Partnering with Your Pediatrician on Vaccines: A Balanced Conversation with Dr. Joel Gator

In this episode of the Early-Momming Podcast, Hillary sits down with Dr. Joel Gator—a board-certified pediatrician and integrative medicine expert—for a powerful, no-agenda conversation about vaccines, informed consent, and trusting your gut as a mom.

They unpack the real reasons so many parents feel uneasy during pediatric visits and how to shift from pressure-filled moments to confident, informed decisions. Dr. Gator shares insights from his upcoming book Between a Shot and a Hard Place, diving deep into the flaws in our current system and how parents can feel more supported, not sidelined.

Join Hillary and Dr. Gator as they discuss:

– What informed consent really means—and why it matters in pediatric care

– How to have collaborative, non-confrontational conversations with your child’s doctor

– Why it’s so hard to find balanced, evidence-based vaccine education

– Specifics around vaccines like Hepatitis B and RSV (what’s helpful to know before you’re in the exam room)

– How integrative pediatrics bridges the gap between evidence and intuition

– The importance of listening to your instincts, even in the face of medical pressure

This conversation is honest, respectful, and centered on one thing: empowering parents with clarity and confidence.

Thank you to our sponsors!

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• Book a 1:1 consult with Hillary or her team — In Charleston, SC or virtually

Mentioned in this episode:

– @drjoelgator on Instagram

– Dr. Gator’s book: Between a Shot and a Hard Place (Pre-Order Now)

– Baby Settler Formula Guide

– Breastfeeding & Pumping Guide

– Magnesium Supplement for Sleep

– Bioidentical Progesterone Research (PubMed)

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