Welcome back to Serene: The Allergy Podcast

In this heartfelt episode, I’m joined by Amy, allergy mum and co-founder of Grow with Iris a plant-based drink designed especially for toddlers with dietary restrictions.

Amy’s story began with her daughter’s severe allergies and the realisation that safe, nourishing options were seriously lacking. So, like many parents do when they’re faced with the impossible, she took matters into her own hands.

Together, we talk honestly about the emotional highs and lows of allergy parenting. From the early days of anxiety, guilt and judgement, to the ongoing challenges of navigating schools, clubs, family life and social situations, it’s a journey so many of us know all too well.

Amy opens up about what inspired Grow with Iris, how her family lives by the mantra “Got allergies, no apologies,” and why normalising these conversations from the start can empower children to feel proud of who they are.

We also explore:

– The psychological impact of managing allergies day in, day out

– How to build supportive relationships with schools and caregivers

– Simple ways to create confidence, inclusion, and resilience in allergy kids

– Why community matters—and how even a sticker can change a child’s mindset

Whether you’re in the thick of diagnosis, figuring out school lunches, or just looking for a bit of reassurance, you’ll find something here to help you feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.

Thank you for being part of the Serene community. Let’s keep creating space for real conversations, shared experiences, and a whole lot of compassion.

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You can find Grow with Iris at growwithiris.com or follow along on Instagram @growwithiris.

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

Just click here to review.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

 

In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant James Gardner, Director of Nursing at the Allergy Centre of Excellence.

James brings over 20 years of experience in allergy care and he’s also someone living with a food allergy himself, so his perspective is both professional and deeply personal.

Together, we chat about how allergy treatments are evolving, including the growing role of food immunotherapy. But this episode isn’t just about the clinical side of things, it’s about the real-life challenges families face every day. Because we know it’s not as simple as just “avoiding” allergens.

We explore what these treatment journeys can look like for children and families, how personalised they need to be, and why the emotional side of allergy management matters just as much as the medical side. James also shares some really helpful ideas for supporting your child through the ups and downs of allergy life.

If you or someone in your family is navigating allergies, this one’s for you. You’ll find reassurance, practical advice, and maybe even a bit of hope about what’s coming next in allergy care.

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

Just click here to review.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

In this episode of Serene – The Allergy Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Lydia Collins-Hussey a specialist paediatric dietitian, who you might know as @milkallergydietitian on Instagram.

Lydia shares her journey from working in the NHS to running her own private practice, where she supports families navigating a cow’s milk allergy.

We talk openly about the emotional and practical challenges that often come up, especially around the milk ladder and reintroducing foods and how this can feel overwhelming, confusing, or even isolating at times.

Lydia offers such compassionate insight into what families really need during this process, from simple, clear advice to the emotional reassurance that often gets missed. She also tells us more about the incredible programme she’s created to help families feel empowered and supported every step of the way.

Whether you’re a parent managing milk allergy day-to-day, a professional working with allergic families, or just someone wanting to better understand the psychological side of allergy care, there’s so much comfort and encouragement in this conversation.

Tune in for gentle guidance, real-life stories, and some truly helpful tips you can take away with you.

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Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

Just click here to review.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

In this episode of Serene, The Allergy Podcast, I sit down with Dr Rosan Meyer, the brilliant CEO of Step by Step Kids Nutrition, to talk about something so many families face: feeding difficulties in children with allergies.

 

We dive into everything from everyday mealtime challenges to more complex conditions like Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE) and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Rosan shares her incredible insights into creating a supportive and practical approach to nutrition, highlighting why a multidisciplinary team can make such a difference for both children and their families.

 

We also explore practical strategies to make mealtimes less stressful, the importance of personalised assessments, and some of the latest research that could really help families feel more equipped and empowered.

 

If you’re navigating the world of allergies and feeding difficulties—or supporting someone who is—this episode is full of warmth, understanding, and genuinely helpful advice.

 

I hope you find it as valuable as I did!

 

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

 

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

 

Just click here to review.

 

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

In this episode of Serene, The Allergy Podcast, I sit down with Zak Marks, the inspiring co-founder and CEO of Kitt Medical. We dive into his personal journey of living with severe food allergies and the unique challenges he faced, especially during those pivotal university years when he transitioned from family support to self-management.

 

We talk openly about the psychological impact of allergies, the societal stigma that often comes with them, and why creating a truly supportive environment matters so much. Zak shares the story behind Kitt Medical's innovative approach—introducing allergy kits in public spaces, much like defibrillators—to make life safer and offer real peace of mind to families and individuals living with allergies.

This conversation is all about understanding the emotional side of allergy management and exploring how we can all contribute to a more inclusive and aware society. Whether you live with allergies or support someone who does, I think you’ll find so much value and inspiration in this episode.

Tune in to hear more about the incredible impact of Zak’s work and how Kitt Medical is transforming allergy care for the better!

 

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

 

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

 

Just click here to review.

 

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

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In this enlightening episode of "Serene, the Allergy Podcast," hosted by Dr. Karen Murphy, we are joined by renowned Professor George du Toit.   Together we delve into the evolving world of allergy prevention and treatment. Starting with a discussion on the groundbreaking LEAP study, the conversation explores the shift from allergen avoidance to early introduction as a means of preventing allergies.   Professor George du Toit shares insights into the practicalities and psychological challenges of early weaning, while highlighting the importance of empowering parents through education and support.   The episode also navigates the complexities surrounding oral immunotherapy (OIT) and the transformative potential of biologics and upcoming treatments like the Neffy nasal spray. Professor George du Toit provides a comprehensive look at current guidelines and future innovations in allergy management, offering hope and guidance to families navigating this complex journey.   Whether you're a parent confronting allergy challenges or a professional interested in the latest research, this episode is brimming with valuable insights to empower and inform.

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

Just click here to review.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

Welcome to Episode 4 of "Serene: The Allergy Podcast." with your host, Dr. Karen Murphy.

Today we're diving into essential conversations around child nutrition with a special guest, Charlotte Stirling-Reed, a renowned baby and child nutritionist. Charlotte is passionate about helping families navigate the tricky waters of weaning and fussy eating while promoting healthy eating habits.

In this episode, Charlotte shares with us her journey and the valuable resources she's created to support parents, especially when it comes to integrating allergens into their child's diet. We'll talk about her latest release, "The Ultimate Weaning and Toddler Cookbook," which is filled with versatile and family-friendly recipes. Charlotte also touches on her personal experiences, the psychological impacts of feeding challenges, and the importance of family mealtime dynamics.

We'll explore the practical strategies for building confidence in parents and children during mealtimes, especially those managing allergies. Plus, Charlotte gives us a sneak peek into her exciting projects lined up for 2025, including new partnerships and innovative resources.

Whether you're a parent dealing with allergies or a professional looking for insights, this episode is packed with valuable information to help make mealtimes a less stressful and more enjoyable experience for the whole family. Join us for this enlightening and supportive conversation.

 

 

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.

Just click here to review.

Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Serene, The Allergy Podcast, where we explore the multifaceted world of living with food allergies.   Today, I am thrilled to welcome Dan Kelly, the innovative mind behind the "May Contain" platform, which has become a beacon of hope and information for the allergy community.   Dan's online journey began with an Instagram story, unsure if anyone would relate to his experiences with allergies. The overwhelming response revealed a strong, supportive community that resonated with his story.   Through Instagram, Dan has built a dedicated audience by sharing authentic, honest experiences and practical advice on managing allergies.   In our conversation today, we'll delve into the power of social media in creating awareness, engaging content that strikes a chord, and the importance of honesty in connecting with an audience. We'll explore Dan's experiences dining out in different countries, his strategies for traveling safely with severe allergies, and the impact of his initiative "May Contain," which started as a magazine and has since expanded into a comprehensive online presence.   We'll also touch on critical issues like the overlap between anxiety and allergic reactions, the limited psychological support for adults with allergies, and the importance of preparation and self-advocacy. Dan's insights and personal travel stories offer invaluable lessons for those managing allergies daily.   So sit back, relax, and join us for an enlightening conversation with Dan Kelly as we navigate the complexities of living with allergies and the power of community, awareness, and resilience.   Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help   Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.   Just click here to review.   Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

Welcome to "Serene, the Allergy Podcast," with me Dr Karen Murphy, where we delve into the emotional, psychological, and practical aspects of managing food allergies.

In today's episode, I am joined by specialist pediatric dietitian Lucy Upton. Lucy brings nearly 15 years of expertise in food allergies in children, offering invaluable insights into managing expectations, tackling social media influences, and fostering compassionate feeding environments.

We'll discuss the challenges and strategies for introducing allergenic foods, the importance of responsive feeding, and how to create safe and supportive mealtime dynamics. Lucy also shares her personal anecdotes, tackling the complexities of feeding from early weaning to managing severe allergies.

Join us as we uncover the emotional and relational impacts of feeding children with food allergies and provide practical advice for parents navigating these challenges.

Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help   Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.   Just click here to review.   Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.

Welcome to the very first episode of "Serene, the Allergy Podcast," hosted by me, Dr. Karen Murphy.   In this episode, we're honoured to have Professor Adam Fox, a leading Paediatric Allergist at Guy's and St Thomas' in London, join us. Together, we'll be delving into the complexities of oral immunotherapy (OIT) for food allergies, especially the psychological hurdles that come with it.   Professor Fox brings his expertise to illuminate the critical need for psychological support in allergy treatment—a resource that has been historically underfunded in the UK compared to the US.   We'll explore how integrating mental health support can significantly improve treatment outcomes, particularly by addressing anxiety that can impact a young person's journey on the programme.   We'll also discuss the advances in allergy treatment, including the innovative Neffy nasal adrenaline device, the role of biologic medicines like Omalizumab, and the importance of accurate diagnostics.   Professor Fox will share insights on personalised treatment plans and we discuss effective ways to manage the psychosocial impacts of living with allergies.   Tune in as we tackle essential questions about improving the quality of life for those living with allergies and the evolving landscape of allergy management.   Stay with us for an enlightening conversation that could transform how you view and handle allergies in your daily life.   Please spread the message and share this episode with anyone who you think would benefit. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help   Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another people navigating allergies to find this resource.   Just click here to review.   Please note that the views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr Karen Murphy, host of Serene, The Allergy Podcast. The information on the podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health-related questions or concerns.