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

Episodet

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  Punishment-Free Parenting and Teaching Kids to Handle Big Feelings 22.07.2026 1h 9min

  Have you ever felt the urge to yell or hand out a punishment during a chaotic grocery store meltdown? It is a moment meant to stop the behavior fast, but what if it is actually turning off the exact part of your child’s brain that learns lessons? In this episode, I sit down with parenting author Jon Fogel to dismantle the massive misconceptions around discipline and childhood tantrums. Jon shares how traditional punishments backfire on our kids' nervous systems, and explains why our child’s biggest meltdowns are actually a cry for connection and emotional tools rather than a sign of a bad kid. In this episode we cover: Why traditional punishments work against a child's brain and block them from learning lessons The power of getting curious instead of furious when your child has a major behavioral blowout Simple neuroscience brain hacks, like the color game, to bring a dysregulated child back online Why society holds toddlers to adult standards while adults throw tantrums with road rage The history of terrible parenting advice from the 1930s that is still impacting our families today How to take a beat and do no harm when your own triggers flare up in public Why doing the hard work to build emotional trust now makes the teenage years a total breeze Connect with Jon Fogel on Instagram @wholeparent, visit his site myparentlab.com and buy his two books Punishment-Free Parenting: https://go.shopmy.us/p-71062269 and Set My Feelings Free: https://go.shopmy.us/p-71062356 (paid links) 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! Shop Dr. Mona’s favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Understanding Early Intervention 20.07.2026 14min

  In this episode, Dr. Mona and special education lawyer Amanda Selogie dive into the critical role of early intervention in childhood development. They break down the realities families face today, including navigating insurance, dealing with staff shortages, and facing lengthy evaluation waitlists. They emphasize how accessing developmental support early lays the foundation for inclusive education. This ensures children of all abilities have an equal opportunity to thrive alongside their peers when entering the school system. We discuss: Defining Early Intervention: Amanda Selogie explains how services support babies and preschoolers with developmental delays or specific diagnoses before they enter the school system. Cost and Coverage: The guests discuss how initial developmental evaluations are typically free through state agencies, while ongoing therapy services can sometimes carry out-of-pocket costs or insurance copays. Systemic Roadblocks: The conversation addresses how pandemic-related burnout has caused severe provider shortages and extensive waitlists, particularly affecting families in rural areas. Kindergarten Readiness: Dr. Mona and Amanda highlight how early support prevents children from falling behind behaviorally and being prematurely excluded from general education classrooms. Inclusive Education: The episode concludes by showcasing how fully integrated classrooms foster empathy and lifelong acceptance among all children. 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! Shop Dr. Mona’s favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link) 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
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  Beyond “Kids Are Resilient”, What Kids Actually Need to Cope 15.07.2026 35min

  Have you ever uttered the phrase, "Don't worry, kids are resilient"? It’s a line meant to comfort us as adults, but what if it’s actually giving us permission to skip over our kids' real struggles? In this episode, I sit down with children's therapist and author Stacy Schaffer to dismantle the massive misconceptions around childhood coping and resilience. Stacy shares her own powerful story of navigating a traumatic childhood under the guise of being the "perfect, shiny" kid , and explains why our well-behaved children might actually be suffering in silence. In this episode we cover: What "kids are resilient" really means, and why we overuse it The difference between true resilience and just shutting down Why the well behaved, easy kid might actually be a red flag worth paying attention to What perfectionism can be a sign of, and why it is not the goal The one thing research shows can change a kid's whole trajectory How to actually support your kid without fixing or minimizing what they feel Stacy's own story of being labeled resilient, and what she wishes had been different Connect with Stacy Schaffer on Instagram @hoperestored, visit her site https://stacyschaffer.com/ and buy her new book: https://go.shopmy.us/p-69552166 (paid link) Check out her new course: Staying Connected to Your Kids in a Digital World. www.stacyschaffer.com/workshop 00:00:00 - The Danger of the "Kids Are Resilient" Myth 00:02:16 - Meet Child Therapist Stacy Schaffer 00:04:24 - Why Adults Overuse the Word "Resiliency" 00:06:53 - Rescue Parenting vs. Building Real Resilience 00:08:39 - True Resilience: You Don't Have to Do It Alone 00:12:12 - Stacy's Personal Story: "Shiny" Coping vs. Safe Containers 00:14:38 - Destigmatizing Therapy & Embracing Imperfect Parenting 00:18:14 - Red Flags: Is Your "Good Kid" Coping in Isolation? 00:23:38 - The Power of Being Seen: Stop Fixing, Start Listening 00:29:26 - Restoring Hope for the Next Generation 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! Shop Dr. Mona’s favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Perinatal Rage 13.07.2026 11min

  So many moms feel they must always be gentle, patient, and nurturing. When intense irritability, sudden anger, or rage bubbles up during pregnancy or the postpartum period, it’s easy to suffer in silence out of fear of judgment. Dr. Mona and Dr. Ashurina pull back the curtain on why parental rage happens, how to recognize the clinical signs of a flooded nervous system, and why getting help early—before reaching a crisis point—is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family. Here are the key takeaways from this episode: Perinatal Rage is Wrapped in Shame: Many mothers suffer in silence because societal expectations dictate that moms should always be gentle, patient, and nurturing, making it incredibly difficult to admit to feeling intense anger or rage. It Can Start During Pregnancy: Mood shifts and anxiety during the perinatal period are often incorrectly dismissed as "just hormones," but symptoms of depression, anxiety, and rage can actively begin during pregnancy. Depression Doesn't Always Look Like Sadness: Perinatal and postpartum depression can manifest as extreme irritability, hostility, snapping, and yelling over minor incidents rather than just tearfulness or isolation. Driven by Overstimulation and Unmet Needs: Rage is rarely a standalone issue; it is typically a combination of extreme sleep deprivation, sensory burnout, and unmet basic needs like adequate nutrition, rest, or feeling seen and validated. Don't Wait for a Crisis to Get Help: You do not need to be in an absolute crisis to benefit from mental health support; seeking out a therapist early makes navigating care much easier and helps you recover before reaching a breaking point. 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! Shop Dr. Mona’s favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link) 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
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  Mom Needs a Moment: Why You Still Yell Even When You Know Better (And How to Stop) with Dr. Cassidy Freitas 08.07.2026 1h 2min

  Have you read all the parenting books, followed the expert social media accounts, and known exactly what you want to say to your child—only to find yourself frustrated and yelling in the heat of the moment? You are not alone. In this episode, I welcome back licensed therapist, author, and crowd-favorite social media follower, Dr. Cassidy Freitas. Together, we take the shame out of "mom rage" and explore the painful gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it when it matters most. Dr. Cassidy dives into the core concepts of her new book, Mom Needs a Moment, explaining how our childhood "rulebooks," sensory overload, and a lack of societal "margins" trigger our nervous systems into survival mode. Tune in to learn how to catch your triggers, build a buffer between stimulus and reaction, and use the ultimate parenting superpower: the power of repair. In this episode, we cover: The deep shame mothers face when they know the right parenting techniques but still find themselves yelling in moments of frustration. How Dr. Cassidy pulled together a decade of clinical themes and personal experiences as a mother of three to write her new book, Mom Needs a Moment. How childhood survival "rulebooks" and an overstimulated nervous system cause parents to default to reactive habits like fight, flight, or freeze. The desperate need for modern parents to consciously protect empty "margins" of space on their calendars to regulate their bodies outside of stressful moments. A powerful look at how breaking generational cycles allows parents to build a lasting emotional legacy for future generations. Connect with Dr. Cassidy Freitas on Instagram @drcassidy, visit her site https://www.drcassidymft.com/ and buy her new book: https://go.shopmy.us/p-69435027 (paid link) Check out our earlier episode on EMDR: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/trauma-therapy-why-you-may-need-emdr/  00:00 - Introduction & The Parenting Gap 01:54 - EMDR Therapy & Processing Motherhood 03:49 - A Psychic Medium's Prediction & Toxic Perfectionism 06:33 - Impact vs. Notoriety 08:55 - How the Book Got Its Title 11:31 - The Overstimulated Digital Parenting Era 13:40 - Why Do We Snap? (The Survival Rulebook) 19:57 - Dr. Mona’s Instagram Troll Trigger 22:59 - Why Insight Alone Isn't Enough to Change Behavior 24:42 - What Are Margins? (Before, During, & After) 32:50 - The Chocolate Popsicle Story 37:46 - The Power of a Child Expecting Repair 42:20 - ADHD, Hyperfocus, and Managing Interruptions 43:53 - Breaking Generational Cycles Without Blame 49:27 - Reclaiming Your Intuition 52:24 - Building Legacy & Finding Joy 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
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  The Follow-Up: Raising Multilingual Kids 06.07.2026 13min

  I'll be honest with you - this episode hit differently for me as a mom. My son is six and learning Spanish in school, and my parents speak our native language with him, but listening back to this conversation with Alicia made me wish we had been more intentional from the start. No guilt though... just real talk about what the research actually says. Alicia Gandhi is a bilingual speech language pathologist and clinical assistant professor at NYU, and she is the person you want in your corner when it comes to separating fact from fiction on raising kids with multiple languages. There are so many myths floating around out there, from pediatricians, from teachers, from well-meaning family members, and we break them all down. In this episode we cover: The real cognitive benefits of raising bilingual and multilingual kids (hint: it goes way beyond language) Why code switching and mixing languages is not confusion - it is actually a sign your child is doing exactly what they should be The milestone myth: bilingual kids are not on a different developmental timeline Why you should speak your strongest language at home, even if it is not English The harmful practice of "forced monolingualism" and who it hurts most Whether kids with language delays or disabilities can still be raised multilingual (spoiler: yes) What happens when kids enter a new language environment like daycare or school 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  Bed-Sharing and Safe Sleep Guidelines: Pediatricians Gets Real About Risk & Shame with Dr. Michael Milobsky 01.07.2026 59min

  BED SHARING DISCUSSIONS SHOULD BE CLEARED WITH YOUR CHILD’S CLINICIAN. This episode is not personal advice. If there is one topic that makes parents go quiet in my exam room, it is this one. Where is your baby actually sleeping? Not where you planned for them to sleep. Not what you told your mother-in-law. Where are they really sleeping at 2am when you are exhausted and just need everyone to rest? I brought Dr. Michael Milobsky on the show because he is one of the few pediatricians willing to have this conversation out loud. Twenty-seven years in practice, father of seven, grandfather of five, and someone who has been in every corner of pediatric medicine. We sat down and got honest about bedsharing in a way that I wish every parent could hear from their own doctor. Here is what I want you to know before you hit play. I used to be the doctor who said independent sleep space and moved on. No room for nuance, no real conversation. And what I have come to understand over the last several years is that when parents feel judged, they stop telling us the truth. And when that happens, we lose the chance to actually keep babies safe. This episode is not about telling you what to do. It is about giving you the information you deserve so you can make the most informed choice for your family. What We Talk About Why so many parents are not being honest with their pediatrician about where their baby sleeps, and why that silence is the bigger safety problem What the AAP guidelines are actually designed to do, and where they fall short in a real clinical conversation The specific risk factors that make bedsharing significantly more dangerous, including smoking, alcohol, sedating medications, soft bedding, prematurity, and very young infants The Safe Sleep Seven, what it covers, what its limitations are, and why it is still a useful harm reduction tool How bedsharing is practiced in other countries and why the surface and setup matter as much as the decision itself Why breastfeeding changes the biology of bedsharing and shifts the risk picture in meaningful ways What both of us did with our own kids, because real talk requires real transparency Room sharing versus bedsharing, and what the updated AAP recommendations actually say Why most pediatricians default to the hard line, and why it is usually about time in the system, not ignorance of the nuance What to do if your pediatrician will not have this conversation with you Connect with Dr. Michael Milobsky on Instagram @drmichaelmilobsky and visit his site linktr.ee/milobsky . 00:00 - Pediatric Sleep Guidance: The Nuance of Bed Sharing 04:15 - Meet Dr. Michael Milobsky: From the ER to Raising 7 Kids 08:30 - Why Strict AAP Safe Sleep Guidelines Fail Exhausted Parents 13:10 - Co-Sleeping Around the World vs. Mainstream US Pediatrics 17:45 - Understanding Risk Stratification in the Marriage Bed 21:20 - Navigating Survival Mode and Chronic Sleep Deprivation 25:55 - Infant Temperaments: Evaluating Your Baby's "Cuddle Quota" 30:15 - High-Risk Factors: Alcohol, Sedating Medications, and Sobriety 34:40 - The Biology of Breastfeeding Proximity vs. Formula Feeding 38:10 - Breaking Down the Safe Sleep Seven Framework 42:50 - The Hidden Dangers of Couches, Armchairs, and Recliners 46:15 - Systemic Issues: Why Pediatricians Lack Time for Nuanced Advice 50:30 - How to Safely Discuss Your Sleep Choices with Your Doctor 53:20 - Outro: Shifting to Supportive, Non-Judgmental Pediatric Guidance 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Anxious Parents, Anxious Kids 29.06.2026 13min

  Both my husband and I have anxiety. So yeah, we are two anxious people raising kids and watching closely for signs of anxiety in them. The irony is very real. But it also means I am deeply invested in understanding where childhood anxiety comes from, and how much of it we as parents are actually influencing. In this Follow Up episode, I brought back child psychiatrist Dr. Helen Egger to break down the nature vs. nurture of anxiety, what it actually looks like in kids and parents, and how we can interrupt the cycle without losing our minds trying. In this episode we cover: Why having anxiety as a parent puts your child at 4-6 times higher risk for anxiety, and what that actually means The difference between normal anxiety and anxiety that needs support How fear can be "contagious" in a family environment, even without realizing it The genetic component of anxiety explained as risk, not destiny Why anxious kids often also have heightened empathy and sensitivity (the strengths side of the coin) How to address your child's anxiety while managing your own The different types of anxiety: generalized, social, separation, and phobias Why getting mental health support as a parent is one of the most powerful things you can do for your child How modeling help-seeking behavior actually breaks the anxiety cycle 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  Your Daughter’s Period Is a Vital Sign, And Why We Shouldn’t Ignore It with Fertility Specialist and Author Dr. Natalie Crawford 24.06.2026 1h 9min

  As a pediatrician, I was not asking enough questions about my patients' periods. We ask when the last one was. We rarely go deeper than that. And after this conversation, I will never approach it the same way again. I sat down with my friend and colleague Dr. Natalie Crawford, reproductive endocrinologist, fertility specialist, and author of The Fertility Formula. Here is what I want every parent raising a girl to understand: the menstrual cycle is not just a monthly inconvenience. It is one of the most important windows into your daughter's hormonal health, her long-term fertility, and her overall wellbeing. And the symptoms we keep brushing off as "just puberty" or "just a bad period" are often the first clues to conditions that will matter deeply later in life. In this episode, we cover: Why the menstrual cycle is a vital sign and what that means for the girls in your life The warning signs parents and pediatricians too often dismiss as normal What a first period should actually look like, and when irregular cycles need to be taken seriously Hypothalamic amenorrhea: the condition linked to over-exercising, under-eating, and chronic stress that silently affects estrogen during some of the most critical years of development PCOS in teens: why it does not always look the way doctors expect, and why so many girls get missed Thyroid disease and how it shows up in the menstrual cycle before anything else Endometriosis in adolescents: when period pain is not normal and what to do about it Why birth control is sometimes the right treatment but not always the full answer How to advocate for your daughter when you feel dismissed at the doctor's office The referral path from pediatrician to OB to specialist, and when to push for more Connect with Dr. Natalie Crawford on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, visit her site https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/ and buy her new book: https://a.co/d/0byHPtzr Here is the revised list of 20 chapters, spaced out chronologically to cover the entire duration of the provided text for "Podcast Natalie Crawford Final.mp3.txt": 00:00:00 The Paternalistic History of Women's Health 00:01:19 Introducing Dr. Natalie Crawford & The Fertility Formula 00:02:56 The Stigma of Cycle Tracking and Menstrual Shame 00:04:53 Dr. Mona's Personal Battle with Secondary Infertility 00:06:00 Overcoming the Unknown and Paternalism in Medicine 00:08:11 Empowering Younger Women to Advocate for Their Bodies 00:10:27 Raising Children to Trust Their Physical Cues 00:11:32 Dr. Crawford's Personal Experience with Pregnancy Loss 00:13:13 Shifting Medical Research Toward Natural Fertility 00:16:33 Cultivating Fast Vulnerability in Doctor-Patient Bonds 00:18:15 The Ovarian Vault and the Biology of Puberty 00:20:25 The Brain-Ovary Dance: Follicular vs. Luteal Phases 00:21:59 Static on the Walkie-Talkie: Environmental Disruptors 00:23:40 Red Flags: School Refusal and Endometriosis Risk 00:26:03 Beyond the Basics: Upgrading Pediatric Screening Questions 00:30:11 Deep Dive into Hypothalamic Amenorrhea 00:33:14 The Metabolic Realities of Living with PCOS 00:41:43 The Diagnostic Criteria for PCOS and Clinical Workups 00:44:16 Thyroid Disease and Its Impact on Reproductive Hormones 00:48:15 Long-Term Health Risks Linked to Untreated Infertility 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Raising a Flexible Eater 22.06.2026 13min

  If your toddler begged for mac and cheese, took one bite, and declared it disgusting, this episode is for you. Picky eating is one of the most common and most stressful phases of childhood, but the good news is there are real, practical things you can do before it starts and when you are already deep in it. Dr. Mona sits down with Jennifer Friedman, registered pediatric dietitian, picky eating expert, and founder of Feeding Picky Eaters, to break down what actually works at the dinner table and why letting go of control might be the most powerful thing you can do as a parent. In this episode, we cover: The three things you can do right now to prevent picky eating before it starts Why the feeding relationship matters more than any single meal How to get out of a menu rut without overhauling everything The stoplight food method to bring variety back to the table Why flexibility with food is a muscle, and how to build it in your kids The Division of Responsibility and why trying harder at the table often backfires How to let go of mealtime expectations so everyone can actually enjoy the meal Want more? Click here for the 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
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  How Fathers Can Raise Confident Kids (Even If No One Showed You How) with former Navy Seal Sniper Instructor Brandon Webb 17.06.2026 1h 9min

  As a pediatrician and mom, I know firsthand how easy it is to get overwhelmed by standard parenting tips and the pressure to have a perfect family life. In a culture obsessed with quick fixes and curated social media fairy tales, so many couples feel like they are constantly falling short. On this channel, my goal is to share the beautiful, unglamorous reality of making relationships work. We cannot just hope for a happy marriage and connection to happen by chance…we have to be intentional about creating it. That is why I love bringing authentic guests onto the podcast to share real, unfiltered relationship advice. In this episode, I’m sitting down with former Navy SEAL sniper instructor and author Brandon Webb to talk about his brand new book, Puddle Jumpers. Brandon reminds us that we don’t have to succumb to public judgment or relationship anxiety. Real growth happens in our everyday routines, like setting core family values, prioritizing intentional quality time, and learning how to celebrate failure. By breaking down the illusion of perfection and working through messy parenting moments, we can move past the comparison trap and build a resilient, peaceful home. Why treating presence as an intentional choice rather than a balancing act is the key to lasting connection with your children. How choosing fewer distractions and putting down your phone can completely eliminate family disconnect and parenting anxiety. Easy, practical ways to establish a united co-parenting front and protect intentional habits like individual father-child trips. Why elite military instructors, pediatricians, and parents must embrace failure and small stressors as necessary stepping stones to confidence. Breaking down the distinct transition from a dictator parent to a counselor role as your children mature into adulthood. How a legendary Olympic coach used a mental management curriculum to teach positive self-talk, self-reflection, and unshakable grit. How to find joy in the mundane, unglamorous phases of parenting—like letting your kids jump in a messy mud puddle. Connect with Brandon Webb on Instagram @brandontwebb, visit his substack: https://brandontwebb.substack.com and buy his book Puddle Jumper: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65451601 (paid link) 00:00 – Intro: Why Small Daily Challenges Build Confidence in Kids 02:45 – Meet Brandon Webb: Navy SEAL Sniper Instructor, Author, and Father of Three 03:37 – Brandon's Origin Story: Sailboat Childhood, Leaving Home at 16, and What It Taught Him About Fatherhood 09:33 – Why Parenting Content Ignores Dads and Why That Needs to Change 11:17 – What Navy SEAL Mental Training Has to Do With Raising Resilient Kids 15:22 – Why Modern Dads Feel Like Strangers in Their Own Homes (And How to Fix It) 21:01 – Ask Better Questions: Why "How Was Your Day?" Is a Dead End 25:09 – How Your Words Become Your Child's Inner Voice 28:36 – Ordinary Magic: Why Letting Kids Do Small Hard Things Is the Most Powerful Thing You Can Do 33:03 – Co-Parenting After Divorce: Staying a United Front When It's Hard 39:23 – How to Know When to Push Your Kid and When to Back Off 44:06 – Madison's Letter: The Return on Investment of Showing Up as a Parent 49:46 – Modeling Emotional Regulation: Kids Learn What They Live 53:22 – From Boss to Coach: How Your Parenting Role Has to Shift as Kids Get Older 58:11 – Final Advice for Dads: Be Present, Ask Better Questions, and Raise Good Decision-Makers 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Postpartum Depression and Anxiety 15.06.2026 11min

  In this episode, Dr. Mona is joined by Chelsea and Caitlin, the founders of Mama Psychologists, to unpack a crucial topic that many new mothers face: the difference between the "baby blues" and more serious perinatal mood disorders. Together, they challenge the misconception that postpartum anxiety and depression always look like crying on the floor. Instead, they discuss the subtle, real-world signs—like the inability to hand your baby to a loved one without a racing heart or a mental to-do list that won't shut off at 3:00 AM. The "Baby Blues" vs. Postpartum Disorders: While the baby blues are an incredibly common reaction to the massive hormonal shifts right after birth, symptoms that persist, worsen, or significantly disrupt daily functioning may signal postpartum anxiety or depression. Signs of Postpartum Depression: Key red flags include a persistent low mood, an inability to enjoy things you used to love, and struggling to meet basic needs like eating, drinking, or showering. Signs of Postpartum Anxiety: This often manifests as racing thoughts, an intrusive "worst-case scenario" mindset, physical agitation (like a racing heart or tension), and difficulty turning off your mind to rest, even when the baby is sleeping. The Timeline Myth: Postpartum mood disorders don't always appear in the early weeks; they can frequently emerge four months postpartum or even later. Seeking support is vital, no matter how much time has passed since giving birth. Breaking the Silence: Many moms suffer in silence due to guilt, shame, or fear of judgment. Finding a safe person to talk to is the first step toward healing because suffering quietly is not a badge of honor. 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Courage to Commit, Why Choosing Less Can Give Us More in Life and in Parenting with Andrew East and Shawn Johnson East 10.06.2026 1h 1min

  As a pediatrician and mom, I know firsthand how easy it is to get overwhelmed by standard parenting tips and the pressure to have a perfect family life . In a culture obsessed with quick fixes and curated social media fairy tales, so many couples feel like they are constantly falling short . On this channel, my goal is to share the beautiful, unglamorous reality of making relationships work . We cannot just hope for a happy marriage and connection to happen by chance…we have to be intentional about creating it. That is why I love bringing authentic guests onto the podcast to share real, unfiltered relationship advice. In this episode, I’m sitting down with Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson East and former NFL player Andrew East to talk about their brand new book, The Courage to Commit. Shawn and Andrew remind us that we don’t have to succumb to public judgment or relationship anxiety . Real growth happens in our everyday routines, like setting core family values, prioritizing weekly date nights, and learning how to celebrate failure . By breaking down the illusion of perfection and working through messy parenting moments, we can move past the comparison trap and build a resilient, peaceful home. Why treating commitment as an intentional choice is the key to lasting peace in marriage. How choosing fewer things and narrowing your focus can completely eliminate FOMO and relationship anxiety . Easy, practical ways to establish family values and protect intentional habits like weekly date nights . Why elite athletes, pediatricians, and parents must embrace failure as a necessary stepping stone to success. Breaking down the distinct voices in their new book, The Courage to Commit, and the inclusion of data-driven research. How a legendary gymnastics coach used reverse psychology to teach self-reflection and grit. How to find joy in the mundane, unglamorous preparation phases of parenting and family life. To connect with Shawn Johnson East and Andrew East follow them on Instagram @shawnjohnson and @andrewdeast and buy their new book, “The Courage to Committ”: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65451639 (paid link) 00:00:00 – Commitment vs. The Highlight-Reel Culture 00:01:22 – Introducing Shawn Johnson East & Andrew East 00:03:49 – Behind the Scenes of a Three-Year Book Journey 00:05:49 – Balancing Two Different Voices in Marriage & Writing 00:07:14 – Overcoming the Flaws of Modern Swipe Culture 00:11:11 – Why Society Hacks Relationships but Grinds in Sports 00:15:51 – The Ulysses Analogy: Drowning Out Distractions 00:18:42 – Defining Core Family Values & Setting Boundaries 00:23:07 – Choosing Depth Over Endless Variety 00:30:52 – Why the Cost of Maintenance is Cheaper Than Starting Over 00:37:11 – Knowing When to Persevere vs. When to Quit 00:50:11 – Finding Beauty in the Mundane, Unglamorous Moments 00:54:16 – Where to Buy The Courage to Commit & Final Review Call 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Identifying and Treating Eczema 08.06.2026 15min

  Eczema is common, frustrating, and often misunderstood. In this episode, we break down what eczema actually looks like at different ages, how specialists determine severity, and why treatment should always start with strengthening the skin barrier. We discuss: • How to recognize eczema, including how it differs in infants vs older children • How doctors determine mild, moderate, and severe eczema • When allergy testing is appropriate — and when it is not • Why blanket food panels can cause more harm than good • The risk of false positives and unnecessary elimination diets • How to build an eczema action plan • First-line skincare strategies that actually work • The role of moisturizers, emollients, and when prescription treatments are needed 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  Raising Kids in a Country with Gun Violence: What Actually Helps with Moms Demand Action 03.06.2026 52min

  As a pediatrician, I spent years looking at firearm safety through a clinical lens—as a major public health crisis and a tragic statistic. But after practicing in South Florida during the Parkland shooting and becoming a mother myself, the stakes became deeply personal. My husband is an ER doctor who sees the devastating aftermath of gun violence firsthand, and as a parent, I refuse to accept that this is now the leading cause of death for American children. We cannot just treat the symptoms of this crisis in our clinics; we have to get out ahead of it, which is why I expanded my platform to advocate for change outside the exam room. Connecting with grassroots leaders like Angela Ferrell-Zabala reminds us that we don’t have to succumb to helplessness or political polarization. Real change happens in our everyday lives—like normalizing a simple question about secure firearm storage before a playdate, or supporting local legislation in our own backyards. Advocacy is a massive ecosystem, and as parents and healthcare providers, our voices carry immense weight. By breaking down political divides and working together, we can move past the noise and build a world where our children are safe to just be kids. What we discuss: Why treating gun violence as a public health issue is the key to real safety reform. The truth behind the leading cause of death for children in America and how to change it. How Moms Demand Action became a leading volunteer movement against gun violence. Easy, non-confrontational ways to ask other parents about safe firearm storage before playdates. Why ER doctors, pediatricians, and parents must work together to prevent gun injuries. Breaking down the impact of America’s historic federal gun safety legislation. How grassroots advocates are successfully outlawing 3D-printed firearms and machine gun conversion kits. How to find common ground and have constructive conversations with responsible gun owners. To connect with Angela Ferrell-Zabala follow her on Instagram @momsdemandaction and @FerrellZabala, check out all her resources at https://momsdemandaction.org/ and text “READY” to  64433. 00:00 – Introduction 02:18 – Meet Angela Ferrell-Zabala 04:19 – Shifting from Helplessness to Action 08:35 – The Diverse Impact of Gun Violence 13:58 – Finding Common Ground Across Political Lines 19:07 – Pressing Legislative Priorities & Recent Wins 24:39 – Simple Ways for Parents to Advocate 28:44 – Finding Joy and Closing Thoughts 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Strength Training While Pregnant 01.06.2026 15min

  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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  Fear Sells—But the Facts Matter: Making Science Go Viral 27.05.2026 1h 3min

  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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: Early Days of Breastfeeding 25.05.2026 13min

  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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  When Politics, Values, and Parenting Collide with Sharon McMahon “America’s Government Teacher” 20.05.2026 1h

  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://go.shopmy.us/p-65451675 (paid link) 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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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
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  The Follow-Up: How to Achieve Practical Optimism 18.05.2026 12min

  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! Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: ⁠https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk⁠ (paid link) 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