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

Epizódok

• The Follow-Up: Strength Training While Pregnant 01.06.2026 15p

  Strength training in pregnancy can feel confusing with so much mixed advice online. In this Follow-Up episode, I revisit my conversation with Amy Kiefer and Krystle Holland of Expecting and Empowered to talk about how movement can support your body during pregnancy, prepare you for postpartum recovery, and help with the real physical demands of motherhood. We also cover warning signs to watch for after birth, why returning to exercise too quickly can backfire, and how to think about strength in a way that supports healing, not pressure. This episode is a helpful listen for anyone who wants a more practical, realistic approach to movement during and after pregnancy. In this episode, we cover: Why strength training can support the body during pregnancy How movement may help reduce common pregnancy aches and pains The connection between prenatal fitness and postpartum recovery Why mobility and pelvic floor function both matter before labor What to know about exercise clearance during pregnancy and postpartum Warning signs like leaking, pelvic pressure, or increased bleeding Why a slow return to activity matters after birth How pelvic floor therapy can support recovery The physical demands of motherhood and functional strength Letting go of bounce-back pressure and focusing on long-term health 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
• Fear Sells—But the Facts Matter: Making Science Go Viral 27.05.2026 1ó 3p

  In this episode, I sit down with a scientist and science communicator who has spent the last five years in the middle of online health conversations, especially during and after the pandemic. We talk honestly about why accurate information often feels boring on social media, while fear based content spreads fast. This is not a conversation about blaming parents or shaming curiosity. It is about understanding how trust works, why it has been strained, and what actually helps people feel safe enough to learn. We also get real about the mistakes science and medicine made during the pandemic, especially using black and white language around safety and effectiveness. We talk about why nuance matters, why people are capable of understanding complexity when it is explained well, and why showing up as a real human, not a polished authority figure, is one of the most powerful tools we have right now in public health communication. In this episode, we cover: Why misinformation spreads faster than accurate health information online How fear, outrage, and certainty drive engagement on social media The role trust plays in whether people believe data at all Why “safe and effective” language backfired for many families How oversimplifying science pushed people away instead of helping Financial conflicts of interest and why they matter when evaluating health claims The pattern of fear first, product second in wellness content Why credentials alone do not guarantee honesty or accuracy How being relatable and human builds more trust than perfection What science communicators can do differently moving forward Why we need more doctors and scientists showing up online, not fewer To connect with Dr. Noc follow him on Instagram @dr.noc, check out all his resources at linktr.ee/dr.noc and follow him on Substack: drnoc.substack.com/subscribe 00:00 – Why Fear Spreads Faster Than Facts Online 01:36 – Introducing Dr. Morgan “Dr. Noc” McSweeney 03:00 – Meeting Dr. Noc and Finding Science Communicators Online 05:38 – Dr. Noc’s Background in Pharmaceutical Science and Biotech 06:21 – Why He Started Creating Science Content During the Pandemic 06:59 – The Learning Curve of Creating Educational Content Online 07:23 – Why Science Must Be Communicated Beyond Academia 08:04 – Social Media as a Public Health Battleground 08:24 – Why “Just Showing the Data” Often Doesn’t Work 09:07 – The Real Problem: Trust in Science and Institutions 09:47 – How People Decide Who to Trust Online 10:03 – Why Most People Don’t Understand How Clinical Trials Work10:51 – How Extreme Messaging During the Pandemic Hurt Trust11:45 – Why Saying “Benefits Outweigh Risks” Builds More Trust58:46 – Final Thoughts: How Truth Can Still Win Online 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 Follow-Up: Early Days of Breastfeeding 25.05.2026 13p

  The early days of breastfeeding can feel overwhelming when you are recovering, tired, and trying to sort out what is normal. In this Follow-Up episode, I revisit my conversation with Melissa Mancini, RN, IBCLC, to talk through what helps in those first days and weeks, from prenatal prep to milk production, skin to skin, feeding cues, and cluster feeding. In this episode, we cover: How to prepare for breastfeeding before baby arrives Why prenatal breastfeeding education matters What is normal in the first few days of milk production How prolactin and oxytocin support breastfeeding Why skin to skin can help with feeding and supply What supply and demand really means for milk production When feeding on demand makes sense When more structured feeding may be recommended Why cluster feeding is common in the early weeks What kind of support can make breastfeeding feel more manageable 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
• When Politics, Values, and Parenting Collide with Sharon McMahon “America’s Government Teacher” 20.05.2026 1ó

  In this powerful and honest conversation, I sat down with Sharon McMahon to talk about something so many parents are quietly carrying right now - political exhaustion, moral tension, and the question of how to raise good humans in divided times. We unpack the difference between disagreement and dehumanization, politics and morality, optimism and hope. Sharon shares why feeling defeated is not a personal failure, how overwhelm is often by design, and why focusing on one or two issues can be more impactful than trying to care about everything at once. We also talk about boundaries in relationships, modeling values for our kids, coalition building, and what it really means to believe that the future is not finalized. In this episode, we discuss: The difference between politics as policy and politics as moral harm When “agree to disagree” no longer works How dehumanization differs from simple disagreement Why burnout and fear can make us easier to manipulate The difference between optimism and hope Why you do not have to care about everything equally How to focus your advocacy without burning out Coalition building and how real change actually happens Setting boundaries with family and friends during political tension Teaching children family values without demonizing others Why small joys and rest are part of long term resilience To connect with Sharon McMahon follow her on Instagram @sharonsaysso, check out all her resources at https://sharonmcmahon.com/ and buy her new book “We Are Mighty”: https://sharonmcmahon.com/book  00:00 Why Optimism Is Not the Goal 00:33 Meet Sharon McMahon, America’s Government Teacher 01:43 Politics, Morality, and the Questions Parents Are Asking 03:11 Why Sharon Started Teaching Government Online 05:30 How to Stay Informed Without Losing Your Peace 08:20 Why You Do Not Have to Care About Every Issue Equally 12:37 When Politics Stops Being Policy and Becomes Right vs Wrong 18:01 When Agree to Disagree Stops Working 24:06 Boundaries, Family Conflict, and Not Demonizing People 29:17 Teaching Kids the Difference Between Disagreement and Dehumanization 33:09 How Fear, Burnout, and Hopelessness Make People Easier to Manipulate 35:34 What Real Advocacy Looks Like Beyond Voting 40:29 Coalition Building and How Change Actually Happens 44:31 Sharon’s Children’s Book and Why Agency Matters for Kids 50:58 What Gives Sharon Hope Right Now 52:34 Small Joys, Rest, and Building Resilience 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 Follow-Up: How to Achieve Practical Optimism 18.05.2026 12p

  Practical optimism is not about pretending everything is fine or forcing happy thoughts when life feels hard. In this Follow-Up episode, I revisit my conversation with Dr. Sue Varma, psychiatrist, cognitive behavioral therapist, and author of Practical Optimism, to break down what it really means to build a hopeful mindset that is grounded in action, not denial. We talk about how optimism differs from toxic positivity, why some people seem to move through hard things with more resilience, and how this way of thinking can be practiced, even if it does not come naturally. In this episode, we cover: What practical optimism actually is How it differs from toxic positivity and pessimism Whether optimism is something you are born with or something you can practice The eight pillars of practical optimism The three Ps of pessimism and how to spot them Why purpose, self-compassion, and emotional regulation matter How optimism can support mental health, relationships, and parenting Ways to start shifting your mindset in everyday life 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
• The Parenting Revolution Around Puberty: How to Talk to Your Kids About Puberty Without Shame 13.05.2026 53p

  Parents often want to talk to their kids about puberty and periods, but many don’t know where to start. In this episode, I’m joined by pediatric and adolescent gynecologist Dr. Charis Chambers to talk about how we can change the way families approach these conversations. From stigma and misinformation to the fear of saying the wrong thing, we break down why avoiding these discussions can leave kids confused, scared, or learning from the wrong sources. We discuss how to introduce puberty and body changes in age-appropriate ways, why boys should be included in these conversations, and how parents can shift from one awkward “talk” to an ongoing dialog that builds trust. Dr. Chambers also explains the science behind periods, addresses common misconceptions about hormonal therapy, and shares powerful stories from her clinical experience that highlight why this education matters for a child’s long-term relationship with their body and health. In this episode we discuss: ✔️ Why many kids feel scared when their first period starts ✔️ How to start puberty conversations earlier and more naturally ✔️ Why boys should learn about periods too ✔️ The difference between privacy and secrecy when talking about bodies ✔️ How stigma around periods gets passed down through generations ✔️ Why hormonal therapy is often misunderstood ✔️ How open conversations build trust between parents and kids To connect with Dr. Charis Chambers follow her on Instagram @theperioddoctor, check out all her resources at https://theperioddoctor.com and buy her new book: https://www.amazon.com/Period-Puberty-Parenting-Revolution-Conversation/dp/1464233802?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn1W3WTCmZ7O5OBTdANGfFNf3Qt3tBhR3ysalxz3dPwNe50CLKDpwfK9vbRiY_aem_POnDC67y5COyXEaA3xsKVQ  00:00 Why Puberty and Period Talks Matter 02:16 Meet Dr. Charis Chambers and Her New Book 04:01 Why She Wrote The Puberty and Period Parenting Revolution 06:17 Why Kids Need to Learn About Bodies From Parents First 08:42 Is There Such a Thing as Talking Too Early About Puberty? 10:54 Why Boys Need to Be Part of Period Conversations Too 12:35 Privacy vs Secrecy, How Parents Can Normalize Periods 14:00 How Media and Shame Shape Period Stigma 18:40 Why This Needs to Be an Ongoing Conversation, Not One Talk 22:31 How to Explain Anatomy Without Making It Awkward 28:15 What Happens When Kids Are Left in the Dark About Periods 33:54 Hormonal Therapy vs Birth Control, What Parents Should Know 41:29 How to Build Trust When Parents Feel Nervous or Behind 45:05 What Dr. Charis Hopes This Book Changes for Families 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 Follow-Up: Anxiety or Are They Just Shy? 11.05.2026 13p

  Many parents worry when their child seems shy. But is it actually shyness, or something more? In this episode, we unpack the difference between a “slow to warm” temperament and an anxiety disorder. We talk about why labeling kids as shy can unintentionally limit them, how social expectations play a role, and what supportive parenting really looks like in those hesitant moments. We discuss: • What “slow to warm” actually means • The key difference between temperament and anxiety • Why the word shy can become a self-fulfilling label • How to support kids in new or overwhelming situations • The importance of preparation and gentle exposure • When behavior differences across settings may signal anxiety • Signs of selective mutism and more serious anxiety concerns • Why evidence-based therapy should include parent involvement 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
• The Myth of the "Perfect" Mom: Embracing Ambivalence in Motherhood 06.05.2026 55p

  Motherhood is often painted as pure joy, endless patience, and unconditional love. But what about the moments of frustration? The resentment? The overwhelm? The quiet thought of, “I love my child… but this is really hard.” In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Dr. Margo Lowy to talk about maternal ambivalence – the completely normal experience of holding love and difficult emotions at the same time. We unpack the difference between ambivalence and indifference, why so many mothers feel guilt for being human, and how naming these emotions actually strengthens connection rather than weakens it. If you’ve ever questioned yourself because motherhood didn’t feel magical 100 percent of the time, this conversation will feel like exhaling. We discuss: • What maternal ambivalence really means and why it’s misunderstood • Why loving your child and feeling frustrated can coexist • The myth of the “perfect, selfless mother” • How social media fuels unrealistic expectations • Why naming difficult emotions reduces shame • The power of community and choosing supportive voices • How humor and lightness protect us in hard seasons • Why responding instead of reacting changes everything • The importance of modeling emotional honesty for our children To connect with Dr. Margo Lowy follow her on Instagram @drmargolowy, check out all her resources at https://drmargolowy.com/ and buy her books: https://drmargolowy.com/book/  00:00 – Intro: Why Difficult Feelings in Motherhood Matter 01:21 – Introducing Dr. Margo Lowy and Maternal Ambivalence 02:57 – What Maternal Ambivalence Actually Means 06:00 – Ambivalence vs Indifference: A Critical Difference 07:49 – The Myth of the Perfect, Selfless Mother 09:08 – Why Suppressing Difficult Emotions Backfires 11:01 – Letting Go of Perfection in Parenting 13:09 – The Moment You Realize Your Child Is Separate From You 17:08 – Do Fathers Experience Parenting Ambivalence Too? 19:03 – Why Parenting Plans Rarely Go as Expected 22:49 – The Power of Community and Support in Motherhood 29:11 – Social Media and the Pressure to Be the “Perfect Mom” 33:30 – How Accepting Imperfection Strengthens Parenting 43:16 – Naming Ambivalence and Finding Compassion for Yourself 49:22 – Final Takeaway: Why Naming Your Feelings Changes Everything 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 Follow-Up: Is EMDR for Me? 04.05.2026 15p

  A question I get often is: “How do I know if EMDR might be right for me?” In this episode, we break down what EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) actually is, who it can help, and what a session really looks like. Originally developed to treat PTSD, EMDR is now used to support people struggling with birth trauma, childhood experiences, anxiety, panic, phobias, depression, parenting triggers, and more. You do not need a formal diagnosis to benefit from it. Many parents come in simply feeling reactive, overwhelmed, or triggered in ways they do not fully understand. We discuss: • How trauma and intense experiences are stored in the brain • Why certain parenting moments can feel disproportionately triggering • What “reprocessing” actually means • The science behind bilateral stimulation and REM sleep • The phases of EMDR therapy • What safety and preparation look like before starting • What a session may involve, including eye movements, tapping, or tones • Why EMDR is about healing, not retraumatizing 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
• Why Self-Love Starts in Childhood (And How Caregivers Shape It) 29.04.2026 22p

  In this solo episode, I reflect on a question that stopped me in my tracks: Why am I not worthy of my own love? Inspired by the passing of James Van Der Beek and a clip that deeply moved me, this conversation opens up a bigger discussion about self-love, self-worth, and how both begin taking shape in childhood. As a pediatrician and mom, I share why helping our children build a strong sense of worth may be one of the most important things we ever do. We talk about how unconditional love, emotional validation, secure attachment, and the way we speak to our kids, and ourselves, all shape the inner voice they carry for life. I also explore how comparison, shame, performance-based praise, and dismissed emotions can quietly chip away at self-worth over time. What I discuss: Why self-love and self-worth begin forming in childhood How unconditional love helps children feel secure and worthy The link between secure attachment and lifelong self-worth Why tying worth to grades, behavior, or achievement can backfire How dismissed emotions can shape a child’s inner voice The harm of comparison, and what to say instead Why kids learn self-love by watching how we treat ourselves Small ways parents can model self-compassion at home How the way we speak to our children becomes the way they speak to themselves 00:00 Intro, The Inner Voice Kids Carry for Life 01:16 The James Van Der Beek Question That Sparked This Episode 04:43 Why Self-Love Shapes a Child’s Whole Life 08:06 How Self-Worth Gets Chipped Away in Childhood 09:58 Unconditional Love and Secure Attachment Build Self-Worth 11:54 Why Kids Should Not Tie Their Worth to Achievement 13:17 Emotional Validation, Comparison, and Protecting a Child’s Sense of Self 15:45 How Kids Learn Self-Love by Watching Us 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 Follow-Up: Dads and Postpartum 28.04.2026 14p

  We talk a lot about maternal mental health postpartum. But we do not talk enough about dads. In this episode, my husband joins me for an honest conversation about paternal mental health, birth trauma, pressure, and what it felt like to become a father while navigating medical complications and the early days of the pandemic. We discuss the silent expectations placed on fathers to be “the strong one,” to go back to work quickly, to provide, and to hold everything together — often without anyone asking how they are actually doing. This episode is about normalizing the fact that postpartum mental health affects both parents. We talk about: • Why paternal mental health is often overlooked • The impact of traumatic birth experiences on dads • The pressure to return to work quickly, especially in medicine • Sleep deprivation, financial stress, and identity shifts • How the pandemic intensified anxiety for healthcare workers • Why therapy is not just for crisis, but for maintenance • Reparenting yourself while parenting your children • How prioritizing mental health makes you a more present partner and 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
• IVF, Ovulation, and Fertility Facts and Myths Everyone Should Know with Dr. Lucky Sekhon 22.04.2026 1ó 7p

  This week on The PedsDocTalk Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Lucky Sekhon, board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, OB-GYN, and author of The Lucky Egg, for a conversation about the fertility basics so many adults were never actually taught. We talk about the fertility knowledge gap, what ovulation really means, how to time intercourse more effectively, and when it may be time to stop waiting and get support. We also get into one of the biggest misconceptions people hear all the time, that every fertility treatment is IVF. Dr. Sekhon breaks down the difference between cycle tracking, medicated IUI, and IVF, and explains what the fertility workup is actually looking at, from ovulation and uterine structure to sperm factors and age-related egg quality. We discuss: • Why so many adults reach the point of trying to conceive without really understanding fertility • Signs in your cycle that may be worth paying attention to earlier • Why the fertile window is smaller than many people realize • Why temperature tracking alone may miss the best timing • What ovulation predictor kits are actually picking up • What lifestyle habits may help support fertility • The difference between prenatal vitamins, folic acid, and fertility supplements • When to see a fertility specialist based on age, cycle regularity, and how long you’ve been trying • How IVF differs from IUI and other treatment options • The emotional reality of infertility and secondary infertility To connect with Dr. Lucky Sekhon follow her on Instagram @lucky.sekhon check out all her resources at https://theluckyegg.com and buy her new book: https://linkly.link/2TYtU 00:00 IVF myths and the truth about IVF babies 00:00:56 Welcome and why this fertility conversation matters 00:04:31 The fertility knowledge gap nobody teaches 00:06:37 Ovulation basics and the small fertile window 00:09:20 Who Dr. Lucky’s book is really for 00:11:34 Why fertility advice online can make people more anxious 00:14:42 How to actually track ovulation 00:17:53 Why temperature tracking can miss the moment 00:19:19 Lifestyle habits that support fertility 00:23:32 Supplements, prenatal vitamins, and what may actually help 00:25:38 Does stress really cause infertility? 00:26:52 When to stop waiting and see a fertility specialist 00:30:15 Dr. Mona’s secondary infertility story 00:32:42 What IVF is, and how it differs from IUI 00:39:35 The emotional reality of IVF and fertility preservation 00:42:22 Why sharing infertility stories helps, and hurts 00:45:43 What happens at the first fertility specialist visit 00:49:55 IVF stigma, false guarantees, and harmful myths 00:56:42 Are IVF babies different? What the data actually says 01:00:11 Final takeaways and where to find Dr. Lucky 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 Follow-Up: I Just Had a Baby, Now What? 20.04.2026 18p

  Bringing home a new baby can feel equal parts joyful and overwhelming. In this Follow Up episode, I revisit a favorite past conversation, I Just Had a Baby, Now What?, and share practical newborn guidance through the lens of both a pediatrician and a mom. We talk about what newborns really need in the early weeks, how to recognize common cues for hunger, sleep, and interaction, and why simple routines like feeding, diaper changes, tummy time, and cuddles matter more than perfection. I also share insights from a recent parent survey in partnership with Angelcare and Diaper Genie about the products and routines families say helped them most in those early months. I discuss: What the fourth trimester means The core needs of a newborn Reading hunger, sleep, and play cues Why babies cry, and it is not always hunger Feeding on demand in the early weeks Simple routines that support connection Easy ways to engage your newborn Why holding your baby does not spoil them How to ease stress in the newborn stage To learn more about Angelcare and Diaper Genie products visit https://diapergenie.com and https://angelcarebaby.com. And don’t forget to follow @angelcare and @diapergenieofficial 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! Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠@pedsdoctalkpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
• How to Stop Passing Your Emotional Baggage to Your Kids 15.04.2026 58p

  Parents carry their past into their parenting, often without realizing it. In this episode, I sit down with relationship therapist and author Eli Harwood to talk about how emotional baggage forms, how it quietly shows up in the way we respond to our kids, and what it actually looks like to break those patterns in real time. We get honest about triggers, shame, defensiveness, and the parts of ourselves we learned to tuck away long before we ever had children. Eli breaks down how emotional inheritance works, why our bodies react before our brains catch up, and how to shift from reactive parenting to connected parenting. This isn’t about perfection or never getting activated. It’s about noticing, pausing, and choosing something different so our kids don’t have to carry what we never had support for. If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I passing this on?”, this conversation will help you see the patterns with compassion and give you tools to change the story. What we talk about: Why emotional baggage forms and how it shows up in parenting How your childhood coping strategies become adult triggers The difference between reacting and responding Why kids activate the parts of us we haven’t healed How shame keeps patterns going Practical steps to interrupt the cycle Why slowing down is the most powerful parenting tool How to repair with your child when you slip into old patterns To connect with Eli Harwood follow her on Instagram @attachmentnerd, check out all her resources at https://www.attachmentnerd.com/ and buy her book “How to Deal with Your ___ So Your Kids Don’t Have To: https://www.amazon.com/Deal-Your-____-Kids-Dont/dp/1632175967  00:00 – The Core Idea: Kids Feel What We Don’t Heal 05:23 – From Secure Kids to Secure Parents 09:18 – The Five Gifts of a Secure Parent14:06 – Showing Up Without Making Kids the Burden23:14 – When Your Stuff Spills Out 25:58 – Hidden Baggage: Denial, Over-Apologizing, and Self-Doubt 27:28 – Bias, Blind Spots, and Long-Term Connection 36:40 – Emotional Maturity in Real Life 41:17 – “I Want Mommy”: Rejection and Attachment Preferences 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 Follow-Up: Extinction Sleep Training 13.04.2026 11p

  Sleep training can feel like a lightning rod topic, especially when it comes to the cry it out method. In this episode, I talk with a mom who used extinction sleep training with both of her sons at different ages. She shares what it actually looked like night by night, why other methods did not work for her family, and how sleep training ultimately changed their home for the better. In this conversation, we cover: • What the extinction method actually looks like • How long crying lasted and what progress looked like • Why Ferber did not work for her baby • The role of timing and developmental readiness • When night feeds may be appropriate to drop • Why sleep quality affects mood, tantrums, and regulation • How to handle judgment around sleep choices Want more? Listen to the full, original episode called Momma Needs Some Sleep! How different moms approached sleep-training where we discuss various approaches to sleep-training. 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 Friendship Hurts: How to Talk to Kids About Bullying, Boundaries, and Self-Worth 08.04.2026 40p

  Friendship heartbreak hits differently when it’s your child. In this episode, I sit down with child development specialist Dr. Robyn Silverman to talk about bullying, boundaries, rejection, and what to say when your child feels left out. We dive into the moments that trigger us as parents, especially when their pain mirrors our own childhood wounds, and how to respond with steadiness instead of panic. If you’ve ever felt your chest tighten when your child says, “They don’t want to play with me,” this conversation is for you. We talk about helping kids define what a good friend actually is, building identity from the inside out, and supporting them through social struggles without bulldozing the situation or blaming them. This episode is about raising confident kids who know they are enough, even when friendships shift. What we discuss: • Why fifth grade and early adolescence can feel like a social turning point • How to help kids define what a true friend looks like • Why proximity friendships don’t always work long term • The power of identity and “I am” statements • How negative self talk creates a confidence feedback loop • What to say when your child says they’re being bullied • What not to do in the heat of the moment • How to respond without escalating the situation • Supporting social skill growth without labeling your child as the problem • The importance of repair when we as parents don’t handle it perfectly • Why parenting always offers a do over To connect with Dr. Robyn Silverman follow her on Instagram @drrobynsilverman, check out all her resources at https://drrobynsilverman.com/ and buy her book “How to Talk To Kids About Anything”: https://parenting.drrobynsilverman.com/book#heading-t_xdY060m2H  00:00 – When Friendship Hurts: The Question Every Parent Faces 01:10 – Meet Dr. Robyn Silverman: Helping Parents Navigate Hard Conversations 02:22 – Why Talking About Friendship and Bullying Matters 03:06 – The Childhood Experience That Inspired Dr. Silverman’s Work 07:08 – Teaching Kids What a Good Friend Actually Is 10:52 – Why Kids Stay in Friendships That Don’t Treat Them Well 12:28 – Helping Kids Find Friendships That Fit Who They Are 15:02 – How Self-Identity Shapes Social Confidence 19:47 – What To Do When Your Child Says They’re Being Bullied 21:13 – The First Words to Say When Your Child Opens Up 25:34 – Rebuilding Self-Worth After Friendship Rejection 27:11 – When Your Child Feels Like No One Wants to Be Their Friend 31:13 – Avoiding the Blame Trap When Kids Struggle Socially 33:37 – Parenting Is the Ultimate Do-Over 36:12 – A Simple Exercise to Help Kids Choose Better Friends 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 Follow-Up: Why Independent Play Matters 06.04.2026 13p

  If you’ve ever felt guilty for not entertaining your child 24/7, this conversation is going to feel like a deep exhale. In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest modern parenting misconceptions: that good parents are constant playmates. Somewhere along the way, many of us absorbed the idea that we need to be fully engaged, fully available, and fully entertaining at all times. But that shift has come at a cost, both for kids and for parents. We talk about why independent play is not neglect. It is developmental gold. When children play alone or without adult direction, they are practicing creativity, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and flexibility. That kind of play is not second best. It is often the highest level of developmental work they can do. We also explore the other side of the equation. When adults skip meals, chores, work, or rest to constantly entertain their child, stress builds. Resentment builds. Exhaustion builds. That is not healthy for anyone. In this episode, we cover: ✔️ Why you are not required to play all day ✔️ The difference between connection and constant entertainment ✔️ Why some kids struggle more with independent play ✔️ How to break the entertain-me cycle ✔️ A practical step-by-step plan to build this skill ✔️ Why consistency matters more than intensity 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
• Co-Sleeping, Sleep Training, and the Conversation We Need to Have About Infant Sleep 01.04.2026 55p

  Infant sleep has become one of the most polarizing topics in modern parenting. In this thoughtful and nuanced conversation, I sit down with sleep consultant and family therapist Chrissy Lawler to unpack co-sleeping, sleep training, safety data, and the emotional charge surrounding these decisions. As a pediatrician, I was trained to follow AAP safe sleep guidelines, but real-world parenting, cultural practices, and honest conversations with families have pushed me to approach this topic with more openness and clarity. We discuss what the data actually shows, where the gaps exist, and why shame and fear-based messaging don’t help families make safer decisions. Whether you co-sleep, sleep train, or are still figuring it out, this episode focuses on evidence, harm reduction, attachment, parental well-being, and finding what works for your unique family system. In this episode, we discuss: Why co-sleeping is so controversial, especially coming from a pediatrician AAP guidelines vs cultural sleep practices around the world The dangers of polarized, shame-based sleep messaging Harm reduction principles for families who choose to co-sleep Risk factors that increase sleep-related infant deaths What the data does and does not tell us about co-sleeping safety The “Safe Sleep Seven” and its limitations Sleep training myths, cortisol concerns, and attachment Why parental sleep and mental health matter just as much as baby sleep The impact of sleep deprivation on relationships and long-term family dynamics How to filter social media noise and make evidence-based decisions Foundational newborn sleep strategies to reduce desperation and unsafe practices The role of resilience, stress tolerance, and “good enough” parenting To connect with Chrissy Lawler follow her on Instagram @the.peaceful.sleeper, check out all her resources at https://www.thepeacefulsleeper.com/ and buy her book “The Peaceful Sleeper: An Intuitive Approach to Baby Sleep”: https://www.thepeacefulsleeper.com/book  00:00 – Intro 01:15 – A Pediatrician’s Experience With Unsafe Sleep 02:07 – Why Parents Secretly Bedshare 02:54 – Introducing Chrissy Lawler and Her Work 05:04 – Why Safe Sleep Messaging Often Misses Real Life 07:03 – The Cultural Differences Around Infant Sleep 11:03 – Why Parents Feel Pressure Around Sleep Training 16:04 – What Actually Makes Co-Sleeping Dangerous 20:01 – Harm Reduction: If Families Choose to Bedshare 28:00 – Sleep Training Myths and Misunderstandings 38:00 – The Emotional Side of Infant Sleep Decisions 39:01 – How Shame Impacts Honest Conversations With Pediatricians 45:01 – Practical Ways to Make Infant Sleep Safer 48:02 – The Bigger Takeaway: Safety, Support, and Informed Choices 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 Follow-Up: Biting, Hitting, Throwing Explained 30.03.2026 12p

  Few things trigger parents faster than physical behavior. It can feel embarrassing, frustrating, and sometimes even personal. But what if these behaviors are less about “bad behavior” and more about a brain that simply isn’t ready yet? In this episode, we break down why toddlers lean into physical, reactive behaviors when big feelings take over. Their emotional capacity is growing quickly, but their ability to pause, regulate, and explain what they’re feeling is still catching up. So they use what works fast - their bodies. We talk about how to respond in the moment without shaming, lecturing, or asking rhetorical questions toddlers cannot answer. Instead of saying “Why are you biting me?” or “That’s not nice,” we explore how to set firm boundaries while still guiding the skill that is developing. You’ll learn how to: ✔️ Separate the action from the intention ✔️ Redirect behavior without minimizing the need behind it ✔️ Offer appropriate outlets for physical impulses ✔️ Reinforce correct behavior at home, even if incidents are happening at daycare ✔️ Partner with teachers to prevent behaviors before they escalate ✔️ Avoid common mistakes like shaming, over-talking, or making it personal 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
• Surrogacy Explained, Facts, Feelings, and Family Building 25.03.2026 40p

  Surrogacy is often talked about in headlines or celebrity news, but rarely explained in a way that helps people truly understand the experience behind it. In this episode, I’m joined by surrogacy consultant Jessie Jaskulsky, founder of Surrogacy Simplified, to talk openly about what the surrogacy process actually looks like, the misconceptions that surround it, and the emotional reality many families face while trying to grow their family. Jessie shares her personal path through pregnancy loss, infertility, and ultimately two surrogacy journeys that helped her welcome her daughters. From navigating the logistics and cost to managing grief, uncertainty, and public judgment, this conversation brings compassion and clarity to a topic that is often misunderstood. In this episode, we discuss: What surrogacy actually means and the difference between gestational and traditional surrogacy Common misconceptions about why families pursue surrogacy Why public conversations about surrogacy can be filled with judgment and misinformation The emotional toll of infertility, pregnancy loss, and long fertility journeys How intended parents cope with uncertainty and lack of control during a surrogacy pregnancy What the financial reality of surrogacy can look like and ways families plan for it How to begin exploring surrogacy if it’s something you’re considering The bond between parents and babies born through surrogacy How friends and family can better support someone going through this process To connect with Jessie Jaskulksy follow her on Instagram @surrogacysimplified, check out all her resources at linktr.ee/surrogacysimplified  You can also join her free Intended Parent Community: https://tally.so/r/mORv9A 00:00 Surrogacy, Stigma, and the Comments Families Shouldn’t Face 02:00 What Most People Get Wrong About Surrogacy 05:49 Gestational Carrier vs Surrogate Explained Simply 08:07 The Real Reasons Families Turn to Surrogacy 10:16 Why Celebrity Surrogacy Stories Spark So Much Judgment 13:07 Infertility, Anxiety, and the Emotional Side of This Process 15:34 What Surrogacy Really Costs, and Why 22:11 The First Steps for Families Considering Surrogacy 25:22 The Hardest Part, Letting Go of Control 30:06 Bonding, Love, and the Truth About Surrogacy Babies 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