Best Primitive Skills Podcasts (2025)

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170. The Fundamental Skills Every Child Needs For Healthy Brain Development 37:56

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7h ago37:56

37:56

👉 Join Dr. Laura’s CMB membership There's a neurological reason why your child is struggling with time management, handwriting and reading! Today, I break down three critical skills that support healthy brain development: time perception, fine motor control, and reading foundations. I'll show you why analog clocks beat digital ones, how shoe-tying …

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169. Back to School Transitions: Is Your Child's Nervous System Ready? 5:03

6d ago5:03

5:03

As kids head back to the classroom after shorter-than-ideal summer breaks, their bodies may be showing signs of stress through an unintegrated Moro reflex - the primitive startle response that should disappear by 4 months old. Watch for these red flags: Sleep disruptions or excessive sleeping Difficulty focusing on homework "Deer in headlights" mom…

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168. Helping Your Child Navigate the Back to School Transition: A Brain-Based Approach 36:40

14d ago36:40

36:40

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) As kids head back to school, I'm seeing more transition struggles than ever. In this episode, I break down the brain science behind why your child might be having a tough time adjusting to the new school year. I also explain how the Moro reflex affects whether your child feels…

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167. What Shortened Summer Breaks and Bulletproof Backpacks Are Doing to Our Children's Mental Health 5:13

22d ago5:13

5:13

In this power-packed 5-minute episode, I'm diving into some eye-opening reasons why our children are experiencing higher levels of anxiety today. I'll share three major factors that might surprise you: how shortened summer breaks (now less than 2 months vs. the 3+ months we had as kids) are robbing children of crucial development time, how our phon…

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#AskPaulKirtley 91 – Top Knots, Good Companions, Fire Dogs & Teaching in the USA 1:09:56

22d ago1:09:56

1:09:56

In this episode I share my top five knots for bushcraft and outdoor life, then answer what really makes a good travelling companion on wilderness trips. I also discuss what it would take for me to teach courses in the USA, offer advice on lighting fire dogs from previous campfires, and reflect on how students today compare with those of 15–20 years…

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What Are Primitive Reflexes and How Do They Impact Vision and ADHD? 42:40

23d ago42:40

42:40

“Movement drives brain development, and very rarely do you see movement when there is a screen involved.” Primitive reflexes play a critical role in child development, but what happens when they don’t integrate as expected? In this episode, we’re joined by pediatric occupational therapist and ADHD specialist Jenna Downs from Stronger Roots Therapy.…

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166. When Traditional Therapy Fails: How Primitive Reflexes Changed Everything for This Mom's Son [Success Story] 39:34

1M ago39:34

39:34

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) Grace's story began during COVID with a traumatic birth experience. After 37 hours of labor, Grace hemorrhaged and blacked out during her C-section. Atlas was born with meconium in his amniotic fluid and umbilical cord, requiring 15 minutes of resuscitation. He went straight t…

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165. The Summer Break Problem: How Shorter Summers Are Hurting Our Kids | Truth Bombs 5:10

1M ago5:10

5:10

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) As kids start school this week, I wanted to share something that worries me. Our kids only get 7-8 weeks of summer break now. Way less than the 3+ months we had growing up. That's not enough time for them to truly rest and recharge. After working with kids for over 30 years, I…

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#AskPaulKirtley 90 – Canoe Trips, Natural Navigation, Weather Skills, Beautiful Moments in Nature, Feather Sticks 59:35

1M ago59:35

59:35

In Episode 90 of #AskPaulKirtley, I answer listener questions on where I would go for a leisure canoe trip, how I balance compass use with natural navigation cues, and practical ways to improve weather forecasting skills without technology. I also reflect on some of my most beautiful moments in nature, from mountain sunsets to close wildlife encoun…

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The Link Between Safer Driving and Targeted Vision Training 21:22

1M ago21:22

21:22

"90% of the information that we use while we're driving to make safe and appropriate decisions is visual in nature." When we think of driving skills, most of us imagine rules of the road, practice hours, or reaction time. But what if the biggest factor in safe driving isn’t about practice at all, but it’s about vision? Today, Jessica explores the c…

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164. How Hidden Infections Impact Kids' Brain Development 40:19

1M ago40:19

40:19

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) Today we are talking about the connection between strep infections, autoimmunity, and your child's developing brain. Many parents dismiss strep as something "every kid gets," but I want to change that perspective. What starts as a simple bacterial imbalance (dysbiosis) in your…

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Ep 27 Scout Mentality 1:20:49

1M ago1:20:49

1:20:49

In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino delve into the concept of the scout mentality, emphasizing its importance in training and personal growth. They discuss the balance between physical skills and mental resilience, the role of ego in self-perception, and the significance of realistic standards and incremental goals. The dialogue als…

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163. The Recent FDA Approval of Moderna’s Spikevax COVID Vaccine for Kids Under 11 | Truth Bombs 5:11

2M ago5:11

5:11

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) In this quick session, we talked about the recent FDA approval for the Moderna COVID vaccine in kids 6 months to 11 years old, and why it’s so crucial to consider the risks—especially for little ones under four as their brains, immune systems, and guts are still developing. I …

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Are My Child's Eyes Ready to Go Back to School? 12:08

2M ago12:08

12:08

"A clean bill of health from a pediatrician, or even a vision screening, does not mean your child is visually prepared to go back to school." As back-to-school season approaches, most parents are focused on supplies, shoes, and physicals—but there’s one essential item missing from many checklists: a proper eye exam. In this solo episode, Jessica br…

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162. How a Single Strep Infection Could Affect Your Child's Focus 38:47

2M ago38:47

38:47

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) As a mom concerned about your child's development, I want you to understand how your amazing brain handles change and what happens when things go off track. I'm seeing more children missing crucial developmental milestones, and I'm concerned that we've normalized developmental…

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161. Is Your Stress Response Stuck "On"? Signs Your Nervous System Needs Help | Truth Bombs 5:12

2M ago5:12

5:12

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) I'm talking about stress today and why you actually need some in your life! Things like exercise and handling daily challenges are good stress, but when you feel completely wiped out after a workout, that's your body waving a red flag that it's overwhelmed. Picture your stress…

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160. Neuroplasticity Explained: The Brain’s Power to Heal, Grow, and Break Negative Patterns with Meaghan & Michael Longyear 48:35

2M ago48:35

48:35

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) In this episode, Dr. Laura sits down with two special guests—Dr. Michael Longyear and Dr. Meg Longyear, renowned for their innovative approach to brain and emotional health. Together, they explore the groundbreaking concept of neuroplasticity, debunking the myth that brain cha…

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Skillist Podcast EP 26 My Scout Class is Better Than Yours... 1:41:13

2M ago1:41:13

1:41:13

Summary In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino discuss the intricacies of scout skills and the differences in their respective scout classes. They explore the importance of class size, group dynamics, and the challenges of teaching and learning in a scout context. The discussion also touches on the ethical considerations of teaching su…

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#AskPaulKirtley 89 – Ration Packs vs Bush Cooking, Wildlife Encounters, Adapting to New Environments, Primitive Weapons, Knife Danglers 37:17

3M ago37:17

37:17

In this episode of #AskPaulKirtley I respond to a range of listener questions, from comparing rations with bush cooking, to sharing memorable wildlife encounters, including some close-range moments with deer, badgers, and otters. I also explore how to adapt bushcraft skills to unfamiliar environments, such as moving from the northern temperate, or …

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159. Your Brain on AI: The Hidden Cognitive Cost of Using ChatGPT | Truth Bombs 5:24

3M ago5:24

5:24

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) Today, I share how AI is reshaping our minds. And not necessarily for the better. Did you know that AI companies want a 10-year window where they can use all our online content without giving us credit? Congress is finally fighting back with a 99-to-1 vote for AI boundaries! B…

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What Is It Like to Do Vision Therapy With Kids? 16:16

3M ago16:16

16:16

If your child is struggling with reading, bumping into things, or just feeling frustrated—you’re not alone. And they don’t have to stay stuck. In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Coach Jamelia Joseph a.k.a Coach Gem, one of our trusted vision therapists, to talk about what it’s really like working with kids in vision therapy. We share wh…

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158. Integration: The Missing Link In Your Child's Development 39:10

3M ago39:10

39:10

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) Hey parents! 👋 I'm Dr. Laura Hansen, and today I want to share with you the importance of integration in your child’s development. Think of their child's body like an orchestra. The brain is the conductor, and every system (eyes, ears, muscles, digestion) are the instruments. …

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#AskPaulKirtley 88 – Adze Use in Bushcraft, Bow Drill Hearth Lifespan, Friction Firewood Seasoning, Canoe Trip Fitness, and Skills I’m Learning 30:57

3M ago30:57

30:57

In this episode of #AskPaulKirtley, I respond to five new questions from the community. I explore the potential use of the adze in bushcraft, how long a bow drill hearth board will last, and the best wood conditions for creating fire by friction. I also discuss how to physically prepare for a Canadian canoe expedition, and finally, I reflect on som…

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157. The REAL Education Behind Chiropractic (It's Not Just About Pain) | Truth Bombs 4:55

3M ago4:55

4:55

Hey everyone! I'm Dr. Laura, and in this Truth Bombs episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what chiropractors ACTUALLY study. Did you know our education covers everything from anatomy and physiology (how your body is built and works) to nutrition, neuroanatomy (your nervous system), and even pharmatoxicology (how drugs and toxins affect your bod…

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156. My Three-Tier Approach To Addressing The Root Causes Of Learning And Behavioral Challenges 42:50

3M ago42:50

42:50

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) I'm Dr. Laura Hansen, and after 30 years in this field, I realized I might be taking for granted that people truly understand what we do here at Connect My Brain. So let me share my story and explain how we help children reach their full potential. At Connect My Brain, we take…

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EP 25 Bird Language and Awareness Skillist Podcast 1:13:08

3M ago1:13:08

1:13:08

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the fascinating world of bird language and its complexities. They explore the lifelong journey of understanding bird calls, the significance of behavioral context, and the reliability of bird language in real-life situations. Through personal experiences and ins…

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155. Why So Many Kids Think They're Not Good Enough | Truth Bombs 5:22

4M ago5:22

5:22

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) Hi everyone! In this Truth Bomb episode, I'm sharing something that breaks my heart - after 30 years of practice and assessing hundreds of kids, I've noticed a troubling pattern. So many children come into my office thinking they don't do anything right. From ages 2 through co…

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154. Root Cause Medicine: One Doctor's Wake-Up Call with Dr Ben Edwards 58:19

4M ago58:19

58:19

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) I had the most incredible conversation with Dr. Ben Edwards on this week's Connect My Brain podcast, and I'm still buzzing from everything we discussed! As a chiropractor, I've always believed in the body's innate wisdom to heal itself, but hearing Dr. Edwards' transformation …

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Sign Tracking Skillist Podcast EP 24 54:21

4M ago54:21

54:21

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the fascinating world of sign tracking in wildlife observation. They discuss the importance of recognizing signs left by animals, such as scat, feeding signs, and other disturbances, which provide valuable insights into animal behavior and presence in an area. T…

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153. Child Struggling? Tasks, Homework & Planning Issues | Truth Bombs 4:53

4M ago4:53

4:53

Today I'm breaking down one of the most important concepts in brain development – executive function. Ever wondered what executive function actually means? I'll take you on a quick journey through your brain, from the visual cortex in the back to the frontal lobe up front. This is where the magic happens – where your brain develops the ability to m…

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What Is a Neurolens and How Can It Help My Migraines? 31:00

4M ago31:00

31:00

"You don’t have to live with daily migraines, eye strain, or screen fatigue—sometimes, the right lenses can change everything." Today we are joined by Dr. Maria Della Porta, Founder of Della Porta Eyecare to explore an innovative solution for patients experiencing chronic migraines, eye strain, neck tension, and computer vision syndrome: the Neurol…

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152. Spotting the Signs of Executive Function Delays in Your Child's Daily Life 40:01

4M ago40:01

40:01

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) In this episode of Connect My Brain, I answer a listener's question: "What is executive function and where is it in the brain?" Executive function isn't just about following directions—it's the brain's ability to plan, reason, organize, and make good choices. As I explain, the…

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Skillist Podcast EP 21 Awareness (Situational & Sensory Awareness for Wilderness Survival and Life) 1:28:52

4M ago1:28:52

1:28:52

Ep 21 is all about Awareness! In this conversation, the hosts explore the concept of awareness, discussing its importance in daily life and the challenges posed by modern distractions. They delve into how cultural influences and technology shape our perception and attention, emphasizing the power of choice in enhancing awareness. The discussion inc…

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Skillist Podcast EP 19 Winter Survival 1:08:30

4M ago1:08:30

1:08:30

In this episode of the Skills Podcast, Brad and Matt delve into the complexities of winter survival, discussing the challenges posed by cold weather, the importance of shelter and fire, and the necessity of proper gear and clothing. They share insights on navigation, water management, and cultural perspectives on survival skills, emphasizing the ne…

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EP 23 Blades - Knives, Saws, & Axes for Survival and Skills 1:00:34

4M ago1:00:34

1:00:34

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Brad and Matt delve into the world of cutting tools, discussing various types of knives, saws, and hatchets. They explore what makes a good survival knife, the efficiency of different cutting tools, and the importance of craftsmanship in knife making. The conversation also touches on the practical appl…

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151. Why Telling Kids to Focus Never Works (And What Does) | Truth Bombs 5:56

5M ago5:56

5:56

👉 Join Dr. Laura’s parenting membership here! Did you know attention is a skill that must be developed? Today, I share why children struggle to focus and introduce my concept of "brain currency" - how your brain evaluates what actions to take based on past patterns. Everything your child practices becomes their neural pathway! If they've practiced …

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150. Why Some Kids Can't Think, Plan, and Focus 43:54

5M ago43:54

43:54

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) As a neurodevelopmental doctor with three decades of experience, I've seen firsthand how parents struggle with children who can't focus, plan ahead, or stay motivated. The most important thing I want you to understand is this: executive function doesn't just magically appear -…

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Teacher's Red Flags 25:00

5M ago25:00

25:00

"My eyes are reading but my brain is not." Is this your student? Today, we explore the subtle—and sometimes surprising—signs teachers might overlook in the classroom that point to underlying visual issues. We share powerful real-life stories from our patients, and explain how behaviors like excessive fidgeting, difficulty finishing assignments, or …

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Skillist Podcast EP 22 Navigation for Survival (Dont Get Lost!) Tips, Tricks, Myths 1:08:56

5M ago1:08:56

1:08:56

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the essential skill of navigation, discussing its importance for safety in the wilderness and how it intertwines with naturalist knowledge. They explore various techniques for improving navigation skills, including understanding maps, terrain association, and th…

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149. C-Section or Natural? How Your Baby's Birth Affects Development | Truth Bombs 6:50

5M ago6:50

6:50

Welcome to Connect the Dots: Truth Bombs! Today I'm talking about how your baby's birth experience can affect their development. I explain why babies born vaginally get important immune benefits from mom's bacteria and how squeezing through the birth canal helps shape their head properly. As a mom who had a C-section, I share what I wish I'd known …

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Progress Reports 24:32

5M ago24:32

24:32

"If your bright, capable child is still struggling in school—even after tutoring and support—it could be time to look beyond academics." Today we explore a season every parent knows all too well: progress report time. While some families breathe a sigh of relief, others are left with questions, concerns, and a nagging sense that something just isn’…

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148. The Unseen Risks of Food Dyes and Generic Medications 41:01

5M ago41:01

41:01

Did you know that 90% of generic medications in America primarily come from China? In 2019, government advisor Rosemary Gibson revealed shocking information about medication quality and safety. Research found that 13% of generic medications coming into the US were defectively manufactured, containing carcinogens, lead, arsenic, and other toxins. As…

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Skillist Podcast EP 20 Flint Knapping History (What does knapping say about humans and how we learn) 1:15:03

5M ago1:15:03

1:15:03

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the fascinating world of flint knapping, exploring its historical significance, the challenges of archaeological dating, and the complexity of techniques involved. They discuss the evolution of human intelligence in relation to stone tools, the differences in le…

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147. Why Treating Mama Like a Queen During Pregnancy is Essential | Truth Bombs 4:51

5M ago4:51

4:51

Welcome to Episode 2 of Connect the Dots: Truth Bombs! Today, I'm talking about why pregnancy health matters so much for your baby's growth. I'll show you why treating mama like a queen isn't just a nice thought—it's truly needed for your baby to develop well! I'll explain how ongoing stress can change mom's brain and even take stress hormones from…

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Skillist Podcast EP 18 Survival Trips (How to test your skills and get the most out of your trip) 1:20:17

6M ago1:20:17

1:20:17

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the nuances of survival trips, emphasizing the importance of practical experience in survival skills. They discuss the balance between learning and practicing essential skills like shelter building, water sourcing, and food procurement, while also highlighting t…

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146. What Your Child's Food Preferences Reveal About Their Health 39:42

6M ago39:42

39:42

👉 Download the Connect My Brain app on Apple or Google Play! (it’s free) In this episode of Connect My Brain, I dive into one of my greatest passions – connecting the dots when it comes to your child's health and development. As a practitioner with over 30 years of experience specializing in pediatrics, I've observed how seemingly separate health i…

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The Anxious Generation and Gen Z's Eyes 26:13

6M ago26:13

26:13

Have you noticed a shift in how children develop, socialize, and perceive the world around them? Today we discuss the pressing issues raised in Jonathan Haidt's "The Anxious Generation". We explore the profound ways in which the digital age and evolving parenting styles are impacting childhood and adolescence. A key concern is the detrimental impac…

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145. Beyond 'Normal' Labs: What Your Doctor Isn't Telling You About Fertility | Truth Bombs 5:19

6M ago5:19

5:19

This is the first episode of Connecting the Dots: Truth Bombs! Today I break down why your health before pregnancy matters more than you might think. I explain why just "feeling great" isn't enough to know what's actually happening in your body and how your health directly impacts your baby's brain development. I reveal why traditional lab tests mi…

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EP 17 Common Mistakes Survival and Primitive Skills Students Make (Mostly Our Own) 1:00:17

6M ago1:00:17

1:00:17

In our 17th Episode Brad Salon of the Roots School and Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills talk about common mistakes we and other students we teach make when approaching learning the skills. Both in short classes and over a long time there are a lot of mistakes you can avoid to save yourself time and grief. Let us know your thoughts in the co…

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144. What I Learned at MAPS: Medical Doctors Who Look for the 'Why' Behind Children's Health Issues 41:44

6M ago41:44

41:44

👉 Enroll in the Parent Membership! Last week, I attended the Medical Academy of Pediatrics and Special Needs (MAPS) conference, and I'm excited to share what I learned with all of you passionate moms out there! With over 600 attendees—90-95% of them medical doctors—it was truly inspiring to see healthcare professionals focusing on finding the "why"…