Birth of a Mama: a Birth and Postpartum Podcast

Today I’m talking with Amanda Curry, a physical therapist and somatic healing guide who helps moms reconnect with the parts of themselves they’ve been ignoring for years.

Amanda spent a long time being the “perfect,” overachieving mom who looked like she had it all together—but inside she was overwhelmed, disconnected, and exhausted. Her healing began when she realized that having the degrees, the awards, the marriage, the kids… didn’t automatically equal happiness. What she was really carrying was shame, and it was running the show.

Now she helps moms who feel “too much,” too emotional, too overwhelmed, or too stuck in old patterns. Her work is all about slowing down, feeling your feelings, and giving yourself the care you never got as a kid.

What We Talk About

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with speech-language pathologist Jeaneen Tang to talk about early language development, why so many kids end up needing speech therapy, and the simple preventative strategies you can start using today with your own infant, toddlers, and kids. 

Jeaneen brings over 23 years of clinical experience working with neurodiverse children and adults — and she’s also the mom of a 12-year-old son who survived a traumatic brain injury and stroke at just 13 months old. He lost the use of the right side of his body, and today he can run, climb stairs, and thrive physically, as best as possible. Her dual perspective as both clinician and parent shapes everything she teaches.

We explore her new book, Play Dumb & Sabotage, a powerful guide for moms and dads, caregivers, and early-childhood educators. Jeaneen explains how intentionally “under-helping” — stepping back, waiting, and letting kids struggle just enough — encourages problem-solving, communication, and confident self-expression.

CONNECT WITH JEANEEN

Why does motherhood in America feel so isolating? Matrescence Educator Kelly Conroy explains how evolutionary biology and social systems are out of sync—leaving new mothers unsupported and overwhelmed. We discuss how understanding the neurobiology of caregiving and the anthropology of community can help mothers rebuild the village they were meant to have.

CONNECT WITH KELLY

Is the roommate phase inevitable after having a baby? Will sex be less satisfying? How do I get over my body image issues and actually WANT sex? What if nothing turns me on anymore?

If you have ever been worried about any of these things, this episode is for you. Today I have on Chloe Mascord, your trusted guide into the intimate world of self-discovery, sex, curiosity and connection. As a sex and intimacy coach and speaker, she helps individuals and couples unlock the secrets to deeper relationships, more satisfying intimacy, and a renewed sense of self-love. Imagine a blend of a supportive friend and a knowledgeable expert, Chloe is here to transform your intimate life after baby.

CONNECT WITH CHLOE:

Leah Johnson's résumé includes the words Obama, Kay Hagen, and City Councilwoman, but what she has come to find out is that “mom” is the best title she’s ever had. After a career that fueled her addiction to success and other things, life was dark, and something had to change. Now she lives with the freedom to be herself and know how far from perfect she is. As an imperfect mother of two, she sometimes says bad words, frequently forgets to pack snacks for school, and on occasion, her kids eat popsicles for breakfast. But she knows she is doing the best she can, and that is all people can do on their journey.

Leah grew up in Loveland, Colorado, and has an undergraduate degree from Boston University and half of a master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University (because, well, sometimes you don’t finish things). She has visited 32 countries, 7 of which she visited with her kids (ages 10 and 7). She has had a 25-year career in campaign politics and public affairs, which she still needs to recover from. Her little family unit is everything to her, and she spends every free moment she can with them, traveling the world or having dance parties in their kitchen.

CONNECT WITH LEAH:

Today, Amber Richard Bauer shares her story of becoming a mom including being uncertain about even wanting children, a first-trimester miscarriage, her birth center turned hospital birth, the positive side of being a light sleeper, painful breastfeeding, mom rage and MUCH more. Amber is a friend of mine and she has been the star student of the Birth of a Mama podcast. She shares so many ways in which she prepared for her experience, inspired by the episodes here on this platform. It’s the longest episode to-date but for an outstanding reason. 

Please enjoy! <3

Connect with Amber:

In today’s episode, I had a wholesome, feel-good chat with Alexandra Franics, aka Queen, about truly honoring birth and postpartum. Alexandra is a dedicated mother of 8 who has been passionately supporting births and teaching across three continents since 2012.

Drawing from her time with Indigenous peoples and her ancestral lineage of midwifery, she founded 'Our Hummingbird,' offering unique birth education and immersion training coined as the 'hummingbird way.’

She guides expectant parents in a holistic, natural, and sovereign approach to childbirth, honors the first 42 days postpartum, and supports conscious parenting. She is currently fundraising for Mamahaven, a home-from-home providing around-the-clock postpartum care.

In this episode, we touch on so many things finally becoming more discussed in the mainstream such as:

In today’s episode, Annie Temple shares about outcast parenting, a term she coined after experiencing life as a mom and a sex worker. She has worked in adult entertainment since 1997 when she started as a stripper and went on to nude modeling, being a content creator, and in 2018 started providing intimacy services. She is passionate about healing division and helping people feel more connected and valued in society. This episode was very relatable to me on a personal level and I'm sure to many other mamas out there looking for connection while forging their own path, sex worker or not.

In today’s episode we have Dr. Emilie Wilson on to share her story of becoming a mom. Emilie is a naturopathic doctor who helps women change their bodies and get the life they truly desire, and have a transformational, empowering postpartum experience.

In her story she shares openly about her birth and postpartum experience at 42 years old and how it was really nothing like what she had imaged or hoped it would be. And it had nothing to do with her age!

Some of the topics Emilie touches on:

• Switching from OB care to midwifery care 
• Having an unmedicated homebirth but feeling “not present”
• PP hemorrhage and hospital transfer 
• Being severely anemic and entering PP feeling utterly shocked and exhausted 
• PP chills and intense temperature fluctuations 
• Healing for 6 weeks before she could go for a walk
• Surprised by the length of the PP healing process
• As a business owner, how she would do PP leave differently if she could have a do-over
• How PP care falls so short in the US
• Neuroplasticity in PP and how it is similar to adolescence 
• Struggles with PP depression despite adequate family support  
• The need to rebrand our worth and value our hard work as mamas
• How she is helping to address the maternal health crisis 

Connect with Dr. Emilie

On today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Jacqueline Kincer, the heart and soul behind Holistic Lactation®. Over the years Jacqueline has worked directly with breastfeeding families, providing skilled lactation care. She now hosts the popular podcast Breastfeeding Talk, sharing insights from breastfeeding moms, experts in related fields, and her own professional experience. She has also created The Nurture Collective®, an online program whose mission is to take the overwhelm out of breastfeeding and provide a trusted place to get education and advice.

Some of the topics we cover today include:

• Things pregnant moms should know before they give birth when it comes to breastfeeding

• Overproduction, under production and low supply - their causes and how to fix them 

• Galactogogues and supplements that can support breastfeeding 

• How oral ties affect breastfeeding and how to handle them

• Loving advice for the mamas out there who really want to keep going but are struggling with BF in any way

Connect with Jacqueline:

In today’s episode, Tessia Watson shares her story of motherhood and how it led her to write her book Rejuvenated Mums Make Happy Kids.

As a single mother of two young boys, she fully understands the challenges modern parents face. Striving to find the perfect balance between family life and personal well-being, Tessia discovered the importance of self-care and rejuvenation. This realization led her to establish and run Les Petits Bellots for 7 years, a bilingual childcare program providing flexible and short-term childcare solutions in French and English for children aged 6 months to 4 years.

In her debut book Rejuvenated Mums Make Happy Kids, she shares the details of her personal journey as a single parent and the invaluable insights gained along the way.

Tessia firmly believes that when mothers prioritize their own well-being, they become optimal parents, ultimately fostering happiness and success in their children, and this is the focus of her work that she deeply desires to share with all of YOU today. 

Today is a story episode, yay! Join us as Mariela DeSantiago shares of her experience becoming a mama to her now 2-year-old. She’s married, has two dogs at home, and was a special ed teacher before she had her son. 

She shares about how her active pregnancy, her c-section after an induction, being ravenous and sleep-deprived in PP and how sleeping when the baby sleeps didn’t work for her. She also talks about her pumping and breastfeeding journey which she was on for 19 months and how she made a major career change after maternity leave. She prefers the term “Raising a Human” as a job title over “Stay at Home Mom” - love this!

In today's episode Ashley P. Lambert, a certified postpartum personal trainer, answers questions about how to safely and optimally approach fitness after baby.

We dive deep into the world of postpartum exercise and explore what it truly means to embrace a holistic approach to physical well-being after birth. Ashley shares her expertise on the importance of gradually rebuilding strength and functionality, prioritizing rest and recovery, and finding the sweet spot with exercise that supports breastmilk supply.

Get ready to be inspired, informed, and empowered as we celebrate the strength and resilience of postpartum bodies.

03:51 Supporting mamas in motherhood, fitness, health.

07:33 Postpartum changes are normal, bounce-back messaging is harmful.

11:44 Women should embrace their postpartum bodies.

14:14 Transition from weight loss to postpartum nourishment.

19:32 Postpartum recovery requires listening to your body.

20:14 Prioritize rest, recovery, and slow progress.

24:33 Promoting wellness and recovery, acknowledging interconnections.

29:37 Post-birth exercise tips for women summarized.

32:00 Postpartum exercise progression: gradual, safe, and specialized.

36:10 Offer $100 off program, free high-value resource

In today's episode, we delve deep into the complexities of parenthood and motherhood through the lens of past trauma. Specifically from childhood. What exactly is trauma? You might wonder if you experienced it as a child. Listen in to find out as we explore what trauma is, how our response to it matters most, how invaluable support systems are for new parents, the significance of social interactions, and the necessity of embracing and validating emotions for both children and adults.

Emily sheds light on her unique journey of overcoming childhood trauma and how it shaped her path to becoming a holistic trauma recovery coach. She shares insightful techniques from her "trigger toolbox" to help mothers navigate challenging emotions and triggering situations. I also open up about my own experiences with my daughter's tantrums and the societal pressure to immediately fix them.

Join us as we discuss breaking generational trauma, the importance of a healing-focused community, and how children can act as mirrors reflecting the need for parents to heal old wounds.

FREE Postpartum Care Plan:

**Even MORE important than your hormones in postpartum is your social support**

This is the episode I almost didn't post and one you're likely going to enjoy tuning into. It's Victoria J. Mondloch's personal story of birth and early postpartum. She is a retired OBGYN from Wisconsin and mom to 3 daughters. She specialized in women’s health, family medicine, and preventative health & wellness for 35 years. Her approach was to educate and empower her patients to better understand their bodies and maintain healthy lifestyle habits. Dr. Mondloch specialized in bio-identical hormone counseling for women and men.

Topics Victoria shares about:

• Balancing new motherhood and medical residency
• The breastfeeding vs. bottle feeding debate
• Speaking up for yourself to doctors
• A doctor having a patient experience (and how the medical field treats their own)
• Signs of severe postpartum depression
• The major drop in hormones after delivering a baby
• The importance of personal care as a mama
• How crucial social support is (and how she got this from her husband and her own mom)

Connect with Victoria:

You don't want to miss this! Today on BOAM we have on guest Lily Nichols, my idol in the perinatal health space and a renowned registered dietitian, diabetes educator, author, and founder of the Institute for Prenatal Nutrition. Join us as we dive into the critical topic of postpartum nutrition and recovery.

In this episode, Lily shares her expertise on the importance of nutrient-rich diets for new mothers, based on her work in challenging conventional dietary guidelines. We explore the pervasive issue of postpartum nutrient depletion, the role of animal foods in providing essential nutrients, and why current RDAs may not meet the needs of postpartum women.

Lily also provides practical advice on balanced diets, emphasizing protein and macronutrient intake, and the significance of collagen for tissue recovery. Together, we discuss the physiological and mental health implications of maintaining stable blood sugar levels and the importance of a support system for new moms.

You'll learn about the benefits of prepping nutrient-rich foods, traditional postpartum practices, and the necessity of planning and gathering support beforehand (something I stress ALL the time)!

07:10 Optimizing health before and during pregnancy, postpartum focus.

14:40 Realities of new motherhood beyond social media.

19:55 Postpartum energy needs depend on birth experience.

26:13 Prepare for postpartum with help from others.

31:16 Worldwide dietary customs around postpartum eating habits.

33:58 Adjust diet based on postpartum body response.

40:36 Balanced eating prevents blood sugar instability symptoms.

43:06 Prioritize protein-rich breakfast for stable energy.

50:20 Emphasize iron-rich foods to combat anemia.

53:55 Dietary guidelines overlook key essential nutrients.

01:02:51 Prioritize nutrient dense foods, protein, and consistency.

01:05:53 Endometrial health critical for successful pregnancy outcome.

01:11:05 Preconception checklist and book purchase information.

01:16:45 Gratitude for listening, share, follow, support.

FREE Postpartum Care Plan:

Today on the show we have the Mama Coach, Chelsea McMann. She’s a registered nurse in private practice and a mom of two littles with her master's degree in nursing as well as a degree in child development. She’s worked with families privately and in the public setting for over 10 years and she began her business to fill the major gap in education and support that exists for expecting and postpartum parents and families. In addition to group workshops and classes, she provides one-on-one consultations, assessments, and plans for parents to guide them through whatever challenges they may be facing.

Today, Chelsea answers all your burning questions about sleep with a baby. Like what the hell is even normal when it comes to newborn sleep, if there's anything to be done about sleep deprivation, the risks and benefits of things like contact naps, co-sleeping and sleep training, as well as why sleep regressions really happen and how to get through them. SO MUCH valuable information packed in this episode!!

06:53 Constantly evolving and growing as a mom.

15:08 Babies need constant closeness for biological attachment.

16:26 Balancing sleep for parenting multiple children.

25:14 Coordinated sleep schedules for shared baby care.

26:11 Obsessive breastfeeding led to sleep deprivation.

32:28 Struggling with motherhood and need for flexibility.

40:51 Embrace naptime, cherish moments with your baby.

41:58 Struggling with nap time and self-care.

49:59 Adults don't have moms rock them to sleep.

53:23 Encourage baby to practice skills during the day.

01:02:10 Feel supported in discussing healthcare decisions openly.

01:04:27 Variety of sleep training strategies and the research

01:08:34 Concerns about lack of support and adaptability in sleep training.

01:14:56 Chelsea McMahon offers free consults for families.

CONNECT WITH CHELSEA

Today on BOAM we have a STORY!! Nicole Lessio came on to share her experience of becoming a mom. She’s been with her husband since she was 17, which I was in complete awe about. They have four kids together, the oldest is 24 and the youngest is almost 12 at the time of recording. 

Nicole was so open, a true delight to talk with about the realities of motherhood. She shared about the challenges of an episiotomy, feeling very isolated and tired as a young mom, facing judgment and feeling pressure to sleep train, the weight and overwhelming responsibility of breastfeeding that no one talks about, and the utter necessity of connection in early motherhood, among many other things.

Her perspective was refreshing since she has adult children. It's fun to hear of birth stories from decades ago and to soak up enlightening insights on the evolution of motherhood and parenting as our babies grow up. 

Today I'm back with motherhood mindset expert Tessa Romero for part 2 of Building a Strong and Resilient Mindset after having a baby. If you have not listened to part 1 yet, please go back and do so!

In today’s segment, we continue to talk about “I am” statements and power words and get into how our minds are conditioned to think in the way that they do. And they can be re-conditioned to think in a NEW way but they have to go through a remodeling of sorts. one way of doing this is through journaling and Tessa dives into her alignment journaling practice and how just FIVE minutes a day can lead to massive change in your life. 

04:37 Motherhood mental load: essential for daily tasks.

08:57 Intentional choices shape fulfilling, solitary motherhood values.

10:50 Reflect on the profound perspective of mental load.

13:39 Diverse parenting styles, perspectives, and learning curves.

19:20 Earned badge of honor, keep things simple.

22:28 Reprogram your brain to achieve your desires.

25:53 Our minds can mix up memories.

27:23 Emotions create truth, shaping our experiences and predictions.

32:00 Slowing down thoughts through writing for clarity.

34:05 Lead with value, change lives, worth it.

39:28 Revive retreat offers emotional release in group setting.

Connect with Tessa:

In today's episode, we're diving deep with Tessa Romero, exploring the transformational power of mindset in motherhood.

Tessa is a mindset expert for moms wanting to show up as who they want to be, now. She is mama to three boys with her fourth baby on the way and she is close to celebrating 10 years of marriage with her husband. 

She’s the owner of MOMSET where everything she has created has been through her own lived experiences and working on herself so she could heal into who she wanted to be. She knows in her heart that motherhood is an absolute honor and also incredibly difficult in more ways than many of us anticipated. Her work shines a light on how to make your mind work FOR you instead of making things harder.

In Part 1 of this Mama Mindset episode, Tessa shares her journey from a victim mentality to empowerment, highlighting how pivotal changing our internal dialogue can be. We talked about identifying our feelings, using "I am" statements, and choosing words that shape our reality. For anyone struggling to balance personal well-being with the demands of parenting, Tessa offers practical tips and powerful insights on making intentional choices that reflect who we aspire to be. Tune in to reshape your thoughts and reclaim your power.

Stay tuned for Part 2!!

CONNECT WITH TESSA:

On today's episode, Rachel shares her personal and profound journey through her first pregnancy and birth, subsequent pregnancy losses, and the birth of her "rainbow baby." Please SKIP if you are triggered by loss! Rachel opens up about the highs and lows she's faced—from undergoing a 20-week loss and navigating a high-risk pregnancy to finding strength and support in the doula community. Today's conversation is an eye-opener to the challenges of pregnancy after loss, breastfeeding and going back to work, and the emotional struggles tied to her vast postpartum recovery experiences. Her story is a testament to the resilience and love that defines motherhood.

06:58 First postpartum easier than expected, with support.

11:30 Laboring at home with doula support.

16:15 Positive, unmedicated birth at birthing center described.

24:12 Prioritizing maternal health, breastfeeding challenges and decisions.

31:27 Scheduled appointment, complications, but ultimately normal results.

37:11 They gave us time, pictures, memory box for Lincoln.

42:34 Seeking and undergoing medical care for miscarriage.

44:11 Dealing with miscarriage and emotional aftermath.

49:11 Struggled with not being able to work out during pregnancy.

58:03 Doulas highly recommended for labor support.

01:02:15 Longing for normalcy and a future baby.

01:07:51 Moms needs specific help and support.

01:13:17 Maintain exercise, nutrition, and seek professional guidance.

01:15:05 Know your body, seek second opinions.

In this episode, Emma Kahle and I explore the intricate connections between our mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Emma shares a bit of her personal story, reflecting on her own challenges with belonging and acceptance, issues we all face deeply rooted in our evolutionary history. Together, we'll unravel the effects of stress on our lives, looking at why it's not enough to simply tack on mindfulness practices to an already overwhelmed day.

We'll also delve into the vital role minerals play in our bodies, especially concerning stress management and fertility. We discuss the power of whole foods, the synergy between nutrients, and the effectiveness of hair tissue mineral analysis.

Dr. Kahle is a certified functional hormone specialist and fertility coach. She helps women struggling with fertility discover and address the root causes of their challenges so they can balance their hormones and get pregnant naturally. She interweaves the science and spirituality of fertility support into a truly holistic approach. In a culture where we are often so disconnected from our bodies, her mission is to invite women into deeper relationship with the brilliance of their bodies and raise awareness about simple and natural ways to support vibrant fertility. She lives with her husband and co-farmers on a small, regenerative farm on Lopez Island in Washington state where she enjoys milking goats and growing nutrient-dense food with her bare feet in the soil.

04:41 Stress impacts health; defined as body's reaction.

07:47 Body adapts to prolonged stress, conserving energy.

12:52 Chronic stress impacts hormone system and fertility.

16:42 Challenging societal norms on body image and fertility.

19:24 Balancing minerals and hormones for menstrual health.

21:36 Zinc helps balance copper and estrogen levels.

25:33 Food quality depends on production and source.

28:20 Optimize fertility and health through micronutrients and gardening.

32:13 Nutrition and stress management tips for health.

36:57 Our brains seek belonging for survival reasons.

38:27 Make small adjustments for resilience, simplify routine.

44:43 Different mineral needs; salt crucial for fertility.

48:49 Healthy diet doesn't mean avoiding salt.

51:52 Mineral test helps fertility and postpartum recovery.

54:40 New guide introduces important fertility-supporting minerals.

WORK WITH EMMA:

Today is BOAM's first-ever GUEST EXPERT! We dove deep with the Registered Nurse and Certified Lactation Counselor Natalie Henning into the often overlooked but crucial early postpartum period (& beyond).

Join us and gain insights into the importance of the first 40 days post-birth, the dynamic and evolving needs of new parents, and how we can better care for ourselves and each other during this extraordinary time of transition. Whether you're a new parent yourself, a partner, or just someone looking to understand more about postpartum life, this episode promises to be enlightening.

09:58 Learning from motherhood: Embracing imperfection and growth.

13:23 Facing challenges but finding positives in life.

18:53 Postpartum phase, infant transition, and parental preparation.

22:06 US postpartum care lacks compared to other cultures.

29:37 Internalized pressure, self-awareness, and seeking support.

34:45 Lay boundaries to guide family support kindly.

38:01 Connecting with others in similar situations is important.

46:16 Balancing baby care and personal time is challenging.

51:35 Mothers' struggle for equal leisure time acknowledged.

57:51 Prepare for childbirth with knowledge and support.

01:02:18 Skin-to-skin contact helps babies relax.

01:05:00 Grateful for permission and understanding motherhood struggles.

Today we dive deep into the transformational journey of motherhood with the radiant Shalin Butterworth, a mom of two, birth & postpartum doula, childbirth educator, and mentor extraordinaire.

Shalin opens up about her two unique birth experiences, the importance of embracing support prenatally and in postpartum, and the enchanting chaos of motherhood. She reminds us it's okay to say "yes" to help (and encourages it!) and shares her personal mantra: Living life with a zealous passion.

In today's episode, 25-year-old Kerynn opens up about the rollercoaster of motherhood, from the initial challenges with breastfeeding and overwhelming early newborn days to her return to the hustle and bustle of work and school just months after giving birth.

Expect to be inspired as we explore the contrasts between Kerynn's two birth experiences, her proactive mental health journey, and how all these elements culminate in the legacy she wants to leave for her children.

**In the episode she mentions her bipolar diagnosis and says "bipolar 1" but it's bipolar 2 disorder as it is stated in the title**

00:00 Guide simplifies postpartum preparation for new parents.

06:07 Deeper understanding of postpartum between pregnancies.

10:15 First pregnancy tough, second worse, but healthy.

12:42 Excited restlessness, labor, coping challenges.

15:46 Self-advocated in tough hospital birth.

19:18 Doula role, patient-centered birth experience, intense labor.

22:49 Becoming a mom brought up unresolved trauma.

27:23 Unintentional contractions, quick birth center birth, no intervention.

30:01 Environment and mindset impact relaxation and surrender.

32:18 Encouraging individual comfort in medical care options.

35:18 Struggling to balance work, school, and motherhood.

37:26 Weaning from breastfeeding impacted mental health, pregnancy.

43:07 Sought therapist independently, found one through database.

46:44 Motherhood: a series of conflicting seasons.

48:42 Hope to be remembered as loving, open.

Kerynn's Resources:

In today's episode, Chelsea Morris shares about her experience of becoming a mama and the subsequent need to advocate for your children. At the time of recording she was pregnant with her second (only a couple weeks out from her due date)!

00:00 Expectant mother shares honest reflections on motherhood.

06:17 Bradley method planned, but ended with c-section.

12:13 Resentful of husband due to feeding challenges.

16:48 Motherhood brings unexpected challenges and exhaustion.

21:53 Shared good overview of pregnancy and postpartum.

27:42 Parental worries heightened by personal experiences, therapy.

33:05 Balancing self-care and communication in marriage.

39:23 Reflection on career, life and parenting impact.

43:18 United States lacks multi-generational living, isolated culture.

49:13 Unfeasible to have second child given circumstances.

54:47 Struggle with weight, hormone imbalance, healthy postpartum.

58:31 Be patient with postpartum body changes.

01:04:07 Postpartum body changes take time to adjust.

01:10:50 Parenthood, motherhood: a need for podcasts.

01:14:40 Use Instagram or Facebook to find me.

I could relate to so much of Chelsea's experience. She is a calming and kind presence, chatting with her was a pure delight and I hope you enjoy the episode!

Chelsea's Resources:

In today's episode, second time mom Katie Wheaton shares her story. She was 8 years postpartum (from the birth of her first) at the time of recording. I was actually her doula and was AT the birth of her second baby, where she got to experience a redemptive and empowering birth. 

She explains how she just woke up feeling like she had to be a mom one day when she was in high school. And how she didn't really have any expectations of what it would truly be like, just that it would make her so happy that it wouldn't really matter. 

She breastfed both her babies for 2 years, despite challenges, and she was such a gem to chat with on the pod! Totally wish we were real-life besties. 

Book a call with me about the the Renewed Mama Program:

In today’s episode I have health coach Amanda Ratkowski on the podcast. She’s a brand new mama to her baby girl living on mini farm land with her husband and their five animals. She shares about how her experience was the polar opposite of what she prepared for. She prepared for a birth center birth but went past 42 weeks and was induced in the hospital, labored for days, and ended up needing a C-section. She still got her midwife care which she speaks to the benefits of throughout. A major theme she shares of is the art of letting things go. Amanda is so laid back and easy to talk to and she shares so openly about many aspects of her motherhood journey thus far. I hope you enjoy her story!

TOPICS AMANDA SHARES:

• Waiting until mid 30s to start a family
• How pregnancy prepares your for motherhood
• Having a birth vision that guides your PP plan
• Personal development and mindset work pre-pregnancy
• Laid out expectations before baby arrives
• Birth experience being the opposite of wishes
• Needing help with literally everything post C-section
• Feeling a wide spectrum of emotions
• Being a do-er but having to actually rest for 6 weeks
• Scar tissue on the cervix
• Shaking with the epidural
• Feeling supported PP in the hospital setting
• Birth vibe preferences honored as much as possible
• Had midwife team in hospital and PP
• Planned for PP support: friends/family cleaned and sent food
• Breastfeeding is hard
• "Go with the flow" mindset
• Everything feeling scary
• Having to work extra hard to be a mom while you're working through your own stuff still
• Pressure to be perfect since your baby is always watching
• Things are gradual
• Wanting to make things special for your family
• Unsure about having more kids

AMANDA'S TIPS + RESOURCES:

• Would plan for safe co-sleeping and a C-section next time

In today's episode, Dawn tells of the birth of her two boys and her experience thereafter. I share her outlook and philosophy on the power of what it means to be a woman and I love how she shares about how motherhood is everything. She goes into some detail of her two birth experiences -- one birth center turned hospital birth with an epidural, and the second a birth center birth that ended up being her dream birth. She has the most kind soul and I felt so inspired by talking with her. She was so prepared for postpartum and naturally possess maternal wisdom. I hope you enjoy her story as much as I did.

TOPICS SHE GOES INTO:

• "Observing" parenting style
• Preparing for PP via prenatal classes
• Realizing how sheltered we (society at large) are from true PP
• Surrendering to the end of pregnancy
• Prepared meals and snack basket
• The reality of needing support (people)
• Hospital + epidural with no tear
• Birth center with tearing and hemorrhage (dream birth)
• Benefits of larger babies
• Body shaking at the end of labor and in early PP
• Feeling the sense of a village in the hospital setting
• Making recovering form birth the #1 priority
• Making a point to shower every day
• Everything is a phase - don't miss it!
• Getting agency back

DAWN'S TIPS & RESOURCES:

Today I have Debra Bauman on the podcast. She shares her very difficult and exhausting experience of having a baby from preconception on. Talking to her was so easygoing; it felt like I was chatting with my sister or a really close friend. She keeps it real by being open and forward about how dark postpartum can get when you’re isolated and alone with a newborn during a pandemic. She goes deep into everything from two years of infertility struggles to how different she would like next time to be, if there ever is a next time. I hope you appreciate how vulnerable she is and enjoy her story as much as I did!

TOPICS SHE COVERS:

• How special her little girl is
• The process her and her husband had to go through to get her
• Induction due to preeclampsia
• Needing monitoring due to thyroid issues
• Having a fear of lack of sleep after baby comes
• Needing stitches after birth and the first PP poop
• How PP reality was so different due to COVID
• No doula, no relatives, just being alone
• 14 weeks paid maternity leave
• Husband back to work after only 2 weeks
• Alone and sleepless with a newborn 24/7
• Pumped breastmilk for over 2 years
• Donated breastmilk to research
• Feeling like you don't know who you are anymore
• Unsure if they want a second child or not

THINGS SHE WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY NEXT TIME:

• Would have all the things she couldn't due to COVID
• Like a baby shower and gender reveal party
• Have visitors and help during early PP
• Work on her own health, get on top of her medications
• Be in therapy more consistently

RESOURCES AND ADVICE:

Talk to your health care team if you feel any bit off, even while pregnant. Mental health is so important.

Exclusive Pumping Resources

In today’s episode I welcomed my long-time bestie, Bouchra Nafi-Krause, to the podcast. You'll feel our natural friendship chemistry throughout but also hear of so many insights into the common and often shared realities of motherhood. From things like feeling like you’ve prepared but realizing otherwise to having extreme worries and fears in postpartum and eventually making peace with things after baby #2. Bouchra is not only my friend but also one of the most selfless people I’ve ever met. She makes an outstanding mama to her two girls, Leena and Layla and gives everything she does 120%, from her family and friendships to her career (and she could use some reminders to REST) ;)

THINGS BOUCHRA SHARES:

• How everything changes in a moment (birth)
• Things get easier but the 'hard' keeps changing
• Thought PP would be easy
• All the things she did to prepare "left her mind" once baby arrived
• Back labor and getting the epidural
• Second degree tear with 1st and 2nd birth
• Extreme relief and exhaustion after 1st birth
• Adventurous/spontaneous heart went away immediately
• Not wanting to leave the hospital
• Definite PPA but not really aware of it as such
• Driving yourself crazy with being perfect about everything
• Being isolated in PP with 1st due to COVID
• Not able to rest (cooking and cleaning all the time)
• Moving with a newborn and moving with a toddler while pregnant
• Feeling like you're not allowed to fail at anything
• Trying to give both work and motherhood 120%
• Able to be more present with 2nd
• Choosing your battles and making peace with decisions
• At almost 6 months PP with 2nd who still doesn't sleep through the night
• Would love a boy but needs a village to be willing to have a 3rd baby
• Coming from a traditional Moroccan family of 6 sisters
• Breastfeeding and formula feeding

BOUCHRA'S TIPS AND RESOURCES:

Join local mom groups on Facebook to make connections

In today's episode I got to chat with Amy about her experience as a triathlete, birth doula, and mom of 5! She's had very positive pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experiences. As much as she loves being postpartum, she also knows that this chapter of having babies is finally closing for her. Talking with Amy was a joy and I hope you enjoy as much as I did!

THINGS AMY SHARES:

• Loved being pregnant all 4 times (first was twins)
• First birth - twin boys born in hospital, induced, medicated
• Second birth - girl born fast and furious in birth center
• Third birth - girl born with same midwife + birth center
• Trained to become a birth doula after 3rd birth
• Fourth birth - girl born at home, most empowering birth
• Owning your own birth experience(s)
• Breastfed all 5 babies
• Breastfeeding got a little easier with each baby
• Donating breastmilk
• Taking time the last couple weeks of pregnancy to enjoy it
• On cloud 9 every time after birth
• Becoming a mom was a dream come true
• Finding yourself again after baby
• Exercising and doing things she enjoys
• Prepping for triathlons is very similar to labor/birth (all mental)
• Feeling sad about being done
• Her heart will never de done but logically, she knows she is
• Would free birth if there were a next time

AMY'S TIPS + RESOURCES:

Today on the podcast I have Lonnie on to share about becoming a new mom to her daughter Harper. She shares about how she would give birth over and over again before going through the fourth trimester, since she had such a smooth birth experience and not so much with PP. I could personally relate to many points in Lonnie’s story and I hope you gain some mama wisdom from listening!

TOPICS LONNIE SHARED:

• Hated being pregnant
• Quick, smooth birth experience
• Got epidural and slept until she pushed baby out in 10 mins
• OB ripped placenta out
• Not happy with PP hospital care
• Partner only had 1 week off for leave
• Challenge of preparing for the emotional aspects of PP
• Felt 'doom' every night the first couple weeks around 7pm
• Baby needed to be held to sleep
• Lack of sleep was a huge impact on mental health
• But it DOES end!
• Babysitter got baby on a sleep schedule
• RSV at 6 months
• Started feeling like a person again around 12-18 months PP
• Going back to work was a really good thing
• Looks forward to having another baby
• Feeling judgement from other moms
• You can't always be the "best mother"

NEXT TIME LONNIE WOULD LIKE:

• A doula
• A lactation consultant (to be more successful with breastfeeding)
• Wearable breast pumps
• Lots of food stashed in the freezer

RESOURCES:

Today on the podcast I chat with Stephanie about her birth and early postpartum experience with her wife and new son Maison. She shares everything from having a fairly positive emergency C-section experience to having to emotionally grieve over her past self after becoming a mom. She even shares about tackling her diabetes with simple nutrition interventions. It was lovely to talk to Stephanie about her transition into motherhood and hear of her optimism and gratitude. I hope you enjoy her uplifting story as much as I did!

TOPICS WE COVER:

• Getting pregnant in a same sex marriage
• Loving being pregnant
• Seeing postpartum being portrayed as "negative" but choosing to ignore it and staying optimistic
• Lots of monitoring due to being high risk (IVF) but enjoying it
• Having gestational diabetes
• What you really don't need on your registry
• Induction turned emergency C-section
• Having the baby blues
• Rough sleep the first 2-3 weeks postpartum
• Living on the 6th floor with a broken elevator!
• Talking with friends and wife helped with grieving past life
• Grandma helping with baby care
• Losing weight with healthy eating postpartum
• Managing diabetes with simple nutrition tactics
• Wanting another baby
• There should be more support for new moms!

STEPHANIE'S INSTAGRAM RESOURCES:

Today on the podcast I chat with Krista, mama to her daughter Willow and psychotherapist that specializes in working with women, especially pre- and postnatally and those who are TTC. She’s also the host of the podcast Conversations on Well-being where she covers everything from wellness and relationships to motherhood and healing. Krista and I had very similar emotional and even physical experiences. She shares things like dealing with burnout while pregnant, waves of antepartum depression (depression before baby arrives), a very long home birth labor, struggles with the newborn phase and breastfeeding, and so much more. This conversation was therapeutic to the both of us and I hope that you can relate in some way to her story.

Topics we cover:

• Getting pregnant without trying while planning a wedding
• Feeling ambivalence
• Nausea and blood sugar issues during pregnancy
• Moving twice, feeling isolated
• Waves of antepartum depression
• Prepping for PP with meals and resources
• No plans for visitors
• 40 hour labor at home
• Exhausted & in shock by the time baby was born
• Breastfeeding became painful very quick
• Feeling dread; not getting sleep
• Tried SNOO basinet which helped greatly with sleep
• Period back at 28 days PP
• PP doula helped with massage, yoni steams, body work
• Going back to work 4 months PP and enjoying it
• Took a while to bond with baby
• Feeling like herself again between 6-12 month
• "Didn't get the buddha baby I ordered" -Krista
• Thinking of a second but many factors going into decision
• Eating to be lean vs. eating to be nourished

KRISTA'S RESOURCES:

Today on the podcast I spoke to Shannon Buhera and learned of her story becoming a mom and how it shifted her whole identity. She shares the birth experiences of her two children, both of which were nothing like what she really prepared for. We talk about everything from her totally loving being pregnant but having an intense fear of blood and hospitals to having a long C-section recovery due to infection and a beautifully unique view on what it means to go through the birthing process.

Some of the topics we cover:

• Planning for baby's care postpartum but not your own
• Intense fear of blood since the age of 6
• Positive induction with first turned C-section
• Traumatic birth: had to wear headphones, was shaking, etc.
• "Birth is something I have to go through to get a child." -Shannon
• Very challenging experience breastfeeding (BF) at first
• Successful with BF for 3 years with first, despite challenges
• Taking 4 months to heal from C-section
• Very supportive husband
• Mom coming to stay and help out
• No PPA/PPD but did struggle mentally with prolonged healing
• Being a teacher for 8 years
• Career change as a new mom
• Becoming a sleep consultant
• Originally wanted 3 kids but changed to 2 due to birth experience
• Stalled at 8 cm with second and needed C-section again
• Tongue trick for shaking during surgery
• Better recovery after second baby

CONNECT WITH SHANNON:

In todays episode I have Kate Blocker on the podcast. She’s mama to an almost 3 year old boy named Miles and a nutrition product co-worker of mine at BODi. Her story and the conversation we have is overflowing with tiny new-mom 'wisdoms' that I know you’re going to love. We talk about everything from planning for postpartum through a focus on fitness and nutrition during pregnancy and what it’s like as a pregnant person and new mom with ADHD coming off medication, to the universal inner 'mean girl' we all have and keeping your therapist throughout your pregnancy and postpartum (and SO much more)!

Some of the great topics we cover:

• Pregnancy brain with ADHD
• Coming off medication during pregnancy & staying off
• Eating healthy and exercising for birth and PP health
• Delivering in hospital during peak COVID
• Pressure to breastfeed
• Baby that cannot be put down
• No sleep first two weeks PP
• Accepting help
• Keeping your therapist
• Not knowing who you are after baby
• Journaling / voice memos / exercise for mental health
• Finding in person (or virtual) 'Mommy & Me' groups
• Finding other free support groups and resources
• Feeling like you need to prove your worth at work
• Pressure to be over-productive
• Creating a postpartum schedule for next time

KATE'S RESOURCES/TIPS:

In this episode I have Nicole on the podcast to share the story of the birth of her daughter Ava, and the birth of herself as a naturally anxious female with ADHD. This free flowing convo was fun to have and sheds light on many important and sometimes concerning things that commonly happen in motherhood (but that, surprise, are rarely talked about).

Some of the awesome topics we cover:

So sad about the awful audio in this episode (mostly on my end) because it's SUCH a great conversation full of relatable nuggets. In this convo, single mama, birth doula, and future midwife Chloe Girot shares so authentically about her unconventional transition into motherhood after the birth of her son, Jack. Every minute of this chat was pure gold and so much of what she shares resonates with me and my own experience with motherhood. Chloe's dream for adequate, universal postpartum support is one she and I both share and I so badly wish someday it will come to fruition.

TOPICS CHLOE SHARES:

• Birth center plans change
• Prenatal hypertension
• 10 minutes of pushing
• Single mama, birth doula, & future midwife perspective
• Tongue ties & oversupply
• Breastfeeding into 3rd year
• Intense pelvic pain that affects mobility
• Driving cross-country for support
• Normalizing needing a break
• Involving your partner in the process
• What you should be asking for on your registry
• Baby Shower vs. Blessingway

and so much more...

WHERE TO CONNECT WITH CHLOE:

Better Together Birth Workers

In this episode I have a very special guest on the podcast (listen and you'll find out who she is)! We chat about her beautiful home birth experience brining her son Ezekiell into the world and the intense environmental circumstances they were succumbed to just days after. They got through it all and she's come out the 'other side' always remaining full of hope despite the obstacles - and there will ALWAYS be obstacles. Her story is emotionally charged yet light and our conversation was purely natural (naturally ;))

Some of the topics Alexis' shares:

NOT preparing for PP

Home birth with a midwife, doula, friends, and family

Evacuation of her home due to an emergency 6 days PP

Passing baby off to dad to get sleep

Being trapped inside for weeks

Feeling isolated even with ample support

Adjusting to less sleep/a new sleep "normal"

and SO much more!!

ALEXIS' RESOURCE:

In this episode, I have such an easy and open conversation with Audrina about the quick birth of her daughter Ava and all the ups and downs thereafter. I love how Audrina brings up the trade-off moments of motherhood, from the really difficult moments to the ones that make it all worth it.

Some of the wonderful topics we touch on:

Fetal ejection relfex

Overnight help

Jaundice

Bottle preference over breast with over supply

Releasing guilt and telling yourself "it's ok"

Sleep training

Formula use

How to help visitors/guests help YOU

Getting outside

AUDRINA'S RESOURCES:

Great book for you & your partner to prepare

In this episode, I have a deeply emotional and moving conversation with Megan, military mom of three kids, Audrey, Bradley, and Colby. She shares about all of her births in poetic detail: a super quick induction with epidural and two drastically different C-sections. We discuss everything from needing a flexible mindset and how that first newborn cry is magic, to the overwhelm of new motherhood and how you HAVE to advocate for yourself and what you need, not only with support from friends and family but from your health care team.

All the important topics we touch on:

Entering motherhood knowing nothing about babies

Inductions and elected C-sections (and how she felt after)

Emotional pain and guilt with breastfeeding

Severe postpartum depression (PPD)

Rare and lethal maternal complication (intracranial hypertension)

Amazing neighbors that created a meal train

Asking for help

Fully stepping into motherhood and owning her power

and SO much more!!

MEGAN'S RESOURCES:

In the very first episode of BOAM, I talk with first time mom Nicole about her experience with the birth of her son Callum, and the scary realities of her life immediately postpartum. We touch on so many important things:

Preeclampsia

Postnatal hypertension

Mom guilt

Breastfeeding / pumping difficulties

Anxiety

Appointments for baby right after birth

Inadequate care for mama postpartum

Dinner table visualization and future children 

And SO much more!