
Pediatrics On Call
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.
Latest episodes

Feb 27, 2024 • 34min
Improving Vaccine Uptake, Handling Marijuana Use and Breastfeeding – Ep. 193
In this episode Jesse Hackell, MD, FAAP, offers strategies for improving vaccine uptake in hesitant families. Hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Pearl Chang, MD, about how newborn nurseries react to marijuana use and breastfeeding. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Feb 20, 2024 • 36min
Sports Overuse Injuries and Burnout, Family-centered Rounds – Ep. 192
In this episode Joel S. Brenner, MD, MPH, FAAP, and Drew Watson, MD, MS, FAAP, talk about how to prevent overtraining and burnout in young athletes. Hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Shilpa J. Patel, MD, FAAP, and Alisa Khan, MD, MPH, about using mentor trios to promote family-centered rounds. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Feb 13, 2024 • 39min
How Infrastructure Affects Health, Updating the Neonatal Resuscitation Program – Ep. 191
In this episode Michelle J. White MD, MPH, FAAP, explains the concept of a “built environment” and how the infrastructure where people live can affect their health. Hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also speak with Henry Lee, MD, FAAP, about new suggested changes to the Neonatal Resuscitation Program. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Feb 6, 2024 • 35min
Pediatrics Research Roundup, Counseling on GMOs – Ep. 190
Steven A. Abrams, a prominent medical doctor known for his insights on artificial pesticides, joins the conversation to illuminate the potential risks associated with GMOs in children's diets. He dives into the American Academy of Pediatrics’ stance and the necessity of informed family guidance. The discussion brings to light the health implications of pesticide use and explores effective strategies like antibiotic stewardship and motivational interviewing to enhance children's health. Listeners are invited to rethink dietary choices amid the complexities of modern agriculture.

Jan 30, 2024 • 32min
Lead-contaminated Foods, Levels of Satisfaction in Pediatric Residents – Ep. 189
Dr. Kevin Osterhoudt, a specialist in pediatric toxicology, discusses the alarming issue of lead contamination in foods, particularly cinnamon applesauce pouches, and the critical role of pediatricians in screening for toxins. Hilary Haftel, an education expert at the AAP, shares insights from a recent survey assessing pediatric residents' satisfaction with their training and the challenges they face in preparedness. The conversation highlights the importance of addressing lead exposure and enhancing support systems for future pediatricians.

Jan 23, 2024 • 37min
Technology and Health Maintenance, Pharmacologic Restraints in Hospitals – Ep. 188
Join pediatricians Barbara Howard, MD, FAAP, who enhances health visits with technology, and Benjamin Masserano, MD, FAAP, who delves into the delicate topic of pharmacologic restraints for children with mental health conditions. They discuss how tech can streamline visits, the evolving challenges in pediatric mental healthcare, and the critical use of digital tools for better patient tracking and communication. The conversation uncovers the pressing need for effective strategies and policy changes to support children’s health.

Jan 16, 2024 • 33min
Identifying Suicide Risk, Food Insecurity Discrimination – Ep. 187
In this episode Maria Rahmandar, MD, FAAP, explains ways pediatricians can identify suicide risk in adolescents. Hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, also talk with medical student Alexis Cacioppo about how food insecurity in caregivers can lead to discrimination. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Jan 9, 2024 • 26min
Pathways to Pediatrics with AAP President Dr. Ben Hoffman – Ep. 186
Dr. Ben Hoffman, the new president of the AAP, shares his inspiring journey from facing childhood discrimination to becoming a leading advocate for pediatric care. He discusses his transformative work with the Navajo Nation, emphasizing the importance of public health and safety, particularly in child passenger safety. Hoffman also addresses the challenges of his presidency, tackling urgent issues like firearms and gender-affirming care, all while advocating for equity in healthcare for children. His passion for pediatrics shines through as he reflects on his impactful experiences.

Dec 19, 2023 • 40min
The 75th Anniversary of the Journal Pediatrics – Ep. 185
In this episode hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, are joined by three of their favorite guests, the editors of Pediatrics. Rachel Moon, MD, FAAP, Alex R. Kemper, MD, MPH, MS, FAAP, and Lewis First, MD, MS, FAAP, celebrate the 75th anniversary of the journal with a look at the past, the present and the limitless future. For resources go to aap.org/podcast.

Dec 12, 2023 • 18min
Pathways to Pediatrics with ‘Dr. America’ and ‘Dr. World’ Hailey Nelson – Ep. 184
In this episode of the special series, “Pathways to Pediatrics,” hosts David Hill, MD, FAAP, and Joanna Parga-Belinkie, MD, FAAP, interview Dr. Hailey Nelson, who holds the titles of “Dr. America” and “Dr. World.” She talks about using the crown to draw attention to child health care needs. For more Pathways episodes, go to aap.org/podcast.