We’re exploring option from conception to childhood to help women take control of their fertility, birth experience, postpartum healing, and motherhood journey! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from influencer parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenthood for an empowering and educational walk with a birth and newborn expert and the found of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, HeHe Stewart.
Episodes
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
In this Birth Lounge Podcast episode, host HeHe discusses the complexities surrounding screen time for kids with Dr. Joel Warsh aka DrJoelGator, a board-certified pediatrician specializing in integrative medicine. They explore critical questions about the impact of screen time on child development, ADHD, social behavior, and overall health. Dr. Warsh shares valuable insights on balancing screen use, the potential health risks, and the role of modern technology in increasing chronic diseases among children. He also touches on the importance of outdoor activities and real-world interactions. Additionally, Dr. Warsh introduces his upcoming book, 'Between a Shot and a Hard Place,' which aims to provide balanced, research-based information on vaccines for informed parental decision-making.
00:00 Introduction and Screen Time Dilemma
04:50 Introducing Dr. Joel Warsh
06:33 The Impact of Screen Time on Child Development
09:41 Balancing Screen Time and Healthy Habits
14:26 Screen Time and ADHD
18:14 Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Families
26:59 Over-Medicalization and Chronic Illness
33:02 Managing Screen Time in Public Spaces
36:09 Balancing Screen Time for Kids
37:06 The Impact of Video Games on Children
39:48 Concerns About EMF and Technology
42:57 Practical Tips to Reduce EMF Exposure
48:43 Introducing Dr. Joel's New Book
52:46 Vaccines and Their Controversies
01:05:41 Non-Screen Activities for Kids
01:07:23 Closing Remarks and Where to Find More Information
Guest Bio:
Joel Warsh aka DrJoelGator of the popular parenting Instagram account 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:
1) Between a Shot and a Hard Place: Tackling Difficult Vaccine Questions with Balance, Data, and Clarity,
2) Love Dad
3) Parenting at Your Child’s Pace: The Integrative Pediatrician’s Guide to the First Three Years.
INSTAGRAM:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Check out the free Avoid a C-Section webinar here to learn evidence based ways avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing in labor.
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Wednesday Feb 05, 2025
Wednesday Feb 05, 2025
In this episode, HeHe is joined by Brigid Tebaldi, a mother of five who shares her transformative journey through multiple childbirths, ranging from traumatic to idyllic experiences. Brigid recounts her pregnancies and labors, highlighting her evolution from hospital births to empowering home births. The discussion covers building resilience in mothers and children through challenging and rewarding tasks, the impact of nutrition and mindset on mental health, and the importance of processing birth trauma. Brigid’s insights aim to help mothers reclaim their power and find joy in their birthing experiences.
00:00 Introduction to Free Birth Class
01:59 Avoid High C-Section Rates and Navigating the System
07:53 Personal Birth Stories Begin
08:25 First Birth Experience
11:42 Second Birth Experience
21:34 Third Birth Experience
22:11 Fourth Birth Experience and Transition to Home Birth
23:36 Fifth Birth Experience and Empowerment
27:14 Discovering Pregnancy and Initial Reactions
29:57 Natural Family Planning Journey
32:59 The Reality of Precipitous Labor
36:47 Navigating Hospital Births and Family Expectations
38:13 Discovering Alternative Birth Options
42:10 Building Resilience Through Childhood Experiences
46:59 Fostering Resilience in Children
51:03 Maintaining Resilience as a Parent
57:44 The Importance of Resilience in Birth Trauma
01:04:52 Mind-Body Connection and Resilience
01:06:49 Conclusion and Contact Information
Guest Bio:
Brigid is a Functional Women’s Health Coach and Mentor who helps moms who understand that their bodies are not broken, that they're not falling short in motherhood, how to get rid of those physical ailments that never seem to go away, and that life can be fun, full, and joyful even amongst the chaos. She guides women to see the truth: that their bodies are beautifully made by God, their vocation is holy work, and the birth of their children is only the beginning of the transformation God is calling them to walk in.
Through her signature program, Restored by Grace, she helps women reclaim vibrant, full, and healthy lives—mentally, physically, and spiritually. Her approach blends integrative methods with ancient wisdom about what our bodies truly need to thrive. In the program, you address the roots of past trauma, because these unhealed wounds don’t just affect how you feel—they can show up as physical symptoms like fatigue, pain, hormonal imbalances, and chronic health issues. By healing at the root level, you can finally experience the peace and health you’ve been longing for, restoring your energy, improving your relationships, and creating a healthier, happier life to spend with your family.
She believes that every mom has the power to create a holy, beautiful, and joy-filled life by embracing her God-given design and purpose.
Brigid is a wife, mother of 5, and homesteader in Pennsylvania. She enjoys spending time outside playing with her kids, reading about conspiracy theories, cooking and baking, and listening to all the podcasts she can.
INSTAGRAM:
https://www.loretowellness.com/
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Check out the free Avoid a C-Section webinar here to learn evidence based ways avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing in labor.
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!
Friday Jan 31, 2025
Friday Jan 31, 2025
Join HeHe in an enlightening conversation with Nurse Dawn from Pivotal Birth to discuss the critical aspects of creating a birth plan and the importance of effective communication with medical staff during labor and delivery. Dawn shares her rich experience working in multiple hospitals and introduces the innovative PIVOT plan approach to improve birth experiences. Learn how to set clear expectations, handle unexpected pivots like C-sections and epidurals, and ensure that your values and preferences are respected throughout your birth journey. This episode is a must-watch for expecting parents looking to optimize their hospital birth experience and for healthcare professionals aiming to enhance patient care.
06:37 The Importance of Birth Plans
07:38 Experiences with Birth Plans in Hospitals
10:55 Advice for Communicating Birth Plans
15:04 Introducing the PIVOT Plan
16:28 Breaking Down the PIVOT Plan
18:22 The Role of Communication in Birth
24:58 Navigating Hospital Policies and Biases
35:23 Engaging with Medical Assessments
36:48 Introducing Birth Preferences to Hospital Staff
38:48 Understanding Individual Needs During Birth
49:44 The Importance of Childbirth Classes
51:33 Navigating Unexpected Diagnoses
54:17 Coping with Birth Plan Changes
56:49 Handling Unexpected C-Sections
01:04:02 Final Thoughts and Resources
GUEST BIO:
Dawn Hancock is a seasoned Labor and Delivery Nurse certified in Obstetric Nursing, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Counselor and Board Certified Nurse Coach.
She has worked exclusively in maternal child care in the hospital setting and in the home as well. She is passionate about empowering women and their partners to advocate for the care they desire for themselves and their newborns.
Her own experiences in childbirth with her three children prompted her to go into Nursing for Labor and Delivery.
Dawn is the founder of Pivotal Birth LLC where she hosts The Bridging Birth Membership. This membership provides on-demand Childbirth Education Classes, her Breastfeeding Starting Strong Course and live Q&A Sessions 2 times a month where members can come ask questions, share stories and build community.
Nurse Dawn can be found on all platforms @pivotalbirth
SOCIAL MEDIA:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Sign up for Dawn’s Pivotal Birth Workshop here.
Use code HeHe10 at Www.pivotalbirth.com for a special discount for our listeners!
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
In this episode, HeHe provides an in-depth guide to finding the perfect doula to support your birth journey. She covers the best time to hire a doula, what to consider when choosing one, and the variety of doula types available. HeHe emphasizes the importance of knowing your birth goals and expectations, and offers practical advice on interviewing potential doulas, including essential questions to ask. She also highlights the benefits of having a doula, from reducing the risk of a C-section to increasing breastfeeding success. Additionally, HeHe discusses how to find doulas using websites like doulamatch.net and community resources, and explores the significance of doula teams, backup plans, and business credentials.
00:00 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast
01:26 Free Class: Avoiding C-Sections and Reducing Tearing
03:13 Finding the Right Doula for Your Birth
12:17 The Role and Benefits of a Doula
18:08 How to Choose and Interview Your Doula
33:50 Final Thoughts and Next Steps
INSTAGRAM:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Check out the free webinar to help you avoid a c-section!
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!
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Join HeHe and guest Anna Cosentino in this eye-opening episode where Anna bravely shares her harrowing experience with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) during her pregnancy. Despite a history of endometriosis and POTS, Anna initially had a symptomless pregnancy, only to be struck by severe vomiting and nausea at five and a half weeks. She details her struggles with medical providers who dismissed her symptoms, her battle to get life-saving IV fluids, and her fight for appropriate care. Topics covered include the importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, the role of community and support, and practical advice for others facing similar challenges. Anna also discusses her post-pregnancy journey and the lasting effects of HG. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with HG or severe morning sickness during pregnancy.
Understanding HG and Its Impact
Personal Pregnancy Journey Begins
Challenges with Healthcare Providers
Severe Symptoms and Seeking Help
Postpartum Reflections and Advice
Advocating for Yourself
Resources and Support for HG
Guest Bio:
Anna is 25 years old and just had her first child, a little girl! She works full time at a church in the Atlanta area working in music and production with middle and high school students. Anna developed HG at 5 weeks of pregnancy and proceeded to throw up 5-15x a day for the remainder of my pregnancy until she delivered.
INSTAGRAM:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Find more resources from HER foundation: https://www.hyperemesis.org/
A Screening Tool: https://www.hyperemesis.org/tools/help-score/
2023 article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532917/
ACOG: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
ACOG Practice Bulletin 189: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2018/01/nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes back Dr. Darrell, an experienced OBGYN, to discuss a range of important topics related to childbirth, including the role of doulas, the impact of medical interventions, and the complexities of the healthcare system. They dive deep into how doulas support birth, partner dynamics, and the trust crucial in the birthing process. Dr. Darrell also shares insights on fetal heart rate monitoring, the financial aspects of different birth methods, and the significance of being well-informed as parents. HeHe emphasizes the importance of making educated choices and establishing good relationships with healthcare providers.
The Role of Doulas in Birth
Hospital Dynamics and Doula Relationships
Financial Incentives in Birth Methods
Litigation and Medical Interventions
Fetal Heart Rate Concerns
Fetal Scalp Electrodes Explained
Reflecting on Past Experiences with Doulas
The Role and Independence of Doulas
Building Trust and Connection with Doulas
Challenges and Misconceptions about Doulas
35:25 Personal Birth Experiences and Reflections
Breech Births and Residency Stories
The Evolution of Obstetric Practices
The Future of Birth Centers and C-Sections
The Importance of Being an Informed Consumer
Guest Bio:
Dr. Darrell Martin, MD, FACOG, is an esteemed gynecologist, gynecological surgeon, and beacon of healthcare advocacy with a distinguished career spanning over forty years in women's health. His unwavering dedication to patient choice and care has led him to the forefront of legislative change, testifying before Congress in staunch support of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and the rights of patients to choose their healthcare providers. Notably, his passionate advocacy for nurse-midwifery in Tennessee, has cemented his reputation as a pivotal figure in the advancement of the profession.
INSTAGRAM:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
Grab the Scripts for Advocacy here!
LINKS MENTIONED:
https://www.darrellmartinbooks.com/
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Friday Jan 17, 2025
In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe has an engaging discussion with Dr. Darrell Martin, a retired Obstetrician-Gynecologist, who strongly advocates for the midwifery model of care. Dr. Martin shares his journey in obstetrics, emphasizing patient autonomy and providing insights from working with midwives. The conversation covers Dr. Martin's career, the importance of trust and informed decision-making in prenatal care, and the evolution of maternity care in the U.S. Dr. Martin also discusses his book 'In Good Hands,' reflecting on his experiences and the systemic challenges and politics within the healthcare system. The dialogue highlights the profound impact of collaborative care and explores practical advice for navigating birth choices. This episode is a treasure trove of information for expecting parents, offering a blend of personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based practices to support a confident and informed birth experience.
Dr. Darrell's Journey into Obstetrics
Challenges and Changes in Obstetrics
Midwifery and Collaborative Care
Legal and Professional Battles
Success in Atlanta
Advice for Expecting Parents
The Objectivity of Practice Employees
Questions to Ask About Your Provider
Hospital Policies and Inductions
The Role of Midwives in Birth
Financial Incentives in Birth Practices
The Shift to Epidural Use
Collaborative Care Between Provider and Patient
The Importance of Trust in Prenatal Care
Challenges in Large Practices
Promoting Partner Involvement
Guest Bio:
Dr. Darrell Martin, MD, FACOG, is an esteemed gynecologist, gynecological surgeon, and beacon of healthcare advocacy with a distinguished career spanning over forty years in women's health. His unwavering dedication to patient choice and care has led him to the forefront of legislative change, testifying before Congress in staunch support of Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) and the rights of patients to choose their healthcare providers. Notably, his passionate advocacy for nurse-midwifery in Tennessee, has cemented his reputation as a pivotal figure in the advancement of the profession.
INSTAGRAM:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
HeHe welcomes Zhenya Lindgardt, President and CEO of Sera Prognostics, to discuss the critical issue of preterm birth, its rising incidence in the U.S., and innovative solutions available today. Zhenya explains the definition and statistics of preterm birth, and introduces the Preterm test, a blood test that predicts the risk of preterm birth as early as 18 weeks of gestation. The conversation also covers the effectiveness of Sera Prognostics' intervention bundles, improvements in pregnancy care, and the importance of innovation in maternal health. Listeners will learn about the accessibility and process of the Preterm test and the overall goal of making this technology widely available to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Understanding Preterm Birth
Advancements in Preterm Birth Testing
Interventions for High-Risk Pregnancies
Clinical Trials and Results
At-Home Testing and Accessibility
Innovation in Maternal Health
Guest Bio:
Zhenya Lindgardt is an accomplished leader in healthcare innovation, currently serving as the President, CEO, and Board Director of Sera Prognostics, Inc. and CEO of The Commons Project Foundation. As the leader of Sera, Zhenya is revolutionizing the maternal and infant health space by addressing the preterm birth crisis with cutting-edge science. With a rich background including senior roles at Uber Technologies and a 19-year tenure at Boston Consulting Group, she has demonstrated expertise in driving growth and fostering innovation. Her contributions span multiple therapeutic areas and focus on leveraging data to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
INSTAGRAM:
https://www.facebook.com/serapregnancy
https://www.instagram.com/serathepregnancycompany?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
https://www.linkedin.com/company/sera-prognostics
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Websites:
PreTRM® Premature Birth Risk Blood Test from Sera
NYU article about racial disparities in pre-term birth rates
What is causing the rise in pre-term birth?
Diagnostics:
AVERT Trial Press Release: Sera PreTRM® Test Prevention Strategy Demonstrates 18% Reduction in Severe Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in Newly Published AVERT Trial | Sera
AVERT Trial Data: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/14/14/1462
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Join HeHe in this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, where she discusses the essentials of functional movement and strength training during pregnancy and postpartum with physical therapist Elaina Manolis. Discover the crucial role of muscle strength in preventing injuries and ensuring a smoother postpartum recovery. Learn about balancing mobility with stability, the impact of hormones, and the significance of a structured corrective exercise regimen. Elaina provides expert insights based on her extensive experience and personal journey, emphasizing the importance of preparing your body for the physical demands of motherhood. Tune in for actionable tips, evidence-based information, and valuable resources to help you navigate pregnancy and beyond with confidence.
The Importance of Functional Movement During Pregnancy
Common Pregnancy-Related Injuries and How to Prevent Them
Postpartum Functional Movement and Corrective Exercises
Finding the Right Physical Therapist
Guest Bio:
Elaina was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM and has been a studio-trained dancer since the age of 3. She was a member of her high school danced team and won 3 State titles. She then coached that team for 6 years while dancing on her college dance team at the University of New Mexico. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science at UNM in 2010 and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree at UNM in 2015. She got married in 2015 and moved to the Dracut, MA where her husband was born and raised. She started her own self-pay physical therapy practice, EDM Physical Therapy, LLC, and is also a full-time treating therapist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Outpatient center in Boston, MA focusing on injury prevention and performance enhancement. Additionally, she is a contract physical therapist for NeuroTour Physical Therapy, providing backstage treatment to the performers in the Broadway shows that She is currently serving as a committee member for professional development for the International Association of Dance Medicine & Science (IADMS) and is in her final year of studies for her terminal academic degree as a Doctor of Science (ScD) in Physical Therapy through Texas Tech University. Additionally, she is adjunct faculty in the DPT programs at both UMass Lowell and MGH Institute of Health Professions.
INSTAGRAM:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Book with Elaina: www.edmphysicaltherapy.janeapp.com
Get 20% off an initial evaluation with the code TBH20 typed in the "How Did You Hear About Us?" section when booking! (The EMR platform I use has not yet integrated an actual discount code section so this is my workaround!)
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
In this episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe and Lisa Villani, founder of Empowered Birth Coaching, dive into the significance of prenatal tests and interventions during pregnancy. They discuss first-trimester genetic screening, gestational diabetes testing options, and the controversy around routine ultrasounds. Lisa shares her expertise on how to make informed decisions about these procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding your options and advocating for your preferences. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing prenatal care and preparing for a confident birth experience.
Defining Unnecessary Interventions
First Trimester Tests and Genetic Screening
Gestational Diabetes Screening Options
The Controversy of Routine Ultrasounds
Cervical Checks: What You Need to Know
Understanding Cervical Exams
The Importance of Bishop Score
Preterm Labor and Cervical Checks
Consent and Body Autonomy
Making Informed Decisions
Navigating IV Fluids During Labor
The Debate on Birthing Positions
Empowering Your Birth Experience
Guest Bio:
Lisa is an ICF-certified Pregnancy Coach & Doula Mentor. Lisa empowers women to advocate for themselves and navigate the medical system with confidence by helping mothers connect with dedicated doulas. She has made it her mission to amplify the voices of women and birth workers alike so that mothers have the support they deserve! You can find her on IG as @loudmouthdoula or tune into Loud Mouth Doula podcast!
SOCIAL MEDIA:
BIRTH EDUCATION:
Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!
Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Freebie for doulas: 3 Must-Ask questions for a killer consultation for doulas: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/3questions
Fierce Mama Circle online community for pregnant and postpartum mothers: www.empoweredbirthcoaching.com/circle
Use code BIRTHLOUNGE for 1 month free in Fierce Mama Circle