Dr. Nicole Rankins, an OB-GYN, discusses the importance of education and advocacy in pregnancy and birth. She emphasizes the need for women to be well-supported, respected, and empowered during their birth experiences. Dr. Rankins provides information and resources to help women make informed decisions based on their unique circumstances. She also addresses the issue of racism in the birth space and encourages individuals to start conversations and challenge stereotypes. The conversation highlights the significance of maternal health and the need for support and resources during the postpartum period.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction: Empowering Women in Pregnancy and Birth 03:39 The Importance of Education and Advocacy in Birth 08:38 Addressing Racism in the Birth Space 14:22 The Rising C-Section Rate and its Impact on Birth Plans 17:01 Pushing and Advocacy during Labor 20:01 Tools and Maneuvers to Help Progress in Labor 24:31 Lotus Birth and Placenta Encapsulation 26:36 Pros and Cons of Placenta Encapsulation 30:28 Racism, Maternal Health, and Postpartum Support

RESOURCES All About Birth Podcast

In this conversation, Anj Lineback, a licensed clinical social worker, discusses navigating the postpartum period. She explains that perinatal mental health issues can occur during pregnancy and up to two years postpartum. She highlights the importance of recognizing the difference between baby blues and more serious conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety. Anj provides coping strategies such as getting enough sleep, seeking support from others, and engaging in self-care activities. She also emphasizes the need to reach out to healthcare professionals and utilize resources like support groups and therapy. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of medication when necessary and the role of community in the postpartum journey.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Postpartum Period 02:25 Understanding Perinatal Mental Health 04:07 Differentiating Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression/Anxiety 09:31 Coping Strategies: Sleep, Support, and Self-Care 14:59 Seeking Help: Healthcare Professionals and Resources 20:29 Medication and Mental Well-being in the Postpartum Journey 25:29 The Importance of Community in the Postpartum Experience

RESOURCES Mix-hers Drink Supplement PSI - International Babies Are Not Pizzas "Knowledge is power, and in the context of childbirth, it can be the difference between a positive birth experience and one that leaves scars." Health & Human Development Sunshine Acronym Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding - Ina May "Oxytocin has been called the 'hormone of calm, love, and healing' because of the kinds of feelings it causes in the mother and the interactions with her baby that often trigger its release."

Patty Peterson from Fit 4 Mom shares her journey and the mission of Fit 4 Mom, which offers fitness classes for all stages of motherhood. The community aspect of Fit 4 Mom is emphasized, providing a support system for moms who may feel isolated or alone. Patty discusses the mental health benefits of fitness and the importance of movement during pregnancy. She encourages moms to find a hobby or activity that brings them joy and to prioritize self-care. Building a village and asking for help are also highlighted as important aspects of preparing for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Patty's Journey 03:27 The Community Aspect of Fit 4 Mom 07:29 The Importance of Communication and Self-Understanding 09:12 The Mental Health Benefits of Fitness 13:03 The Impact of Fitness on Mental Health 15:51 Fitness During Pregnancy 18:45 The Importance of Movement During Pregnancy 23:58 Building a Village and Asking for Help

Amanda Horvath shares her journey of transformation through motherhood and how it has impacted her business and personal life. She discusses the challenges and adjustments she faced, including changes in her identity, energy management, and the impact of motherhood on her business. Amanda also talks about the concept of human design and how it can help parents understand their children's energy and behaviors. She shares tips on capturing and documenting the journey of motherhood through videos and photos. Finally, Amanda discusses her birth experience, including hypnobirthing, C-section, and her plans for future pregnancies.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Amanda Horvath's Background 03:09 The Transformative Power of Motherhood 09:21 Understanding Your Child's Energy: The Role of Human Design 18:12 Capturing the Journey: Tips for Documenting Motherhood 28:38 Navigating Birth: Hypnobirthing, C-sections, and Planning for the Future

RESOURCES Mama Natural Birthing Comb Create Anyway -the joy of pursuing creativity in the margins of motherhood - Ashlee Gadd "Your creative work matters, even if it’s done in the margins of motherhood. Motherhood can be the catalyst that refines and hones your creative passions."

In this episode, Laurel Bandy discusses the importance of maternity leave and how to prepare for balancing motherhood and career. She highlights the lack of federal paid leave in the United States and the varying policies of employers and states. Laurel provides advice on preparing for maternity leave, including researching state and employer programs, communicating with HR, and planning for childcare. She also discusses the options for returning to work after maternity leave, such as phased returns, flexible work hours, job sharing, and teleworking. Laurel emphasizes the need for paid family leave and the impact of maternity leave on the wage gap.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background of Maternity Leave 06:35 Preparing for Maternity Leave: Researching Programs and Planning for Childcare 13:41 Returning to Work After Maternity Leave: Phased Returns and Flexible Work Arrangements 26:55 Childcare Options and Considerations 32:25 Recommended Resources: Ina May Gaskin's Books

RESOURCES Your Baby, Your Child - Penelope Ina May's Guide to Childbirth Links from Laurel: https://bipartisanpolicy.org/explainer/state-paid-family-leave-laws-across-the-u-s/

https://www.eeoc.gov/pregnancy-discrimination

https://www.dol.gov/agencies/oasam/civil-rights-center/internal/policies/pregnancy-discrimination

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/your-baby-and-child-9780241562659

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/ina-mays-guide-to-childbirth-9780091924157

In this episode, Reva Cook, a clinical social worker, discusses postpartum depression and anxiety and provides tips on how to cope with these mental health issues. She explains that postpartum mental health illnesses are common, affecting about 25% of women who experience pregnancy. Reva emphasizes the importance of being aware of the risk factors and protective factors for postpartum mental health issues. She suggests building a strong support system, addressing past trauma, and practicing good mental health coping strategies. Reva also discusses the different ways postpartum mental health issues can manifest, such as postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. She provides practical tools for managing anxiety and stress in the moment, including deep breathing, sensory activities, and humor. Reva also discusses the role of sleep, supplements, and medication in supporting postpartum mental health. She recommends resources such as the book 'Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts' by Karen Kleinman and emphasizes the importance of individualized parenting and finding what works best for each family.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background of Reva Cook 03:09 Preparing for Postpartum Mental Health Issues 05:45 Different Manifestations of Postpartum Mental Health Issues 08:46 Postpartum Psychosis and Emergency Response 10:58 Impact of Anxiety on Daily Life and Lactation 13:49 Managing Mom Rage and Irritability 22:27 Lowering Cortisol Levels and Increasing Serotonin 25:22 Recommended Resources and Books 33:59 Finding Outside Help for Postpartum Mental Health 37:10 Importance of Sleep and Individualized Parenting 40:32 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

RESOURCES One of the critical elements to recovery is Sleep Baby Wise - Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam Book Quote - “Teaching your baby to sleep independently is one of the most loving and beneficial gifts you can give. When your baby sleeps well, the entire family benefits. A well-rested baby contributes to a more peaceful and balanced home life.” YOU HAVE TO BECOME THE SLEEP WHISPERER Book- Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts - Karen Kleiman 90 Seconds to the Life You'll Love - Joan Rosenberg “By staying present with your emotional discomfort, you build resilience and the confidence to face future challenges.”

Julia Jeffrey, a doula and newborn care specialist, shares her journey into newborn care and the importance of sleep for babies. She emphasizes the need for creating a perfect sleep environment, establishing routines, and understanding wake windows. Julia also discusses the importance of trust in the parent-child relationship and the developmental milestones that babies go through. She advises against excessive screen time and encourages parents to set limits and create realistic expectations.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Julia Jeffrey 02:43 Passion for Postpartum Doula Work 03:12 Creating a Perfect Sleep Environment 11:46 Understanding Wake Windows 32:57 Feeding and Mixing Breast Milk and Formula 41:08 Limiting Screen Time and Setting Expectations

RESOURCES AfterEase for postpartum cramps Why We Sleep

The Fringe Hours by Jessica Turner “Time is a gift, and how we choose to use it reflects what we value. Reclaim your fringe hours and fill them with what brings you joy and fulfillment.”

In this conversation, Mary Wood, a professional organizer, shares tips on managing kid clutter and organizing baby gear. She emphasizes the importance of not buying unnecessary items and only getting the essentials. Mary suggests creating a structure and designated spaces for items in the home, using labels and picture labels for young children. She also discusses strategies for maintaining organization, such as using baskets for quick clean-ups and involving the whole family in the process. Mary highlights the emotional attachment to items and the need to let go of things that are no longer needed. She also talks about the benefits of nature and the connection between organization and the beauty of natural structures.

CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:38 Managing Kid Clutter 04:27 Organizing Baby Gear 07:55 Involving the Whole Family in Organization 11:37 Letting Go of Unnecessary Items 25:39 Quick Clean-Ups and Containing Clutter 29:17 Finding Inspiration in Nature

RESOURCES Decluttering at the Speed of Life Decluttering Workbook Decluttering Journal Simplicity Parenting Book Quote - “As you simplify your life, you will find that the everyday activities of family life present opportunities for greater connection, meaning, and joy.” Diaper Caddy Osprey Lightweight Child Carrier Backpack Regalo High Chair Bumbo Baby Infant Soft Foam Wide Floor Seat The Whole Package Organizing - https://thewholepackageorganizing.com/

Mary's Favorite Children's Books: