What if one wish could change the course of a child’s recovery?

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Jen Pratt, a pediatrician, childhood cancer survivor, and Make-A-Wish recipient turned advocate. At just 11 years old, Jen was diagnosed with bone cancer—a life-changing moment that launched her into a world of hospitals, chemo, and uncertainty. But her journey also included something magical: a wish.

Jen shares her deeply personal story of receiving a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation and how that experience not only helped her cope during treatment but also inspired her path into medicine. Now, working at the very hospital where she was once treated, Jen sees firsthand how a single wish can uplift not just a child, but an entire family.

We dive into:

• Jen’s cancer diagnosis and the emotional toll it took on her and her family

• Her unforgettable wish to meet Disney animators—and why it mattered so much

• The Wish Impact Study and the real data showing how hope affects healing

• The misconception that wishes are just for terminally ill kids (they're not!)

• How Make-A-Wish brings light to dark moments—and why it’s more than just a “nice thing”

• Heartwarming stories from the hospital frontlines

• The powerful role of mental health in medical recovery

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply someone who believes in the magic of kindness, this episode is a reminder that hope truly heals.

• Learn more about the Make-A-Wish Foundation: https://wish.org

• Discover the Wish Impact Study: https://wish.org/wishimpact

• Interested in referring a child or volunteering? Visit https://wish.org/refer

Dr. Jen Pratt is a pediatric hospitalist at Children’s Minnesota and a medical advisor for Make-A-Wish Minnesota. A former wish kid herself, Dr. Pratt brings a unique and heartfelt perspective to her work—bridging her personal experience with professional compassion.

Don’t miss future conversations that explore parenting, personal growth, and how we show up for one another. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

Ever stare down a task you know you need to do… and still walk away from it? Yeah, me too. In this episode, I’m joined by psychotherapist Steven Melman to unpack what’s really going on when we procrastinate—and how we can start breaking the cycle.

We talk about the emotional side of procrastination, including fear of failure, perfectionism, and even the stories we carry from childhood. Steven shares practical tools and honest insight to help you move from stuck to steady—whether you're trying to finish a project, show up better for your family, or just get out of your own head.

If you've ever told yourself "I'll do it later," this episode is for you.

In This Episode:

• The hidden emotional reasons behind procrastination

• Why it’s not about laziness—and how perfectionism plays a role

• What “reward and punishment” can teach us about motivation

• How parenting styles impact the habits we carry into adulthood

• Steven’s personal story of proving people wrong (and how it shaped him)

• What to do when fear of success or failure holds you back

• The simple practice that can build real self-discipline

Resources & Links:

🎓 Steven Melman’s Website:
stevenmelmanpsychotherapist.com

📘 His Book: Guidance for New Clinicians in a Chaotic World
Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online retailers

📝 Full Show Notes & Comments:
nosittingonthesideline.com/161

📬 Join the Newsletter:
Get updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and more from Joe at
nosittingonthesideline.com

Connect with Joe:

🔗 Website: nosittingonthesideline.com
📸 Instagram: @nosittingonthesideline_dad_pod
🐦 Twitter/X: @nsosdadpodcast

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What if the products you use every day—like your plastic containers, laundry detergent, or air fresheners—were quietly affecting your family’s health?

In this episode, I sit down with Tanya Harris, childhood cancer survivor and environmental toxin expert, to explore how to reduce hidden toxins in your home without feeling overwhelmed. From the kitchen to the laundry room, Tanya shares practical tips that any busy parent can start using right away.

You'll learn how simple swaps and small adjustments can help protect your family’s health—without needing to go completely toxin-free or “all natural” overnight.

👉 What We Cover:

• Common household toxins hiding in plain sight

• Why heating food in plastic containers can be risky

• The truth about artificial fragrances, preservatives, and MSG

• How to shop smarter using the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists

• What the Slightly Greener Method is—and how to make it work for your lifestyle

📋 Want to know which foods are worth buying organic?
Tanya recommends using the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 lists. You can find them at:
https://www.ewg.org/foodnews

🌿 Learn more about Tanya’s work and grab her book at:
https://slightlygreener.com

📌 Full show notes and episode resources:
https://nosittingonthesideline.com/160

Whether you're just starting to clean up your home or you've been on this path for a while, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and encouraged.

Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only. It’s not intended as medical advice. Always do your research and consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, diet, or lifestyle, especially when it comes to your family’s well-being.