Dr. James Moises is a board-certified Emergency Medicine Physician and the owner of Dr. Moises Medical & Marijuana Center in New Orleans. We sit down with him to talk about how medical marijuana works in the brain, which conditions it can help treat, and when it might not be the right fit. Dr. Moises breaks down the science behind cannabis, the process of obtaining it legally in Louisiana, and why personalized care is essential when it comes to medical marijuana treatment.
We also explore how cannabis has shown promise for patients who haven’t responded to traditional medications, especially children with autism, and how this alternative treatment can offer relief to families facing limited options. Together, we discuss the evolving role of medical marijuana in modern medicine and what the future of cannabis research could mean for patient care.
Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works.
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Gillian Goddard is a physician at Park Avenue Endocrinology and Nutrition, author of Hot Flash from ParentData, and writer of the forthcoming book The Hormone Loop. She joins Lauren to unpack the often-misunderstood stages of perimenopause, from the late reproductive years through menopause. We dive into how hormonal shifts impact mood, fertility, and overall health, and why understanding these stages can change the conversation between women and their doctors.
We also explore treatment options ranging from birth control and hormone therapy to the evolving role of testosterone, plus the myths and realities around long-term health outcomes. Dr. Goddard shares practical advice on preparing for medical appointments, navigating symptoms, and finding the right kind of care. Listen now as we shed light on the science of hormones and provide tools to help women feel informed and empowered.
Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works.
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Hey Little Brain Campaign listeners! We are excited to share some exciting news about what's next for the podcast. Each week our host, Dr. Lauren LaRose, will be talking with experts to explore ideas outside the traditional medical model and make physical and mental health more accessible, especially for parents and caregivers today.
Whether you've been with us since the beginning, or just tuning in now, we hope you enjoy the new conversations we'll be having on the Little Brain Campaign. Enjoy this week's episode!
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Welcome to The Little Brain Campaign! Join Dr. Lauren LaRose, psychiatrist and mom of three, as she brings on experts in mental health, physical health and education and explores ideas outside the traditional medical model. The Little Brain Campaign aims to make issues kids and caregivers face easier to understand, while always keeping in mind that we need to look beyond the usual answers to find what really works.Follow The Little Brain CampaignInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Dave Hagedorn is the CEO of Evoke Neuroscience. He joins us to break down how EEG and evoked potentials give us a real-time window into brain function, helping us understand conditions like MS, dementia, and traumatic brain injury. We explore how these tools provide objective, functional data that traditional imaging often misses, and why combining EEG with heart rate variability offers a fuller picture of brain-body health
We also talk about how Evoke’s technology grew out of military medicine, making advanced neuroscience tools easy to use in primary care, neurology, and beyond. From neurofeedback training that rewires brain patterns to case studies showing real-world impact, Dave shares how this science is reshaping diagnosis, treatment, and hope for patients.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
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Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Marianna Boyd is the Director of Internal Communications at Ochsner Health. She joins Lauren to share her journey from years in social media and higher education to her current role in healthcare communications. We talk about the shift away from social media, ethical concerns with digital platforms, and how her work now focuses on communication that supports and informs people more directly.
Together, we dive into the rise of AI, what large language models like ChatGPT actually are, and how they’re shaping classrooms, students, and even healthcare. From shrinking attention spans and overreliance on technology to the risks around privacy, safety, and human connection, we explore both the potential and the pitfalls. This conversation looks at where AI is taking us, including what it means for our kids, our schools, and the future of learning.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
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Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Caroline Robichaux is an SLP, Board Certified Cognitive Specialist, and Owner of Basics Plus: Communication and Learning. She joins us to break down the current understanding of learning disabilities, including how they’re categorized, what they look like in everyday life, and why early, thorough evaluations matter. We dive into reading, math, and written expression challenges, including dyslexia and dyscalculia, and explore why labels don’t always tell the full story.
We talk about the science behind decoding and comprehension, the overlap between reading struggles and math fact fluency, and the importance of structured, multisensory interventions. Caroline also shares practical advice for parents on fostering a love of reading at home, building confidence through scaffolding, and using strategies like echo reading and high-exposure word games. If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand or support a child who learns differently, this conversation is packed with insights.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
With the MAHA Movement growing in popularity, it's important to open conversations and share different perspectives around it. Erin Romney is the founder and owner of Romney Studios and a former Division I swimmer with a background in biology. We sat down with Erin to unpack the movement to Make America Healthy Again—why she cares so deeply about it, and what she thinks it gets right and overlooks. From BPA-free baby bottles to microplastics, chronic disease, and food deserts, we dig into how privilege, parenting, and personal health journeys intersect in today’s wellness landscape.
We also get real about big food and pharma, access to mental health care, and the oversimplification of complex issues like ADHD, obesity, and anxiety. Erin shares her concerns about GLP-1 medications, her skepticism around the COVID-19 vaccine, and why she believes gut health and clean water are the foundations of everything. This one’s messy, nuanced, and full of questions—and that’s exactly how we like it.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
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Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Shelby Latino is a meteorologist and TV host at FOX 8—and a mom of five girls, including a set of triplets. We sat down with Shelby to talk about the chaos, comedy, and complexity of modern motherhood. From screen time guilt and parenting advice overload to generational clashes and the pressure of curated social media, Shelby shares what it’s like to raise five very different kids while navigating public life and private expectations.
We also unpack the “trad wife” trend, the anxiety of being perceived as the “perfect mom,” and how different parenting styles can unintentionally trigger defensiveness or judgment. Shelby opens up about her approach to discipline, creativity, neurodiversity, and why it’s okay to embrace imperfection. This episode is full of honesty, laughs, and the kind of real talk every parent needs to hear.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Insufficient sleep is more than just a tired kid—it’s a public health issue. We dig into why so many children and teens aren’t getting enough sleep, how it affects their mental and physical health, and what we as parents and providers can do about it. From bedtime battles to blue light overload, we break down the science behind sleep stages, melatonin, REM cycles, and what’s really going on in those growing brains overnight.
We also talk about how anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism play a role in sleep struggles—and why Louisiana ranks as one of the worst states for childhood sleep. Whether you’re a parent navigating screen time or a teen staying up past midnight to study, this conversation offers practical advice and real talk on how to create better sleep habits at any age.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Tara Clark is the founder of Modern Mom Probs and the host of the Modern Mom Probs podcast. We sat down with Tara to talk about how she turned a funny Instagram account into a powerful platform for modern motherhood, mental health advocacy, and honest storytelling. She shares how writing her book during the pandemic shaped her perspective on parenting, how her content evolved with her life, and why mental health is the foundation for everything else in motherhood.
We also dive into the emotional complexities of parenting older children, the surprising loneliness of the middle school years, and how social media both helps and hurts our mental health. Tara opens up about her intentional phone habits, her son’s relationship with tech, and the pressures of being a content creator in a fast-moving digital world. This one’s packed with laughs, truths, and hard-earned wisdom for anyone trying to do their best as a parent today.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Dr. Devan Szepanski is a family medicine physician from NuWell Health, and she joins us to break down everything you need to know about hormones, puberty, periods, PMS, and PMDD. We unpack what happens hormonally during puberty in girls, define what puberty actually is, and explore the roles of key hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone in shaping mood and menstrual cycles. Dr. Szepanski shares how hormonal fluctuations cause symptoms like PMS, the difference between PMS and PMDD, and why understanding these changes is crucial for both teens and adults.
We also dive into testing hormone imbalances, the pros and cons of saliva versus blood tests, and how supplements or hormone treatments can help. Together, we highlight the urgent need for better hormone education in medicine so providers can truly support their patients, and we discuss practical ways to help girls and women navigate these complex changes with more awareness and support.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
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Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
We're back with Dr. Benton Marino for part two of our conversation on PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections)! We unpack what causes these sudden-onset conditions, from strep and other infections to mold and environmental toxins, and how they lead to OCD-like behaviors, eating restrictions, anxiety, and more. Dr. Marino clarifies diagnostic criteria, shares why these disorders are becoming more common, and explains how genetics and environmental triggers combine to cause these serious neuropsychiatric symptoms in kids.
We explore treatment options, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, magnesium, folinic acid, and behavioral interventions, and talk about why some children improve after puberty. Dr. Marino also highlights key resources for parents and providers who want to better understand and support kids with PANS and PANDAS. Together, we dive deeper into the complexities of these conditions, offering hope and guidance for families navigating this challenging journey.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Self-harm and suicidal ideation are more complex than many realize, and we break it all down in this conversation. We explore why people self-harm, the difference between self-harm and suicidal behavior, and how fear of litigation often keeps professionals from addressing these issues effectively. We discuss common misconceptions, the motivations behind self-harm behaviors, and why open, judgment-free conversations are essential for helping clients feel safe and supported.
We highlight the systemic barriers that lead to reactive or superficial interventions, share insights on how providers can educate themselves, and offer guidance on how to approach these conversations ethically. Together, we call for a deeper understanding of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, empowering professionals and families to respond with compassion and informed care.
Episode Sources:
https://mhanational.org/conditions/self-injury-cutting-self-harm-or-self-mutilation/
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Dr. Lauren Hernandez is a pediatrician at NuWell Health specializing in genetic testing and brain mapping for children and adults. We dive into how DNA Mind testing reveals genetic strengths and weaknesses in neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, guiding personalized care with diet, supplements, and medication. We also explore Evoke, a QEEG brain mapping tool that visually shows brain function, identifies issues like attention or processing delays, and tracks improvements over time.
We discuss powerful case studies, including a child misdiagnosed with ADHD, a foster child with prenatal exposure to opioids, and adults who transformed their brain health through lifestyle changes. Together, these insights show how combining genetic and brain data can lead to earlier, more effective interventions, and why objective testing can change the course of treatment for children and adults alike.
Get a closer look at the Evoke scans we discuss here:
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
We’re answering your questions again, and things get real, from funny to frustrating to deeply relatable. One parent asks how to handle it when their kid walks in during an intimate moment (yes, we go there), while others want help navigating bullying in schools, unrealistic academic pressure, and whether competitive sports are worth the mental strain.
We talk through supporting kids with ADHD and anxiety when progress isn’t immediate, how to talk to both sets of parents in a bullying situation, and why it’s okay if your child isn’t the next soccer prodigy. As always, we bring humor, honesty, and a little chaos to every answer, because there’s no one right way to do this parenting thing.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
2:10 How do I keep my kid grounded when not on competitive sports teams?
7:54 How to deal with parent's reactions to bullying in school?
12:11 What do I do when my kid walks in on an intimate moment?
14:23 How do I help my child's school understand their ADHD?
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Mental health diagnoses are skyrocketing, especially in young people, and we wanted to understand why. We dig into the numbers around anxiety, depression, suicide, autism, and ADHD, and explore the potential causes behind these trends. From social media and sleep deprivation to environmental toxins and dietary chemicals, we look at the many factors contributing to the current mental health crisis.
We also question how much of the rise is about awareness and how much is deeper: like neurological changes, cultural shifts, or a desire to find identity in a diagnosis. Whether it’s plastic in our brains or policies that fail to prioritize prevention, there’s a lot to unpack. If you’re wondering what’s really going on with mental health in America, this conversation goes there.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Check out Is My Child a Monster? A Parenting Skills Podcast
Website: ismychildamonster.com
Dr. Megan Landry is an emergency medicine physician from New Orleans who joined us to unpack the growing use of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. We discuss how these drugs work, why they’re being prescribed at skyrocketing rates, especially to adolescents, and the concerning physical and mental health risks that come with them, including depression, anxiety, and disordered eating.
We also talk about Dr. Landry’s personal journey from burnout to holistic medicine, and the deeper systemic issues fueling our country’s health crisis, from ultra-processed foods to a culture of quick fixes. If you’ve ever wondered whether these medications are helping or just masking the real problem, this conversation breaks it all down.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
In this Q&A episode, Jessica and Lauren dive into thoughtful questions from listeners about kids and mental health. From how to talk to students who casually mention anxiety or depression, to helping children understand when to seek adult support, we unpack some of the complicated dynamics teachers and parents are seeing today.
We also explain neuroplasticity (shoutout to the 9-year-old who asked!) and how the brain adapts to everything from trauma to learning. Plus, we share our unfiltered thoughts on potty training pressures, tech boundaries between families, and why it's okay to let go of some control. As always, keep your questions coming—we love building this community with you.
Timestamps
0:00 Intro
3:51 How do I talk to kids about mental health?
9:46 How does neuroplasticity work?
13:58 How do I know when to seek professional help with potty training?
17:14 How do I deal with other households having different technology rules?
24:24 Outro
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/
Dr. Sara Reardon, aka the Vagina Whisperer, is a pelvic floor therapist from New Orleans and she’s here to break down everything we should’ve learned about our bodies but never did. We talk with Sara about the real physical and emotional toll of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery, and why so many pelvic floor issues are misdiagnosed, dismissed, or never treated at all. From C-section scars to painful periods and endometriosis, she helps us understand how interconnected our bodies are and why better care is long overdue.
We also discuss the lack of education young people receive about menstruation, sex, and pelvic health, and how that gap leads to shame, confusion, and long-term issues. Sara shares her mission to normalize conversations about pelvic floor health, her passion for changing the system, and her new book Floored, which comes with free pelvic floor workout resources. If you've ever been told to “just do your Kegels,” you’ll want to hear what Sara has to say.
Join hosts Jessica Eisenstat, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Dr. Lauren LaRose, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, as they dive into raw and real conversations about all things kids. These two moms, who also happen to be mental health professionals, bring humor, debate, and a hefty dose of mom realness to every episode. From tackling children’s mental health to the daily chaos of parenting, nothing is off-limits.
Follow The Little Brain Campaign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelittlebraincampaign/
Website: https://www.littlebraincampaign.com/