Starting solids can feel overwhelming. From fear around choking to pressure about doing baby-led weaning “the right way,” many parents are left confused, anxious, and unsure where to begin.

In this episode of What I Wish I Knew, we sit down with Jenny Best, founder and CEO of Solid Starts, to break down the science and reality of feeding babies real food. Jenny shares evidence-based guidance on baby-led weaning, gagging versus choking, oral development, and how babies actually learn to eat.

We talk about why gagging is a normal and important part of development, why babies don’t need teeth to eat real food, and how letting babies self-feed can reduce choking risk. Jenny also explains how pressure at the table can backfire, contributing to picky eating and negative food relationships later on.

This conversation covers:

• The difference between gagging and choking
• Why gagging is developmentally normal
• How babies learn to map their mouths and chew safely
• Common myths about starting solids and baby food
• Why self-feeding supports long-term feeding skills
• How to approach holiday meals and family food pressure
• Tools and resources that actually help parents feel confident

Whether you’re preparing to introduce solids, already in the thick of feeding a baby, or supporting a new parent, this episode offers practical, reassuring, and science-backed advice to help you feel more confident at the table.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I doing this right?” — this episode is for you.