Podcasts about Hehe

Kea-Sophie Stack had a clear vision for an unmedicated hospital birth. After preparing with hypnobirthing, essential oils, meditation and more, she returns to discuss how the birth of her first baby at 41 actually turned out. Connect with the guest: @kea_sophie_ keasophie.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, makers of luxuriously soft bamboo sheets, blankets, and sleep essentials. Because your rest matters, mamas. Cozy Earth makes it easier to get the cozy, breathable sleep your body (and your little one) deserve. Use code HEHE at https://cozyearth.com/ for 20% off your order and treat yourself to the sleep you've been dreaming of.   If you caught last week's episode, you already know HeHe's own tongue tie story was not exactly simple. This week she's zooming out with Dr. Heidi Aaronson, a general dentist who specializes in tethered oral tissues, to answer the question so many parents get stuck on: is this actually a tongue tie, or is something else going on entirely? Dr. Heidi's whole approach starts with function over appearance, meaning what a tie looks like under your baby's tongue matters a lot less than what it's actually doing. She and HeHe get into why clicking, a poor seal, feeding fatigue, gas, reflux, and colic can all have more than one root cause, and why body tension and fascia can mimic or even feed into feeding problems that look exactly like a tongue tie on the surface. They also talk through when lactation consultants and bodywork should come before you even consider a release, because sometimes the answer really isn't a release at all. From there they go deep on what actually happens during a frenectomy or frenotomy, laser versus scissors, what recovery looks like for a tiny human, and HeHe finally gets the truth on whether tongue ties really cause a lisp (spoiler, it's more myth than you'd think). And because ties don't just affect feeding, Dr. Heidi breaks down the sleep and airway side too, mouth breathing, snoring, tooth grinding, and the specific red flags that mean it's time to loop in an ENT. Dr. Heidi's philosophy the whole way through is less is more, and this episode is basically a masterclass in knowing the difference between a tie that needs treatment and one that just needs time. Oh, and stick around for HeHe's current favorite low-tox laundry detergent. In this episode: How tongue, lip and cheek ties can affect oral function Why function matters more than how a tie looks Tongue ties and breastfeeding or bottle-feeding challenges Clicking, poor seal, feeding fatigue, gas, reflux and colic How body tension can mimic or contribute to feeding problems The connection between oral restrictions, fascia and whole-body compensation When lactation support and bodywork may be helpful before considering a release What actually happens during a frenectomy or frenotomy Laser vs. scissors, pain and infant recovery Tongue ties, speech development and lisp myths Mouth breathing, snoring and disrupted sleep Why baby snoring can be an airway red flag When to involve an ENT Why Dr. Aaronson believes less is more when deciding what to release Timestamps 00:00 Baby Snoring Red Flags 00:55 New Baby Sleep Guide 02:27 Four-Month Sleep Shift 06:06 Oral Ties & Sleep 11:24 What Tongue Ties Are 39:26 Tongue Ties & Digestion 41:26 Fascia Chain & Compensation 43:35 Feeding Fatigue & the Witching Hour 46:01 Injury Tension vs. Tongue Tie 48:22 Release Procedure Explained 52:58 Laser vs. Scissors & Pain 58:18 Speech Issues & Lisp Myths 01:02:44 Mouth Breathing, Snoring & Airway 01:07:24 Who to See: ENT & Red Flags 01:10:38 Wrap-Up, Resources & Insurance Want more restful nights for the whole family? Grab HeHe's Baby Sleep Solutions Guide here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/babysleep, or treat yourself to Cozy Earth's bamboo sheets with code HEHE at https://cozyearth.com/ for 20% off. Guest Bio: Dr. Heidi Aaronson is a general dentist and owner of New Generation Dental Center in Wellesley, Massachusetts, with a special focus on tethered oral tissues and their impact on feeding, oral function, growth and development. She evaluates and treats hundreds of infants and children each year for tongue, lip and buccal ties and works closely with lactation consultants, feeding therapists, myofunctional therapists and other healthcare providers to determine when treatment is appropriate — and, just as importantly, when it isn't. Dr. Heidi has pursued extensive continuing education in tethered oral tissues and airway-focused dentistry and has trained with leading clinicians in the field. She also lectures to other healthcare professionals on the evaluation and treatment of tongue ties across the lifespan. Her approach focuses on function rather than appearance and on helping families understand the whole picture before deciding whether a release is right for their child.   Connect with Dr. Heidi: https://www.ngdentalcenter.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dr. Heidi on IG: https://www.instagram.com/bostontonguetie/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Not ready for the 4-24 month sleep solution guide? Check out our Newborn Sleep Solution guide here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/newbornsleep Want birth prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Story time, and it's a personal one. HeHe is kicking off a brand new series today, and it starts with the very real, very messy saga of her own baby's tongue tie release. If a midwife or chiro has ever casually dropped "possible tongue tie" into conversation and sent your brain into a full spiral, welcome, you are exactly who this episode is for. Here's how it actually went down for HeHe: both her midwife and her chiropractor flagged possible restriction, but the real diagnosis? That came from a pediatric dentist, not a hunch and not Instagram. She takes you inside the laser release itself (quick, weirdly anticlimactic), and then into the part nobody warns you about, the post-release stretches and exercises that keep scar tissue from creeping back in and undoing the whole thing. You guys, the symptom list on this one is long: painful nursing, nipple damage, clicking, leaking milk, a poor latch, chomping, the lipstick-shaped nipple nobody wants to talk about, low milk transfer. Left alone, that combo can snowball into clogged ducts, mastitis, and a supply that just tanks. HeHe also calls out the guilt spiral hard, because no, you did not do this to your baby, and gets real about what the pain actually feels like versus what you're told to expect going in. Not every tie needs a release. Hers needed two. And both times? Immediate latch change, better drainage, zero regrets. Want the shortcut version of everything HeHe has learned about getting real sleep postpartum? Grab her new sleep guide here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/babysleep SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app Ready to simplify your supplements with a brand you can actually trust? Check out Just Ingredients for clean protein, prenatals, electrolytes, and more, made with real, transparent ingredients. Head to https://www.justingredients.us and use code TRANQUILITYBYHEHE to save 10% on your first order.  

Wellness practitioner Kea-Sophie Stack discusses her search for healing and profound personal growth along with preparations for her first baby at age 41. Connect with the guest: @kea_sophie_ keasophie.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, makers of luxuriously soft bamboo sheets, blankets, and sleep essentials. Because your rest matters, mamas. Cozy Earth makes it easier to get the cozy, breathable sleep your body (and your little one) deserve. Use code HEHE at https://cozyearth.com/ for 20% off your order and treat yourself to the sleep you've been dreaming of... Here's a wild thought: what if your kid's snoring, tantrums, bedwetting, and bad posture aren't five separate problems, but one connected story your body is trying to tell you? That's exactly the rabbit hole HeHe goes down with Dr. Rachel Hamel this week, and honestly, it might change how you look at almost every "quirky" thing about your child. Dr. Rachel breaks down why airway issues are so much bigger than "does my kid have a tongue tie," and why timing, nervous system regulation, and even birth history can completely change the picture. If you've been side-eyeing the snoring, mouth breathing, reflux, bedwetting, tantrums, or just a nagging "something feels off" gut instinct, this conversation hands you a whole new lens to look through. The part that really gets HeHe? A tongue release alone often isn't enough if a baby's body is still stuck in fight-or-flight, and doing things out of order can actually make everything worse. In this one, you'll get into: Why airway health actually starts in the womb, and how pregnancy, labor, birth interventions, and early trauma can shape it How primitive reflexes, cranial nerves, the diaphragm, the pelvis, and posture are all quietly talking to each other What a C-section may actually change in a baby's skull, mouth, gut, and nervous system Why genetics matter, but epigenetics, nutrition, and environment are pulling just as much weight The signs parents should actually watch for, sleep issues, teeth grinding, an elongated facial shape, dark circles, and forward posture Dr. Rachel also gets honest about why she is intentionally conservative with tongue releases, when they genuinely help, and why her approach leans multidisciplinary, think craniopathy, dentists, orthodontists, and myofunctional therapy working together instead of one quick fix. She unpacks what "early" really means, why the first few months carry so much weight, and why some of the most popular fixes out there completely miss the root of the problem. Dr. Rachel Hamel is a certified craniopath for adults and children, founder of Hamel Cranial Chiropractic and Wellness, co-owner of Imprint Medical Center, host of the Unfiltered Healing Podcast, and author of Freedom Brain. Her work has been featured by Forbes, the World Federation of Chiropractic, and the Journal of Chiropractic Education. If you're a parent navigating oral restrictions, airway concerns, or just wondering if your kid's symptoms are actually all connected, this is essential listening. This might be the clarity you've been waiting for.   Guest Bio: Dr. Rachel Hamel has numerous credentials including being a certified craniopath for adults and children. She is the founder of Hamel Cranial Chiropractic & Wellness as well as co-owner of Imprint Medical Center which offers advanced regenerative medicine therapies. She also hosts the "Unfiltered Healing Podcast", and her perspectives have been featured in Forbes, the World Federation of Chiropractic, and The Journal of Chiropractic Education. Lastly, she is the author of a best seller entitled Freedom Brain all about the health of the nervous system. When she's not empowering patients, you can find Dr. Rachel with family and friends or hiking in God's creation. Connect with Dr. Hamel: www.imprinthealthcenter.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dr. Rachel on IG: https://www.instagram.com/_drrachel_/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: Dr. Rachel's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@unfilteredhealingpodcast   Peak pediatric institute : SOT pediatric chiropractors finder near you - https://drmartinrosen.com/pediatric-referral-directory/

Be the first to know when the Baby Sleep Solution for ages 4-24 months is available here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/sleepwaitlist Get the Newborn Sleep Solution Guide here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/newbornsleep Let's just say it. Co-sleeping is not illegal, it is not something you have to whisper about at your pediatrician's office, and it is definitely not something that only happens to parents who "didn't try hard enough" to get their baby in a crib. HeHe is coming in hot on this one because she lived it, and she is done letting this topic live in secrecy and shame. HeHe gets real about her own pivot to bed sharing around 13 weeks postpartum, not because she had it all planned out on a vision board, but because her family was exhausted and it worked. She talks through how it changed the game for actual sleep quality, how breastfeeding fit into the picture, and why so many parents end up here even when it was nowhere in the plan. But this is not a "just wing it" episode. HeHe walks through the real safe sleep guidelines that matter if you are going to bed share: a firm sleep surface (couches and recliners are an automatic no), zero substances, baby always on their back, the actual crescent position, never sandwiching baby between two adults, keeping baby lightly dressed, and ditching the swaddle the second baby is in your bed. She also gets into the nuance around premature or medically complex babies, and why breastfeeding may act as a protective factor, because context matters here and HeHe is not about one-size-fits-all fear tactics. And because plenty of families bed share for a season and then want out, HeHe covers exactly how to transition, from crib sleep to floor beds to the "start the night in the crib, then bring baby into bed later" method that made the whole shift so much less painful for her own family. HeHe also has a new sleep guide dropping that pulls all of this together in one place, so if you want the cheat sheet version of everything in this episode, grab it here: [insert sleep guide link] 00:00 Co-Sleeping Surprise Stats 01:00 Non-Toxic Registry Plug 04:43 Co-Sleeping Isn't Illegal 06:36 My Unexpected Co-Sleep Journey 09:34 Safe Co-Sleep Basics 11:30 Positioning and Family Bed Rules 17:20 Breastfeeding Factor and Swaddles 21:34 How Accidental Co-Sleeping Happens 29:21 Transitioning Out of Co-Sleeping 40:37 Sleep Guides and Final Wrap-Up BIRTH EDUCATION RESOURCES Want more no-BS, evidence-based support for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum? Join The Birth Lounge, judgment-free childbirth education from HeHe that helps you feel prepared and supported every step of the way: thebirthlounge.com Want prep on the go? Download The Birth Lounge App: thebirthlounge.com/app We've officially become a Lalo household, the Hook-On High Chair, Play Kit, bath set, even their 3-in-1 potty, all of it built to grow with your family through every stage and every future baby. Head to meetlalo.com and use code HEHE for 10% off.  

Jennifer Veatch shares her story of making it through through two years of genetic testing and IVF before arriving where she is today, in her third trimester getting ready to meet her baby. Connect with the guest: Penny 'N Pals on Amazon LinkedIn Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Her bottom line, and it's a good one to tattoo somewhere: routine doesn't mean required. You're allowed to ask "cool, but do I need this?" even when the answer everyone gives you is "we just do this for everybody." Ready to walk into your birth already knowing exactly what's negotiable? Grab your spot in the free class: thebirthlounge.com/csection Okay, real talk. Have you ever had a pregnancy dream so unhinged you woke up questioning your entire life? You dreamed your baby had teeth, or your ex showed up at your baby shower, or you were somehow giving birth in a Target and nobody seemed alarmed but you. HeHe has been there. This week she sits down with D'Lisa, aka D'Lisa Dream Doula, to finally get some answers, and honestly, this one goes places HeHe did not expect. D'Lisa is a life coach and artist out of Southern California who has built her whole thing around teaching women to actually listen to their dreams instead of just laughing them off at brunch. She and HeHe get into the real science of REM sleep first (yes, there is actual science here, this is not just vibes), and then things get juicy: why some dreams are just your brain doing dishes from the day and others feel like they are trying to tell you something. HeHe, who has definitely had a recurring dream or twelve, was very invested in this part. Then D'Lisa drops the story that makes this whole episode: she dreamed her daughter's name before she ever knew it, and later saw firemen in black shoes right before a lightning-fast home birth. To be clear, she is not out here promising your dreams are a crystal ball, but if you have ever had a dream that felt too specific to just be random, you are going to want to hear this. They also run through the greatest hits of dream themes, falling, being chased, running in place, the anxiety dream you have had a hundred times, plus what is actually going on with sleep paralysis and sleepwalking (spoiler, less scary than it sounds). If a pregnancy nightmare has ever left you spiraling at 3am googling "does this dream mean something is wrong," this episode is your permission slip to stop panicking. D'Lisa explains why a scary dream is far more likely to be your brain processing something emotional than it is to be predicting the future, and she teaches lucid dreaming as an actual tool you can use to change or straight up exit a nightmare mid-dream. She wraps it up with her own dream journaling method so you can start actually remembering this stuff instead of losing it the second your alarm goes off. Ready to simplify your supplements with a brand you can actually trust? Check out Just Ingredients for clean protein, prenatals, electrolytes, and more, made with real, transparent ingredients. Head to justingredients.us and use code TRANQUILITYBYHEHE to save 10% on your first order.   CHAPTERS 00:00 The Dream World Is Wilder Than You Think 01:15 Meet D'Lisa, Dream Doula 03:10 Why We Dream In The First Place 04:40 The Dream That Named Her Daughter 10:25 Consciousness And Different Dream Realms 14:43 How To Actually Remember (And Request) A Dream 17:59 Nightmares And The Spider Symbol 20:47 Why Recurring Dreams Keep Coming Back 28:17 The Anxiety Dreams Almost Everyone Has 29:30 Sleep Paralysis, Explained 30:23 Sleepwalking And Acting Out Dreams 30:55 Why Pregnancy Dreams Get So Intense 33:12 D'Lisa's Wildest Pregnancy Dream Story 35:39 Lucid Dreaming 101 40:46 Kids And Their Dreamlike Minds 42:29 Birth Memories And Past Lives 46:33 Hypnobirthing And Deja Vu 48:25 D'Lisa's Dream Journaling Method 51:03 What To Do With A Scary Pregnancy Dream 53:01 Where To Find D'Lisa 53:56 Final Thanks And Sign Off   GUEST BIO D'Lisa is a life coach and artist living in Southern California. She teaches women how to tap into their intuition, analyze their own dreams, and manifest their best life using spiritual principles. D'Lisa's website: https://coachingwithD.com SOCIAL MEDIA HeHe's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe D'Lisa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dlisadreamdoula D'Lisa's website: https://coachingwithD.com   BIRTH EDUCATION RESOURCES Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app      

Cops search thousands of flock cameras for reasons of “LMAO,” “IDK,” “Hehe,” and “asdfg” HR 1 full 2442 Tue, 15 Sep 2026 15:58:16 +0000 mwucULbbSgOCWObHFTOZeoTi9zYyjf7R news MIDDAY with JAYME & WIER news Cops search thousands of flock cameras for reasons of “LMAO,” “IDK,” “Hehe,” and “asdfg” HR 1 From local news & politics, to what's trending, sports & personal stories...MIDDAY with JAYME & WIER will get you through the middle of your day! © 2025 Audacy, Inc. News

"That's just our policy" is not the same thing as "that's medically necessary for you." Y'all asked for a "what would HeHe do" episode, so here it is: HeHe is climbing on her soapbox for a full opinion piece (data-backed, but let's be honest, also just HeHe having thoughts) about five things hospitals treat as automatic that she does not think should be automatic for everybody. The routine IV. Universal GBS antibiotics. The 39-week induction chat. Continuous fetal monitoring. And growth scans, which she calls, in her exact words, "a crock." Buckle up.   HeHe also announces the glow-up of her free class on avoiding an unnecessary C-section (yes, the "unnecessarean," she will not stop saying it and honestly neither will we), built from a decade of tips she says can cut your C-section risk by as much as 50%. Grab your spot here: thebirthlounge.com/csection   First up, the hep lock IV that gets placed on basically everyone whether or not anyone actually needs it. HeHe's not saying IVs are bad, she's saying "everyone gets one just in case" isn't the same as "you need one," and she wants you sorted into an actual risk category instead of a blanket policy. Next, GBS antibiotics: she's fully aware this is the take that loses her some listeners, but she walks through why testing positive weeks before birth doesn't mean you need antibiotics on autopilot, and hands you the exact tool (the Kaiser Permanente neonatal sepsis calculator) to run your own numbers instead of taking the hospital's word for it. On monitoring, she draws a hard line: intermittent auscultation should be the default for low-risk labor, continuous fetal monitoring is for when Pitocin, an epidural, or an actual risk factor is in the mix, not everyone strapped to a belly band the second they walk in. And growth scans get zero mercy. Her point: ultrasounds get less accurate the bigger and more "done cooking" your baby gets, mom's own gut guess on baby's size beats both the ultrasound and a provider's hands-on feel, and she thinks routine scans get used to talk women into interventions they never needed in the first place.   Her bottom line, and it's a good one to tattoo somewhere: routine doesn't mean required. You're allowed to ask "cool, but do I need this?" even when the answer everyone gives you is "we just do this for everybody." Ready to walk into your birth already knowing exactly what's negotiable? Grab your spot in the free class: thebirthlounge.com/csection   Ditch the moldy, anxiety-inducing coffee that's secretly stressing your adrenals. Purity Coffee is third-party tested, mold-free, USDA organic, regeneratively farmed, and sustainably sourced, good for you and the planet. Grab your cup at puritycoffee.com and use code HEHE to save.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/   00:00 Big Announcement 01:32 Free C-Section Class 02:52 Episode Setup 05:08 IVs In Labor 10:16 Rethinking GBS Antibiotics 15:26 39-Week Inductions 16:41 Purity Coffee 19:43 Fetal Monitoring Defaults 25:21 Growth Scans Debate 29:36 Routine Not Required 33:17 Final Wrap Up   LINKS MENTIONED: Kaiser Permanente Neonatal Sepsis Calculator: http://neonatalsepsiscalculator.kaiserpermanente.org   RELATED EPISODES: More on Continuous Fetal Monitoring (CFM): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7G7nnlQXYY

Spillosofi! Yes! Jeg elsker det! Det gjør også Martin, som etter denne episoden tenker å oppdatere sin Instagram-bio med tittelen "Spillosof". Hvis du går inn for å sjekke nå, så ser du at i hvert fall jeg har gjort det allerede. Hehe.Det finnes mange spillosofiske spørsmål, og i denne episoden forsøker vi å svare på noen av dem. Hvorfor husker vi noen spill hele livet? Hvorfor er det så viktig å spille spill på release? Og ikke minst: Hvorfor føles det mye verre å drepe et dyr enn å drepe et menneske i et spill? God helg! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liberté Chan is a former competitive figure skater, longtime television meteorologist, and devoted student of yoga. She's navigating postpartum life and turning an unexpected connection with her daughter into a brand new program designed to help strengthen mother/baby bonds. Connect with the guest: @libertechan mindfulminis.com Mini & Me Ocean Warm-up Flows on IP+ Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can Google every symptom, join every group chat, and still feel like you have no idea who's actually going to show up when the baby comes. That's the tension HeHe digs into with Nina Spears, Founder of Baby Chick, in this one.   Building your registry while you're at it? Grab HeHe's free guide before you add another item to your cart: thebirthlounge.com/registry   Here's the thing: we have more pregnancy and parenting information available than any generation before us, and somehow it's made a lot of us feel more alone, not less. HeHe and Nina get into why the mental load starts the second that pregnancy test turns positive, why doomscrolling has quietly replaced actually calling someone, and how algorithms reward the loudest, most polarizing takes instead of the ones that would actually help you.   Nina doesn't just name the problem, she hands you an actual plan. She has every client build a postpartum plan alongside their birth plan, starting in the second trimester so the third trimester can be spent preparing for postpartum instead of scrambling. That plan includes naming three people you can call during the day and three you can text at night (she recommends starting a group text with other new moms in a similar stage), finding a local mom group like Fit4Mom or New Mom School, and hiring a doula, who often becomes the fastest way to find every other resource you need. She also introduces her book, The Baby Chick Guide to Positive Pregnancy, written week by week with cited, evidence-based info and specific tips for partners at each stage.   You don't need a bigger following. You need three people who will show up. This episode is your permission slip to go build that, before baby arrives, not after you're already drowning. Building your registry too? Grab the free Low-Tox Baby Registry Guide here: thebirthlounge.com/registry   Ready to simplify your supplements? Just Ingredients makes clean protein, prenatals, and electrolytes with real, transparent ingredients. Head to justingredients.us and use code TRANQUILITYBYHEHE to save 10% on your first order.   Guest Bio: Nina Spears is the Founder & CEO of Baby Chick, author of The Baby Chick Guide to Positive Pregnancy, and a certified baby planner, birth doula, postpartum doula, childbirth educator, newborn care educator, infant massage instructor, and perinatal nutrition expert. Over the past 15 years, Nina has personally supported more than 800 families in person, thousands virtually, and attended over 350 births, helping parents navigate pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and the transition into parenthood with evidence-based guidance and compassionate support. Through Baby Chick, her educational platform, Chick Chat: The Baby Chick Podcast, online courses, coaching, and evidence-based resources, she has helped millions of parents make informed decisions and feel more prepared for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenthood.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Nina Spears / Baby Chick: Website: https://www.baby-chick.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebabychick/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teambabychick/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@babychickofficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@babychick   00:00 The Village You Actually Need 01:04 Podcast Welcome and Registry 04:54 What We Missed Preparing 07:51 Meet Nina Spears 08:33 Scrolling and Overthinking 16:05 Finding Real Disconnect 18:09 Breaking Phone Habits 22:38 Algorithms and Consumerism 25:05 Rebuilding the Village 28:34 Postpartum Plan Blueprint 32:34 Local Groups and Doulas 35:19 Distance and Lost Community 39:49 Just Ingredients 42:24 Motherhood Goes Viral 43:44 Oversharing vs Awareness 45:21 Digital Village Illusion 50:02 Viral Fame and Misinformation 52:52 Lost Wisdom and Real Connection 57:28 Micro Habits to Reconnect 59:32 Grandparents Replaced by Google 01:01:11 AI Disrupts Parenting and Work 01:04:26 Tech, Data, and the Anxiety Spiral 01:09:50 Positive Pregnancy Book Breakdown 01:17:01 Where to Find Nina 01:18:22 Final Wrap and Call to Action   LINKS MENTIONED: Nina's book, The Baby Chick Guide to Positive Pregnancy: https://www.baby-chick.com/

Ep. 482: 4 myths I keep hearing at Baby Showers You know those baby shower conversations where everyone suddenly becomes a pregnancy expert?

Da ist sie endlich! Unsere bzw. eher meine Bundesliga-Vorhersage für die Saison 26/27. Ich verfahre hier nach unserem klassischen Verfahren und stelle jede Mannschaft anhand der Partien des Spieltags vor. Dabei gehe ich im Detail nochmal kurz auf die Teams ein, indem ich den Schlüsselspieler, die Enttäuschung der Saison tippe und ein "Hot-Take" zum jeweiligen Team abgebe. Zu guter Letzt werden dann noch die Tabellenplätze prognostiziert. Naja und so einfach hat man dann über 3 Stunden an Audiomaterial. Hehe. Zusätzlich quatsche ich noch anfangs über wiederbelebte FIFA Ultimate Team-Server, die Schalke-Doku von Sky und über den Rücktritt vom Quatscher (Stadionsprecher Dirk Oberschulte-Beckmann vom S04). Viel Spaß mit der Folge bzw. mit dem Hörbuch! Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/die_0_muss_stehen/ Kicktipp: https://www.kicktipp.de/die0mussstehenbuli

Kayce-Perkins Katz went into pregnancy with a pretty common birth plan in mind. As things progressed, her view changed as she considered what her body was actually capable of and unexpected circumstances arose. Connect with the guest: @kayce.perkins.katz Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if secure attachment isn't about doing everything perfectly? In this episode, HeHe sits down with licensed therapist and attachment expert Eli Harwood, aka Attachment Nerd, to break down what secure attachment actually looks like, how co-regulation and attunement shape our relationships with our kids, and why being “regulated enough” matters way more than being a perfect parent. HeHe and Eli unpack the difference between attachment and simply being connected, why responsiveness matters more than following a specific parenting philosophy, and what happens when our own mental health, stress, or childhood experiences make it harder to tune into our kids. They talk about the still face experiment, the reality that even securely attached parent-child pairs are only perfectly in sync some of the time, and why repairing after you mess up is one of the most powerful things you can do. And if you're trying to break generational patterns, this conversation goes DEEP. Eli shares how grieving what you didn't receive in childhood can actually help you parent differently, plus practical ways to apologize, reconnect, and create safety after a rupture. They also get into daycare, temperament, neurodivergence, clingy kids, proximity-seeking, self-soothing vs. shutting down, gentle parenting vs. permissive parenting, and the long-term impact of secure attachment. And yes, they talk about spanking, why it can disrupt trust, and what repair can look like when you've already made a parenting choice you regret. Basically, this episode is your reminder that secure attachment isn't about never getting it wrong. It's about creating a relationship where your child knows you're there, keeps coming back to you, and learns that even when things go sideways, connection can be repaired.

Labor Live is your chance to practice navigating labor before you're actually in it. This interactive birth simulation delivers real-life labor scenarios straight to your phone, letting you make decisions, explore your options, and learn what questions to ask your provider along the way. Labor Live starts September 1. Head to https://joinlaborlive.com/ to save your spot! Your water breaks... now what?! In this episode, HeHe walks you through exactly what to pay attention to when your water breaks, how to confirm that it actually happened, and how to make informed decisions about what comes next instead of automatically rushing into the hospital or an induction. She breaks down the TACO framework: Time, Amount, Color, and Odor, plus the biggest red flags to watch for, including decreased fetal movement, bleeding, fever, preterm rupture, severe pain, and the emergency of a cord prolapse. HeHe also gets into expectant management vs. induction, the pressure around the so-called “24-hour clock,” vaginal exams, eating, baths, and what questions to ask your provider so you can stay in control. And because knowing what to do isn't the same as actually practicing it, HeHe also introduces Labor Live, her interactive, real-time birth simulation designed to help you practice making decisions and advocating for yourself before you're in the middle of labor. Chapters 00:00 Stay In Control 00:29 Welcome & Teaser 02:02 Your Water Broke... Now What? 03:06 Labor Is a Conversation 04:34 Did Your Water Actually Break? 06:02 Baby Movement & Timing 07:36 Red Flags & Emergencies 11:24 Your Options After Your Water Breaks 15:40 Eating, Baths & Hydrotherapy 18:54 Labor Live & Wrap Up   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Even after of years practicing and teaching mindfulness and self care, Sarah Olin's preparedness for the emotional and physical demands of motherhood was challenged in many ways. Connect with the guest: @lumoleadership lumoleadership.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Labor Live is your chance to practice navigating labor before you're actually in it. This interactive birth simulation delivers real-life labor scenarios straight to your phone, letting you make decisions, explore your options, and learn what questions to ask your provider along the way. Labor Live starts September 1. Head to https://joinlaborlive.com/ to save your spot! Low amniotic fluid can be one of those pregnancy diagnoses that sends you straight into a Google rabbit hole. So in this episode, HeHe sits down with board-certified OBGYN Dr. Lawren Honken to break down oligohydramnios, what it actually means, how it's diagnosed, and when low fluid may or may not mean it's time to induce. Dr. Lawren explains how providers measure amniotic fluid, including the difference between the single deepest pocket and AFI, and why one measurement may give us a more useful picture than the other. They also dig into what can contribute to low fluid, from dehydration and placental function to hypertension, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, ruptured membranes, and other pregnancy complications. And then we get into the big question: Does low amniotic fluid automatically mean you need an induction? Spoiler: it's more nuanced than that. HeHe and Dr. Lawren talk through hydration and repeat ultrasounds, fetal monitoring, the risks associated with truly low fluid, ACOG guidance for isolated oligohydramnios, and what happens when you're trying to decide whether to continue the pregnancy or move toward delivery. They also have a really important conversation about informed consent, trauma-informed care, provider communication, and why a diagnosis shouldn't automatically mean you're rushed into a decision without understanding your options. Because sometimes the most empowering thing your provider can give you isn't another intervention. It's information, context, and the space to make an informed decision about your own body and baby. If you've been told you have low amniotic fluid, you're being monitored for oligohydramnios, or you're trying to understand when an induction is actually medically indicated, this is one you want in your back pocket. Chapters 00:00 Induction Shockwave 01:12 Pregnancy Diagnosis Minefield 03:42 Meet Dr. Lawren Honken 07:52 What Is Low Amniotic Fluid? 10:55 Hydration, Placenta & Clues 14:34 What Causes Low Fluid? 19:20 Amnioinfusion Explained 22:25 When Does Induction Make Sense? 29:08 Individualized & Trauma-Informed Care 33:31 HeHe Shares a Personal Birth Story 36:41 When Your Water Breaks Without Contractions 39:13 How Accurate Is an Ultrasound? 41:00 The Risks of Low Amniotic Fluid 46:49 Advocating for Your Options 51:27 The Triage Reassurance Algorithm 54:20 Provider Compassion & Burnout 01:00:26 Questions to Ask Your Provider 01:02:03 Where to Follow Dr. Lawren 01:03:17 Final Wrap & Subscribe Guest Bio: Dr. Lawren Honken is a board-certified OB/GYN, Certified Menopause Practitioner, surgeon, mother of four, and creator of Your Friend the OB/GYN. She is passionate about helping women understand their options through evidence-based education so they can make informed decisions that align with their values, goals, and unique circumstances. Her approach emphasizes patient autonomy, shared decision-making, and compassionate, individualized care. Connect with Dr. Honken here: YourFriendTheOBGYN.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dr. Honken on IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourfriendtheobgyn/ LINKS MENTIONED: IG account measure the placenta: https://www.instagram.com/measuretheplacenta/ Listen to our episode with Dr. Florescue here: ​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VEex1HJId2o BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Ready to prepare for labor like nobody has before? Head to https://www.thebirthlounge.com/laborlive  "How will I know if I'm in labor?" If you've asked yourself this question fifty times already, you're not alone, and I promise it's not because you're missing something obvious. There's no single "poof" moment. No one clear sign that says this is it. Losing your mucus plug, bloody show, even being 3–4 cm dilated can all happen days before active labor actually starts. In this episode, I'm breaking down what's actually happening in early labor and why it feels so confusing. I'll share my own story of sitting at dinner with intense contractions that just... stopped once I rested. (Yes, that happens. No, it doesn't mean anything's wrong.) I'm walking you through how to tell Braxton Hicks from true labor contractions, not just by how they feel, but by their pattern, their predictability, and where you feel them in your body. We'll talk about how hydration, rest, and magnesium can actually help calm things down when it's not time yet. And I'll help you reframe early labor as something you get to live through with a plan, instead of something you're anxiously waiting to survive. I'll also cover when it's actually time to call your provider, and introduce Labor Live, starting September 1, an interactive birth simulation built to help you practice real-time labor decisions before you're actually making them. Because the goal isn't to memorize every possible symptom. It's to know your body well enough to trust yourself when the moment comes. 00:00 False Alarm Contractions 01:00 Why Labor Feels Confusing 02:17 No Single Labor Sign 02:43 Mucus Plug and Bloody Show 03:43 Braxton Hicks vs Labor 05:52 How Contractions Feel Different 07:30 Dilation Isn't Labor 08:54 Waters Breaking Matters 10:00 Early Labor Game Plan 11:57 Symptom Stack and When to Call 13:29 You'll Feel the Shift 14:07 Labor Live Simulation 17:07 Wrap Up and Key Patterns 18:29 Final Thanks and Subscribe SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Kara Sutton returns to the podcast to tell the story of the planned home birth of her fourth baby. Connect with the guest: @ikaraboutyou alwaysfriday.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe gets real about one of the most uncomfortable and misunderstood parts of postpartum life: intrusive thoughts. If you've ever had a scary, unwanted thought pop into your head after having a baby and immediately wondered, “What is wrong with me?!”, you are absolutely not alone. HeHe sits down with Špela Grašič, a registered clinical counselor and new mom who has lived with OCD herself, to unpack the difference between common postpartum intrusive thoughts and postpartum OCD. They talk about why so many new parents experience unwanted thoughts about something happening to their baby, and why having an intrusive thought does not mean you want it to happen or make you more likely to act on it. Špela shares her own experience with vivid postpartum intrusive thoughts and explains how OCD can be sneaky, showing up not just through obvious behaviors, but through mental compulsions, reassurance-seeking, checking, avoidance, and constantly trying to make sure you're a “good enough” or safe parent. Together, HeHe and Špela explore how hormones, sleep deprivation, hypervigilance, stress, and the enormous responsibility of caring for a tiny human can all contribute to postpartum intrusive thoughts. They also share practical ways to respond when those thoughts show up, including naming and externalizing them, grounding, breathing, values-based strategies, and finding a therapist who actually understands OCD and perinatal mental health. Most importantly, this episode is about taking the shame out of thoughts you never asked for. Postpartum OCD can be misunderstood or mistaken for anxiety or depression, so knowing what to look for and getting the right support matters. If you've ever been afraid to tell someone what your brain is doing because you're scared they'll judge you, this conversation is for you. You deserve support, you deserve answers, and you do not have to navigate the weird, scary, overwhelming parts of postpartum alone. Chapters: 00:00 You Are Not Broken 01:24 Why Mental Health Feels Taboo 03:12 Meet Špela and Today's Goals 05:55 Taboo Intrusive Thoughts Explained 07:04 Real Postpartum OCD Stories 10:45 Reassurance and The Data 12:03 Host's Bank Trigger Moment 16:01 Why Intrusive Thoughts Happen 19:19 Hypervigilance and Bias Battles 30:12 Birth Lounge App Break 34:29 Back to OCD Postpartum Changes 34:43 Postpartum OCD Flareups 35:19 Miscarriage Intrusions Explained 37:47 Compulsions and Leniency 42:09 Reassurance Versus Exposure 48:26 Support and Resources Wrap   Guest Bio: Spela Grasic is a new mom and a Registered Clinical Counsellor from Kelowna, BC (Canada). Her journey into mental health started over a decade ago when a friend said, “maybe you should talk to someone.” (Yes, like the book.) She did and, over time, transformed her relationship with herself and her thoughts. She now sits with others as they learn to hold, untangle, and tend to all the messy, painful stuff. Spela holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and a Master of Arts in English from the University of British Columbia (Okanagan). Her S.S.H.R.C funded MA (English) research explored the novel as a space where communities can explore intergenerational trauma encapsulated in everyday interactions, institutions, and languages. Professional qualifications aside, Spela is a quirky, sometimes awkward, new mom, partner, sister, daughter, and friend navigating the messiness of a rich and fulfilling life. Connect with Spela: https://www.instagram.com/spelagrasiccounselling/ https://bcacc.ca/counsellors/spela-grasic/ https://alivecounselling.com/team/spela-grasic/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Spela on IG: https://www.instagram.com/spelagrasiccounselling/    BIRTH EDUCATION: Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection LINKS MENTIONED: Listen to our episode on intrusive thoughts w/ Dr. Kat:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivM-Iqv1qK0  international iCBT foundation: https://icbt.online/  International OCD Foundation:  https://iocdf.org/ The Happiness Trap: https://thehappinesstrap.com/ https://www.instagram.com/anxietyocdtreatment/ Postpartum Support International: https://postpartum.net/

Free Class: How to Avoid an Unnecessarean  HeHe is bringing back an updated version of her most-requested birth class with a fresh update of her best strategies for reducing your risk of an unnecessary C-section, plus how to confidently navigate interventions and decisions in the hospital. Join her live August 19 at 1:30 PM ET at thebirthlounge.com/freecall. In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe breaks down one of the most frustrating labels you can hear in labor: “failure to progress.” Because taking longer than expected does NOT automatically mean your labor is failing. HeHe walks through what ACOG actually considers an active-phase arrest, including the 6 cm threshold, ruptured membranes, and how much time without cervical change is actually needed before calling labor stalled. She also breaks down why the clock can become your biggest enemy in the hospital and how slow labor progress can sometimes turn into an unnecessary C-section simply because everyone gets impatient. You'll learn practical ways to support your body and your baby's positioning, from staying upright and changing positions to resting, eating, drinking, and laboring at home longer when it's safe to do so. HeHe also talks about amniotomy, why breaking your water isn't always the harmless "next step," and why feeling safe and supported can make a HUGE difference in how your labor unfolds. Most importantly, this episode is about knowing when you actually need intervention and when you simply need more time. HeHe shares how to look at your provider's and hospital's C-section rates, ask better questions, and choose a care team that understands that every labor is different. 01:23 Welcome & Free Class Announcement 04:26 What Is Failure to Progress? 07:39 Understanding ACOG Guidelines 09:27 Physical Tips to Avoid Failure to Progress 17:53 Rest & Nourishment During Labor 20:04 The Risks of Amniotomy 26:26 Feeling Safe in Your Birth Environment 28:23 Finding the Right Provider & C-Section Rates 34:46 Final Thoughts & Outro SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/    BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: Find your hospitals c-section rate here: https://ratings.leapfroggroup.org/  

Kara Sutton returns to the podcast to share about the preparations leading up to the planned home birth of her fourth baby. Connect with the guest: @ikaraboutyou alwaysfriday.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with veteran midwife, doula trainer, and author Shafia Monroe, aka Mama Shafia, to talk about something we don't talk about nearly enough: who is taking care of the mother after she has the baby? After a decade of supporting more than 2,000 families, HeHe knows firsthand that birth doesn't end when the baby arrives. And Mama Shafia has spent decades studying and practicing the kind of community-based midwifery and postpartum care that treats the mother like someone who needs to be cared for, too. Together, they unpack what traditional postpartum support has looked like across cultures, from rest and warmth to keeping baby close, nourishing the mother, and surrounding her with a whole village of support. Mama Shafia shares her journey into midwifery, the lessons she learned from birth workers across the world, and what other countries can teach us about caring for mothers and babies. They also get real about the ways the U.S. maternal healthcare system has made that kind of care harder to access, including hospital closures, limited midwifery access, lack of paid maternity leave, legal barriers, and the loss of important birth skills. And then we get into the postpartum piece that HeHe is especially passionate about: why are we expecting a brand-new mom to take care of everyone else when she is the one who just gave birth? They talk about the importance of rest, warmth, skin-to-skin, community support, letting other people care for YOU, and rebuilding a village when your own mom or family isn't available. If you've ever wondered why postpartum can feel so lonely, overwhelming, or wildly different from what you expected, this conversation will make you rethink what we consider “normal” after birth. Because maybe the problem isn't that new moms aren't doing enough. Maybe we've stopped mothering the mother.   Guest Bio: Shafia Monroe is a Master of Public Health, author, veteran midwife, doula trainer, medicine woman, wife, mother and grandmother. She answered her call to be a healer as a young girl taking care of the elderly and stray animal. She founded the first national Black midwives organization in 1991, in 2011 she created Shafia Monroe Consulting personal development, and motivational speaking. And in 2017' she launched SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training to teach traditional birth and postpartum traditions, to improve infant and maternal, and honor the legacy of the 20th century African American midwife. Since 2002 she has trained over 5000 doulas. Her mission is to bring healing and happiness to every new mother and increase the number of doulas and midwives who will care for them. In her spare time, she grows medicinal herbs and fragrant flowers and fishes with her husband. On January 27, 2026, she published her book, “Mothering the Mother, African American Postpartum Traditions, Recipes, and Healing,” changing how the country looks at postpartum care.   Connect with Mama Shafia here: https://shafiamonroe.com/   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Mama Shafia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shafiamonroe/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with registered nurse, birth advocate, and Girls Who Know founder Laurisa Paul for a powerful conversation about changing birth culture long before pregnancy ever begins. After experiencing two intervention-heavy hospital births, Laurisa's perspective on birth completely shifted through an unmedicated birth and later home births that showed her just how capable and intuitive our bodies can be. That journey inspired her to create Girls Who Know, an organization dedicated to helping girls grow up trusting their bodies instead of fearing them. Together, HeHe and Laurisa explore why body literacy, consent, anatomy, menstrual health, and birth education shouldn't start in adulthood... they should start in childhood. They discuss how teaching girls to understand their bodies from a young age can lay the foundation for more confident healthcare decisions, healthier relationships, and more empowered birth experiences later in life. They also talk about why boys deserve this education, too, and how raising an informed generation can help create more supportive partners, stronger families, and a healthier culture around birth. The conversation also covers practical ways parents can encourage body confidence at home, why using anatomically correct language matters, how to normalize conversations about puberty and birth without shame, and the resources Girls Who Know offers to families, schools, and communities. Whether you're raising daughters, sons, or simply dreaming of a future where the next generation enters pregnancy feeling informed instead of fearful, this episode is a beautiful reminder that birth education doesn't begin with a positive pregnancy test... it begins with how we teach our children to know, trust, and advocate for their bodies.   Guest Bio: Laurisa Paul is a Registered Nurse, homebirth and midwife advocate and the founder of Girls Who Know®, an organization that inspires girls to love who they are and trust their bodies. Medically trained, Laurisa stumbled across home birth when she was actively seeking for better birth experiences. After personally giving birth in multiple settings, she shifted outside mainstream medicine and began attending homebirths as a midwife assistant. Laurisa has a deep passion for supporting women and connecting with those she loves. She resides in Texas, where she is a mother of four almost-grown sons and one delightful daughter. Laurisa and her team at Girls Who Know® are improving childbirth outcomes through the education of girls while they are young. Connect with Laurisa: girlswhoknow.com, @officialgirlswhoknow.com, SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Laurisa on IG: https://www.instagram.com/officialgirlswhoknow   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: Interview with Dr. Stu: https://thehighwire.com/ark-videos/the-crisis-in-modern-maternity-care-dr-stu-fischbein/ Get the book, Periods and Vaginas 101: https://shop.periodnirvana.com/products/vaginas-and-periods-101-a-pop-up-book

Board certified obstetrician and maternal fetal medicine specialist Dr. Nathan Fox has made a career helping women navigate routine and high risk pregnancies, delivering thousands of babies and tackling the most complicated situations in obstetrics. He returns to the podcast to discuss cesarean section births including how and when the decision is made, common reasons for this type of birth, what happens in the operating room, and what recovery should look like. Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into a conversation that's been weighing heavily on her heart since becoming a mom herself: how do we raise boys who grow into emotionally healthy, respectful, and compassionate men? After reflecting on the rise of "boy mom culture" and the messages it often sends about sons, relationships, and masculinity, HeHe sits down with perinatal mental health therapist and mom of five boys, Breeze Weasel, creator of the Better Boys Project. Together, they explore what it actually means to raise boys in today's world. From teaching consent and emotional intelligence to encouraging accountability, empathy, and healthy communication, they discuss how parents can intentionally break generational cycles and help their sons build strong, respectful relationships throughout their lives. HeHe and Breeze also unpack the influence of social media and the "manosphere," why difficult conversations about bodies, puberty, and respect can't wait until the teenage years, and how creating a home where kids feel safe asking questions can protect them from harmful messaging elsewhere. They talk about the importance of repairing after conflict, modeling healthy apologies, and showing children that mistakes don't define us... it's how we respond to them that matters. They also offer encouragement for parents navigating imperfect situations, including co-parenting challenges and relationships where emotional growth isn't always shared equally. Because while we can't control every influence our children will encounter, we can create a home where empathy, curiosity, respect, and accountability are lived out every day. Whether you're raising boys, girls, or both, this episode is a thoughtful reminder that we're not just raising children... we're shaping the adults they'll one day become. And the conversations we have today have the power to change generations.   Guest Bio: Breeze is a perinatal mental health therapist, content creator, and mother of 5. She loves creating content about being a millennial, mom, therapist, and comedy (sometimes dark humor because… the state of the world). She is currently in the middle of a series called “The Better Boys Project” where she records conversations about important topics - anything from privilege to menstruation - with her boys to help encourage others to do the same, and raise men who will help in the dismantling of the patriarchy. Follow her if you love: laughs, nostalgia about millennial childhood, feminism + anti-patriarchy content, reality tv takes, and talking shit about the government. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Breeze on IG: https://www.instagram.com/breezleweezle_/ Connect with Breeze on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@breezleweezle?lang=en   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Building your baby registry? Grab HeHe's free Low-Tox Baby Registry Guide before you add another item to your cart. After spending more than 60 hours researching everything from car seats and strollers to bottles, bedding, and baby gear, HeHe created a registry focused on reducing toxic load, avoiding unnecessary purchases, and choosing products that are actually worth the investment. Download the complete guide, including her favorite products and exactly why she chose them, at thebirthlounge.com/registry. In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe shares the low-tox changes she made before pregnancy that helped her feel more intentional about reducing her family's toxic load... without turning life upside down. If you've ever wanted to make healthier choices but felt completely overwhelmed by all the conflicting information online, this episode is for you. HeHe walks through the mindset that helped her focus on progress instead of perfection, explaining why she didn't change everything overnight and how small, sustainable swaps can make a meaningful difference over time. She shares the biggest changes she made before and during pregnancy, from prioritizing whole foods, protein, and key nutrients to switching to cleaner coffee, choosing a high-quality prenatal, and being more mindful about plastics and microplastics in the kitchen. She also talks through simple swaps for laundry detergent, household cleaners, skincare, makeup, toothpaste, and clothing, along with the products she decided weren't worth stressing over. Throughout the episode, HeHe reminds listeners that low-tox living isn't about fear or achieving a "perfect" home. It's about making informed choices, reducing your family's overall exposure where you can, and giving yourself permission to start with the changes that matter most. Whether you're trying to conceive, currently pregnant, building your baby registry, or simply looking for practical ways to create a healthier home, this episode is packed with realistic, evidence-informed ideas that meet you exactly where you are. 00:00 Detergent Wake Up Call 01:30 Non Toxic Registry Plug 05:14 Solo Cast Updates 06:30 Listener Questions Preview 07:51 Low Tox Fertility Plan 11:08 Food Minerals Coffee 15:00 Prenatal And Liver Pills 19:30 Plastics And Microplastics 23:18 Detergents And Cleaners 26:16 Makeup Hair Body Swaps 31:55 Natural Fabrics Dilemma 35:28 Heavy Hitters Mindset 39:13 Cravings And Wrap Up 40:47 Final Outro And Thanks   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Other Episodes Mentioned: Listen to Ep. 447: Microplastics in Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Babies with Dana Zhaxylykova here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJ4dI5Y7XWk   Listen to our episode with Health Illie: https://youtu.be/2njnfdlUa8Q?si=5qk3GpprT33LZQsd   Listen to episode 362 to learn about Retinol in pregnancy: https://youtu.be/_HxLknJGHGs?si=--db3Qw_XL91Qhxx   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app  

How can society better support people during life's most vulnerable moments? After working in justice centered philanthropy, motherhood unexpectedly changed things for Eboni Nash. She's the director of development at 4th Trimester, an organization helping new moms and growing families find care and community. Connect with the guest: @4thtrimester_org 4thtri.org Eboni on LinkedIn Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is brought to you by Two Pages Curtains. As a new mom, HeHe quickly realized how much her home environment impacted her postpartum recovery. Two Pages' beautiful cotton and linen curtains helped transform her home into a calmer, cozier space without sacrificing healthier materials. Visit twopagescurtains.com and use code HEHE to save on your favorite styles. In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe tackles one of the most emotional (and surprisingly common) parts of becoming a parent: setting boundaries with the people you love. After becoming a mom herself, HeHe experienced firsthand how quickly family dynamics can shift after a baby arrives. That's why she's joined by Instagram creator and Gen X grandmother Mom Mom Maria, who has become a trusted voice for helping parents and grandparents build healthier, more respectful relationships during the postpartum season. Together, they unpack some of the biggest boundary challenges new parents face, from grandparents calling your baby "my baby" and sharing pregnancy or birth news without permission to expecting unlimited access, pushing for sleepovers, or dismissing your parenting choices with, "Well, we did it this way." HeHe and Mom Mom Maria also share practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt, responding confidently in the moment, presenting a united front with your partner, and navigating family members who struggle to respect your decisions. They talk about the difference between healthy support and entitlement, why consequences sometimes become necessary, and how protecting your peace in postpartum isn't selfish... it's one of the greatest gifts you can give your growing family. Whether you're pregnant and preparing for these conversations or already navigating complicated family dynamics, this episode will leave you feeling more confident protecting your postpartum experience while creating healthier relationships for everyone involved. Guest Bio: Alexis is on a mission to heal motherhood. As a manifesting generator (iykyk), Alexis achieves this mission in a variety of ways. From business support services for those aligning with her mission, to teaching children and their families social and emotional regulation skills, to helping moms create their own healing plan. Alexis believes firmly that every person is unique and helps them find what works for each individual. Alexis offers birth story debriefs for mothers and doulas, as well as a completely free course and workbook for new moms to complete with their support system. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Mom Mom Maria on IG: https://www.instagram.com/mommom.maria https://www.facebook.com/people/MomMom-Maria/61577327715507/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

We're bringing back one of our most-loved conversations because the truth is... every parent deserves to know all of their options before labor begins. Whether you're hoping for an unmedicated birth, planning an epidural, or simply want to feel prepared for whatever your birth unfolds, this episode is packed with evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions with confidence. In this re-aired episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with board-certified OB-GYN Dr. Nicole Rankins for a balanced, judgment-free conversation about pain management in the hospital. Together, they break down the full spectrum of comfort measures available during labor, from epidurals and IV medications to nitrous oxide and non-medicated coping techniques, while discussing the benefits, limitations, and considerations of each. They also dive into common misconceptions about epidurals, how different pain relief options can impact labor, and why understanding your choices before contractions begin can help you feel more confident, empowered, and in control throughout your birth experience. Whether you're planning your first birth or preparing for another, this conversation is a reminder that there's no "right" way to give birth. The best choice is the one that's informed, intentional, and aligned with your goals. Guest Bio Dr. Nicole Rankins is a board-certified OB-GYN, childbirth educator, and host of the All About Pregnancy & Birth podcast. A Duke University-trained physician with more than two decades of experience delivering babies, she's passionate about helping parents understand their options so they can make informed, confident decisions throughout pregnancy and birth. Through her podcast, courses, and educational resources, Dr. Nicole empowers families with evidence-based information while championing patient autonomy and shared decision-making. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dr. Rankins on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drnicolerankins BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Few men are prepared for the identity shifts when becoming a father. Father of two and executive coach David Arell returns to the podcast to explore mindset shifts, unexpected grief, changing relationships, and lessons that only years of parenting can teach. Connect with the guest: welcometofatherhood.com Catalyst for Change David Arell on IP+ Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with pelvic floor physical therapist Hayley Kava, founder of UMA Pelvic Health, to tackle one of the most common pregnancy complaints that doesn't get nearly enough attention: SI joint pain. If you've been told pregnancy pain is "just part of it," this conversation is your reminder that you don't have to simply suffer through it. Hayley explains what's actually happening in your pelvis during pregnancy, why SI joint pain develops, and how your pelvic floor, core, ribcage, breathing, and overall movement patterns all work together. Together, HeHe and Hayley break down why treating the pelvis in isolation often misses the bigger picture, how pregnancy hormones and your changing biomechanics influence pain, and why small changes to the way you move, stand, breathe, and rest can make a huge difference. They also discuss practical tools like SI belts, belly support bands, Pilates balls, yoga blocks, and gentle movement strategies, along with when those tools can help... and when they might not. Hayley also shares why pelvic floor physical therapy isn't just about internal exams (and yes, those are always optional), how to build a supportive birth team, and why individualized care is one of the best investments you can make during pregnancy. Whether you're already dealing with pelvic pain or hoping to prevent it, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based strategies to help you move more comfortably, feel more supported, and better understand your changing body throughout pregnancy. 00:00 Stop Blaming Pelvic Floor 01:03 Pelvic Floor Basics 01:56 Meet Hayley Kava 03:19 Why SI Pain Matters 06:43 SI Joint Anatomy 09:18 Normal Asymmetry Patterns 12:20 Pubic Pain and Rolling 15:52 Inhibit Then Retrain 17:56 Rubiks Cube Body Model 20:10 Stop Bracing to Sneeze 21:34 Pregnancy Posture Fixes 25:31 Preparing for Labor Moves 29:14 Build Your Care Team 33:39 Pregnancy Compensation Patterns 34:36 Spotting Habitual Postures 36:46 Mindful Pain Check Ins 38:29 Shifting Stance And Sitting 41:29 Tension Beyond Pelvic Floor 43:23 Guarding And SI Joint Myths 46:16 Ribs Hip And Big Picture 47:57 Internal Exam Is Optional 50:38 Daily Tools And Movement 56:43 Services Access And Wrap Up   Guest Bio: Hayley became a pelvic floor therapist in 2017 after a birth injury opened her eyes to the limitations in traditional pelvic rehab. Hayley took her Postural Restoration and Sports Medicine background and dug deep into the literature. Over the years developing an integrative whole person method to treat the pelvic floor. She has become passionate about sharing this method with not only her clients and staff but to the masses via social media, online classes and various trainings for clinicians looking to take a different approach to pelvic rehab. You can learn more about those offerings at hayleykavapt.com   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Hayley on IG: https://www.instagram.com/hayleykavapt/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS AND RESEARCH MENTIONED: www.umapelvichealth.com www.hayleykavapt.com Kiapour A, Joukar A, Elgafy H, Erbulut DU, Agarwal AK, Goel VK. Biomechanics of the Sacroiliac Joint: Anatomy, Function, Biomechanics, Sexual Dimorphism, and Causes of Pain. Int J Spine Surg. 2020 Feb 10;14(Suppl 1):3-13. doi: 10.14444/6077. PMID: 32123652; PMCID: PMC7041664. Joukar, Amin MS∗; Shah, Anoli MS∗; Kiapour, Ali PhD∗; Vosoughi, Ardalan Seyed MS∗; Duhon, Bradley MD†; Agarwal, Anand K. MD∗; Elgafy, Hossein MD∗; Ebraheim, Nabil MD∗; Goel, Vijay K. PhD∗. Sex Specific Sacroiliac Joint Biomechanics During Standing Upright: A Finite Element Study. SPINE 43(18):p E1053-E1060, September 15, 2018. | DOI: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000002623

Ep. 468: The Know Your Rights Map: Obstetrical Violence, Birth Trauma, and Patient Rights in the Hospital Birth Room with Cristen Pascucci [Re-Air of Ep. 203] In this Birth Lounge Podcast episode, host HeHe interviews Kristen Pascucci, founder of Birth Monopoly, about birth trauma and obstetric violence in hospital birth. They discuss trauma as a self-defined response that overwhelms the system, common trauma/PTSD symptoms (intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance, physical reactions, triggers including the hospital or even the baby), and the overlap with prior sexual trauma. Pascucci explains obstetric violence as appropriation of the birthing person's body and subordination through coercion, manipulation, pressure, disrespect, and power dynamics, ranging from jokes about birth plans to forced procedures; vaginal exams without true informed consent are highlighted as a common example. They also cover reporting options (hospital complaints, state licensing boards, lawsuits) and why accountability is often limited, including low disciplinary rates and barriers to malpractice cases, and share resources at birthmonopoly.com including an obstetric violence map. 00:00 Accountability and Advocacy 02:06 Informed Consent Basics 04:09 Meet Cristen Pascucci 05:34 What Birth Trauma Means 09:23 Trauma Symptoms and Triggers 16:13 Defining Obstetric Violence 20:13 The Pyramid of Harm 21:39 Common Example Vaginal Exams 33:02 Reporting and Medical Boards 45:29 Resources and Closing   Guest Bio: A former communications strategist at a top public affairs firm in Baltimore, Maryland, Cristen Pascucci is the founder of Birth Monopoly and Birth Monopoly's Doula Power group, co-creator of the Exposing the Silence Project, and, from 2012 to 2016, vice president of national advocacy organization Improving Birth. She has run an emergency hotline for women facing threats to their legal rights in childbirth, created a viral consumer campaign to “Break the Silence” on trauma and abuse in childbirth, and helped put obstetric violence and the maternity care crisis in national media. Today, she is a leading voice for women giving birth, speaking around the country and consulting privately for consumers and professionals on issues related to birth rights and options. Cristen​ ​is also the host of Birth Allowed Radio as well as executive producer of a documentary film planned for release in 2020 to start a national conversation on obstetric violence, birth trauma, and women's rights in birth. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Cristen on IG: https://www.instagram.com/birthmonopoly facebook.com/birthmonopoly BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Nina Spears is a baby planner, doula, educator, and founder of Baby Chick who works with pregnant and postpartum people. She discusses why preparation matters but control is an illusion, including one of the most important birth skills of all. Connect with the guest: baby-chick.com @thebabychick Facebook YouTube TikTok Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe welcomes back perinatal therapist Ashley Mariani for a conversation that isn't happening nearly enough: the relationship between sexuality, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. So often, our culture either completely ignores sexuality in motherhood or hypersexualizes birth in ways that don't actually serve women. HeHe and Ashley explore what it looks like to honor your sexuality as a natural, embodied part of pregnancy, labor, birth, and beyond, and why that relationship with yourself doesn't simply disappear once your baby arrives. Together, they dive into the realities of rebuilding intimacy after birth, navigating breastfeeding, co-sleeping, body changes, exhaustion, and the identity shifts that come with becoming parents. They also unpack how these experiences impact relationships, why desire often changes postpartum, and how couples can reconnect without shame, pressure, or unrealistic expectations. Whether you're pregnant, newly postpartum, or years into parenthood, this conversation offers a compassionate, honest look at one of the most overlooked parts of the motherhood journey and reminds you that your identity, your relationship, and your sexuality all deserve care, too. 00:54 Content Warning and Space 03:08 Guest and Episode Focus 06:42 Sex Taboo and Real Support 09:21 Sex and Birth Connection 12:23 Purity Culture Origins 14:44 Porn Culture and Pregnancy 21:37 Postpartum Porn and Healing 34:37 Sex Positive Parenting 35:51 Co Sleeping and Desire 39:52 Spontaneous Intimacy Ideas 41:57 Free Birth Advocacy Class 43:41 Postpartum Desire Differences 46:32 Playful Safe Flirting 49:29 Two Year Desire Timeline 52:21 When Therapy Is Refused 56:29 Family Origins And Shame 01:00:46 Misogyny Porn And Incel Culture 01:05:16 Relearning Embodiment Postpartum 01:10:50 Breaking Cycles With Communication 01:12:32 Vaginal Mapping And Tiny Bites 01:17:28 Wrap Up Resources And Farewell   Guest Bio: Ashley Mariani, a Registered Social Worker, mom, wife, and the owner of Mind Online Therapy. She's been practicing virtually since 2018—long before it was trendy—and she's known for a nervous-system-first approach that's practical, grounded, and refreshingly free of fluff. Ashley's work focuses on couples therapy, intimacy, anxiety, trauma, and perinatal mental health, with a strong emphasis on co-regulation, stress physiology, and shame-free conversations about what's really happening beneath conflict. She's also a birth trauma advocate, helping bring language, validation, and support to an experience that's often minimized or misunderstood. Ashley is the voice behind The Rogue Therapist, where she delivers bold, honest education for people who are done performing their healing.   Connect with Ashley: Mindonline.ca SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Mind Online on IG: https://www.instagram.com/mindonline.ca/ Connect with Ashley on IG: https://www.instagram.com/therogue.therapist/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

What if back pain, pelvic pain, disconnection from your body, exhaustion, and anxiety aren't things you just have to live with? Jessica Jennings of MaYoga discusses her philosophy and how therapeutic movement and rehabilitation science can help new and expectant mothers prepare for birth, recovery, and beyond. Connect with the guest: @mayoga MaYoga.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe continues her series on one of the most requested and emotionally charged topics in parenting: vaccines. She's joined by pediatrician and The Vaccine Book author, Dr. Bob Sears, for a thoughtful conversation about vaccine schedules, informed consent, and why so many parents feel caught between asking questions and feeling heard. Together, they explore how vaccine recommendations have evolved over time, what influences the current childhood vaccine schedule, and why trust between families and the medical system has become increasingly strained. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Sears shares his perspective on topics including timing of vaccination, measles and the MMR vaccine, herd immunity, newborn protection strategies, breastfeeding antibodies, and questions many parents have about vaccine ingredients, package inserts, MTHFR, and vaccine safety research. He also discusses why some families seek individualized approaches to vaccination and what he believes parents should consider when making decisions with their healthcare provider. As with every episode in this series, this conversation is not intended to tell you what decisions to make for your family. Instead, HeHe's goal is to create space for respectful discussion, equip parents with information, and encourage thoughtful conversations with trusted healthcare providers so you can make informed decisions that align with your family's values. Whether you're firmly decided, still gathering information, or simply curious about the questions many parents are asking, this episode invites you into a conversation centered on nuance, critical thinking, and respectful dialogue. 00:00 Vaccine Indoctrination Claim 01:08 Advocacy Scripts for Birth 04:22 Vaccine Series and Guest Intro 11:42 Why Trust Broke Down 39:24 Vaccines and Immune System Theory 49:35 Why MMR Hits Hard 52:18 Measles Risk and Nutrition 56:42 Vaccine Side Effects Data Gap 01:01:13 Herd Immunity Myth 01:04:31 Newborn Cocooning and Shedding 01:11:35 Pregnancy Vaccine Repeat Doses 01:14:43 MTHFR and Vaccine Decisions 01:20:18 Will Diseases Return 01:23:43 Finding Like Minded Care 01:26:35 Resources and Farewell Guest Bio: Dr. Bob Sears is a pediatrician, vaccine educator, and author of The Vaccine Book. He earned his medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine and did his pediatric internship and residency at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. With the ongoing threat of mandatory vaccination laws, Dr. Bob's mission is to insure that all families worldwide receive complete, objective, and un-doctored informed consent before they choose vaccination and that people everywhere retain the freedom to make healthcare decisions for themselves and their children.   https://drbobsears.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Dr. Sears on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drbobsears BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin   Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.vaclib.org/basic/health/patientchoicedoctors.htm Just the Inserts website: find vaccine inserts on this website and vaccine friendly Pediatricians  Dr. Green mom's list of vaccine friendly Pediatricians: https://drgreenmom.com/find-a-vaccine-friendly-doctor/  

Today's episode is brought to you by Two Pages Curtains. As a new mom, HeHe quickly realized how much her home environment impacted her postpartum recovery. Two Pages' beautiful cotton and linen curtains helped transform her home into a calmer, cozier space without sacrificing healthier materials. Visit twopagescurtains.com and use code HEHE to save on your favorite styles. In this episode, HeHe sits down with international parenting coach Mary Van Geffen for a conversation every parent of a “spicy” child needs to hear.

If you're exhausted from wondering whether your baby's sleep is normal, you're not alone. That's exactly why I created the Newborn Sleep Solution. It's an evidence-based guide that walks you through newborn sleep, wake windows, naps, feeding, and what's actually realistic in those first few months, so you can stop second-guessing yourself and start feeling confident. Grab it at https://www.thebirthlounge.com/newbornsleep  In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe gets real about three things that completely caught her off guard in motherhood now that she's 6-7 months postpartum. She opens up about how becoming a mom unexpectedly changed her friendships, why some of the people she thought would show up haven't, and how fellow moms have become some of her biggest sources of support. She also shares the surprising emotions that come up when people chalk her postpartum experience, baby's temperament, sleep, or travel success up to "luck" instead of recognizing the intentional, evidence-based choices behind them. Finally, HeHe reflects on something she never expected to feel: how little she misses her pre-baby life. While motherhood has absolutely stretched and challenged her, she talks honestly about why she's never wanted to "go back," how becoming Saggy's mom has shifted her priorities, and what it's looked like to intentionally build a life and business that support both her family and the community she loves serving. If you've ever wondered whether your friendships will change after baby, felt frustrated when your hard work gets dismissed as luck, or found yourself navigating the identity shift that comes with becoming a parent, this episode is an honest reminder that you're not alone. It might just leave you feeling a little more seen. 00:00 Three Things I Can't Shake 00:57 Free Advocacy Scripts 04:12 Explicit Language Warning 04:32 Mindfucks of Motherhood Intro 05:37 Mom Friends Shift 08:47 Friendships After Baby 11:08 Offended by “Lucky” 18:15 Intentional Parenting Not Luck 25:13 Missing Old Life Less 32:18 Wrap Up and Where to Follow SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

LA based dentist and father of four Dr. Bernard Baseri explains the links between oral care and pregnancy and why dental care before, during, and after pregnancy is important. Connect with the guest: @drbaseri smilerecreation.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this re-aired episode, HeHe sits down with reflux specialist Aine Homer to unpack one of the most stressful (and most misunderstood) newborn challenges: baby reflux.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is sharing something so many dog parents worry about during pregnancy: bringing home a baby and introducing them to the family dog. After receiving countless questions about Maximus Prime and baby Saggy, HeHe pulls back the curtain on exactly what she did (and didn't do) to prepare her 13-year-old dog for life with a newborn. She shares the boundaries, routines, and safety rules that helped create a calm and respectful relationship between her baby and her dog, while also protecting Max's comfort and autonomy. HeHe talks about why she wasn't focused on creating an instant "best friends" relationship, the importance of giving dogs choice and space, and how setting clear expectations from day one can help everyone feel safer and more relaxed. She also shares the specific rules her family follows around petting, licking, feeding areas, supervision, and respecting a dog's body language. As Max has aged and lost his vision due to diabetes, these conversations around boundaries and safety have become even more important. This episode offers a realistic look at what it means to raise a baby alongside an older dog while honoring the needs of both. Whether you're pregnant and preparing to bring home a baby, navigating life with pets and little ones, or simply curious about how HeHe handled introducing Saggy to Max, this episode is packed with practical tips and a gentle reminder that successful dog-baby relationships are built through respect, boundaries, and consistency, not luck. You'll learn: How HeHe introduced Max to baby Saggy The safety rules her family follows every day Why supervision is non-negotiable around dogs and babies How to create "baby spaces" and "dog spaces" Why consent and body language matter, even with family pets How to support an aging dog during a major family transition What a healthy dog-and-baby relationship actually looks like If you're a dog parent preparing for life with a baby, this episode will help you feel more confident, prepared, and realistic about what success can look like. For more about introducing your baby and your dog, listen to our episode with dog trainer, children's book author, and founder of Dog Meets Baby, Dominika Knossalla-Pado https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_7LI1p2f1Q SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

Kelly Meehan grew up as a highly sensitive child in a household shaped by caregiving and uncertainty. After surviving one traumatic birth, she found healing through a second birth and now works to help people connect deeply with their babies on an intuitional and spiritual level. Connect with the guest: @spiritbabymedium YouTube newearthchildren.com The Spirit Baby Collective Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grab HeHe's free Low-Tox Baby Registry Guide for the exact products she chose for baby Saggy, plus the reasoning behind every recommendation: thebirthlounge.com/registry In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with certified dog trainer, children's book author, and founder of Dog Meets Baby, Dominika Knossalla-Pado, for a conversation every dog parent needs to hear before bringing home a baby. We all love the idea of our dog instantly becoming our baby's best friend. But the reality? Safe, successful relationships between dogs and babies don't happen by accident. They happen through preparation, boundaries, and understanding what our dogs are actually communicating. Dominika shares the personal experience that inspired her work after her own beloved Labrador displayed concerning behavior around her newborn twins. That experience revealed a major gap in education for growing families and sparked her mission to help parents safely navigate life with both dogs and children. Together, HeHe and Dominika break down the biggest mistakes families make before baby arrives, the common myths that can create unnecessary risk, and the practical skills every dog should have before postpartum begins. They discuss how to prepare your dog for major household changes, why separation tolerance matters, and how simple routines can make the transition smoother for everyone involved. You'll also learn how to recognize subtle signs of stress in dogs, including behaviors that are often misunderstood or overlooked, safer ways to introduce your baby and dog, and why supervision and management are far more important than simply trusting that your dog will "figure it out." This conversation isn't about fear, blame, or assuming the worst about your dog. It's about setting your family up for success, protecting your baby, reducing stress for your dog, and creating an environment where both can thrive. Whether you're expecting your first baby, currently pregnant, or already navigating life with little ones and furry family members, this episode is packed with practical, judgment-free strategies to help your home feel safer, calmer, and more prepared for this huge life transition. 00:00 Labrador Hunting Scare 01:27 Meet Dog Meets Baby 08:30 How Predation Looked 15:10 Breeds and Temperament 20:07 Pregnancy Prep Essentials 39:34 Low Tox Registry Picks 43:34 Bed Training Basics 50:35 Safe Boundaries Rules 56:03 Stress Signs And Introductions 01:04:54 Labor Myths And Wrap Up   Guest Bio: Dominika is a Certified Dog Trainer, Children's Book Author, and the founder of Dog Meets Baby. When her beloved Labrador, Lola, showed predatory behavior toward her newborn twins, Dominika realized most parents lack the tools and knowledge to navigate these moments safely. This experience inspired her to found Dog Meets Baby, now a trusted resource for families worldwide through their online courses, consultations, and free resources. Connect with Dominika:  https://www.dogmeetsbaby.expert/ LINKS MENTIONED: Teach your dog to go to bed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn3UTEBwSH0 SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dominika on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dogmeets_baby/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app     dog meets baby, dogs and babies, introducing dog to baby, dog and newborn, preparing dog for baby, dog safety around babies, bringing home baby with dog, dog training for new parents, dog behavior around babies, dog stress signals, whale eye dog, dog trainer advice, newborn safety, baby safety tips, parenting podcast, new baby preparation, postpartum preparation, family dog safety, dogs and toddlers, dog meets baby podcast, Dominika Knossalla-Pado, dog aggression prevention, child and dog safety, pet safety for families, baby proofing with dogs, pregnancy preparation, expecting parents, first time parents, dog owner tips, The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe Stewart, Tranquility by HeHe

In this re-aired episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with attorney, human rights advocate, and birth justice champion Hermine Hayes-Klein for a conversation every pregnant person needs to hear.   If you've ever wondered whether you can say no during labor, change your mind after signing a consent form, refuse an induction or cesarean, or push back against a hospital policy that doesn't align with your wishes, this episode is for you.   Hermine breaks down what informed consent actually means, what your legal rights are during pregnancy and birth, and why so many families leave their birth experience feeling powerless, unheard, or violated. Together, she and HeHe unpack the difference between hospital policy and patient rights, discuss the reality of obstetric violence in the United States, and explore how coercion and fear-based counseling can impact birth outcomes and long-term mental health.   They also dive into why so many people are losing trust in the maternity care system, how providers can unintentionally override consent, and what happens when patients feel they have no real choice. Hermine shares powerful stories from her legal work advocating for birthing families and explains why being informed before labor begins is one of the most effective ways to protect your autonomy.   You'll learn:   What informed consent actually requires in pregnancy and birth   Why signing hospital paperwork does not mean you've given blanket consent   Whether you can change your mind or withdraw consent during labor   The difference between a recommendation and a requirement   What your rights are if you're being pressured into an induction or cesarean   Why hospital policies are not the same thing as medical necessity   How obstetric violence can occur, even in well-intentioned healthcare settings   The critical role doulas play in supporting informed decision-making   Practical ways to advocate for yourself before and during labor   How preparation can help reduce fear, coercion, and birth trauma   This episode is a powerful reminder that your body is not public property, your consent matters at every stage of labor, and you deserve to understand your options before making decisions about your care.   Guest Bio:   Hermine Hayes-Klein is an attorney, human rights advocate, and founder of the Know Your Rights campaign, which helps families understand and exercise their legal rights during pregnancy and childbirth. After experiencing the Dutch maternity care system firsthand, Hermine became passionate about addressing obstetric violence, protecting informed consent, and improving access to respectful maternity care. Through litigation, education, and advocacy, she works to advance accountability and reproductive justice for birthing families around the world. Connect with Hermine:  Birthrightslawproject.com hayeskleinlaw.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Hermine on IG: https://www.instagram.com/herminehayesklein/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what's really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven't grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: Nursing article: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1751485123001587?via%3Dihub Examples of articles referencing how informed consent improves outcomes: https://www.envisionhealth.com/news/2024/shared-decision-making-in-healthcare#:~:text=How%20do%20informed%20consent%20and,the%20overall%20cost%20of%20care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9486853/

In part two of her story, Parul Somani returns to discuss how her life changed dramatically after giving birth for the second time, after a seemingly perfect Cesarean birth. Connect with the guest: @pdsomani LinkedIn parulsomani.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With an elite education and a high powered career, careful planner Parul Somani discusses pregnancy, motherhood, and what happens when control slips out of reach. Connect with the guest: @pdsomani LinkedIn parulsomani.com Grow with us on ⁠IP+⁠! Informed Pregnancy Media presents two all new intimate short-form video series following Garrett and HeHe's real-time pregnancy journeys as they prepare for an empowered birth and postpartum experience. Each episode features weekly updates with personal photos and videos to help bring these raw stories to life, a visually dynamic guide through each mother's emotional and physical experiences. ⁠Watch Growing with Garrett⁠ ⁠Watch Growing with HeHe⁠ Keep up with Dr. Berlin and Informed Pregnancy Media online! ⁠⁠⁠informedpregnancy.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠@doctorberlin⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠X⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices