Advertise on podcast: The Little Brain Campaign

Dr. Lauren LaRose is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to psychiatric medications. We sat down with Dr. LaRose for a solo discussion about how antidepressants work, why they're prescribed, and the common misconceptions surrounding their safety and effectiveness. We break down the differences between SSRIs, SNRIs, Wellbutrin, and other antidepressants, exploring how these medications affect brain chemistry and why they're used to treat conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, and more. Dr. LaRose also shares why she focuses on treating individual symptoms rather than simply relying on diagnoses, and why the same medication can affect two people very differently. We also explore some of the biggest concerns surrounding psychiatric medications, including sexual side effects, emotional numbness, suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, and potential long-term risks. Dr. LaRose explains what research tells us about these medications, how she approaches safely tapering patients off antidepressants, and why medication should be considered just one part of a broader mental health treatment plan. Drawing from her experience treating both children and adults, she offers a balanced perspective on when psychiatric medications can be helpful, when they may be overprescribed, and why combining medication with therapy, nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

John Ossipinsky is an author, Lymphatic System Health Coach, Lymphatic Medical Intuitive, and developer of LymphPractic®. We sat down with John to explore the often-overlooked lymphatic system and its essential role in supporting immune function, removing cellular waste, and maintaining overall health. Drawing from decades of experience and his own personal health journey, John explains why he believes lymphatic dysfunction may contribute to chronic inflammation, digestive problems, and neurological conditions. We also discuss the emerging research surrounding the connection between the lymphatic system and brain health, including its potential implications for cognitive function, mental health, and aging. We also dive into practical ways to support lymphatic health through nutrition, movement, deep breathing, and simple daily exercises. John demonstrates his signature "LymphMan Shoulder Shuffle" and explains how small lifestyle changes may help promote healthy lymphatic circulation. Our conversation also explores the potential role of lymphatic health in children's development, autism, pregnancy, and chronic illness, while highlighting areas where more research is needed. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone interested in taking a more proactive approach to your health, this conversation offers a thought-provoking perspective on an important body system that often goes unnoticed. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Dr. Gina Nick is a licensed naturopathic physician with more than 25 years of experience and the founder of Radiant Health Advisory. We sat down with Dr. Nick to explore the connection between inflammation, oxidative stress, and mental health, and why understanding what’s happening throughout the body may be just as important as treating symptoms in the brain. She explains the role of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant naturally produced by the body, and how it supports detoxification, protects cells, and helps regulate inflammation. We also discuss the potential connections between neuroinflammation and conditions like autism, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, as well as the important relationship between gut health, the immune system, and the brain. We also dive into the role of the vagus nerve, chronic stress, and hormonal imbalances in mental health, particularly how perimenopause and menopause can contribute to symptoms that are often treated as psychiatric conditions. Dr. Nick shares her experiences working with patients through integrative medicine, including stories that highlight the importance of addressing nutritional deficiencies, environmental exposures, and other underlying health concerns. Together, we explore why psychiatric medications can be valuable tools but shouldn't always be the entire treatment plan, and how a more individualized, whole-body approach can open the door to additional treatment options and better overall well-being. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Davina Soernssen is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family Medicine and Dermatology (DCNP), an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFMCP), and the founder of Clinical Edge, a precision-based medical practice focused on restoring health at the cellular level. We sat down with Davina to explore her functional approach to dermatology and why chronic skin conditions may tell us much more about what is happening inside the body. Drawing from her own experience with chronic illness and years of clinical practice, Davina explains the connections she sees between skin health, the gut, immune function, inflammation, environmental exposures, and nutrition, and why she believes treating the underlying contributors can be just as important as treating the symptoms. We also discuss conditions including eczema, psoriasis, acne, mast cell activation, and Alpha-Gal syndrome, along with the potential connections between gut health and conditions like PANS/PANDAS. Davina shares how she uses elimination diets, functional testing, nutrition, and other individualized approaches to investigate what may be contributing to a patient's symptoms. She also shares a powerful story of working with a child experiencing sudden behavioral changes and suspected PANS, highlighting why she believes looking beyond a diagnosis and connecting seemingly unrelated symptoms can help families uncover potential pieces of the health puzzle. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Dan Shapiro is the author of the newly released book Decoding Genius: The Unexpected Lessons of After-School Chess Club. After seeing how chess helped his son Harry build confidence and stronger decision-making skills, Dan set out to better understand the mindset behind the game and what it can teach kids beyond the board. We sat down with Dan to explore how chess can support focus, patience, resilience, memory, creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to think ahead. We also discuss how the game can be especially valuable for kids who may not naturally connect with more traditional extracurricular activities, and how it can help strengthen executive functioning, frustration tolerance, and self-confidence. We also dive into the ideas behind Decoding Genius, a thoughtful and practical book for parents, caregivers, and families looking for new ways to help kids build confidence, resilience, and real-world thinking skills. Dan shares how the lessons his son learned through chess began carrying over into school, music, technology use, and everyday decision-making, while highlighting the social and lifelong benefits of the game. To learn more about Dan and Decoding Genius, visit https://www.decodinggeniusbook.com/. You can also follow along on social media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoding.genius/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoding.genius. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Dr. Athena Hall is a pediatrician and the founder of ZNA Health Network, where she is working to help reshape healthcare around stronger relationships between patients, providers, and communities. We sat down with Dr. Hall to talk about how her experiences working in Rwanda and the Navajo Nation changed the way she viewed the traditional healthcare system, particularly the limitations of top-down models that do not always reflect the needs, culture, or priorities of the people they are meant to serve. We also discuss physician burnout, distrust in healthcare institutions, the importance of addressing mental, physical, social, and environmental factors together, and why Dr. Hall believes communities should have a greater voice in designing their own care. She shares the vision behind ZNA Health Network, her hope for a more community-centered and relationship-driven healthcare system, and examples of alternative models that show meaningful change is possible. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Dr. Matthew Bernstein is a metabolic psychiatrist and founding partner of Accord, a mental health program focused not just on reducing symptoms, but on helping people regain meaningful, lasting functioning in their daily lives. We sat down with Dr. Bernstein to explore how metabolic health may influence serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and treatment-resistant depression. He shares how his experience in traditional psychiatry led him to question the long-term reliance on antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, and why factors like insulin resistance, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and brain energy may deserve more attention in psychiatric care. We also discuss the role of ketogenic nutrition, exercise, sleep, circadian rhythm, stress reduction, and other lifestyle interventions in supporting brain health. Dr. Bernstein explains how these approaches may help some patients reduce medication burden, improve motivation and functioning, and build a better quality of life. He also shares a powerful patient story, discusses the importance of carefully tapering medications when appropriate, and explores why improving metabolic health earlier in life could potentially play a role in preventing future mental health challenges. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Dr. Lauren LaRose is a board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist exploring the psychology of bullying and why not every bully fits the stereotype we expect. We take a closer look at “bully victims,” children who are both bullied by others and display aggressive or bullying behaviors themselves. We discuss how peer rejection, low self-worth, emotional dysregulation, shame, and a heightened sensitivity to threats can create a cycle where victimization leads to aggression, which then leads to even more rejection. We also explore what chronic bullying and social stress can do to the developing brain, including how the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and stress-response system may influence reactive aggression, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Dr. LaRose explains why punishment alone may not be enough for children caught in this cycle and how supportive relationships, psychotherapy, social-emotional learning, parent support, and healthier school environments can help change their trajectory. This conversation challenges us to look beyond simple labels of “bully” and “victim” and better understand the complex experiences driving a child’s behavior. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Amanda McDaniels is a special educator and the founder of Vibe Learning Center, where she works with non-speaking autistic individuals to develop intentional motor skills and access communication through letterboarding. We sat down with Amanda to explore how her years working in special education led her to question traditional assumptions about autism, cognitive ability, and communication. She explains how apraxia can make it difficult for some autistic individuals to physically demonstrate what they know, how letterboarding works as a low-tech AAC method, and why developing intentional motor control can open new possibilities for communication. We also discuss the controversy surrounding spelling-based communication, the differences between behavior-focused approaches and Vibe's philosophy, and the importance of presuming competence in non-speaking autistic children and adults. Amanda shares stories of individuals who have gained new ways to express their thoughts, interests, relationships, and goals through spelling, while challenging parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to reconsider what someone's outward behavior actually tells us about their abilities. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or clinician, this conversation offers a thought-provoking perspective on autism, communication, and what can happen when we give non-speaking individuals more opportunities to show us what they know. If you’re interested in learning more about Amanda's work, you can visit Vibe Learning Center's website, https://vibelearningcenter.com, for additional information and resources. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Lee Schwartz is the father of two former NFL players and a member of the Concussion Legacy Foundation's West Coast Board of Advisors. We sat down with Lee to discuss the growing concern surrounding chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), what current research tells us about repeated head impacts, and why so many experts are urging parents to reconsider tackle football before age 14. Drawing from his family's firsthand experience in football and his work with the Concussion Legacy Foundation, Lee explains the difference between concussions and the repetitive, non-concussive hits that researchers believe may contribute to long-term brain injury, while also exploring what scientists still don't know about who is most at risk. We also discuss youth sports culture, early specialization, travel teams, and the pressure many families feel to pursue elite athletics from a young age. Lee shares why he believes children benefit from playing multiple sports, how parents can better weigh the risks and rewards of contact sports, and why education is the most important tool families have when making these decisions. Whether you're a parent, coach, educator, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers an important look at the science, uncertainty, and real-life stories surrounding brain health and youth athletics. If you’re interested in learning more about the work of Concussion and CTE foundation, you can visit EnLyte's website, https://concussionandcte.org/, for additional information and resources. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Ashlyn Lelej is a speech-language pathologist and owner of Speech Matters in Charlotte, North Carolina. We sit down with Ashlyn to explore how speech therapy supports children with autism, developmental language delays, and stuttering. Together, we discuss how communication challenges can look different from child to child, why modern speech therapy embraces neurodiversity-affirming care, and how therapists help children build meaningful communication by working with their unique strengths rather than trying to change who they are. We also dive into the latest understanding of autism and language development, including what researchers know about the brain, sensory processing, and social communication. Finally, we take an in-depth look at stuttering, covering its genetic and neurological roots, what is happening physiologically during a stutter, and the evidence-based techniques speech-language pathologists use to help children and adults communicate with greater confidence. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers practical insights into supporting communication across every stage of development. If you’re interested in learning more about Ashlyn’s work, you can visit Speech Matters' website, https://www.speechmattersclinic.com/, for additional information and resources. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Lane Slattery is a Pre & Postnatal Strength Specialist and founder of WOMA, where she helps women build strength, improve pelvic floor health, and navigate pregnancy and postpartum recovery through evidence-based movement. We sat down with Lane to discuss why pregnancy shouldn't mean putting fitness on hold, how functional strength training supports both the mom and the baby, and why core and pelvic floor health are essential before, during, and after childbirth. We also explore common misconceptions about exercising during pregnancy, diastasis recti, pelvic floor therapy, postpartum recovery, and the importance of treating mothers as athletes rather than patients. Lane shares how becoming a mother herself deepened her perspective, why postpartum care often leaves women feeling overlooked, and how honest conversations about pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and recovery can help women feel stronger, more supported, and less alone. You can learn more about Lane Slattery's work and WOMA here: https://www.woma.co Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Danielle Mitchell is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach, and co-developer of the Neurowell Plus genetic testing panel through Cognizant Group in Houston, Texas. We sat down with Danielle to explore how nutrigenomics is changing the way we understand mental health by examining the relationship between genetics, nutrition, lifestyle, and brain function. We discuss why genes are not destiny, how environmental factors influence gene expression, and how genetic testing can help uncover personalized approaches to supporting mood, energy, focus, and overall health. We also dive into methylation, MTHFR, COMT, neurotransmitters, inflammation, detoxification, and why these pathways play such an important role in conditions like anxiety, ADHD, depression, and chronic fatigue. Danielle shares how her own family's journey led her into this field, explains the science behind the Neurowell Plus genetic panel, and discusses how personalized genetics can complement traditional medicine to help patients and providers better understand the root causes behind complex physical and mental health symptoms. If you’re interested in learning more about Danielle and the Cognizant Group's work, you can visit their website, https://thecognizantgroup.com/, for additional information and resources. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Dr. Jill Crista is a licensed naturopathic doctor specializing in mold illness and environmental health. We sat down with Dr. Crista to explore why mold exposure affects some people more than others, how hidden mold can contribute to a wide range of physical and mental health symptoms, and why these cases are so often overlooked or misdiagnosed. We also discuss the science behind mold, mycotoxins, inflammation, and the complex ways environmental exposures can impact children and adults alike. Dr. Crista shares how years of treating chronic illness led her to uncover mold as a major root cause for many patients who weren't improving through conventional approaches. We also dive into the connection between mold exposure and PANS/PANDAS, the role pregnancy and early childhood exposure may play in long-term health, and practical steps families can take to reduce mold in their homes. Dr. Crista explains why mold illness can present differently from person to person, how environmental toxins may contribute to neuroinflammation and anxiety, and why identifying the root cause is so important for recovery. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone searching for answers to unexplained chronic symptoms, this conversation offers an eye-opening look at one of today's most misunderstood health topics. If you're interested in learning more, visit Dr. Crista's website here: https://drcrista.com Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign

Kamy Moussavi is the founder of Step Together, a program that helps families understand the deeper causes behind children's eating habits, behavioral challenges, and emotional struggles. In this conversation with Dr. Lauren LaRose, we explore why issues that appear to be about food are often connected to something much bigger. Kamy shares his personal journey as a parent and discusses how factors like emotional regulation, trauma, anxiety, sleep, screen time, social connection, and family dynamics can shape a child's relationship with food and overall wellbeing. We also dive into the impact of modern technology, highly processed foods, and the importance of creating environments that help children build healthier habits. Together, we unpack practical ways parents can look beyond symptoms and better understand what their children may be trying to communicate through their behavior. If you’re interested in learning more about Kamy's work, you can visit Step Together's website, https://www.steptogether.us/, for additional information and resources. Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works. Follow The Little Brain Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlebraincampaign