A child can be doing well on paper and still be struggling to grow into who they are. They're meeting milestones. They're doing fine in school. There's no diagnosis and no crisis. There's nothing that sends up a red flag. But are they learning how to manage frustration, build healthy relationships, navigate conflict, recover from setbacks and ask for help when they need it? Mental health in childhood isn't just about identifying what's wrong. It's also about understanding what healthy development looks like and recognizing opportunities to strengthen it before there's a problem to diagnose. 

Toilet training may seem like a simple developmental milestone until you're the pediatrician helping a family navigate accidents, resistance, constipation, regression, and the growing pressure to get it right. For many families, toilet training quickly stops being about developmental readiness and starts becoming a collision of pressure, comparison, preschool deadlines, power struggles, and late-night Googling. What seems like a simple milestone on the surface often turns into one of early childhood's most emotionally charged transitions. And for pediatricians, it remains one of the most common yet surprisingly nuanced conversations in clinical practice. 

The NICU discharge is a milestone, but it's not the finish line. For children born prematurely, primary care plays a critical role in what comes next: tracking growth and development, recognizing ongoing health needs and helping families navigate the transition from intensive neonatal care to everyday childhood. But how should pediatricians adjust their approach? And what are the things we're at risk of missing? We're focusing on the practical side of caring for children born prematurely in the primary care setting, with the goal of helping pediatricians turn a complex NICU history into a clear, proactive care plan. Prematurity may shape the beginning of the story, but primary care helps shape what comes next. 

An earache. A fussy toddler. A worried parent. And often, a familiar prescription: antibiotics. Acute otitis media is one of the most common reasons children receive antibiotics. But as we continue to better understand when antibiotics truly make a difference — and when children may do just as well without them — there's an opportunity to rethink what appropriate treatment looks like. So how can pediatricians confidently reduce unnecessary prescribing while still treating pain, addressing parents' concerns, and making sure the children who do need antibiotics get them? We'll answer that in this episode. 

There was a time when the vaccine conversation in pediatrics felt straightforward: here's the schedule, here's what your child needs, and here's when they need it. Today, it's anything but simple. The recommendations are evolving. The vaccine schedule is under a microscope. New guidance is emerging around COVID-19 and RSV. And at the same time, pediatricians are sitting across from families who may be confused, skeptical or overwhelmed by what they're hearing online. So how do we make sense of all of it — and, perhaps more importantly, how do we talk about it? 

Atopic dermatitis may be common, but it can be anything but simple. For children and their families, sleepless nights from persistent itch and discomfort from recurrent flares can take a real toll, and the treatment landscape is changing quickly. So, what do pediatricians need to know? In this episode, we'll unpack the latest American Academy of Dermatology guidelines for children, from daily skin care and topical treatments to when we need to intensify therapy. 

Wheezing, cough and increased work of breathing are common pediatric presentations that can quickly lead clinicians to consider asthma. But not every child with lower -airway symptoms has asthma. Viral illness, tracheomalacia, aspiration and other conditions can mimic asthma, making the underlying cause difficult to recognize based on symptoms alone. In this episode, we take a closer look at the clinical clues that can help pediatricians distinguish non-asthmatic causes of lower-airway symptoms from asthma. 

Fifteen minutes. That's about all the time most pediatricians have to care for an entire child and family. In that brief visit, they are expected to address preventive care, developmental concerns, chronic conditions, behavioral health, documentation, and countless questions from parents, all while building meaningful relationships. It's a lot to ask of both clinicians and the healthcare system. What if the answer isn't working faster, but working differently? Today, we're talking about how pediatric practices can build systems that support better coordinated, family-centered care while creating more sustainable and fulfilling careers for clinicians. 

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in children and adolescents, but it can sometimes be easy to miss. From the toddler who drinks almost exclusively milk to the adolescent athlete struggling to keep up with their peers or the teen with heavy menstrual bleeding and persistent fatigue, these patients may present differently while sharing the same underlying diagnosis. 

Tics are common in childhood, but recognizing when they are part of typical development, and when they may indicate Tourette syndrome or another tic disorder, can be challenging for pediatricians. A child repeatedly blinks during a well visit. A parent mentions a new throat-clearing sound that has been happening for weeks. Soon comes the question pediatricians hear often: "Should I be worried?" 

When adults look back on school, they often remember more than lessons and worksheets. They remember recess — the playground, movement, friendships, laughter and freedom. Yet in many schools today, recess can be one of the most negotiable parts of the school day. It may be shortened, delayed or withheld in favor of academics, structure or behavior management. But research continues to show that recess is far more than a break. Regular opportunities for play and movement support children's physical health, mental well-being, social development, and ability to learn. Pediatricians are uniquely positioned to keep play, movement and recess part of the conversation about child health. 

Some of the most serious diagnoses in pediatrics begin with common pediatric symptoms. A child comes in looking pale or with a febrile illness. They've been more tired than usual. Maybe they're bruising easily or complaining their legs hurt. Individually, none of these symptoms are unusual. Together, or with persistence, they can tell a different story. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, but it's earliest signs often resemble everyday illnesses.  

Tick bites used to be a seasonal nuisance, something you might mention briefly at a well visit in late spring. But that's no longer the reality. With emergency department visits for tick bites climbing to their highest levels in nearly a decade and tick populations expanding into new regions, pediatricians are now seeing the ripple effects of a changing environment in real time. In this episode, we break down what's driving this surge, how to approach tick bites in clinic, and what's new in our understanding of tick-borne illness — including important updates on alpha-gal syndrome that every clinician should have on their radar.  

Puberty doesn't always follow the expected timeline. What happens when it shows up ahead of schedule? For pediatricians, the early appearance of breast development, pubic hair or accelerated growth can trigger a cascade of questions. Is this a normal variant? Should we investigate further? When is it time to refer? In this episode, we unpack the complexities of precocious puberty and explore how timely identification and thoughtful management can make a lasting difference for kids and their families. 

A child's future begins long before the first words, first steps or even the first smile. In the span of just 1,000 days, billions of neural connections are formed, and the foundation for lifelong health, learning, and resilience quietly takes shape. Pediatricians understand the critical nature of early development, and they translate that message to parents, helping guide, nurture, recognize risk and shape outcomes that can last decades.  

The human spine is designed to support, balance and adapt through a lifetime of growth. But what happens when that growth starts to bend in an unexpected direction? Scoliosis often emerges during periods of rapid development, turning what should be a normal growth spurt into a race against progression. The challenge isn't just finding the curve. It's predicting what that curve will do next. 

When most people hear the word "discipline", they think consequences, punishments or stopping bad behavior in the moment. But what if we've been thinking about discipline too narrowly? We are reframing discipline in toddlers through a completely different lens. One rooted in connection, development and emotional regulation. Because toddler "misbehavior" isn't usually about manipulation or defiance. More often, it's communication. 

It's one of the most unsettling calls a pediatrician can get: a baby who turned blue, stopped breathing or suddenly went limp, only to appear completely normal moments later. Welcome to the clinical gray zone of BRUE (Brief Resolved Unexplained Event). It sits at the intersection of alarm and ambiguity, where the history is often dramatic, but your clinical exam is reassuring. We are going to go beyond the definition and into real-life decisions that you have to make on the phone and in the office. From risk stratification to avoiding unnecessary testing, we break down what actually matters in the moment and what doesn't.

This episode was recorded during a live podcast event in Colorado Springs with Michael DiStefano, MD, and Jamie Hug, DO. Dr. DiStefano is the Chief Medical Officer of Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs, and a pediatric emergency medicine physician. Dr. Hug is a pediatrician in Southern Colorado at the Children's Clinic of Pueblo.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• What is considered a BRUE 
• When to refer to the emergency department 
• How pediatricians can reassure families and validate their experiences 
• Why history is so critical to the exam 

For many families, water represents joy, summer afternoons, swimming lessons, beach vacations, backyard pools and time spent together. But in pediatrics, we also know that water can become dangerous in seconds, often quietly and without warning. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in children, and recent updates from the American Academy of Pediatrics reinforce that prevention must be layered, proactive and tailored. In this episode, we explore how pediatricians can support drowning prevention, because some of the most important work in pediatrics happens long before an emergency occurs.  

What if the patient you're least worried about is the one most at risk? In pediatrics, we're trained to look for red flags such as low weight, failing growth curves and visible signs of malnutrition. But atypical anorexia challenges that instinct. These patients may sit comfortably on the growth chart, or even above it, while experiencing the same dangerous behaviors and medical instability as those with classic anorexia. In this episode, we rethink what we've been taught to look for. We explore how atypical anorexia presents, why it's so often missed and what it takes to recognize the warning signs hiding beneath the surface.  

Heart murmurs are one of the most common findings in pediatric practice, but determining which ones warrant further evaluation can be challenging. While many murmurs are innocent, others may signal underlying structural heart disease and require timely referral and management. 

Ebola has a way of cutting through the noise of the news cycle. Its name alone can shift conversations in exam rooms and on living room couches. But what's circulating in headlines is not always what's circulating in reality. For pediatricians, that gap matters. In this episode, we break down what's actually happening right now with Ebola, what is known about current risk and how clinicians can respond when families arrive with urgent questions shaped more by media than by medicine. 

There's a moment in a pediatrician's day that doesn't show up on the schedule. It's the bruise that doesn't quite match the story, or the awkward pause after a parent answers a question just a little too quickly or the child who won't make eye contact or let go of your sleeve. In these moments, pediatricians become more than clinicians. They become interpreters, advocates and sometimes the only line of protection.

To help us understand the latest on child abuse, we are joined by Denise Abdoo, PhD, CPNP. Dr. Abdoo is a pediatric nurse practitioner who specializes in child abuse and neglect. She is also an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

When a rare disease suddenly dominates headlines, questions spread quickly and so does anxiety. Over the past few weeks, hantavirus has re-entered the national conversation, leaving many families wondering how concerned they should be. For pediatricians, moments like this can be challenging as they balance public concern with clinical reality, and help families navigate information that is often incomplete, alarming or misleading. In this episode, we take a closer look at hantavirus through an evidence-based pediatric lens including what it is, how transmission occurs, who is truly at risk and what clinicians should know when these questions inevitably enter the exam room. 

Pediatric urinary tract infections, or UTIs, don't always follow a script. While they're one of the most common diagnoses, they're also one of the most nuanced. They can be subtle, inconsistent and easy to over — or under — diagnose. Aside from clear urinary symptoms, they can show up as a fever without a source, vague abdominal pain, new incontinence or a child who simply isn't acting like themselves. And in those moments, the decisions pediatricians make such as who to test, how to collect a sample or how to interpret results, carry real clinical weight.

To dive into this topic, we are joined by Kevin Olson, PA, and Meghan Rommel, NP, who practice in the Department of Pediatric Urology at Children's Hospital Colorado.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• The challenges of diagnosis and the importance of getting it right 
• How UTIs present differently across ages  
• When to use antibiotics versus when more discovery is needed 
• Approaching recurrent UTIs in children 

It's one of the most common calls you'll get as a pediatrician, and one of the fastest infections to spread through a classroom. A pink eye shows up and suddenly the questions follow: Is it contagious? Do they need drops? Can they go back to school? Pink eye seems like a simple fix until it's not. From bacterial to viral to allergic, knowing what you're looking at can change how it impacts a family. 

"Picky eater" is one of the most common labels in pediatrics and one of the easiest to overlook. But when a child's diet is shrinking instead of expanding, when meals are a source of stress instead of routine, or when growth and nutrition start to feel like a question mark, it's worth taking a second look. In this episode, we're discussing ARFID: what it looks like in clinic, how to spot the difference from typical picky eating, and how to approach these patients with a sharper clinical lens.

In this episode, we are joined by Kimberly Sheffield, PhD. She is an eating disorders psychologist at Children's Hospital Colorado, as well as the Clinical Director of Pediatric Mental Health Institute (PMHI) day programs, and the Associate Training Director for Psychology Training. 

A toddler takes their first bite of peanut butter and breaks out in hives. A parent sits across from you, equal parts frightened and overwhelmed, asking the question you hear every day, "What happens now?" Food allergies have long lived at the intersection of fear and uncertainty, for families and clinicians alike. But that story is changing. A landscape once defined by strict avoidance is rapidly evolving into proactive management, personalized risk assessment, and emerging therapies that are reshaping outcomes. In this episode, we step into that evolving world. From early introduction and updated diagnostic strategies to the expanding role of oral immunotherapy and biologics, we'll unpack what's here, what's coming, and what it means for how you care for patients in real time.  

Inside every one of us is a complex, evolving ecosystem influencing everything from immunity to inflammation to long-term health. This is known as our gut microbiome. The choices made early on, such as how babies are born, fed and treated, can have lasting effects. In this episode, we explore the pediatric gut microbiome: what builds it, what disrupts it and why it matters more than some may think.

We're joined by gastroenterology experts Jaime Belkind-Gerson, MD, and Edwin DeZoeten, MD. Dr. Belkind-Gerson is the Director of the Neurogastroenterology program at Children's Colorado. Dr. DeZoeten is the Director of the Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center. They are also professors at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• What influences the gut microbiome at an early age
• How diet influences the overall health of the microbiome 
• The connection between the brain and the gut 
• Separating fact versus fiction in probiotics 

Every pediatric visit tells two stories. One is about the child in front of us: their growth, symptoms and milestones. The other belongs to the parent beside them, often unspoken but deeply felt. In this episode, we're talking about parental wellbeing and why it belongs at the center of pediatric care. From chronic stress and mental health challenges to resilience and support systems, a caregiver's experience doesn't stay in the background but rather shapes a child's biology, behavior and long-term health.

To discuss this important topic, we are joined by Mona Amin, DO. She is a board-certified pediatrician, a mom of two and the founder of the incredible podcast PedsDocTalk, a globally recognized platform reaching over 1.5 million people. 

A tired teen who struggles to get out of bed or a child whose growth is falling behind expectations, are familiar clinical problems, each with a differential diagnosis. Thyroid disorders are often on the differential for many common symptoms we see, yet thyroid disease rarely walks into the office announcing itself. Instead, thyroid disorders can hide in plain sight, disguised as other diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, delayed puberty, constipation or "just teenage hormones." In this episode, we've diving into the physiology, the pitfalls and the practical decisions behind pediatric thyroid care. Because when we understand the thyroid, we can protect long-term health.

Maggie Chan, MD, is an endocrinologist at Children's Hospital Colorado, as well as an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• Most common thyroid disorders in children 
• How to differentiate between mental health symptoms versus thyroid symptoms 
• When to screen and what labs to test for 
• Three practical takeaways to utilize in clinic 

Anatomy doesn't work in silos. For example, the airway affects feeding. Feeding affects growth. Reflux affects the lungs. Suddenly, one child has three subspecialists and one very full calendar. Aerodigestive medicine lives in that overlap, and while multidisciplinary teams bring powerful expertise, primary care providers are co-managing these patients. They are fielding the "is this normal" calls. They are tracking growth, advocating for these patients and helping families make sense of recommendations.

In this episode, we talked to two experts about what meaningful co-management looks like, Emily DeBoer, MD, and Todd Wine, MD. Dr. DeBoer specializes in pulmonology at Children's Colorado and is a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr. Wine specializes in otolaryngology and is an associate professor. 

Something is shifting in medicine, and it's hitting pediatrics hard. Fewer students are choosing to become pediatricians. Who will care for the next generation of kids and how will they do it? This episode isn't just another conversation. It's a call to action. From technology shaping tomorrow's doctors to strengthening the pediatric pipeline, we will explore how the next generation is redefining the future of pediatrics.

The journey to becoming a pediatrician is full of discovery, challenge and purpose. In this episode, we are joined by two future pediatricians sharing their own journeys to help us understand the bigger picture. Hannah Bullock, MD, is a resident, and Sarah Martin is a medical student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• The biggest barriers to choosing pediatrics
• Why they picked pediatrics
• How pediatricians can reframe how students see the field
• Hope for the future of pediatrics

A parent walks into the exam room, but they're not alone. They've brought TikTok, Instagram, a comment section, a conspiracy thread and a viral video with 12 million views. Welcome to modern pediatrics. In this live recording, we're diving into the digital ecosystem that's shaping how families think, worry and decide. Social media isn't just background noise anymore — it's co-parenting with us. Sometimes it's loud. Sometimes it's supportive, and other times, it's just plain reckless. We are exploring how misinformation spreads faster than measles, why fear goes viral and how pediatricians can reclaim their role as trusted guides in a scroll-first world. This isn't about fighting the internet. It's about learning how to practice medicine inside it.

Mona Amin, DO, traveled from Florida to be our guest for this live event. She is a board-certified pediatrician, mom of two and founder of the incredible podcast The PedsDocTalk. That podcast is part of her globally recognized platform reaching over 2 million people with evidence-based guidance, actionable tips and relatable insights on child health, development and parenting. 

Bullying doesn't always look like bruises and broken lunch trays. Sometimes it looks like a kid who suddenly "hates" school or a teen who's glued to their phone but never smiling. Other times, it's a patient who keeps showing up to clinic with vague symptoms like headaches, nausea and no clear diagnosis. In pediatrics, we're trained to look for patterns in data such as growth charts and lab results. But some of the most crucial patterns show up in silence, withdrawal and fear. In this episode about bullying, we are going to examine how it's changed, how it hides and why it's a health issue, not just a school problem.

The first 24 hours of a newborn's life are not just clinical — they are electric. They're where physiology meets fear and policy meets instinct, revealing just how resilient and vulnerable babies can be. In this episode, we're unpacking what happens on that first day from the golden hour and early feeding behaviors to delayed bathing and recommended care.

Anna Ruman, MD, specializes in pediatrics at Children's Hospital Colorado. She is also an assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Christine Gold, MD, specializes in pediatric hospital medicine and is an associate professor.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• Feeding behaviors in the first 24 hours 
• How pediatricians can support families before birth 
• Recommendations for newborn care, including medications 
• Helpful tips for pediatric newborn support 

In pediatrics, we often meet families during their most vulnerable moments such as illness, transition, fear and change. While pediatricians are trained to diagnose and manage disease, some of the most powerful interventions we offer don't come in a prescription bottle. They are found in the relationships we help build, strengthen and protect. In this episode, we're exploring how trauma, attachment and the family system are key to understanding patients.

Benjamin Perks works for the United Nations in New York on human rights and child development and protection. He is a senior fellow at the Jubilee Centre at the University of Birmingham in the UK and an associate member of the department of social policy and innovation at the university of oxford. He is also the author of the book titled "Trauma Proof." Susan Caso is a licensed therapist, speaker and author. She serves as a board member and advisory for The Liv Project. She is the author of the book "The Parent-Teen Connection: How to Build Lifelong Family Relationships." 

Adolescence is full of firsts. Big questions about bodies, safety and choices rise to the surface. Contraception can feel intimidating for teens and complex for pediatricians. However, it's also a powerful touchpoint to shape safety, confidence and long-term health. In this episode, we're unpacking the role pediatricians play in guiding teens through reproductive care, where pediatricians can transform a potentially awkward moment into an opportunity for empowerment.   

Before the Friday night lights and before the season even begins, there's one appointment that can determine athletic eligibility: the pre-participation sports physical. For pediatricians, it's often treated like a checkbox but in reality, it's a powerful clinical moment. Sometimes it is the one chance to catch something that can change a life. In this episode, we explore how to turn the pre-participation physical from paperwork into prevention. We'll break down what really matters in the sports physical, what red flags to watch for and how to use this visit to protect young athletes and support families.

GLP-1 medications have become an important part of adult obesity treatment and are now increasingly relevant in pediatric care. As new approvals emerge and clinical guidance continues to evolve, pediatricians are being asked to consider when, and for whom, these therapies may be appropriate. In this episode, we review the current evidence, discuss clinical considerations and examine the evolving role of GLP-1 medications in child and adolescents.

Megan Kelsey, MD, is the medical director of both lifestyle medicine and adolescent bariatric surgery. Jaime Moore, MD, specializes in pediatric nutrition and obesity medicine. Both Drs. Moore and Kelsey are on the faculty here at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• How GLP-1s are changing lives for kids with obesity 
• Learning how they work and are administered 
• The average effect of these medications 
• The future of use as access to these medications becomes easier

Below are some resources mentioned in this episode:

• Institute for Healthy Childhood Weight
• University of Minnesota: Virtual Advanced Therapies for Pediatric Obesity Conference

Circumcision is one of the most common procedures performed in newborns. For such a frequent procedure, it can stir up big conversations in the primary care office. How do you help families make informed decisions? What technique details really matter? What's the role of the pediatrician when something doesn't look quite right in the days that follow? In this episode, we're unpacking the real-world essentials of circumcision in primary care from evidence-based counseling to timing, pain control, and navigating those questionable moments.

Kelly Harris, MD, and Brian Caldwell, MD, both specialize in urology at Children's Hospital Colorado. Dr. Harris is an assistant professor, and Dr. Caldwell is an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine

Some highlights from this episode include:

• How common circumcision is today
• Why the decision is very individualized to each family
• How pediatricians can support families in this decision-making process 
• Most common side effects 

A growth charts tell a story long before a child can. A sudden dip, a stubborn plateau, a pubertal spurt that arrives too early, or too late, can spark big questions. From short stature to rapid puberty, it's time to unpack the patterns, pitfalls and possibilities behind pediatric growth. We want to help you sort the reassuring from the concerning and recognize when an endocrinology referral can truly change the trajectory. 

When addressing obesity in the clinic, it's common to ask patients to focus on food and exercise. But what if we think upstream of the clinical problem and consider the environments, habits and systems that shape health from the very beginning? In this episode, we sit down with an expert whose research has focused on building resilience against obesity starting early in life. From family dynamics to school and community initiatives, the picture of prevention is complex. 

• The most common reasons for joint pain in children
• Understanding juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and how it presents
• Common pitfalls that may lead to misdiagnosis
• What providers can do in their offices before a referral 

Anxiety in children can serve as a safeguard or become profoundly disruptive. For pediatricians, distinguishing between developmentally appropriate worry, generalized anxiety disorder and clinically significant anxiety is rarely straightforward. In this episode, we explore how anxiety presents across childhood, why it is more than "just nerves" and how pediatricians can play a key role in early identification and support. 

From a newborn's first trip home to the day a teenager buckles into the driver's seat, car rides are milestones throughout childhood. Between those moments lie years of transition: rear-facing to forward-facing seats, boosters to seat belts, and countless opportunities for confusion, error and learning. This episode breaks down the latest recommendations in child passenger safety, addresses common misconceptions, and offers practical guidance pediatricians can use to help families keep children safe at every stage. 

In pediatric practice, few topics are as foundational and scientifically grounded as vaccinations. This season, a major shift in federal vaccine advisory guidance has sparked fresh discussion about how we protect infants from hepatitis B. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention's advisory committee on immunization practices voted to revise the more than 30-year guidance around the universal birth-dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine. In this episode, our goal is to provide clarity for clinicians on the best vaccination approach for our youngest patients. 

Food is more than fuel. Its culture, comfort, connection and, increasingly, a source of confusion for families. Parents ask questions shaped by headlines, influencers and evolving dietary guidelines. Pediatricians aren't simply monitoring growth curves, they are helping families navigate a complex nutrition environment that influences children's health now and long into adulthood. In this episode, we explore how to navigate today's dietary landscape with clarity, compassion and evidence-based tools you can use in everyday practice, highlighting the importance of healthy eating. 

Water is essential to a child's health, making up the majority of their body weight. But when illness or heat disrupts that balance, dehydration can set in quickly and dangerously. Despite being one of the most common pediatric issues, the simplest and most effective solution often goes unnoticed: oral rehydration. In this episode, we'll shine a light on this powerful yet underused therapy. From recognizing early warning signs to selecting the best approach, we'll explore the science and practical tools behind keeping children safely hydrated.

Joining us virtually from Iowa is Aamer Imdad, MD. He is a gastroenterologist at Stead Family Children's Hospital, as well as an assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Iowa.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• The most common causes for dehydration
• Recognizing the most reliable clinical signs for identifying dehydration
• How oral rehydration solutions work and which ones to recommend for each patient
• When lab tests are helpful

Childhood obesity management has evolved far beyond the traditional advice of "eat healthier and move more." Today's clinical toolbox includes GLP-1 medications, behavioral health interventions, multidisciplinary lifestyle programs and bariatric surgery. These evidence-based tools can be complex, nuanced, and sometimes controversial, but they share a common goal: supporting young people in achieving healthier lives.

In this episode, we explore how modern treatment strategies come together to meet the needs of individual patients and families. Our guests discuss when and how to use these tools, the importance of coordinated care and what pediatricians should consider as this field continues to rapidly expand.

Jonathan Hills-Dunlap, MD, is the Director of Robotics Surgery as well as the Surgical Director of the Bariatric Surgery Program at Children's Colorado. Megan Kelsey is the Medical Director of both Lifestyle Medicine and the Adolescent Bariatric Surgery Program. Both are on faculty at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• The steps for being a bariatric surgery candidate
• How to best support obese patients and their journeys 
• Why a multidisciplinary approach is necessary

Smartphones and tablets have become part of daily life for children and families, but their influence on sleep, attention, mood and overall development is increasingly under the microscope. From overstimulation and disrupted sleep patterns to rising concerns about anxiety and attention regulation, the research around screen time is rapidly evolving. In this episode, we take a closer look at the evidence behind how screens are shaping childhood and explore what pediatricians can do to help families find balance in an always-connected world.

Rachel Workman, MD, is a Pediatric Integrative Medicine Specialist at Children's Hospital Colorado and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• The negative impacts of screen time at a young age 
• How parents can strategically intervene 
• Why screen time is impacting development 
• What the research tells us

Recently, leucovorin and acetaminophen have been at the center of new discussions in pediatric medicine. Could leucovorin really help some children with autism? Does the latest evidence suggest acetaminophen has any impact on neurodevelopment? In today's episode, we'll break down what the science actually tells us, what remains uncertain and how pediatricians can confidently guide families through these complex topics.

Joining us for this important discussion is Abigail Angulo, MD. She is a developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Children's Hospital Colorado. She is also an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• The science behind autism 
• The role of Tylenol in pregnancy and newborn development 
• What leucovorin is used for and when it should be prescribed 
• How to navigate difficult conversations with families who expect certain outcomes

Behind every medical breakthrough for kids is usually a long history of research advances. Research is incremental, and new therapies exist, thanks to questions that are asked in science laboratories. Those investigators not only asked the hard questions but also found the funding to answer them. What happens when that funding starts to disappear? Research drives progress in pediatric medicine from vaccines to breakthrough treatments for rare diseases. That progress is currently at risk. Cuts and cancellations in key federal research programs, including CDC and NIH funding, threaten to stall discoveries and disproportionately impact pediatric investigators. In this episode, we dig into what's happening with child health research funding, why it matters for every pediatrician, and where the greatest opportunities for advocacy lie.

For this episode, we are joined by two experts at the forefront of this conversation. Joe St. Geme, MD, is the Physician in Chief at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, as well as the President of the CHOP Practice Association. He is also a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Zach Zaslow is the Vice President of Advocacy and Community Health at Children's Hospital Colorado.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• The status of pediatric research funding 
• How pediatric research directly impacts community pediatricians 
• What current threats exist 
• How providers can advocate for their patients and families  

From playground falls to sports injuries, oral trauma is part of growing up. But when a tooth gets chipped, knocked out or a lip is cut, it can be stressful for families and challenging for providers. In this episode, we take a closer look at pediatric dental and oral trauma from the primary care perspective. We are focusing on what to look for, when to act and how to guide families through those anxious first moments after an injury.

This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics Conference in Denver, Colorado. Joining us is Erica Brecher, DMD. She is a pediatric dentist with Duke Street Pediatric Dentistry and is on staff at Duke Children's Hospital. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Most common oral and dental traumas in kids 
• How outcomes differ from baby teeth to permanent teeth 
• What steps a pediatrician can take to save a tooth 
• Why a strong partnership between the pediatric and dental home can improve outcomes 

Groin bulges, scrotal swelling, and nonpalpable testes are findings that often surface during routine well-child exams, and they can raise immediate questions for pediatricians and families alike. Is this normal? Will it resolve on its own? Or does it require surgical referral? In this episode, we take a closer look at three common genitourinary conditions in children: inguinal hernias, hydroceles, and undescended testes. We diagnose the details to help clarify the evaluation process, management strategies, and referral guidelines that every pediatrician should know. 

The childhood immunization schedule is one of the defining pillars of pediatric practice and remains among the most successful public health achievements of the modern era. Yet, in recent months, the schedule and the systems that support it have faced new challenges, raising serious concerns for pediatricians across the country.

This episode was recorded live at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference in Denver, Colorado. In this episode, we discuss the latest AAP vaccine updates and the evolving landscape of childhood immunizations. Sue Kressly, MD, is a general pediatrician as well as the President of the AAP. Sean O'Leary, MD, is a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Children's Colorado and a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is also chair of the AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases, otherwise known as the Red Book Committee.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• The latest AAP immunization guidance and policy updates 
• Changes currently impacting pediatricians 
• Insight into the near future of vaccine distributions 
• Strategies for combatting confusion and shifting vaccine confidence 

Ocular complaints in children, such as a red or painful eye, sudden vision changes, or difficulty opening one eye, may be more than a minor concern. In pediatrics, these presentations can progress rapidly, and timely recognition is critical to preventing long-term vision impairment. A focused five-minute eye examination can often distinguish between emergent, urgent and routine conditions, making early assessment and intervention essential in the primary care setting. 

Enuresis, or bedwetting, is one of the most common concerns encountered in pediatrics. It can present as nighttime bedwetting, daytime urinary accidents, or a combination of both. Oftentimes, families and clinicians are left wondering what's typical and what's considered concerning. In this episode, we focus on the evaluation and management of enuresis in children. Each case is influenced by a range of factors including fluid intake, bowel habits, sleep quality and lifestyle routines. While first-line, non-pharmacologic strategies are the cornerstone of care, effective treatment requires attention to detail and a comprehensive approach.

This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics Conference in Denver, Colorado. In this episode, we are joined by Julie Cheng, MD, an Assistant Professor of Urology at Seattle Children's Hospital and the University of Washington. 

While asthma may be the most common chronic disease in pediatrics, it never feels routine for medical professionals. In the primary care setting, pediatricians carry the challenge and opportunity of turning this common condition into a well-managed part of daily life. In this episode, we'll dig into tools, strategies and insights that help us move from reactive treatment to proactive partnerships. The goal is for kids to focus less on their breathing and more on being kids.

For this episode, we are joined by two asthma experts, Monica Federico, MD, and Heather De Keyser, MD. Dr. Federico is the Medical Director of the Asthma Program, as well as Population Health, at Children's Hospital Colorado. She is a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr. De Keyser is the Co-Director of the Multidisciplinary Asthma Clinic and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Understanding the best options for treatment 
• Deciphering between asthma and other respiratory diagnoses 
• The latest updates in asthma guidelines 
• The importance of collaborating with schools on a child's action plan 

Constipation is one of the most common conditions that pediatricians see. From the toddler squirming on the exam table to the school-aged child with recurring belly pain, functional constipation is everywhere in pediatric primary care. In this episode, we will discuss how to diagnose, when additional testing is needed and treatment strategies that work.   

Imagine your body as a complex orchestra. Every hormone playing its part in harmony. When one section falls out of sync, the entire performance shifts. That's what happens with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), especially in adolescents. During puberty, hormones are already in flux, and PCOS can add another layer of challenges. 

Whether it's a bump, a blow, or a moment of confusion, concussions in kids don't always look dramatic, but the impact can be significant. When parents start to worry and question what injury lies beneath the surface, pediatricians are typically the first phone call or visit. With evolving guidelines and pressure to clear kids for school and sports, what is the right call? In this episode, we will break down what every clinician should know about concussions including how to spot them, how to manage them and how to guide families through recovery with confidence.

To understand the current status of concussions, we are joined by Kristina Wilson, MD. Dr. Wilson is the Medical Director of the Sports Medicine Center at Children's Hospital Colorado and is an Associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Helpful tools PCPs can utilize to recognize a concussion 
• The importance of team involvement regardless of the injury 
• Properly managing family support 
• Interventions and when they should be utilized 

Every parent dreams of the perfect bedtime routine: a quick story, a goodnight kiss, and lights out until morning. But real life? Toddlers fight sleep with boundless energy, grade-schoolers push for one more story and teens stay up late scrolling TikTok. Sleep problems in children and teens are common, but pediatricians can play a key role in guiding families toward better rest. 

For kids with eczema the discomfort of dry patches, constant itching and sleepless nights, can be relentless. For their parents, the search for answers is as well. In this episode, we're scratching beneath the surface of one of the most common skin conditions in pediatrics. We'll explore how to spot triggers, calm flare-ups, choose the right treatments and know when it's time to call in a dermatologist. Whether it's helping a toddler stop scratching or giving a teen the confidence to ditch the long sleeves, we're here to equip pediatricians with the tools to help their patients find relief and reclaim their skin.

For this episode, we are joined by Emily Gurnee, MD. She is a Dermatologist at Children's Hospital Colorado as well as an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. 

For many teenagers, acne is always top of mind. At the doctor's office, it's not uncommon for teens to ask about their skin during a visit. With teenage patients, we're not just treating acne. We're also treating their self-esteem. In the wild world of acne, clogged pores meet hormonal havoc. Patients often want magic, and providers need a plan. In this episode, we extract the evidence and apply the right topical clinical wisdom to help manage acne in the office.

Joining us for this episode is the host of our sister podcast, fully in Spanish, Pediatrias en Linea, Carla Torres-Zegarra, MD. Dr. Torres-Zegarra specializes in dermatology at Children's Hospital Colorado and is the Director of the Pediatric Dermatology Fellowship at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• The severity of acne in teenagers 
• Options for management and treatment in the primary care setting 
• The importance of diagnosis from the beginning 
• How to identify when acne is abnormal 

Asking questions about mental health is not easy. What's even harder is asking those questions well. But here's the truth: community providers are uniquely positioned to spot the early warning signs of mental health struggles, including suicide risk. In fact, youth who attempt or die by suicide are far more likely to have contact with their PCP compared to a mental health provider in the months leading up to the event. Are providers identifying kids at risk? Are they asking the right questions in ways that open the door to real answers? In this episode, we confront this critical reality in front of a live audience. We are bringing practical tools to the hands of providers in our community. The way providers screen for emotional and mental health challenges can mean the difference between silence and survival.

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience as our first community podcast experience. Stay tuned as we announce more opportunities like this across the region. This episode was cosponsored by The Liv Project: a nonprofit organization determined to take the conversation about youth mental health out of the shadows. For this episode, we have three incredible experts. Honey Beuf is the Co-Founder of The Liv Project, Liv's Mother, as well as an educator and advocate. She was on the podcast previously to share the story behind their documentary 'My Sister Liv.' You can listen to that episode here. Susan Caso, MA LPC, is the Mental Health Advisor for The Liv Project, as well as a licensed therapist and author. Gina Herrmann, MD, is a pediatrician with Arvada Pediatric Associates.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• How specific word choices or ways to phrase a question can make a huge difference in creating a safe space for children 
• Ways primary care providers can support families of children experiencing suicidal thoughts 
• Steps PCP offices can take to implement helpful mental health support processes 
• Understanding the support systems that exist in communities around the globe 

Migraines aren't just 'bad headaches,' and they don't always present with pain. Every migraine is different, and they can present with a wide range of symptoms from dizzy spells to abdominal pain. In this episode, we aim to bring clarity to the complexity of migraines, exploring the latest research, clinical signs and possible interventions.

Marcy Yonker, MD, Director of the Pediatric Headache Program at Children's Colorado joins us for this episode. Dr. Yonker is the Francescon Endowed Chair in Headache and a Professor of Pediatrics at the University of CO School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• What to do before referring 
• How to support students with migraines in schools 
• Lifestyle interventions compared to medications 
• Treatments for migraine  

Celiac disease in kids is more common than you think, and often harder to spot than you'd expect. Celiac disease affects about 1 in 100 people globally, yet studies suggest as many as 80% of cases remain undiagnosed. For many community providers around the globe, it's a diagnosis that certainly feels like it's become much more prevalent in both diagnosis rates and public awareness in recent years. There is no 'growing out' of celiac disease, so that diagnosis for our kiddos is the beginning of a life full of gluten avoidance. Should we be screening for celiac disease in all of our kids and taking their gluten-filled donuts away? In this episode, we explore all of that and more.

To understand the current status of celiac and to explore the future of screening, we are joined by two experts. Marisa Stahl, MD, and Mary Shull, MD, both specialize in pediatric gastroenterology at Children's Hospital Colorado. Additionally, they are both assistant professors of pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• How common it is amongst our youth and how that prevalence was determined 
• Why it seems the number of incidents is rising 
• How does geography play a role 
• The argument for screening and the role of the pediatrician 

Charting Pediatrics is in the running for a People's Choice Podcast Award, and we need your help to get nominated! Starting July 1, you can head to www.podcastawards.com and nominate us for the "science and medicine" category, as well as the "people's choice" category. Listeners like you are the reason we have become one of the top pediatric podcasts for providers around the world. Your nomination could make all the difference in us receiving this recognition! Nominate us by July 31 and help Children's Hospital Colorado lead the way in pediatric podcasting. Thank you for your support!  

When it comes to babies, there is one true common denominator for new parents — poop. While it's one of the first things parents can fixate over, pediatricians know what's in the diaper can say a lot about what's going on inside that tiny body. From understanding different stool colors and consistency, to the difference in diaper contents between breast-fed and formula-fed babies, there's a lot to learn about baby poop.

This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 Pediatric Academic Societies Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. Joining us for this episode is Adrienne Hoyt-Austin, DO, a pediatrician and lactation consultant with UC Davis Health. She specializes in general pediatrics and breastfeeding medicine and is also an Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• What baby poop can reveal about their health
• How to distinguish between normal variations in stool and potential concerns  
• Common colors and consistencies 
• Biggest red flags to look for in baby poop 

The menstrual cycle is as regular as clockwork, or at least it should be. But for many adolescent patients, what should be a manageable monthly event turns into a full-blown disruptor of school, sports, sleep and sanity. As we explore the world of adolescent gynecology, we take a closer look at the intricate details: how cramps can hide endometriosis and 'normal' isn't always what it seems. These symptoms are not just part of puberty. These are signals that deserve attention, validation, and thorough evaluation.

This episode was recorded live on the exhibit floor at the 2025 Pediatric Academic Societies Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. Joining us for this episode is Elizabeth Alderman, MD, Chief of the Division of Adolescent Medicine at The Children's Hospital at Montefiore. She is also a professor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• First-line treatments for painful periods in adolescents 
• Red flags in menstrual history that could lead to further concerns 
• Primary care diagnostic steps before referring to gynecology 
• How to create a comfortable environment for discussing these uncomfortable topics for adolescents

Screening for hip dysplasia in infants can make a big difference in their outcomes. Still, we know there are kids that fall through the cracks and later present with pain. Early detection of this condition is critical from a developmental standpoint, and proper therapy can guide those patients towards a pain free and active life.

To help us uncover all we need to know about hip dysplasia, we are joined by Erika Valentine, MD. She is a pediatric orthopedist at Children's Colorado and is an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Signs to look out for in the first few years of life 
• Why and how long-term issues can occur 
• Understanding treatment options 
• How primary care providers can support and manage their patients with hip dysplasia 

Charting Pediatrics is in the running for a People's Choice Podcast Award, and we need your help to get nominated! Starting July 1, you can head to www.podcastawards.com and nominate us for the "science and medicine" category, as well as the "people's choice" category. Listeners like you are the reason we have become one of the top pediatric podcasts for providers around the world. Your nomination could make all the difference in us receiving this recognition! Nominate us by July 31st and help Children's Hospital Colorado lead the way in pediatric podcasting. Thank you for your support! 

Parents often turn to their child's primary care physician for guidance on illnesses, developmental delays, or other health concerns. ADHD is no exception. In this episode, we're diving into the crucial role pediatricians play in recognizing and managing ADHD. We're giving you real-world tools to support real-world kids.

This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor at the 2025 Pediatric Academic Societies Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. Joining us for this episode is Jennifer Walton, MD, the Section Chief of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics, and an Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the University of Miami Miler School of Medicine.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• The most common signs of ADHD that get overlooked 
• Differentiating between ADHD and other behavioral or mental health concerns 
• How to use a standardized rating scale to assess ADHD symptoms 
• Talking to families about starting medication 

Some topics in pediatrics are flashy — like seizures, mystery rashes and fevers. While those often make headlines, others, like pediatric nephrology, are a routine but critical part of daily practice. Understanding these bread-and-butter issues is essential to diagnosing so many patients. Protein in the urine, blood pressure creeping up or a UTI that is more than 'just a UTI' are often signs that something may be wrong with the kidneys. In this episode, we examine those practical essentials and learn how PCPs can feel confident in managing these diagnoses.

This episode was recorded on the exhibit floor of the 2025 Pediatric Academic Societies Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. Joining us for this episode are Bradley Warady, MD, and Nathan Bines, MD, both from Children's Mercy Kansas City and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. Dr. Warady is the Director of the Division of Nephrology, a Professor of Pediatrics and the McLaughlin Family Endowed Chair in Nephrology. Dr. Beins is the Associate Program Director for the Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship Training Program, as well as a Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Understanding the core kidney issues in general pediatrics 
• How to identify these conditions early 
• The difference between benign findings and red flags 
• Tools for friendly language about topics that might be sensitive or embarrassing for a child 

Picture this: A new parent is changing the diaper of their one-month-old infant when they notice streaks of blood. That's when panic sets in, followed by frantic calls to the pediatrician's office. But is this always a cause for alarm? In this episode, our gastroenterologists are on the case. We're talking about allergic proctitis in infants. They will help you recognize and manage this common newborn issue so you can support families.

Joining us for this episode is Mason Nistel, MD. He specializes in gastroenterology at Children's Hospital Colorado and is an Assistant Professor of pediatric GI, hepatology and nutrition at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.  

Every kid is unique with their own distinct personality and behavior. But at what point should a child's behavior become a cause for concern? From anxiety and tantrums to challenges at school and issues with sleep, pediatricians frequently encounter a wide range of behavioral concerns.

This episode was recorded at the 2025 Pediatric Academic Societies Conference in Honolulu, Hawaii. In this episode of Charting Pediatrics, we are joined by Stephanie Weber, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital who specializes in working with children with behavioral concerns. Dr. Weber is the Associate Director of the Cincinnatti Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program and an Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnatti.

Some highlights from this episode include: 

• Utilizing the right language to get a full picture of a patient's behavioral concerns 
• Deciphering between "regular" and "irregular" 
• Opportunities for modeling 
• How pediatricians can work with families whose strategies they don't agree with 

Pediatricians are superheroes in scrubs, baby whisperers, teen translators and guardians of growing minds and bodies. But even heroes need reinforcements. The pediatric workforce crisis has made a prominent impact on the healthcare community including staff shortages, jam-packed schedules, long wait times, frustrated patient families and fewer new doctors joining the ranks. In this episode, we examine what's really going on. If we understand what's driving the shortage and discuss what we can do about it, we can begin to create change.