Serene - The Allergy Podcast

About Serene - The Allergy Podcast

Hello, and a warm welcome to Serene, the allergy podcast. This show is a space for me to have conversations with allergy experts about how we can best support those navigating this journey, as well as exciting new updates in the field and, of course, shining a light on the psychological impacts along the way. Whether you're living with allergies yourself or supporting someone that is, there'll be psychological insights to help. I'm doctor Karen Murphy, chartered clinical psychologist, and a specialist in supporting those living with allergies. I'm really glad you're here. Let's begin.

Publisher

Dr Karen Murphy

Category

health & fitness · kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 Nov 2024

Latest episode

9 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2025

   Navigating Food Allergy Anxiety and Family Life with Tamara, the Food Allergy Counselor

   In this episode of Serene, I’m joined by Tamara Hubbard, “The Food Allergy Counselor,” for an open and supportive conversation about the emotional side of living with food allergies. Tamara shares her journey as both a therapist and a parent, and we explore the very real impact allergies can have on family life, why allergy-informed therapy matters, and the resources still missing for families in both the UK and US. We also talk about her upcoming book, May Contain Anxiety, and the ways it aims to empower parents and caregivers who often find themselves carrying the weight of being the “allergy expert” at home. This episode is full of reassurance, practical insights, and hope for finding balance while navigating life with allergies. 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.

2. 

   4 Aug 2025

   From Frustration to Innovation: The Creation of Grow with Iris

   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. — 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.

3. 

   7 Jul 2025

   From Avoidance to Immunotherapy: A Deep Dive into Modern Allergy Care with James Gardner

   James Gardner, Director of Nursing, discusses evolving allergy treatments like immunotherapy and the daily challenges families face, emphasizing personalized care and emotional support in this interview with the host.

4. 

   2 Jun 2025

   Navigating Milk Allergy in Children: Tips, Challenges, and Psychological Impact with Lydia Collins-Hussey

   Lydia Collins-Hussey, a pediatric dietitian, discusses the emotional and practical challenges of managing cow's milk allergy in children, including reintroducing foods, in this interview episode.

5. 

   5 May 2025

   Navigating Allergies and Feeding Difficulties with Dr Rosan Meyer

   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.

6. 

   7 Apr 2025

   Like a defibrillator for allergies": Innovation and empowerment with Kitt Medical

   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. Add a comment

7. 

   3 Mar 2025

   Understanding Food Allergies: Exploring Prevention and Treatment with Professor du Toit

   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.

8. 

   3 Feb 2025

   Navigating Weaning & Toddler Nutrition Amidst Allergies

   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.

9. 

   24 Dec 2024

   Travelling with Allergies: A Journey to Inspire Others.

   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.

10. 

    9 Dec 2024

    The emotional rollercoaster of feeding children with allergies.

    Dr. Karen Murphy explores the emotional rollercoaster of feeding children with allergies with specialist pediatric dietitian Lucy Upton, offering practical advice for navigating mealtime dynamics.

11. 

    20 Nov 2024

    From Anxiety to Empowerment: Managing Food Allergies with Professor Fox

    Professor Adam Fox, a leading Paediatric Allergist, shares insights on integrating mental health support to significantly improve treatment outcomes and improve the quality of life for those living with allergies.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 25 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

38

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact Serene - The Allergy Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.