Allergy Actually

Kara Wada, Amber Patterson, Meagan Shepherd

Welcome to Allergy Actually — where real talk meets real science. We’re your bestie allergist moms—Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd—and we’re here to help you stop sneezing, scratching, and second-guessing your allergy care. With a combined 40+ years of clinical experience, we break down the science behind allergies into practical, real-life solutions. From pollen to peanuts, asthma to anxiety, we unpack it all with empathy, humor, and honest conversations. Whether you're a parent navigating a child’s food allergies or someone just trying to breathe easier, you'll find clarity, community, and calm here. Subscribe for weekly episodes that mix evidence-based medicine, lifestyle tips, and the kind of advice you’d expect from your smartest, kindest mom friend. Because living well with allergies shouldn’t feel so hard—and you don’t have to figure it out alone.

  1. Is It Just a Cold? Understanding Your Child's Symptoms (Allergies vs. Flu vs. Colds) | Episode 34

    3 DAYS AGO

    Is It Just a Cold? Understanding Your Child's Symptoms (Allergies vs. Flu vs. Colds) | Episode 34

    Send us a text If your kid seems "always sick," it might not just be a bad immune system—it might be a complex mix of allergies and infections. With overlapping symptoms like cough, congestion, and fatigue, how can parents tell what's really going on? In this essential episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – break down the five crucial ways to distinguish between a cold, the flu, and allergies. They discuss why controlling underlying conditions is the key to preventing severe illness, the pattern of normal sickness for kids in daycare, and share the surprising over-the-counter hacks that may have antiviral properties. This is your guide to minimizing friction and stress this winter and heading into spring allergy season prepared. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 01:18 Why Prevention (Controlling Baseline Disease) is Key 03:55 The Difference Between Nasal Steroids and Antiviral Sprays 05:44 The "Thank You" Mindset for Building the Immune System 06:40 Fever is the #1 Indicator of Infection (Not Allergy) 07:07 The Surprising Antiviral Effects of Azelastine (Astepro) 10:17 When to Call the Doctor: Chronic Infections & Immune Deficiency Concerns WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    15 min
  2. Military Eligibility: Why an Old Asthma Inhaler Can Still Disqualify Your Teen | Episode 33

    2 FEB

    Military Eligibility: Why an Old Asthma Inhaler Can Still Disqualify Your Teen | Episode 33

    Send us a text Did you know that having a history of an Albuterol inhaler prescription—even if you outgrew your asthma—can automatically disqualify a potential military recruit years later? Many parents are blindsided when their child's medical history affects their military or flight school eligibility. In this crucial episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms dive into this complex issue. They share personal stories and expert knowledge gained from working with Dr. Bryan Martin, former program director for Allergy Immunology at Walter Reed (a military hospital). Learn the specific allergy and asthma conditions the military scrutinizes, why a history of a prescription can be a barrier, and the proactive steps parents must take four years before their child graduates high school. The good news: an allergist can often help tidy up the medical record and clear these old diagnoses, but you have to start the process early! EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:48 Dr. Amber's Personal Military Eligibility Scare 01:32 Our Mentor: Dr. Bryan Martin (Walter Reed & World Allergy Organization) 03:01 Clearing Asthma & Food Allergy for Military Applications 04:21 Different Branches Have Different Allergy Rules 07:22 Why Age 14 is the NEW Planning Trigger Point for Parents 09:14 The U.S. Military is a World Leader in Immunotherapy WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    11 min
  3. Why Families Travel Across the Country for Allergy Treatment (ILIT™ Protocol) | Episode 32

    26 JAN

    Why Families Travel Across the Country for Allergy Treatment (ILIT™ Protocol) | Episode 32

    Send us a text Plastic surgery tourism is everywhere, but we are seeing a different trend: medical tourism for allergies. Moms are flying across the country—and even internationally—so their kids and family members can finally breathe, sleep, and live without constant allergy medication. In this powerful episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms dive into the logistics and motivation behind this trend. They discuss when traveling for advanced allergy care, specifically the ILIT™ Protocol offered by the Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network, is a smart, cost-effective decision. Hear how the massive time commitment required by traditional 3-5 year allergy shots (up to 48 hours in the doctor's office!) is being replaced by just three convenient office visits. Learn why patients are flying in and out in the same day and how the costs compare to years of continuous medication. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:49 Why Patients Travel: Time Savings & Convenience 02:49 The True Cost of Traditional Shots (48 Hours of Your Life!) 04:17 The Financial Benefit: ILIT Can Be Cost-Neutral or Less 04:57 The Clinical Reason ILIT Works Faster Than Shots 07:00 The Logistics of Traveling for ILIT (Airports, Drivers, Hotels) 08:07 Same-Day Visits: Patients Flying In and Out of Ohio/WV WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    11 min
  4. The MITE on Your Eyelashes Causing Rosacea & Chronic Styes (Demodex Explained) | Episode 31

    19 JAN

    The MITE on Your Eyelashes Causing Rosacea & Chronic Styes (Demodex Explained) | Episode 31

    Send us a text When we say "mites," you probably think of dust mites. But there’s another microscopic critter living on your skin—specifically, in your eyelash follicles—that could be causing your chronic eye issues, styes, blepharitis, and even rosacea. Meet the Demodex mite. In this eye-opening (and slightly gross!) episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – dive into the world of Demodex. They explain why these mites are a natural part of our flora, but can cause problems when there’s an overgrowth. The good news? It's not a hygiene issue, and the solution is simple and inexpensive. Learn the low-hanging fruit treatments you can use tonight and discover the potential link between dust mite allergy and these face mites. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:27 What are Demodex Mites? (The Basics) 01:37 The "Overgrowth" Problem: When Natural Flora Causes Disease 03:58 The Link Between Demodex, Rosacea & Dust Mite Allergy 05:34 The Low-Hanging Fruit Fix: The Vaseline Method 06:49 The Importance of Diligent Lash-Line Cleansing 08:29 Why Dust Mite Immunotherapy Could Help Demodex WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    10 min
  5. How to Stop a Runny Nose in the Cold (Allergists’ Ski Survival Guide) | Episode 30

    12 JAN

    How to Stop a Runny Nose in the Cold (Allergists’ Ski Survival Guide) | Episode 30

    Send us a text Does your family love skiing, but your kid (or you!) turns into a "snot fountain" on day one? You're not alone! That constant drip in the cold isn't always allergies—it's often a condition called non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis, and it's manageable. In this essential "How-To" episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – share their ultimate survival guide for skiing and other outdoor winter sports. From pre-slope preparation and the "secret weapon" prescription nasal spray that stops a drippy nose, to asthma pre-treatment and long-term solutions like immunotherapy, this episode is packed with practical tips. Learn what to pack in your ski jacket, why you need to wash your gear, and how to make your winter adventures enjoyable and snot-free. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 01:33 Understanding Cold-Induced Runny Nose (Vasomotor Rhinitis) 02:40 Pre-Slope Preparation: What to Pack in Your Pockets 04:39 The "Secret Weapon" for a Drippy Nose: Ipratropium Explained 05:22 Long-Term Solutions: How Immunotherapy (ILIT™ Protocol) Can Help 07:56 Gear Maintenance, Eye Protection & Aftercare Tips WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    11 min
  6. New Year, New Immune System: Why You Should Start Allergy Immunotherapy NOW | Episode 29

    5 JAN

    New Year, New Immune System: Why You Should Start Allergy Immunotherapy NOW | Episode 29

    Send us a text It's a brand new year, which means fresh calendars, fresh intentions... and the same old allergies waiting for their spring comeback. But not this year! In this episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – talk about how to achieve an immune system reset that actually lasts. They blend powerful insights on habit formation with a crucial medical strategy: starting immunotherapy during the off-season (winter) to prepare for your easiest allergy season yet. If you're looking to harness the power of prevention, this episode explains why January is the perfect time to commit to a treatment plan that will deliver measurable relief by spring. Stop playing catch-up and start living ahead of your allergies. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 01:17 Prevention vs. Cure: Why It Matters for Allergies 01:59 Why You Should Start Immunotherapy When You Feel Good 05:07 Beating the Odds: Micro-Habits for Treatment Adherence 07:11 Planning Your Allergy Year: Expectations and Medication Breaks 09:17 Letting Go of Limiting Beliefs: Visualizing a Better Allergy Season WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    12 min
  7. The Allergy Mom Survival Kit: What We ACTUALLY Carry in Our Bags | Episode 28

    29/12/2025

    The Allergy Mom Survival Kit: What We ACTUALLY Carry in Our Bags | Episode 28

    Send us a text The Allergy Mom Survival Kit: What We ACTUALLY Carry in Our Bags Every mom has her go-to bag of tricks, but allergy moms take it to a whole new level! From EpiPens to safe snacks, wet wipes to inhalers, our bags practically run a mini clinic. In this fun and highly practical episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – are unzipping their bags to show you the real essentials they carry every day. They discuss the critical basics that keep their kids and themselves safe, the surprising multi-use products they rely on (hello, Aquaphor!), and the modern tech that serves as a med alert bracelet. Whether you're managing food allergies, asthma, or just chronic dryness, this episode is your guide to creating your ultimate "allergy survival kit" to minimize friction and maximize safety in your everyday life. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 01:33 Minimalist Approach & Travel Antihistamines 02:35 Aquaphor: The Multi-Purpose Essential 03:54 Tissues: A Must-Have for Runny Noses 04:54 Managing Dryness: Eye Drops, Lozenges & Chapstick 06:10 Phone as an Allergy Tool: Emergency Contacts 08:05 Medical ID & Modern Alternatives 08:34 How to Build Your Personal Allergy Kit WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    10 min
  8. Is Ozempic Helping Your Allergies & Asthma? (GLP-1 Drugs, Hives & Inflammation Explained) | Episode 27

    22/12/2025

    Is Ozempic Helping Your Allergies & Asthma? (GLP-1 Drugs, Hives & Inflammation Explained) | Episode 27

    Send us a text GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro) are everywhere, but the conversation is shifting from just weight loss to their powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Are these drugs helping with asthma, chronic hives, and allergic inflammation? In this essential episode of Allergy Actually, your bestie allergist moms – Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd – dive deep into the intersection of metabolic and immune medicine. They break down the early data, share real-life patient and personal experiences (including Dr. Shepherd's personal journey with a GLP-1 for anxiety and weight loss), and explain the fascinating connection between obesity, inflammation, and difficult-to-control asthma. If you or a loved one are on a GLP-1 or are considering it, this episode cuts through the hype and confusion to give you clear, expert-backed answers on what's real and what's still unknown. EPISODE IN A GLANCE 00:43 What GLP-1s Are & How They Impact Metabolism 02:00 The Obesity-Asthma Link & Inflammation 02:27 Patient Experience: GLP-1s and Chronic Hives (Urticaria) 03:30 Dr. Meagan Shepherd's Personal GLP-1 Journey (Weight, Anxiety & Asthma) 05:27 The Chicken vs. Egg Cycle of Asthma, Exercise & Weight 07:26 Early Data: GLP-1s and Mast Cell Activation Disorders 07:44 Acquisition: How to Get Insurance Coverage for Weight Loss Indications WRITE A PODCAST REVIEW SEND US A SUGGESTION allergyactually@gmail.com ABOUT HOSTS KARA WADA, MD Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Youtube TikTok AMBER PATTERSON, MD Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ Protocol (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni® ILIT™ Learning Network. Website Instagram Instagram Facebook Youtube MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life. Instagram Facebook

    9 min

Trailer

About

Welcome to Allergy Actually — where real talk meets real science. We’re your bestie allergist moms—Dr. Kara Wada, Dr. Amber Patterson, and Dr. Meagan Shepherd—and we’re here to help you stop sneezing, scratching, and second-guessing your allergy care. With a combined 40+ years of clinical experience, we break down the science behind allergies into practical, real-life solutions. From pollen to peanuts, asthma to anxiety, we unpack it all with empathy, humor, and honest conversations. Whether you're a parent navigating a child’s food allergies or someone just trying to breathe easier, you'll find clarity, community, and calm here. Subscribe for weekly episodes that mix evidence-based medicine, lifestyle tips, and the kind of advice you’d expect from your smartest, kindest mom friend. Because living well with allergies shouldn’t feel so hard—and you don’t have to figure it out alone.