Change is a constant in life, but for children, even positive transitions can feel confusing, overwhelming or scary. In this episode, we sit down with Katelyn Dailey, a Child Life Specialist at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, to explore how families can support kids when life shifts in big ways.

Join Dr. Donald Bearden, a pediatric psychologist, as he unpacks the complexities of pathological demand avoidance (PDA). This episode explores how everyday requests can trigger anxiety in children in children with PDA. Discover effective parenting strategies that focus on emotional regulation and collaboration. 

Learn more about Donald Bearden, PhD, ABPP-CN, FAES 

Potty training can be one of the most exciting and sometimes challenging milestones for families. In this episode of Peds Pod, we sit down with Dr. Colby Butzon, Behavioral Health Supervisor and Consultant at Le Bonheur Pediatrics, to explore how behavioral strategies can make the process smoother and less stressful for both parents and children. We’ll answer common questions like: When is the right time to reach out to a behavioral health consultant for potty training support?
How can behavioral health professionals help families navigate this stage? Whether you’re just starting the journey or facing challenges along the way, this episode offers expert insights and actionable tips to help make potty training a positive experience for your child and your family. 

Learn more about Colby Butzon, PhD 

Dr. Sarah Weatherspoon, associate chief of Pediatric Neurology at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, discusses seizure first aid, why accurate diagnosis matters and what families should know when seizures aren’t well controlled. 

Learn more about Sarah Weatherspoon, MD 

Sports cardiology is more than just heart care—it’s about helping athletes thrive safely. In this episode, Le Bonheur Associate Chief of Cardiology Ranjit Philip, MD, answers common questions: Who needs a cardiology check before sports? What tests are involved? When should parents talk to a pediatrician? And what happens if a heart condition is discovered? We’ll also share how Le Bonheur works with local colleges to support athletes at every level. 

Learn more about Ranjit Philip, MD 

Dr. Jason Yaun, Clinical Director of ULPS General Pediatrics at Le Bonheur Children's, joins the conversation to explore the growing trend of parents turning to artificial intelligence for guidance on their children's health. As AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude become increasingly embedded in daily parenting routines—from meal planning and emotional support to answering developmental questions—Dr. Yaun weighs in on the benefits, risks and ethical implications of using AI as a substitute for professional medical advice. 

Learn more about Jason Yaun, MD 

Chief of Pediatric Psychology and Behavioral Health for Le Bonheur Children's Hospital Dr. Donald Bearden unpacks the science behind how a parent’s health influences their child’s well-being. 

Learn more about Donald Bearden, PhD, ABPP-CN

In this episode, Dr. Jared Hogan, a dedicated pediatric pulmonologist at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, shares insights about his journey into pediatric medicine and the unique challenges and joys of working with young patients. Tune in to discover how his passion for helping children with respiratory issues shapes his practice.

Learn more about Jared Hogan, MD, FAAP 

Kerri Crawford, a Child Life Specialist from Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, explores how caregivers can help kids become strong self-advocates away from home, whether they have a chronic condition or need a little extra support in their medical care.

Jennifer Taylor, manager of Injury Prevention and Safe Kids Mid-South at Le Bonheur, discusses the importance of keeping kids safe around water during the summertime. From pools to beaches and lakes, supervising adults should be aware of proper safety precautions when children are in or near water.

Today, we're talking about something that can feel overwhelming for many families: toddler behavior. From meltdowns to milestones, it's not always easy to tell what's typical and what might be a sign your child needs extra support. Joining us is Dr. Colby Butzon, supervisor and consultant of Behavioral Health at Le Bonheur Pediatrics. She's here to help us better understand what's going on beneath those big toddler feelings — and how behavioral health services can make a real difference for both kids and parents.

Learn why using sunscreen is not just a summer activity but a critical daily habit for all skin types. Dr. Teresa Wright shares expert insights on how sun exposure during childhood can impact skin health for life.

Kevin Whitsell, a Le Bonheur Pedi-Flite manager, is here with us today to discuss Le Bonheur’s transport services. Pedi-Flite consists of pediatric and neonatal critical care nurses, respiratory therapists and paramedics who bring the intensive care unit to the patient by ambulance, helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft. 

Join Webb Smith, PhD, as he delves into the vital role of exercise in childhood health, discussing how incorporating physical activity into medical treatment plans can lead to improved health outcomes. This episode uncovers the necessity of exercise for growing children and how it can potentially be prescribed just like medication for chronic conditions.

Sarah Allan, MD, a Le Bonheur pediatric endocrinologist, discusses practical lifestyle changes, risk factors to watch for and the latest treatments available for Type 2 diabetes. This episode empowers parents and caregivers to make informed choices for a heathier future.

Nick Hysmith, MD, MBA, an infectious disease physician and medical director of Infection Prevention at Le Bonheur, discusses the recent measles outbreaks, questions about the vaccine and ways to keep your kids and family safe.

Price Edwards, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, discusses gut health and all things digestion in kids. He shares insightful information on constipation in children and the treatments available.

Join us as we delve into Dr. Tanjala Gipson's journey from being inspired by her own pediatrician to becoming a leading voice in autism support and care. Dr. Gipson shares her motivations, experiences and the unique approaches she takes in treating children and adults with varying levels of autism, ensuring that every patient receives personalized care.

Le Bonheur Endocrinologist Grace Nelson, MD, discusses puberty milestones and what parents may witness their child experience, including delayed and early puberty.

Rudy Kink, MD, pediatric emergency medicine specialist discusses opioid safety and childhood prevention, education and intervention. Opioids, typically prescribed for their effective pain-relieving properties, can pose significant risks when not managed properly, especially to vulnerable populations like children. Accidental exposure can occur through various means such as improper storage or disposal, leading to potential overdoses that require immediate medical attention.

Le Bonheur Children's Hospital Pediatric Neurologist and Director of the Pediatric Sleep Laboratory Erick Viorritto, MD, MPH, discusses the importance of quality sleep for children and tips to have a restful night.

Today on The Peds Pod, we're diving into the growing trend of nicotine pouches, like Zyn, and their alarming rise in teen use. These seemingly harmless products are anything but — and to help us unpack the risks and health consequences we are joined by Dr. Michelle Bowden, Pediatrician of Adolescent Medicine and Medical Director of the Eating Disorders Clinic at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.

Colby Butzon, PhD discusses Seasonal Affective Disorder(SAD) and the impact it has on children. She shares insightful information about treatment options and resources for SAD.

Mark Corkins, MD discusses the often-confusing world of vitamins and supplements for children, why these nutrients are vital for growth and development and the safest ways to incorporate them into their diet.

In 2022, U.S. Child Protective Service Agencies substantiated 95,000 cases of child physical abuse, with 677 cases tragically resulting in death. In Tennessee alone, there were 8,122 reports of maltreatment, nearly half involving physical abuse. These statistics greatly underestimate the incidence of child physical abuse in the country and in our state, as many cases go unreported or unsubstantiated. Erin Wade, MD, MS board certified child abuse pediatrician and member of the Child Advocacy Resource and Evaluation Services team at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, talks today about the signs of child abuse and ways to prevent harm to your child and children in your community.

Meet Dr. Laurel Metzler, a critical care medical physician at Le Bonheur!

Michelle Bowden, MD, FAAP, discusses the difference between picky eating and ARFID - an eating disorder characterized by very selective eating. Learn more about how to understand the differences and when to seek help from a pediatrician for a child's eating habits.

Kids are heading back to school and this means that germs and viruses have the perfect indoor environment to spread. The winter months are usually the peak period for illnesses; however, doctors say the sickness season is already kicking off. General Pediatrician, Dr. Christopher Wright with Le Bonheur Pediatrics is here to explain how parents can prepare.

Meet Le Bonheur Medical Director of the Complex Care Program Rebekah Shappley, MD, FAAP, and her role at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital

Today we are diving into a topic that’s often overlooked but incredibly important — preteen skincare. Joining us is Dr. Teresa Wright, Chief of Pediatric Dermatology at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, who is here to shed light on the hidden dangers of those seemingly innocent skincare routines. Whether it's that new face wash or a trendy beauty hack, Dr. Wright will discuss what’s safe and what’s not for your preteen. Stay tuned as we unravel the dos and don’ts of preteen skincare.

Le Bonheur General Pediatrician and Medical Director of Healthy Lifestyles Clinic Adebowale Odulana, MD, MPH, discusses the effects of sun on kids - what precautions to take, what to look out for and any other tips for staying safe outside during summertime.

Many adults understand that lead exposure is dangerous and are careful to take precautions but what should caregivers do to make sure their children are out of harm’s way? Jason Yaun, MD, Division Chief of Outpatient Pediatrics, UTHSC and Medical Director of Family Resilience Initiative at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, talks today about the dangers of lead poisoning and the unique risks that exposure can pose to young children.

Good oral health can be a key indicator of overall health and well-being. For young children, early checkups reduce the risk of tooth decay, cavities and helps establish a life-long foundation of good oral health. Dr. Craig Vinall, with the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Oral Health for the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, talks about what parents can do to keep their kid’s smiles bright.

Get to know Dr. Sarah Weatherspoon, a Pediatric Neurologist at Le Bonheur!

About half of all babies spit up several times a day in the first three months of their lives. Reflux in babies is a common but often challenging issue many parents have to navigate. Today we are sitting down with Le Bonheur Gastroenterologist Dr. Maggie Vickers to discuss the different kinds of reflux issues a baby can experience as well as things parents can do to help their child.

Meet Dr. Tim Jancelewicz, a pediatric surgeon at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital!

What should you do if your child is sick, and how do you know if it’s time to call their pediatrician or go to the urgent care or emergency department (ED)? Listen for advice from an expert at Le Bonheur Children's.

Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital treats more than 1,300 kids every year for epilepsy. Their patients have some of the highest seizure-free rates in the country. Today we are sitting down with Dr. James Wheless, Director of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program and Neuroscience Institute at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital to discuss the various treatments for children with epilepsy and what new advances Le Bonheur has made in the epilepsy program.

Parents and caregivers know to bring their children to the hospital to address physical wounds associated with acts of violence. What can they do, however, to address the mental and emotional strain that follows? In the spring of 2022, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital launched Supporting & Healing Individuals from Trauma (SHIFT), a hospital-based violence intervention program (HVIP) that aims to assist Le Bonheur patients and families who have been impacted by violence. By collaborating with the patients’ care team to identify specific needs, SHIFT coordinates wrap-around services to help ensure the best possible outcomes, both in and out of the hospital. Because trauma can have wide-reaching effects on every aspect of a patient’s home life, SHIFT can help connect families with mental health resources, mentoring, and youth development, as well as school and court advocacy.

What is this technology? And how do doctors use it to care for kids? Le Bonheur neurologists and neurosurgeons discuss how technology is changing the outcomes for kids with neurological conditions and the process of planning for neurosurgeries.

Halloween can be one of the most fun nights of the year for kids - costumes, candy and fun with friends! This Halloween, take a few extra precautions to help make this holiday a safe one for your kids with some tips from Le Bonheur's Manager of Injury Prevention and Safe Kids Jennifer Taylor.

Many kids are born with or develop harmless birthmarks on their skin that have a variety of causes. But what does it mean to have a vascular birthmark? Dr. Teresa Wright discusses this type of birthmark, what causes it and when a child might need to visit a specialist.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common illness, especially for babies under the age of two, that attacks the lining of the airways and lungs. Learn more about the latest treatments and vaccines for RSV and what might be best for you and your child during the RSV season.

New parents are often told once you have kids, you’ll never sleep again. Your sleep may never be the same but sleep is crucial to overall health, especially for children. Lack of sleep can hinder your child’s mental and physical development and give rise to negative emotions.

With the development of over the counter sleep aids, more caregivers are turning to supplements to help their child get a better night’s sleep. Sleep Technologist Tuesday Glenn with Le Bonheur’s Sleep Center is here to discuss the importance of sleep and safe and effective ways to help make sure your child is getting enough of it.

Music… it can lift moods, decrease anxiety and even be used as an effective form of treatment. Music therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music by a credentialed music therapist. Combining expertise in psychology, counseling, medicine and music, music therapists can help improve patient’s quality of life by promoting development and creating peaceful distractions during procedures. Music activates multiple areas of the brain, and its therapeutic use can positively impact hormone release and pain perception, helping patients cope and adapt.

Le Bonheur’s Music Therapist Courtney Rosewall, MT-BC, is here to tell us more about how music therapy is having a positive impact on patients and their treatment.

In 2022, the leading cause of death for teens and young adults is suicide. Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital has treated patients as young as 5 years old for self-injury, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempt. Those who attempt or die by suicide do so because they cannot imagine a better day.

For more than 71 years, the journey to a healthier childhood has led thousands of children and their families to Le Bonheur. That’s why Le Bonheur was one of only 16 hospitals in the country selected to develop a pediatric-specific approach to the youth mental health crisis, through a grant made possible by Children’s Hospital Association, Cardinal Health, and Zero Suicide.

Le Bonheur’s program is called Hope Journey. Senior Director of Emergency Services Barbie Stewart is here to talk about childhood suicide and how we can help in the fight to keep children safe.

Meet Dr. Jason Johnson, Associate Chief of Pediatric Cardiology and Director of Cardiac MRI at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital!