Episodes
Oct. 7, 2026
Breastfeeding Myths and Truths - Part 1
In this 2- part episode we are joined by Dr. Adrienne Hoyt-Austin, pediatrician and certified lactation consultant. We review breastfeeding myths and truths, highlight the benefits of breastfeeding for mom and baby, how delivery and pre-existing medical conditions may impact milk supply and review evidence around increasing supply. We discuss how to approach taking medications, skin care routines and alcohol consumption in pregnancy and so much more! Resources https://www.bfmed.org/parent-prac...
Sept. 23, 2026
Pregnancy Myths and Truths
In this podcast, we are joined by Dr. Alison Breen an obstetrician and gynecologist at UC Davis to discuss pregnancy myths and truths. We review diet and the evidence about avoiding or moderating specific foods and drinks in pregnancy. We talk about gestational diabetes and how to help control blood sugars through dietary modification. We review common questions about skin care, supplements, exercise and sleep position in pregnancy. We highlight the importance of pre-conception counseling visits...
Sept. 2, 2026
Best TV shows for young kids
Most parents know that limiting screen time in young kids is important, but not all screen time is created equal. In this episode we review age-appropriate media guidance and focus our discussion on which specific T.V shows are the best for young kids- providing guidance that is grounded in stimulating a child’s curiosity, imagination, interests and attention. Resources: Healthy Children How to Make a Family Media Plan Zero to Three Television and the Under 3 Crowd Healthy Children Why to Avoi...
Aug. 19, 2026
Recess and the crucial role of play in learning
Transcripts are available for this episode on Apple Podcasts (iPhone, iPad, Mac) and Spotify. As kids return to school after summer vacation, we spend this podcast highlighting the importance of recess, unstructured time to play, move and socialize. In this episode we review the science behind why movement and learning breaks are critically important for consolidating learning, honing social skills, improving mental health and much more. Additional Resources American Academy of Pediatrics ...
Aug. 5, 2026
Swollen Lymph Nodes - When to Worry?
Swollen lymph nodes or glands are common in kids. In this podcast episode we discuss why these bumps exist in the first place and what infections commonly result in swollen lymph nodes. We also discuss what additional symptoms warrant more investigation and what work-up may look like for persistent lymphadenopathy. Additional resources Healthy Children Swollen Glands (Lymph Nodes) in Children Healthy Children What to Do If You Discover a Lump on Your Child’s Neck Healthy Children Symptom Check...
July 22, 2026
Multivitamins - Needed or Not?
Do all kids need a daily multivitamin? Probably not. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that healthy children who eat a balanced diet generally don't need routine vitamin supplementation- yet about 35% of children take a multivitamin. In this episode, we explore the evidence behind children's multivitamins, discuss which kids may benefit from targeted supplementation, and review the key vitamins and nutrients parents should pay special attention to. Resources Where We Stand: Vitamin...
June 24, 2026
Episode Replay - Bedwetting
In this episode replay, we revisit a past episode on bedwetting or nocturnal enuresis. Bedwetting is common, but can be a source of anxiety for many parents. We discuss causes for bed wetting, possible evaluations in the office. We also review the most evidence based treatment options from limiting nighttime fluids to bedwetting alarms and medications. Resources Bedwetting: 3 Common Reasons & What Families Can Do - HealthyChildren.org Bedwetting in Children & Teens: Nocturnal Enuresis - Health...
June 24, 2026
Episode Replay- Summer Sun Protection
In this episode replay, just in time for summer vacation we revisit a past episode on sun protection. We are joined by Dr. Samantha Goggin to talk about the importance of sun protection for kids, we review sunscreen and how to choose an SPF, timing for reapplication. We also review chemical vs. mineral sunscreen options and debunk some common myths. Resources Sun Safety: Information for Parents About Sunburn & Sunscreen - HealthyChildren.org What's the best way to protect kids’ skin from sunbu...
June 10, 2026
Episode Replay- Talking to Teens About Relationships and Sex Part 2
Transcripts are available for this episode on Apple Podcasts (iPhone, iPad, Mac) and Spotify. Talking to your child and teen about healthy relationships and sexuality is never an easy conversation, but it is an important one. In this podcast replay we visit a past episode where we talk with psychologist Dr. Brandi Lilies about discussing and modeling healthy relationships, teaching the importance of consent, exploring healthy sexuality and the very difficult topic of sexual abuse and trauma. S...
May 27, 2026
Episode Replay- Talking to Teens About Relationships and Sex Part 1
Talking to your child and teen about healthy relationships and sexuality is never an easy conversation, but it is an important one. In this podcast replay we visit a past episode where we talk with psychologist Dr. Brandi Lilies about discussing and modeling healthy relationships, teaching the importance of consent, exploring healthy sexuality and the very difficult topic of sexual abuse and trauma. Supplemental information: Dating & Sex - HealthyChildren.org Love is Respect One Love Foundatio...
May 13, 2026
How Doctor's Think
In this episode, Dr. Lena, Dr. Dean and Dr. Julia Magana - three physicians from different specialties and stages of practice come together for an honest and engaging conversation about what medical training really looks like, and how doctors learn to think through complex clinical situations. From medical school and residency to years in practice, the discussion highlights how medical decision-making evolves over time while remaining grounded in the same core principles of collaborative patient...
April 29, 2026
Fever in Infants
In this podcast we are joined by pediatric emergency medicine physician Dr. Julia Magana, to discuss fever in newborns. Specifically from birth to 3 months old. Any fever over 100.4 this age group is considered an emergency. In this episode we discuss why fevers are more dangerous in this young age group, what a typical work-up for infections may look - usually with blood and urine testing. We also dive into a new study that provides strong evidence that not all newborns under the age of 28 days...
April 15, 2026
Infant Botulism
This podcast episode explains infant botulism, a rare illness caused by toxin from the bacteria Clostridium. Infants can develop botulism when spores - often from agricultural products, dust, or honey- grow in their immature gut. We discuss early signs of illness including constipation, weak feeding, and low muscle tone. We also review the diagnostic process and treatment and importantly prevention. Resources Botulism: Causes, Signs, Symptoms and Treatment - HealthyChildren.org Frequently Aske...
March 30, 2026
Fungal infections of the skin and nails
In this podcast we discuss fungal infections of the skin, scalp and nails. We review how fungal infections are transmitted, how to recognize them as well as both over the counter and prescription treatment options. We also discuss when it's ok to treat at home and which signs warrant a closer look by a physician. Resources Healthy Children | Tinea infetions What is Tinea?
March 4, 2026
Teen sports nutrition
In this episode we are joined by Kathryn Ward, a registered dietician with expertise in sports medicine to discuss nutrition for the teen athlete. We review basic nutritional needs of the teenage athlete, discuss optimal meals and snacks – spoiler alert carbs get a lot of love in this episode. We also review some of the commonly used supplements and nutritional trends. Resources Protein for the Teen Athlete - HealthyChildren.org NSFSport.com Teen Nutrition for Fall Sports Fueling your adolesce...
Feb. 18, 2026
Embracing Cultural Differences and Health Equity
On this episode we are joined by Dr. Amna Khan to discuss health equity and discuss tips for celebrating diversity and embracing cultural differences both in the doctors office and at home. Resources The People's Pediatrician Pedi POWER | Santa Clara Valley Medical Center Tolerance.org How Exposure to Diversity Can Help All Children (And Adults) | Psychology Today Teaching Children Cultural and Racial Pride - HealthyChildren.org.Recommended Reading: Diverse & Inclusive Books For Children - Hea...
Feb. 4, 2026
Ultra-processed foods
67% of children’s total daily calories in the United States come from ultra-processed foods. In this episode we are joined by Dr. Shushma Chamarthi, a primary care pediatrician and Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine at Valley Children’s Healthcare to talk about ultra-processed foods. We discuss the definition of ultra-processed foods and the health impact we see from these ultra-processed foods and how to work towards improving children’s diets with some easy and affordable diet...
Jan. 21, 2026
Urinary Tract Infections in Children
In this podcast, we are joined by Dr. Mallika Iyer-Horiuchi to discuss urinary tract infections in children including why they develop, who is at the greatest risk, common signs and symptoms, and treatment and prevention. This episode was written by Dr. Iyer-Horiuchi and Dr. van der List. Dr. van der List takes responsibility for any errors or misinformation. Resources Detecting UTIs in Children | HealthyChildren.org Preventing UTIs in Children | HealthyChildren.org UTIs in Teens | HealthyChi...
Jan. 21, 2026
Urinary Tract Infections in Children
In this podcast, we are joined by Dr. Mallika Iyer-Horiuchi to discuss urinary tract infections in children including why they develop, who is at the greatest risk, common signs and symptoms, and treatment and prevention. This episode was written by Dr. Iyer-Horiuchi and Dr. van der List. Dr. van der List takes responsibility for any errors or misinformation. Resources Detecting UTIs in Children | HealthyChildren.org Preventing UTIs in Children | HealthyChildren.org UTIs in Teens | HealthyChi...
Jan. 7, 2026
strengthening the early parent-child relationship
In this episode we are joined by Dr. Janice Enriquez, a child psychologist and clinical professor in developmental and behavioral pediatrics at the UC Davis MIND institute to discuss strengthening the parent-child relationship. We review how to address problematic behaviors like tantrums and defiance with an emphasis on a type of therapy that can be utilized in early childhood called parent-child interaction, or parent child-care therapy. Resources PC CARE Learning Center UC Davis PCIT pcit.or...