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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
Inside The Birth Lounge Membership, HeHe recently taught a live deep dive on these exact topics—and new members get instant access to the replay library packed with evidence-based birth education and advocacy support. In this re-aired episode, HeHe breaks down one of the most common late-pregnancy questions: Should you get a membrane sweep? If you're approaching your due date, feeling pressure about induction, or wondering whether a sweep is actually “natural,” this episode gives you the evidence-based, no-fear explanation you've been looking for. HeHe walks through exactly what a membrane sweep is, how it works, what it feels like, and whether it technically counts as a form of induction. She explains what providers often don't tell parents about success rates, Bishop scores, VBAC safety, prodromal labor, and why going into labor isn't the only way a sweep can still “work.” You'll also learn the potential risks, what informed consent should sound like during prenatal visits, and how to advocate confidently if a provider is pushing interventions you're unsure about. This episode is packed with practical education and real-world advocacy tools to help you make a decision that feels aligned for your body, your birth, and your goals—not just the hospital's timeline.
Guest: HeHe Stewart Evidence-Based Doula CEU objectives for this episode: Describe at least one role of a doula in labor, delivery or postpartum care List three trauma-informed communication principles shared in this podcast that you can use to support NICU families Identify three practical ways to act as a bridge between families and interdisciplinary teams This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire. It is the sole responsibility of the individual to verify if this credit is valid and eligible for use in your State and/or for your discipline for licensure or certification renewal.
In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe returns from maternity leave and continues the listener-requested deep dives by breaking down what can actually go wrong with an epidural in labor, and more importantly, what you can do about it in real time. After more than a decade working as a doula, HeHe walks through the three most common epidural issues she sees in practice: when the epidural is too dense (meaning overly heavy numbness and limited mobility), when there's a “window” (one specific area that is not fully covered and still feels intense contraction pain), and the rare but stressful situation where an epidural seems to stop working altogether. She explains how each scenario can show up in the body, what communication with anesthesia can sound like, and the practical options available in the moment, including repositioning, using gravity and labor positions strategically, pressing the PCA button when appropriate, requesting medication adjustments or a bolus, and when it may be time for anesthesia to reassess or replace the epidural. Throughout the episode, HeHe emphasizes informed decision-making, calm advocacy, and flexibility in labor so you can respond to what is actually happening in your body instead of feeling stuck or panicked if things don't go exactly as expected. This episode is all about staying grounded, informed, and supported if an epidural needs troubleshooting during birth. 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-download-page LINKS MENTIONED: Listen to Episode 404 Epidurals: Pros, Cons & Alternatives with Marissa Mulder of Sassy Anesthesia: https://youtu.be/m8As_lYXkMM?si=dNxuOvG04I8hFOVM
In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe breaks down four key terms every pregnant person should understand before pushing begins. Inspired by a listener question, she unpacks what's actually happening physiologically when your body starts bearing down and why the pushing stage is often misunderstood inside modern birth culture. HeHe explains the Early Pushing Urge (EPU), what it can feel like, and the two common schools of thought around responding to it. She also breaks down the difference between the Ferguson reflex and the fetal ejection reflex, two terms often confused online but very different in practice. Plus, she shares why reaching 10 centimeters does not automatically mean it is time to start pushing. You'll also learn about laboring down, how passive descent can sometimes create a more effective pushing phase, signs transition may be happening without a cervical exam, and what research says about delayed pushing, active pushing time, postpartum outcomes, and baby safety. If you want to walk into labor understanding your options, trusting your body, and knowing that pushing is more nuanced than “count to ten and hold your breath,” this episode is for you. Timestamps 00:00 Mothers Day Offer 03:45 Podcast Topic Pushing 05:28 Early Pushing Urge 09:00 Ferguson Reflex Explained 11:49 When To Start Pushing 14:56 Fetal Ejection Reflex 16:24 My Birth FER Surprise 21:58 Advocacy Scripts Promo 25:22 Laboring Down Basics 30:48 Passive Vs Active Pushing 33:41 Laboring Down Research 41:09 Wrap Up And Resources 42:35 Outro 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-download-page LINKS MENTIONED: Hear HeHe's birth story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noh5eFpCFcs Check out the Secret Sauce to Pushing here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/SSP Data on Laboring Down and The Early Pushing Urge: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2019/02/approaches-to-limit-intervention-during-labor-and-birth https://www.lamaze.org/Connecting-the-Dots/new-research-states-laboring-down-with-an-epidural-shows-no-benefits https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-birthing-positions/ https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(21)00708-0/fulltext https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD009124.pub3/full For a breakdown of the data, be sure to download The Birth Lounge App.
This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth. With Mother's Day coming up, skip the flowers and ask for something you'll actually use… their insanely soft bamboo sheets. Right now, they're running a limited-time buy one, get one free on sheet sets. Head to cozyearth.com and use code HEHEBOGO to grab yours. In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe breaks down one of the most common questions in labor: when do you actually leave for the hospital? She shares what she's seen over 10 years as a doula, from people arriving way too early at 1 cm to babies being born in cars, hallways, and yes… accidental home births. And why the standard 5-1-1 rule doesn't work for everyone. HeHe explains how timing your arrival should be based on you — your birth goals (unmedicated vs epidural), how far you are from the hospital, your contraction pattern, and your labor history. She also gives more realistic guidelines based on distance, like shifting to 4-1-1 or even 3-1-1 if you live closer, and talks about how car rides can actually slow contractions (rude, honestly). The biggest takeaway? This isn't one-size-fits-all. Your intuition, your body, and your context matter. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Too Early vs Too Late 05:16 When to Leave for the Hospital 08:29 Why 5-1-1 Doesn't Work for Everyone 13:40 Listening to Your Body + Past Labors 15:16 Adjusting for Distance + Travel 17:54 Hospital Arrival + Final Tips 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-download-page
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/ In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe walks you through the birth prep she and her husband actually did for their home birth… and what actually mattered once they were on the other side of it. They took The Birth Lounge childbirth education course together to understand labor, get aligned on preferences, and make sure her husband felt confident and steady through a three-day labor. He also went through Dad Days to learn real, practical support skills from other dads. HeHe also shares how the Secret Sauce to Pushing course played a huge role in her pushing experience, supporting her pelvic floor, minimizing tearing, and setting her up for a smoother recovery, even with hours of pushing and a long crowning phase. They prepared for the “what ifs” too, taking a newborn resuscitation class and a breech birth course, and she brought in an IBCLC prenatally for breastfeeding support so she wasn't figuring it out for the first time postpartum. This episode is a real look at what prep can actually do for your birth and recovery, and how to focus your energy on what truly makes a difference. 00:00 Postpartum Perspective 01:10 Episode Overview 01:49 Birth Lounge Prep 03:52 Water Break Moment 05:26 Dad Daze Course 08:37 Secret Sauce Pushing 13:53 Newborn Resuscitation 17:13 Breech Birth Training 19:23 Lactation Support Plan 23:12 What We Could Skip 25:18 Wrap Up and Resources 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-download-page LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.breechwithoutborders.org/courses/
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. In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is back behind the mic for the first newly recorded episode since having her baby and let's just say… postpartum has been full of surprises. Three months in, she's sharing the unexpected symptoms no one warned her about. From intense cold flashes (sometimes right after eating or nursing) to a wave of jealousy and nausea when someone else holds her baby, HeHe gets honest about the weird, emotional, and very real postpartum moments that don't make it into most conversations. She also talks about the shock of a painfully strong breastfeeding letdown that feels like electricity, random hormone symptoms like a metallic taste in her mouth, and even scalp sensitivity that suddenly made ponytails unbearable. And yes… we're talking about the “downstairs” surprises too. HeHe shares about severe rectal pain after a long pushing phase, intense vaginal itchiness, and the random “throbbing vagina” sensation that had her briefly spiraling before getting reassurance from her midwife and pelvic floor physical therapist. This episode is honest, a little funny, and deeply validating for anyone navigating the wild world of postpartum recovery. If you've ever wondered “is this normal?” after having a baby, you are definitely not alone. 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-download-page LINKS MENTIONED: Check out HeHe's birth story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noh5eFpCFcs
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. In this episode of the The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe shares her full home birth story and early postpartum reflections after welcoming her baby boy earthside. She breaks down her intentional choice to build a home birth team to protect autonomy and avoid unnecessary interventions, walks through a long, physiologic labor, and shares how informed consent, continuous support, and advocacy shaped a trauma-free birth experience. From 'late' labor, slow progress, and powerful pushing to staying grounded through conversations about hospital transfer, this episode is a real look at what empowered, supported birth can actually look like. HeHe also shares early postpartum life, including her thoughts on lying-in, breastfeeding, babywearing, and motherhood updates on Instagram @TranquilityByHeHe. 00:00 Why This Birth Couldn't Happen in a Typical U.S. Hospital 01:09 “I Have a Baby!” Postpartum Awe + Becoming a Mom 04:18 Why I Share Online: Birth Rights, Options & Normalizing Motherhood 07:16 Privacy Boundaries: Protecting Baby's Details in the AI Era 09:31 12 Days Past Due: Date Night Sushi & The First Contractions 12:44 Water Breaks at 6:30 AM: Confirming, Mucus Plug & Waking Dad 15:53 All-Day Early Labor: Staying Home, No Pressure, Infection Precautions 19:51 Night 2 Ramps Up: Birth Space Setup, Dinner, Slow Dance & Shower 27:03 3 AM Toilet Time: Transition Signs, Filling the Tub & Calling the Team 33:59 Sponsor Break: Cozy Earth Postpartum Comfort Essentials 36:04 In the Birth Pool: Team Arrives, Complete Dilation & Passive Pushing Begins 38:27 Ferguson vs. Fetal Ejection Reflex: When FER Never Shows Up 40:10 Benadryl Rest Strategy: Trying to Reset a Stalled Pushing Pattern 41:47 Calling in the Chiropractor: Adjustments for Positioning & Persistent Rectal Pain 42:52 All the Positions, No Progress: Movement Marathon to Bring Contractions Closer 43:21 Midwives Say ‘You Have to Push': Letting Go of Waiting for FER 45:51 Shower + Birth Ball & ‘Hulk Out' Mode: Feeling Hair and Finding Fuel 48:43 Perfect Vitals, Growing Concern: The Transfer Conversation Looms 50:37 Clearing the Bathroom: Talking to Baby, Asking for a Sign 54:06 Husband Advocates to Stay Home: Autonomy, Risk Talk, and Trust 57:16 Crowning for 90 Minutes: The Final Push to Birth 59:29 After Birth Care: APGARs, Pitocin Decision, and Stitches 01:01:07 The Afterglow: Doulas, Dad's Support, and First Night at Home 01:04:01 What Made It Possible: Prep, Team Support, and Mindset Lessons 01:08:04 Big Takeaways: Autonomy, No Birth Trauma, and Final Thanks SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education 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-download-page 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 LINKS MENTIONED: Check out the First Trimester Update HeHe mentioned here: https://youtu.be/DgcQGnHJ-Aw?si=6sgC5o4iOtuT94WE Save 10$ on Tubina Wild with code HEHE: https://www.tubinawild.com/shop Check out the birth sling here: https://thebirthsling.com/
In this episode, HeHe shares a quick life update before re-airing one of our most-loved conversations while she's on maternity leave and it's one that still matters a lot. This episode pulls back the curtain on hospital-sponsored childbirth education and why so many expectant parents leave those classes feeling more confused, constrained, or quietly uneasy instead of truly prepared. We talk about how bias shows up, why informed consent is often glossed over, and what gets left out when education is tied to the same system providing your care. This is an honest, empowering conversation about why independent, evidence-based, out-of-hospital childbirth education can change how you experience pregnancy, birth, and advocacy. It's about understanding your options, protecting your autonomy, and reducing the risk of trauma by being informed before decisions feel urgent. If you've ever wondered why traditional birth classes didn't quite sit right, or you want education that trusts your intelligence and centers your voice, this episode is for you. New episodes drop every Wednesday and Friday. Follow along and join The Birth Lounge community for grounded, non-judgmental birth education and support that actually prepares you for the real thing.
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. In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe shares her personal journey through the final weeks of her pregnancy. As she eagerly anticipates the arrival of her baby, she details her physical and emotional experiences, including her decisions on newborn resuscitation training, gestational diabetes testing, and preparation for labor. HeHe discusses the benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy, counting kicks for fetal monitoring, and the importance of having a supportive birth team. Follow along as she provides insights into staying active, managing pregnancy symptoms, and preparing for the big day. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome 01:05 Pregnancy Reflections and Preparations 05:27 Third Trimester Experiences 09:35 Gestational Diabetes Testing 11:38 Baby Gear and Nursery Planning 28:22 Unexpected Pregnancy Symptoms 33:45 Final Preparations and Reflections 41:11 Conclusion and Farewell SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education 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-download-page 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 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 The Secret Sauce to Pushing course gives you step-by-step guidance on how to push effectively — whether you have an epidural or not — so you can reduce tearing, labor faster, and feel in control from start to finish. HeHe teaches which muscles to engage, how to position your body, and the techniques that actually work, giving you the confidence and tools to achieve your best birth possible. Learn more: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/SSP LINKS MENTIONED: Check out our episode on pushing her: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZrzPyJLu50 Check out our episode on Gestational Diabetes here: https://youtu.be/rgRyNfOOgKU?si=DjdOM21A_yqhw0lr Listen to our episode about counting kicks here: https://youtu.be/0nBT2FxZJfA?si=prnyGCdjwzXUZXfc Listen to our episode about choosing a stroller with Hip Baby Gear: https://youtu.be/ljVnpZwhKlk?si=eTiU16-XHlzVnvMy Check out Dr. Berlin's Growing with HeHe: https://www.informedpregnancy.tv/growing-with-hehe Check out the electrolytes HeHe likes here (use code HEHE for a discount!): https://justingredients.us/products/electrolytes-blue-hawaiian?selling_plan=3422945473
We have a brand new addition to the Informed Pregnancy family! This week on the podcast we have a special holiday audio preview of the first 3 episodes of Growing with HeHe. Or check out the full visual series here!Growing with HeHe is an intimate short-form video series following HeHe Stewart's real-time first pregnancy journey. You may know her as a doula, educator, and advocate for trauma-informed birth but this time, she's turning the spotlight inward. From her roots in a small Mississippi town to founding The Birth Lounge, HeHe has spent years empowering others with calm strength and fierce clarity. Now, she invites us to follow her own path, sharing week by week the emotional highs, physical shifts, and vulnerable truths of her first pregnancy. Through honest reflection and intimate storytelling, we meet HeHe, her husband Nick, and the circle of people who shape her journey. Connect with HeHe: @tranquilitybyhehe @the.birth.lounge thebirthlounge.com The Birth Lounge Podcast 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
He-He, founder of Tranquility by He-He and The Birth Lounge, joins Sarah Marie Bilger to discuss empowering women to use their voice through pregnancy, birth, and early parenting. The episode covers consent, respectful communication, understanding medical options, evidence-based information, patients' rights (including EMTALA), and the freedom to accept, decline, or change care decisions. Listeners are encouraged to advocate for their preferences, start building confidence before birth, and parent in ways that align with their values without needing anyone's permission. Find the Full Show Notes Here: https://www.enteringmotherhood.com/episodes Relevant Links: Register for the O.W.N Your Birth Childbirth Education Course Learn more about the Build Your Village Summit 5 ways to prepare for an Unmedicated Birth Download the FREE Comprehensive Birth Vision Planner Hypnobabies is a great tool to use hypnosis when preparing for childbirth. Use the code MOTHERHOOD20 to receive 20% off today! Truly fuel your body with FOND Bone Broth a verified regenerative by land to market company dedicated to serving you rich and handcrafted items. Use code ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 10% off. Looking to become a doula yourself and get into birthwork? Check out the Online Doula Training Program to get started on your path today. Become certified through Postpartum University and help clients learn more about how to nourish their bodies in the postpartum period. Want a baby carrier you can snuggle your baby tight in? Check out LoveHeld for their handwoven ring sling carrier you'll be sure to love. In need of nursing tops and postpartum items? Kindred Bravely is the place to shop for all of your attire needs and more. Connect with Entering Motherhood: The Entering Motherhood Website @entering.motherhood (IG) Entering Motherhood (FB) Contact us Directly
Giving birth trauma a voice. Doula and advocate HeHe Stewart explores the emotional journey of NICU parents and the unseen wounds of traumatic birth experiences in this episode. From redefining advocacy to helping families find healing even in survival mode, HeHe shares powerful insights, personal stories, and practical support for those navigating life after the NICU. Whether you're a parent, partner, or professional, this conversation sheds light on the resilience, grief, and hope that shape the path to recovery.
It's the final week to grab Birthing Your Big Ass Baby at pre-sale pricing! Don't miss your chance to ditch the fear, shut down the “too big” myths, and learn exactly how to birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence — all for the lowest price it'll ever be. In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is tackling one of the most common (and misunderstood) fears in birth: having a “big baby.” From those intimidating late-pregnancy ultrasounds to the “your baby might be too big” comments, she's breaking down what's actually evidence-based and what's just outdated scare tactics. Drawing from real DMs and community questions, HeHe pulls back the curtain on how baby size is estimated (spoiler: it's often way off), what true macrosomia really means, and why the risks around shoulder dystocia are often exaggerated. She shares the birth positions, mindset shifts, and advocacy tools that help parents stay calm, confident, and in control, no matter what their provider says about baby's size. You'll also hear about her brand new course, Birthing Your Big Ass Baby, created to help you ditch the fear, trust your body, and birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence. Plus, HeHe chats about safe lubrication options from her friends at Coconu (get 30% off til 10/31 with code HEHE and 15% after that), the problem with hospital baby soaps (looking at you, Johnson & Johnson), and why upright labor + open-glottis pushing are total game changers for preventing trauma and protecting your pelvic floor. This episode is your permission slip to stop fearing a “big baby” and start trusting the truth: your body was built for this. 00:00 Introduction: Your Body is Not Broken 00:57 Introducing the Course: Birthing Your Big Ass Baby 01:39 Debunking Myths About Big Babies 02:53 Understanding Shoulder Dystocia 04:11 Course Details and Benefits 05:08 Key Insights on Big Babies 17:31 Pushing Techniques and Hospital Practices 30:19 Informed Consent and Advocacy 37:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram Connect with HeHe on YouTube BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience! Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! Grab Birthing Your Big Ass Baby at pre-sale pricing! Don't miss your chance to ditch the fear, shut down the “too big” myths, and learn exactly how to birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence — all for the lowest price it'll ever be.
This episode explores how doulas integrate themselves into the healthcare system to enhance outcomes for mothers, families, and babies. There are countless benefits to hiring a doula to improve the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience. Join us to learn more! HeHe Stewart is a leading childbirth educator, advocate, and maternity care reform expert. With a master's in human development and over a decade of experience, she empowers families with evidence-based birth prep, informed decision-making, and postpartum readiness. She is a fierce advocate for informed consent, reducing unnecessary interventions, and ensuring patient autonomy in birth. Beyond working with families, HeHe is actively involved in legislative efforts to improve women's health policies and expand access to midwifery care. She works to reform maternity care by advocating for patient rights, increased birth options, and improved mental health outcomes. As the host of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe interviews leading experts in women's health, pregnancy, and newborn development, giving parents the knowledge they need to navigate birth and postpartum with confidence. Her work continues to drive meaningful change through education, advocacy, and policy reform. Show Highlights: HeHe's path to this work–a continual emphasis on advocacy Birth doulas and postpartum doulas: What they do and how they help A doula is beneficial for every pregnancy and birth, offering unique care. The intimate relationship between doula and client (“I have a cheerleader who will advocate for me.”) The benefits of a birth doula result in reduced risks and problems. HeHe's role in “pausing the room and giving space” for the patient to ask questions of the healthcare providers The big lesson for healthcare providers: The person who's giving birth will never forget how you make them feel in their experience. When a doula notices problems and needs to intervene Doing better for women in pregnancy and the postpartum What HeHe wants women to know about self-advocacy Resources: Connect with HeHe Stewart: The Birth Lounge, Tranquility by HeHe, The Birth Lounge Instagram, Tranquility by HeHe Instagram, and The Birth Lounge App (available from the Apple App Store and Google Play) Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course. Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Planning for birth often centers around the joyful, expected moments, skin-to-skin, golden hour, and bringing your baby home. But what about the unexpected? What happens if birth takes a catastrophic turn?In this joint episode with The BirthLounge Podcast, HeHe Stewart and I are collaborating again. Together, we unpack what it means to create a catastrophic birth plan, a tool to help families feel informed and empowered even in rare, life-threatening situations.I share my personal experience of surviving an AFE and what I wish had been in place for myself, my baby, and my partner. This episode explores:
This episode isn't just about birth plans—it's about the plan no one wants to make, but every family needs. I'm joined by Kayleigh Summers, aka The Birth Trauma Mama, to have a real and raw conversation about creating a catastrophe plan during pregnancy. Kayleigh shares her personal story of surviving an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) and how that experience changed everything about the way she views birth prep. We talk about what most people skip over: ICU protocols, feeding plans, postpartum care in emergencies, and yes—even life support decisions. It's a heavy conversation, but it's also incredibly empowering. By the end, you'll know exactly how to start building a plan that ensures your wishes are respected and your voice is heard—even if things don't go the way you envisioned. This is about protecting your power in birth, no matter what. Guest Bio: Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. Drawing from her clinical expertise and lived experience as an amniotic fluid embolism survivor, Kayleigh is dedicated to supporting families navigating perinatal trauma and collaborating with healthcare institutions to implement trauma-informed care tailored to pregnant and postpartum populations. As The Birth Trauma Mama, Kayleigh has cultivated vibrant support communities through Instagram, TikTok, and her podcast, offering connection, storytelling, and valuable resources for individuals impacted by perinatal trauma. Her work bridges clinical knowledge and personal insight, fostering hope and healing for those in need. 00:00 Introduction and Third Trimester Update 02:51 Creating a Birth Plan 04:40 Introducing the Catastrophe Plan 05:50 Kayleigh Summers' Story and Lessons 08:41 Discussing Catastrophic Birth Plans 11:11 Advocating for Yourself and Your Baby 11:57 Welcoming Kayleigh Summers 12:24 The Importance of Hard Conversations 13:22 Planning for Postpartum and Catastrophic Events 16:44 Separation and Skin-to-Skin Contact 39:02 Feeding Plans and Breastfeeding Decisions 44:01 Struggles with Milk Supply 44:47 Navigating ICU Communication 49:24 The Importance of Family Support 52:08 Documenting ICU Experiences 58:48 Life Support Decisions 01:07:59 Preparing for Catastrophic Events 01:19:42 Final Thoughts and Resources SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube Connect with Kayleigh on IG BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience! Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! LINKS MENTIONED: thebirthtraumamama.com Keywords: birth trauma, birth trauma mama, Kayleigh Summers, catastrophe plan pregnancy, amniotic fluid embolism, AFE birth story, emergency birth planning, pregnancy birth plan, postpartum planning, ICU birth plan, feeding plan newborn, high risk pregnancy planning, birth advocacy, informed consent in birth, empowered birth, birth trauma support, The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe Stewart, maternal health advocacy, lowering birth trauma
Welcome to the seventy seventh episode of Talk Spirit To Me.This week Jess welcomed HeHe Stewart to the podcast.HeHe Stewart is a doula, educator and the Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, a birth service that helps women and their families find balance in the chaos of growing their families. As a doula, HeHe views her role as the guardian of the energy surrounding each birth experience. Her goal is for parents to feel informed, in control, and supported. She believes in the strength and courage of birthing parents and in the natural wisdom of their bodies. She trusts the process of birth and encourages families to surround themselves with love, warmth, kindness, encouragement, and serenity. If you would like to connect with HeHe you can follow her on Instagram @tranquilitybyheheIf you like this sh*t, follow us on Instagram @jessicalynnemediumship & @talkspirittomepodcast OR if you would like to book a Psychic Medium Reading you can do so HERE **Please note: we do not own the rights to this music; Rollercoaster - Jay Someday@RFM_NCM
In this spicy World Breastfeeding Week episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe is calling out the BS that's messing with your breastfeeding journey. From the "feed every three hours" myth to the outdated fear around nursing your baby to sleep, we're busting it all wide open. HeHe breaks down 9 of the most common (and flat-out harmful) pieces of advice that new parents are being fed — and shows you exactly how to ditch the bad info and trust your baby, your body, and your instincts instead. We're talking evidence-based truth bombs, real-time solutions, and the exact shifts that can make breastfeeding feel less like a struggle and more like second nature. You'll also get access to HeHe's free class on how to avoid a c-section, because spoiler alert: how you feed your baby matters, but how you're supported while doing it matters even more. This episode is for every new or expecting parent who's feeling overwhelmed, confused, or just plain tired of hearing 15 different opinions on the same thing. If you're ready to quiet the noise and feel confident in your breastfeeding journey — you're in the right place. What We Cover: 00:00 The truly unhinged advice floating around 01:02 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:08 What World Breastfeeding Week should be about 02:16 Grab the Free Class: How to Avoid a C-Section 04:38 9 pieces of breastfeeding advice that need to go 05:04 #1: Feed every three hours 10:14 #2: Always feed from both breasts 15:04 #3: Supplement with formula before your milk comes in check out our episode on Low Milk Supply 18:44 #4: Don't nurse to sleep 21:21 #5: Never wake a sleeping baby 25:28 #6: Pump and dump if you drink 28:27 #7: Cluster feeding means low supply 31:16 #8: Pacifiers cause nipple confusion 34:40 #9: Start pumping immediately after birth 40:18 Final thoughts and your permission to trust yourself SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience! Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! Keywords: breastfeeding tips, breastfeeding myths, newborn feeding, nursing mistakes, breastfeeding advice, how to breastfeed, World Breastfeeding Week, breastfeeding help, lactation support, breast milk supply, nursing to sleep, cluster feeding, pumping tips, nipple confusion, supplementing with formula, avoid c-section, evidence-based birth, postpartum support, new mom tips, birth lounge podcast, HeHe Stewart
Fertility Friday Radio | Fertility Awareness for Pregnancy and Hormone-free birth control
What does it take to feel empowered, informed, and supported in your birth experience—especially in a system that often prioritizes policy over patient autonomy? Tune in to my latest episode with HeHe Stewart as we discuss! Follow this link to view the full show notes page! This episode is sponsored by Lisa's new book Real Food for Fertility, co-authored with Lily Nichols! Grab your copy here! Would you prefer to listen to the audiobook version of Real Food for Fertility instead?
Here's a prep guide for hospital births that will help you feel more confident, and empower you with information that could help you avoid unnecessary procedures that can result in trauma and/or injury.Our guest is HeHe Stewart, a birth doula and founder of The Birth Lounge, a non-judgmental, evidence-based childbirth education online platform known for helping parents navigate birth. HeHe also has her own podcast called the Birth Lounge. Here's some of what we discuss:how to avoid unnecessary C-sectionshow to confidently ask for optionswhat to do if things don't go as expectedcrucial information to prepare you for hospital birthFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with HeHe Stewart Tranquility by HeHe | The Birth Lounge Education PlatformHeHe's Podcast The Birth Lounge PodcastLearn more The 10 Questions Every First-Time Parent Asks | Home Birth As An Alternative To The Hospital | How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don't Have a Doula (What is a Doula?)Resources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Postpartum Soups and Stews CollectionConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe shares untraditional aspects to consider when creating your birth plan, or birth preference sheet, as HeHe likes to call it. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the phases of labor, choosing the right people in your birth space, considering all available tools and medications, and planning for postpartum care. HeHe also shares insights on maintaining flexibility and making informed decisions during labor. Tune in to learn how to create a thoughtful and comprehensive birth preference sheet that prioritizes your autonomy and informed consent. 00:00 Introduction: The Rush to Labor 00:24 Untraditional Birth Plan Considerations 01:47 The Importance of Birth Preferences 03:44 Understanding the Phases of Labor 04:45 Early Labor: Managing Time and Anxiety 09:09 Free Class: Avoiding C-Sections and Reducing Tearing 11:06 Choosing Your Birth Team 17:46 Preparing Your Partner with Dad Daze 21:33 Pain Relief Options in Labor 28:31 Medical and Non-Medical Tools for Labor 31:39 Postpartum Planning and Preferences 36:07 Conclusion: Empowering Your Birth Experience INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience! Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! LINKS MENTIONED: Get HeHe's free class on how to avoid a c-section here: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection https://www.thebirthlounge.com/daddaze https://www.justtheinserts.com/
In this episode Stephanie talks with HeHe Stewart, a Birth Doula aiming to help women avoid birth trauma & prepare for a confident and informed hospital birth. She has her own podcast The Birth Lounge and an active social media presence educating women about all things birth related. We talk about what it takes to become a Doula and the role a Doula can play in high-risk or critical illness situation. She explains challenges she has faced while interacting with the medical team and how she handles them. Find her here:Childbirth Education: https://www.thebirthlounge.comDoula Services: https://www.tranquilitybyhehe.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/The experts at Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics pool their decades of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women to discuss the challenges encountered in caring for these vulnerable women. Dr Stephanie Martin is the Medical Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist with expertise in critical care obstetrics. Suzanne McMurtry Baird, DNP, RN is the Nursing Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics with many years of experience caring for critically ill pregnant women. Julie Arafeh, RN, MS is the Simulation Director for Clinical Concepts in Obstetrics and a leading expert in simulation.Critical Care Obstetrics Academy: https://www.clinicalconceptsinob.com/Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/criticalcareob/Dr Martin's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephanie-martin-65b07112aCCOB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clinical-concepts-in-obstetrics/Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/OBCriticalCareCCOB Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clinicalconceptsinobstetricsDr Ma...
Are all inductions necessary—or even helpful? HeHe Stewart, doula, childbirth educator, and the powerhouse behind The Birth Lounge. Known for her unapologetic advocacy and evidence-based insights, HeHe unpacks the truth about medical inductions and empowers moms to make informed, confident choices about their births. Together, we explore the myths and realities around due dates, elective vs. medical induction, and why many women feel pressured or coerced into choices they later regret. From understanding the flawed ARRIVE trial to navigating Pitocin protocols, this episode is a deep dive into what every mom should know before walking into a hospital birth. If you've ever been told “a healthy baby is all that matters,” this conversation will open your eyes to why you matter just as much—and how advocating for yourself starts with being informed! Key Highlights: • Understanding medical vs. elective induction • The ARRIVE trial and why it's problematic • Why hospital policy often puts ROI over maternal wellness • Bishop scores: what they are and what they don't guarantee • The emotional toll of long, unplanned inductions • How Pitocin really works—and why “how” it's used matters more than the drug itself • Recognizing coercive medical language and asserting your autonomy • Counting kicks: the free app that could save your baby's life • What to do if you regret your induction experience • Why your next birth can be radically different Connect with HeHe Stewart: • Instagram: @tranquilitybyhehe • Website: www.thebirthlounge.com • Podcast: The Birth Lounge • App: The Birth Lounge (Available on major app stores) Connect with Melania & Ally: • Instagram: @rawmomversations • Website: www.rawmomversations.com For partnership and collaboration inquiries: • Email: rawmomversations@gmail.com Podcast Disclaimer: The Raw MOMversations podcast is for entertainment purposes only and not a substitute for professional or medical advice. The views expressed by hosts and guests are their own. Consult professionals for individual needs. We strive for accuracy but make no warranties. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or contributors are solely their own and do not represent the views of Raw MOMversations, its sponsors, or affiliated organizations. Raw MOMversations is not liable for any losses. By listening, you agree to these terms. Thank you for tuning in!
Hehe Stewart is a doula, educator, and the founder of one of the most engaging birth communities online. In short, her goal is to empower women in medical settings. Today's conversation will help you feel more confident about advocating for your own preferences, reducing the risk of unnecessary interventions, and switching off people pleasing so you can own your birth space. Connect with Hehe: @tranquilitybyhehe The Birth Lounge Podcast Work with Hehe Want more pregnancy + parenting? Informed Pregnancy Media and Mahmee present an all new podcast by Dr. Elliot Berlin. One Way or a Mother is a new narrative podcast from Dr. Elliot Berlin, DC. Each season is an intimate story of one woman, one pregnancy, and all of the preparations, emotions, and personal history leading up to the birth. Episodes feature the expectant mother along with her family, doctors, and birth work team. Start your FREE TRIAL of Informed Pregnancy+ and get 24/7 access to streaming content to everything pregnancy and parenting like birth films, documentaries, pregnancy focused yoga and meditation, and more! 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
HeHe Stewart is a leading childbirth educator, advocate, and maternity care reform expert. With a Master's in Human Development and over a decade of experience, she empowers families with evidence-based birth prep, informed decision-making, and postpartum readiness. She is a fierce advocate for informed consent, reducing unnecessary interventions, and ensuring patient autonomy in birth. Beyond working with families, HeHe is actively involved in legislative efforts to improve women's health policies and expand access to midwifery care. She works to reform maternity care by advocating for patient rights, increased birth options, and improved maternal health outcomes. Her work continues to drive meaningful change through education, advocacy, and policy reform. Time Stamps: (1:02) Who Is HeHe Stewart? (5:02) How HeHe Started (9:41) Why C Sections Are Increasing (13:00) HeHe's Process (16:42) Hospitals Are Setup For Profits (22:28) People Pleasing and Your Birth Experience (29:47) Birthing Classes (38:20) Home Births (42:35) Decisions Leading Up To Birth (57:15) Where To Find HeHe --------------------- Connect with HeHe on IG: @tranqulitybyhehe HeHe's Podcast: @the.birth.lounge HeHe's Doula Link Recommendations: Little Honey Money Be Her Village Doulamatch.net --------------------- Stay Connected: Instagram: @alyciaisrael Facebook: Alycia Israel Apparel: Be Your Own Daddy
Trish welcomes HeHe, a dedicated doula, birth advocate, and host of The Birth Lounge podcast. They dive deep into the significant role that doulas play in empowering parents during childbirth through advocacy, education, and effective communication. HeHe shares her journey from working with children on the autism spectrum to becoming a doula, highlighting the recurring themes of birth trauma and anxiety among parents from a lack of education or support. This episode focuses on the doula's role in birth, covering how to prepare for unexpected situations during labor, creating collaborative relationships in the birth room, and the importance of therapy for birth workers. Whether you're a doula, a pregnant mama, or simply interested in birth advocacy, this episode provides valuable insights into making informed birth decisions and fostering a supportive birth environment.00:54 Meet HeHe: Doula and Birth Advocate04:30 Empowering Parents in the Birth Room08:56 Balancing Advocacy and Professionalism11:18 The Role of Doulas in Birth Decisions19:38 The Importance of Birth Planning24:37 Tips for Doulas in Hospital Settings26:22 Creating a Comfortable Birth Environment38:00 Polite Communication and Hospital Culture39:38 The Role of a Doula as an AdvocateConnect with HeHe:Follow her on Instagram: @tranquilitybyhehe & @the.birth.loungeListen to The Birth Lounge PodcastTheBirthLounge.com Listen to Episode 324: Debunking VBAC Myths: What You Really Need to Prepare for a Hospital Birth with Trish WareResources: Join our 5 Days to A Fearless Birth Experience and watch 5 Online Birth Classes!!Connect w/ Trish: On InstagramOn FacebookOn YouTubeOn Pinterest On TikTokFor more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast ServicesNext Steps with LNM:If you are ready to invest in your pregnancy & postpartum journey, you are in the right place. I would love to take your hand and support you in your virtual labor room!If you are ready to dive into a birth class and have your best and most powerful birth story, then Calm Labor Confident Birth or
In this episode HeHe addresses one of the most frequently asked questions: How to achieve an unmedicated birth. These are the steps she would take if she was hoping for an unmedicated hospital birth. The discussion includes practical, actionable steps for expectant parents aiming for an unmedicated delivery, emphasizing the importance of preparation, mindset, and holistic health. Topics covered include laboring at home, choosing the right care providers like midwives, understanding the labor process, and the significance of self-advocacy. The episode also highlights the necessity of having coping skills, educating your partner, and making a flexible birth plan to navigate the birth process confidently. 04:10 Practical Steps for Unmedicated Birth 06:11 Understanding the Birth Process 08:29 Preparing for Unmedicated Birth 10:49 Top Tips for Unmedicated Birth 20:23 Coping Skills and Partner Support 27:12 Creating a Birth Plan 31:39 Mental and Physical Preparation 36:00 The Importance of Self-Advocacy 50:59 Conclusion INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube BIRTH EDUCATION: Check out our free course on how to avoid a c-section here! Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience! Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! LINKS MENTIONED: Get HeHe's birth planning guide here!
When preparing for labor, most people are fixated on getting through the first stage and handling the contractions. And I get it. It's the longest stage of labor, and it can determine how you will birth your baby. But one area that I think does not get enough time and attention that really should when talking about labor and birth is pushing. You might think that there's not much when it comes to pushing. "You just push the baby out, right?" But you couldn't be more wrong. If only it were that simple! Sometimes, women are quickly and effectively able to push their babies out, but more often than not, a lot of mothers who are pushing look to their care providers to give them guidance on how to push and if they are pushing correctly. Why can't we give them this guidance and prepare them better so they can feel confident during the pushing phase? That's why we're talking all about it today with our guest HeHe. As a fellow sister doula, I knew this conversation was going to be a great one filled with awesome tips and information. And it is! Who is HeHe Stewart? HeHe Stewart is a birth and postpartum doula, the Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, and the creator of The Birth Lounge and Dad Daze, a birth prep course for fathers. With a Master's degree in Human Development and Family Studies and 10 years in the Family Life Education field, HeHe helps women prepare for childbirth with research-backed education and expert support to have a confident birth experience while feeling informed and in control of labor (without fear or coercion). She is also a pro with preparing for postpartum, helping you master feeding your tiny human and understanding newborn sleep! What Did We Discuss? In this episode, I chat with HeHe about pushing during labor. We cover it all, from when you should actually start pushing to effective techniques, timing, and more! Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: What are the first things that come to your mind when you think about this topic of pushing? When do you normally recommend your clients to begin to push? How can expectant mothers mentally and emotionally prepare for labor and pushing? How can birth partners and doulas effectively support the mother during the pushing phase? How long can a mother expect to push during labor? What are some common challenges or complications mothers could face during pushing, and how can they be managed? What are your tips for minimizing the risk of tearing while pushing? o summarize, what are your top tips for mothers to prepare and endure the pushing phase of labor? HeHe is such a gem to mothers and the birthing community. It's so much fun for me to talk about birth with other birth workers and share helpful stories. Our conversation is filled with gold nuggets of wisdom! HeHe shared amazing advice and tips that I believe would help any parent feel more prepared for their pushing phase in labor. I hope you leave feeling more knowledgeable and prepared for pushing when it comes time for you. Let us know your thoughts and experience! HeHe's Resources Website: thebirthlounge.com Instagram: @tranquilitybyhehe TikTok: @tranquilitybyhehe Podcast: The Birth Lounge Podcast Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, leave us a review, and follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat for more content. Cheers to a positive pushing & birth experience! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Munch on some ice chips and PUSHHHHH (sorry) play on this week's episode, in which we dare to apply our culty analysis to the ever-polarizing "free birther" community. Free birthing is a controversial catch-all term in and of itself, generally describing a style of medically unassisted birth that has turned into not just a movement but possibly a cult—why? Because this is America, and if something has the potential to turn culty, then it probably will! Doula (and loyal listener of the pod) Hehe Stewart joins for a discussion of power dynamics, misinformation, and why so-called free birthers have been pitted against the traditional medical establishment in a way that puts everyoneeee in danger. Trying our best to bring both cheekiness and empathy to this very casual and low-stakes discussion (joke). Love you culties!!! Follow us on IG @soundslikeacultpod @amanda_montell @reesaronii @chelseaxcharles Watch the new season of Sounds Like A Cult on YouTube! To subscribe to Amanda's new Magical Overthinkers podcast, click here :) Further reading: Listen to the Whispers before They Become Screams: Addressing Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality in the United States Racism During Pregnancy and Birthing: Experiences from Asian and Pacific Islander, Black, Latina, and Middle Eastern Women When Giving Birth, Opting to Go It Alone Insights into the U.S. Maternal Mortality Crisis: An International Comparison Born Free: Unassisted Childbirth in North America Just ‘birth': the phenomenon of birth without a healthcare professional She Wanted a ‘Freebirth' at Home. When the Baby Died, the Attacks Began Thank you to our sponsors! Head to Squarespace.com for a free trial, and when you're ready to launch, go to https://www.squarespace.com/CULT to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain. Go to the App Store or Google Play store and download the FREE Ibotta app to start earning cash back and use code CULT. Earn points by paying rent right now when you go to joinbilt.com/CULT. Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at mintmobile.com/cult.
Motherhood Flow with Hannah Gill | VBAC Doula and Birth Educator
Imagine walking into labor and delivery prepared with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for the birth experience you've envisioned. That's exactly what HeHe Stewart, from Tranquility by HeHe and The Birth Lounge, is here to talk about. We talk about ways to turn the often overwhelming task of birth planning into a strategic, thoughtful process, giving you the upper hand in navigating your unique situation.Crafting a birth plan isn't just about putting preferences on paper—it's a vital exercise in critical thinking and assertive communication with your care providers. In our conversation, we discuss the misconceptions surrounding birth plans and highlight their role in achieving a satisfying birth experience. Starting these conversations early in prenatal care can significantly influence the labor process, helping to maintain autonomy and minimize unnecessary medical interventions. We also dive into effective communication and focus on fostering a collaborative environment with your healthcare team, which can lead to a less stressful birth experience.HeHe and I also talk about preparation for a low-intervention birth within a system that often leans towards medicalized birthing practices. We apply many of the concepts in this episode to VBAC specific situations including comparing the difference between VBAC tolerant and truly VBAC supportive providers.After listening to this episode you'll be ready with the tools needed to clearly communicate your wishes and navigate the birth process with your team, ensuring your voice is heard every step of the way.Connect with HeHe:https://www.tranquilitybyhehe.com/https://www.thebirthlounge.com/https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehehttps://www.thebirthlounge.com/DadDaze-freebieSupport the showDownload the First 3 Steps to VBAC Guide: https://www.thehannahgill.com/firststepsDownload the Doula VBAC and Repeat Cesarean Guide: https://www.thehannahgill.com/newdoulatips
Have you ever wondered how a birth doula can empower and advocate for clients, even in the face of adversity in the birthplace, specifically from providers?If you have ever wondered how birth doulas like HeHe Stewart navigate provider bias to create a truly autonomous and supportive birthing experience for their clients, then get out a pen and paper, this episode is for you!Today I'm joined by HeHe Stewart from Tranquility by HeHe, who is sharing her insight and experience from supporting birthing women in all settings and teaching women how to stand up for their rights in the birthing process.In this episode, we dive into the following:Why mastering the art of advocacy is essential for every birth worker in the fight against provider bias…HeHe's journey as a birth worker standing up for clients and confronting provider bias head-on…The key ingredient to creating lasting change for your clients as a birth doula…… and a whole lot more!If you're tired of feeling powerless and unheard in the face of provider bias, then you wanna listen up!Follow Hehe on Instagram: @tranquilitybyheheVisit Hehe's website: tranquilitybyhehe.com Are you feeling the call to Birthwork? I've got you covered! DM me “Impact” on Instagram and I'll share the details on how to get started. Ready to turn your in-person doula business into a crazy successful online business, too? I've got you. Click here and join me inside the Birthworker Membership. Don't forget to check out the blog post at www.birthworker.com/blog or follow along over on Instagram at @birthworkerpodcast for more. If these topics light you up, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you're listening from. After you review the show - snap a pic and upload it here - and I'll send you a little surprise as a thank you. Your feedback helps this podcast grow and I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you!
HeHe Stewart, advocate, educator and founder of Maternity Concierge and The Birth Lounge, joins Julia to discuss pregnancy, informed consent and the education of the birthing process. HeHe is passionate about helping people prepare for a pregnancy and birth experience. She educates women on their rights, the role of the hospital and physician and topics you may have yet to consider. This episode is for anyone who has childbirth in the future, along with your support team. You don't want to miss this educational episode of Stork'd. IN THIS EPISODE: ● [00:00] Julia shares who HeHe Stewart is and the many educational resources she has made available [02:25] HeHe explains the services she provides and how she came to start her business [08:21] The critical need to bridge the gap between patients and providers [13:18] Julia outlines the changes within the system that need to change and four takeaways from the education she provides [18:44] How do you know what you don't know medically, and what if your doctor/hospital is not following your plan [28:06] Six decisions from HeHe's list of 175 decisions you could make [32:54] HeHe discusses how she works with clients and how to overcome fear and trauma and the percentages involved [42:30] What is the ambiance of the labor room [44:16] HeHe defines her definition of family KEY TAKEAWAYS: The policy of a hospital is not a law. Therefore, you can say no thank you. Also, find a doctor who honors your plan for birthing or change doctors until you find a doctor who is on the same page. Women in the past felt they had no say or control over their bodies. That is a fallacy. Informed consent is your right, and women need to champion that concept. Educate yourself before the pregnancy so you know the options, the process, and the what-ifs so you can make an informed decision. RESOURCE LINKS: Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd- YouTube HeHe Stewart - Facebook HeHe Stewart - Website HeHe Stewart - Instagram Birth Lounge/Tranquility - Podcast Birth Lounge - TicTok Birth Lounge - Instagram Birth Lounge - App ABOUT: HeHe Stewart As a doula, I view my role as the guardian of the energy of your birth experience. I want you to be informed, in control, and supported. I believe in you and your body. I believe you are strong and courageous. I believe in trusting the process and surrounding yourself with love, warmth, encouragement, kindness, and serenity. I believe birth is a magical and transformative time in your life, your partner's life, and your baby's life. I want you to feel respected and relaxed at your birth. I want your birth to be a pleasant memory that you carry with you for the rest of your life and are happy to share with others. There is no right or wrong; there is only what's right for you. I'm here to help you explore, discover, and advocate your wants and needs to have the birth experience you've always wanted. I believe there is a need for self-care and compassion in the care of expectant parents. It is important that every parent feels supported in their choices after discussing all possible options. It's imperative that parents have access to judgment-free spaces, educators, and support. That's what I want to be for all my clients and their partners.
Lauren is a movement educator and specialist, and a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach and mama to Lila. She's here today to share her birth story which is so full of details surrounding boundary holding, intuition, and the preparations she did to feel empowered. Similar to our episode with doula Hehe Stewart, (listen here), Lauren chats all about how important it was to have her birth team on board with her plans. In addition to her birth story, we go deep into pelvic floor preparation and healing, and Lauren busts some myths for us too. Stay tuned for part 2! Sign Up: Prenatal Preparation for Postpartum Restoration workshop, where Garrett will be speaking postpartum mindset! Follow Lauren on IG: @mind.body.vitality Website: www.mindandbodyvitality.com _____________________________________ Connect with our host on IG: @garrettnwood Sign-up for the kozēkozē newsletter here. Follow kozēkozē on IG: @kozekozemama Podcast Instagram for details on past guests: @kozekozepodcast Follow Garrett on TikTok: @kozekozemama GET ON THE WAITLIST FOR THE 2nd ANNUAL FULL CIRCLE FEMININE WELLNESS RETREAT If you like Garrett's voice, check out her meditations here. email garrett: garrettkusmierz@kozekoze.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kozekoze/message
You know I like to have the conversations no one else will when it comes to birth and postpartum and today's episode is no exception!In our last episode together, HeHe Stewart, founder of The Birth Lounge, and I talked about the benefits of having a doula, who wouldn't benefit from a doula, the role of the partner, and so much more.Now we're opening the conversation about doulas in a different way that's actually somewhat taboo, regarding advocating for your birth and the role a doula can play in supporting your birth plans.Mamas, you may ask, “Why is that taboo?” But doulas, you know very well why, because it's often frowned upon by larger certifying agencies.****For more juicy tips, information, and links you absolutely want to check out, go to https://postpartumu.com/advocating-as-a-doula-with-hehe-stewart-ep110/ for more!
Doulas have gone mainstream and many are still left questioning - do I really need one?To deep dive into this question, we've brought in a truly incredible expert. HeHe Stewart is the founder of The Birth Lounge with years of experience as a birth doula and a masters in Human Development and Family Studies.Together we're discussing the raw truth about which families would not benefit from bringing on a doula, why partners cannot replace this kind of support, and so much more.****For more juicy tips, information, and links you absolutely want to check out, go to https://postpartumu.com/postpartum-university-podcast-ep104 for more!
Sit down and get cozy! This solo episode with HeHe Stewart dives into the glaring issues with in-hospital childbirth education. So before you sign up for your local hospitals class, make sure to give this one a listen! If you are listening along with us live during the first week of March, be sure to catch The Birth Lounge while doors are open HERE! Link mentioned in episode: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3241518/
Imagine, you're at your 38 week check up and your care provider wants to do a cervical exam. For some people this might sound great, but what if it doesn't? Do you have to have the exam because your care provider suggested it? What about continuous fetal monitoring during your labor, birthing on your back, or limited contact with your baby after birth? If these things are hospital policy, are you and your family required to comply? The answer may surprise you, you're allowed to say no. So how do you respectfully communicate your desires and boundaries with your care provider and birth team? To answer this question I've invited HeHe Stewart to be my guest on today's episode of Yoga| Birth| Babies. HeHe is a doula, founder of Tranquility by Hehe Maternity Concierge, and host of the podcast The Birth Lounge. HeHe is an incredible advocate for pregnant folks. While the topics we're covering today, advocating for yourself during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, respectful communication, informed consent, and hospital policy sound heavy, HeHe brings a fantastic light energy to the conversation. I had such a great time speaking with HeHe, she is amazing. You're going to get so much wonderful information. We do some role play, so you'll have examples of what to say if your care provider presents something that you're not feeling great about. HeHe offers solid examples of how to respectfully decline and shift the power in the room back to you. We also talk about informed consent and that you don't need to straight off sign the hospital consent form as is. There is so much great information in this conversation! Get the most out of each episode by checking out the show notes with links, resources and other related podcasts at: prenatalyogacenter.com Don't forget to grab your FREE guide, 5 Simple Solutions to the Most Common Pregnancy Pains HERE If you love what you've been listening to, please leave a rating and review! Yoga| Birth|Babies (Apple) or on Spotify! To connect with Deb and the PYC Community: Instagram & Facebook: @prenatalyogacenter Youtube: Prenatal Yoga Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sit down and get cozy! This solo episode with HeHe Stewart dives into the glaring issues with in-hospital childbirth education. So before you sign up for your local hospitals class, make sure to give this one a listen! If you are listening along with us live during the first week of December, be sure to catch The Birth Lounge while doors are open HERE! Link mentioned in episode: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3241518/
I sit down with Hehe, a doula and owner of The Birth Lounge App to chat about being a conscious birther and how to start being a conscious parent before your baby arrives. You can find her on Instagram at @tranquilitybyhehe.Go to https://betterhelp.com/conscioushippiemama for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. #sponsoredHehe's InstagramFollow me on InstagramPandemic parents and children need support like never before!Delayed social-emotional development of children is a “long COVID” symptom.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Tranquility by HeHe is a Maternity Concierge, Doula, and Birthing Service in the Boston area. Their mission is to provide high quality, holistic, individualized doula services to Boston families in an empowering and nurturing environment. They take their doula services above and beyond prenatal, birth, and postpartum support by managing all of the "time-sucking" things such as creating your baby registry, planning your baby shower, and researching top-quality baby essentials. HeHe's Motto: "Choose what's right for your body, your baby, and your family. I'll support you in that choice." In this episode, you'll hear about: Tranquility by He He Stuart Concierge Services The Birth Lounge Podcast Birth Lounge Birth trauma Communicate openly with your healthcare provider Induction methods Birth stories Guide to Childbirth book Birth plan If you're outside the Boston area, The Birth Lounge is a great option to work with HeHe virtually. It's designed for women who want to make educated decisions along the journey of pregnancy and birth. Save $5/month to your membership to The Birth Lounge with code: nurture5 HeHe LOVES Instagram, so if you have an account, she spends all day in her stories and DM's! Find her here.
Birth trauma is real, and for many families, their birth experience did not go as planned. Hehe kicked off by sharing the benefits of working with a doula; Reduction in pain medication, lower C section rates, less birth trauma, and overall positive birth stories. She broke down how a doula is a birth coach with unbiased support to help you achieve your desired birth outcomes while keeping you informed about your rights and the latest birth research. Birth trauma can be a huge reason to seek out working with a doula for your subsequent pregnancy. Hehe encourages her clients to do the hard work of healing from their trauma. It's time to look at what caused your trauma to see what you can do the next time to create a different outcome. Where and how did your labor take place? You're allowed to have a good birth experience and still experience trauma. Questions to ask yourself: "Where was the control taken from me? Where can I reclaim my control in the next go around?" Be diligent in planning your next birth. Every birth is going to be different. But this will open you up to regaining control. Nail down your ideal birth, then work your way backward. Do you want an unmedicated hospital birth with my partner present? Or An unmedicated midwife birth at home or a birth center? We closed by breaking down how to prepare for the unknowns in labor. "Who knows your body better than you?" Do not miss this episode if your birth experiences have been less than ideal. Here at thrive, we are rooting for you and your family. Follow Hehe @tranquilitybyhehe and check out her comprehensive online doula services at thebirthlounge.com.
Hehe owns Tranquility by Hehe, a concierge birth support company that focuses on preparing birthing people and their partners for the challenging, exciting, and joyful experience of childbirth. She does a great deal of educating through her hilarious - but on-the-money - Instagram and Tiktok accounts. She's also the host of 'The Birth Lounge Podcast', which might become required listening for anybody at any stage of their conception or pregnancy journey. We get into birth plans, setting boundaries, 'no means no', and we find common ground way outside the confines of the 'wu' closet. It's a great pleasure to have Hehe on the show! [5:30] - Radical responsibility and birth plans [11:30] - It's never too late to start Birth planning [16:15] - How would Hehe ideally like to give birth [20:50] - The importance of setting and respecting boundaries [26:00] - Every hospital has a ‘Patient Bill of Rights' [29:00] - The moment you coerce a decision from a person, you are inflicting trauma [35:20] - Safe passage through childbirth is never guaranteed [42:45] - Support for and from the partner of a birthing person [49:00] - The role of the divine masculine in holding space in birth and parenting References and links: Tranquility By Hehe (Website, Instagram, Tiktok) Hehe's Podcast "The Birth Lounge" (she even interviewed little ol' me!) Hermine Hayes-Klein Tracey Vogel, MD Indie Birth Midwifery School Find Dr. Riley on Instagram at @nathanrileyobgyn and his practice at www.BelovedHolistics.com Sponsored by: FullWell Fertility - Use code BELOVED10 for 10% off the best prenatal vitamin on the market! Music by: Labrinth, Chancha Via Circuito, and Joaquín Cornejo --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/theholisticobgyn/message
This week on the Mimosas with Moms Podcast, Abbey welcomes Hehe Stewart, founder of Tranquility by Hehe and The Birth Lounge. Hehe shares insight into how to navigate the health care system, knowing your rights and how to have conversations with your providers, and how to have a more supported birth. Abbey and Hehe chat about medicated and unmediated births, home births, and how to be supported during the postpartum period. Hehe helps women prepare for childbirth with research-backed education and expert support. How can you have a more supported birth? Let's talk about it, CHEERS! ——————————————— You can find Hehe Stewart: IG: @tranquilitybyhehe Website: www.tranquilitybyhehe.com The Birth Lounge Podcast - Available wherever you podcast! ——————————————— Instagram @mimosaswithmoms FB /mimosaswithmoms Email 2mimosamoms@gmail.com An ABC of Families by Abbey Williams - https://www.amazon.com/ABC-Families-Abbey-Williams/dp/0711256535 ———————————————— This episode is sponsored by: * Lugz! Stylish shoes for the entire family! https://lugz.com/ Use code Mimosas30 for 30% off (Full Priced Items – Excludes Sale Section)
In this episode, I'm talking with Hehe Stewart, the Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, the creator of The Birth Lounge, and the host of The Birth Lounge Podcast. HeHe helps women prepare for childbirth with research-backed education and expert support to have a confident birth experience while feeling informed and in control of labor (without fear or coercion). Together, we talked about how new moms can advocate for themselves and their birth in a broken healthcare system. Hehe sheds light on the shifts we're seeing in medicine, ways our system can improve, tips for women in their search for the right healthcare provider, and more! Listen now! Show Notes Link: https://www.newmomboss.com/blog/68 Follow me on social media! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newmomboss/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newmomboss
Have you ever stumbled across research to back up both sides of an argument and now you're even more confused than when you first started down the rabbit hole of Google? Do you ever wonder if your own bias or opinion makes you gravitate more towards one type of research over another? Ever wondered why it takes so long for new research to be adopted by the healthcare industry? Well, let me introduce today's guest: HeHe Stewart from @tranquilitybyhehe. She's a Doula first and foremost, and she's on a mission to arm her clients with all the education, information, and research they need to make the best choices for them during birth and beyond. Research plays a big role in decision-making during birth, and research also plays a big role in deciding which exercises you should prescribe your pelvic floor clients too, doesn't it? Tune in to have your eyes and ears opened here today to having you rethinking research in general and more specifically, how it applies to our birthing clients. For the ultimate in natural movement, take us on a walk, and enjoy! Access Claire's FREE online pelvic floor masterclass - http://clairemockridge.com/class Links and resources: Follow HeHe Steward on Instagram @tranquilitybyhehe Follow The Birth Lounge on Instagram @the.birth.lounge Listen in to The Birth Lounge Podcast - https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/ Check out The Birth Lounge - https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Find out more about The Momma Biz Academy - https://www.mommabizacademy.com/ Follow Claire on Instagram @ClaireMockridge DM and tag @ClaireMockridge and @tranquilitybyhehe on Instagram Stories using the hashtag #PelvicpreneurPodcast Access Claire's online pelvic floor masterclass - http://clairemockridge.com/class Sign up to my weekly Pelvicpreneur newsletter - http://clairemockridge.com/newsletter
“Push like you are taking a poop! Pushing is a long, grueling process!” This is what most people are told about pushing in labor. But, is it true? Hehe Stewart, of Tranquility by Hehe, is a doula and maternity coach who grew up on a farm watching animals give birth in an undisturbed and effortless way. After attending births in hospitals and homes, she realized things looked very different there from what she had seen. This experience inspired her to start teaching how to birth with faster, uninterrupted labors and easier pushing stages. In today’s episode, Hehe shares her insights on birthing and breaks down her three-point secret sauce to easier pushing and less tearing for your best birth. * * * * * * * * * *If you enjoyed this episode of the Down To Birth Show, please subscribe and share with your pregnant and postpartum friends.Between episodes, connect with us on Instagram @DownToBirthShow to see behind-the-scenes production clips and join the conversation by responding to our questions and polls related to pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood. You can reach us at Contact@DownToBirthShow.com or call (802) 438-3696 (802-GET-DOWN). We are always happy to hear from our listeners and appreciate questions for our monthly Q&A episodes. To join our monthly newsletter, text "downtobirth" to 22828.You can sign up for Cynthia's HypnoBirthing classes as well as online breastfeeding classes and weekly postpartum support groups run by Cynthia & Trisha at HypnoBirthing of Connecticut. Please remember we don’t provide medical advice, and to speak with your licensed medical provider related to all your healthcare matters. Thanks so much for joining in the conversation, and see you next week!Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/cynthiaovergard)
We cover everything from birth to induction to C-sections, fear around birth to home births. Hehe empowers women to control their births, tap into their feminine, flowy energy and have the best birthing experience possible. Garrett took Hehe’s course on the Birth Lounge throughout her entire pregnancy and attributes her confidence going into birth to HeHe’s guidance! Connect with HeHe: @the.birth.lounge @tranquilitybyhehe _________________________________________________________ Connect with your host, Garrett: @garrettnwood Book a Clarity Session Enroll in Dare To Eat 2.0 with discount for listeners (15% off for listeners) Email Garrett with questions: gwcrof@gmail.com Follow the PODCAST! @daretomovepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/dare-to-move/message
HeHe Stewart is the Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, the creator of The Birth Lounge, and the host of The Birth Lounge Podcast. With a Master’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies and almost 10 years in the Family Life Education field, HeHe helps women prepare for childbirth with science-backed education and expert support to have a calm and confident birth experience while feeling informed and in control of labor (without judgement). She is a pro with preparing for postpartum and helping you master feeding your tiny human and understanding newborn sleep!
Hehe Stewart is the founder of Tranquility Birth Services in Boston, MA. She is a doula and the owner and creator of The Birth Lounge, a membership that helps birthing people prepare for birth and avoid trauma. Hehe believes that 99% of birth trauma can be avoided and is working to make that a reality. Today I wanted to talk about not just avoiding birth trauma, but how empowering birth can be. Your birth is not only going to transform who you are, but it is now an integral part of your identity. It is everything. It is the way that you started out motherhood, it is the way that you bonded with your child. It is the way you reconnected with your spouse. It is the way that you have more children and bond with those children and bond with your grandchildren. It is how you parent your children in their adulthood. It is so cyclical.
Tranquility by HeHe is a Maternity Concierge, Doula, and Birthing Service in the Boston area. Their mission is to provide high quality, holistic, individualized doula services to Boston families in an empowering and nurturing environment. They take their doula services above and beyond prenatal, birth, and postpartum support by managing all of the "time-sucking" things such as creating your baby registry, planning your baby shower, and researching top-quality baby essentials. HeHe's Motto: "Choose what's right for your body, your baby, and your family. I'll support you in that choice." In this episode, you'll hear about: Tranquility by He He Stewart Concierge Services The Birth Lounge Podcast Birth Lounge Birth trauma Communicate openly with your healthcare provider Induction methods Birth stories Guide to Childbirth book Birth plan HeHe's got your back and your birth plan wishes at heart. Learn more about doula work at TranquilitybyHehe.com. If you're outside the Boston area, The Birth Lounge is a great option to work with HeHe virtually. It's designed for women who want to make educated decisions along the journey of pregnancy and birth. Save $5/month to your membership to The Birth Lounge with code: nurture5 HeHe LOVES Instagram, so if you have an account, she spends all day in her stories and DM's! Find her here.
How do you create and grow a business that is unique and provides that missing link? In today's episode, you will hear from Hehe Stewart, the founder of Tranquility by Hehe and the creator of The Birth Lounge and The Birth Lounge Podcast. She is talking all things pregnancy, babies, motherhood, birth, and all that wonderful, fun, scary stuff. She breaks through the taboos of talking about these things and has built an amazing business around that. By seeing a need and a missing link in maternity care, she is bridging the gap by offering a range of services from pre-natal and pregnancy support to postpartum and overnight care. You will love hearing how Hehe gets fired up and shares with us her passion as she would like to help all women prepare for and experience their dream birth. With her background in human development and family studies, she offers a unique perspective and experience for mothers- and has turned that into a thriving business. In this episode, you will hear: -How listening to what people are asking for helped her create a unique business in her space -How she extended her reach by offering online services for those who are not local -Her insight and advice for entrepreneurs who are starting their own business Thanks so much for listening! Other resources and links mentioned in this episode: Tranquility by Hehe https://www.tranquilitybyhehe.com/ The Birth Lounge https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ The Birth Lounge Podcast https://tranquilitytribepodcast.podbean.com/ Find Hehe on Instagram @tranquilitybyhehe If you have any other tips or ideas, leave a comment under the post for this episode on our Instagram page @femalemillennialentrepreneurs. You can find and connect with me @pollinapr and https://www.pollinapr.com/. For any show ideas or to submit a guest to the podcast, please visit https://www.pollinapr.com/podcast/.
On today's episode of On The Spot with Melinda Garvey we sat down with HeHe Stewart, the founder of the Boston-based Tranquility by HeHe (https://tranquilitybyhehe.com/). Tranquility by HeHe is a Maternity Concierge, Doula and Birthing Service whose mission is to provide high quality, holistic, individualized doula services to families in an empowering and nurturing environment. As a doula, HeHe says she got into this line of work because she wanted to see women take control of their pregnancies, births and postpartum experiences. "Just because you choose a birth option that isn't what the people around you want you to do, first of all listen to that sentence, but just because the people around you aren't getting what they want from you in your birth, that doesn't mean that you don't have choices or that you can't take control of your birth." She wants birth to be a gentle and empowering process, rather than one of fear and anxiety. HeHe has been in Early Childhood Education for many years, and saw that parents entering the work force after their maternity or paternity leave felt lonely and unsupported, prompting her to look into how she could bridge that gap. HeHe says one of the biggest challenges of her business is educating the general public on what a doula is, the support they provide and what benefits can be achieved by using them. HeHe says if she could go back in time and start over, the only thing she would have done differently is to do deeper research into the industry both in general and her region of Boston. With better research, she says, she could have spent more time reaching her target market and specializing in her particular areas of expertise. "I've always been this person that challenged the norm and I always was that child that [asked] 'but why?' If you can't do something, why can't we do it? Is there a way that we could do that? As a child, adults try and squish that, right? They want a really obedient child. Luckily, there are children like me for whom that only fuels our fire. So I was obedient and I knew if I could just get out of high school I could do my own thing. If I could just get to college, I could do my own thing. If I could just quit my job and open up TBH, I could do my own thing. I've always been that person." Key takeaways: "If you don't believe in yourself, nobody else is going to. If you don't believe in that thing that you're selling, in your program, in your product, in your idea, who is going to believe in something that the creator doesn't even believe in? You have the believe in yourself." "Find your tribe, love 'em hard, it's my whole life's motto - life was not meant to be lived alone, surround yourself with people." _"Be intentional. Be intentional about everything. Think about your choices. When you let go of the intentionality in your life, you're letting go of the control. You're putting that power into someone else's hands. If you're comfortable doing that, go for it, one-hundred percent, but don't ever forget it's never too late to pull that power back in and say 'actually, I want to explore my choices here, I wanna see.' Be intentional, it's never too late to change your mind. Listen to your gut and do your work because you get to control your life in more ways than a lot of people realize and it starts with intention." _ - Special Guest: HeHe Stewart.
October Session - Resilience for Growth Feat. HeHe Stewart of Tranquility By HeHe by Nina Pfister
Hehe Stewart is a maternity concierge and doula. She is an advocate for women’s health, specifically expectant mothers. Her journey began as a behavioral specialist who worked with autistic children. After a period of time in an infant classroom, she began to notice common struggles and questions new parents experienced. Hehe then somewhat fused her passions and decided to use her knowledge and expertise to launch Tranquility By Hehe, which helps new and expectant mothers cope with the extraneous needs of infant care.
Have you ever thought about pregnancy being a time to pamper yourself? It’s not something I would typically think about. I mean, you plan for birth, buy all the baby gear, take the classes, etc. But what about a time to give yourself that self-love and care, and even make it a luxurious process? Well that’s what HeHe Stewart creates for her clients in her maternity concierge and doula services. Enjoy the episode!
HeHe Stewart is the Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, the creator of The Birth Lounge membership and podcast. She has a Master's degree in Human Development and Family Studies and 10 years in the Family Life Education field. Tranquility by HeHe is a Maternity Concierge, Doula, and Birthing Service providing in-person, virtual, and travel birth and postpartum support. Their mission is to provide families with high-quality, holistic, individualized doula services in an empowering and nurturing environment while feeling informed and in control of labor (without fear or coercion). HeHe hosts The Birth Lounge Podcast which features leading experts in pregnancy, women's health, and newborn development.Today we get into Doula 101, bridging the gap in healthcare, why Doulas are an essential resource in the birthing process, understanding the role of a Doula in the birthing process, and learning / unlearning so much about the maternal patient population as well as how to improve our outcomes! It's imperative that parents have access to judgment-free spaces, educators, and support. That's why we wanted to have this conversation today! To connect with HeHe click HERETo connect with Tori click HERE To connect with Sam click HERETo connect with Cellfie Show click HERECheck out our Youtube page HERESubscribe to the Sweet and Salty HERERate and Review the Show to Claim your Cellfie Swag Bag! HERECellfie Show Cellfie Podcast Merch Produced by: Tori + Sam THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY RESUME RX (Code: CELLFIE Save 20%) STAND OUT IN YOUR JOB SEARCH!! Online courses, templates, and resources for healthcare professions to land the career of your dreams. We have BOTH used these products and can not recommend them more to you! CLICK HERE Nurse Résumé Templates CLICK HERE FILL-IN-THE-BLANK SOLUTION FOR YOUR RÉSUMÉ AND COVER LETTERAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy