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

Do you have a strong-willed child? How do you know you have one? Are you approaching their behavior in a positive way? I have recorded a solo episode about strong-willed children and power struggles and I always enjoy it when I can chat with fellow parenting coaches about it.  I welcome back Zack Kasabo who is a certified school counselor and parent coach. He was on the show before talking about how to encourage positive behaviors in kids without enabling them.  We discuss:  Misconceptions about strong-willed children and parenting strong-willed children The power of “mutual submission" The number one rule when addressing strong-willed children  To connect with Zack Kasabo follow him on Instagram @coachkasabo, check out all his resources at https://coachkasabo.info/ 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 – Modeling Cooperation00:22 – Intro: Parenting Strong-Willed Kids00:50 – Meet Zack Kasabo02:28 – What Makes a Child Strong-Willed?05:00 – Reframing Strong-Willed as a Strength06:45 – The Problem with Labels08:18 – Parenting Starts with You09:44 – Breaking Generational Patterns12:11 – Power Struggle Example: Clean Your Room14:10 – Why Lectures Don’t Work17:27 – Teaching Through Experience20:21 – Start Before Grade School22:02 – Don’t Ignore “Normal” Behavior23:05 – Final Tips & Where to Find Zac24:11 – Encouragement 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 honest and personal episode, I’m joined by my husband, Gaurav, as we open up about what makes our marriage work—especially through the chaos of parenting, career shifts, and everyday life. We talk about: The power of balancing each other’s strengths and weaknesses How we’ve navigated trauma, including our son's birth and postpartum period Our nightly “State of the Union” check-ins—and why they’ve changed our relationship What we’ve learned about love languages, communication styles, and unmet expectations How we’ve moved from trying to “fix” each other to simply understanding and growing together Marriage isn't always picture-perfect—and that’s exactly why these kinds of conversations matter. Whether you're partnered, married, or navigating love while raising kids, this episode offers a real-world look at building connection, even in the messy moments. 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 felt alone navigating an FPIES diagnosis—or if you’re wondering what FPIES even is—this episode is for you.  I’m joined by Dr. Taylor Arnold, pediatric dietitian and mom of two children who had FPIES, and Dr. Manisha Relan, board-certified allergist and immunologist. Together, we break down what FPIES actually is, why it’s so often misdiagnosed, how it differs from typical food allergies, and what families can do to manage it confidently. Whether you're a parent seeking answers or a clinician wanting to deepen your understanding, I hope this conversation leaves you feeling more empowered, prepared, and less alone. We discuss:  What FPIES is, how it differs from typical food allergies, and why diagnosis is often delayed. Navigating food introductions, managing reactions, and reducing anxiety around FPIES. Practical tips for daycare, social situations, and long-term support for children with FPIES. To connect with Dr. Taylor Arnold follow her on Instagram @growing.intuitive.eaters, check out all her resources at https://msha.ke/growingintuitiveeaters  To connect with Dr. Manisha Relan follow her on Instagram @pedsallergymd, and check out all her resources at https://www.101beforeone.com/ and her new book: https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Leads-Way-Evidence-Based-Introducing/dp/1610027620 Additional Resources: https://fpiesfoundation.org/ https://www.fpies.org/ https://kidswithfoodallergies.org/living-with-food-allergies/what-is-a-food-allergy/food-protein-induced-enterocolitis-syndrome-fpies/ 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 & Why This Matters 02:00 – Meet the Experts 03:05 – What FPIES Is and Isn’t 08:20 – Hallmark Symptoms & Why It’s Missed 10:10 – Personal Story: Misdiagnosis & Learning Curve 15:00 – Diagnosing FPIES 18:30 – What Causes FPIES? 20:00 – What Parents & Pediatricians Should Know 23:30 – Figuring Out Food Triggers 25:00 – Managing Feeding Anxiety After Diagnosis 29:00 – Preventing Nutritional Deficiencies 32:00 – Practical Tips for School, Daycare & Social Events 35:00 – Emotional Support for Parents 38:00 – Outgrowing FPIES & What Comes Next 42:00 – Final Takeaways & Encouragement 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 insightful follow-up episode, Dr. Mona is joined by Bill Brady—CEO of Troomi Wireless and a father of five—for a powerful conversation about the realities of kids and phones. They discuss the benefits of tech, the very real risks of social media, and how parents can introduce devices with intention. From self-esteem and screen-time addiction to practical steps for safe tech use, this episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the digital age. What We Cover: The pros and cons of giving kids phones Why it’s not about a specific age, but developmental readiness The impact of social media on teen mental health and self-esteem Why kids today are facing an “always on” culture of bullying How to safely ease children into tech (and what that actually looks like) The importance of parental controls, gradual access, and media literacy Dr. Mona’s take on being a content creator—and the mental health toll it can take Want more? Enjoy the full episode at ⁠PedsDocTalk.com⁠ 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

After watching the Netflix series Adolescence, I was left gutted, moved, and full of questions—just like many of you who reached out. “I watched it. I was shocked. I was moved… but now what do I do with these big feelings I’m having and this information?” Whether you’re raising a boy or a girl, this show forces us to reckon with disconnection, violence, and parenting in the digital age. In this conversation, I sit down with Ruth Whippman and Dr. Zabina Bhasin to explore what the show reveals about masculinity, emotional disconnection, and how boys are often left emotionally starved in today’s culture. We talk about parenting, school systems, and online influences—and most importantly, how we can start doing better for our kids. We discuss:  How the Netflix series Adolescence reflects the emotional isolation many boys experience—and why it’s a cultural crisis. How masculinity, parenting, school systems, and online influences shape how boys express (or suppress) their feelings. Practical, compassionate strategies to help parents, educators, and adults raise emotionally safe, connected boys in today’s world. To connect with Ruth Whippman follow her on Instagram @ruthwhippman, check out all her resources at http://www.ruthwhippman.com/, join her Substack: I Blame Society and purchase her book Boy Mom. Ruth Whippman has previously been on the PedsDocTalk Podcast: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/masculinity-and-politics-exploring-the-connection-between-gender-ideals-and-voting-trends/ https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/raising-boys-and-redefining-toxic-masculinity-and-how-it-impacts-friendships-and-emotional-health/  To connect with Dr. Zee follower her on Instagram @drzee_md  and @listen2thekidz_, and check out all her resources at https://www.dr-zee.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 Introducing Guests: Ruth Whippman and Dr. Z – Experts on masculinity, emotional safety, and parenting. 00:02:59 Themes from the Show 00:06:06 Cultural Crisis 00:07:28 Emotional Starvation 00:09:43 Nature vs. Nurture 00:11:51 Raising Emotionally Healthy Boys 00:15:17 Cultural Messaging 00:20:00 Behavioral Conditioning vs. Biology 00:24:11 Friendships, Brotherhood, and Vulnerability 00:30:44 Teaching Emotional Literacy 00:35:40 Hope for the Future 00:42:10 The Need to Be Seen 00:50:11 Action Steps for Parents 00:56:00 Closing 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

In this special “East Meets West” follow-up, I sit down with an inspiring pediatrician from India to explore how different cultures approach vaccines, public health, and the doctor-patient relationship. We talk about: Vaccine acceptance in India vs. the U.S. How trust and education impact vaccine decisions What India’s polio success story can teach us The power of gratitude and connection in medicine Why kindness matters just as much as science This is more than a conversation about medicine — it’s a shared love letter to the families we care for, and a reminder that compassion, respect, and a simple “thank you” can cross any border. Whether you're a parent, pediatrician, or just curious about how different systems work, this episode will leave you with hope and a deeper appreciation for the healing power of human connection. Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com 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’m getting deeply personal about something so many of us carry but rarely talk about: mom guilt. After speaking at the Mom 2.0 Summit and leaving home with a sick child, I found myself questioning everything—again. Can I be a present, loving mom and still pursue the work that lights me up?  I explore the tension between purpose and presence, and how we can reframe guilt as a sign of how deeply we care—not proof that we’re failing. I also dive into the concept of the “good-enough mother,” the power of modeling joy, and why slowing down doesn’t mean giving up. If you’ve ever felt torn between who you are and who you’re becoming, this episode is for you. I discuss:  Why mom guilt isn’t always a red flag—it’s often a sign of growth and purpose. How modeling joy and ambition can actually strengthen your child’s emotional development. What it means to embrace shifting seasons in motherhood without losing yourself. 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 and Why This Episode Matters 01:20 – Guilt, Motherhood, and the Summit 03:21 – Speaking to Moms as Whole People 04:21 – The Return of Finding Joy 05:08 – The Good Enough Mother 06:18 – Purpose Beyond Motherhood 07:46 – When Purpose Feels Out of Reach 08:36 – Modeling Fulfillment for Our Kids 10:20 – Wholeness is the Legacy 12:49 – Integration, Not Sacrifice 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’re joined by Dr. Aliza Pressman (@raisinggoodhumanspodcast), developmental psychologist, author, and host of the Raising Good Humans podcast, to break down her science-backed framework for parenting: the 5 R’s — Reflection, Regulation, Rules, Repair, and Relationship. These five simple but powerful principles aren’t just theory — they’re practical tools you can apply to everyday challenges like screen time, sibling fights, and meltdowns. Dr. Pressman shares how these core ideas help build strong, connected relationships with our kids, even when things get messy. We also talk about: Why repair is more powerful than perfection How to stay grounded when parenting triggers old wounds What makes parenting advice helpful vs. overwhelming How to parent with intention, not fear Whether you're deep in toddler tantrums or navigating the teen years, this episode will help you feel more confident, calm, and connected. Want more? Enjoy the full episode at PedsDocTalk.com 00:00 – Welcome to The Follow Up with Dr. Mona 00:32 – Meet Dr. Aliza Pressman and the 5 Principles of Parenting 01:13 – What Are the 5 R’s and Why Do They Matter? 02:08 – Applying the 5 R’s to Real Life (Example: Screen Time) 05:56 – How to Regulate Yourself Before Setting Limits 07:02 – Why It Feels Hard—But Gets Easier 08:35 – Parenting Is a Long Game 09:13 – Finding the Balance Between Advice Overload and Chaos 10:39 – What the Science Says (Without Getting Overwhelmed) 11:48 – Developmental Nuggets That Shift Perspective 12:56 – When In Doubt, Come Back to the 5 R’s 13:07 – Final Words + Where to Learn More from Dr. Aliza 13:18 – Dr. Mona’s Closing Message 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 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 Parent Additional 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 – Intro 01:17 – Meet Dr. Sujay Kansagra: Pediatric Sleep Doc at Duke 04:38 – Do Genetics Impact How Children Sleep? 06:05 – Why Labels Like “Bad Sleeper” Can Be Harmful 08:06 – What’s the Deal with Wake Windows? 10:31 – Why Overtired Kids Have Trouble Falling Asleep 12:55 – Are Sleep “Crutches” Like Nursing or Rocking Bad? 15:00 – When and How to Phase Out Sleep Associations 16:33 – The Parent Sleep Guilt Spiral—And Why It’s Not Helping 18:05 – Social Media Pressure and Parenting Choices 19:30 – 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 More 25:59 – What Science Says About Sleep Regressions 28:44 – Why Modern Parenting Creates Fear Around Normal Sleep 30:08 – Don’t Pathologize Your Parenting Journey 30:52 – Final Message: Sleep Is Hard—Even for Sleep Experts 32:14 – Where to Learn More from Dr. Kansagra 33:02 – Wrapping Up: Science, Sanity, and Sleep Confidence 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

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.com 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Preview 00:46 – Advocating for Yourself During Labor 03:04 – C-Section Recovery Must-Haves 05:28 – Postpartum Tips for Vaginal Deliveries 07:12 – How to Care for Stitches (C-Section & Vaginal) 10:28 – One Thing I Wish I Knew Postpartum 13:47 – Why the First 24 Hours Postpartum Are Wild 14:22 – Surprised by Postpartum Bleeding? You’re Not Alone 15:16 – Wrap Up & Takeaways 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