MomDocTalk with Kristen Cook, MD

Kristen Cook, MD

Welcome to MomDoc Talk, where real-life parenting meets medical expertise! Hosted by Dr. Kristen Cook, a seasoned pediatrician and mom, this podcast is your go-to resource for evidence-based insights on child development, health, and raising well-rounded, compassionate kids. As both a mother and a pediatrician with over a decade of experience, Dr. Cook understands the challenges parents face today and knows what truly works. Each episode dives into relatable parenting stories, expert advice, and science-backed tips, blending warmth, wisdom, and practicality to support you in guiding your child’s growth in today’s ever-evolving world. Join Dr. Cook and her guests as they tackle everything from behavior management to health basics, all while keeping the focus on raising good humans. DisclaimerThe information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

  1. 3d ago

    Strong-Willed vs. ADHD vs. Autism: What Parents Need to Know

    Send us Fan Mail Your child argues, melts down, resists transitions, and seems to feel every emotion intensely. But is it simply a strong-willed personality, or could it be ADHD, autism, anxiety, or another underlying challenge? In this episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician, author, and mom Dr. Kristen Cook helps parents understand one of the most common questions she hears in her practice: How do I know if my child is just strong-willed or if something else is going on? Dr. Cook explains the important differences between temperament and neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Oppositional defiant disorder. She also introduces the fascinating Orchid vs. Dandelion Theory, explores why some children experience emotions more intensely than others, and explains how understanding your child's nervous system can completely change your approach to discipline. Rather than focusing only on stopping difficult behaviors, this episode encourages parents to look beneath the surface and ask a more powerful question: What is my child's behavior trying to communicate? What You'll LearnThe difference between a strong-willed child and autismHow ADHD behaviors differ from strong-willed behaviorWhy ODD is often misunderstoodHow emotional intensity differs from behavioral disordersWhy strong-willed children often seek autonomyCommon signs of autism spectrum disorderExecutive functioning and ADHD explainedWhat the Orchid vs. Dandelion Theory teaches us about temperamentWhy some children feel emotions more deeply than othersHow the nervous system affects emotional regulationWhy reasoning doesn't work during a meltdownWhat co-regulation is and why it mattersHow connection creates better discipline than controlWhy every behavior tells a story Order Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents discover these practical parenting conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    19 min

  2. Jun 25

    Strong-Willed Children: Why They Argue, Resist, and Thrive

    Send us Fan Mail Does your child argue about everything? Question every rule? Push back on even the simplest requests? If so, you may not be parenting a difficult child. You may be parenting a strong-willed child. In this episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician, author, and mom Dr. Kristen Cook explores the unique traits of strong-willed children and explains why the very characteristics that challenge parents during childhood often become powerful strengths in adulthood. Dr. Cook discusses how strong-willed behavior presents differently during infancy, toddlerhood, elementary school, and adolescence. She also explains why traditional parenting approaches often fail with these children and how understanding temperament can transform your parenting experience. If you've ever wondered whether you're doing something wrong, this episode offers reassurance, practical insight, and a fresh perspective on raising independent thinkers. What You'll LearnWhat it means to be a strong-willed childThe difference between strong-willed behavior and bad behaviorWhy strong-willed children often resist controlHow temperament influences parenting challengesStrong-willed traits in infants and toddlersWhy strong-willed preschoolers negotiate everythingHow school-age children express independence differentlyWhy strong-willed kids often challenge rules and authorityThe connection between strong-willed children and perfectionismHow strong-willed teenagers develop independent thinkingWhy strong-willed teens may be less vulnerable to peer pressureHow parenting strategies should evolve as children growWhy respect is critical when parenting strong-willed kidsHow to view strong-willed traits as future strengthsOrder Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    17 min

  3. Jun 18

    Tick Bites and Lyme Disease in Kids: What Every Parent Needs to Know

    Send us Fan Mail Tick season is here, and if you've ever found a tick on your child, your pet, or even yourself, you've probably wondered: How worried should I be? In this episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician and mom Dr. Kristen Cook breaks down everything parents need to know about ticks, Lyme disease, tick bite prevention, and when it's time to seek medical care. You'll learn how Lyme disease is transmitted, how to safely remove a tick, why timing matters, what symptoms to watch for, and why diagnosing Lyme disease isn't always straightforward. Dr. Cook also shares practical prevention tips to help keep your family and pets safe during outdoor adventures. Most importantly, you'll leave feeling informed, empowered, and prepared instead of fearful. What You'll LearnWhat causes Lyme diseaseWhich ticks carry Lyme disease in the United StatesHow ticks transmit diseaseWhy prompt tick removal mattersHow to safely remove a tickWhat an engorged tick looks likeWhen preventive antibiotics may be consideredEarly symptoms of Lyme diseaseThe classic Lyme disease rash and what it looks likeLate complications of untreated Lyme diseaseWhy Lyme disease testing can be complicatedTreatment options for Lyme diseaseWhat post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome isSigns of Lyme disease in dogs and petsPractical ways to prevent tick bitesOrder Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    17 min

  4. Jun 11

    Father's Day and Parenting: Helping Kids Honor Dad, Grieve Loss, and Navigate Absence

    Send us Fan Mail Father's Day can be a joyful celebration, but for many families, it can also bring complicated emotions, grief, disappointment, and difficult questions. In this heartfelt episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician and parenting expert Dr. Kristen Cook explores the history of Father's Day, practical ways children of all ages can celebrate father figures, and how parents can support children when Father's Day feels painful rather than celebratory.  Whether your child's father is actively involved, has passed away, is absent, or there is another important father figure in their life, this episode offers compassionate, age-appropriate guidance to help families navigate the day with intention and emotional safety. Dr. Cook shares practical ideas for toddlers, school-age children, and teenagers while addressing grief, loss, absent parents, and the powerful role that trusted mentors and father figures can play in a child's life. Because Father's Day is about more than gifts. It's about connection, gratitude, love, and creating space for every family's unique story. What You'll Learn The surprising history of Father's Day  How Father's Day became a national holiday  Age-appropriate Father's Day activities for toddlers and preschoolers  Meaningful Father's Day ideas for school-age children  Ways teenagers can celebrate and reconnect with dads  How to support children whose father has died  Why grief should be acknowledged rather than avoided  How to navigate Father's Day when a parent is absent  What to say when children ask difficult questions about their father  Why children often internalize parental absence  How to validate children's feelings without criticizing the other parent  The difference between being a father and actively fathering  How trusted father figures can positively impact a child's life Order Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    18 min

  5. Jun 4

    Summer Parenting Without Guilt: Screen Time, Routines, and Strong-Willed Kids

    Send us Fan Mail Summer is supposed to feel relaxing, but for many parents, it feels anything but. School routines disappear, screen time increases, kids become dysregulated, and strong-willed children seem to find new ways to test every boundary. In this episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician and mom Dr. Kristen Cook shares practical, realistic strategies to help parents navigate summer without guilt, perfectionism, or constant power struggles. You'll learn how to create flexible routines that support emotional regulation, set healthy screen time boundaries without shame, manage public meltdowns with confidence, and stop comparing your family to social media's highlight reel. If you're feeling overwhelmed by summer parenting, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and actionable tools to help you create a more peaceful season for both you and your children. What You'll LearnWhy summer can be emotionally challenging for childrenHow routines support emotional regulationThe difference between structure and rigidityWhen screen time can be helpfulSigns that screen use may be becoming unhealthyPractical screen time boundaries that actually workHow to reduce power struggles with strong-willed childrenWhy boredom is healthy for child developmentStrategies for handling public meltdownsHow to stop comparing your family to social mediaWhy connection matters more than perfectionHow to create a peaceful summer without over-schedulingOrder Dr. Kristen Cook's Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    19 min

  6. May 28

    How to Help a Child With Obesity Without Shame or Diet Culture

    Send us Fan Mail Childhood obesity affects nearly 1 in 5 children in the United States, yet many parents feel afraid, ashamed, or overwhelmed when discussing weight and health with their children. In this honest and compassionate episode of MomDoc Talk, pediatrician Dr. Kristen Cook breaks down what pediatric obesity actually means, why BMI is both useful and flawed, and how parents can support their child’s health without shame, fear, or harmful diet culture messaging. Dr. Cook explains the medical risks associated with childhood obesity, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, joint problems, mental health struggles, and cardiovascular complications. She also shares practical ways families can create healthier habits together while protecting a child’s confidence and self-worth. Most importantly, this episode helps parents move away from blame and toward supportive, sustainable lifestyle changes that focus on overall wellness, movement, emotional health, and family connection. What You’ll LearnWhat pediatric obesity actually means medicallyWhy BMI is helpful but imperfectThe difference between being “fat” and having obesityWhy shame and diet culture can harm childrenMedical complications linked to childhood obesityHow obesity impacts mental health and self-esteemHealthy language to use when discussing weight with kidsSmall habit changes that can improve family healthWhy movement should never be used as punishmentWays to encourage healthy eating without labeling foods “good” or “bad”Tips for reducing sedentary screen time realisticallyHow parents can model healthy habits at homeOrder Dr. Kristen Cook’s Book Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive If you enjoy Mom Doc Talk and want practical, evidence-based parenting guidance with compassion, science-backed strategies, and real-world parenting support, grab your copy here: Parenting Redefined on Amazon If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to Mom Doc Talk, and leave a review to help more parents find these conversations. Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    17 min

  7. May 21

    Teaching Gratitude and Service: Kristen’s Tips for Meaningful Memorial Day Conversations with Kids

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen explores the deeper meaning of Memorial Day beyond barbecues and long weekends. She shares the holiday's history, tracing it back to 1868's Decoration Day, and offers parents practical guidance for discussing sacrifice, gratitude, and service with children of all ages. From simple flower-placing activities for toddlers to thought-provoking conversations with teenagers, Kristen provides age-appropriate approaches to honoring fallen soldiers. She also addresses how parents can thoughtfully respond if their teen expresses interest in a military career, encouraging honest, balanced discussions about both the rewards and realities of military service. What you’ll learn: The historical origins of Memorial Day and its evolution from Decoration Day.The significance of Memorial Day in honoring U.S. military personnel who died in service.The opportunity for parents to teach children about gratitude, sacrifice, and service.Age-appropriate ways to explain Memorial Day to toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and teenagers.Suggested activities for different age groups to commemorate Memorial Day.The importance of discussing military careers with teenagers and addressing their interests.The realities of military life, including benefits and challenges.The development of leadership skills and personal growth through military service.The significance of community and relationships formed in the military.The overarching goal of raising children who understand the value of service and contributing to something greater than themselves.Order My Book: Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    14 min

  8. May 14

    The Best Summer Choices for Your Child: School, Camp, or Enrichment?

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen tackles the common parental dilemma of choosing between summer school and summer camp. She examines the needs of three groups: academically struggling children, who may benefit most from summer school's structured support; children performing adequately, who are better served by camp and free exploration; and gifted children, who may thrive in enrichment programs or camp. Kristen emphasizes that summer camp builds vital social skills, independence, and confidence. Her key message: there's no universal answer—parents should focus on their individual child's needs rather than comparison or perfection. What you'll learn The dilemma parents face regarding summer school vs. summer camp for their children.Emotional and practical considerations in making the decision.The impact of academic performance on the choice between summer school and summer camp.The concept of the "summer slide" and its varying effects on children.Tailored recommendations for children struggling academically, those doing fine, and gifted children.The benefits of summer school for children needing academic support.The importance of social skills, independence, and emotional growth provided by summer camp.The potential downsides of summer school, including emotional impact and risk of burnout.The value of enrichment programs for gifted children and the need for balance in their activities.Guidelines for parents to assess their child's needs and make informed decisions about summer activities.Order My Book: Parenting Redefined: A Guide to Understanding and Nurturing Your Child's Behavior to Help Them Thrive Podcast Disclaimer The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Get a copy of Kristen's Upcoming Book: Parenting Redefined HERE Follow Dr. Cook at: https://www.facebook.com/MomDocTalk/ Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/momdoctalk_kcmd/ https://twitter.com/momdoctalk https://www.tiktok.com/@momdoctalk_kcmd?lang=en

    14 min
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About

Welcome to MomDoc Talk, where real-life parenting meets medical expertise! Hosted by Dr. Kristen Cook, a seasoned pediatrician and mom, this podcast is your go-to resource for evidence-based insights on child development, health, and raising well-rounded, compassionate kids. As both a mother and a pediatrician with over a decade of experience, Dr. Cook understands the challenges parents face today and knows what truly works. Each episode dives into relatable parenting stories, expert advice, and science-backed tips, blending warmth, wisdom, and practicality to support you in guiding your child’s growth in today’s ever-evolving world. Join Dr. Cook and her guests as they tackle everything from behavior management to health basics, all while keeping the focus on raising good humans. DisclaimerThe information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.

Information

  • Creator
    Kristen Cook, MD
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 MomDocTalk with Kristen Cook, MD
  • Show Website
    MomDocTalk with Kristen Cook, MD