Millions of children struggle with feeding disorders and food insecurity, yet these issues often go unnoticed in schools and healthcare settings.

In this compelling episode, Dr. Meara McMahon, a leading expert in pediatric feeding therapy, breaks down why some kids refuse food, how medical and behavioral factors intertwine, and why traditional advice like “they’ll grow out of it” can be dangerously wrong.

We explore the role of behavior analysts (BCBAs) in tackling these challenges, the gaps in school nutrition programs, and practical solutions for parents and educators. Plus, we discuss how public policies can better support children with complex feeding needs.

If you're a parent, teacher, or healthcare professional, this conversation will change how you think about kids and food.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:02 Meet Dr. Meara McMahon

02:30 Journey into feeding therapy

05:34 Moving to Georgia & career growth

06:44 Why feeding is so complex

09:43 Advice for parents facing feeding issues

11:05 Feeding challenges in schools

14:13 Food insecurity’s impact on children

18:01 Parent training in feeding therapy

20:09 Feeding challenges in older kids

24:30 School nutrition & the National School Lunch Program

28:12 How can BCBAs help with feeding issues

30:43 Breaking into public health

35:00 Straight Talk with Joe: Self-care & hiking

38:05 The importance of working at GABA

43:06 The “Asian Glow” story

46:24 Where to connect with Dr. Meara McMahon