Podcasts about certified lactation counselor

If you want to offer private pay packages in your future or existing private practice to better serve your clients (and yourself!), tune in to this episode!Today I'm talking with SLP Lauren Thompson, owner of Well-Fed Feeding and Swallowing Therapy in Londonderry, New Hampshire. I've loved watching Lauren flourish after going through our programs and I'm so excited for her to share the one thing that has recently transformed her business.In this episode, Lauren shares how transitioning to private pay packages helps her balance accessibility for her clients and sustainability for her business.Lauren Thompson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Lactation Counselor, and the owner of Well Fed Feeding and Swallowing Therapy. Lauren founded Well Fed to offer families expert, evidence-based feeding support—without the red tape of insurance delays or the frustration of waitlists stretching for months.Realizing that simply being out of network wasn't enough to distinguish her practice from traditional in-network clinics, Lauren reimagined her service model to better meet the needs of families. She introduced visit packages that provide transparency around both cost and time commitment, allowing caregivers to invest in their child's feeding journey with clarity and confidence. These flexible packages enable her to offer semi-intensive therapy, gradually taper services as families build skills and confidence, or front-load support before major life transitions, such as vacations or milestones.Through this innovative approach, Lauren has not only built a sustainable, thriving practice but has also empowered families with individualized feeding therapy that fits their needs—not a rigid, one-size-fits-all schedule.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Lauren's original plan to be a physical therapist and why she switched to SLPProviding personalized in-home care for familiesShifting her business model to private pay packages When to think about having patients come to see you in your own spaceHow packaged pricing creates financial security and predictabilityImproving client commitment (which results in fewer no-shows!) Refining your pricing model is just another way to bring flexibility to your practice, from how you treat your clients, to easing the stress that comes with running the business side of things. If you would like to learn more about how to offer Packages for your private practice, please visit www.LifestylePrivatePractice.com.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned: Learn more about offering packaged pricing: www.LifestylePrivatePractice.comFollow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/wellfedfeedingtherapyLauren's website: www.wellfedfeedingtherapy.comWhere We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199Follow Me on Instagram:

Join HeHe in an enlightening conversation with Nurse Dawn from Pivotal Birth to discuss the critical aspects of creating a birth plan and the importance of effective communication with medical staff during labor and delivery. Dawn shares her rich experience working in multiple hospitals and introduces the innovative PIVOT plan approach to improve birth experiences. Learn how to set clear expectations, handle unexpected pivots like C-sections and epidurals, and ensure that your values and preferences are respected throughout your birth journey. This episode is a must-watch for expecting parents looking to optimize their hospital birth experience and for healthcare professionals aiming to enhance patient care.   06:37 The Importance of Birth Plans 07:38 Experiences with Birth Plans in Hospitals 10:55 Advice for Communicating Birth Plans 15:04 Introducing the PIVOT Plan 16:28 Breaking Down the PIVOT Plan 18:22 The Role of Communication in Birth 24:58 Navigating Hospital Policies and Biases 35:23 Engaging with Medical Assessments 36:48 Introducing Birth Preferences to Hospital Staff 38:48 Understanding Individual Needs During Birth 49:44 The Importance of Childbirth Classes 51:33 Navigating Unexpected Diagnoses 54:17 Coping with Birth Plan Changes 56:49 Handling Unexpected C-Sections 01:04:02 Final Thoughts and Resources GUEST BIO:  Dawn Hancock is a seasoned Labor and Delivery Nurse certified in Obstetric Nursing, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Counselor and Board Certified Nurse Coach. She has worked exclusively in maternal child care in the hospital setting and in the home as well. She is passionate about empowering women and their partners to advocate for the care they desire for themselves and their newborns.   Her own experiences in childbirth with her three children prompted her to go into Nursing for Labor and Delivery.   Dawn is the founder of Pivotal Birth LLC where she hosts The Bridging Birth Membership. This membership provides on-demand Childbirth Education Classes, her Breastfeeding Starting Strong Course and live Q&A Sessions 2 times a month where members can come ask questions, share stories and build community. Nurse Dawn can be found on all platforms @pivotalbirth   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG   Connect with Dawn on IG Connect with Dawn on TikTok   BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience! Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!    LINKS MENTIONED: Sign up for Dawn's Pivotal Birth Workshop here.  Use code HeHe10 at Www.pivotalbirth.com for a special discount for our listeners!

We could not be more excited to bring you today's episode! Our special guest, Dr. Dianna Dixon is a Postpartum Certified Doula, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and Certified Lactation Counselor, as well as a Doctor of Public Administration among other amazing qualifications. She created her platform, Pump with Purpose, after her final breastfeeding journey to help teach women all around the world the ways to pump and to increase supply as well as to be a resource in the breastfeeding community. She offers a range of services to help every family feel seen, heard, valued, and validated. Diana speaks so passionately on her platform, we just knew she would be the perfect guest to ask our hard hitting questions! Today's interview will cover pumping knowledge we wish we had going into our first breastfeeding journeys as well as some questions that will take us through the nitty-gritty of pumping schedules, what to do if you're returning to the workplace, and more!If you enjoyed listening to this episode, we would love it if you could share it to your Instagram stories and tag us, @pumpwithpurpose and @expectingandempowered. As we like to say, knowledge is power, and we just really want to give more people the information that they may need on their childbirth journey!Links & ResourcesFollow Dr. Dianna Dixon on InstagramDr. Dianna's WebsiteGet Dr. Dianna's Free Pump Survival Guide!Expecting and Empowered App - Use code NY20 for New Year Savings!Expecting and Empowered WebsiteExpecting and Empowered InstagramThis episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.

In this heartfelt episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe and guest Angel dive into a rich conversation about VBACs (Vaginal Birth After C-Section) and home births. Angel shares her personal birth stories, including the challenges of having multiple C-sections and her journey to successful HBA2Cs at home. They discuss the importance of trusting one's intuition, the value of a supportive birth team, and the ongoing debates around midwifery regulations and doula advocacy. With insights from her extensive experience in family education, HeHe guides listeners through the evidence-based practices and options available for expecting parents, aiming to empower them for a confident and informed birth experience no matter the setting and no matter their goals.   Diving into Birth Stories Navigating Complicated Pregnancies The Challenges of C-Sections Triumphs and Traumas of VBAC The Importance of Intuition in Birth Advocating for Your Birth Plan Navigating Intuition and Anxiety Finding Peace in Decision Making Personal Home Birth Story Labor and Contractions Begin Active Labor and Delivery Postpartum Care and Experience VBAC Preparation and Tips Advocacy and Regulations in Midwifery Doula Advocacy and Challenges   Guest Bio: Angel is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Registered Kangaroula, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Microbirth Approved Provider, and Doula, dedicated to providing essential support to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. With seven years of experience as a breastfeeding counselor, 5 years as a doula and childbirth educator and 10 years of mom experience with 6 children, Angel pulls on her personal and professional knowledge to educate women on the long term effects of modern health care practices that affect women during pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. Angel is the proud owner of Fruit of the Womb Perinatal Services, delivering breastfeeding, prenatal, and birth support to women in the greater Cleveland area. Listeners can also tune in to The Birth Rebel Podcast, hosted by Angel.   INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Angel on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Angel  

Today's episode we have Brooke Miller on talking all about our caffeine intake! With a decade of experience as a Registered Dietitian and Certified Lactation Counselor, Brooke created The Postpartum Shift to help moms boost energy, mood, metabolism & milk supply to have a stress-free & enjoyable postpartum experience. FOLLOW @nutrition.for.mamasVISIT brookemillernutrition.comIn this episode we've partnered with Obasan Click HERE to save - We want your kids sleeping great! Use code HAPPYSLEEP at checkout and receive 10% off when you purchase a crib mattress–head to obasan.com / obasan.ca and get great sleep started!**NOTE: be sure to shop obasan.com or obasan.ca pending your country locationErin Junker | Paediatric Sleep ConsultantInstagram @thehappysleepcompanyWebsite www.thehappysleepcompany.com

Tamari Jacob is a Certified Lactation Counselor, wife, mom of three and the founder of One With The Pump. After being forced into exclusive pumping when she became a mom, she made it her mission to learn everything she could about how to hack her pump to get the best experience and shared her tips with other moms on Instagram. She has helped thousands of moms learn how to pump better and she is on a mission to help every mom become a confident mother pumper through her free resources, live workshops, educational courses and consultations.Listen in to hear Tamari Share:Her experience of being forced into exclusive pumping after having dreamed of nursing her first babyHer journey from former preschool teacher to successful entrepreneur (+ the tips for busy-business building mamas!)What she wishes more pregnant mamas knew before giving birthHer top tips for hacking your pumping experienceNavigating social media backlash and dealing with differing opinions from online communities.The stigma and pressure around bottle feeding, pumping, and nursing and why women's choices on how to feed their babies makes other people SO angryAnd so much moreRegister for my free masterclass, Why Just Getting Off The Pill Isn't Enough: 4 Steps to Optimize Your Fertility Connect with TamariInstagram @onewiththepumpWebsite www.onewiththepump.comUse code HEALTHANDHORMONES10 to get 10% off the Ultimate Pumping Course Connect with LaurenFollow me on Instagram or and head to my website to get 60+ free hormone healthy recipes, download my free Ebook, How to Boost Your Egg Quality, learn about my coaching programs and stay up to date on all my latest workshops and courses!Thank you so much for listening to the About Health and Hormones Podcast! If you loved today's episode, I would love to know! Please leave a rating and review so I can make this podcast even better for you all. I would love to connect with you.I'm so glad you were here today, and I wish you all health and happiness!This episode was edited and produced by Intent Media.

Special Encore Episode: Meet the Tongue Tie Team: Lori L. Overland, M.S., CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC, FOMKnowing the type of providers on the Tongue Tie Treatment Team, what they do for infants, and why, is vital to understanding the process. In this episode, Lisa Paladino interviews Lori L. Overland, M.S., CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC.Topics discussed:The vital collaboration between SLP and IBCLC and other team members. Caring for those with neuro-motor issues and non-typically developing babies. How an SLP evaluates oral structure and function in infants which goes beyond general IBCLC education.The importance of the team, mentorship, and much moreArticle referenced during our chat about tongue tie and mastication: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1471-2458-12-934 ********** Now's your chance to join the Professional's Guide To Tongue Tie in the Breastfeeding Infant Click now: https://www.tonguetieexperts.net/Professional and use code PODCAST40 to save almost $500. _________________________ More About Lori:Lori L. Overland is a licensed speech and language pathologist, Certified Lactation Counselor, and holds fellowship in orofacial myology as well as as a neurodevelopmental certification. Lori specializes in oral sensory-motor/feeding therapy, oral placement and orofacial myofunctional disorders in children. Her private practice, Alphabet Soup, focuses on infants, toddlers and preschool children with oral sensory-motor/feeding disorders. Lori provides international consults as well as consults to local school districts and Birth-to-Three organizations. Check out her course: A Sensory Motor Approach to Adapted Baby Led WeaningSpecial thanks to our sponsor, Light Scalpel: www.lightscalpel.com/Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.Mentioned in this episode:Light Scalpel Ad LinkLight Scalpel Ad LinkLight Scalpel Ad Link

Grab Your Opportunity for a Free Call With Lynne here.   About Stacy Brix: As a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years' experience caring for women, Stacy's expertise lies in guiding women through the significant life stages of perimenopause and menopause. She also has an additional 5 years' experience as a birth and postpartum doula and as a Certified Lactation Counselor, in addition to 4 years as an RN specializing in women's health. Beyond this, she's completed mindfulness training at The Mindfulness Institute at the Jefferson-Myrna Brind Center of Integrative Medicine and am now pursuing a specialty certification as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. This background informs her holistic and evidence-based approach to her transformational group coaching programs. Stacy's goal is to empower clients to navigate this transition smoothly while transforming into the best versions of themselves.   What We Discuss In This Episode: How did you find yourself teaching and coaching women in perimenopause? What were some of the barriers you observed for women in perimenopause, from your perspective as a clinician? Why is it so hard to navigate healthcare in perimenopause? How do we get help for the anxiety we seem to experience at this stage of life? Stacy discusses what she's found is most helpful for her clients in perimenopause? How does wellness coaching in menopause help women arrive at their best self and accelerate their health goals? Why work with a coach when most of the information one may need can be found somewhere, whether in books or on the internet?   Free Resource from Stacy Brix: Get some clarity navigating perimenopause and menopause & how to manage your unique symptoms effectively: https://brix-wellness-coaching.ck.page/8fe0c39345   Connect With Stacy Brix: Instagram: https://instagram.com/menopauseonthemind LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacylbrix/   Connect with Lynne: If you're looking for a community of like-minded women on a journey - just like you are - to improved health and wellness, overall balance, and increased confidence, check out Lynne's private community in The Energized Healthy Women's Club. It's a supportive and collaborative community where the women in this group share tips and solutions for a healthy and holistic lifestyle. (Discussions include things like weight management, eliminating belly bloat, balancing hormones, wrangling sugar gremlins,  overcoming fatigue, recipes, strategies, perimenopause & menopause, and much more ... so women can feel energized, healthy, and lighter, with a new sense of purpose. Website:  https://holistic-healthandwellness.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holistichealthandwellnessllc The Energized Healthy Women's Club:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/energized.healthy.women Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lynnewadsworth LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnewadsworth   Free Resources from Lynne Wadsworth: Want to be successful focusing on improved health & wellbeing?  Maybe you'd like to increase your energy levels, have fewer headaches reduce or maintain a healthy weight, ditch the brain fog & belly bloat. Or maybe you'd love some more strategies to help transform you into a “magnificent midlifer” who's fully energized - charged & ready to start each new day with anticipation and & joy, Or maybe you have some illness you've been facing and it's compounded by all those changes you see & feel in your body. I'd love to chat.  Contact me to schedule your FREE HEALTHY YOU Clarity Call. We'll discuss where you're at on your journey and how I can help you successfully navigate your life through this "midlife season" with grace and ease.  Schedule >>HERE

I am just going to be honest, I really like Tamari! I have seen her a lot on Instagram and I recently met her in person at Kosher Palooza. She is sweet, warm and also a lot of fun. I was excited to have her come on the podcast. I think this podcast really encapsulates the concept that we can actively being accepting something while also hoping for it the change. This can be a common theme in life. On the one hand, we feel very stuck when we cant accept what is. On the other hand, we are always allowed to dream and hope for more. I think this connects to the day after Tisha Baav. Where we are yearning so badly for a brighter future. And at the same time, we accept G-d's decree because we know that we don't know and He does know. I know you'll love this episode and Tamari. A bit about Tamari: Tamari Jacob is a Certified Lactation Counselor, wife, mom of three and the founder of One With The Pump.  She has helped thousands of moms learn how to pump better and she is on a mission to help every mom become a confident mother pumper through her free resources, live workshops, educational courses and consultations. _______________________ If you liked this podcast, please rate and review it and share with someone who will love it too. Check out my website gilaglassberg.com for more episodes, blogs and recipes! If you'd like to book a free 20 minute consultation, reach out to me at gila@gilaglassberg.com or book it directly on the website gilaglassberg.com. I hope you are having an amazing summer! I look forward to hearing from you!

Emma Justice is a pediatric Speech Language Pathologist, Certified Lactation Counselor and guest speaker serving patients in the greater Boston area. She has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings including the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), pediatric rehab and most recently the public school system.  Emma is the owner of Justice For Infant Feeding Therapy and Lactation where she provides in home and Telehealth services. She also provides parent resources available for purchase and parent coaching . As a NICU graduate herself , Emma knows first hand what families experience leaving the NICU and wanted to assist in access to support and closing  that gap.  Emma has experience evaluating and treating infants born full term in need of support with breast and bottle feeding, as well as infants with complex medical histories.  Looking for more information?  Find us on social media, our website or email us directly!  IG: justice4infantfeeding  Justiceforinfants.com Emmaluj@justiceforinfants.com ____________________________ You can listen to this episode wherever you stream podcasts and at www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/telepractice-today-podcast    

In the milestone 100th and final episode of the Baby Pro Podcast, join us as we explore the journey of breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery with Certified Lactation Counselor, Arlyn Althoff. Arlyn shares her personal struggles and triumphs, offering valuable insights on setting personalized goals and finding the right support. We also delve into the challenges of baby-led weaning versus spoon-feeding and managing seasonal allergies while breastfeeding.   In this episode, you will learn the following:   Unique challenges and triumphs faced by mothers who have undergone breast reduction surgery.   Knowledge about the differences between baby-led weaning and spoon-feeding, including how each approach affects calorie intake.   Gradual process of introducing solids to your baby.   Effective strategies for dealing with seasonal allergies without compromising your milk supply.    Role of a well rounded prenatal care team, including a nutritionist, pelvic floor specialist, and lactation consultant, to support first time mothers and those who have undergone breast surgery.   Breastfeeding strategies to manage low milk supply, such as triple feeding, switch feeding and the benefits of paced bottle feeding.   Emotional challenges new mothers face especially those dealing with breastfeeding after breast surgery.   Importance of compassionate, non judgmental support from lactation consultants.   Benefits of setting realistic expectations.   Role of lactation consultants in hospitals and beyond like how they help new mothers with techniques like pumping, hand expressing and managing engorgement.   Defining your own breastfeeding success. Connect with Shelly: Website: Massachusetts IBCLC | Lactation Consultant - Shelly Taft Insta: Instagram (@shellytaftibclc)   Article mentioned:  Baby-led weaning provides adequate calories for infant growth, study finds

This is our second episode of Season 2 and today we are talking to Erin Ronder Neves, a birth and postpartum doula, about her experiences with Postpartum Depression and OCD. In this episode, Erin shares candidly about the intrusive thoughts she experienced and the support she sought to help her through this frightening experience. We wanted to link to this helpful article to help you understand how intrusive thoughts and OCD work and how they are different to postpartum psychosis: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/difference-between-postpartum-anxiety-ocd-psychosis.html Unlike postpartum OCD, postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency and visiting your nearest emergency room is the appropriate response. On the Resilient Birth podcast, Justine and Sarah explore the impact of trauma in the perinatal period. Through an inspirational quote that drives the weekly content, Justine and Sarah explore various trauma areas with vulnerability and compassion that support birthing people and birth professionals. Each week, listeners leave with takeaways to utilize in their lives and/or clients. Justine and Sarah hold the stories they share with honor and respect with the hope to impart knowledge, increase understanding, and bear witness to this challenging topic. Sarah is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and mom of three. She walks with a story of trauma from before and as a result of her perinatal experience. Justine supports survivors of trauma through perinatal coaching and childbirth education. As well as being a mother of three, she holds a Ph.D. on representations of consent and sexual violence. Erin Ronder Neves started birth work after the birth of her second daughter, but it was the birth and postpartum experience of her first daughter that initially opened her eyes to all the empowering opportunities that birthing people are not made aware of on their journey. Erin is a certified Birth Doula who has supported over 275 births. She is also a postpartum doula and has worked with just as many families during the postpartum period, as she believes that support should continue once someone gives birth instead of well wishes and one follow-up visit which is usually 6 weeks after birth. Throughout the years, Erin has tacked on a few additional letters after her name to become a Certified Childbirth Educator through BACE, A Certified Lactation Counselor, and a Spinning Babies Parent Educator. And of course, Erin is a proud graduate of Resilient Birth's Trauma Informed Training. Erin started her doula and education business, ERN Doula, back in 2020, and is currently about to launch a brand new brick and mortar location on the North Shore of MA in Beverly, MA, called Beyond Birthing. Doors will open in mid June! Beyond Birthing is the first of its kind, all-inclusive prenatal and postpartum support center. Under one roof families will be able to have access to FULL TIME chiropractic services, lactation consultant, perinatal mental health clinicians, maternal nutritionist, massage therapy, caregiver education groups and so, so many support groups. The mission of Beyond Birthing is focused on the caregivers! Beyond Birthing will allow caregivers to prioritize their own mental health and physical wellbeing, and is dedicated to making it easier to do so. Feel free to check out her website: www.beyondbirthingvillage.com Learn more about our course called Trauma Informed Fundamentals here: https://resilient-birth.mykajabi.com/traumainformedfundamentals

This episode dives into advocacy strategies for pregnancy and birth and infuses mindfulness practices throughout. We are joined by Dawn Hancock aka Nurse Dawn, a seasoned Labor and Delivery Nurse certified in Obstetric Nursing, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Board Certified Nurse Coach.In this episode, we dive into the following:Advocacy strategies for pregnancy, labor, and beyondCommunication skills for birthing people and partners to use with the medical teamHow to make mindful decisions in pregnancy and laborUsing mindfulness to manage pain during laborMeditative tips for racing thoughtsDon't forget to check out the blog postYou can find more about Dawn's work at: www.pivotalbirth.com And follow her on TikTok at @pivotalbirthResources mentioned:>>  FREE Clear Your Birth Fears Guide>>  FREE WORKSHOP: 3 Essentials for Having an Empowering Birth>>  A Path to A Powerful Birth Class************************Get 20% off your first monthly subscription with NEEDED Vitamins 

Jessica Peterson and Matrescence on Healthy Habits with Dori DeCarlo Jessica Peterson is a doctor of occupational therapy specializing in maternal and perinatal health and wellness. She is also a Certified Lactation Counselor, an Infant Massage Educator and a mother of two. She co-owns Matrescence Occupational Therapy, a mobile private practice in Austin, TX. Jessica loves working with mothers and babies particularly with lactation and building functional routines. She also helps run Adaptive Parent Project, a non-profit to builds community, resources and education for parents with disabilities and the healthcare practitioners who serve them. Join us on Healthy Habits with Dori DeCarlo anytime and connect with Jessica at MatrescenceOT.com and on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. Please support UnsilencedVoices.org and their mission. Take a look at StadiumBags.com - they're not just for sports fans. We thank Smith Sisters and the Sunday Drivers for our theme song, "She is You". Connect with Word of Mom on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and email us at info.wordofmomradio@gmail.com for more info. WordofMomRadio.com - sharing the wisdom of women, in business and in life.    

This week, an hour-long discussion about the terrifying uptick in syphilis infections and congenital syphilis cases in Indian Country. This is a problem throughout the US and it's hitting Indian Country the hardest. Guest Host Anne Keala Kelly (Kanaka Maoli) spends the hour with Amanda Singer (Diné), Executive Director of the Navajo Breastfeeding Coalition/Diné Doula Collective in Window Rock, Arizona. Amanda is a Certified Lactation Counselor and Indigenous Doula.The organization's mission is to improve the health of Navajo families by providing compassionate unbiased, and accessible care to improving all birthing families and Infant health through holistic traditional practices and to promote healing. Production Credits: Tiokasin Ghosthorse (Lakota), Host and Executive Producer Anne Keala Kelly (Kanaka Maoli), Guest Host Liz Hill (Red Lake Ojibwe), Producer Manuel Blas, Studio Engineer, Radio Kingston Anne Keala Kelly, Audio Editor Kevin Richardson, Podcast Editor Music Selections: 1. Song Title: Tahi Roots Mix (First Voices Radio Theme Song) Artist: Moana and the Moa Hunters Album: Tahi (1993) Label: Southside Records (Australia and New Zealand) 2. Song Title: Little One Artist: Sharon Burch Album: Yazzie Girl (1989) Label: Canyon Records 3. Song Title: Grandmother's Ways Artist: Sharon Burch Album: Touch the Sweet Earth (1995) Label: Canyon Records 4. Song Title: The Peacemaker is Born Artist: Joanne Shenandoah Album: Peacemaker's Journey (2000) Label: Silver Wave Records AKANTU INTELLIGENCE Visit Akantu Intelligence, an institute that Tiokasin founded with a mission of contextualizing original wisdom for troubled times. Go to https://akantuintelligence.org to find out more and consider joining his Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/Ghosthorse

More than 1 in 37 children under age 5 in the United States have a pediatric feeding disorder.  Today, I'm joined by Bri, a Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist and Certified Lactation Counselor, to explore the common feeding challenges families face. We'll discuss the four domains of a pediatric feeding disorder and how one or all could be affecting a child's feeding skill. We also explain how to address gagging when introducing complementary foods and offer practical strategies for incorporating pre-feeding skills. We walk through infant feeding issues through toddlerhood and provide you with actionable solutions you can suggest to your patient to support children with feeding aversions.Resources: Pediatric Feeding Disorder: Consensus Definition and Conceptual FrameworkFeeding Matters Infant and Children Feeding Questionnaire  Connect with Bri:Instagram | @pediatricfeedingSLPOnline | https://www.pediatricfeedingslp.com/ Support the showConnect with Colleen on Instagram! ====================== Exam Room Nutrition IG: ➡︎@examroomnutrition *** Stay up-to-date on nutrition hot topics *** Sign up for the Nutrition Wrap-Up Newsletter Nutrition hot-topics and professional growth strategies delivered to your inbox each week. This no-fluff blog simplifies nutrition for busy medical professionals. Support the show!If you love the show and want to help me make it even better, buy me a coffee to help me keep going! ☕️Disclaimer: This podcast is a collection of ideas, strategies, and opinions of the author(s). Its goal is to provide useful information on each of the topics shared within. It is not intended to provide medical, health, or professional consultation or to diagnosis-specific weight or feeding challenges. The author(s) advises the reader to always consult with appropriate health, medical, and professional consultants for support for individual children and family situations. The author(s) do not take responsibility for the personal or other risks, loss, or liability incurred as a direct or indirect consequence of the application or use of information provided. All opinions stated in this podcast are my own and do not reflect the opinions of my employer. ...

Have you ever dreamed of opening a small niche private practice so you can specialize in working with your dream clients? If so, you're going to love this episode of Private Practice Success Stories. I sat down with Jodie Wallis, who decided to take the leap into private practice when her mentor moved locations, leaving an opening in her area.In this episode, she talks about how she discovered her love of feeding therapy and turned it into her own private practice, what it's like to have ADHD as an SLP and entrepreneur, and the importance of hiring an assistant to manage her workload. Jodie Wallis is a speech-language pathologist and certified lactation counselor who specializes in pediatric feeding. She focuses on functional outcomes with the ultimate goal of helping to reduce stress in families related to feeding difficulties. She is committed to helping families feel heard and supported.Her approach combines skilled intervention with parent coaching so that a child's therapy plan can easily be incorporated into daily routines. Her areas of expertise include optimal breast and bottle feeding, successful transition to solids, transition from tube to oral feeds, expanding “picky” eating, managing reflux, and working with medically complex babies.She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in the state of Missouri, Certificate of Clinical Competence through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and Certified Lactation Counselor.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How Jodie found her passion for feeding therapyWhen she knew that private practice was the path for herHow she balances her private practice caseloadThe power of having multiple sources of incomeWhere Jodie gets her referrals for infant feeding therapy The freedom to build your own schedule that you get as a private practice ownerThe shift from clinician to CEO What it's like having a private practice as someone with ADHDThe power of finding your person and hiring someone who can help you growJodie's vision for the future of her private practiceI hope you loved this episode with Jodie! She is a perfect example of someone who set a strong foundation for their business and used their creativity and skills to make it bigger and better. If you would like to know more about how we helped Jodie grow her private practice, please visit www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.comWhether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned: Visit Jodie's website: https://www.flourishingkidstherapy.com/Follow Jodie on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlourishingKidsTherapy/Follow Jodie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishingkidstherapy/

Norma Vazquez, a seasoned Certified Lactation Counselor and Birth & Post-Partum Doula, is spearheading a crucial initiative to foster solidarity among women of color on their journey through motherhood. With 16 years of extensive experience in public health, Vazquez has honed her expertise in lactation support, particularly focusing on aiding individuals during childbirth. Her dedication led her to roles as a Lactation Counselor at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health and as the Founder of Mama La Lechera, a venture born from her observations of the racial disparities in breastfeeding support for BIPOC individuals. Now, Vazquez is amplifying her impact by hosting a support groups at the YWCA, providing a vital space for the community free of charge. Simultaneously, she serves as a training coordinator and Instructor for a national breast pump company, furthering her mission to empower mothers through education and accessibility. Notably, Vazquez also operates a community lactation supply closet, offering essential resources like breast pumps and nursing pillows to anyone in need, irrespective of financial constraints. Her multifaceted efforts underscore her commitment to breaking down barriers to breastfeeding initiation and continuity, ensuring that all mothers and birthing individuals receive the support they deserve.Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was so fun to bring Erin Moore, RN, CPNP, CLC, mom of two wild boys, on for this week's podcast as part of our interview series. She is so sweet and has a knack for making all moms feel confident in the decisions they make for feeding their children! Erin and I dive into breastfeeding versus formula, increasing supply, different ingredients in formulas, Baby Led Weaning, and more! She shares tons of knowledge on all things feeding and will not only put your mind at ease, but will truly empower you to feel confident in whatever you've found that is best for your family. Check out her NEW podcast: Baby Food for Busy Moms Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/baby-food-for-busy-moms/id1735597202Follow Erin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babyfeeding.coach/ Check Out Her Website: https://www.babyfeedingcoach.com/Support the showLet's connect on social media! Send me your thoughts to https://www.instagram.com/alanna.hellman/ or https://www.instagram.com/momsworkingovertime/. I'd love to get to know you better! Join the MWO Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/momsworkingovertimeYou can always find more information at www.momsworkingovertime.com.Thank you so much for listening! Love what you hear? Please share the podcast and leave a review! It means the world to me and helps me reach more moms so I can remind them how amazing they're doing.

Are you worried about your milk supply? Feeling like you're on an island of uncertainty with breastfeeding? As moms, we often encounter breastfeeding challenges, and low milk supply can be an overwhelming concern.Today's guest is Kaia Lacy, a Certified Lactation Counselor who specializes in low milk supply issues. Kaia's drive to share her knowledge and experiences culminated in the creation of her Instagram account, @lowsupplymom, which has grown from a passion project to a vibrant career.We discuss the heart of breastfeeding challenges, distinguishing between primary and secondary low milk supply issues. Kaia will share her personal journey and expert tips on identifying signs of insufficient glandular tissue (IGT), addressing metabolic and hormonal risks, and why it's crucial to investigate underlying causes. For new and expecting moms wrestling with the complexities of milk production, Kaia offers a wealth of knowledge on efficient breastfeeding management, alternative methods for increasing supply, and the importance of having a personalized breastfeeding plan that fits you.Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parenting pro, this episode unpacks valuable insights and actionable steps to help you navigate these waters with confidence. Links and Resources: Kaia Lacy's Website: https://lowsupplymom.comLow Milk Supply Foundation: https://www.lowmilksupplyfoundation.orgMilk storage guideline by the Academy of Breastfeeding MedicineFollow @bemybreastfriend on InstagramBemybreastfriend.combemybreastfriend Amazon Storebemybreastfriend YouTubeSponsor: Needed - 20% off your first month of products with code TIREDMOMSCLUB

Wellness expert Heather Grzych interviews Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Certified Lactation Counselor Hannah Bowers about the role of nutrition in fertility and health, and why it's completely left out of modern medicine. They discuss what resources are available when a person gets a diagnosis of PCOS. Hannah is an example of a thin person who was diagnosed with PCOS, which breaks the stereotypes that people have about PCOS. Learn what a fertility awakening is, why fertility nutrition is dependent on your body type, and how a nutritionist prepares for labor and postpartum period.   Hannah Bowers is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Lactation Counselor, host of the Baby Dust Fertility Podcast, and writer who is passionate about supporting women from preconception and infertility through postpartum. www.blissberrywellness.com   Heather Grzych, AD is an American author and expert in Ayurvedic medicine who was formerly the head of product development for a multi-billion-dollar health insurance company. She is a board-certified Ayurvedic practitioner at the Ayurvedic Doctor level, serving on the faculty at Mount Madonna Institute College of Ayurveda and on the Board of Directors for the National Ayurvedic Medical Association. Heather's first book, The Ayurvedic Guide to Fertility, has sold thousands of copies worldwide, and her writing has been featured in Sports Illustrated, Yoga Journal, and the Sunday Independent. Her podcast, Wisdom of the Body, holds an average rating of 5 stars on Apple Podcasts. In addition to creating, supporting her clients, and leading an organization, she's often helping out at her son's baseball practices. Visit her online at www.heathergrzych.com   Connect with Heather: Instagram.com/heathergrzych Facebook.com/grzychheather   Read the first six pages of The Ayurvedic Guide to Fertility for FREE: https://www.heathergrzych.com   Connect with Heather to balance your health for your fertility: https://www.heathergrzych.com/book-online   This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only.

Interested in learning more about turning your niche as an SLP or OT into a thriving private practice? You're going to love this episode of Private Practice Success Stories.I sat down with Jaime Perez, who is a speech-language pathologist and lactation consultant with a private practice in Tampa, Florida. She started her private practice after facing burnout in the hospital setting and wanting to spend more time with her family. I got to know Jamie during her time in the Start program and it has been so exciting to watch her find her niche in feeding therapy.In this episode she talks about her journey from event planner to SLP, finding her calling in the NICU, and how private practice empowered her to put her family first. Jaime Kaley Perez is an ASHA-certified Speech Language Pathologist, passionate feeding specialist, and mother of two crazy boys. She is also a Certified Neonatal Therapist, Certified Neonatal Massage Therapist, Certified Lactation Counselor, and has been treating medically complex infants and children in hospitals and neonatal intensive care units for over 10 years.She loves tiny humans and is a strong patient advocate and supporter of parents. She tackles feeding difficulties with a holistic focus and believes the best care is family-centered.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Jaime's journey to becoming a pediatric SLP that worked in the NICUHow you can work a lot less hours and make the same money or moreWhere Jaime does the most marketing for her private practiceThe power of networking and collaborationHow Jaime became a lactation consultant and why it is so helpful during speech servicesWhy Jaime decided on a mobile private practiceThe freedom you get when you have a private practiceThe fulfillment you get from building a private practice yourself How to bring your joy back as an SLP or OTI hope you loved this conversation with Jaime! I love how she found her niche in feeding therapy and built a practice that brought her joy for the profession back to life. She is a perfect example of someone who had fears about jumping into private practice, but took a chance on herself and was rewarded with the flexibility and freedom she craved. If you would like our help to start your private practice - just like we helped Jaime get started - please visit StartYourPrivatePractice.comWhether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned: Visit Jaime's website: www.thrivingjoy.comFollow Jaime on Instagram: Instagram.com/thrivingjoytherapyWhere We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/Connect on Facebook:

Hannah Bowers is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Lactation Counselor, host of the Baby Dust Fertility Podcast, and writer who is passionate about supporting women from preconception and infertility through postpartum. Diagnosed with PCOS, she was told by multiple doctors that it would not be possible for her to get pregnant naturally. Frustrated by the lack of support she received, Hannah dove into research and uncovered countless, evidence-based ways to improve fertility. After successfully implementing much of what she learned, she got pregnant without medical intervention and gave birth to babies in 2017, 2020, and 2023.Hannah has a bachelor's degree in Health Sciences. When not at her desk, you will likely find her with a book in her hand or exploring the outdoors. Currently, Hannah lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband and two sons. Connect with her on Instagram.Connect with Hannah: Website | Instagram* The Baby Dust Fertility Podcast is hosted by Hannah Bowers. Follow her on Instagram for tips, insight, and encouragement.* New to TTC? Download our FREE eBook.* Want to improve your fertility? Enroll in Hannah's course, “The Fertility Roadmap,” where she walks you through identifying peak fertility, which pregnancy tests to use, proven lifestyle shifts for balanced hormones, and so much more. Sign up here.Support the ShowLove the show? Support the Baby Dust Fertility Podcast by shopping through our affiliate links when placing your next order.* Favorite Products (Amazon)* Fullwell Prenatal, Nourished Nerves & More save with code BLISSBERRYWELLNESS* Seeking Health Prenatal for Him & Her DM for latest coupon code.* needed. Powdered Prenatal, Pre/Probiotic, Egg Quality Support & More save with code BLISSBERRYWELLNESS20* Agni Fertility Box & More save with code blissberrywellness* Inito Fertility Monitor save with code HANNAH15* Proov Complete, PdG Tests, Balancing Oil & More save with code blissberrywellness* Tempdrop Wearable Fertility Monitor save with code blissberrywellnessDisclaimer: This email is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your care provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or currently prescribed medications. *This email contains affiliate links. You will not be charged extra for purchasing through one of our links, but a small portion of the proceeds will go to support Baby Dust. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit babydust.substack.com

In this episode, I'm joined by Jenna from Own Your Parenting Story. Jenna and I bonded over our shared love of supporting families with nursing toddlers. We talk about the joys and challenges of nursing into the toddler years and beyond.About JennaJenna is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Certified Purejoy Parent Coach, and host of Start to Stop Toddler Breastfeeding. She has breastfeed her own kids for over 6 years, including over 3 years of tandem feeding. After spending years supporting moms in their early postpartum journey, Jenna saw the need for support beyond that and now specializes in supporting families in "extended" breastfeeding, toddler weaning & tandem feeding.Connect with Jenna"Say No to the Feed while Saying "Yes" to the Need" Guide & Cheat Sheet: www.ownyourparentingstory.com/guideWorkshop: www.ownyourparentingstory.com/workshopInstagram: www.instagram.com/own.your.parenting.storyConnect with KimInstagram: instagram.com/intuitive_parenting_dcFacebook:  facebook.com/intuitiveparentingdcLearn more about working with Kim: https://intuitiveparentingdc.com/

Meet Nicolle Fletcher! Nicolle is a powerhouse doula & midwife in Arkansas who we are proud to collaborate with. She is a force to be reckoned with, seeking to advocate for the maternal health crisis in Arkansas. If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant soon and considering a midwife or doula and don't know where to start, give this podcast a listen.Nicolle Sherrie Fletcher is married to Dr. Phillip D. Fletcher and is the proud mother of adult children Nicollus, Najee and Nichelle. Nicolle is a native of San Diego, California and has been a resident of Conway, Arkansas since April 2007.She is the owner of Nurturing Arrows Doula Coaching Services, a business dedicated to training doulas and providing full maternal education and support during the childbearing years. She is the co-founder, visionary, and executive director of Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. (UMN)  a 501 (c) 3 non-profit in Arkansas. The mission of UMN is to work collectively to reduce the gross maternal and infant mortality and morbidity rates amongst Black mothers in the state of Arkansas through community outreach events, ethnically congregant doula support, lactation support, local resources and midwifery care.She seeks to address the maternal health crisis that plagues the birthing community namely Black mothers and provides solutions to empower instead of victimize our community. Nicolle has dedicated her life to the advancement of maternal healthcare and advocacy as an Certified Birth Doula for the past 14 years. Her professional portfolio includes becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor, Certified Health Coach, Regenerative Health Coach, Childbirth Educator, Trained Postpartum Doula, Doula Trainer and Mentor, Public Speaker, Co-founder of City of Hope Outreach, and Apprentice Midwife. Nicolle will be the first Black Certified Professional Midwife since the grand midwives in Arkansas. In her years of service she had trained and certified over 30 women as birth & postpartum doulas in Arkansas. 

This week on the You, The Mother Podcast, Abbey welcomes Dr. Dianna Dixon! Dr. Dianna is a Doctor of Public Administration, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Postpartum Doula, Certified Life Coach, and Master Certified Life Coach with a focus on postpartum families. She created Pump with Purpose a global lactation and postpartum private practice servicing the postpartum community across the world and was started due to a recognized lack of resources and assistance in lactation for people that want to include pumping in their journey, either exclusively or in addition to nursing as well as during their postpartum journey. She shares her best tips for picking out products, creating a pumping schedule, and preventing pumping stress and pain. Does pumping feel overwhelming? Let's talk about it! ——————————————— This episode is sponsored by Magic Mind! The world's first productivity show! Go to https://www.magicmind.com/themother and get up to 50% off your subscription for the next 10 days with my code THEMOTHER20 ——————————————— You can find Dr. Dianna Dixon: Website: www.pumpwithpurpose.com Subscribe at the bottom of the website for a free Pumping Survival Guide Instagram: @pumpwithpurpose Pump with Purpose App on all Apple + Google devices ——————————————— Instagram @youthemother www.youthemother.com Now Offering 1-on-1 and Group Coaching! https://calendly.com/youthemother Navigating the Holidays Support Group is now open for registration!! https://calendly.com/youthemother

Esther McCant, founder and CEO of Metro Mommy Agency, opened up about her five pregnancies, which included a miscarriage that would push her to self-advocate with her medical provider.Esther's first pregnancy happened within the first few months of her marriage. Six weeks later, she learned that she had a blighted ovum and her provider prepared her to miscarry. She had the choice to let the ovum pass or go to the hospital for a DNC. She stayed home as long as she could but eventually went to the hospital. Esther recalled the doctor taking quite a while to see her, and when she did she insisted that Esther still needed a DNC even though everything had passed. She felt threatened by the doctor about the potential that she could bleed out. This interaction helped Esther to trust herself. She chose to leave and go home. The grieving process started; she became pregnant again within a few months. The hospital miscarriage experience led her to want to explore other birthing options. Her sister-in-law invited her to  her calming water birth; which helped her see a new vision. Esther found a midwife who resonated with her and a doula who could support her choices. The midwife was able to support her in a birthing center.Walking around the neighborhood of the birthing center helped move her labor along. Their family started to arrive and became overwhelmed. The midwife asked some of the family members to leave to clear the space. Her mother stayed and it was after the birth and looking at pictures from her doula that she was able to see the relationship she had with her mother in a different light. Her mother, who had only given birth surgically,  had an opportunity to bring healing for herself as she fed Esther and cared for her during her labor. Baby would arrive with a nuchal hand and in the OP position by squatting.The third pregnancy brought on changes that would impact her nutrition, wellness, and the birthing environment she desired; which included a water birth.  Feminine energy filled the birthing space by inviting her sisters-in-law. Her son's birth was challenging as she had back labor. She regrets not getting chiropractic care and having a doula this time. Postpartum was filled with engaging with other women as opposed to the more isolating experience she had after her first birth.They had moved from Florida to Alabama, and the difference in provider options was vastly different. In Florida, Esther could have a Certified Professional Midwife, a Certified Nurse Midwife, or a Licensed Midwife deliver her baby. Unfortunately, Alabama did not have those options at the time in 2014. Alabama has terrible birth outcomes and race relations. She could only deliver with a midwife if an obstetrician was present during the labor and delivery.  Esther felt low during the pregnancy because they were living with her parents and living paycheck to paycheck. Esther decided to leave the state when she was ready to give birth. She provided much of her prenatal care until she found a midwife in Tennessee. Her midwife helped her be more proactive about her health and nutrition; including lowering toxins in their environment and skin care. Postpartum preparation was top of mind as she would be traveling to give birth.When Esther thought she was in labor they made the two-and-a-half-hour trek to Chattanooga to no avail as the baby was not ready. They turned the trip into a babymoon and would make the trip again a couple of days later. Esther and her husband brought the kids along to meet up with her family who would care for them. They didn't make it there on time due to a flat tire problem. Esther gave birth within 6 hours of leaving their home and although she felt distracted by having the other children there and wondering where her family was. Esther's Haitian roots welcomed the Haitian bath, teas, and essential oils, and started the restoration process with her mother coming to support her.When Esther had her fourth son, she was a trained birth doula. She envisioned a waterbirth with her partner,  two midwives, and two doulas present. The birth and pregnancy were heavy in dealing with the ongoing race issues in our country and the experiences of Black men and boys. Giving herself space to release those feelings during long labor allowed her to relax in her body and give birth smoothly. Her vision would come true as she delivered her son in a haze of joy.Adding value to herself and the clients she serves now catapulted Esther to take a deep and intentional dive into more doula training and become a Certified Lactation Counselor. Additionally, she serves other doulas in the country as a mentor in birth work and business. Resources: Metro Mommy Agency | serving women with support and education to navigate through their journey into motherhood

Hannah Bowers is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Lactation Counselor, host of the Baby Dust Fertility Podcast, and writer who is passionate about supporting women from preconception and infertility through postpartum. Diagnosed with PCOS, she was told by multiple doctors that it would not be possible for her to get pregnant naturally. Frustrated by the lack of support she received, Hannah dove into research and uncovered countless, evidence-based ways to improve fertility. After successfully implementing much of what she learned, she got pregnant without medical intervention and gave birth to babies in 2017 and 2020.Hannah has a bachelor's degree in Health Sciences. When not at her desk, you will likely find her with a book in her hand or exploring the outdoors. Currently, Hannah lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband and two sons. Connect with her on Instagram.Connect with Hannah: Website | Instagram* The Baby Dust Fertility Podcast is hosted by Hannah Bowers. Follow her on Instagram for tips, insight, and encouragement.* New to TTC? Download our FREE eBook.* Want to improve your fertility? Enroll in Hannah's course, “The Fertility Roadmap,” where she walks you through identifying peak fertility, which pregnancy tests to use, proven lifestyle shifts for better fertility, and so much more. Sign up here.Upcoming Episodes* Episode 35: How Functional Medicine Can Help You Get Pregnant with Sarah Thompson, MS LAc* Episode 36: Sound Therapy for Anxiety while TTC with Edward Sim* Episode 37: Get Pregnant with Mercier Therapy with Jennifer D. Mercier, Midwife, LMT, ND, PhDDisclaimer: This email is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your care provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or currently prescribed medications. *This email contains affiliate links. You will not be charged extra for purchasing through one of our links, but a small portion of the proceeds will go to support Baby Dust. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit babydust.substack.com

Because getting pregnant is only half the battle, staying pregnant is the other half. For this season, we've decided to add a special episode every month dedicated about how to have a healthy happy pregnancy, birth and postpartum. If you are still in the process of fighting infertility and you feel triggered by this episode, please skip it until you are ready. Breastfeeding & Fertility with Hannah Bowers Episode #263 of The Hormone P.U.Z.Z.L.E Podcast is a special episode where our guest speaker Hannah Bowers talks about Breastfeeding & Fertility. Each month one episode is dedicated for pregnant women to teach them how to have a healthy happy pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Hannah Bowers is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Lactation Counselor, host of the Baby Dust Fertility Podcast, and writer who is passionate about supporting women from preconception and infertility through postpartum. Thank you for listening! This episode is made possible by @‌healthyhappypregnancysummit Follow Hannah on Instagram: @‌hannahbowersinhc Follow Dr. Kela on Instagram - @‌kela_healthcoach Get your FREE Pregnancy Meal Plan https://coachkela.com/ FTC Affiliate Disclaimer: The disclosure that follows is intended to fully comply with the Federal Trade Commission's policy of the United States that requires to be transparent about any and all affiliate relations the Company may have on this show. You should assume that some of the product mentions and discount codes given are "affiliate links", a link with a special tracking code This means that if you use one of these codes and purchase the item, the Company may receive an affiliate commission. This is a legitimate way to monetize and pay for the operation of the Website, podcast, and operations and the Company gladly reveals its affiliate relationships to you. The price of the item is the same whether it is an affiliate link or not. Regardless, the Company only recommends products or services the Company believes will add value to its users. The Hormone Puzzle Society and Dr. Kela will receive up to 30% affiliate commission depending on the product that is sponsored on the show. For sponsorship opportunities, email HPS Media at media@coachkela.com

This podcast is sponsored by “The Fertility Roadmap: Your Guide to Optimizing Conception.” Click here to enroll now.Click here to download the FREE ebook: The Condensed Guide to Getting PregnantHannah Bowers is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Lactation Counselor, host of the Baby Dust Fertility Podcast, and writer who is passionate about supporting women from preconception and infertility through postpartum. Diagnosed with PCOS, she was told by multiple doctors that it would not be possible for her to get pregnant naturally. Frustrated by the lack of support she received, Hannah dove into research and uncovered countless, evidence-based ways to improve fertility. After successfully implementing much of what she learned, she got pregnant without medical intervention and gave birth to babies in 2017 and 2020.Hannah has a bachelor's degree in Health Sciences. When not at her desk, you will likely find her with a book in her hand or exploring the outdoors. Currently, Hannah lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband and two sons. Connect with her on Instagram.Connect with Hannah: Website | InstagramNotesMiscarriage Hope Desk: miscarriagehopedesk.comAllison Scaaf's episode will be published on Monday.Upcoming Episodes* Episode 32: Resources for Miscarriage & Pregnancy Loss with Allison Schaaf, MS RDN LDN* Episode 33: Hypnotherapy for Fertility with Natalia Griffin* Episode 34: Navigating Motherhood and Fertility Challenges with Hannah Bowers, INHC CLCDisclaimer: This email is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your care provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or currently prescribed medications. *This email contains affiliate links. You will not be charged extra for purchasing through one of our links, but a small portion of the proceeds will go to support Baby Dust. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit babydust.substack.com

Meet the Tongue Tie Team: Lori L. Overland, M.S., CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC, FOM Knowing the type of providers on the Tongue Tie Treatment Team, what they do for infants, and why, is vital to understanding the process. In this episode, Lisa Paladino interviews Lori L. Overland, M.S., CCC-SLP, C/NDT, CLC. Topics discussed: The vital collaboration between SLP and IBCLC and other team members. Caring for those with neuro-motor issues and non-typically developing babies. How an SLP evaluates oral structure and function in infants which goes beyond general IBCLC education. The importance of the team, mentorship, and much more Article referenced during our chat about tongue tie and mastication: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1471-2458-12-934 ********** Now's your chance to join the Professional's Guide To Tongue Tie in the Breastfeeding Infant and save over $200! The coupon code PODCAST15 gets you an additional 15% off all of our pro and parent programs, including the fall sale price of our pro course. Click here today: https://www.tonguetieexperts.net/ProfessionalCourse _________________________ More About Lori: Lori L. Overland is a licensed speech and language pathologist, Certified Lactation Counselor, and holds fellowship in orofacial myology as well as a a neurodevelopmental certification. Lori specializes in oral sensory-motor/feeding therapy, oral placement and orofacial myofunctional disorders in children. Her private practice, Alphabet Soup, focuses on infants, toddlers and preschool children with oral sensory-motor/feeding disorders. Lori provides international consults as well as consults to local school districts and Birth-to-Three organizations. Offerings: A Sensory Motor Approach to Adapted Baby Led Weaning Feeding Therapy Self Study Course www.talktools.com for live classes. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.

Dr. Kimberly N. Works, MD, FAAP, is a Board-Certified Pediatrician and Certified Lactation Counselor who brings high-quality and personalized pediatric care to “little ones” and adolescents. Four years after her residency, she decided to open Pediatric Works because she was frustrated with the impersonal corporate approach to health care that caused feelings of uncertainty in its future. Dr. Works decided it was time to go back to practicing medicine the way it used to be, with a focus on the personal relationship between the patient and the doctor.   On this episode of Smart Parents Successful Students, you will hear:   What questions parents should ask a potential pediatrician for their child Why building a personal relationship with your child's pediatrician is key Which shared values parents should look for when seeking a pediatrician When is the best time to interview a potential pediatrician How the concierge approach to medicine differs from traditional primary care   Dr. Works invites you to go to www.PediatricWorks.co and select a meet/greet.  She can also be reached at ourkids@pediatricworksdpc.co.   You can find Dynamis Learning on all the social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Helen can be reached at info@dynamislearningacademy.com.   To schedule a free consultation to discuss your child's needs including advocacy resources, academic planning, and/or obtain a tutor for your child, contact Helen Panos at 770-282-9931 or email her at the email address above.    

In this episode, I am joined by Jaime Perez, she is the founder of Thriving Joy Pediatric Therapy, LLC in Tampa, FL offering mobile therapy services in homes and daycares. She is an ASHA certified Speech Language Pathologist, passionate feeding specialist, and mother of two crazy boys. She is also a Certified Neonatal Therapist, Certified Neonatal Massage Therapist, Certified Lactation Counselor in training, and has been treating medically complex infants and children in hospitals and NICUs for over 10 years.

We are SO excited for you new or future parents out there to hear this episode with Rachel Sultzer - who is a certified lactation counselor and breastfeeding educator as well as Certified postpartum and Infant Care Doula. She shares SO many good tips for feeding your baby - whether that's through breastfeeding, pumping, formula or a combo! Check out her and her business partner's website here: http://www.postpartumdoulasjacksonville.com Her personal website: http://www.hugsandsnugs.com and IG: @hugsandsnugs_jax Breastpump comparison chart she mentioned on the episode: https://www.1naturalway.com/pages/breast-pump-comparison-chart

Dr. Erica jumped behind the mic to talk with Abbey McLaughlin. Abbey is a RN, Certified Lactation Counselor and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Abbey is also the owner of Mal's MilkyWay which is a  private lactation practice offering both virtual and in-clinic visits! In this episode:

You've probably heard about labor support doulas, the people who help you during your birth, but did you know there are also doulas to help you after your baby is born? They're called postpartum doulas and they'll assist you, your family, and your baby. On today's episode of Yoga| Birth| Babies I'm speaking with Postpartum Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and mother of three Valerie Trumbower all about postpartum doulas. Valerie guides us through the basics of what a postpartum doula is, what kind of services they provide, and how this differs from the support of friends and family. Valerie works primarily as an overnight doula so we also cover what that looks like for different families.  I had a postpartum doula with both of my children, they're very practical. From showing a new parent or grandparent the basics of giving baby a bath, to assisting with lactation issues, circumcision care, or helping you unpack your birth postpartum doulas are an incredible resource for you and your family. We even cover how to interview postpartum doulas so that you can fill out your postpartum support team. I think you're going to get a lot out of today's conversation. Get the most out of each episode by checking out the show notes with links, resources and other related podcasts at: prenatalyogacenter.com Don't forget to grab your FREE guide, 5 Simple Solutions to the Most Common Pregnancy Pains HERE  If you love what you've been listening to, please leave a rating and review! Yoga| Birth|Babies (Apple) or on Spotify! To connect with Deb and the PYC Community:  Instagram & Facebook: @prenatalyogacenter Youtube: Prenatal Yoga Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's be real here. Nobody really cares about what to eat when pregnant until... you're actually pregnant! Whether pregnancy is on your radar or not, I still think its worth knowing this information to keep for your future self or to share with another woman in your life! Today, my RD friend Olivia is here to share all the gems with you on what to eat during pregnancy, what to avoid and how to select the BEST prenatal vitamin. LISTEN UP! The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women's Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women's nutrition, body awareness, and self-care.  About Olivia Small: Olivia Small is a registered dietitian and Certified Lactation Counselor, who helps women optimize nutrition before, during, and after pregnancy to grow a healthy baby and find balance postpartum. She started her practice working in weight loss, but as her clients came in with period problems, metabolic and gut issues, she realized that the health challenges of womanhood have deeper roots. Now as "The Pregnancy Nutritionist," she's building her women's health practice by supporting mamas during one of the most important phases of their life one that can impact mom and baby's health, for many years to come. Connect with Olivia: Websites: www.olivethedietitian.com IG: @the.pregnancy.nutritionist Stay Connected: Let's Flourish! BOOK your 1:1 Virtual Nutrition Coaching session: www.flourishheights.com/nutrition-counseling Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com Women's Nutrition Counseling: www.flourishheights.com/nutrition-counseling Follow us on social media: Instagram: @flourishheights Facebook: @flourishheights Twitter: @flourishheights Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

In this podcast episode we talk with Kallista Andersen about how we can put our life on autopilot during the postpartum period. Kallista helps pregnant mamas get ready for their baby by preparing their self, space, and significant other. She does so through her podcast, The New Mom Boss Podcast, as well as coaching, and online courses. Kallista is a Registered Nurse, a Certified Lactation Counselor, and is a mom of 3. Her dedication to helping first-time moms was born when she had her first 2 kids 13 months apart, experiencing the new mom phase back to back. It is her mission to make preparing to be a new mom simple and thorough so that women can enter motherhood with confidence and joy, and be able to truly bond with their baby and partner. 3 Postpartum Must Haves Connect more with Kallista Andersen: Podcast: The New Mom Boss Podcast Website: newmomboss.com Instagram: newmomboss Connect more with The Entering Motherhood Podcast: Instagram: entering_motherhood and sarah_marie_bilger Facebook: EnteringMotherhood Services: Birth and Postpartum Services Email: enteringmotherhood@gmail.com Official Affiliates of the Podcast: LoveHeld Kindred Bravely Postpartum University FOND Bone Broth (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 10% off) Hypnobabies (MOTHERHOOD20 for 20% off)  Made for Mama Shop (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 15% off)

This is a replay of Episode 82 of The Changed Physician Podcast with the hosts and their guest, Dr. Nithya Natrajan discussing her evolution from family medicine to include certified lactation counselor. #change #challenge #thechangedphysician #kevincuccaro #melissacady #physicianburnout #physicianjoy #physicianwellness #physicianhealth #beingdifferent #createyourpath #joy #fulfillment Learn More About the Community at:

Elisabeth Anderson-Sierra, a Certified Lactation Counselor and BabyBuddha's Director of Lactation Services, has played an instrumental role in optimizing BabyBuddha's small but mighty breast pump so it's the most portable, effective hands-free option on the market. She also has a rare condition, hyper-lactation syndrome, which results in her pumping around 200 oz. of breastmilk per day (10x the average a mother typically pumps). Not only does this provide a unique perspective and wealth of expertise when it comes to breastfeeding/pumping, but it's also led to Elisabeth donating 350,000 oz. of breastmilk to date (a Genius Book World Record!) Connect with Elisabeth https://babybuddhaproducts.com https://www.instagram.com/mybabybuddha https://www.instagram.com/oneounceatatime Baby Buddha Pump ---Coupon Code: NEWLITTLELIFE10 New Little Life Resources

Elisabeth Anderson-Sierra, a Certified Lactation Counselor and BabyBuddha's Director of Lactation Services, has played an instrumental role in optimizing BabyBuddha's small but mighty breast pump so it's the most portable, effective hands-free option on the market. She also has a rare condition, hyper-lactation syndrome, which results in her pumping around 200 oz. of breastmilk per day (10x the average a mother typically pumps). Not only does this provide a unique perspective and wealth of expertise when it comes to breastfeeding/pumping, but it's also led to Elisabeth donating 350,000 oz. of breastmilk to date! Connect with Elisabeth https://babybuddhaproducts.com https://www.instagram.com/mybabybuddha https://www.instagram.com/oneounceatatime Baby Buddha Pump ---Coupon Code: NEWLITTLELIFE10 New Little Life Resources

On the ethical side of the Influence Continuum, we invite an expert to discuss preparing how to do ethical parenting. Julie Hartman is a Certified Birth Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and New Parent Educator. She supports families in the perinatal period through support groups and teaching classes on living with a newborn. Most importantly, she is the mom of three adult children and can connect with the people she works with through shared experiences. We discuss what a doula and lactation counselor is, as many people are unaware. Julie tells us a birth doula is often confused with a midwife, but they are different. Whereas the role of a midwife requires formal medical training, birth doulas support the family before, during, and after birth. They assist the family in empowering and speaking up for themselves so that they can advocate for their needs in the birthing process. Birth Doulas also help educate families on the decisions that could need to be made during a hospital birth so there are no surprises and families can think those options through before they are in the heat of the moment. Julie shares her expertise in ethical, positive parenting techniques. Learn more about Steven Hassan and Freedom of Mind Resource Center. Visit freedomofmind.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Episode Covers the Following Topics and More:Building Healthy Habits at HomeCommunity Resources and Programs such as WIC and SNAPHelping Children Learn About FoodOffering Variety: Color, Texture, Child Approved and Culturally ConsiderateHow to Approach Meal Planning and Selecting Foods that Meet Your Family's Needs (Nutritionally and Budget Friendly)Understanding Hunger Cues (feeling hungry, feeling full)Food Insecurity in the US and Poor Child HealthThe Importance of Eating Family StyleReading Food LabelsShopping LocalShopping Foods in Season to Save MoneyAdding in Plant-Based MealsTherapeutic Diet (disabilities, allergies, restrictions, under or over weight children)About Maves Ra​ñolaMaves V. Ra​ñola is a Registered Dietitian with over 22 years of experience in public health and community nutrition. She is currently the Director of Nutrition Services for Lutheran Services Florida Children and Head Start Program.She graduated with a BS in Food and Nutrition from Florida State University and completed her dietetic internship at Florida International University. She earned the Commission on Dietetic Registration's certificate in pediatric weight management and the Florida Family Development Credential from Florida Gulf Coast University. Maves worked as part of a program that earned national recognition by First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Child Care Initiative for its obesity prevention efforts.Maves has focused her career to help improve the health and wellness of the children and families she serves.  She is a Certified Lactation Counselor, Yoga for Kids and Families Teacher, Zumba® and Zumba® for Kids and Kids Jr. Instructor. She is a mom of two teenage sons, 2 dogs, and is currently living in Central Florida. 

In this episode Suzanne Bendick of Roots Family Collaborative in Bozeman, joins us to discuss, among other things, her work as the Executive Director of an organization that has revolutionized family support in Gallatin County. Suzanne has gathered and harvested the wisdom of many women and family experts and is dedicated to helping mothers and families heal and get the support they deserve during one of the most crucial times in their lives. Suzanne was originally motivated to dive into her work after navigating her own overwhelmingly challenging initiation to motherhood. Along the way, she's formally trained as a Postpartum Doula and Certified Lactation Counselor. She is a Volunteer Coordinator with Postpartum Support International, hold a B.A. in Anthropology and is currently working on her education and training as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. All that to say, she showed up for this interview with her whole heart that will inspire you in countless ways.Roots Family CollaborativeRoots Resource GuideMoms Like Me 2023Birth Arts InternationalMontana Healthcare FoundationPlaying Monopoly with God - Melissa BangsMolly Caro May- Writer - Storyteller - Somatic Writing WorkshopsFor statewide resources please visit the Linking Infants and Families to Supports athttps://hmhb-lifts.org/

Follow Dianna on Instagram @pumpwithpurpose and check out her website: http://www.pumpwithpurpose.com/services Pump with Purpose, LLC is a global lactation private practice servicing the breastfeeding community across the world and was started due to a recognized lack of resources and assistance in lactation for people that want to include pumping in their journey, either exclusively or in addition to nursing. My name is Dr. Dianna Dixon, DPA, CLC, CBS and I am the person behind Pump with Purpose. I am a Doctor of Public Administration, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Certified Breastfeeding Specialist. I have a sincere interest in helping underrepresented groups. I want to be an additional resource on your breastfeeding journey to assist with incorporating pumping in a way that works for you and your family. I am a wife and mother of two boys that are 18 months apart. I have been pumping on my second journey for over 3 years. To date, I have owned over 200 pumping products. Follow Dreamland Baby @dreamlandbabyco and check out our website here! Use code MOMMANUAL15 for 15% off your first Dreamland Baby purchase.

Kallista helps pregnant mamas get ready for their baby by preparing their self, space, and significant other. She does so through her podcast, The New Mom Boss Podcast, as well as coaching, and online course New Mom Prep School. Kallista is a Registered Nurse, a Certified Lactation Counselor, and is a mom of 3. Her dedication to helping first-time moms was born when she had her first 2 kids 13 months apart -- experiencing the new mom phase back to back. It is her mission to make preparing to be a new mom simple and thorough so that women can enter motherhood with confidence and joy so that they can build a strong bond with their baby. Website | www.newmomboss.com Instagram | @newmomboss Podcast | The New Mom Boss Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-new-mom-boss-podcast/id1518217955?i=1000510614087 Community | New Mom Lounge https://urlgeni.us/instagram/newmomboss Email | kallista@newmomboss.com Mother Wit Options and resources Thriving After Birth (an online course) Comprehensive Care 60 Min Consultation: Use discount code- FirstConsult10%off Instagram: @mother.wit.maternity YouTube Channel Support the show (Thank you!) The Mother Wit Podcast Survey (and guest request) (NEW!) Exercise in the perinatal period - For healthcare providers - (An online course) Lo Nigrosh, IBCLC Quabbin Birth Services

Breastfeeding is a full-time job, and for many, it can be a BIG challenge! Registered Nurse, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Mom of 4, Karrie Locher, is on the podcast today and she's here to help us out! Karrie has made a name for herself on social media and has been featured on Good Morning America, Huffington Post (and more) sharing tons of tips and tricks for breastfeeding. In this episode, she helps us troubleshoot some common issues, increase supply, and offers tons of tips & tricks to help you conquer BF'ing because SURPRISE - you ARE the bottle serviceWant more from our guest?Karrie Locher Instagram Website: https://www.karingforpostpartum.com/Course: Breastfeeding Like a ProAlso, connect with Sarah!Personal Instagram: @SarahMerrill_HallThe Big Kid Problems humor account @bigkidproblems!Need another great podcast? Check out The Big Kid Problems Podcast! Find more at www.BigKidProblems.com Big thank you to our episode sponsor!More Labs: Mama deserves a cocktail (or 5!) Help your body bounce back after a night of drinking with Morning Recovery! Get 20% off with Code BIGKID at morelabs.com/Bigkid

In this episode, Jacqueline is joined by Victoria Rothbard, a CLC who faced countless challenges throughout her journey, including recurrent plugged ducts and mastitis. Victoria often received conflicting advice and quickly learned that there is a lot of misleading breastfeeding information out there. Together, Jacqueline and Victoria clear up some key pieces of information around mastitis, pumping, and clogged ducts. Victoria decided to become a Certified Lactation Counselor to help provide parents with evidence-based support. Jacqueline and Victoria discuss the Academy of Breastfeeding Protocol and its response from other lactation consultants. In this episode, you'll hear:When nipple shields should and shouldn't be usedHow to navigate the weaning processSigns and symptoms of clogged ducts and mastitisWhat to do if you're experiencing mastitisABM Protocols and the responseA glance at this episode:[2:20] Victoria shares her pregnancy and delivery while living abroad in Turkey[10:34] Why and how Victoria became a Certified Lactation Counselor[13:40] How she weaned off of using a nipple shield[16:14] Risks of using a nipple shield long term[20:32] Signs and symptoms of plugged ducts that Victoria experienced firsthand[25:18] Tips and guidance to avoid mastitis[34:43] Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol and the response to it from lactation consultants[37:42] Victoria's thoughts on the ABM Protocol response[43:50] When you might need antibiotics for mastitis[45:26] Victoria's thoughts on Lecithin[49:58] How Victoria navigated her fear of low milk supply[55:02] What did weaning look like for VictoriaRelated Links:Virtual Bra FittingsAcademy of Breastfeeding Medicine ProtocolAcademy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol ResponseVictoria's InstagramHolistic Lactation WebsiteDiscount on Products Use Code ‘PODCAST15'Follow on InstagramBook an Appointment

In today's episode, Dr. Tara Brandner welcomes guest Hannah Bowers who is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Lactation Counselor, and writer who is passionate about eliminating the overwhelm of infertility and trying to conceive. Today she shares three tips that are sure to help you no matter what stage of conception you are in!   DOWNLOAD your freebies created by Dr. Brandner!  BOOK your FREE discovery call JOIN the Confident Fertility Academy today!  Come say hi over on Tara's Instagram  *Information provided on this podcast provides general health information for educational purposes only. The information provided by me as a fertility coach is not to be used as a substitute for medical advice, cannot diagnose or treat any health condition and does not substitute for care from your healthcare provider.

You've researched, prepared, and achieved your VBAC, but now what? We are diving deep into all things postpartum today with New Boss Mom, Kallista Anderson. Kallista shares her expertise with us on how to thrive during the postpartum period.Topics include:Strengthening your relationshipsKallista's number one postpartum tipInvesting in yourselfWarning signs and resources for postpartum depression Continue advocating for your needs even after your baby is born. You deserve to enjoy this season and your baby deserves to have the best version of yourself!  Additional linksNew Mom Boss Kallista AndersonPrepping For Postpartum WorkshopMeal Train WebsiteEdinburgh Postnatal Depression ScalePostpartum Support InternationalHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull transcriptNote: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: Happy Wednesday, everybody. I am so excited today to talk about postpartum. Julie and I have partnered up with Kallista Anderson who, if you don't already know, you should know. She has her podcast, The New Mom Boss Podcast, and she is amazing. She is helping mamas get through all the things by preparing, self-care, creating a good space, learning about postpartum, and coaching all the things. So today, we are going to be talking with her about postpartum and a few different types of things about postpartum: navigating through relationships in postpartum and then also prepping for after and being prepared. Before we do that, I am going to turn over the time to Julie, and then we are going to dive right in because I think this is such an important topic that honestly isn't talked about enough.Review of the WeekJulie: Yeah. I'm excited too. Postpartum, my goodness. We don't talk about that enough here and society doesn't talk about it as much just generally. So we are glad to have Kallista here with us today. Our review today comes from Apple Podcasts and it is from jenh415. She says, “I don't feel alone in this journey anymore.” Her review says, “I started planning my VBAC two years ago right after I had my son. My Cesarean left me with lots of negative feelings and thoughts about myself and birth in general. I just knew that I needed to have a chance to have my dream birth. I found your podcast at almost 14 weeks pregnant–” and she is now 18 weeks. Oh, this was left in July. Let's see. “--and immediately dove in headfirst. When I first started listening, I couldn't make it through five minutes of an episode without bawling my eyes out. With the help of my midwife and your empowering podcast, I now feel like I am headed in the right direction. Being able to hear so many different stories lets me know that I am not alone in this journey. No matter how my second birth story ends, I know that I will be in control and the experience is going to be completely different. I am forever grateful to the two of you for creating such a positive space for us mamas.”Oh, I love that so much. That makes me happy. It really is good reviews like this that help keeps us going. So thank you so much for leaving this review, jenh415. If you haven't already, please, we would love to hear what you think about the podcast or anything else about The VBAC Link that has helped you on your journey. You can leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Facebook, Google, or anywhere that you can leave a review.New Mom Boss Kallista AndersonMeagan: All right. Okay. We are so excited, you guys. So again, Kallista Anderson with New Mom Boss. You can find her on Instagram and thenewmomboss.com. We are so excited to hear what she has to say today. But I have to give a little plug-in before we even begin and I am probably going to remind you after because I would highly suggest taking her workshop. She has got a four-day– you said four-day, right? I think?Kallista: Yes.Meagan: Okay, yes. A four-day workshop is kicking off on June 3rd. So we will make sure in the show notes right here to be posting the link to register. It's a postpartum workshop and I think it is such a valuable tool. We were talking about it before we pressed record for the podcast, but I feel like in the VBAC community, especially– I mean, definitely all around the world– but in the VBAC world specifically, we are so focused on the birth, on how to get the birth of our dreams, the birth that we want, how to change the experience from what we had last time, how to heal from trauma. We are working so hard on all of that and when it comes to postpartum, I feel like sometimes, we tend to forget about it, and then postpartum comes and we are like, “Woah.” We are in this space that we haven't really prepared with and then we are kind of rolling with it. I would love to hear, I am so excited to hear all of the tools and things that we can learn to help make the postpartum experience just as great as the birth experience.So without further ado, we are going to turn the time over to Kallista and hear what she has to say. I think the first topic we are talking about is strengthening our relationship during the postpartum period.Strengthening RelationshipsKallista: Yes. Hey ladies. Thank you again so much for having me on your show. I've been looking to come on your podcast and yes, I believe what you guys are providing is so valuable also. But yes, the postpartum part is my passion. Like you mentioned, a lot of times we are focused on the birth. For me, most of my audience are first-time moms who are focused on the first time having the baby and all the preparation for the baby, which is wonderful and so needed, but then we kind of cut our planning short up to when the baby is born. Then we enter the postpartum period or the fourth trimester, which we sometimes call the time for the afterbirth period. The baby, but also Mama goes through her own fourth trimester. That basically is the first three months after having the baby. As you probably know very well, it's kind of the messy middle before you get settled into new motherhood. And so that is what I teach about and what I coach on. I have courses on that. I try to catch my mamas while they are pregnant so that we can prepare for the postpartum period.So that workshop coming up is exactly that. It's called Prepping For Postpartum. But it's open to postpartum mamas as well because it's the same ideas, concepts, and preparation that we are doing whether you are pregnant or already have your baby. The only advantage of doing it while you are pregnant is that it does make that transition a little easier when you've already planned these things out. The relationship piece is one of the biggest pieces in that postpartum period which I am excited to talk about.Meagan: Yeah. We are excited to hear about it because like you said, totally. We have clients that thought after having a baby and then hiring a doula, they talked about, “I didn't know. I didn't even know about the fourth trimester. I didn't even know.” And you hear about it and it's like, okay. We need to do better. We need to do better because I know that there are other countries out there that are so trained in focusing on that postpartum so much that they have crews come in, and families are supported, and tribes that take care of these moms and these babies for months even after birth and it's just not like that here. In the US, we have moms going back to work within weeks, just a few weeks after birth. Like you said, we are still transitioning and we are going through so much and so, yeah. I am excited. What tips would you give to someone listening, especially someone so heavily preparing for birth, on navigating through and preparing for this postpartum period and maybe even understanding the postpartum period a little bit better?Kallista: Great. And maybe a lot of your listeners aren't first-time moms, but they already know how hard it is the first time around. It does get easier with each round of having babies, but if you are not thinking about some of these things that I will talk about, you may get— you know that saying, “You don't know what you don't know,” and you just kind of keep doing things the way you did it before. If you had a difficult time the first time around and you are not taking the time to figure things out for the second time, you may just have another difficult time.For me, just a quick backstory of how I started this is I had always wanted to be a mom. You know, the dolls, and I just knew I wanted to be a mom, a young mom. Although it took a little while, I was so ready. I did all of the things, bought all of the stuff, had a beautiful Pinterest nursery, and washed all of the clothes. The baby came and I had such difficulty with breastfeeding, and my relationship with my husband felt strange and strained at the same time in the first few weeks. That was a shock on top of the sleep deprivation, trying to get breastfeeding right, and all that stuff. And so I was trying to feel my way into it and do just one day at a time, but it was really hard. And then at four months, I found out I was pregnant again.Meagan: Oh.Kallista: Well, do the math and don't judge, but–Meagan: No, that's just shocking, right?Kallista: Right!Meagan: Julie actually had her babies close together too.Julie: Yeah, I just say, “Don't do the math,” too.Kallista: They're not quite Irish twins, but they're 13 months apart. Yeah. It was hard enough for me the first time around that I was like, “This isn't going to happen again.” And so I did a whole inventory of what I did and what I didn't do, and how I could make things better, and so I had a beautiful second-time experience. That's when I started sharing it with my friends and then slowly, it became a business where I am helping more than just the people around me, like, people all over the world– the Internet, you know?For most people, maybe that isn't their thing where they are going to sit down and think of all the things they can do better, or just make things easier for themselves for the next time around, because if that's not where your focus is, you are just going to do it again, right?So that's how I got into this and because of my difficulties breastfeeding, I became a Certified Lactation Counselor. Also, the other thing is that I am a registered nurse and my husband is a doctor.Meagan: Yes. Yes. I was going to say, I didn't even mention that you are an RN, so we have a medical professional too.Kallista: I think both of us coming from a medical background had a little bit of medical arrogance like, “We've got this.” You know? And it's not even the medical stuff that matters. I mean, it matters, but for the most part, our babies were healthy. There was nothing medically needed. It was that practical setting up of your life and the day-to-day things, and the communication, and all of these things that you don't think about when you are preparing your registry, or when you are having your baby shower, or at your OB visits, or midwife visits. Well, maybe midwives. I love midwives and I feel like they take a little more time to talk to you, but nobody checks in and says, “Oh, how is your household going to be?” or “How is your relationship going to be? Have you talked about that?”Meagan: Yeah, or even just, “What is your plan after for sleeping, and meals, and all of these things?”Kallista: Mhmm, yeah. The things we take for granted before, the easiest things before having a baby like showering, eating a meal, doing all these little things, changing out of your clothes. They are like big projects in the first few weeks because you are recovering from birth, you're lacking sleep, and you're still trying to get a handle on breastfeeding, especially your first time around. And so you're juggling all of these things and everything gets put on the back burner. You put yourself on the back burner, you put your partner on the back burner, and your household.And so preparing for all of these different parts of your life ahead of time is going to allow you to just be more present with your baby. You get to recover and heal without the stress of juggling everything else around you. Like I mentioned, doing it during pregnancy is great, but if you're in your postpartum already, it's still very doable. It just takes a little time to think about what you need, and then to talk to your partner.So today, we want to talk about preparing the relationship, right? I don't know about you ladies, but that was definitely not something we talked about ahead of time.Meagan: No. Not at all.Kallista: No, right? The conversations are about what names we are going to have and just the fun stuff which is wonderful and I'm not saying to throw that out at all. But we have to talk about the real-life stuff. The dynamics of the relationship are going to change especially with your first baby because you don't know what you're getting into yet. And then of course with each baby, it does change the family dynamics with every child.So that would be my first tip. Preparing your relationship for the arrival of the baby is talking about how your relationship is going to change. Even that single question can just open a whole bunch of other questions like, “What do you think is going to change? What would you like to keep?” because it's not going to be the same. Date nights aren't going to be as easy to do, especially for the first little while. Carving out the time is not as easily done.Meagan: Mhmm.Kallista: Not forgetting each other. The baby is taken care of. Mamas know how to take care of babies and then the concentric circles that go out– your family, your friends, or whoever is helping you, the caregivers, so I am usually not worried about the baby. Even first-time moms are worried about doing newborn care. So much of that is instinctive, but it's the paying attention to your relationship with your partner and with yourself that is not very much in our orbit, or the top of mine, you know?Meagan: Mhmm. You know, when I was preparing for birth, and I am kind of going to really all of it, like, first baby, second baby, everything. I just feel like I was in my own world. I would talk to my husband. Like, “I was studying this” or “I read this” or “Oh, it's fine. This is the size of the baby. This is what is going on,” but I was so in my own world that I don't even know just looking back, right? My youngest kid is almost 6, but I don't even know if I even included my husband. Not purposely like, “I don't want to include him,” but in my thoughts, and in my preparation, or anything. I don't know. I don't think I really consciously, I don't know. I just didn't. Is that weird? Is that common? Do we, as women preparing for birth, just think, “Oh, this is happening to my body, so I am preparing and this is what is going on,” but I don't really talk about it, you know? Yeah.Kallista: I think so. I can relate to that. I remember especially during my first pregnancy, I was glued to that app. I think it was the Pampers app and another birth app where–Meagan: Baby Bump?Kallista: The updates where it has turned into a different fruit–Meagan: Yep. Yep. Yep, I think it was like Baby Bump or something like that. “Your baby is a mango” or whatever, you know? I am like, “Oh. That is so cool,” thinking about it and then I totally just probably ignored him. So much of that, you know?Kallista: Yeah. I think that the thing with husbands and partners is that they have a totally different experience. They know that it's mostly about Mama and they kind of just accept that they are not going to be the focus of attention. It's so funny because a few weeks ago– two of my friends had babies recently and we all went to go see the babies. I asked the dads, “So how are you? How is it going with the new addition?” I asked them separately and they were each caught off guard. “You are asking about me?” They didn't even know how to answer. They were like, “I don't know. She is doing all the breastfeeding. I'm okay.” You know? They are having an experience, but they are not in tune. We are just wired differently, but what I like to encourage is to be more connected and to be thought of. That is one of the things I coach new moms or pregnant moms. The biggest tool I like to use is the love language.Meagan: Mhmm.Kallista: Knowing what your love language is and what your partner‘s love language is allows you to communicate your love at any time, but especially in the postpartum when you are each focused on different things. The baby, for sure, and for a lot of men, it's providing, so they get more focused on work. They feel helpless that they can't breastfeed the baby or the baby just wants mom. So there is a lot. They feel very helpless. I read a study that shows that men also experience postpartum depression, but it's just never looked at. They don't seek help. They just kind of white-knuckle it and just stay on the ride until it's over, but that is not helpful to the relationship, right?Meagan: Yeah, totally. Totally and as a doula, something that I really want to focus on in my prenatals is Dad too. Like you said, they kind of accept that they are not the ones giving birth and all these things, but they do. They play a really important role in this day and they go through a lot themselves. And so I like to, as a doula, try to focus on, “Okay, how do you feel? What do you want for this birth? What are your personal goals to get out of birth and this experience?”We do talk about postpartum and say like, “What are your plans? What helps you? What do you need when you are tired?” Because dads are tired too. So anyway, yeah. I love it. That's awesome.Kallista: Yeah. And most women, we are just more naturally, I don't know, in tune with our community. We like community and we like to tell our friends how we are feeling. Men don't do that for the most part. Right? So they don't have a postpartum dad community. I mean, we barely have one for the moms, so it's almost nonexistent for the dads.So I like to reel the dads in a little bit and have them be a part of the conversation as they are preparing for the baby. And then in the postpartum period, using those tools like the love language and how to carve time out for each other even when you don't have a babysitter. Things like that, and setting a date night. This is one of the things I tell my clients to do is to set a date night. Whatever your due date is, add maybe three, four, or five weeks after that, and just put it in the calendar as a date night so that you don't forget about it. You can always readjust as that day comes, but I am the type of person that if it's not in the calendar, weeks and weeks or months and months might go by and I will be like, “Oh my gosh. I haven't done X or Y or Z.”And so that is one way to stay connected and have something to look forward to in the postpartum period or in that fourth trimester.Meagan: Yeah. I love that. I love that so much. Also, maybe we can help them find their community before because sometimes we are going to be tired and maybe even a little checked out, and it will be great if we can help them find a solid community or even just someone to chat with when they are tired and frustrated because of whatever that is happening. So I love that.What are some number one tips for postpartum in general? If you were like, “If you don't have time for anything, make time for these things.”Number One TipKallista: My number one tip is to have a meal train in the postpartum period.Meagan: Yes.Kallista: A lot of women, not just women, people, our culture in general– we want to be self-sufficient. We want to be superwomen and we want to take how we are in our careers a lot of the time like, “I did this” and accomplishments, and take that into motherhood where motherhood shouldn't be done alone. It's a transition of learning how to ask for help and receive help. And so I have found when I tell new moms or pregnant moms about the meal train, they feel like, “Oh. I don't know. I don't want to really ask my friends for that.”Meagan: Yes. I know! Yes.Kallista: Right?Meagan: Like, “Oh, I don't want to put people out.”Kallista: Yeah. And so in my packages, I offer to do that for them because they don't want it to come from them and so that takes a little bit of the guilt off of them. But you can also just ask a friend to organize it for you. I use mealtrain.com. All you do is collect your friends' and families' emails and whoever is organizing it for you can just input all of that, and then you just pick dates.I recommend having a meal train for at least a month. The first two weeks, I would say, you are on a high with just a lot of adrenaline and you don't feel the sleep deprivation, and then after that, it's cumulative like, “Oh my god.” All those several or two weeks or longer worth of only two to three hours of sleep just come down like a ton of bricks. And so I like to set it up for at least four weeks.And nowadays, it's never been easier, right? There is this platform where people don't even have to go to your house. They can either order delivery or they can send a gift card, like a GrubHub card. The other beautiful thing about that platform is that if you do have friends and family nearby and you have some tasks in your household that you could use some help with, like walking your dogs, or taking out the trash cans if your partner isn't able to for whatever reason, just anything that can alleviate and take things off your plate for a few weeks– this is a temporary time. So I guess the biggest message around that is, don't be afraid to ask because it's not like you are going to rely on them forever. You truly do need that help for the first several weeks and Meal Train allows you to do that. You can set scheduled tasks there and people can assign themselves the different tasks that you need help with.Meagan: Yeah. I love that so, so much. The thing is that these people are asking. It's hard because I also wish we could change how our culture asks. Like, “Oh, if you need anything, let me know. I am here for you.” Sometimes it makes it kind of like, “Well, I don't really know what I could ask for and I feel bad asking.” Instead, it's just like, do it. And so even telling our community about these things, like this website, this platform, where it's like, “This is what I need.” Don't be scared to ask people for help because they honestly want to. People really do want to.Kallista: Yes. Right after the baby is born, everybody loves it when a baby is born. Everyone is so excited for you and so happy that I say to milk that time because it's not forever. I think it's because we are naturally wired that way. We are supposed to live in villages and help each other. It's just not how we live anymore, but I think the instincts are there. We just have to remember that we are social animals and we are supposed to help each other. We weren't actually made to live in single-family homes. We are supposed to live with our family. I love living this life, don't get me wrong. I love having our own home, just my own little family, but when it comes to raising a child, especially right after birth and having a new baby, definitely lean on your community. The more you lean on them, the better you will be as a mom because you cannot do it alone. It's not that you cannot do it alone because you can, but you won't be as happy because if you are too tired, you are not going to be the kind of mom that you want to be for your baby. You want to reserve that energy for your baby, so let other people lift you up and carry you for the next 12 weeks, that fourth trimester, that postpartum period.Allow people to help you. Sometimes, the biggest barrier is just allowing people to help you.Meagan: Yes. I love what you just said. You are like, “Lean into this. Allow this to happen. Allow people to love you and serve you,” because like I said, they really want to. It reminded me of one time, I went to a client's postpartum. So as a doula, we do a couple of prenatals. We go to the birth and then after, I love to– sorry. My dog is deciding to have a conversation as well over here.So we like to go and serve them and take that hour and a half while we are there to do whatever that means. If that is housecleaning, if that is nursing help, if that is cleaning toilets because family is coming in town and you don't feel like cleaning toilets, great. We want to serve you during that time. But there was one time when I went over to do that visit and there was a list on the door. She had a screen door and so it was kind of just on her door. I was reading it as I was waiting for her to come to the door and I thought it was brilliant. It said something to the effect of, “Hi, everybody! We are so happy you are here to see us and meet Baby so and so. While you are here if you would not mind, these are things that would benefit and help us tremendously.” She had a little checklist like, “take out the trash, sweep my floor” and all of these little things. She was just like, yeah. My people come in and we visit, and it's so great, and they leave, and my floor is now clean, and I don't feel like I have to hold the baby and vacuum. My husband doesn't feel like he has to tackle the kids and get them to bed and then now vacuuming is too late because the kids are sleeping. He doesn't want the kids to wake up. And I was just like, “Wow. Good for her. That is what we need to lean into and not be scared of doing and saying, “These things would be greatly appreciated. I love that you are here. I am so grateful to you if you wouldn't mind helping me with these things.”Kallista: Yes. Yes, I love that. I love that idea as well. I also recommend that to new moms. The other thing I like to add on that note is especially in the early, early weeks, the first few weeks when you have visitors, you actually need a lot of rest those first few weeks, right? I know from myself that once I get chitchatting with my girlfriend, I love it so much that we will be talking for two hours or three hours later after she arrives when I really planned for an hour visit. And so that's another thing I like to add to that door note is, “I am going to want to talk to you forever, but remind me that I need to rest after an hour because I can go on and on.” We crave that adult conversation, but then we forget like, “Oh yeah, I forgot. Tonight, I am not going to sleep, actually, once the baby wakes up in the middle of the night.”Meagan: Exactly like, “I love hanging out with you, but I probably should be sleeping while I am holding my sleeping baby.” Yeah. I love that. Please keep the visits limited and that is okay to do. It really, really is okay to do. It's also okay to say, “Hey, will you hold my baby and love on my baby for a second while I go take a quick nap?”Kallista: Mhmm, yes.Meagan: It's okay to say that.Kallista: You want a nap. You want a shower.Meagan: Shower, yeah.Kallista: Those three things I was like– I am very lucky that my mom lives two blocks away.Meagan: That is lucky.Kallista: I would call her, “Can you come over so I can shower? Can you come over and hold the baby so I can eat really quick?” And she would. She did that for the first couple of months. It was so great.Meagan: That is so, so awesome. I don't know how much you talk about postpartum doulas, but there are doulas who are specifically there for postpartum help. They come in and they do the cleaning, and they can bring baby in the middle of the night to you so you don't have to even exert your energy to get up and go into the other room, right? They can take the other kids. They can take the other kids to the zoo, or to the park, or for a walk, or go out on their bikes, so you and baby can nap. These are all services. It is so hard because there are so many things in life right now, especially these days, right? Money and things are so expensive and it's hard. It's hard to spend the money, or feel like that might be valuable, or to even justify it, but if you look at the long term and you say, “Okay. I can hire this postpartum help or I can sign up for this postpartum workshop to get the tools,” is going to seriously help you in the end. It will all be worth it, and then two years down the road, you will be like, “Yeah. It was totally worth whatever amount of money I spent because I had a really awesome experience and I was really able to bond with my baby, be present with my kids, and be the person I know I am– not super, super exhausted and so spent because I was able to lean in on this help.”Invest in YourselfKallista: Yes. You bring up a really good point. That is the other thing. A lot of us, in the beginning, have trouble accepting help even if it's free help. The other thing is investing in ourselves. My husband and don't take big family vacations. We actually love investing in things in our family. So we do have a lot of support as far as nannies go and things to make things easier for us like having someone else garden for us or whatever. That's just how we choose to invest. An investment isn't always a return on investment as far as money and financial returns. We think about our mental health, our joy, and our comfort. And so I think it's good to remember, especially in the postpartum period, that it is the perfect time to invest in yourself because for the mamas who already have babies, you already know how hard the fourth trimester is, right? What would you give to be yourself to make it easier the next time so that would be the best mama you want to be for your baby and the best partner for your husband? I believe the mom sets the tone in the home. When the mom is down, it affects everything, right? We are the queens of our castles and when we are not at our best, it affects how we care for our baby, how we are when our partners are around, or when they come home, and so on and so forth.Meagan: Yep. Definitely. Definitely. Oh my goodness. Now my dog is barking. I love that though. Invest in yourselves and love yourselves.Kallista: Mhmm. Definitely. We get so focused on loving the baby which is so natural. You don't even have to worry. That is there already. It's the focus on self-care, healing, and getting the support and the love for yourself from your community and the people around you who can help you. That's what, if you have time to gather that and to put those resources in place, that will definitely make your transition into motherhood, whether it's your first baby, second baby, third baby, whatever, you will just have a better experience and bond with yourself, your baby, and your partner.Postpartum Depression: Warning Signs and ResourcesJulie: That's great advice. I love it. One thing that I am passionate about, or maybe sensitive to about, during the postpartum stage is– my gosh. After my second, I had pretty bad postpartum depression and anxiety. Can we talk a little bit about what some of the warning signs are for parents or for even birth partners to look out for in their partners so that people can know when it might be appropriate to get a little more help outside of their community, their friends, or their support system? I know that it's not something we talk about very often, but it is something that a lot of women face– some sort of postpartum mood disorder in that fourth trimester. What are some things you should be looking out for? When should we seek additional help like reaching out to a therapist or maybe a family care provider to get on medication or things like that?Kallista: Yeah, I'm so glad you asked that question. There is a really short quiz called the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and I can shoot you guys the link later to share with your audience.Julie: Yeah. We will put it in our show notes.Kallista: Yes. So this scale is recommended to be taken during pregnancy around somewhere in the third trimester, so 28-32 weeks. Around there, or just any time you hear about this if you're pregnant. And then you take it again 6-8 weeks postpartum. That way, you have a baseline and see where you lie on the scale before you have the baby, and then you retake it and you see if there is a change. If it's the same, then you're probably okay. But I would still look out for signs of a lot of crying and sadness when you don't really know what you are sad about. Those are some telltale signs.It is very common. There are postpartum blues, which are even more common. It's just that sad feeling that usually goes away on its own, but a more severe feeling of that is going to be the postpartum depression and that scale is going to help you determine that. I encourage partners to take it as well because it is on the rise. Maybe it was always there, but we are just now learning about it or putting our attention on it.Julie: Yeah. I am really glad that you brought that up because we often think about postpartum depression and mood disorders in relation to the mother, but a lot of times it can affect the dad and other birth partners as well, and it's something that we don't even notice or talk about. So I'm glad that more awareness is being brought to that. I know that sometimes, the first person to notice that something is out of whack with their partner is the partner. My husband noticed it in me before I started noticing these things in myself.And so I always like to talk about that in my postpartum visits like Meagan was saying. Going over some of those things and going over some of those signs that you need to be watching out for so you can be aware because help is out there. Sometimes it's a little bit harder to find, but I think reaching out and just acknowledging that you may need a little bit more help, that's okay.There's always help out there for you. If you can't find help, then there's this great group called Postpartum Support International as well. Also, all of the great resources that Kallista offers. That's another great resource that's available for parents as well.Kallista: Right. I had a very similar experience, actually. I had postpartum depression after my third which was a shock to me because I didn't have it the first two times and I don't have a history of depression, not that you need it, but I just don't normally have those kinds of feelings. It was also my husband who noticed that I was just so down and crying. He was like, “I think you are depressed,” and I was like, “Oh my god.” I was such in a fog still because it was three to four weeks after the baby. My recovery with the third one was the hardest because he was almost 10 pounds and it was just a different experience than the first two.And so yeah. I went to go see my OB and I just told her, “I think I have postpartum depression” and she was like, “Oh, okay. Do you want something for that?” I don't have anything against taking medication, but she didn't even try to ask me. That was the straight solution and I said, “I want to wait,” and I went to my therapist. We have this therapist that we used to use as a couple, which I highly recommend too for any couple. I think it can only add to your marriage or your relationship when you have a third party who is skilled in communicating.Anyhow, I went back to her. We talked it out and everything, and I felt better. But also, that was also the same time when I was sleep training my baby and just getting more sleep immediately helped that, and then the talk therapy and just doing all of the self-care stuff. It got me out of that postpartum depression. But I know for some people, you definitely need above and beyond that. That's why it's good to go to somebody who is skilled in not just medication, but also therapy because I think you need it all. You want the options of it all.Julie: Yes, absolutely. I agree. Therapy plus medication can be a great combination. Some people just need one or the other, but if your provider is offering you medication only, that's not inherently a bad option, but I would advise you to seek out therapy on your own because medication has proven to be a lot more effective when it is combined with therapy as well and vice versa too sometimes. So yeah. Great options are available out there.Meagan: Yeah. I actually had a similar experience, but my postpartum stuff, I would say, started kicking in probably around month nine, actually, but I didn't really feel it. I didn't really recognize or accept it until 12 months. It was so late and so I just didn't think of baby blues or postpartum depression. I was like, “Yeah, I'm not postpartum anymore. I am almost a year out. This isn't postpartum.” My husband was like, “You are not okay.” And I was like, “Yeah. I'm fine. It's fine.” He was like, “No. You're not okay.” And so I also went to my doctor and he was like, “Oh, here's some medication,” and I was just like, “But what's happening?” You know? I don't know. He didn't really talk to me or anything. He was just like, “Here. Here are some pills. You can start taking them.” And again, nothing against pills, like absolutely fine, but I just wanted more. “This is what I believe you are experiencing. These are some options that we could try.”And so I went home and I just was crying and I was like, “Am I really experiencing this?” My husband was like, “Yeah. It sounds like it.” I was like, “Oh.” He was like, “Why don't we figure this out? What can we do?” We found out that I was losing myself. I didn't know where I belonged anymore. I was suddenly a mom which was amazing, don't get me wrong. I love being a mom. But I went from being this big social butterfly, I had a job 9-5, I did what I wanted when I wanted and then all of a sudden, I was being run, in my head, by this baby on the schedule of this baby, and then I quit my job so I could be with my baby, which I am so grateful for, but at the same time, I lost my social outlet.So I was just really, really struggling and I found a barre class, an exercise barre class and I realized that I needed me time. Circling back to what we were talking about in the beginning, I also needed my husband time because I no longer felt like we were a married couple. I felt like we were roommates who shared a baby in the house. It was the weirdest feeling. And so I feel like it is so important along the way to tap into it and not be scared to say, “I am not okay and I need to talk to someone,” whether that's an OB, whether that's a midwife, whether that's a therapist, whether that's whoever, it's okay. It's okay to again, lean in, talk, let it out, and work through it because like I said, it was around nine months, but then nine, ten, eleven, twelve. I went for months and it just got worse, and worse, and worse. I hate that in this world, we feel like we have to suppress it or we have to feel alone because we don't. We can get help and there are people out there for us.Kallista: Mhmm and kudos to our husbands for catching it.Meagan: Seriously though, yeah.Julie: Bless their hearts.Meagan: Like Julie said, yes. And then what I didn't even realize until I was preparing for my VBAC was that my husband had trauma himself and issues that he was still holding onto from my first baby's birth years and years ago. And so it's just, yeah. It's important to talk with our partners and really let it out. Sometimes, we don't know why we are crying and that's okay if we don't know why we are crying or we don't know why we are upset, but let it out and get it out. And use our resources because like you said, that world makes it so easy. It does really make it so easy. I mean, there are even therapists that help online. You don't even have to go out of your house.Kallista: Everything is at our fingertips.Meagan: It really is, but for some reason, we don't like to use the resources that we have sometimes. We are hesitant. And so, yeah. I think it's just so important that we use them, accept them, and we love ourselves enough. Love yourself enough to not only prepare for your birth, and to prepare during your pregnancy, and treat yourself and your baby great during pregnancy, but also treat yourself great in the postpartum because that will make you a better parent, too. There's a saying, “Happy wife, happy life”. It's the same. A happy, healthy mom is going to be the best you. You are going to be the best you if you can take care of yourself.Kallista: Right. Right. And we can start modeling that now. I mean, I know babies don't know that we are taking care of ourselves right away, but if we start practicing that and doing the self-care and just making that a habit, then it's just going to make your experience as a mom even more beautiful because you're not running yourself ragged. You know what they say on the plane, “Put the oxygen mask on yourself before you put the oxygen mask on anybody else,” right? We need our cups to be filled first so that they can run over.Meagan: Absolutely. And honestly, we are setting an example to our children, like you said. The babies don't really recognize it right away, but in the long run, they are going to see because if we can set this mentality and carry it through our lives as we are raising our children, they are going to see how important that is and they are going to do the same thing.Kallista: Yeah. And actually, my kids love that my husband and I have a good relationship. They clap and they tell us to kiss because whenever we do, I guess it makes them feel secure. And so when you give a little more attention to your relationship and your kids see that, it gives them more comfort and security as a family. That can start right from the beginning.I think maybe that's why they do feel that way because we've done a pretty good job. We've had our bumps and that's why we went to therapy early on. Having kids back-to-back was a little straining on our relationship, but we figured it out and I am grateful we are just open to the outside help and that we don't have to figure it out all alone. Of course, it starts with us too and we both have to be on the same page, but then using the resources that we have access to has been so great for our family. And really, it did start at the beginning.New Mom Boss WorkshopMeagan: Yes. Oh my gosh. I loved this. This has been so great and I truly do believe that it's going to be valuable to all of our listeners. So I wanted to remind them that kicking off on June 3rd, 2022, you have a four-day workshop and they can register. You can find the link in our show notes or do you want to give them the information that they can register at on your website?Kallista: Yeah. It's going to be on https://www.newmomboss.com/pfp-workshop.Meagan: Workshop. Okay. Right now there is a waitlist, but you are opening up when? So we can start telling all of our people?Kallista: Sure. So the registration will open on May 16th and if you are listening to this after, then it's probably open already. Yeah. So it's opening on May 16th and then we get to work. We will have a little pre-party on June 3rd and then go into the workshop over the weekend because I have found there are a lot of working mamas and the weekend works best. So we are going to do it starting on June 3rd, and then it's going to be a four-day workshop after that. We will prepare as much as we can before the baby arrives, but like I said before, if you are already in postpartum, a lot of the same things will apply to the postpartum period if you are already in it and it will just make your experience in the postpartum period that much better.Meagan: Awesome. Thank you so much for being with us today and sharing your wealth of knowledge. Again, like I said, if you haven't followed her yet, go follow her right now. You can find her on Instagram, @newmomboss, and I am sure she has got all of the things that you are going to love.Kallista: Thank you so much, Julie and Meagan. I have been looking forward to coming on your show and I appreciate you guys taking the time to chat with me.Meagan: Thank you.ClosingInterested in sharing your VBAC story on the podcast? Submit your story at thevbaclink.com/share. For more information on all things VBAC including online and in-person VBAC classes, The VBAC Link blog, and Julie and Meagan's bios, head over to thevbaclink.com. Congratulations on starting your journey of learning and discovery with The VBAC Link. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy