How has our understanding of postpartum evolved, and what challenges have remained all along? The answers may surprise you. Listen in, as I’m joined by Dr. Karen Sheffield-Abdullah on Yoga | Birth | Babies. Dr. Karen is an assistant professor, certified nurse-midwife, mindfulness coach, and perinatal mental health researcher. Dr. Karen’s expertise has been featured […]
At first glance, the title might make you think parenting in the digital age sounds overwhelming. But what if technology could actually support today’s parents instead of adding stress? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I’m joined by Sarah Trott. Sarah is the creator and host of The Fourth Trimester Podcast and
Postpartum Support in a Digital Age with Sarah Trott Read More »
When my son was born and we needed a nanny, I remember feeling totally overwhelmed. Where do you even begin when it comes to hiring someone you barely know to caretake your child? It’s a feeling so many parents share, and that’s exactly what today’s episode is about: nannies- the process, the common mistakes made,
How to Find, Hire and Thrive with a Nanny with Sarah Davis Read More »
Today we take a deep dive into the current postpartum system; cracks and gaps included. What are the biggest misconceptions around pregnancy and childbirth, and how do they affect birth and postpartum in this country? My guest to have this conversation on Yoga| Birth| Babiesis Dr. Jessica Vernon. Dr. Jessica is is a mom of
Did you know millennials tend to be more likely to have high blood pressure during pregnancy than previous generations? Why is it that millennials are having such a hard time as parents? Today’s podcast is for all those that were born between 1981-996; and those of you in Gen-Z, too. To have this conversation with
Pregnancy and Parenting as a Millennial with Dr. Christine Sterling [Revisited!] Read More »
What are some reasons that parents decide to wean, and when? Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, Francie Webb and I get into all things weaning. Francie Webb is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and founder of Go Milk Yourself. In 2017, Francie published Go Milk Yourself: You Have Power. Express It!Her
Weaning Your Baby or Toddler with Francie Webb Read More »
What is so overwhelming about the first 6 weeks of parenting? Well, to be honest, a lot! But it doesn’t have to mean struggling 24/7. In this episode, we dive into the preparation for parental leave, the logistics of preparing for baby, and setting up care in the postpartum period. To tackle this subject today
Thriving (not just surviving!) the First 6 Weeks with Jen Mayer 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 »
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 »
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 »
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 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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Matrescence, A.K.A. becoming a mother/parent, is a developmental milestone that brings forth a major identity shift within us. Every parent’s personal definition of this milestone will be wildly different, and each journey will look a myriad of different ways, but a universal perspective we can adopt about matrescence is that it can be an opportunity
How to Thrive in Matrescence with Emese Parker, NP Read More »
Today, we’re delving into a universal experience: the challenge of control. Have you ever wondered why it can be so hard to let things organically happen? Or questioned what it is that’s behind the desire to control in the first place? As much as it would be fabulous to control everything, it simply isn’t possible.
Why We Want to Control Pregnancy, Birth and Parenthood with Dr. Britta Bushnell Read More »
It’s no secret that getting good sleep is vital in living a healthy life. However, sleep becomes crucial in the fourth trimester- the newborn phase! When baby and you develop healthy sleep patterns, it benefits the whole family. But I know what you’re thinking: “Easier said than done.” Well, to have this conversation with me
Help Your Baby (and you!) Sleep Better! with Kristine Petterson Read More »
Today I am so excited for you to hear this conversation on one of my favorite subjects: diastasis recti. This is a conversation I especially wanted to have because I love learning and teaching about diastasis and the pelvic floor! We talk about what diastasis is, the misconceptions, how to heal, and what we can
Healing Diastasis Recti with Anna Hammond, PDT Read More »
Have you thought about what happens right after baby is born? Today we dive into what to expect following baby’s birth and how to navigate the first 12 weeks of life. We discuss many topics including umbilical cord care, circumcision care and even how to bathe your baby. We also dive into the subject of feeding and what
Understanding Your Newborn Baby with Wendy Hunter, MD Read More »
You may be more aware of what you are eating during pregnancy, however, have you considered how nutrition may affect your birth and postpartum? In today’s discussion we explore gut health and how your body works during the prenatal and postnatal phase. We look at gut issues and the treatment for these issues. We also dive into a
How Gut Health Affects Your Pregnancy and Baby! with Bridgitte Mallinson Read More »
Do you find it harder to create friendships as an adult? Today we talk about friendships and how they can be difficult to navigate, especially during parenthood. Our guest discusses common conflicts that arise between parents as well as ways to better maintain these connections. If you are a parent or an expectant parent, this conversation will shed
Have you considered how your endocrine system might affect your fertility or pregnancy? Today we dive into the topic of endocrine disruptors and how they may adversely affect your system. Although these endocrine disruptors are everywhere in our environment, the good news is there are ways to limit your exposure. Our guest today shares practical tips that you
Why You Should Pay Attention to Endocrine Disruptors with Sarah Thompson Read More »
How does the health of the pelvic floor impact birth? It is so important to have a healthy pelvic floor in order to have a functional birth and a healthy body. This is one of my favorite topics! If you’ve been a listener of Yoga| Birth| Babies, you know that anytime I have an opportunity to talk about the pelvic
Kegels and Your Pelvic Floor with Kara Mortifoglio PT, DPT, WCS Read More »
Should you do strength training while pregnant? Today we will talk about strength training for pregnancy, birth and beyond. This is a topic that is near and dear to my heart because I believe that strength training can help prepare your body for birth, help you be more comfortable during pregnancy, and help you rehab postpartum. In this
Strength Training for Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond with Nicole Scheitlin Read More »
Parents, are you thinking about your child’s growth and development and how to help them hit their milestones? Our guest today is an occupational therapist who focuses on sensory play for babies. In this discussion, she talks about why sensory play is important for your baby and how you can integrate it into your daily activities. She reviews
What is Sensory Play and Why Does Your Baby Need it? with Allie Ticktin MA, OTD, OTR/L Read More »
Do you feel overwhelmed by all the parenting choices available now? In today’s podcast we discuss feeling confident in your choices as a parent. We have so much information at our fingertips in 2024, it can be challenging to sort it all out. Perhaps you feel conflicted about where to find reliable information or maybe you are experiencing
Bite Size Parenting Advice with Sharon Mazel Read More »
How would you like your partner to be involved during pregnancy and birth? Today we dive into a conversation about birth partners and their role in supporting you through your birth experience. We talk about how to prepare ahead of time by discussing the expectations and dynamics that influence both the emotional and physical aspects of birth
How to Help the Partner Be the Best Partner They Can Be with Yiska Obadia Read More »
What is a doula and why would you want one? In today’s episode we will discuss what a doula is, how they play a role in birth, and their ability to enhance what a partner can offer. I was a labor and support doula for over ten years and know first-hand the benefits of using a doula.
Why You Need a Doula with Jeanna McNeil Read More »
Have you thought about how your relationship with your partner may be affected during the postpartum period? Today’s podcast topic came from my students. I noticed a heated conversation happening before my postnatal yoga class one day. Several students had gathered together and were talking about how they felt anger and resentment towards their partners. They felt like so
Do you struggle with how to handle postpartum visitors and setting boundaries? Setting boundaries isn’t the easiest thing to do for some either. Personally, I was never good at this. After stumbling upon an article written by our guest, I instantly knew more folks needed to think about this ahead of time! We’ll touch upon
How to Handle Postpartum Visitors and Setting Clear Boundaries with Ruth Gordon-Martin Read More »
Have you considered the different choices there are when feeding your baby? Offering choices and education is something we value here at PYC. Our job is to support your choices for birth, however you choose to birth. When it comes to feeding baby, nevertheless, not all parents feel this support. Many parents sense judgement from others when they opt
Why it’s Important to Normalize Formula Feeding with Jayne Freeman Read More »
Does this scenario sound familiar to you? You have your baby and everything is going great the first few days or weeks. Suddenly your baby starts to cry and cry and cry. You try all different swaddles, ways to bounce your baby, wear your baby or soothe their tummy. During your visit to your pediatrician
What to Do with a Colicky Baby with Megan Dishman Read More »
It’s been estimated that 15%-20% of parents experience postpartum depression, anxiety and stress. Note that these are only the numbers of folks who have reported. The reality is these numbers can be rather larger than estimated. In understanding these statistics, we are going to discuss the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, anxiety and stress
Postpartum Depression, Anxiety and Stress with Karen Kleiman Read More »
Does your baby struggle with acid reflux, gas or constipation? Today we have a super fun topic diving deep into reflux, gas and constipation for your newborn. We’ll talk about the signs and ways to alleviate this. Did you know the breastfeeding parent’s diet may also influence babies being gassy? You know me, I love
Helping Your Baby with Acid Reflux, Gas and Constipation with Hilary Sadler Read More »
Let’s talk about the term “bouncing back” after birth. What does “bouncing back” truly mean? This term is often filled with so much shame, anxiety and depression. The postpartum period can be such an intense time for new parents. Today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, we’ll talk about the 5 key principles for healing after birth
Postpartum Depletion with Maranda Bower Read More »
Parents, did you ever feel the pressure to “bounce back,” fast after birth? Let’s be real, the postpartum experience isn’t always the one we imagine it to be. Today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, I’ve invited Sarah Merrill. Sarah recounts her own experience of postpartum and journey into parenthood. She is an advocate for birth trauma
An Open & Honest Talk About Postpartum Problems with Sarah Merrill Read More »
Twenty years ago I found a study that stated 1 out of 3 birthing parents experience birth trauma. It’s a pretty shocking statistic. As time has gone by, I wondered if the numbers had improved and perhaps we were seeing fewer parents experience traumatic birth? To answer this and take a deep dive into birth
Birth Trauma with Kate McReynolds LMHC, PMH-C Read More »
We have a hot topic on the podcast today, sex after baby. For many couples this aspect of the relationship can be strained or even nonexistent. From birth trauma, to fear, pain, feeling uncomfortable in your body, or completely disconnected from your partner, postpartum sex is a complicated issue. To take on this issue,
Reconnecting with Your Partner After Baby with Ashley Mariani Read More »
Today we’re talking about one of my all time favorite hobbies, sleep! Sleep (or lack thereof) is a very hot topic among new parents. Recently in one of my Postnatal Yoga classes a mom shared about her experience as the only parent who could successfully soothe her baby to sleep. This was leaving her feeling
Setting Your Baby Up for Successful Sleep with Sarah Skiles Read More »
Sometimes after baby your “O” can stand for ouch! Yes, today we’re talking about sex after baby. For many pelvic floor dysfunction turns what was once a pleasurable part of life into something painful. This pain doesn’t have to be permanent though and with the help of a PT you can have a better quality
When Your “O” Stands for Ouch with Christina Walsh Read More »
When you think about preparing your home for the arrival of your new baby your mind might go to a place of baby-proofing and purchasing toys and gear like cribs and high chairs. However, what if you home didn’t need more stuff? Today we’re looking at how to create an environment that encourages your baby’s
How to Prepare Your Home for Baby to Thrive the Montessori Way with Jeanne-Marie Paynel Read More »
Pumping is a pretty hot topic among new parents. As a matter of fact, when I polled my postnatal yoga students on what their current concerns were and what they needed support with, nearly everyone had a pumping question. Whether they were getting ready to go back to work or just wanted to spend a
Weaning either from breast or bottle feeding, can be a very controversial topic. From when you should do it, to how should you do it, many parents are left feeling frustrated, confused, and even bereft. It’s been a popular topic of late at PYC and this podcast comes by request from my students in Postnatal
The Process of Weaning with Dr. Lilly Hubschman-Shahar DNP, RN, NNP-BC, IBCLC Read More »
