Little Eaters & Talkers Podcast
13: How Speech Pathologists Support Autistic Children
In honor of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, this solo episode dives into how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) support autistic children—not just with speech, but with communication, connection, and care.
Jean Hawney, pediatric SLP and feeding therapist, shares what therapy really looks like, how communication can be supported in different ways, and how parents can feel more empowered on their child’s journey. From language and social interaction to feeding challenges and sensory needs, this episode offers encouragement, education, and a fresh perspective on how SLPs help autistic kids thrive—just as they are.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or fellow therapist, this episode is for you.
12: Safely Introducing Allergens: Expert Tips
In this episode of Little Eaters & Talkers, Jean Hawney sits down with the experts at West U Pediatric Dentistry to discuss how to safely introduce allergens to children. They cover essential guidelines, common concerns, and practical tips for parents navigating this crucial step in their child’s food journey. Tune in for expert-backed advice and reassurance on making allergen introduction a safe and stress-free experience!
11: Beyond the Diagnosis: A Doctor-Mom’s Insights on Feeding & Mowat-Wilson Syndrome
In this special episode, Jean Hawney, the owner of Little Eaters & Talkers, sits down with Doctor Saiqa Khan, a physician and mother to a remarkable daughter, Remy, with Mowat-Wilson Syndrome. She shares her personal journey navigating feeding challenges—from early struggles to incredible progress—and how her medical background shaped her approach to mealtime strategies.
We discuss:
✅ The unique feeding challenges associated with Mowat-Wilson Syndrome
✅ How she balanced her role as both a doctor and a mother in this journey
✅ The small (and big!) wins that gave her hope along the way
✅ Advice for parents facing similar feeding difficulties
This episode is a heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom, perseverance, and encouragement for families navigating complex feeding journeys.
10: Food Allergies & First Bites
Introducing allergens to your baby can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!
In this episode, Jean Hawney, a feeding expert, breaks down when, how, and why to introduce common allergens, helping you feel confident with those first bites. I’ll cover the latest research, practical feeding strategies, and common concerns parents have—like how to recognize the difference between a reaction and a sensory response. Whether you're just starting solids or navigating food allergies, this episode is packed with helpful insights to make allergen introduction safe and stress-free!
If you would like more help, book an appointment on our website www.thelittleeaters.com or email us info@thelittleeaters.com
Listen now! 🎧 #BabyFeeding #FoodAllergies #IntroducingAllergens
09: Bottle Aversion: Why Your Baby Won’t Take the Bottle & What to Do
Is your baby refusing the bottle, turning away, or getting upset before or during feedings? Bottle aversion can be frustrating and stressful for both parents and babies, but you’re not alone!
In this episode, we’ll dive into what causes bottle aversion, common signs to look for, and practical strategies to help your baby feel comfortable and confident with bottle feeding again. Whether you're navigating a sudden refusal or a long-standing struggle, this episode will give you the tools to make feeding a positive experience.
Little Eaters & Talkers can help. We offer virtual consultations to help you and your little learn how to enjoy eating.
08: The Truth About Bottle Aversion: Signs, Causes & First Steps
Is your baby refusing the bottle, getting fussy during feeds, or only drinking when drowsy? You’re not alone! Bottle aversion is a common yet frustrating challenge for many parents, and understanding the why behind it is the first step to finding a solution.
In this episode, we’ll cover: ✅ The signs of bottle aversion you might be missing ✅ Common myths about bottle refusal (and the truth behind them) ✅ The real reasons babies develop bottle aversion ✅ One key mindset shift that can change your feeding experience
07: Bottle Refusal for the Breastfed Infant
Introducing solids is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming! Join Jean Hawney with Little Eaters & Talkers to discuss if you should you do purees or baby-led weaning? How do you know if your baby is eating enough? And what about gagging?
In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about starting solids, including how to combine baby-led weaning with spoon-feeding, how to be more responsive to your baby’s cues, and my top 5 tips to prevent picky eating from the start. Let’s make mealtimes stress-free and enjoyable for both you and your baby!
06: Bottle Refusal for the Breastfed Infant
Do you have a Bottle Snob?
In this episode Jean Hawney, the owner of Little Eaters & Talkers, and Bailey from West U Pediatric Dentistry discuss Bottle Refusal for the Breastfed Baby. We discuss: Why does it happen? How to prevent it? How to help your baby?
Bottle refusal happens when a breastfed baby consistently rejects drinking from a bottle. This can occur for several reasons, including a strong preference for breastfeeding, difficulty adjusting to the bottle’s nipple, or negative associations with bottle feeding. Some babies may simply not recognize the bottle as a feeding source, while others may actively push it away, cry, or refuse to latch onto it.
Unlike bottle aversion, which often stems from a negative emotional response, bottle refusal is typically about preference and unfamiliarity. With patience, the right bottle, and gentle techniques, most babies can learn to accept bottle feeding when needed.
05: What Breastfeeding Taught Me: A Personal Story
In this episode, I open up about my personal breastfeeding journey as a new mom- the good, the bad, and the lessons I learned along the way. From the initial struggles with latch issues and a baby losing weight to moments of connection and empowerment. I share the realities of breastfeeding that many moms face but often go unspoken.
Whether you're a mom currently breastfeeding, expecting, or simply curious about what this journey can look like, this episode is an honest, relatable look at one of the most personal aspects of motherhood.
Tune in for encouragement, insights, and the reminder that every feeding journey is valid and worth celebrating.
04: Kids Talk Foods: Favorites, Fails, and Fun!
Join me as I sit down with my two kids to chat all about food—favorites, least favorites, and everything in between! In this lighthearted episode, we ask fun questions designed to encourage parents to connect with their children over meals. Learn how to spark engaging conversations with your kids about food, understand their preferences, and share a laugh along the way. Whether you're looking for inspiration or just some wholesome family fun, this episode is a feast of ideas for bonding over food!"
03: Meet Jean Hawney: The Story Behind My Private Practice
In this episode, Dr. Kallie Hale, The Airway Centered Dentist, and I discuss my journey to becoming a speech-language pathologist and how dentists can collaborate with SLPs.
We go into detail about how I, Jean Hawney, started my private practice, Little Eaters & Talkers, and the passion that fuels my work. Learn about my background as a speech pathologist, feeding specialist, and lactation consultant, and how I transitioned from a hospital role to creating a space dedicated to helping children thrive. Tune in to hear why I’m committed to empowering families through personalized care and the vision behind my practice.
02: What is a Tongue Tie?
Jean Hawney, the owner of Little Eaters & Talkers, talks about tongue ties. We dive into the world of tongue ties—what they are, how they affect feeding, speech, and oral development. Join me as I answer various questions about tongue ties and explore when intervention might be necessary. Whether you're a new parent, a caregiver, or simply curious, this episode will give you the insight you need to understand this common yet often misunderstood condition.
01: Meet Your Host: Helping Little Ones Eat, Talk, and Thrive
Welcome to the Little Eaters & Talkers podcast! In this very first episode, I’m introducing myself—Jean Hawney, a speech-language pathologist, feeding specialist, and lactation consultant—and sharing the heart behind my business, Little Eaters & Talkers.
Discover what this podcast is all about: practical tips, expert advice, and supportive conversations to help families navigate feeding challenges, speech development, and everything in between.
Join me as we embark on this journey together, celebrating the small steps that lead to big milestones for your little eaters and talkers.
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and let’s start building a community of confident, informed, and empowered parents.