Today, we're talking about one of the most important tests your baby will ever receive, often before you even leave the hospital. Joining us is Debbie Ellis, RN, Newborn Screening Manager and the Manager for the Center for Care Coordination at Connecticut Children's. We'll discuss what newborn screening is, why it's performed on every newborn, how it helps identify rare conditions before symptoms appear, and how Connecticut Children's supports families every step of the way. We'll also explore how the Connecticut Newborn Screening Network is improving access to care for all. If you're expecting a baby or simply want to learn how early detection can save lives, this episode is for you.

Today, we’re exploring how innovation and research are shaping the future of pediatric medicine—and improving care for children right now. Joining us is Dr. Markus Bookland, Director of the Surgical Epilepsy Program and Co-Director of the Craniofacial Surgery Program.

We’ll discuss how advances in technology, artificial intelligence, and pediatric research are helping doctors diagnose conditions earlier, improve treatments, and create better outcomes for children. We’ll also explore what makes pediatric neurosurgery unique, and how specialized care and innovation are benefiting families, including those receiving care closer to home.

If you’ve ever wondered how research becomes real-world care for kids, this conversation is for you.

Today, we’re exploring why kids truly need healthcare designed just for them. Joining us is Dr. Robyn Matloff, nephrologist and Associate Vice President of Ambulatory Pediatrics and Community Development at Connecticut Children’s. We’ll go behind the scenes of pediatric healthcare to discuss how specialized teams, child-focused environments, coordinated care, and pediatric research all contribute to better outcomes for children and families. If you’ve ever wondered why “kids only” care matters, this conversation is for you.

In this episode we're joined by Dr. Jonathan Sollinger of Willows Pediatric Group in Westport, a community pediatrician affiliated with Connecticut Children’s Care Network.

Dr. Sollinger helps parents sort through today’s biggest health trends and parenting questions. From vaccine confusion and energy drinks to skincare products marketed to kids, changing nutrition advice, and the rise of “Dr. Google” and AI, we talk about what’s hype, what actually helps, and how families can make informed choices for healthier kids.

Dr. Sollinger also shares simple, practical advice on building lifelong healthy habits through sleep, exercise, nutrition, and trusted medical guidance. As always, this conversation is for informational purposes only, so be sure to talk with your own healthcare provider about any concerns regarding your child’s health.

Today we're joined by Dr. Steven Rogers, an emergency medicine physician and the Medical Director of Connecticut Children’s Youth Suicide Prevention Center. We talk about why suicide remains a leading risk for kids and teens, and how early identification, open conversations, and simple screening can help save lives. Dr. Rogers shares what parents and caregivers should know about recognizing warning signs, how to talk to their children about mental health, and why connected, ongoing care is so critical in times of crisis. As always, this conversation is for informational purposes only, so please reach out to your own healthcare provider for guidance and support. 

Welcome to episode one of Connecticut Children’s:100% Kids. I’m your host Angela Ohlfest.

In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Elizabeth Cipolla, a community pediatrician affiliated with the Connecticut Children’s Care Network, to talk about some of the most common, and often stressful, health concerns parents face. 

We cover everything from fevers and chest pain to headaches, heart murmurs, and developmental milestones. Dr. Cipolla shares reassuring guidance on what’s normal, what might need further evaluation, and why children truly aren’t just small adults when it comes to medical care. 

As always, this conversation is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice, so be sure to talk with your own healthcare provider about any specific concerns regarding your child’s health.

Welcome to Connecticut Children’s: 100% Kids — a new podcast created for parents and communities who want clarity, not confusion. Each episode brings you trusted voices from Connecticut Children’s to tackle the issues families are facing right now — from mental health and suicide prevention to newborn screening, breakthrough research, and why kids-only care truly matters.