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

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. 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

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. 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 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” Myth01:16 – Why 5–12 Isn’t Smooth Sailing02:38 – Meet Alyssa Blas Campbell03:11 – Parents Feel Blindsided05:28 – Big Kid Development Shifts07:25 – What Big Meltdowns Look Like09:12 – Do We Expect Too Much?11:04 – 9 Senses & Nervous System15:23 – Different Kids, Different Needs18:08 – Handling Defiance With Compassion22:53 – Sibling Differences in Regulation25:48 – The F.A.C.T.S. Acronym31:29 – Amusement Park Example34:53 – Why Age Bias Misleads Us38:18 – The S.I.P. Method Explained42:12 – Rethinking Respect & Defiance44:40 – Parenting Is a Relationship46:22 – 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. 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

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. 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. 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

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. 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

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 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

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. 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

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 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

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. 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

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 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

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. 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

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 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

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. 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

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. 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

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. 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

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 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

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. 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

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 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

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. 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

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. 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