Perspectives in Paeds (PiP Cast) is your go-to podcast for thought-provoking conversations relating to paediatric practice! Join Melbourne-based OTs Jackie Sikic and Caitlin Smith as they explore best practices, unpack the latest evidence, and chat about the everyday challenges faced by clinicians in paediatrics. Each episode, Jackie and Caitlin are joined by fellow clinicians to share their insights, swap stories, and spark new ideas to enrich your practice. No matter your level of experience, PiP Cast invites you to reflect, learn, and grow alongside a community of passionate clinicians.
Perspectives in Paeds (PiP Cast) is your go-to podcast for thought-provoking conversations relating to paediatric practice! Join Melbourne-based OTs Jackie Sikic and Caitlin Smith as they explore best practices, unpack the latest evidence, and chat about the everyday challenges faced by clinicians in paediatrics. Each episode, Jackie and Caitlin are joined by fellow clinicians to share their insights, swap stories, and spark new ideas to enrich your practice. No matter your level of experience, PiP Cast invites you to reflect, learn, and grow alongside a community of passionate clinicians.
In this episode, Caitlin, Maddie and Caitlyn unpack the difference between typical worry and anxiety disorders, and why understanding that distinction matters for clinicians and families.
Together they explore how anxiety can present in children, the role of OTs in assessment and intervention, and what supports & interventions are evidence-based when supporting anxiety disorders. From fear ladders to thinking traps, they share practical ways to address anxiety-related goals and support participation for kids experiencing anxiety.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Register for our upcoming webinar: Supporting Kids with Anxiety: A Functional Approach for Clinicians
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/supporting-kids-with-anxiety-a-functional-approach-for-clinicians-tickets-1698820179889?aff=oddtdtcreator
Kid Link’s on-demand webinar for caregivers: ‘Spotlight On Anxiety’ https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/courses/spotlight-on-anxiety
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Alyssa and Gabs to explore how clinicians can talk about emotions with both children and their caregivers.
Drawing on ideas from Permission to Feel, they discuss different ways to make sense of emotions, the important role adults play in helping children build emotional language, and share practical tips and strategies that families and clinicians can use to support the development of this essential skill.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
How We Feel app: https://howwefeel.org/
Permission to Feel: The Power of Emotional Intelligence to Achieve Well-Being and Success - Book by Marc Brackett
RULER approach: https://rulerapproach.org/
In this episode, Jackie, Gabs, and Alyssa chat about masking and the young people they work with. They explore the nuances of masking and the importance of vulnerability and curiosity as therapists when supporting kids as they learn about and navigate what masking means for them.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
In this episode, Jackie is joined by Caitlyn Cowie (OT) and Emily Milner (OT) to reflect on the recent NDIS price freezes and travel cuts and the implications for practitioners and businesses.
They share their thoughts on KPIs, sustainability and what it really takes to provide good therapy.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Resources to upload (if any):
Michelle Bihary - Getting the most out of therapy: https://michellebiharyhealth.com/gtmos-session-details
Clare Batkin - LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/clare-batkin_this-months-newsletter-topic-is-an-important-activity-7376367262431236097-KQbK?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAABIOdM8Bh3Qbr1xxev_CZNuPYvBCdokPrGA
In this episode, Jackie is joined by Emily Milner (OT) and Alyssa Armytage (OT) to explore the realities of tricky conversations with families, as submitted by our audience. They reflect on their own experiences, share lessons learned along the way, and offer practical approaches for allied health professionals working in family-centered practice. The discussion covers setting realistic and affirming therapy goals, maintaining professional boundaries, navigating funding conversations, and managing your own regulation during high-stress moments. Whether you are an OT, speech pathologist, psychologist, social worker, or another allied health professional, this episode provides supportive insights to strengthen your communication skills, build family partnerships, and feel more confident in handling difficult conversations in healthcare and therapy settings.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Coach Approach Training by Jacqui Snider: https://jacquisnider.com.au/training/
Kid Link’s on-demand PD booster on parent coaching: https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/courses/parent-coaching
Kid LInk’s supervision and mentoring services: https://kidlink.net.au/mentoring/
In this episode, Jackie is joined by Mikayla Heaton (OT) and Dayna Chea (OT) for a deep dive into mealtimes and feeding.
Building on the conversation from Episode 14 with Mikayla, Dayna, and Caitlin, they discuss key areas to assess when approaching feeding goals, intervention strategies and approaches such as the sequential oral sensory (SOS) approach to feeding, as well as referral pathways for eating disorders.
They also discuss why OTs may sometimes shy away from feeding goals and their scope in this area.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Butterfly foundation: https://butterfly.org.au/
SOS: https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/sos-conference/
Paediatric Feeding Disorders, ARFID and Anxiety: Melanie Potock:https://mymunchbug.com/course-library/
Medicare plan: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/allied-health-referrals-for-eating-disorder-health-care-plans?context=20
Caitlin is joined by Mikayla Heaton (OT) and Maddie Kearsley (OT) for the second instalment of PiP Cast’s Evidence in Action series.
Together, they unpack the latest evidence around handwriting and discuss what research says about effective interventions, the role of handwriting practice, and when it might be time to consider alternative methods such as typing.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Kid Link’s ‘Achieving Handwriting Success’ on-demand course: https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/courses/handwriting-success
Kid Link's Handwriting Self Rating Scale:
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Self-Rating-of-Task-Performance-Handwriting-14346593
References document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BMFPRrNLqLOhRoOYGtKCKclXW0CiImKrXST7US-emWI/edit?usp=sharing
In this episode, Jackie is joined by Gabs and Caity to dive into the art of giving feedback.
Together, they share personal stories, practical tips for navigating uncomfortable conversations, and strategies to foster a culture where learning and feedback can thrive.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Brene Brown: The Engaged Feedback Checklist
Toni Knight
https://toniknight.co/home-8934-9710
Adam Grant: Think Again
https://adamgrant.net/
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Georgia Cassell-Ashton (OT) and Maddie Kearsley (OT) to explore the clinician’s role in creating a holistic approach to school readiness.
They reflect on the many demands a school environment places on young starters and discuss how clinicians can work to build a well-informed support team to help their clients make a smooth and confident start to school.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Sign up to our mailing list and download our free School Readiness Resource: https://mailchi.mp/kidlink/srresource
Kid Link School Presenting: https://kidlink.net.au/workshops/
Parent on-demand School Readiness course: https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/courses/school-readiness
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Caity Waters (OT) and Keely Jenkins (OT) to unpack the value of clinical supervision and how to make the most of it.
They reflect on how the focus of supervision can evolve throughout your career, explore its core purpose, and share practical strategies for maximising this protected time.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Kid Link OT External Supervision: https://kidlink.net.au/mentoring/
Kid Link - OT Subscription Service - OT Link: https://www.kidlinkeducation.com.au/bundles/ot-link-memberships
Michelle Bihary supervision workshops: https://michellebiharyhealth.com/
In this episode, Jackie is joined by Josh and Georgia to discuss multidisciplinary collaboration, exploring why reaching out to other providers is crucial for getting a holistic picture of each client and ensuring aligned approaches across disciplines. Our conversation covers what happens when true collaboration is missing - from mixed messaging to gaps in therapy provision - and the importance of clear goal-setting and managing overlapping scopes of practice.
We discuss navigating different professional opinions through healthy task-based conflict, when collaboration might not be necessary, and how to support families in becoming central coordinators of their care team.
Tune in for practical tips on scheduling care team meetings, creating actionable outcomes, and building the collaborative skills that benefit both clinicians and the families we serve.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by her colleagues Caitlyn Cowie (OT) and Alyssa Armytage (OT) to discuss their experience in supporting clients navigate puberty. They chat about the shift their clients experience in regards to their occupational needs and where they feel OT’s and other clinicians can support in this area.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
https://www.planetpuberty.org.au/
Insta: @sexpositive_families
Insta: @trickychatsparenting
Conquering the Puberty Blues - Zi Mei Events by Rebecca Khan
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Caity Waters (OT) and Georgia Cassell-Ashton (OT) to explore the importance of a regulated body in therapy sessions. They discuss key factors that influence regulation including sensory needs, the environment, and arousal level and highlight the value of being a flexible therapist. Tune in for practical ideas on how to prioritise and embed regulating strategies into your sessions.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Dan Siegel: The Whole Brain Child https://drdansiegel.com/
In this episode, Jackie and Caitlin are joined by colleague Caitlyn (OT) to explore the journey from sole trader to managing a team of OTs at Kid Link Occupational Therapy. Together, they discuss the challenges and rewards of growing a business, share insights on hiring the right people, and unpack the importance of values-based leadership. Jackie opens up about navigating team dynamics, the shift from working 'in' the business to 'on' the business, and how building trust and connection makes everything else easier. Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
In this episode, Caitlin and Jackie are joined by their colleague Caitlyn Cowie (OT) to explore what clinicians might consider when therapy starts to feel 'stuck'. Together, they unpack what it actually means for therapy to stall, discuss some common reasons this might happen, and share ideas for navigating these moments when working with families.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Kid Link OTs Online Courses:
In this episode, Caitlin is joined by Dayna Chea (OT) and Mikayla Heaton (OT) to chat about all things mealtimes and feeing goals in paediatric practice. They discuss their thoughts on the difference between mealtimes and feeding goals, their clinical experience within these areas, and what they consider when addressing these goals with their clients.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognise their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/sos-certification/
Kid Link OTs Online Courses:
In this episode, Jackie is joined by colleagues Emily Milner (OT) and Georgia Cassell-Ashton (OT) to tackle the big topic of burnout. They explore how burnout isn't an on/off switch but rather a progressive slope, discussing the interplay between workplace demands, personal capacity, and environmental factors that contribute to feeling overwhelmed. The team shares practical strategies for prevention, from setting boundaries with technology to the importance of transparent workplace cultures. They also dive into the value of supervision, self-compassion, and building supportive relationships with colleagues as protective factors against burnout.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Toni Knight: https://toniknight.co/
Michelle Bihary: https://www.michellebihary.com/
In this week's episode, Kid Link OT’s Georgia Cassell-Ashton, Dayna Chea and Keely Larsen take over PiP Cast to discuss all the things they wish they knew as new grads starting in the paediatric space! Whether you are a new graduate clinician, or are an experienced clinician looking to move into space, this episode is a must listen!
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
Ross Greene - Lives in the Balance workshops and events:
https://livesinthebalance.org/workshops-and-trainings/
Jacqui Snider -The Foundation Coach Approach
In this episode, Jackie and Caitlin are joined by colleague Josh White (OT) to share their current thoughts on the role of AI in clinical practice. Tune in as they discuss the exciting - and at times daunting - opportunities AI presents in their work, and how they’re staying curious and informed in this rapidly evolving space.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links:
https://www.verveotlearning.com.au/safe-and-ethical-implementation-of-ai-in-ot-practice
In this episode Jackie is joined by colleagues Gabriel Mello and Emily Milner to discuss feedback and how we have worked at creating a culture of growth when it comes to receiving feedback amongst colleagues and when working with families. They explore why it often feels uncomfortable when we truly engage in feedback, and unpack the behaviours and attitudes we might exhibit when receiving feedback. They also explore how developing our skills for self compassion and feedback can support us to level up when it comes to therapy provision, workplace culture and being a sustainable practitioner.
Be sure to follow us on instagram @pip.cast
This podcast is brought to you by Kid Link Occupational Therapy.
We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and live here in Mitcham, Victoria. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and recognize their ongoing connection to the land, waterways, and culture. As we support children and families, we are inspired by the wisdom and care that First Nations peoples have shown for generations.
Music by Daniel Pavey
Produced by Michael Daniels
Relevant Episode Links: