In this first episode of A Dose of Optimism, host Omkar Kulkarni explores how schools are becoming powerful allies in improving children’s health and well-being.

Omkar speaks with Dr. Smita Malhotra, Chief Medical Director for the Los Angeles Unified School District, who shares how her team is reimagining schools as centers for mental, dental, and medical care, bringing services directly to students and families who need them most. He’s also joined by Andrew Post, President of Hazel Health, whose company is pioneering school-based telehealth, giving students access to physical and mental health providers right from the classroom. They discuss access, equity, and the future of pediatric healthcare delivery, one that meets kids where they are, in the place they spend most of their day: school.

🎧 Listen now to see how technology, compassion, and collaboration are shaping a brighter, healthier future for every child.

Episode Resources:

• Telehealth
• Telemental Health
• Heat Index
• Los Angeles Network for Enhanced Services (LANES)
• Medicaid
• Health Net of California

Connect with Dr. Smita Malhotra:

• Smita Malhotra, MD Website
• Instagram: @drsmita_md
• LinkedIn

Connect with Andrew Post:

• Hazel Health Website
• LinkedIn

Connect with us:

• KidsX Website
• KidsX LinkedIn

• Children's Hospital L.A. Website
• Children's Hospital L.A. LinkedIn

Learn more about our sponsor:

• Nabla Website
• Nabla LinkedIn

“The content, views, opinions, and information presented on this podcast do not reflect the views of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles or of the sponsors of the podcast. CHLA does not endorse the views, opinions and information presented on this podcast and CHLA specifically disclaims any legal liability or responsibility for the podcast’s content.”