Together, they pull back the curtain on how hospital systems work, why many hospital birth classes can be biased, and why evidence-based childbirth education outside the hospital can make such a difference. Sarah shares practical ways families can navigate the system with more confidence, from choosing a provider who aligns with your goals to requesting a specific provider, hiring a doula, and understanding your right to informed consent.

They also talk about fear-based maternity care, how to decline students or procedures you are not comfortable with, when it is appropriate to request a different nurse, and how to report concerns if you feel disrespected or mistreated. This conversation is all about helping parents understand their options, protect their autonomy, and walk into the birth room feeling informed, supported, and in control.

This episode originally aired Tuesday Mar 02, 2021 and can be found here:  https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-154-rights-in-the-labor-room-with-sarah-martin-rn/

Guest Bio:

Sarah Martin is a mother of 9, an experienced OB nurse, and founder of Transformational Motherhood (previously Traditional Motherhood).  Sarah has taken her passion, knowledge and experience in pregnancy, birth and postpartum to create a community dedicated to education, empowerment and support of expectant and new mamas to take them from feeling scared to confidently prepared! Traditional Motherhood is taking expectant and new mamas from scared to confidently prepared through education.

Connect with Sarah: 

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/transformationalmotherhood/

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

Temp Drop If you’re over peeing on sticks, overthinking charts, or trying to take your temp at the same time every morning, Tempdrop does the work for you while you sleep. Grab a discount with code AFHEHE at tempdrop.com/discount/AFHEHE

In this episode, HeHe sits down with Dr. Kristin Lasseter to unpack perinatal mental health with a focus on postpartum anxiety (PPA) versus postpartum depression (PPD), how they differ, and when “baby blues” may signal something more. While mood shifts are common in the early postpartum days, symptoms that persist beyond a couple of weeks, disrupt sleep, bring constant anxiety or sadness, intrusive thoughts, or thoughts of death deserve real support.

They talk candidly about the guilt, shame, and fear of judgment that keep many women silent, and why telling one safe person can be a powerful first step. The conversation explores common risk factors like fertility struggles, pregnancy or birth complications, and PMDD, along with the significant hormonal shift that happens after the placenta is delivered and why the brain can feel especially vulnerable during that window.

HeHe and Dr. Lasseter also navigate the often-stigmatized topic of psychiatric medication during pregnancy and postpartum. They discuss why abruptly stopping medication is usually unsafe, how to thoughtfully weigh medication risks against the risks of untreated mental illness, what research tells us about breastfeeding compatibility, and what to expect when starting or adjusting treatment. They touch on newer, faster-acting postpartum depression options, therapy modalities like CBT and EMDR, and additional treatments such as TMS and ECT.

The episode closes with an honest conversation about bounce-back culture, social media pressure, and choosing support systems that protect a mother’s mental health. Throughout, the message is clear: evidence-based care matters, suffering in silence isn’t a badge of honor, and there is no shame in using medication when it’s needed.

0:00 - Introduction: Mental Health Medications in Pregnancy & Postpartum

4:36 - Postpartum Anxiety vs Postpartum Depression: Key Differences

6:01 - Normal Baby Blues vs Red Flags: When to Seek Help

9:51 - Intrusive Thoughts & Breaking the Stigma

17:26 - Medication Safety in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

24:43 - Should You Stop Your Meds When Pregnant?

30:03 - Hormones & Mental Health: The Postpartum Crash

43:56 - Breastfeeding While on Psychiatric Medications

51:26 - How Long Should You Stay on Medication?

60:50 - Fighting the "Bounce Back" Culture & Social Media's Impact

Guest Bio:

Kristin Yeung Lasseter, MD is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in Texas who specializes in Reproductive Psychiatry and Women’s Mental Health. 

She graduated cum laude from Southwestern University with a Bachelors of Science in Biology prior to attending medical school at the Long School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Lasseter excelled in medical school and was awarded membership into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.

After receiving her Medical Degree, she completed Psychiatry residency at Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin where she served as Chief Resident. She additionally spent time training in Reproductive Psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. 

Dr. Lasseter founded Reproductive Psychiatry Clinic of Austin in 2018, which now hosts multiple psychiatrists and psychotherapists specialized in treating mental health disorders related to the reproductive lifespan. She dedicates much of her time educating the public and other providers about reproductive mental illness through speaking engagements, writing and social media.

Connect with Dr. Lasseter: 

 www.rpcaustin.com   www.kristinlassetermd.com   https://www.instagram.com/the.reproductive.psychiatrist

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/

 Connect with Dr. Lasseter on IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.reproductive.psychiatrist

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

Maternal Mental Health Suicide Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA

Postpartum Support International: https://postpartum.net/

In this episode of The Birth Lounge, HeHe sits down with perinatal psychologist Dr. Kat to have the conversation we don’t have enough: the real, nuanced truth about mental health in pregnancy and postpartum.

They break down the full spectrum of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, and postpartum psychosis. They cover what’s common, what’s urgent, and what deserves immediate support.

A major focus of this conversation is intrusive thoughts.

Dr. Kat explains that intrusive thoughts are incredibly common, especially postpartum. They are typically unwanted, distressing, and they don’t reflect your true desires. But when thoughts become frequent, graphic, intense, or begin to interfere with daily functioning (like avoiding holding your baby out of fear), that’s when it’s time to reach out for professional support.

HeHe shares personal examples and normalizes how sleep deprivation, hormonal shifts, stress, and identity changes can amplify anxiety and intrusive thoughts, while emphasizing that struggling does not mean you are broken.

They discuss:

• How to tell the difference between common intrusive thoughts and something more serious
• Why suicide is the second leading cause of death in the postpartum period
• When therapy and/or medication are appropriate and valid tools
• How to talk to your partner and loved ones about not feeling like yourself
• Why reassurance alone may not be enough for severe anxiety or OCD
• How to use resources like Postpartum Support International
• The importance of proactive conversations during pregnancy

This episode is compassionate, evidence-based, and deeply validating.

If you have ever thought, “Why is my brain doing this?” or felt afraid to say your thoughts out loud, this conversation will help you understand what’s happening, and remind you that support is not weakness. It is care.

You deserve to feel safe in your own mind.

Guest Bio:

Katayune Kaeni, Psy.D. PMH-C, aka, Dr. Kat is a perinatal mental health certified psychologist, author of The Pregnancy Workbook: Manage Anxiety and Worry with CBT and Mindfulness Techniques, and host of the Mom & Mind Podcast, the longest-running perinatal mental health podcast since 2016, covering perinatal mental health personal stories and expert interviews. She volunteers her time, serving on the board of Postpartum Support International (PSI) as a board member and as the immediate past chair. Dr. Kat began specializing in perinatal mental health after her own experience with postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD over 14 years ago. Dr. Kat continues to offer psychotherapy virtually to clients across California.

www.momandmind.com, IG and Tiktok @momandmind, FB @momandmindpodcast

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Connect with Dr. Kat on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momandmind/

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

PSI descriptions of symptoms: https://paulspector.com/assessments/pauls-no-cost-assessments/physical-symptoms-inventory/

If you’ve found yourself wondering about this, you’re exactly where you need to be.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge, HeHe sits down with birth doula, childbirth educator, business owner, former teacher, and MSW student Jen Walts to talk about something that doesn’t get discussed enough: creating a thoughtful transfer plan to support a smooth, patient-centered, trauma-informed transition from a home or birth center setting to the hospital if the need arises. Because here’s the truth: planning for transfer isn’t planning for failure — it’s planning for safety, flexibility, and peace of mind.

HeHe and Jen walk through why transfer planning matters and encourage parents to ask their midwife about transfer timing and transfer rates (and why a rate of zero can actually be a red flag). They gently reframe transfer as a responsible, informed pivot when circumstances call for additional support.

This conversation covers common reasons for transfer, like maternal health, baby’s health, and access to additional tools such as pain management (including epidurals), assisted vaginal delivery options, and postpartum repair.

They also explore how fear of the hospital can complicate transfer, the importance of understanding the “why” behind birth location choice, how a transfer can impact the nervous system, and the role of surrender and flexibility when a birth plan changes. Jen recommends developing a hospital backup birth preference sheet, including a shorter “top 10” list of non-negotiables to share with the receiving team, with examples such as immediate skin-to-skin, backup skin-to-skin plans if separation occurs, delayed cord clamping, newborn feeding preferences, and cesarean-specific requests. 

Guest Bio:

Jen has been a birth doula, childbirth educator and business owner for five years. She taught high school for ten years and is now pursuing her second Masters degree. She hopes to become a licensed social worker and therapist to children and families in Massachusetts.

Connect with Jen here: Thebirthpath.org

https://www.pioneervalleydoulas.com/

Get $100 OFF Hypnobirthing with Jen Walts (virtual or in person) when you mention that heard about it here! 

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Connect with Jen on IG: https://www.instagram.com/_thebirthpath_/

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is joined by Tracy aka Modern Day Midwife (a hospital-based midwife in Arizona with a NICU background) for a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation about the realities of modern healthcare.

Together, they unpack how the U.S. healthcare system is failing both patients and providers, from provider burnout and lack of mental health support to the pressures of hospital politics, insurance reimbursement, and productivity quotas.

They explore the difference between  “Medicine 1.0” (acute care) and “Medicine 2.0” (preventative care, functional medicine, wellness), and how insurance-driven, fee-for-service models often prioritize sick care over true health. The result? Confusing medical bills, rushed care, poor patient experiences, and providers who are stretched thin despite doing deeply meaningful work.

HeHe and Tracy dive into the unique challenges facing women’s health, maternity care, and birth: over-medicalization, the cascade of interventions, the limits of 10-minute OB-GYN appointments, maternity care deserts, and the need for individualized care, informed consent, and continuity of care. From ACOG guidelines to ever changing evidence and research, they explore possible solutions including a midwifery-led model of care, better transfer systems for home birth and birth center patients, coverage for doulas and health coaching, and shifting consumer demand away from traditional insurance and towards alternatives like health shares. 

Tracy shares her exciting vision for an integrated wellness hub that could include midwifery, obstetrics, pelvic floor PT, lactation, chiropractic care, and community-based health supports, and ends by sharing how to connect with her at Premier OB GYN in Phoenix and via Modern Day Midwife online and on Instagram.

00:00 Why Healthcare Breaks Providers

02:24 Burnout and Speaking Up

04:59 Fear and Privilege in Advocacy

07:18 Who Supports Clinicians

12:32 Medicine 1.0 vs Prevention

17:25 Billing Confusion and Fee for Service

19:06 Burn It Down or Reform It

23:55 Disrupting Insurance and Incentives

26:49 Birth Care Needs a New Model

29:36 Preeclampsia Prevention Debate

30:47 Rethinking Maternity Care Roles

32:04 Money in Wellness Care

34:55 Building a One Stop Birth Hub

37:43 Continuity Across Birth Settings

41:45 Evidence Based Medicine Reality Check

47:56 ACOG Guidelines vs Individual Choice

53:23 Demanding Individualized Care

55:11 Rebuilding Healthcare and Provider Support

56:59 Where to Find Tracy

58:15 Closing Thanks and Resources

Guest Bio:

Meet Tracy Burns, Board Certified Nurse Midwife. Tracy graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 2003 with her bachelor's degree in nursing. After graduation, Tracy spent a year in labor and delivery as a bedside RN and then took a job in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Tracy spent the first 13 years of her career taking care of premature infants and mothers before pursuing her advanced practice career in Women’s Health.

Tracy graduated from the University of Cincinnati in 2017 with her Master’s degree in Midwifery. With a big heart for women, Tracy is an advocate for midwifery care for women and the continuity of care model. Tracy has been an active team player in bringing midwifery services to Banner Estrella and Abrazo West. Tracy is passionate about health and wellness. She believes in using a functional/integrative approach to health promotion/disease prevention through an early introduction to nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, sleep, and community. Tracy is committed to caring for women by collaborating with other like-minded providers who are as committed to changing the way we care for women in America.

Tracy is married and has two teenage daughters. She enjoys Crossfit, hiking, and spending time with family and friends. She is a co-owner of Crossfit Fury, CrossFit Trainer, and BirthFit professional. Tracy and her husband are actively involved in changing maternal and neonatal outcomes globally through Helping Babies and Mothers Survive Campaign.

Connect with Tracy here: Www.moderndaymidwife.com

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Connect with Tracy on IG: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymidwife/

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

This episode is detailed, practical, and empowering. Postpartum in the hospital doesn’t have to feel chaotic when you understand what’s routine, what’s optional, and where your voice matters most.

00:00 Speak Up in the Hospital: You Can Say No (Advocacy Mindset)

01:05 Listener Story: Holding Firm Against 39-Week Induction Pressure

03:56 How to Use the Birth Lounge App to Back Up Your Choices

06:10 Maternity Leave Update + Why This Episode Is a Re-Air

07:50 Postpartum in the Hospital: What We’ll Cover (Tests, Checks, Taboo Topics)

09:08 Meet Kara the Baby Nurse: Mother-Baby RN + Mom of Three

10:40 The Postpartum Unit Reality Check: It’s More Than ‘Rest and Discharge’

12:10 Transition from L&D to Postpartum: Bedside Report + LDRP vs Separate Units

15:25 First 4 Hours Post-Birth: Fundal Checks, Vitals, Safety Paperwork, Goals

18:27 Getting Up After Birth: Movement, Gas Pain, and C-Section Recovery

20:47 If You Decline Fundal Checks: Bleeding & Clot Warning Signs to Watch

23:19 Postpartum Pain Management: Meds, Non-Pharm Options, and Speaking Up

27:35 Who’s Coming in Your Room: Rounds, Labs, Screens, and the DND Sign

35:09 Baby’s Pediatrician Exam: Nursery vs In-Room, No-Separation Rights

39:40 Newborn Head-to-Toe Exam & Routine Postpartum Checks

40:26 Newborn Screening Labs: PKU Heel Prick, Bilirubin, Car Seat & Hearing

42:46 Sponsor Break: Lalo Registry Must-Haves (Travel High Chair + Play Kit)

45:55 Bilirubin & Jaundice: What the Numbers Mean + Phototherapy Options

48:05 Newborn Hearing Screen: How It Works & What a “Fail” Usually Means

50:28 Newborn Meds/Vaccines in Postpartum: Vit K, Erythromycin, Hep B Timing

51:45 Breastfeeding Support in the Hospital: Nurse Training, Latch Help & Pumps

55:43 Baby Weight Loss & When to Supplement (Pumping, Donor Milk, Formula)

58:24 Circumcision 101: Procedure, Pain Control, Aftercare & Red Flags

01:03:40 Advocating for Yourself: Communication, Boundaries & Requesting a New Nurse

01:07:08 The Postpartum Poop: Why Staff Ask, What Helps, When to Call Your Doctor

01:11:26 Wrap-Up: Kara’s Book & Sleep Course + Where to Follow

Guest Bio:

Kara is a mother-baby, hospital based nurse with 3 kids of her own. Her passion is educating and empowering people through her social media pages. She shares nurse tips and mom tricks, author of the book Why Didn’t I Learn all this Parent Stuff Sooner?, and creator of a tried and true baby sleep course. You can find her @karathrbabynurse on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram!

Connect with Kara here: https://karathebabynurse.com/link-in-bio/

Check out Kara's sleep course here: https://kara-s-site-b397.thinkific.com/courses/karathebabynurse

Snag her book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBSH4Q9Z/ref=sr_1_6?crid=2GWZSFDOW1WFP&keywords=kara+thompson&qid=1661365188&sprefix=kara+thompson%2Caps%2C83&sr=8-6

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Connect with Kara on IG: https://www.instagram.com/karathebabynurse/

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

Lalo Beautiful, minimalist baby gear that actually works for real life. From their travel-friendly Hook-On High Chair to their durable, design-forward Play Kit, Lalo creates pieces that grow with your family and look good doing it. Head to https://www.meetlalo.com/ and use code HEHE to save.

In this episode of the The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe shares her full home birth story and early postpartum reflections after welcoming her baby boy earthside.

She breaks down her intentional choice to build a home birth team to protect autonomy and avoid unnecessary interventions, walks through a long, physiologic labor, and shares how informed consent, continuous support, and advocacy shaped a trauma-free birth experience. From 'late' labor, slow progress, and powerful pushing to staying grounded through conversations about hospital transfer, this episode is a real look at what empowered, supported birth can actually look like.

HeHe also shares early postpartum life, including her thoughts on lying-in, breastfeeding, babywearing, and motherhood updates on Instagram @TranquilityByHeHe.

00:00 Why This Birth Couldn’t Happen in a Typical U.S. Hospital

01:09 “I Have a Baby!” Postpartum Awe + Becoming a Mom

04:18 Why I Share Online: Birth Rights, Options & Normalizing Motherhood

07:16 Privacy Boundaries: Protecting Baby’s Details in the AI Era

09:31 12 Days Past Due: Date Night Sushi & The First Contractions

12:44 Water Breaks at 6:30 AM: Confirming, Mucus Plug & Waking Dad

15:53 All-Day Early Labor: Staying Home, No Pressure, Infection Precautions

19:51 Night 2 Ramps Up: Birth Space Setup, Dinner, Slow Dance & Shower

27:03 3 AM Toilet Time: Transition Signs, Filling the Tub & Calling the Team

33:59 Sponsor Break: Cozy Earth Postpartum Comfort Essentials

36:04 In the Birth Pool: Team Arrives, Complete Dilation & Passive Pushing Begins

38:27 Ferguson vs. Fetal Ejection Reflex: When FER Never Shows Up

40:10 Benadryl Rest Strategy: Trying to Reset a Stalled Pushing Pattern

41:47 Calling in the Chiropractor: Adjustments for Positioning & Persistent Rectal Pain

42:52 All the Positions, No Progress: Movement Marathon to Bring Contractions Closer

43:21 Midwives Say ‘You Have to Push’: Letting Go of Waiting for FER

45:51 Shower + Birth Ball & ‘Hulk Out’ Mode: Feeling Hair and Finding Fuel

48:43 Perfect Vitals, Growing Concern: The Transfer Conversation Looms

50:37 Clearing the Bathroom: Talking to Baby, Asking for a Sign

54:06 Husband Advocates to Stay Home: Autonomy, Risk Talk, and Trust

57:16 Crowning for 90 Minutes: The Final Push to Birth

59:29 After Birth Care: APGARs, Pitocin Decision, and Stitches

01:01:07 The Afterglow: Doulas, Dad’s Support, and First Night at Home

01:04:01 What Made It Possible: Prep, Team Support, and Mindset Lessons

01:08:04 Big Takeaways: Autonomy, No Birth Trauma, and Final Thanks

Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience — all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Check out the First Trimester Update HeHe mentioned here: https://youtu.be/DgcQGnHJ-Aw?si=6sgC5o4iOtuT94WE

Save 10$ on Tubina Wild with code HEHE: https://www.tubinawild.com/shop  

Check out the birth sling here: https://thebirthsling.com/ 

HeHe is joined by Kalista Anderson, founder of the New Mom Boss podcast, RN, lactation counselor, and new mom coach. Together, they unpack how relationships shift after a baby, why it’s so important to notice and prepare for those changes, and how love languages impact connection in the postpartum period. They share practical strategies for communicating, leaning on your support system, and reigniting intimacy, so partners feel supported, connected, and empowered in this wild transitional time.

This conversation is full of real talk, actionable tips, and gentle guidance for navigating your relationship during the rollercoaster of postpartum life.

00:00 Introduction to New Parenthood Challenges

00:59 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:41 Introducing Dad Days Course

02:24 Course Details and Benefits

04:48 Re-airing Popular Episodes During Maternity Leave

06:46 Interview with Kallista Anderson

08:44 Postpartum Relationship Changes

14:43 Importance of Communication and Affection

17:35 Date Nights and Love Languages

22:29 Understanding Fertility Tracking

22:48 Personal Fertility Tracking Methods

24:02 Navigating Postpartum Touch and Intimacy

28:18 Reengaging in Sex After Baby

29:32 Supporting Each Other Postpartum

33:19 Building Your Postpartum Village

35:15 Adapting Postpartum Plans

38:13 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Kallista is married and is a mom of 3.  She is a registered nurse and finished the lactation counselor training course through The Center for Breastfeeding.  Kallista helps new moms in their journey into motherhood. From pregnancy to welcoming baby in arms and beyond, she offers education, support, as well as her own experience.  In this episode we are diving into your relationship with your partner postpartum! 

See the originally published episode here: Ep. 173: Your Relationship with Your Partner Post Baby with Kallista Andersen

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Kalista on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kallista-andersen-7762651b2/ to see what she’s up to now 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ 

Psst. Dad Daze is included in the lifetime membership! 

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Together, they break down what dysregulation actually means, not as a label or a flaw, but as what happens when emotions come out sideways instead of being expressed in healthy, connecting ways. Jonathan shares insights from his upcoming book, including what he’s learned from working with couples in high-stress, high-conflict seasons, while also reminding listeners that regulation, repair, and connection deserve just as much attention as the hard moments.

The conversation explores how expectations, self-awareness, and reflection shape the way we show up for our partners, especially during seasons like financial stress, career pressure, pregnancy, and parenting. They talk openly about communication breakdowns, rebuilding physical intimacy, and why support and curiosity matter more than “getting it right.”

You’ll also hear Jonathan’s practical, no-fluff tools for improving communication, reconnecting emotionally and physically, and navigating hard conversations without spiraling into blame or shutdown. Yes, they even go there on the topic of scheduled sex and why it can actually support intimacy instead of killing it.

This episode is a reminder that strong relationships aren’t built by avoiding conflict, they’re built by learning how to come back to each other with honesty, regulation, and care.

Guest Bio:

Jonathan Van Viegen is a couples therapist, relationship coach, and author of an upcoming book to be found in stores in 2026. With over 10,000 hours helping couples rebuild trust, intimacy, and emotional connection, he’s known for his no-fluff, solution-focused approach that actually gets results. His work has transformed thousands of relationships, and he’s on a mission to save a million marriages.

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Jonathan on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

https://stan.store/relationshipswithjonathan

This episode pulls back the curtain on hospital-sponsored childbirth education and why so many expectant parents leave those classes feeling more confused, constrained, or quietly uneasy instead of truly prepared. We talk about how bias shows up, why informed consent is often glossed over, and what gets left out when education is tied to the same system providing your care.

This is an honest, empowering conversation about why independent, evidence-based, out-of-hospital childbirth education can change how you experience pregnancy, birth, and advocacy. It’s about understanding your options, protecting your autonomy, and reducing the risk of trauma by being informed before decisions feel urgent.

If you’ve ever wondered why traditional birth classes didn’t quite sit right, or you want education that trusts your intelligence and centers your voice, this episode is for you.

New episodes drop every Wednesday and Friday. Follow along and join The Birth Lounge community for grounded, non-judgmental birth education and support that actually prepares you for the real thing. 💛

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience — all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

The Secret Sauce to Pushing course gives you step-by-step guidance on how to push effectively — whether you have an epidural or not — so you can reduce tearing, labor faster, and feel in control from start to finish. HeHe teaches which muscles to engage, how to position your body, and the techniques that actually work, giving you the confidence and tools to achieve your best birth possible.

Learn more: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/SSP

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe shares her personal journey through the final weeks of her pregnancy. As she eagerly anticipates the arrival of her baby, she details her physical and emotional experiences, including her decisions on newborn resuscitation training, gestational diabetes testing, and preparation for labor. HeHe discusses the benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy, counting kicks for fetal monitoring, and the importance of having a supportive birth team. Follow along as she provides insights into staying active, managing pregnancy symptoms, and preparing for the big day.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Welcome

01:05 Pregnancy Reflections and Preparations

05:27 Third Trimester Experiences

09:35 Gestational Diabetes Testing

11:38 Baby Gear and Nursery Planning

28:22 Unexpected Pregnancy Symptoms

33:45 Final Preparations and Reflections

41:11 Conclusion and Farewell

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience — all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

The Secret Sauce to Pushing course gives you step-by-step guidance on how to push effectively — whether you have an epidural or not — so you can reduce tearing, labor faster, and feel in control from start to finish. HeHe teaches which muscles to engage, how to position your body, and the techniques that actually work, giving you the confidence and tools to achieve your best birth possible.

Learn more: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/SSP

Check out our episode on pushing her: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZrzPyJLu50

Check out our episode on Gestational Diabetes here: https://youtu.be/rgRyNfOOgKU?si=DjdOM21A_yqhw0lr

Listen to our episode about counting kicks here: https://youtu.be/0nBT2FxZJfA?si=prnyGCdjwzXUZXfc

Listen to our episode about choosing a stroller with Hip Baby Gear: https://youtu.be/ljVnpZwhKlk?si=eTiU16-XHlzVnvMy

Check out Dr. Berlin’s Growing with HeHe: https://www.informedpregnancy.tv/growing-with-hehe

Check out the electrolytes HeHe likes here (use code HEHE for a discount!): https://justingredients.us/products/electrolytes-blue-hawaiian?selling_plan=3422945473

Preeclampsia is one of those pregnancy conditions that gets mentioned often, explained poorly, and frequently dismissed until it suddenly isn’t. In this episode, HeHe sits down with Dr. Dallas Reed to pull back the curtain on what preeclampsia actually is, how it shows up, and what expectant parents deserve to understand long before things feel urgent.

Together, they break down the basics in a way that’s clear and human, including how common preeclampsia really is, what symptoms to take seriously, and how to make sense of blood pressure readings and pregnancy-related hypertension diagnoses. Dr. Reed explains the differences between severe and non-severe preeclampsia, what monitoring can look like before and after 37 weeks, and why postpartum preeclampsia deserves more attention than it often gets.

The conversation also explores prevention and management, including lifestyle considerations, aspirin use, and how care plans may differ depending on risk level, gestational age, and whether someone is being monitored inpatient or outpatient.

A major focus of the episode is the future of personalized maternal care, including a deep dive into the Encompass test. This new RNA-based blood test, available between 18 and 22 weeks, helps identify pregnancies at higher risk for preeclampsia and pairs that insight with an evidence-based action plan and virtual support. Dr. Reed shares how this type of testing may change the way providers and families approach monitoring, communication, and early intervention, including potential benefits for out-of-hospital birth settings.

This episode is grounded, evidence-based, and empowering, offering expectant parents tools, language, and understanding so they can participate confidently in their care rather than feeling blindsided by it.

Mirvie will be accepting insurance soon so check with your providers! You can also use code HeHe for $300 off! 

Learn more at https://encompasstest.com/get-the-test

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction to Preeclampsia

00:56 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:39 Features of The Birth Lounge App

03:00 Pregnancy and Postpartum Articles

04:54 Introduction to Today's Episode

07:47 Discussion with Dr. Dallas Reed

08:35 Understanding Preeclampsia

10:46 Symptoms and Diagnosis

18:56 Managing Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

22:37 Risk Factors and Prevention

31:59 Strategies to Prevent Preeclampsia

32:29 Healthy Lifestyle Recommendations

33:37 Monitoring and Follow-Up

35:05 Risks and Complications of Preeclampsia

37:05 Postpartum Preeclampsia

39:20 Managing Preeclampsia Before 37 Weeks

41:20 Inpatient Care and Medications

46:22 Understanding the Encompass Test

53:06 Benefits of the Encompass Test for Home Births

58:19 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Dr. Dallas Reed, practicing OBGYN, medical geneticist and advisor to Mirvie, a company delivering data-driven solutions for predictive and preventive care in pregnancy. Mirvie recently launched Encompass, which is the first RNA-based blood test to predict preeclampsia risk, combined with an evidence-based preventive action plan and virtual assistant to guide individualized support and care. 

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Mirvie on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge, Hannah joins us to share her experience of developing preeclampsia and giving birth at 28 weeks, despite having what looked like a completely normal pregnancy. She walks us through the early signs that were easy to miss, the moment everything shifted, and what it was like to suddenly find herself navigating a NICU stay she never saw coming.

Together, we talk about why preeclampsia can feel so shocking, how often it’s missed or caught late, and why first trimester placental screening has the potential to change outcomes. Hannah shares what she wishes she had known sooner, what helped her advocate within the medical system, and how early detection could have altered her experience.

This conversation also offers practical, heartfelt support for NICU parents and the people who love them. Hannah shares what actually helped during her NICU journey, how relationships can shift under that kind of stress, and what meaningful support really looks like when a baby arrives early.

We also explore emerging tools like the Encompass test, the role of baby aspirin, and how global practices around placental screening differ from what’s commonly offered in the U.S. This episode isn’t about fear, it’s about awareness, advocacy, and the belief that parents deserve better information earlier.

If you’re pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or supporting someone through a high-risk experience, this episode will leave you feeling more informed, more empowered, and less alone.

Guest Bio:

Hannah is a NICU mom turned maternal health advocate. After developing severe preeclampsia at 28 weeks, she delivered her daughter three months early to save both of their lives. Now, Hannah shares what she wishes she had known so other parents don’t have to be blindsided by a diagnosis they were never truly prepared for.

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Hannah on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

If the NICU has touched your story, our NICU Support & Survival playlist on YouTube is there to hold space with honest conversations and supportive guidance.

These are the NICU outfits from Luxie Charm Hannah mentioned! 

Learn more about why first trimester preeclampsia screening matters. This short video from Labcorp breaks down the importance of early, blood-based screening across pregnancy and how earlier insight can change outcomes for families: https://womenshealth.labcorp.com/preeclampsia-risk-assessment-across-all-trimesters-using-blood-based-biochemical-markers

Support making early screening the standard of care: Hannah has started a petition advocating for first trimester preeclampsia risk screening to be included in routine prenatal care in the U.S., helping protect parents before they’re ever blindsided: https://www.change.org/p/make-first-trimester-risk-screening-part-of-standard-prenatal-care-in-the-u-s

Join HeHe in this re-aired episode as she dives into a super important topic: preeclampsia. She sits down with High-Risk OB/GYN and Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist, Dr. Lexi Hill, to break down what preeclampsia really is, how it can show up after 20 weeks, and the signs to watch for—high blood pressure, persistent headaches, swelling, or proteins in your urine. Dr. Lexi shares practical guidance on monitoring yourself, key risk factors, questions to ask your provider, and the medical options you might be offered if preeclampsia arises—giving you clarity, confidence, and tools to advocate for your health and your baby’s.

Dr. Lexi Hill obtained her BS in Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Spanish from Texas A&M University. After taking a year to volunteer abroad in Costa Rica, substitute teach, and work as a Medical Assistant, she attended medical school at Texas A&M followed by an OB/GYN residency in Phoenix, Arizona. The native Texan returned to Galveston, Texas to complete a fellowship in Maternal-Fetal Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch where she received multiple teaching awards for her involvement with medical students and residents. Dr. Lexi Hill is licensed in over 20 states and practices telemedicine full-time to underserved communities. She is extensively involved with the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine to help advocate for maternal health care at both the state and national level. She has traveled extensively and enjoys incorporating her study of the Spanish language into her daily clinical practice. Her commitment to teaching self-advocacy skills to patients, as well as physicians, led her to start her own business based on the three pillars of EXPANDING knowledge, DEVELOPING skills, IMPACTING lives (E.D.I). With this concept, Dr. Lexi Hill shares data driven pregnancy information through social media, YouTube videos, and her podcast. She also offers virtual concierge consultations which require no referral or delays due to insurance. She truly has a passion to help individuals experience a happy and healthy pregnancy.

Connect with Dr. Lexi: https://www.drlexihill.com/

Resources from Dr. Lexi:

www.drlexihill.com/aspirin

www.drlexihill.com/fetaltesting

https://www.drlexihill.com/advocate

Link to purchase a module or book a consultation with Dr. Lexi

https://www.drlexihill.com/pregnancy-advocacy

Connect with HeHe on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education and more resources like this that prepare you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Check out the original episode here. 

In Episode 417 of The Birth Lounge, HeHe sits down with OB/GYN PA and public health expert Kristy Goodman to talk about anemia in pregnancy and why it’s so often overlooked, minimized, or brushed off until it becomes a much bigger issue. Together, they break down what anemia actually is, how and when it should be screened for, and why catching it early can completely change how you feel during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.

They explore how untreated anemia can impact energy levels, labor stamina, recovery, and overall well-being, and more importantly, what becomes possible when it’s properly identified and treated with intention. Think more clarity, more strength, better healing, and the confidence to advocate for yourself instead of second-guessing your symptoms.

Kristy brings an evidence-based, patient-centered lens to this conversation, helping listeners understand what labs matter, what questions to ask their provider, and how to push back when concerns are dismissed as “just part of pregnancy.”

This episode is grounding, empowering, and deeply validating. If you’ve ever felt brushed off, unsure whether what you’re feeling is normal, or just want to feel stronger and more supported in your body, this conversation will give you real tools and real answers.

🎧 Tune in to learn how understanding anemia can help you reclaim your energy, protect your recovery, and walk into birth feeling informed and capable, not depleted.

Guest Bio:

Kristy received a Master of Science in PA Studies and a Master of Public Health in Health Education and Behavioral Science from Rutgers University. She completed a postgraduate residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and has worked as an OB/GYN PA for over 10 years. She is an advocate for evidence-based, patient-centered care and has worked in a variety of women's health settings with a particular focus on preconception care.

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Kristy on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Newborn sleep can feel like one of those things everyone has opinions on… and somehow none of them actually help at 3am. In this episode of The Birth Lounge, HeHe breaks down what newborn sleep really looks like and why daytime sleep matters way more than most parents are ever told.

This conversation focuses on biology, not bootcamp sleep rules. HeHe explains how supporting daytime rest sets the stage for better nights, what wake windows actually mean for a brand-new baby, and how simple tools like swaddling, white noise, and a full belly can make a big difference. No rigid schedules. No “cry it out.” Just realistic, nervous-system-friendly support for brand-new humans and the parents learning alongside them.

You’ll also hear HeHe’s go-to tips for creating a sleep environment that works with your baby’s circadian rhythm (hello, darkness and sound), plus gear recommendations that are actually useful, not just trendy. She wraps it all up with resources like the Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide for parents who want clarity without overwhelm.

If you’re wondering whether your baby’s sleep is normal, or you just want a calmer, more intuitive way to approach those early weeks, this episode is your exhale.

Timestamps 00:00 Newborn sleep expectations (and why you’re not doing it wrong) 01:11 Personal update + what this episode is really about 02:51 What newborns biologically need for sleep 06:39 Daytime sleep, wake windows, and overstimulation 09:28 Swaddling, sensory input, and calming the nervous system 18:12 Feeding tips that support better rest 20:36 White noise and why silence isn’t always your friend 22:55 Light, darkness, and circadian rhythm support 24:47 Final reassurance + helpful resources

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Grab your copy of the Newborn Sleep Solution here! 

In this episode, HeHe sits down with licensed midwife, educator, and Milk Trails podcast host Hayley Oakes to unpack why sleep can feel so hard during pregnancy and what actually helps. From first-trimester hormone shifts to third-trimester heartburn, nighttime anxiety, and the pressure to “sleep perfectly,” this conversation is equal parts evidence-based and deeply reassuring.

Hayley brings over a decade of experience attending births in home, birth center, and hospital settings, plus her lived experience as a mom. Together, they break down how nutrition, blood sugar balance, movement, mental load, and sleep environment all play a role in night waking. They also tackle common fears around sleep positions (yes, including back sleeping), strategies for middle-of-the-night wakeups, and why self-care and nervous system support matter just as much as sleep hacks.

This is not a “just relax” conversation. It’s practical, grounded, and designed to help you feel more confident in your body and your choices.

If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this episode will leave you feeling calmer, more informed, and way less alone in the sleep struggle.

Guest Bio:

Hayley Oakes is a licensed midwife based in the Central Coast of California. She has been attending births since 2010 as a doula, midwife assistant, apprentice and midwife, witnessing and supporting birth in all settings: home, birth center and hospital. Hayley is the host and creator of Milk Trails -- a podcast dedicated to the out-of-hospital birthing experience. In February 2019, Hayley became a mother herself and welcomed her second child in January 2022. She currently offers private consultations for expectant mothers planning hospital births who desire holistic medical support. As a midwife, educator and mother, she is committed to supporting women in having a safe and satisfying pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience to help grow healthy, happy babies.

Connect with Hayley: www.hayleyoakes.com

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Hayley on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Expectful App

Grab HeHe’s favorite magnesium supplement 

In this powerful episode of The Birth Lounge, HeHe sits down with traditional birth companion and educator Billie Harrigan for an honest, unfiltered look at the modern medicalized birth system and how it impacts families. Together, they explore how maternity care has shifted away from physiology and toward control, efficiency, and liability, often at the expense of autonomy, trust, and emotional safety.

Billie brings decades of lived experience and deep systems-level insight to this conversation, naming the ways many parents feel silenced, rushed, or traumatized within institutional birth settings. They talk openly about birth trauma, why so many families are opting out of the system altogether, and what it actually looks like to center consent, choice, and community support in birth.

This episode is not about telling you what kind of birth to have. It’s about understanding the system you’re navigating so you can make informed, intentional decisions that align with your values. From the rise of free birth and traditional birth companionship to trauma-informed care and restoring birth wisdom to families, this conversation invites you to question what you’ve been told and reconnect with your own inner authority.

If you’ve ever felt unsettled by how birth is handled, curious about alternatives, or hungry for a deeper understanding of how we got here, this episode will meet you exactly where you are.

Guest Bio:

Billie Harrigan is a Traditional Birth Companion and owner of Birth Trauma Ontario in Canada who has been serving families for over 40 years. With extensive international experience, Billie understands the complexities of modern maternity services and the pervasive issues that contribute to birth-related trauma and negative outcomes. Today’s conversation will challenge your assumptions of the medical system and push you to expand the perspectives in which you see the delivery of healthcare in the US & Canada by discussing common tactics used by cults and the resemblance of hospital care. We dive into the impact of non-trauma-informed care on patients’ short-term and long-term well-being. Buckle up because this episode is like nothing else you’ve ever experienced!

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Billie on IG 

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Billie’s Traditional Birth Companion Program: https://billieharrigan.com/becoming-a-traditional-birth-companion 

Is hospital care actually evidence based? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3241518/

The System Isn’t Broken: https://billieharrigan.com/blog/2019/11/6/the-system-isnt-broken-but-its-people-are

Here is the link to the original episode: https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-218-hospital-culture-or-cult-behavior-with-billie-harrigan/

In this episode, HeHe sits down with pelvic floor expert Nikki to talk about the part of birth that somehow never gets explained until someone is telling you to “push.” Yep. That part.

They break down how the pelvic floor actually works in labor, what truly helps reduce tearing, and how to push in a way that works with your body instead of against it. No fear tactics. No vague advice. Just clear, physiology-first education you should’ve been given way earlier.

Nikki shares practical, evidence-based strategies you can actually use, from breathing and positioning to perineal prep and postpartum rehab. They also get into advocacy, provider skill, and why your autonomy in birth matters just as much as any technique or tool.

This conversation is empowering, grounded, and full of “ohhhh, that makes sense” moments, whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or supporting birthing families in any capacity.

If you want to understand your pelvic floor, protect your perineum, and walk into birth feeling informed and confident instead of guessing and hoping for the best, this episode is for you.

Guest Bio:

Nikki Bergen is a globally recognized Pilates expert, women’s pelvic health advocate, and founder of The Belle Method. With over 20 years of experience, she’s helped thousands worldwide build strength, restore function, and thrive through every life stage - through pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and beyond.

Learn from Nikki

The Core Restore Course: https://thebellemethod.com/core-restore/ 

The Push Prep Course: https://thebellemethod.com/push-prep/

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Nikki on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Rajia shares the terrifying experience she had in college that sparked the creation of InvisaWear and why “just be more careful” is not, and has never been, an actual solution. Together, they unpack the deeply unsettling statistics around violence against women, where current safety systems fail us, and what real, practical protection can look like.

You’ll learn how InvisaWear discreetly weaves safety technology into everyday accessories like necklaces, bracelets, and even scrunchies, allowing you to alert trusted contacts or emergency services with the press of a button, without escalating a situation or drawing attention. The conversation also dives into self-defense strategies, rideshare safety, hiking alone, and the emotional toll of living on high alert.

They also explore the bigger picture: why legislative change, community accountability, and shifting the responsibility off women’s behavior and onto systems that actually protect us matters more than ever.

This episode is equal parts validating, infuriating, and empowering. If you’ve ever gripped your keys a little tighter, shared your location “just in case,” or wished you had an extra layer of protection, this conversation is for you.

Guest Bio:

Rajia Abdelaziz started one of the fastest-growing companies in America when she was just 21 years old. Today, she is an award-winning entrepreneur revolutionizing the personal safety industry.

Rajia is the Founder & CEO of invisaWear, a company that creates safety devices disguised as jewelry and accessories. With just two clicks, users can instantly alert friends, family, and-optionally-police.

Her work has earned national acclaim. She's been featured on the cover of Forbes 30 Under 30 in the Social Impact category, named one of the most successful entrepreneurs in Massachusetts by the Boston Globe, and recognized on both the Inc. Female Founders 250 list and Inc Fastest Growing Companies list.

Rajia raised $3 million to develop invisaWear's technology, scaled the company to over $20 million in sales, and secured powerhouse partnerships with ADT and TELUS Communications, two of the most respected names in the security industry.

With over 3 million social media followers, Rajia isn't just building a company — she’s building a global movement to make safety accessible to all.

In 2023, she launched Smart Alert Holdings, a company focused on acquiring businesses that share the same mission of creating a safer world. Their first acquisition was Flare Safety, invisaWear’s only competitor.

Her companies have been featured on Good Morning America, ABC News, CBS, WBZ, TODAY, and more. They’ve also earned prestigious accolades, including TIME Magazine's Best Inventions, Fast Company's Innovation by Design Award, and the New England Innovation Award.

As a minority female CEO, Rajia is passionate about breaking barriers for women and underrepresented groups in tech. Her journey of overcoming obstacles fuels her mission to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs — proving that no matter your background or the doubts you face, success is possible. Rajia remains deeply committed to mentorship through UMass Lowell’s Entrepreneurship Program, helping others turn bold ideas into reality.

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Connect with Rajia and InvisaWear on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Get 10% off InvisaWear with code HEHE

If you’re over peeing on sticks, overthinking charts, or trying to take your temp at the same time every morning, Tempdrop does the work for you while you sleep. Grab a discount with code AFHEHE at tempdrop.com/discount/AFHEHE.

They also dive into operative vaginal deliveries, including vacuums and forceps, how clinical decision-making works in those moments, and why true informed consent matters so much when things move quickly. Dr. O’Daniel explains newer innovations like the Traxi for safer C-sections in larger bodies and the Life Bubble, a game-changing tool for supporting NICU babies.

This conversation is evidence-based, honest, and incredibly empowering, especially if you want to walk into birth understanding the tools, not fearing them. Knowledge is advocacy, and this episode gives you plenty of both.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Tori O’Daniel is a Board-Certified OB/GYN whom has been practicing for 14 years. For the past 11 years she has been an OB/GYN Hospitalist at Mercy Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Dr. O’Daniel is the Medical Director of the OB/GYN Hospitalist program and the Department Chair of the OB/GYN Department in her facility. She also instructs educational classes and facilitates the OB Emergency Simulations for the nurses and physicians within her department.

She has been actively involved in the Society of OB/GYN Hospitalists (SOGH) for the past several years. She currently sits on the SOGH Board of Directors.

Dr. O’Daniel is passionate about education, and she actively teaches in multiple venues. She is a master trainer for Kiwi vacuum assisted deliveries; she travels across the globe to train residents and attending physicians in the 5-Step Vacca Method.

laborie.com

Check out the tools Dr. O’Daniel shared about here: https://www.laborie.com/products/obstetrics-gynecology/

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Laborie on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Fahti shares the story behind redesigning one of the most dreaded tools in gynecology and turning it into something that’s temperature-neutral, gentler, and actually built with patient comfort in mind. They dive into the real issues facing people during pelvic exams, how advocacy is reshaping the landscape, and why we should all expect better tools and better treatment.

You’ll hear about the design process, clinical feedback from both patients and providers, and how the Nella Comfort Kit is giving folks the option to bring their own speculum into appointments. They also unpack the recent TikTok controversy that highlighted major trust issues in women’s health care — and how innovations like the Nella can help rebuild that trust.

If you’ve ever braced yourself during an exam or wished the system cared more about your comfort, this conversation is going to feel refreshing, validating, and deeply empowering. Tune in to learn how the Nella Speculum is changing the future of gynecological care, one thoughtful design choice at a time.

Guest Bio:

Fahti is the Founder of Ceek Women's Health - the first company to develop and launch a modern comfortable speculum for women.

Learn more about the Nell and Ceek Women’s Health here: https://www.nellaspec.com/

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Check out Nella Speculum on Instagram

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

2026 is calling! 📞 Ready to understand your cycle? Tempdrop just brought back their

25% off sale and my code AFHEHE stacks for a total of 40% OFF! 🎁 Sale starts

Today!. Don't miss out!

You can see the inappropriate reel Hehe was talking about here.

Dr. Sophia breaks down what we actually know about placenta encapsulation, why so many parents report better mood, energy, and hormonal balance, and how oxytocin and postpartum hormone shifts come into play. You’ll also hear practical tips for handling and preparing placenta safely, plus a look at why these rituals hold such deep meaning across cultures — and why the traditional medical system still struggles to acknowledge the value of them.

If you’re curious about the real role the placenta plays in healing after birth, this conversation is rich, grounding, and packed with the kind of nuance you won’t hear anywhere else. Tune in and let this episode expand what you thought you knew about postpartum recovery.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Sophia Johnson studied human medicine at the University of Witten/Herdecke. During her studies, she expanded my training and took part in the university curriculum for Chinese medicine and Anthroposophic medicine. Since 2014, she has been working as a researcher and completed my doctorate at the Placenta Laboratory at Jena University Hospital.She works in an outpatient practice specializing in integrative women's medicine.

Connect with Dr. Sophia:

https://sophia-johnson.de/en/

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Connect with Dr. Sophia on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Guest Bio:

Alex King is a postpartum doula and baby-led weaning specialist who helps parents approach starting solids with calm, confidence, and trust. Through Baby-Led Weaning Academy, she supports families in honoring their baby’s cues and development—making feeding a joyful, connected experience instead of an overwhelming one. With her doula background and lived experience weaning three foster babies, Alex brings heart, real-life wisdom, and a deep respect for both baby and parent to every conversation.

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Alex on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

babyledweaningacademy.com babyledweaningacademy.com/podcast babyledweaningacademy.com/registry-guide Use code  monthhehefree to try out a free month in Baby Led Weaning Academy: babyledweaningacademy.com/club EZPZ straw cup: use code  BLWAcademy Check out https://bapronbaby.com/ and use code BLWACADEMY10 to save 10% 

Catch Alex on DoulaTok 

CPR course: https://courses.thrivetraininginstitute.com/courses/cpr-aed?ref=084849 HEHE10 for 10% off, making the course only $15 with their current sale 75% off sale. (alexis FYI, they promote this as a sale but its been 75% off for like a year, 😂)

Today we're bringing back one of the most loved breastfeeding episodes inside The Birth Lounge, because honestly… this conversation is too good to live in the archives. If you’re preparing for breastfeeding or already navigating those early days, this re-air is going to hit differently the second (or third!) time around.

Lactation expert and IBCLC Brianne Taggart joins HeHe to dig into what truly sets you up for feeding success: protecting your mental health, grounding yourself in evidence-based lactation education, and knowing what’s normal so you’re not second-guessing every feed.

Together, they lovingly bust the biggest breastfeeding myths, walk you through why colostrum is absolute gold, and break down how to follow your baby’s lead with confidence. You’ll learn what tools are actually helpful, how partners can show up as real support, and how to steer clear of the endless bad advice circulating online.

Brianne brings her calming, clear, deeply supportive expertise — and whether it's your first time hearing this episode or a much-needed refresher, you’ll walk away feeling prepared, empowered, and rooted in what matters most.

Guest Bio:

Brianne Taggart is a mother of three, a Registered Nurse, IBCLC Lactation Consultant, childbirth educator and Certified Educator of Infant Massage.  She loves teaching and empowering families about all things babies, boobs and breastfeeding. She understands firsthand how rocky the road into parenthood can be, so she likes to make that transition as smooth as possible for the families she teaches. 

Follow Bri on Insta for quick tips and tricks @breezy__babies and at www.breezybabies.com to see the products she offers.

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Brianne on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

https://breezybabies.com/

Listen to the original episode: https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-172-setting-yourself-up-for-breastfeeding-success-with-brianne-taggart/

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:09 The Role of Doulas in Lactation Support

01:36 Personal Journey into Doula and Lactation Work

03:48 Challenges in Prenatal Lactation Education

06:05 Lactation Support in Hospitals

07:51 Insurance Coverage for Lactation Support

09:32 Educating Families Prenatally

16:19 Recognizing Red Flags in Lactation

19:01 Nipple Pain and Damage

23:53 Pumping Guidance for New Mothers

26:14 Understanding the Roles in Breastfeeding Support

26:55 Navigating the Scope of Doula Support

28:21 The Gray Area of Clinical Support

31:58 Diverse Advice in Lactation Support

35:17 The Importance of Standardized Lactation Education

39:14 The Role of Pediatricians in Lactation Support

46:29 Introducing the Bridge Program for Doulas

50:32 How to Join the Bridge Program

Guest Bio:

Kassi Reyes: IBCLC, RN, Doula, Clinical Educator, and Mamá + your go-to person for real-world lactation tools. She is bilingual in English and Spanish and passionate about helping birthworkers gain real-world lactation skills, because I believe they’re the missing puzzle piece in helping families feel confident and supported on their feeding journeys. When Kassi’s not working, you’ll probably find her with a cup of coffee, chasing my toddler, practicing yoga, or exploring the outdoors.

Connect with Kassi:

https://www.kassireyes.com/apply

https://www.kassireyes.com/training

Free Lactation Guide for Perinatal Professionals - Answers to the Top 10 Feeding Questions your Clients will ask: https://www.kassireyes.com/guide

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Kassi on IG 

Connect with Kassi on YouTube

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Get 10% off Silverettes to support your breastfeeding journey with code HEHE  

Check out Kassi on HeHe's DoulaTok here! 

Kelly shares practical, heart-centered advice for building a supportive environment, getting your partner involved, using pumps effectively, and keeping your milk supply healthy — without shame or pressure. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or navigating feeding with a little one already at home, this episode is overflowing with actionable strategies, evidence-backed guidance, and a dose of compassion only HeHe can deliver/

00:00 Embracing the Realities of Parenting

01:06 Introduction to The Birth Lounge App

02:16 Features of The Birth Lounge App

05:04 Breastfeeding Statistics and Challenges

08:27 Interview with Lactation Consultant Kelly Kendall

13:52 Breastfeeding Techniques and Tips

25:41 The Importance of Baby-Led Latching

36:03 Common Breastfeeding Challenges and Solutions

38:31 Avoiding the Vicious Cycle of Breastfeeding

38:43 Frequency of Feeding and Its Impact on Supply

39:32 Sleepy Newborns and Feeding Challenges

46:11 The Importance of Night Feedings

47:48 Breastfeeding and Postpartum Self-Care

48:57 Navigating Social Media Expectations

49:33 Breastfeeding Subsequent Children

52:55 Dealing with Nipple Trauma

58:17 Introducing a Pump: Timing and Tips

01:03:40 Partner Support in Breastfeeding

01:05:22 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Parents

Guest Bio:

Kelly Kendall is a registered nurse and internationally board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) who’s been elbows-deep in boobs and babies for years—both in the hospital and as a private practice After watching too many parents get steamrolled by outdated advice and sugarcoated nonsense, she created Boob School: a no-fluff, all-facts lactation program that shows you how to prevent breastfeeding chaos, survive the messy middle, and get back on track when it all goes sideways.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Kelly on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

https://firstdroplets.com/

https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-data/media/pdfs/2024/05/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf#page=65

https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-data/about/index.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Listen to episode 240 of The Birth Lounge Podcast all about hand expression here! 

Listen to episode 356 of The Birth Lounge Podcast all about perceived low milk supply here! 

Get 10% off Silverettes to support your breastfeeding journey with code HEHE  

Understanding Epidurals: Everything You Need to Know with Marissa Mulder of Sassy Anesthesia

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into the real talk on epidurals with Marissa Mulder, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and the brain behind the popular Instagram account Sassy Anesthesia. They break down why every labor is unique (so stop comparing yourself to everyone else!) and go step by step through the epidural process — the risks, benefits, pros, cons, and the myths you’ve probably heard. Plus, they cover the difference between epidurals and spinals, how to advocate for a birth experience that truly works for you, and how tools like the Birth Lounge App can give you bite-sized, evidence-based education to feel confident from pregnancy through postpartum. Whether you plan to use an epidural or not, this episode is packed with the knowledge and empowerment every parent deserves.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Advice on Epidurals

01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:53 Introducing The Birth Lounge App

02:10 Features and Benefits of The Birth Lounge App

05:21 Today's Topic: All About Epidurals

05:54 Guest Introduction: Marissa Mulder, CRNA

06:54 Epidural FAQs and Common Concerns

10:41 Epidural Placement and Procedure

30:03 Medications Used in Epidurals

36:49 Postpartum Comfort: Cozy Earth's Bamboo Jogger Sets

40:20 Eating and Drinking During Labor: What's the Risk?

42:54 The Importance of Honesty with Hospital Staff

43:55 Why Partners Might Be Asked to Leave During Epidural Placement

48:36 Adjusting Your Epidural: What You Need to Know

51:53 Epidurals and Labor Progression: Myths and Facts

58:40 Epidural Risks and Benefits Explained

01:01:56 Spinal vs. Epidural: What's the Difference?

01:09:53 Emotional Aspects of Choosing an Epidural

01:13:59 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More Information

Guest Bio:

Marissa is a CRNA and first time mama to a busy 5 month old and can be found on insta & tiktok at @sassyanesthesia . 

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with Marissa on Instagram 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere.

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor.

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience.

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress.

This episode covers everything from declining cervical checks and IVs, navigating late pregnancy ultrasounds, intermittent fetal monitoring, and pushing positions, to handling unwanted inductions, all while keeping your birth experience empowered and trauma-free. HeHe also highlights the Birth Lounge App, your go-to for evidence-based education, bite-sized guidance, and a supportive community to help you rock your pregnancy and labor with confidence.

Whether this is your first listen or a welcome refresher during maternity leave, tune in and let HeHe help you claim your power in birth, because your choices, your voice, and your baby deserve it.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote

06:17 The Birth Lounge App: Empowering Birth Experiences

09:06 Re-Air Announcement and Podcast Highlights

10:46 Celebrating 200 Episodes and The Birth Lounge

14:32 Navigating Conversations with Your Provider

15:45 Declining Cervical Exams: Your Rights and Options

22:25 Pushing Positions: Advocating for Your Comfort

25:38 Pushing Effectively in Labor: The Secret Sauce to Pushing 

25:55 The Baby Soap Debacle: A Better Alternative Use code HEHE at coconu.com

28:03 The Importance of Organic Products During Pregnancy

29:01 Understanding Big Babies and Late Pregnancy Ultrasounds

31:18 Alternatives to Ultrasounds for Fetal Monitoring

35:51 Setting Boundaries with Healthcare Providers

38:11 Electronic Fetal Monitoring: What You Need to Know

44:17 Declining an IV During Labor

47:54 Navigating Unwanted Inductions

53:58 Empowering Your Birth Experience

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience — all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin

Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection

Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy

The Secret Sauce to Pushing course gives you step-by-step guidance on how to push effectively — whether you have an epidural or not — so you can reduce tearing, labor faster, and feel in control from start to finish. HeHe teaches which muscles to engage, how to position your body, and the techniques that actually work, giving you the confidence and tools to achieve your best birth possible.

Learn more: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/SSP

Say goodbye to hospital “baby soap” and hello to safe, nourishing lubrication! CocoNu is one of HeHe’s favorite all-organic lubes, made with coconut oil, coconut water, shea butter, cocoa butter, and other natural ingredients that keep your pH balanced and your downstairs happy. Perfect for your birth bag, pregnancy, or just better, safer intimacy, CocoNu comes in oil-based and water-based options, plus convenient single-use packets for labor or on-the-go. Because what you put in and on your body — especially down there — truly matters.

Use code HEHE for a discount at CocoNu.com

They unpack the hidden hazards of tech, from social media traps and online predators to the rise of sextortion, all while keeping it real and doable. Ben shares practical, no-fluff strategies for setting screen-time boundaries, creating tech-safe homes, and teaching kids to thrive offline — because yes, kids can survive (and flourish) without being glued to a screen. This episode arms parents with the confidence, tools, and savvy to raise children who are secure, smart, and resilient in a digital world that doesn’t always play fair. No fear-mongering here — just clear, actionable advice to protect your family and reclaim some sanity.

Guest Bio:

Ben Gillenwater is a cybersecurity expert with over 30 years of experience, including work with the NSA. As the founder of The Family IT Guy, he helps parents protect their children’s mental health and safety in an increasingly digital world. Blending deep technical expertise with a dad’s perspective, Ben empowers families to set healthy tech boundaries, navigate online risks, and build safer, more mindful relationships with technology.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Ben on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

https://www.familyitguy.com

Here’s a link to Ben’s article, The Digital Danger Zone: https://www.familyitguy.com/digital-danger-zone.html

Seiko clock company: https://seikousa.com/

Officer Gomez’s Facebook Page? https://www.facebook.com/deputygomez/

Get Ben’s family technology agreement here: https://www.familyitguy.com/assets/downloads/family-internet-safety-agreement.html

Listen to Ben’s episode with Conrad Woodall https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/25-years-fighting-predators-what-every-parent-needs/id1831912044?i=1000721914372

ICAC website: https://www.icactaskforce.org/

Looking for gifts that aren’t screen related? 

Check out Lalo, use code HEHE at MeetLalo.com to save on kids toys that are sure to boost creativity and keep everyone off screens! 

In this episode, HeHe sits down with Tori, a seasoned NICU nurse, to bring clarity and confidence to the early weeks of newborn life. Together, they unpack the things most parents are never taught but deeply need — from what normal newborn breathing actually looks like to the feeding and diaper patterns that signal things are on track. They also explore the signs that something may need pediatric attention, helping parents feel grounded instead of guessing.

Tori offers her expert insight on the benefits of having a lactation consultant in your corner, how to recognize dehydration early, what parents should truly know about newborn jaundice, and how to keep an eye on temperature changes without slipping into fear.

These show notes center evidence-based guidance with HeHe’s signature calm, holistic approach. Parents and professionals alike will walk away feeling more supported, more informed, and more empowered to advocate for newborn well-being during this overwhelming yet beautiful transition.

Guest Bio:

Nurse Tori, MSN RNC-NIC, is a seasoned NICU nurse with over a decade of experience caring for critically ill newborns and supporting their families. She is also the co-founder and CEO of NICUity, a company dedicated to empowering NICU providers and parents through modern education, tools, and resources.

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

Connect with Tori on IG 

https://www.tipsfromtori.com/

https://nicuity.com/

Kinsa Thermometer 

https://lactationnetwork.com/

Listen to episode 239, colostrum is milk with Gina Motsay, IBCLC 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

The Birth Lounge Black Friday sale is in full swing, and you’ve got only a couple days to snag $150 off your Lifetime Membership. This is one of only two sales all year, and it unlocks HeHe’s full evidence-based system for confident, empowered birth — including the CONTROL Method, the Secret Sauce to Pushing, partner prep, advocacy scripts, all PDF guides, and the Birthing Your Big Ass Baby course. You’ll learn how to navigate the hospital system with calm authority, avoid unnecessary interventions, push efficiently, reduce tearing, and advocate for every choice that matters to you. Plus, HeHe is sending you a handpicked Birth Box, packed with comfort, self-care, and advocacy tools she’s used herself to help parents have their best birth possible. Your birth, your rules, your confidence — don’t miss out. Go to thebirthlounge.com/join and use code BF25 before the sale ends.

Looking for a low tox way to care for your family? Check out Zebra, use code HEHE to save at https://yayzebra.com/

In this week’s episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with certified nurse midwife Becca Helie to unpack everything you need to know about inductions and VBACs, without the fear, confusion, or pressure.

Together, they dive deep into how induction methods actually work, what a “failed induction” really means, and how to know if your provider’s recommendations are truly in your best interest. Becca breaks down the differences between medical and mechanical inductions, when cervical ripening is appropriate, and how to navigate Pitocin like a pro.

You’ll also hear about: ✨ Why individualized care matters more than protocols ✨ How to manage Pitocin safely and effectively ✨ What makes induction different (and riskier) for VBAC parents ✨ The mindset shifts that help you stay calm, confident, and in control

Whether you’re being pressured into an induction or planning for a VBAC and feeling unsure what to expect, this episode will leave you grounded, informed, and ready to advocate for the birth you deserve.

Guest Bio:

Rebecca Helie is a Board-Certified Nurse Midwife passionate about empowering women through evidence-based, patient-centered care. With experience as a labor and delivery RN and midwife in both rural and metropolitan settings, she champions shared decision-making, expands access to midwifery, and works to reduce low-risk cesareans and preventable maternal complications. Certified in Perinatal Mood Disorders and deeply shaped by her own experiences with infertility and loss, Becca advocates fiercely for her patients’ voices and education. Based in Las Vegas, she shares her expertise online, spreads reliable women’s health information, and balances her professional life with family, bread baking, and adventures with her pilot husband, two daughters, and dog Buddy.

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Connect with Becca on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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CocoNu is one of HeHe’s favorite organic lubes for pregnancy, labor, and beyond. Unlike the hospital standard (looking at you, Johnson & Johnson baby soap), CocoNu uses clean, plant-based ingredients like organic coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter to keep your pH balanced and your downstairs happy. Perfect for your birth bag or just better, safer intimacy during pregnancy, CocoNu even comes in single-use packets for convenience — because what you put on your body, especially down there, truly matters. Use code HEHE at https://coconu.com to save 15%!

Here's the original episode aired Nov 10, 2020: https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-146-what-to-know-about-inductions-with-becca-helie-cnm/

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with nutrition guru Lily Nichols to cut through the noise around gestational diabetes (GD) and give parents tools that actually work. They compare the old-school GD advice with Lily’s evidence-based approach from her books, focusing on keeping blood sugar steady without stress or guesswork.

Lily dishes out the real deal on carbs, which ones matter, how much, and how to pair them for maximum impact, while busting myths about ketosis in pregnancy. She also shares clever, practical hacks like walking after meals, eating your veggies first (yes, first!), and tailoring your diet to what you actually need. They also tackle the nitty-gritty of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) versus traditional glucose tests, all with a focus on personalized care. By the end, you’ll have a playbook for nourishing your body, managing GD confidently, and skipping the panic… because informed choices and empowered parents are always in style.

Black Friday is here, and it’s your chance to snag $150 off your Lifetime Membership to The Birth Lounge — one of only two sales all year! This is your shot to get HeHe’s full evidence-based birth system, handpicked Birth Box, advocacy scripts, partner prep, and all the tools you need to confidently navigate your birth, no unnecessary interventions, no guesswork, just you in control. Don’t wait! The sale ends soon! Head to thebirthlounge.com/join and use code BF25 to claim your spot.

Guest Bio:

Lily Nichols is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator, researcher, and author with a passion for evidence-based nutrition. Her work is known for being research-focused, thorough, and sensible. She is the founder of the Institute for Prenatal Nutrition®, co-founder of the Women’s Health Nutrition Academy, and the author of three books: Real Food for Fertility (co-authored with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack), Real Food for Pregnancy, and Real Food for Gestational Diabetes. Lily’s bestselling books have helped tens of thousands of mamas (and babies!), are used in university-level maternal nutrition and midwifery courses, and have even influenced prenatal nutrition policy internationally. She writes at https://lilynicholsrdn.com.

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Connect with Lily on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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Connect with Lily: 

https://lilynicholsrdn.com

https://realfoodforgd.com/

Check out Lily’s free video series on gestational diabetes here: https://realfoodforgd.com/free-stuff/

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

Guest Bio:

Jessica Gray is a first responder (NREMT), social media community organizer, wife, mom of 6 and breech birth advocate. 5 of Jessica's children have been born breech naturally in two different countries.  Jessica created an online community that has proved invaluable to women globally who have found out their babies are presenting breech. Recognized as a go-to in social media for breech insight and resources, her Instagram account @breechbirth is daily interacting with women who are desperate for resources and encouragement. Jessica also shares her advocacy for breech birth through speaking engagements and appearances on popular birth podcasts.  Currently she is working on writing a guide to breech birth for moms.  She resides in the Southern United States with her family.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Jessica on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

thebreechbook.com

Get the temp drop at 30% off for the month of November with code AFHEHE at http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/AFHEHE

Dr. Freeze breaks down short- and long-term risks for both mom and baby, exposes how outdated research continues to shape today’s birth practices, and explains how upright birth positions can dramatically improve outcomes. You’ll also hear what’s really going on behind the scenes when families try to find breech-competent providers (and how to advocate when your baby’s got their own plans for positioning!).

Whether you’re currently expecting a breech baby or just want to be prepared for anything, this episode is packed with evidence, empowerment, and that signature HeHe honesty that helps you feel calm, confident, and in control of your birth choices.

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of infant and maternal mortality statistics.

00:00 Introduction and Common Misconceptions About Breech Birth

00:52 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:01 Black Friday Sale Announcement

02:15 The Birth Lounge: Comprehensive Childbirth Education

04:48 Special Offers and Membership Perks

08:51 Exclusive Black Friday Deal Details

09:38 Re-airing Popular Episodes During Maternity Leave

10:51 Introduction to Breech Birth with Dr. Rixa Freeze

11:55 Understanding Breech Birth Basics

16:18 Safety and Risks of Breech Birth

25:46 Maternal and Long-term Outcomes of Breech Birth

29:24 Understanding Long-Term Effects of Birth Decisions

30:34 Insights on Preterm Breech Births

31:08 Discovering a Clean Brand: Just Ingredients

33:40 Hospital vs. Home Birth Data for Breech Births

36:47 Encouraging Breech Birth Training for Providers

42:53 Labor and Birth Positions for Breech Births

54:33 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Dr. Rixa Freeze holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Iowa and is an internationally recognized researcher, professor, and mother of four. As president of Breech Without Borders, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, she specializes in vaginal breech birth and advocates for autonomy and human rights in childbirth. Her work bridges history, research, and education to bring evidence-based, respectful care to every birth setting.

Dr. Rixa blogs at Stand and Deliver (rixarixa.blogspot.com) and is passionate about all things birth- and breastfeeding-related. 

This is a re-air of episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze, which you can find here: 

https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-179-the-safety-of-breech-birth-with-rixa-freeze/

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Connect with Breech Without Borders on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

.

In this week’s episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Stu Fischbein to unpack the truth about twin births, and it’s probably not what your provider has told you.

They dive into why C-sections have become the default for twins in the U.S. (hint: it’s not because it’s safer), and how our medical system continues to over-manage what can often be a normal variation of birth. Dr. Stu breaks down what’s really happening with rising twin pregnancies, how assisted reproductive technology plays a role, and why evidence still supports vaginal twin births when handled by skilled providers.

You’ll hear them talk about: How to find a provider who’s actually experienced with vaginal twin births The real deal on ECVs, breech twins, and what “mono-mono” and “mono-di” really mean How to advocate for your birth plan even when you’re having multiples

If you’re expecting twins, or just want to understand how broken our twin birth system has become, this episode is your blueprint for making informed, confident choices and protecting your power in the birth room.

00:00 Introduction to Twin Births

01:07 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:14 Black Friday Sale Announcement

02:29 The Birth Lounge Overview

09:52 Special Guest: Dr. Stu Fischbein

10:21 Challenges and Misconceptions About Twin Births

11:25 Dr. Stu's Background and Expertise

12:48 Navigating Twin Births in the Medical System

14:15 The Importance of Informed Consent

15:51 Current Landscape of Twin Births

20:49 Training and Skills in Obstetrics

35:34 Risks and Realities of Twin Births

57:29 Legislation and Training in Midwifery

59:07 Economic Incentives in Birth Practices

01:00:16 Personal Experience with Baby Gear

01:03:31 Cost Analysis of C-Sections vs. Vaginal Births

01:04:50 Hospital Policies and C-Section Rates

01:08:44 Historical Perspective on Birth Practices

01:14:08 Twin Births: Hospital vs. Home

01:20:30 Challenges in Breech Deliveries

01:24:27 External Cephalic Version (ECV) Insights

01:30:42 Timing and Risks in Twin Deliveries

01:40:07 Final Thoughts and Advice for Expecting Mothers

Guest Bio:

Stuart J. Fischbein MD is a community-based obstetrician and an Associate of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, published author of the book “Fearless Pregnancy, Wisdom & Reassurance from a Doctor, A Midwife and A Mom” and peer-reviewed papers Homebirth with an Obstetrician, A Series of 135 Out of Hospital Births and Breech birth at home: outcomes of 60 breech and 109 cephalic planned home and birth center births. After completing his residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Stu spent 24 years assisting women with hospital birthing and, for the last 13 years, has been a homebirth obstetrician who works directly with midwives. Since retiring from attending home births in 2022, Dr. Stu has turned his focus to traveling around the world as a lecturer and advocate for reteaching breech & twin birth skills, respect for the normalcy of birth and honoring informed consent. He hosts a weekly podcast with co-host Blyss Young and together they offer hope, reassurance and safe, honest evidence supported choices for those women who understand pregnancy is a normal bodily function not to be feared. Follow him on Instagram @birthinginstincts. His websites are www.birthinginstincts.com & www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com

Connect with HeHe on IG 

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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Check out our episode with Dr. Stu’s cohost, Blyss Young (ep. 232) 

Listen to episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze 

Here’s a link to the Primitive Reflexes episode Dr. Stu references

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0313941

www.birthinginstincts.com

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683

www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30305050/

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/52ca1028e4b05c5f2d7b157d/t/62e02090874eae67b683bc67/1658855570428/A+Maneuver+for+Head+Entanglement+Published.pdf

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Katey from The Violet Fog to dive deep into one of the body’s most overlooked power players, your fascia. Katey breaks down what fascia actually is, why it matters for your mobility, lymphatic flow, and emotional well-being, and how to keep it happy and hydrated (yes, your fascia needs love too!).

Together, they chat about gentle movement, self-massage, red light therapy, and nutrient-rich hydration to keep your body flowing freely, especially during pregnancy. Plus, Katey shares her best tips for reducing swelling and creating beauty routines that actually support your body’s health from the inside out.

This convo is your permission slip to slow down, tune in, and treat your body like the powerhouse it is.

Guest Bio:

Katie Yurko is the founder of The Violet Fog, where wellness gets real and women connect over love, nutrition hacks, and aging gracefully. A self-proclaimed “career investigator,” Katie digs deep into ingredients, health practices, and the hard stuff most people shy away from. After years of battling chronic UTIs and over 400 rounds of antibiotics, she turned her own health journey into a mission to expose false marketing and empower women with honest, no-fluff wellness education. Her content blends research and girl talk, pulling back the curtain on topics like gut health, thyroid conditions, and natural healing, all with a signature dose of wit and raw honesty.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Katey on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

https://www.violetfog.com/

https://www.lymphloveclub.com/

Check out our episode with Dr. Chris Motley for more about lymphatic drainage

HeHe and Katey also discuss some resources from Healthillie, you can hear our episode with her here. 

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

HeHe and Dr. Gator talk openly about the gaps in vaccine research, the importance of truly informed consent, and what every parent deserves to understand before making decisions for their family. They explore everything from the new RSV vaccine and aluminum adjuvants to SIDS and medical ethics—all through the lens of curiosity, compassion, and critical thinking.

This isn’t about fear or finger-pointing—it’s about facts, trust, and empowering you to make confident, informed choices for your baby.

00:00 Introduction to Vaccine Debate

01:16 The Birth Lounge Podcast Introduction

01:23 Debunking the 'Big Baby' Myth

03:32 Introducing the 'Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby' Course

05:29 Vaccine Exploration Series Recap

05:50 In-Depth Vaccine Discussion with Dr. Joel Gator

07:46 Challenges in Vaccine Research and Public Trust

12:21 Ethics and Future of Vaccine Studies

45:42 Pushback Against Vaccines

46:18 The Need for Open Dialogue

47:30 Personal Experiences and Public Trust

50:16 Ethical Dilemmas in Pediatric Care

57:33 Herd Immunity and Vaccine Efficacy

01:06:13 The Quest for Clean Deodorant

01:13:14 Complexities of Vaccine Safety

01:19:35 Chronic Disease and Medical Humility

01:29:00 Questioning Vaccine Safety Standards

01:30:28 The Controversy of Vaccine Skepticism

01:33:09 The Need for Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated Studies

01:39:31 SIDS and Vaccines: A Complex Relationship

01:46:07 Aluminum in Vaccines: Concerns and Debates

01:53:16 The New RSV Vaccine: What You Need to Know

02:01:03 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Guest Bio:

Joel Warsh aka DrJoelGator of the popular parenting Instagram account and substack is a Board-Certified Pediatrician in Los Angeles, California who specializes in Parenting, Wellness and Integrative Medicine.  He is the author of multiple books including his latest, Between a Shot and a Hard Place: Tackling Difficult Vaccine Questions with Balance, Data, and Clarity, 

He grew up in Toronto, Canada and completed a Master’s Degree in Epidemiology before earning his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson Medical College.

He completed his Pediatric Medicine training at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and then worked in private practice in Beverly Hills before founding his current practice, Integrative Pediatrics.

Dr. Gator has published research in peer-reviewed journals on topics including childhood injuries, obesity and physical activity.

He has been featured in numerous documentaries, films, summits, podcasts and articles.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Gator on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

✨ Pre-sale ends today for Birthing Your Big Ass Baby!

Get evidence-based guidance to birth your baby—no matter their size—with total confidence:

👉 https://www.thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

www.theshotbook.com

Listen to our vaccine series here

An inconvenient Study documentary 

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is tackling one of the most common (and misunderstood) fears in birth: having a “big baby.” From those intimidating late-pregnancy ultrasounds to the “your baby might be too big” comments, she’s breaking down what’s actually evidence-based and what’s just outdated scare tactics.

Drawing from real DMs and community questions, HeHe pulls back the curtain on how baby size is estimated (spoiler: it’s often way off), what true macrosomia really means, and why the risks around shoulder dystocia are often exaggerated. She shares the birth positions, mindset shifts, and advocacy tools that help parents stay calm, confident, and in control, no matter what their provider says about baby’s size.

You’ll also hear about her brand new course, Birthing Your Big Ass Baby, created to help you ditch the fear, trust your body, and birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence.

Plus, HeHe chats about safe lubrication options from her friends at Coconu (get 30% off til 10/31 with code HEHE and 15% after that), the problem with hospital baby soaps (looking at you, Johnson & Johnson), and why upright labor + open-glottis pushing are total game changers for preventing trauma and protecting your pelvic floor.

This episode is your permission slip to stop fearing a “big baby” and start trusting the truth: your body was built for this.

00:00 Introduction: Your Body is Not Broken

00:57 Introducing the Course: Birthing Your Big Ass Baby

01:39 Debunking Myths About Big Babies

02:53 Understanding Shoulder Dystocia

04:11 Course Details and Benefits

05:08 Key Insights on Big Babies

17:31 Pushing Techniques and Hospital Practices

30:19 Informed Consent and Advocacy

37:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with HeHe on Instagram 

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Grab Birthing Your Big Ass Baby at pre-sale pricing! Don’t miss your chance to ditch the fear, shut down the “too big” myths, and learn exactly how to birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence — all for the lowest price it’ll ever be.

You’ll learn how your brain literally changes during pregnancy and parenting (yes, your brain rewires itself!), why nurturing is far more powerful than we ever realized, and how those early interactions shape lifelong emotional regulation and resilience.

Dr. Zunini breaks down groundbreaking research on how nurturing behavior in animals translates to humans, from secure to anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles and what that means for how we show up as parents.

They also dig into how mothers’ and fathers’ brains adapt differently, the critical role of “allo parents” (those loving caregivers beyond mom and dad), and how awareness and mindful connection can actually rewrite generational patterns.

If you’ve ever wondered how to raise emotionally secure, confident kiddos or how your own upbringing plays a role in the parent you’re becoming, this one’s a must-listen.

PSA for all my mamas worried about “big baby” talk: Our brand new course — Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby is officially live and in pre-sale until November 1! This class busts through every scare tactic, lays out the real evidence, and gives you the exact tools to advocate for yourself with confidence (no matter how big your baby is). Grab your spot at thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

00:00 The Impact of Environment on Development

01:40 Introduction to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:58 Understanding Big Baby Myths

04:51 The Science of Attachment Styles

09:31 Interview with Dr. Rocio Zunini

11:19 The Importance of Parent-Child Bonding

22:51 Emotional Regulation and Brain Development

26:02 Balancing Work and Parenting

26:21 Differences Between Moms and Dads

31:56 Navigating Childhood Wounds and Parenting

33:31 Clean Living with Just Ingredients

37:23 Understanding Wounds and Resilience

38:58 The Concept of Orchid Genes

40:42 Exploring Attachment Styles

43:19 Breaking the Cycle of Insecure Attachment

47:45 Nature vs. Nurture Debate

48:29 The Impact of Nurture on Stress Systems

54:38 Gender Differences in Nurturing

01:00:35 The Role of Allo Parents

01:03:18 Adoption and Attachment

01:05:03 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Rocio is a neuroscientist and mother of two. She is the founder of Newborn Parents, which was born out of the fusion of her two passions: the brain and the relationship between parents and their infants. She educates parents and professionals about parental brain science so that they can take advantage of the profound brain changes that accompany mastrescence and patrescence. She is also co-directs and co-faciliates the Nurture Neuroscience Professional Certification along her friend and colleague Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Zunini on IG 

Check out my brand new course Birthing Your Big Ass Baby

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

https://www.nurture-neuroscience.com/

www.newbornparents.net

We’ll explore what the research actually says about bedsharing, the science of a baby’s biological need for closeness, and how parents can make informed choices that balance safety and connection. You’ll hear about the work of James McKenna, Helen Ball, and La Leche League’s Sweet Sleep, plus insights from Sarah Ockwell-Smith that bring real-world practicality to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever felt torn between expert advice and your natural instincts, this episode will help you find clarity, confidence, and calm in your family’s sleep choices.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Safe Sleep Practices

01:18 Personal Story: Transforming a Mother's Sleep Routine

03:28 Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide

07:22 The Science Behind Newborn Sleep

09:06 Interview with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum

17:07 Understanding Co-Sleeping and Bed Sharing

22:32 Safe Sleep Guidelines and SIDS

28:39 Controversial Topics: Vaccines and SIDS

31:06 Global Perspectives on Safe Sleep

35:22 Purity Coffee: A Healthier Choice

38:43 Addressing Sleep Challenges in Babies

42:16 Embracing Flexibility with a Newborn

44:04 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

46:11 Building a Support System for New Moms

52:28 Debunking Myths About Newborn Habits

56:47 The Impact of Sleep Training on Mental Health

01:06:43 Tips for Optimal Baby Sleep

01:13:17 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Greer Kirshenbaum PhD is an Author, Neuroscientist, Doula, Infant and Family Sleep Specialist and Mother. She trained at the University of Toronto and Columbia University with additional training at New York University and Yale University. Greer has combined her academic training with her experience as a doula and mother to lead The Nurture Revolution. A movement to nurture our babies’ brains to revolutionize mental health and impact larger systems in our world. Greer wants families, professionals, and workplaces to understand how early caregiving experience can boost mental wellness and diminish depression, anxiety, and addiction in adulthood by shaping babies’ brains through simple intuitive enriching experiences in pregnancy, birth and infancy. Her book is called The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting. She offers resources, workshops, and coaching on her website www.nurture-neuroscience.com and on Instagram @drgreerkirshenbaum.

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dr. Greer on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Reviews of the research on SIDS and infant death

James McKenna: https://cosleeping.nd.edu/

Helen Ball: https://evolutionaryparenting.com/bed-sharing-and-co-sleeping-research-overview/

La Leche League's Sweet Sleep book: https://llli.org/resources/sweet-sleep/

Sarah Ockwell-Smith: https://sarahockwell-smith.com/

Use code HEHE for an exclusive discount at cozyearth.com and treat yourself to the comfort you deserve.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into one of the most overlooked parts of preparing for parenthood, financial stability. While the world loves to scare you about “big babies” and sell you all the baby gear under the sun, HeHe and her guest, Dan Brigham (aka Budgeters Anonymous), are here to help you focus on what actually matters: building a strong financial foundation for your growing family.

Together, they unpack the sneaky expenses new parents often overlook, smart budgeting strategies that actually work, and how intentional planning can bring more peace and less panic to your postpartum season. Dan shares his journey of overcoming debt, creating financial freedom, and shifting the mindset from “surviving” to thriving.

They also get real about emergency funds, 529 plans, IRAs for kids, and how to get on the same financial page with your partner.

This is the money talk every parent needs: judgment-free, empowering, and designed to help you build the future your family deserves.

PSA for all my mamas worried about “big baby” talk: Our brand new course — Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby is officially live and in pre-sale until November 1! This class busts through every scare tactic, lays out the real evidence, and gives you the exact tools to advocate for yourself with confidence (no matter how big your baby is). Grab your spot at thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

00:00 Introduction: Financial Stability for New Parents

00:49 The Myth of the Big Baby

01:31 Understanding Macrosomia and Birth Advocacy

03:05 Introducing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

03:27 Pre-Sale Announcement and Course Details

05:01 Budgeting for a Baby: An Essential Guide

05:45 Meet Dan Brigham: Budgeting Expert

08:25 Defining Financial Responsibility

12:22 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt

15:52 Intentional Spending and Budgeting Frameworks

23:34 Making a Baby Budget: Practical Tips

32:33 The Reality of Social Media and Financial Comparisons

35:31 No Spend Weekends: Finding Purpose Beyond Money

38:10 Nesting Instincts and Cozy Earth

41:06 Budgeting for a Baby

44:03 Emergency Funds and Financial Priorities

47:15 Setting Up Financial Accounts for Your Child

51:45 Tracking Expenses and Budgeting Tools

58:59 Mindsets for Financial Success

01:06:57 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Guest Bio:

Dan is the founder of Budgeters Anonymous and has free resources on his website. Dan’s focus is Faith, Fitness, Family and Finance. 

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Dan on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Find Dan here: budgetersanonymous.com

Together, HeHe and Ellie dive into everything from the ingredients found in common vaccines (and why they’re there!) to the differences between live and attenuated viruses. They also explore the ethics of vaccine research, including the use of fetal cell lines, vaccinated vs. unvaccinated clinical trials, and how informed consent fits into modern medicine.

This conversation isn’t about fear, it’s about facts. It’s about asking better questions, understanding your options, and feeling confident in the choices you make for your family’s health. Ellie brings scientific clarity, a refreshing dose of honesty, and a deep respect for parental autonomy to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever wanted a clearer understanding of vaccines and the ethics behind them, this episode is a must-listen.

03:27 Announcing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

05:34 Vaccine Exploration Series Finale

06:19 Ingredients in Vaccines: What You Need to Know

07:35 Interview with Infectious Disease Scientist Ellie

12:11 Ellie's Journey from Big Pharma to Vaccine Skepticism

40:44 Ethical and Scientific Concerns in Vaccine Development

01:02:33 Pharmaceutical Interactions and Clinical Trials

01:04:28 Autonomy and Vaccine Mandates

01:05:17 Herd Immunity and Vaccine Efficacy

01:06:38 Transparency and Trust in Healthcare

01:15:49 Ethics of Vaccine Studies

01:19:12 Challenges in Scientific Research

01:23:55 Vaccine Ingredients and Allergies

01:26:42 Live vs. Attenuated Vaccines

01:29:49 Shingles and Vaccine History

01:33:43 Scientific Communication and Public Trust

01:43:08 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Ellie is an infectious disease scientist with a powerful personal story and a passion for making science accessible. With a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology and an M.S. in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Ellie has spent years on the front lines of science—from developing vaccines for potential bioweapons during her graduate research to working in assay development and infectious disease research within the pharmaceutical industry.

Four years ago, she made the bold decision to step away from pharma and pursue a path that blends science, personal experience, and public education. Ellie was born with a left radial clubbed hand, congenital heart issues, and other challenges caused by a pharmaceutical product—an experience that has shaped her unique perspective on medicine. After undergoing countless surgeries, she deeply understands the life-saving value of western medicine, while also recognizing that alternatives can have a place in care.

Ellie now dedicates herself to helping people understand complex scientific topics so they can make empowered, informed health decisions. She believes that her journey—both scientific and deeply personal—is no accident. Through all the challenges she has faced, she’s seen the hand of Jesus guiding her path and believes God has kept her alive for a greater purpose. 

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Connect with Ellie on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

https://cogforlife.org/

 https://www.cellosaurus.org/  You can search a variety of ways in the site, but one is 'browse by group' and click 'Vaccine production cell lines' 

Together, they break down the different options for Vitamin K (injection vs. oral dosing), the real risks of vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB), and how birth interventions like antibiotics or Pitocin can play a role. You’ll also hear about common misconceptions around the Vitamin K shot, what that black box warning actually means, and the truth about side effects like jaundice and ingredients such as aluminum.

If you want evidence-based clarity so you can feel confident about protecting your baby’s health from day one, this episode is a must-listen.

00:00 Introduction and Parental Freedom

01:31 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

02:31 The Big Baby Myth

06:37 Vitamin K Injection: Common Questions and Concerns

07:32 Meet Katie Collins: A Holistic Approach to Medical Topics

11:47 Understanding Vitamin K in Newborns

19:38 The Role of Breast Milk and Feeding in Vitamin K Levels

23:48 Impact of Birth Interventions on Vitamin K

31:06 Delayed Cord Clamping and Its Benefits

39:51 Options for Vitamin K Supplementation

41:11 Oral Dosing Regimens for Vitamin K

44:34 Risks of Declining Vitamin K Supplementation

52:43 Vitamin K and Circumcision

54:22 Vitamin K Injection and Bilirubin Concerns

57:57 Black Box Warning on Vitamin K Injection

01:02:43 Aluminum in Injectables: Safety Concerns

01:19:39 Detoxing After Vaccination

01:22:12 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Katie Collins, known as Katie the PA on social media, is a board certified Physician Assistant who merges conventional medical training with a holistic mindset, challenging the mainstream narrative surrounding controversial topics like childhood vaccines, pregnancy and birth, and other top chronic health illnesses. With a robust background in family medicine, urgent care, and weight loss medicine, her main focus is to support the body's innate healing process with diet and lifestyle changes, or typical medical interventions. Today, her primary occupation and top priority is being a wife and mother to her two children. She has transitioned from working full time in the clinic to taking telehealth consults, and creates educational content on her social media platforms.

Check out Katie's Vaccination Mindset course here: 

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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Preorder available now for Birthing Your Big A** Baby

Dr. Patel breaks down what you actually need to know about vaccine schedules, ingredients like aluminum and thimerosal, and the incredible public health wins that vaccines have created. They also dive into hot topics like the RSV vaccine, the “tripledemic,” and how misinformation spreads faster than the truth (and what you can do about it).

Plus, HeHe unveils her brand new course—Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby—to help you shut down “big baby” scare tactics and advocate like the badass parent you are. This episode is packed with clarity, confidence, and evidence-based insight so you can make informed choices for your family—without the fear.

00:00 Introduction and Vaccine Hesitancy

01:00 The Myth of the 'Big Baby'

03:15 Introducing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

05:21 Vaccination Conversations: Should I or Shouldn't I?

06:57 Meet Dr. Alok Patel: Pediatrician and Media Contributor

11:26 The Science Behind Vaccination Schedules

16:36 COVID-19 Vaccine Controversies and Communication Issues

26:41 Global Vaccination Comparisons and Herd Immunity

43:39 Natural Immunity vs. Vaccination

46:45 The Impact of RSV on Children

49:20 The Triple Demic: Flu, RSV, and COVID

50:52 Healthcare System Strain During the Pandemic

51:49 Personal Trauma from COVID-19

57:17 The Importance of Accessible Healthcare Information

01:00:54 Ethical Considerations in Vaccine Studies

01:17:41 Addressing Vaccine Ingredients Concerns

01:23:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Dr. Patel is a board-certified pediatrician on faculty at Stanford Children's Health where he works as a pediatric hospitalist, taking care of everything from premature babies to adults and running into all sorts of medical conditions from the routine to bizarre to outright rare. He also serves as the department head of strategic communication. His passion outside the hospital is in journalism, on-air broadcast work, and consulting in both digital health and communications roles. He is a national medical contributor for ABC News, with a health show called "Patel It Like It Is". He's also worked throughout the media industry for CNN, PBS, NBC, and other outlets. 

His ethos in medicine is meeting patients where they are and reminding everyone that at the end of the day, we're just humans talking to humans. Keep it laid back.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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Worried about a “big baby”? Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby busts the myths, shares the evidence, and gives you the advocacy tools you need for an empowered birth, no matter your baby’s size. Pre-sale now open: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

www.alokpatelmd.com

From the very first hours after birth, parents are presented with a whirlwind of choices—Vitamin K, Hep B, eye ointment, vaccine schedules—and it can feel impossible to sort fact from fear. Dr. Thornburg breaks down what’s truly evidence-based, what questions to ask your care team, and how to advocate for your baby with confidence.

Together, they explore:

• How your newborn’s immune system really works (and mom’s role in it!)
• The ins and outs of Vitamin K, Hep B, and erythromycin at birth
• How antibiotics during labor may impact your baby’s gut health
• Alternative vaccine schedules and what research actually says
• Hot-button topics like vaccine shedding, autoimmunity, and long-term impacts

This conversation is about informed consent—not scare tactics. You’ll walk away empowered to make decisions that feel right for your family while knowing exactly how to navigate conversations with your providers.

05:09 – Meet Dr. Thornburg: advocacy in pediatrics 08:50 – Newborn immune system + maternal impact 18:49 – Vaccinations in pregnancy: risks + research gaps 34:41 – Newborn procedures explained (Vitamin K, Hep B, erythromycin) 53:11 – Antibiotics, Group B Strep, and gut health 01:00:43 – Gut microbiome, leaky gut, and autoimmunity 01:04:28 – Navigating vaccine schedules + global perspectives 01:19:15 – Making vaccine choices: categories, delays, and risks 01:28:29 – Adverse reactions, VAERS, and herd immunity 01:39:08 – Vaccine shedding + payment myths 01:44:57 – Finding a vaccine-friendly pediatrician

Guest Bio:

Dr. Thornburg Wellness focuses on educating families on health and wellness through the generations by the birth of their babies and raising of their children.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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www.drthornburg.com

Together, they dive into what the research actually says (and doesn’t say), why transparency and informed consent are so important, and how to navigate decisions around medications in pregnancy with confidence. Dr. Wachal also highlights the bigger picture, like how genetics, environmental toxins, and even maternal stress can play a role in outcomes, and why caring for yourself is just as critical as any prescription.

This conversation is packed with nuance, evidence, and practical takeaways to help you feel informed, empowered, and ready to advocate for yourself as you make decisions about your pregnancy care.

00:00 Introduction and Media Misrepresentation

01:05 Personal Story and Birth Lounge App

02:16 Empowering Prenatal Conversations

05:26 Emergency Use Authorization Episode

07:34 Interview with Dr. Michaela Wachal

09:14 Medication Safety in Pregnancy

12:37 Pharmaceutical Industry Failures

15:20 Personal Journey and Advocacy

18:55 Questioning Medical Norms

21:15 Tylenol and Toxins

23:34 Aluminum in Vaccines

27:32 The Importance of Transparency

37:05 Advocating for Education and Understanding

37:51 The Power of Asking Questions

40:21 Nesting and Preparing for Baby

43:17 Managing Fevers During Pregnancy

52:01 Environmental Toxins and Health

01:00:41 Therapies and Support for Children on the Spectrum

01:09:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Guest Bio:

Michaela Wachal, PharmD, CSP, is a clinical pharmacist, Certified Specialty Pharmacist, and Clinical Accreditation Manager with nearly a decade of experience in specialty pharmacy. She holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Doane University. Throughout her career, she’s specialized in complex conditions including oncology, fertility, endocrinology, immunology, mental health, and inflammatory diseases—always with a passion for improving patient care, optimizing healthcare systems, and empowering women in medicine.

Michaela is also a mom of three, including one child with autism, ADHD, and anxiety, which ignited her deep interest in neurodiversity, integrative health, and individualized medicine. After navigating her own family’s challenges, she began researching functional and evidence-based approaches to support children and families living with complex needs. Online, Michaela shares insights from scientific studies on autism, ADHD, vaccines, autoimmune conditions, toxins, and more, always with a focus on helping parents make informed, evidence-based choices.

Her work blends professional expertise with personal passion, making her a trusted voice in both the pharmacy world and the parenting community.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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• 2021 there's a call for action published supported by 91 scientists, clinicians and public health professionals across the globe recommended that pregnant women should be cautioned at the beginning of pregnancy to forego APAP unless it is medically indicated and to minimize the exposure by using the lowest effective dose for shortest possible time https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34556849/

• Boston Birth cohort published in 2020 looked at acetaminophen metabolites in cord blood samples collected at birth and unchanged acetaminophen levels were detected in all cord plasma samples and acetaminophen burden was associated with higher odds of ADHD  and ASD daignosis there was a 2.3 to 3.5 increased risk for ADHD and 1.6 to 4.1 increased risk for ASD https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31664451/

• Recently in August Harvard did an analysis using the Navigation Guide methodology that supports evidence consistent with an association between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and increased incidence of Neurodevelopmental disorders. This included 46 studies with 27 reporting positive associations with the higher quality studies more likely to show positive correlations
• https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-025-01208-0

• Nurses Health Study https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30923825/

• Spanish birth cohort where acetaminophen exposure was associated with more hyperactivity/impulsivity https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27353198/

• In 2018 there was a review that showed that 9 prospective cohort studies that all suggested an association between prenatal APAP exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes - ADHD, ASD or lower IQ and longer duration was associated with increased risk https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29341895/

• 2022 a prospective cohort study in Pennsylvania looked at 2,423 moms using data and children who were exposed to APAP during pregnancy scored higher for child behaviors, sleep problems and attention problems  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36170224/

Keywords: Tylenol pregnancy, acetaminophen pregnancy, Tylenol autism risk, pregnancy medication safety, prenatal care, evidence-based pregnancy, maternal health, neurodevelopment, pregnancy decision making, informed consent pregnancy, pregnancy medications, Dr. Michaela Wachal, Birth Lounge podcast, pregnancy self-care, pregnancy toxins

Special guest Mary Farrelly, a NICU nurse, doula, and educator, joins the conversation to talk about the unique challenges families face in the NICU, from feeding goals to bonding to the critical transition home. Mary shares how doulas can bridge the gap between families and medical teams, showing up with trauma-informed care and warm, collaborative energy. She also introduces her NICU Doula Academy, which is training birth professionals to better support NICU families through compassion and evidence-based knowledge.

This episode is packed with tips, strategies, and heart-centered insight for doulas who want to expand their impact and confidently support families in the NICU.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Doula Support in NICU

01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:37 Introducing The Birth Lounge App

03:50 Navigating the NICU as a Doula

04:59 Meet Mary Farrelly: NICU Nurse and Doula

06:32 The Role of Doulas in the NICU

10:02 Emotional and Practical Support for NICU Families

20:44 The Drama Triangle in Doula Work

25:01 Bridging the Gap Between Doulas and Healthcare Professionals

39:22 Establishing Doula Roles in the NICU

39:41 Modeling Safety and Building Rapport

41:21 Warm Doula Energy and Collaboration

45:15 Encouraging Family Involvement in Care

52:08 Supporting Bonding and Skin-to-Skin Contact

56:42 Facilitating Feeding Goals in the NICU

01:01:13 Post-Discharge Support and Transition Home

01:08:35 NICU Doula Certification and Training

01:13:24 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Mary Farrelly is a certified NICU nurse, doula, and educator who helps bridge the gap between families and the NICU with evidence-based, empowering support. As the founder of The NICU Translator, she creates resources and trainings to help both parents and professionals feel more confident navigating life in—and after—the NICU. Mary is also the creator of the NICU Doula Academy, a certification program that trains doulas and perinatal professionals in trauma-informed, NICU-specific support. Through workshops, birth planning tools, and professional education, Mary is on a mission to create more joy and less trauma in the NICU experience

Connect with HeHe on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ 

Connect with Mary on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thenicutranslator/ 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/join

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

https://www.thenicutranslator.com

Free NICU Birth Plan Template: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan

Get on the NICU Doula Academy Waitlist here: https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy

Today we’re joined by Mary Farrelly, a NICU nurse, doula, and founder of the NICU Translator, who brings her expertise straight to your ears. Together, we unpack what parents can really expect in the NICU, from levels of care and skin-to-skin bonding to navigating feeding challenges and advocating for your baby’s needs.

This conversation isn’t just about surviving the NICU, it’s about finding your power, building trust with your care team, and knowing how to show up for yourself and your baby.

Tune in to learn:

• What every parent should know about the NICU environment
• How to advocate for your rights and preferences
• Why skin-to-skin and bonding time are essential (and how to make sure you get them)
• How to handle feeding challenges with confidence
• Practical tools for your NICU birth plan

If you’re a NICU parent—or love someone who is—this episode will leave you feeling informed, supported, and ready to face whatever comes your way.

0:00 Introduction to NICU and Parenting

01:10 Personal Story and Birth Lounge App

02:15 Empowering Prenatal Appointments

05:24 Navigating NICU Emotions and Questions

07:02 Introducing Mary Farrelly and NICU Support

17:47 Understanding NICU Environment and Care

31:43 Parental Rights and Advocacy in NICU

39:45 Advocating for Your NICU Preferences

41:08 The Importance of Parental Self-Care

43:51 Bonding with Your NICU Baby

54:32 Feeding Challenges and Solutions in the NICU

01:03:27 Creating a NICU Birth Plan

01:10:50 Resources and Support for NICU Parents

01:15:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Mary Farrelly is a certified NICU nurse, doula, and educator who helps bridge the gap between families and the NICU with evidence-based, empowering support. As the founder of The NICU Translator, she creates resources and trainings to help both parents and professionals feel more confident navigating life in—and after—the NICU. Mary is also the creator of the NICU Doula Academy, a certification program that trains doulas and perinatal professionals in trauma-informed, NICU-specific support. Through workshops, birth planning tools, and professional education, Mary is on a mission to create more joy and less trauma in the NICU experience

Connect with HeHe on IG 

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

https://www.thenicutranslator.com

Free NICU Birth Plan Template: https://app.thenicutranslator.com/nicubirthplan

Join the NICU Doula Academy waitlist: 

https://www.thenicutranslator.com/nicu-doula-academy

Listen to The NICU Translated Podcast here: https://thenicutranslated.transistor.fm/

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

This conversation also explores the importance of effective communication with NICU staff, why self-care is non-negotiable for parents, and how practices like primary nursing can support your family’s journey. HeHe and Brooke also talk through emotional resilience and what to expect as you transition home after the NICU.

This episode is a must-listen for parents preparing for, currently in, or healing after a NICU stay. You’ll walk away with reassurance, tools, and encouragement to help you feel informed and empowered—no matter what the NICU brings.

00:00 Trust Your Instincts and Seek Support

01:03 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:08 Introducing The Birth Lounge App

01:29 Features of The Birth Lounge App

04:51 NICU Awareness Month

05:46 Interview with NICU Nurse Brooke Smith

07:30 Understanding the NICU Experience

12:16 Tips for NICU Parents

22:25 Bonding with Your NICU Baby

31:18 Communicating with Your NICU Team

37:28 Navigating Medical Decisions in the NICU

39:37 Navigating High-Risk Pregnancy Decisions

40:19 The Importance of Early Conversations

42:50 Advocating for Your Baby in the NICU

46:05 The Role of Primary Nursing in NICU

52:47 Emotional Support for NICU Parents

01:00:20 Transitioning Home from the NICU

01:07:07 Supporting NICU Families as Friends and Family

01:08:55 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Brooke has been a NICU nurse for 8 years. After her first Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Brooke decided to pursue nursing and obtained her second Bachelor’s degree in nursing. She started her career at a Level 4 NICU in her home state of Florida, where she worked for 3.5 years and learned a lot as a new nurse. She then began to travel nurse in 2021, and has since worked in 9 different NICUs in 5 states across the U.S. She also has been a doula and childbirth educator since 2022, and IBCLC since 2023. She met her husband in Maryland while travel nursing in 2021, and now resides in Maryland with her husband Chris, two dogs Ruby and Penny, and their first baby on the way due in October.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe sits down with Kim Rogers — aka the Worm Queen — for a conversation that will totally change the way you think about parasites and your health.

We’re talking about what parasites actually are (spoiler: they’re total energy vampires), where they come from, and how they can sneakily impact everything from your gut to your sleep to your mental health. Yes, even your anxiety and mood swings might have a parasitic connection.

HeHe and Kim dive into the fascinating link between parasites and the full moon, why your pets might be part of the story, and what to watch for in your own body. Kim also shares her personal journey through parasite infections and how it inspired her to create the Purify Parasite Cleanse kit.

If you’ve ever wondered why you’re feeling drained, foggy, or just off, this episode is your permission slip to explore what’s really going on inside your body, and learn some practical steps to protect yourself and your family.

Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts fascinating and empowering. It’s time to pull back the curtain on a taboo topic that deserves way more attention.

00:00 Introduction to Parasites

01:03 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:19 The Birth Lounge App: A Pregnancy Essential

02:34 Understanding Pregnancy Symptoms

03:06 Evidence-Based Articles in The Birth Lounge App

05:25 The Viral Bear Video and Parasites

05:58 Parasites in Our Daily Lives

07:28 Introducing Kim Rogers: The Worm Queen

08:00 Kim's Personal Battle with Parasites

09:15 The Importance of Parasite Cleanses

09:23 Testing for Parasites

09:35 Parasites and Pets

09:55 Parasites from Sushi and Other Sources

11:33 Kim's Journey to Healing

17:17 Common Symptoms of Parasite Infections

19:25 Global Practices in Parasite Cleansing

19:41 Challenges in Parasite Testing

28:25 Water Contamination and Parasites

30:03 Filtering Water and Washing Produce

40:11 Symptoms Overlooked as Parasite Infections

42:48 Declining Health and Mental Health Issues

43:25 Personal Health Journey and Inflammation

44:47 Parasites and Mental Health

45:35 Toxoplasmosis and Other Parasites

54:39 Cleansing and Preventative Measures

01:02:15 Probiotics and Gut Health

01:09:11 Parasite Cleansing for Pets

01:11:27 Full Moon and Parasite Activity

01:16:50 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Kim worked in western medicine for over 20 years ran 25 healthcare colleges, was a professor, author, and holds 2 healthcare degrees all while dealing with her own chronic illnesses. She started to look at natural ways to help heal herself. In 2019 Kims health took a very drastic turn for the worse. Kim and her husband Jeromy decided to sell everything and move out to their property to build a log home in hopes to heal Kim. They discovered the healing powers of Mushrooms and started to see some light of hope! In July, 2021 Kim was doing better but not as great as they had hoped. Kim came across a video on Tiktok talking about parasite cleansing she gave it a try and BAM 3 days in she saw Flukes, Roundworms and Pinworms. She decided to make a video talking about her parasite cleanse it went viral on Tiktok. Kim saw a need to help others heal! She started her company RogersHood in December 2021 making ParaFy Parasite cleanse kit to help others cleanse their bodies of unwanted parasites candida heavy metals and toxins. Since 2021 she has built a community with over a million followers, a company with 30+ employees, and is the Co- Founder, CEO of RogersHood which manufactures their own products in a 10k manufacturing facility they built themselves!

Can’t wait for everyone to ParaFy Parasite Cleanse!

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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https://rogershood.com/ Use code HEHE for 10% off! 

Sally brings her wisdom on radical acceptance, the role of virtual care in expanding access, and why maternal health education has to start earlier than most people think. HeHe and Sally also dive into how to properly vet practitioners and what to do if client feedback uncovers red flags in your referral network.

If you’ve ever wondered how collaboration between providers (and communities!) can change outcomes for families, this episode is for you. Tune in and discover how to build the kind of village that supports birthing people and their care teams.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose-Driven Care

01:03 Client Testimonial and Birth Lounge App

05:04 Healthcare System Challenges

06:33 Interview with Sally Hayes: Continuity of Care

08:00 Building a Referral Network

25:45 Virtual Care and Overcoming Healthcare Deserts

36:26 Personal Experiences and Advice for New Doulas

40:03 Building Connections and Championing Others

41:05 Embracing Authenticity in Your Work

41:54 Finding Your Perfect Client

42:33 Creating Unique Services and Standing Out

43:02 Building a Referral Network

45:40 Aligning Values with Referral Partners

51:59 Handling Mismatched Referrals

01:05:42 The Importance of Preemptive Education

01:11:31 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Guest Bio:

Before founding Matrikas, Sally spent 20+ years as a prenatal and postpartum massage therapist, working intimately with thousands of clients through some of the most transformative chapters of their lives. Her hands-on work illuminated a critical gap in the maternal health landscape: while there are countless talented practitioners, many work alone, disconnected from one another and often unsupported. Matrikas was born out of this need for a more connected, collaborative, and community driven model of care. Through Matrikas, Sally champions relationship based referrals, cross discipline education, and building a shared village that supports birthing people and the providers who care for them.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Www.wearematrikas.com

Together, we’re getting real about the emotional and psychological impact of pregnancy loss, how our medical system often misses the mark, and what true support looks like for those navigating this experience. Dr. Zucker also shares her personal story of loss and how it shaped her mission to normalize these conversations and bring compassion to the forefront of reproductive health.

This episode is for anyone who’s experienced miscarriage, loves someone who has, or simply wants to be part of breaking the silence. You’ll walk away with perspective, validation, and tools to change the way we show up for each other in this journey.

00:00 Introduction and Overcoming Miscarriage Stigma

00:56 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:03 Avoiding a C-Section: Free Class Overview

02:57 Empowering Women in Birth Choices

05:12 Introducing Today's Episode on Miscarriage

05:30 Conversation with Dr. Jessica Zucker

09:27 Jessica Zucker's Journey and Advocacy

14:38 Understanding and Supporting Pregnancy Loss

23:36 Breaking the Silence and Stigma

27:17 How to Support Someone Experiencing Loss

30:21 Offering Genuine Support After Loss

32:17 Personal Reflections on Loss and Support

34:25 Navigating Conversations About Loss

37:31 Professional Insights on Experiencing Personal Loss

45:47 The Importance of Early Education on Loss

50:17 The Role of Healthcare Providers in Supporting Loss

53:18 Conclusion and Resources

Guest Bio:

Jessica Zucker is a Los Angeles-based psychologist specializing in reproductive health and the author of the award-winning book I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, a Movement. Jessica is the creator of the viral #IHadaMiscarriage campaign. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, New York Magazine, Vogue, and Harvard Business Review, among others. She’s been featured on NPR, CNN, The Today Show, and Good Morning America and earned advanced degrees from New York University and Harvard University. Her second book, NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women’s Lives, is out now and available everywhere books are sold.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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www.drjessicazucker.com

Keywords: miscarriage support, pregnancy loss, miscarriage stigma, Dr Jessica Zucker, miscarriage memoir, I Had a Miscarriage book, fertility journey, emotional impact of miscarriage, coping with miscarriage, miscarriage awareness, reproductive psychology, pregnancy loss support, breaking miscarriage silence, miscarriage podcast

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, I’m joined by Illie Balaj, integrative nutritionist, children’s book author, and founder of Live HealthIllie, for a deep dive into low-tox living. Illie’s personal journey to toxin-free living is both eye-opening and inspiring, and she’s here to show you that making swaps doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.

Inside this conversation, we cover:

• The surprising toxins hiding in common products (like SLS in personal care)
• Easy, practical swaps to reduce toxins in your home and life
• How gut health and endocrine disruptors are connected to issues like eczema, dandruff, migraines, and painful periods
• Fertility prep 101: sunlight, muscle building, balanced nutrition, and stress reduction
• Why reducing synthetic fragrances might be one of the best things you can do for your body

This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you feel confident and empowered as you lower your toxic load and prepare your body for pregnancy.

Tune in now to learn how small, mindful changes can create big shifts in your health and fertility.

00:00 Introduction to Low Tox Living

00:56 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

02:19 The Journey to Low Tox Living

05:45 Common Health Issues and Hidden Toxins

07:35 Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

17:42 Understanding Stress and Its Impact

26:09 Natural Detoxification Methods

36:06 The Importance of Hydration and Minerals

38:20 Creating Minerals and Chill

38:54 Hydration Beyond Water

40:26 The Coffee Conundrum

42:49 Preparing for Pregnancy

50:30 Understanding Leptin and Fertility

55:36 Challenges with Fertility Clinics

01:04:30 Addressing Common Health Issues

01:07:57 Detoxing and Cleansing Myths

01:10:26 Connecting with Healthillie

01:11:46 Conclusion and Farewell

Guest Bio:

Illie is an Integrative Nutritionist, Children's Book Author, & Founder of Live Healthillie

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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www.livehealthillie.com

https://livehealthillie.com/products/live-healthillie-minerals-chill

Have you ever been told your placenta might be “too old”? Maybe you’ve heard that once you hit 35 or if you’ve conceived through IVF, your placenta just can’t keep up. This so-called “aging placenta” idea gets tossed around a lot, but here’s the truth: it’s a myth.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Sophie Messager, a former reproductive psychologist and current doula, to set the record straight. Together, we dive into:

The history of the “aging placenta” myth and how it gained traction What science really says about how the placenta changes in late pregnancy Why these misconceptions can strip away maternal autonomy and fuel unnecessary interventions The role of intuition when navigating medical recommendations How systemic bias and racial disparities play into maternity care And drumming… yes, you read that right: how drumming can become a powerful, grounding tool during pregnancy

This conversation will give you the knowledge (and confidence) to challenge outdated beliefs and trust that your body isn’t broken. It’’s brilliant.

🎧 Tune in now to reclaim your power and let’s bust this myth together!

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections

01:16 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast

01:22 The Birth Lounge App: Your Pregnancy Companion

04:19 Debunking the Myth of the Aging Placenta

05:02 Interview with Sophie Ee: Bridging Science and Doula Work

07:08 Understanding Placental Health and Misconceptions

08:43 The Role of Research and Personal Experiences

17:12 Navigating Medical Advice and Personal Instincts

19:53 The Complexity of Placental Aging and Birth Outcomes

36:50 The Importance of Trusting Maternal Instincts

43:53 The Importance of Counting Kicks

44:48 Trusting Maternal Instincts

45:32 Placental Health in Subsequent Pregnancies

47:40 Respecting the Birth Process

48:56 The Role of the Placenta

54:58 Cultural and Racial Differences in Placental Health

57:00 Challenges in Maternity Care Systems

01:13:55 The Power of Intuition and Spirituality in Birth

01:20:00 Resources and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Sophie Messager bridges worlds that rarely meet. A former reproductive physiologist with a PhD, she traded her microscope for doula work after experiencing the transformative power of an empowered birth. Her decade-long journey as a doula, birth educator, and author of Why Postnatal Recovery Matters deepened her exploration of the rhythms surrounding women’s transitions.

Now a holistic life transition mentor, Sophie guides women through significant life thresholds – from birth to perimenopause and beyond. Her unique combination of scientific expertise and spiritual insight allows her to serve as a compassionate space holder for those seeking to harmonise their analytical and intuitive selves.

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https://sophiemessager.com/

Get 15% off any of Sophie’s online courses with code birthlounge

https://sophiemessager.com/the-myth-of-the-aging-placenta/

Kayleigh shares her personal story of surviving an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) and how that experience changed everything about the way she views birth prep. We talk about what most people skip over: ICU protocols, feeding plans, postpartum care in emergencies, and yes—even life support decisions.

It’s a heavy conversation, but it’s also incredibly empowering. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to start building a plan that ensures your wishes are respected and your voice is heard—even if things don’t go the way you envisioned.

This is about protecting your power in birth, no matter what.

Guest Bio:

Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. Drawing from her clinical expertise and lived experience as an amniotic fluid embolism survivor, Kayleigh is dedicated to supporting families navigating perinatal trauma and collaborating with healthcare institutions to implement trauma-informed care tailored to pregnant and postpartum populations. As The Birth Trauma Mama, Kayleigh has cultivated vibrant support communities through Instagram, TikTok, and her podcast, offering connection, storytelling, and valuable resources for individuals impacted by perinatal trauma. Her work bridges clinical knowledge and personal insight, fostering hope and healing for those in need.

00:00 Introduction and Third Trimester Update

02:51 Creating a Birth Plan

04:40 Introducing the Catastrophe Plan

05:50 Kayleigh Summers' Story and Lessons

08:41 Discussing Catastrophic Birth Plans

11:11 Advocating for Yourself and Your Baby

11:57 Welcoming Kayleigh Summers

12:24 The Importance of Hard Conversations

13:22 Planning for Postpartum and Catastrophic Events

16:44 Separation and Skin-to-Skin Contact

39:02 Feeding Plans and Breastfeeding Decisions

44:01 Struggles with Milk Supply

44:47 Navigating ICU Communication

49:24 The Importance of Family Support

52:08 Documenting ICU Experiences

58:48 Life Support Decisions

01:07:59 Preparing for Catastrophic Events

01:19:42 Final Thoughts and Resources

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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thebirthtraumamama.com

Keywords: birth trauma, birth trauma mama, Kayleigh Summers, catastrophe plan pregnancy, amniotic fluid embolism, AFE birth story, emergency birth planning, pregnancy birth plan, postpartum planning, ICU birth plan, feeding plan newborn, high risk pregnancy planning, birth advocacy, informed consent in birth, empowered birth, birth trauma support, The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe Stewart, maternal health advocacy, lowering birth trauma

In this week’s episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, we’re tackling one of the biggest elephants in the birthing room: sky-high C-section rates in the U.S. (yep, we’re talking about that 1 in 3 number).

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to just accept that as the norm. I’m sitting down with Juli Pyle, a certified nurse midwife who has helped her small, rural hospital keep their C-section rate at just 12% (I know, jaw drop, right?).

Together, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s really working—things like midwives and OBs actually collaborating as a team, evidence-based care that puts families first, and a hospital culture that truly values physiological birth.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to lower C-section rates and protect birthing families, this episode is going to light a fire in you.

00:00 Introduction to the Birth Lounge Podcast

01:16 The Nation's C-Section Rate and WHO Recommendations

01:55 Introducing Juli Pyle: A Nurse Midwife with a 12% C-Section Rate

03:26 Achieving Low C-Section Rates: Insights from Juli Pyle

06:18 Challenges and Solutions in Maternity Care

07:29 Encouragement for Large Hospital Systems

09:16 Interview with Juli Pyle Begins

10:41 The Project and Results: Integrating Midwifery into Hospital Practice

12:43 Midwifery Care and Trust Between Providers

19:04 Co-Managing High-Risk Pregnancies

25:56 Ego and Team Dynamics in Maternity Care

29:01 The Importance of Midwifery in Large Hospitals

31:58 Ad for Cozy Earth: Comfort During Pregnancy

34:03 Licensure Structure for Midwives in Pennsylvania

34:56 The Role and Training of Certified Nurse Midwives

35:25 Legislation and Independent Practice for Midwives

38:02 Challenges in Mississippi's Healthcare System

43:13 Midwifery Care Across Different Regions

45:40 Managing Labor and Reducing C-Section Rates

57:49 The Importance of Evidence-Based Practice

01:04:23 Encouragement for Healthcare Advocates

01:06:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Juli Pyle (she/her) is a certified nurse midwife who practices at a community hospital in rural Pennsylvania. Juli was a stay at mom for many years to five children before deciding to return to school to pursue a degree in nursing. She graduated from Colorado Mesa University with a bachelors of science in nursing degree in 2016 and then began her nursing career as a labor and delivery nurse. She quickly discovered that this was her true passion (as she had suspected since birthing her own children) and rapidly gained a reputation for professionalism, compassion and expertise among colleagues and patients. She then returned to Frontier Nursing University to complete a Master’s degree in Nursing with an emphasis in midwifery. In 2020, she began her career as a certified nurse-midwife at a small community hospital in central Pennsylvania where she has been since that time. Her focus as a CNM is to provide evidence-based education to all birthing families, give true autonomy and informed consent throughout their time with her and to share love, understanding, empathy and true shared-decision making. Juli also currently serves on the Pennsylvania MMRC (maternal mortality review committee). When not immersed in the birthing world, she enjoys spending time refinishing furniture, gardening, raising chickens, hiking and vacationing with her husband and family.

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Keywords: c section rates, lowering c section rates, midwifery care, nurse midwife, birth outcomes, evidence based birth, collaborative maternity care, informed consent in birth, physiological birth, reducing c sections, birth lounge podcast, maternity care reform, midwives and obstetricians, rural hospital birth, empowering birth choices

Here’s what you’ll hear in this week’s episode:

✨ The first magical moments of feeling baby kicks (inside and outside!) ✨ The less magical parts: hello, heartburn, round ligament pain, and late-night wedge pillow life ✨ What went down at our anatomy scan and how it’s shaping my birth prep ✨ Big news about The Birth Lounge membership: what’s changing, why the price is going up September 1, and which membership option (monthly, annual, or lifetime) might be the best fit for you ✨ Why I hired a home birth midwife and how I’m shaping my birth plans step by step

This episode is part pregnancy diary, part behind-the-scenes of how The Birth Lounge is evolving, and part love note to every parent who’s navigating the wild ride of growing a human.

Whether you’re here for the bump updates, the evidence-based pregnancy talk, or the scoop on how The Birth Lounge is about to get even juicier… this one’s got a little something for you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:59 Exciting Changes in The Birth Lounge Membership

03:24 Membership Options Breakdown

04:27 Exclusive Benefits for Lifetime Members

07:50 Second Trimester Experiences

08:57 Feeling the Baby Move

12:40 Weight Gain and Body Changes

17:41 Pregnancy Pillow and Sleep Adjustments

21:42 Cravings and Prenatal Vitamins

23:39 Hot Yoga and Sauna During Pregnancy

29:51 Hiring a Home Birth Midwife

31:52 Diastasis Recti and Pelvic Floor Therapy

34:35 Non-Evidence Based Decisions

36:28 Starting Aspirin and CGM

39:55 Anatomy Scan Experience

41:52 Ultrasound and Baby Movements

48:16 Colostrum and Heartburn

51:31 Round Ligament Pain and Chiropractic Care

55:42 Preparing for Birth: Classes and Plans

01:01:25 Final Thoughts and Excitement

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Weight Gain in Pregnancy Research

Low Dose Aspirin use in pregnancy

Exercise During Pregnancy Research

Needed Powder Prenatal: Use Code HeHe

Just Ingredients Protein powder: Use code TRANQUILITYBYHEHE

Cozy Earth: one of my favorite things to have on hand for a comfy pregnancy and postpartum period! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your pregnancy and postpartum feel a little more luxurious: https://cozyearth.com/

00:00 Introduction and Importance of Baby Wearing

05:42 Key Safety Components: The ABCs of Baby Wearing

08:53 Understanding the M Position for Baby's Legs

15:21 Choosing the Right Baby Carrier

20:59 Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

25:03 Risks and Benefits of Baby Wearing

29:36 Special Considerations for NICU and Preemie Babies

33:40 Misleading Marketing and Safety Testing

39:22 Addressing Baby's Discomfort with Carriers

39:45 Tips for Easing Baby into Baby Wearing

41:05 Understanding Baby's Resistance to Carriers

45:14 Debunking Myths: Baby Wearing and Clinginess

48:52 Breastfeeding Benefits and Baby Wearing

50:55 Toddler Wearing: Tips and Techniques

54:44 Tandem Wearing: Managing Two Kids

56:21 Forward Facing: When and How

01:00:21 Favorite Carriers for Different Scenarios

01:07:44 Water Safe Baby Wearing

01:11:22 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Guest Bio:

Jordan Morillo is a perinatal health OT, certified babywearing consultant, and toddler mom, who is passionate about empowering families with the knowledge they need to babywear safely, comfortably, and with confidence. She provides parent support through worldwide virtual 1:1 consultations, home health services, and by sharing free resources and tutorials on social media.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Visit Motherhoodtherapyservices.janeapp.com to book a consultation with Jordan! 

• Hoppediz Primeo – https://hoppediz.de/en/baby-carriers/primeo A buckle carrier that’s perfect for smaller babies.
• Neko Tiny – https://www.nekoslings.com/en/ A stretchy wrap–buckle hybrid carrier for newborns.
• Solly Baby – https://sollybaby.com/ Lightweight stretchy wraps designed for comfort in the early months.
• Boba – https://boba.com/ Known for soft structured carriers and stretchy wraps.
• Ring Slings – Popular ones are from Sakura Bloom https://sakurabloom.com/collections/ring-sling and Mama & Roos https://www.mama-roo.com/collections/ring-slings Easy to adjust and stylish for on-the-go babywearing.
• Onbuhimo Buckle Carrier Strap-and-back-only carrier, ideal for toddlers who want up and down often.
• Forward Facing Options – ErgoBaby Omni https://ergobaby.com/omni-breeze-baby-carrier and Tula Explore https://babytula.com/products/explore-baby-carrier Safe forward-facing carry for older babies.
• Jordan’s favorite ethical/organic brands:  Ethically made, sustainable carriers with thoughtful design.
  • Hope & Plum https://www.hopeandplum.co/collections/baby-carriers
  • Heritage Baby Designs https://heritagebaby.ca/
  • LoveHeld https://loveheld.com/collections/shop-all-baby-carriers 
  • Beluga Baby https://belugababy.ca/

• Ring Slings – Sakura Bloom https://sakurabloom.com/collections/ring-sling, Mama & Roos https://www.mama-roo.com/collections/ring-slings Adjustable and versatile for all body types.
• Woven Wraps – Didymos https://www.didymos.de/en/Baby-Wraps/, Oscha Slings https://oschaslings.com/collections/baby-wraps Endless tying options for perfect fit and comfort.
• Keep Close(r) – https://keepcloser.com/ Designed specifically with plus-size parents in mind.
• Kinderpack – https://kindercarry.com/ Extended sizes and supportive structure for all bodies.
• Integra Baby – https://integrababy.co.uk/ Lightweight carriers with adjustable straps for inclusivity.
• Hope & Plum – https://www.hopeandplum.co/collections/baby-carriers Ring slings made for every parent’s comfort.
• LoveHeld – https://loveheld.com/collections/shop-all-baby-carriers Soft, ethically made carriers with flexible sizing.
• Tula Belt Extenders – https://babytula.com/products/tula-waistband-extenders Expand Tula carriers for a more inclusive fit.
• Meh Dai Carriers – Didymos https://www.didymos.de/en/Meh-Dai/, BabyHawk https://babyhawk.com/ Tie-on carriers with a customizable fit.
• Lamb (Europe) – https://lamb-babycarriers.com/ European-made woven carriers, size-friendly.
• WildBird – https://wildbird.co/ Long-tail ring slings for flexible carrying options.

• Integra Solar – https://integrababy.co.uk/collections/integra-solar Quick-drying, lightweight carrier for water activities.
• Hope & Plum Hemp Sling – https://www.hopeandplum.co/collections/baby-carriers Breathable sling, perfect for summer and pool days.
• LoveHeld Hemp Carrier – https://loveheld.com/collections/shop-all-baby-carriers Durable hemp blend, suitable for water and sun.
• Aloha & Light Eco Silk Hemp Blend – https://alohaandlight.com/ Soft, eco-friendly slings designed for hot climates.
• Beachfront Baby – https://beachfrontbabywraps.com/ Mesh Meh Dais and wraps made for swimming and beach days.
• Gustine Mesh Sling – https://gustinebabycarriers.com/ Breathable mesh sling perfect for water play.

RESEARCH: Study on reduction of PMADs: Randomized controlled trial to prevent postpartum depressive symptomatology: An infant carrier intervention. Little EE, Bain L, Hahn-Holbrook J. J Affect Disord. 2023 Nov 1;340:871-876. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.08.044. Epub 2023 Aug 15. PMID: 37586649.

Study on decreased cry time when worn: Increased Carrying Reduces Infant Crying: A Randomized Controlled Trial.Urs A. Hunziker; Ronald G. Barr. Pediatrics (1986) 77 (5): 641–648

Vital signs regulation: 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39369660/ 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:52 Katharine Graves on Hypnobirthing

05:20 Challenges and Misconceptions in Modern Birth Practices

20:05 The Role of Partners in Birth

30:15 Comparing Human and Animal Birth Practices

34:35 The Role of C-Sections in Modern Birth

34:54 Challenging Hospital Birth Assumptions

35:52 The Power and Pain of Birth

36:33 Hospital Interventions and Their Impact

39:18 Global Perspectives on Birth Practices

39:59 The Influence of Technology in Birth

40:49 The Debate on Birth Interventions

46:39 The Importance of Informed Choices

47:49 The Concept of Bonus Time in Late Pregnancy

56:37 The Golden Hour and Post-Birth Practices

01:02:57 Addressing Birth Trauma and Hypnobirthing

01:06:22 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Katharine Graves is the founder of KG Hypnobirthing, a leading antenatal pregnancy & birth education programme that has helped thousands of families approach birth with calm, confidence, and informed choice. She’s a highly respected hypnobirthing expert - having been the first person to introduce hypnobirthing to the UK. She is also a hypnotherapist and doula as well as being author of The Hypnobirthing Book, selling well over 100,000 copies worldwide. Katharine has spent over 15 years personally teaching over 3,000 parents and 2,000 teachers & maternity professionals how to support physiological, empowering birth.

Katharine is deeply passionate about respectful, evidence-based maternity care and the importance of giving women the tools to advocate for themselves during pregnancy and labour. Through her work, she’s trained hundreds of midwives and birth professionals, and continues to lead the way in transforming birth culture through education and compassion.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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kghb.org/thebirthlounge

kghypnobirthing.com

Check out The Hypnobirthing Book here! 

Keywords: hypnobirthing, KG Hypnobirthing, Katharine Graves, natural birth, water birth, positive birth, calm birth, empowered birth, birth preparation, partner support in birth, birth advocacy, induction alternatives, avoiding c-section, evidence based birth, childbirth without fear, hypnobirthing techniques, labor comfort measures, natural pain relief birth, pregnancy podcast, The Birth Lounge

Grab The Secret Sauce to Pushing Here or join our lifetime membership to get free access! 

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, I’m sitting down with Whitney and Brandon Cawood to uncover the hidden ways synthetic food dyes can impact your child’s health and behavior. We’re talking real-life symptoms like irritability, hyperactivity, sleep struggles, and even aggression — and the science that backs it up. Whitney and Brandon share their powerful story of discovering their son’s sensitivity to dyes, the huge transformation they saw after removing them, and how that journey turned into advocacy work.

We’re pulling back the curtain on industry resistance, why the FDA has been slow to act, and what legislation is (and isn’t) doing to protect families. You’ll get practical tips for spotting dyes in your pantry, finding dye-free swaps, and trusting your gut when it comes to your child’s health — even if the experts say otherwise. This is your crash course in advocating for your kids, one grocery trip at a time.

Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Synthetic Dyes and Their Effects 01:07 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:37 The Secret Sauce to Pushing Course 02:00 Understanding the Anatomy of Pushing 04:06 Challenges in the Hospital System 05:26 A World Without Synthetic Food Dyes 07:17 How Synthetic Dyes Affect Children 10:24 The Cawood Family’s Story 17:12 Raising Awareness & Building Community 31:06 Genetics & Dye Sensitivity 34:35 The Push for Legislation & Safer Alternatives 37:03 The Health Toll of Synthetic Dyes 38:11 FDA Inaction & Public Pressure 41:23 Fighting for Education & Awareness 45:51 Barriers for Low-Income Families 48:14 Removing Harmful Chemicals from Daily Life 50:51 Why They Made a Documentary 52:25 Trust Issues with Regulatory Agencies 54:54 How Prevalent Synthetic Dyes Really Are 01:02:36 Easy Dye-Free Swaps 01:05:14 Industry Resistance to Change 01:07:55 State Efforts & Corporate Pushback 01:09:10 Empty Corporate Promises 01:12:25 The Worst Offending Dyes 01:17:42 Decoding Dye Labels 01:23:33 Parental Advocacy in a Broken System 01:31:54 Resources & Final Thoughts

After discovering their child’s sensitivity to synthetic dyes, Brandon and Whitney Cawood, parents-turned-filmmakers, embarked on a journey to uncover the hidden impacts of these additives. Their documentary combines scientific insights and personal stories from affected families, revealing the unseen dangers of synthetic dyes. Through expert interviews and heartfelt narratives, the Cawoods aim to raise awareness of the profound effects these chemicals can have on individuals and families alike. Since beginning this journey, they’ve also become national advocates, working on legislation across the U.S. to help protect children from harmful food additives.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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https://www.todyeforthedocumentary.com/

Keywords: synthetic food dyes, food dye effects on children, red dye 40 side effects, red 3 ban, hyperactivity and food dyes, dye free diet for kids, artificial food coloring dangers, parenting and food dyes, dye sensitivity in children, natural food dye alternatives, removing food dyes from diet, FDA and synthetic dyes, dye free living tips, birth lounge podcast, Whitney and Brandon Cawood interview

HeHe breaks down 9 of the most common (and flat-out harmful) pieces of advice that new parents are being fed — and shows you exactly how to ditch the bad info and trust your baby, your body, and your instincts instead. We’re talking evidence-based truth bombs, real-time solutions, and the exact shifts that can make breastfeeding feel less like a struggle and more like second nature.

You’ll also get access to HeHe’s free class on how to avoid a c-section, because spoiler alert: how you feed your baby matters, but how you're supported while doing it matters even more.

This episode is for every new or expecting parent who’s feeling overwhelmed, confused, or just plain tired of hearing 15 different opinions on the same thing. If you're ready to quiet the noise and feel confident in your breastfeeding journey — you're in the right place.

What We Cover: 00:00 The truly unhinged advice floating around 01:02 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:08 What World Breastfeeding Week should be about 02:16 Grab the Free Class: How to Avoid a C-Section 04:38 9 pieces of breastfeeding advice that need to go 05:04 #1: Feed every three hours 10:14 #2: Always feed from both breasts 15:04 #3: Supplement with formula before your milk comes in check out our episode on Low Milk Supply 18:44 #4: Don’t nurse to sleep 21:21 #5: Never wake a sleeping baby 25:28 #6: Pump and dump if you drink 28:27 #7: Cluster feeding means low supply 31:16 #8: Pacifiers cause nipple confusion 34:40 #9: Start pumping immediately after birth 40:18 Final thoughts and your permission to trust yourself

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Keywords: breastfeeding tips, breastfeeding myths, newborn feeding, nursing mistakes, breastfeeding advice, how to breastfeed, World Breastfeeding Week, breastfeeding help, lactation support, breast milk supply, nursing to sleep, cluster feeding, pumping tips, nipple confusion, supplementing with formula, avoid c-section, evidence-based birth, postpartum support, new mom tips, birth lounge podcast, HeHe Stewart

In this episode, I’m joined by Krysta Dancy, a licensed trauma therapist, birth doula, and one of the most honest voices in the trauma-informed care space. Together, we unpack what birth trauma really is, how to spot it, how to prevent it, and how to start healing if it’s already part of your story.

We’re digging into:

• Why Pitocin is showing up in so many traumatic births — and what you deserve to know about it
• The actual role of doulas in preventing trauma (especially when sh*t gets hard)
• What your nervous system has to do with the way your birth felt and why it matters
• How to debrief with your care team, talk to your partner, and ask for what you need in the aftermath
• Evidence-based trauma therapies like EMDR and Brainspotting, and how to know what’s right for you
• Scripts and tools for those difficult conversations with providers, family, and friends who just don’t get it

Whether you had a traumatic birth or just want to avoid becoming another horror story statistic, this episode is here to remind you: You are not broken. You are not alone. And there is a way forward.

Timestamps: 00:00 Postpartum Support Is Not Optional 00:56 Welcome to The Birth Lounge 01:09 Pitocin 101: What You’re Not Being Told 02:51 Pitocin and the C-Section Connection 03:44 Grab Your Free Pitocin Guide 05:03 Birth Trauma: Let’s Talk About It 05:50 What Actually Counts as Birth Trauma? 07:37 Meet Krysta Dancy 12:00 How Trauma and Memory Work in Birth 19:12 Signs of PTSD After Birth 31:16 Your Nervous System and Traumatic Birth 39:53 Emotional Trauma Even When the Birth Was “Fine” 44:09 How to Debrief With Your Providers 49:09 The Healing Power of Storytelling 49:36 Why Post-Birth Conversations Are So Hard 50:35 Communication Gaps in the System 52:23 You Were Never Meant to Do This Alone 55:35 The Isolation of Trauma 56:11 When Trauma Runs in the Family 57:40 Healing Starts With Being Seen 58:08 Was That Intervention Actually Necessary? 01:01:30 EMDR, Brainspotting, and More 01:04:18 When Medication Can Be Part of Healing 01:06:50 Scripts for Navigating the Hard Conversations 01:10:34 Supporting a Partner With Trauma Too 01:14:49 When Providers Are Dismissive 01:17:22 Supporting Without Trauma Dumping 01:22:43 Provider Trauma Affects Your Care Too 01:27:32 Final Thoughts and Resources

This episode is full of validation, education, and the tools you need to take the next best step, whether you’re deep in healing or just beginning to realize you’ve got some unpacking to do. You are allowed to feel everything. And you're allowed to heal, your way.

Guest Bio:

Krysta Dancy is a licensed trauma therapist, birth doula, and passionate advocate for healing after a difficult birth.

With over 20 years of experience in psychology, trauma recovery, and perinatal care, Krysta has walked alongside countless families and professionals through some of their most vulnerable moments. She believes that every birthing person deserves to feel safe, heard, and supported — and that healing is always possible, even after trauma.

As the founder and CEO of Dancy Perinatal Counseling, a nationwide organization dedicated to supporting both parents and the professionals who care for them, Krysta’s mission is to make trauma-informed obstetric care the norm, not the exception.

Whether she’s offering therapy, teaching, or simply holding space for someone’s story, Krysta brings compassion, deep expertise, and a fierce commitment to helping people reclaim their strength after a traumatic birth.

Dancy Perinatal Website: http://www.DancyPerinatal.com Therapist Match Tool: https://www.dancyperinatal.com/find-support

Dancy Perinatal IG: https://www.instagram.com/dancyperinatalcounseling/ Dancy Perinatal FB: https://m.facebook.com/DancyPerinatalCounseling Dancy Perinatal Free FB Group for Birth Trauma: https://www.facebook.com/groups/birthtraumasupportgroup/

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Grab HeHe’s free guide to pitocin use here! 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

The IES-R scale as a pdf 

Check out Krysta’s on demand classes here, including debrief and trauma prevention skills for doulas. 

Use the promo code "HEHE" to watch Krysta’s on-demand class "Healing After A Traumatic Birth"  for free.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Mimi Lindquist, co-host of The Medicine Podcast and expert in AHCC and medicinal mushrooms, to break down everything you need to know about HPV — the "common cold of the cervix."

If you've ever felt confused, judged, or totally overwhelmed after an HPV diagnosis, this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed.

We’re covering:

• What HPV actually is and how common it really is
• Why HPV doesn't mean you're broken or dirty
• Natural remedies and holistic tools to support your immune system and help clear HPV
• How AHCC works and what the research says
• What to know about the Gardasil vaccine and how to make an informed decision
• How HPV impacts pregnancy, pap smears, and fertility
• What it means to take a root-cause approach to your cervical health

This episode is for the woman who’s ready to stop feeling powerless and start leading her healing journey with confidence.

Timestamps: 00:00 What’s New Inside the Birth Lounge App 03:37 HPV 101: Basics, Misconceptions, and Myths 05:00 Holistic Approaches to Cervical Health 07:16 Meet Mimi Lindquist 08:46 How HPV Spreads and Why It’s So Common 11:10 What Happens After an HPV Diagnosis 27:06 How to Boost Your Immunity Without Toxic Overwhelm 41:43 Nutritional and Supplemental Support 49:05 The Role of AHCC in Natural HPV Treatment 50:08 What You Need to Know About Pregnancy and Pap Smears 52:48 Is AHCC Safe During Pregnancy? 56:28 Why So Many Women Are Questioning Mainstream Approaches 57:31 Mimi’s Personal Experience with the Gardasil Vaccine 01:05:40 Gardasil: What the Ads Don’t Tell You 01:14:44 HPV, Fertility, and TTC Real Talk 01:18:39 Emotional and Energetic Impact of HPV 01:26:07 Most Common Questions About Cervical Health 01:30:32 Resources, Encouragement, and Where to Start 01:34:44 Final Thoughts and Pep Talk from Your Birth Bestie

Guest Bio:

Meagan (Mimi) Lindquist is the co-host of The Medicin Podcast where she and her husband, Chase, help others proactively create deep, passionate partnership supported by a healthy and conscious lifestyle. With her background as a clinical dental hygienist, culinary nutrition expert, AHCC® educator, and mushroom enthusiast, she has been helping others prevent disease for over 12 years now. Over the last 4 years, Mimi’s work has led her to educating and supporting women from all over the world who’ve received an HPV+ result and receiving little or no support from conventional medicine. She assists women in becoming empowered, active participants in their expression of health and proactively creating a life that they love.

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www.TheMedicin.com https://www.themedicin.com/products/p/ahcc https://www.amazon.com/HPV-Vaccine-Trial-Generation-Betrayed/dp/1799754944 https://justtheinserts.com/hpv/ Podcast episode with Just The Inserts

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Kelly Ryerson, co-executive director of American ReGen and founder of Glyphosate Facts. With degrees from Dartmouth and Stanford, Kelly brings the heat and the receipts on one of the most important (and honestly, infuriating) topics in modern health: glyphosate.

Yup, that’s the same chemical in Roundup—the most widely used pesticide on Earth. And spoiler alert: it’s likely in your pantry right now.

We dive deep into:

• The truth about glyphosate’s impact on your gut, your mental health, and your baby’s long-term development
• How companies like Monsanto (now Bayer) are still running the show—and why we can’t trust the system to keep us safe
• What you can do today to reduce your exposure (hello, water filters + better food choices)
• Why baby food is a big red flag (yes, even organic)
• What’s actually happening on farms, and how regenerative practices can change the game

This episode is part science, part scandal, and fully focused on helping you take back control of your health—because no one is coming to do that for you.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s actually in your food, how it’s affecting your hormones, fertility, or your growing baby, or why the U.S. is behind other countries in banning toxic chemicals… This is your episode.

Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome & Why This Matters 01:46 The Hidden Dangers in Our Food 03:18 Meet Kelly Ryerson 03:58 Glyphosate 101 08:20 Why It’s So Widely Used (and How It Got That Way) 21:53 The Health Fallout: Gut, Brain, and Beyond 34:27 How to Shop Smarter & Spot Safer Foods 37:58 What Other Countries Are Doing Right 44:37 Why Some Farmers Don’t See the Problem 46:07 How Policy, Profit & Pesticides Are All Linked 47:47 Dead Soil = Dead Nutrition 49:28 The Rise of Regenerative Farming 51:06 Safer Options for Home & Garden 55:39 Baby Food Red Flags 58:20 What’s Lurking in Juice, Wine & Beer 01:00:50 Nontoxic Yard Care (Your Pets Will Thank You) 01:04:31 Monsanto’s Long Game of Deception 01:09:02 Government + Industry: Too Cozy? 01:15:47 Reclaiming Your Family’s Health 01:17:59 Final Takeaways + Where to Start

Listen now and take the first step toward safer choices, stronger advocacy, and raising a healthier generation.

Guest Bio:

Kelly Ryerson works at the intersection of agriculture and health. She regularly collaborates with regenerative farmers, scientists, policymakers and media to address agrochemical damage to our soil and bodies. Kelly is the co-Executive Director of American Regeneration and also founded the news site Glyphosate Facts. Kelly has contributed to numerous podcasts, publications, and documentaries including the recent award winning documentary Common Ground. She is an Ambassador for The Rodale Institute. Kelly has a BA from Dartmouth College, an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, and completed training in integrative health coaching at Duke Integrative Medicine. 

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www.americanregeneration.org 

www.glyphosatefacts.com 

Connect with HRI Labs here

Firehawk bio herbicide

Pestie

00:00 The Deceptive Marketing of 'Natural' Products

01:05 The Struggle to Find a Clean Deodorant

03:06 The Painful Journey of Testing Deodorants

06:09 Discovering Zebra Deodorant

06:40 Interview with Zebra's CEO, Jenn Thatcher

06:55 Jenn’s Personal Story and Motivation

07:43 The Birth of Zebra: A Transparent Brand

08:42 The Importance of Clean Ingredients

12:49 Jenn's Family Health Scares

24:31 The Challenges of Sourcing Pure Ingredients

32:10 The True Cost of Quality Products

38:40 The Dangers of Antiperspirants

41:18 The Hidden Dangers of Fragrances

43:29 Petroleum-Derived Ingredients in Beauty Products

44:46 Decoding Labels: Identifying Harmful Ingredients

46:27 Trust Issues with Beauty Brands

47:25 Zebra's Commitment to Transparency and Safety

55:05 The Hydroxyapatite Debate

01:02:02 Concerns About Traditional Toothpaste Ingredients

01:08:25 The Problem with Dental Floss

01:14:10 Sourcing and Transparency in Beauty Products

01:16:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Jenn Thatcher left a successful career as an international artist to found ZEBRA. Jenn believes her children were victims of dirty products and a system that is designed to trick consumers. Her son Jack’s diagnosis of a brain tumor made her even more vigilant at researching every single ingredient in the products her family was using.

She realized that products are really not always as natural as they seem. She decided if she wanted something truly safe, and high performance she was going to have to create it herself. This is how ZEBRA was born.

Jenn’s faith and love of country is woven into ZEBRA, not only are the ingredients in the products “black and white,” but she lives by the idea of the constitution and the Bible being black and white as well. ZEBRA is a non-toxic, freedom loving brand who answers to no one but the Creator himself.

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www.yayzebra.com

code HEHE for 10% off at yayzebra.com

In this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe is joined by Dr. Candice Wood, an OB-GYN with 18 years of experience in women's wellness and perinatal mental health. Together, they dive deep into postpartum challenges, focusing on the myths of perfect motherhood, managing postpartum rage, and the critical role of partner support. They discuss practical strategies for setting expectations with partners, ensuring mental well-being, and maintaining healthy relationship dynamics post-baby. Whether you're a new mom, expecting, or supporting one, this episode provides valuable guidance on how to navigate the emotional and psychological landscape of postpartum life. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation full of practical advice and emotional support.

00:00 Welcome and Listener Request

02:39 Introducing Dr. Candice Wood

04:01 The Struggles of Postpartum

05:06 Navigating Social Media Pressures

05:22 Engaging Your Partner

09:00 The Myth of the Perfect Mom

22:16 The Importance of Emotional Regulation

51:39 Postpartum Rage and Anxiety

54:30 Prioritizing Sleep and Mindfulness Postpartum

55:39 The Importance of Outdoor Time and Breaking Routine

57:29 Addressing Postpartum Rage and Medication

01:01:47 Navigating Partner Dynamics Postpartum

01:04:34 Setting Expectations and Communication with Partners

01:12:33 Empowering Partners and Building Confidence

01:21:13 The Importance of Multiple Caregivers

01:36:18 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Dr. Candice Wood has spent the last 18 years providing comprehensive wellness, gynecologic, and obstetric care for women of all ages. Over the years, Dr Wood has watched her own patients struggle to achieve wellness while lacking sufficient focus on mental health. With shortening doctor visit times, only the bare minimum can be done during a typical wellness exam, excluding the opportunity for a woman’s most trusted care provider to assess her mental health – arguably the gateway to her overall health and wellness.

Likewise, during postpartum visits, Dr. Wood found that there is no time to help young mothers struggling with mental health issues. Finding another mental health provider to care for a patient with perinatal mood disorders, infertility, or fetal loss is equally challenging.

Following her passion and determined to make a difference, Dr. Wood obtained a certification in perinatal mood disorders, psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy, and she started the Woman Made Well clinic with one mission – to achieve wellness through the proactive pursuit of both physical AND mental health. She is passionate about empowering women with the care and tools they need to live their best life.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

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Connect with Dr. Wood here: https://www.womanmadewell.com/

00:00 Introduction to the Fascial and Lymphatic Systems

01:22 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast

03:03 The Importance of Lymphatic Drainage

05:12 Introducing Dr. Chris Motley

08:54 Understanding the Lymphatic System

15:13 Emotional and Physical Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage

19:58 Choosing the Right Practitioner

22:44 Personal Insights and Elemental Qualities

33:32 Understanding Your Element and Body

34:30 Facial Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine

37:14 Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

39:58 Lymphatic System and Immune Function

47:51 Lymphatic Health and Hormones

55:52 Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy and Postpartum

01:02:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Dr. Chris Motley is a globally recognized alternative health practitioner specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, frequency medicine, and kinesiology. His mission is to eliminate fear surrounding health information and empower individuals to take control of their well-being.

As the host of the Ancient Health Podcast, Dr. Motley merges ancient Eastern wisdom with cutting-edge Western innovations to offer practical solutions for today’s health challenges. With over 120K downloads, the podcast has featured leading experts such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Josh Axe, and Dr. Mindy Pelz.

Dr. Motley’s unique approach integrates modern technology with time-honored healing practices, recognizing physical, neurological, and emotional health as interconnected aspects of overall well-being. He holds a B.S. in Biology from Austin Peay State University, a Doctorate of Chiropractic, and certifications in Acupuncture, Kinesiology, and Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET).

Through his transformative approach to medicine and passion for holistic health education, Dr. Motley continues to inspire individuals on their journey to optimal wellness.

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https://www.doctormotley.com/

Get a 15 Day Free trial of Dr. Motley’s Membership program (https://www.doctormotley.com/offers/LHigrcfn)

Grab HeHe’s Scripts for Advocacy here! 

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In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host Hehe welcomes Dr. Melanie Jackson, a renowned midwife and PhD holder in midwifery, also known as Melanie the Midwife. They dive into the intricacies of the hospital birth system, discussing how over-medicalization can affect birth outcomes and the importance of educating oneself to navigate these systems effectively. Dr. Jackson shares insights on the cascade of interventions, the significance of understanding hospital policies, and ways to take radical responsibility for your birth experience. Both Hehe and Dr. Jackson advocate for women to be well-informed and proactive in their childbirth planning. They also touch upon the similarities and differences between the Australian and U.S. healthcare systems, the rising cesarean rates, and how confirmation bias affects the acceptance and practice of new medical research. The episode wraps up with a discussion of Dr. Jackson’s resources, including her Guide to a Great Birth and the Great Birth Rebellion podcast.

00:00 Introduction to Birth and Interventions

01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:14 Understanding the Cascade of Interventions

02:30 Navigating the Hospital System

03:32 Introducing Dr. Melanie Jackson

05:42 Resources for Advocacy and Research

08:42 Meet Preg Nancy: A Unique Educational Tool

15:34 The Industrialization of Birth

27:54 The Power of Advocacy and Education

43:38 Equipping Your Birth Support Team

44:46 Taking Control of Your Birth Experience

46:48 The Reality of Postpartum Comfort

49:25 Understanding C-Section Rates in Australia

50:16 The Impact of Medicalization on Birth

57:24 The Role of Research and Confirmation Bias

01:06:53 Navigating Hospital Policies and Personal Responsibility

01:17:26 Resources and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Dr Melanie Jackson (AKA Melanie The Midwife) loves to help midwives and women around the world better understand and apply the research relating to matrescence (the process of becoming a mother). She does this as the host of The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast, supporting and mentoring midwives, as well as educating mothers.

Melanie has a PhD in Midwifery - Birth Outside the System: Wanting the Best and Safest. She has various publications in academic journals. Mel has worked in multiple research roles and lectured at Western Sydney University.

Since 2009, Mel has been a Privately Practising Midwife, providing homebirths in the Blue Mountains. She has mentored midwives into private practice in every state and territory across Australia and supports rebellious midwives around the world through The Assembly of Rebellious Midwives and The Convergence of Rebellious Midwives.

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Check out Dr. Mel’s website

The Convergence for midwives

Listen to The Great Birth Rebellion

00:00 Introduction to Skincare Safety

02:00 Common Skincare Concerns During Pregnancy

03:50 Interview with Claire O'Bryan

04:51 Skincare Regimens and Fads

07:20 Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients

11:06 Acne Treatments During Pregnancy

15:33 Retinol Alternatives and Supplements

20:37 Daily Skincare Routine Essentials

25:16 Sunscreen Myths and Facts

34:51 Effective Sunscreen Reapplication

35:42 Blue Light Protection in Sunscreens

36:32 Impact of Screen Time on Skin

38:39 Understanding Botox and Fillers

44:32 Botox Safety During Pregnancy and Nursing

50:36 Microneedling and Skincare During Pregnancy

01:01:34 Preventing and Treating Stretch Marks

01:06:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Claire O'Bryan is a dynamic nurse practitioner and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering women and amplifying the voices of female healthcare leaders globally. Her mission extends beyond traditional medical aesthetics – she's reshaping how we think about healthcare delivery while paving the way for women in leadership.

As the co-founder of Skin Clique, Claire continues to help revolutionize the medical aesthetics industry through a groundbreaking concierge model. Since launching Skin Clique in 2019, what began as a vision for more accessible skin health has grown into a nationwide network of 1,000 skilled providers across 43 states. This expansion reflects not just business success but a transformation in how people access professional treatments and skincare. It is the modern approach to skin health.

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Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/

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www.claireobryan.com

www.skinclique.com: Use code Claire10 for a discount! 

Pregnancy safe skincare: 

https://shopmy.us/collections/549485

Collagen meta analysis: 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/?utm_source

ACOG 

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/toxic-chemicals-steps-to-stay-safer-before-and-during-pregnancy

ACOG Skin Conditions

https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy

Retinol VS Bakuchiol in a double blind RCT 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/

Systematic Review of Retinol VS Bakuchiol 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176207/

Collagen 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/

00:00 Introduction and Zero Tolerance Policy

00:56 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast

01:24 How to Get Your Questions Answered

03:15 Understanding Pregnancy Weeks

05:59 Declining Cervical Checks

11:42 Coping with Pregnancy Anxiety and Weight Loss

14:14 Traveling While Pregnant

18:11 Declining a Scheduled C-Section for Breech Baby

22:44 Managing Weight Monitoring During Prenatal Visits

26:57 Group B Strep Testing Concerns

30:57 Membrane Sweeps: Risks and Benefits

32:04 Setting Boundaries for Newborn Visits

36:05 Addressing Concerns About VBAC

45:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Pushing Freebie: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pushing

Secret Sauce to Pushing Course: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/secretsaucetopushing

GBS information: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep/

Membrane Sweep, Ep. 268: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5V41R8PDhH2Kia48mdqdub?si=kz6gtEh6SJGIGOz_pT1j6w&nd=1&dlsi=7b03c32c4cd24188

Radiation when Flying: 

• https://www.cdc.gov/radiation-health/data-research/facts-stats/air-travel.html
• https://www.tsa.gov/videos/travel-tips-pregnant-travelers
• https://www.epa.gov/radtown/radiation-and-airport-security-scanning
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC153688/
• https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/flying-and-health
• https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/air-travel-exposes-you-to-radiation-how-much-health-risk-comes-with-it/

Don't weigh me cards:

https://more-love.org/product/dont-weigh-me-cards-postage/

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:42 Manifestation Practices and Personal Insights

02:54 Guest Introduction: Helena Woods

04:39 Astrocartography Explained

09:07 Understanding Astrological Lines

23:11 Relocation Astrology and Its Impact

27:19 Future Predictions and Technological Advancements

39:33 Astrological Signs and Family Dynamics

45:57 Unexpected Pregnancy and Trusting the Universe

48:41 Astrological Insights on War and Global Conflict

56:36 The Role of Technology and AI in Future Conflicts

01:04:07 Astrology and Personal Relationships

01:12:47 Astrological Guidance for Each Zodiac Sign

01:19:52 Resources and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Helena Woods is a world traveling astrocartographer, Youtuber, online course creator and author of the book Slow Living. As an astrologer, she uniquely specializes in location, helping people create magical lives in places they thrive. Originally from San Diego, California, she now lives abroad in France but travels often as she shares her astrocartography findings with others. Living slowly around the world, she creates from her heart to inspire others to create a magical life in a place they love. Since her business began, she's taught over 1500 students the power of location using astrology, timing and astro maps. She's been featured in The Economist, Conde Naste  Traveler and more! 

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https://helenawoods.com/freebies

https://helenawoods.com/courses

helenawoods.com

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe discusses the key components of comprehensive postpartum preparation. She covers essential tools to make postpartum life easier, strategies for health and nutrition, best practices for feeding your newborn, and actionable tips to optimize both your and your baby's sleep. HeHe also highlights the resources available in the Birth Lounge membership and app, including evidence-based articles and supportive community features. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health, informed decision-making, and how to prepare for a smoother transition to motherhood.

00:00 Introduction to Postpartum Preparation

00:53 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:16 Postpartum Prep Overview

01:52 The Birth Lounge Membership and App

04:57 Diving into Postpartum: Four Key Categories

05:40 Home Systems and Responsibilities

10:33 Postpartum Preparation Tools

24:38 Health and Nutrition for Postpartum

30:22 Feeding Your Baby: Tips and Support

39:18 Newborn Sleep Essentials

47:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with HeHe on IG 

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Nyssa Care postpartum underwear 

Lasinoh cooling 

Silverettes (use code HeHe)

Witch hazel pads 

Swaddle

White noise machine

MAM pacifier

Cozy Earth Pajamas and Sheets (use code HEHE for 40% off!)

Ep 356 with Ashlee Brown

Ep. 219 baby reflux with Aine Homer

Newborn Sleep Solution 

Magnesium calm powder  

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:50 Exploring Psychic Mediumship

03:09 Personal and Energetic Blocks

16:30 Intentional Language and Manifestation

20:35 Trusting the Journey

30:17 Introduction to Spirit Babies

31:03 Choosing Our Parents and Babies

31:45 Personal Reflections on Parental Relationships

34:32 Expectations and Realities of Pregnancy

35:35 Gender Intuition and Preparations

38:08 Birth Plans and Spiritual Connections

49:17 The Role of Faith and Spirituality

51:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Jessica Lynne is a gifted medium whose extraordinary abilities have intrigued and captivated seekers looking for connections beyond the material world. Emerging as a guiding light and source of comfort, Jessica assists those in search of reconnecting with departed loved ones. Using her profound spiritual insight and empathetic approach, Jessica Lynne has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between the living and the spirit world.

Jessica has had the honour & privilege of reading for an array of celebrities, professional athletes, musicians and business owners. She has recently been featured on The Morning Show, 7News, The Australian, Marie Claire, Mamamia & Body+Soul, to name a few.

Jessica conducts her readings online so she can connect with clients all over the world. 

If you would like to connect with Jessica you can follow her on Instagram @jessicalynnemediumship, check out her website at www.jessicalynnemediumship.com or listen to her podcast "Talk Spirit To Me"; ranked #2 on the Apple Charts for Spirituality:

Listen on Spotify

Listen on Apple

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www.jessicalynnemediumship.com