Charting Pediatrics

Children's Hospital Colorado

Now in our eighth season, Charting Pediatrics empowers medical professionals to care for kids with confidence. Brought to you by multidisciplinary experts at Children's Hospital Colorado, this weekly show shares the latest innovations, groundbreaking research and educational resources in pediatric medicine, while also shedding light on current challenges facing the pediatric healthcare community.

Whether you're seeking candid conversations about tough topics or evidence-based clinical information, Charting Pediatrics provides relevant insights you can trust. Pediatricians, primary care providers, medical students and anyone passionate about child health can learn from the stories on our show, which are told with humility, compassion, thoughtfulness and even humor.

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22 episodes
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Avg 30 min
English

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S10 · E5
Today · 35 min
Building Systems for Better Pediatric Primary Care
Fifteen minutes. That's about all the time most pediatricians have to care for an entire child and family. In that brief visit, they are expected to address preventive care, developmental concerns, chronic conditions, behavioral health, documentation, and countless questions from parents, all while building meaningful relationships. It's a lot to ask of both clinicians and the healthcare system. What if the answer isn't working faster, but working differently? Today, we're talking about how pediatric practices can build systems that support better coordinated, family-centered care while creating more sustainable and fulfilling careers for clinicians. Joining us for this important discussion is Tricia Ramos, MD. She is a general pediatrician visiting all the way from Quezon City in the Philippines. Some highlights from this episode include: How to balance family's needs and pediatricians' priorities in a short visit Biggest pain points in today's pediatric practices Systems and workflows that have made a meaningful difference in improving care High-impact changes smaller or independent clinics can implement For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S10 · E4
September 1 · 31 min
Iron Deficiency Anemia in Kids
Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in children and adolescents, but it can sometimes be easy to miss. From the toddler who drinks almost exclusively milk to the adolescent athlete struggling to keep up with their peers or the teen with heavy menstrual bleeding and persistent fatigue, these patients may present differently while sharing the same underlying diagnosis. In this episode, we explore iron deficiency anemia in pediatric patients, including why it remains so common, which children and adolescents may be at increased risk, and the clinical clues that can help pediatricians recognize iron deficiency before it becomes a missed opportunity. Joining us for this important conversation is Akhila Vadivelan, MD, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist at Children's Hospital Colorado and an assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: Evaluation, diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anemia What this diagnosis means for different populations Clinical clues pediatricians should look out for When treatment makes sense For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S10 · E3
August 25 · 32 min
Tics and Tourette Syndrome in Children
Tics are common in childhood, but recognizing when they are part of typical development, and when they may indicate Tourette syndrome or another tic disorder, can be challenging for pediatricians. A child repeatedly blinks during a well visit. A parent mentions a new throat-clearing sound that has been happening for weeks. Soon comes the question pediatricians hear often: "Should I be worried?" In this episode, we take a closer look at tics and Tourette syndrome, helping pediatricians distinguish common childhood tics from situations that may warrant further evaluation. We'll explore the natural history of tic disorders, common co-occurring conditions, and practical strategies for counseling and supporting families. Joining us for this conversation is Chelsey Stillman, PA-C, a physician assistant at Children's Colorado and the creator and director of the Integrative Tic Clinic. She is also an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics. Some highlights from this episode include: What tics are and how common they are in children The natural history and typical course of tic disorders The differences between transient tics, chronic tic disorders, and Tourette syndrome Common conditions that can co-occur with tic disorders For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S10 · E2
August 18 · 27 min
The Health Benefits of Recess for Kids
When adults look back on school, they often remember more than lessons and worksheets. They remember recess — the playground, movement, friendships, laughter and freedom. Yet in many schools today, recess can be one of the most negotiable parts of the school day. It may be shortened, delayed or withheld in favor of academics, structure or behavior management. But research continues to show that recess is far more than a break. Regular opportunities for play and movement support children's physical health, mental well-being, social development, and ability to learn. Pediatricians are uniquely positioned to keep play, movement and recess part of the conversation about child health. We're joined by two experts from Children's Hospital Colorado: Amanda Lopez, a school health nurse, and Eve Kutchman, a prevention education and outreach manager. Together, they share insights into the role of recess in children's health and development and how pediatricians can advocate for making play a priority. Some highlights from this episode include: The health benefits of recess that go beyond a "break" from learning How movement and play support children's physical, emotional and social health What children may lose when recess is shortened, delayed or withheld How health care professionals can help keep recess visible in conversations about child health This episode is underwritten by Ovintiv, proud philanthropic supporter of Charting Pediatrics and the Children's Hospital Colorado Foundation. Ovintiv recognizes that their responsibility begins in the communities where they live and work. They are committed to giving back and building safer and more resilient communities. Ovintiv's generous support has made a monumental difference for our patients and families, from enhancing health outcomes to reducing health disparities. For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S10 · E1
August 11 · 29 min
Childhood Leukemia in Primary Care
Some of the most serious diagnoses in pediatrics begin with common pediatric symptoms. A child comes in looking pale or with a febrile illness. They've been more tired than usual. Maybe they're bruising easily or complaining their legs hurt. Individually, none of these symptoms are unusual. Together, or with persistence, they can tell a different story. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, but it's earliest signs often resemble everyday illnesses. The episode introduces Ashley Rogers, MD, a pediatric oncologist at Children's Hospital Colorado and faculty member at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, as the newest host of Charting Pediatrics. As David Brumbaugh concludes his remarkable nine-year tenure as host, he passes the microphone to Dr. Rogers, ushering in the next chapter of the podcast. Dr. Rogers joins the conversation to share her expertise on childhood leukemia, including key considerations for diagnosis, treatment and the pediatrician's role in recognizing and managing these patients. This episode offers both valuable clinical insights and a warm welcome to a new voice who will continue bringing evidence-based pediatric education to listeners. Some highlights from this episode include: Earliest signs of leukemia pediatricians can look out for How to distinguish between viral illnesses or leukemia Red flags that shouldn't be dismissed Role of the pediatrician after a leukemia diagnosis For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E35
August 4 · 40 min
Pediatric Tick Bite Management
Tick bites used to be a seasonal nuisance, something you might mention briefly at a well visit in late spring. But that's no longer the reality. With emergency department visits for tick bites climbing to their highest levels in nearly a decade and tick populations expanding into new regions, pediatricians are now seeing the ripple effects of a changing environment in real time. In this episode, we break down what's driving this surge, how to approach tick bites in clinic, and what's new in our understanding of tick-borne illness — including important updates on alpha-gal syndrome that every clinician should have on their radar. In this episode, we are joined by tick expert, Justin Searns, MD. He specializes in pediatric infectious diseases and hospital medicine at Children's Hospital Colorado. He is also an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: Why tick bites are currently at an all-time high Best practices for tick removal and immediate post-removal care When tick-borne illnesses should be a concern for pediatricians Prevention strategies and geographical considerations For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E52
July 28 · 27 min
Evaluating Precocious Puberty
Puberty doesn't always follow the expected timeline. What happens when it shows up ahead of schedule? For pediatricians, the early appearance of breast development, pubic hair or accelerated growth can trigger a cascade of questions. Is this a normal variant? Should we investigate further? When is it time to refer? In this episode, we unpack the complexities of precocious puberty and explore how timely identification and thoughtful management can make a lasting difference for kids and their families. To create clarity, we are joined by Stephanie Hsu, MD, PhD, and Clare Parker, MD. Dr. Hsu specializes in endocrinology here at Children's Hospital Colorado and is an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr. Parker is a pediatric endocrinology fellow. Some highlights from this episode include: The differences in early puberty between boys and girls Environmental impacts that can lead to misleading results Signs and symptoms pediatricians can look out for Treatment options and their severity For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E51
July 21 · 30 min
First 1,000 Days of Brain Building
A child's future begins long before the first words, first steps or even the first smile. In the span of just 1,000 days, billions of neural connections are formed, and the foundation for lifelong health, learning, and resilience quietly takes shape. Pediatricians understand the critical nature of early development, and they translate that message to parents, helping guide, nurture, recognize risk and shape outcomes that can last decades. To explore this fascinating time in a child's life, we are joined by two experts. Caroline Dias, MD, PhD, and Annie Helms, MD, both specialize in developmental and behavioral pediatrics here at Children's Hospital Colorado and are assistant professors at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr. Helms also leads the BLOSSOM Clinic at Children's Colorado. Some highlights from this episode include: How small things can have the biggest impact in these 1000 days The importance of supportive caregivers The balance of nature versus nurture Easing parent's minds that they aren't "doing enough" For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E50
July 14 · 28 min
When is a Curve a Sign of Scoliosis?
The human spine is designed to support, balance and adapt through a lifetime of growth. But what happens when that growth starts to bend in an unexpected direction? Scoliosis often emerges during periods of rapid development, turning what should be a normal growth spurt into a race against progression. The challenge isn't just finding the curve. It's predicting what that curve will do next. To explore the latest in scoliosis care, we are joined by Mark Erickson, MD. He specializes in orthopedic surgery and is the Medical Director of the spine center at Children's Hospital Colorado. He is a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine as well as the fellowship director of pediatric orthopedic surgery. Some highlights from this episode include: How and when scoliosis most commonly presents in children What pediatricians can look for during a routine exam Particular red flags in the history or physical exam that should cause concern How pediatricians should determine who needs imaging For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E49
July 7 · 38 min
Helping Parents With Discipline
When most people hear the word "discipline", they think consequences, punishments or stopping bad behavior in the moment. But what if we've been thinking about discipline too narrowly? We are reframing discipline in toddlers through a completely different lens. One rooted in connection, development and emotional regulation. Because toddler "misbehavior" isn't usually about manipulation or defiance. More often, it's communication. To help us create developmentally appropriate expectations, we are joined by two experts. Julia Palozzi, PsyD, specializes in child psychology here at Children's Hospital Colorado and is an instructor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Alyson Hatten, MS, is a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in child counseling as well as infant and early childhood mental health. She also is an assistant professor. Some highlights from this episode include: Reframing what children can't do into what they can do Why allowing emotional dysregulation is critical to a child's development Setting developmentally appropriate expectations Discipline strategies and how pediatricians can guide families to utilize them For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E48
June 30 · 18 min
Making Sense of BRUE
It's one of the most unsettling calls a pediatrician can get: a baby who turned blue, stopped breathing or suddenly went limp, only to appear completely normal moments later. Welcome to the clinical gray zone of BRUE (Brief Resolved Unexplained Event). It sits at the intersection of alarm and ambiguity, where the history is often dramatic, but your clinical exam is reassuring. We are going to go beyond the definition and into real-life decisions that you have to make on the phone and in the office. From risk stratification to avoiding unnecessary testing, we break down what actually matters in the moment and what doesn't. This episode was recorded during a live podcast event in Colorado Springs with Michael DiStefano, MD, and Jamie Hug, DO. Dr. DiStefano is the Chief Medical Officer of Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs, and a pediatric emergency medicine physician. Dr. Hug is a pediatrician in Southern Colorado at the Children's Clinic of Pueblo. Some highlights from this episode include: What is considered a BRUE When to refer to the emergency department How pediatricians can reassure families and validate their experiences Why history is so critical to the exam For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E47
June 23 · 29 min
New Drowning Prevention Guidance
For many families, water represents joy, summer afternoons, swimming lessons, beach vacations, backyard pools and time spent together. But in pediatrics, we also know that water can become dangerous in seconds, often quietly and without warning. Drowning remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in children, and recent updates from the American Academy of Pediatrics reinforce that prevention must be layered, proactive and tailored. In this episode, we explore how pediatricians can support drowning prevention, because some of the most important work in pediatrics happens long before an emergency occurs. We are joined by Jason Woods, MD. He specializes in emergency medicine at Children's Hospital Colorado and is the Associate Program Director of the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is also an associate professor. Some highlights from this episode include: The AAP guidelines and toolkit details about drowning prevention Why the definition of drowning has changed and why that matters How drowning prevention is layered The role of the pediatrician in feeling confident to counsel families on this topic For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E46
June 16 · 23 min
Atypical Anorexia: Looking Beyond the Scale
What if the patient you're least worried about is the one most at risk? In pediatrics, we're trained to look for red flags such as low weight, failing growth curves and visible signs of malnutrition. But atypical anorexia challenges that instinct. These patients may sit comfortably on the growth chart, or even above it, while experiencing the same dangerous behaviors and medical instability as those with classic anorexia. In this episode, we rethink what we've been taught to look for. We explore how atypical anorexia presents, why it's so often missed and what it takes to recognize the warning signs hiding beneath the surface. To discuss this important topic, we are joined by Kimberly Sheffield, PhD. She is an eating disorders psychologist at Children's Hospital Colorado, as well as the clinical director of PMHI day programs, and the associate training director for psychology training. Some highlights from this episode include: The differences between atypical anorexia and low weight anorexia How pediatricians can make sure these kids are properly identified The impact of behavior on their actions How parents or family members involvement can make a difference For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E45
June 9 · 25 min
Heart Murmurs: Red Flags and Reassurance
Heart murmurs are one of the most common findings in pediatric practice, but determining which ones warrant further evaluation can be challenging. While many murmurs are innocent, others may signal underlying structural heart disease and require timely referral and management. In this episode, we discuss how pediatricians can approach the evaluation of heart murmurs, including key features of the child's history and physical exam that help distinguish benign murmurs from those that may be pathologic. We also explore how factors can influence what you hear through your stethoscope. Joining us is Christopher Rausch, MD, pediatric cardiologist and Director of the Cardiac Developmental Outcomes Program at Children's Hospital Colorado. He is also a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr. Rausch shares practical insights to help pediatricians feel more confident in evaluating murmurs, identifying red flags, and knowing when referral is appropriate. Some highlights from this episode include: How to differentiate the sound of a murmur The biggest differences between a murmur during the first few days of life and as a teenager How common it is for children to experience a murmur during their developmental years Counseling families and deciphering fact versus fear For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E44
June 4 · 27 min
Ebola in 2026
Ebola has a way of cutting through the noise of the news cycle. Its name alone can shift conversations in exam rooms and on living room couches. But what's circulating in headlines is not always what's circulating in reality. For pediatricians, that gap matters. In this episode, we break down what's actually happening right now with Ebola, what is known about current risk and how clinicians can respond when families arrive with urgent questions shaped more by media than by medicine. To guide us through the science, we are joined by Sam Dominguez, MD, PhD. He is the Medical Director of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, as well as the Associate Medical Director of Infection Control and Prevention at Children's Hospital Colorado. He is a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: The current status of Ebola in Africa How difficult it is to contract Ebola The role of the pediatrician in screening patients who are traveling from other countries How pediatricians can ease minds while also promoting the facts For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E44
June 2 · 25 min
The Latest on Child Abuse in Pediatrics
There's a moment in a pediatrician's day that doesn't show up on the schedule. It's the bruise that doesn't quite match the story, or the awkward pause after a parent answers a question just a little too quickly or the child who won't make eye contact or let go of your sleeve. In these moments, pediatricians become more than clinicians. They become interpreters, advocates and sometimes the only line of protection. To help us understand the latest on child abuse, we are joined by Denise Abdoo, PhD, CPNP. Dr. Abdoo is a pediatric nurse practitioner who specializes in child abuse and neglect. She is also an associate professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: What's changed in treating child abuse over the last decade The impact of social media on child abuse The most easily missed signs in a pediatric visit Recent changes in laws, reporting and expectations For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
May 28 · 30 min
Hantavirus Beyond the Headlines
When a rare disease suddenly dominates headlines, questions spread quickly and so does anxiety. Over the past few weeks, hantavirus has re-entered the national conversation, leaving many families wondering how concerned they should be. For pediatricians, moments like this can be challenging as they balance public concern with clinical reality, and help families navigate information that is often incomplete, alarming or misleading. In this episode, we take a closer look at hantavirus through an evidence-based pediatric lens including what it is, how transmission occurs, who is truly at risk and what clinicians should know when these questions inevitably enter the exam room. To create clarity, we are joined by Samuel Dominguez, MD, PhD and Justin Searns, MD. Dr. Dominguez is the Medical Director of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, as well as the Associate Medical Director of Infection Control and Prevention at Children's Hospital Colorado. Dr. Searns specializes in pediatric infectious diseases and hospital medicine. Both of these experts teach at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: Differentiating the types of hantaviruses based on rodent and region Outlining the current status of the cruise ship outbreak Tips and tricks for talking with worried families The potential impact on patients Below are some helpful resources related to hantavirus: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome: CDC "Super-Spreaders" and Person-to-Person Transmission on Andes Virus in Argentina: The New England Journal of Medicine For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E43
May 26 · 37 min
The Pediatric UTI Playbook
Pediatric urinary tract infections, or UTIs, don't always follow a script. While they're one of the most common diagnoses, they're also one of the most nuanced. They can be subtle, inconsistent and easy to over — or under — diagnose. Aside from clear urinary symptoms, they can show up as a fever without a source, vague abdominal pain, new incontinence or a child who simply isn't acting like themselves. And in those moments, the decisions pediatricians make such as who to test, how to collect a sample or how to interpret results, carry real clinical weight. To dive into this topic, we are joined by Kevin Olson, PA, and Meghan Rommel, NP, who practice in the Department of Pediatric Urology at Children's Hospital Colorado. Some highlights from this episode include: The challenges of diagnosis and the importance of getting it right How UTIs present differently across ages When to use antibiotics versus when more discovery is needed Approaching recurrent UTIs in children For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E42
May 19 · 33 min
Genetic Testing in Pediatrics
Genetic testing is no longer a distant, specialized tool reserved for rare disease clinics or academic centers. It's showing up in pediatric practice. For example, pediatricians are increasingly considering genetic diagnoses in children with developmental delays outside the normal range. A NICU graduate may already carry a genetic diagnosis when they see their pediatrician after discharge. What does the practicing pediatric provider need to understand about ordering and interpreting genetic tests? In this episode, we unpack how community pediatricians can make sense of the world of genomics. Joining us for this robust conversation are Austin Larson, MD, and Margarita Saenz, MD. Dr. Larson is a pediatric medical and biochemical geneticist. He is the Medical Director of Precision Medicine Clinical Informatics, as well as the Director of the Mitochondrial Care Network Clinic at Children's Hospital Colorado. Dr. Saenz specializes in clinical genetics and dysmorphology. She is the Medical Director of Precision Medicine Education and Family Engagement. They both are faculty members at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: Recent advances making genetic testing more accessible to patients How the rise of exome and genome sequencing has changed the diagnostic approach in pediatrics Secondary findings and how they should be discussed in advanced Practical advice for a pediatrician who feels overwhelmed to order and interpret these tests For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.
S9 · E41
May 12 · 26 min
Conjunctivitis Confusion in Kids
It's one of the most common calls you'll get as a pediatrician, and one of the fastest infections to spread through a classroom. A pink eye shows up and suddenly the questions follow: Is it contagious? Do they need drops? Can they go back to school? Pink eye seems like a simple fix until it's not. From bacterial to viral to allergic, knowing what you're looking at can change how it impacts a family. Rebecca Edwards Mayhew, MD, PhD, specializes in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus, at Children's Hospital Colorado. She is also an assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Some highlights from this episode include: Distinguishing between viral, bacterial and allergic conjunctivitis How to consult families about contagion and school policies Red flags that should immediately raise concerns for more serious pathology When treating with antibiotics makes sense and when to wait and watch For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.

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