The Endo Kids Podcast-Where little hormones meet big answers.
The Endo Kids PodcastHosted by Dr. Rinku Mehra & Dr. Lindsey Waldman “Where little hormones meet big answers.”Welcome to The Endo Kids Podcast — your trusted place for clear, compassionate conversations about children’s hormone health.Pediatric endocrinologists Dr. Mehra and Dr. Waldman break down everything parents wonder about: growth issues, puberty timing, thyroid disorders, PCOS, Type 1 diabetes, obesity, metabolic health, and the everyday hormone questions that impact mood, sleep, weight, and development.Each episode delivers real answers parents wish they had sooner:What’s normal, what’s not, and when to worryHow hormones shape behavior, growth, and well-beingWhat treatments actually helpPractica...
Episode 30: Eating Disorders in Kids and Teens: Warning Signs Parents Shouldn’t Miss
In this episode of Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra discusses the critical issue of eating disorders in children and teenagers with Dr. Weronika Gondek, a specialist in the field. They explore the misconceptions surrounding eating disorders, the various signs and symptoms parents should watch for, and the importance of recognizing that these disorders can affect individuals of all shapes, sizes, and genders. The conversation emphasizes the psychological and physical consequences of eating disorders, the role of parents and coaches in prevention and treatment, and the need for a comprehensive treatment team. Dr. Gondek provides insights into how parents...
Episode 29: Bone Age Explained: How Much Will Your Child Grow and How Tall Will They Be?
In this episode, Dr. Rinku Mehra explains the nuances of bone age x-rays in pediatric endocrinology, clarifying what they reveal about skeletal maturity, growth potential, and how to interpret results accurately.
00:00 Welcome to EndoKids
00:55 Bone Age Basics
02:40 Chronological vs Bone Age
04:36 How the X Ray Works
05:59 Reading Variability
06:52 Delayed Bone Age
09:42 Advanced Bone Age
11:39 Predicting Adult Height
15:02 Growth Hormone Questions
17:33 Real World Examples
19:03 Questions to Ask
20:46 Key Takeaways and Wrap
Medical...
Episode 28: From Panic Attacks at 11 to Nutrition Expert: What Every Parent Needs to Know About Kids & Anxiety- with Sammy Barnett
In this insightful interview, Sammy Barnett shares her personal journey from childhood panic disorder to becoming a clinical nutritionist. She explores the deep connection between food, anxiety, resilience, and mental health, offering practical advice for parents and children to foster healthier relationships with food and reduce anxiety.
00:00 Sammy's Journey: From Panic to Nutrition
03:09 The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
05:54 Engaging Kids: Nutrition Education Through Entertainment
08:58 Understanding Eating Behaviors in Anxious Children
12:06 Improving Child Mental Well-Being Through Nutrition
15:11 The Complicated Landscape of Kids' Nutrition
17:55 Marketing...
Episode 27: It’s a Girl Thing: Demystifying the First Few Years of Periods
In this episode, pediatric endocrinologist Dr. Lindsey Waldman interviews Dr. Rachel Casey about puberty and menstrual health in girls. They discuss normal age ranges for periods, signs to watch for, managing irregularities, and how to support young girls through puberty.
00:00 Introduction to Pediatric Gynecology
02:13 Understanding Menstrual Cycles
05:52 Normal vs. Abnormal Periods
11:51 Managing Painful Periods
16:55 Treatment Options for Irregular Periods
20:46 Tips for Parents and Open Conversations
Medical Disclaimer:The information shared on The Endo Kids Podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical...
Episode 26: PCOS Is Now PMOS: Symptoms, Insulin Resistance, Fertility & What the Name Change Means
This episode explores the recent renaming of PCOS to P M O S, highlighting the shift in understanding this complex endocrine and metabolic condition. Dr. Rinku Mehra discusses the implications for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term health, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach beyond reproductive symptoms.
00:00
Introduction to PMOS: A Major Shift in Terminology
03:18
Understanding PMOS: Beyond Ovarian Cysts
07:23
The Role of Insulin Resistance in PMOS
11:27
The Emotional and Mental Health Impact of PMOS
14:51
Fertility Myths and Realities in...
Episode 25: The Looksmaxxing Trap: What Teen Boys Are Secretly Taking to Build Muscle, Burn Fat, and Change Their Bodies
This episode explores the rising trend of teen boys using substances like SARMs, steroids, and peptides to enhance their appearance rapidly. Dr. Waldman discusses where they get these substances, the risks involved, and how parents can recognize warning signs and start important conversations.
00:00The Looksmaxxing Trap: What Teen Boys Are Secretly Taking to Build Muscle, Burn Fat, and Change Their Bodies
02:27Understanding SARMs and Their Effects
05:15The Risks of Steroid Use
07:45The Dangers of Stacking Substances
10:24Peptides: A Growing Trend
12:58Recognizing Red Flags and Starting Conversations
<...Episode 24: Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Explained
Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman of the Endo Kids Podcast explain congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), focusing on classic CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. They review how CAH is often detected through an abnormal newborn screen and confirmed with bloodwork (including 17-hydroxyprogesterone) and electrolytes, sometimes with genetic testing. They describe CAH as a genetic condition causing low cortisol (and sometimes low aldosterone) with excess androgens, which can lead to salt-wasting, dehydration, vomiting, and ambiguous genitalia in girls while boys may appear normal. They also discuss non-classic CAH presenting later with early puberty signs, acne, excess hair, or irregular...
Episode 23: Does My Child Need Growth Hormone? What Every Parent Should Know
Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman of the Endo Kids Podcast explain what growth hormone is, how it works through IGF-1, and why it affects more than height, including bone, muscle, fat metabolism, and energy. They stress that growth is a pattern over time and that “wait and see” can cost valuable time, so families should track accurate measurements, growth velocity, and consider bone age X-rays and labs when concerned. They review FDA-approved indications for treatment, including growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, chronic kidney disease, being small for gestational age without catch-up by age 2, and select cases of idio...
Episode 22: Strong Bones 101: Calcium and Vitamin D for Growth, Kids, and Teens
Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman discuss pediatric bone health, explaining that bones are metabolically active and shaped by osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes, with growth plates driving length until estrogen closes them in puberty. They emphasize peak bone mass, noting 40–60% is built in adolescence and ~90% by late adolescence/early adulthood. Practical guidance includes age-based calcium needs (1–3: 700 mg/day; 4–8: 1,000 mg/day; 9–18: 1,300 mg/day) spread throughout the day, calcium-rich foods (milk, yogurt, cheese, fortified plant milks, calcium-set tofu, leafy greens), and vitamin D (~600 IU/day) from sunlight, fortified foods, fatty fish, or supplements. They highlight weight-bearing/high-impact activity for bone density...
Episode 21: Beyond the Plate: Understanding Eating Disorders in Kids
Pediatric endocrinologist Dr. Lindsey Waldman welcomes registered dietitian nutritionist Shelby Santin, who specializes in eating disorders, to discuss adolescent nutrition, misconceptions, and supportive family strategies. Santin explains her role goes beyond meal plans to address food rules, fears, and barriers to adequate intake, emphasizing that eating disorders can affect anyone and are often missed due to stereotypes about body size. She outlines initial steps after referral: thorough history, assessing nutritional adequacy, coordinating medical evaluation, and building a family-supported plan. They discuss distinguishing eating disorders from picky eating, and how to talk about weight and food using neutral language and...
Episode 20: PCOS in Teens: Irregular Periods, Acne, Heavy Periods & What Parents Need to Know
Dr. Rinku Mehra hosts the Endo Kids Podcast with guest Dr. Jessica Ritch, an OB-GYN with minimally invasive gynecology training, to discuss why adolescent menstrual health is a vital sign and how common conditions like PCOS can begin in the teen years but often go ignored. They address misconceptions that painful, heavy, or irregular periods are “normal,” explain when patterns warrant evaluation (especially if symptoms disrupt school or activities), and describe PCOS using parent-friendly criteria: irregular periods, androgen excess (acne, abnormal hair growth or hair loss), and polycystic-appearing ovaries. Dr. Ritch reviews workup (history, tracking cycles, labs including A1C/CB...
Episode 19:Pediatric Sleep Problems: How Poor Sleep Affects Obesity, Diabetes, Growth & Hormones in Kids
On the Endo Kids Podcast, pediatric endocrinologist Dr. Rinku Mehra interviews pediatric sleep expert Dr. Funke Brown, founder of The Restful Sleep Place, about why sleep is a foundational pillar of childhood health affecting brain function, emotion regulation, memory, metabolism, heart health, growth, puberty, obesity, and diabetes risk. Dr. Brown explains age-based sleep needs and how sleep architecture shifts from high REM in infancy to more deep sleep when growth hormone is released, then to more light sleep with age. They discuss effects of chronic sleep deprivation, why sleep should be part of endocrine treatment plans, common pediatric sleep...
Episode 18: When Should Kids See a GI Specialist? Growth, Feeding & Digestive Issues Explained
Dr. Lindsey Waldman hosts pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Natalie Sikka to discuss where gastroenterology and endocrinology overlap in children, especially around growth and nutrition. They explain that “normal” weight gain means tracking along an individual child’s growth curve, with concern raised by rapid increases or decreases, plateaus, or drops in weight or height percentiles, while considering genetics and dietary intake. Dr. Sikka outlines an evaluation for poor weight gain, including detailed diet history and assessing for vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, pain, swallowing issues, or malabsorption, with stepwise testing such as blood work, stool studies, imaging, and endoscopy/colonoscopy when indicated. They c...
Episode 17: Living with Type 1 Diabetes: Nutrition, Exercise & CGM Strategies with Diabetes Expert Kelsie Lewis
In this episode of Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra interviews Kelsie Lewis, founder of Balanced Diabetes Wellness, about her personal journey with type 1 diabetes and her innovative approach to diabetes management. They discuss practical strategies, technology, misconceptions, and the importance of compassionate care for athletes and all individuals living with diabetes.
00:00 Introduction to Diabetes Care
00:49 Kelsey's Personal Journey with Diabetes
02:57 Navigating Life with Type 1 Diabetes
06:14 Transitioning to College and Managing Diabetes
09:00 Kelsey's Approach to Diabetes Education
11:08 Common Misconceptions in Diabetes Management
13:32 Exercise Myths and...
Episode 16: The Adrenal Gland in Kids: Cortisol, Early Puberty, CAH & Adrenal Fatigue Explained
Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman of the Endo Kids Podcast explain the adrenal glands’ structure (cortex and medulla), hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, adrenal androgens, adrenaline), and brain regulation via the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ACTH feedback loop. They clarify cortisol’s essential roles in blood pressure, blood sugar, inflammation, and stress response, and contrast adrenal insufficiency (fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, salt cravings, hyperpigmentation) and adrenal crisis (vomiting, dehydration, hypoglycemia, shock) requiring urgent hydrocortisone and IV fluids. They discuss excess cortisol/Cushing syndrome (weight gain with slowed height, round face, stretch marks, hypertension, mood changes), premature adrenarche versus cent...
Episode 15: Childhood Obesity Medications Explained: GLP-1s, Metabolism & the Truth About Weight Loss Drugs
In this episode of the Endo Kids podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Sarah Stombaugh discuss the complexities surrounding obesity medications, particularly in children and adolescents. They explore the misconceptions about obesity as a character flaw versus a chronic disease, the safety and efficacy of various medications, and the importance of understanding the long-term implications of treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for informed discussions between parents and healthcare providers, addressing safety concerns, managing side effects, and defining success in weight management beyond just numbers on a scale.
00:00 Welcome to the Endo Kids Podcast + Medical Disclaimer
<...Episode 14: From Diagnosis to Hope: The Changing Landscape of Type 1 Diabetes Treatment
Dr. Rinku Mehra hosts the Endo Kids Podcast and interviews pediatrician Dr. Herb Bravo, who works with Sanofi’s type 1 diabetes clinical research programs, about advances in type 1 diabetes care, early detection, and emerging therapies. Dr. Bravo describes the trauma and dangers of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), emphasizing that many children present in DKA without parents knowing the warning signs. The episode explains that type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease with a long asymptomatic period and discusses screening with commercially available autoantibody tests (e.g., through LabCorp/Quest), TrialNet, and the Barbara Davis Center’s ASK study, including risk implications of h...
Episode 13: Type 2 Diabetes in Kids Explained for Parents
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both board-certified pediatric endocrinologists, dive into the complexities of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents. The discussion aims to remove the stigma and blame often associated with the condition, focusing instead on the science behind insulin resistance, symptoms, diagnosis, and holistic treatment approaches. The hosts emphasize the importance of early intervention, balanced nutrition, proper sleep, and family-based lifestyle changes, along with the role of medications like metformin and GLP-1s. The episode also explores the genetic and socioeconomic factors contributing to the rising cases...
Episode 12: Understanding Type 1 Diabetes in Children: An Introduction for Parents
Welcome to the Endo Kids Podcast, hosted by Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both board-certified pediatric endocrinologists. This episode provides an in-depth exploration of Type 1 Diabetes, breaking down the science behind the disease, its symptoms, and long-term management. The hosts emphasize the importance of differentiating Type 1 from Type 2 Diabetes, addressing common misconceptions, and providing practical tips for families navigating this diagnosis. They also discuss treatment options, including insulin injections and pumps, as well as the role of continuous glucose monitors. The episode aims to reassure parents that with proper management and support, children with Type 1 Diabetes can...
Episode 11: How Pediatric Endocrinology & Speech Pathology Transform Children’s Health
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, host Dr. Lindsey Waldman is joined by Kelly Benson Vogt, a seasoned speech-language pathologist, for an in-depth discussion on pediatric feeding disorders. Drawing on her 28 years of experience, including 16 years in private practice and early intervention, Kelly helps distinguish typical picky eating from true feeding disorders. She highlights early signs parents should watch for during infancy and toddlerhood, shares practical, realistic strategies to encourage children to try new foods, and walks listeners through what a typical feeding therapy session looks like. This episode empowers parents with the knowledge and tools needed...
Episode 10: Picky Eaters & Growing Kids: Nutrition Secrets from the Experts
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, host Dr. Lindsey Waldman is joined by special guest Brittany Shapiro, a nutritionist from Capital Pediatric Nutrition. Together, they explore the challenges of picky eating, the roles of parents and children in healthy eating habits, and practical steps for incorporating better nutrition into daily life. Brittany shares her professional journey and offers insightful tips for ensuring children receive balanced nutrition, discussing everything from dealing with picky eaters to addressing concerns related to growth and weight management. This episode aims to provide families with knowledge and strategies for promoting healthy eating habits...
Episode 10- How Pediatric Endocrinology & Speech Pathology Transform Children’s Health
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, host Dr. Lindsey Waldman is joined by Kelly Benson Vogt, a seasoned speech-language pathologist, for an in-depth discussion on pediatric feeding disorders. Drawing on her 28 years of experience, including 16 years in private practice and early intervention, Kelly helps distinguish typical picky eating from true feeding disorders. She highlights early signs parents should watch for during infancy and toddlerhood, shares practical, realistic strategies to encourage children to try new foods, and walks listeners through what a typical feeding therapy session looks like. This episode empowers parents with the knowledge and tools needed...
Episode 9: Teaching Kids Healthy Eating Habits: A Doctor's Guide to Disease Prevention
Welcome to the Endo Kids Podcast, co-hosted by Dr. Ring Ku and Dr. Lindsay Waldman, both experienced pediatric endocrinologists. In this episode, Dr. Mehra introduces Dr. Ritu Saluja Sharma, an emergency and lifestyle medicine physician, who dives deep into her journey from the ER to preventive healthcare through lifestyle medicine. Dr. Sharma explains her focus on nutrition, disease prevention, and her innovative head, heart, hands framework that helps families make sustainable health changes. They discuss the importance of a balanced diet, sleep, stress management, and physical activity. Dr. Sharma also highlights the need for improved nutrition education in schools...
Episode 8: Understanding Hyperthyroidism in Kids: A Beginner’s Guide
Welcome to the Endo Kids Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both pediatric endocrinologists, delve into hyperthyroidism in children. They discuss its causes, particularly focusing on Graves Disease, and explain symptoms parents should watch for like weight loss, anxiety, and difficulty focusing. The doctors provide insights into diagnosis through lab tests and possible treatments such as medication, radioactive iodine therapy, and surgery. They also tackle common parent questions about the condition's impact on weight and the potential dangers of untreated hyperthyroidism. Tune in to learn valuable information to help navigate your child's health journey.<...
Episode 7: Hypothyroidism in Children: Symptoms, Causes & Effective Treatments Explained by Pediatric Endocrinologist
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both board-certified pediatric endocrinologists, dive deep into the topic of pediatric hypothyroidism. They discuss the role of the thyroid gland, common myths, symptoms parents should watch for, and the importance of thyroid hormones for children's growth and development. Furthermore, they cover causes such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, congenital hypothyroidism, and pituitary-related hypothyroidism. They also share key insights into diagnosis, lab work interpretation, and treatment options. This episode aims to provide families with valuable knowledge and support as they navigate their child's health journey related to...
Episode 6: Delayed Puberty in Boys: Parent FAQs, Medical Insights & Next Steps
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both board-certified pediatric endocrinologists, discuss delayed puberty in boys. They explain the typical age range for puberty onset and its initial signs. The doctors delve into various causes of delayed puberty, such as genetic factors, nutritional issues, excessive athletic training, and medical conditions. They stress the importance of proper diagnosis and monitoring growth patterns. Various treatment options, including the use of short courses of testosterone, are explored to help boys who are late bloomers. Parents are reassured about the safety of treatments when administered...
Episode 5: Early Puberty in Girls: Causes, Signs, and Treatment Options Explained by Pediatric Endocrinologists
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both board-certified pediatric endocrinologists, deep dive into the topic of early puberty in girls. They explain what constitutes normal puberty, the signs to watch for, and when parents should be concerned. The discussion covers the various causes, focusing on central precocious puberty, its diagnosis, and treatment options such as puberty blockers. Common concerns like body odor and hair growth in young children are also addressed. Learn how to navigate these challenges with expert insights and personalized care for your child's health journey.
00:00...
Episode 4: Puberty 101: Expert Answers to Parents' Top Questions about Early, Late, and Normal Development
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Rinku Mehra and Dr. Lindsey Waldman, both board-certified pediatric endocrinologists, delve into the complex topic of puberty. They discuss the typical timelines for puberty in boys and girls, highlight common concerns such as early or delayed maturation, and explain what constitutes 'normal' development. The episode addresses questions parents often have about acne, body odor, and rapid growth spurts. They also touch on the importance of nutritional factors, potential medical evaluations, and treatment options for atypical puberty. Valuable insights are provided to help parents feel more confident and informed about their...
Episode 3: Navigating Childhood Growth: Hormones, Nutrition, and More
In this episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Ring Mehra and Dr. Lindsay Waldman discuss growth concerns in children, including the significance of growth charts, common causes of growth issues, and what to expect during an endocrinology evaluation. Learn about the role of hormones, genetics, and nutrition in children's growth and get tips for promoting healthy growth at home. Join us for an in-depth look at how to support your child's development and when to seek professional help.
00:00 Introduction to Endo Kids Podcast
00:50 Understanding Growth Concerns in Children
02:02 Decoding Growth Charts and...
Hormones 101: Understanding the Body's Chemical Messengers
In this episode, Dr. Mehra and Dr. Waldman break down the basics of hormones—what they are, how they work, and why they’re so important for kids’ health. The doctors explain the role of hormones as the body’s chemical messengers, discuss the organs that produce them, and share real-life examples of how hormones impact growth, mood, energy, and more. They also tackle common myths, red flags for parents to watch for, and why early evaluation matters.
Key Topics Covered:
What are hormones?How hormones act as chemical messengers in the bodyThe endocrine system and key horm...Welcome to the Endo Kids Podcast: Meet Dr. Mehra and Dr. Waldman
In the inaugural episode of the Endo Kids Podcast, Dr. Mehra and Dr. Lindsay Waldman introduce themselves and share their journeys into pediatric endocrinology. They discuss their motivations for starting the podcast, which aims to reach a broader audience and answer common questions about hormone health, growth, and development in children. Dr. Waldman talks about her background in nutrition and her medical training in New York, while Dr. Mehra shares her experience in pediatric endocrinology with a focus on diabetes, growth, and obesity. They also explain the importance of understanding hormones and their roles in the body. Tune in...
