Podcasts about nicus

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:

Send us a textIn this episode of The Incubator Podcast, Ben and Daphna sit down with Dr. Dena Hubbard, neonatologist and Director of Quality at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital's NICU. Dr. Hubbard is widely recognized for her leadership in trauma-informed care, physician well-being, and advocacy work within the American Academy of Pediatrics.She shares her journey from private practice to becoming a national voice for trauma-informed approaches in neonatal care. Dr. Hubbard explains how an early encounter with a NICU family transformed her understanding of parental stress, judgment, and resilience—and how that moment shaped her mission to change the way care is delivered. She outlines the principles of trauma-informed care and how these practices differ from traditional family-centered models, emphasizing curiosity over judgment and building trust across the care team.The conversation also explores physician wellness. Dr. Hubbard speaks candidly about burnout, the role of coaching and therapy, and how she redefined her professional path after personal challenges, including grief and illness. Her perspective offers both practical insights for the bedside and a message of hope for healthcare providers navigating stress and systemic pressures.This episode highlights the importance of culture change in NICUs and the value of caring for both families and providers.Support the showAs always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

What happens when rigorous science meets the world of Reiki? In this illuminating conversation, host Andrea Kennedy sits down with Dr. Natalie Dyer—research scientist, Reiki Master, and President of the Center for Reiki Research—to explore the evidence behind energy healing and its place in the future of healthcare. From oncology wards to NICUs, Dr. Dyer reveals groundbreaking studies showing Reiki's impact on pain, anxiety, fatigue, and even inflammation—plus exciting new research on cancer cell models, mental health, and distance healing. She shares her vision for Reiki in every hospital, practical advice for practitioners wanting to volunteer or get paid roles in healthcare, and the global shift toward integrative medicine, including surprising insights from Turkey and Silicon Valley philanthropists. This is a hopeful, data-driven, and deeply human look at why Reiki works, how it's measured, and what's next for making it truly mainstream.✨ Learn more about Dr. Natalie Dyer https://drnataliedyer.com/Time Stamps:00:00 – Clinical improvements with Reiki in cancer care00:21 – Welcome and podcast introduction00:56 – Introducing Dr. Natalie Dyer01:22 – Dr. Dyer's background and Reiki research02:24 – The Center for Reiki Research: origins and mission04:47 – Reiki in hospitals and healthcare facilities09:03 – Volunteer vs. paid Reiki positions in hospitals13:24 – How to get involved with Reiki in hospitals22:51 – Research findings: Reiki's impact on symptoms27:03 – Moving toward disease outcome research32:33 – Challenges in Reiki research and holistic health39:34 – Reiki's role in mental health care44:05 – Distance Reiki: research and findings47:54 – How listeners can get involved in research53:07 – Center for Reiki Research: membership and resources54:50 – Learn more about Dr. Natalie Dyer56:54 – Closing remarks and show informationResources Center for Reiki Research – Membership, webinars, and full library of evaluated studies: https://centerforreikiresearch.com/ Center for Reiki Research Conference – Annual virtual gathering for researchers, practitioners, and healthcare providers (Oct. 4–5, 2025) https://centerforreikiresearch.com/conference-registration/ 

Today, we explore the intersections of cutting-edge science, compassionate care, and the future of pediatric and maternal health with Dr. Melinda Elliott, MD, FAAP, a leading neonatologist and the Chief Medical Officer at Prolacta Bioscience. Dr. Elliott has dedicated her career to advancing the care of our most vulnerable patients, premature and medically fragile infants, through both clinical excellence and research-driven innovation. Dr. Elliott earned her medical degree from West Virginia University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her residency in pediatrics and her fellowship in neonatal-perinatal medicine at the University of Florida, where she also served as chief resident and a faculty member, helping to train the next generation of pediatricians and neonatologists. Throughout her clinical and leadership career, Dr. Elliott has been deeply involved in advancing evidence-based care in the NICU, improving nutritional strategies for preterm infants, and advocating for human milk as a therapeutic intervention in neonatal health. Her work with Prolacta Bioscience supports NICUs around the globe in providing 100% human milk–based nutrition to reduce complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a devastating condition that disproportionately affects preterm infants. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Melinda Elliott, a champion for babies and a voice for innovation in neonatal medicine. Dr. M

Send us a textIn this special collaboration with the NEC Society, Dr. Mark Underwood joins the podcast to discuss the evolving science and clinical approach to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). A long-time leader in neonatal nutrition and NEC prevention, Dr. Underwood shares his perspective on why prevention remains the most effective lever in tackling this devastating disease — from the irreplaceable role of maternal milk to the complex regulatory barriers around probiotics.The conversation covers his recent articles unpacking the risks and benefits of formula, donor milk, and the current probiotic landscape in U.S. NICUs. Dr. Underwood also previews highlights from the upcoming NEC Symposium and shares his hopes for the future of NEC care, including earlier biomarker-driven interventions and smarter pasteurization of donor milk.Whether you're a clinician, researcher, or parent advocate, this episode offers pragmatic insights into the current NEC landscape and the road ahead.Listeners can register for the 2025 NEC Symposium at NECSociety.org and use promo code incubator for 10% off.  Support the showAs always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

In today's Cloud Wars Minute, I explore how ServiceNow and Nicus Software are teaming up to deliver a financial intelligence layer that helps enterprises optimize their cloud, AI, and IT spending by unifying data across finance, IT, and business units.Highlights00:08 — ServiceNow is working with a partner, Nicus, to deliver a financial intelligence layer for enterprise tech. Interesting angle here: It's trying not just to consolidate the numbers, but to go beyond that. It involves multiple parts of the organization working in concert to really get not only the best data but also the ability to act on it.00:34 — Tom Smith had a conversation with Ron Wastal, the Chief Ecosystem and Partner Officer at Nycus. Wastal described how this works for companies. It's in the category of Technology Business Management, but goes beyond that. Nicus is trying to bring financial teams, IT teams, engineering, and lines of business together to share this intelligence and collaborate.01:22 — Again, this isn't just about saying, “Hey, here's how much is going on.” It's about answering: Where is it happening? Why is it happening? How is it contributing or not contributing to business outcomes? That way, they can optimize the substantial dollars being poured into cloud and AI spending. These optimizations can really add up.02:11 — Why ServiceNow in particular? Why did Nicus want to work with them? Ron explained that the IT data for many big companies lives in ServiceNow databases. That's where they can find out what's really going on. Tapping into those massive data stores allows them to have a huge impact.02:38 — What Nicus does is put a financial intelligence layer on top of that IT data to enable a cycle of understanding, tracking, and optimizing IT spend. It's also leveraging ServiceNow's unique workflows and cutting-edge AI capabilities to take action on these insights. That's the difference Nycus sees in what it does versus others.03:13 — Nicus has developed two specific applications—one for costing and one for planning. These apps are used across the platform to deliver a comprehensive picture of what's going on. This is another example of how ServiceNow is working with world-class partners and ISVs to deliver great business outcomes for customers.This episode is sponsored by ServiceNow. Visit Cloud Wars for more.

Send us a textIn this episode, we speak with neonatal nurse scientists Dr. Marliese Nist and Dr. Kathy Dudding to explore the evolving understanding of neonatal pain and stress in the NICU. Together, we look at how outdated assumptions about infant pain still influence clinical care, and what providers can do to better recognize and respond to the signs of stress in fragile newborns.Our guests discuss how even routine care can be a source of stress for preterm infants, and why thoughtful, individualized approaches—such as comfort touch and parental involvement—can make a meaningful difference. They also highlight the lack of standardization in pain protocols across NICUs and the limitations of existing assessment tools.This conversation offers practical takeaways for clinicians at the bedside and makes the case for system-wide change in how we approach pain management and developmental care. The episode is part of our collaboration with the National Association of Neonatal Nurses (NANN), and underscores the vital role of interdisciplinary teamwork in improving neonatal outcomes. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textIn this special anniversary edition of the Journal Club, Ben and Daphna celebrate four years of The Incubator Podcast while diving into a compelling lineup of neonatal studies. The episode kicks off with a review of a phase 2 multicenter trial on the safety of furosemide in preterm infants at risk for BPD. Despite widespread Lasix use in NICUs, data on dosing and safety have been lacking—this study finds no significant increase in serious adverse events but emphasizes the need for larger trials to better define its role. The team then explores a study from India comparing 7- vs. 14-day antibiotic courses in culture-proven neonatal sepsis, showing that shorter courses may be safe and effective in select populations.Additional discussions include a randomized trial from Australia evaluating “sigh breaths” during high-frequency oscillatory ventilation and their effects on lung volume and oxygenation, a study examining how kangaroo mother care boosts breast milk intake, and a large Japanese cohort study detailing neurodevelopmental outcomes of infants born at 22–31 weeks. Finally, a meta-analysis on prenatal cannabis exposure underscores risks of low birth weight and preterm birth. With depth, humor, and clarity, Ben and Daphna guide listeners through evidence that shapes neonatal care. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

What does intentional care really look like in the NICU—and how does it shape outcomes for both infants and families?In this episode, we explore the importance of safe feeding practices, trauma-informed communication, and consistent caregiver support with Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC, and Lisa Klein, MS, CCC-SLP, Director of Education at Dr. Brown's Medical.Together, we unpack the clinical and cultural challenges NICUs face—from inconsistent feeding plans and overlooked breastfeeding support to the emotional toll of desensitization at the bedside. Casey shares how her dual perspective as a neonatal therapist and NICU parent reshaped her approach to advocacy, while Lisa offers insight into how tools like the Infant-Driven Feeding® Program and the Dr. Brown's Zero-Resistance™ Bottle System are driving safer, more consistent outcomes. Whether you're a NICU provider, a nurse, hospital leader, or a parent, this episode offers powerful takeaways to help you reimagine what intentional, family-centered care can truly look like.Dr. Brown's Medical: https://www.drbrownsmedical.com Our NICU Roadmap: A Comprehensive NICU Journal: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicujournal/ NICU Mama Hats: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/hats/ NICU Milestone Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/nicuproducts/ Newborn Holiday Cards: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shop/ Empowering NICU Parents Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/shownotes/ Episode 69 Show Notes: https://empoweringnicuparents.com/episode69 Empowering NICU Parents Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweringnicuparents/ Empowering NICU Parents FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringnicuparents Pinterest Page: https://pin.it/36MJjmH

An event for Hoosiers to learn and celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures returns this weekend. The Trump administration terminates a federal grant funding teacher bonuses and literacy coaches in Perry Township Schools.  More babies are being admitted to neonatal intensive care units across the country. The ACLU of Indiana is suing Governor Mike Braun over changes to Indiana University's Board of Trustees. Want to go deeper on the stories you hear on WFYI News Now? Visit wfyi.org/news and follow us on social media to get comprehensive analysis and local news daily. Subscribe to WFYI News Now wherever you get your podcasts. WFYI News Now is produced by Drew Daudelin, Zach Bundy and Abriana Herron, with support from News Director Sarah Neal-Estes.

Send us a textIn this Tech Tuesday episode, Ben and Daphna welcome Xina Quan, co-founder and CEO of PyrAmes, to introduce a groundbreaking neonatal device: the Boppli. Developed from Stanford research, the Boppli is a non-invasive, wearable blood pressure monitor that provides continuous, real-time readings—without the need for cuffs or arterial catheters.FDA-cleared for babies under five kilograms, the Boppli uses a soft, adhesive-free band that wraps gently around an extremity. Backed by 3,400 hours of clinical validation, the Boppli has shown accuracy approaching that of invasive arterial lines according to the team at Pyrames.Ben and Daphna explore how this innovation could reshape blood pressure monitoring for hypotensive and unstable neonates. Quan shares her vision of the Boppli becoming as commonplace as pulse oximetry in NICUs—empowering care teams with precise, painless data they can finally trust.As she puts it, “Half the battle is having good data—this is a way to finally get it.” As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

In this special episode, Kristin, host of Ask the Doulas podcast and founder of Gold Coast Doulas,  gives tips on building your supportive birth team. Krisin and Meagan talk specifics on HOW to switch providers if you're feeling the push to do so.Once we have our dream team, we're good and don't have to do any more work, right? Nope! We keep educating and preparing ourselves. That's the way to truly get the most out of that dream team. Kristin's book ‘Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby' is a one-stop shop where you can get all of the education you need for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Her advice is so valuable for VBAC moms and birth workers, too!Supported: Your Guide to Birth and BabyAsk the Doulas PodcastNeeded WebsiteHow to VBAC: The Ultimate Prep Course for ParentsFull Transcript under Episode Details Meagan: Hello. Hello. We have a special episode for you today. We have my friend, Kristin, who is actually the owner of Ask the Doulas Podcast on with us today. She is going to be talking about establishing our birth team and the importance of it. We're going to talk a little bit more about what to expect when we might not find a provider that's supportive and how to navigate it. She's going to talk more about her book and so many things. You guys, I'm really excited. Kristin is a woman who has always had a passion for supporting other women both personally and professionally. In college, Kristin served on the executive committee of her sorority and organized events on campus related to breast cancer and other women's issues. After the birth of her daughter in 2011, a new passion awoke within her. Kristin began reading and studying birth from all perspectives, philosophies, and medical approaches. She joined organizations like The Healthy Kent Breastfeeding Collation and used her event coordinating skills to build and promote the organization and create community awareness. You guys, she has done so many incredible things. Kristin's research has led her to learn more about doulas, and in 2012, she hired doulas herself for the support of her second birth. The level of compassionate care and comfort that she received from her doulas ignited a spark within her and led her down the path of becoming a doula herself. And man, can I connect to this because this is exactly what happened to me. When you guys have a doula who inspires you and touches you and motivates you the way it sounds like Kristin did and I did, even though my doula wasn't a hired doula, she was just a nurse that was a doula for the time being, it does something to you. She earned the certification and became teaching sacred pregnancy classes in 2013. But as you'll see, Kristin is a firm believer in achieving the highest level of education available when providing a service. Shortly after, she earned the following credentials-- you guys, are you ready for this? She's amazing. Oh my gosh. Certified Sacred Doula in 2014. She is a Certified Elite Labor through ProDoula. She is the Elite Postpartum and Infant Care Doula through ProDoula. She's trained in Spinning Babies, Newborn Specialist, Mother Ship, Certified Health Service Provider, certified in VBAC. She is certified in transformational birth and a birth coach for the Birth Coach Method. She is a certified pregnancy and infant loss advocate and certified gift registry expert through Be Her Village, who we will talk about. We both love them so much.She is also an author of a book which we will be sharing more about. It's called Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby. So without further ado, we are actually going to be skipping a review today and an educational topic because this is such a great episode to be educated and learn more about what Kristin is offering in her community. Okay, my love. Hello. Kristin: Hello.Meagan: We're officially getting going talking about this amazing topic. Tell me what you think about this. I think sometimes people want to assemble this dream team, but they let finances or even partners or other opinions get in the way.Kristin: Yes. Partner comfort level, especially with VBACs is key, or with clients of mine who want their dream is to have a home birth and their partner isn't supportive, so then they say, "Oh, it'll be with the next baby if everything goes well in the hospital." But then if they're a complication, they might risk out of the option of home. I think as consumers, we don't fully appreciate the ability to choose all of our birth and baby team. We can change providers. I switched providers with my first pregnancy early on because I didn't feel like that particular OB was on board with my plans to have an unmedicated hospital birth. I ended up switching to Certified Nurse Midwives and completely changed practices, completely changed hospitals in fact. It's a lot. Meagan: Yeah.Kristin: But it was worth it. And I had the time where it was easier to switch, but I've had clients switch very late in pregnancy. It was harder to find the right office to accept them, but with VBACs, it is crucial to have not just a VBAC-tolerant provider, but someone who is fully on board with your unique desires because we are all individuals.Meagan: Yes. I love that you said your unique desires. Everybody is different. I think it's really important to tell these providers what your desires are. We have a list of questions that we give people in our course and, of course, on the podcast. You can go down that list and check and be like, "Okay, this provider seems pretty supportive," but you guys have to tailor your questions and your provider. You have to tailor it to what your individual unique circumstances and desires are because everyone's is different. I would love to know. You said, I was realizing that this wasn't the right place. What kind of things were you hearing or being told or feeling when you were realizing that maybe your first provider wasn't going to be as supportive and in line with your unique decisions?Kristin: Just when I was talking about my wishes, I could tell that that particular provider liked structure and patience to get that epidural, and so once I started talking about movement, delivering in different positions and some of the things I had researched-- I hadn't yet taken a childbirth class because it was early in pregnancy, but I had done a fair bit of research before knowing what a doula was. I didn't hire doulas until my second. But I could just tell in that gut feeling which I rely on. Again, we're all unique. And yes, I do research, but I make decisions on am I comfortable spending my entire pregnancy with someone who can tolerate me and will say, "Okay"? But I could tell it didn't light her up. So once I found a practice where my nurse-midwife spent time with me, I had longer appointments, I could ask questions, and she was 100% on board with me, and then I was able to meet the other midwives and the OBs who oversaw them throughout the remainder of my pregnancy. I felt very cared for. And again, we are consumers. Whether your insurance pays for everything or you're paying for part of it, you don't get a do-over of your birth, and so it is so important, especially with that first birth to get the care team that aligns with you. That could be everything from a Webster-certified chiropractor, a physical therapist, a mental health therapist to deal with any anxieties that may come up with having a VBAC and getting a lot of fear-filled advice from friends and family members. I find that again, my clients are all unique individuals, and my students in Becoming a Mother Course, and now the readers in my book, have different goals, so I want them to choose the best plan for them. I love that you have worksheets and templates, but knowing that every situation is different whether it's a home birth, a trial of labor, or a hospital birth, that setting is different and the type of provider whether it's a nurse-midwife or an OB practice, how likely is the OB that is very VBAC-supportive going to be attending your birth? Are there 12 providers or are there only 4? And so there's just so many things to factor in when deciding what is important to you.Meagan: Yeah. That point that you just brought up, are there 12 providers? Are there only 4? Does your provider guarantee that they'll be there? These are things that I think a lot of people may not be aware of that because they found their provider. They're feeling good about their provider. They're jiving. They're having the feels, but then they may not be the ones to be there, so there are 11 other options. It feels overwhelming to be like, "Wait, wait. Do I interview all 11?" Yeah, guys. Yeah. You set up visits. It's okay. Go and see if you can meet with those. Make sure that that full team is aligned. It is a lot. That's a lot to take on, but it's okay to rotate and say, "Hey, I saw Dr. Jack last time. I'd like to see Dr. Joe this time," or whatever it may be. Really, really dive in, find out more about your provider's team if they have a team, and make sure that they align with your unique decisions and desires.Kristin: Absolutely. And that goes for doulas as well.Meagan: Oh, yeah.Kristin: So for VBAC clients, I, over the last couple of years, I do all of the matchmaking, I like to call it, between client and the birth doulas and postpartum doulas on my team, in fact. I like to find out what they're looking for. If they are attempting a VBAC, then many times, they're telling me they want a VBAC-certified doula. I have doulas that have gone through your program and are certified through you and other different VBAC trainings. They're not just wanting VBAC experience like in my early days of having Gold Coast Doulas. Now, they're wanting that certification because they know that information is being updated as things change. And there's more evidence for VBACs. They also want more than just, "Oh, I've attended four VBACs." They want the education behind it. So I think that is crucial. I'm not going to match, unless there's no one else available on my team, a client with someone who is not certified as a VBAC doula.Meagan: Yeah, I do the same thing with my group here where they're like, "This is really important to me. I want this specific type of doula." Some of my doulas have taken The VBAC Link course. And so I'm like, "Yep, this would be who I would suggest." But I also want to point out that even if you assemble your dream team doula, and they've got all the education and information on VBAC, and they're up to date, I want to just point out that it doesn't mean that you shouldn't inform yourself that you shouldn't get the information because sometimes I feel like it's easy to want to just hire your provider or your doula or your person and let them who know VBAC kind of help and guide you. But it is really important. You're doing yourself a disservice if you personally do not learn more about VBAC and your options as well and rely only on your provider or your doula.Kristin: 100%. The doula, I mean, unless you're paying her for it, will not be attending every one of your prenatal visits during pregnancy. The education that you have to make informed questions and decisions surrounding your birth plan or birth preference sheet, so those conversations are critical. The more information you have as a patient, the better. And as we all know, unless you're having a home birth, your visits are short even with a nurse-midwife. And so it's important to have those questions and to have time to really express concerns. Or if you're finding that that practice or that provider is not in line with your plans, then you can look at other options. And the hospital-- are VBACs even allowed at the hospital that you plan to deliver at? Are they going to induce? What are the Cesarean rates? And looking at all of the different options, and if you need to consider NICUs, that's always a factor in hospital selection as well.Meagan: Yeah, I'm going to kind of go back to where we were in the beginning where you realized based after your feelings and other things that this provider was not the right provider for you, you then changed to CNMs and had a much better experience. Can you discuss your process of that change? How did you change? Did you find the CNMs, have them request your information from the OB? Did you do a formal breakup with your OB? What suggestions would you give to someone who is wanting to do that? I know that sometimes, you were talking about it, in the end, it's a little harder to find, so that's why we stress so importantly to find your provider from the beginning. But we know that sometimes things change. So can you kind of talk about that process in then assembling that dream and getting the steps to get to that dream team?Kristin: Yes. So for me, I had asked friends about which providers they had worked with. So the original OB, a friend of mine, it was her doctor, and she had a great experience. I just wasn't feeling it. She had a student. We have teaching hospitals in my area, so there was a student in the room. I wasn't feeling like she was 100% on board. I could tell that she was very medically driven. I wanted essentially a home birth in a hospital. So I talked to more friends and did research online, and a friend of mine had used this particular practice. I ended up going with the midwife that delivered her three children, and it worked out beautifully because it was early in pregnancy. That practice had openings. It took me a while because I was changing hospitals and practices completely. My insurance, luckily, covered all of the options. But that's another thing to look into. Does your insurance cover the hospital where the provider you want to switch to delivers that if it is a hospital birth? Of course, you can VBAC at home in certain states. So just looking at all of the factors that would come into play. So for me, it was dealing with the paperwork of switching out of that practice, getting admitted, and going to that initial get-to-know-you visit with a nurse and doing my labs before I got to meet with the midwife that I had wanted to work with. And so it took a bit. I mean, no one likes to deal with the paperwork and the phone calls it takes, but your health is so important and especially again, for VBACs.Meagan: Yeah. So you essentially did all the paperwork and the transfer yourself.Kristin: Yes.Meagan: Okay.Kristin: I made all the phone calls, dealt with insurance and made sure that the initial visit was paid for along with the nurse visit, and then that insurance was comfortable with me.Meagan: Yeah. Awesome. Yeah, I did, when I switched, because I switched it 24 weeks, my midwife just faxed a request to my OB office. It took them a while to send it. We had to ask five times which I think probably would have been faster if I, like you, made the phone calls and did all the things, but I was like in this weird, vulnerable spot of like, I don't want to go back there.Kristin: Right. You don't want to deal with it.Meagan: Yeah, I don't want to deal with it.Kristin: Even just talking to the front desk.Meagan: Yeah, yeah. So we waited for it and they eventually got it. But I think that that's important to note. You guys can make the calls too. You can call and say, "Hey, I'd like to request my records to be printed out or to be sent to this place." Kristin: Yes, and that's what I did. Because otherwise it's six weeks oftentimes or you have to keep calling. They get lost. so I just handled it. But it can be challenging. And as doulas and certainly VBAC doulas, we know the providers who would be not only tolerant but supportive of VBAC. So we get those questions frequently from potential clients and clients of, am I at the right place? And of course, we support whoever our clients choose to have care from. But there's also, if asked, I will tell them about the practice and my own experience as a doula or the agency's experience. And again, in those large practices, there might be four who are so VBAC-supportive. They love it, but then there might be some physicians who are not as comfortable. They feel that a surgical birth might be the better route to go, ad so there's that. So what I like to do as a VBAC doula is to have my clients talk to their provider. Again, go over a birth plan or birth preference sheet and have them sign off on it. That way, if they don't attend the birth, then the other physicians know that this was approved. It's not just a birth plan that is thrown out there, but it has been discussed. It doesn't work all the time, but it has been helpful for my clients no matter if they're a VBAC client or this is their first baby, and again, they have certain goals that they want to achieve like potentially avoiding an induction unless medically necessary.Meagan: Oh my gosh. So I'm just going to re-touch on that, you guys, because that was really, really, really good advice and something I've actually never done or even thought about or suggested to my own doula practice clients. Get your birth preference sheet or birth plans everyone calls a difference. I call it a birth preference sheet, which is a list of all your preferences that you desire. Go over that with your provider, and have them physically sign it. Physically sign it and date it showing that your provider went over it. And like she said, every provider may not be willing to do that, but I will say, if a provider is willing to do that, that says something to me.Kristin: It does. Yes.Meagan: Yeah. Super powerful. Oh, my gosh. Okay, nugget. Grab it, put it in your pocket, everybody. Sign your birth preference sheet so you can have it and keep that in your bag, so if you do have that random on-call doctor who may not even know you or not be so supportive, be like, "This has already been discussed. We were aware of this. My doctor has signed off." Also, you could maybe ask if your provider could make a copy of that and put it in your chart.Kristin: Right. Because yes, it's not just the one that they have on file, but it's also for the ones that you have, that copy that you're bringing and showing the nurse so the nurse and everyone is on the same page. Meagan: Love that. Kristin: And again, with teaching hospitals, you might have residents in and out. There can be some difficult conversations with VBAC and residents who have never seen a VBAC. We're not fully trained yet to support VBAC, and so they might be making suggestions while the provider is not in that check-in. So every state, again, every area is different. I just happen to be in an area with multiple teaching hospitals.Meagan: Same here. We have seen it where I think, I don't want to say this badly. The VBAC world is a world that can have a lot of negativities in it, negative things and big words like uterine rupture. We've got residents who may be coming in and may be training under a provider who has seen a uterine rupture or has maybe molded an opinion on VBAC and is projecting their opinion to that student. Whether or not they're consciously doing it or not, they're saying their opinion, and those opinions might morph that resident's opinion into negative for VBAC. You never know. And so they might be doing things or be more hesitant in areas that they don't need to be, but they are.Kristin: Yeah, it's such a good point. And as you mentioned, I mean, we don't know the traumas that our nurses and medical team, even home birth midwives, have experienced, and they carry that with them. And how can they not? Even as doulas, we witness, but we don't have the liability and the medical training to make it, but we are witnesses of trauma and have our own healing to do to be able to better move on and support the next client. So certainly keeping that in mind that they may have seen something that alters the way they practice.Meagan: Yeah.Kristin: It's not just fear of lawsuits.Meagan: It's really not. It's not. There's a provider here in Utah who is literally so scared of vaginal birth herself. She scheduled all of her Cesareans, even the very first one from the get. She never had trial of labor or TOL. She just doesn't. So can you imagine what her Cesarean rate may be? And she kind of reminds me of the provider you're talking about. She really likes it just so controlled. Come in, start Pitocin, and get the epidural. She likes those things, which we know can sometimes lead to those Cesareans. And so really also discussing with your provider, how do you feel about birth? Have you had babies? And then we have another OB who's like, "I work in the hospital, and I love the hospital, and I trust the hospital system, but I actually gave birth at home with all three of my babies," and so really getting to know your provider, I think, is so good. Okay, let's keep going on this topic of assembling your dream team of experts when planning for birth and baby. What other things would you suggest to our Women of Strength?Kristin: Yes. So as we know, birth is as physical as it is mental, and just the opposite, as mental as it is physical. So preparing with a childbirth class, a comprehensive class, even if you took one before, use the lens of your goal of attempting a VBAC, a trial of labor. And so for us, we happen to teach HypnoBirth at Gold Coast Doulas and that mind/body connection that HypnoBirthing or a gentle birth offers where it's more of using the visualization the way an athlete would in preparing for a marathon or a triathlon, you are using things to reduce fear. You're understanding all of your options. It's very partner involved. I think taking a comprehensive childbirth class, whichever meets your individual goals, is great. That childbirth instructor is a great person to add to your birth and baby team. And then moving your body. So taking a fitness class that is appropriate for pregnancy. So prenatal yoga, there are Barre classes for pregnancy. There are prenatal belly dancing classes, whatever it is. Meagan: Aqua aerobics.Kristin: Yeah, water aerobics are amazing. And so thinking about baby's position and helping labor to go on its own or be quicker. There's acupuncture, acupressure, the Webster-certified chiro for positioning or body balancing experts, so many different options. But I am a big fan of educating yourself and preparing because as you mentioned earlier, Meagan, a doula is not your end all, be all. Just because we have the information and the training, we can't think for you. We don't want to think for you. The more informed you are, the more likely you're going to feel like birth didn't happen to you this time around and you were a direct participant, even if you end up having a surgical birth again.Meagan: Yeah, yeah. Yes. Oh my gosh. So talking about courses, you guys, we have our VBAC course. This VBAC course goes into VBAC, the stats about VBAC, the history of VBAC, the history of Cesarean, the stats of Cesarean, the questions, finding the provider, a little bit more of the mental prep, and physical prep. But when it comes to a childirth education course like with the course that she has, they're on different levels. I actually suggest them both.Kristin: Yes, me too. Absolutely.Meagan: But it's so important to know the information that is in your course. I know you go even past preparing for birth and then birth and then postpartum. You go into all of it. We're going to talk more about it. But you guys, we as doulas, love getting information and we love sharing information. But like she said, we don't want to be the only one that knows the information in a team. When our clients come in, at least here in my group, when our clients come in and they are fully educated and we're like, yes. And then we can come in with our education and our experience and knowledge, you guys, it is a powerhouse team. It is a powerhouse team. We have clients who, when they take child birth education classes like yours, they are able to advocate more for themselves. They feel stronger to stand up and say, "Hey, thank you so much, but no thanks" or "Maybe later," when our clients who haven't had that childbirth education or just any information other than maybe what we're providing, which is great, but not enough in the full length of pregnancy, it's a little harder. We have to try to encourage those clients a little bit more because it's harder for them because they don't know everything. We're there to help guide them and help advocate for them and educate them, but it is very different.Kristin: It is. It's so different. And I feel like, again, partners, especially male partners, want to fix things. They don't want their love to feel any pain, and so they may have the fear of a VBAC. So taking a VBAC class course, having a VBAC doula, giving information is just as helpful, if not more for the partner and their comfort level and to have them fully get on board because they may be resisting and just going along for the ride, but if you can get them to be an active participant in education, then they're going to be able to help you. And sometimes in labor, we get to a point in transition where we can't fully speak for ourselves. But if our partner understands, is educated and on board, and if there's time to talk through the risks and benefits and alternatives with your doula, then yes. But sometimes decisions have to be made quickly, and so for that partner to be informed and educated is crucial.Meagan: So crucial. It's so powerful. My husband-- he was not so on board. He was like, "Whatever. I don't care. You can go to the courses. You can do these things."Kristin: And that's very typical.Meagan: It's very typical. And I did. I did do those things. When I said, "Hey, I'm going to birth out-of-hospital," and he was like, "No," I was like, "Well, sorry. I've done the education. I know this is really where my heart is pulling." We touched on this in the beginning how partners really can influence decision making. And in no way, shape or form am I trying to say partners are terrible or don't listen to your partner or anything like that. That's not the goal of what we're saying is have an educated partner. Know that you can assemble a birth team, like a provider, a chiropractor, a massage therapist, a doula, a PT, or whatever it may be, but don't forget about your partner. Your partner is a huge part of your team, and if they're not educated and they're not able to help guide you through, or if they're not being supportive, find ways to help them be supportive by taking a course with them and helping them realize, oh, VBAC actually isn't that scary. Oh, that chance isn't really 50+%. Oh, okay. Hospital birth, out-of-hospital birth. Yeah. They're both reasonable, and really understanding that.Kristin: Absolutely. And sometimes I find that my students and clients may have not had success with breastfeeding the first time and potentially didn't take a class. So if their goal is to breastfeed or pump exclusively, then taking a breastfeeding class and having that IBCLC as a resource for their dream team in case it's needed because many times, you have the lactation consultant who's teaching the class, at least in my practice, and then they're also available for say, a home visit or a hospital visit, depending on where the class is taking place. And so I think that that's something. Even if it isn't your first baby and maybe you breastfed for a little bit or had supply issues or challenges after a surgical birth, that it is important to consider any education during pregnancy because it's much harder to get that education after you have your baby.Meagan: It really is. I love that you're touching on that, really getting into all the things and having your partner go with you. I remember I was like, I had a C-section, and I was swollen and tired, and I couldn't move very well. I was sore and all the things that sometimes come with C-sections. I'm trying to nurse, and I'm engorged.  I don't feel my letdown, and I'm just so engorged. I don't know. All I know is I have really big, swollen boobs. It's all I could tell. I couldn't latch. My husband was like, "That's it. We're going to the store. We're getting formula." Formula is fine. Not anything against formula.Kristin: He's trying to fix the problem and make you feel better.Meagan: Yep, yep, yep. Trying to fix that problem. But I was like, "No, I really want to breastfeed." At that point, I wasn't able to communicate. Like, I didn't get the birth I wanted. I already felt like a failure because I was actually told that your body failed. That's what I was told. So I was already dealing with this mindset that I failed. I had a C-section. I didn't want a C-section. And now the only thing I could try to do because I couldn't take that C-section back is breastfeed my baby. I wanted to breastfeed my baby. And again, we didn't take those childbirth education classes. He for sure didn't download any apps. I at least had an app trying to help me at that point, but he didn't understand. He didn't understand.And I'm like, no.I'm crying, and I'm like, "Please, just help me. I don't know what I need to help me." And he's like, "No, we're going to the store. Our baby's mad. You're crying." He was trying to fix that problem. But if we had already done that information education before and found that IBCLC before and him understanding how important that was to me, he could have been like, "I'm going to call her IBCLC. I'll get her over here right away."Kristin: Exactly. The last thing you want to do is go into the hospital to see a lactation consultant there if you can even get in.Meagan: Exactly. Yeah. So it just could have been so much smoother. Sometimes I feel like we were against each other at that point because he didn't have any education. With our first, I really didn't have much education. But with our third, it was like he really didn't have a lot of education. and I was over-the-top educated, so I was saying these things, and he was thinking I was demeaning him or saying he was stupid because it was just this weird thing. So if we can just come together with our partners and get all the education and get it all before really, find out a postpartum plan. Find out a breastfeeding plan. Right? Find out what you want. You guys, it just makes the pregnancy journey and the postpartum journey, so much better. It truly makes you feel like you're on that team because you are.Kristin: Yes. Absolutely. And certainly, I mean, you mentioned apps. Not everyone has the means or even lives in an area where they can take a comprehensive five, six, ten-week childbirth class. There are, obviously, online classes. There are some Zoom virtual ones where students are all over the place. But there are watching birth videos and YouTube and in my book, Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby, we talk about apps, so count the kicks. Especially for VBACs, doing the self-monitoring if there's fear of fetal movement and any sort of distress during the end of the pregnancy, then really understanding your own body and doing monitoring. It's not just when you're in your provider's office being monitored. You can make a difference yourself. So having some different apps and some education on your own, listening to podcasts like yours to get this information and reading books. So there's more than if you can't afford a childbirth class like HypnoBirthing, there are still ways that you can get educated and your partner can get educated. So yeah, take a look at all of your options and your budget.Meagan: Yeah, and we talk about this all the time because I love them, but Be Her Village is a really great resource where you can go fill out a registry and, hopefully, get some help for these things. Childbirth education classes, doulas, IBCLCS. But I want to dive a little bit more into your book, actually, while we're talking about different resources. We talked about the childbirth education, but can we talk about more about Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby and how this came into fruition and what all is included in this amazing book.Kristin: Okay, Meagan. So essentially the book came out of our online course. Becoming a Mother launched in the early pandemic when everything was shut down and our classes all had to go virtual. I was fortunate to be in a state where doulas who were certified were able to work thanks to our governor. So we were working, but there was still a lot of isolation even with our clients' prenatal visits. They wanted a connection, so we launched this course. We had talked about and did three live launches, got VBAC from our students, pulled people in from all the moms' groups before creating the first draft of the course. And then the course just led to the book. So the content in Becoming a Mother is what is in the book in a different format. So in Becoming a Mother, we have expert videos, so VBAC specialists and Webster-certified chiropractors talking about what that is. Pelvic floor physical therapists, car seat safety technicians, cord blood banking donation centers.Meagan: Awesome.Kristin: We have the experts speaking for themselves-- a pediatrician. And so in the book, anything that is medical and out of the scope of a doula, we had expert contributors, so I have a pediatrician friend of mine who contributed a newborn procedure section of the chapter and a prenatal yoga studio instructor, she's also a certified body balancer. She contributed to some of the fitness options in the book, and a mental health therapist who is PMA focused and certified contributed to the mental health chapter. We have an IBCLC that contributed to the feeding chapter, and so a lot of involvement, and then sharing client stories throughout the book and then our own wisdom. We have doula tips and wisdom at the end of every chapter. Meagan: Wow.Kristin: And so as clients were asking me for books over the years, I couldn't find anything that was positive. I felt like there were a lot of, this is your cry-it-out method for sleep because we have a whole chapter on sleep and it's very attachment-focused. It's like, one way for feeding, and we wanted our clients, with their unique choices for themselves, to have a book that supports people who want to plan surgical birth like that OB and that's their comfort level and a book for the same person who wants a home birth. You don't have to buy five different books. It's not always Ina May which is a great book but not for everyone. All of her different-- she's got Spiritual Midwifery and so many different books. It is great for grandparents to read and partners but is targeted to the mother or the mother-to-be and is great in preconception in that early planning. But also, we wanted to make it similar to the course and just as valuable for seasoned bombs as it is for new moms. And again, it's affirming. We tried not to have any fear-filled information in a simple, easy-to-read guide that you can pull out for reference and a lot of different, again, apps and podcasts and books to read and resources and evidence-based information about Black maternal health and where we're at in the country now and how the pandemic impacted birth especially, but also that postpartum time.Meagan: Wow. That book sounds amazing. So amazing. And you guys, you can get it in every form, even Audible. I'm a big listener. I like to listen to books. Kristin and Alyssa actually recorded it. She was telling me they had 10+-hour days recording this this book. You can get it, and we will make sure to have the links for that in the show notes. I found it at goldcoastdoulas.com/supportedyourguidetobirthandbaby.Kristin: It's there. You can find it off that website or it has its own page. It's supportedbook.com. Meagan: Supportedbook.com, okay. We'll make sure that's all in the show notes, so you guys can grab that. Okay, so you know a lot. Obviously, you wrote a whole book and a whole course and all this stuff. Is there anything else that you would like to share in regards to just our final assembling of that powerhouse birth team?Kristin: So don't forget, I know we're talking a lot about pregnancy and birth prep, but don't forget your recovery phase. And you had talked about your own personal struggles with breastfeeding engorgement, recovery after a surgical birth. If you have, well, you do have other children at home with VBACs, and so looking at childcare, postpartum doula support, or what kind of family support you're going to have after, it's more than just meal plans and prepping the nursery. We strongly believe that as part of your dream team, the postnatal team is crucial as well. So whether it's a lactation consultant, a pelvic floor physical therapist, if you want to get back to running marathons again or are leaking. I mean, we can all use pelvic floor physical therapy. It's not just the athletes who they support. Some people, again, with building a home or other life occurrences like a wedding or preparing for college, you look at your budget. You look at your main goals. For a wedding, it might be food. For postpartum, it might be sleep. So hiring a sleep consultant when baby's old enough or an overnight postpartum doula or a newborn care specialist. What are your priorities? And take the budget. What might be paid for by insurance or, a health savings flex spending plan that you need to run down? What might be gifted? Like you mentioned, Be Her Village. There are different ways you can budget. And in the book, we talk about all of that and looking at employer plans, how to navigate that, what questions to ask your HR department about other members, like a chiropractor, could that be covered? A therapist? Oftentimes, we don't know our own benefits and certainly, I don't know my husband's benefits fully, so to be able to investigate that early in pregnancy and figure out what might be fully or partially paid for.Meagan: Wow. That is incredible itself. I feel like that's a whole other conversation of, how to navigate how to do that. So definitely go get the book, you guys, because it sounds like there are just so many things in there that are honestly crucial to know. really, really important things to know. You are incredible. Kristin: So are you.Meagan: I just enjoy chatting with you so much. Anything else? Yeah, anything else you'd like to add?Kristin: And obviously, take taking trainings and courses. If I know you have doulas who listen. It's not just parents.Meagan: Yes.Kristin: As doulas go through The VBAC Link. Get certified as a VBAC doula. Keep up with information that is ever-changing. We all want to be the best doula for each of our clients, but I am a firm believer in continuing our own education and that more and more of our clients are choosing to attempt VBACs, and so the more information you can get as a professional, the better you're able to support. It's just not the number of VBACs you've attended anymore. It's clients wanting that knowledge so you can be busier and also a more effective doula by getting that training and then going through the certification process that you offer.Meagan: Yeah, have a directory actually with birth doulas where people can go and find it because when Julie and I created this company way back in the day, we knew that we were just two people here in Utah. We couldn't change the VBAC world. We could give as much information as we could. We could share the podcast. We could do those types of things. But when it comes to birth workers, we wanted to reach birth workers everywhere. It's so great that we have and we're still having more people come on because they're helping people so much. I mean, we know you have doulas that do it all the time. These doulas do help and there are actual stats on doulas that do it. But I agree. If you're a birth worker, stay up to date. Be in the know. Know what's going on because you will likely need to help guide your client through it. Kristin: Then you can charge more. So take that investment in a training like The VBAC Link, and then you're able to charge more because you're more experienced. You have more certifications. So don't look at like, oh, I don't have any money for continuing education. Look at how that's going to change your career.Meagan: Yeah, and I think sometimes too you can charge a little bit more, take less clients, and be more personal with those clients and dive into it. Especially because we do know that VBAC does take some extra stuff that goes on with VBAC. There's some extra work to be worked through. There are some extra things and so yeah, I love that.Kristin: Well, thank you so much for having me on Meagan, I loved our chat.Meagan: Thank you. You as well. As always, I loved our other chat as well. We have to keep going. I think I'm going to order your book today and get going on that. Even though I'm not a mom preparing, I think this would be such a great book to suggest to all of my clients. So thank you for sharing. Thank you.Kristin: Yeah. My secondary audience is certainly anyone who works with families in the birth and baby space, but it is targeted again, just similar to my podcast. It's like I have the listener of the pregnant individual and family, but also birth workers. The book is similar. Thank you for ordering.I appreciate it. Meagan: Yes. And can you also tell everybody where to find you not just in your book, but Instagram, podcast, and all of the social medias?Kristin: So my podcast is Ask the Doulas. You can find us on all the podcast players and you were a guest recently, so very fun. And certainly, we're at Gold Coast Doulas on everything from Pinterest to YouTube to Facebook to Instagram. I don't have separate social sites for my book because I honestly don't have time for that.Meagan: That's okay. Yeah, it's a package. It comes with everything, so you don't need to have another book page. Well, awesome. Well, thank you again so much.Kristin: Thank you. Have a great day.Meagan: You too.ClosingWould you like to be a guest on the podcast? Tell us about your experience at thevbaclink.com/share. For more information on all things VBAC including online and in-person VBAC classes, The VBAC Link blog, and Meagan's bio, head over to thevbaclink.com. Congratulations on starting your journey of learning and discovery with The VBAC Link.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vbac-link/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Send us a textIn this week's episode, Daphna hosts a powerful roundtable featuring Drs. Kerri Machut, Milenka Cuevas-Guaman, Emily Miller, Christine Bishop, and Christiane Dammann—leaders of a national effort to improve neonatology staffing. Together, they share insights from their recently developed recommendations, created through a Delphi consensus process and supported by a strategic grant from the AAP Section on Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine. These evidence-informed guidelines aim to promote safer, more sustainable, and more transparent staffing models in NICUs across the country. The team discusses key themes including defining clinical FTEs in hours per year, ensuring flexible scheduling, protecting time for scholarly and administrative work, and how to advocate for systemic change. Notably, these landmark recommendations have been accepted for publication in the journal Pediatrics and will be available online in May 2025. Listeners will also learn about an upcoming toolkit designed to help individuals and institutions apply these recommendations in practice. Whether you're a practicing neonatologist, a trainee, or in a leadership role, this conversation offers timely solutions to address burnout, support workforce well-being, and ultimately improve care for the smallest and sickest patients. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textIn this episode of From The Heart, hosts Dr. Nim Goldshtrom and Dr. Adrianne Bischoff explore the latest research in neonatal cardiac care, focusing on congenital heart disease (CHD) and its impact on premature infants. They discuss a study analyzing survival trends in preterm infants with CHD, highlighting the “double jeopardy” these babies face due to both prematurity and congenital cardiac anomalies. Another study compares neurodevelopmental outcomes between preterm infants and those with CHD, revealing that term infants with CHD exhibit similar motor and cognitive challenges as preterm infants, yet receive less developmental support. The conversation then shifts to emerging research showing a decline in postoperative brain injuries in CHD patients, possibly due to improved surgical and perioperative care. Finally, they discuss a survey on neonatal cardiac care models, emphasizing the evolving role of neonatologists in managing CHD patients and the need for better integration between NICUs and CICUs. Nim and Adrianne reflect on the importance of specialized care teams, advocating for neonatologists to play a greater role in optimizing outcomes for this vulnerable population. Tune in for a compelling discussion on bridging the gaps in neonatal cardiac care. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Guest: Tiffany Elliott, MS CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLCEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Bridging-NICU-to-Home In this special birthday episode of First Byte, Michelle Dawson, a devoted therapist and mother, explores the intricate journey from NICU to home with expert Tiffany Elliott. They discuss practical strategies for caregivers in maintaining emotional wellbeing, the importance of neuroprotective care, and the Hospital to Home Systems Change project aimed at improving continuity of care for infants and their families. Elliott shares her insights from working in various NICUs, setting up essential support systems, and the critical role that emotional support plays in successful infant feeding. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in pediatric feeding, NICU professionals, and caregivers navigating early intervention services. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Welcome to First Bite00:29 A Day in the Life of a Pediatric Feeding Specialist01:31 University of Tennessee Lecture Experience04:11 Encouragement for Clinical Supervisors05:59 Introducing Tiffany Elliott06:41 Tiffany's Journey and NICU Experience19:09 Hospital to Home Systems Change23:39 Challenges in Early Intervention26:53 Barriers and Solutions in Washington State36:21 Personal and Professional Reflections40:12 Navigating Academia and Authenticity41:39 Balancing Productivity and Care in the NICU44:21 Challenges in Early Intervention Systems45:29 Continuity of Care and Billing Codes49:21 Training and Support for Caregivers51:59 Emotional Wellbeing and Feeding01:00:16 Practical Strategies for Caregiver Support01:11:38 Final Thoughts and Resources About the Guest(s): Tiffany Elliott, MS CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders with a strong focus on preterm and medically complex infants and strengthening the caregiver-infant dyad. She is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and holds certifications in neonatal therapy (CNT) as well as neonatal touch and massage (NTMTC). She is currently a LEND trainee at the University of Washington. Tiffany is passionate about improving systems of care. She is a hospital-to-home systems change specialist with Northwest Center, where she partners with professionals across Washington state to enhance the hospital-to-home transition for infants and build community therapists' capacity. She also works on the infant feeding team at Seattle Children's Hospital, providing direct care for infants and their families. Before these positions, she co-founded the UW Medical Center's NICU SLP program and worked at Mary Bridge Children's Hospital.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n7hXTJG_FJMMentioned in this episode:School of Speech is Back!!Season 2 of School of Speech has arrived! Every host Carolyn Dolby every Monday morning as she sits down with practicing SLPs, academic researchers, and leading experts to talk about all aspects of school-based speech-language pathology. Carolyn and her guests explore everyday topics, tackle tough situations, and share valuable insights to support school therapists in their daily practice. Find School of Speech on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast platforms.

Send us a textIn this special episode of The Incubator Podcast, Ben and Daphna welcome Dr. Malathi Balasundaram and Morgan Kowalski, key members of the Family-Centered Care (FCC) Task Force, to discuss the growing movement towards integrating families as active partners in neonatal care.Dr. Balasundaram, a neonatologist and chair of the FCC Task Force, explains that family-centered care goes beyond simple parental involvement—it requires caregivers to be equal members of the NICU team, engaged in every stage from antenatal care to discharge and beyond. Despite decades of evidence proving its benefits, family-centered care is still inconsistently implemented in many NICUs. The FCC Task Force was created to bridge this gap, providing hospitals with the resources, mentorship, and support needed to build or strengthen their programs.Morgan Kowalski, a former NICU parent turned program manager, shares her powerful personal experiences that shaped her advocacy. She describes how her active participation in her son's care directly impacted his outcomes, underscoring the life-saving role of informed and engaged parents. She also highlights the Task Force's rapid global growth, now spanning over 1,400 members across 46 countries, and the impact of its webinars, mentorship programs, and policy initiatives.This episode sheds light on the urgent need for cultural and systemic change in neonatal care. As more hospitals recognize that parents are not visitors, but essential caregivers, the FCC Task Force continues to push for widespread adoption of family-centered policies that improve both infant and family outcomes.Tune in to learn how this movement is revolutionizing NICU care and how you can be part of the change!  As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textBem-vindos ao 50º episódio do Podcast A Incubadora!

Guest: Dr. Bob White Neonatologist Director of the Regional Newborn Program, Beacon Health System Adjunct Professor, University of Notre Dame   CEU objectives for this episode: Name two design elements that were the norm for NICUs 30 years ago. List two ways in which redesigned NICUs are helping improve outcomes of neonates. Explain how NICU design standards are developed. 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.  

Send us a textEnteral nutritional practices in extremely preterm infants: a survey of U.S. NICUs.Romero-Lopez M, Naik M, Holzapfel LF, Tyson JE, Pedroza C, Ahmad KA, Rysavy MA, Carlo WA, Zhang Y, Tibe C, Salas AA.J Perinatol. 2024 Dec 9. doi: 10.1038/s41372-024-02198-6. Online ahead of print.PMID: 39653781 No abstract available.As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textSupplemental Iron and Recombinant Erythropoietin for Anemia in Infants Born Very Preterm: A Survey of Clinical Practice in Europe.Reibel-Georgi NJ, Scrivens A, Heeger LE, Lopriore E, New HV, Deschmann E, Stanworth SJ, Carrascosa MA, Brække K, Cardona F, Cools F, Farrugia R, Ghirardello S, Krivec JL, Matasova K, Muehlbacher T, Sankilampi U, Soares H, Szabó M, Szczapa T, Zaharie G, Roehr CC, Fustolo-Gunnink S, Dame C; Neonatal Transfusion Network.J Pediatr. 2025 Jan;276:114302. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114302. Epub 2024 Sep 13.PMID: 39277077 Free article. Enteral nutritional practices in extremely preterm infants: a survey of U.S. NICUs.Romero-Lopez M, Naik M, Holzapfel LF, Tyson JE, Pedroza C, Ahmad KA, Rysavy MA, Carlo WA, Zhang Y, Tibe C, Salas AA.J Perinatol. 2024 Dec 9. doi: 10.1038/s41372-024-02198-6. Online ahead of print.PMID: 39653781 No abstract available.As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textIn this week's Journal Club, Ben and Daphna discuss six impactful studies shaping neonatal care. The conversation opens with a retrospective study exploring the timeline and factors influencing liberation from respiratory support in infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), offering valuable insights for parental counseling and care planning. A survey on enteral nutrition practices in U.S. NICUs highlights variability in feeding protocols and fortification strategies, with an encouraging trend toward donor milk use.The hosts then delve into a study on anti-seizure medication protocols, showing how structured pathways can significantly reduce the number of infants discharged on these medications. A European survey on anemia of prematurity reveals wide variations in iron supplementation and erythropoietin use, emphasizing the need for standardized practices. They also review a commentary on the evolving design of NICUs, which warns against sensory deprivation and advocates for balancing protective and nurturing environments.Finally, the discussion turns to a Spanish study on bemiparin, a low molecular weight heparin for neonatal thrombosis. While safe, the treatment faces challenges in achieving full thrombus resolution, highlighting the complexities of managing neonatal clotting disorders. Packed with insights and updates, this episode is a must-listen for neonatal professionals. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

We're thrilled to share a special episode drop from one of our producers, Kira Dineen, and her flagship podcast, DNA Today! As a multi award winning genetics podcast with over 12 years of groundbreaking episodes, DNA Today explores the latest in genetics and genomics through expert interviews and engaging discussions.    To celebrate the new year, this episode reflects back on the top genetics and genomics news stories during 2024. The top stories we chatted about are from the American Journal of Human Genetics' “Genomic medicine year in review: 2024” paper.    Joining Kira Dineen for this discussion are two leaders in genomics: Dr. Bruce Gelb and Dr. Eric Green. In this reflective conversation, Kira Dineen, Dr. Bruce Gelb, and Dr. Eric Green discusses the significant developments in genetics and genomics over the past year, including the recent American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) conference. They explore themes such as variable expressivity, the integration of genomics in human genetics, and the importance of diversity in genomic research.    The discussion also highlights key publications in genomic medicine and the evolving landscape of genetic research, emphasizing the need for continued focus on prevention and the implications of polygenic risk scores. They converse about the evolving landscape of genomic medicine, highlighting key advancements in research, particularly in areas like hemochromatosis and CRISPR technology. They reflect on the rapid progress made in genomic sequencing, especially in newborns, and the transformative impact it has on healthcare, particularly in NICUs. The discussion emphasizes the importance of diverse studies and scalable solutions in genetic counseling, as well as the future potential of genomic medicine to save lives and improve health outcomes.    Top 2024 Genomic Medicine Advancements Testing and managing iron overload after genetic screening-identified hemochromatosis Actionable genotypes and their association with lifespan in Iceland Impact of digitally enhanced genetic results disclosure in diverse families Chronic disease polygenic risk scores for clinical implementation in diverse US populations Skeletal Muscle Ryanodine Receptor 1 Variants and Malignant Hyperthermia Treating inherited retinal disease with gene-editing Validation of a clinical breast cancer risk assessment tool for all ancestries Broader access to clinical genome sequencing benefits diverse individuals with rare diseases Benefits for children with suspected cancer from routine whole-genome sequencing Clinical signatures of genetic epilepsies precede diagnosis in electronic medical records   The Guests:    Bruce D. Gelb, M.D. is the Director and Gogel Family Professor of the Mindich Child Health and Development Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He is Professor of Pediatrics and of Genetics and Genomic Sciences. Dr. Gelb completed a pediatric residency and pediatric cardiology fellowship at Babies Hospital of Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center and Texas Children's Hospital at the Baylor College of Medicine, respectively. He joined the faculty at Mount Sinai in 1991 after fellowship and has remained there since. He developed and now oversees an extensive program in genomics/gene discovery for congenital heart disease. Dr. Gelb has received the E. Mead Johnson Award from the Society for Pediatric Research and the Norman J. Siegel New Member Outstanding Science Award from the American Pediatric Society. He was elected to the American Society of Clinical Investigation and the National Academy of Medicine (formerly, the Institute of Medicine). Dr. Gelb is the President for the American Pediatric Society, Immediate Past President for the International Pediatric Research Foundation and Treasurer-Elect for the American Society of Human Genetics. In addition to his research, he co-directs the Cardiovascular Genetics Program at Mount Sinai.   Dr. Eric Green is the director of the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) at the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). As NHGRI director, Dr. Green leads the Institute's research programs and other initiatives. He has played an instrumental leadership role in developing many high-profile efforts relevant to genomics. Dr. Green received his B.S. degree in bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in 1981, and his M.D. and Ph.D. degrees from Washington University in 1987. Coincidentally, 1987 was the same year that the word “genomics” was coined. Dr. Green's relationship with the Institute began long before his appointment as director. He served as the Institute's scientific director (2002 - 2009), chief of the NHGRI Genome Technology Branch (1996 - 2009) and founding director of the NIH Intramural Sequencing Center (1997 - 2009). Prior to that, he played an integral role in the Human Genome Project. Dr. Green is a founding editor of the journal Genome Research (1995 - present) and a series editor of Genome Analysis: A Laboratory Manual (1994 - 1998), both published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press. He is also co-editor of Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics (since 2005). Throughout his career, he has authored and co-authored over 385 scientific publications.    Dr. Green is a recurring guest on DNA Today, and he might hold the title as the guest who has been on the show the most times! He was featured on Episode #182 when we chatted about the Human Genome Project and the recent completion of the human genome sequence -- from telomere to telomere. Dr. Green was a panelist on the PhenoTips Speaker Series installment that our host Kira Dineen moderated about population genomics in clinical practice, this was also released on the DNA Today podcast feed as Episode #260. He was also on the last couple years for our genetics wrapped 2022 (#214) and 2023 (#263).    Be sure to subscribe to DNA Today wherever you get your podcasts to explore hundreds of episodes on topics ranging from genetic counseling to cutting-edge research in genomics. New episodes are released every Friday. In the meantime, you can binge over 300 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel, this includes some episodes recorded at NBC Universal Stamford Studios.    DNA Today is hosted and produced by Kira Dineen. Our video lead is Amanda Andreoli. Our social media lead is Kajal Patel. Our Outreach Intern is Liv Davidson. And our logo Graphic Designer is Ashlyn Enokian, MS, CGC.    See what else we are up to on Instagram, X (Twitter), Threads, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and our website, DNAToday.com. Questions/inquiries can be sent to info@DNAtoday.com. 

Send us a textIn this episode of Tech Tuesday on The Incubator Podcast, Dr. Daphna Yasova Barbeau sits down with Ben Moore, founder of VCreate, a multi-award-winning clinical video management platform. VCreate bridges the gap between families and neonatal care teams by enabling the creation and sharing of secure video updates, fostering family engagement during NICU stays. The conversation delves into the origins of VCreate, inspired by a father's request to stay connected with his baby through video, and its rapid adoption by over 150 hospitals globally.Ben highlights VCreate's innovative features, including personalized video diaries, milestone recordings, and its HIPAA-compliant, secure platform. Families receive positive updates like their baby's first bath or coming off a ventilator, easing anxiety and strengthening bonds with clinical teams. The episode also explores VCreate's multi-language translation capabilities and digital tools, like parent passports and therapy follow-ups, which further enhance communication and care.Dr. Yasova Barbeau emphasizes the transformative impact of VCreate in addressing the emotional and practical needs of families during stressful NICU journeys. To learn more or schedule a demo, listeners are encouraged to visit vcreate.tv. This episode sheds light on how technology is revolutionizing family-centered neonatal care. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Today Heidi interviewed Mary Farrelly, also known as the NICU translator. Here is a little more about Mary Farrelly and this episode. In Mary's words: "Hi, I am Mary Farrelly - a certified NICU nurse, nurse educator, doula and the founder of The NICU Translator where I help to bring more joy and less trauma to a NICU experience through empowered education and individualized support. In today's episode we discuss all things NICU including the different levels of NICU care, ways to prepare prenatally for a known NICU admission, tips for empowered parenting in the NICU and ways to support friends and family who experience a NICU stay."   3 Key takeaways from the podcast that listeners will learn today: The different levels of NICUs and common NICU diagnoses Ways to prepare prenatally for a potential NICU stay How to support a family experiencing a NICU stay   3 Keywords that people would want to search when looking for content that you would provide in this episode: NICU  NICU baby or NICU mom Preemie  Here are the links to items I mentioned in the episode: I am a NICU Mom: Coloring Through the NICU Journey A therapeutic coloring book designed for NICU moms by a fellow NICU mom and NICU nurse, offering a creative outlet and moments of calm during a stressful time. The NICU Notebook A practical tool for parents to organize medical information, track progress, and record memories during their baby's NICU stay. Hello, Little Love: A Letter from a Parent to Their Baby in the NICU This picture book celebrates the milestones of a NICU baby, offering encouragement and love to both parents and children. Cradles of Courage A heartwarming story that honors the bravery of NICU babies and their families, reminding them of their strength and resilience. NICU Milestone Cards: a simple, easy way to remember the positives of the NICU experience and celebrate them through photos.   Mary Farrelly RN, BSN, RNC-NIC - I am a certified NICU nurse, nurse educator and trained doula who lives in Central Virginia.    Ways families can work with me:  Free Life After NICU Community: a private and safe space for NICU families to connect with each other while also having access to expert support and guidance. 1:1 Virtual Post-NICU Doula Support: book a free 30 minute call to learn more about ways we can work together to troubleshoot your concerns and build a unique plan to create a post-NICU environment where you and your baby can thrive together. Navigating the NICU for Doulas Course: live virtual training will prepare doulas to be able to better support families through their NICU experience and transition home.  Free NICU Birth Plan template: completely customizable birth plan template addendum that will help families be able to navigate the unexpected feeling more confident and empowered in their choices.    Website: www.thenicutranslator.com Instagram: @thenicutranslator Facebook Group: The NICU Translator ___________________________________________________________________ We have seats available in Birth Story Academy. Join today for $20 off with code BIRTHSTORYFRIEND at https://www.birthstory.com/online-course   Resources: Birth Story Academy Online Course Shop My Birthing Workbooks and Guides   I'm Heidi, a Certified Birth Doula, and I've supported the deliveries of over one thousand parents in my career. On the Birth Story Podcast, I'll take you on a journey through your pregnancy by providing you education through storytelling. I provide high-level childbirth education broken down to make it super digestible for you because I know you are a busy person on the go. Plus, because I am so passionate about birth outcomes, you will hear from many of the top experts in labor and delivery. Connect with Me! Instagram YouTube Birth Story Boutique Doula + Pregnancy Concierge Services in Charlotte, NC Birth Story Media™ Website Pinterest  

Réécoutez l'Happy Hour DJ de Nicus The Disrupt du lundi 25 novembre 2024

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Minky Couture has grown from a heartfelt mission into a beloved brand of comfort and luxury with six Utah locations and a thriving online store. At its core, Minky Couture is all about comfort and community. Owner and Founder Sandi Hendry joins us with more. Sandi Hendry: Minky Couture began with a desire to bring comfort to those in need. In 2009, when my daughter became ill and was hospitalized, I longed for a way to bring her comfort in her recovery. Unable to find the perfect blanket to bring her solace, I created one myself – giving rise to Minky Couture, best blanket ever. After 30 years as a teacher, I knew that I wanted Minky Couture to positively impact as many lives as possible. We employ mothers as seamstresses, allowing them to work from home providing for their families and strengthening our communities. Our “Heart of Minky” program is another way we give back, donating thousands of Mini Minky blankets to NICUs across the country. These blankets bring warmth and comfort to premature babies and to their families during very difficult times. As Minky Couture, every blanket is made with the highest quality fabric, ensuring both softness and luxury for years to come. Derek Miller: Minky Couture is dedicated to making a difference, one blanket at a time, blending warmth, comfort and community impact. Learn more at their website, minkycouture.com. I'm Derek Miller with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 11/21/24

On this week's episode, we welcome HeHe from Tranquility by Hehe, a doula and content creator in the birth education space. In this episode, we tackle the nuance of birth education, including how we approach conversations around birth education that support empowerment and autonomy while also leaving room for the unexpected - this is a complicated and sometimes messy conversation but we really wanted to tackle it. On this episode, you will hear:- Understanding birth trauma- Navigating healthcare provider relationships- The role of inductions - Finding balance in birth choices- Empowering through birth education- The importance of support systems- Navigating social media and birth conversations- Ideal maternity care and birth choicesYou can follow HeHe on Instagram: @tranquilitybyheheGuest Bio:Haley "HeHe" Stewart is the founder of Tranquility by Hehe Maternity Concierge, a company that helps birthing people manage their birth experience. She has a Master's degree in Human Development and Family Studies. HeHe started Tranquility by Hehe in 2016. She has learned how to support families going through NICU stays, and how to prepare clients for them. She has also witnessed the compassion and abuse that can occur in NICUs.For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @thebirthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

Send us a textBen and Daphna are joined by Dr. Sarah Swenson, Lisa Boyars, and Elizabeth Fisher, who share insights on addressing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) in the NICU. They discuss their CHNC workshop, "Nuts and Bolts of Screening and Brief Intervention for PMADs," which guides NICUs in implementing effective screening and intervention programs. Learn about the essential role of mental health support for NICU families, how screening can be adapted to any NICU setting, and the resources available to assist parents navigating PMADs.As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textIn this episode, Ben and Daphna welcome the CHNC team—Anthony Piazza, Eugenia Pallotto, and Beverly Brozanski—to discuss quality improvement (QI) priorities in neonatal care. They delve into how QI initiatives at CHNC set project priorities and leverage data to support patient outcomes across diverse NICUs. From the challenges of Project Home, aimed at increasing breastfeeding at discharge, to exploring social determinants of health, this episode highlights the power of collaborative QI in addressing real-life challenges for NICU families and standardizing care practices nationwide.As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textBen and Daphna welcome Dr. Briana Bertoni to discuss the CIQI Fellowship, a unique program for advancing quality improvement in neonatal care. Dr. Bertoni explains how the fellowship equips participants with hands-on experience in project development and implementation across diverse NICUs. From defining project metrics to learning the intricacies of nationwide QI initiatives, Dr. Bertoni shares insights into the mentorship and collaboration that make this fellowship a standout experience. Listen to learn more about the critical role of CIQI in neonatal quality improvement and how fellows contribute to transformative care.As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a textIn this heartwarming episode of Shine On Success, host Dionne Malush welcomes Brian Heilig, author of Breathe, Eat, Poop, and Grow: Your Micro Preemie Story. Brian opens up about his family's incredible journey through the birth of their micro-preemie son, Grayson, in Mexico, and how their unwavering faith, love, and community helped them navigate the challenges of preeclampsia, NICU life, and autism. Through moments of fear and hope, Brian and his wife, Diana, found the strength to persevere. Their story reminds us that even in the most uncertain times, resilience and courage can carry us through. All proceeds from Brian's book go toward helping Mexican hospitals equip their NICUs with life-saving incubators. Tune in to hear an inspiring tale of survival, faith, and the enduring human spirit.Connect with Brian here:Website: https://brianheilig.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briansheilig/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@micropreemiedadFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Brian-Heilig-Writer-100071310040183/Get the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Breathe-Eat-Poop-Grow-Micro-Preemie/dp/B0CXTZSC1WConnect with Dionne Malush Instagram: @dionnerealtyonepgh LinkedIN: /in/dionnemalush Website: www.dionnemalush.com Facebook: /dmalush LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/dionnemalush

For every 10 babies born across the world one will be preterm and the fate of these tiny babies is often very uncertain. They are kept alive by science, care, and luck. Time in a neonatal unit can be a stressful and unpredictable time. We meet the people who are creating equipment and aids to create a kinder experience for both parents and babies alike to give them a better start in life. People like the founder of the Danish Octo Project, which kickstarted a movement across the world crocheting tiny Octopus toys to emulate the umbilical cord for premature babies, the engineer who kept her baby alive when the neonatal unit housing her son lost power in a devastating storm, leading to a remarkable invention. Finally, the foundation bringing purple butterflies to NICUs across the UK to help identify surviving children of multiple births.

We all are aware that multiple adverse obstetrical outcomes have been linked to maternal obesity, such as stillbirth, preterm birth, NICUs admission, and congenital anomalies. But once delivery and hospital discharge occurs uneventfully, a new cohort study is raising the alarm for another possible adverse event up until the child's first year of life: Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). SUID is devastating. In this episode we will review this new publication, which is making medical headlines. This was published on July 29th, 2024 in JAMA Pediatrics. We'll put this association between maternal obesity and SUID in perspective and summarize the key findings of this alarming data.

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to support perinatal mental health in our communities? This week's episode goes into just that, featuring expert Kristina Ledlow, who emphasizes the power of community in addressing mental health needs for new mothers. Kristina and Dr. Lia explore the revolutionary risk assessment tool developed by Nancy Roberts, stressing the importance of concrete data in securing sustainable funding and resources. They discuss key strategies for overcoming perinatal mental health disparities, such as finding champions and building coalitions. Christina shares her vision of establishing a perinatal and infant mental health center, aiming to prioritize this crucial issue on both national and international levels. The conversation also explores the negative effects of healthcare silos and the transformative impact of interdisciplinary teamwork.Furthermore, they tackle pressing issues like social media pressures, mommy shaming, and the fear surrounding perinatal mental health medications. Christina provides invaluable insights into creating a postpartum plan, leveraging support systems, and the indispensable role of partners. From online support groups through Postpartum Support International (PSI) to dedicated resources in multiple languages, this episode is a comprehensive guide to improving perinatal mental health for all. [05:27 -14:30] The Importance of Community and Data Risk Assessment Tool: Discussion on Nancy Roberts' risk assessment tool, highlighting the significance of obtaining tangible numbers and statistics.Championing the Cause: Finding champions, leveraging clout, and building coalitions are essential for addressing perinatal mental health disparities.Sustainable Funding: Emphasizes the need for sustainable funding beyond grants.Communication and Collaboration: Impacts of interdisciplinary teamwork in healthcare, importance of breaking down silos.[14:31 - 23:38] The Role of Therapy and Medication Medication During Pregnancy: Concerns about medication during pregnancy and the benefits of therapy and medications in treatment.Postpartum Plan: Creating a postpartum plan prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and support from visitors.Online Support Groups: Availability of online support groups through PSI, offering spaces of unconditional acceptance and healing.Mental Health Hotline: Use of resources like PSI's consult lines and maternal mental health hotlines that support in various languages.[23:39 - 34:13] Addressing Disparities and Systemic RacismSystemic Racism's Impact: Impact of systemic racism, lack of healthcare access, and generational trauma.NICU Family Stress: Stress experienced by families of color in NICUs and the need for inclusive care.Healthcare Professional Support: Role of healthcare professionals in supporting parents and infants, involving families in decision-making.PSI Support Groups: Online support groups for partners, LGBTQ+ individuals, and Spanish-speaking groups for better inclusivity..[34:14 - 46:19] Building a Community-centric Postpartum ProgramLocal and National Aspirations: Sharing aspirations for establishing a local perinatal and infant mental health center and advocating on a larger scale.Postpartum Challenges: Common challenges for new parents: lack of sleep, postpartum expectations, and pressures from social media.Postpartum Planning: Encouragement to create a postpartum plan and make use of resources like the free postpartum planning class.Role of Partners: Discussing the critical role of dads and partners in supporting new mothers and...

Send us a Text Message.In this Tech Tuesday episode of the Incubator podcast, Ben and Daphna engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Shama Patel, a neonatologist and clinical informaticist at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Patel sheds light on the pressing issues surrounding electronic medical record (EMR) systems and documentation practices in neonatology. She addresses the problem of "note bloat," where progress notes become excessively long and filled with redundant information, contributing to physician burnout and potential errors in patient care. Dr. Patel shares her innovative work in creating a more efficient and relevant patient review screen in Epic, tailored explicitly for neonatology, and discusses the development of a new progress note template aimed at reducing documentation burden while improving accuracy.The conversation delves into the importance of having dedicated informaticists in each medical division to continuously improve EMR workflows. Dr. Patel envisions a future where all NICU progress notes follow a standardized format, enabling better communication and data analysis. She emphasizes that improving EMR systems is an ongoing process that requires cultural change within medical teams. The hosts and Dr. Patel explore the potential for standardized documentation practices across NICUs to enhance patient care and facilitate research, as well as the future possibilities for using AI in medical documentation. The episode concludes by highlighting the career opportunities in clinical informatics for young medical professionals and the potential for this work to significantly impact patient care, physician well-being, and medical research. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Send us a Text Message.In this episode of the Incubator podcast, Ben interviews Bryan King, an experienced respiratory therapist and educator in neonatal and pediatric care. Bryan shares his journey into respiratory therapy, which began unexpectedly after initially pursuing x-ray technology. He discusses his passion for working in the NICU and the challenges of treating increasingly smaller premature infants.The conversation delves into the evolution of neonatal respiratory therapy, focusing on the impact of surfactant and antenatal steroids in improving infant lung compliance. Bryan emphasizes the importance of avoiding lung hyperexpansion in nano-premies and discusses various ventilation strategies, including volume-targeted ventilation, high-frequency ventilation, and pressure support.Bryan shares insights on selecting appropriate ventilation modes and settings, stressing the need to adapt strategies based on individual patient responses. He advocates for having a diverse set of tools and modalities available in Level 4 NICUs to provide comprehensive care and education.The interview also touches on the challenges of weaning patients from ventilators and the importance of considering long-term outcomes rather than focusing solely on immediate blood gas results. Bryan discusses his experience as a non-physician educator teaching physicians and emphasizes the value of lifelong learning in the medical field.Throughout the conversation, Bryan shares valuable tips for respiratory care, including the importance of encouraging spontaneous breathing, understanding ventilator feedback, and being open to trying different approaches when standard methods aren't effective. He also mentions his current project of writing a book about his experiences as an educator in the field of neonatal ventilation.The episode provides a wealth of knowledge for healthcare professionals working in neonatal and pediatric respiratory care, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and patient-centered approaches in this rapidly evolving field. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Réécoutez l'Happy Hour DJ de Nicus TheDisrupt du lundi 17 juin 2024

Tirza Jova, the CEO and founder of Milk by Mom, shares her journey of discovering freeze-dried breast milk and how it inspired her to start her company. She discusses the nutritional benefits of freeze-dried breast milk and the convenience it offers to breastfeeding mothers. Tirza also talks about the challenges of parenthood, the importance of self-care, and the value of setting boundaries for children. She emphasizes the need for parents to stay true to themselves and find something that brings them joy and fulfillment. Milk by Mom is a company that offers breast milk freeze drying as a storage method for breastfeeding mothers. The process involves freeze drying the breast milk using low heat, which preserves the nutrients and antibodies. The freeze-dried breast milk is then turned into a powder form that can be reconstituted with water. Some common misconceptions about freeze-dried breast milk include confusing it with dehydration and thinking that there is not enough evidence to support its use. Milk by Mom ensures the safety and quality of the freeze drying process through stringent protocols and compliance with FDA guidelines. The nutritional benefits of freeze-dried breast milk include preserving the nutrients and antibodies without the decline in nutrition that occurs with freezing. Milk by Mom sets itself apart from other storage solutions by having a facility exclusively dedicated to processing breast milk and a commitment to supporting and educating mothers. They aim to grow their business and make freeze-dried breast milk more widely available, especially in NICUs. They also hope to overcome challenges such as the cost of shipping. Feedback from healthcare professionals has been mostly positive, with some skepticism that can be addressed through providing clinical evidence. Advice for mothers considering freeze-dried breast milk is to do their research and choose a reputable company. Milk by Mom is dedicated to supporting mothers and providing them with a valuable and convenient option for storing breast milk.@milkbymomMilk by Mom

My guest this week is retired neonatologist and author, Kaye Drew White. She shares her journey through the male-dominated medical field during a time when sexism and racism were rampant issues. Her memoir, Stress Test, is set to release on June 7th, provides an insightful look into the challenges she faced as a woman in medicine and offers advice for young women pursuing similar careers.Key Points from the Episode:The struggles of being a female doctor in a male-dominated environmentPersonal tragedies that occurred while learning to be a doctorInsights into daily life in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)Experiences dealing with sexism early in her careerHow societal changes have impacted women's roles and rights over timeThe importance of controlling one's reproductive health for career advancement Reflections on writing as therapy and energy revitalization post-retirement Kaye discusses how her personal experiences influenced her decision to specialize in neonatology, including childhood influences and guidance from mentors during residency. She also touches upon facing discrimination both due to gender within medical school settings as well as serving underprivileged communities.Listeners will gain an understanding of what it was like practicing medicine across different hospital environments - from large units at Holy Cross Hospital to smaller NICUs like Shady Grove Adventist Hospital - managing anywhere between 20 to 30 babies at any given time.The episode delves into serious topics such as coping with patient loss, malpractice fears, navigating emotional traumas alongside professional responsibilities, balancing work-life pressures especially amidst recent public setbacks regarding women's healthcare rights following Roe v Wade reversal implications.Kay is a good story teller and speaks with compassion about all that she was faced with, societal, personal, and professional.You can learn more about Kay and her writings here.

Send us a Text Message.In this exciting episode of The Incubator podcast, hosts Ben and Daphna Barbeau dive into the promising world of artificial intelligence (AI) in neonatology. They are joined by special guests Dr. James Barry, medical director of the University of Colorado Hospital NICU, and Dr. Ryan McAdams, professor and chief of the Division of Neonatology and Newborn Nursery at the University of Wisconsin. Both guests are co-chairs of the Steering Committee for NeoMind AI, a collaborative focused on advancing neonatal machine learning innovations, development, and artificial intelligence.The conversation explores the potential of AI to revolutionize neonatal care by leveraging the vast amounts of data generated in NICUs to improve outcomes, optimize care delivery, and enhance medical education. Dr. Barry and Dr. McAdams provide insights into the current state of AI in neonatology, the importance of collaboration in AI research, and the ethical considerations surrounding this technology.NeoMind AI is introduced as an inclusive learning collaborative that aims to break down silos between organizations, educate neonatologists about AI, and foster collaboration on common data platforms. The guests emphasize the importance of clinician involvement in AI development and application to ensure safe, effective, and unbiased implementation.This episode offers a fascinating look at the future of neonatology and the role AI will play in transforming the field. It serves as an invitation for listeners to join the NeoMind AI community and contribute to this exciting new frontier in neonatal care. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Canadian journalist Nora Loreto reads the latest headlines for Thursday, April 18, 2024.TRNN has partnered with Loreto to syndicate and share her daily news digest with our audience. Tune in every morning to the TRNN podcast feed to hear the latest important news stories from Canada and around the world.Find more headlines from Nora at Sandy & Nora Talk Politics podcast feed.Help us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcastReferenced articles:Story 1 - 14 out of 15 drug poisoning deaths in Windsor-Essex were related to fentenyl.Story 2 - The Ontario Legislature's speaker MPP Ted Arnott bans Keffiyehs as being political symbols. Story 3 - Crisis in Alberta's NICUs spurns doctors to call for action; minister floats idea of airlifting infants in critical care to other provinces.Story 4 - Private citizen to be questioned over ArriveCan app by the House of Commons for the first time in 100 years after Kristian Firth was found in contempt. Story 5 - Pakistan blocked out social media just before and just after the elections, in a move meant to harm Imran Khan's chances. Story 6 - 1 in 5 Palestinians living in the occupied territories have been arrested, a rate that is doubled when only men are concerned. Yesterday marked Palestinian Prisoners' Day.

In this episode of the Incubator Podcast, Ben and Daphna discuss maternal mental health with Maureen Fiora, CEO of Mammha, a femtech startup aimed at revolutionizing maternal mental health care. Mammha focuses on addressing postpartum and perinatal depression by improving identification, diagnosis, referral, and treatment processes. Maureen shared her personal journey, highlighting the significant gaps in current healthcare systems regarding maternal mental health, emphasizing that less than 20% of physicians screen for these conditions. She detailed how Mammha streamlines screening with technology and ensures that women who screen positive receive comprehensive follow-up care, overcoming the usual fragmentation in care pathways.The conversation also touched on the importance of screening in NICUs due to the heightened vulnerability of parents there, with Mammha capturing significant data on both mothers and fathers experiencing mental health issues. Maureen explained how Mammha operates, starting with provider-initiated screening using QR codes and validated tools, to engaging care coordinators for immediate follow-up. The company's success stories include partnerships and awards for their innovative approach to closing care gaps, especially among underserved populations.Mammha's model has significantly increased engagement and follow-up care for screened parents, showcasing a promising pathway to better maternal mental health outcomes. Maureen's background in policy and advocacy, combined with personal experience, positions her uniquely to lead this initiative, aiming to make a tangible difference in the lives of parents navigating the challenges of mental health during the perinatal period. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Noche de previa con el regreso de la competición fetiche de nuestro equipo. Analizamos el duelo con el Leipzig y nos ponemos en precedentes de esta temporada para evaluar el potencial futbolístico de un bloque que no parece ceder ante las dificultades. Elenco familiar para hablar de fútbol en casa: @aYepes_93 @JJPurriM @alpr97 *Meritocracia Blanca no se hace responsable de las opiniones de sus colaboradores Nos podéis seguir en: Web: https://meritocraciablanca.com/ Twitter/Facebook: @MeritoRMCF Twitch: www.twitch.tv/meritocraciablanca

This week, journal club covers a wide variety of topics including: A trial on using sildenafil for brain injury in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). The safety and feasibility of sildenafil as a restorative treatment are explored.The effectiveness of NIR-CIVIMAB for RSV prevention in infants. The focus is on reducing hospitalizations due to RSV-associated lower respiratory tract infections.The impact of antenatal corticosteroid treatment during late preterm periods on neonatal outcomes, especially in twin pregnancies.A study on energy drink intake before and during pregnancy and its association with adverse pregnancy outcomes.Jennifer Canvasser's meeting with the FDA regarding probiotic use in NICUs and the implications of recent FDA warnings.Research on early and exclusive enteral nutrition in preterm infants, the time taken to reach target cooling temperature in infants with HIE, and the potential role of blood transfusions in bronchopulmonary dysplasia.These topics are critically analyzed and discussed, providing insights into current neonatal care practices and research developments. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

Special guests, Melissa House and Megan Legoski, will share their unique insights and experiences to shed light on this complex yet essential topic. We're taking a deep look at Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD) focus group and the concerted efforts to improve mental health care for parents in our NICUs. We'll be discussing their ambitious project to survey Level 4 referral centers to assess their mental health support and how validated screens are deployed to detect mood disorders and depression among parents. As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below. Enjoy!

On this week's episode, we are joined by Nurse Tori BSN RNC-NIC. Tori is a NICU nurse who shares openly on social media. Tori went directly from graduation into a level 4 NICU and has worked in NICUs for 10 years. Things you will hear about on this episode:- Differences between NICU levels.- The importance of getting to know your team in the NICU.- Communication in the NICU.- Personalizing your space in the NICU to help make it feel more comfortable.- Good preemie clothing brands.- Journaling to your baby .- Coping with an intense work environment.- The importance of self-care as a NICU parent.Guest Bio: Nurse Tori Meskin is a Registered Nurse with over 8 years of nursing experience specializing in neonatal and pediatric critical care and has served as a specialty NICU & Pediatric Critical Care trained nurse serving patients in the Los Angles and Orange County areas providing direct patient care, leadership, consultation, education and patient care management expertise for the complex neonatal & pediatric patient populations. She has worked for Children's Hospitals and University Hospitals in Level IV NICU, Trauma I centers, and consulting centers. As a new nurse, she completed a 20-week RN Versant Residency Program. She is trained to work in specialized areas; Small Baby Unit, Body Cooling Team, & Surgical NICU (Cardiothoracic, Gastrointestinal, Neurosurgical, & Congenital anomalies etc.)Tori graduated from The University of Arizona (beardown) with a dual major in Nursing and Psychology. Currently, Tori is obtaining a Master's Degree in Nursing Leadership sharpening leadership skills, enhancing research expertise, driving evidence-based research forward, and becoming a true leader in this space.You can find Nurse Tori on Instagram: @nurse.tori_For more birth trauma content and a community full of love and support, head to my Instagram at @birthtrauma_mama.Learn more about the support and services I offer through The Birth Trauma Mama Therapy & Support Services.

The person that spends the most time with your child is likely a NICU nurse. NICU parent, former NICU nurse and current director of NICU nursing, Dr. Lisa Davenport, and I have an honest conversation about the highs and lows of nursing, what things have changed and how parents can have the best relationship possible with their baby's NICU nurse.   In this episode, we chat about:   Of all the professions, why nursing and why NICU nursing? What differentiates a NICU nurse from a pediatric or ICU nurse? What are some of the first things a family can expect from their NICU nurse? Can you explain a "primary nurse" and what that means to a family? Share a bit about the family's access to their NICU nurses. If a family has a difficult relationship with their NICU nurse, what should they do? What are some of the key things NICU nurses do to be more effective in the NICU environment? What's something that we're doing now in NICUs that we weren't when you first started? How has it changed the outcomes? Let's talk about this "golden hour" you championed. What's the best part about your job? Most challenging?   Dr. Lisa Davenport is a former NICU parent and the Director of Nursing for Texas Children's NICU in Houston, Tex. Lisa's experience as a NICU bedside nurse for 9 years fueled her passion for becoming a quality driven and people centric nursing leader. Additionally, Lisa serves as faculty for Texas Tech Health Science Center School of Nursing.   Connect with Dr. Davenport: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-davenport-dnp-rn-rnc-nic-5363b075   The NICU is hard. We're here to help.   Hand to Hold is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) parents with personalized emotional support, educational resources and community before, during and after their baby's NICU stay. NICU support is available at no cost to NICU parents in English and Spanish.   Connect with Hand to Hold: Learn more or get support at handtohold.org   Follow Hand to Hold on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/handtohold Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handtohold/   Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/NICUHandtoHold YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/HandtoHold    The following music was used for this media project: Music: Thriving Together [Full version] by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/10332-thriving-together-full-version License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license   Music: Bright Colors Of Life by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/7855-bright-colors-of-life License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

Katie Taylor, Co-founder and CEO, Child Life On Call Disclosure: The speaker in this interview is the owner and CEO of a company providing services to NICUs and families. This affiliation does not influence the presentation's educational content value or impact its CEU eligibility.   In this episode: Explain at least three ways that the role of a child life specialist differs from a nurse, and when to refer a parent for these services List two activities/strategies a child life specialist might employ with siblings of an infant in the NICU to help them better understand what is happening Describe one tool or strategy that a NICU professional might use to help diffuse a situation if child life is unavailable This episode is eligible for CEUs. Visit https://handtohold.org/resources/podcasts/nicu-heroes/ to complete the questionnaire.   Resources: https://childlifeoncall.com/comfort-positioning-guide/ https://childlifeoncall.com/parents/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlifeoncall Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/childlifeoncall Website: https://childlifeoncall.com/   The NICU is hard. We're here to help.   Hand to Hold is a national nonprofit dedicated to providing neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) parents with personalized emotional support, educational resources and community before, during and after their baby's NICU stay. NICU support is available at no cost to NICU parents in English and Spanish.   Connect with Hand to Hold: Learn more or get support at handtohold.org   Follow Hand to Hold on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/handtohold Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handtohold/   Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/NICUHandtoHold YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/HandtoHold    The following music was used for this media project: Music: Thriving Together [Full version] by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/10332-thriving-together-full-version License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license   Music: Bright Colors Of Life by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/7855-bright-colors-of-life License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

In this episode, Dr. Mark Bergeron, Medical Director of Digital Health Transformation at Children's Minnesota, discusses their neonatal virtual care program. He explains how the program increases access to critical care patients in rural areas and its growth throughout the upper Midwest. Dr. Bergeron highlights the need for such services as hospitals struggle to recruit providers with neonatal experience. Additionally, he explores how the program streamlines transfers to Children's Minnesota's NICUs and its impact on expanding specialized care in rural and regional hospitals.

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