

Pediatrics On Call
AAP - American Academy of Pediatrics
Welcome to Pediatrics On Call: a podcast on children's health from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Each episode features interviews about new research and hot topics in the field of pediatrics. Learn about the most important innovations from the people behind them. This podcast is for pediatricians and other health professionals who serve children and their families. And if you're a parent or caregiver, it's also for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 23, 2025 • 31min
Screening for Mental Health, Emotional, and Behavioral Problems, Emergency Services Responses to School-Based Medical Emergencies – Ep. 263
In this episode, Carol Weitzman, MD, FAAP, discusses screening for mental health, emotional and behavioral problems. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Michael Harries, MD, MAT, MA, FAAP, about emergency services responses to school-based medical emergencies. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Sep 16, 2025 • 15min
Pathways to Pediatrics with Dr. Greg Gulbransen – Ep. 262
In this episode of the special series, “Pathways to Pediatrics,” hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, interview Greg Gulbransen, DO, FAAP, about how he turned personal tragedy into life-saving advocacy. They discuss Dr. Gulbransen's photography, how he helps families deal with grief in his practice, and what he loves about being a pediatrician. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Sep 9, 2025 • 32min
Evolving Dimensions in the Pediatrician-Family-Patient Relationship, New Anaphylaxis Definition – Ep. 261
In this episode, Douglas Diekema, MD, MPH, FAAP, and Douglas Opel, MD, MPH, discuss the new and evolving dimensions in the pediatrician-family-patient relationship. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Julie Wang, MD, FAAP, about the new anaphylaxis definition and clinical support tool. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Sep 2, 2025 • 33min
Pediatrics Research Roundup, Evaluating Children with an Intellectual Disability or Global Developmental Delay – Ep. 260
In this episode the new deputy editor of Pediatrics joins the team.Andrea Cruz, MD, MPH, FAAP, offers a rundown of the September issue of the journal. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Tim Geleske, MD, FAAP, about genetic evaluation of children with intellectual disabilities or global developmental delays. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Aug 26, 2025 • 25min
How Medical Satire Leads to Advocacy: Exclusive Interview with Dr. Glaucomflecken – Ep. 259
Will Flanary, known as Dr. Glaucomflecken, is a comedian and ophthalmologist who blends humor with healthcare advocacy. He shares his journey of using satire to highlight the complexities of the American healthcare system. The discussion also dives into how social media can amplify personal stories for systemic change and the challenges pediatricians face in navigating professionalism while advocating online. Plus, he introduces innovative techniques for assessing visual acuity in children, making for an engaging and insightful listen.

Aug 19, 2025 • 17min
Meet the AAP President-Elect Candidates – Ep. 258
In this episode, Terri McFadden, MD, MPH, FAAP, and Marsha Spitzer, MD, FAAP, discuss why they’re running for AAP President-elect. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, ask the candidates about the pressing challenges facing pediatricians today and their vision for the future of the AAP. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Aug 12, 2025 • 48min
Prescribing Assistive Technology, Thinking Developmentally – Ep. 257
Join expert guests Amy Houtrow, a professor in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Andrew Garner, a primary care pediatrician, and Robert Saul, an emeritus pediatrics professor, as they delve into the transformative world of assistive technology. They discuss how tailored tech can empower children with complex communication needs. The conversation spans the critical role of early relationships in development, the challenges faced by children with disabilities, and the concept of 'good enough parenting' for fostering resilience. With a blend of science and heart, they provide valuable insights for families and practitioners alike.

Aug 5, 2025 • 31min
Pediatrics Research Roundup, Immunization Exemptions for Child Care and School Attendance – Ep. 256
In this episode, Alex Kemper, MD, MPH, MS, FAAP, editor of the journal Pediatrics, offers a rundown of the August issue. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Jesse Hackell, MD, FAAP, about medical versus non-medical immunization exemptions for child care and school attendance. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

8 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 31min
Counseling Teens on Contraception, Shifts in Obesity Treatment – Ep. 255
In this discussion, Mary Ott, a global health and adolescent medicine expert, shares insights on effectively counseling teens about contraception, emphasizing the need for trust and confidentiality in pediatric care. Similarly, Davene Wright, an associate professor focused on childhood obesity, talks about new treatment guidelines and the shift towards evidence-based approaches. They explore advancements in pediatric genetics and innovative strategies for managing obesity, including the rise of GLP-1 medications, while stressing the importance of ongoing dialogue between healthcare providers and families.

Jul 22, 2025 • 37min
What the ACIP Upheaval Means for Pediatricians, Adolescents’ Use of Nicotine Analogues – Ep. 254
In this episode Shelley Fiscus, MD, FAAP, unpacks the recent upheaval at the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and what it means for pediatricians and the vaccine delivery system. David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Louisiana Sanchez, PhD, MScIH, about how adolescents are using nicotine analogues. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.