Valley Village Collective

DISCLAIMER - Unfortunately, there was some background ruffling noise throughout this episode - It is not normally like this. Thankyou for your understanding, we hope you enjoy the episode! In this weeks episode we speak with Elise from Hera Nutrition all about what it looks like to have a healthy relationship with food, and the signs of an unhealthy relationship with food. Elise gives some tips on getting our kids to snack less and eat more at meal times and we speak about the pressure of giving our kids a 'perfect' diet. You can find and book with Elise on Instagram by clicking here (they offer online consultations from wherever you are!) The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

This weeks episode is a follow on from our previous episode (Paige's Birth Story) so, if you have not listened to that yet, be sure to go and listen and come back to this one! Paige shares her immediate feelings of not getting that 'oxytocin rush' she expected after her birth. Paige developed postpartum preeclampsia, and was transferred with her baby to Maitland Hospital via ambulance where her and her baby were seperated. Paige shares that the struggles did not end there, when arriving home, they removed formula top ups, Paige developed mastitis, her son had a tongue tie, lip tie and buccal ties revised, and then working through Cows milk protein intolerance whilst breastfeeding. She also shares the struggles of Postpartum anxiety and depression. The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d

In this weeks episode we speak to host Paige about her birth story. It starts with her conception story and a story of loss, a missed miscarriage followed by a D&C, an endometriosis diagnoses, laparoscopies with the desire to have a natural birth in a public hospital with a private practicing midwife. Paige achieved her natural birth 40 + 7 after a 16 hour labour and 4 hours of pushing, using hypnobirthing techniques, hot water, positive affirmations and a strong support system. Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @⁠valleyvillagecollective⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d⁠ Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

In this weeks episode we speak to host Paige about her birth story. It starts with her conception story and a story of loss, a missed miscarriage followed by a D&C, an endometriosis diagnoses, laparoscopies with the desire to have a natural birth in a public hospital with a private practicing midwife. Paige achieved her natural birth 40 + 7 after a 16 hour labour and 4 hours of pushing, using hypnobirthing techniques, hot water, positive affirmations and a strong support system. Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

In this week's episode, we chat with Private Midwife Ineka about women's rights during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Ineka shares essential tips on how to communicate with your care provider, the right questions to ask, and how to decline procedures confidently. She also discusses why you might want to refuse certain tests and the often unnecessary separation of mothers and babies and how you can refuse this. You can connect with Ineka on Instagram here - @morosinimidwifery Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. 

In this week's episode, we sit down with our very own Carly Williams, aDoula in the Hunter Valley, to explore the various models of care available to expecting parents. Carly shares insights on the importance of choosing the right care provider and how aligning your birth values with your provider can significantly impact your birthing experience. We delve into the different models of care, including private obstetric care, public hospital options, MGP, birth centers, private midwifery, and free birth, and discuss their potential impacts on postpartum mental health. You can follow Carly on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/carly_williams_doula/ Head to Carlys website and sign up to the newsletter to receive your free birthing in the Hunter Valley guide! https://www.carlywilliamsdoula.com.au/services-1 Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

In this week's episode, we chat with Mike Holt about his transformative journey into fatherhood and the realities that come with it. Mike opens up about the challenges he and his wife Sam faced in their relationship during this transition, and how they overcame these hurdles together through self-reflection and inner work. Before becoming a father, Mike pursued his dreams and successfully opened a gym, taking on significant financial risks that ultimately paid off. He shares the highs and lows of this experience and how it shaped his outlook on life and family. Mike also discusses his passion for creating a supportive space for men to focus on their mental health. This vision led to the creation of Junto Men's Hub, a place where men can engage in meaningful conversations, connect with like-minded individuals, and openly share their experiences and challenges. FInd out more on Junto mens hub here -  https://www.instagram.com/thejunto.menshub/?hl=en Follow Corner Stone Newcastle here - https://www.instagram.com/cornerstone_newcastle/?hl=en Follow Corner Stone Hunter Valley here -  https://www.instagram.com/cornerstone_gym_huntervalley/?hl=en Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. 

In this weeks episode, we talk to Jess to hear her incredible journey to conceive her first baby through IVF. Despite facing multiple failed cycles and transfers, Jess finally achieved a successful pregnancy. At 35 weeks, she experienced heavy bleeding and was admitted to the Emergency Department, where she went into spontaneous labor a few days later. Although her first birth was not a bad experience, Jess felt that she wanted to be more informed and in control for her next birth. Jess and her husband embarked on their second IVF journey and conceived their second child. Despite being labeled as high risk and initially excluded from the midwifery group practice (MGP) program, Jess conducted her own research and found evidence that challenged this high-risk label. Determined to have a more empowered birthing experience, she successfully advocated to have the label removed and to join the MGP program. Join us to hear all about Jess's positive birth experience and her inspiring story of self-advocacy during pregnancy and birth. Jess used the following services and resources during her conception, pregnancy and postpartum journey - The Great Birth Rebellion Next Gen Physio Empowered Lactation with Emma Adora Fertility - Bulk Billed IVF Clinic Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

In this week's episode, we explore the empowering journey of freebirthing with Marie, who shares her personal experiences and insights on what freebirth means to her. Marie reflects on her first birth within the medical system, detailing the transformative moments that led her to seek a different path for her second pregnancy. Embracing a wild pregnancy and freebirth, Marie explains why this choice felt deeply right for her and her family, and how it influenced her approach to childbirth. She vividly describes the realization of her pregnancy following a conscious conception and her decision to navigate the journey outside the medical system. Marie shares how she tuned into her intuition, learning to differentiate between anxiety and genuine inner guidance. As a dedicated birth keeper, Marie supports women in reconnecting with their intuition throughout pregnancy and freebirth. Join us to hear her inspiring story and discover valuable insights into the world of freebirthing. You can follow Marie on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mama_fairy_/ Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at https://www.instagram.com/valleyvillagecollective/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. 

In todays episode Tahlee talks about her experience with Type 1 Diabetes during her pregnancy and how she managed her health, incluing mental health and what decisions she made in regard to her birth and her chosen model of care. Tahlee talks about the experience of going on to develop Preeclampsia around 34.5 weeks, that was so severe she spent time in ICU prior to the decision being made to birth her baby via caesarean at almost 35 weeks. Through this experience Tahlee emphasises the importance of seeking medical help if experiencing symptoms of any kind that seem abnormal and urges people not to be afraid to contact their maternity ward for assistance. Tahlee discusses what it was like not recalling her son being born and the experience of been separated following his birth for 24 hours. His stay in NICU was heartbreaking and challenging, particularly going home without your baby and has had some impact to Tahlees mental health.   Tahlee recommends the following support facebook groups for social support: https://m.facebook.com/groups/1527899494122956/ - T1D and pregnancy https://m.facebook.com/groups/2214545005/ - Preeclampsia  https://m.facebook.com/groups/28883918076/ - Premature babies  Obstetrician: Dr John Bailey at Hunter Womens Health Centre https://hunterwomens.com.au/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Google%20My%20Business%20Page https://www.instagram.com/hunterwomenshealthcentre?igsh=OTBpcTN4MjQxdmpq Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  In today's episode we chat with Dr Kelly Beanland, Director and Chiropractor at Hunter Health Spines in East Maitland. Kelly talks about the role of chiropractic in pregnancy and postpartum care. Chiropractic care is a holistic approach that focuses on the balance and function of the body. She debunks the myth of cracking bones and explains that gentle pressure is used during treatment. She explains that chiropractic care is safe for all family members, including infants and children. We delve into care for babies and discuss that new mothers commonly underrate post birth issues in babies, such as sleep, feeding and tummy time, as developmental instead of mechanistic, and chiropractic care can help with behavioural support. She also explains the way babies are birthed, either vaginally or via caesarean, can impact their development.  Kelly speaks about the importance she places on working in collaboration with paediatricians, IBCLC's and other health practitioners. She offers advice for parents who may be concerned about their baby's development. She mentions the importance of sensory feedback, head control, and muscle tone in the first 12 months of life. She also highlights the role of tummy time in developing the brain and how different positions, such as chest tummy time or being carried in a carrier, can be beneficial.  You can find Kelly and her team at Hunter Healthy Spines - https://hunterhealthyspines.com.au/ Instagram @hunterhealthyspines

The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  In todays episode we speak to Georgie about her birth story as a first time mum. Georgie entered her pregnancy wanting a natural birth so she prepared during pregnancy by doing a hypnobirthing class and kept herself in a positive mindset ready for birth. Georgie shares her birth plan/birth preferences and how these played out during birth. She tells us the natural pain relief methods she used during labour. She shares the moment she birthed her baby, caught by her partner Tyson, in the water. You can follow Georgie at  https://www.instagram.com/the.idaho.co__/⁠ You can find the practitioners Georgie used during her pregnancy here   Hypnobirthing - https://newcastlebirthmovement.org/

The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  In today's episode we chat with Coach Courtney Brown about what are the stressors in our life that we can control and how we can reduce the impact of these stressors, acknowledging that we have various seasons of life that can impact our ability and capacity to make changes. We discuss awareness as the first step around identifying any changes that we may benefit from making.  Courtney talks a lot about how adequate nutrition in quality and quantity makes a difference to our stress on our overall health and body. We discuss the inflammatory 5, including myths and choices that may be masking opportunity for better health. We discuss foods that support us during adolescence, preconception, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause and how sustainable living should be the ultimate goal.  You can find Courtney on Instagram @coachcourtneybrown Courtney has a range of programs available and she, in conjunction with Caity Daley (@caitlindaleyphysio) have developed a Pregnancy and most recently a Postpartum Program. They are offering our lucky listeners 10% off the Pregnancy Program using the code VALLEYVILLAGE of which you will then receive the Postpartum Program for free.  If you only require the Postpartum Program use the code VALLEYVILLAGE to receive 10% off Follow the link to purchase: Human for Women Pregnancy Training Program | Courtney Brown's School (teachable.com) Postpartum Program out end of April

Alana shares her postpartum journey with us today. She is a mother to one daughter who is two years old and is now a Yoga and Pilates Instructor, a Women's Circle Facilitator and hosts a monthly mothers group meet up in Singleton. Alana's postpartum experience involved a lot of anxiety and isolation, largely due to the challenges she faced around exclusively pumping for her daughter for 6 months due to Vasospasm and her struggles to breastfeed. She talks through her experience of going to her first mothers group and how it change her experience of motherhood, even though she has some reservations to begin with. She reminds us to be gentle on ourselves through this transition and share a few tips to support new mums. You can find all Alana classes and events on her website: https://www.youryogaspot.com.au/home Your Yoga Spot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youryogaspot/ Your Yoga Spot Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Your-Yoga-Spot/100070900413585/ Peanut App: https://www.peanut-app.io/ Newcastle Mums and Bubs Picnic: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1418777762210977/?_rdr Welcome to Valley Village Collective If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.

The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  In today's episode, Colleen discusses sleep expectations and normal ranges of sleep in infants, which is so variable. We also explore how each of your children can be quite different. Colleen advises us of  the normal developmental periods that can alter their normal sleep patterns. Collen adopts the possum methods known as biological sleep regulators and focuses on supporting babies through mindfulness toward the circadian clock and how to implement changes with this. Sleep pressure is the second element of the sleep regulators and we explore ways to increase this and what to look for in your child.  We explore myths around overtiredness and different myths about sleep and touch on toddler sleep. Follow Newcastle Mums & Bubs on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/newcastlemumsandbubsclinic/ We speak about co- sleeping safely and encourages families to explore this option safely. More information can be found here: https://rednose.org.au/article/Co-sleeping_with_your_baby We explore regressions or more progressions as we like to call them and what we can do to navigate this time. Colleen also speaks about the programs they have available which will be on the website soon: https://www.newcastlemumsandbubs.com.au/

Sarah shares her journey of falling pregnant with her first baby that resulted in a medical termination at 14 weeks. She and her husband then fell pregnant 3 months later with twins. We explore the journey of her obstetric led care. Sarah describes her anxious feelings when on the table having her c-section and the overall experience as feeling out of control. She felt it was something that was happening too her not something she was part of. Sarah speaks of her gallant breastfeeding journey and the decision to move to formula. Sarah then moves to her third pregnancy and her desire for a VBAC. She again tests positive for GD which this time needed to be controlled by insulin. She speaks through being told she would be induced at 38 weeks and what feelings she had around this policy. The education and resources she used supported her decision to decline the induction at 38 weeks and continue to monitor her levels and take note of her instincts. This led to an agreed induction at 40 weeks based on her sugar levels dropping. Sarah felt in control and speaks of the process of her induction, particularly in allowing her body to go into labour after her waters were broken. Avoiding interventions or keeping them to a minimum was her preference.  Sarah shares her challenges of accessing rural services in the Upper Hunter as well as advice on expectant parent Sarah used the following resources:  Podcasts - The Great Birth Rebellion  - https://open.spotify.com/show/3gQRikeOcaHkJjWTtcT1B1?si=6RSqaQWQR92-sDdjWWln7w Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. 

The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together. Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. In today's episode, Ruth Page - Physiotherapist, Mother and a women passionate about women's health educates us on what the pelvic floor is, the pressure this muscle is under during pregnancy and talks us through when the best time to see a pelvic floor specialist is, as well as the role they play in supporting the women in her birthing choices. We discuss what happens to our pelvic floor during birth and the impact to the pelvic floor depending on the type of birth we have, ie instrumental, episiotomy, tearing, normal physiological vaginal delivery or c-section. We look at the impacts a tight pelvic floor has on birth and discuss symptoms for both a tight and weakened pelvic floor. We move into the postnatal period and explore what is happening to the pelvic floor at this time and how this changes over the hormonal cycles of our life, including menopause. Ruth reminds us that silent symptoms or being asymptomatic in our childbearing years can still be cause for concern during our menopausal years. We finish off the episode with listener questions which include - Constipation impacts to the pelvic floor, vaginal birth after prolapse, and levator avulsion. To learn more, listeners can book an appointment with Ruth Page - https://www.rpphysio.com/ Or follow her on instagram and facebook @rp_physio and https://www.facebook.com/rpphysio?mibextid=PtKPJ9 Born Ready - bornready.com.au

Chloe shares her journey of heartbreak after the loss of her baby Darby at 25 weeks. She speaks of organisations that supported her family during this time. She reflects on her mental health state at the time and the years to follow. Chloe speaks of how she coped with the grief and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and remembering her baby girl Darby and the special way they ensure Darby is integrated into their family. She offers advice on how to support loved ones going through similar experiences. Chloe then takes us on her journey of TTC her next two children, Blake and Hugh, which included many miscarriages. We discuss models of care that Chloe considered and why the M3 Team at John Hunter felt right. We discuss her births for both Blake and Hugh and how the birth of her daughter Blake healed her after loss. Chloe then takes us on the ride of her surprise pregnancy of Harvey, the challenges of this pregnancy and the decision to birth closer to home under Dr Laura Hodges at Singleton Hospital in the big dream bath.  Harvey had other plans and in a very quick labour was born in the emergency room bathroom at Muswellbrook Hospital even though there is an unused maternity unit there.  Strap in for this one.  Bears of Hope https://www.bearsofhope.org.au/ Angel Gowns Australia https://www.angelgownsaustralia.org.au/index.php/about Heartfelt Photography https://heartfelt.org.au/ Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. 

The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.  In today's episode, Naturopath Georgia, talks us through the endocrine system and the importance of understanding and supporting hormonal health throughout different stages of life as it significantly contributes to our overall well-being. Georgia also delves into the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy and postpartum, highlighting the impact this has on mood and mental health. She further discusses how to address hormonal imbalances. She emphasises the need for support, self-care and proper nutrition during these phases as well as avoiding exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals.  To learn more, listeners can book an appointment with Georgia Hartmann - https://hormonehealthstudio.com/ Or follow her on instagram and tiktok @hormonehealthstudio Or check out her Podcast - Hormone Health Podcast

You can follow Jordans journey at her instagram @fromwomb_toworld Hunter Valley Homebirthers FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/m66NmWSUJFaghXea/?mibextid=K35XfP Jordan shares her birth story, starting with the planning and preparation for pregnancy. She discusses the challenges of conceiving and seeking fertility assistance. Jordan knew from the beginning that she wanted a home birth and explains her decision based on her experiences as a midwife and her belief in the natural process of birth. She shares her mindset throughout pregnancy, including the use of hypnobirthing and positive affirmations. Jordan also describes preparations she made for the birth including services and daily rituals she used to support her body physically. Jordan takes us through her birth journey including the challenges she faced with birthing her Placenta. She emphasizes the importance of preparing for birth and making choices that align with your desired experience. Jordan also discusses her postpartum journey and the support she received from friends and healthcare professionals. She encourages expectant families to seek out a supportive community and take time to bond with their baby in the early weeks. You can find the practitioners Jordan used during her pregnancy here -  Chiropractor - Kelly Beanland at Hunter Healthy Spines - https://hunterhealthyspines.com.au/ Private Midwife - Rhiannon Tongue - @the_mindful_midwife_au Hypnobirthing Practitioner - Skye Mendel - https://www.hypnobirthingwithskye.com/ IBCLC - Emma Maher - https://www.empoweredlactationwithemma.com.au/ Photographer - Caitlin Hands - https://earthchildphotography44.mypixieset.com/ Welcome to Valley Village Collective  If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review. Valley Village Collective Podcast podcast dives into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners.Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Join the Village on: Insta at @valleyvillagecollective Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful. 

Welcome to Valley Village Collective! If you liked todays episode follow/subscribe and leave us a review! Join the Village and follow us on Instagram - @valleyvillagecollective Todays episode - Emma Maher, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, shares her journey from being a RN and RM to becoming an IBCLC, describing the gap she saw in breastfeeding support. Emma explains the difference between an IBCLC and a Lactation Consultant and opening her business, Empowered Lactation with Emma.  She provides insights into the typical week of an IBCLC and the various issues families face with breastfeeding including the emotions that go with becoming new parents.  The conversation covers various aspects of breastfeeding support and education.The conversation also explores the preparation for the postpartum journey, managing expectations, and adjusting mindset.  Emma delves into the breastfeeding process in regards to ‘Normal Newborn Behaviour' in the first few hours after birth, including the breast crawl, the importance of skin to skin and the goal if mother and baby are separated.  She then discusses ‘Normal Newborn Behaviour' in the preceding weeks, with challenges women face on managing milk supply, dealing with growth spurts and cluster feeding. She explains cluster feeding and reassures mothers that it is a normal part of a baby's development. Emma also highlights the importance of differentiating between normal cluster feeding and potential red flags. She emphasises that each baby is unique and encourages parents to seek support early on. Emma shares insights into the challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers and families, particularly regarding pain and discomfort.  Finally, she explains the process of engaging with her as your IBCLC for support and guidance. Follow Empowered Lactation with Emma @empoweredlactation_withemma Visit her website: https://www.empoweredlactationwithemma.com.au The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/valleyvillagecollective/

Welcome to our first episode. In todays trailer, Paige and Carly introduce themselves and speak about how Valley Village Collective Podcast came about. We chat about our journeys to motherhood and our greatest challenges so far. We note that motherhood can be a challenging and transformative experience, and it's important to have a supportive community. We end the episode with a little bit of fun to get to know us more. We look forward to being in your ears next episode.  The Valley Village Collective podcast aims to provide a safe space for mothers. In the podcast we'll dive into the heart of motherhood, bringing you relatable stories from local mums and insights from local practitioners. There'll be real talk, as we listen, learn and navigate the adventure of motherhood together.  Our aim is to be your virtual village where you'll feel supported and know where to turn during the rollercoaster of motherhood. Follow us on Insta at https://www.instagram.com/valleyvillagecollective/ Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555978335757&mibextid=LQQJ4d Please click the follow up to stay up to date with our episodes and if you could leave a review we'd be so grateful.