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Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast. In this segment, host Sarah Marie Bilger and co-host Katelyn share a compelling conversation with Dr. Stu from their childbirth education course, focusing on the pivotal process of selecting a care provider. Dr. Stu, a seasoned OB, provides invaluable insights into trusting your instincts and recognizing both red flags and green lights when choosing a supportive birth team. This episode is a snippet from a broader interview included in their comprehensive "O.W.N. Your Birth" Childbirth Education course, which offers a wealth of knowledge and resources for moms-to-be. The discussion highlights the importance of self-advocacy, understanding your unique birth preferences, and navigating the challenges within the birth community. Join the conversation as we delve into personal stories and expert advice that equip you with the confidence to make empowered decisions for your birthing journey. Discover how you can transform your birth experience by actively participating in your care and being well-informed about your options. Don't miss out on this inspiring dialogue designed to help you own your birth story. >> O.W.N Your Birth CBE Course
In this engaging episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger welcomes seasoned birth professional and author Diane Speier, who brings over four decades of experience to the table. They delve into the often-overlooked fourth trimester, discussing the emotional and psychological shifts new parents experience, relationship dynamics with the arrival of a baby, and the necessity of support and preparation during the postpartum period. Diane shares her journey from childbirth educator to doula and author, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive birth preparation and the changes she has witnessed in birthing practices over the years. She discusses her book, Life After Birth: A Parent's Holistic Guide for Thriving in the Fourth Trimester, and the accompanying postnatal app designed to help parents navigate this transformative stage with practical tools and insights. Tune in to discover Diane's valuable advice on baby-proofing relationships, understanding postpartum changes, and the significance of self-care. This episode is a must-listen for expectant and new mothers looking to empower themselves with knowledge and resources for a smoother transition into motherhood.
Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast with your host, Sarah Marie Bilger. This week, we delve into the art of preparing your home for the arrival of your newborn. Join Sarah and co-creator Katelyn as they share practical tips on optimizing your living space for both you and your baby, emphasizing the mantra "less is more". From organizing essentials to meal prepping, this episode covers the must-haves for a stress-free postpartum experience. Discover how creating a supportive environment can make a world of difference in navigating the initial weeks of motherhood. Tune in for valuable insights and feel empowered to take control of your postpartum journey with confidence and ease. O.W.N. Your Birth Childbirth Education Course
In this episode of Entering Motherhood, host Sarah Marie Bilger is joined by Shannon, who shares her emotional and insightful journey from experiencing infertility to adopting her two sons. Shannon opens up about the challenges of infertility treatments and the profound personal growth she experienced through her adoption process. Her story highlights the unpredictable nature of motherhood and the numerous ways one can embrace the role of a mother. Shannon discusses the significance of balancing career ambitions with the responsibilities and joys of motherhood. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and reaching out for support, as well as reconnecting with personal passions to lead a fulfilling and happy life as a mother. Furthermore, Shannon explores the dynamics of open adoption and how it has enriched her family's journey. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of redefining success, embracing the unexpected paths to motherhood, and finding happiness in one's unique journey. Shannon's insights and reflections offer invaluable encouragement and guidance for anyone navigating the transition into motherhood.
Welcome back to The Postpartum Plan podcast! In this episode, I'm joined by Sarah Bilger, a birth and postpartum doula and the host of Entering Motherhood. Together, we dive into all things VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), including both her professional insights and personal experience.Tune in to hear:
In this inspiring episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, Sarah Marie Bilger welcomes Nina Farzin, the founder and CEO of Oogie Bear. Nina shares her journey from pharmacist to entrepreneur, spurred by her need to address her daughter's health needs. The episode delves into her experience on Shark Tank, the challenges of motherhood, and how these elements inspired the creation of innovative baby care tools. Listeners will gain insights into the necessity of community and support in motherhood and learn how personal challenges can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Join us to hear Nina's incredible story and discover how she transformed a personal need into a thriving business.
Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger, a dedicated wife, mom, VBAC advocate, and doula. Join Sarah along with Katelyn for a special Doula Talk episode, as they go live to empower expecting mothers with essential knowledge and insights through the "O.W.N. Your Birth" self-led online course. Dive into this week's focus on building knowledge through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, while embracing informed choices and confidence in your unique motherhood journey. Discover why gathering information from credible sources and engaging in meaningful discussions can significantly impact your experience. Tune in and explore how to navigate motherhood with support, empowering resources, and community connection. Let's embark on this journey together!
Welcome to the momentous 200th episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast. Host Sarah Marie Bilger invites you to join her in reflecting on the podcast's journey, uncovering the impact of storytelling, and embracing the present moment in motherhood. Dive into Sarah's personal realizations from a transformative content creation retreat, where she uncovered the power of focusing on the stories that bring joy, excitement, and passion, rather than just the struggles. This episode encourages all mothers to explore their narrative and understand the energy they project into the world. Sarah emphasizes the importance of being present, supporting oneself, and connecting authentically with the people around us. Whether you're a mom-to-be or navigating the early stages of motherhood, discover ways to align your life story with your true desires and celebrate the beautiful journey you're on. Tune in for an episode filled with introspection and inspiration, aimed at empowering you to share and shape the story of your life as a mother, one present moment at a time. Let's embark on this journey together!
Join Sarah Marie Bilger in this inspiring episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast as she sits down with Kelley Coleman, a passionate mom and advocate. Kelley shares her personal journey as a mother of two, navigating life with a son who has multiple undiagnosed disabilities. In this episode, Kelley talks about the importance of community and finding support while advocating for her child's needs. She emphasizes trusting parental intuition and the role of self-care and creativity in sustaining her caregiving journey. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and rewards of raising a child with disabilities and discover the importance of sharing experiences and knowledge to help empower others. Kelley offers hope and encouragement to all mothers facing similar paths. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger, a dedicated doula and VBAC mama. In this Doula Talk episode, we explore the significance of gentle movements during pregnancy and childbirth, offering valuable tips for aligning your body and easing labor. Katelyn, co-creator of the O.W.N Your Birth Childbirth Education course, joins Sarah live from a retreat in Austin to share their experiences and advice. Together, they discuss how activities like walking, prenatal yoga, and intentional movements can empower you throughout your motherhood journey. Whether you're preparing for birth, navigating pregnancy, or supporting postpartum recovery, these expert insights will help you feel informed and confident. Tune in to discover how movement can transform your experience and learn how to incorporate it into your daily routine. Join the conversation and share your questions with us! Click here for full show notes
In this episode of Entering Motherhood, host Sarah Marie Bilger welcomes guest Karin Freeland, a life reinvention coach, author, and podcast host. Together, they explore Karin's deeply personal journey into motherhood, including her experiences with miscarriage and the challenges of early motherhood. Karin shares her transition from a demanding corporate lifestyle to a more family-focused approach, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, setting boundaries, and seeking support. The conversation highlights the societal pressures on mothers and the need for open discussions about the realities of motherhood. Sarah and Karin delve into balancing personal fulfillment with parenting responsibilities, encouraging mothers to stay connected to their motivations. Through Karin's insights, listeners are inspired to reflect on their own motherhood journeys and the importance of navigating these transitions with confidence and support. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast! Join hosts Sarah Marie Bilger, a mother of two and a seasoned doula, alongside Katelyn, the co-creator of the O.W.N. Your Birth Childbirth Education Course, as they dive into the importance of setting intentions for your motherhood journey. Whether you are trying to conceive, are pregnant, or navigating postpartum, this episode provides the insights you need to feel informed and empowered. In this special 'Doula Talk' episode, we learn about the processes involved in setting clear intentions for pregnancy and birth, laying a foundation for a positive and empowering experience. The discussion highlights the benefits of their comprehensive childbirth education course, designed to support parents in making informed decisions throughout pregnancy and birth. Be inspired to journal, reflect, and envision your ideal birth and motherhood journey for the upcoming year. Discover how to align with your goals and embrace the support of a like-minded community eager to empower your choices. Tune in and prepare to enter 2025 with the confidence and clarity every mama deserves!
Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast! In this episode, host Sarah Marie Bilger is joined by Mariela De Santiago, host of the newly renamed New Mom Talk podcast, to discuss the essential elements of early motherhood. From finding a supportive community and navigating postpartum challenges to the importance of setting boundaries and accepting help, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Mariela shares her personal journey and offers advice on utilizing resources like doulas and mobile apps to ease the transition into motherhood. Whether you're an expecting mom or already navigating the toddler years, this episode provides relatable experiences and practical tips to empower you on your unique path. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on embracing the ups and downs of motherhood with confidence. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. After a brief hiatus, Sarah returns with renewed energy and updates on her personal and professional journey. Join us as we dive into the challenges and triumphs faced by Sarah, from launching a comprehensive childbirth education course to supporting mothers in labor. Discover how Sarah balances her life as a wife, mother, and doula while embracing new opportunities. This episode provides a glimpse into the transformative year ahead, as Sarah lays out her business goals and reflects on her dedication to the podcast. Whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, or in the early stages of motherhood, this episode offers valuable insights and resources to empower your journey. Get ready to explore new topics and stories, and to feel supported as you navigate your own path in motherhood. >> Click here for full show notes >> Join the O.W.N Your Birth CBE Course >> Grab Your Comprehensive Birth Vision Planner
This week, I'm pulling back the curtain on what a week in my life really looks like.Of course, every week is different. But I wanted to sit down 7 days in a row, and record what happened behind the scenes.I chronicle:what I eat to stay fueled (and how I keep meals mega simple around here)what I do during my 2 days of child-carehow we fit in a 1x weekly date nightspending as much time as possible with Freddie each week, and taking him on adventuresand more!Like many of you, I (try to) juggle all the hats—mama, entrepreneur, friend, creative, wife, home chef, workout enthusiast... it's a lot!And I'm far from having it figured out, but I can say with certainty that I have more energy in this phase of life than I've ever had before because I'm clear on my priorities.Enjoy!Episode show notes can be found on my website |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/The WAVE™ Mastermind: where Canadian female entrepreneurs scale from 0-10k / months and 10-50k / months. Learn more about our group + explore upcoming events |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindWork with me 1:1 as your Marketing Consultant |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Subscribe to our Email Newsletter |www.kelseyreidl.com/dose Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Join Sarah Marie Bilger and Katelyn Bayless in this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast as they delve into the importance of movement during pregnancy. Discover how staying active can help prepare your body for birth and ease the transition into motherhood. From squats to intuitive labor positions, this episode covers essential tips and practices to empower pregnant women. Whether you are pregnant or supporting someone on their pregnancy journey, this conversation provides actionable insights and highlights the significance of integrating movement for a healthier and more informed childbirth experience. Explore expert recommendations like spinning babies and discover how to utilize these strategies for optimal baby positioning and comfort during labor. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast, your trusted companion on the journey to empowered and informed motherhood. In this episode, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger and her co-host Katelyn, we delve into the intricacies of pain management during labor and the birthing process. Discover a blend of holistic mindfulness and evidence-based practices designed to support your unique pathway into motherhood, whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, navigating postpartum, or assisting others in this stage of life. This special "Doula Talk" edition brings you insights and practical tips from experienced professionals that help dismiss the common fear-tension-pain cycle. Learn how positioning, mindset, and preparation can transform your birthing experience into a positive and empowering event. The hosts also introduce their comprehensive O.W.N. Your Birth CBE course, offering an extensive toolkit to enhance your confidence and readiness for childbirth and beyond. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. In this episode, join Sarah and co-host Katelyn for a deep dive into the "cascade of interventions" in childbirth. Explore how seemingly small medical interventions during labor can lead to a series of additional procedures, often culminating in a cesarean birth. Learn about the importance of being informed about potential interventions to make empowered decisions during your pregnancy and birthing journey. Get insights from professionals, special guests, and moms who have experienced the cascade firsthand. Discover how the Own Your Birth Childbirth Education Course can be your guide in understanding these complex processes. Whether you're pregnant, postpartum, or supporting someone through this journey, this episode will enhance your understanding and confidence in navigating birth interventions. Click here for full show notes
Growing Your Business Beyond Social Media in 2025: "One of the things that I hear from my clients is that they feel like they don't want to be on social media forever or that they hate social media.".What about you? Are you...Frustrated with the Social Media Algorithm?Not seeing the results you once were?Wondering if there's a better way to build your business that doesn't rely on Social Media?We're diving into growing your business without relying on social media in this episode of the podcast. In this episode, Kelsey talks about...Her personal journey balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship and wanting to be more 'offline'Three impactful ways to grow your business beyond the social media hamster wheel.Results from hosting workshopsHow to pursue meaningful partnerships and collaborationsGetting more word of mouth marketing strategies in place& moreThanks for tuning into this episode. All links, events & offers can be found below.Episode show notes can be found on my website |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/The WAVE™ Mastermind: where Canadian female entrepreneurs scale from 0-10k / months and 10-50k / months. Learn more about our group + explore upcoming events |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindWork with me 1:1 as your Marketing Consultant |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Subscribe to our Email Newsletter |www.kelseyreidl.com/dose Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger, a dedicated wife, VBAC mom, and experienced doula. In this episode, Sarah and co-host Katelyn, co-creator of the O.W.N. Your Birth Childbirth Education Course, delve into the pivotal topic of setting boundaries during pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Join the conversation as we explore how establishing clear boundaries not only helps in defining your needs but also plays a crucial role in communicating effectively with your birth team. Discover practical tips on advocating for yourself and your baby, and learn why steadfast boundaries pave the way for a supportive and empowering motherhood journey. Sarah and Katelyn also encourage listeners to participate actively by sharing their own experiences and questions, fostering a community where mamas and doulas alike can exchange insights and support each other. So listen in, be inspired, and find the courage to say yes to what truly matters to you and your family. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast with your host, Sarah Marie Bilger. In today's episode, we delve into the critical topic of birth support options. Whether you're planning a VBAC, exploring free birthing, or setting up your birth team, we'll help you navigate and make informed choices. Sarah and Katelyn discuss the importance of interviewing providers, understanding cesarean rates, and establishing a supportive team that aligns with your birth plan. They also highlight the need for proactive communication and trusting your instincts when building your motherhood experience. Plus, discover Sarah's comprehensive childbirth education course, O.W.N. Your Birth, designed to empower you from pregnancy through postpartum. Join us as we explore different options and bring clarity to your birth journey. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to the Entering Motherhood podcast, your resource for holistic and evidence-based practices to support you on your unique motherhood journey. Join host Sarah Marie Bilger, a wife, mom of two, VBAC mama, and doula, as she empowers and informs you through expert insights and personal stories. Whether you're trying to conceive, pregnant, or newly postpartum, this podcast is your guide to embracing the unpredictability of birth and motherhood with confidence. Tune in to our latest series, originally shared live on Instagram, where we dive into essential topics related to pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Each episode is filled with insightful conversations and practical advice tailored for every phase of the motherhood journey. Don't miss out on tips for mastering your mindset, achieving a balanced outlook during major life changes, and making informed decisions that align with your personal goals for birth and motherhood. Click here for the full show notes
Back with a Solo Catch Up Episode this week!In this short solo life update, I'm talking about:Florida trip recap: do I regret travelling with my 11 month old? How did it go?How much does a Santa Claus at the Mall make ($$$)Why it's important to know your Business Core Values when making decisions!Black Friday Sale IdeasRyan Holiday vs. Taylor Swift& MORE!Enjoy, visionaries! Thanks for tuning into this episode. All links, events & offers can be found below.Episode show notes can be found on my website |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/The WAVE™ Mastermind: where Canadian female entrepreneurs scale from 0-10k / months and 10-50k / months. Learn more about our group + explore upcoming events |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindWork with me 1:1 as your Marketing Consultant |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Subscribe to our Email Newsletter |www.kelseyreidl.com/dose Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Welcome to this enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. Join us as we delve into the holistic world of motherhood with Kristy Vacari, a seasoned doula, nutritionist, and yoga teacher. Kristy shares her profound insights on breath work and self-care, offering a grounding presence to mothers navigating their unique journeys. In this episode, Kristy opens up about her personal experiences with home births, the challenges of early motherhood, and her journey as a single mom. Discover how she integrates her diverse expertise to support mothers through childbirth and beyond, emphasizing the importance of self-care and present-moment awareness. Grab your favorite beverage, relax, and enjoy this authentic conversation filled with wisdom and strategies to empower you in your motherhood journey. Whether you're expecting, a new mom, or supporting others, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and encouragement. Click here for full show notes
Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger, a dedicated birth and postpartum doula. This week, we delve into the unexpected: how to handle an unplanned out-of-hospital birth. Whether you're at home or on the way to your birthing center, things don't always go as planned, and we're here to guide you through it. Sarah emphasizes the importance of staying calm, trusting your body, and creating a safe, relaxing environment. She provides practical advice on preparing for such a scenario, including essential supplies, how to manage without medical pain relief, and the critical role of a supportive partner. Discover the natural processes of birth, from the delivery of the placenta to ensuring your baby's health immediately after birth. Learn when to seek medical help and how to handle potential emergency situations with confidence. This episode is packed with valuable insights and reassuring advice, offering you the knowledge and resources you need to feel empowered and prepared for any birthing situation. Tune in to gain peace of mind and embrace the unpredictable journey of motherhood. >> Click here for the full show notes
Welcome back to another solo show. We're going ALL over the place in this one, because why not! In this episode, I discuss:My take on Digital Courses and why they're not selling as well as they did 5 years agoThe 5 traits of happy women article that I read (tune in to find out if you embody any of these 5 traits... or ALL of them!)The crazy story of asking for a sign from my mama (who is passed away) and then getting it 3 days later at my Thanksgiving DinnerTime stamps:00:00 Embrace simplicity and ease in this season of my life as a mother who also runs a business09:47 My vision of staying open to unexpected signs from my deceased mama11:49 The sign appeared! This was a cool story.14:56 The power of being open to serendipity and unexpected magic; it changes everything.20:07 Quick recap of the workshop I delivered at The Practice Better Summit in September (what was the ROI, how did I prepare, etc)22:01 The REAL metrics we should be measuring with all our business outputs27:43 The 5 traits of the happiest women! I loved reading this article31:16 The truth about digital courses right now - are they REALLY the best way to grow your business?Episode show notes can be found on my website |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/The WAVE™ Mastermind: where Canadian female entrepreneurs scale from 0-10k / months and 10-50k / months. Learn more about our group + explore upcoming events |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindWork with me 1:1 as your Marketing Consultant |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Subscribe to our Email Newsletter |www.kelseyreidl.com/dose Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
It's a solo show! Catching you up on where I've been, how wild September has been, and what I'm doing to recover.I also chat about...Event Dress Codes: how I feel about formal attire (& why our upcoming event is a casual vibe)The Balance of Motherhood and Business - it's a constant juggleMy current LinkedIn Posting Strategy & the results that I am getting + learning experienceThe T.A.P.E Framework for posting & creating content Resources Mentioned:Book Recommendations: 10x is Easier Than 2x by Benjamin Hardy. Practice Better Summit: https://sites.practicebetter.io/summitHuberman Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5lNlCvQ3dHrGr9Aphr2wE1?si=7f141e6fa2224c2eBirth Story Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/322-revealing-my-entire-birth-story-visionarymama/id1333216975?i=1000647945005Elora Entrepreneur EventThe WAVE™ Meetup in Elora, Ontario is your chance to escape the everyday routine, spark creativity, and fuel your entrepreneurial spirit alongside 14 other fellow female entrepreneurs. It's not just another day at the office—it's a day designed for ambitious women ready to make waves in their industries.Part coworking, part retreat, part connection.Ready to Make Waves?Join us for the WAVE™ Meetup and prepare to end the year with purpose and plan to enter 2025 with unstoppable momentum.FRIDAY OCTOBER 25TH 10-2PMGet Your Ticket: https://app.moonclerk.com/pay/6q2txs2nudxqThanks for tuning into this episode. All links, events & offers can be found, below.Episode show notes can be found on my website |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/The WAVE™ Mastermind: where Canadian female entrepreneurs scale from 0-10k / months and 10-50k / months. Learn more about our group + explore upcoming events |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindWork with me 1:1 as your Marketing Consultant |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Subscribe to our Email Newsletter |www.kelseyreidl.com/dose Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Welcome to another enlightening episode of Entering Motherhood! In this episode, host Sarah Marie Bilger sits down with Celeste Yvonne, a mom, author, and advocate for sobriety, especially within the context of motherhood. They delve into Celeste's journey towards sobriety and discuss the pervasive "mommy wine culture" that has become so normalized in today's society. Celeste shares her personal experiences, including the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to quit drinking. They talk about the societal pressures and stigmas surrounding alcohol use among mothers and emphasize the importance of creating inclusive environments that respect individual choices regarding alcohol. Sarah and Celeste also explore the impact of alcohol on new mothers, the benefits of sobriety, and offer practical advice for those who might be struggling with similar issues. Tune in to learn about healthier coping mechanisms and how to support mothers in making empowered choices for themselves and their families. Don't miss this heartfelt and informative episode that aims to change the conversation around alcohol and motherhood. Let's doula this and navigate the transition of entering motherhood together! Full show notes: click here
Welcome to another episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast hosted by Sarah Marie Bilger. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and crucial aspects of labor: cervical dilation and effacement. Learn about the process, understand what to expect, and discover tips to help your body progress naturally. Sarah explains the significance of dilation and effacement, how they are measured, and the factors that can influence their progress. Whether you're a first-time mom or have given birth before, this episode provides valuable insights to help you feel more prepared and confident as you approach labor. Join us to learn about the natural progression of labor, the importance of trusting your body, and the various interventions that might be suggested if labor stalls. This episode is packed with information to empower you on your unique motherhood journey. Tune in and let's navigate this together! Click here to see full show notes.
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger, discusses labor inductions. She covers both medical and non-medical methods, offering insights and tips to help expectant mothers make informed decisions. Sarah emphasizes understanding one's body, the importance of patience, and the need for open conversations with healthcare providers. She also shares strategies to avoid unnecessary inductions and highlights the significance of trusting one's instincts during labor. The episode aims to empower mothers with knowledge and confidence as they navigate their childbirth journey. Waitlist for CBE Course!
As we transition from the lively summer months into the reflective autumn season, I've been pondering the last eight months since welcoming my first baby in December 2023.In today's solo riff, I'll dive into my unique maternity experience, navigating the entrepreneurial landscape without taking a traditional maternity leave.I'll share how personal factors like my baby's sleep patterns and my drive have influenced my business decisions, and how I've managed to maintain a solid foundation built over the past eight years.I will also share about:How I have condensed my workweekBalancing motherhood, business, hobbies, and joyful life.The power of solid systems and delegation& where I plan to go from here!Enjoy xxConnect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind (WAVE) and learn about upcoming events including the Elora, Ontario coworking day |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Email List: Join the Dose of Visionary Weekly Inspiration Roundup!www.kelseyreidl.com/dose Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
In this episode of Entering Motherhood, Sarah Marie converses with Suzzie Vehrs, a doula and childbirth educator. Suzzie shares her contrasting birthing experiences: an emergency cesarean section for her first daughter and an empowering natural birth for her second. The discussion emphasizes the importance of informed consent, effective communication with healthcare providers, and the supportive role of doulas. Suzzie highlights the significance of creating a birth plan, advocating for oneself, and preparing mentally and emotionally for labor. The episode underscores the transformative journey of motherhood and the empowerment that comes from being well-informed and supported. Click here for full show notes.
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger, a wife, mother of two, and doula, discusses the critical topic of blood pressure during pregnancy. She explains the importance of monitoring blood pressure, detailing the differences between low and high blood pressure and their potential impacts on both mother and baby. Sarah offers insights into managing blood pressure through lifestyle choices and emphasizes the significance of regular monitoring. She also addresses the potential need for labor induction in cases of high blood pressure, aiming to empower and inform expecting mothers with holistic and evidence-based practices. Click here for full show notes.
In this episode of Entering Motherhood, we chat with Lisa Marchiano, a Jungian analyst, author, and podcaster, to explore the psychological dimensions of motherhood. Lisa shares insights from her books, "Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself" and "The Vital Spark: Reclaim Your Outlaw Energies and Find Your Feminine Fire." The discussion covers key Jungian concepts like individuation, dreams, and maternal anger. Lisa emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and reclaiming personal authority in motherhood. The episode highlights the transformative nature of motherhood, encouraging listeners to embrace their journey with compassion and self-discovery. Click here for full show notes.
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie discusses Group B Streptococcus (GBS) and its impact on pregnancy, labor, and birth. She covers the testing process, treatment options, and considerations for both positive and negative results. Drawing from her own personal experiences, Sarah Marie provides insights and practical advice, emphasizing informed decision-making and open communication with healthcare providers. She also shares tips for reducing the risk of a positive GBS test and discusses its implications for different types of birth plans. The episode aims to empower and inform women on their motherhood journey. Click here for full show notes.
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger interviews Gina Mundy, a childbirth attorney and author. Gina shares her journey into the specialized field of childbirth law, driven by her desire to ensure safer childbirth experiences. She discusses common issues in childbirth, such as the use of Pitocin, and emphasizes the importance of having a designated baby advocate during labor. Gina also highlights the role of doulas and the significance of making informed decisions. She talks about her book, "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth: Expecting the Best: Using the Power of Knowledge to Help You Deliver a Healthy Baby," which aims to help parents prevent childbirth complications. Check out the full show notes here.
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger shares her personal journey of transitioning from a career as a mechanical engineer to becoming a full-time doula. She discusses how motherhood shifted her priorities and led her to pursue her passion for supporting mothers through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Sarah reflects on the challenges and fulfillment of her new career, emphasizing the importance of aligning with one's values and passions. She also shares insights on balancing professional and family life, encouraging listeners to pursue their dreams and find joy in their chosen paths.
Hey there, beautiful souls! In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, our host Sarah Marie Bilger sits down with Daniela Procopio, the creative mind behind Solma, a ready-to-drink lactation support beverage. Daniela opens up about her own journey into motherhood, sharing the ups and downs she faced with breastfeeding and the struggle to find postpartum support. These heartfelt experiences inspired her to craft Solma, packed with all the good stuff to boost milk production. Their chat is all about the magic of community and support for new mamas, offering some heartfelt advice to first-time moms and highlighting the importance of finding your tribe, even if it's in the digital world. So grab a cozy drink, maybe even a Solma, settle in, and join us for this warm and welcoming conversation! Click here for the full show notes.
Mother's Day can bring such a mix of emotions - love, happiness, joy, but sometimes longing, grief and sadness. We send our love to all mothers or those wishing to be mothers at this time. In a very special tribute to Mother's Day we are joined by the beautiful Ashley Hart who so beautifully and vulnerably shares her journey to becoming a mother in the same year that she lost her own mother.Ashley is an Australian model, yogi, mother and all round gorgeous human who sadly lost her own mother in January 2023 to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The very same year she became a mother to her own beautiful boy Priest, and we are so honoured to share her wisdom and learnings through this time of deep grief and immense joy.You can connect with Ashley and follow her inspiring journey of motherhood on instagramIn this podcast we discuss:Ashley's mum's diagnosis of ALS and how she stepped into the role of caretaker with her sister during this timeLessons around generational patterns that became apparent through her mum's decline and passingThe importance of nurture, introspection and rituals around death and griefHer experience of pregnancy and the continued lessons throughout this timeThe healing opportunity that presented through becoming a mum and the first few months of motherhoodA vulnerable share about Kate's own experience and contrast of motherhoodand so much more!Today's episode was brought to you by Once Upon. Both Luka and Kate have been creating photo books using the Once Upon App for years, and love not only how simple and fun it is to create beautiful books, but also to bring your photos off your camera roll and into your home. They have also just launched an individual photo printing service, which are such high quality (Kate has them lining the wall in her office) and make the perfect gift. To create your very own photo book today, just download the Once Upon app on your phone or tablet, and start adding photos – or collaborating on a book with family or friends. Your order will even be and shipped from Australia (or one of their other printing houses around the world if you're in a different country). Visit onceupon.photo to find out more.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email podcast@boobtofood.com
Aside from being the owner of Entering Motherhood, Sarah Marie is a mom of two, wife, and birth and postpartum doula. She is certified as a postpartum nutrition professional, holds a doula certification specifically centered around VBAC preparation, and is an active doula in her community.In this episode, Sarah walks us through all things birthing and what to expect when you are expecting!Here are a few topics covered:-what to do when you are overwhelmed-why having a plan/doula are important-what's it like after birth?-do people really poop while giving birth?! and more!Connect with Sarah:www.enteringmotherhood.comInstagram @entering_motherhoodWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list, get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.
Today, I'm sitting down with my own Business BFF's Krista and Steph and we are diving deep into the realm of building and scaling a successful business as online entrepreneurs.I always love these conversations where I am a fly on the wall in conversations between various entrepreneurs, so I hope you enjoy this casual chat between the 3 of us.We've all been in this world of Online Business for many years, and love to share with you what works (& what doesn't).We talk about...04:59 Our love of SEO and how it's helped grow our businesses over the years!07:29 The project management tool that Steph uses to stay focused11:01 The importance of finding a software that works for you.15:31 Success requires individual growth and perseverance.17:29 Be open to evolving and pivoting.23:07 Networking, meeting new people key to success.27:37 Connecting with like-minded people is KEY to your growth and consistency.31:20 Gradual hiring process and focus on fit.41:36 Kelsey's revelations in becoming a Mother and running her Business48:13 Business is a marathon, not a sprint.Quote from the episode:The Path to Entrepreneurial Success: "And much as you may always want to outsource your upgrades to a mentor, oftentimes you have to just get your feet wet, try a bunch of stuff, and realize that you're going to find your own way. You're going to find exactly what feels good in your business."— Kelsey 00:16:02Past Episodes:297 Stephanie Long is BACK to share her take on Threads … https://www.kelseyreidl.com/podcast-1/stephanie-long-is-back-to-share-her-take-on-threads-ai-chat-gpt-and-summer-sabbaticals 189 Krista Kolodziejzyk | How to Launch a Successful … 246 What Is A Business Mastermind Retreat? (& How You Can Plan One, Like We Did!) Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama Online Course, Complete: 1 Day Even in Guelphhttps://www.kelseyreidl.com/occThe Wave Mama: Coming Soon!http://thewavemama.com/
In this episode of "Entering Motherhood," host Sarah Marie Bilger and guest Maisie Ruttan, a twin mom and former nurse turned sleep consultant, discuss the challenges of toddler sleep, especially in the context of welcoming a new child into the family. Maisie shares her journey from nursing to sleep consulting after her own experience with twins and IVF. She emphasizes the normalcy of sleep issues in toddlers and preschoolers and the importance of a gentle, nurturing approach to help children sleep more independently. Maisie offers insights into common sleep problems, underlying causes, and the importance of not rushing changes in sleep routines. She also touches on the societal pressures of early bedtimes and the potential need for naps in children's schedules. The conversation provides valuable tips for parents navigating sleep with multiple children and underscores the importance of understanding each child's unique sleep needs. Click here for full show notes.
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger shares insights on maternity, birth, and newborn photography. She covers finding a photographer, creative maternity photo ideas, poses to highlight the baby bump, and capturing key birth moments while maintaining privacy. Sarah also discusses preparing for a newborn photoshoot at home and the importance of scheduling it early. Her tips aim to help parents preserve the special moments of pregnancy and early parenthood through beautiful photographs. Check out the full show notes here.
This week I am re-sharing an episode that I recorded with my friend and visionary entrepreneur, Jason Brown. Jason is someone who thinks outside of the box and challenges his way of being & thinking every single day.He's always challenging his own beliefs and looking at things from different perspectives, he's also not afraid to take risks, and he's always seeking out new opportunities - something he calls ‘Following The Nudges'. This willingness to try new things has led to his success in a variety of ventures. Some of the other awesome things you're going to learn from Jason in the podcast include:The Benefits of Getting Into Your Body: whether that's by doing mushrooms, practicing breathwork, doing meditation, or taking long walks -- whatever you need to do to stop suppressing your emotions and feelings so that you can truly connect to what your mind and body are saying is going to be SO advantageous for your personal and professional growth.Using humor to overcome fear and hesitationThe books or resources that have inspired him on his professional journeyThe critical shift from external validation to internal validation for true fulfillment. Jason's goal is to deprogram himselfTime stamps:15:49 Avoiding self-awareness to escape life's hardships.18:43 World travels bring self-discovery and new learning.23:56 Seeking creative, innovative projects that change the world.29:27 Choosing positive, forward-thinking information leads to growth.37:53 Helping kids grow differently, long-term impact.45:28 Recognizing need to delegate for business growth.50:51 Consistency and dedication lead to success.53:25 Mentors and community empower personal and business growth.01:00:54 Creating platform for families to make epic trades and gamify learning01:05:02 Connecting with your body, nature, and emotions in order to generate ideasConnect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama Online Course, Complete: 1 Day Even in Guelphhttps://www.kelseyreidl.com/occThe Wave Mama: Coming Soon!http://thewavemama.com/
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bilger and guest Mikki Gardner, a life and conscious parenting coach, delve into the complexities of co-parenting and motherhood. They discuss the emotional journey of becoming a mother, the societal pressures on women to "do it all," and the importance of self-awareness and personal growth in parenting. Mikki shares her expertise on co-parenting, emphasizing the need for clear communication, setting boundaries, and creating a support network. She also offers a three-step framework for improving relationships and co-parenting dynamics. Click here for full show notes.
Welcome back, visionaries! You're tuned into another episode of Visionary Life with your host, Kelsey Reidl. Today's podcast is all about uncovering and embracing your potential to launch the business of your dreams. Kelsey is here to light a fire under all the aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing wisdom that'll have you moving from daydreaming to doing. We'll start by addressing the all-too-common entrepreneur's roadblock: imposter syndrome, and, spoiler alert—it doesn't go away, but that's no reason to back down. Then, let's talk about why starting SMALL is the way to go and why NOW more than EVER, your business is needed!Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama Online Course, Complete: 1 Day Even in Guelphhttps://www.kelseyreidl.com/occThe Wave Mama: Coming Soon!http://thewavemama.com/
New moms this episode is for you. I talk with Birth and Postpartum Doula, and host of the Entering Motherhood Podcast, Sarah Marie. The discussion is anchored in the ups and downs, the uncertainty and unknowns of the new motherhood space. Sarah Marie offers a warm hug as we walk through the journey of navigating motherhood, often with a lack of support so many of us experience from partners, exes or family help. Sarah Marie is a mom of two, wife, certified nutrition professional, doula, and podcast host. She is on a mission to cultivate intentional conversations around motherhood and spark curiosity during pregnancy, birth, and most importantly postpartum for all those involved. Sarah's contact info: Services: https://www.enteringmotherhood.com/services Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/entering_motherhood/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnteringMotherhood/ Email: enteringmotherhood@gmail.com For more information go to my website here: https://mikkigardner.com/podcast/ © 2021 - 2024 Mikki Gardner Coaching
In this episode of Mama Wears Athleisure, guest Sarah Marie, a certified nutrition professional, doula, and mother of two, as she delves into the topic of VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). With a mission to spark curiosity and provide support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, Sarah Marie leads an engaging discussion on the possibilities and considerations surrounding VBAC.Key Topics Covered:Understanding VBAC: Sarah Marie provides insights into what VBAC entails and the factors to consider for mothers who have previously undergone a cesarean section.Navigating Challenges: The episode explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding VBAC, empowering listeners with knowledge and resources to make informed decisions.Support and Advocacy: Sarah Marie emphasizes the importance of having a supportive birth team and advocating for one's birth preferences, highlighting the role of doulas in providing guidance and encouragement.About the Host:Sarah Marie is a passionate advocate for intentional conversations around motherhood, aiming to empower mothers and families with evidence-based information and support. As a doula, she brings her expertise and personal experiences to create a nurturing space for expecting and new mothers.Tune in to this enlightening episode of Mama Wears Athleisure to learn more about VBAC and gain valuable insights into the journey of childbirth. Don't miss out on Sarah Marie's thoughtful perspectives and expert advice!IG: @entering_motherhoodFacebook: EnteringMotherhoodWebsite: www.enteringmotherhood.comVBAC Prep Workbook: https://enteringmotherhood.thrivecart.com/vbac-workbook/Listen to Learning To Mom PodcastIG: @learningtomom.podcastSpotify: Learning To Mom on SpotifyApple Podcasts: Learning To Mom on Apple Podcasts- VBAC- Vagina Birth After Cesarean- Vaginal birth after c-section- vaginal birth- c-section birth- cesarean section birth- Tolac- trial of labor after cesarean- vbac doula- prenatal doula- birth doula www.mamawearsathleisure.comBuy Me A CoffeeIG: @mamawearsathleisureYouTube: @mamawearsathleisuremamawearsathleisure@gmail.comInterested in being a guest? Shoot us an email!- best parenting podcast- best new mom podcast- best podcasts for new moms- best pregnancy podcast- best podcast for expecting moms- best podcast for moms- best podcast for postpartum- best prenatal podcast- best postnatal podcast- best podcast for postnatal moms- best podcast for pregnancy moms
Sarah and Patricia dive deep into the topic of entering motherhood. Sarah shares her experiences with her birth processes and postpartum journeys, and how unique each experience will be for every mother. Sarah Marie Bilger is a mom of two, wife, certified nutrition professional, doula, and podcast host. She is on a mission to cultivate intentional conversations around the early years of motherhood and spark curiosity during pregnancy, birth, and most importantly postpartum for all those who are involved. Connect with Sarah: Podcast: Entering Motherhood Podcast Instagram: entering_motherhood Facebook: EnteringMotherhood Services: Birth and Postpartum Services **** Ready to make a change? Book your free Explore Call with Patricia. Patricia's 1:1 and group coaching programs are about becoming the active designer of your life through any transitional phase. Learn more at https://www.patriciacosulich.com. Share this episode and tag us on social media! @patricia.cosulich & @the_transitions_podcast
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Buhler interviews Kate Walker, a mother of two and author, about her 20-year journey in motherhood and career. They discuss the challenges of balancing work and family, the impact of mobile devices on parenting, and the importance of routine. Kate shares insights from her book, reflecting on motherhood, marriage, and career transitions. They also explore the taboo around discussing motherhood's difficulties, the role of platforms for open conversations, and the need for self-care and setting boundaries for children's screen time. Kate's experience with divorce and her advice on avoiding over scheduling children are also highlighted. Click here for show notes.
In this solo episode, I'm chatting about...The art of honest self-auditingThe TV show I am watching that highlights the importance of a growth mindsetHow the entrepreneurial journey is similar to the highs and lows of professional golfersAn update on WAVE: The Mastermind (a group for female business owners that I launched with a professional Mindset Coach, Emily)Hiring a coach to help me in rebuilding my pelvic floor post-pregnancyThe importance of questioning our current situationHow falling off our goals is a part of the journey, and how critical it is to recommit when that happens (& seek accountability and support, when needed)Enjoy!Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama Online Course, Complete: 1 Day Even in Guelphhttps://www.kelseyreidl.com/occThe Wave Mama: Coming Soon!http://thewavemama.com/
In today's episode, Jess Hull and I talk about all things matrescence, or the process and journey of becoming a mother. As mamas, we take so much time to educate ourselves about our children and make sure that all of their needs are met, but we often forget to treat ourselves with the same kind of care. Jess created Mother Me, an app, online course, and support framework for successful women who want to do more than just survive their postpartum for that reason. Jess Hull is a former Facebook and Google executive. The system she developed is called The Mother Me Method and it's based on the science and data of Matrescence as well as incorporating global perspectives on how other countries and cultures support postpartum women.Jess approaches her work more from an academic standpoint vs. a clinical perspective. She has done extensive research on matrescence and maternal health and seeks practical solutions that can help busy women. Known for her enthusiasm, humor and compelling speaking, Jess resonates with so many women because she combines her passion for sharing a data driven approach with her personal experiences and her ability to relate to the universal challenges and joys of motherhood.In her research and in her experience, Jess often felt that moms and their wellbeing were an afterthought. It's what motivated her to start her company and name it Mother Me - as a call to action to recognize that moms need and deserve the same love and care we so instinctually give to our newborns.While reflecting on our own motherhood and matrescence journeys, Jess and I talk about the expectations vs realities of motherhood, how birth order and differing pregnancy experiences can affect the choices that we make about our familes, and how to start giving ourselves the grace that we need.If you're interested in working with Jess to feel more informed, prepared, supported and excited for your postpartum, visit www.motherme.io LET'S CONNECT: Join our Moms of the Night community on Instagram: @momsofthenightpodcastAnd if you're loving the podcast, be sure to drop a 5 star rating and give us a review - it helps us greatly with reaching moms who also need to hear these words!THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:Better Beginnings provides birth and postpartum doula services, in-home lactation support, classes, and more to families welcoming new babies, serving parents in-person in the Twin Cities, Duluth, and Rochester Minnesota communities, and providing resources and support virtually all over the world.Visit betterbeginningsmn.com to learn more.
Freddie's birth was perfect in my eyes. It was the best day of our lives.But the truth is, it did NOT go as plannedMy home birth turned into a 9-1-1 emergency phone call at 11:15PM on Christmas EveI ‘transitioned' in the ambulance and had to hold off from pushing, as the paramedic drove top speed to the hospitalMy worry in sharing the 90 minute audio file is simply out of fear of judgement of our birth decisions,My intention in sharing it is to show others that even if things don't go ‘according to plan' it's probably the Universe conspiring in your favour. And that your intuition is probably right… always. So don't let anyone tell you otherwise!I've had many people ask if I was upset that my ‘plan' got derailed— and I shared my honest thoughts on this in the podcast episode.05:35 I was SHOCKED when I went into labour on Christmas Eve and has a Christmas Day Baby! (The least common birthday!)11:19 Sharing openly about our conception journey, pregnancy loss, and feelings about entering parenthood.22:38 How I revealed our first and second pregnancy to my husband (& the really confusing pregnancy test!)48:37 Labour story: my manifestations, navigating pain, and how I found the inner strength50:54 What it feels like to be pregnant over your 'due date' and how frustrating it is when everyone asks you 'have you had the baby yet?'01:02:28 The ONLY regret that I have about my labour experience01:08:47 How I coped with pain in labour, naturally01:16:47 We had to call 9-1-1 and our home birth transferred to the hospital01:24:15 Calling in the help from the OB-GYN when Freddie's heart rate was dropping01:31:57 The magic of spending Christmas as a new family of 3-Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama Online Course, Complete: 1 Day Even in Guelphhttps://www.kelseyreidl.com/occThe Wave Mama: Coming Soon!http://thewavemama.com/
In this quick episode, Kelsey delves into some random musings from her week including;- the transformative power of a simple morning walk routine that inspired a tonne of creativity - the concept of 'luck' (aka the way I have learned to be more OPEN to luck, and to make good fortune more predictable). This is a simple + practical tip that can help you align yourself with opportunities and increase your chances of success - Lastly, I'm excited to share some updates about my much-anticipated birth story. Stay tuned for details on when and how you can access!Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Feeling lonely as a Female Entrepreneur? Check out The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindFeeling overwhelmed with your Marketing & Online Lead Generation? Learn about Marketing Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingRank on Page # 1 of Google with Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
In this episode of the Entering Motherhood podcast, host Sarah Marie Bulger emphasizes the importance of personalized support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. She advocates for a holistic approach to motherhood, focusing on restructuring the mind, body, and soul. Sarah discusses the unique needs of each mother and the role of individualized support, highlighting the limitations of healthcare providers in offering such personalized care. She explores different support systems, including professional and familial, and stresses the value of communication in establishing desired support. Sarah concludes by inviting her audience to engage with her on Instagram for deeper discussions on motherhood. Click here for show notes.
In this episode, Kelsey delves into the topic of self-sabotage in business.She highlights 3 common ways entrepreneurs may unknowingly hold themselves back and provides actionable advice on overcoming these challenges.Tune in to uncover valuable strategies for breaking free from self-sabotaging patterns and unlocking your full business potential.Episode quote: Overcoming Self-Sabotage: "She was stuck in a cycle of preparation and brainstorming and writing down ideas, but there was no action or result from it."— Kelsey [00:25:19 → 00:25:30]00:00 Recognizing and addressing self-sabotage in business.03:43 Identifying self-sabotage in business and overcoming it.09:37 Believe 110% in your product for success.12:39 Belief in product crucial for business success.14:12 Avoid constant launches; focus on improvement.19:15 Entrepreneurs need support and guidance for success.20:50 Investing in masterminds for business growth.25:19 Overcame self-sabotage, launched successful program, offered helpConnect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Today I chat with Carla Esparza, a pioneer female fighter in the MMA world and 2 time UFC champion, about her history as a fighter and how it's shifted as she's entered motherhood in the past year. We chat about what training looked like during pregnancy and her current plan to postpartum. Above all, Carla exemplifies the meaning of athletic maturity as she is patient with the process of returning to sport with a lifetime of athleticism as the goal. Enjoyed this episode? I'd love it if you would share in IG stories and tag me @ brianna.battles Training BJJ during pregnancy and postpartum? Check out the workshop: https://go.briannabattles.com/combat-workshop-registration MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!
Welcome back to Visionary Life! I'm your host, Kelsey, and it's our first episode of Season 13. This year is a special one for me—not only have we just wrapped up an incredible 2023, but it's also the start of a profoundly personal new chapter. My husband and I welcomed baby Frederick into the world on Christmas day!In this episode, we're recapping some of the professional growth I had in 2023 and also chatting about personal insights around creating my "vivid vision / painted picture", my word of the year and early musings from navigating the entrepreneur life as a working mama!Join our event in Puslinch, Ontario on April 19th 2024. It is a free event for established female business owners. It's a day to connect, share, and support each other in our business journeys. DM me on Instagram for a ticket!Brian Scudamore Article: How I Daydreamed My Way To A $200M Business: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianscudamore/2018/05/22/how-i-daydreamed-my-way-to-a-200m-business/Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Hey Visionaries - it's time for another instalment of the Visionary Mama Series!In today's solo episode, I am doing a fun (& impromptu) Ask Me Anything Episode!From unusual pregnancy symptoms to maintaining an active lifestyle, and even pondering motherhood's impact on my ambition—we're getting personal.Discover how I'm handling maternity leave while ensuring my business thrives, and join me in celebrating the big and small moments pre-baby arrival.Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Marketing is vital to the success of any business, because it's how you connect, communicate and ensure that customers feel comfortable spending their hard earned money with you. In this episode, Kelsey makes her Marketing Trends & Predictions for 2024!Including:1. The Importance of Adapting to Social Media Trends- The evolution of social media into publishing platforms- How algorithms favor in platform content creation- Example of using Instagram for broadcasts instead of redirecting viewers elsewhere2. The Need for Genuine Social Interaction on Social Media Platforms- The shift from social media as simply a marketing tool to a platform for genuine interactions- The unpredictability and constant changes in social media algorithms- The emphasis on generating good, engaging content over gaming the system3. The Significance of the Founders Health in Marketing Your Business- The increasing popularity of topics like biohacking and morning routines4. Importance of Clear Positioning and Effective Communication- The need for clear messaging for successful marketing5. The Role of Conversion and Sales in Marketing- The emphasis on having an effective sales process- The importance of a complete marketing funnel, including upselling and customer nurturing- The impact of neglecting the sales process on income6. The Resurgence of In-Person Events in Marketing- The success of businesses offering a blend of online and offline programming- The crucial role of primal human connections in business success- The effectiveness of hosting in-person events and retreats over online optionsKelsey Reidl is a Small Business Marketing Coach with a special interest in Social Media Growth, Search Engine Optimization and Direct Response Marketing Strategy.After a decade working in Business Development & Marketing Roles for some of Canada's Top Health Food Brands, Kelsey decided to leave the corporate world so that she could work with Small Businesses and help them adopt The Essential Marketing Success Principles, so that they can work with more clients, generate more cash, and bring the FUN back into marketing.Through her courses, coaching, and her podcast Visionary Life, she inspires entrepreneurs to challenge the status quo, connect with customers in creative ways, and to never settle for mediocre marketing campaigns.-Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
This week I am sitting down with Brandon Fong, and I am being interviewed on his podcast called Beyond Curious!This conversation comes full circle from last week (I interviewed Brandon on Episode #315 of Visionary Life) and today I reveal the story behind my Justin Bieber "visionary" moment and its subsequent impact on my life's path. I also take you along the journey from working my dream job for one of Canada's Top health food companies (Vega) in my 20's to the harsh news of being let go from this job and forging my own path!Brandon and I discuss:My passion for conducting experiments (especially as it relates to Marketing)The importance of personal energy tracking in order to boost performance and to operate as a high level entrepreneurThe story about my last mountain biking race and how I surprised myselfThe power of constraints in my personal life and in making business decisions.Time Stamps:02:22 Justin Bieber's influence16:09 The origin story of my business!27:30 Finding magic in life's constraints34:46 Starting my brand with a simple Facebook Group, and by hosting workshops on goal setting and vision boarding44:11 Discovering energy givers and energy drains in life.51:47 Four foundational principles for building a successful offerConnect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama Connect With Brandon (Podcast)https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/beyond-curious-formerly-7-figure-millennials/id1539028952Connect With Brandon (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonsfong/
Brandon Fong: Where do I even begin with this incredible human!?He has the biggest heart, a true gift for connecting people together and creating meaningful gatherings, and a curious explorer of life.I met Brandon inside of a virtual mastermind, but a year later I flew to Park City Utah to meet him in person at a retreat he created for visionary entrepreneurs.I genuinely enjoy my conversations with Brandon, whether they're recorded or not, and today I get to share one of them with you.We're talking about…How he got into entrepreneurship, His start in the restaurant industry and in network marketing,And how he found his purpose for creating a more deeply connected worldThe Ikea Effect & MORE!And what's really fun too is that I also recorded an episode for Brandon's podcast, the Beyond Curious Podcast, where Brandon is on a mission each week to create a more deeply connected world by catalyzing curiosity. He has high energy and the largest heart, and honestly I don't know why you WOULDN'T want to have someone so passionate as a friend, a colleague and person you can call on with questions about life and business. I wouldn't have jumped on a plane and flown to the USA if I didn't think this human was awesome. Connect With Brandon (Website)https://gobeyondcurious.com/aboutConnect With Brandon (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonsfong/Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Welcome back to another episode of Visionary Life! I'm your host, Kelsey, and today we have a very special guest joining us, Maxine Cunningham. In this episode, Maxine generously allows us to pick her brain (she's the founder of Pick My Brain - see what I did ther?) as she shares her inspiring journey of personal and professional growth. Max opens up about...Her experience starting her career as an Investment Banker, becoming an Economist and eventually quitting to become an Entrepreneur (even though she had no idea how that would look!)She highlights the importance of relationships and the value of self-development and creating a Year On (aka Year Off) where you build your OWN curriculum!She challenges listeners to evaluate the true worth of their time, both in terms of how they spend it working and how they spend it on personal growth. She emphasizes the need to break away from careers that are not aligned with our values. Maxine also shares all about her business baby which is valued at 15 MILLION DOLLARS! (it's called Pick My Brain) and how it has become a place the #1 marketplace to buy and sell knowledge!Time stamps:00:03:02 Maxine's journey of taking calculated risks through her career as an Investment Banker, Economist and Entrepreneur 00:05:34 The pursuit of self-growth through exploration, taking a 'year on' (aka year off) and investing $30,000 in herself00:07:27 A recent investment under $2,000 that we BOTH made that has brought lasting benefits to each of our lives and businesses00:13:54 What to do if your job is misaligned with your values? Can't do it.00:30:38 How she got the idea for Pick my Brain and her experience starting the business and dedicating the past six years to nurturing Pick My Brain.00:36:31 Inspired by Air BNB she quit her job, drove across the country in a campervan, and read books in Maui for a month!00:48:02 Passion and dedication are eays when you LOVE what you do! Maxine shares why hustling isn't hustling when you love the work (even if it means taking meetings at 11pm!)00:50:04 Intentional conversations change lives - here's how to be part of this new movementConnect With Pick My Brain (Website)https://www.pickmybrain.world/Connect With Maxine (Personal Instagram)https://www.instagram.com/pickmybrain_ceo/Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
Does Mercury Retrograde Affect Your Business? Let's Talk to a Business Astrologer! Melanie Marisol is a business astrologer for Small Business Owners to Medium Enterprise CEOs, Legacy Builders and Change Makers.She provides a fusion of applied modern astrology, numerology, and strategic soul searching to lead business leaders to uncover deeper spiritual meaning to their thriving businesses.In this episode, we talk about...How to tap into your intuition and connect with your gut feelings for business decision makingHow to use astrology to make decisions and plan your futureSigns that you might want to hire a business astrologer?How does astrology help us become more efficient with marketing strategy ?Mercury retrograde, full moons, new moons and birth charts (what do they all mean)& more!She believes that nothing is more uninspiring than showing up day after day with no larger purpose behind the pursuit of a multi-million or even billion dollar business!Melanie guides business owners and leaders to use their intuition, their birth chart, and the planets to make decisions and find clarity in their next steps!https://www.melaniemarisol.com/about.html https://www.instagram.com/melanie_marisol/Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingEnroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
In this episode we're talking about Riding the Wave of Success and How Kove Ocean Foods is Making Waves in the Natural Food Industry.Kove is developing delicious foods made with the world's most sustainable crop... SEAWEED.Travis, Koreann and Susan had always toyed with the idea of starting their own business. They bounced around various concepts, trying to find the perfect fit. Then, by chance, an opportunity aligned with their expertise in the natural product industry. It was a perfect match, embodying their passion and values. Though they experienced some doubts and uncertainty, they ultimately decided to take the leap with Desiree (the original founder).Tune in to hear all about the life changing journey of deciding to team up, and build out Kove!p.s.Did you know that Seaweed is a regenerative powerhouse for the planet. Grown in the ocean, there is no demand on resources like land or fresh water - no need to cut down any trees and no need to water seaweed! Find out more about Kove: https://koveocean.com/Time Stamps:00:05:04 Desiree's journey of transitioning to veganism due to climate concerns. Joined Seaweed Company to create delicious seaweed-based foods.00:09:56 Why they choose to run an intuition-led team and their belief in something SO MUCH bigger.00:13:36 Honesty, fear, overwhelming, core values, grateful, opportunity, family.00:18:20 Sustainability checked boxes, magical opportunity found.00:20:42 What is the Kove Ocean Vision and the story behind Seaweed for sustainable snacking.00:26:56 Why they aren't overcomplicating marketing; their passion for creating a remarkable product and the most effective marketing strategies for brand awareness in the early startup phase.00:33:43 Are product demos still working? Their take!00:40:29 The Kove Ocean Team Values which include: mutual support and transparency.00:43:10 Follow Cove Ocean on social media, especially Instagram. Exciting news about Whole Foods and puffs coming soon. Connect With Kelsey |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/Join The Mastermind |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mastermindApply for 1:1 Coaching |https://www.kelseyreidl.com/visionary-marketing-coachingFollow Kelsey On Instagram |https://www.instagram.com/kelseyreidl/Enroll ASAP in Everyday SEO™ |https://kelseyreidl.lpages.co/seo/ Visionary Mama: Fresh Content About Pregnancy, Fertility & Entering Motherhood | https://www.kelseyreidl.com/mama
As you may have noticed, the podcast took a little nap for a few months (I'll share more in the episode) and now I'm just so excited and happy to be back! And yes, I'm pregnant with a little baby nugget who's expected in January
After 9 months of patience, preparation, and anticipation, what we want is a smooth, well-planned birth with a happy beginning. Unfortunately, it's common to experience the opposite. Maybe your labor wasn't what you expected. There might have been problems along the way. Maybe you had problems or mistakes were made. Maybe your doctor or nurses didn't listen to you or honor your wishes. Or you and your baby might have experienced trauma or needed a C-section. (That's why doula work is so important. And why a lot of moms become doulas!)There's nothing worse than feeling like you're invisible when you are at the mercy of others. These situations are all-too-familiar for Sarah Bilger, an engineer and doula who specializes in VBAC preparation. Her passion for doula work and successful VBACs took root after her first child was born. Her baby came by C-section so she was told that this was the only option for her in the future. That didn't feel right. She listened to her gut and dove down the rabbit hole of researching.Casual reading wasn't enough for Sarah, so she took doula certification courses. She shared what she was learning on her podcast, "Entering Motherhood." She had no idea that these decisions would change her life. Now she is helping other women prepare and experience the birth stories they are hoping for.Listen to the show to hear more and feel inspired and validated by Sarah. Join us for a few laughs and lots of ah-ha moments. You'll enjoy Sarah's warmth, fun personality and walk away with insight and tips. (Hear some of Meredith's stories, too!)If you've been told you must have a C-section from now on, listen for guidance and motivation so you can do what's right for you!Bonus: As you listen to Sarah's story, pay attention to your thoughts and feelings about doula work. Is there a dream inside of you, waiting to be discovered? Maybe you're onto something. Would you enjoy a birth world career? Then reach out and let's talk about it! (Click HERE to set up a casual conversation).Ready to Understand Your Child Better? Then take the Sleep Temperament Quiz! Unlock your child's hidden needs and discover the solutions to your sleep struggles in just 5 minutes. Click here: Baby ToddlerSarah's contact info: Podcast: https://www.enteringmotherhood.com/podcast Website: https://www.enteringmotherhood.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/entering_motherhood/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnteringMotherhood/
From Maiden to Mother, Navigating Identity Shifts, Embracing Your New Role, Body, and Relationships. Join us in this episode as we delve into 'matrescence', the profound transformation that accompanies the transition into motherhood. My work: https://www.hypnobirthing-positive-birth.com/popthatmummmalinks --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/popthatmumma/message
A new member of the Almost 30 family is expected to arrive soon—and we can't wait! In this solo episode, Lindsey opens her heart for an emotional conversation about entering the birth portal and motherhood. In just a few short weeks, Lindsey will be a mom! She shares all about her process, more specifically, on what preparing for birth has taught her about life. Whether or not you're a parent yourself (or have aspirations of being one), this episode is for you. It's about being patient in your process, especially when moving through an intense period of transformation and change. Lindsey shares about surrendering to the present moment, letting go of past dreams and so much more. Enjoy! We also talk about: Becoming patient with your process Allowing your mind to step out of the way Learning to say your expectations to others The cyclical nature of life Surrendering aspects of yourself Letting go of the validation your ego wants Resources: Instagram: @lindseysimcik Sponsors: EBOOST | Go to eboost.com/ALMOST30 to get your free 4 pack of Superfuel. Ritual | Visit ritual.com/ALMOST30 to start Ritual or add Essential for Women 18+ or Prenatal to your subscription today. Joi | If you're looking to take ownership of your health and feel your best, Joi is giving you 20% off your labs. Go to choosejoi.co/ALMOST30 and browse their curated selection of comprehensive labs. LMNT | Go to DrinkLMNT.com/ALMOST30 to get a free sample pack with any order. Skims | SKIMS Fits Everybody and more best-selling essentials are available now at SKIMS.com. To advertise on our podcast, please reach out to sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/Almost30. Learn More: almost30.com/learn almost30.com/morningmicrodose almost30.com/courses Join our community: almost30.com/membership facebook.com/Almost30podcast/groups Podcast disclaimer can be found by visiting: almost30.com/disclaimer. Find more to love at almost30.com! Almost 30 is edited by Marielle Marlys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of Entering Motherhood, we explore the essential nutrients for a vibrant first trimester! It's our goal to empower moms-to-be and their support networks with expert insights and practical tips. Tune in for an episode geared towards a nourished and joyous pregnancy journey! >> First Trimester Nutrition Guide >> #1 FREE Postpartum Download Connect more with Entering Motherhood: 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) FitNest Mama (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD20 for 20% discount)
In this episode of Entering Motherhood, we explore the world of doulas and their essential role in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. We begin by understanding what a doula is and the different types available. Next, we clarify the doula's role as a support companion rather than a medical professional. We delve into the numerous benefits of having a doula present during labor, including reduced medical interventions, shorter labor, and increased breastfeeding success. To ensure you find the perfect doula, we discuss when to hire one and the importance of early search and interviews. It's essential to ask the right questions, which we provide as a helpful guide. Ultimately, we emphasize the significance of finding a doula who aligns with your values, offers the desired services, and establishes a strong connection with you. Trust your instincts and choose someone with whom you feel comfortable and supported. If you're looking for doula care in the Greenville SC area or prefer virtual doula services, reach out to me, I love supporting mothers along their journey of entering motherhood. #1 FREE Postpartum Download Connect more with Entering Motherhood: 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) FitNest Mama (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD20 for 20% discount)
In this episode, we're talking having a "Vaginal Birth After a Cesarean" delivery, also known as the acronym, VBAC. Doula and unmedicated VBAC mama, Sarah Marie Bilger, shares her experience and tips for moms who are looking to have their VBAC experience. She's also an engineer and the host of the Entering Motherhood podcast.Topics in the episode:What is a doulaHow do you hire a doulaWhy are a lot of doctors discouraging VBACs?How Sarah had a successful unmedicated VBACCan you still have a VBAC if you have to be medically induced?How does a doula help moms prepare for a VBAC?Follow Sarah Marie Bilger on Instagram: @entering_motherhoodSupport the showConnect with Lina on @linaforrestal on InstagramFollow the @newmamaspodcast on InstagramRead Lina's Blog: www.linaforrestal.comSupport the Show: Buy Me a Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/newmamaspodcast)
Unlikely Housewives of JoCo: Cultivating Authentic Freedom & Wellness for Women
We are so excited to introduce you to Farah Marvil! Farah is a dynamic wife, devoted mother, and ambitious entrepreneur who has dedicated her career to making a difference. With 25 years of experience from corporate America to faith-based nonprofit organizations across the US and Middle East, Farah has a wealth of knowledge to share with the world. Recently she left her position in ministry to take time to focus on family, while delving into new opportunities as a mompreneur and public figure. With an inspirational life story full of lessons learned along the way, Farah hopes to empower other women everywhere. The Glory of God is written all over Farah's story and life. Listen to today's episode to hear how she grew up Muslim and came to know Christ. If you missed Farah's episode from last week, “Entering Motherhood after 40 and carrying multiples”, you can find it here Episode 52: Midlife Motherhood Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Unlikely Housewives of JoCo: Cultivating Authentic Freedom & Wellness for Women
In today's episode you will love hearing how Farrah met her husband in her late 30's and became a mother after 40. We were so encouraged getting to know more about her faith walk, her weight loss journey having had gastric bypass surgery, and how she is now managing being 46 and having 3 toddlers. Farrah has such an incredible heart and was open sharing how she struggled finding resources for women over 40 who have newly entered into motherhood. She shared that she feels as if no one talks about the physical strain of “older parenthood” after 35-40's. It's not going to look like what you expected with having energy like you did in your 20's and 30's, on top of the “getting older” exhaustion. A common perspective she hears in the midlife mom world is “When you're young you have the energy for kids, when you're older you have the money for it.” Farrah feels that the mentality is so different among the young moms vs midlife moms…each handles things differently between what causes you to freak out over and other things that you just don't care to stress. She doesn't see as much helicopter parenting and finds there is a lot of room for more grace. Must come with wisdom! Lastly, she shares how midlife motherhood feels like a double edge sword. It is having had all the years before motherhood succeeding in your career and then waking up one morning and wondering where that woman went. It's been a struggle as she knows that woman still exists inside her but she's searching for what that looks like now within her heart & raising 3 toddlers. We sure hope you'll check back in next week when Farrah's other episode releases where we share her family struggles, victories, coming to know the Lord and some major life triumphs. Follow Farah at @marvil_ouslyfabu & @marvilbeautyco Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram! Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode! Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
In this episode, we are honored to have Sarah Marie Bilgner on the show! Aside from being the owner of Entering Motherhood, Sarah Marie is a mom of two, wife, and a mechanical engineer. She is a Penn State University alumni and holds certifications as a postpartum nutrition professional and as a doula specifically centered around VBAC preparation. Sarah is a passionate and dedicated doula and podcast host who has helped countless women navigate the complex and emotional journey of VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). Her expertise in this area, combined with her gentle and compassionate approach, has earned her a reputation as one of the most respected and sought-after doulas in the field. In this episode, we will hear Sarah's personal story, learn about the challenges and triumphs of VBAC, and gain valuable insights into the role of a doula in supporting women throughout the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. While there are no guarantees in life or birth, we do discuss ways to increase the odds of having the birth experience you dream of. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode with Sarah Marie Bilgner.Sarah's links:https://www.instagram.com/entering_motherhood/https://www.enteringmotherhood.com/: Thyme in the Studio Links:Join the Holistic Home Herbalism Course:https://www.aidazea.com/courseShop for Tea:https://www.etsy.com/shop/AidaZeaArtsGet a Free Week of Skillshare:http://skillshare.eqcm.net/c/2502976/1656998/4650Join Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/thymeinthestudioFollow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thymeinthestudiopodcast/Join the Newsletter/Checkout the Website:https://www.aidazea.comGet my favorite app for editing a podcast: https://www.descript.com?lmref=J7e84Q
S.2 E.4 Sarah Marie Bilger Entering Motherhood Podcast Birth Trauma with an Unplanned Cesarean Today we are joined by Sarah Marie Bilger from Entering Motherhood. We have several things in common. Both our first labors ended in an unplanned cesarean and We are both podcasters trying to raise awareness on how important mental health is in parenthood. Especially shedding light on partner trauma. Tune in to hear more! Entering Motherhood: Website: https://www.enteringmotherhood.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/entering_motherhood/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnteringMotherhood Sarah Marie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah_marie_bilger/ Birth Trauma Stories' Website: www.birthtraumastories.com Follow Birth Trauma Stories on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birthtraumastoriespodcast/ Follow Birth Trauma Stories on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BirthTraumaStoriesPodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cathy-garrett/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cathy-garrett/support
Hey mamas! I know we're a bit late into this whole new years resolutions state but I'm here to bump up that dip you might be feeling. We are back fully rested, revamped, in full force and bringing it to you like never before! Hit that subscribe button, message me, email me, call me, beep me, you know how to reach me! We're doing this mamas, so excited to catch you here next week! This is your one stop, go-to place for helping you find the resources you need to help make the best choices for you and your family during pregnancy, birth, and most importantly postpartum. Connect more with The Entering Motherhood Podcast: Instagram: entering_motherhood and sarah_marie_bilger Facebook: EnteringMotherhoodPodcast Trauma Healing: healyourtraumamama Birth and Postpartum Services: Services Email: enteringmotherhood@gmail.com Official Affiliates of the Podcast: Made for Mama Shop (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 15% off) Postpartum University Hypnobabies (MOTHERHOOD20 for 20% off)
Hey mamas! This is a simple bonus episode to let you know that the Entering Motherhood podcast is taking a short break. We will be back in the new year with new topics, new guests, and as always, I'll be sharing information with you that I've been lucky enough to obtain since becoming a mom. Connect more with The Entering Motherhood Podcast: Instagram: entering_motherhood and sarah_marie_bilger Facebook: EnteringMotherhoodPodcast Trauma Healing: healyourtraumamama Birth and Postpartum Services: Services Email: enteringmotherhood@gmail.com Official Affiliates of the Podcast: Made for Mama Shop (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 15% off) Postpartum University Hypnobabies (MOTHERHOOD20 for 20% off)
We are honored to have Dr. Hazel Keedle join us today all the way from Australia! Hazel is the author of Birth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth. She has more than 25 years of experience as a clinician both in nursing and midwifery, an educator, and a published researcher. Her work remains rooted in her desire to strengthen and empower women.Hazel tells us how her own VBAC birth journey lit a fire that led to the completion of her doctorate degree and her book. Everything in her book is ESSENTIAL for VBAC-hopeful mamas and is all backed with evidence-based research.We know you will LOVE listening to Hazel. She is so gracious and such an invaluable asset to the birth world. This episode is a must-listen and her book is most definitely a must-read for all!Additional linksBirth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth by Hazel Keedle, PhDHazel's Instagram: @hazelkeedleHazel's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VBACmattersSarah's Instagram: @sarah_marie_bilger or @entering_motherhoodHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull transcriptNote: All transcripts are edited to correct grammar, false starts, and filler words. Meagan: You guys are listening to The VBAC Link and I'm so excited for today's episode. We have Hazel Keedle today. She's in Australia and it's 1:00 a.m. She stayed up all night just to be with us today on this podcast. So grateful for her. We're going to be time sensitive so we can make sure to get her tucked into bed at a somewhat reasonable hour, but guess what? Today, we have a co-host. A co-host! I'm so excited to start bringing on some co-hosts here and there. Today, we have Sarah and she is one of our VBAC doulas. I'm so excited to have her with us today. Review of the WeekMeagan: Sarah is going to actually do the honors of reading you a review. So go ahead, Sarah. Sarah: Hi, yeah. I'm glad to be here. We have a review from Katelyn Bayless. This one is from google and it says, “I honestly can't recommend The VBAC Link enough. I had my son via C-section in 2021 and even though I'm not pregnant with number two yet, I feel so ready and even excited for when that time comes because of all of the stories and education from The VBAC Link. I have been binging the podcast for the past couple of weeks and I have a note on my phone that is specifically for VBAC resources and education that has been mentioned on this podcast. “I am looking into providers and planning on starting interviewing some soon. I can't tell y'all enough. Thank you for all that you do and I hope one day I can share my VBAC story.”Meagan: Oh, I love that. I love that. Well, today's episode is going to have some more resources for you for sure. Hazel Keedle, PhDMeagan: We are coming to you from The VBAC Link. We have a guest from Australia. We're so excited to have her. We're so, so excited. We actually just connected here. We are connecting for the first time, I should say today, but Hazel, our guest today, just connected with us about a week or two ago. You guys, she is so amazing. It's 1:00 a.m. and she is in Australia recording right now, so I just want to give her a huge shoutout and thank you for being with us at 1:00 a.m. Oh my goodness. I told her I probably would have been, “Nope. Let's find another time,” but here she is. She is so dedicated at 1:00 a.m. recording with us and I cannot wait to share with you this wonderful, wonderful human being. We are going to jump right into it because again, it's 1:00 a.m. I don't want to take too much time but I wanted to introduce her quickly. This is Hazel Keedle. She is a lecturer of midwifery and completed her PhD in 2021 at Western Sydney University in Australia. Hazel has more than 25 years of experience as a clinician in nursing and midwifery, educator, and researcher. Her research is – it might as well be 1:00 here Hazel. Hazel: You're doing great.Meagan: Her research is recognized internationally and focuses on midwifery practice, education, and women's experience in maternity care. Hazel is passionate about improving support for women during pregnancy, birth, and early transition to mothering. She is amazing. Right here in my very hands, I am holding a book that she wrote. It's called Birth After Caesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth by Hazel Keedle. I definitely am going to suggest this and we are going to talk more about her book here in just a minute, but again, I don't want to take too much of her time so we are going to jump right into it and turn the time over to you to share all of your wonderful knowledge and of course, your story. Hazel: Sure, okay. Well, thank you for having me here. I really don't mind waiting up for you. Okay, so yeah. My name is Hazel Keedle and I'm originally from the U.K., but I moved to Australia 20 years ago now with a backpack and I never left. I came over here as a nurse and then I trained to be a midwife while I was here. I was kind of destined. My granny was a midwife in England and she told me that I would be one, so I followed what she said and I became a midwife here. And then, I wasn't particularly interested in vaginal birth after Cesarean at that point. I was just trying to get my head around what being a midwife was and what it meant. I quickly met my husband during my UgradG* as a midwife. We quite quickly got together and had a baby which was a planned home birth but ended up that he was being breech and I ended up having an emergency Cesarean because in my area at the time– this was 15 years ago– there wasn't anyone who supported breech vaginal birth. I knew that I would have to have a Cesarean. I didn't have a great experience and I didn't do too well with my health afterward. But then, which was not planned at all, I got pregnant again very quickly. There were only 4 months between my Cesarean and getting pregnant. When I did find out, which was a few months after that, so I was breastfeeding, I had to think about what I was going to do and I really didn't want to have a Cesarean. My whole first experience was the most hospitalized home birth you can have. I had pneumonia at 34 weeks with my first and then I had a Cesarean and I had mastitis and a childhood fever, so I was in the hospital three times. Meagan: Oh my goodness. Hazel: I was really sick and I really did not want to go through that again, but I also wasn't sure if I would get support to have a VBAC because there would be 13 months between them or 14 months, I thought, at that point. I did lots of reading. I was a midwife by this point and I dug my head into the numbers. I read the only book that was out there which was The Silent Knife which as you know, is very old and it was very old then, but it was really good at getting me the statistics. I then dated my reading. For a whole weekend, I shut myself in a room and just read and read and read and read. I came out of it freaked out because a paper had come out that year that said if it was less than 6 months between a Cesarean and conception, then you had a 2.7% chance of uterine rupture compared to less than 1%. I got a bit freaked out by those numbers. I came up to my hubby who is a very rational numbers man and I said, “I can't do it. I can't do it. I can't have a VBAC.” I told him the numbers and he said, “You've got over a 97% chance of everything being fine.” I was like, “Well, yeah.” It was more dangerous and get in a car and drive to the hospital. Why don't you just go for a VBAC?I adopted his idea and I thought that it was a great idea. I became dedicated to having a VBAC at that point. I didn't realize at the time it would shape my future career and life goals, but I stuck my head in the sand. I avoided antenatal care to be honest because I didn't want to hear the negativity but I was a midwife, so I was able to get someone to listen to my baby and did my blood pressure every time I went to work. I did plan a home birth for my VBAC, but all of my team couldn't be there at the time, so I transferred in. I had to fight during my labor. There was just lots of coercion, lots of “you must have your baby by 4:00 or you're going into a Cesarean”, and I had to just keep fighting. It was so hard to keep fighting when you are in labor. They also knew I was a midwife. I trained there, so I couldn't understand why I had to fight so hard. And then I actually pushed her out of my vagina at 4:00 on the dot. Meagan: Oh my gosh, no way. Hazel: Yeah. The time they were going to take me into theater was her birth time. It was amazing. I didn't know I could feel that high after doing something that was so hard, but I did and it left me with a couple of questions when I looked back and reflected on how I felt. First of all, I wondered if there were any other women who felt as amazing as I did. I really was on cloud nine. I felt like I was healed and that all of the medical stuff I had after my first was gone. But with that came a question of how does any other woman in Australia manage to have a VBAC with that much drama and with that much negativity during labor?Meagan: Yeah and pressure. Hazel: Yeah and I was a midwife. I could see through it, but how did other women who didn't have that knowledge? So I was left with those questions. I was at a community forum. We had a lot of access issues up here to our local maternity and there were lots of petitions and community action. I went over to one of the forums. I shared my VBAC story in that forum and there was a professor of midwifery there who said, who I'd never met before, “You know, you're a midwife. I think you should research this.” I stayed in contact and then about a year later, I started doing research with her. She was my supervisor for both my Master's Honors and then my PhD. Now, we work together on a lot of projects. So yeah. It was sharing my story in that location that started my research career. Well, I think having a VBAC started my research career but that started my formal research career. Now I'm here. She's about to turn 14 and I have done a Master's, a PhD, five or so papers on VBAC, maybe more, and written a book. So that's my story in a nutshell. Meagan: Those are amazing things. And written a book. It's so funny because you were like, “Yeah, it started,” but I think it had been with you for a while and then that inspired you and gave you the extra oomph. It was like, “Now I've gone through this and experienced this. How can I change this? How can I change this for everyone else?” I always had this desire for birth and a passion for babies. I would have wanted to be a labor and delivery nurse, and then I had my first C-section and was like, “Oh. That wasn't really what I wanted or what I envisioned.” Hazel: Yeah. Meagan: And then after my second, learning more about doulas and birth, and really the options, then also going through that second Cesarean, although it was healing and everything, just having a different experience, I was like, “Yeah. This is what I'm doing. This is what I want to do.” It's like it was always in you and it was always in me, but these experiences that we've had have lit the first. Hazel: Yeah, it became the drive. I've always been interested in research. I got an Honors degree when I was a nurse back in London, and so I had a bit of a passion for research and for reading research, but I think you have to have that real drive and reason for going on such a big path. And yeah, definitely. For me, it was not even how amazing I felt. It was just that question of, did other women feel that? Is it hard for everyone?There was one point when I had stayed overnight. I wish I hadn't. I wish I had gone straight home, but I had been coerced to stay overnight in the hospital. Midwives would be coming in and saying, “Are you the VBAC woman?” I thought, “What is this? Is this a zoo and I'm a prized animal that they are coming in to stare at?” It made me think that it actually was quite rare then to have a VBAC here. It was really so rare that they had to come in and go, “Are you the VBAC woman?”Meagan: “Are you the VBAC woman?” Yes. Hazel: Yeah. But I hadn't learned much about it in my training. I was working in the low-risk units, so we didn't offer VBAC in the hospital I was working in, so it was quite a rarity for me as well. Meagan: Yes. So tell me more about VBAC in Australia. Tell me more about what it's looking like, what it's seeming like, and what you've learned through all of your education. I would love to know. We talked about this in the beginning. I'm just here in Utah. We are actually very fortunate. We have a high VBAC rate here. I mean, Cesarean rates are still through the roof in general in my own opinion, but we still have a higher VBAC rate and we still have to fight for it. It isn't as uncommon, but I'd love to know more about your research and what you're seeing there in Australia. Hazel: Yeah. So what is your VBAC rate, out of interest, in Utah?Meagan: I'm trying to remember the exact. I will look it up. Hazel: I'm trying to think that the US in general is about 12% isn't it the last time I checked the numbers?Meagan: Yeah, that does sound right. Hazel: Interestingly, I do a lot of presentations on VBAC. When you look across the world, they really do vary from Finland with, I have a 50%, down to across to you guys at 12%. We match you. We actually don't have the high European numbers. We have 12% as well. Meagan: It says 23.9%. Hazel: Okay, so that's pretty good. I wish we had that. Meagan: Yeah, so it says in 2020, well, oh my gosh. 21.3% were Cesarean, but vaginal birth after Cesarean from 2017-2020 in Utah averages 23.9% overall. Hazel: Yeah. Meagan: And then it breaks it down within the cities here. Hazel: Which is pretty good. I mean, I know that's not consistent across the U.S. because the national number comes right down. We do have varieties over here and those varieties are down to the model of care and access. So here in Australia, we have a public maternity system or a public hospital system that is paid through the taxpayer. In that system, where everyone gets free health care, they will be able to access a few different models depending on what's available in their area. They might have a midwifery group practice where they could see the same midwife throughout and there would be a few of them that were on call for free. It's part of the hospital service, but that is relatively new. That has really been rising in the last few years as the health services are increasing those models. We have the standard antenatal care which is where women see whichever midwife is on duty or whichever doctor is on duty and whoever is in the labor ward will look after them during labor and whoever is on the ward would look after them postnatally. We call it “standard care” but we also call it “fragmented care” because you see somebody different all of the time. Then we have– so outside of the hospital system, we have some smaller ones for first nations women, and for migrant women, there are some specific models as well. But then outside of the hospital system, we do have privately practicing midwives who are able to prescribe medications, get some money back from Medicare, and offer home birth services. Some of them also have visiting rights in hospitals. That is more state specific. We have more ** there than in any other state here in Australia for the visiting rights. Meagan: So then are you able to come over if a transfer were needed to happen and things like that, they could come over and perform their care? Hazel: Yeah, they could have an agreement with the local hospital, but that's a growing thing and it's more popular in some states than in others. Where I am, which is New South Wales, which is where Sydney is, there's only really one hospital that offers that in such a very big state. Meagan: Yeah. Hazel: And then we also have the private hospital as well where you would be through a private obstetrician. You would get that continuity, but it's obstetric care, not midwifery care. You may or may not see a midwife during your antenatal period and then you will have midwives along in the labor ward or in the private hospital, but with the private obstetrician you signed up for. So we've got a few different models of care and what we do know from the studies that have been done, the VBAC rates do vary across those models of care. They are higher with privately practicing midwives, so a lot of women who choose home birth are choosing it after a Cesarean and that's what I did my first study on which was their experiences. Then we have good rates in midwifery models of care such as the midwifery group practices and then we have low rates in private hospitals. They have higher repeat Cesarean rates and a lower VBAC rate in private hospitals with continuity of obstetric care. That's really how it looks. But obviously, we are a very big country with a lot of areas in between, so we will have hospitals that maybe don't offer birthing services, but a lot of our remote communities are a bit like Canada where all of them, I say in areas of Canada, they have some birthing in-country services. We are still a bit behind on that, so it really is a variety of services, but in most metropolitan hospitals, you'd get a private model, a public model, and midwifery models within that. Meagan: Yeah. Oh my gosh. I love it. I wish so badly that I had the capabilities or I guess I was in a time in my life where I didn't have little, like little kids, where I could bounce around to not only different states but different countries and somehow observe birth and learn birth around the world. That is this dream of mine that I could understand birth from all areas other than just little Utah here. I have a doula partner who just came from Texas and birth is so different here in Utah than it is in Texas. What you're describing is so different. Obviously, there are similarities all around. We hear all of these stories and there are definite similarities. It's birth, but the way care is and everything, so yeah. One day. One day maybe I'll be able to bounce around in life, but I love hearing that. Hazel: That's right because only then you're limited then to really what is published and so some other countries that have higher VBAC rates– just across from us is New Zealand where they have a midwifery model of care and the numbers we can get from them, they don't have national data on this, they seem to have much higher VBAC rates to us, but then they aren't published very much on it, so it's really hard to know. Unless you're there, it's hard to get a sense of what's going on. Meagan: What's really going on, what they're doing, and why do they have such a high rate? Hazel: Yeah, yeah. Meagan: Other than maybe midwifery care. Hazel: There are some studies out there, especially in Europe, there are some studies that looked into the culture and how different that is, but not enough. Not enough to really give us an idea. Meagan: Absolutely. So, Ms. Hazel, I would love for you to share more about your book too. You have so many amazing things in this book. I'm going to hurry and just flip over to the table of contents, but it reminds me a lot about our VBAC course. It covers so many incredible things, these topics. Obviously, your VBAC journey is in there, your research journey which I think is amazing, your PhD journey, birth trauma, and experiences and symptoms of birth trauma which are so important. We don't talk about that enough. Seeking help and debriefing– again, something we don't talk about enough. How to access debriefing. I don't know if you want to cover any of that, but that's so important right there. You have so many things in this book. Do you want to cover some of your highlights? Sarah and I are both here in the states, but we would love to know more about this amazing book. By the way, listeners, we're going to have a link for this book if you want to purchase it and give it a read because it's going to be amazing for you. I promise you. Hazel: Oh thank you. Well, my publishers are in the U.S., so when I was writing it I very much had the U.S. in mind, Australia, and the U.K., so even when I looked at any resources in the book, I tried to find U.S. ones as well. Meagan: Yeah, I noticed. YOu have some Lamaze and everything in here. You have tables of words broken down and it does have U.S. things. That is something, I think, that is so amazing because a lot of our listeners are in the U.S. so it's super nice to be able to read something and have some resources for here where they are. Hazel: Yeah. The idea behind the book was I was towards the end of my Ph.D. journey and I used a methodology called feminist critical theory. Part of that is that you give back your research. You get your research. You get your data from women in the community, but you want to give back to transform that culture for the better. When I was really evaluating, “Well, how do I do that?” When I was writing my thesis, I was like, “Well, how am I giving back to my community?” I had research papers and I know people read research papers. You guys do and then you translate that evidence into your doula course. A lot of people do that. But I thought, “Maybe that's not everyone.” When I did my Australian VBAC survey, I asked what kind of resources people used, and there was a real want to have more books out there. I wondered if I could have this crazy pipe dream of writing a book and then I had the opportunity to do that, so I submitted my thesis in the October and by the December, I had signed a book contract. I was really keen while it was all fresh in my head to get it all out and down on paper.I think lockdowns were in my favor because I had to take leave because it was building up. I couldn't go anywhere so it was like, “Well, I will just sit and write this book then.” That's really how I used my time to do it. I put it together as my findings of my PhD. One of the first papers I wrote on my PhD journey was looking at all of the evidence that was out there. The title of the paper was, “The journey from pain to power.”That was a thread that went through all of my PhD journey. When I was then looking at, “Well, how do I write this book?” The term “journey” was very high up there. I thought, “Well, I go on that journey from pain to power.” That first thing is that pain and that is that previous Cesarean. One of the things I found out from my studies was that usually in the community, we have about a third of women say “yes” to experiencing birth trauma. That's the full state of birth trauma which includes psychological birth trauma. When I asked that question in my VBAC surveys– so all of these women have had at least one previous Cesarean– that was ⅔ of women that suggested birth trauma. We already know we have a highly traumatized group of women who have had a previous Cesarean, so that's why I started with that. I think it's really important. It certainly is. I was a home birth midwife for many years. I know you need to work that out and talk about it, and debrief about it before. You've got to work at that past to be able to look forward to the future. Meagan: Yeah. Well, and even recognizing it. Hazel: Yeah, that's a great one. Meagan: Sometimes, it's hard to recognize that you look at your experience as traumatic because I feel like so many times, we are mentally trained to tell ourselves, “Oh, we had a safe and healthy baby, so no. It's fine.” They suppress their trauma down. They're like, “No, I was fine. It's fine.”Sarah: We're led to believe that as well. Hazel: Yeah, absolutely. That's why I really brought in quotes and what it can look like for women and quotes from the stories that had been shared with me for people to go, “Maybe that is what I experienced. Maybe those symptoms are what I am experiencing.” I start that chapter off with, “Go grab yourself, in pure English style, go grab yourself a cup of tea and a chocolate bar because this chapter will be tough,” just to recognize that this might not be the easiest one. It might not be where people want to start off with. They might go back to that. But yes. I started off with that pain and then I used what I found through my PhD and what I did in my qualitative. So in my PhD, I had qualitative and that moved into quantitative. So the qualitative is all of the feelings, experiences, and exploration, and then the quantitative is all of the stats and the numbers. When I did the qualitative, what I did was I had this crazy idea of designing an app. Women, after their appointments with their healthcare provider, would come home and record their experiences on the app. They would do that after every appointment and then I interviewed them afterward as well. I had some really rich data. I had 52 recordings. I'm so grateful to those women. I'll be forever indebted to those women. Then I had all of these interviews as well, so I had these really rich stories. We use that term in qualitative is rich data. Sarah: These were appointments leading up to their birth or after in the postpartum period after their Cesarean? Hazel: Right, this is during their pregnancy. Sarah: Okay.Hazel: So they were planning to have a VBAC. That's what their plan was and then they would go and see their healthcare providers and then they would do recordings for me. They were given some prompts and questions, but it became very organic like it was more like a journal. They would start going, “Hi, Hazel. I'm so many weeks now and this is what just happened.” It was a really novel way. The research hadn't been done like that before, so it was really interesting. What I was able to do was a narrative analysis which was comparing all of their stories against each other to look for commonalities and differences. What I found is that there were these four factors that impacted how they felt after the birth because I interviewed them all after the birth as well. Those four factors, if they were really positive on those four factors across them and they had a cumulative effect. One had an impact on the other. They felt better about their birth experience regardless of the birth experience. If they felt lower on those four factors, they were more devastated after their birth experience.It didn't mean that those who had a vaginal birth didn't feel more positive than those that had a repeat Cesarean because it kind of was that as well, but there was a lot of resolution that could come when you had a repeat Cesarean, and felt higher in those factors. Those factors are then what I go into in the book. There's a chapter dedicated to each one of those factors. They are having control, so having control over your choices, your wishes, and your birth outcomes. Then there's having confidence, so having confidence in your ability to have a vaginal birth after a Cesarean, but also, having confidence in your healthcare providers' belief in you. That was quite surprising for me how pertinent that was. Women really wanted that. It makes sense, doesn't it? You really want that person to believe in you and believe that you can do what it is that you want to do. And then there's having a relationship, so that was the relationship that you have with your healthcare provider whether that's one that is developed such as continuity of care or whether it's with a different person each time, and even then, not all continuity is the same and that really came out in the study. And then the last one is being active in labor. That seemed a bit of a strange one to add on, but women who felt they were really able to do everything that they wanted to do during labor and birth, being as active as they could, as upright as they could, felt better after their birth experience. If they then ended up with a repeat Cesarean, then they still felt very positive because they had done everything that they could compared to not having the opportunity to be upright and vocalizing that. Meagan: Yes, yes. We have found that. I have found that personally in my group of doulas. We have found that even if it doesn't end the way they want, there are bumps and curves. It's labor and birth, but along the way, if they felt like they were in charge and were able to be in the positions they wanted and call the shots a little bit more, overall after, they felt immensely more positive and happy about their experience. Hazel: Yeah, absolutely. That's it. In the book then, I really go into what they all mean. The control chapter might take some people by surprise because I actually know a lot of women, especially when they are reflecting on their previous Cesarean which may have been, let's just take probably the most common example these days. Induction, they're having their first baby, they get close to the date, post dates, they get encouraged to have an induction. The induction doesn't quite go to plan. They have a cascade of interventions and have a Cesarean. When they are then planning for the next birth before or during the pregnancy, one of the common themes is getting armed with knowledge. It's like, “Okay. Now I need to know everything about labor, birth, and pregnancy. I really want to be able to call the shots.” There's a bit of grieving in that time of, “Why did I say yes? Why didn't I say no?” A bit of self-blame. I think as women, we are kind of hardwired to blame ourselves for everything, especially blaming our bodies because we are never quite right. The media never lets us think we are right because we are either too big or too small or our boobs are not quite right or whatever. Meagan: Right.Hazel: There's nothing to make us feel better and then we blame ourselves for not being able to stand up against the patriarchal medical system. I actually start the control chapter looking at the impact of the patriarchy in medicine and especially in obstetrics and how the different waves of feminism have impacted that and also the impact of reproductive justice which is something that is obviously very important in the U.S., but also over here with our host nations' women and migrant communities that have come to Australia. I look at all of that and really frame it to go, “You know, it's actually not your fault. It's actually really hard to stand up for yourself and say no when you are at the bottom of a really oppressive ladder.” Not to come and say, “Well, you can't do anything,” because then I explore all of the ways of what you can do to help that and actually how you need all of those factors together to really build your position. But almost to take that guilt off and also understand where we've got to today with a hospital-based maternity system, why it is like it is, and the impact of all of those different changes in society that have got to where we are today. So yeah. Those are the different chapters. Some of them have activities that you can do. There are a few guess righters in there. And then one of my favorite parts, probably because I didn't have to write it, but I put a Facebook post out and asked for women who had any VBAC stories that they wanted to print in the book. I wanted a VBAC with just something a little bit different or complicated risk or whatever. I have got 12 stories of women from around the world including the U.S. who've had VBAC with something a little bit different there. It might be after multiple Cesareans like your story or it might be at home or it might be with a larger body which, as we know, gets a lot of stigma in maternity care. There's one that is a VBAC after a uterine rupture. There's one after a classical scar. There are all of these different stories at the back of the book in full with pictures, but I also weaved them into some of the chapters earlier as well. I love those stories. Some are short. Some are in poem form and some are really long. I just kept them as they were and put them in the book. Just really so women can identify and go, “Maybe I'm not quite sure what Hazel is saying,” and then they get to that story and they are like, “Oh, actually I really relate to that person.”Meagan: Yeah. That's one of the reasons why we're here on The VBAC Link podcast, right? All of these stories, some of them you might not connect to as deeply, and then some you're like, “Oh my gosh. That's me. I felt that. I had that. That's my story. It's like they're taking it out of my own mouth.”Hazel: Absolutely. It is so important. Meagan: We've had that many times where it's like, “Whoa. That was almost creepy how similar those births were,” and then to be able to connect and be like, “But look. They went on and they did it. This is what they did.” It's so empowering. Just flipping through these beautiful pictures is absolutely stunning. Absolutely stunning pictures. I'm sure these stories are going to, again, relate to so many people out there that may not even know that they're going to relate to them until they read them. Hazel: Yeah. I do mention in the– oh my gosh. I'm testing myself on which chapter that one's in now. I think it might be Confidence about really relating to stories and listening to podcasts. I mention that you really need to tap into your peers because we have very large social media groups now and pages to follow full of positive VBAC stories. That's important in there. I do also add there, it does say that the title is Birth After Cesarean. I do throughout the book look at, you are choosing the best birth for you. You need to prepare for both, but you may either have or choose a gentle Cesarean. There is a chapter in there as well about what a gentle Cesarean is, what evidence says, and maybe some of the things you might think of if you have a repeat Cesarean. There is that part of it as well because I explore how important it is to really if you're going to be in control of everything or have more control, then you have to be aware of all options that might happen and be able to still have the best birth for you regardless of that outcome. Meagan: Yeah. We just posted– we reposted I should say– from Dr. Natalie Elphinstone. I think that is how you say it. Hopefully, I'm not butchering her last name. She's from Australia actually. She's an OB and she posted this video of a gentle Cesarean where the mom was actively involved in giving birth to her baby with her own hands. Hazel: Yeah. Meagan: For me in my Cesareans, both of them, my arms were strapped down in a T and after my second daughter was born, they undid the one arm and I did have skin-to-skin. I was able to hold her with that one arm, but watching this video was captivating. It's a 30-second thing, but I watched it probably 40 times because I'm like, “Oh my gosh.” I looked at the mom. I looked at the baby. I looked at everyone around her. There was no curtain. She was able to be totally a part of her birth. I'm like, “Yes. This is what we need.” I literally texted a midwife here in Utah. I'm like “I know I'm a really small fish in a big ocean, but let me know if there's anything I can do from my end to start bringing this option to people.” We got so many messages after like, “Whoa. How can I get that? What do I need to do?” It looks like in Australia, there are multiple videos of this happening. Hazel: I will add that it's not common and it really does depend on who your OB is. Meagan: Exactly. Hazel: But a few years ago, one of my dear friends did her PhD as a video ethnography of skin-to-skin in theater. She was videoing Cesareans and seeing really what happens to what enables skin-to-skin in theater and what doesn't. It was really fascinating. She was one of my PhD buddies. One of the Cesareans she saw was a gentle Cesarean with the woman reaching down to grab her baby. She wrote this beautiful article, but it was actually in a midwifery college magazine that doesn't exist anymore. I could say that she had written it, but I couldn't find my copy of it. I emailed because we are friends. I emailed her and I said, “Look. Do you have a PDF copy because I really want to read it?”She sent it to me. I read it. I wrote about it in that chapter and then I sent the chapter to her. I said, “Could you just read it to make sure that I've said all the right things?” because that's her expert area. She was happy with what I had written, so that was good. Yeah. It really is down to providers. But really, the more women that ask for it, the more pressure there will be to explore it. There are a lot of resources and videos out there now that can show people how to do it. Meagan: And how to do it and that it is possible. Hazel: Yeah. Meagan: I think sometimes it's like, “No. That's impossible. It's a sterile environment. We can't have extra bodies in the operating room.” But look. Hazel: The woman's already there. There's not going to be an extra body. Meagan: Right. Hazel: And really, the ones that I've seen really, they will do the surgical scope with their hands. They will have double gloves on so when they get to the point of needing to reach down, they can take that first pair of gloves off, and then you've got the sterile ones on underneath. There are lots that can be done. Even just lowering the screen. There's often still a screen there, but it's lowered so they can reach down and then take the baby, and then it can go back up while they do the suturing. Meagan: Absolutely, yeah. Hazel: There are ways it can be done, but it's just having people understand why. I remember being in an OB's office with a client, a woman I was caring for. She was exploring her options after having a Cesarean. She mentioned having a gentle Cesarean. His attitude was, “Well, if I offer that, then nobody will want to plan a VBAC.” I was like, “That's actually not going to happen. Don't worry. It's just giving an option to women. Women still really want to have a vaginal birth after Cesarean. That's not going to go down. Your rates are not even that high anyways so don't stress. This is what you can do to support them.” But yeah. That was an excuse for not wanting to go there because it sounds a little bit too hard. Meagan: Mhmm. Sarah: Yeah. That just goes back to sharing our stories too because I feel like without sharing those experiences like we were saying, you're not going to know what your options are if you're not being informed about them. If others are doing this and more people are asking for it, then it's going to open that door and allow other people to be in control of what they want for their birth. Meagan: Exactly. Hazel: And throughout the book, it really is based on evidence. I am a researcher with a very large library of articles and I did dive into them. Straight after the trauma chapter, I go into what the evidence is for the different choices. I have a really deep dive into uterine rupture and then what was meant to be part of a chapter actually ended up on its own which was Can I Have a VBAC If…? and then I look into different scenarios or issues that potentially people will say, “Can I have a VBAC if I've got this?”So that is all evidence-based with numbers and going through what current data is out there. Meagan: Right. There are a lot of percentages in your book. I love it. There are graphs. You may not think that this may impact care, but she has this, it's Figure 2 in the book. It's talking about the length of time for pregnancy appointments under different models of care. You may not right now think the length of an appointment matters, but I can tell you right now firsthand from experience that when I had with my VBAC kiddo, I switched care at 24 weeks. I had an OB and he was great. I seriously loved the guy. He's wonderful and I still think he's wonderful. But then I switched care to a midwifery model-based care. The difference between my visits and again, OBs will spend time, but for me, the difference between my visits was incredible. I actually looked forward, really looked forward to visits with my midwife. I was always greeted with a ginormous hug. She never walked in without giving me a big hug and saying, “How are you doing? Really, how are you?” and then would sit down. We would just have a discussion. She became my best friend. I could just open up to her. She spent quality time. For me, it really helped me as I was entering into this next stage of birth to feel confident in her. I was so comfortable because of all the time that she spent with me. Hazel: I love that. I do love that graph. That came out of my VBAC in Australia survey. We asked what model of care they had and then I asked, “What was the time spent at your appointments?” When we looked at the data, it was just so obvious that the shorter time frame, so maybe 5-15 minutes was certainly with obstetric-led care, and then the 20 minutes plus– certainly, with the privately practicing midwives it was more, and then an hour usually was with the midwifery models of care. That was important because relationships take time. In that relationship factor, you need to have someone by your side who understands your wishes and your trauma if you have some which, as I said, ⅔ of women did, and understands what you want, what you are planning for, and what you are hoping for. Just understanding you and how you tick. Certainly, in my years as a continuity of care midwife, in all models of care, you really, for me as a midwife, I really want to know the person that I'm caring for so that I can see those changes, those really subtle changes in behavior even during labor and also you can pick up when things really aren't quite right and that you might need an extra hug at that time or an extra kind word. Meagan: Yeah. Hazel: That takes a lot of trust. Relationships in healthcare, I believe, should be based on trust and equity. That takes time. The very simple graph, there's no way I could have done an appointment in ten minutes because I have to have a cup of tea at least. There's no way I could drink a cup of tea in just five or ten minutes. So sit down, have a cup of tea, and learn about what's going on.The physical part, feeling the baby, the blood pressure, that you do at some point, but that to me, finding out what's going on for the woman and how she's feeling and what's going on with the family, that is far more important. That takes time. When we saw that in the graph format, it was like, “Oh perfect. That exactly shows what we are saying.” A relationship takes time. Most of us don't usually marry someone that we haven't really or get into a relationship with someone that we haven't spent a fair bit of time with and figured out whether we like them or not. We understand that those relationships are important. I think that when you are only doing something a few times in your life, but you will remember it for the rest of your life, then you really want to choose the team and the support people there. That includes your healthcare provider who completely knows you and completely understands where you've come from and where you want to go.Meagan: Oh my gosh. I love it. I feel like I could talk to you until 4:00 a.m. in Australia. Hazel: I'm wide awake now. Meagan: My family and I are getting ready. We are going on a trip this weekend. Your book is going to be in my hand the entire airplane ride there and back because I just want to soak in every single word that you wrote in this book. I am so excited. I definitely encourage everyone. I haven't even read it yet, but I've skimmed it I should say. I started, but I haven't had time to just sit down and read. It's going to be amazing I can already tell just by browsing through this and listening to you.Oh my gosh. There is something that you say here. It's in the very beginning. This is where I have stopped reading, but it was something that impacts me personally because I feel emotional. It's kind of funny. I felt like this. I felt like a failure and I feel like there are so many times in life when we can– like you said, we beat ourselves up. If it's not about our body, it's about something else, but failure is a word that comes in. I actually have recently, today actually, it's going to be launching. I recently made a reel about failure and how there is no such thing as failure, but this is something if you don't mind, I'm going to quote you reading this book. It's page 10 everybody if you have the book. “In this book, I will talk about planning an elective Cesarean, planning a VBAC, having an elective Cesarean, having a VBAC, or having a repeat emergency Cesarean. There is no failure. You haven't failed if you choose one birth mode but have another. You are amazing and your choices are valid. Be true to you.” That, to me, is so powerful. “Be true to you.” And no, you did not fail no matter what birth mode you chose or what birth mode ended up happening, right? Don't you feel that, Sarah?Sarah: Yeah, I completely agree with that. I think it touches back into the trauma too that maybe you are not aware of that you've experienced and really fear-clearing and taking the time to process your previous birth knowing that whatever the outcome is for your next journey, you're not that failure. You're fine and perfect. You're enough. Hazel: Absolutely. Meagan: Mhmm. You are enough. Yes. Hazel: The research, when you read it, is really full of emotive damaging words when it comes to VBAC. Saying that women are a trial of scar or a trial of labor, we are not criminals for wanting to have a vaginal birth and when we use that language in research, then it means OBs and clinicians and nurses and midwives will use that language as well and tell you that you're on trial. What do you imagine when you think of that? You're not thinking about, “Is this uterine scar going to survive?” You get a feeling that you're a criminal and you're not just because you want to have a vaginal birth. I even challenge researchers. Take that language out. You don't need it. It's unnecessary. I've been writing a paper with some OBs over here recently and just saying, “I won't be on it if you use the term ‘trial.' I won't be on it if you use the term ‘failed' or ‘succeeded'. Just take the emotive words out and call it what it is.”We have to show by example as well and not have that language in the papers that are influencing policy, guidelines, and practitioners. Meagan: Yeah. Sarah: There is such power in the language and the words that we use. Absolutely. Meagan: Mhmm, yeah. Well, Hazel. It has been such an honor to chat with you. Like I said, I feel like we could go on and on and on. Maybe we just need to have you back on. Maybe we need to do something even bigger and do a webinar with you because you have such a wealth of knowledge and we're so grateful for you. Like I said everybody, we will have the link for her book Birth After Cesarean: Your Journey to a Better Birth in our show notes. So Hazel, before we go, do you want to share where everyone can find you? I'm going to be sharing you all over our social media as well. We're going to have everything in the show notes, but tell people where we can find you. Hazel: Yeah, sure. I'm on Instagram at @hazelkeedle. I'm on Facebook at VBAC Matters or Hazel Keedle, VBAC Researcher. That's where I share my book information but also future research that I'm doing as well. I'd love to come on and do a webinar with you and talk further about this anytime even at 2:00 in the morning. Meagan: Even at 2:00 in the morning! You are amazing. We are so grateful to you. Seriously, thank you so much, Hazel. Yeah. I can't wait to share this episode with the world. Hazel: Thank you for having me. Sarah: You know, a lot of what we talk about in the episode is so important and so true to how I feel too. I think calling out trauma has been something that's really near and dear to my heart and something that I had to do to prepare for my own VBAC, so I definitely recommend anybody that is going through this journey to make sure that you are taking the time to really heal from that previous birth and taking time to process and doing some fear clearing and even physical healing from the scar and doing scar massage and such like that. Also, I really think it's important to find that support and build that relationship like Hazel was talking about. Make sure you have somebody that you are able to build a relationship with and feel comfortable with because that's going to matter so much when it comes to your birth. And also, finding a doula that you have a good relationship with, not just your provider. I think those are really main things that I really try to instill in anyone that's going for a VBAC. Meagan: Absolutely. I 100% agree and Sarah, we are so happy to have you in our VBAC Link doula community. Can you tell everybody where they can find you as well? Sarah: Yeah, sure. I am in Simpsonville, South Carolina. It's in upstate South Carolina. More commonly, I guess you'd be familiar with Greenville, South Carolina. I am in that area. You can find me, mostly I hang out on Instagram, so either @sarah_marie_bilger or Entering Motherhood. You can find me there on Instagram. We're actually planning on starting up local VBAC support groups.Meagan: Oh, amazing. Sarah: So if anybody is around and in the area and interested in doing that, there's going to be me and another doula in the area. We're excited to start that and really provide in-person support for people either that have had Cesareans, may be thinking of a VBAC, or really just any realm of Cesarean/VBAC. If you've already had your VBAC and you want to come share your story of success to motivate and help women that are preparing for it as well, we're going to include story sharing and different topics to cover. Meagan: Absolutely amazing. Awesome, awesome. When all of that information is available if you wouldn't mind shooting that over to us, we will make sure that the world knows that. Awesome. Well, thank you so much for co-hosting with me today. It was such an honor to have you. Sarah: Thanks for having me. ClosingWould you like to be a guest on the podcast? Tell us about your experience at thevbaclink.com/share. For more information on all things VBAC including online and in-person VBAC classes, The VBAC Link blog, and Meagan's bio, 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
116. The Neuroscience Behind Motherhood with Dr. Jodi Pawluski In this episode we talk with Dr. Jodi Pawluski who is a neuroscientist and therapist about her research that focuses on how the brain changes in motherhood and perinatal mental illness. Although others are doing similar research it is important to talk more about the findings and continue to open up the conversation surrounding what is being discovered. This is one of the reasons she has created her podcast, Mommy Brain Revisited, and is doing the work she does. This episode is particularly exciting because it is aligned with the direction of where the Entering Motherhood podcast is going and highlights a fellow mom in STEM. Dr. Pawluski is a mom of two herself and started her journey in researching motherhood actually before she became a mom. Her story is so encouraging and this episode is full of so much knowledge surrounding the science behind what is going on inside the brain as we make the transition into motherhood. We talk about what parts of the brain seem to be most affected during this time, how our emotions, motivation, and decision making abilities are altered, and what research is currently being done and what research needs more attention if we hope to make great strides in the future on this topic. Connect more with Dr. Jodi Pawluski: Instagram: dr.jodi_pawluski Twitter: JodiPawluski Podcast: Mommy Brain Revisited Website: www.jodipawluski.com Connect more with The Entering Motherhood Podcast: Instagram: entering_motherhood and sarah_marie_bilger Facebook: EnteringMotherhoodPodcast Website: www.enteringmotherhood.com Official Affiliates of the Podcast: Hypnobabies (MOTHERHOOD20 for 20% off) Made for Mama Shop (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 15% off) Postpartum University (Postpartum Nutrition Plan and Certification)
No matter how many parenting books you read or advice you receive, does anything REALLY prepare you for becoming a parent? If you ask a first time parent with a newborn, their answer will most likely be a big fat NO. Parenting can be the most exhilarating, amazing, scary, and life changing experience you will ever go through. The entire experience from start to finish is so important for our own personal growth as parents and spouses, because it teaches us so much about ourselves and each other. In our discussion today, we have invited Sarah Bilger, mom, wife, full time mechanical engineer, and host of the podcast Entering Motherhood, to talk to us about the importance of being a parent. We go over her experience giving birth to her first and second child while working full time and the struggles that came along in the beginning. Sarah had so many unanswered questions, it felt like no one talks about how insane it is to be a parent. So she wanted to help others with the things she struggled with which is why she started her podcast about becoming a mother.Another big topic discussed is the relationship between spouses when raising children. The conversations that need to be had prior to committing to each other and what to discuss when deciding to have children.All this and more in today's episode. You don't want to miss it! Topics discussed in this episode:Why Sarah started her podcast Entering MotherhoodImportance of being a parentQuestions to ask your potential spouse about becoming a parent before marriageImportance of having similar values to your spouse when raising children togetherHow are Sarah and her husband growing togetherImportance of open communication with your spouse and childrenTeaching children about not needing to be perfectLetting go of control in parenting and allowing flexibilitySelf-awareness and reflection as a key component to parentingAccepting your children as they are and yourself as you areConnect with Sarah:InstagramFacebookWebsiteTune in to Sarah's podcast Entering Motherhood on Apple Podcasts!To learn more about character building qualities to become your true self, visit our website here!Head to Apple Podcasts to hear more episodes.Connect with Java:FacebookEmailInstagramLinkedInTwitter
Join us today as I sit down with Sarah, a podcaster herself, and a Mom of 2. Sarah shares the stories of her 2 births and how struggles and trauma with her first and her past, caused her to take a deep dive into the birth world and do things differently the second time around! Sarah's Podcast: Entering Motherhood - A Holistic Approach to Healing and Navigating Motherhood During the Postpartum Period on Apple Podcasts Sarah's Website: Entering Motherhood Trauma Course: 30 Days Heal Your Trauma, Mama — Entering Motherhood --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/healingtraumamamas/support
In this episode we recap the past 100 episodes of the Entering Motherhood podcast. With 58 guest episodes, a 30 episode mini series to help heal your trauma, and 12 solo episodes (including this one) we have made it to 100 and it is such an accomplishment. Listen in on what the journey has been like, how we're feeling, and what's next to come. Please remember to hit subscribe from what ever platform you listen in on so you don't miss out on all the latest episodes. Early Episodes Episode 9 Episode 15 Heal Your Trauma, Mama Event Resources Page 2022 Spring Festival VBAC Birth Story Remember to please rate and review the podcast and to interact with our social media page to let others know about the podcast! Official Affiliates: Made for Mama Shop The VBAC Link Postpartum University Hypnobabies Use code MOTHERHOOD20 for 20% Hypnobabies store Podcasts Referenced in Episode: Her Pursuit (Episode 29) The Ash + Ivy Show For God So Loved The Mom Connect more with The Entering Motherhood Podcast: Instagram: entering_motherhood and sarah_marie_bilger Facebook: EnteringMotherhoodPodcast Email: enteringmotherhood@gmail.com
In this episode, we talked about the transition into motherhood. We discussed our personal experiences of preparing to bring a baby home, what being a new mom was actually like and what surprised us the most about motherhood. We talked about some of the biggest challenges we faced, what went well and what we wished we prepared for a bit differently! This episode was sponsored by Potette! Megan has potty trained 3 kids so far and the Potette is her #1 potty training must-have. It's so versatile and can be used on the go, in your car, and your home. It's really the only training potty you'll ever need. If you are interested in checking out the Potette, you can find it here: https://amzn.to/3wJLYcFAll links are affiliate links.
A small recap of my first 2 months as a momma
In this episode I brought on Theskinnyonfitness "instagram handle" Elise Goubeaux and I talk about her journey into finding fitness and taking things to the extremes. We dive deeper into some lessons she learned in a strict cut she did and her recognizing she wanted to have more balance. Lastly we talk about Elise becoming a new mother and how she works on balancing it all. Your host Nicole Ferrier Tag me on IG @nicoleferrierfitness to show me you enjoyed today's content Disclaimer I am not a MD and this podcast was not created to diagnosis, treat or cure any mental or physical health issue. Suits I recommend: Angel Competition Bikinis Online Coaching Get more help with your training and nutrition www.nicoleferrierfitness.com My go to supplementshttp://bowmarnutrition.com/nicole Want more help? www.nicoleferrierfitness.com
Sarah Bilger is a certified postpartum nutritional coach, mechanical engineer, host of the Entering Motherhood podcast, and a mom of 2. We discuss her traumatic birth experience and her postpartum mental health journey, including her experience with therapy. We discuss healing from trauma and finding yourself in motherhood, going back to work after giving birth and what she wants new moms to know. “I was crying on our bedroom floor not even knowing who I was, ‘Was I Rosie's mom? Was I Sarah? Was I both?'” - Sarah Bilger Links: Christie's Website Christie's Instagram: @sasssays Sarah's Website Sarah's Instagram: @entering_motherhood Sarah's Podcast 2022 Entering Motherhood Spring Festival
For all the mamas, meet Sarah Marie Bilger, host of Entering Motherhood and post-partum nutrition coach. We discuss identity, nutrition, what your body really needs, food sensitivities, losing hair, and more! This episode is brought to you by Nest Realty, Southern Girl Chic, Body Works Women's Health and Wellness, Parham Smith and Archenhold, Blackacre Law, LLC, Amanda McCall with Prime Lending, and Leisa Johnson with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moms-on-the-move/id1535049478 Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wbGVjYXN0LmNvbS96WXpNejV1cA Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qxSzzGYvkwtLYKMa8m6NZ?si=-ch11biATXmzUK3Q8jfiKg Amazon Podcast: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/75522a34-49e8-45e9-bcfe-02484c3abefe/Moms-on-the-Move
Dishing the deets on my birth story and how I felt through the entire experience. The pain, the beauty, the excitement, the delerium...all of it! This was a journey to remember and I feel so grateful I get to share the story with you. Let me know how it felt to hear it!
In today's episode of She's Busy AF, Im sharing how I am babyproofing my business a.k.a doing all the prep before my baby arrives. I am totally new to motherhood and I am excited for this challenge. If you are a mom, mom, to be or you want tips on how to plan in advance for your bsuiness I am sure you can learn from this episode.Connect with me on Instagram!@brandgoodtime @shesbusyafLearn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime
Thank you so much for listening to the show today. In this episode, I had the honor of interviewing Ataahua Tukaramaene, who goes by Tah for short. Tah is a new parent, cycle breaker, and mental health advocate on a mission to encourage and support mothers in their journey. In this episode, Tah shares her personal journey with both becoming a mother and breaking the stigma of mental health issues. I hope you enjoy the episode!In this episode we discuss: Tah's story of battling mental health issues and dealing with the stigma surrounding itHow her family, who was skeptical at first, came to be her greatest championsHer journey to motherhood and how the work she put in to break generational cycles set her up to provide her daughter with the healthiest parenting possibleHow she has now become a mental health advocate and has helped others close to her recover from their own mental health strugglesHow to get in touch with Tah: WebsiteInstagramFacebook GroupHow to get in touch with me: Sign up for a 4 week online birth class with meFollow me on Instagram and on TikTokFind other episodes at: www.findingyourvillage.com/podcastEmail me at amanda@findingyourvillagepod.comMonthly NewsletterSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/findingyourvillagepod?fan_landing=true)
Trigger warning: pregnancy loss. This weeks episode is very raw, real, and inspiring. Meredith Borsgard shares her journey into motherhood and how she climbed her way back from a pregnancy loss in 2020. Meredith shares her heart and some tangible tips on how she used tools like fitness, therapy, and a positive community to help her though and now, how she is entering motherhood with a growth mindset and big heart. This is an amazing episode and I know it's going to touch someone's life who needs it! You can connect with Meredith on Instagram @meredithborsgard and you can listen to Merediths Podcast, "The Messy Truth" on all podcast platforms!
We talk about what it was like for Kelli to enter motherhood for the first time and what it's been like since. When first looking into foster care her coordinator had said if it's meant for you it will work out. She had always wanted kids so she found a way to make that possible even though she was single and hadn't had kids of her own yet. Even though it took a bit longer to finally be placed with a child, in less than 3 months she worked hard and made it possible to become eligible to be a foster mom. Kelli needed to prepare for any age and all the potential trauma that that comes with fostering. Like many new moms, she still faced the fears of ‘can I actually do this?" and "I don't know what I'm doing!” and she also took part in getting to share the news with her family. She realized that there was a lot of learning and growing in her journey and that she was now responsible for things like doctors appointments and setting rules, but overall she said she has never felt more purposeful and more fulfilled than when she is a foster mom. She soon realized she needed to put everything she had into someone else day and night and later learned how to find ways to still find time for herself. She suggests that other new foster moms learn to say yes to people that offer to help you and find things that the kids can do that are fun for them so you can have some time for yourself. The transition of sending them back to their family is what you hope for but its still hard and very bitter sweet. Her family has been supportive and her nieces and nephews also love the idea but they also feel the separation when the kids transition back to their family. Some might say it's hard to see them go but Kelli reassures us that It's hard to let them go but these kids need this love and they need people to hold that space for them, the whole point is to care too much. If you're looking into being a foster parent yourself reach out to other foster parents in the area and get to know the steps that are needed specifically for you. If you know a foster mom be sure to take a moment to appreciate them, be empathetic, and support them where you can. After all, we are all mothers coming together on this journey of Entering Motherhood. Recommended Books The Connected Parent by Lisa Qualls and Karyn Purvis PhD The Connected Child by Kryn Purvis PhD The Explosive Child by Ross W. Greene Contact Kelli Boyce Instagram @fosteringsolo
Sarah lost her mom when she was 9, and then lost her step-mom when she was 22. She recently became a mom herself, and realized how becoming a mom shifted a lot of her thoughts and feelings. She is sharing what she's learned and other tips, tricks and advice in an online community where all new moms are welcome: Entering Motherhood. Website: www.enteringmotherhood.com Instagram: @entering_motherhood and @sarah_marie_bilger You can find her podcast on your favorite platform. Sarah's takeaway: Don't feel ashamed or afraid. There are lots of people who feel this way too. Be vulnerable - maybe when you unfold it will open up a whole new conversation. Please visit my website www.yourgriefjourney.com for my information and blogs.
This episode breaks down how the idea for entering motherhood was born. I talk about the transition of what it was like for me to become a mom and what ultimately lead me to creating this space where mothers can come together and share their postpartum experiences. I hope you enjoy the story and discover how this journey has changed you.
This podcast is a place where you can expect to hear stories and helpful tips from birth workers, health care professionals, and new moms just like you. These episodes are designed to help take on a journey to learn new things about yourself, how you can become more empowered, and gain a deeper understanding of what's going on as you are entering motherhood.
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