Advertise on podcast: The Little Brain Campaign

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

Laura Hunter is a pediatric nurse, parenting expert, and co-author of Moms on Call. We sat down with Laura to explore how a simple effort to support new parents grew into one of the most trusted parenting resources in the country. Drawing from decades of experience as both a pediatric nurse and mother of twins, Laura shares the story behind Moms on Call, the lessons she learned from working directly with families, and why confidence may be one of the most important tools a parent can have. We also discussed the power of routines, how predictability can reduce stress for both children and caregivers, and why information overload has made parenting more complicated than ever. Laura explains how parents can tune out unrealistic expectations, trust their instincts, and focus on what works best for their unique family. We also dive into understanding different child personalities, building stronger parent-child relationships, and creating practical systems that help families thrive through every stage of childhood. If you’re interested in learning more about Laura's work, you can visit Moms on Call's website, https://momsoncall.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

Rita Sverdlova is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and the founder of Playwell Brooklyn. We sat down with Rita to talk about how a simple idea grew into a community-centered space where children can play, build skills, and connect with others outside of traditional therapy settings. Drawing from nearly two decades of experience working with children and families, Rita shares what she learned about the gap between therapy and real-life experiences, and why play is one of the most powerful tools for child development. We also explore how the challenges of the pandemic helped shape the vision for Playwell Brooklyn, the role community plays in supporting children and families, and why creating spaces that are accessible, welcoming, and child-centered matters. Rita discusses her unique model that blends play, education, and therapeutic support while helping families better understand child development in a natural and engaging environment. If you’re interested in learning more about Rita's work, you can visit Playwell's website, https://www.playwellbrooklyn.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

Kelly Komisaruk is a feeding specialist and speech language pathologist with Food 4 Thought Therapy. We sat down with Kelly to talk about the difference between typical picky eating and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), a condition that can have a major impact on a child’s nutrition, development, and quality of life. We explored how feeding challenges develop, the role anxiety and sensory sensitivities can play, and why some children become increasingly restrictive with food over time. We also discussed common misconceptions about picky eating, warning signs that families should not ignore, and how evidence-based feeding therapy can help children build confidence around food. Kelly shares practical insights on early intervention, reducing mealtime stress, supporting children with food fears, and helping families navigate feeding challenges with compassion and patience. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or clinician, this conversation offers valuable perspective on one of the most misunderstood areas of child development. If you’re interested in learning more about Kelly’s work, you can visit her at Food 4 Thought Therapy on Instagram and Facebook 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. Alice Hoyt is an allergist and the leader of the Hoyt Institute of Food Allergy. We sat down with Dr. Hoyt to unpack the growing rise of food allergies, what may actually be driving the increase, and how modern medicine is evolving when it comes to prevention and treatment. From peanut allergies and anaphylaxis to lesser-known conditions like FPIES and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), we explored the different ways food-related immune conditions can show up in kids and why many cases are still being missed or misunderstood. We also discussed early allergen introduction, oral immunotherapy, the importance of individualized care, and the need for more honest conversations between doctors and parents. Dr. Hoyt shares her perspective on immune system development, environmental factors potentially impacting allergies, and why listening carefully to patients and families matters more than ever. This conversation dives into the nuance behind some of today’s biggest health questions while emphasizing curiosity, research, and collaborative decision-making for families navigating food allergies and immune-related conditions. To learn more about Dr. Hoyt’s work and the Hoyt Institute of Food Allergy, you can follow along for more resources, research, and treatment information at https://www.hoytallergy.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

Rebecca Louth is a neurofeedback specialist and founder of Waves Matter LLC in Virginia. We sat down with Rebecca to break down what neurofeedback actually is, how it works, and why it has become such a powerful tool for helping children and adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, sleep issues, emotional regulation, and more. Drawing from her background in education, Rebecca explains how her own experience with neurofeedback led her to leave the classroom and dedicate her career to helping people better understand and heal their brains. Throughout the conversation, we explore how neurofeedback helps the brain develop flexibility and improve its ability to respond to stress, emotions, and daily life. Rebecca shares stories from working with kids, veterans, first responders, and families, while also discussing the differences between neurofeedback and medication, concerns about at-home devices, and why accessibility and insurance coverage remain major challenges in the field. If you’re interested in learning more about Rebecca's work, you can visit Sea Level Counseling's website, https://www.sealevelcounselingandwellness.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