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?. 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 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?. 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 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?. 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 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?. 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

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 carry01:00 ? Why this episode, and why The Pitt hits so hard02:40 ? What medical dramas get right (and wrong) about the ER03:45 ? Meet Dr. Beachgem, training, career, and why she creates content07:30 ? Burnout, misinformation, and why showing up online matters09:20 ? Advocacy as a patient, when speaking up saves lives12:50 ? Condition H and how to ask for a second opinion in the hospital14:05 ? What parents often misunderstand about ER wait times16:15 ? Triage explained, why waiting doesn?t mean no one cares18:15 ? Risk colored glasses, injuries ER doctors never forget22:00 ? Trampolines, e-bikes, helmets, and real-world safety patterns26:10 ? Why The Pitt humanizes medicine better than most shows31:00 ? COVID flashbacks, grief, and emotional survival in the ER36:35 ? Coping with loss, compartmentalization, and burnout43:30 ? 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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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 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?. 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 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 parents01:10 Why anger shows up in parenting02:49 When anger becomes a problem, not a protector03:09 The moment I knew I had to change05:44 Trauma, motherhood, and why anger came back06:59 How therapy helped me find peace08:48 Fear, the nervous system, and the science of anger10:59 Breaking the cycle while raising kids12:14 Tools to handle anger in the moment14:13 Teaching kids that feelings are ok, harmful behavior is not17:03 Repair, progress, and modeling growth19:48 When to seek support and why it matters21:41 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?. 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 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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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 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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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 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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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

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 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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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 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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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

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?. 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

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 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. 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 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. 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?. 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 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

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 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

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 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

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 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

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. 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

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 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