Shows
Your Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 216: ADHD & Executive Function: What Matters More Than Grades (Part 1) — with Mike McLeodSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman talks with Mike McLeod about ADHD, executive function, and why grades are not the best predictor of long-term success.Mike explains why ADHD is less about “attention” and more about missing internal skills — including self-awareness, self-regulation, self-motivation, and self-evaluation — and how those skills show up at home through homework battles, emotional conflict, and daily routines.In Part 1, we cover:Why executive function predicts real-life success more than gradesThe “internal skills” behind ADHD behaviorsWhy home is ofte...
2026-01-0530 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 215: When Period Pain Isn’t Normal: Endometriosis in Teens with Dr. Iris Kerin OrbuchSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with endometriosis specialist Dr. Iris Kerin Orbuch, author of Beating Endo: How to Reclaim Your Life from Endometriosis and a key medical voice in the films Endo What? and Below the Belt.Dr. Orbuch explains what endometriosis is, why it’s so common yet underdiagnosed, and how it often first shows up in teens—not only as painful periods, but often as chronic gut issues, fatigue, and “IBS” that never fully resolves. She shares how she evaluates patients, why exci...
2025-12-1539 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 214: Raising Intuitive Eaters, with Kim Shapira, Dietician and AuthorSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with dietitian and author Kim Shapira whose book This Is What You’re Really Hungry For helps people rebuild a peaceful relationship with food.Kim shares how her own childhood health struggles and experiences with patients led her away from traditional dieting and toward an approach centered on trust, body awareness, and emotional honesty around eating.Why using dessert or “treats” as rewards (for shots, potty training, etc.) can wire kids to use food for comfort.How to tal...
2025-12-0846 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 210: Pediatric UTIs: Myths, Treatment, and Prevention, Insights with Dr. Andrew KirschSend us a textEpisode 210 of Your Child is Normal is a conversation discussing everything you've ever wondered about UTIs! It’s common for kids to occasionally feel discomfort when they pee — but how do you know when it’s something that needs more attention, like a urinary tract infection?In this episode, pediatrician Dr. Jessica Hochman talks with pediatric urologist Dr. Andrew Kirsch, author of The Ultimate Bedwetting Survival Guide, about everything parents should know about UTIs in children — from the most common symptoms to when to see a doctor.They disc...
2025-11-1036 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 208: When Kids Always Sound Stuffy: Chronic Congestion, Snoring, and Mouth Breathing with Dr. Nina Shapiro (Part 2)Send us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman welcomes back Dr. Nina Shapiro, pediatric ENT and author of Take a Deep Breath: Clear the Air for the Health of Your Child.If your child always sounds congested, snores at night, or breathes through their mouth, this episode is for you. Dr. Shapiro explains the most common causes of chronic nasal stuffiness in kids — from back-to-back colds to allergies — and what parents can realistically do to help.You’ll learn:Why constant congestion is so com...
2025-11-0322 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 207: Helping Babies Breathe Easier: with Dr. Nina Shapiro (Part 1)Send us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with Dr. Nina Shapiro, pediatric ENT and author of Take a Deep Breath: Clear the Air for the Health of Your Child, now out in its updated edition.Together, they dive into one of the most common worries for parents: their baby’s breathing. Dr. Shapiro explains why newborns are “obligate nasal breathers,” what normal baby breathing actually sounds like, and when parents should (and shouldn’t) worry. You’ll also learn practical, evidence-based tips on:The safe...
2025-10-2028 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 205: Making Sense of ADHD: Diagnosis, Treatment Options & Strengths with Shirley HerskoSend us a textADHD is one of the most common concerns parents bring up—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. What does ADHD really mean? How is it diagnosed? And what actually helps kids who struggle with focus, organization, or impulsivity?In this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with ADHD specialist Shirley Hershko, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent of children with ADHD. Together, they explore:What ADHD looks like in the brain (and why dopamine plays such a big...
2025-10-0627 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 198: Lice Myths Busted: What Every Parent Needs to Know, with Amy ChinianSend us a text In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Jessica Hochman, MD, talks with Amy Chinian, founder of My Hair Helpers, about the truth behind lice—what they are, how they really spread, and why they have nothing to do with hygiene. Together, they bust common myths (spoiler: you can stop bagging stuffed animals for two weeks), explain the most effective ways to check for lice, and share safe, non-toxic treatment options. Whether you’ve been through a lice outbreak or just want to be prepared, this conversation will help you. Your Child...
2025-08-1825 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 197: Helping Kids Feel Safe Before Anesthesia, with pediatric anesthesiologist Dr Jacqueline Drummond LewisSend us a textWhen kids need anesthesia for a medical procedure, it’s normal for both them—and their parents—to feel anxious. In this episode of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman speaks with pediatric anesthesiologist Dr. Jacqueline Drummond Lewis (aka Doc JC), author of Adventures with Doc JC: The Unseen Planet. Together they explore what anesthesia actually is, how it works in kids, and how families can better prepare their children before a procedure. Dr. Lewis shares practical tips, reassures us about safety, and explains how imagination and preparation can reduce fear for everyo...
2025-08-1130 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 196: Using Hypnosis with Children — Lynn Lyons on Helping Anxious Kids Tap into Their ImaginationSend us a textThis week on Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman welcomes back Lynn Lyons—licensed therapist, author, and host of the Flusterclux podcast—for a surprising and eye-opening conversation about clinical hypnosis for kids.You might associate hypnosis with stage tricks or pop culture shenanigans, but as Lynn explains, it's actually a science-backed, deeply therapeutic technique—especially powerful for children dealing with anxiety, phobias, or even chronic pain.Drawing from her book Using Hypnosis with Children, Lynn breaks down how hypnosis really works (hint: it’s not about going into a t...
2025-08-0442 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 195: Acupuncture for Kids with Anxiety: A Conversation with Dr. Tara McCannelSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman is joined by Dr. Tara McCannel—retinal surgeon, ocular oncologist, and co-founder of Seyhart Acupuncture in Santa Monica, California. They discuss how acupuncture can be a powerful, evidence-informed, and low-risk option to support anxiety—especially in children who present with physical symptoms like headaches, stomach aches, or sleep disturbances. Whether you're a parent seeking alternatives to medication, or simply curious about the science behind acupuncture, this episode is full of practical insights and thoughtful reflection.Your Child is Normal is the...
2025-07-2830 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 192: Why boredom is a good thing for kids! (Minisode)Send us a textIn this solo episode of Your Child Is Normal, pediatrician and mom of three Dr. Jessica Hochman explores a summer parenting dilemma almost all families face: what to do when kids say, “I’m bored.”Rather than seeing boredom as a problem to fix, in episode makes the case that it’s actually a gift. Drawing on developmental psychology and research, she explains how boredom helps children develop creativity, autonomy, and emotional regulation. You’ll hear stories about J.K. Rowling, Albert Einstein, and Thomas Edison—all of whom had major breakthrough...
2025-07-0707 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 191: Summer Q&A Minisode! Hydration, Constipation, Sunscreen Battles & Motion SicknessSend us a textIn this special "minisode" of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman answers four of the most common summer questions she hears from parents:– Is it normal if my kid doesn’t drink much water?– Why does my child get constipated when we travel?– What if my child refuses sunscreen?– How do I prevent motion sickness in the car?The goal is to help parents learn practical tips of normal parent concerns to help you feel more prepared during the summer months.Your Child is Normal is...
2025-06-3007 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 188: Why Bedwetting Happens—and What Really Helps: A Conversation with Pediatric Urologist Dr. Andrew KirschSend us a textBedwetting is incredibly common—but it’s also often misunderstood, leaving families feeling frustrated, confused, or even ashamed. In this episode, pediatric urologist Dr. Andrew Kirsch joins Dr. Jessica Hochman to demystify nighttime wetting and offer real, evidence-based guidance for parents.They explore:Why bedwetting happens (hint: it’s not your child’s fault)When to worry and when to waitThe truth about bedwetting alarms and medicationsA promising new non-drug device called Soluu that could reshape how we treat bedwettingWhether you're in the thick of it with your child or...
2025-06-0942 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 187: When is the digital world too much for kids? And what can realistically be done about it? With Julie Frumin, MFTSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman talks with therapist and screen-time educator Julie Frumin about the digital world kids are growing up in—and how to push back. They explore the rise in anxiety, sleep deprivation, and attention issues linked to screens, and how we can respond as parents and communities. Julie shares her personal story, professional insights, and her work with Healthier Tech and MAMA (Mothers Against Media Addiction). From delaying smartphones to modeling unplugged behavior to creating phone-free spaces, this conversation is filled with realistic, empowering to...
2025-06-0239 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 186: Between a Shot and a Hard Place: A Conversation with Dr. Joel “Gator” WarshSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman speaks with integrative pediatrician Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh about his brand-new book, Between a Shot and a Hard Place. They discuss vaccine decision-making in today’s polarized climate, the importance of listening to parents, and how to navigate thoughtful conversations rooted in care and trust.Dr. Hochman also shares her own perspective as a pediatrician who strongly supports vaccines and believes in creating space for respectful questions and dialogue.If you're a parent looking to make informed, confident choice...
2025-05-2645 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp: 185 Healthy Kids, Real Life: A Pediatrician Mom’s Honest Approach with Dr. Padget SkogmanSend us a textIn this episode of Your Child Is Normal, Dr. Jessica Hochman sits down with pediatric hospitalist and mom of three, Dr. Padget Skogman, for a refreshingly honest conversation about raising healthy kids in a very imperfect world. They dive into the real-life challenges of nutrition, screen time, and daily routines—offering practical, judgment-free advice for families who want to feel better without burning out.Dr. Skogman shares how her experience as a physician and a mother shaped her views on food, wellness, and the importance of small, sustainable changes. Th...
2025-05-1932 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 180: Part 1: Navigating Vaccine Hesitancy with Dr Paul OffitSend us a textIn this conversation, Dr. Paul Offit and pediatrician Jessica Hochman discuss the importance of vaccinations, the challenges of vaccine hesitancy among parents, and the need for nuanced conversations in public health. They explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public trust, and the science behind vaccination schedules. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding parental concerns while advocating for the safety and efficacy of vaccines. About Paul A. Offit, MD!Paul A. Offit, MD, is Director of the Vaccine Education Center and professor of pediatrics in the Division o...
2025-04-1421 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 178: The Seven Principles to help Connection with your Child, with Ned JohnsonSend us a textEp 178: Ned Johnson joins Dr Jessica Hochman on "Your Child is Normal" and they explore the complexities of parenting, emphasizing the importance of connection, understanding, and enjoying the journey with children. Ned shares insights from his new book, "Seven principles for raising self-driven children", highlighting practical strategies for building lasting relationships with their children.To purchase Ned's new book The Seven Principles for Raising a Self-Driven Child: A Workbook click hereYour Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nu...
2025-03-3139 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 177: Why Support Matters in Pregnancy & Childbirth, with Carson Meyer, Doula & Author of Growing TogetherSend us a textIn this conversation, Jessica Hochman and Carson Meyer discuss role of doulas in supporting families during pregnancy and childbirth. They explore the misconceptions surrounding birth, the importance of education and quality support to help the birthing experience. They emphasize how doulas can help provide emotional and physical support to mothers during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. About Carson:Carson Meyer is a doula, nutrition consultant, and advocate for holistic maternal care. She graduated from NYU in 2016 with a degree in child development and holistic health. Now based in North Carolina, Car...
2025-03-2438 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 176: Rethinking Youth Sports: Can we lessen the pressure and make it more fun? with Linda Flanagan Author of Taking Back the GameSend us a textIn this conversation, Linda H Flanagan and Jessica Hochman explore the complexities of youth sports today, discussing the pressures faced by young athletes, advocating for a more balanced approach to youth athletics. We discuss the importance of exercise, the risks of early specialization, and the mental health implications of competitive sports. The discussion emphasizes the need for free play, the debunking of myths surrounding sports and character building, and the design of an ideal sports curriculum that prioritizes enjoyment and well-being over competition. A really important conversation, especially for parents who have children...
2025-03-1745 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 172: Should normal "sucking habits" like breast feeding, pacifiers and thumb sucking be stopped? Dr Lisa Bienstock pediatric dentistSend us a textToday, Dr Jessica Hochman and Dr. Lisa Bienstock, pediatric dentist, discuss the nuances ] focusing on common concerns parents have regarding their children's "sucking" habits. They explore the importance of understanding non-nutritive sucking habits, for example the implications of breastfeeding, and the role of pacifiers and thumb sucking on children's oral development. Dr. Bienstock emphasizes the importance of allowing children to stop these habits on their own terms and provides various strategies and tools for parents to support their children in this process. The discussion aims to reassure parents about common concerns regarding their c...
2025-02-1729 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 167: Everyday Health Decision for kids-- with Dr Cara Natterson & Vanessa Kroll BennettSend us a textEp 167: I was lucky enough to be a guest on "This is So Awkward" hosted by the amazind, smart and funny duo, Dr Cara Natterson and Vanessa Bennett" and I thought my audience would enjoy hearing this conversation as well. In this episode we talk about winter illnesses, vaccine anxiety, common injuries, travel tips with children and more! This is So Awkward is a fantastic podcast---I recommend checking it out for more on puberty, tweens and teens! Also, this podcast is coming out as Los Angeles has been dealing with unprecidented fire...
2025-01-1447 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 163: Strategies to help parents play & be present with their children! With Dr Tina Payne Bryson!Send us a textIn this episode, Dr Tina Payne Bryson returns to Ask Dr Jessica to discuss her new book 'The Way of Play' which explains the importance of incorporating play into parenting, building relationships, regulating emotions, and developing essential skills in children. Her latest book shares strategies and tips to help parents play and be present with their kids--- which ultimately will help strengthen their bond with their children.Dr. Tina Payne Bryson is a licensed mental health professional and she has co-written several books on parenting, including 'The Whole-Brain Child,' 'No-Drama D...
2024-12-0231 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 161: Melatonin use in children: a cause for concern or a helpful supplement? with Pieter Cohen, MDSend us a textIn this episode, Jessica Hochman MD and Pieter Cohen MD discuss melatonin use in children! Dr Cohen recently authored a study on melatonin use in children, and the study revealed significant discrepancies in the labeling of melatonin supplements. They explore the safety concerns, regulatory issues, and the need for better quality control in the supplement industry.Dr. Pieter Cohen, a graduate of Yale School of Medicine, is an associate professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and a practicing internist at Cambridge Health Alliance (Somerville, Massachusetts). His area of research is th...
2024-11-1823 minYour Child is Normal: with Dr Jessica HochmanEp 159: The Science behind attachment relationships and Child Development! With Dan Siegel, MDSend us a textThank you to Dr Dan Siegel for joining Ask Dr Jessica! This will be a two part conversation, and in the first part Dan Siegel and Jessica discuss the intricacies of parenting and the neuroscience behind child development. They explore the importance of attachment, as attachment relationships are crucial for a child's emotional health. The discussion highlights the need for parents to understand their own reactions and the impact of their behavior on their children, ultimately offering hope and guidance for navigating the challenges of parenting.Daniel J. Siegel received his m...
2024-11-0436 min