The Tranquility Tribe Podcast

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe has an engaging discussion with Dr. Darrell Martin, a retired Obstetrician-Gynecologist, who strongly advocates for the midwifery model of care. Dr. Martin shares his journey in obstetrics, emphasizing patient autonomy and providing insights from working with midwives. The conversation covers Dr. Martin's career, the importance of trust and informed decision-making in prenatal care, and the evolution of maternity care in the U.S. Dr. Martin also discusses his book 'In Good Hands,' reflecting on his experiences and the systemic challenges and politics within the healthcare system. The dialogue highlights the profound impact of collaborative care and explores practical advice for navigating birth choices. This episode is a treasure trove of information for expecting parents, offering a blend of personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based practices to support a confident and informed birth experience.   Dr. Darrell's Journey into Obstetrics Challe

HeHe welcomes Zhenya Lindgardt, President and CEO of Sera Prognostics, to discuss the critical issue of preterm birth, its rising incidence in the U.S., and innovative solutions available today. Zhenya explains the definition and statistics of preterm birth, and introduces the Preterm test, a blood test that predicts the risk of preterm birth as early as 18 weeks of gestation. The conversation also covers the effectiveness of Sera Prognostics' intervention bundles, improvements in pregnancy care, and the importance of innovation in maternal health. Listeners will learn about the accessibility and process of the Preterm test and the overall goal of making this technology widely available to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.   Understanding Preterm Birth Advancements in Preterm Birth Testing Interventions for High-Risk Pregnancies Clinical Trials and Results At-Home Testing and Accessibility Innovation in Maternal Health Guest Bio: Zhenya Lindgardt is an accomplished leader in healthcare innovation, cu

Join HeHe in this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, where she discusses the essentials of functional movement and strength training during pregnancy and postpartum with physical therapist Elaina Manolis. Discover the crucial role of muscle strength in preventing injuries and ensuring a smoother postpartum recovery. Learn about balancing mobility with stability, the impact of hormones, and the significance of a structured corrective exercise regimen. Elaina provides expert insights based on her extensive experience and personal journey, emphasizing the importance of preparing your body for the physical demands of motherhood. Tune in for actionable tips, evidence-based information, and valuable resources to help you navigate pregnancy and beyond with confidence.   The Importance of Functional Movement During Pregnancy Common Pregnancy-Related Injuries and How to Prevent Them Postpartum Functional Movement and Corrective Exercises Finding the Right Physical Therapist   Guest Bio: Elaina was born

In this episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe and Lisa Villani, founder of Empowered Birth Coaching, dive into the significance of prenatal tests and interventions during pregnancy. They discuss first-trimester genetic screening, gestational diabetes testing options, and the controversy around routine ultrasounds. Lisa shares her expertise on how to make informed decisions about these procedures, emphasizing the importance of understanding your options and advocating for your preferences. Tune in to gain valuable insights on managing prenatal care and preparing for a confident birth experience.   Defining Unnecessary Interventions First Trimester Tests and Genetic Screening Gestational Diabetes Screening Options The Controversy of Routine Ultrasounds Cervical Checks: What You Need to Know Understanding Cervical Exams The Importance of Bishop Score Preterm Labor and Cervical Checks Consent and Body Autonomy Making Informed Decisions Navigating IV Fluids During Labor The Debate on Birthing Positions Empower

Join HeHe in this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast as she welcomes Dr. Steph Lopez, a former NASA psychologist, to explore the intricacies of pregnancy anxiety, birth preparation, and postpartum mental health. Discover expert tips on managing fears, embracing uncertainty, and building confidence throughout your birthing journey. Learn about the importance of self-acceptance, handling negative self-talk, and breaking generational cycles of trauma. Whether you're preparing for birth or navigating early parenthood, this episode provides valuable strategies to help you feel empowered and informed.   Understanding and Managing Anxiety The Power of Intuition vs. Fear Facing Fears in Pregnancy and Birth The Psychology Behind Failure and Birth Trauma Dealing with Disregulation and Control Embracing Life's Challenges The Power of Acceptance Self-Acceptance vs. Self-Improvement Breaking Cycles and Parenting Navigating Intrusive Thoughts   Guest Bio: Dr. Steph is an I/O Psychologist and Brain Based Coach.

Dr. Lorraine and Dr. Brie join HeHe to discuss the critical and often overlooked topic of obstetrical violence. In this eye-opening episode, they break down what obstetrical violence is, its impact on women globally, including psychological trauma and avoidable morbidity, and how it violates human rights. The discussion highlights the importance of informed consent, respectful maternity care, and midwifery as potential solutions. The duo also emphasizes the need for systemic changes within the healthcare system to prevent obstetrical violence and improve maternal outcomes. Tune in to learn about practical steps women can take to avoid birth trauma and the crucial role of midwifery in transforming maternity care.   Understanding Obstetrical Violence Examples and Impact of Obstetrical Violence Legal Recourse and Advocacy The Iceberg Analogy and Measurement Tools Respectful Maternity Care and Systemic Issues Transparency and Hospital Reporting Midwifery Care and Trauma Prevention Systemic Obstacles and Solutions

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe chats with April, a health coach and new mom, who shares her empowering home birth story. From the decision to have a home birth, navigating pregnancy, to the actual birthing experience, April's journey is filled with insightful tips and candid discussions. Learn about choosing the right midwife, preparing for birth and postpartum, and how trust in your body can transform your childbirth experience. Discover how April and her husband prepared for a smooth home birth, the importance of support, and how to handle unexpected situations calmly. This episode is a must-listen for expecting parents exploring birthing options outside of the hospital setting.   Introducing April and Her Birth Story Deciding on a Home Birth The Birth Story Begins Support and Preparation for Birth Reflecting on the Birth Experience Emotional Transformation and Parenting Calmness in Birth and Parenting Navigating Hospital vs. Home Birth The Home Depot Adventure Labor and Pain Management T

In this heartfelt episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe and guest Angel dive into a rich conversation about VBACs (Vaginal Birth After C-Section) and home births. Angel shares her personal birth stories, including the challenges of having multiple C-sections and her journey to successful HBA2Cs at home. They discuss the importance of trusting one's intuition, the value of a supportive birth team, and the ongoing debates around midwifery regulations and doula advocacy. With insights from her extensive experience in family education, HeHe guides listeners through the evidence-based practices and options available for expecting parents, aiming to empower them for a confident and informed birth experience no matter the setting and no matter their goals.   Diving into Birth Stories Navigating Complicated Pregnancies The Challenges of C-Sections Triumphs and Traumas of VBAC The Importance of Intuition in Birth Advocating for Your Birth Plan Navigating Intuition and Anxiety Finding Peace in Decision Making

In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe engages in a powerful discussion with Frances about navigating pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. They touch on the importance of empowering expecting parents through candid conversations with experts, mental health support, and birth preparation tips. Frances shares insights on the cultural shifts in labor and delivery over the past decade, particularly regarding the importance of asking questions and advocating for oneself in the birth suite. They also delve into the critical issues of racial disparities in maternal healthcare, systemic racism, and the ways healthcare providers can better support Black mothers. The episode concludes with practical advice for healthcare professionals and allies on how to elevate Black voices, hold each other accountable, and create a safer, more respectful birthing environment. Tune in to learn how we can all contribute to a transformative change in maternity care.   A Long-Awaited Conversation Advocacy in Labor and Deliv

Join host HeHe on the Birth Lounge podcast as she welcomes Liz, the founder of Swaddelini, to discuss her revolutionary baby swaddle. Liz shares her personal journey from new mom to entrepreneur, and how the necessity to help her own baby sleep better led to the invention of the innovative Swaddelini. They discuss the importance of proper baby sleep, the benefits of sensory compression, and the process of developing a baby product that meets the needs of various medical and developmental requirements. Liz also opens up about her own experiences with postpartum emotional distress and how her first employee's journey helped shape her company's values. Tune in for an inspiring story of perseverance, motherhood, and groundbreaking innovation in baby sleep technology.   Swaddelini is the soft and stretchy swaddle gives a gentle hug soothing your baby while allowing your baby freedom of movement!   The Birth of Swaddelini Postpartum Emotional Distress The Science Behind Swaddelini The Comfort of Swaddelini Adapting

In this episode, HeHe is joined by Alexandra, the founder of Just The Inserts, to discuss the crucial topic of informed consent in pregnancy and pediatric care. Discover how to support your mental health and craft your ideal birth experience with insights from experts. Alexandra shares her journey in advocating for informed consent, the importance of reading pharmaceutical inserts, and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. Whether you're an expecting parent or looking to make informed medical decisions for your family, this episode provides invaluable advice and resources. Don't miss Alexandra's tips on how to understand medical options, ensure safety, and feel confident in your healthcare choices.   Informed Consent: Understanding Medical Decisions Navigating the Healthcare System The Importance of Reading Medical Inserts How to Read Medical Inserts Free Resources for Learning About Medical Inserts Understanding Bolded Text in Medical Inserts Introducing the New Book: A Handbook for Informed

Join us for a compelling episode with Garrett Wood, founder of Koze Kobe, as she shares her remarkable journey of revolutionizing maternal healthcare through innovative, sustainable solutions. Garrett candidly discusses her traumatic childbirth experience and the challenges faced postpartum, inspiring the development of groundbreaking products like biodegradable absorbent bras and 'nip gloss.' We delve into the emotional and physical impacts of childbirth, the importance of supportive midwifery care, and the systemic issues plaguing the U.S. maternity care system. This episode also features exciting announcements about Koze's latest product launches, their presence on Amazon, and engaging content on social media. Discover Garrett’s resilience, her entrepreneurial spirit, and the mission to support and empower mothers everywhere. Don't miss out on insights about balancing motherhood and startup life and the impactful stories of overcoming birth trauma. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation and ca

Join us as HeHe welcomes Ashley and Aisha from Dear NICU Mama to discuss the highs and lows of having a NICU baby. Learn about coping strategies, the importance of peer support, advocacy tips, and the incredible services offered by Dear NICU Mama. Ashley and Aisha share their personal journeys and the transformative power of community for NICU parents. Discover how to navigate the NICU experience and find solidarity through shared stories and support. Don't miss this heartwarming and informative episode!   The NICU Experience: Coping and Advocacy Founding Dear NICU Mama Ashley and Aisha's Personal Stories The Power of Peer Support Isolation in the NICU Emotional and Physical Isolation Support and Validation Navigating Conversations and Advocacy Preparing for the NICU Building Trust with Medical Professionals Empowerment and Advocacy in the NICU Finding Your Voice and Support System Handling Conflicts with Medical Staff Mental Health and Additional Resources The Importance of Kangaroo Care Letters of Hope and

HeHe welcomes Kara, a Mother-Baby Nurse, to provide an in-depth look into what new parents can expect during postpartum care in the hospital. They discuss the transition from labor and delivery to postpartum, common procedures and checks for both mother and baby, pain relief options, the importance of advocating for yourself, and more. Learn about the first 24-hour care routines, baby monitoring, essential tips for breastfeeding, and dealing with postpartum concerns like baby’s weight loss and the infamous first postpartum poop. Discussing Postpartum in the Hospital Transitioning to Postpartum Care Postpartum Care Procedures Pain Relief Options Visitors and Providers in Postpartum Pediatric Assessments and Procedures Newborn Screening Tests Understanding Bilirubin and Jaundice Hearing Tests for Newborns Postpartum Care Procedures Breastfeeding Support and Training Baby Weight Loss and Supplementing Circumcision: What to Expect Postpartum Poop: What You Need to Know   Guest Bio: Kara is a mother-baby, hospital

Join HeHe and Labor & Delivery RN, Heidi Nielsen, to discuss the gap in care that exists within the hospital system when a fetal loss occurs. Many loss families report that their hospital staff did not deliver trauma-informed & compassionate care during the most dark of times. Heidi shares that nursing schools and the medical system does a very poor job of preparing nurses to care for families in the case of fetal demise. This episode is aimed towards medical professionals or support services (like doulas) who care for expectant families. This episode does come with a listener discretion as we dive into fetal demise in detail so healthcare professionals can be prepared for this experience and have evidence-based ways to support their patients in times of loss.    Guest Bio: Heidi has been in the OB world for over a decade which has been filled with the most incredible, happy, and heartbreaking experiences. In addition to working at the bedside, she is also a nurse educator for Bundle Birth Nurses and

In this heartfelt episode, HeHe is joined by Ana Lepe Vick, a loss mom who courageously shares the story of her son, Owen, and her experience with preventable stillbirth. Together, they shed light on the disparities within the U.S. healthcare system and the critical gaps in care that may have saved Owen’s life if Ana’s concerns had been taken seriously. You’ll learn evidence-based techniques for monitoring your baby’s well-being at home, how to effectively communicate concerns to your care team, and ways to get involved in the movement to end preventable stillbirth in the U.S.   Guest Bio: Following a “textbook” perfect pregnancy, Ana and her husband were blindsided by their son, Owen Nathaniel's, unexpected stillbirth. A subsequent, high-risk Pregnancy After Loss with 17 weeks of bedrest eventually blessed them with a healthy, living sibling for their elder daughter thanks to her own personal advocacy. Yet her family’s struggles through stillbirth and two subsequent miscarriages before the birth of her secon

Dr. Lizzie rejoins the show to delve into the specifics of adult tongue tie, its signs, and how chiropractic care can be a beneficial option for recovery. The discussion covers the anatomical and structural aspects of tongue ties, their impact on feeding in infants, and the potential benefits of body work before considering surgical interventions. Dr. Lizzie also shares her personal journey with tongue tie as an adult and offers insights for parents on assembling the right team for their child's care. This episode is packed with valuable information for parents suspecting tongue ties in their babies.   Understanding Tongue Ties Signs and Symptoms in Babies Anatomical vs. Structural Ties Chiropractic Care for Tongue Ties Body Work Before Surgical Intervention Evaluating the Need for Frenectomy Genetic Factors and Family History Chiropractic Care for Weight Gain Issues Collaborative Care Approach Challenges and Overwhelm for Parents Tongue Ties in Older Children and Adults Personal Journey with Tongue Tie Relea

HeHe is joined by Amanda, a certified professional and licensed midwife in Mississippi, to discuss the challenges and intricacies of maternity care in a state with high birth-related statistics but limited healthcare options. They explore the current state of midwifery in Mississippi, including the types of midwives, their credentials, and the lack of state regulations. Amanda shares her experiences and insights into providing holistic, client-focused care, the importance of informed consent, and the benefits of potential state licensure for midwives. They also delve into the logistics of home births, handling emergencies, and the process of hospital transfers. The conversation highlights the need for improved healthcare access and the integration of midwives into the broader healthcare system to address Mississippi's maternal and infant mortality rates.   Challenges of Maternity Care in Mississippi Understanding Midwifery Credentials Certified Nurse Midwives vs. Certified Professional Midwives Regulations an

In this episode, Labor Junkie RN joins us to dive deep into everything you need to know about epidurals. Listen along as they debunk common myths and provide crucial insights on epidurals. Understand the administration process, potential side effects, and the importance of informed consent. They dive into the details of epidural placement, the role of medical professionals, and possible complications. This episode covers everything you need to know about making informed, empowered decisions regarding epidurals during labor and delivery, ensuring you have the knowledge to navigate childbirth with confidence.   Understanding Epidurals: Basics and Misconceptions Epidural Placement Process Addressing Common Fears and Concerns Hospital Policies and Procedures Informed Consent and Timeouts Epidural Placement and Initial Relief Managing Epidural Effectiveness Positioning and Movement with an Epidural Eating During Labor with an Epidural Walking Epidurals: Rare but Possible Common Complications and Risks of Epidurals