Feeding Does Matter – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, hosts Jaclyn Pederson and Dr. Hayley Estrem provide a deep dive into the histories of Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment. From the impact of terminology on family experiences to the critical role of early identification and intervention, this episode explores how awareness and collaboration across disciplines are key to supporting families facing PFD and ARFID. A thoughtful conversation on the strides made—and the work still needed—in understanding and supporting these complex feeding disorders.

In this inaugural episode of the Feeding Does Matter podcast, hosts Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, and Dr. Hayley Estrem share their personal journeys that led them to focus on Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and the importance of family-centered research. They discuss the challenges faced by families dealing with feeding issues, the significance of understanding PFD and ARFID, and the mission of Feeding Matters to advocate for better support and resources. The episode sets the stage for future discussions with experts and families, aiming to bridge the gap in knowledge and support for those affected by feeding disorders.

In this episode of Feeding Does Matter, we explore the feeding skill domain with Cuyler Romeo, an Occupational Therapist and Pediatric Feeding Specialist at Banner-University Medical Center’s NICU, and Director of Strategic Initiatives at Feeding Matters. From understanding feeding development within the family dynamic to practical strategies for supporting children with challenges, this discussion provides valuable tools for improving feeding outcomes.

In this special episode of Feeding Does Matter, Jaclyn speaks with two extraordinary mothers, each navigating the complexities of pediatric feeding disorders (PFD) and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Michelle, mother to 8-year-old Hannah with ARFID, opens up about her journey and her efforts to help her daughter confront her fears on her Instagram page, myARFIDlife, and raise awareness. She discusses the challenges her family faces and the need for greater resources to support children with feeding differences.

Shannon Goldwater, mother of triplets with PFD and founder of Feeding Matters, shares her powerful story of resilience. From the emotional to the physical trials of feeding challenges, Shannon sheds light on the critical need for support and understanding for families facing similar struggles.

Together, Michelle and Shannon advocate for a shift in perception—feeding disorders are not just “picky eating” but complex issues requiring empathy and dedicated care.

In this foundational episode of Feeding Does Matter, we open the conversation on the four domains of Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD). Beginning with the medical and nutritional domains, our guest Praveen Goday, MD explains how each area uniquely impacts a child’s ability to eat, grow, and thrive.

Dr. Goday sheds light on the signs of medical and nutritional dysfunction, including issues like aspiration, malnutrition, and restricted diets, explaining how these symptoms guide diagnosis and treatment. This episode provides a comprehensive framework for understanding PFD’s complexities and underscores the importance of collaboration among families, caregivers, and healthcare providers; setting the stage for upcoming discussions on the other domains.

Dr. Goday is a pediatric gastroenterologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is the Director of the Nutrition and Feeding Programs, which provide nutrition care throughout the hospital system and care to children with feeding problems. He is a clinical professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University. Dr. Goday is board certified in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. In 2019, Dr. Goday was the lead author of the paper that defined Pediatric Feeding Disorder, that has served to unify this common but understudied condition.

This conversation delves into the psychosocial aspects of pediatric feeding disorders, particularly focusing on the complexities of feeding challenges faced by children and their caregivers. Dr. William Sharp discusses the diagnostic features of psychosocial dysfunction, the impact on family dynamics, and the importance of involving families in treatment and research. The dialogue also explores the distinctions between ARFID and PFD, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.