt, or that not good enough feeling we may feel as parents.

I’ve had my husband come on the show and I’m now excited to welcome another guest, one of my favorite ABC News Television Personalities, and my friend, Erielle Reshef. Erielle is a mother and works as a ABC News National Correspondent covering some of the top stories around the world. She joins me to discuss:

Why she believes “work-life balance” is an elusive goal
How she approaches mom guilt
How she reframes her mindset on difficult news days or news cycles

Connect with Erielle on Instagram or Twitter @eriellereshef

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Is it normal for my toddler to be THIS high energy?"

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Basic episode description: Is your toddler “high energy?” Do they lack impulse control. Tune in as I talk with Janelle from the PDT community about her 3 year old daughter. We discuss:

Typical impulse control and attention span of toddlers under 4
Questions a clinician would ask in evaluating a hyper-active toddler
What not to do between 1-2 years of age when your child lacks any impulse control

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How parental anxiety impacts childhood anxiety

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Do we as adults cause our child to be anxious and does their anxiety cause us to be anxious? On this episode, I welcome Dr. Helen Egger, a child Psychiatrist to discuss the clyclical effect of anxiety in families. We discuss:

If anxiety in a home can be cyclical in nature?
How to address a child’s worries and anxieties while simultaneously managing our own worries/fears
How complete avoidance of fears can negatively impact our children
When a parent should be concerned about their own anxiety

Find out more about Little Otter at littleotterhealth.com or follow on Instagram @littleotterhealth

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Toddlers and night feeds, sleep associations, and calorie anxiety”

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Dropping feeds, sleep, and is your child getting enough calories? So many important questions I discuss with Kate from the PDT Community. We discuss:

Feeding schedules and overcoming calorie anxiety
Ways to eliminate (or wean) overnight bottles
If self-weaning night feeds is possible in toddler years

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The "5 S's" of newborn sleep with Pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

The fourth trimester refers to the first three months when the baby is born. This is an adjustment period both for parents and the baby. Parents are often told that sleep deprivation is the norm in those early months; and although that is somewhat true there are some things that can be done to comfort baby and prolong sleep stretches. On this episode, I welcome Dr. Harvey Karp who is a world renowned pediatrician and child development expert. He is the co-founder and CEO of Happiest Baby and the creator of SNOO Smart Sleeper. He is also the author of the best-selling parenting guides The Happiest Baby on the Block and The Happiest Toddler on the Block.

We discuss:

The 5 S’s of Newborn sleep and how Dr. Karp came up with them
Why having these tools are important for every family
Misconceptions about the fourth trimester and sleep

Want to know more about Dr. Harvey Karp? Check out this New Yorker profile: Harvey Karp Knows How to Make Babies Happy

For more watch Dr. Mona's "5 Must-Follow Tips for Newborn Sleep" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Strong-willed toddlers and power struggles

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

You may have heard the terminology “strong-willed child“, but how do they differ from just say a typical toddler who also desires independence, control, and wants what they want? And what to do about power struggles and how can we reduce them?

In this episode, I discuss:

What makes the strong-willed child unique in temperament
How you know you’re in a power struggle
How to reduce power struggles before they start and if they do happen

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddlers and Tantrums Course will help you manage toddler tantrums and behaviors.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your child is not Failing: Misconceptions on Kindergarten Readiness

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Kindergarten readiness is on a lot of parent’s mind as they child approaches this big milestone, but the pressure it can place on parents (and kids) can be a lot.

On this episode I welcome Susie Allison, who is a former kindergarten teacher and has a Masters in Education, author, blogger, mom and creator of Busy Toddler to discuss :

Why kindergarten readiness has become stressful
Why these standards have changed and are they developmentally appropriate?
What we should be focusing on guiding them instead prior to Kindergarten

Find out more about Susie Allison on her website Busytoddler.com or via Instagram @busytoddler

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Is sleep training while room-sharing with a sibling possible?"

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Many times in parenting, there won’t be a course or article that covers every parenting situation or decision you find yourself in. I LOVE getting to chat with parents from the PedsDocTalk community on these nuanced topics. Today. I welcome Allyson who wants to sleep train her 4-month-old, but the infant will eventually room-share with a 3 year old. We discuss:

Things to consider when making parenting decisions and choices
Things to consider when sleep-training an infant who may end up room-sharing with a toddler
How to prep the toddler for this transition

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The common misconceptions around baby and toddler sleep-training

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

I invite back Dr. Sarah Mitchell the creator of The Helping Babies Sleep Method to discuss common misconceptions on terminology and sleep training in general. We discuss:

Defining what “CIO” is
What does “sleeping through the night” really mean
Two main reasons babies and toddlers struggle with sleep
What the term sleeping through the night means

After this, tune in to another episode with Dr. Sarah Mitchell: Do babies really need sleep-training or will they learn on their own?

Quick simple 6 question sleep quiz with personalized responses: helpingbabiessleep.com/sleep-quiz

Website: helpingbabiessleep.com

Online sleep school: helpingbabiessleepschool.com

Instagram: @helpingbabiessleep

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Things I hear parents feel bad about, but they shouldn’t

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

There are so many decisions and things we do in parenting that can fill us with guilt. In this episode, I go over 5 things I commonly hear parents feel bad about, but they shouldn’t (Frankly, the list could have been even longer).

On this episode I go over:

Looking at your goals and what makes sense to you as a parent
Following recommendations and remembering that can be just recommendations
Creating balance in our schedule
Looking at the big picture in parenting

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Stop the judgement: The negative impact on judgement in motherhood and parenting

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

We’ve all been there: feeling judged about our choices as parents. And maybe, you have dished out judgement too.

On this episode I go over judgement in parenting:

Why judgement blocks our joy as parents
Why it’s so hurtful
The judgement cycle and how to break it
How to block out and navigate judgmental people in your life

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“How do I overcome the guilt of traveling for my job as a mom?”

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome a mom from the PDT community, Susmitha, to chat about guilt and feelings around traveling for work as a mom. We discuss:

Why this guilt exists
What internal work needs to be done before accepting and enjoying travel for work
How to manage the feelings we have about inconveniencing others who care for our child

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What IS real “self-care” for Moms?

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome Psychiatrist, New York Times Contributor, and author Dr. Pooja Lakshmin to discuss what real self-care really is. Her book REAL SELF-CARE: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) is out today and we discuss:

The difference between faux self-care and real self-care
What the wellness industry forgets when it comes to true wellness
How to actually do self-care that is transformative
Systemic barriers to self-care

Connect with Dr. Pooja

Buy Pooja's new book REAL SELF-CARE: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) here.

Join Pooja's community, Gemma, the physician-built women's mental health platform here.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

“I’m not a crafty or elaborate activity planner kind of mom—and I sometimes feel guilty”

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0000

Listen up, moms! We don’t have to be Pinterest perfect moms to be a good mom. If this is something that brings you joy, that is INCREDIBLE; but it’s not a checkbox that defines your worth as a mother. I welcome Anna—a mom from the PedsDocTalk community to chat about that mom guilt created by not being crafty and the elaborate activity planner. We discuss:

Where guilt surrounding our actions as moms comes from
What our children developmentally need for play
How to reframe when you’re feeling guilty not doing enough for your kiddo

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

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Trickier textures: pushing your baby’s palate past purees

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Moving past purees can sometimes be trickier and oftentimes it’s the parents who are more nervous about this than the child. I welcome Katie Ferraro, registered dietician specializing in baby led weaning, mom of seven, and founder of Baby Led Wean Team to discuss moving past purees to more textured foods. We discuss:

Why parents are sometimes nervous to move past purees
Recognizing gagging versus choking
Misconceptions surrounding BLW and textures
How to encourage trickier textures in a safe way

Grab a copy of Katie’s 100 FIRST FOODS list on her free weekly BABY-LED WEANING FOR BEGINNERS workshop. You can sign up for this week’s workshop times here: www.babyledweaning.co

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Is My toddler’s aggression normal?”

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

OOOF. Toddler or child aggression: biting, kicking, hitting.. It can all seem overwhelming to manage, but how much is too much? I welcome Joia, a mom from the PDT community to chat with how much is too much when it comes to aggression. Listen in as we discuss:

How to manage aggression
Missteps to avoid
When is toddler aggression a concern

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are certain TV shows harmful for your child?

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0000

In modern parenting, TV shows have played a huge role in our children’s lives. We know amount of screen-time matters, but what about the TYPES of shows are children are watching (especially our young toddlers)? I welcome Dr. Cara Goodwin (@parentingtranslator) who is a clinical psychologist, mom, and who translates the research on child development and parenting in an easy to understand way for parents to chat all about the types of shows our kids watch.

We discuss:

Are certain popular shows like Cocomelon and Ms. Rachel for Littles okay for kids?
Based on the research, what are young children learning from television?
Are watching sports with children okay?
How can a parent balance the research we do (and don’t have) to make screen time decisions for their children

Find Dr. Cara Goodwin on Instagram @parentingtranslator or visit her website parentingtranslator.org

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Is Screen Time Harmful?" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why has motherhood made me feel so irritable?

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Do you find yourself feeling more irritable since becoming a mother? Have you felt guilty about this or have not known how to approach it? I welcome back Dr. Cassidy who is a licensed marriage and family therapist to talk about overstimulation in parenthood (and especially motherhood). We discuss:

Why we may become more irritable after becoming a mom
What irritability in motherhood can really be a sign of
How to create space when feeling irritable or angry

Listen to another episode with Dr. Cassidy: Why has motherhood made me feel so overstimulated?

Take Dr. Cassidy's QUIZZ to find out What triggers your rage as a parent?

More from Dr. Cassidy at drcassidymft.com, on the Holding Space Podcast and Instagram @drcassidy

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Tips for finding more peace in the day-to-day grind as a mom

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

We’ve all been there. The feeling of groundhog day that motherhood can bring. In this episode, I answer a question from a mom in the PDT community about how to enjoy the day-to-day grind more as a mom. I discuss:

5 tips to getting out of the monotony that can be the day-to-day grind
Signs that you may be in a grind
How to break out of the grind while still getting things done

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Boundary setting with snacks and meals while creating a healthy relationship with food

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Many of us as adults are familiar with diet culture. We are familiar with what it means to have an unhealthy relationship of food whether we were raised in it or we have met others who have. I welcome Kate Kiersey, a dietician and founder of Well Fed Family, to discuss how we can create boundaries with snacks and meals (think promoting variety and managing excessive snacking) while simultaneously creating a healthy relationship with food. We discuss:

How to talk to our kids about food choices
How to approach feeding if there is a medical concern about weight
How to manage the child who always seems hungry
Handling emotional/boredom eating

Find out more about WellFed Family on their website wellfed.family or on Instagram @wellfed.family

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Picky Eating Playbook offers strategies for toddler feeding and reducing mealtime battles.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"My child acts out more when I'm home from work"

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I welcome Lauren to chat about her toddler son who acts out more when she’s home from work. We discuss:

Why tantrums are more triggering after a long day
Why children may act this way after seeing you after a long period away
How to navigate these moments

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An IVF Pregnancy after Birth Trauma

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

The Finding Joy Series on this podcast is where I talk about finding peace amidst chaos, reframing tough life choices, and navigating difficult times we go through as parents (especially as mothers).

On this episode, I talk about my feelings: nerves, excitement, and worry being pregnant with our IVF baby after having a traumatic delivery in 2019. I discuss:

The common mix-bag of emotions felt during pregnancy
How I’ve navigated my mental health during this process
The very normal and oftentimes not-talked about feelings being pregnant with a child already and having a career

For my son's birth story:https://pedsdoctalk.com/ryaans-birth-story/

For more on my IVF Journey watch "Q&A About my IVF Pregnancy Journey" on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“I’m Feeling guilty spending time on myself as a mom”

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

On this Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona Episode, I welcome Shradha on to discuss that very common feeling of mommy guilt—especially when you want to spend it on yourself and you didn’t spend much time with your child.

We discuss:

Why this guilt is so common
How to reframe when you are feeling these guilty feelings
Prioritizing Quality over quantity with your child and how to do this

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is my child really allergic to that medicine?? (Misconceptions about drug allergies)

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 07:00:00 -0000

A lot of people think they have allergy to medications when they don’t. In this episode, I welcome Allergist and Immunologist Farah Khan to chat about drug allergies and share some misconceptions. We discuss:

What a true drug allergy looks like
Why not all rashes while on antibiotics are a drug allergy
Are true drug allergies hereditary?
What to do if you truly feel your child has a drug allergy

Connect with Farah Khan on Instagram @farah.khan.md

For more on allergies watch Dr. Mona's "Food Allergies and Kids" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why and how we carry the "Not Good Enough Stuff" from our childhood

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Anytime you have told yourself you’re not good enough, you’re not capable of, or you have to be better at something that comes from somewhere in your childhood. On today’s episode, I welcome Mary Beth Fox, a licensed professional counselor and owner of The Inner Child Therapist to discuss the not good enough stuff carried from childhood. We discuss:

What “not good enough stuff is”
Why and how these present in relationships and parenting
How we can limit this cycle

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to today’s sponsor, Bombi and their special offer to all PedsDocTalk podcast listeners! You can get $20 off the BĒBEE LIGHTWEIGHT STROLLER plus accessories with the code PEDSDOC20 only at bombigear.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Becoming the conscious parent you wish you had

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000

On one of my most favorite episodes to date, I welcome Bryana Kappadakunnel who is a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Conscious Mommy to talk about what it means to be a conscious parent and why it’s beneficial to the entire family. We discuss:

What Conscious Parenting is
How our children are our greatest teachers
Why fear of change hinders our ability to be a more conscious parent

Find out more about Conscious Mommy at conciousmommy.com, sign up for online workshops & classes at learning.consciousmommy.com or connect with Bryana on Instagram @consciousmommy

If you want to stay up to date on parenting, health, and development news or you want to be a parent guest on the podcast, sign up for our Newsletter

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to Sposie, the sponsor of todays episode!

Get 20% OFF your order of Sposie Dribbles Potty Training Pads by using code POTTYTRAINING20 at Sposie.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“How do I handle my kids being LOUD?”

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000

We’ve all been there. Our kids are loud. Whether it is laughter, yelling, screaming of joy, or tantrums. Their volumes seem to be set very high. It’s very natural, but I discuss with Christina-a mom from the PDT community-on how to navigater this. We discuss:

Why loudness is so triggering
How to approach it from a mindset shift as a parent
3 Strategies to reduce the volume in your home

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gratitude and parenthood: how it can help you thrive

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to the show and another season of The PedsDocTalk Podcast. On this episode of The PedsDocTalk Podcast, I am talking about Gratitude. On the Finding Joy series, I talk about mindset shifts that are important in life and in parenting every month. On this episode, I discuss:

What gratitude is and why it’s good for our mental health
How it benefits parenting
How to apply it
Misconceptions about gratitude

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Things to Let go of in 2023

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000

You’ve heard it over and over, but maybe needed a reminder: Life is too short to fill our mental space with things that don’t serve us.

In this episode, I discuss 5 things we need to let go of. Things that do not serve our peace and rob us of our joy.

This episode is in honor of Ana “Ani” Estevez who tragically lost her life to gun-violence at 23. She was a beacon of joy and compassion and this episode is in honor of her legacy. To help support her family, consider donating to gofundme.com/f/ana-estevez

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“How to manage my child’s frustration during tasks?”

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000

I love discussing frustration because it is a normal human emotion just like sadness, fear, joy, or happiness. As parents, our role is to teach children what these feelings mean and help them cope. Enter frustration tolerance. Tune in as I discuss managing our child’s frustration when they can’t figure out a task like a new toy and how we can use those opportunities for learning. We discuss:

What frustration tolerance is
Why moments of frustration can be huge for a child’s cognitive development
Important steps to managing the moments of frustration

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why it's important for our children to see healthy conflict discussion

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Our parenting is affected by so much more than how we approach our child during their big feelings. It also requires some introspection on how we approach our big feelings in disagreements with our partners or loved ones. On this episode, I welcome Lesley Adams who is a licensed marriage and family therapist, to talk about why healthy conflict resolutions are important and healthy for children to see. Tune in as we discuss:

Communication styles in partnerships
How to express your needs with your partner
How to repair IF discussions get escalated

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Why Is verbalizing Not working for my child?”

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Verbalizing with our children when they have big feelings is important, but what is the actual purpose and what should we expect it to achieve? I welcome Amy, a mom from the PDT community, to chat about verbalizing.

We discuss:

Managing expectations of verbalizing with our children
The importance of nonverbal communication during tantrums
How we can show we’re okay with our child’s feelings besides verbalization

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Setting yourself up for the long game after baby with Parents editor Grace Bastidas

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

When we become parents, we often get bogged down with all the information and noise that we forget that parenting is a long-game job and sustainability is important. I welcome Grace Bastidas who is the editor in chief of Parents and a mom of two to discuss how to set yourself up for the long game after having a baby.

We discuss:

What the long game of parenting is
Why taking care of yourself is the biggest gift you can give your child
Why we set such high expectations of ourselves the moment we become a parent and how it can negatively impact us

You can also find Grace on Instagram @brooklynwriter or listen to her Podcast: That New Mom Life

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to manage milestone anxiety and mom guilt about milestones?"

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Milestone Anxiety is a real thing and often not talked about. I welcome a mom in the PDT community to chat about her 15 month old son who is not walking. We discuss:

Why Milestone anxiety can happen
How to approach milestone anxiety to find more peace and progress
How to encourage walking

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Complete Roadmap to Toddler Development will help you understand your toddler through every age and stage.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ways To teach Financial Fitness to your child

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Are children too young to teach financial health?

I welcome Carissa and Nikki of Benjamin Talks a platform that is on a mission to make all families financially fit

We discuss:

The right age to start discussing the concepts of financial fitness
Misconceptions parents have about teaching financial fitness
How to foster saving and gratitude when discussing finance
Tips to teaching kids about financial health

If you are looking to make your family financially fit visit benjamintalks.com

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to manage Hitting and Throwing and emotional regulation?"

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome a mom from The PedsDocTalk community to chat about her 32 month old son and hitting and throwing behaviors. We discuss not only what to do in these situations, but also ways to build emotional resilience and emotional regulation during calm moments. We discuss:

Why avoiding a big rise is important, but why it’s so hard
What not to do when trying to discipline hitting and throwing behaviors
How to use positive reinforcement and fill our child’s cup

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your kid doesn’t need a diet: approaching conversations about our child's weight and health in a productive way

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Diet culture is still prominent in 2022 and I welcome Diana Rice, a registered Dietician and owner of Tiny Seed Family Nutrition to discuss how we should approach conversations about weight and health for our kids.

We discuss:

Why “eat less and move more” is problematic advice
Why dieting is never the answer
How we can approach conversations about health with a health mindset versus a weight-goal mindset

To find out more about Diana Rice and Tiny Seed Family Nutrition, visit her website at Tinyseednutrition.com, where you can find 1:1 coaching sessions, monthly text-based coaching memberships and much more.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to approach parenting of unique children?"

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

No two humans are completely alike. Even amongst twins, we know that people have various temperaments and traits that make them who they are. On this episode, I welcome a mom from the PDT community to discuss how to approach parenting with two unique children. We discuss:

The guilt of feeling your time can’t be devoted to all children equally
Understanding the unique needs of your child
Mindset tips to bring more peace and joy as you navigate parenting multiple kids

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Managing Health Anxiety

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

On this highly requested Finding Joy episode, I tackle health anxiety. Having had a child with stroke and seizure and dealing with repetitive viral illnesses over the last year, I offer some support and reframe when approaching worries around our child’s health. I discuss:

Why health anxiety is common and difficult
What about our child getting sick makes us worried, frustrated, or gives us guilt and how to reframe
Three strategies to be more mindful during illness and around threats to our child’s health

Birth Story: https://pedsdoctalk.com/ryaans-birth-story/

Podcast about Repetitive illnesses: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/monday-mornings-with-dr-mona-why-is-my-kid-always-sick/id1501057527?i=1000549494964

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to manage physical tantrums?"

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I speak with Rychelle about her 3-year-old son who has big feelings and with that can sometimes come some physical tantrums.

In this episode we discuss:

Respecting differences in temperament of children
Mistakes we make during physical tantrums
Why pivoting to other discipline interventions is important

I end each episode with three parenting principles. These principles can be used in various parenting situations, but I explain how the three principles I chose apply to navigating physical tantrums

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Toddler Public Tantrums Happen" video on YouTube.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to today's sponsor Bobbie. Visit hibobbie.com and find out more about their fantastic Organic Baby Formula.

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Triggers unloaded when you become a parent

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0000

All human relationships we carry can open up triggers from our past. Parenting is one of those moments where we may realize the good and the not so good we have carrier from our childhood. On this episode, I talk with Patrick Teahan who is a licensed clinical social worker and father about HOW and WHY parenting can open up triggers from childhood.

We discuss:

The subtle and not so subtle ways parenting opens up childhood triggers
What “inner-child” work is and why it’s important when you become a parent
How to approach triggers that arise in parenting in a healthy way

You can sign up to Patricks Monthly Healing Community at patrickteahantherapy.gumroad.com/l/monthlyhealingcircle

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

Thanks to today's sponsor Cozy Earth. Visit cozyearth.com and get a 35% discount when you check out with the code: PEDSDOCTALK

And thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to handle separation anxiety in my toddler at bedtime?"

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Your amazing sleeper becomes a toddler and suddenly needs you all the time at bedtime or during the night. Is something wrong? How do we get them back to independent sleep? I speak with Amna, a mom from the PDT community about her 26 months old daughter and separation anxiety she’s having at bedtime.

We discuss:

Why daytime connection and boundaries matter for bedtime
How to approach their disapproval with boundaries
Strategies to provide some control for your toddler while you maintain boundaries

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Separation Anxiety in Children: How to Manage" video on YouTube.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Preparing children for medical procedures (vaccines, surgeries, etc) and how to explain it to them

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In our lives we will at some point have to receive vaccines, a medical procedure, or do something that is out of our comfort zone. For some children, getting a vaccine or medical procedure can be tough. I invited Katie Taylor who is a certified child life specialist, CEO of Child Life on Call, And the host of The Child Life on Call Podcast to discuss how we can approach vaccines and medical procedures with our child.

We discuss:

How to prepare our children for vaccines and other medical procedures
What NOT to say
Focusing on development to aid in approach

If you'd like to find out more about Katie Taylor and Child Life on Call, visit the website at Childlifeoncall.com, listen to the Podcast or follow her on Instagram @childlifeoncall

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to today's sponsor Bobbie. Visit hibobbie.com and find out more about their fantastic Organic Baby Formula.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to manage Screen-time related tantrums?"

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Screens have a place in our lives, but it is important to set boundaries with them and be consistent with those boundaries. But what happens when your child is having tantrum after tantrum with wanting to watch the screen?

I invited a mom from The PDT community to chat about screen-time related tantrums. We discuss:

How to give some power and autonomy during boundary setting
Why children and parents fall into these power struggles
How to hold your screen-time boundaries

For more, watch Dr. Mona's "Toddler Public Tantrums Happen" YouTube video.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddlers and Tantrums Course will help you manage toddler tantrums and behaviors.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How People-Pleasing negatively impacts motherhood

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On the Finding Joy Series, I I discuss the real-life ups and downs we experience as mothers, parents, and in life, how to be more mindful, and how to change our mindset to cause change. People-pleasing is a common learned behavior and it can have negative impacts. Tune in as I discuss:

Characteristics of a people-pleaser
How it negatively impacts motherhood
How you can be kind, but not be a people-pleaser
How to create healthy boundaries to regain time and mental space

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to set boundaries when my child doesn't understand "no"?"

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

We’ve all been there or will be there: When you don’t want your child to do something, say “no” and your child keeps doing it. On this episode, I speak with Susmitha about her 22-month-old son who keeps doing activities after she says no. We discuss:

How to approach boundaries by allowing more opportunities for “yes”
What happens in the toddler brain when we say “No!”
How to approach boundaries to actually see long-term change

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during your parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Creating connection and attachment with your child(ren) without losing yourself

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

There is a lot of buzz around “secure attachment” that commonly gets misconstrued in the parenting space and on social media. I speak with Jamie, a registered child psychologist and mom to discuss how we can create connection and attachment without losing ourselves

We discuss:

Misconceptions about secure attachment
How to foster secure attachment in our everyday lives
What emotional responsiveness is

Connect with Jamie via her website www.imaginepsychology.com or Instagram @imaginepsychology

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How can I filter out all the noise and listen to my own wants as a mom?"

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I love speaking with expecting moms about to start their motherhood journey. On this episode, I speak with Deepika who is 37 weeks pregnant about filtering out all the noise, opinions, and information out there to find your own voice as a mom.

We discuss:

Why motherhood and parenting can seem so overwhelming
How to take all the information you have and apply it
Why looking at the big picture and having perspective can be healing

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to today's sponsor Cozy Earth. Visit cozyearth.com and get a 35% discount when you check out with the code: PEDSDOCTALK

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are essential oils essentially bad?

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I invited Jen Novakovich, a cosmetic chemist, science communicator, and founder of The EcoWell to discuss the truth and safety of essential oils.

We discuss:

Concern with marketing around essential oils
Risk for using essential oils
What to consider if you do use essential oils

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Visit The Eco Well website at theecowell.com or listen to The Eco Well Podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How can I embrace my shy child?"

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I talk with a mom about how to embrace her shy child. We discuss:

The genetics of personality traits
How to normalize and embrace shyness in children
What society gets wrong about shy individuals
How to redirect other’s comments about your shy child
How to open up your shy child to new situations

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why arguing with family isn't the worst thing in the world

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

We give disagreements a bad rep, but they actually can be VERY healthy when done correctly. Arguing is often associated with disagreements with yelling and high emotions, but disagreements can provide growth for all those involved. I invited Lynda Cormier-Hanser, a speaker, author, non-profit founder, wife, and mother to discuss:

Why disagreements are healthy
What families can learn from disagreements
How to “argue” in a fair way
What SHOULD be the desired outcomes from “arguments”

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Stay connected with Lynda on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or her website: lyndacormier.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to find peace when you lack a support system as a mom?"

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Motherhood can oftentimes feel isolating. It can feel more isolating if you don’t have a community (or that village everyone talks about in parenting) to lean on. I welcome Natasha, who is a mother of a 1-year-old and lives in Germany. She lacks that physical support system (friends and relatives) and we discuss:

Why not having this support system is so hard
How to reframe when we find ourselves comparing our situation to others
Reframing guilt when you want help as a mom

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brainiac Foods. To check out Brainiac Food’s line of products and receive 20% off your order, visit the following link to save 20% off your order:

https://brainiacfoods.com/discount/20PEDSDOC

Why we need to stop saying “I'll be happy when”

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On the Finding Joy Series, I I discuss the real-life ups and downs we experience as mothers, parents, and in life, how to be more mindful, and how to change our mindset to cause change. I discuss:

The difference between happiness and joy
How joy can be self-created and not based on external circumstances
Managing expectations AND still celebrating wins
Why we need to stop using the phrase,”I'll be happy when”

Make sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxiety

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"What is happening in the toddler brain during “the terrible twos” and as a “threenager?"

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome Hillary, a mom from the PedsDocTalk community to chat about why toddlers are the way they are especially those two-year-olds and three-year olds. We discuss:

What’s happening developmentally in the toddler brain
Why is it important for a parent to understand toddler development in parenting
Strategies to use this development for parenting wins

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to raise an emotionally aware child

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

It isn’t hard to raise an emotionally aware child, yet so many find barriers to doing so. I welcome Dr. Sarah Aboudara who is a school psychologist and licensed clinical psychologist to talk about raising an emotional aware child. We discuss:

What it means to raise an emotionally aware child
Why parents struggle with this
Steps to creating emotional awareness for our infants and beyond

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Why am I always complaining as a mom?”

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Do you ever feel like you’re constantly complaining as a mom? Do you ever get caught in that cycle of negativity? I talk with Vera about undoing that cycle of negativity and why we may find ourselves complaining so much as mothers.

We discuss:

Why motherhood may turn us into complainers
Strategies to create more space and boundaries in our lives
How to effectively reframe negative situations
How to break the cycle of negativity that leads us to feel like we’re constantly complaining

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do babies really need sleep-training or will they learn on their own?

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Do babies really need sleep-training or sleep-teaching or will they eventually learn on their own. I invited Dr. Sarah Mitchell the creator of The Helping Babies Sleep Method to discuss:

Infant sleep and physiology
When a should parent consider help in sleep-teaching
Why sleep is beneficial

Quick simple 6 question sleep quiz with personalized responses: helpingbabiessleep.com/sleep-quiz

Website: helpingbabiessleep.com

Online sleep school: helpingbabiessleepschool.com

Instagram: @helpingbabiessleep

For more watch Dr. Mona's "5 Must-Follow Tips for Newborn Sleep" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How can I overcome advancing of food textures anxiety?"

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I'm talking with Anna about overcoming her fear of advancing solids for her 11.5 due to her fears of choking. This is a common fear and we go over how to mindfully overcome this with tips, tricks, and know-how.

We discuss:

How to overcome fears of advancing food and choking
How to prepare food with safety and time In mind
How to handle distracted eating
The importance of modeling eating behaviors
How to encourage self-regulation with meals

Make sure to listen to the wrap-up as I share principles that can apply to many various parenting scenarios and for this case—overcoming advancing food anxiety.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Does Spoon-Feeding Create Picky Eaters?" video on YouTube.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Picky Eating Playbook offers strategies for toddler feeding and reducing mealtime battles.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why has motherhood made me feel so overstimulated?

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Have you felt overstimulated as a parent? I think we’ve all been there. I welcome Dr. Cassidy who is a licensed marriage and family therapist to talk about overstimulation in parenthood (and especially motherhood).

We discuss:

What overstimulation looks like in parenthood
The important first step in managing overstimulation
Coping mechanisms for overstimulation
What not to do when overstimulated

More from Cassidy at drcassidymft.com, on the Holding Space Podcast and Instagram @drcassidy

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Re-parenting ourselves as we parent our son (conversation with my husband)

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of The Finding Joy series, I bring back my husband to discuss a very important aspect of parenting. The importance of re-parenting ourselves as we parent our son. We discuss the cycles we are trying to break with our son as we simultaneously work on ourselves.

We discuss the generational trauma of:

Body image insecurities
Comparison
Anger and yelling
No space for emotions
And pressure to be high-achieving in careers

The Finding Joy Series is a series to promote self-growth and self-reflection as we parent our littles. Here are two related episodes to check out:

Episode 122: Finding Joy: Marriage and Parenting with my husband

Episode 107: Finding Joy. Why forgiveness is so powerful in healing and self-growth

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How the American school system is failing our kids

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome Lauren Smith, a former educator and current nationally certified school psychologist to talk about how and why our American school system needs to change. From testing to the lack of resources to mental health — there’s so much to unpack.

We discuss:

Limitations to American school system education
How the school system is failing our children
Why school systems are overwhelmed
How the American school system is fueling anxiety

Follow Lauren on Instagram @psychedforschool

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to handle the resentment of the societal expectations of motherhood?"

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome a mom who struggles with resentment towards societal gender roles and expectations of being a mom.

We discuss:

How to handle unreasonable societal expectations for mothers
How to communicate with loved ones or partner for needs
How to combat resentment in motherhood

Avoiding Motherhood Perfectionism

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0000

So many mothers feel they have to do everything “perfect” as a mom. Where does this come from? Society? Our childhood? Our work-culture? In this episode, I welcome Michelle Kenney who is a former teacher and high school counselor, mother, and a recovering perfectionist and control freak to talk all about how motherhood perfectionism is ruining motherhood and how to combat it.

We discuss:

Why we get caught up in trying to be a “perfect” parent
How to approach motherhood instead
How to look at motherhood with a growth-mindset

Find out more about The Yelling Cure, Michelle's Podcast or follow her on Facebook and Instagram @peaceandparenting.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is ISR (Infant Swimming Resource) really okay for kids and how does it differ from traditional swim classes?

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

ISR is gaining popularity in the U.S. As a Pediatrician in Florida, I know many families who have signed up for ISR classes for their children. We also started it but had to cancel due to the commute and weather delays.

But, there are a lot of misconceptions about ISR. I invited Erika Wilson, ISR instructor and owner of @seastarisr to discuss all things ISR and why it should be a swimming educational resource option for all families.

We discuss:

What Infant swimming resource (ISR) is and when you can start
Misconceptions about ISR
The benefits of ISR
How it differs from traditional swim classes
Questions to ask swim school/instructor to ensure survival skills
The risks of puddle jumpers and what to do instead
Things to consider when signing up for an ISR class

ISR is not available for all families in terms of time and finances.

Water safety with swim classes and supervision are important for all children.

For more, listen to Episode 82

To read more about ISR and Erika’s company @seastarisr:

seastarisr.com

To find an ISR instructor in your area:

locator.infantswim.com

For ISR scholarships:

thesylasproject.org

judahbrownproject.org

livelikejake.com

isrswimbabies.com/scholarship-partners

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How to find balance in life after becoming a mom"

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking with Christine about finding balance in our identities as mothers and why it’s so important

We discuss:

Why balancing our identities is so hard as mothers
Why our other identities besides being a mother matter
How to reframe guilt when creating this balance

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Ways social media affects our parental mental health and how to bring back peace

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Social media is a blessing, but it can also rob you of your joy as a parent if you’re not aware of its negative impacts.

On this episode, I discuss why I feel social media can be harmful to parental (especially maternal mental health) and how to create balance to reclaim our joy as we consume or share on social media.

Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563216309104

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"I'm feeling disrespected when my 3-year old doesn't listen"

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking with Kaylee about how she feels disrespected when her 3-year old doesn’t listen.

We discuss:

How to not take our child’s behavior personally
How to give a three-year old control when trying to set boundaries
The importance of boundary setting and how to approach them

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why is my pediatrician so burnt out? Is concierge medicine the future?

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

Let’s call a spade a spade here. Your Pediatrician is burnt out. Low insurance reimbursement, low salaries compared to other medical specialties, long hours, and the stress and worry of the job have led a lot of Pediatricians to cut their hours or leave the workforce. I speak with Dr. Elliston, a former colleague of mine and founder of @ellistonpediatrics. He left traditional pediatric medicine to start a large and thriving Concierge Medicine practice in NYC.

We discuss:

Why doctors are burnt out and why the system is failing us and patients
What are the benefits of concierge medicine
How does it work with insurance and for emergencies

Find out more about Dr. Andrew Elliston at ellistonpediatrics.com or via Instagram @ellistonpediatrics

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"What happened to my 21-month old who used to be a great sleeper?"

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I talk to Jeanna about her 21-month old son who used to be a great sleeper and suddenly is going through a sleep regression.

We discuss:

Why toddlers have sleep regressions
The biggest pitfall parents make when approaching regressions
Proper boundary setting with sleep to reach your goals

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Handling Sleep Regressions" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The good and bad of screen-time for child health and development

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome Penny Merenge, a Nurse Practitioner, a passionate advocate for early childhood education and digital wellness, and founder of @screens_n_kids to discuss how to balance screen-time to protect the mental and physical health of our children.

We discuss:

The SPOIL method and how it relates to child development
Why we don’t love the term “screen-time rules”
Some things to consider when choosing to use screens
Times to consider limiting screens

For more, listen to episode 111 and 118

Find Penny Merenge online at screensnkids.com and on Instagram @screens_n_kids.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Is Screen Time Harmful?" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The power (and misconceptions) of routines for children

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

You’ve probably heard routines are very important for toddlers, but do you know why? I welcome Jessica, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and founder of @rootedinroutine to discuss why routines are useful and misconceptions surrounding routines.

We discuss:

Why routines are helpful for toddlers
Why they are helpful for YOU
Some non-negotiables when it comes to routines
Misconceptions about routines

Find out more about Jessica on her Instagram @rootedinroutine or her website rootedinroutine.com

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to help a 4-year old picky (or selective) eater try new foods

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I talk to Megan about her four-year-old and his picky eating. I like to call it “selective or preferential eating because picky eating gets a bad connotation. So, let’s reframe how we approach this together.

We discuss:

Why our biases with meals/food matter
The power of allowing some control for our children
Why pressure backfires

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Picky Eating Playbook offers strategies for toddler feeding and reducing mealtime battles.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Stop Doing This When Talking About Food" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to stay connected to purpose and joy in chaotic times

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In today’s episode I am talking to Lynda Cormier-Hanser, a business owner, speaker/trainer, author, non profit founder, wife and proud mother of 2. Of her many accomplishments, she is most proud of achieving work/life balance, and the quality of her relationships with her two adult daughters, husband, ex-husband, extended family and connection to her community. We will talk about:

How to find purpose during chaos
Misconceptions about positivity
How to re-define grief

Stay connected with Lynda on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or her website: lyndacormier.com

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeling tapped out as a working mom

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I am talking to Kayla who is struggling to find the energy and balance between working and motherhood. We will discuss:

Compassion fatigue
How to create more mental space in our busy days
How to reframe our approach to our daily activities

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy in Marriage and Parenting: A conversation with my husband

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode of FINDING JOY I am talking to my husband about marriage and parenting, covering:

How we connect in marriage amidst busy schedules and parenting
The importance of emotional check-ins
The biggest mindset shifts we made through marriage
How we make our differences work for us

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"What to do about my 18-month old who bites, hits, and kicks?"

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode I am talking to Leah, the mom of 18 month old Isla. Leah is struggling to find a way to stop Isla from scratching, hitting, and kicking.

In this episode we will be talking about different approaches to make an 18 month old understand not to hurt.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Does my toddler have ADHD? How young is too young?

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode I am talking to Dr. Carrie Jackson, a licensed child psychologist and coach. She has first hand experience of a life with ADHD and coaches parents how to rebuild their relationship with their kids with ADHD. We will cover:

What is ADHD
How to recognise ADHD
Age of diagnosis
Is ADHD hereditary

You can find Dr. Carrie Jackson on Instagram @the.parent.therapist or via her website: iparentadhd.com

For more watch Dr. Mona's "How to Parent ADHD" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When life keeps handing you lemons and you’re tired of making damn lemonade

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode I am talking about what to do when the bad news don't seem to end and you are getting tired and frustrated and don’t know how to be optimistic anymore.

I also talk about the phrase “everything happens for a reason” and how this phrase is misused.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sibling Jealousy

Mon, 30 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

On today's episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I’m answering Hannah’s questions. She is the mom of two boys and her younger 1.5 year old son shows jealous and even aggressive behavior when she gives any attention to his older brother.

I will be covering:

How to normalize temperament and foster change when a toddler shows aggression
How to deal with and help a toddler with jealousy

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Prepping Your Child for a Sibling" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are reward systems for children really THAT bad?

Wed, 25 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode I am talking to Dr. Jenicka, a Neuropsychologist & Clinical Scientist who made it her mission to help moms with evidence-based mental health and toddler tips. Today we are discussing:

Different reward systems
Why do reward systems have such a bad reputation
The benefits of using reward systems
How can a reward system work for something like potty training

Find Dr. Jenicka on Instagram @drjenicka.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The misconceptions about playtime and child development

Wed, 18 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In today’s episode I’m talking to Susie Allison, the woman behind Busy Toddler. As a former teacher and mom of 3 kids, she is an advocate for early childhood education and made it her mission to bring hands-on learning and play back to childhood, support others in their parenting journey, and help everyone make it to nap time. We discussed the following:

Why it’s okay not to love playtime
Why you don’t need to play with kids all day long
Not all kids are great at independent play from the start
How to use playtime/awake time to complete chores

Find out more about Susie Allison on her website Busytoddler.com or via Instagram @busytoddler

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Open Ended Toys: Best Kids Toys and Why" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nightmares vs. night terrors

Mon, 16 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mom calls in because her 22 months old daughter has started to wake up at night screaming and she is unsure if this is separation anxiety, a nightmare, or a sleep terror.

I’ll explain the difference between a common sleep regression, nightmares and night terrors, what causes them to happen to toddlers, and how to support them.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood. The Toddler Courses will help you through the toddler stage!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Baby led weaning made easy and enjoyable with Author Jenna Helwig

Wed, 11 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In this episode I am talking to Jenna Helwig, the food director at ‘Real Simple’ magazine, the mom of a 1 one year old and author of 3 fantastic cookbooks. Besides others she wrote the number one bestseller ‘Baby Led Feeding’ and that is the main reason I’m so excited to talk to her about:

What is baby-led weaning?
The biggest mistakes while baby led weaning
How to make the process more simple and enjoyable
How to simplify food preparation
The difference between meal prepping and meal planning
Favorite supermarket shortcuts
How to minimize food waste

Find Jenna Helwig online at jennahelwig.com or get her amazing cook books Bare Minimum Dinner and Baby-Led Feeding.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 values that will bring you more peace and confidence in your life and as a mom

Wed, 04 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

This may be my favorite Finding Joy episode for you: 5 ways (values) we can bring ourselves more joy and peace as a mom.

This episode tackles our emotions and values, the way we view ourselves, and the way we view struggle to give ourselves more grace and peace through our parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

5 Tips for Making Brushing Teeth Fun and not a Fight

Mon, 02 May 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mother of a 2 year old calls in about how to make brushing a toddler's teeth happen without a fight

I normalize this common phase in kids and explain ways to approach this with Five Tips to Making Brushing Teeth Fun and not a Fight.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How social media has harmed public health

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Dr. Jessica Steier, a public-health expert, and Dr. Andrea Love, an immunology expert. They are the hosts of Unbiased Science, a podcast devoted to objective, critical appraisal of available evidence on health-related topics relevant to listeners’ daily lives. We discuss the following:

What could have been done differently in this pandemic
The difference between misinformation and disinformation
What’s next in this pandemic
Why debunking information is so difficult as science-educators
What it means when a pandemic becomes endemic

Follow them at @unbiasedscipod on Instagram and visit www.unbiasedscipod.com where they offer a searchable database. Listen to the Unbiased Science podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"How will postpartum depression impact my child's development?"

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mother of a 1 year old calls in to ask bout the impact her postpartum depression can have on the development of her child.

I discuss why maternal (and parental mental) health matters and what we see for the developmental impact for kids.

A few resources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2724169/
https://www.rikidscount.org/Portals/0/Uploads/Documents/Issue%20Briefs/3.18%20Maternal%20Depression%20Update.pdf
https://www.ncsl.org/research/human-services/from-pregnancy-to-postpartum-the-effects-of-maternal-depression-on-mothers-infants-and-toddlers.aspx

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Secondary Infertility after Birth Trauma

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

In December 2019, we gave birth to our beautiful son. It was under the most difficult of circumstances where both he and I were in the ICU. Over the last 1.5 years, we thought our story would be different but we realized we had secondary infertility from the delivery and complications.

In this episode of The Finding Joy Series, I share our story: How we found out we had secondary infertility, the ups and downs of that process, our decision to start IVF, and how Im navigating this emotionally and physically draining process.

If you are struggling with anything that is robbing your joy or causing you guilt as a parent, make sure to call it into the podcast at 954 526 2641 and I may discuss it on a future episode!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "My IVF Journey" playlist on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Toddlers and private parts privacy

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, a mother of a 2.5 year old calls in to ask if it's normal that her son doesn't want anybody looking at his genitalia during bath time/diaper changes.

I discuss how to balance body autonomy with the need for parental monitoring/intervention. I also discuss why body autonomy is important AND why we should be teaching children from a young age about normal anatomical names for genitalia.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Why Early Conversations about Sex are Crucial" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to foster your child’s autonomy and build confidence with this simple principle

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0000

I'm sharing a parenting principle of mine that has been a game-changer in creating independence, fostering autonomy, building confidence, and also reaffirming to our children that we are there for them when they need us.

It's called the Independence/Intervention Principle and it will change the way you approach multiple parenting situations from infancy and beyond!

Tune in as I explain this principle, why it matters, and examples from the newborn months to school-age on how it works.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to raise a child with a fire to succeed who is also not afraid of failure

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0000

On today's episode I welcome back Katherine Sellery, a 3x TEDx speaker, who has taught thousands of parents the Conscious Parenting Revolution to help them raise resilient, considerate, centered and empowered kids who know their inner voice and honor it.

Check out my previous episodes with Katherine:

For today's episode, we discuss the following:

The difference between praise and acknowledgment
How to create kids who are self-directed
How to raise kids with a fire to succeed that is self-directed
Examples of acknowledgement
Why being mindful as a parent is important for your child’s success

To find out more, visit, www.consciousparentingrevolution.com.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year. To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The relationship between screen time and visual conditions in children

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Dr. Rupa Wong—Pediatric Ophthalmologist, practice owner, mom to three kids, podcaster and YouTuber. We discuss the following and so much more!

The correlation between screen time and visual diagnosis
Nearsightedness
Ages (in relationship to eye development) where screen time should be minimized
Genetic components
How parents can balance screen time and eye health

Find Dr. Wong online at https://drrupawong.com/. Take her Myopia Management Quiz here: www.drrupawong.com/myopiaquiz and get her additional thoughts on screen time here: www.drrupawong.com/screentime.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Is Screen Time Harmful?" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to reset a negative day when you feel like you're spiraling

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0000

We've all been there.

Those days or weeks where you feel like nothing is going right.

You're wondering if everybody has it this hard.

In this episode of the Finding Joy series, I discuss some tips on getting yourself out of that negative spiral and those moments/days when negative thoughts and energy seem to consume you.

If you are struggling with anything that is robbing your joy or causing you guilt as a parent, make sure to call it into the podcast at 954 526 2641 and I may discuss it on a future episode!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What's up with the new CDC milestone update? A conversation between a pediatrician, OT, PT and SLP

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome @speechsisters (speech language pathology), @themovementmama (physical therapy) and @mammamia_ot (occupational therapy) for a frank discussion around the new CDC guidelines. We discuss the following:

Introductions of specialties: speech language pathology, occupational therapy and physical therapy
Concerns and discussions regarding the new CDC milestone guidelines
The "wait and see" approach
The parental role in a child's development
So much more!

Updated milestones:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/milestones-30mo.html

Informed SLP opinion

https://www.theinformedslp.com/review/no-sl-ps-were-in-the-room-where-it-happened

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Avoiding power-struggles when grandparents take care of your child

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode with Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I answer a question about power-struggles with grandparents.

Grandparents can have a positive influence on your child's life and vice-versa, but it's also important that you think of your desires and wants as a parent and communicate these with people who take care of your child.

Listen in as I discuss some things to consider as you navigate a grandparent taking care of your child.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why breaking cycles of generational trauma are difficult but important

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Jessica VanderWier, Registered Psychotherapist and creator of the platform Our Mama Village. At Our Mama Village, they share tangible tools to help families with their children’s behavior and help parents develop relationships with their kiddos that will last a lifetime. Today we are discussing generational trauma!

In this episode we cover:

What generational trauma is and examples
Why it’s important and why it’s so hard to break
Tips for breaking the cycles

Follow Jessica on Instagram @ourmamavillage and online at https://ourmamavillage.com/.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

10 Tips for navigating motherhood when you don't have that proverbial village

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona, I answer a different kind of question (and one I really loved): How to navigate motherhood when you lack those in-person support structures.

I discuss 10 tips to reframe and navigate motherhood when you lack that village.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why forgiveness is so powerful in healing and self-growth

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0000

The finding joy series is a seres to promote mindset shifts, encourage self-growth, and inspire self-insight for you as parents.

I think our biggest barriers as parents is we don't connect with our own feelings, anger, resentment, and past that it prohibits us from showing up for our children as our authentic and true selves.

In this epiosde I discuss the power of forgiveness. I discuss why forgiveness is vital in healing from difficult experiences (ex. birth trauma, generational trauma, or relationships).

I give examples on how forgiveness can help, how to implement it into your life, and why it will make you a happier parent.

If you found this helpful, write a review or leave a rating.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How formula-shaming has led to overwhelming guilt for new moms

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Mallory Whitmore—formula feeding mom of two, certified infant feeding technician, and founder of @theformulamom. We discuss the following:

Why we develop formula-feeding guilt
The lack of formula-feeding education
Overcoming formula-feeding guilt

Visit Mallory and learn more at www.theformulamom.com.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why independent play is so beneficial and how to foster it from a young age

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Independent play is something that is important to build into your routine from the time your child is an infant.

When interchanged with sessions of interactive play with a caregiver, it provides so much benefit for your infant and toddler.

In this episode, I dive into the benefits of independent play, how to make it happen, and how to balance it with interactive play from a young age.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Get These Toys for Open Ended Play" video on YouTube.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for more guidance, tips, and support during your parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Motherhood Insomnia: I'm a mom. I'm tired all day, but can't sleep at night. What's the deal?

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Dr. Shelby Harris, Clinical Psychologist, Board Certified Behavioral Sleep Medicine Doctor and author. Find her on Instagram as @sleepdocshelby.

We discuss the following:

What motherhood insomnia is and why it happens
Tired but wired!
Non-medicated ways to combat insomnia
Signs it’s time to see a specialist and types of medication
So much more

Visit Dr. Shelby at www.drshelbyharris.com and purchase her book, The Women’s Guide To Overcoming Insomnia by Dr. Shelby Harris here.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Co-watching screen-time and how to do it

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0000

When is screen-time okay and what's the deal with co-viewing.

I think screens can be used as medium of play when you are co-viewing with your child.

I do ask you avoid screen-time before one year of age to foster normal child development. Listen in on when I think it's reasonable after one year.

In this episode I go over:

Current screen-time recommendations from the AAP
How to make common sense rules for your family (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zugBuwgLgcc&t=34s)
What is co-viewing
How to use the right programming
Tips on co-viewing
And so much more!

Why self-compassion is more important than self-care

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

The term self-care make me cringe. Especially when its used with a hasthag: #selfcare.

In this episode I discuss the fundamental issues with self care and offer a perspective on self-compassion and why this is so much more important for us.

Why is self-care sometimes unattainable
The guilt surrounding self-care
What is self-compassion
My main priorities for self-care and why I believe it's vital.
And so much more

If you are struggling to find joy in motherhood/parenthood; leave a topic request at 954 546 2641 and I will discuss on a future episode.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"Why is my kid ALWAYS sick and when do I need to be concerned?"

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0000

Tis' the season of virus, virus, virus. And it seems never-ending.

I have so many parents DMing me on my Instagram account wondering if their kid is the only one sick "all the time."

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I see kids from all various ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds sick right now (not just COVID).

Illnesses happen, especially viral illnesses.

I discuss:

Why our kids get so many viruses
Why it seems worse during the pandemic
Why back-to-back illnesses happen
When to be concerned about repetitive illnesses
How to reframe when your child is constantly sick

Blog on Immune health and supplements

https://pedsdoctalk.com/does-my-child-need-an-immune-supplement/

Fever YouTube Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jgZ1Y7gmu8&t=5s

Cough YouTube Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za2eU-KoHP4&t=8s

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Baby-wearing: Why do it and where to start?

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Laura Brown, baby wearing expert and postpartum doula on Instagram @mamabirdlosangeles. In this episode we cover:

The benefits of baby wearing
Baby wearing limitations
How to choose the right carrier
The biggest mistakes when baby wearing
What to look for in a fit

Find Laura at Mamabirdlosangeles.com and learn more at babywearinghelp.org.

This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM'S SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year. To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to overcome playtime guilt

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Jacqueline Stanko of @lets.talk.tots. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and has worked with children in some capacity over the last 17 years. In this episode we discuss the following:

Why we struggle with playtime
Why we put expectations on ourselves to always engage
How we can foster development
The most important components for optimal engagement

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Finding Joy as a Parent in a Pandemic

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Let's call a spade a spade here:

Parenting in a pandemic is rough.

In this episode, I go over what everyone is feeling; but may not be saying and offer some ways to find joy even in those hardest of days in this pandemic.

I also offer some tangible tips to bring back the peace in your mind amidst the chaos that is pandemic parenting.

Make sure to follow me @pedsdoctalk and read my post here for more:

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYb1aSAF8Df/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Taking a leap in 2021 and going part-time as a working mom

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000

For my last episode of 2021, I am starting a new series on this podcast that will continue into 2022.

Each month, I will share a heart-to-heart on finding joy as a mother, parent, Pediatrician, and well----human!

I take on topics such as guilt, judgement, making tough decisions, work-life-balance, self-growth, and so much more.

My hope is you will feel empowered to find the best in yourself and find joy.

In this episode I go over:

Why going part-time was the scariest and best professional decision for me in 2022
Why I was scared to take the leap
A message for all working parents--especially working moms on finding work-life balance
Why I feel burnout at work has no place in the home and how to move towards finding that joy and balance again

If you have any suggestions for topics or need help navigating a part of mom-life or parent-life, leave a message at 954 526 2641.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to approach toddler constipation

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer a common question I've gotten asked on my social media account @pedsdoctalk.

I discuss toddler constipation:

Why it happens
The questions your child's clinician may ask you
How to approach it
Common medicines we use and how they work
How I personally approach it with our toddler

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Toddler Courses that will help you through the toddler stage!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Constipation Solutions for Kids" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How validation helps us connect with our children

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome back Dr. Siggie Cohen, a Child Development Specialist with over 35 years of experience working with children and families. Check out our previous episode, 77: Understanding why our toddlers bite, hit, and throw and how to navigate it.

We discuss:

Why validation is important
How to teach children to respect boundaries
The biggest mistakes parents make when praising kids
Internal validation as it relates to listening

Use this link to get 15% off Dr. Siggie's “Everything Toddler” course: https://learn.drsiggie.com/toddlercourse?coupon=PEDSDOCTALK

Find out more at: https://drsiggie.com/.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hemangiomas; what are they and what to do about them?

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Shivani Patel, MD, FAA, Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Pediatric Dermatologist. Find her on Instagram @Pedsdermdoc.

We discuss the following and so much more:

What exactly a hemangioma is
Hemangiomas in children
General management and when to see a dermatologist
Management options - monitoring vs. therapy
When a hemangioma may become medically concerning

This episode is brought to you by: THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year. To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Infant and child sleep and cultural barriers

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Diana Martins, certified sleep consultant. Find her on Instagram @weesleep_diana.

We discuss:

Understanding your “why” with sleep training
Cultural barriers in sleep education
Communicating with grandparents regarding your sleep choices

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why It’s Okay to Raise Kids Who are Self-Centered

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome back Katherine Sellery of The Conscious Parenting Revolution. Katherine is a 3x TEDx speaker, has taught thousands of parents in a Conscious Parenting Revolution for resilient, considerate, centered and empowered kids who know their inner voice and honor it.

If you missed it, be sure to check out my previous chat with Katherine, episode 45: How to Be a More Conscious Parent and Why it’s Important for our Children.

In today's episode we discuss the following:

Why it’s okay to raise kids who are self-centered
What being self-centered can teach our children
How we can balance this with thinking of others

For more information, visit www.katherinesellery.com and check out her Free eBook, 7 Strategies To Keep Your Relationship With Your Kids From Hitting The Boiling Point.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The importance of choosing the right skincare products for your child with eczema

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of Eczema Awareness Month, I welcome Claire Ryan, WaterWipes’ Medical Science Liaison, to talk about the importance of choosing the right skin care products for our children.

We discuss:

Why choosing the right skin care products are important for babies with eczema
Basic tips for managing eczema
Why WaterWipes is unique compared to other wipe brands or a washcloth with water
And so much more

This episode is sponsored by WaterWipes, the world’s purest baby wipes. Tune in to learn more and get even more skin care tips from WaterWipes at https://www.waterwipes.com/us/en.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Infant Development and Motherhood with Celebrity Mom Ashley Tisdale

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Motherhood is one of the most amazing journeys we may go through, but it can sometimes be filled with judgement and uncertainty.

I speak with actress, singer, entrepreneur, and mom Ashley Tisdale about her journey through motherhood and how she navigates the ups and downs of motherhood.

Here’s what we discuss:

Her journey to choosing formula-feeding her baby and why she chose @Enfamil
How she combats judgement as a celebrity mom
How she balances her mental health, worries, and anxieties as a new mom
What she loves most about watching her 6-month old, Jupiter, grow and develop
Tips for fostering development in infancy
How to look at the big picture when it comes to motherhood

Tune in to hear an amazing conversation from an inspirational mom.

This episode is brought to you by @Enfamil. Check out their website for more developmental tips and their line of formula to help support your growing and thriving baby.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breastfeeding and sleep-training: Can it be done?

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Lola Sanchez Liste, pediatric sleep coach and founder of Rockin Blinks. We discuss the following:

How breastfeeding and sleep training can coexist
Methods to consider
How to wean baby from feeds
How to prevent engorgement and mastitis
So much more!

Find Lola online at www.rockinblinks.com and on Instagram @rockinblinks.

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses for guidance, tips, and support through parenthood. The New Mom's Survival Guide is the complete roadmap to navigating your first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two mother’s experiences having premature babies in the NICU

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0000

In honor of NICU awareness month, I share the stories of two moms who had premature babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. If you missed it, check out episode 87 to hear stories from two other moms who had term babies in the NICU.

On this episode, we discuss:

Things NICU moms may be unprepared for
How the medical community can better support NICU parents
What others may not realize about having a NICU experience or being a NICU mom
How to advocate for yourself and your baby

This episode is brought to you by:

THE NEW MOM SURVIVAL GUIDE: The first digital e-course/community created and founded by a Pediatrician mom to guide you and your baby through their first year. To find out more and to join, visit: http://pedsdoctalk.com/survival-guide.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What to Expect in the NICU and how to foster baby's development

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of NICU awareness month, I welcome two medical professionals who work hard in taking care of our precious babies in the NICU.

I welcome Dr. Kate Rubey (@drkater on Instagram) who is a Neonatologist. We discuss:

Interventions that are done in the NICU
What happens on NICU rounds
What she wishes every parent would know about the NICU

I also welcome Katie Ross (@bloominglittles on Instagram) who is an Occupational Therapist in the Neonatal ICU. We discuss:

Five ways parents can support their baby's development in the NICU
How to participate in care in the NICU

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two mother’s experiences having term babies in the NICU

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0000

In honor of NICU awareness month, I share the stories of two moms who had babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Stay tuned in a few weeks to hear stories from two other moms who had premature babies in the NICU.

On this episode, we discuss:

Things NICU moms may be unprepared for
How the medical community can better support NICU parents
What others may not realize about having a NICU experience or being a NICU mom
How to advocate for yourself and your baby

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Confessions of a School Teacher

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Michelle, a teacher going into her 10th year of teaching family consumer science to grades 7-12 in the Midwest. We discuss the following:

Things we wish parents would understand
The problem with being a “lawnmower parent”
The importance of sleep in school-age kids
The importance of communication with children’s teachers about concerns
How being a pediatrician is similar to being a teacher
Systemic problems with education and healthcare

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pumping and Going Back to Work

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome back certified lactation counselor Melissa of @pump_momma_pump on Instagram to discuss pumping and going back to work. We discuss the following:

Pumping considerations when going back to work
Tips for success emotionally and physically
Considerations for space to pump
How to best schedule pumpings
Common hurdles and how to overcome them

Further reading: Break Time for Nursing Mothers under the FLSA (Fair Labor Standards Act) along with Frequently Asked Questions https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/nursing-mothers#:~:text=for%20Nursing%20Mothers-,Break%20Time%20for%20Nursing%20Mothers,Section%207%20of%20the%20FLASH.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Better Help

Thank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Formula ingredients, regulations, and supporting cognitive development with Enfamil's medical science liaison and registered Dietician

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0000

I welcome Alayne, who is a registered dietician and a medical science liaison for Enfamil to talk about formula ingredients, regulations, and how we can support infant cognitive development early on.

We discuss:

FDA guidelines on what is required in infant formula
Are European formulas “better” than U.S. Formulas
What ingredients in formula help support baby’s cognitive development and immune health?
How can we support an infant’s development overall?
Why is cognitive development an important domain of development?

This episode is sponsored by Enfamil Neuropro. For more information and to learn if Enfamil Neuropro is a right fit for your baby, visit Enfamil NeuroPro

(https://www.enfamil.com/enfamil-neuropro/?utm_medium=paid_influencer&utm_source=q3_neuropro_con_edelman_website_na_draminpodcast&utm_campaign=q3_neuropro)

To learn more about milestone anxiety, check out my article at Enfamil.com.

https://www.enfamil.com/articles/milestone-anxiety/?utm_medium=paid_influencer&utm_source=q3_neuropro_org_edelman_website_na_draminpodcastdescription&utm_campaign=q3_neuropro

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ten Misconceptions about pumping with a certified lactation counselor

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome certified lactation counselor Melissa of @pump_momma_pump on Instagram and we discuss common misconceptions when it comes to pumping.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Better Help

Thank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Losing a child to drowning: Turning grief into advocacy

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Nicole Hughes (@nicolehughes8 on IG) who documents on her Instagram her life after loss and, in her words, “choosing to survive the impossible.” We discuss the following:

What prompted her to become an advocate for drowning prevention
Common misconceptions and assumptions
What she thinks the AAP can change in regards to drowning awareness/education
What education/tools she thinks parents should equip themselves or their child with
Why puddle jumpers are not ideal for drowning prevention
What ISR is and why swim lessons are needed

AAP updated recommendations

ISR nonprofits

https://www.parentspreventingchildhooddrowning.com/non-profits

Levi’s Legacy website (additional information, links, and resources on drowning prevention)

https://www.levislegacy.com/

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Better Help

Thank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why are kids with early success at risk for low self-confidence with Dr. Becky Kennedy

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Dr. Becky Kennedy, PhD, Clinical Psychology of @drbeckyatgoodinside and the Good Inside Podcast. Find her at goodinside.com. We discuss the following:

How to balance raising confident children while making them feel proud of their successes
Examples and phrases to use in real life situations
What mistakes parents make that can lead to low self-confidence for kids when praising them
So much more!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

This episode is brought to you by:

Better Help

Thank you to our sponsor, BetterHelp, for sponsoring this episode. To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising Black Boys in America: A Mother's Message

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Thenedra Roots on Instagram as @raisingtherootsboys. We discuss the following and so much more!

Why she started Raising The Roots Boys
What it means to her raising Black boys in America today
The obvious differences she sees in the way her children are treated in society
Her biggest concern for her children's future
How non-black parents can support her and other Black parents in the parenting world
What she thinks we as parents can do to make our children's future more inclusive

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode.

To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The importance of pre-verbal skills in language and communication

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Melissa Minney, speech language pathologist, mother and on Instagram as @raisinglittletalkers.

We discuss the following and so much more!

What pre-verbal skills are and why they are important
How early we can see these skills
How parents can work to develop these skills
Potential pre-verbal development concerns
How to connect gestures with teaching language
So much more!

For Melissa's checklist, grab it here

For Raising Little Talkers courses, check out her resources here

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The rash that itches: Eczema management with a Pediatric Dermatologist

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On today's episode I welcome Dr. Shivani Patel, Board Certified Pediatric Dermatologist. We discuss the following:

When eczema can happen and how it differs in infancy vs childhood
Why does it happen?
When should a child see a dermatologist versus an allergist
Eczema and food allergies explained
Favorite skincare regimens for eczema
Medicines versus steroids
What to do about itching

Find and follow Dr. Shivani Patel on Instagram, @pedsdermdoc.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Eczema in Kids" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode.

To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Understanding why our toddlers bite, hit, and throw and how to navigate it

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Child Development Specialist and Parenting Expert Dr. Siggie Cohen. We discuss the following:

When to intervene with biting, hitting or throwing
Rhetorical behavior
How to provide alternative expression appropriate for the action
The science behind why toddlers don't understand abstract concepts or words
So much more!

Get 15% off Dr. Siggie’s “Everything Toddler” course with the code PEDSDOCTALK. Buy here. Find Dr. Siggie here https://drsiggie.com/ or on Instagram @dr.siggie.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode.

To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tonsils and Adenoids. When is surgery necessary?

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Jordan Glicksman Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon in private practice at Newton Wellesley Hospital and Lecturer part time at Harvard Medical School. We discuss the following:

The basics of adenoids
When they may need to be removed
The purpose of tonsils
Obstructive sleep apnea
T&A procedures
Recovery times
Other options besides surgery

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ear Tubes: When they're needed and how they're done

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Jordan Glicksman, Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon in private practice at Newton Wellesley Hospital and Lecturer part time at Harvard Medical School. We discuss the following:

Speech, fluid and recurrent ear infections
How many ear infections may warrant tubes
Hearing tests
Purpose of ear tubes
How long they last
Tips to prevent ear infections

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Signs of an Ear Infection" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The research and development behind children's sunscreen

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0000

I welcome Donald Rick, the director of Formulation Development at Coppertone.

He joins me to talk about sunscreen ingredients, formulations, the regulatory process of sunscreen and so much more.

Here are some of the topics we discuss:

What are some considerations when formulating sunscreens for babies?
What is the regulatory process for sunscreen?
Which is preferred? Mineral or chemical sunscreens?
Is oxybenzone a concern?
What is the benefit of having naturally sourced zinc oxide in sunscreens?
What are the differences in spray vs lotion sunscreen?
What is our #1 tip when using sunscreen

Tune in to hear a fascinating conversation about sunscreen development.

This episode is sponsored by Coppertone. The #1 Pediatrician Recommended Sunscreen Brand

It is the sunscreen we use for our family and #1 Pediatrician recommended sunscreen brands.

Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @coppertoneUSA on Instagram if you have any questions or to learn more about Coppertone Pure & Simple and other Coppertone offerings.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Sunscreen for Baby (And Children)" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When does a picky eater need a feeding therapist AND how to prepare a 2.5 year old for preschool

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0000

EDUCATIONAL AND NOT MEDICAL ADVICE

On this episode of Monday Mornings with Dr. Mona I answer two questions.

1. When is picky eating MORE than picky eating. I explain when picky eating should be seen by a feeding therapist and the benefits of seeing one.

2. Preparation tips for a 2.5 year old to attend preschool

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The reality of Mom Brain with Author Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco, clinical psychologist and author of Mom Brain: Proven Strategies to Fight the Anxiety, Guilt, and Overwhelming Emotions of Motherhood—and Relax Into Your New Self. We discuss the following:

What “mom brain” is
What happens to our emotions when we become mothers
Maternal anxiety
Mom comparison and social media
Partner relationships once babies enter the picture

Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Mom-Brain-Strategies-Overwhelming-Motherhood/dp/1462540260

Follow Dr. Ilyse Dobrow DiMarco on Instagram - @drcbtmom and check out her website here: https://drcbtmom.com/.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can Children be Raised on a Plant-Based Diet?

Wed, 26 May 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Whitney of Plant-Based Juniors. Whitney is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Personal Trainer and parent to a plant-based babe. We discuss:

Pediatric plant-based nutrition
The biggest misconceptions when it comes to a plant-based diet
The benefits of a plant-based diet
Basic tips to help your kid love veggies
Plant-based formula/alternative for cow’s milk
The Plant-Based Juniors visual guide to meal planning for parents
Nutrients to prioritize and supplement on a plant-based diet
Nutrients that may be lacking on a plant-based diet

Website: https://plantbasedjuniors.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantbasedjuniors/

Freebies: https://plantbasedjuniors.com/plant-based-juniors-supplement-guide/

The Plant Based Baby and Toddler: https://plantbasedjuniors.com/plant-based-baby-and-toddler/

Check out all the PedsDocTalk Courses to help you through your parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Montessori in real life: Bringing Montessori philosophies into your home

Wed, 19 May 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Theresa from Montessori in Real Life and we discuss bringing Montessori philosophies into your home.

We also discuss:

When to start Montessori at home
How to incorporate Montessori into your home
The benefits of a Montessori education vs. other methods of early childhood education
The overall Montessori philosophy of education

Follow Theresa on Instagram, @montessoriinreallife, or https://www.instagram.com/montessoriinreallife/ and check out her website https://www.montessoriinreallife.com/.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Stop Losing Your Sh*t With your Kids with Author Carla Naumburg

Wed, 12 May 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Carla Naumburg, author of How to Stop Losing Your Sh*t With your Kids. In addition to being an author, Carla is a clinical social worker and mother of two girls.

We discuss the following (and so much more):

Why we lose our cool with our kids
The importance of self-care and sleep
Fight fright flight freak out
Screentime
Independent play
Attunement
Common humanity

For more information, please visit https://www.carlanaumburg.com/ or follow Carla on Instagram @carlanaumburg.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hip Dysplasia: What is it and how is it managed?

Wed, 05 May 2021 04:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Tim Schrader, the medical director of the Hip Program at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, to discuss Hip Dysplasia.

We discuss the following (and so much more):

What hip dysplasia is and how common it is
The risk factors
Why girls might be a higher risk factor than boys
How to properly swaddle
Infant carriers
Treatment and management options

For more information on swaddling, go to https://www.choa.org/swaddling.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Gift of Failure with Author Jessica Lahey

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0000

I welcome back Jessica Lahey to discuss her New York Times Bestselling Book, "The Gift of Failure: Learning to Let Go so our children can succeed."

We discuss the following (and so much more):

Why is society so fixated on points and scores rather than the actual process of learning?
What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators and why are they important?
What is the difference between autonomy and independence?
What other options do you have if you don’t bribe, nag, or impose punishment in order to get kids to do what we want them to do?

For more about Jessica Lahey and her work, visit

https://www.jessicalahey.com/ or follow her on Instagram @teacherlahey

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Racial Disparities in Maternal Health

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0000

In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, I welcome Dr. Jasmine Johnson (@mrsmommymd on Instagram). a Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellow with a focus on women’s health disparities.

Her research looks at the disparities that exist for Black women in pregnancy, labor and delivery.

Systemic Racism is a reality and healthcare plays a huge part of this.

Racism and bias can play a huge roll in the outcomes of Black mothers.

In this episode we discuss:

1. Why it's important that we discuss systemic racism as it relates to healthcare.

2. Research in racism and pregnancy outcomes.

3. Breastfeeding statistics for Black women compared to non-Black women.

4. How systemic racism put Black women, especially Black pregnant women, at a disadvantage.

5. Why systemic racism effects us all.

6. What we can do to cause change.

Autism Acceptance as an Autistic Adult

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode of "A Mother's Message," I welcome Lori, who was diagnosed with autism as an adult. We discuss what prompted her to get evaluated for autism, what the diagnosis meant for her, how it helped her to have this diagnosis, and a message to all regarding autism.

As a reminder, this is the perspective of only one autistic adult. It's important that in honoring neurodiversity, we remember to open up our minds and conversations about neurodiversity and that includes interacting with various neurodiverse adults and children.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Autism Traits and Characteristics" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Autism Acceptance: A Mother's Message

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Katie.

As part of my "A Mother's Message" series, I welcome moms to discuss things they would like to share with their world. This series is meant to inspire and educate moms through the experiences we go through as mother. Our hope is to also spread acceptance of diversity, especially neurodiversity, in honor of Autism Acceptance Month.

Tune in as we talk about when her daughter was diagnosed with autism, the process in getting the diagnosis, how she navigated the process, and a message she has for parents of both neurotypical and neuroatypical children.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Autism Traits and Characteristics" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Understanding Autism with a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of Autism Acceptance and acceptance of neurodiversity, I invited Dr Tamar Nazarian Chorbadjian, a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician.

We discuss the following:

The role of a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician in taking care of neurodiverse children
The current statistics of autism and why we think we are seeing higher rates now
Known risk factors
How the diagnosis is made
Misinformation regarding autism
The importance of establishing services early for a child.

Tune in to learn about autism and make sure to follow us @pedsdoctalk and @drtamardbp to continue the conversation

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Autism Traits and Characteristics" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Understanding Autism Characteristics and Breaking Down Stigmas

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 06:00:00 -0000

On this episode in honor of Autism Acceptance month, I welcome Andi Putt (@mrsspeechiep on Instagram) . She is a pediatric speech language pathologist who conducts Autism evaluations and is a neurodiversity advocate.

I welcome her to discuss the following:

What is identity-first versus person-first language?
Outdated terminology when discussing our autistic community
Biggest misconceptions regarding autism
Common characteristics with a breakdown of questions that your Pediatrician may ask or screen for during well-visits

Tune in to learn more and make sure to follow us on Instagram (@pedsdoctalk and @mrsspeechiep)

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Autism Traits and Characteristics" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Wean your Child from Breastfeeding

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000

A person's breastfeeding journey can be filled with so many emotions.

Choosing to wean your baby from breastfeeding can be filled with excitement, sadness, nerves, and/or guilt.

Every woman is different in how she feels when this time of her and her child's life transitions and it's important to recognize these spectrum of feelings as normal and valid.

On this episode, I welcome back IBCLC Melissa Mancini (@more_than_milk on Instagram).

We discuss how mothers decide the time is best for them to wean, some tips on how to wean, and we discuss the emotional aspects of weaning that are not always talked about.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "How to Introduce a Cup" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk Courses for more information, tips, and support along your parenting journey.

Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode.

To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Down Syndrome Awareness: A Mother's Message

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000

One of my favorite things about this podcast is meeting and talking to other experts in the field of pediatrics.

There is no better expert than a mom.

I started this series: "A mother's message" to invite mothers to share their stories.

Our stories can help others and I am so excited to welcome @abbyrosegreen in honor of World Down syndrome Day.

We discuss her family's journey when they found out their son has Down syndrome, the misconceptions out there regarding Down syndrome, and some of the invisible struggles that others may not realize.

Abby's message is so important for the world to hear and I'm so honored she joined me today for this very important epiosde.

Abby co-hosts her own podcast, called HERself sharing stories and motivation for every woman.

Make sure to follow her on Instagram @abbyrosegreen and subscribe to her podcast to be inspired!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/herself/id1489878793

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Down Syndrome Day: Understanding Trisomy 21

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0000

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day. A day to recognize and spread awareness of those with Down syndrome.

THIS EPISODE IS PART 1 OF 2 EPISODES: MAKE SURE TO LISTEN TO EPISODE 58: A MOTHER'S MESSAGE-DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS.

In honor of this, I welcome Dr. Sajel Lala (@Lalagenetics on Instagram). We discuss Down syndrome statistics, risk factors, how the diagnosis can be made, what is monitored through the child's life, and some misconceptions about those with Down syndrome.

Make sure to listen to Episode 58 for more insight and awareness celebrating World Down syndrome Day.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The COVID-19 Pandemic: What About Our Kids?

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0000

It is the year anniversary of this pandemic being declared by the WHO. We have seen many lives lost, many families impacted, and are always being required to stay flexible with changing guidance, research, and data.

When it comes to kids, many parents have felt like guidance has been lacking.

We know kids are not severely affected with complications as much as older adults, but they are at risk of getting this illness. And some risk is still risk.

I invited Jessica Malaty Rivera (@jessicamalatyrivera on Instagram), who is an Infectious Disease Epidemiologist, Science Communication Lead at The COVID Tracking Project, and mother.

We discuss the pandemic as it stands and what it means for our children and some of the following:

What does Jessica do as an infectious disease epidemiologist?
When do we foresee kids receiving the vaccines?
Is there a chance kids won't need the vaccine?
Why is it important to test the vaccine in children?
Why is a vaccine important for kids even if they are not as affected by severe disease?
What has been the hardest part of being on social media and spreading evidence-based information during this pandemic?
How to most recent CDC guidelines (From March 8th) regarding vaccinated adults impacts those with children.

Tune in and make sure to follow us @jessicamalatyrivera and @pedsdoctalk for more COVID-related education!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode.

To schedule your first therapy session, visit https://www.betterhelp.com/peds to get 10% off your first month

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Becoming a More Conscious Food Shopper for your Family

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 06:00:00 -0000

Am I giving my child a well-rounded diet?

How much salt and seasonings is okay?

What is the deal with marketing for kid's foods and why is it a problem?

How can we balance "convenience" foods and healthy foods?

These are all common questions I get asked as a Pediatrician and on my Instagram @pedsdoctalk. I welcome Monica Auslander (@eatlikemonica on Instagram). She is a Registered Dietician and founder of Essence Nutrition.

We both discuss food-shopping for our families, how to be a more conscious food shopper, and how to remove the guilt surrounding what we feed our kids.

Make sure to follow @eatlikemonica and @pedsdoctalk for more!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pregnancy, Labor, Delivery, and Motherhood with an OB/GYN

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0000

As an OB and Pediatrician, a common assumption of us two doctor moms is that we have it all figured out.

Not. Always.

I welcome my friend Dr. Marta Perez (on Instragram as @dr.martaperez), who is an OB and new mom. We chat about motherhood and everything that got us here today.

We share a heart-to-heart about the assumptions that are made of us as physicians and doctor moms.

Did we fear pregnancy, labor, or motherhood?
Did we experience anxiety in pregnancy or postpartum even with all we know?
Do we experience momma guilt?
Did we empathize more with our patients after our experiences being pregnant and becoming a mom?

Dr. Marta Perez and I break it all down and also educate about the real deal--the truth behind pregnancy, labor, delivery, and motherhood!

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for help navigating the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Keeping Your Kids Heart Healthy

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

As parents, one of our hopes is to allow our children to live a long and healthy life.

Part of this, is creating heart healthy habits for our children.

I welcome Dr. Renee Rodriguez (Paro), who is a Pediatric Cardiologist and mom, to talk all about how we promote heart healthy habits for our patients and our own families.

We discuss the importance of creating heart-healthy habits and offer simple ways to make this a possibility for your family.

What are some ways we can create heart-healthy habits?
Why is this important?
How can we teach our children the importance of this?
What are screening tests done in Pediatrics for heart health?
What do Pediatric Cardiologists do as a specialty?

Tune in as we discuss heart health for our children in honor of American Heart Month

Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @drreneeparo on Instagram for more tips!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Managing Toddler Sleep Concerns

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Oh toddler sleep!

This can be a struggle for many families. Perhaps you had an infant who was a 'great' sleeper and is now going through a regression OR you want to teach your toddler to fall asleep independently for the first time. Toddler sleep issues can be a struggle.

I welcome Victoria from Bella Luna Family, who is a sleep consultant and mother to a toddler. We discuss toddler sleep including regressions.

How can we teach our toddler independent sleep skills?
What are toddler sleep regressions and why do they happen?
What do we do during these regressions?
What is the key to success in helping teach our toddler to sleep?
What are some various strategies to consider?

Tune in as we discuss all of these questions.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Toddler Sleep" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk Toddler Courses for help with all your toddler questions and concerns including toddler sleep!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Safe and Sound-Creating Safe Beginnings for your Child

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0000

Child safety can be overwhelming.

I find a lot of my families struggle with how to make sense of all this information.

So, I welcome Holly Choi. She is a mother, CPR/first aid instructor, child burn educator, and child passenger safety technician to speak about 10 things she wishes every parents would know about child safety.

How can we prevent burns in the home?

What are the biggest safety tips around the home?

What are the most common injuries we see as a Pediatrician and safety educator?

How do we make sure toys are not choking hazards?

What is one thing we want every family to feel comfortable knowing how to do?

Make sure to follow her @safebeginnings on Instagram to learn more about infant and child safety! We only hit 10 things here and of course there is so much more to learn.

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for help navigating the first year of parenthood.

Resources:

@safebeginnings free guide on anchoring furniture: https://safebeginnings.ca/anchoring-furniture/
Free babyproofing checklist: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f066b9e65532200269e28db
Information on @safebeginnings webinars and e-courses: https://safebeginnings.ca/onlinecourses/
US Car seat checks: safekids.org/events
Canadian Car seat checks: cpsac.org/findatech
Poison Control in US: (800) 222-1222

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is Breast Really Best?

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

It is an honor to welcome Emily Oster who is an economist, mother, and author of the New York Times Bestselling book, Cribsheet, to the podcast today.

Emily's book Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting, from Birth to Preschool breaks down so many topics and choices parents struggle with in parenthood.

From deciding to circumcise, sleep train, to introduce screen time, she breaks it all down with the evidence.

I welcome her on this episode to talk about the limitations of breast feeding research.

Breast milk is beneficial, but is it really FAR superior to formula feeding?

We break down the research and discuss if breast is REALLY best.

https://emilyoster.net/
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/572658/cribsheet-by-emily-oster/

Check out all the PedsDocTalk courses to help you along your parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Importance of Finding Your Unique Parenting Voice

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0000

What is your parenting style?

Have you really thought about what goes into finding your parenting style and WHY finding your unique parenting style is important for you?

i welcome Mercedes Samudio, a licensed psychotherapist, parenting coach, and author of Shame Proof Parenting: Find your unique parenting voice, feel empowered, and raise whole, healthy children.

I welcome her on the podcast to discuss parenting styles, how a parent can find their unique parenting style, what a parent should consider when establishing this parenting style, and why it's important for a parent to find their unique parenting voice.

Listen in as we try to empower parents in their parenting journey through SHAME PROOF PARENTING.

For more resources visit:

https://shameproofparenting.com/

Make sure to follow @Diversityinparentinginc and @pedsdoctalk on Instagram to continue the conversation.

Check out the PedsDocTalk Courses for additional parenting information, tips, and support along your parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Say What?? Outdated Parenting and Medical Advice

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000

How many of you have heard the following myths in regards to your child??

"Wait for tummy time!"

"Put alcohol on an umbilical cord to clean it."

"Sleeping on your belly as a newborn is fine!"

"Give your baby formula or oatmeal to make them sleep longer."

"Your baby needs a walker to help them learn how to walk."

"Bouncing your baby on your legs will make them bowlegged."

"It's okay to give your baby/child aspirin for a fever."

"Slapping is a good way to discipline a child."

"Every boy should be circumcised."

"Wait until one year to give allergenic foods"

"Toddlers NEED cows milk and juice and should have milk with every meal"

On this episode, I welcome my best friend, fellow Pediatrician and momma Dr. Marie Jones to bust these myths and why these are not true. This is an episode you may want grandma and/or grandpa to hear because I have a feeling you have heard many of these from them.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to be a More Conscious Parent and why it's Important for our Children

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0000

Do you know what it really means to be a conscious parent?

On today's episode I welcome Katherine Sellery, a 3x TEDx speaker, who has taught thousands of parents the Conscious Parenting Revolution to help them raise resilient, considerate, centered and empowered kids who know their inner voice and honor it.

We discuss what it means to be a conscious parent. Being a conscious parent requires us to dive deep into our insecurities as parents, how we approach discipline, and the high expectations we place on our children and ourselves.

It's about being more aware of ourselves so we can better parent our children and meet their emotional needs.

Listen in as we discuss what it means to be a conscious parent, how we can create boundaries, but still allow our child's inner voice to be head, how to find a balance between praise and acknowledgment, and so much more!

Make sure to visit https://www.consciousparentingrevolution.com/ for more resources on becoming a more conscious parent.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Setting Boundaries with Loved Ones

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000

"Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others." -Brene Brown

Why is it so hard to set boundaries with our relatives? Why is it important to set these boundaries?

On today's episode I welcome Jenny Mehrer. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (On Instagram as @jennywestmehrerlmft) who joins me to talk about boundary setting with our loved ones.

We discuss:

Why we have difficulty setting boundaries with loved ones
Why lack of boundary setting can cause friction in families
Why lack of boundary setting can cause behavioral issues in children
First steps in creating boundaries
How we can communicate to our parents who differ in various parenting philosophies
How to create boundaries during the holidays and surrounding COVID precautions

Tune in for this very important episode. Follow @jennywestmehrerlmft and @pedsdoctalk to continue the conversation!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Percentiles, BMI, and Body Image: We're More Than Just a Number on the Scale.

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000

A healthy body image is one of the most important things I want to teach our children. How they look at their bodies, how they view food, and how they value themselves more than how they look is so important.

The medical community is guilty of causing issues with body image on how we sometimes report weight, percentiles, and BMI. The medical community doesn't take into consideration genetics and various body types when they come up with these "standards of health."

On this episode, I welcome back Jessica Gust. She is a mother and Pediatric Dietician (@elementnutrition.kids on Instagram).

We discuss when percentiles are helpful, how they should be used, why we both don't love BMIs, how we tie in eating habits to body image, and how we can create a healthy body image for our children.

Tune in to learn so much on this very important topic.

Remember to follow @pedsdoctalk and @elementnutrition.kids on Instagram to finish the conversation.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everybody Poops! Potty Training Basics

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode I welcome Allison, the owner and founder of The Potty Training Consultant (@pottytrainingconsultant on Inatagram), to discuss the basics of potty training.

She is a mother of two and her company has helped thousands of families around the world in their potty training journey.

We discuss:

The average age of potty training in America
Signs of readiness
A couple methods to consider
How to determine which method may be best for your child
What a parent should do if their child is resistant to potty training
What are some barriers to potty training

Tune is as we talk about potty training basics!

Make sure to follow @pottytrainingconsultant and @pedsdoctalk on Instagram to continue the conversation!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Potty Training Do's and Don'ts" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk Toddler Courses for all Dr. Mona's toddler essentials, including the No-Pressure Potty Training Course.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

15 Ways We Can Be More Like Kids

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Simply put, we can learn a lot from kids. They are the greatest teachers and I often find that when we are feeling the weight of the world on our shoulders, children can be the ones to make us feel like ourselves again. They are honest, they are full of love, and they are not afraid to be themselves! We can learn a lot more from kids!

In this episode, I share 15 ways we can be more like kids. Characteristics I love most about kids that inspire me every day to be a better adult.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breaking the Stigma on Maternal Mental Health: It's OK to not be OK

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0000

It’s 2020. Why is there still a stigma surrounding mental health?! Especially around maternal mental health?

Women are celebrated for doing it all.

Society tells us we can juggle it all, when in reality it is IMPOSSIBLE to do it all without help.

Postpartum is the most critical time in a mother’s life. A baby is born, but so is a mother.

We still tend to forget about mom when the baby arrives. How does that make a woman feel?

Their body has changed, their hormones are all over place, and they are now responsible for caring for a new human being.

We cannot underestimate the weight of this transition in a woman’s life.

We cannot diminish the emotional weight postpartum carries and motherhood carries.

We cannot tell women to brush their feelings under the rug.

We need to be open about postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety so women know the signs and symptoms to look out for.

I am so honored to speak to Dr. Pooja Lakshmin (@womensmentalhealthdoc on Instagram. She is a Perinatal Psychiatrist and contributor for the NY Times.

We speak about “Mom martyr mode,” Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Anxiety, and how to know when you need to talk to someone about your mental health.

Our hope is to break the stigma surrounding maternal mental health. Understanding things are not okay take strength. Getting help takes strength. We want to normalize therapy and the medications and diagnosis of postpartum anxiety and depression.

IF YOU WANT SOMEONE TO TALK TO ABOUT HOW YOU'RE FEELING, CALL POSTPARTUM SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL AT 1-800-944-4773

Dr. Laksmin is also starting an online community called the Gemma Project, to empower mothers and guide them in their postpartum mental health journey. For more details, visit:

https://www.gemmawomen.com/

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Breastfeeding Basics

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 06:00:00 -0000

There is nothing really basic about breastfeeding. Although it is something many women do, it is not easy by any means.

Production, finding the right latch, and pain can all be common hurdles in establishing breastfeeding and enjoying the experience.

On this episode, I welcome Melissa Mancini (@more_than_milk on Instagram). She is a mother of two, registered nurse, and certified lactation consultant.

She answers breastfeeding and pumping questions such as:

How can a mother best prepare herself postpartum for BF?
What are some must haves for a mother who is choosing to BF?
What is the physiology behind BF?
Why does cluster feeding happen?
What is better? Feeding on demand or feeding on a schedule?
When can we introduce a pacifier?
What are the biggest hurdles to establishing BF?
What can a mother do about pain with BF?
Are nipple shields okay?
When should we incorporate pumping, especially if a mother is going back to work?
How often should a mother pump?
What is powerpumping?

Tune in to learn more about breastfeeding and pumping basics from Melissa!

Follow her at @more_than_milk to learn more about breastfeeding in a supportive and empowering way!

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for help navigating the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Deets on Baby Teeth

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of teething week on my Instagram, I welcome Dr. Erin Isaac, Pediatric Dentist and @dr_erin on Instagram.

We have a great discussion about Pediatric Dental Health. We discuss:

When should babies see the dentist?
What is typically done at these early visits?
When should a parent start brushing and flossing and how?
Is fluoride okay? What if there is fluoride in drinking water?
What are risk factors for developing cavities?
What do you do if a tooth falls out?
How can a parent prep their child for a dentist visit?
How can a parent help the dentist do their job as seamlessly as possible?

Tune in to hear the answers to all of these questions and so much more.

Follow @dr_erin for more information on your child's dental health and for inspiration as a practice owner.

FOR MORE information on all things teething, visit my Instagram @Pedsdoctalk. I will save all useful info to my Story Highlight-Dental Health.

Thank you to Lark Adventurewear for sponsoring this episode.

Visit https://larkadventurewear.com/ to shop. Use promo code Pedsdoc15 at checkout to save 15% off your first order!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parenting Our Littles When They Have Big Emotions

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Kids. They are adorable. Until you give them a red crayon instead of a yellow one and all of a sudden that adorable kid is screaming in your face.

Childhood tantrums can be draining. So I invited Deena and Kristin (the masterminds behind the popular Instagram account, @BigLittleFeelings) to discuss all things toddler tantrums.

Kristin is a mother of two and Deena is a licensed marriage and family therapist who has studied neurobiology and childhood development. Together, they provide amazing resources for caregivers in navigating those difficult moments with toddlers.

Tune in to find out how to be the calm, cool, and collected leader of your house with effective and loving boundary setting.

We discuss real-life situations and provide examples on how to navigate them to help your child cope with those Big Little Feelings.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Busting Vaccine Myths with Science

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Alison and Layla. Two of the scientists and mothers behind Scimoms. Scimoms is an evidence-based platform that shares content for parents. From vaccines to food myths to the environment, they provide up-to-date scientific information on your most common concerns as a parent.

Visit them at https://scimoms.com/

Follow them @scimoms on Instagram

Tweet them @scimoms on Twitter

We discuss how to approach evidence-based vaccine information, where NOT to turn to for information on vaccines, why we vaccinate our children, the vaccine schedule, why spacing is not recommended, and bust common myths we hear about vaccines.

Listen along for a science-based discussion on vaccines.

For more reading about vaccines visit these reputable websites:

FOR A LIST OF PEER-REVIEWED VACCINE SAFETY RESEARCH

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/immunizations/Pages/Vaccine-Studies-Examine-the-Evidence.aspx

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lowdown on Vaccines with Two Pediatrician Moms

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0000

In honor of National Immunization Awareness Month, I welcome Dr. Nicole Baldwin. She is a fellow general Pediatrician and mother and we have a heart to heart about vaccines. The myths we hear, how we approach vaccine hesitancy, the reason we vaccinate ourselves, our children, and why we promote vaccination for our patients.

Tune in to get the REAL DEAL on vaccines from two mothers and two Pediatricians who want the best for all children.

This episode is part one of two episodes about vaccines. On episode 32, I break down the science of vaccines with Scimoms as we bust myths surrounding vaccines even further.

Make sure to follow @dr.nicolebaldwin on Instagram

@drnicolebaldwin on Tik Tok

@NicoleB_MD on Twitter

and @DrNicoleBaldwin on Facebook

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Formula of Infant Formula

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Choosing an infant formula can be extremely confusing. There are so many to choose from that a new parent can be left confused in the middle of the aisle when deciding on which one is best.

I welcome Dr. Bridget Young, who has a PhD in nutrition and studies the composition of breastmilk and formula. She has an amazing website and Instagram account to educate parents on informed formula decisions.

Parents are often confused about the ingredients in infant formulas, so I welcome Dr. Young to speak about these misconceptions.

We discuss some of the most common questions I get asked about formulas:

Is the regulation process in the US thorough for infant formulas?
Are European formulas better?
What are the protein sources in formula? Why does it matter?
Why do formulas have corn syrup? Is it okay for baby?
What about prebiotics and probiotics in formula? Beneficial?
What are signs a baby may not be tolerating a formula?
When would a baby need soy formula?
What are partially hydrolyzed formulas?
What are examples of extensively hydrolyzed formulas?
How can a parent approach reading a formula label?
What are some good formulas to start with? Are there any "bad" formulas?
Are organic formulas better?
Does powder versus ready-to-made matter?

Tune in as we hash out these questions. Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @babyformulaexpert to continue the conversation.

Dr. Young's team also has a formula educational course for parents and medical professionals! Visit her website for more info:

https://babyformulaexpert.com/
USE PROMO CODE PEDSDOCTALK10 for $10 off the course

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for help navigating the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Baby's Best Friend: Creating a Healthy Bond Between Dogs and Kids

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 06:00:00 -0000

Dogs are a part of many families and it's important we remember their needs as we raise our children alongside of them.

On this episode, I welcome Michelle. She is a mother, certified professional dog trainer, and founder of Pooch Parenting. She helps families navigate many issues to create a healthy relationship between dogs and kids. Here are some of the questions we discuss:

What can families do to prepare their dog for the arrival of a new baby?
What are some of the biggest mistakes new parents make when acclimating their dog to a new baby?
What are some worrisome signs in a dog that they may not be acclimating well to the arrival of a new baby?
Is licking a baby okay?
How can we teach a child to gently interact with dog?
Where do we start with dog barking?
How can I best prevent dog bites?

Make sure to follow Michelle @poochparenting on Instagram for more dog training tips. She also has courses and an online membership community called Thriving Parents Membership where you can get more support for your doggie and child behavior needs.

https://poochparenting.net/

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whoa, Baby! Common Questions about Labor, Delivery, and Postpartum

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 05:00:00 -0000

I welcome Labor and Delivery Nurse and Instagram phenom, @mommy.labornurse to discuss your common questions about labor, delivery, and postpartum.

Liesel is also 36 weeks pregnant with her second child at the time of the recording. We discuss how she is approaching her delivery this time around, what she's looking forward to, how she's staying safe being pregnant in a pandemic, what we both wish we had known prior to delivering, and your common questions submitted on my Instagram @pedsdoctalk!

How best can I advocate for myself during labor, especially during a pandemic? (Ill chime in about COVID precautions)
What are some C-section must-haves?
What are some vaginal delivery postpartum must-haves?
How can I maximize BF success postpartum?
How to care for stitches postpartum?

Listen is as we have a fun discussion about the joys of pregnancy, delivery, and motherhood!

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is Our Food Dangerous? Busting Myths about Food Science

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 06:00:00 -0000

I welcome Erin--a chemical engineer and food scientist and she helps me bust some myths about food science.

She has an amazing Instagram account @foodsciencebabe where she shares evidence-based explanations of myths regarding food.

Tune in as we discuss the following:

Is corn syrup bad?

Is baby rice cereal going to give my child arsenic poisoning?

Are there really heavy metals in baby food? Is it a problem?

Why do Cheerios get a bad rap?

Is organic food better? Is it better for the environment/

What is GMO? Is non-GMO really better?

Is food coloring bad?

Is the EWG a science-based organization?

How is food regulated in the US?

Supplemental Reading:

Make sure to follow @pedsdoctalk and @foodsciencebabe on Instagram.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Approaching Difficult Conversations with Your Child with Author Jelani Memory

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0000

It's always hard to know where to start those conversations about difficult topics with your children. We often feel they may be too young or too innocent to have these conversations, but the reality is they are curious and curious minds deserve open conversation.

On this episode, I welcome Jelani Memory. He is an author, father, and owner of A Kids Book About. A publishing company geared towards having those difficult conversations with your children.

Some of the topics of their books include: Racism, Disabilities, Empathy, Bullying, Depression, Divorce, Body Image, Cancer, Anxiety, Feminism, Mindfulness, and so many more. The books are geared towards school aged children 5+.

Here's their website for more info! https://akidsbookabout.com/

Promo code: Pedsdoctalk through end of August for $5 off

On this episode, Jelani and I speak about how parents can begin the conversation around difficult topics, some of the barriers he sees when starting these conversations, and we discuss the importance of having these conversations with our children.

Make sure to follow us @pedsdoctalk @akidsbookabout to continue the conversation

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

15 Things We Need to Stop Doing as Mothers

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0000

As a Pediatrician, I meet so many mothers in my office. Some of them seem to have it all together. They seem to be enjoying motherhood. Mothers who have figured out how to find joy even in the hardest of circumstances.

Others would come in and I could feel that they could use some more joy. They seem unhappy and stressed every single visit. I wish I could sit there and talk with THEM about motherhood, but in a Pediatric office time was already limited for the patient, let alone for me to dig more into how the mom was feeling.

In my dream practice, I would get hours with every visit to really get to know the baby and the mother.

What do they feel is lacking? What makes them wake up content and ready to start another day of mothering? What would make them happier as a mom? What have they learned to let go of to live a more fulfilled life as a mother?

Mothering is hard work. I don’t think any woman on this planet has it all figured out. Even me--someone who uses this platform to give parenting and health advice—is not perfect and learns a lot every day about being a mother.

But, what I have found are traits that bring me joy as a mom. Traits that bring those content mothers in my office joy as well.

Overall, I find that the mothers who are happiest are the ones that love themselves. They know what they need to work on it and are constantly emotionally growing alongside their child.

There are many things we do as women and as mothers than can block our happiness.

Tune in as I talk about 15 behaviors that we do as women/mothers that can rob us of our joy.

I lay down some tough love so we can become better versions of ourselves so we can find joy in the craziness that is motherhood.

Just as our children go through milestones and growth, we also grow through motherhood as well.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Peanuts, Eggs, Food Allergies, and FPIES; Oh My!

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0000

I welcome back Dr. Shreya Patel, an Allergist and Immunologist. We spoke on episode 7 about Eczema 101 and she's back to talk all about FOOD ALLERGIES and FPIES.

Parents are afraid of their child having a food allergy, but it is this fear that can cause them to delay the introduction of allergenic of foods which can increase chances of a food allergy.

What are the most common allergenic foods?

Can children outgrow food allergies?

When can you introduce allergenic foods?

What's the deal on allergenic food programs like Spoonful One, Ready Set Food, and Lil' Mixins?

What is FPIES? And what are the signs?

Listen in as we answer these questions and so much more!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Food Allergies and Kids" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Momma Needs Some Sleep! How different moms approached sleep-training

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:00:00 -0000

On this last episode of my sleep series, I talk with six mothers. Six mothers who approached sleep in different ways with their children.

I decided to do this episode for a few reasons:

1. To hear from real mothers about how they approached sleep-training for their child

2. To hear different methods

3. To hear how although the methods were different, they are loving mothers who are raising amazing children.

It really shouldn't matter how or when a parent chooses to sleep-train their child. Some do it early, some never do it, some wean feeds, some don't, some use cry-method and some prefer more gradual. All methods discussed are great methods I have seen work and it's important for me to share these women's strategies with all of you!

If you haven't already, make sure to listen to episode 17,18 and 19 of the sleep series where I share more about why I recommend sleep-training, various methods, and an interview with a sleep consultant!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "5 Must-Follow Tips for Newborn Sleep" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for more help navigating through the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A Conversation About Sleep with a Sleep Consultant

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 10:00:00 -0000

As part of my sleep series of podcast episodes, I wanted to welcome a sleep consultant.

Sleep consultants are relatively new in the world of parenting. Over the past 10 years, they continue to gain in popularity. In Episode 18, I discuss my personal views on sleep consultants and if every family needs one to have a successfully sleeping child.

I am so happy to welcome Andrea, a sleep consultant (@babysleep.answers on Instagram). We have a great conversation about infant/child sleep.

We talk about sleep training (and sleep in general) including her thoughts on various methods and considerations when a family is deciding how to aid their child is self-settling. She also tackles common questions I get asked in regards to transitioning baby from a bassinet to a crib, naps, early wakings, and information on cry-methods of sleep training and methods with less crying.

Tune in and make sure to also listen to episode 16, 17, and 18 as all episodes are jam-packed with useful info that pertains to sleep and sleep-training.

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for more help navigating through the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is It Too Late to Jump on the Sleep Train? Various methods in sleep-training

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 09:00:00 -0000

No. It's never too late. You can choose when you feel is best for you!

On this episode, I expand on episode 17 where I speak about various methods of sleep-training.

This episode speaks about OLDER kids (kids that may be coming out of the bed and are developmentally capable of understanding some rules). Likely the 2+ crowd.

I speak about strategies to approach sleep with these kiddos and I also speak about common questions I get asked about sleep:

Naps
Swaddles
Sleep-training in the same room
Sleep regressions
Travel
Teething/illness
Early risers
Dream feeding
Twins

And I end with a final important message I want every parent to hear.

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Toddler Sleep" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for more help navigating through the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're Losing Sleep Over Our Kids' Sleep: My views on sleep-training

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 08:00:00 -0000

This is Episode 2 of a 5 part sleep/sleep-training series).

On this episode Im discussing my views on sleep and sleep-training. I discuss how as a generation we are overthinking sleep in general compared to our parent's generation and thus sometimes lose sleep over it.

I discuss why I support sleep-training and the benefits it can provide for both the child and the parent. I also discuss various methods to help a child learn self-settling skills. You will hear methods that involve cry-methods and some that involve more gradual methods with less crying.

I am aware that this episode doesn't nearly encompass ALL choices someone may make when sleep-training their child, but I just chose my favorite methods.

This episode is for education. It's for everyone to hear all the methods I have seen work and for a family to choose what is best for them and their family.

I also spend some time at the end discussing how we approached sleep-training with our son. A method that worked for us and one that I am sharing as many of my followers were curious.

I hope as you listen to this episode, you listen with an open mind and an open heart. Understand and digest the various methods to find one (or a combo of some) that works for your family!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "5 Must-Follow Tips for Newborn Sleep" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for more help navigating through the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cry Babies: Cortisol Research and Secure Attachment

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0000

The world of parenting is very divided. Especially when it comes to sleep-training. There is a whole lot of judgement, when in the end a parent needs to choose what is best for them.

The reason why sleep-training is so confusing is that there truly is no right or wrong, contrary to what you may be told on social media. You can choose to sleep train or not. You can choose a cry-it-out method or not.

Every baby is different and may require a unique method. Every parent is different and they may be comfortable with one method or another.

The choice is truly up to the parent.

You can raise securely attached children in whatever method you choose.

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Brie Reid. She has a PhD in Developmental Psychology and studies stress and malnutrition in early childhood development.

We have a fascinating discussion about early childhood stress and cortisol research in children.

Research that has unfortunately been taken and misconstrued to say that infants/children should never cry in order for them to have secure attachment.

Research that has been misconstrued to say that any stress a child feels in infancy and childhood is not good for them, when in fact not all stress is detrimental.

Listen in as we discuss the impact this misconception can have on parenting including on maternal mental health, what exactly is considered toxic stress in childhood, and the importance in understanding that secure attachment can be obtained in many different parenting styles.

This episode is an important segway for the other sleep episodes as I discuss MANY methods of sleep training, including ones that involve more crying than others.

This episode is not encouraging everyone to choose a cry-method of sleep-training because cry-methods don't work for every child and every parent. This is just to reassure those that do choose one that based on the evidence and our experience, there is no issue with choosing a cry-method of sleep training.

We all need to stop judging one-another for these choices.

Parenting is NOT a one-size-fits-all approach

How Birth Trauma Changed My Life

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 09:00:00 -0000

"Make Your Mess Your Message."

Birth trauma is an experience no woman expects. It leads to overwhelming grief at a time when mothers are experiencing overwhelming joy.

Six months later, I want to share more about my birth trauma. How I felt, what I learned, and how I will be forever changed as a Pediatrician, mom, and person.

Our son was born on December 16th after a healthy pregnancy. We both spent time in the ICU with complications from birth.

If you haven't already, please head over to my Instagram @pedsdoctalk and read my birth story (Black and White Images) on my feed.

I am making MY MESS MY MESSAGE by sharing with you what I wish people would know about birth trauma survivors. I hope to use my recovery through a traumatic experience to help you heal if you are also suffering from any kind of trauma.

My hope is that if you have experienced trauma, this episode will resonate with you. If you know someone who is going through trauma, this may give you insight as well. And if you ever find yourself grieving in the future, I hope my words will always live with you.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Addressing Racial Injustice With Your Child

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 11:00:00 -0000

As we process the tragic death of George Floyd on May 25th, 2020, it's important we take the events that transpired and make a positive effort for long-lasting change.

I'm happy to welcome Dr. Tasha Brown, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. We talk about racial injustice in America and how to speak to children about what they may be seeing in the media.

Where do you start in addressing these issues?

Should you turn off the media?

Why is understanding media bias important especially in racial issues?

How can we make meaningful change for racial equality?

Why does representation matter so much to minority communities?

How can you foster activism in your child for the BLM movement or any social justice movement?

What are the long-term impacts of oppression and racism on a child?

Dr. Tasha Brown and I share our thoughts on these questions. As a Black-American professional, it was great hearing how she is navigating this time on a personal and professional level.

Meaningful change means putting the work in and we hope this can be a starting point for you.

Please follow us @pedsdoctalk and @dr.tashabrown on Instagram to continue the conversation

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let's Get Your Kid Talking: Tips for speech from ages 1 to 2

Wed, 27 May 2020 13:00:00 -0000

On this episode, I welcome Brooke and Bridget. They are sisters and speech therapists in Southern California, who own their own practice. They also have a great Instagram account (@speechsisters) where they share day-to-day tips for parents to engage their child in speech.

We discuss:

1. What parents can due in the "wait and see" period as development is being monitored.

2. Tips on engaging speech under the age of one and between one and two years of age.

3. What a typical speech therapy session looks like.

4. When a child should be referred to a speech therapist.

Check out the PedsDocTalk Toddler resources, including the Complete Roadmap to Toddler Development Guide.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eczema 101 with a Pediatric Allergist

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Get ready to get the basis info on eczema! What it is, why it happens, and ways to manage it.

As a general Pediatrician, I see TONS of eczema. Some mild, some moderate, some very severe. I always manage it the best we can in our office before sending patients to a specialist.

But how do you know when you need to see an allergist for eczema?

On this week’s episode, I speak with Dr. Shreya Patel (@shreyapatelmd).

She is a mom and Allergist/Immunologist who owns her own private practice.

We chat all about Eczema 101:

What does eczema looks like?
Are some children predisposed to eczema?
Are there preventable measures?
When should a child see an allergist for their eczema?
What would workup entail at the allergist?
What are some basic skincare tips for eczema?

Eczema is THE most common chronic skin condition I see in my office and it was such a pleasure discussing this topic with Dr. Patel.

Please make sure to follow us @pedsdoctalk and @shreyapatelmd on INSTAGRAM o continue the discussion!

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Eczema in Kids" video on YouTube.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fussy Newborn (Colic and more)

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0000

I personally don't like the word "colic" when talking about a newborn. Babies fuss and some fuss more than others. A fussy baby can be extremely difficult to take care of as sometimes it may seem nothing can soothe them.

In this episode, I discuss:

The definition of colic and why I don't like labeling a fussy baby as "colicky."
Infant gas. Why it happens and how to help babies.
Tips to soothe a fussy baby
When to be concerned about a baby who is inconsolable
The psychological impact of taking care of a fussy infant and the correlation I see between postpartum depression/anxiety and colic.
Some tips to help you through those tough moments.

I have been there too and I hope through sharing some of my experiences with our own son, you will find some guidance in finding a plan that works for your baby.

Please make sure if you are exhibiting signs of postpartum depression/anxiety, you seek medical attention. It's important for mommas to take care of themselves.

https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/postpartum-depression

For more watch Dr. Mona's "Weird Things Newborns Do: What's Normal and What's Not" video on YouTube.

Check out the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide for more guidance on navigating the first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Raising an Intuitive Eater

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 15:00:00 -0000

I talk to Pediatric Dietitian, Jessica Gust, about ways to raise an intuitive eater.

Jessica has an amazing Instagram account (@elementnutrition.kids) where she shares tips on nutrition, picky eating, and any common concern you would have in regards to feeding your child.

She also has resources on her website including how to introduce solids and easy meal ideas for kids using pantry/frozen foods (timely for the COVID-19 Pandemic).

https://www.elementnutritionco.com/resources/

Jessica and I chat about ways to raise an intuitive eater and what it means to be an intuitive eater. Allowing your child to have a positive relationship with food is important and we hope this episode can lay a healthy foundation for feeding your child.

Make sure to follow us on Instagram @pedsdoctalk and @elementnutrition.kids

For more guidance on toddler feeding and mealtime battles check out the PedsDocTalk Picky Eating Playbook.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"I Just Had a Baby! Now What?"

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 14:00:00 -0000

Having a new baby is tough, but I hope this episode makes it a little bit easier. Our son is now three months old and I want to share some of the tricks of the trade (from my personal and professional experience) to get you through the whirlwind that is---THE FOURTH TRIMESTER.

To all my mommas currently pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, I sincerely hope this episode will help ease your mind and make you feel better about that transition into the fourth trimester. Being a new mom is already hard and this pandemic truly does add another layer.

I discuss:

Getting to know your baby's temperament
Understanding sleepy, feeding, and ready-to-play cues
Ways to engage with your baby from a developmental standpoint
Baby care
Safety
Visitors
Strategies to set a foundation for self-soothing and sleep
When to seek medical attention

As a disclaimer, this is medical education and all concerns should be discussed with your child's healthcare clinician. Your Pediatrician will likely also discuss other reasons to follow up depending on your child's medical history and exam.

Watch Dr. Mona's "5 Things Every New Mom Should Know" video on YouTube.

Don't forget to check out all the PedsDocTalk New Mom's Survival Guide to help you navigate your first year of parenthood.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introduction to the Pedsdoctalk Podcast

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0000

I am a Pediatrician and momma on a mission to educate and inspire modern parents.

In this episode, find out what motivated me to start Pedsdoctalk on Instagram and ultimately expand to this podcast.

Check out all PedsDocTalk resources, including all of Dr. Mona's courses to help you in your parenting journey.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

15 Things We Need to Stop Doing As Parents

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0000

Through the years, I have taken care of many different types of families. Through this, I have seen the actions that parents do that have both positive and negative impacts on children. Listen in as I talk about behavior modifications we can make as parents that can impact the emotional and social development of our children.

Check out my weekly videos on child health & development by ⁠⁠subscribing to PedsDocTalk on YouTube⁠⁠.

And don’t forget to follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support.

We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the ⁠⁠⁠⁠PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships⁠⁠⁠⁠ page of the website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices