FAACT's Roundtable
Presented in a welcoming format with interviews and open discussions, FAACT’s Roundtable podcast episodes cover all aspects of living with food allergies across the lifespan. You don't want to miss out, so subscribe, sit back, relax, and welcome FAACT into your homes! Please note that our guests are not compensated in any way by our generous sponsors to participate in specific podcasts.
Ep. 307: From Advocacy to Resources for Mast Cell Diseases
When you’re living with Mast Cell Disease, having trusted information is important—but knowing how to find it, use it, and turn it into action can make all the difference. The Mast Cell Disease Society offers a wealth of resources to help patients and families navigate disease management, strengthen self-advocacy, educate others, and raise awareness.
We’re sitting down with Jessica Fraser, Executive Director of The Mast Cell Disease Society, to explore these resources, uncover tools you may not know about, and learn how to put them to work in everyday life.
Reso...
Ep. 306: The Latest in EoE Research
Eosinophilic Esophagitis—now that’s a mouthful! Better known as EoE, this condition can make something as simple as eating a real challenge. But what exactly is EoE, how does it affect everyday life, and what exciting advances in research and treatment are giving patients and families new hope?
Joining us is FAACT Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Vince Mukkada, board-certified gastroenterologist and Medical Director in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. He’s here to break down EoE, explore the latest research, and share what the future may hold for...
Ep. 305: Early Introduction - When You Already Have An Allergic Child at Home
Early introduction of common food allergens has become an important part of infant feeding—but what happens when the food you’re introducing to your baby is something an older sibling is allergic to? And let’s be real: babies are messy eaters!
So how can families navigate early introduction while also helping an older child with food allergies stay safe? Joining us is allergist and FAACT Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Kristin Sokol, to break down early introduction and share practical strategies for managing allergens safely in a busy household.
Resources to keep...
Ep. 304: When Your Teen Says, “Mom, I’ve Got This!”
“Mom, I’ve got this!” But are you ready to step back? As our teens take more responsibility for managing their food allergies, knowing when to hold on—and when to let go—can be tough.
Food allergy advocate, parent, and CoFAS board member, Lori Winslow, joins us to share practical strategies for helping our teens build confidence, independence, and the skills they need to manage food allergies on their own.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Behavioral Health Resource CenterFAACT's Parents: How to Listen to Your Children and Teens...Ep. 303: Allergic Reactions - Why Epinephrine Comes First
When an allergic reaction strikes, timing matters—and epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Today, there are more ways to deliver epinephrine than ever, from auto-injectors to nasal spray, with additional options being studied. But no matter the delivery method, the message is critical: epinephrine first—and fast.
Joining us is allergist and FAACT Medical Advisory Board member and allergist, Dr. Manisha Relan, who breaks down why using epinephrine promptly matters, what happens when treatment is delayed, and how taking action quickly can impact the course of an allergic reaction.
Re...
Ep. 302: Food Allergy Life - School Activities
Beyond the classroom, managing food allergies doesn’t stop at the door. From sports and clubs to field trips, after-school activities, and special events, these moments can involve different locations, changing routines, and lots of adults. So how can families prepare without missing out on the fun?
Joining us is food allergy advocate, parent, and support group leader, Ashley Smith, to share practical strategies for navigating these moving parts and helping children enjoy a safe, confident, and fun-filled school year.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Food Allergies an...Ep. 301: Safety in the Air - the State of Flying with Food Allergies
Taking to the skies with food allergies can bring some big questions: How do you stay safe onboard—and what happens if anaphylaxis occurs at 30,000 feet?
One critical concern is access to epinephrine onboard the aircraft and what that could mean during an in-flight emergency. Joining us is No Nut Traveler President and food allergy advocate, Lianne Mandelbaum, MS, to unpack this important issue, explain what travelers need to know, and share practical strategies for flying more safely with food allergies.
Resources to keep you in the know:
No Nut Tra...Ep. 300: Food Allergy Research Spotlight
Research drives progress in food allergy care. Every new discovery brings us one step closer to better treatments, improved quality of life, and a brighter future for patients and families. But with so much happening, it can be hard to know which advances really matter. Today, allergist and FAACT Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Justin Greiwe, joins us to break down some of the most exciting research developments and explain why they're important for the food allergy community.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Dr. Justin GreiweResearchFAACT Allergy SummitYou c...
Ep. 299: Allergy Summit Sneak Peek
FAACT’s Allergy Summit is almost here! This year brings new speakers and fresh topics—from creating social media graphics and editing videos to using advocacy to drive change and connecting directly with medical experts.
Healthcare influencer, marketing expert, and Summit moderator, Missy Voronyak, joins us for a sneak peek at what’s ahead and shares how you can strengthen your voice, expand your reach, and use social media responsibly.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Voronyx AgencyFAACT's Allergy Summit FAACT's Allergy Summit Registration and AgendaMissy Voronyack on LinkedInYou c...
Ep. 298: Avoiding Food Allergy Burnout
Managing food allergies is a marathon—and sometimes, we simply get tired. The constant planning, vigilance, and decision-making can leave patients and caregivers feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained. So, how do we recognize food allergy burnout before it takes over—and, more importantly, how do we recharge?
Psychologist and researcher, Dr. Nancy Rotter, joins us to explore why burnout happens and share practical strategies to help you reset, recharge, and move forward with greater confidence.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Psychology Today: Find a TherapistFAACT's Behavioral Health CenterYo...
Ep.297: Food Allergy - What Teachers Want You to Know
As we get ready for a new school year, food allergy safety is truly a team effort. Parents, teachers, and school staff all play an important role in helping students feel safe, included, and ready to learn. Today, we’re joined by FAACT Director of Education Heather Yee—a former teacher, school board member, and food-allergy parent—to share insights from both sides of the table and help us build stronger partnerships for a successful school year.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Food Allergies and School - Free DownloadFor School Personn...Ep. 296: High School - Stepping Back While Still Parenting
For years, parents and caregivers have often been the quarterbacks of food allergy management—scheduling appointments, communicating with schools and restaurants, and making critical decisions. But as children become young adults during high school, the transition from managing to mentoring can feel uncertain. How do we step back while helping them step forward? Joining us today is FAACT's Vice President of Medical Education, Charity Luiskutty, PA-C, to share practical tips and insights for navigating this important stage of the journey.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Food Allergies in the City - Micro-drama ser...Ep. 295: Carrying Epinephrine - Ages and Stages!
We all know the rule: always carry two doses of epinephrine. But let's be honest—finding a way to carry it comfortably every single day isn't always easy. In this episode, we're joined by food allergy advocate, Theresa Marie Green, founder of Allergy Apparel, to share practical, stylish, and age-appropriate ideas for carrying epinephrine through every stage of life—making it easier to stay prepared wherever life takes you.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Allergy Apparel: Medical Bags for EpinephrineFAACT's Epinephrine SectionYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pando...
Ep. 294: Practical Tools for Elementary School Challenges
Elementary school is full of exciting milestones—new teachers, new friends, field trips, and growing independence. But for students with food allergies, each of these moments can bring unique challenges. So how can families help children stay safe, feel included, and build confidence throughout the school day?
Joining us is FAACT's Director of Behavioral Health and Nationally Certified School Psychologist, Emery Brown, M.A., Ed.S., to share practical, easy-to-use strategies that support both food allergy safety and emotional well-being.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Behavioral Health Re...Ep. 293: Back to School Food Allergy FAQ's
New school year. New teacher. Same big questions. How do you request accommodations? What are your child's rights? And what should you do if something doesn't go as planned? In this episode, FAACT General Counsel and Vice President of Civil Rights Advocacy, Amelia Smith, J.D., answers five of the most frequently asked questions from food allergy families, helping you navigate school accommodations with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Civil Rights Advocacy Resource CenterFAACT's Section 504 ResourcesSection 504 Protections for Students with Food...Ep. 292: Food Allergy Testing, Diagnosis, and When to Food Challenge
Diagnosing a food allergy isn't always as straightforward as it may seem. Was it really the food? Which food caused the reaction? And how do allergists put all the pieces together to arrive at the right diagnosis?
In this episode, we're joined by FAACT Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. David Fleischer, to take us behind the scenes of the diagnostic process. We'll explore the different testing options allergists use, how they determine whether someone truly has a food allergy, and the important role oral food challenges play—including when it's time to consider one.
...
Ep. 291: Exploring College with Food Allergies
College tours are exciting—but for families managing food allergies, one question can shape every decision: Will my student be able to live and eat safely here? In this special solo episode, FAACT's Roundtable host and Vice President of Community Relations, Caroline Moassessi, shares the essential questions to ask, the conversations to have, and the planning that can help your student find a college where they can live, learn, and thrive with confidence.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's College Resource CenterFAACT's Private Facebook group for Parents/Caregivers of High Sch...Ep. 290: After an Allergic Reaction: An Allergist & Psychologist Discuss Recovery
An allergic reaction may end when you leave the emergency room, but the recovery journey is often just beginning. Questions about medical follow-up, renewed confidence, and managing the fear and anxiety that can linger afterward are common for both patients and caregivers. In this episode, FAACT Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Manisha Relan, and psychologist, Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, explore the medical and emotional aspects of recovery - sharing practical strategies to help families move forward with greater confidence after an allergic reaction.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Manisha R...Ep. 289: When Advocacy Meets Storytelling: The Making of Food Allergies in the City
How do you help others truly understand what it's like to live with food allergies? Through the power of storytelling. In this episode, we explore Food Allergies in the City, a new micro-drama series inspired by the real experiences of young adults living with food allergies. FAACT helped bring authentic community voices to the project, and we're joined by Del Conyers, Genentech's Director of Patient Advocacy Relations, and FAACT Director of Marketing, Lisa Horne, to discuss how storytelling can educate, inspire, and raise food allergy awareness in a whole new way.
Resources t...
Ep. 288: Inside FAMP-IT: A New Resource for Families and Clinicians
Imagine having a trusted roadmap for navigating food allergies during the infant and toddler years—whether you're a parent, caregiver, or healthcare professional. A newly launched platform from Mass General Brigham for Children may be changing the way families and clinicians access food allergy information. We're joined by the project lead behind FAMP-IT (Food Allergy Management and Prevention for Infants and Toddlers), Dr. Michael Pistiner, to explore this exciting new resource and why it could be a gamechanger for our community.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAMP-IT - For FamiliesFAMP-IT - f...Ep. 287: AI in Action - Allergy Aide
AI is showing up everywhere—from everyday tools to cutting-edge research—and it’s starting to make an impact in the food allergy world, too. So, what happens when technology meets real-life food allergy management?
We’re exploring that intersection with Dr. Greg Puglisi, board-certified allergist and Founder and CEO of Allergy Aide. He’s harnessing the power of AI to support patients in navigating their food allergy journey—and he’s here to share how this innovation could change the way we manage care.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Aller...Ep. 286: Food Allergy Anxiety and Comfort Kits for Children
Let’s talk about something so many families quietly carry—food allergy anxiety. For kids and caregivers, everyday moments like mealtimes, food challenges, or even medical appointments can feel overwhelming. So where do you even begin to ease that fear?
We often hear about the mind-body connection—but can it really help with the very real, very specific anxieties that come with managing food allergies?
To help guide us, we’re sitting down with licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Lombard to explore these challenges and introduce a practical tool she created to support families...
Ep. 285: Keep Calm and Summer on with Mast Cell Disease
Summer can bring unique challenges for people living with Mast Cell Disease. From heat and travel to outdoor activities, how can you enjoy the season while managing symptoms? Join us as we sit down with content creator and patient advocate, Jenna Gestetner, to share practical tips for navigating summer with confidence.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Mast Cell Disease SocietyFAACT's Allergy SummitJennaXHealthInstagram: JennaXHealthTikTok: JennaXHealthYouTube: JennXHealthLinkedIn: Jenna GestetnerYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
F...
Ep. 284: The Latest on FPIES
We’re checking in with the FPIES community to hear what’s new, what’s changing, and what families need to know right now. Joining us is Fallon Schultz, CEO of the International FPIES Association, who’s here to share exciting updates, recent advances, and the incredible work happening behind the scenes. We’ll also take a closer look at their robust resource library—packed with practical tools for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike.
Resources to keep you in the know:
International FPIES AssociationFAACT's Roundtable Podcast can be found on Apple Pod...
Ep. 283: How to Navigate Evidence-Based Science Online
Finding trustworthy, evidence-based information about food allergies can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to make informed decisions for yourself or your child. So how do you know what’s reliable, and how can you use that information to have meaningful conversations with your healthcare team?
We’re joined by Dr. Manisha Relan, member of FAACT’s Medical Advisory Board, to help guide us through how to find medically vetted information on food allergy treatments and management—and how to navigate the internet after your provider introduces a new medication, treatment, or concept.
Resourc...
Ep. 282: Food Allergy Eating Without Breaking the Bank
Managing food allergies already comes with a cost—and for many families, that can add up to thousands of extra dollars each year when you factor in groceries, medical care, and time. With rising food prices, it’s no wonder the stress can feel even heavier.
But there are ways to make it work. We’re sitting down with FAACT Medical Advisory Board Member and Registered Dietitian, Alison Cassin, to share practical, nutrition-focused strategies to help you eat safely, stay healthy, and keep your budget in check.
Resources to keep you in the kn...
Ep. 281: Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) & Food Allergies
Safe eating is at the heart of managing food allergies—but what happens when that vigilance starts to feel overwhelming, and food becomes a source of fear instead of nourishment? For many families, the line between necessary caution and something more serious can be hard to recognize. We are diving into the intersection of food allergies and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, or ARFID. Joining us is Dr. Brian Vickery, Division Chief of Allergy & Immunology at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University, and Kaitlin B. Proctor, PhD, Assistant Professor at Emory School of Medi...
Ep. 280: Why FAACT's Food Allergy Awareness Month Campaign Is for You
This year, FAACT’s Food Allergy Awareness Month campaign is “Invisible No More: Food allergies may be unseen, but they should never be unnoticed.”
It’s a powerful reminder that while food allergies aren’t always visible, the daily effort to stay safe is very real.
So how do we raise awareness for something we can’t always see—and better support one another along the way?
To help us shine a light on this important campaign, we’re joined by allergy advocate and former President of the Utah Food Allergy Network, Amanda Bee.<...
Ep. 279: FAACT's 'Invisible No More' Theme for Food Allergy Awareness Month
Food Allergy Awareness Month is almost here—and it’s our moment to be seen, heard, and understood. This year, FAACT is launching an exciting new campaign, 'Invisible No More', shining a light on the reality that food allergies may be unseen, but they are very real. We’re sitting down with FAACT’s Director of Marketing, Lisa Horne, to share how you can get involved and help bring this message to life in your community.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Food Allergy Awareness Week and Month CenterSocial Cover Photos, I...Ep. 278: What Camp TAG Means to our Family
Every summer, FAACT’s Camp TAG (The Allergy Gang) brings campers, teens, non-allergic siblings, and families living with food allergies, eosinophilic disorders, asthma, FPIES, and Celiac disease, together for fun, confidence-building, and hands-on learning in a safe, supportive space.
Molly Dow and her daughters, Emily and Ellie, join us to share what Camp TAG has meant to their family. You'll get a sneak peek into the heartwarming fun and why Camp TAG continues to be popular over the years.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Camp TAG (The Allergy Gang)Ca...Ep. 277: Making the Most of FAACT's College Resource Center
Navigating college with food allergies can feel overwhelming—from choosing a school and touring campuses to move-in day and staying safe once you’re there. It’s a big transition, with added layers of responsibility.
That’s why FAACT created a College Resource Center, built from real questions our community is asking—such as what to ask on tours, how to set up accommodations, what to do when things don’t go as planned, and how to navigate everyday college life.
This podcast walks you through a few key highlights to help you guide your student with...
Ep. 276: Suspect A Food Allergy? Start Here!
What do you do when your child has that first allergic reaction—and your allergist appointment is still weeks, maybe even months, away? That in-between time can feel overwhelming, with so many questions and not enough answers. We’re sitting down with FAACT Medical Advisory Board Member, Dr. Justin Greiwe, to walk through practical steps families can take right now to stay safe, feel more confident, and navigate this uncertain window.
Resources to keep you in the know:
FAACT's Newly Diagnosed sectionFAACT's Newly Diagnosed GuideFAACT's Living With Food Allergies Resource CenterYou ca...
Ep. 275: Miss America's Teen 2026 Supporting Families with Food Allergies
This episode is all about inspiration. We’re shining a spotlight on a remarkable young woman who is using her voice and platform to make a meaningful impact in the food allergy community. We’re honored to welcome FAACT’s newest National Spokesperson, Tess Ferm, Miss America’s Teen 2026! Tess joins us to share her personal food allergy journey and why educating others and raising awareness has become such a powerful part of her mission.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Miss America - Tess FermFollow Tess on Instagram: @tessferm.sc and @missamericasteenFAACT's...
Ep. 274: Specialized Nutrition for Pediatric Food Allergy Management
The dietary management of food allergies includes identifying the allergen that triggers a reaction and avoiding foods that contain that allergen. As a result, children with dietary restrictions due to food allergies may be at risk for inadequate nutritional intake. We sat down with Andie Lee Gonzalez, Senior Pediatric Medical Science Liaison with Abbott Nutrition Medical Affairs and Research, who describes the role of specialized nutrition support and why it’s important in the dietary management of food allergies.
Resources to keep you in the know:
For educational resources and food allergy ma...Ep. 273: Food Allergy Travel - Unexpected Situations
Traveling with food allergies happens every day for thousands of families. But as many of us know, travel takes planning—and even the best plans don’t always go the way we expect. Flights get delayed, restaurants change menus, and sometimes we’re asked to make quick decisions in unfamiliar places. So how do we prepare not just our travel plans, but also our mindset? How do we build the confidence and coping skills to stay calm and pivot when the unexpected happens? Joining us to talk about navigating travel and those unplanned moments is psychologist and Founder of The...
Ep. 272: Gluten Confusion: Behind the Label
Our guest, Steven Gendel, PhD, brings more than 30 years of experience in food safety science, regulation, and policy. From a manufacturer’s perspective, we’ll unpack the real-world differences between gluten and wheat, how food processing works, and the role processing aids can play. Together, we’ll explore what all of this means for managing allergies and making safer, more confident choices when shopping.
Resources to keep you in the know:
Gendel Food Safety, LLCSteven Gendel - LinkedInFAACT's Global Food Industry & Research Summit: October 25-27You can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on App...
Ep. 271: Updates from AAAAI 2026
This year, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI)/World Allergy Organization (WAO) Joint Congress was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, centered on the theme 'Advancing Precision Medicine from Discovery to Patient Care'. While these meetings are filled with complex research and new developments, what matters most to patients and families is what it all means for their daily life with food allergies. Joining us to break it all down in his signature warm and easy-to-understand style is FAACT's Medical Advisory Board Chair, Dr. Shahzad Mustafa, who will share the key takeaways that patients and families...
Ep. 270: Taming Holiday Stress & Anxiety with Food Allergies
The holiday season is a time for laughter, togetherness, and creating special memories. But for families managing food allergies, it can also bring unique challenges—extra planning, heightened stress, and the worry of staying safe during celebrations. In this episode, we’re talking about how to balance the joy of the season with the realities of food allergy management. We’re joined by licensed psychologist, Amanda Whitehouse, PhD, who will share thoughtful strategies for reducing holiday stress and anxiety, so you and your loved ones can focus on what truly matters—connection, celebration, and peace of mind...
Ep. 269: The Jewish Holidays with Food Allergies
It's often said that the food on the Hanukkah table is more than just a meal—it's a powerful vehicle for storytelling, education, and a communal celebration of faith and resilience. But how do we bridge the gap between embracing those rich cultural traditions and keeping all our loved ones with food allergies safe and included? We’re tackling that crucial question. We are so pleased to welcome food allergy advocates and parents, Jen and Seth Togal, to share their invaluable tips and creative ideas for ensuring a joyous and safe Hanukkah, and at every holiday table.
Ep. 268: The Teen Brain and Food Allergies
We all know the teen brain is still growing and changing—and that means it doesn’t always think or act like an adult brain. The teen years are full of discovery, independence, and yes, a bit of risk-taking. But what happens when you add food allergies into the mix? How do brain development and decision-making affect how teens manage their safety and choices?
To help us unpack this fascinating topic, we’re joined by renowned psychologist, Nancy Rotter, PhD, who will share insights into how the teen brain works—and how parents, caregivers, and educators...
