In this absolutely incredible and timely episode, Nancy and Jose are joined in studio by Dr. Pradeep Gidwani, a leader with such broad impact on early childhood development in San Diego that it seems somewhat of an injustice to say that he is the Medical Director for both Healthy Development Services and First Steps, two life changing programs funded by First 5 San Diego.

Where do we begin with an episode that could be audio-curriculum for every parent, doctor, and human in the world? Let's start with an incredible program called "Reach Out And Read" which has delivered one million books in San Diego alone through the offices of pediatricians. Started in Boston by Dr. Barry Zuckerman, Pradeep and his colleagues, including the involvement of the American Academy of Pediatrics, are the local chapter for this national program. In discussing this program, we learn of Dr. Gidwani's deep passion for reading, but not just for the literacy impact. We hear about why being read to is so important for the social emotional development of children, as well as the smile it brings to an empowered parent!

The layers of the conversation, though, are what makes this a special listen. Stress, biochemistry, nurture economics, word rich environments, self-kindness, and post-traumatic growth - it's all in here.

Quite the episode and here are some other amazing takeaways from the interview with Dr. Pradeep Gidwani:

- The biochemistry of stress and the role of oxytocin in working through it positively
- The connection between stress and trauma
- The role of volunteerism for relationships and mentorships
- A concept called a "culture of one" and the need for self-kindness
- An important reflection on post-traumatic growth
- The answers to the Rapid Fire questions!

A truly uplifting, educational, and impactful interview from a phenomenal gap minder. Thank you, Dr. Pradeep Gidwani, for your contributions to the world of early childhood development, literacy, healthy children and for joining us on The Gap Minders.

Enjoy this episode and be sure to subscribe to the show.

If you have any questions or want to contact Nancy or Jose, please send an email to podcast@uwsd.org. Thank you for listening.

To learn more about the two social impact organizations making The Gap Minders possible, please visit www.TheGapMinders.org.