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

Latest Episodes:

Top Reasons kids end up in the Pediatric ICU and how to manage health anxiety when you're there Mar 05, 2025

Show notes

No parent ever wants to end up in the Pediatric ICU; but we know it happens and we want you to be informed and know what to expect.

I invited my social media friend and Pediatric Critical Care Doctor, Dr. Anita Patel on the show to chat about the Pediatric ICU and what to expect.

We discuss:

The common reasons children end up in the Pediatric ICU and what to expect
The questions to ask your care team in the ICU
How we manage health anxiety as a pediatric ICU doctor and general pediatrician

To connect with Dr. Anita Patel follow her on Instagram @anitakpatelmd and check out all her resources on https://linktr.ee/anitakpatelmd.

00:00 Introduction & Why This Conversation Matters

02:00 Meet Dr. Anita Patel

04:10 Common Reasons for Pediatric ICU Admissions

10:46 What Happens Inside the PICU?

14:23 Navigating the ICU Experience as a Parent

20:27 Key Questions Parents Should Ask the Care Team

24:46 The Emotional Toll on Parents & Doctors

31:14 Balancing Medical Knowledge with Parenting Anxiety

35:16 Final Thoughts & Words of Encouragement

37:59 Where to Follow Dr. Anita Patel & Closing Remarks

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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.

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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.

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Surprising Factors that Impact Your Child's Dental Health Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

Is dental health genetic, or can I help prevent issues? Can I pass cavity-causing bacteria to my child? When should my child stop using a pacifier or bottle? Does mouth breathing affect dental health?

This week, I welcome Dr. Ashley Lerman, a board-certified pediatric dentist,to answer all these dental questions and more. Throughout our discussion she encourages a balanced, judgement-free approach focusing on progress over perfection.

She joins me to discuss:

The importance of early oral care and developing good habits
How genetic factors and parents’ dental health affects children
Tips on brushing, flossing, prolonged bottle use and limiting sugar.

To connect with Dr. Ashley Lerman follow her on Instagram @pediatric.dentist.mom and check out all her resources on https://yourfirstgrin.com/.

Ask Doctor Mona: Toddler Tooth-brushing Battles

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00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Culprits of Cavities

02:03 Meet Dr. Ashley Lerman: A Passion for Pediatric Dentistry

04:00 The Role of Genetics in Oral Health

06:29 Can Cavities Be Contagious? Parent-Child Transmission

09:36 Diet, Nutrition, and Their Effect on Teeth

10:57 Thumb Sucking, Pacifiers, and Bottle Use

14:45 Mouth Breathing: Myths, Facts, and Health Concerns

22:01 The Importance of Early Dental Hygiene Habits

25:44 Fluoride & Other Key Takeaways for Parents

27:49 Closing Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

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

How VapoSteam Can Ease Coughs and Improve Sleep for Kids and Families Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

Cold and flu season can be especially tough on parents, with sleepless nights, restless children, and the constant challenge of managing symptoms like congestion and cough. A humidifier, paired with soothing steam, can be a game-changer in making those difficult nights more manageable.

This week, I welcome Stacey Ishman, a pediatric otolaryngologist, to discuss the benefits of humidification and Vicks products like VapoSteam and humidifiers for improving sleep, especially during cold and allergy seasons.

She joins me to discuss:

The benefits of using a humidifier during illness
How soothing ingredients like camphor and menthol help create a calming bedtime routine for your family
That your child can breathe easier and sleep better with Vicks

To connect with Vicks on Instagram @vicks_usa and check out their products VapoSteam Core, VapoSteam Lavender, and Cool Relief Humidifier.

00:00:00 Introduction & Importance of Sleep During Colds

00:01:10 The Science Behind Vicks Vapor Steam

00:02:29 Meet Dr. Stacy Ashman: Pediatric Sleep Expert

00:06:40 Why Coughs Get Worse at Night

00:08:11 Is Vapor Steam Safe for All Kids?

00:14:03 How to Incorporate Vapor Steam into a Bedtime Routine

00:18:55 The Role of Humidification in Cold & Allergy Season

00:21:32 Final Thoughts & Takeaways

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV.

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 Sad Stories Hit the News: How Parents Can Talk to Kids Without Fear Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

Talking to kids about the news requires honesty while maintaining a sense of security. Open conversations help build trust, allowing kids to ask questions and process difficult topics in a supportive environment.

This week, I welcome Rebecca Jarvis, contributing anchor at Good Morning America,to discuss how parents can provide age-appropriate explanations for real-world concerns while ensuring their kids feel safe.

She joins me to discuss:

The importance of honesty, security, and age-appropriate conversations about the news.
How she navigates being present with her kids while managing a demanding career.
How small positive actions can help us find purpose in uncertain times.

To connect with Rebecca Jarvis follow her on Instagram @rebeccajarvis and watch her on Good Morning America on ABC.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

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

Parent Yourself First: Break Generational Cycles for Better Parenting Feb 05, 2025

Show notes

Unresolved childhood wounds can influence your reactions and relationships with your children. By breaking generational cycles and cultivating self-awareness, parents can create more empathetic, connected and supportive environments for their families.

This week, I welcome back Bryana Kappadakunnel, author of the book Parent Yourself First, to discuss how to combine self-compassion, accountability and intentional parenting to nurture both the child within and the child in front of you.

She joins me to discuss:

How addressing personal past wounds allows you to be a more present and empathetic parent
The need to stop unhealthy family patterns and break generational cycles
Practical strategies to nurture emotional connection and raise self-aware children

To connect with Bryana Kappadakunnel follow her on Instagram @consciousmommy, check out all her resources at https://www.consciousmommy.com/, and purchase her book Parent Yourself First (paid link).

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

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

Creating a Skin-Healthy Routine: Diapers, Wipes, and Beyond Jan 29, 2025

Show notes

My daughter struggled with diaper rash after diaper rash until I switched her to Coterie diapers. Diapers are on our babies’ sensitive skin 24/7 and finding a product that is high-quality, clean and safe will ensure their skin health.

This week, I welcome Jess Jacobs, the CEO of Coterie, to discuss a healthy skin care routine for your baby and how Coterie’s innovative brand challenges industry norms by consistently exceeding expectations in product safety and performance.

She joins me to discuss:

Coterie’s commitment to offering high-quality, clean and safe products designed to alleviate worries for parents
Her personal experiences as a mother including her kids’ sensitive skin issues
That it is important for brands to set a high standard for their products and to empower parents with clear and straightforward education about skin health

To connect with Coterie on Instagram follow them at @coterie and check out their products at https://www.coterie.com/

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk TV.

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

Masculinity and Politics: Exploring the Connection Between Gender Ideals and Voting Trends Jan 22, 2025

Show notes

There has been a growing shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics, driven by feelings of alienation from progressive narratives that often overlook and dismiss their struggles. The right has capitalized on this by promoting hyper-masculine ideals that resonate with this demographic.

This week, I welcome back Ruth Whippman, author of the book Boy Mom, to discuss how to foster emotional connections, have open dialogue and reimagine boyhood to help boys develop healthier and more inclusive identities.

She joins me to discuss:

The noticeable shift of young male voters towards right-wing politics
How the left has struggled to effectively communicate a positive and inclusive narrative for boys and men
That messages celebrating hyper-masculinity have resonated with young men, filling in a gap left by progressive movements

To connect with Ruth Whippman follow her on Instagram @ruthwhippman, check out all her resources at http://www.ruthwhippman.com/, join her Substack: I Blame Society and purchase her book Boy Mom: https://go.shopmy.us/p-65453995 (paid link).

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

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

How to Navigate Career Pauses and Balance Family Life with Intentionality Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

Balancing family life with personal ambitions is no small feat, especially when career pauses are part of the journey. Redefining success and embracing your evolving identity can be powerful steps toward personal growth—even during time away from paid work.

This week, I welcome Neha Ruch, the founder of Mother Untitled, the leading platform for ambitious women leaning into family life, to discuss the challenges and rewards of navigating career pauses.

She joins me to discuss:

Embracing and redefining personal identity during career pauses
The importance of support systems, self-compassion, and intentional choices
The evolving dynamics of gender roles in caregiving

To connect with Neha Ruch follow her on Instagram @motheruntitled, check out all her resources at https://www.motheruntitled.com/ and purchase her book new book: The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids--and Come Back Stronger Than Ever (paid link)

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk.

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

Six Ways to Raise a Resilient Kid Jan 08, 2025

Show notes

I believe resilience is about teaching children to handle challenges, adapt to change, and recover from setbacks while respecting their emotions. We can model resilience by demonstrating healthy coping skills, fostering a growth mindset, and helping children develop emotional awareness and problem-solving abilities. By supporting them through difficulties and validating their feelings, we empower children to face life's challenges with confidence!

I discuss:

How to model resilience and demonstrate healthy coping skills
That it’s important toencourage children to embrace their feelings
The need to promote problem-solving and support by allowing children to tackle challenges independently, while offering guidance and reassurance.

We’d like to know who is listening! Please fill out our Listener Survey to help us improve the show and learn about you!

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

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 Sakara Life Podcast: Raising Children Who Know Their Bodies Jan 01, 2025

Show notes

As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome 2025, I’m reflecting on some of my favorite guest appearances on other shows. New episodes will be back on January 8th! This past June, I had the pleasure of joining Danielle and Whitney on The Sakara Life Podcast, where we delved into pediatric nourishment and explored ways to help our children become mindful eaters.

During the episode, we discussed:

What it means to raise a child who knows their body-in terms of health, sleep needs, and food
Strategies for raising children with a healthy food mindset
The best language to use when talking to kids at mealtimes
How to re-frame picky eating and promote a positive body image for our little ones

Use code PEDSDOCTALK for 20% off the Signature Nutrition Program from Sakara

Check out the Sakara Life Podcast featuring “curated conversations that dig deep into the ancient rituals and modern research we can all use to build lives we love living”.

Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and ⁠subscribe to PedsDocTalk⁠.

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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