The PedsDocTalk Podcast: Child Health, Development & Parenting—From a Pediatrician Mom
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451 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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The Follow-Up: Anxiety or Are They Just Shy?
11 mei 2026 · 13 min
Many parents worry when their child seems shy. But is it actually shyness, or something more? Lees meer
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 involvementWant 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 -
The Myth of the "Perfect" Mom: Embracing Ambivalence in Motherhood
6 mei 2026 · 55 min
Motherhood is often painted as pure joy, endless patience, and unconditional love. Lees meer
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 book: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65451965 (paid link)
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 a…
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The Follow-Up: Is EMDR for Me?
4 mei 2026 · 15 min
A question I get often is: “How do I know if EMDR might be right for me?” Lees meer
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 retraumatizingWant 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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Why Self-Love Starts in Childhood (And How Caregivers Shape It)
29 april 2026 · 22 min
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. Lees meer
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 UsOur 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 evid…
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The Follow-Up: Dads and Postpartum
28 april 2026 · 15 min
We talk a lot about maternal mental health postpartum. But we do not talk enough about dads. Lees meer
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.
Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link)
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…
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IVF, Ovulation, and Fertility Facts and Myths Everyone Should Know with Dr. Lucky Sekhon
22 april 2026 · 1 uur 8 min
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. Lees meer
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://go.shopmy.us/p-65452485 (paid link)
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 ma… -
The Follow-Up: I Just Had a Baby, Now What?
20 april 2026 · 18 min
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. Lees meer
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!
Shop Dr. Mona's favorite products: https://shopmy.us/shop/pedsdoctalk (paid link)
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 april 2026 · 58 min
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. Lees meer
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://go.shopmy.us/p-65452604 (paid link)
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 – Em…
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The Follow-Up: Extinction Sleep Training
13 april 2026 · 12 min
Sleep training can feel like a lightning rod topic, especially when it comes to the cry it out method. Lees meer
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 choicesWant 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!
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 -
When Friendship Hurts: How to Talk to Kids About Bullying, Boundaries, and Self-Worth
8 april 2026 · 40 min
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. Lees meer
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://go.shopmy.us/p-65452693 (paid link)
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…
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The Follow-Up: Why Independent Play Matters
6 april 2026 · 14 min
If you’ve ever felt guilty for not entertaining your child 24/7, this conversation is going to feel like a deep exhale. Lees meer
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 intensityWant 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 s…
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Co-Sleeping, Sleep Training, and the Conversation We Need to Have About Infant Sleep
1 april 2026 · 56 min
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. Lees meer
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://go.shopmy.us/p-…
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The Follow-Up: Biting, Hitting, Throwing Explained
30 maart 2026 · 12 min
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? Lees meer
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 personalWant 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 curren…
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Surrogacy Explained, Facts, Feelings, and Family Building
25 maart 2026 · 41 min
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. Lees meer
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 @surrogacyreimagined and learn more at her website: Surrogacy Reimagined.
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
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The Follow-Up: Dr. Mona on Charting Pediatrics Podcast
23 maart 2026 · 32 min
In this special follow-up episode, Dr. Mona shares the full live conversation recorded at Children’s Hospital Colorado in front of more than 100 clinicians. The discussion centers on a reality many pediatricians and parents are facing every day: families are no longer walking into the exam room with just their child, they are also bringing TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, viral clips, and online comment sections with them. Lees meer
In this episode, we discuss:
How social media is reshaping the pediatric exam room
Why misinformation spreads so effectively among parents
Common mistakes clinicians make when responding to hesitant families
How validation can lower defensiveness without validating false claims
Vaccine conversations, trust-building, and shared decision-making
Why pediatricians need to understand the digital world parents live in
How AI, telehealth, and online education may shape the future of care
Check out the video of this episode on Charting Pediatrics YouTube page.
Want more episodes of Charting Pediatrics?
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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Olympic Champion Elana Meyers Taylor on Winning a Gold Medal, Motherhood and the Power of a Village
18 maart 2026 · 40 min
What does it look like to balance Olympic competition, motherhood, and the unexpected realities of parenting? In this episode, I sit down with Olympic gold medalist Elana Meyers Taylor to talk about raising two children with disabilities, leaning on support, and how motherhood changed the way she thinks about success, identity, and resilience. Lees meer
We also talk about representation in sport, using ASL as a family, and the mental health side of chasing big goals. It is an honest conversation about what it takes to keep showing up as both an elite athlete and a mom.
In this episode, we cover:
What it felt like to finally win Olympic gold after years of coming close
Why the right village matters in motherhood and elite sport
Parenting two children with disabilities and using ASL as a family
How representation can help other families feel less alone
What sport taught her about parenting through uncertainty
How motherhood changed her identity, perspective, and relationship to winning
The realities of being a Black athlete in winter sports
Why access and inclusion in sports still matter
What she hopes her children take away from watching her story
How she prepares for the post-Olympics emotional crash and protects her mental health
To connect with Elana Meyers Taylor follow her on Instagram @elanameyerstaylor, check out all her resources at https://www.elanameyersusa.com.
Purchase the shirt Dr. Mona is wearing here.
00:00 Intro: Elana Meyers Taylor on Gold, Motherhood, and Perspective
02:58 The Gold Medal Moment After a Fifth Olympics
07:50 Why Success in Motherhood Takes a Village
10:43 Building the Right Support System as a Mom and Athlete
14:13 Raising Deaf Children, Disability Advocacy, and Representation
18:09 How Sports Prepared Her for Medical Parenting
20:49 How Motherhood Changed Her Identity as an Athlete
24:38 Breaking Barriers in Winter Sports as a Black Olympian
29:17 What She Hopes Her Children Learn from Her Story
31:02 Finding Joy in Or…
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The Follow-Up: When Kids Won’t Sleep Alone
16 maart 2026 · 13 min
We’re talking about independent sleep for older babies and kids, why it often gets harder with age, and how to approach it in a way that supports both your child and your family. This is not about shutting the door and ignoring your child. It’s about teaching a skill gradually, consistently, and in a way that fits your child’s temperament. Lees meer
We discuss why earlier can be easier when it comes to removing sleep associations, but also why there is no hard deadline. Independent sleep is not about emotional distance. It is about helping your child fall asleep without needing a specific person, place, or condition that can make life harder later, especially during travel, sleepovers, camp, or when caregivers change.
In this episode, we cover:
✔️ Why sleep associations can become more challenging as kids grow
✔️ How language and mobility make older kids more persistent at bedtime
✔️ When to consider anxiety or separation issues before starting sleep changes
✔️ Why location matters, especially transitioning from your bed to theirs
✔️ The “camping out” method and how to gradually reduce your presence
✔️ Why consistency beats intensity every time
✔️ How middle of the night wake-ups often improve after bedtime changesWant more? Listen to the full, original episode.
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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!
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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 Sponso…
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From I Do to We Do: Marriage, Communication, and Parenting After Kids
11 maart 2026 · 59 min
Parenting changes everything, including your relationship. In this episode, I sit down with therapist and author Eli Weinstein to talk honestly about why couples feel so disconnected after kids, what actually fuels resentment, and the small shifts that bring you back to each other. We cover expectations, invisible labor, communication traps, and why the first year with a new baby can shake even the strongest partnership. Eli also walks through practical tools like the five-minute check in, full communication, and his favorite phrase for opening up hard conversations without them turning into fights. Lees meer
This episode is real, relatable, and grounding. If you’ve ever thought, “We love each other, so why does this feel so heavy?”, you’re not alone. Eli shares stories from his own marriage, the couples he supports, and the tiny moments that rebuild connection when life feels chaotic. Whether you’re new parents, in the thick of it, or years past the baby stage, this is a conversation that brings clarity and hope.
What we talk about:
Why the first year after a baby strains even healthy relationships
Expectations vs perception vs reality
The invisible load and why it feels so uneven
How resentment quietly builds
The five-minute daily check in
Full communication (and why hints don’t work)
Rhombus moments for airing feelings safely
Fighting fair and repairing in front of kids
Why couples don’t need perfection, just honesty
Small gestures that matter more than grand romantic moments
To connect with Eli Weinstein follow him on Instagram @thedudetherapist, check out all his resources at linktr.ee/dudetherapist and buy his book “From I Do To We Do”: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65452905 (paid link)
00:00 Intro: When Partners Start Feeling Like Roommates
02:35 Meet Eli Weinstein and Why This Topic Matters
03:53 What Inspired From I Do to We Do
05:13 Why the First Year After Baby Can Hit a Relationship Hard
08:06 Why Your Relationship Is the Foundation of Family Life
12:11 Ex… -
The Follow-Up: Skills Kids Learn From Traveling
9 maart 2026 · 13 min
Travel is often framed as a luxury or a break from real life, but in this conversation we explore how it can be a powerful developmental tool for kids. Beyond sightseeing, travel becomes a classroom for empathy, adaptability, and connection. We talk about how exposure to new cultures, languages, and environments helps children grow socially and emotionally, even when trips don’t go as planned. The goal is not perfect itineraries, but meaningful experiences that stretch comfort zones and strengthen family bonds. Lees meer
We also highlight how many of these lessons can happen with or without international travel. Curiosity about the world, honoring others’ needs, and learning to navigate discomfort are skills families can practice anywhere. Travel simply magnifies those opportunities, giving kids real-time chances to build resilience, perspective, and compassion.
What we discussed:
Using travel as an opportunity for education and growth
Building curiosity about other cultures and people
Exposure to diversity through real-life experiences
Learning empathy through cultural connection
Creating global awareness even from home
Turning curiosity into advocacy and compassion
Practicing flexibility when plans fall apart
Modeling calm problem-solving during stress
Kids learning adaptability from unexpected setbacks
Honoring individual needs within a group
Taking turns and negotiating shared experiences
Respecting parents’ and siblings’ preferences
Practicing patience and compromise
Learning to feel comfortable being different
Building empathy for newcomers and outsiders
Growing confidence in unfamiliar environments
Prioritizing family connection over perfection
Choosing time together as a core value
Managing resources like time and energy intentionally
Strengthening family identity through shared experiences
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 t…
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All About Allergies, Myths, and Online Education as a Doctor with Dr. Zachary Rubin @Rubin_Allergy
4 maart 2026 · 1 uur 3 min
What happens when an allergist steps into the online world and starts breaking down headlines in real time? Lees meer
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Zachary Rubin, board certified allergist and immunologist, content creator, and now author of All About Allergies. We talk about why allergy misinformation spreads so easily, why “allergy” is not a catch all term, and how social media has unexpectedly made him a better clinician.
We also get honest about the current state of medicine. Burnout. Insurance barriers. The time crunch in clinic. And why rebuilding trust between families and physicians starts with better communication, humility, and human connection.
This is a conversation about nuance in a world that craves certainty, and why meeting families where they are matters more than ever.
In this episode, we discuss:
• Why “sensitization does not equal allergy” and what that actually means
• The difference between allergy, intolerance, and sensitivity
• Why food sensitivity tests are often misleading
• The truth about local honey and seasonal allergies
• Shellfish allergy and contrast dye myths
• Egg allergy and flu vaccine misconceptions
• Why 90 percent of reported penicillin allergies are not true allergies
• How timing and rash characteristics matter when evaluating antibiotic reactions
• The explosion of biologic medications and the hidden burden of insurance approvals
• How social media can improve doctor patient communication
• The role of humility and nuance in rebuilding trust
• Humanizing doctors and why connection is powerful medicine
To connect with Dr. Zachary Rubin follow him on Instagram @rubin_allergy, check out all his resources at linktr.ee/rubin_allergy and buy his book “All About Allergies!”: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65452951 (paid link)
00:00 Allergy Is Not a Catch-All Term
02:37 Why Dr. Rubin Went Online
09:27 Why This Book Had to Exist
12:59 What Parents Are Most Anxious About Today
15:10 Why Food Allergy Testing Is Often Misus…
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The Follow-Up: Are Time Outs Bad?
2 maart 2026 · 15 min
Timeouts have become one of the most misunderstood discipline tools in modern parenting conversations. In this episode, we unpack why timeouts are being labeled as harmful online and how that claim does not match decades of research. The real issue is not that timeouts damage attachment, but that many parents were never taught how to use them correctly. When done properly, a timeout is not punishment or shame. It is a structured pause that helps a child and parent calm down so learning can actually happen. Lees meer
We also talk about discipline as a layered system, not a single tactic. Timeouts are only one small part of a bigger parenting framework built on connection, attention, praise, and natural consequences. The conversation highlights nuance, temperament differences, and why no single method works for every child. Instead of vilifying tools, we focus on using them thoughtfully, consistently, and in ways that support regulation and growth.
What we discussed:
Why timeouts are being criticized in gentle parenting spaces
Claims about attachment damage and trauma, and what research actually shows
The difference between punitive timeouts and regulatory timeouts
Why most parents are never taught how to use timeouts correctly
Discipline as teaching, not shaming
The discipline pyramid and where timeouts fit
The foundation of connection and one-on-one attention
Catching positive behavior with praise and rewards
Using natural and logical consequences
Why timeouts are a last-tier tool, not a first response
Temperament differences and individualized discipline
Neurodivergent children and why some tools matter more
Evidence-based parenting programs that include timeouts
Situations where timeouts are appropriate, like safety concerns
Situations where timeouts are not helpful, like full meltdown tantrums
The importance of calming the nervous system before teaching
Avoiding threats, shame, and over-talking during discipline
Giving children space when they need sep…
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Talking to Kids About Race and Bias, Why Everyday Moments Matter
25 februari 2026 · 56 min
As parents, many of us want to raise kind, empathetic kids, but we don’t always feel equipped to talk about race, bias, and identity in everyday life. In honor of Black History Month, this conversation feels especially important. I sit down with culturally responsive therapist Anjali Ferguson to unpack how early children begin noticing differences and how small, ordinary moments shape their understanding of the world. Lees meer
We talk about the discomfort adults feel, the fear of saying the wrong thing, and why silence often teaches more than we realize. This episode is not about blame. It is about giving families tools to move forward with intention.
Dr. Ferguson brings both professional expertise and deeply personal experience as a South Asian woman raising biracial South Asian and Black children. Together we explore how culture, trauma, and identity intersect in parenting, and why these conversations are not optional extras, but foundational to raising emotionally healthy kids. Her children’s book, An Ordinary Day, shows how subtle bias can show up in everyday childhood experiences and how families can use those moments to build empathy instead of fear.
My hope is that this episode helps parents feel less frozen and more ready to start small, stay curious, and keep showing up.
We discussed:
• Why kids notice race and differences earlier than most adults expect
• How racial bias forms in early childhood
• The gap in culturally responsive parenting resources
• Growing up between cultures and identity formation
• Raising biracial children and protecting cultural identity
• Everyday microaggressions and their long-term impact
• How racism creates chronic stress in the body
• Generational trauma and epigenetic effects
• The role of racial socialization in protecting children
• Why avoiding conversations about race harms kids
• How parents can respond when bias shows up in real time
• Teaching empathy through ordinary daily moments
• Building diverse environme…
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The Follow-Up: Formula Shaming
23 februari 2026 · 14 min
Feeding choices carry an enormous emotional weight for new parents, often shaped more by online narratives and cultural pressure than by balanced evidence. In this conversation, we unpack formula guilt, breastfeeding myths, and how distorted risk messaging fuels shame. We talk about how understanding research in context can help parents move away from fear-based thinking and toward informed, values-based decisions that support both parent and baby. Lees meer
The episode also explores the long-term impact of early feeding shame on maternal confidence. Feeding is often the first major parenting decision, and how a parent navigates it sets the tone for future choices. We focus on strengthening self-trust, rejecting stigma, and recognizing that child outcomes are driven by complex environmental and social factors, not a single feeding method.
What we discussed:
Why parents feel guilt around formula feeding
How online activism shapes feeding narratives
Evaluating whether sources of information are trustworthy
Misleading statistics and risk exaggeration
Relative risk vs absolute risk in infant illness
The psychological harm of formula shaming
Why stress can worsen milk supply struggles
Breastfeeding benefits in realistic context
Why breastfed babies still get sick
The role of environment and exposure to germs
Myths about allergies, IQ, and milestone differences
How child development is multifactorial
Socioeconomic factors in feeding research
Sibling comparison studies and feeding outcomes
Why shame damages maternal bonding
Strengthening decision confidence early in parenting
Owning feeding choices without apology
How openness reduces stigma for other parents
Modeling self-trust for the parenting journey
Letting go of guilt about long-term outcomes
Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.
Check out Mallory's new book, "Bottle Service": https://www.amazon.com/Bottle-Service-Encouragement-Guilt-Free-Successful/dp/1668088762
Our podcasts are also now o…
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Food Positivity, Picky Eating, and Raising Kids Who Trust Food
18 februari 2026 · 55 min
If mealtimes feel heavier than they should, this episode is going to make a lot click. I sit down with dietitians Diana and Dani to unpack how diet culture quietly slips into everyday parenting and shapes how kids see food, their bodies, and themselves. Their new book offers a roadmap for raising kids who trust their bodies and feel safe at the table, and our conversation goes far beyond picky eating. We talk about the language we use, the pressure we don’t realize we’re applying, and how small daily moments build a child’s long-term relationship with food. Lees meer
What we discuss:
Why diet culture starts affecting kids as early as preschool
The “invisible curriculum” kids absorb from our modeling, messaging, and moments
What food positivity actually means and how it goes beyond food neutrality
How the Division of Responsibility supports trust and self-regulation
Common ways parents accidentally misapply feeding advice
Why labeling foods as good or bad backfires long term
The connection between pressure, restriction, and future dieting patterns
Reframing picky eaters as “learning eaters”
Why fewer than 5 percent of so-called picky eaters are truly nutrient deficient
How values like control vs connection influence feeding decisions
Small shifts parents can make to protect a child’s relationship with food
To connect with Diana Rice follow her on Instagram @anti.diet.kids and check out all her resources at https://tinyseednutrition.com/
Follow Dani Lebovitz at @kid.food.explorers and visit her website: https://kidfoodexplorers.com/
Their new book “Food Positivity: How to Ditch Diet Culture and Talk to Kids About Food“ is available now: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453130 (paid link)
Enjoy Diana Rice’s first episode, “Your kid doesn’t need a diet“ on the PedsDocTalk podcast. https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/your-kid-doesnt-need-a-diet-approaching-conversations-about-our-childs-weight-and-health-in-a-productive-way/
00:00 Welcome + What Is Food Positivity?
02:29 Mee… -
The Follow-Up: Sleep Training Evidence
16 februari 2026 · 13 min
Sleep training is one of the most emotionally charged parenting topics online, and this conversation pulls it back to what actually matters, evidence. We talk about how social media amplifies fear and confusion, why parents are told to “trust” personalities instead of data, and how looking directly at research helps cut through the noise. While opinions are loud, the body of evidence around behavioral sleep interventions is far less controversial than the internet suggests. Lees meer
We also walk through what the data says about timing, safety, and developmental readiness. From common myths about brain development to the fear of letting a baby cry, this episode centers on nuance. Sleep training is not all-or-nothing, not one rigid method, and not a replacement for parenting. It is a flexible set of tools families can adapt based on temperament, comfort, and goals.
What we discussed:
Why social media creates confusion around sleep training
The importance of trusting research over personalities
What the literature says about behavioral sleep interventions
Why there is less scientific debate than people think
Typical age ranges supported by evidence, around 4 to 6 months
Developmental readiness and self-soothing ability
The difference between sleep training and night weaning
Why babies vary widely in temperament and sleep patterns
The myth about prefrontal cortex development
Why infants are capable of learning sleep skills
Fear-based messaging and misuse of scientific language
How parental anxiety gets amplified by misinformation
Modifying sleep training methods to match family comfort
Graduated extinction, parental presence, and flexible approaches
The role of compromise between caregivers
The core goal, helping a child fall asleep without active intervention
Why sleep training does not replace responsive parenting
Want more? Listen to the full, original episode.
Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, ch…
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Dr. Paul Offit on the State of Vaccines in America and What Parents Need to Understand Now
11 februari 2026 · 52 min
This episode is one of the most important conversations I’ve had about vaccines. I sit down with a leading vaccine expert to slow down the noise and talk honestly about where we are right now in America. We discuss how vaccines went from one of the greatest public health successes in history to something many families feel unsure about, and what that shift means for children. This is not about politics or headlines. It’s about what I see as a pediatrician, what clinicians across the country are experiencing, and why protecting kids still has to be the center of the conversation. Lees meer
We talk about fear, misinformation, and the very real consequences of falling vaccination rates. I share personal stories from training and practice that still stay with me, and we unpack how trust eroded, how Covid changed the landscape, and what parents deserve to understand moving forward. My hope is that this episode helps families step back from the chaos and reconnect with the core goal we all share: keeping children safe, healthy, and out of hospitals whenever we can.
What we discuss:
The current state of vaccines in America
Why vaccines are a victim of their own success
How misinformation spreads faster than evidence
Turning points that eroded public trust in vaccines
The impact of Covid on vaccine perception
Real clinical consequences of falling vaccination rates
Stories of vaccine-preventable illness from practice
Why personal choice affects community safety
Changes to vaccine recommendations and public messaging
What parents should understand about risk vs benefit
To connect with Paul Offit follow him on Instagram @pauloffitmd and check out all his resources at https://www.paul-offit.com/
00:00 Opening Message: The Real Risk of Skipping Vaccines
02:12 Meet Dr. Paul Offit
03:30 The Current State of Vaccines in America
05:04 Vaccines Are a Victim of Their Own Success
06:12 Why We Still Need Vaccines for “Rare” Diseases
08:27 Where Modern Vaccine Distrust Began (1982 T… -
The Follow-Up: Partner Resentment
9 februari 2026 · 12 min
Motherhood can quietly shift the emotional balance in a partnership. In this conversation, we explore why resentment toward a partner is so common after having a baby and why it is not a personal failure, but a researched, predictable relationship stress point. The transition to parenthood often exposes invisible labor, unequal expectations, and emotional strain that many couples were never taught how to name, let alone fix. Lees meer
We also talk about practical starting points for repairing connection. From making invisible labor visible, to changing how conflict is communicated, this episode focuses on teamwork, fairness, and ongoing conversations that prevent resentment from hardening into distance. The goal is not perfection or 50-50 equality, but shared understanding and intentional partnership.
What we discussed:
Why resentment often grows after becoming parents
The emotional and physical load many mothers carry
Research showing relationship dissatisfaction in the first year postpartum
How partnership dynamics affect postpartum mental health
The concept of making invisible labor visible
Dividing responsibilities in a way that feels agreed upon, not forced
Why equality is not always 50-50, but fairness still matters
Separating the partner from the problem
Communicating needs without blame or accusation
How suppressed resentment turns into bitterness
The value of weekly relationship check-ins
Addressing partners who resist conversations about workload
Explaining impact instead of arguing details
How shared labor improves emotional and physical intimacy
Why connection is built through everyday support, not grand gestures
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 w…
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Parenting Like It’s 1996 in a 2026 World
4 februari 2026 · 21 min
In this solo episode, I reflect on how parenting has changed since the 90s, and not always for the better. This episode is not about going backward or rejecting progress. It is about blending what we know now about emotions and development with what used to work well, giving kids space, time, and trust to grow. Lees meer
I explore how constant comparison, nonstop information, overscheduling, and screens have shifted parenting toward fear and control, often leaving parents exhausted and kids overwhelmed. I share why boredom matters, why independence is built in small moments, and how parenting feels lighter when it is guided by values instead of perfection.
In this episode, I talk about:
Why independence is a skill kids build through small, age-appropriate freedoms
Why bullying feels heavier now, and how protecting home as a safe space matters
How overscheduling crowds out confidence, creativity, and rest
Why boredom is not a problem, but a skill kids need to practice
A values-based approach to screens, using them intentionally instead of automatically
Why errands, car rides, and everyday moments are real opportunities for growth
Why doing less can help both kids and parents feel calmer and more confident
00:00 Parenting Like It’s 1996
01:39 The Park Moment and Independence
02:56 Fear, Comparison, and Information Overload
05:45 Overscheduling and the Loss of Boredom
07:16 Screens Then vs Screens Now
11:15 Why Boredom Builds Confidence
13:00 Kids Belong in the Real World
13:58 What Parenting Has Improved
16:09 The Permission to Do Less
17:12 Letting Go of Perfect ParentingOur 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.…
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The Follow-Up: Baby Won't Stop Crying
2 februari 2026 · 13 min
In this Follow-Up episode, Dr. Mona revisits one of the most stressful early parenting experiences, an inconsolable newborn. She breaks down what colic actually means, why the label is often misunderstood, and how to tell the difference between normal newborn fussiness and signs that need medical attention. The goal is not to dismiss crying, but to give parents a framework so they feel informed instead of brushed off. Lees meer
Dr. Mona walks through what’s happening developmentally in those early weeks, why many babies hit a fussy peak around 6 weeks, and how to run a calm mental checklist at 2 a.m. She also covers red flags that deserve a pediatric visit, from fever to poor feeding to blood in the stool. Most importantly, this episode centers parents. Fussiness is common, phases pass, and support matters. You are not failing if your baby cries and you can’t fix it instantly. You are learning your baby in real time.
Key takeaways
✔️ Colic is a real pattern of crying, but it should never replace a thoughtful medical check
✔️ Most newborn fussiness peaks between 2 to 8 weeks and improves with time
✔️ Wet diapers, weight gain, and periods of calm are reassuring signs
✔️ Fever in a baby under 2 months always deserves a call to your pediatrician
✔️ Persistent crying with poor feeding, major spit up, or blood in stool needs evaluation
✔️ Not all crying is hunger, babies also cry from overstimulation and adjustment
✔️ Newborns are not spoiled by being held and comforted
✔️ Parents need pauses too, caring for yourself helps you care for your babyOur 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://sho…
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Raising Kids Beyond Grades: How Achievement Culture Is Harming Our Children
26 januari 2026 · 46 min
What happens when achievement stops motivating and starts measuring worth? Lees meer
In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Wallace to talk about how achievement culture quietly shapes our kids and us based on her New York Times Best Selling Book Never Enough:When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It. We unpack why so many high-performing kids struggle with anxiety, burnout, and a constant never-enough feeling, even when they look successful on the outside. We also preview her newest book, Mattering, which explores a simple but powerful idea: kids do better when they feel valued for who they are and when they see how they add value to others. That sense of mattering acts as a buffer against pressure, comparison, and setbacks. We also talk about the bigger picture, how economic pressure, school culture, and social media fuel comparison, and why parents are not failing for feeling stuck in this system.
In this episode, we discuss:
• Why high-achieving kids are at higher risk for anxiety and burnout
• How achievement culture shapes long-term self-worth
• Clean fuel vs fear-based motivation
• Why mattering supports resilience and mental health
• How comparison takes hold and how social media adds pressure
• How parents can support healthy striving without pressure
• Why kids should not worry alone and the role of adult support
To connect with Jennifer Wallace follow her on Instagram @Jenniferbrehenywallace, check out all her resources at Jenniferbwallace.com and buy her books “Mattering” https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453159 and “Never Enough” https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453275 (paid link)
00:00 Why praise alone does not build self worth
00:40 Why this conversation matters for parents today
02:16 The hidden cost of achievement culture
03:37 How achievement came to define childhood
05:05 From teen pressure to adult never enough
07:14 What achievement culture looks like later in life
07:50 Dirty fuel vs clean fuel for motivation
11:13 When self worth … -
The Follow-Up: Potty Training
26 januari 2026 · 16 min
Potty training can feel smooth one day and completely off track the next. In this Follow Up episode of the PedsDocTalk podcast, Dr. Mona revisits a favorite potty training conversation while actively potty training her own youngest child and dealing with very real regressions. Lees meer
Dr. Mona is joined by Allison Jandu, founder of The Potty Training Consultant, to break down readiness, timing, and how to choose a method that fits your child and your family. They talk through the average age for potty training, common signs of readiness, and why age alone should not drive the decision.
This episode compares gradual approaches and shorter weekend-style methods, explores why some kids resist even when they seem ready, and explains how pressure, timers, and rewards can sometimes backfire. You will also hear practical guidance on floor potties versus toilet seats, using daily routines to support learning, and helping kids feel more in control through play and choice.
If potty training feels confusing, frustrating, or messier than expected, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and realistic support.
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 you… -
Staying Fired Up in Parenthood, Work, and Life with Shannon Watts
21 januari 2026 · 47 min
In this episode, I sit down with Shannon Watts to talk about something so many parents and caregivers quietly wrestle with, how to stay fired up in the middle of responsibility, burnout, and the weight of shoulds. Lees meer
Shannon is the founder of Moms Demand Action and the author of Fired Up, and our conversation goes far beyond advocacy. We talk about identity, purpose, and what happens when women are taught to put obligation ahead of desire for most of their lives. This episode is about what it looks like to reconnect with yourself, not by blowing up your life, but by getting honest about what matters.
Topics we cover include:
Why so many women are taught to fulfill obligations before desires
How guilt, fear, and perfectionism drain motivation
The difference between purpose and being purposeful
Imposter syndrome and fear of public failure
Parenting, fulfillment, and modeling self trust for kids
Community as a key part of sustainable change
Why wanting more does not mean you are ungrateful
To connect with Shannon Watts follow her on Instagram @shannonrwatts, check out all her resources at https://shannonwatts.org/home/ and buy her book “Fired Up” https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453307. (paid link)
00:00 – Choosing Hope Over Cynicism
00:38 – Why This Conversation Matters Right Now
01:31 – Meet Shannon Watts
02:55 – Staying Fired Up Without Burning Out
03:36 – Leaving California and Finding Community
05:55 – Talking Across Differences
07:17 – Why Women Feel Stuck in Obligation
08:35 – The Moment Everything Changed
10:22 – Desire vs Obligation
12:45 – It Is Never Too Late
15:13 – Rethinking Legacy and Guilt
18:06 – What Kids Really Learn From Us
20:12 – Losing Forward and Redefining Failure
23:21 – Handling Blowback and Shame
25:27 – Imposter Syndrome and Being the First
27:59 – Values, Abilities, and Desires
32:18 – Finding Your People
37:22 – Parenting, Purpose, and Modeling Fire
40:48 – The First Step to Living on Fire
42:51 – Final ReflectionsOur podcasts are also…
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The Follow-Up: Parenting Without Perfection
19 januari 2026 · 14 min
Parenting already asks a lot of us. So why does it feel like our generation is carrying so much more pressure, doubt, and noise? Lees meer
In this Follow-Up episode, I’m revisiting one of our most listened-to conversations, a real, late-night talk with my husband Gaurav that hit a nerve for so many parents. We talk honestly about how comparison culture, constant advice, and fear of getting it wrong have made parenting feel heavier than it needs to be.
We Talk About
Why our generation feels intense pressure to parent “the right way”
How social media and constant access to other people’s lives fuels comparison
Why more information does not always lead to more confidence
How external voices can drown out parental intuition
The problem with chasing a narrow definition of success for our kids
Why perfection is not only impossible, but unnecessary
How reconnecting with yourself can quiet parenting anxiety
What it really means to be “doing your best” as a 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!
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 -
Finding Joy: Resigning From My Clinical Job and What’s Next for Me
14 januari 2026 · 16 min
In this solo episode, I am opening up about a big life change. I recently resigned from my clinical job. On paper it may sound simple, but the story under it holds a lot of layers, emotion, and growth. Lees meer
I talk about what led to my decision, what it brought up from my childhood, and how this shift is changing the way I raise my kids. If you grew up chasing safety, grades, or approval, parts of this will feel familiar.
I get into:
Why leaving a “stable” job can feel scary even when it is the right move
Growing up with fear of failure and how that shaped my choices
How the healthcare system wore me down over time
The grief that comes with leaving patients, residents, and a place that shaped me
Panic, burnout, and the signs your body gives you before your mind catches up
How I want my kids to think about failure, risk, and self trust
Why security matters and why quitting is not always simple or possible
What it means to choose alignment even when fear is in the room
Check out more on Poppins as I step into a new role there
00:00 – What Bravery Really Means
01:06 – Welcome and Finding Joy Returns
02:35 – Growing Up With Fear of Failure
03:48 – Why Medicine Felt Safe
04:25 – Burnout and Losing Alignment
04:46 – Building PedsDocTalk
05:31 – Signs It Was Time to Leave
06:45 – Choosing Risk and Entrepreneurship
07:46 – Grief, Loyalty, and Letting Go
09:09 – When the System Moves On Without You
09:53 – Breaking Generational Patterns
10:15 – What I Want My Kids to Learn
11:44 – Choosing Yourself Despite Uncertainty
12:45 – Questions to Find Your Own Alignment
13:30 – Closing and What’s NextOur 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 newsl…
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The Follow-Up: What Reinforces Behavior
12 januari 2026 · 13 min
In this Follow-Up episode, Dr. Mona revisits one of the most downloaded PedsDocTalk conversations, her discussion with Dr. Loretta Breuning on how rewards and threats shape a child’s brain. Lees meer
They break down why yelling, pleading, and bribing often backfire, and how attention itself can accidentally reinforce behaviors parents want to stop. You will hear why giving in after resistance makes behaviors stronger over time, and how inconsistency trains kids to escalate.
This episode focuses on building healthier reward pathways with clarity and consistency, without fear, shame, or constant power struggles. If certain parenting moments feel stuck on repeat, this conversation helps explain why and what to do differently.
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 -
What ER Doctors Wish Parents Knew, Advocating for your health (and Why We Love The Pitt) with Dr. Beachgem
7 januari 2026 · 53 min
You are never wrong for being worried about your child. You are allowed to ask questions, ask for help, and ask for another set of eyes. Advocacy is not confrontation, it is care. And the doctors caring for your family are human too, carrying both expertise and emotion into every room they enter. Lees meer
In this episode, I sit down with pediatric ER physician and creator Dr. Beachgem for a wide-ranging, honest conversation about what families often misunderstand about emergency care, how to advocate for yourself and your child in the hospital, and what it really looks like to practice medicine on both sides of the stretcher.
And yes, we also talk about The Pitt, why it resonates so deeply with healthcare workers, and why humanizing medicine matters more than ever.
We discuss:
• What pediatric ER doctors really want parents to know before walking into the ER • Why waiting in the ER does not mean no one cares • How and when to advocate for a second opinion in the hospital • What “Condition H” or rapid response means for patients and families • How social media has changed how doctors listen to patients • Why ER doctors often see risk differently than outpatient pediatricians • Common injuries ER doctors wish families understood better • The emotional toll of emergency medicine and how clinicians cope • Why humanizing doctors matters for the future of healthcare • What gives hope in a system that feels broken
To connect with Dr. Beachgem follow her on Instagram @dr.beachgem10 and check out all her resources at linktr.ee/beachgem10
00:00 – The emotional weight ER doctors carry01:00 – Why this episode, and why The Pitt hits so hard02:40 – What medical dramas get right (and wrong) about the ER03:45 – Meet Dr. Beachgem, training, career, and why she creates content07:30 – Burnout, misinformation, and why showing up online matters09:20 – Advocacy as a patient, when speaking up saves lives12:50 – Condition H and how to ask for a second opinion in the hospital14:05 – What pare…
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The Follow-Up: Three Things Every Child Needs
5 januari 2026 · 18 min
In this episode, I break down the three core needs every child has to feel secure, confident, and connected with their parents: safety, respect, and connection. Lees meer
These are not soft ideas or permissive parenting. They are the foundation of authoritative parenting and the reason kids are more likely to listen, trust, and stay connected to us as they grow.
In this episode, I discuss:
Why safety, respect, and connection are the foundation of effective parenting
The difference between authoritative and authoritarian parenting
How emotional safety and predictability build trust
Why routines matter more than many parents realize
How to set boundaries while still respecting your child
Consent, choices, and body autonomy across ages
Respectful approaches to meals and picky eating
Why public shaming damages confidence and trust
The importance of apologizing and repairing
Simple ways to build connection without needing more time
How these principles reduce power struggles and anxiety
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 -
Dr. Mona on the Elevated Thoughts Podcast: On Vaccine Safety and Politicization of Public Health
31 december 2025 · 1 uur 12 min
As the year wraps up, I’ve been looking back at some of my favorite chats from the shows I visited this season. New episodes return January 7. Lees meer
On this episode of the Elevated Thoughts podcast, I sat down with two thoughtful first-time dads to talk about the topics parents are wrestling with right now. We got into the messy middle of vaccine hesitancy, why so many families feel caught between loud opinions, and how I work through those conversations in my practice with honesty and calm. We also talked about what it’s really like to raise kids in an online world where everyone feels permission to comment on your choices.
I shared my own experience as a pediatrician and mom. Why I struggled with decisions around my son’s early medical care, how I think about benefit and risk, and why empathy has to stay at the center of these discussions. We moved into milestones, feeding, toddler chaos, and the everyday pressure parents feel to get everything “right.”
We discuss:
My own experience with hesitancy after my son’s traumatic birth
The rise of online misinformation and why parents feel so unsure
What the vitamin K refusal trend is actually putting babies at risk for
Government involvement in vaccines and where things get complicated
The truth about financial incentives for pediatricians
Milestones, late walking, and why parents shouldn’t blame themselves
How humor and connection help parents through the daily grind
Why dads’ voices matter in parenting spaces and how they shape the culture
Elevated Thoughts is restoring positive discourse between right & left. Politics, history & culture. New episodes every Wednesday at 4PM EST
For more visit www.elevatedthoughtspod.com
Check out the original episode on Elevated Thoughts’ YouTube page: https://youtu.be/rvTp1cAsyLg
00:00 – Coming Up
00:55 – Why I re-aired this conversation
02:49 – Meet the hosts of Elevated Thoughts
03:34 – Why dads need parenting conversations too
04:32 – Why I started PedsDocTalk
06:28 …
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The Follow-Up: Do I Need to Sleep Train?
29 december 2025 · 15 min
In this episode, we talk about one of the most loaded parenting topics out there, baby sleep. Lees meer
Do babies need to be taught to sleep, or is sleep something you should just let happen? And if a family wants support, when does it actually make sense to work on sleep skills?
I sit down with a pediatric sleep expert to unpack what sleep teaching really means, why there is no single right approach, and how families can make choices that fit their needs without guilt or pressure. We break down the idea that sleep is a learned habit, not a moral issue, and why both feeding to sleep and teaching independent sleep can be loving choices depending on the family.
In this episode, we discuss:
Why sleep does not have to be all or nothing
The difference between newborn sleep shaping and independent sleep skills
When families often decide sleep support feels helpful
How feeding, timing, and consistency affect sleep
What research shows about sleep teaching, stress, and attachment
Why sleep regressions are about growth, not failure
How better sleep can support parental mental health and reduce burnout
How sleep habits connect to toddler behavior and boundaries later on
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 …
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Dr. Mona on The Dude Therapist Podcast: The Pediatrician’s Guide to Parenting
24 december 2025 · 50 min
As we close out 2025 and step into a fresh year, I’ve been thinking back on some of the conversations I loved most from guest spots on other shows. New episodes pick back up on January 7. Lees meer
On this episode of The Dude Therapist, I joined Eli Weinstein for a conversation that moved through so many parts of real-life parenting — the worries, the humor, the triggers, and the growth that comes with raising kids. We talked about why parents get so locked into metrics, how to zoom out and see the whole child, and what it looks like to pause, observe, and guide instead of jumping in. I shared how becoming a mom shifted my own approach, from sleep to feeding to managing my triggers, and why self insight matters just as much as the strategies we offer our kids. It was an honest, grounded chat about raising kids while raising ourselves too.
We discuss:
Why parents get stuck on numbers like weight percentiles and milestones.
How giving kids space to try and struggle helps them grow.
How boredom supports play and problem solving.
How a parent’s own childhood shapes reactions and triggers.
What healthy boundaries look like without shame or fear.
How to handle online misinformation with calm and clarity.
The importance of steady check-ins and flexible routines at home.
Eli Weinstein, LCSW is a therapist, speaker, and creator of The Dude Therapist podcast. His work focuses on making mental health and relationship topics accessible, relatable, and grounded in real life. His upcoming book, From I Do to We Do (Wiley, March 2026), is a compassionate, practical guide for couples navigating the challenges of parenting while trying to stay connected as partners.
Learn more about Eli and his work here: https://www.eliweinsteinlcsw.com
Pre-Order Eli’s Book:Connect With Eli:
From I Do to We Do: Navigating Marriage Through Parenting Years Pre-order + freebies: https://www.eliweinsteinlcsw.com/book
Instagram: @eliweinstein_lcsw
Podcast: The Dude Therapist
00:00 – Coming Up
01:…
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The Follow-Up: Teaching Kids Responsibility
22 december 2025 · 13 min
Ever clean up the toys, turn around, and somehow the mess is worse? Or feel like you are the only one picking things up? Lees meer
In this Follow Up episode, Dr. Mona is joined by Tyler Moore, also known as Tidy Dad, to talk about how to involve kids in household routines in ways that actually work for real life. Not rewards. Not sticker charts. Just teamwork.
They break down how chores build belonging, how to set developmentally appropriate expectations, and simple system changes that help kids help more, from tidying toys to getting out the door with less stress.
If you are trying to declutter, simplify routines, or stop feeling like the household manager of everything, this episode is for you.
We discuss:
Why involving kids in routines builds belonging, not just responsibility
How to think about chores as teamwork instead of punishment
What kids can realistically help with at different ages
Why breaking tasks into small steps reduces frustration for everyone
How to set up your home so kids can help independently
Simple system changes that make mornings and clean up easier
Why resistance often means a skill is missing, not defiance
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…
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Finding Joy: Breaking the Cycle of Anger in Parenting
17 december 2025 · 24 min
In this final episode of 2025, I’m sharing something deeply personal - my relationship with anger, where it came from, and how I’ve worked to change it. This is one of the most vulnerable solo episodes I’ve ever recorded, because anger is a feeling so many of us carry quietly, especially in parenthood. Lees meer
This episode is for the parent who feels ashamed after snapping. For the one who feels tense all the time. For the one who is scared they might repeat what they grew up with. Your anger does not make you a bad parent. It makes you human. And change is possible.
I discuss:
✔️ How anger showed up in my early life and why it became my default response
✔️ The moment with our puppy that forced me to see my patterns clearly
✔️ How stress, trauma, and burnout can pull old reactions back to the surface
✔️ What I learned through coaching, therapy, and eventually EMDR
✔️ How this work changed my nervous system, my parenting, and my day-to-day mindset
✔️ The brain science behind anger and why your body reacts before your thoughts do
✔️ What often sits underneath explosive reactions
✔️ How your window of tolerance affects everything
✔️ The real tools I use when I feel overwhelmed
✔️ How I teach my kids that feelings are allowed, but hurtful behavior is not
00:00 Scary parents are scared parents01:10 Why anger shows up in parenting02:49 When anger becomes a problem, not a protector03:09 The moment I knew I had to change05:44 Trauma, motherhood, and why anger came back06:59 How therapy helped me find peace08:48 Fear, the nervous system, and the science of anger10:59 Breaking the cycle while raising kids12:14 Tools to handle anger in the moment14:13 Teaching kids that feelings are ok, harmful behavior is not17:03 Repair, progress, and modeling growth19:48 When to seek support and why it matters21:41 You are not broken, change is possible
Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to Ped…
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The Follow-Up: Motherhood Insomnia
15 december 2025 · 12 min
If you’ve ever spent the whole day dreaming about going to bed, only to climb under the covers and lie wide awake, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. I’m joined by sleep psychologist Dr. Shelby Harris to talk about the tired-but-wired cycle so many mothers fall into and why it’s more common than you think. Lees meer
We unpack the real reasons your brain won’t shut off at night, from revenge bedtime procrastination to the mental load that follows moms everywhere. Dr. Harris explains how habits, overstimulation, and our constant push to “catch up” all get in the way of rest, even when we’re desperate for it. And most importantly, she shares the science-backed strategies that actually work for an overwhelmed parent who needs sleep but can’t find the off switch.
Whether you’re dealing with the occasional rough night or months of broken sleep, this conversation brings clarity, relief, and doable steps that don’t add more pressure to your already full plate.
In This Episode, We Cover:
✔️ Why moms feel exhausted all day yet can’t fall asleep at night
✔️ The psychology behind “tired but wired”
✔️ Revenge bedtime procrastination and why it hits mothers so hard
✔️ How over-stimulation and unfinished to-dos keep your brain awake
✔️ Simple sleep hygiene habits that truly help
✔️ What to do when your phone is sabotaging your nights
✔️ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): who it helps and why
✔️ When to consider medication and what that process looks like
✔️ How our own sleep habits shape our kids’ sleep long termWant 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…
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Modern Parenting: What We’re Getting Right & What We Might Be Overthinking
10 december 2025 · 1 uur 1 min
In this episode, I sit down with retired pediatrician and grandmother Dr. Bubbie, whose 40 years in pediatrics give her a rare, steady perspective on the highs and lows of raising kids today. We talk about what modern parents are doing well, why so many of us feel anxious even when we’re doing a good job, and how social media has quietly changed the way we parent. Lees meer
Dr. Bubbie shares what she has learned from decades of caring for families and what surprised her when she stepped into the online world after retiring. We get into the pressures parents feel to get everything right, the fear of making mistakes, and how comparison steals the calm that most families are craving. We also talk honestly about grandparents, boundaries, discipline, and the tension between wanting to follow all the new information out there while trying to honor our own instincts.
We also cover: ✔️ What today’s parents truly excel at ✔️ How finances, childcare, and social media shape stress ✔️ Why intuition gets quieter when we’re overloaded ✔️ What past generations did well that’s worth bringing back ✔️ How to think about milestones without panicking ✔️ The rise of gentle parenting, what it gets right, and where it goes sideways ✔️ Why some kids seem “behind” online when they’re actually right on track ✔️ Vaccine misinformation, raw milk trends, and the danger of online “experts” ✔️ How pediatricians actually make decisions, and why the team approach matters
To connect with Dr. Bubbie follow her on Instagram @askbubbie and check out all her resources at linktree.com/askbubbie
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 produ…
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The Follow-Up: Strong-Willed Toddler Strategies
8 december 2025 · 15 min
Power struggles feel like part of the toddler job description, but they don’t have to run the whole house. In this episode, I break down what’s really happening in those intense moments and how small shifts in tone, control, and connection can turn things around. This isn’t about “winning” a battle. It’s about helping your child feel capable while keeping your own sanity intact. Lees meer
We talk through the everyday situations that spark the most battles, why strong-willed kids push back as hard as they do, and how to meet them with calm authority instead of getting pulled into the chaos. You’ll learn how to give healthy control without giving up your boundaries, how to use your child’s growing cognitive skills, and how to de-escalate when emotions spill over on both sides.
If you’re tired of standoffs at mealtime, bedtime, the bathroom, or anywhere in between, this episode will help you feel more steady, more clear, and less stuck in the tug-of-war.
In This Episode, We Cover:
✔️ Why it takes two to have a power struggle
✔️ When to give control and when to step in
✔️ How to offer choices without losing structure
✔️ Simple scripts that shift the tone instantly
✔️ Using cognitive development to your advantage
✔️ Redirecting repetitive demands without escalating
✔️ How to recover when things go sideways
✔️ Playfulness as a tool for reducing tensionWant 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 fo…
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STEM, Speaking Up, and Redefining Motherhood: Emily Calandrelli (The Space Gal) on Breaking Barriers and Raising Science-Loving Kids
3 december 2025 · 54 min
What does it look like to raise kids who believe they belong in science, who feel confident speaking up, and who see women as leaders in fields that have long pushed them out? Lees meer
I first came across Emily Calandrelli’s work years ago on social media, and her mix of joy, honesty, and curiosity pulled me in immediately. Her voice reminded me that advocacy doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful and that our kids are always watching how we chase our own dreams. She is now one of my favorite examples of what it means to model confidence and curiosity for the next generation.
On today’s episode, Emily and I talk about finding her way in a male-dominated STEM world, what she learned from losing her Netflix show, and how creating her own YouTube series changed everything. She also shares the story behind her viral TSA moment, how it sparked federal legislation, and what it meant to finally launch into space after dreaming about it for two decades.
We discuss:
✔️ How representation in STEM shapes kids’ beliefs about what’s possible ✔️ Why speaking up matters, even when it’s uncomfortable
✔️ The pressure mothers face when they pursue big goals
✔️ What her spaceflight taught her about wonder and perspective
✔️ How parents can spark scientific thinking and curiosity at home
To connect with Emily Calandrelli follow her on Instagram @thespacegal and check out all her resources at https://www.thespacegal.com/
Buy her science book https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453370 and children's book https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453462 (paid link)
00:00 Intro
00:51 Welcome + How Emily Sparked TSA Policy Change
01:50 Raising Confident Science-Loving Kids
03:22 Emily’s Path From MIT to TV
05:03 Breaking Into Science Media as a Woman
06:25 Losing a Netflix Show and Starting Over
09:30 Building Emily’s Science Lab on YouTube
11:22 Redefining Success Beyond Algorithms
14:44 Motherhood, Identity, and Letting Go of Guilt
18:36 The Spaceflight Story She Worked 20 Years For
22:31 How She Funded Her Own Ti… -
The Follow-Up: Foster Autonomy and Build Confidence
1 december 2025 · 16 min
In this follow up episode, we revisit one of the most loved ideas on the show, because parents tell me again and again that it changed the way they show up for their kids. We’re talking about the Independence Before Intervention principle, a simple shift that helps kids build confidence, resilience, and trust in themselves while still knowing we’re right there when they need us. Lees meer
Inspired by watching her own kids obsess over the transformation of caterpillars, Dr. Mona explores how struggle is a natural and necessary part of growth. Babies, toddlers, big kids, even adults, all move through moments that feel tough. The goal isn’t to remove every frustration. It’s to help kids see that effort isn’t failure and that they’re safe trying, adjusting, and trying again.
Inside this episode, Dr. Mona breaks down how this principle looks across different ages and real life moments, including:
✔️ Newborns learning to pass gas and poop
✔️ Babies connecting sleep cycles without immediate intervention
✔️ Infants and toddlers brushing teeth with growing independence
✔️ Problem solving during play, frustration, and puzzles
✔️ How verbal coaching builds emotional skills and persistenceWant more? Check out 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 P…
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Glucola (Glucose test) & Safe Foods in Pregnancy: Busting Myths and Easing Fears
26 november 2025 · 49 min
Pregnancy comes with a lot of rules, warnings, and fear based posts online. But how much of that advice is actually rooted in science, and how much is leftover noise that keeps parents stressed for no reason? Lees meer
In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Knurick, a nutrition researcher and registered dietitian who has spent years breaking down food myths in the pregnancy and postpartum space. Together we walk through the biggest areas of confusion, why so much misinformation spreads so fast, and how to make calmer, more confident choices during pregnancy.
We talk about:
The most common food rules that get blown out of proportion
Why certain foods get labeled as “dangerous” without context
What the real risk of listeria looks like, and how to lower it
Sushi, soft cheese, runny eggs, deli meat, and why the blanket rules don’t tell the full story
How to think about risk in pregnancy without spiraling
The truth about the glucose test and why the alternatives online fall short
What high mercury fish means and why fish is still an important part of pregnancy nutrition
Where fear based content online pulls parents in and how to protect your headspace
To connect with Dr. Jessica Knurick follow her on Instagram @drjessicaknurick and check out all her resources at https://www.jessicaknurick.com/
My Experience with Gestational Diabetes: https://youtu.be/QCtGft6p7c0
00:00 Why fear around food and the glucose test is rising
01:25 Why Dr. Jessica Knurick’s work matters in pregnancy nutrition
03:44 How misinformation spreads during pregnancy
06:13 The gray area behind food rules and risk
08:36 Soft cheese, deli meat, and runny eggs: what’s actually risky
11:06 The truth about listeria and real foodborne illness risks
14:12 Sushi, fish, mercury, and what research actually shows
17:04 How to approach food safety without spiraling
20:29 Real life examples of weighing pros and cons in pregnancy
23:34 What the glucose test really measures
25:53 Why screening happens at … -
The Follow-Up: Overcoming Percentile Anxiety
24 november 2025 · 16 min
In this Follow Up episode, I’m opening up about something I’ve counseled countless parents through yet still had to face myself: the emotional weight of percentiles. After my daughter Vera was born, a mix of postpartum complications, exclusive pumping, and constant worry about her petite size pulled me into a spiral I didn’t see coming. Lees meer
This episode walks through that experience with honesty and compassion. I share what feeding looked like in those early weeks, how comparison added pressure, how anxiety shaped her feeding behavior, and the turning points that helped me step back into a steadier perspective.
Most importantly, we revisit what matters far more than the number on a chart: the big-picture signs of a thriving baby. If you’ve ever left a checkup feeling shaky or second-guessing yourself, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, we talk about:
What percentile anxiety actually sounds and feels like for parents
How postpartum complications and exclusive pumping layered into worry
The comparison trap and why it hits so hard in early parenthood
How anxiety can accidentally shape feeding behavior (and how to reset)
The real indicators of healthy growth beyond the chart
When to seek support for both your baby and your own mental health
Why you are not failing your child, even when the numbers feel scary
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 s…
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The Truth About Raising Securely Attached Kids: What Most Parents Get Wrong
19 november 2025 · 56 min
What does it really mean to raise securely attached kids? I first came across Eli Harwood’s book Raising Securely Attached Kids on a solo trip, and it completely re-energized how I think about connection and parenting. Her words reminded me that so much of raising emotionally healthy kids starts with how we show up, not how perfect we are. It is now one of my most favorite parenting books out there. Lees meer
On today’s episode, Eli and I talk about the real meaning of secure attachment, how it shows up in everyday moments, and why so many of us misunderstand it. She shares her own story of growing up with a cycle-breaking mom, how that shaped her work, and the lessons she now passes on to parents everywhere.
We discuss:
✔️ What secure attachment actually means in daily life
✔️ The four main attachment styles and how they develop
✔️ How to tell if your child feels emotionally safe with you
✔️ Why repair after conflict is one of the most powerful parenting tools
✔️ How to build lasting connection through small, consistent moments
To connect with Eli Harwood follow her on Instagram @theattachmentnerd, check out all her resources at https://attachmentnerd.com/ and purchase her book: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453512 (paid link)
Upcoming mother daughter journal “Uniquely Us”
https://attachmentnerd.com/books/uniquely-us
Upcoming encyclopedia style book called “How to Deal With Your ____ so Your Kids Don’t Have To” created to help parents develop healthy emotional patterns!
https://attachmentnerd.com/books/how-to-deal-with-your-so-your-kids-dont-have-to
EMDR Podcast Episode: https://pedsdoctalk.com/podcast/trauma-therapy-why-you-may-need-emdr/
0:00 What Secure Attachment Really Is
1:00 Why One Safe Caregiver Changes Everything
1:58 How Dr. Mona Found Eli Harwood
3:12 Eli’s Story and Becoming Attachment Nerd
7:58 How Attachment Theory Shapes Family Patterns
10:12 Why Connection and Communication Matter
12:18 What Secure Attachment Looks Like Day to Day
19:39 The Four At…