Parents today are bombarded with advice from every angle- social media, friends, family, and news sources. It can be nearly impossible to know who to trust and what advice to follow… And furthermore how to discuss it with your pediatrician. In this episode, we discuss how to sift through the endless parenting information, as well […]
Today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, we have a special community birth story from Paige Host. Paige had been coming to PYC a lot during her pregnancy (and still is postpartum!) and served as a major support and friendly face to other students. Her story is inspiring as it revolves around the ideas of letting go of
Birth Story: Trusting Your Gut with Paige Host Read More »
“Failure to progress in labor.” Can we all agree this is a horrible name and can impact someone’s view of their ability to give birth! For years, birthing people have been expected to follow “Freidman’s Curve” a standard set by a trial of only 500 participants conducted nearly 50 years ago. Recently, ACOG has set
Failure to Progress In Labor with Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins – Revisit! Read More »
Did you know that a reported 1 out of 5 people who give birth experience PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders)? However, the professionals I have spoken to believe the number is closer to 1 in 3. Today we explore the world of PMADs- how to recognize the line between baby blues and PMADs, when
Red Flags of Postpartum with Sydney Pollack-Tobert, LCSW Read More »
Even if a medical intervention isn’t in your birth plan, you should still be educated on it; because, at the end of the day, no one can predict their birth! Today is all about: epidurals. Joining me today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, I have Erin Capnerhurst. Erin is a wife, mother of three, and a Registered Nurse
Pushing with an Epidural with Erin Capnerhurst, RN Read More »
Joining me today to share her birth story on Yoga| Birth| Babies, I have Agathe. Originally from Paris, Agathe moved to New York City nine years ago, where she met her husband and, in November 2024, welcomed their baby girl. In this episode, Agathe opens up about the mindfulness practices she created throughout pregnancy in order to
Community Birth Story: A Mindful and Magical Birth with Agathe Read More »
Today we’re diving into a topic I’ve wanted to explore for quite some time now: External Fetal Monitoring (EFM). I held off, however, because I wanted to ensure we had the right medical professional to guide us through this important conversation- and I’m thrilled to say that we do. To have this conversation today with
What’s EFM and Do You Need It For Your Birth? with Caroline Jones Read More »
Newborn babies have some peculiar quirks, habits, and bodily functions. If you’re entering parenthood unfamiliar with what’s normal and what isn’t you might be scared or deeply concerned by things that are pretty routine for new babies. To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Dr. Tracey Agnese. Tracey received her undergraduate
Is That Normal? What To Expect From A Newborn with Dr. Tracey Agnese – A Revisit Read More »
In today’s episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we’re diving into some of the common—yet often overlooked—stressors of pregnancy. We explore everything from hormonal changes and PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) to the profound life shifts that come with this transition. We also take a closer look at trauma-informed care: what it really
Stress and Trauma and How It Impacts Your Birth with Ja’Neen Jenkins Read More »
Today’s episode features one of my favorite kinds of conversations- a community birth story. It’s always such a joy to hear and share the birth stories of students I’ve had the honor of working with in class, throughout their pregnancies, and today’s story is no exception. To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth|
Community Birth Story: From Anxiety to Joy! with Mia DiBiase Read More »
What do you do when motherhood feels challenging—when it doesn’t come as naturally as you expected? This episode was inspired by honest conversations in my prenatal yoga classes, where some students shared fears about entering parenthood. One even admitted, “I don’t know if I’m very maternal.” That vulnerability struck a chord, and I knew we
What To Do When Motherhood Doesn’t Come “Naturally” with Paige Bellenbaum Read More »
Today we are talking about stalling versus flow, in birth, and how your body’s balance, and alignment can play a major role in that process. What does it even mean to be balanced and aligned? To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Lindsay McCoy. Lindsay McCoy is an exercise physiologist, an experienced
Why Some Babies Fly Out and Some Stall with Lindsay McCoy Read More »
Taking medication while breastfeeding, even taking something as common as Tylenol can be controversial. So what about parents on or who need to start taking medicine like Zoloft, Prozac or other psychotropic medications? Is it safe for both parent and new baby? Today we’re going to talk all about postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression medication
[Revisit]: PPA/PPD Medication and Breastfeeding with Heather ONeal and Maureen Farrell Read More »
Today, we’re diving into one of my favorite types of conversations- a community birth story. What makes this episode extra special is that it actually includes two birth stories. My guest reflects on both her first and second births, sharing how the challenges she faced during her initial pregnancy and postpartum experience shaped the decisions
Birth Story: Two Cesareans But Very Different Experiences with Laura Moore Read More »
Many times, I hear my prenatal students express feeling disconnected from their care provider or uneasy about hospital policies. However, they’ve hired a doula in hopes that that will help them navigate and achieve the birth experience they want. Today, we’re diving into how and why birth preparation goes beyond simply hiring a doula. To
A Doula Should Not Be Your Sword and Shield! with Bec Conant Read More »
Today, we’re diving into the relationship between birth and the pelvic floor. First, we’ll cover the basics: What is the pelvic floor? What is its function? How does one even connect with their pelvic floor? We usually aren’t taught about the pelvic floor growing up, and lack an awareness of it, in part because it’s
The Pelvic Floor and Birth with Dr. Millie Schweky DPT, CPT Read More »
Today, we’re diving into our current parenting culture- does it support or hinder parents and kids? To have this conversation with me today on Yoga|Birth|Babies I have Emily Edlynn, PhD. Emily is a licensed clinical psychologist, international speaker, co-host of the Psychologists Off the Clock podcast, and award-winning author of Autonomy-Supportive Parenting: Reduce Parental Burnout
Having a baby is expensive! So, how can we prepare for the expected and unexpected costs that come with having a child? In this episode of Yoga| Birth| Babies I speak with financial educator and founder of Smart Money Mamas Chelsea Brennan. From getting a clear picture of your current financial state, to understanding how to prioritize
How To Financially Prepare for a Baby with Chelsea Brennan – A Revisit Read More »
Today, we have a very special community birth story. I love when I get to hear the birth stories of not only our student community, but also of our teaching community. Today, we have a story of the latter! Today on Yoga|Birth|Babies I haveMeredith Witte. Meredith Witte is a functional strength coach and a yoga instructor with
Birth Story: A Sexy and Instinctual Birth with Meredith Witte Read More »
Today, we’re diving into the topic of VBACs—Vaginal Birth After Cesareans. We’ll explore the most common reasons for cesarean births, as well as the risks and benefits of choosing a VBAC. Additionally, we’ll discuss factors that might make someone risk out of a VBAC, and compare those risks to those of a repeat cesarean. To
Everything You Want to Know About VBACs with Meagan Heaton Read More »
The other day I overheard some students discussing whether to hire a doula for their birth, or rely on the support of labor and delivery staff. As L&D nurse experiences vary from hospital to hospital, I felt this was an important topic to explore. In this episode, we’ll dive into the role of a labor
Insider Tips from a Labor & Delivery Nurse with Caitlin Jeanmougin Read More »
If you could choose between a functional efficient labor or a dysfunctional and inefficient labor, I’m guessing you would choose functional and efficient labor. I have been to many births as a doula and I’ve had 2 kids of my own. While the body may need time to open to let baby descend and rotate,
Today we have a remarkable and empowering community birth story. Today on Yoga|Birth|Babies I haveAmber Hogue. Amber is a proud mom of two boys, Finn and Wally, and lives in the Bay Area with her family. She works in clinical research with a focus on patient engagement, leveraging her expertise to create meaningful connections and
Birth Story: When You Know Your Body Best with Amber Hogue Read More »
A few months ago, before teaching my postnatal class, my students were sitting in a circle sharing their experiences about postpartum and all the surprises this phase brought. In other words, they were discussing all the things no one had told them about postpartum. Today on Yoga|Birth|Babies I haveTina Goldstein. Tina facilitates the New Parent
Postpartum- The Things They Don’t Tell You About! with Tina Goldstein Read More »
Today, we’re diving into a book titled Happy to Help: Adventures of a People Pleaser. This collection of essays captures the journey of being the go-to person for everyone’s needs while quietly struggling. It explores the idea of being “happy to help”… even when you shouldn’t be. The essays are hilariously relatable, and what I
“Happy to Help!” A Talk with Author, Amy Wilson Read More »
Many parents experience significant pressure and responsibility when it comes to feeding their new child, particularly around breastfeeding. This is especially true for the individual providing nourishment and nutrition through breastfeeding. Today on Yoga|Birth|Babies I haveChana Topek Diamond. Chana is a licensed clinical social worker, doula, lactation/feeding counselor and childbirth educator. She earned Masters in
The Mental load and Overwhelm of Infant Feeding with Chana Topek Diamond, LCSW, CLC, CD Read More »
If you’re a parent, or have simply spent time around children, you know the how hard it can be to stay calm when a child is whining. I’m almost 14 years into parenthood and still, I find myself hungrily looking for expert advice on this issue! In this episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies, I speak with Dr. Laura Markham
Why Children Whine and What to Do About It with Dr. Laura Markham [REVISIT] Read More »
Community birth stories are, for me, some of the most important episodes to share on this podcast. Oftentimes, we’re overwhelmed with negative birth narratives, which can impact one’s confidence in their ability to birth. I feel passionate about hearing, and sharing, stories where individuals acknowledge their birthing anxieties but ultimately overcome them. Today on Yoga
Birth Story: A Deep Belief in a Desired VBAC with Jessie Valentine Read More »
Today, we’re talking all about prenatal chiropractic work and how it can help you have a smoother birth and more comfortable pregnancy. I love the idea of chiropractics because it all goes back to alignment. And as a studio owner, yoga teacher and former doula, I am confident in saying that when the pregnant body
Chiropractic and Pregnancy with Dr. Robert Shire Read More »
Today, we’re exploring a topic that has impacted so many people around the world, including some of my closest friends and students. I’ll admit that I didn’t know much about IVF, as I haven’t had personal experience with it, so I set out to learn more. Interestingly, my cousin is an expert on the subject,
The History, Science and Technology Behind IVF with Dr. Donna Drucker Read More »
For many sex is a very different experience while pregnant and newly postpartum. From wondering if you might hurt your baby to the physical discomfort one may experience, a lot of questions come to mind. Today we’re going to talk about sex during pregnancy and after baby. I gathered some of the students together from
Sex During Pregnancy and After Baby with Dr. Sabrina Baxter [REVISIT] Read More »
Today we are going to talk about SLEEP: your sleep, your baby’s sleep, and how to help your baby get good sleep. We dive into the topic of sleep deprivation, its impact on maternal mental health and bonding with baby, and also the different types of sleep training methods. Today on Yoga | Birth |
Why You and Your Baby Need a Good Night Sleep With Liza Kaplan Montanino Read More »
Today, we have a community birth story. I look at these stories as a wonderful chance to hear firsthand about the incredible experience of birth from someone in our very own community—an experience that deeply influences so much of what we do here at PYC! Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, I have Fiamma.
Birth story: How to Adjust When Birth Plans Change with Fiamma Read More »
If you are a new and expectant parent, I know that childcare is a subject that has crossed your mind before. Whether you’re going back to work full-time, or just need some assistance throughout the day, remember that you don’t have to do it all on your own! As the saying goes, “It takes a
How to Choose the Right Childcare for You with Elizabeth Narins Read More »
Today we’re diving into a topic that’s very close to my heart. Along with being a parent of a child often labeled as “difficult,” I know that so many other children are unfairly pigeonholed because of their behavior. And I’ve come to realize: it’s not so much about the actual behavior as it is about
Why We Need to Stop Labeling the “Difficult” Child with Nina Essel, LCSW Read More »
Today we are diving into a topic near and dear to my heart: doulas. Tune in as we explore how to find a doula who best fits you and your unique needs! Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies for this conversation is Francie Webb. Francie is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
Everything You Need to Know About Hiring a Doula, From a Doula with Francie Webb Read More »
Join in as we embark on a topic that, I have to admit, I knew very little about until having this conversation! Today, we are talking about mastitis- what it is, the latest research, causes, symptoms, and much more. Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies for this conversation is Bella Masotti Rochford.
All About Mastitis with Bella Masotti Rochford, IBCLC, OT Read More »
There are countless reasons why I believe sharing and listening to birth stories is so valuable. One standout aspect is the many universal themes that emerge- whether between different births, throughout the journey from pregnancy to parenthood, or even within the individual birth stories themselves. While the societal conversation around birth can often evoke fear,
Birth Story: Never Be Afraid to Ask for Help with Shing Yiing Ong Read More »
My work revolves around women and birthing people, and naturally my guests on the podcast are mainly of that experience! However, today we are mixing things up a bit and exploring the transition to parenthood from a man’s perspective. Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies for this conversation is Dan Doty. Dan
Getting Fatherhood Ready with Dan Doty Read More »
Today we’re talking all about my favorite: The pelvic floor. From how the pelvic floor changes in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, to what the signs and symptoms to see a pelvic floor PT are, to what happens at an actual appointment… we cover it all. Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies for
What Happens at a Pelvic Floor PT Appointment with Dr. Amy Stein Read More »
Are you preparing for a subsequent child? If you answered yes, then today’s episode is a must-listen. Today, we’re discussing the topic of introducing a new sibling into the family,… specifically to your first child. Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies for this conversation is Alyssa Blask Campbell. Alyssa is a teacher,
Preparing for the Arrival of a Sibling with Alyssa Blask Campbell Read More »
It is so common to put a lot of care, effort, and attention towards pregnancy and birth. And- it goes without saying- the prenatal period is incredibly important. However, the postpartum phase is a hugely transitional time for new parents and deserves equal consideration and planning. So let’s dive into it! Joining me today on
Planning for Postpartum with Elaine Keller-Duemig, CNM Read More »
A student once said to me, “I’m interested in home birth, but why would I choose to have a home birth?” I had two options. Either I could tell her all my reasons right then and there, or I could find a home birth midwife to come on the podcast and speak on the subject.
Why Choose Home Birth with Kara Ffrench, CNM Read More »
Today, we’re exploring one of the most powerful tools for birth: movement. When we consider movement during labor and delivery, it raises questions such as: Does the shape and size of your pelvis impact the birthing process? How does the pelvis open? Can you move effectively if you have an epidural? Join us as we
There’s a saying that goes, “You don’t know what you don’t know,” and this is especially true when it comes to prepping for birth. If you aren’t informed about the different options for your birth, then how can you be expected to make the most informed decisions in your birth! Today, we’ll be diving into
The Problem with Hospital Childbirth Education Classes with Ceridwen Morris Read More »
Today, we’re diving into the birth story of a student who completed her teacher training with us last year- while pregnant! It was truly special to witness her journey as a student at PYC, both in our training and our classes. When she shared details of her wonderful and positive birth experience with me, I
Birth Story: Very Quick and Very Peaceful with Jessica Roback Read More »
Sometimes, the most challenging aspect of parenting is the work we do on ourselves. It involves reflecting on our own childhood experiences and understanding how they shape our view of parenthood today. It also requires taking emotional accountability; managing our reactions and behaviors instead of blaming others or projecting our issues onto them. It might
Conscious Parenting with Bryana Kappadakunnel Read More »
When today’s guest reached out to me about bringing a pediatric physical therapy conversation to the table, I was all in. Apart from my well-known love for all things anatomy and my own experience with PT, I was really curious how it even works with newborns and babies! For this episode of Yoga | Birth
Having a child with special needs can be both an isolating and challenging experience, but it also offers endless opportunities for learning, acceptance, and education. There are many different kinds of special needs, but today we’re focusing on the “unseen” disabilities of neurodiverse children and the unique experiences of their parents. Joining me today on
Parenting a Child with Special Needs and Disabilities with Susanna Peace Lovell Read More »
Today, we’re diving into a community birth story that’s far more than just a tale of delivery. Ready for some intriguing details? My guest recently welcomed her third baby. She’s been a dedicated student at PYC for nine years, and she’s been featured on the YBB podcast three times, sharing insights from all three of
Birth Story: Induction and Trust with Yali Szulanski Read More »
