The Best Birth Podcast

38 - Forget Me Not - Grieving Child Loss with Doula McKenzie Mott

McKenzie Mott, a birth and bereavement doula, shares her personal journey of becoming a doula and experiencing the loss of her son. She emphasizes the importance of quality support for families going through grief and provides resources for bereaved parents. McKenzie also discusses the role of a bereavement doula in providing guidance and support during the grieving process. She encourages parents to create legacies and find ways to remember their child, and highlights the strength and resilience that comes from living for their children's memory.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction: McKenzie Mott's Journey12:10 Experiencing Loss: Theo's Story23:54 Navigating Grief: Finding Strength and Coping Strategies28:40 The Role of a Bereavement Doula: Providing Guidance and Support36:46 Creating Legacies: Remembering and Celebrating Lost Children
RESOURCESGripe WaterDr. Brown BottleMagic Merlin's SleepsuitJohnson's Baby Calming Shampoo

39 - Breaking the Barriers of Postpartum Care with Postpartum Doula Sarah Watkins

In this episode, Jen and Sarah discuss postpartum and newborn care. They explore the difference between a postpartum doula and a birth doula, and the importance of having support during the postpartum period. Sarah shares her journey into this line of work and the need for personalized care. They also discuss the lack of education and resources for postpartum care and the barriers to accessing it. They provide tips for planning for the postpartum period, including setting boundaries with visitors and prioritizing self-care. They also emphasize the importance of lactation support and mental wellness during this time.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Overview03:06 The Role of a Postpartum Doula07:48 Lack of Education and Resources for Postpartum Care14:08 Planning Ahead for the Postpartum Period24:32 Setting Boundaries and Supportive Visitors28:28 Educating Yourself on the Postpartum Period35:41 Importance of Lactation Support43:14 Mental Wellness in the Postpartum Period48:14 Barriers to Accessing Postpartum Care
RESOURCESBOOK - The Fourth Trimester by Kimberly Ann JohnsonQuote from the Book - “The fourth trimester is not about getting back to normal; it’s about creating a new normal that honors the profound changes you’ve undergone.”

40 - Containing the Child Clutter & Preparing Your Heart and Home for Your Baby with Mary Wood of Whole Package Organizing

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Background02:38 Managing Kid Clutter04:27 Organizing Baby Gear07:55 Involving the Whole Family in Organization11:37 Letting Go of Unnecessary Items25:39 Quick Clean-Ups and Containing Clutter29:17 Finding Inspiration in Nature
RESOURCESDecluttering at the Speed of LifeDecluttering WorkbookDecluttering JournalSimplicity ParentingBook 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 CaddyOsprey Lightweight Child Carrier BackpackRegalo High ChairBumbo Baby Infant Soft Foam Wide Floor SeatThe Whole Package Organizing - https://thewholepackageorganizing.com/
Mary's Favorite Children's Books:
Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder (and the whole series)
Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox
The Tall Book of Make-Believe by Jane Werner Watson
Ox-Cart Man by Donald Hall
Bedtime for Frances by Russell Hoban
Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray
Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say
How to Behave and Why by Munro Leaf
Heckedy Peg by Audrey Wood

41 - Sleep & Self-Care with Registered Nurse Julia Jeffrey

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Julia Jeffrey02:43 Passion for Postpartum Doula Work03:12 Creating a Perfect Sleep Environment11:46 Understanding Wake Windows32:57 Feeding and Mixing Breast Milk and Formula41:08 Limiting Screen Time and Setting Expectations
RESOURCESAfterEase for postpartum crampsWhy 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.”

42 - Healing Depression, Post Partum Anxiety and Birth Trauma with Therapist Reva Cook

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Background of Reva Cook03:09 Preparing for Postpartum Mental Health Issues05:45 Different Manifestations of Postpartum Mental Health Issues08:46 Postpartum Psychosis and Emergency Response10:58 Impact of Anxiety on Daily Life and Lactation13:49 Managing Mom Rage and Irritability22:27 Lowering Cortisol Levels and Increasing Serotonin25:22 Recommended Resources and Books33:59 Finding Outside Help for Postpartum Mental Health37:10 Importance of Sleep and Individualized Parenting40:32 Closing Remarks and Encouragement
RESOURCESOne of the critical elements to recovery is SleepBaby Wise - Gary Ezzo and Robert BucknamBook 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 WHISPERERBook- Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts - Karen Kleiman90 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.”

43 - Maternity Leave Mastery - Creating a Smooth Transition Back to Work with Laurel Bandy

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Background of Maternity Leave06:35 Preparing for Maternity Leave: Researching Programs and Planning for Childcare13:41 Returning to Work After Maternity Leave: Phased Returns and Flexible Work Arrangements26:55 Childcare Options and Considerations32:25 Recommended Resources: Ina May Gaskin's Books
RESOURCESYour Baby, Your Child - PenelopeIna May's Guide to ChildbirthLinks 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

44 - Motherhood by Design: Exploring the Parenting Path with Amanda Horvath

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Amanda Horvath's Background03:09 The Transformative Power of Motherhood09:21 Understanding Your Child's Energy: The Role of Human Design18:12 Capturing the Journey: Tips for Documenting Motherhood28:38 Navigating Birth: Hypnobirthing, C-sections, and Planning for the Future
RESOURCESMama Natural Birthing CombCreate 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."

45 - Fit 4 Moms: Building Strength, Community, and Fun with Patty Peterson

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Patty's Journey03:27 The Community Aspect of Fit 4 Mom07:29 The Importance of Communication and Self-Understanding09:12 The Mental Health Benefits of Fitness13:03 The Impact of Fitness on Mental Health15:51 Fitness During Pregnancy18:45 The Importance of Movement During Pregnancy23:58 Building a Village and Asking for Help

46 - Motherhood and Mental Health: Strategies for Postpartum Care with Anj Lineback

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.
CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Navigating the Postpartum Period02:25 Understanding Perinatal Mental Health04:07 Differentiating Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression/Anxiety09:31 Coping Strategies: Sleep, Support, and Self-Care14:59 Seeking Help: Healthcare Professionals and Resources20:29 Medication and Mental Well-being in the Postpartum Journey25:29 The Importance of Community in the Postpartum Experience
RESOURCESMix-hers Drink SupplementPSI - 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."

47 - An OBGYN's Overview to Managing Birth, Racism and the System with Dr. Nicole Rankins

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 Birth03:39 The Importance of Education and Advocacy in Birth08:38 Addressing Racism in the Birth Space14:22 The Rising C-Section Rate and its Impact on Birth Plans17:01 Pushing and Advocacy during Labor20:01 Tools and Maneuvers to Help Progress in Labor24:31 Lotus Birth and Placenta Encapsulation26:36 Pros and Cons of Placenta Encapsulation30:28 Racism, Maternal Health, and Postpartum Support
RESOURCESAll About Birth Podcast