In this episode of I Did My Own Research, Dr. Fran sits down with pediatrician Sandeepa Raj to talk about what it’s really like practicing medicine—and parenting—in the age of social media. With over 20 years of experience in pediatrics across private practice, hospital systems, and volunteer work at free clinics, Dr. Raj shares how the landscape of pediatric care has changed and why misinformation has become one of the biggest challenges facing doctors today.

The conversation dives into the growing wave of vaccine misinformation online and how it has shifted real-life conversations in the exam room. Dr. Raj explains how social media has amplified fears around vaccines and other pediatric topics, often spreading persuasive but inaccurate information faster than evidence-based medicine can keep up. She also shares how pediatricians approach these conversations with parents—balancing empathy, trust, and science while addressing genuine concerns about children’s health.

Dr. Fran and Dr. Raj also explore why parenting spaces online are particularly vulnerable to misinformation. From “natural is always safer” narratives to dangerous wellness trends, they discuss how kernels of truth often get twisted into misleading health advice.

The episode also highlights how physicians can use social media as a tool to extend education beyond the clinic and “take the doctor home” with patients through accessible, evidence-based content.

Beyond medicine, the conversation touches on the realities of modern parenting—how to talk to children about difficult world events, how doctors’ work shapes their perspective on empathy and privilege, and the complicated decision of whether or not to share kids on social media.

This episode is a candid look at pediatrics, misinformation, and the responsibility of doctors to show up—both in the clinic and online—to help families navigate an increasingly confusing health information landscape.

Dr. Raj's social media: @FriscoPediatrician

Dr. Fran's social media: @PagingDrFran