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

There is a lot of terminology and misconceptions thrown around in the pediatric sleep world especially on social media. Can they self- settle? Are wake windows a real thing? And what about regressions? I welcome back Sujay Kansagra who is a pediatric neurologist and sleep medicine physician at Duke who has dedicated his life to helping kids (and their parents) sleep better. He knows sleep and the importance of it. He was on my show before on an episode called Sleep-training: What the evidence does or doesn't say. He joins me to discuss:  If genetics play a role in sleep and if there is such a thing as a “good” or “bad” sleeper If “wake-windows” are evidence-based If there’s a certain age we would expect a baby to “sleep through the night” The truth behind sleep regressions  To connect with Sujay Kansagra follow him on Instagram @thatsleepdoc and purchase his book My Child Won’t Sleep: A Quick Guide for the Sleep-Deprived ParentAdditional Resources About Sleep:Review of Sleep Training Data: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17068979/Cortisol and Sleep Training Research Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27221288/Short Sleep Gene: https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2019/08/415261/after-10-year-search-scientists-find-second-short-sleep-gene"Sleeping Through the Night" Article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20974775/Wide Range of Normal Sleep During First Year: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12563055/Sleep Regressions and Data Behind Fixed Months for Regression: https://www.babysleep.com/sleep-advice/what-is-a-sleep-regression/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 – Intro01:17 – Meet Dr. Sujay Kansagra: Pediatric Sleep Doc at Duke04:38 – Do Genetics Impact How Children Sleep?06:05 – Why Labels Like “Bad Sleeper” Can Be Harmful08:06 – What’s the Deal with Wake Windows?10:31 – Why Overtired Kids Have Trouble Falling Asleep12:55 – Are Sleep “Crutches” Like Nursing or Rocking Bad?15:00 – When and How to Phase Out Sleep Associations16:33 – The Parent Sleep Guilt Spiral—And Why It’s Not Helping18:05 – Social Media Pressure and Parenting Choices19:30 – When Should Babies Sleep Through the Night?23:04 – Is There a Minimum Weight for Sleep Training?25:19 – Why Sleep Isn’t Just Sleep: Feeding, Temperament, and More25:59 – What Science Says About Sleep Regressions28:44 – Why Modern Parenting Creates Fear Around Normal Sleep30:08 – Don’t Pathologize Your Parenting Journey30:52 – Final Message: Sleep Is Hard—Even for Sleep Experts32:14 – Where to Learn More from Dr. Kansagra33:02 – Wrapping Up: Science, Sanity, and Sleep ConfidenceOur podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.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

Whether you're preparing for birth or in the thick of postpartum recovery, this episode is packed with real talk and practical advice. We’re joined by Liesel from Mommy Labor Nurse (@mommy.labornurse) to answer some of the most common questions about labor, C-sections, vaginal delivery, and what actually happens after the baby is born.We cover: How to advocate for yourself during labor (without conflict) Must-have items for C-section and vaginal birth recovery How to care for stitches and prevent infection What no one tells you about postpartum bleeding Pain management tips and why you shouldn't try to be a hero Why stool softeners are your best friend (seriously) From grabber tools to emotional resilience, this is the kind of candid postpartum prep we all deserve.Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com00:00 – Welcome & Episode Preview00:46 – Advocating for Yourself During Labor03:04 – C-Section Recovery Must-Haves05:28 – Postpartum Tips for Vaginal Deliveries07:12 – How to Care for Stitches (C-Section & Vaginal)10:28 – One Thing I Wish I Knew Postpartum13:47 – Why the First 24 Hours Postpartum Are Wild14:22 – Surprised by Postpartum Bleeding? You’re Not Alone15:16 – Wrap Up & TakeawaysWe 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

Buzzwords like “non-GMO” and “all natural” can make a product appear like a good choice but with confusing marketing how do we curb the overwhelm and make good food decisions for our kids? Whether you're navigating snack aisles or Instagram reels, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants real, evidence-based guidance on feeding their family well.I’m joined by Dr. Adrian Chavez, who has a Ph.D. in Nutrition and Health Promotion, to discuss: How fear-based marketing and social media myths mislead parents. How to decode buzzwords like "organic" and "non-GMO" and make informed choices without the guilt. Practical, judgment-free tips to build healthy habits for your family—without the overwhelm. To connect with Dr. Adrian Chavez follow him on Instagram @dr.adrian.chavez and check out all his resources at https://dradrianchavez.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!Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.00:00 – Meet Dr. Adrian Chavez02:29 – How Adrian Got Into Nutrition (And Unlearning Misinformation)05:14 – What Sparked His Social Media Mission07:49 – Education vs. Debunking Online10:00 – Social Media Fear Tactics and Food Shaming13:12 – Is the “Healthier” Option Worth It?16:15 – How to Spot Buzzwords and Misleading Labels20:41 – The Reality of Organic Food Labels21:00 – Marketing Tricks That Make Junk Food Look Healthy24:05 – Why Education Beats Regulation27:03 – Movement vs. Nutrition in Kids’ Health29:07 – How Packaging & Characters Influence Kids’ Food Choices31:56 – What Real Nutrition Education Should Feel Like34:22 – Are There Hidden Additives in Kids’ Foods?38:23 – Final Message: Start Small & Stay Consistent43:05 – Where to Find Dr. Adrian ChavezWe 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 The Follow-Up episode with the incredible team behind @biglittlefeelings, we're diving deeper into the everyday power struggles parents face — food throwing, hitting, biting, meltdowns, and more. I'm joined by Kristin and Deena to break down practical, compassionate scripts for managing these challenging behaviors without yelling, shaming, or losing your cool.You’ll learn: What to actually say when your toddler throws food How to respond calmly and effectively to hitting and biting Why trying to teach in the middle of a meltdown doesn’t work The difference between setting a boundary and escalating a situation How validating emotions can prevent anxiety and support long-term emotional health Whether you're parenting a 1-year-old or a 5-year-old, these tools are grounded in developmental psychology, trauma-informed care, and real-world parenting experience. If you’ve ever wondered why your child isn’t “listening” or felt stuck in a cycle of frustration, this episode is for you.Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.comWe 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 parent with data—and how do you do it without losing your mind? Let’s unpack the power and pitfalls of data-driven parenting in a world full of misinformation and clickbait. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by studies, headlines, or trying to “do it right,” this episode will bring clarity, nuance, and a whole lot of reassurance.Today, I’m joined by Emily Oster, an economist and NYT best-selling author, to discuss: How data can guide parenting decisions—without demanding perfection or causing overwhelm. Ways to navigate conflicting research, misinformation, and fear-based headlines in today’s media landscape. Practical tips for building data literacy, knowing when to seek evidence, and trusting your instincts as a parent. To connect with Emily Oster follow her on Instagram @profemilyoster and check out all her resources at parentdata.org 00:00 – Introduction to Emily Oster02:49 – How Emily Got Started in Parenting Data04:16 – The Promise and Limits of Data-Driven Parenting07:02 – Sleep, Solids, and the Complexity of Parenting Choices08:08 – Honesty About Data Limitations09:02 – When the Data Doesn’t Exist10:09 – Media Panic & Screen Time Headlines11:27 – Building Data Literacy as a Parent13:32 – The Rise of Pseudoscience & Misinformation14:55 – How to Tell If a Study Is Legitimate16:28 – Parasite Cleanses & Misused Studies19:03 – Competing With Clickbait22:27 – Vaccine Conversations & Honest Health Communication24:25 – The Hope for a Nuanced Future27:01 – How to Stay Informed Without Overwhelm29:00 – Parenting as a Process of Figuring It Out30:08 – What Really Feels Overwhelming33:08 – Trusting Lived Experience Over Data Alone34:12 – The Search for Certainty vs. Embracing the Mess35:48 – You’re Not Going to Mess Up Your Kid37:59 – Closing & Where to Find EmilyWe’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.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

Is America REALLY less healthy than it used to be? Or is that just a myth? Lately, the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement has been romanticizing the past—but was it really a "healthier" time? 🤔 Higher infant mortality, shorter life expectancy, and limited medical advancements suggest otherwise.Today, I’m joined by Nini Munoz, Science & Risk Communicator, and Dr. Jessica Knurick, Dietitian & Nutrition Scientist, to break down: The myth of the 'healthier past'—why public health was worse, not better. Misinformation & fear-based narratives—how MAHA spreads harmful myths about vaccines, food, and disease. The real problem with food policy—why fixating on seed oils & food dyes distracts from real issues like ultra-processed food and food deserts. The wellness industry’s role—how influencers profit off fear with detoxes, supplements, and misinformation via predatory wellness. What actually improves health—real solutions like healthcare access, school lunch reform, and food subsidies. It’s time to stop falling for misguided nostalgia and start focusing on evidence-based solutions that actually improve public health.  Tune in now!To connect with Jessica Knurick follow her on Instagram @drjessicaknurick and check out all her resources at https://linktr.ee/drjessicaknurick To connect with Nini Munoz follow her on Instagram @niniandthebrain and join her on Substack: https://techingitapart.substack.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 — Misleading Comparisons: Japan, Fluoride, and Health Outcomes00:00:52 — Welcome to the Show: What MAHA Gets Wrong00:01:39 — Fear-Based Distractions vs. Real Public Health Solutions00:02:53 — Meet the Experts: Dr. Jessica and Nini Munoz00:03:23 — Are Americans Less Healthy Now? Breaking Down the Data00:07:01 — Why Living Longer Means Facing Chronic Disease00:09:51 — Screening, Diagnostics, and Better Detection—Not a Health Decline00:11:13 — The Missing Conversation: America’s Broken Food Environment00:14:15 — Red Dye 40 & Skittles: Why This Isn't Solving Chronic Disease00:17:39 — Targeted Marketing & Food Access: A System Built Against Low-Income Families00:22:00 — Poverty, Policy, and Public Health Failures00:27:01 — Lessons From Colombia: How Classism and Privatization Worsen Health Outcomes00:31:31 — Vaccines, Autism, and Recycling Disproven Theories00:37:08 — Why Some Pediatricians Push Alternative Schedules00:39:10 — Predatory Wellness: The Business of Fear and False Solutions00:43:13 — The Wellness Industry Formula: Scare, Distract, Sell00:46:30 — When Wellness Fails: Who Do We Turn To?00:49:10 — Healthcare Reform & Public Trust: Fixing the Root Problems00:51:12 — Final Thoughts: Real Solutions for a Healthier AmericaOur podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.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

Every child deserves to feel understood and included! Teaching kids about neurodiversity early fosters empathy, reduces stigma, and helps them embrace differences. By normalizing accommodations and shifting perspectives, we create a more accepting world where everyone can thrive. Today, I’m joined by Laura Petix, a Neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, to discuss how we can build a future of true inclusion starting with ourselves and our kids.We discuss:  How neurodivergent individuals, including children, experience the world differently due to variations in brain wiring.  That teaching kids about neurodiversity from a young age helps normalize differences, reduce stigma, and foster empathy. True inclusivity means creating environments where accommodations are normalized rather than seen as special exceptions. To connect with Laura Petix follow her on Instagram @theotbutterfly and check out all her resources on https://theotbutterfly.com/ and purchase her new book A Kids Book About NeurodiversityWe’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!00:00 – Intro: Why Every Parent Needs to Understand Neurodiversity 01:26 – Meet Laura Petix & Her Powerful New Book 03:13 – The Dinner Table Example & Why Neurodiversity Matters 05:32 – Shifting the Narrative: Teaching Neurotypical Kids Compassion 08:06 – Kids Are Ready: Why Early Conversations Matter 09:40 – Busting Myths: Common Misconceptions About Neurodivergent Kids 13:43 – The Cost of Misunderstanding: Impact on Mental Health & Self-Esteem 19:02 – Rethinking Classrooms & Playgrounds: Creating Comfortable Spaces 24:42 – Labels, Language & Empowerment: How Parents Can Do Better 36:22 – Laura’s Hope for the Future: Inclusion Without ConditionsOur podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.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 can parents create an emotionally safe space for their child when their home is no longer secure? Environmental crises like the LA fires have displaced families, leaving parents navigating uncertainty while trying to comfort their children.Today, I’m joined by fellow pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, who experienced the loss of his own home, to discuss how we can support children in processing trauma and building resilience after life-altering events.We discuss:  How parents can support children through difficult experiences by acknowledging their emotions, using age-appropriate language, and allowing them to express their fears and grief in a safe environment. That acknowledging emotions and using age-appropriate language can help children express fears and grief in a safe environment How to help them regain a sense of control and security after traumatic events To connect with Dr. Harvey follow him on Instagram @happiest_baby and check out all his resources on https://www.happiestbaby.com and purchase his best-selling book The Happiest Baby on the BlockWe’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.00:00:00 The Emotional Impact of Natural Disasters on Kids00:01:05 Understanding the Grief of Losing a Home 00:03:06 Navigating Loss as a Pediatrician, Parent, and Community Member 00:05:46 What Helps (and Hurts) When Supporting Someone After a Disaster 00:09:27 Talking to Kids About Natural Disasters Without Creating Fear 00:12:05 The Power of Emotional Validation in Parenting 00:17:19 Helping Kids Cope with the Aftermath of Trauma 00:22:51 Encouraging Kids to Be Helpers and Build Resilience00:26:22 Teaching Kids About Environmental Stewardship 00:33:55 Final Thoughts: Creating Connection Through LossWe 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 parent ever wants to end up in the Pediatric ICU; but we know it happens and we want you to be informed and know what to expect. I invited my social media friend and Pediatric Critical Care Doctor, Dr. Anita Patel on the show to chat about the Pediatric ICU and what to expect. We discuss:  The common reasons children end up in the Pediatric ICU and what to expect  The questions to ask your care team in the ICU How we manage health anxiety as a pediatric ICU doctor and general pediatrician  To connect with Dr. Anita Patel follow her on Instagram @anitakpatelmd and check out all her resources on https://linktr.ee/anitakpatelmd.00:00 Introduction & Why This Conversation Matters02:00 Meet Dr. Anita Patel04:10 Common Reasons for Pediatric ICU Admissions10:46 What Happens Inside the PICU?14:23 Navigating the ICU Experience as a Parent20:27 Key Questions Parents Should Ask the Care Team24:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents & Doctors31:14 Balancing Medical Knowledge with Parenting Anxiety35:16 Final Thoughts & Words of Encouragement37:59 Where to Follow Dr. Anita Patel & Closing RemarksWe’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.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

Is dental health genetic, or can I help prevent issues? Can I pass cavity-causing bacteria to my child? When should my child stop using a pacifier or bottle? Does mouth breathing affect dental health?This week, I welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a board-certified pediatric dentist, to answer all these dental questions and more. Throughout our discussion she encourages a balanced, judgement-free approach focusing on progress over perfection.She joins me to discuss: The importance of early oral care and developing good habits How genetic factors and parents’ dental health affects children Tips on brushing, flossing, prolonged bottle use and limiting sugar. To connect with Dr. Ashley Lerman follow her on Instagram @pediatric.dentist.mom and check out all her resources on https://yourfirstgrin.com/.Ask Doctor Mona: Toddler Tooth-brushing BattlesWe’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 Introduction & The Hidden Culprits of Cavities 02:03 Meet Dr. Ashley Lerman: A Passion for Pediatric Dentistry04:00 The Role of Genetics in Oral Health06:29 Can Cavities Be Contagious? Parent-Child Transmission 09:36 Diet, Nutrition, and Their Effect on Teeth10:57 Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Bottle Use14:45 Mouth Breathing: Myths, Facts, and Health Concerns 22:01 The Importance of Early Dental Hygiene Habits25:44 Fluoride & Other Key Takeaways for Parents27:49 Closing Thoughts: Progress Over PerfectionOur podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.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