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
Wednesday Jul 24, 2024
Wednesday Jul 24, 2024
Have you made a birth plan? Have you heard in the whispers of the internet that they are bad luck? Or that nurses won't respect them? Today HeHe is joined by Nurse Sydney to clear up the confusion around birth plans! Sydney is sharing how birth plans can benefit your care team, what you want to consider when making a birth plan and what goes through a nurse's head when they are handed a birth plan! The is a must-listen for anyone who is planning a hospital birth and wants to prioritize open communication with your medical team to achieve the best birth possible!
Connect with Nurse Sydney on IG
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!
Friday Jul 19, 2024
Friday Jul 19, 2024
HeHe is joined by Jen Darwin to talk about reimagining postpartum in the US! As a former Labor & Delivery RN and now a doula, Jen is no stranger to the disparities that happen in postpartum support for moms-- the lack of 'the village,' the single six-week check up and no paid maternity care. Overall, the United States spends the most money in the world on healthcare per person. However, in regard to maternal outcomes, we typically rank last when compared to other wealthy nations. Today, Jen shares about her postnatal retreat center nestled in San Francisco and provides full-service, round the clock postpartum care for new parents! The retreat center is a comfortable, relaxing place where you, your partner and baby can get the support you need to get off to a healthy start. Meals are prepared for you, dishes are done for you, staff makes your bed, and washing bottles and pumping parts! Their King Studio and King Suites are customized for postpartum recovery and come equipped with heated bidet toilets, rainfall shower heads, and comfortable King Size beds. Whether it’s your first child or your fifth, a “village” of support can offer the resources you need.
INSTAGRAM:
Connect with The Village on IG
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:
**Receive $200 Spa Credit and $100 off your total stay when you mention The Birth Lounge Podcast
Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
Wednesday Jul 17, 2024
Join HeHe and Tyler Bradshaw from Aqua Tots as they dive deep into the crucial topic of water safety for children. This episode covers alarming drowning statistics, the importance of swim lessons from as young as four months, and practical advice for preventing drowning incidents. Tyler shares expert insights on floatation devices, the role of water watchers, appropriate bath suit colors, and safe pool practices for homes and communities. This is an essential episode for all parents and caregivers to keep their kids safe around water in all settings year round.
The Importance of Water Safety
Drowning Statistics and Prevention
Understanding Different Types of Drowning
The Role of Swim Lessons
Common Places for Drowning
Dry Drowning Explained
The Dangers of Distractions
Water Wings and Flotation Devices
Tips for Parents with Multiple Children at the Pool
Home Pool Safety
Ensuring Pool Safety: Skimmer Baskets and Barriers
Water Safety Analogies: Highway and Pool
The Importance of Swim Lessons for Children
Starting Swim Lessons Early: Building Muscle Memory
Overcoming Fear of Water in Young Children
Swim Lesson Levels: From Babies to Competent Swimmers
Swim Lesson Curriculum: Skills and Progression
Choosing the Right Swimwear for Safety
Guest Bio:
Tyler, owner of Aqua-Tots Swim School Norwood is passionate about childhood water safety! Aqua-Tots was founded in 1991 and headquartered in the Phoenix area, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools is making waves as the largest international provider of year-round, indoor swim instruction, community outreach and drowning prevention education. Its trusted program is dedicated to children of all abilities from four months to 12 years old and features a proven curriculum used to teach more than five million swim lessons each year. Aqua-Tots is recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top 100 Franchises for Women in 2024, Entrepreneur's Top 15 Children’s Franchises of 2023, Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, Inc. Magazine's Top 5000 and Franchise Times’ Top 200. Aqua-Tots has more than 150 locations in 25 states across 14 countries and is rapidly expanding with 90 locations in development.
Social Media:
Connect with HeHe on 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:
Connect with Tyler at Norwood Aqua-Tots here!
Key words:
Water Safety, Drowning Prevention, Kids Swim Lessons, Swimming Tips for Parents, Water Safety Tips, Child Swim Lessons, Summer Safety Tips, Pool Safety Tips, Accident Prevention, Water Safety Month, Child Safety
Friday Jul 12, 2024
Friday Jul 12, 2024
Join HeHe in an inspiring conversation with Raquel as she shares her incredible journey from multiple cesarean sections to achieving a successful vaginal birth after three cesareans (VBA3C) in a home setting. Raquel discusses the importance of taking control of birth decisions, questioning standard practices, and finding the confidence to push back against a system that often prioritizes medical convenience over individual empowerment. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of birthing with autonomy and the transformative power it holds for mothers. Don't miss this pivotal episode filled with personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice for expecting mothers and birth advocates.
- Raquel's First Birth Experience
- Navigating VBAC Challenges
- Meeting Dr. Stuart Fishbein
- Preparing for the Fourth Birth
- Labor and Delivery at Home
- Unexpected Sensations and Initial Fears
- Support and Reassurance from the Doula
- Smooth Sailing and Birth Experience
- Challenges and Emotional Disconnect
- Reflecting on Birth Choices and Statistics
- Empowerment and Advocacy in Birth
- Advice for Expectant Mothers from Racquel
Guest Bio:
Raquel is a mother of four, ages 2, 5, 18, and 20. Together with her husband, she raises her family in Southern California. Raquel has a regular 9-5, but her superhero self works doing her soul work into the night supporting Goddess Blyss and Dr. Stu with the Birthing Instincts Podcast. In 2021 Dr. Stu supported Raquel’s 4th pregnancy, a breech HBA3C. It was life changing and has been a dream come true to be able to work along side him and especially Goddess Blyss in birth work, and spreading awareness to birth choices and the beauty of birth. Raquel is now a birth doula and teaches birth education classes with her husband.
Social Media:
Connect with HeHe on 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!
Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
Wednesday Jul 10, 2024
HeHe is joined with Kayleigh Summers, or The Birth Trauma Mama, to discuss a rare but serious pregnancy complication known as Amniotic Fluid Embolism. This episode dives into what causes AFE, the signs & symptoms plus what Kayleigh's healing process looked like after her experience. You will also hear questions and discussions to have with your provider if you have risk factors that increase your chances of experiencing AFE or if you're curious how your hospital would manage an event such as AFE in your birth. This episode mentions birth trauma, maternal death and fetal demise so please be kind with yourself and listen when you're in a safe space to consume this kind of content.
Guest Bio:
Kayleigh Summers is an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor who shares her birth story as a way to be a space that women that safety learn about & heal from birth trauma. Some of you may follow her on social media where she is known as the birth trauma mama. Kayleigh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owns a private practice where she educates and supports those who have experienced perinatal trauma! She also has a podcast called the birth trauma mama podcast and she hosts small groups for people who are looking for birth trauma support!
CONNECT WITH KAYLEIGH
CONNECT WITH HEHE
LINKS MENTIONED:
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/amniotic-fluid-embolism
https://obgconnect.com/library/2020/01/31/amniotic-fluid-embolism-afe/
Friday Jul 05, 2024
Friday Jul 05, 2024
In this heartfelt episode, HeHe and Sarah Lingle discuss the sensitive topics of infertility, pregnancy loss, and the emotional and psychological impacts they have. The conversation covers statistics on infertility and miscarriage, personal experiences with loss, and the ways to support a friend who has experienced pregnancy loss. Sarah shares valuable insights on how to talk about loss, the importance of normalizing these discussions, and the resources available for those going through these difficult times.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to better understand and support friends, family, or clients dealing with pregnancy loss.
- Understanding Infertility and Loss Statistics
- Stigma and Sharing About Loss
- Emotional Responses to Loss
- Postpartum Care After Loss
- Support and Resources for Bereaved Parents
- TFMR Community and Support
- How to Support Friends Experiencing Loss
- A Friend's Support During Miscarriage
- Memorializing Lost Babies
- The Emotional Complexity of Pregnancy After Loss
- Navigating Triggers and Boundaries
- Connecting with Sarah and Final Thoughts
Guest Bio:
Sarah is the host of The PAL Doula Podcast, and owner of The Pregnancy After Loss Doula, both of which exist to give help and hope to moms navigating pregnancy after loss. She’s a mom to Peanut, who died before birth, and to J, her earthside rainbow baby. When she’s not talking about birth, you can usually find her hiking to a nearby waterfall with my family!
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:
https://pregnancyafterlossdoula.com/
Use code Podcast10 to get listeners 10% off of any of Sarah’s offers
https://littlesantidesigns.co.uk/
https://www.gatheringhope.net/timely-tender-tote-1
https://miscarriagehopedesk.org/
https://www.thecomfortcub.org/
Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
Wednesday Jul 03, 2024
In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Heather Florescue to discuss the vital but often overlooked topic of stillbirth prevention. Dr. Florescue introduces the concept of placental health, the importance of measuring estimated placental volume, and the role this plays in ensuring healthy pregnancies. We dive deep into the current research, debunk myths, and highlight the significance of understanding risk factors and maternal instincts. Dr. Florescue also shares insights on protocols followed in the UK and Australia that could help reduce stillbirth rates. Tune in to learn why education and proactive healthcare can save lives.
Guest Bio:
Dr. Florescue is an ob.gyn. in private practice at Women Gynecology and Childbirth Associates in Rochester, N.Y. She delivers babies at Highland Hospital in Rochester, NY. She received her medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, completed her internship and residency in obstetrics & gynecology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. She is certified by the American Congress of Obstetrics & Gynecology. She and her husband are parents to a set of triplets. Dr. Florescue is passionate about the prevention of pregnancy and infant loss and the care for families who suffer these terrible tragedies.
INSTAGRAM:
Connect with Dr. Florescue on IG
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:
Thursday Jun 13, 2024
Thursday Jun 13, 2024
In this episode, HeHe is joined by Caitlyn Schollmeier to discuss electronic fetal monitoring. They cover what electronic fetal monitoring is, why it is used, differences between continuous and intermittent monitoring, and various related topics. They also explore the implications of different monitoring choices on labor and delivery, including how interventions like Pitocin and epidurals require monitoring and tips for how different monitoring methods might affect movement and comfort during labor.
In this episode, we’re diving into the following questions:
When providers often use each type of monitoring and why they may use continuous monitoring more often.
How long are the breaks during intermittent monitoring?
What types of monitoring are best for low risk labors versus more complicated pregnancies?
What helps when we start to see wonky fetal heartones?
So what are some scenarios where you would want electronic fetal monitoring?
Guest Bio:
Caitlyn Schollmeier is a former birth doula and labor & delivery nurse. She created Lila, a maternity brand that specializes in creating beautiful and comfortable labor clothing that provides privacy while still being accessible for routine medical care. Lila has 4 different styles of birth gown that all provide access for fetal heart monitoring, skin to skin, breastfeeding, massage, epidural placement and more.
Social Media:
Connect with Caitlyn on Instagram
Connect with Caitlyn on TikTok
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:
Birth Gown (use code BIRTHLOUNGE15 to save 15% off): https://www.wearlila.com/
ACOG stance on EFM: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/fetal-heart-rate-monitoring-during-labor
Saturday Jun 08, 2024
Saturday Jun 08, 2024
In this episode, HeHe welcomes Jami Reyes, owner of Hip Baby Gear, to discuss essential baby gear. They delve into topics like how to choose car seats and strollers, considerations for different lifestyles, safety tips, and practical advice for parents. Additionally, they cover the pros and cons of popular brands and offer insights into making informed decisions to meet individual needs.
In this episode, we’re diving into the following questions:
What should people be thinking about in terms of the weight and durability of strollers?
What are we actually looking for in a car seat?
What type of car seats are out there and who they might be best appropriate for from newborn all the way up to big kids in car seats?
What do we need to consider when it comes to thinking about the usage of our car seat and our stroller system and multiple cars?
What’s the installation process like for car seats?
I want to add a mirror and I want to have a camera and I want to have the window covers but are mirrors, cameras, toys, and window covers safe for Baby?
How to dress baby in car seats safely.
Take a listen to learn about…
Choosing the Right Stroller
Considering Your Terrain
The Weight and Durability of Strollers
Car Seat Safety and Installation
Types of Car Seats
The Importance of Proper Installation
Dealing with Accessories and Clothing
Most Frequently Asked Questions including is the Nuna and the Vista stroller systems really worth it and is the Doona safe?
Guest Bio:
Jami Reyes is the owner of Hip Baby Gear, in the Marblehead Old Town District. Jami and her husband took over the store in 2016. They had been living in Marblehead for a few years and had their son and loved the idea of not only working locally but being a part of the community in a larger way. HBG has been such an integral partner to local families not only in education but as a way for families to connect. HBG provides an experience unlike any in the area. You can let the little ones play in the back while you grab a coffee or sometimes mimosa and chat! If you are expecting they help with registries, baby must-haves or even offer a little guidance or support.
Instagram:
Connect with Hip Baby Gear on IG
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:
https://www.luvbugcompany.com/collections/all-towels
https://www.amazon.com/Luv-Bug-Company-Sunscreen-Towel/dp/B08XPVPSR2
Buckle me baby coats: https://www.bucklemecoats.com/
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Heather is a professional architect, entrepreneur, and mother of two three and under. Her passion for sustainability and frustration with traditionally potty training her oldest led her to try Elimination Communication with her second baby. With her youngest using the potty at 5 weeks and able to take HERSELF by 12 months, Heather is now on a mission to show new and expecting parents everywhere what is possible and how they too can naturally potty train their babies from as early as birth.
As the host of the Ready From Birth Community, she brings together EC parents from all over the world so they can relax and enjoy the journey to early toilet independence without ever having to navigate the roadblocks alone.
The Ready From Birth Course launched in May 2024, so new and expecting parents can get all the information they need to start EC and have their baby toilet independent as early as walking!
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!
Instagram:
Links:
Heather’s Community: community.readyfrombirth.com
Heather’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@readyfrombirth
The Huckleberry app is mentioned as a tool to track your baby’s elimination schedule