Young & Healthy

Firearm injuries are the leading cause of death in children in the United States. This public health issue is heartbreaking, but it’s also preventable. In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Richard Falcone, pediatric trauma surgeon and chief of staff at Cincinnati Children's, to talk about practical steps families can take to keep kids safe.  

We discuss the importance of firearm storage, different storage options and how to set clear boundaries with family or friends who may have firearms in their homes. Dr. Falcone also shares advice on how to talk to kids about firearm safety and...

Ever wonder how something as simple as yoga can help kids feel calmer, stronger, and more in control—whether they’re at home, standing, sitting or in the hospital? In this new heartwarming episode of Young & Healthy, healthcare professionals and certified yoga instructors Nancy B. and Frankie M. join host Kayla McNeal to explore the powerful role pediatric yoga can play in healing and recovery. 

They’ll unpack how yoga goes beyond just poses—blending breathwork, gentle movement and mindfulness to meet children right where they are, even in a hospital bed. You’ll hear how just a few minut...

Summer is right around the corner and with it comes fun in the sun and plenty of time to make memories with your family. But let’s be honest—summer activities can get expensive. The good news is there are tons of things to do in Cincinnati that are free or super affordable for families.  

Linsey Kraeling is our guest. She’s a mom of 2 and lifelong Cincinnatian that knows the Queen City inside and out.  Linsey runs Tour de Cincinnati,  a go-to resource for discovering the best that Cincinnati has to offer—including food, events, parks, and hidden gem...

Toddlerhood comes with lots of surprises, and some can be a little scary.  Have you ever noticed your little one zoning out or holding their breath and that made you pause and question, “Is that normal?” You’re not alone. Toddler spells can be alarming for parents, and it can be hard to tell the difference between a harmless toddler spell and a seizure.  

In this episode, we’re joined by two pediatric neurologists, Dr. Marissa Vawter-Lee and Dr. Barbara Hallinan, to break down toddler spells vs. seizures. We talk about common toddler spells—like breath-holding or staring spel...

Routines are a series of steps that repeat regularly—some happen daily, while others happen in certain situations. But what happens when those routines get interrupted? In the newest episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, host Kate Setter talks with Dr. Alex Nyquist, a pediatric psychologist at Cincinnati Children’s, about how life’s changes can help shape routines and help kids grow. 

Listeners will learn how to develop routines to fit their child’s needs, how bedtime routines change over time, and why interruptions are a natural part of development. Dr. Nyquist also shares tips for re-establi...

Letting go is hard—on kids and parents alike. At what age can separation start causing anxiety for a child? What should parents and caregivers expect? In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Symfhani Fair-Harris sits down with pediatric psychologist Dr. Lynne Merk and child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Brian Kurtz to explore the ins and outs of separation anxiety. They break down its causes, common signs, and strategies to ease transitions for both kids and caregivers. Plus, they discuss when separation can be beneficial and how to recognize when professional support might be needed. 

Parenting isn’t alwa...

Fear is something that we all have experienced at some point.  Whether it’s from watching a scary movie, facing a natural disaster, having a bad dream, or simply an overactive imagination, fear can be overwhelming, especially for children. When kids experience fear, they might not know what is happening in their bodies and how to process this emotion.  

In this episode Bo McMillian is joined by two child and adolescent psychiatrists, Dr. Desiree DiBella and Dr. Brian Kurtz, to talk about how kids understand fear and ways parents can help them process. They break down what fear is a...

Flu season is here, and sickness is everywhere—but what exactly is going around? In this episode, host Kate Setter sits down with Felicia Scaggs-Huang, MD, MS, a pediatric infectious diseases expert, to break down what’s happening in the community. They discuss the latest flu cases in the greater Cincinnati region, the developing measles outbreak in Texas, and what parents need to know to keep their families healthy. Dr. Scaggs-Huang covers everything from common and severe flu symptoms to when a doctor visit is necessary and what to expect from the flu vaccine. She then shifts to the risi...

Conversations that protect you and your kids are important. On the latest episode of Young & Healthy, host Bo McMillian sits down with social worker Ashley Cremeans to dive into the importance of teaching kids about boundaries from an early age. The team explores how setting clear boundaries—like allowing kids to say no to hugs or respecting privacy during dressing and bathing when age-appropriate—helps build confidence and independence. 

We’ll also discuss how boundaries evolve over time, why respecting others' boundaries is just as important as setting your own, and how cultural and family norms play a role...

From first coos to their first words, the newest episode of Young & Healthy is all about nurturing your baby's language skills in the first year of life. Join us as we sit down with Speech-Language Pathologist, Marsha Lee Watson, to learn more on how babies communicate and how parents can create a language-rich environment. We also explore the role siblings play in language development, first-year milestones to watch for along the way, valuable resources to support your baby's growth, and more! 

You won’t want to miss these practical tips to support your baby’s journey into the w...

Ever wonder why your kiddo outgrows clothes overnight or seems endlessly hungry? They might be going through a growth spurt! In the season five kickoff of Young & Healthy, pediatricians Dr. Mary Carol Burkhardt and Dr. Nick DeBlasio join host Kate Setter to dive into the fascinating world of growth spurts. They’ll break down what’s happening during these phases, patterns parents might notice, and how long growth spurts typically last. The conversation also touches on the difference between growing pains and growth spurts, plus when it might be time to consult a pediatrician. Don’t miss this episode filled...

As we turn off the mics and close out season 4 of Young & Healthy, the whole team gathers for a special episode to reflect on an incredible year. We’re sharing our favorite episodes and answering some fun fall-themed questions so you can get to know us and the podcast a little better! 

This season, we’ve covered it all from bedwetting to sunscreen for kids. Whether you’re a first-time parent navigating parenthood or a seasoned pro, we hope after listening that you feel informed, empowered and heard. 

Season 5 kicks off in January, and there’s plenty more...

Kids today juggle a lot—playing sports, homework, studying for exams, and sometimes caring for siblings. Not to mention their regular school responsibilities. While it is great to see them involved, the heavy load can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to stress.  

In this episode, Kate Setter chats with Dr. Brian Kurtz, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and Dr. Melissa Young, a pediatric psychologist, about how kids can better balance their responsibilities. They explore the most common stressors affecting young people, physical symptoms of stress, and strategies to help them create balance in their life. They also talk abo...

Kids are going crazy for coffee shop drinks and boba teas, but are these drinks okay for teens and tweens? In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Kate Setter sits down with Registered Dietitian Samantha Zalewski to have a conversation about what’s in these trendy drinks. She shares insights on caffeine, sugar, and other ingredients caregivers should be mindful of. We talk about healthier drink options and learn what “natural energy” really means. Plus, find out what physical signs to watch for that could mean your child is having too much caffeine.  

Potty training is a huge milestone for both children and caregivers, but it’s a process that varies for every child and can’t be rushed. In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Symfhani Fair-Harris chats with pediatricians Dr. Mary Carol Burkhardt and Dr. Nick DeBlasio to explore the ins and outs of potty training. They discuss the best time to introduce the potty, how to recognize signs your child is ready—or not ready—to begin, common mistakes to avoid, and strategies to create a positive, stress-free potty-training experience. The doctors also share advice for caregivers facing resistance from the...

It's important to ensure your child's vision is ready for the classroom as school for many has just started. In this episode of Young & Healthy, host Kate Setter sits down with Dr. Leah Owen to explore the essentials of eye care for kids. Dr. Owen discusses the importance of routine eye exams, what pediatricians look for during check-ups, and when it might be time to see an ophthalmologist or optometrist. 

We also dive into common signs that a child may have vision problems, such as squinting, and getting too close to screens or books to see better. A...

Do you have a toddler who struggles to fall asleep at night? Or a school ager who has stayed up way too late through the summer? Or are you simply fascinated by sleep and want to learn more? In today’s episode of the Young & Healthy Podcast, host Bo McMillian chats with Dr. Kelly Byars about all things sleep. Listen today to the newest episode of the podcast to learn how you can help your kids, and yourself, sleep better every night. 

Learn from Dr. Kelly Byars about the impact of blue light on kids’ brains, the role...

On today's episode of Young & Healthy, Bo McMillian talks with Dr. Theresa Guilbert about asthma in kids. They explore what asthma is, symptoms of asthma in kids and why it's more common in places like Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Guilbert explains the causes of asthma, which kids might be more likely to develop the disease, and some ways parents and caregivers can treat and manage it so kids can stay healthy and active. 

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or just curious, this episode is packed with helpful information to keep your family healthy.  

Is your kids’ skin protected as well as it should be when they’re outside this summer? The realistic answer for many families is - probably not! 

In the newest episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, Kate Setter sits down with pediatric dermatologist Dr. Kalyani Marathe to learn more about what every parent needs to know about sunscreen for kids – even parents who already have high sunscreen IQ. 

This episode covers the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens and explores the various types of application methods – spray, stick, lotion, cream. Dr. Marathe explains how often you should...

It’s almost time for kids who were babies through the pandemic to start kindergarten – but are they ready? In the latest episode of Young & Healthy, host Kate Setter talks with Dr. Kristen Copeland, Dr. Lauren Porter, and Vera Brooks from Cincinnati Public Schools about kindergarten readiness and child development.  

Listeners will learn what educators look for when assessing readiness and how the measures we took in 2020 and 2021 can impact classroom outcomes. Our guests delve into their work with kindergarteners, offering insights from their recent study that includes findings about effects the COVID-19 pandemic has had on early...

When babies start teething, teeth emerge and so do a variety of other symptoms. It’s all a normal part of babies getting older, but it is often a challenging time for babies and their parents. In this episode, join Bo McMillian as he talks with Dr. Sarah Klein, a pediatrician, and Dr. Patrick Ruck, a pediatric dentist, to learn about teething. 

In the first half of the conversation, Dr. Klein gives us an overview of teething. We dive into symptoms and different techniques to soothe teething pain. Additionally, listeners will learn what parents should avoid when try...

Navigating periods can be a challenge, especially in the beginning. It's important to have open conversations with your kids about menstrual hygiene. On the latest episode of Young & Healthy featuring Dr. Lesley Breech, pediatric gynecologist, Sharon Riley, pediatric nurse practitioner, and our host, Kate Setter, we cover everything newcomers to periods need to know. From choosing the right products to staying fresh and confident, we've got you covered. Plus, we'll provide essential tips on product changes and cleanliness to avoid issues like Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Remember, this journey is yours. Grab your headphones, settle in, and dive into a...

It’s official, ticks are gross. But we can’t just pretend they don’t exist. Every year, there are hundreds of cases of Lyme Disease in Hamilton County, Ohio alone, and every case starts with a tick bite. In this episode, Bo McMillan sits down with Dr. Felicia Scaggs-Huang, a pediatric infectious diseases expert, to learn about ticks and Lyme Disease. She tells us about types of ticks, how to spot symptoms of Lyme, how to prevent bites and be tick safe outside. Tune in to arm yourself and your family against these tiny but troublesome little creatures. 

Tongue ties are a complex subject, which can be challenging for families to navigate. On this episode of the infant series in Young & Healthy, we sit down with pediatrician, Dr. Jenny McAllister, and speech language pathologist, Marsha Lee Watson, to learn about tongue ties in babies and older kids. Join us as we explore common types of restrictive tissues, first feeding challenges, and the impact tongue ties can have on swallowing. We'll discuss signs for parents to watch for, breastfeeding pain, and when to seek help. Dr. McAllister shares how she and other experts at Cincinnati Children’s are wor...

This week on Young & Healthy, host Kate Setter and Dr. Don Gilbert, pediatric neurologist, sit down to explore the world of childhood tics. A tic is a patterned movement or sound that looks or sounds the same every time it is performed. Dr. Gilbert explains how common tics are in kids and what we need to understand about them, as well as the misconceptions surrounding tic disorders and the different types of tics: motor, verbal and complex.  

Today’s episode explores the dynamic nature of tics, touching upon how stress, anxiety, and even activities like sports and musi...

With Ohio’s legalization of recreational marijuana, the risks of marijuana edibles to kids may be on the minds of families more than ever. On today’s new episode of the Young & Healthy podcast, we sit down with Dr. Shan Yin, Medical Director of the Cincinnati Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), to discuss how to keep children safe from marijuana edibles and how to properly store drugs - including prescription and over the counter medications – as well as dispose of them. Learn the crucial steps caregivers can take if they suspect their child has ingested marijuana, including treatment options...

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) have similar acronyms, but the two gastrointestinal issues are very different. On today’s episode of Young & Healthy, Dr. Danny Mallon and Dr. Temara Hajjat, pediatric gastroenterologists at Cincinnati Children’s, dive into conversation that explores the differences between IBS and IBD, particularly in children. While these conditions may emerge later in life and some have genetic components, understanding how the gut communicates with the brain is crucial to helping your child feel their very best. We'll uncover the nuances of symptoms, the relationship between gut and brain function, and the...

Navigating the world of social media as a parent with a teenager can be challenging. Are they spending too much time on specific platforms? Is social media contributing to feelings of anxiety and depression they may be experiencing? On today’s episode of Young & Healthy, Dr. Suzanne Sampang and Dr. Brian Kurtz, both pediatric psychiatrists, help us explore the complex world of social media and the positive and negative effects it can have on teens. We talk about how social media shapes their self-esteem, relationships, and mental health, and discuss strategies for parents and teens can use to navigate th...

This week on the Young & Healthy podcast, we’re talking about bedwetting. It’s more common than you think, and we know it is hard for kids and parents alike. Dr. Bob DeFoor, a pediatric urologist, joins us to shed some light on the causes of bedwetting and how to distinguish between typical nighttime accidents and an issue that needs attention. Listen in as we explore actionable strategies for parents, including steering clear of the 4 C's – caffeine, carbonated drinks, citrus, and chocolate – known to trigger nighttime accidents. We also talk about pros and cons of several treatment options, like moisture ala...

School is back in session! As Young & Healthy kicks off season 4, listen to school specialists Melissa Shafer and Willie Jonovski delve into the unique challenges and opportunities students have in the second half of the school year. From increased academic pressure to navigating social dynamics that cause school avoidance, we explore the factors that make the second half of the school year important. Our experts talk about managing stress, setting realistic SMART goals, and maintaining motivation when the initial excitement wears off. Tune in for an empowering conversation that combines empathy, expertise, and real-world solutions! 

Do you hear what I hear? It’s time to wrap up and put a bow on Season 3 of the Young & Healthy podcast. On today’s episode, the whole podcast team is together to chat about their favorite episodes of the past year. The team also dives into a round of fun questions to share behind the scenes tidbits about the podcast and about each of the members of the team. We hope you have as much fun listening as we did recording this one! Happy Holidays and see you in January for Season 4! 

Resources: 

For a f...

Anaphylaxis, or a severe allergic reaction, is the stuff parents’ nightmares are made of. Seeing someone experience an anaphylactic reaction can be scary, but Dr. Tim Dribin advises that by staying prepared and knowing what to look for, you could save the life of someone experiencing this type of reaction.  

Today on the Young & Healthy podcast, we talk to Dr. Dribin, a pediatric emergency medicine specialist, and anaphylaxis expert. He and our host Kate Setter discuss myths and misunderstandings about anaphylaxis, the common triggers of anaphylactic reactions, symptoms to be aware of, and the importance of seeing an...

Dieting – people have been doing it for generations. Perhaps someone is dieting in your house right now. But have you paused lately to think about how exposure to diet culture or talk of dieting could be impacting your children? Today, on the Young & Healthy podcast, Dr. Jessica Lin and Dr. Sanita Ley sit down with us to discuss the impact of dieting and how other people’s opinions can have a negative impact on kids and adolescents. They bust myths, such as eating disorders are not specific to one body type and the influence of dieting affects kids of all age...

Calling all the ghouls, ghosts and goblins! It’s Friday the 13th and we are thinking about all the scary things. The exposure to all things spooky can be challenging for families to navigate. You may be wondering if it’s okay for your children to be scared? The short answer is, yes! On today’s episode of Young & Healthy, pediatric psychologist Dr. Shivali Sarawgi, joins us to discuss how to expose your children to scary things at the appropriate time, how to help kids understand the difference between reality and the unreal and to help them feel safe even w...

Did you know, 50-75% of new moms who have postpartum depression are never diagnosed? Welcoming a new baby is a life-changing experience that comes with significant hormonal, physical and emotional changes. Stress, anxiety, sadness and fear are all normal emotions during the postpartum period. You’re likely familiar with words like postpartum depression, perinatal depression, maternal depression, and baby blues. But what do they all mean?  

Today we have a profound and powerful conversation with Dr. Rachel Herbst, pediatric psychologist and therapist Kara Messmore about these types of depression and their impact on families and children. We learn...

It is well known that menstrual cycles can be stressful and painful – especially when a young person first starts their period. Most people learn from their family members about what to expect and how to be as comfortable as possible during menstrual cycles.  

But what if your family’s “normal” isn’t normal at all? Margo D’Agostino had excessively heavy menstrual bleeding for years – including some symptoms, that in hindsight, were quite alarming. But her mom had the same experience, so they together decided it must be normal. Spoiler, it wasn’t normal – Margo has a bleeding disorder c...

Sudden cardiac arrest often happens without warning. There have been several recent cases of cardiac arrest in young athletes, covered in the news. The thought of your child’s heart stopping, is truly terrifying. But instead of worrying that it could happen, we recommend everyone prepare, so you are ready if you ever witness a sudden cardiac arrest. 

In this episode, Dr. Adam Powell, a pediatric cardiologist, and Brenda Williams, an RN in the Heart Institute and Simulation Center, are here to discuss cardiac arrest and project ADAM. We define sudden cardiac arrest, talk about warning signs and...

It’s the end of summer and fall is right around the corner. Kids have been on summer schedules – and summer diets! This combination – and many other everyday factors – can lead to kidney stones in children and teens. On today’s episode of Young & Healthy, we sit down with Dr. Bob DeFoor, a pediatric urologist who has treated children and teens with kidney stones for more than 20 years. He talks to us about the condition, causes, symptoms and the many ways the team at the Pediatric Stone Center helps treat and prevent kidney stones for pediatric patients.  

Resources: ...

“When in doubt, sit them out.” Concussion symptoms in a young athlete should never be ignored. Dr. Kate Berz and Dr. Paul Gubanich are sports medicine specialists and concussion experts – they're on the podcast today to answer the questions that so many parents have about concussions and kids playing contact collision sports. We cover the role coaches play in identifying injuries, when a young athlete should see a doctor, the importance of rest after a concussion, helmets, and the important question of whether contact collision sports are worth the risk. If you have a young athlete – especially one who plays soc...

Do you think your baby has a flat spot on her head? Does it seem like he always lays his head to the same side when laying down? Your baby could have positional plagiocephaly or torticollis, or both! These conditions are common for infants and both concerns are worth seeing a doctor about. They are big words, but so much simpler than we realize. Torticollis is Latin for “twisted neck” and just means an infant may prefer twisting their head to one side or the other. Plagiocephaly is the flattening on an infant’s head due to repeated twisting and ly...