Send us a Text Message.

Are you considering co-sleeping but concerned about the potential risks and stigma associated with it?

In this episode, we get into the often controversial topic of co-sleeping with expert Ashley Cooley of Birth Baby Sleep. Together, we aim to provide comprehensive and evidence-based information to help parents make informed decisions, all while challenging the taboo surrounding this parenting choice.

Conversations about co-sleeping are often swept under the rug due to its taboo nature, but many parents end up co-sleeping out of sheer exhaustion. Our goal is to disseminate valuable information, ensuring safer spaces for both parents and babies if they choose this route.

We discuss recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Canadian Pediatric Society (CPS), both of which advocate for infants to sleep on their backs on a firm mattress in their own environment. Ashley and I emphasize that while these organizations strongly discourage bed-sharing, reality often diverges from these guidelines. Many parents, especially breastfeeding mothers, fall asleep with their babies, sometimes in unsafe conditions. We also talk about some practical tips to make it safer.

Ashley Cooley’s insights offer a balanced, non-judgmental perspective on the nuances of co-sleeping. The goal of this episode is not to promote or dissuade parents from co-sleeping but to provide them with the tools and knowledge to make informed choices and create the safest sleep environment possible.

We hope this conversation removes some of the stigma and shame parents might feel about co-sleeping. Remember, parenting is a journey filled with diverse experiences, and informed decisions can make this journey a bit smoother.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 06:20 Ashley Cooley's Journey into Sleep Consulting
• 10:37 Co-Sleeping Recommendations and Realities
• 16:08 Creating a Safe Co-Sleeping Environment
• 19:37 Practical Tips for Safe Co-Sleeping
• 24:33 Preventing Gaps Between Mattress and Wall
• 25:09 Risks of Co-Sleeping with Preterm Babies
• 28:55 Addressing Shame and Embarrassment
• 29:23 Clarifying Co-Sleeping Misconceptions
• 33:48 Smoking and Co-Sleeping Risks
• 36:47 Importance of Back Sleeping
• 40:09 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Parents

Connect with Ashley

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birth_baby_sleep
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birthbabysleep
• www.birthbabysleep.ca
• Bringing Up Baby Podcast: https://bringingupbaby.buzzsprout.com/
• Perinatal Support Network: https://birth-baby-sleep.mn.co/share/Jo2rICwGd4Gm1i4X?utm_source=manual

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

Send us a Text Message.

Are you a new dad feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for support?

Today, we’re diving into the inspiring story of Tyler Kort and his creation, Fathercy, a business and social media platform designed to support dads. Tyler's initiative aims to encourage, equip, and educate fathers as they navigate the complex journey of parenting.

Tyler’s journey into fatherhood began with his daughter and is now expanding with a soon-to-arrive son. His experiences led him to create Fathercy, a resource that offers valuable tools and a supportive community for dads everywhere.

Tyler shared the poignant moment when his wife’s birth plan changed unexpectedly due to his daughter being in a breech position, necessitating a C-section. This sudden twist pushed Tyler into a more active role in the birthing process, from undergoing the excitement of labor to managing the realities of a C-section recovery. He emphasized the importance of having a doula for support, not just for his wife but also for himself as he navigated these unfamiliar waters.

Postpartum challenges are often discussed concerning mothers, but Tyler opened up about his own struggles as a new dad. He discussed the emotional toll of feeling overwhelmed and questioning his capabilities. Initially, Tyler, like many fathers, chose to suffer in silence rather than burden his already recovering wife.

Are you a dad in need of support and community? Visit Fathercy for tools, inspiration, and to connect with a community of fathers undergoing the same journey.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 05:24 The Birth Experience: Challenges and Emotions
• 08:02 Postpartum Realities and Support
• 13:40 The Emotional Struggles of New Dads
• 17:29 Redefining Good Parenting
• 21:58 The Father C Challenge: 28 Days to Recenter
• 23:27 The Benefits of Cold Showers and Mental Fortitude
• 28:27 Words of Wisdom for Expecting and New Dads
• 32:55 Encouraging, Equipping, and Educating Fathers

Connect with Tyler

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fathercy_
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fathercy_
• www.fathercy.com
• https://amzn.to/3y0eHN6

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

Send us a Text Message.

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to undergo IVF, not just physically but mentally and emotionally?*

Welcome to part two of Vanessa Nasrallah's IVF journey. While Vanessa had previously shared the physical challenges of IVF in last week’s episode, this episode delves deeper into the emotional and psychological toll of the process.

In our heartfelt conversation, Vanessa discusses the unseen and often unspoken emotional load of IVF, the differences between her two experiences, and how she and her husband, Peter, navigated through these trials.

Reflecting on her experiences, Vanessa emphasizes that her journey through IVF and early motherhood was not just about the physical aspects but also about dealing with unresolved trauma and grief. The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues along the way.

Vanessa's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, resilience, and seeking help. It's a reminder that while the road of IVF and parenthood can be filled with challenges, sharing our journeys can make those paths a bit easier to navigate.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:19 The Emotional Aftermath of IVF and Bringing Baby Home
• 03:26 Vanessa's Personal Mental Health Journey
• 06:21 Struggles with Postpartum Anxiety and Seeking Help
• 12:24 The Importance of Therapy and Support
• 18:40 Reflecting on Trauma and the Journey Ahead
• 21:42 Seeking Therapy for Infertility
• 23:53 Deciding to Have Another Baby
• 25:37 Navigating the Second IVF Journey
• 27:04 The Emotional Rollercoaster of IVF
• 33:58 Words of Wisdom for IVF Couples

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

Send us a Text Message.

Are you or someone you know on the IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) journey? It can be lonely, but you're not alone.

Infertility is a challenge faced by many, and hearing personal stories can provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of community. In today's episode, we get into Vanessa Nasrallah’s IVF journey, exploring the physical, emotional, and financial aspects she and her husband encountered along the way.

Last year, the World Health Organization reported that worldwide, one in six people experience some form of infertility during their lifetime. Vanessa’s willingness to share her story aims to normalize the IVF process and offer hope to others just starting their own journeys. Vanessa and Peter live in Nova Scotia, Canada, with their son and are expecting their second child later this year.

We talk about the complexities and emotional challenges of IVF, highlighting the importance of sharing honest experiences. Vanessa describes the hormonal preparations leading up to IVF, including intense birth control regimens to stabilize hormone levels. The process was physically and emotionally overwhelming, requiring daily bloodwork and ultrasounds.

For those starting or in the midst of their IVF journey, Vanessa’s experience offers insights, reassurance, and a sense of community. Her journey exemplifies the complexities of IVF—from the physical intricacies to the emotional rollercoaster. Her courage in sharing her story provides valuable support to others navigating this challenging path. If you or someone you know is on a similar journey, remember that you're not alone.

Reach out, ask questions, and seek the support of others who have walked this path. Vanessa's story reminds us of the power of community and openness in overcoming infertility challenges.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:53 Vanessa's Early Fertility Journey
• 04:56 Initial Fertility Testing
• 06:05 Navigating the Healthcare System
• 11:01 Peter's Fertility Testing
• 18:10 Consultation with Fertility Specialist
• 21:16 Financial and Emotional Challenges
• 27:21 Understanding the Hormonal Process
• 28:42 Dealing with Partner Dynamics
• 32:36 Egg Retrieval Experience
• 35:26 Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy Confirmation
• 42:56 Pregnancy Journey and Anxieties

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

Send us a Text Message.

In today's episode, we dive deep into aware parenting with María of Mama Maria Coaching. María, a psychologist and certified aware parenting coach, brings a wealth of knowledge to parents looking to navigate the challenging yet rewarding journey of parenthood. From her multicultural blended family in Amsterdam, Maria offers insights and practical advice to parents worldwide.

After accepting her own role in her daughter's struggles, Maria embarked on a year-long program with an aware parenting coach, Chris Muller. She learned to feel and process her own emotions and teach her daughter to do the same. Maria shares how these experiences paved the way for her work as an aware parenting instructor.

Maria developed her own framework called SMART, which stands for:

- Self-development and Self-care

- Money

- Aware Parenting

- Relationships

- Time

Each pillar addresses critical aspects of both parenthood and personal growth. The SMART approach provides practical tools and guidance for creating a more serene and balanced family life.

Highlighting the first 1000 days of a child's life, Maria emphasizes how crucial these formative years are for brain development and emotional growth. Studies like the ACE Study show that early adverse experiences often lead to trauma, which impacts individuals throughout their lives. Maria's framework incorporates this understanding to help parents nurture healthier relationships with their children.

Maria's insights and the SMART framework offer a comprehensive approach to parenting that emphasizes self-awareness, practical tools, and emotional connection. By addressing our own needs and creating a nurturing environment, we can foster healthier relationships with our children and navigate the challenges of parenthood with greater ease.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:27 Maria's Personal Journey to Aware Parenting
• 04:25 The Turning Point: A Mother's Awakening
• 08:42 The Path to Becoming Mama Maria
• 13:37 The SMART Approach to Parenting
• 14:23 Understanding the Importance of Early Childhood
• 15:47 The Challenges and Realities of Parenting
• 18:37 The SMART Framework Explained
• 26:44 The Importance of Early Attachment and Security
• 27:06 Self-Care and Parental Behavior
• 28:53 Understanding Parental Blind Spots
• 31:11 The Role of Compassion in Parenting
• 36:39 The Power of Play in Child Development
• 43:34 Advice for Expecting and New Parents
• 47:22 Resources and Support for Parents
• 49:14 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Blog page: https://www.mamamariacoach.com/blog
• Freebie - 50 Tips for SMART Parenting & Making Your Parenting Life Easier: https://www.mamamariacoach.com/newsletter
• MamaMagazine - María: Todos los caminos conducen a la infancia: https://www.mamagazine.es/maria-bordallo-todos-los-caminos-conducen-a-la-infancia/

Connect with María

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamamariacoach
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mamamariacoach
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mamamariacoach
• https://www.mamamariacoach.com/

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/

Send us a Text Message.

Every new mom’s journey with their newborn is different, but in some ways, we encounter similar challenges, yet often feel alone. In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Gwyneth Fountain, a 22 year old first-time mom to a beautiful baby boy. She shares her experiences of the initial four weeks postpartum, and we cover everything from unmet expectations to coping mechanisms.

One of the central themes of the conversation is the disparity between expectations and reality. Gwyneth shares that her newborn son was a hefty 10 pounds, five ounces at birth, which brought its own set of challenges and surprises.

The conversation turns to the physical and mental challenges Gwyneth faced during the final weeks of her pregnancy. She candidly discusses the pelvic pain, back pain, and the mental toll of the prolonged waiting period. Gwyneth also addresses the relentless and often overwhelming external reminders from loved ones and acquaintances about her overdue pregnancy.

Gwyneth opens up about her initial struggles with breastfeeding, including a traumatic start that required the use of a nipple shield. She describes the conflicting advice she received from different healthcare professionals and the emotional toll it took on her. Cindy reinforces the importance of patience and persistence, offering practical advice for overcoming breastfeeding challenges.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:08 Expectations vs. Reality of Postpartum
• 04:32 Gwyneth's Birth Story
• 06:10 Dealing with Overdue Pregnancy
• 09:22 Coping Mechanisms and Support
• 15:43 Navigating Negative Birth Stories
• 23:27 Navigating Early Parenting Challenges
• 24:04 Breastfeeding Struggles and Solutions
• 26:40 The Emotional Rollercoaster of New Motherhood
• 35:17 Practical Tips for Postpartum Self-Care
• 36:57 Balancing Personal Needs with Baby's Care
• 41:03 Embracing the Journey of Parenthood
• 43:51 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with Gwyneth

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwynethfountain
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gwynethfountain

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

Send us a Text Message.

Bringing a baby into a household that already has a dog can be both joyful and challenging. How do you ensure that your beloved pet adapts well to this significant change? In this episode, I’m joined by Dominika Knossalla-Pado, a certified dog trainer and founder of Dog Meets Baby, to discuss tips and insights for introducing a newborn to a household with a dog.

Dominika is a Certified Dog Trainer and the founder of Dog Meets Baby. She lives in beautiful San Francisco with her 8-year-old twins and a yellow Labrador Retriever named Lola.

Dominika graduated with honors from the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers (called the Harvard of Dog Training).

Lola’s predatory reaction to her newborn twins was one of the main reasons why she started Dog Meets Baby. Dominika is passionate about helping parents of young children and dogs (like herself) who want real tips and solutions to keep everyone safe. She wants parents to have an action plan when they bring their baby home and know what to do when their baby becomes mobile.

Dominika shares various techniques and tools to prepare your dog for a new baby. One of the most crucial elements is to practice with a doll or a baby-like object. By simulating the presence of a newborn, dogs can get used to the new addition. Dominika also emphasizes the importance of familiarizing dogs with newborn sounds, such as crying and grunting, which are available for free on her website.

Dominika Knossalla-Pado’s insights provide valuable guidance for anyone preparing to introduce a new baby into a household with a dog. By planning ahead, using practical training techniques, and recognizing the signs of distress in your dog, you can create a harmonious environment for both your baby and your pet.

Bringing a baby home is a significant change for everyone in the household, including your dog. With the right preparation and guidance, it can be a smooth transition that ensures the safety and well-being of your entire family.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:03 Dominika's Personal Story
• 03:55 Challenges with Lola the Labrador
• 06:13 Starting Dog Meets Baby
• 14:48 Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby
• 21:46 Introduction to Free and Paid Resources
• 22:38 Training Techniques and Tools
• 23:15 Handling Baby Sounds and Dog Reactions
• 25:04 First Meeting and Planning
• 25:55 Addressing Reactive Dog Behaviors
• 28:11 Importance of Consistency and Professional Help
• 32:22 Recognizing Red Flags and Seeking Guidance
• 38:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Pre-baby courses - https://bit.ly/3ITH2al
• Mobile Baby courses - https://bit.ly/3IZjTTI
• Dog Body Language Course - https://bit.ly/3TTwmPc
• Blog - https://bit.ly/3VyPjYL
• Free Toddlers & Dogs Guide - https://bit.ly/4av6eQ7
• Free Preparation Checklist - https://bit.ly/3PGeSn1
• Free Baby Sounds Library - https://bit.ly/4ctxvEi

Connect with Dominika

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogmeets_baby
• Pinterest: pinterest.com/DogMeetsBaby
• www.dogmeetsbaby.expert

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/

Send us a Text Message.

Are you a parent struggling with your child's sleep patterns and wondering how sleep training could help? Rebecca Mendoza, a certified child sleep consultant, shares her wisdom on the journey to better sleep for your little ones in this week’s episode.

Timing is crucial when it comes to sleep training. Most sleep consultants recommend starting no earlier than four months, with many preferring to begin at five or six months. Babies should be developmentally ready to understand the connection between their actions and responses, which typically occurs around five months. Premature babies may require adjusted timing based on their development.

Parents need to consider their comfort levels and involvement. More involved methods, where parents stay in the room, can be gentler but tougher. Less involved methods, such as the Ferber method or sleep wave method, involve checking at intervals but not soothing the baby back to sleep immediately. Remember, consistency is key. By allowing your baby to practice self-soothing with decreasing parental intervention, they will eventually learn to fall back asleep on their own.

Having seen, first-hand, with her own children, the enormous benefits that come from making sleep a priority, the seed of Rebecca's career in sleep consulting was planted. As she transitioned out of a 25-year dance career, Rebecca dove into the formal study of sleep science, studying Sleep Physiology with Dr. Richard Horner at the University of Toronto. She continued her studies with The Family Sleep Institute and became a certified child sleep consultant. As a knowledgeable and compassionate consultant, Rebecca gives families the tools and confidence to succeed.

By following a consistent method, understanding your child's cues, and being patient, you can successfully navigate sleep training and help your child—and yourself—enjoy better, more restful nights.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 04:20 Rebecca's Personal Journey with Sleep Training
• 09:33 The Importance of Timing in Sleep Training
• 14:12 Creating the Right Sleep Environment
• 19:26 Methods and Approaches to Sleep Training
• 24:48 Helping Babies Self-Soothe, Consistency in Sleep Training
• 26:49 Parental Intuition and Decision Making
• 27:57 Challenges and Emotional Struggles
• 29:05 Expected Sleep Training Timeline
• 34:09 Feeding During Sleep Training
• 40:08 Final Tips and Encouragement

Connect with Rebecca

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/RebeccaMendozaSleep
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccamendozasleep/
• www.rebeccamendozasleep.com

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/