Gratitude and Reflection in Pediatrics: Thanksgiving 2025

In this special episode recorded on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving 2025, hosts Dr. Rogu and Dr. Bravo discuss what they're thankful for within the field of pediatrics.

Celebrating milestones such as 50,000 podcast downloads and robust support from their medical community, they reflect on the importance of friendships, the dedication of colleagues, and the significance of mentoring the next generation of physicians. They also explore the challenges and changes in healthcare, including the impact of private equity on medical practices and the evolution of technology in medical record-keeping. The episode concludes with heartfelt gratitude for family, friends, and listeners.

00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Special
00:11 Gratitude in Pediatrics
00:39 Podcast Milestones and Community Support
01:41 Friendship and Podcast Beginnings
03:38 Challenges in Pediatric Practice
05:33 Healthcare System Critiques
15:16 Medicaid and Pediatric Care
17:01 Diabetes Screening and AAP Resolutions
22:12 COVID-19 and Pediatric Admissions: A Comparative Analysis
23:18 The Role of Social Media in Public Health Debates
23:34 Focus on Effective Interventions in Pediatrics
24:23 Collaboration in Pediatric EHR Systems
26:34 The Future of AI in Healthcare
27:30 Challenges and Benefits of EHR Systems
36:46 Gratitude and Reflections on Medical Practice
44:03 Concluding Thoughts and Thanksgiving Wishes

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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

In this episode of The Pediatric Lounge, hosts Dr. Bravo and George discuss various topics ranging from significant healthcare events to internal policy challenges. They highlight important conferences such as the 8th Symposium on General Population Screening for Type 1 Diabetes at the Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes and the PMI conference in New Orleans. The central discussion focuses on recent changes in A CIP decisions, especially those related to vaccine recommendations and public health policies. The episode features guest experts like Dr. John Caine and Kristen Struble, who provide their insights on the implications of these policies for pediatric practice. The dialogue touches on the challenges of maintaining public trust, shared decision-making in vaccinations, and the impact of political interference in medical guidelines.

00:00 Introduction to The Pediatric Lounge Podcast
00:39 Upcoming Events and Symposiums
02:38 Discussion on ACIP Decisions and Impact
03:29 COVID-19 Vaccine Policies and Controversies
09:13 Critique of Public Health Administration
13:53 Debate on Vaccine Recommendations and Practices
30:08 The Role of Big Pharma in Medicine
40:39 Thimerosal in Vaccines: A Historical Perspective
43:52 Debating the Opposition to Multi-Dose Vials
45:03 Concerns Over Hepatitis B Vaccination at Birth
49:29 The Role of Politics in Vaccine Recommendations
56:48 Challenges in Communicating Vaccine Information
59:20 Shared Decision Making in COVID-19 Vaccination
01:07:02 The Impact of Anti-Vaccine Movements
01:12:44 The Importance of Trust in Medical Practice
01:21:46 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

Innovative Approaches to Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Screening

In this episode of The Pediatric Lounge, the hosts interview Dr. Susan Gunduz, an independent pediatrician and founder of Northport Pediatrics. Dr. Gunduz discusses her innovative program, 'Sound Wise for Kids,' which is designed to identify developmental delays in children aged three to nine through interactive assessments. She elaborates on the importance of early detection and intervention for developmental challenges and shares her vision of digitizing the program to make it scalable and accessible to a wider audience. The conversation also touches upon the barriers to early intervention, the use of AI in medicine, and the future of personalized care in pediatrics. The discussion highlights the need for pediatricians to lead the way in developmental health and education to ensure children's successful academic and personal development.

00:00 Introduction to The Pediatric Lounge
00:43 Meet Dr. Susan Gunn: Pediatrician and Innovator
03:01 The Journey to Pediatric Medicine
03:57 Identifying Developmental Delays
05:09 Interactive Assessments in Pediatric Care
07:14 Challenges and Innovations in Early Intervention
08:09 The Role of Technology in Pediatric Assessments
14:42 Barriers to Early Intervention Services
25:36 The Importance of Pediatric Development
28:11 The Future of Pediatric Care and Education
31:55 Addressing Childhood Obesity
32:26 The Importance of Early Education
34:10 Challenges in Academic Medicine
35:27 Funding and Innovation in Pediatrics
41:10 Silicon Valley and Medical Technology
45:16 The Future of Predictive Medicine
48:24 AI in Medical Documentation
58:49 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

Navigating Social Media and Pediatric Care: Insights from Dr. Darria Long

In this episode of The Pediatric Lounge, hosts Dr. Rogu and Dr. Bravo welcome Dr. Darria Long, an emergency room physician and social media communicator with a background from Yale and Harvard.

The discussion explores the crucial role of social media in communicating with parents about pediatric health as we approach 2025. Dr. Darria explains her journey from TV to social media, emphasizing the significance of meeting parents where they are online and the challenges of conveying evidence-based information amidst misinformation. She shares insights on how pediatricians can utilize social media without succumbing to the pressure of becoming 'influencers'.

She emphasizes the importance of being a trusted voice in an era of information overload. The episode also addresses ethical and legal considerations for physicians online and provides practical advice for those embarking on their digital content creation journey.

00:00 Welcome to The Pediatric Lounge
00:34 Introducing Dr. Darria
00:56 The Impact of Social Media on Parenting
01:49 Dr. Darria Journey into Media
03:23 Experiences with Dr. Oz
04:38 Challenges of Misinformation
06:12 Navigating Social Media as a Physician
10:27 The Role of Social Media in Modern Pediatrics
13:23 Creating and Sharing Medical Content
22:17 Handling Misinformation in the ER
25:36 Emergency Medicine Simplified
26:01 Dealing with Difficult Parents
26:50 Social Media as a Teaching Tool
27:27 Legal and Ethical Considerations Online
30:52 Balancing Clinical Work and Online Presence
31:21 Founding No Panic Parenting
33:59 Collaborations and Content Creation
39:24 Advice for New Physicians on Social Media
44:07 The Future of Social Media in Medicine
46:31 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

PathologistIn this episode of The Pediatric Lounge podcast, listeners are invited behind the doors of the Physician's Lounge to delve into the profound discussions amongst doctors. Hosting an in-depth conversation, the episode highlights an invitation to the Eighth Symposium on General Population Screening for Type 1 Diabetes. Special guest Dr. Eric Wargotz shares fascinating aspects of his multifaceted career spanning medicine, law, and the arts, including a touching narrative about how he met his wife and his ongoing philanthropic efforts with Wigs for Kids. Additionally, he discusses AI in healthcare, his perspective on medical leadership roles, issues within the medical payment system, and his involvement in the judicial system. The episode concludes with a book recommendation for pediatricians and a hopeful reflection on peace in the Middle East.

00:00 Introduction to The Pediatric Lounge Podcast
00:28 Upcoming Symposium on Type 1 Diabetes Screening
02:15 Welcoming Dr. Eric Wargotz
03:15 Dr. Eric Wargotz's Personal Story
04:11 Dr. Wargotz's Career and Contributions
12:16 The Role of a Pathologist and Challenges in Medicine
21:30 Innovations in Cancer Screening
25:42 Healthcare Spending and Prioritization
26:15 AI in Medicine: Definitions and Concerns
27:28 AI in Medical Practice: Real-World Experiences
28:25 Vaccine Predictive Engines: Challenges and Issues
29:53 AI and Standard of Care: A Conversation with Congressman Jay Ober
34:28 The Emotional Toll of Pediatric Oncology
36:47 Wigs for Kids: A Personal Commitment
39:21 MedChi: Leadership and Vision
42:13 Scope of Practice and Legislative Challenges
43:59 Middle East Peace: Optimism and Reflections
48:12 Book Recommendation: When Breath Becomes Air
51:07 Conclusion and Farewell

The opinions expressed by Dr. Wargotz are solely his own and do not represent the views, policies, or positions of MedChi, the Orphan Court, George Washington School of Medicine, Doctors Hospital, or any other affiliated institutions. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice. Patients should always consult their own physician for advice and treatment.

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SOCIAL Media Pages ===============================
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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

Reflections on 50 Years in Pediatrics: An Interview with Dr. Dan Levy

In this episode of The Pediatric Lounge podcast, hosts George and Herb sit down with Dr. Dan Levy, a seasoned pediatrician with 50 years of experience. Dr. Levy discusses his journey through medical school at the University of Rochester, residency at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and his extensive career caring for children in Owings Mills, Maryland. He shares insights on the evolution of medical training, the importance of compassionate, community-focused care, and the challenges of running a pediatric practice. The conversation delves into the shifts in medical education, the pressures of modern healthcare, and the timeless values that endure in pediatric care. Dr. Levy also emphasizes the significance of cultural competence, the impact of mentorship, and the need for continuous learning and adaptation. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of pediatrics and Dr. Levy's advice for aspiring pediatricians.

00:00 Introduction to The Pediatric Lounge
00:36 Meet Dr. Dan Levy
01:25 Early Life and Inspiration
03:16 Medical School Reflections
05:25 Changes in Medicine Over the Years
06:32 The Importance of Knowing Your Patients
07:30 Challenges in Modern Medicine
09:12 The Role of Technology in Healthcare
10:05 The Future of Pediatrics
21:17 The Value of Integrative Medicine
39:09 The Importance of Literacy and Education
44:03 The Value of Pediatricians
44:40 Balancing Safety and Politics in Pediatric Care
47:43 Training and Early Career Challenges
51:24 Business Skills in Medicine
55:01 Medicaid and Practice Sustainability
01:02:14 Advocacy and Professional Organizations
01:10:34 Technology and Efficiency in Healthcare
01:12:58 Final Reflections and Advice

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SOCIAL Media Pages ===============================
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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

Advancements and Challenges in Pediatric Mental Health Screening

In this episode of "The Pediatric Lounge," hosts discuss the importance and implications of mental health screening in pediatric care. Guest Dr. Jean Marconi, Senior VP of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development at Bright Line, delves into the challenges and opportunities within pediatric psychiatry. The conversation covers the implementation of mental health screenings, the necessity for proper coding for reimbursement, and the integration of mental health services in clinical practice. Dr. Marconi also emphasizes the significance of suicide prevention screenings and the role of pediatricians in early identification and intervention. The episode highlights the importance of practical tools, systemic changes, and comprehensive training in effectively managing pediatric mental health.

Role Modeling Dr. Susan Sirrota ASQ-S Best Practice

ASQ-S Tool Kit

00:00 Introduction to the Pediatric Lounge
00:36 Welcoming Dr. Jean Marconi
01:57 Dr. Marconi's New Role at Bright Line
02:37 Bright Line's Hybrid Model and Services
04:21 Understanding Pediatric Mental Health Policies
12:22 Screening Tools and Their Importance
14:52 Challenges in Pediatric Mental Health
27:16 The Role of Schools and Pediatricians
41:03 Handling Pediatric Emergencies
41:35 Challenges in Managing Chronic Conditions
42:49 Mental Health Stigma in Pediatrics
43:51 Billing and Coding for Pediatric Care
47:19 Developmental Screening Guidelines
50:05 Implementing Mental Health Screenings
58:01 Advocacy and Policy in Pediatric Care
01:09:33 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Support the show

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SOCIAL Media Pages ===============================
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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.

Bringing Humor to Healthcare: A Chat with the Healthy Humorist

In this episode of The Pediatric Lounge, the hosts discuss the importance of humor in medicine with Dr. Brad Neer, also known as the Healthy Humorist. Dr. Neer shares his journey from being a physician to becoming a stand-up comedian and motivational speaker. He emphasizes the vital role humor plays in reducing stress, enhancing patient relationships, and preventing physician burnout. The conversation covers various aspects of integrating humor into clinical practice, handling stressful situations, and the benefits of laughter for both mental and physical health. Dr. Nider also offers practical tips for healthcare professionals to incorporate humor into their daily routines to improve workplace morale and patient care.

00:00 Welcome to The Pediatric Lounge
00:28 Exciting News from the Leadership Conference
01:10 Preventing Diabetic Ketoacidosis
01:43 Upcoming Events and Mini Fellowship
02:43 Introducing Dr. Brad Nieder, MD: From Stethoscope to Standup
04:10 Dr. Neer's Journey: Medicine to Comedy
13:11 The Role of Humor in Healthcare
16:04 Balancing Humor and Professionalism
30:05 Self-Deprecating Humor in Medicine
30:52 The Role of Humor in Pediatric Care
32:26 Addressing Physician Burnout
33:23 Finding Humor in Healthcare
36:31 The Impact of Technology on Medical Practice
40:59 The Importance of Humor in Medical Training
42:52 The Role of Humor in Professional Speaking
46:09 Balancing Humor and Professionalism
49:28 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events
54:21 Conclusion and Farewell

Support the show

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SOCIAL Media Pages ===============================
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The Pediatric Lounge - A Podcast taking you behind the door of the Physician's Lounge to get a deeper insight into what docs are talking about today, from the clinically profound to the wonderfully routine...and everything in between.

The conversations are not intended as medical advice, and the opinions expressed are solely those of the host and guest.