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November is Diabetes Awareness Month. To get involved and help spread awareness, we wanted to learn more about Type 1 diabetes, its signs and symptoms, how common it is, and what we can do to help. I learned a lot during this episode, and one thing that stood out to me was that Type 1 diabetes is most often diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults, but it can develop at any age. I had no idea! Anastasia really broke everything down for us, including what parents really need to know about Type 1 diabetes and what to look for so we can look out for our kids and each other.
Who is Anastasia Albanese-O’Neill?
Anastasia Albanese-O’Neill, Ph.D., ARNP, CDCES transitioned to a career in diabetes care, education, and research in 2008, and since that time has committed her professional life to improving the lives of people with diabetes. She currently serves as director, community screening and clinical trials education at Breakthrough T1D and is the founder and board chair of a Florida-based diabetes education non-profit, Diabetes Toolkit. Anastasia formerly served as director of diabetes education and clinic operations in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Florida, where she maintained an active research portfolio and clinical practice. Prior to working in diabetes care, Anastasia was the highest-ranking executive for Southwest Airlines in southern California, where she oversaw the company’s local marketing, public affairs, and community and media relations. She plans to retire as soon as a cure for Type 1 diabetes is discovered, but not a moment earlier.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Anastasia all about Type 1 diabetes and what parents need to know — from symptoms to diagnoses and beyond. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
What exactly is Type 1 diabetes (T1D)?
Please tell us how your child’s T1D diagnosis changed your career and life.
How has it influenced your approach to parenthood?
What are some common misconceptions about T1D that you wish more people understood?
What are the symptoms of T1D that people need to know?
How would I know if my child might have it?
What are the benefits of early detection — especially for kids? How can people get screened?
How important is the support of family and friends in managing T1D?
If a parent has T1D, what are the chances of their kids also having it?
Can it affect your pregnancy?
What treatment options are there for T1D?
What resources do you recommend for people wanting to learn more about Type 1 diabetes?
How can people get involved in finding a cure?
90% of people who develop Type 1 diabetes have no family connection with the condition, so it can happen to anyone, even if it doesn't run in your family. This is helpful information for us all to know and be aware of as we grow and raise our babies. Be sure to spread the message!
Anastasia's Resources
Website: breakthrought1d.org
LinkedIn: @albaneseoneill
Facebook: @breakthroughT1Dhq
Instagram: @breakthroughT1Dhq
Twitter: @breakthroughT1D
T1D Resources
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, leave us a review, and follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat for more content. Cheers to making everyday life better for those with Type 1 diabetes and their families!
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Nowadays, it's common for most women to be in the workforce before they embark on motherhood. Once they have decided to expand their families, maternity leave is something that enters their minds. How much time will she have off? How much will be paid or unpaid? What should she prepare for to have a smooth maternity leave? There are a lot of questions, so we had to "chick chat" with Dr. Jessica Madden, a mom of four, a board-certified pediatrician and neonatologist, and an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), her recommendations on how to prepare for maternity leave and what to mothers should add to their maternity leave checklist.
Who is Dr. Jessica Madden?
Dr. Jessica Madden has been a board-certified pediatrician and neonatologist for over 15 years. She's currently on staff in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, OH. She previously worked in the Boston and Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospitals. In 2018 she started Primrose Newborn Care to provide in-home newborn medicine and lactation support. Dr. Madden is currently the Medical Director at Aeroflow Breastpumps. She also enjoys traveling, yoga, reading, and spending time with her four children.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Madden about the ideal maternity leave checklist for expectant mothers, such as what to discuss with employers and insurance companies, what resources are available during and post-delivery, including lactation support, and more. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
What is the current landscape of maternity leave in the U.S.?
How important is it for mothers to plan for maternity leave? When should they start?
What are the most important things to take into consideration when preparing for maternity leave? And what needs to be on every maternity leave checklist?
Can you please explain to us the consequences of limited access to paid or partially paid maternity leave for expecting mothers?
Can you provide an overview of resources available for expecting mothers, such as lactation support services, community and online support groups, and educational classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care?
How can women involve partners, family members, and even employers in the maternity leave planning process?
What are your top recommendations to expectant mothers as they start to plan for their maternity leave and beyond?
Dr. Jessica Madden gave us some incredible insights in this episode, and we are including all of them in our maternity leave checklist, which you can find and download in our SHOW NOTES. Be sure to download it to prepare for your maternity leave successfully!
Dr. Madden's Resources
Website: aeroflowbreastpumps.com
Facebook: @AeroflowBreastpumps
Instagram: @aeroflow_breastpumps
Pinterest: @aeroflowbp
YouTube: @AeroflowBreastpumps
Mentioned in the Episode:
Nesting Parties
Postpartum Plan
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to subscribe to our podcast, leave us a review, and follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat for more content. Cheers to preparing for an amazing maternity leave!
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Thinking about birth when you are currently pregnant can bring up a lot of emotions. The main ones are excitement and impatience to meet your new baby, as well as anxiety and fear about the unknown of childbirth. With more people (in the United States) choosing to give birth in a hospital, families wonder what they can do to have a great hospital birth. There are a lot of things you can do during pregnancy to prepare for a positive experience, and we are chatting all about it with our guest Adriana Lozada.
Who is Adriana Lozada?
Adriana Lozada is a certified advanced birth doula, childbirth & postpartum educator, engaging international speaker, bestselling author, and host of the acclaimed Birthful podcast. Venezuelan-born, Adriana’s background is a multi-layered and multi-cultural bundle of experiences from her time living around various continents and the Caribbean. A former co-founder and CCO of Spanish language youth media companies, the birth of her daughter sparked her passion for perinatal work. As a speaker and birth advocate, Adriana is passionate about helping people understand and support the physiological processes happening in their bodies, so they can confidently show up for their births.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Adriana about how to prepare for a great hospital birth. We discuss everything from supporting your physiology to how to better plan for a wonderful labor and birth. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
Could you explain to us in your own words what a doula does and how they support expecting parents during childbirth?
What are the main benefits of having a doula present during labor and delivery, particularly in a hospital setting?
How can expecting parents best prepare themselves physically and mentally for a hospital birth?
Can you talk about physiology and the role it plays in birth?
How do you believe partners can best support the birthing person during labor, especially in a hospital environment?
What resources do you recommend for parents exploring their birthing options?
What advice would you give to expecting parents who want to ensure they have a positive and empowering hospital birth experience?
Adriana has been in the perinatal and birthing space for almost 20 years. We are so grateful she joined us today and shared her wealth of knowledge with us on this episode. If you are currently expecting, be sure to tune in!
Adriana's Resources
Website: birthful.com
Instagram: @birthfulpodcast
Facebook: @birthful
Podcast: Birthful Podcast
Mentioned in the Episode:
Preparing your body: Spinning Babies, Body Ready Method
Preparing your mind: Hypnobabies, Hypnobirthing, meditation
What is Orgasmic Birth? The Best-Kept Birth Secret – Podcast Ep 121
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When we're pregnant, I feel like we hear so much information about what we should and shouldn't eat. We need more folate, more choline, more iron, etc. All of this is important for us to know so that we can be proactive and have a healthy pregnancy and grow a healthy baby. But have you heard much about your nutritional needs when you are postpartum? I haven't. And this is one of the times in life when you need even more vitamins and nutrients for your body to aid in your recovery and nourish your baby. This is why I had to talk to the incredible dieticians, Ashley and Diana, who focus on postpartum nutrition. They're answering our questions and sharing details on what new moms need to know!
Who are Ashley Reaver & Diana Licalzi?
Ashley and Diana are registered dietitians, and as new moms themselves, they know firsthand the importance of nourishing your body after baby. They are the authors of the Postpartum Nutrition Cookbook, a comprehensive guide to nutrition during the postpartum period, and they are on a mission to help women prioritize their health after they have a baby.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Diana and Ashley about the importance of postpartum nutrition and what new mothers need in their diets. We’re excited to learn more about this delicious and essential topic to be better prepared for postpartum. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
Why is postpartum nutrition so important?
What are the key nutritional needs for women in the postpartum period?
What are some common nutritional challenges that new mothers face, and how can they overcome them?
What are some practical tips for incorporating nutritious meals and snacks into a busy postpartum schedule?
What are your favorite quick & easy postpartum recipes?
How can postpartum nutrition impact mental health and emotional well-being?
How does a woman's nutritional needs change if she is breastfeeding, and what foods are particularly beneficial during this time?
What are your top tips for navigating postpartum nutrition?
Taking the time to prioritize your health during postpartum is essential. As we know, food is medicine. Food is mood. It can help our bodies recover, nourish our minds and bodies, and help us as we breastfeed our babies and more. If you're pregnant or newly postpartum, I highly recommend listening to this episode to set yourself up for success in nourishing yourself postpartum.
Ashley & Diana's Resources
Website: postpartumdietitians.com
Instagram: @postpartum.nutrition
Their book: Postpartum Nutrition Cookbook
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As parents, we want to set our children up for success in every area of life, and one crucial skill that often gets overlooked is financial literacy. In a world where financial decisions play such a big and vital role in our lives, teaching kids how to be smart with money is one of the most valuable gifts we can give them. Our guest today, money mindfulness expert David Delisle, agrees and is on a mission to change how we teach our kids about money. He says, "As a society, we need to eliminate all of the shame and judgment around money . . . which may even be trickling into our parenting methods."
Who is David Delisle?
David Delisle, founder of The Awesome Stuff™, is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, real estate investor, speaker, and most importantly, a Dad. He is a contributor to Entrepreneur, Yahoo! News, Thrive Global, and more. At age 11, David made his first investment, and by age 20, he began investing in real estate and was retired by age 40. So inspiring! His book, The Golden Quest, is a Calvin & Hobbes-style graphic novel that teaches potent lessons about money, focusing on breaking the cycle of always chasing more. David’s goal is to change how our kids think about money and create more freedom for what’s most important to them . . . the Awesome Stuff™. David has been featured on Good Day LA, Good Day DC, Yahoo Wealth, Be Well, NTD TV, ScaryMommy, GoBankingRates, MindBodyGreen, Credit Sesame, and more.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with David Delisle about how to teach our kids about money and boosting their financial literacy. Conversations around money are the foundation of increasing our kids’ financial literacy. Parents can demonstrate money mindfulness with their kids by simply talking about money, letting them know what you’re saving for, and your priorities.
Whether you have a toddler just learning about counting or a teen getting their first paycheck, this is an episode that all parents should listen to. So grab a notebook, and let’s start building the foundation for your child’s financial future!
David's Resources
Website: daviddelisle.com
Company: theawesomestuff.com
Instagram: @theawesomestuff
LinkedIn: @DavidDelisle
His book: The Golden Quest
Thank you for listening to this episode! Go to the SHOW NOTES for more details and be sure to subscribe to our podcast, leave us a review, and follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat for more content! Cheers to financial literacy and financial freedom!
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I grew up in the late 80s and 90s. Back then, things were a lot simpler. There weren't any smartphones, and the internet was nonexistent. It didn't feel as fast-paced and loud as it is today. Thinking back to childhood, I remember playing outside a lot and having sleepovers at my girlfriends' houses on the weekends after we picked out a movie at the local Blockbuster store. Life was pretty sweet. I hope that's how everyone feels about their childhood. But maybe I was young, naive, and oblivious to the worries that adults face. Or maybe I was just really lucky that nothing scary had happened to me at that point in my life.
Today, I feel like we have so much more information available at our fingertips. We can know what's going on in every part of the world instantly on our phones. While this technology is amazing, it can also be overwhelming. There is no denying that we all know so much more about the world and what can and does happen to people (good and bad) daily. It has shed light on many things we may have never known. For instance, how we've lately seen headlines about terrible things happening to children during sleepovers. It's upsetting and disturbing and causing parents to debate their kids having sleepovers entirely.
Today's guest, Kristin Andrus, is extremely passionate about this topic. Her family has one big rule: They don't allow their children to have sleepovers. Some people disagree wholeheartedly with this rule, while others agree with her stance because they, too, know of scary stories that can happen and have happened during sleepovers. We had Kristin share her thoughts and experiences advocating for children on the show.
Who is Kristin Andrus?
Kristin Andrus is a philanthropist and community champion who advocates for women, children, and refugees within and beyond Utah. Kristin is the driving force behind the impactful Building Bridges non-profit/philanthropy partnership. She also serves as a board member for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Intermountain Area and for UnDEfeated, an organization serving underprivileged youth and single mothers in Uganda. In addition, she holds advisory roles with the First Lady of Utah, Neighborhood House, the Younique Foundation, Utah Valley University, and Women Who Succeed. She is a community activator who believes in building bridges and bringing people together to help communities thrive! Nonprofits count on Kristin for her social media and marketing savvy and supernatural ability to get stuff done. She is also the Chief Culture Officer of her husband and six children and an incredible cook!
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Kristin Andrus about the great sleepover debate — should you or should you not allow your kids to do sleepovers — and how to make the best decision for your family when it comes to sleepovers.
This is a very big and passionate conversation. While some of my favorite childhood memories were sleepovers at my girlfriends' houses, hearing Kristin's stories and the stats made me rethink how I might approach this topic with my kids when they reach the age of being invited to sleepovers. This episode really gives us parents information that we need to know and new things to consider. I wonder, where do you stand on this great sleepover debate? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Kristin's Resources
Instagram: @kristinandrus
YouTube: @KristinAndrus
Website: kristinandrus.com
Her Deseret News article, 'The Great Sleepover Debate'
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to informed parenting and advocating for your family!
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One topic that I don't think is talked about enough with expecting and new mothers (or people in general) is pelvic floor health. In my opinion, pelvic floor health should be considered as a form of self-care and a part of us taking care of our overall health. I can't even tell you the number of people I have met who weren't totally sure what their pelvic floor is, what it does, how it affects them, and that everyone has one. And when a woman becomes pregnant and gives birth to her baby, these are the times when she might experience some problems with her pelvic floor and wishes she had known more about her changing body and had support.
Whether you had a vaginal birth or cesarean birth, your body has done some hard, amazing work. Our guest today, Liz Miracle, knows all about this since she has supported hundreds of women as a pelvic floor physical therapist. Today, she is sharing her tips on how to best take care of our bodies after childbirth, including our pelvic floors.
Who is Liz Miracle?
Liz Miracle, PT, MPT, WCS is the Head of Clinical Quality and Education at Origin, the leading provider of physical therapy for maternity, menopause, and sexual health, with deep expertise in the pelvic floor and full body. Liz is a Texas native and graduate of Texas Woman's University School of Physical Therapy. She began practicing pelvic floor physical therapy in 2006 and has since received her Clinical Specialization in Women’s Health from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. After running her own practice for a decade, she was excited to join Origin Physical Therapy, where she works to implement the highest standards of evidence-based care and help train the next generation of pelvic floor therapists. When not exploring innovative ways to help her patients, she is at home hiking the hills in the North Bay of San Francisco with her husband and daughter.
What Did We Discuss?
Check out our SHOW NOTES for details on our discussion and my thoughts!
Liz Miracle's Resources
Liz's Practice: MiraclePT
Liz's LinkedIn: @lizmiracle
Origin Website: Origin
Origin Instagram: @theoriginway
Origin LinkedIn: @theoriginway
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to taking care of yourself postpartum!
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I don't know about you, but I always knew, even as a child, that I wanted to be a mom. My dream was to grow up and have kids, create special family traditions, and be a very involved and loving mother. I had hoped that my journey to motherhood would be a smooth one. I knew that my mother experienced some difficulty conceiving my twin brother and me, but I was hopeful.
As an adult, when I entered into the career side of the mom-and-baby world, I quickly learned how much more common it is for people not to have the smoothest start to becoming a parent — getting pregnant and having a child. I've heard thousands of stories over the years from women about "becoming a mother." Each one, like a fingerprint, has her own unique story. Today's guest, Irina Reeves, is no exception. During our chat, I was inspired by her outlook on life and how she took her journey of becoming a mom and turned it into something beautiful.
Who is Irina Reeves?
Irina Reeves is a wife, mother to a beautiful baby girl, and the founder of OliviaR, a jewelry company that celebrates one-of-a-kind connections between loved ones.
Growing up in Russia, Irina was raised in a culture that encouraged very traditional family values: men went to work, and women became mothers and stayed home. But as a teenager in Moscow, Irina quickly recognized that her ambitions and interests often differed from those around her. She felt called to explore the world, travel, go to school, get a degree, have a career of her own, and one day become a mother. She knew she could do both – have a career and be a mom.
Irina first went to university in Moscow, then received her second master's degree in London, and then pursued a third master’s degree in New York. It was in New York when she met her now husband, and her life’s direction became clear and began to unfold. She now lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their 15-month-old daughter, Olivia.
Irina's Resources
Website: oliviar.com
Company Instagram: @oliviarbyirina
Personal Instagram: @iamirinareeves
See the SHOW NOTES to learn more about Irina's company, OliviaR, our discussion, and my final thoughts.
*This episode is sponsored by our friends at OliviaR. Visit their website to order your jewelry piece today!*
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We all know that children are the greatest blessings in life. They truly are. Raising them, however, can be quite a challenge for us parents. We want to protect them, mold them, and encourage them to be the best people they can be. But how do we do that without being too permissive or too authoritarian? Many parents struggle to find parenting methods that work for them and their children, especially when generations before us parented so differently. Maybe you're trying to break family cycles that you learned and want to do things differently with your kids. Maybe you want to parent with better boundaries and with more respect. If this is you and you're looking for ways to connect more with your children and parent with compassion, you're going to love today's guest, Janet Lansbury.
Who is Janet Lansbury?
Janet Lansbury is a former actress and model, and her passion for parent education began when she became a mother and sought guidance from infant expert Magda Gerber. Deeply inspired and grateful for her wisdom, Janet began training with Magda professionally. For the last 20 years, she has taught RIE parenting classes in Los Angeles and has served on the Board of Directors of Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE) since 1995. Janet is privileged to support hundreds of thousands of parents across the globe, sharing insights gained through her parenting classes and personal experiences as a mother of three.
In 2009, Janet created her parent education blog, JanetLansbury.com, and she later published two best-selling books, Elevating Child Care: A Guide to Respectful Parenting and No Bad Kids: Toddler Discipline Without Shame. In 2015, Janet launched her podcast, Unruffled, which is the top-ranking parenting podcast about respectful parenting from Wondery.
Janet encourages parents and childcare professionals to perceive babies as unique, capable human beings with natural abilities to learn without being taught, develop motor and cognitive skills, communicate, face age-appropriate struggles, initiate and direct independent play for extended periods, and much more.
My Thoughts
Janet Lansbury is someone that I have admired in the baby and parenting industry for years. Her work has impacted me and so many others (including many of my clients) with our parenting and how we think about our children, boundaries, discipline, and more. Hearing her share her personal story and her overall thoughts on respectful parenting was inspiring. I have been interested for a while in learning more about RIE and the work that Janet does, but after this episode, I may just take a course myself. Stay tuned!
If you would like a healthier relationship with your child and want to discover a different way of parenting that can blossom your own parenting skills, I highly recommend listening to this episode and learning more about Janet's work. I believe you will leave inspired, too.
Janet Lansbury's Resources
Website: JanetLansbury.com
Instagram: @janetlansbury
Facebook: @janetlansbury
Her podcast: Unruffled
Her books: Elevating Child Care: A Guide to Respectful Parenting
No Bad Kids: Toddler Discipline Without Shame
No Bad Kids Master Course
Resources for Infant Educarers
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to parenting with respect!
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If you're a working woman with a job outside of the home, you know that having order and a good routine is essential and sets you up for success in work and in life. Once you throw in pregnancy, like navigating morning sickness, fatigue, and all the other things that may come along with pregnancy while working a highly demanding job, it can be quite a challenge. Not to mention figuring out your new path when you become a new mother and balancing your new role with your career. There's definitely a transition period, but eventually, you get into your groove and figure it out.
But imagine what it must be like for people in the public eye . . . They're trying to navigate pregnancy and new motherhood in the spotlight! There have to be pressures they experience that we are unaware of. Do they have it easier or harder? We had to get the scoop on how Jessica Tarlov, a new mother of two, is staying on top of being a mom and having a thriving career.
Who is Jessica Tarlov?
Jessica Tarlov joined FOX News Channel as a contributor in 2017 and serves as a co-host of the nation’s highest-rated cable news show, The Five.
A graduate of Bryn Mawr College with a B.A. in History, Jessica holds two master’s degrees in Political Science and Public Policy and a Ph.D. in Government from the London School of Economics and Political Science. As a new mom to her two daughters, Cleo, and baby Teddy, Jessica shared with the Los Angeles Times that motherhood and parenting have put a whole new column on the board that has made her see the world completely differently. Jessica has also opened up about her postpartum experience and juggling it all as a new mom and co-host of The Five. Jessica is a lifetime New Yorker who grew up in TriBeCa and continues to live there today with her husband and daughters.
My Thoughts
As a career mom, listening to Jessica's story as she navigates motherhood with a busy career was completely relatable. While I'm not on cable television and don't have the Fox makeup team to help me out ;), I could relate to a lot of what she said. I heard her genuine love for her family and her career. These are things I feel passionate about in my life, too. Sometimes, women feel like they have to choose — be a "good mom" (however you ideally define that) or have a thriving career. But, as Jessica said in this episode, with a solid support system, a good schedule, time for yourself (self-care), and allowing yourself to feel your feelings (let out a good cry when you need to), you can have both and do them both well. It's like Taylor Swift says, "I cry a lot, but I am so productive." Jessica and I can totally relate to that!
If you're a new mom or someone considering growing their family and you also have (and love) a demanding career, this episode is for you. Listen to Jessica's story and tips and hear how you can continue pursuing your dreams and passions while you also venture through motherhood.
Jessica Tarlov's Resources
Twitter: @JessicaTarlov
Co-host of The Five
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to navigating motherhood your way!
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Parenting, while wonderful, is tough. Every parent knows that. And while some of the parenting challenges that previous generations faced are still applicable today, there are new challenges we're experiencing that have never been dealt with before. No one knows this better than Mrs. Modern Mom Probs herself, Tara Clark. She has been shedding light (and humor) along the way on what mothers face today since 2017. Her work helps mothers feel less alone and reminds us that we're not failing; we're all just trying to do our best. We had to chat with Tara on the show to hear her thoughts on modern mom probs and her solutions!
Who is Tara Clark?
Tara Clark is an author, speaker, content creator, podcaster, and the founder of Modern Mom Probs. After becoming a mom and recognizing a hole in the online space for moms to connect authentically, she launched her Instagram account in 2017. She has since built a valued community, solidifying herself as a humorous, trusted voice in the parenting space. Tara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Villanova University and an MBA in Media Management from Metropolitan College of New York. She currently lives in New Jersey with her husband and son.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Tara Clark about modern mom problems. We wanted to talk to Tara about some of the most common struggles modern moms face and solutions to help us move forward. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
What are some of the most common problems modern mothers face today?
In your experience, what are some effective strategies for managing the juggling act of motherhood, work, and personal life?
Social media often portrays an idealized version of motherhood, which can lead to comparison and feelings of inadequacy. How do you address this issue, and what advice do you give moms struggling with it?
The mental load of motherhood, including managing household tasks, schedules, and emotional labor, is a significant challenge for many mothers. How do you raise awareness about this issue, and what strategies do you suggest for managing the mental load?
Parenting is sometimes likened to a competitive sport, with pressure to excel in various aspects. How do you advocate for a more supportive and empathetic approach to parenting?
What are some ways moms can combat feelings of isolation?
How do you encourage moms to prioritize their mental health and well-being amidst the demands of parenthood, especially in a culture that often glorifies busyness and self-sacrifice?
How can modern moms prioritize self-compassion and self-care when feeling overwhelmed or burnt out?
What would it be if you could give modern mothers one piece of advice?
Mamas, we are human. We make mistakes. However, we must remember that we are trying our best, and our best is good enough. Give yourself more grace as you navigate this stage of motherhood (and the next stage, and the next). If you're listening to this episode, chances are, you're a very good mother. We hope you feel the love and support you so deserve.
Tara Clark's Resources
Website: modernmomprobs.com
Book: Modern Mom Probs: A Survival Guide for 21st Century Mothers
Instagram: @modernmomprobs
Podcast: Modern Mom Probs PodcastMy episode with Tara on her podcast: Birth Planning with "The Baby Chick" Nina Spears
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to thriving as a modern mom!
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Motherhood is, without a doubt, the best thing that has ever happened to me. It has molded me into a better, stronger, more loving, and compassionate person. I never knew how much my heart could love until I had children. Motherhood has also made me very tired, a bit more anxious, and even more of an over-thinker and worrier. If you're a mom reading this, I'm sure you might be able to relate to a few of these.
While we want to do everything we can for our children and be a good mom, sometimes (or oftentimes) we over-extend ourselves because we want to show them (and maybe the world) how much we care. It comes from the very best of intentions, but it can lead us to take on too many responsibilities and commitments. The load that we carry as mothers is heavy. That's why we refer to it as "the mother load." And while, of course, we would do anything for our children, mothers need to remember this . . . all of those things were never meant for one person to carry. Our guest, Erica Djossa, knows all about the mother-load that she literally wrote the book. She talks to us in-depth about this topic and how mothers can make a change for the better.
Who is Erica Djossa?
Erica Djossa is a registered psychotherapist specializing in maternal mental health with over a decade of experience. She is the author of Releasing the Mother Load: How to Carry Less and Enjoy Motherhood More, CEO and founder of Momwell, and the host of the Momwell podcast. As a mother of three rambunctious young boys, Erica understands first-hand the challenges of motherhood. Perfectionism, pressure, and loss of identity fueled her battle with postpartum depression, and she realized how difficult it is to seek care. She founded Momwell to set a standard of care for providers and ensure mom-centered specialized mental health support at any stage of motherhood. Erica has been featured in media publications, including Time Magazine, USA Today, The Toronto Star, Breakfast Television, and Scary Mommy.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Erica about the invisible “mother-load” all moms carry and how moms can learn to carry less and enjoy motherhood more. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
What are some of the most common mental health issues you see in mothers today?
Where does this "invisible load" come from? How can we break away from it?
So many modern moms feel pressure to be the "perfect mom.” Why is this harmful, and how can we change it?
What are your thoughts on gender norms and how moms can end up carrying more of the load? How does this affect relationships?
How do you recommend moms communicate with their partners about how they are feeling and how they can help?
What is your advice for the mom who always feels like she needs to do and be “more”?
Go to the SHOW NOTES for more!
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As I'm currently watching the Olympics as I write this, I am in awe of all of these incredible athletes. Seeing the greatest in the world compete against one another in their sports is truly amazing. You know what's also amazing? Knowing that some of these competitors are mothers. These women have grown, birthed, and continue to sustain life. And they are Olympians. I have wonderful memories watching the Olympics growing up and one athlete that I have admired over the years is Allyson Felix. She has done some amazing things as a track and field star, but her work off the track is just as inspiring.
Who is Allyson Felix?
Allyson Felix is the most decorated track and field athlete in history. That’s right! With a record 20 World Championship medals and 11 medals at the Olympic Games — seven gold, three silver, and one bronze — she ranks among the sport's greats. Throughout her career, Allyson has demonstrated resilience and determination, overcoming setbacks and injuries to achieve greatness on the track. Her dedication to her sport and commitment to excellence have made her a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide. In 2022, Allyson retired from her athletic career after winning her last world championship gold in Eugene, Oregon, ending her career as the most decorated athlete in track and field history.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Felix is also recognized for her advocacy work and leadership in promoting gender equality and diversity in sports. She has been a vocal advocate for maternity rights for athletes, sparking important conversations about supporting women athletes during pregnancy and postpartum. She has also been an advocate for Black maternal health for racial disparities in maternal mortality rates in the U.S. For all of her efforts, Allyson was named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People twice, in 2020 and 2021.
Allyson is also a wife and mother to her two children. In November 2018, Allyson gave birth to her daughter, Camryn, early at 32 weeks via emergency C-section due to severe preeclampsia. In April 2024, she welcomed her son, Kenneth (Trey), via an unmedicated VBAC. Her journey as a mother has added a new dimension to her career, inspiring others with her ability to excel both on and off the track.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Allyson Felix about her journey through motherhood — from her career as a professional athlete and Olympic champion to embracing life as a mother of two as well as her latest partnership with Pampers. Check out our SHOW NOTES for more details.
Chatting with Allyson was such a pleasure. Her humbleness and genuine care for supporting women and mothers is evident and we are so grateful for all that she is doing to make a difference. Listen to the episode to hear her thoughts and story!
Allyson Mentioned
Allyson mentioned that she used a doula during her last birth.
What is a Doula? – Podcast Episode #2
She also said that she used Hypnobabies for her VBAC.
An episode with Kerry Tuschhoff, the Founder, Director, & Owner of Hypnobabies: How to Prepare Your Mind and Body for Childbirth – Podcast Episode 9
Allyson Felix's Resources
Website: allysonfelix.com
Instagram: @allysonfelix
X: @allysonfelix
Company: Saysh
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat.
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In my opinion, as soon as you find out you're pregnant, it heightens everything. You become so much more hyper-aware of your surroundings and everything you do because all of those things are no longer just affecting you . . . they are affecting your growing baby, too. And as mothers, we always want to do and provide the very best for our babies. This is why one of the first things we tend to think about is what we are eating. Because what we are eating is also what we are feeding our babies.
Today's guest, Stephanie Middleberg, is an expert on this topic, and she is sharing her pregnancy nutrition tips with all of us and so much more. Tune in to discover everything you need to know about pregnancy nutrition and what to do to have a happy and healthy nine months and beyond!
Who is Stephanie Middleberg?
Stephanie Middleberg, MS, RD, CDN is a registered dietitian nutritionist, founder of Middleberg Nutrition, and mother of two. Stephanie received her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition from New York University and lives with her kids, Julian and Remi, and her husband, Andrew, in Brooklyn. She is frequently called upon by media outlets as a nutritional expert and has served as a member of both Health and Cosmopolitan's Health Advisory Boards. She has made appearances on major television networks, including ABC’s Good Morning America, CBS, and Fox. Her bestselling books, The Big Book of Organic Baby Food and The Big Book of Organic Toddler Food have helped countless families feel at ease with the stresses of feeding their little ones. And now, her latest book, The Big Book of Pregnancy Nutrition, guides you on how to nourish yourself and your baby from the first through fourth trimesters. When she isn't working with her clients or media outlets, you can find Stephanie jogging with her husband and son, traveling, or concocting recipes in the Middleberg Nutrition Test Kitchen.
Mentioned in the Episode
Canned tuna: check out Safe Catch
Prenatal vitamins she recommends: Perelel, Thorne, MegaFoods
Electrolyte drinks: Needed or LMNT
And so many of her delicious recipes from her book:
Cooked Salmon Poke-Inspired Bowls - pg 245
Everything Bagel Popcorn - pg 220
Carrot Cake Muffins - pg 206
Energy Bites - pg 261
And more!
Stephanie's Resources
Website: middlebergnutrition.com
Instagram: @smiddleberg_rd
Instagram: @middlebergnutrition
Latest book: The Big Book of Pregnancy Nutrition
Thank you for listening to this episode! For more details, be sure to go to the SHOW NOTES and follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Cheers to a happy and healthy pregnancy!
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Today, we're discussing a subject that plays a crucial role in many people's lives: birth control. I had the pleasure of chatting with our guest, Dr. Bana Kashani, about this topic in great detail. Dr. Kashani provided tremendous medical insights and discussed the various forms of contraception, what to expect with each, and debunked some common myths.
Birth control isn't just about preventing pregnancy—it's about empowerment, choice, and taking control of your health. Whether you're thinking about changing the current birth control you're on, needing to consider your options after you have baby (if you're pregnant), curious about how different methods work, or just looking to understand more about this important aspect of reproductive health, this episode is for you. We navigated through the maze of pills, patches, IUDs, and more so that you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and needs. Now, let's meet our guest!
Who is Dr. Bana Kashani?
Dr. Bana Kashani is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She has been treating infertility patients since 2014 and has been practicing in Orange County, where she grew up, since 2017.
Dr. Kashani received her medical degree from the University of South Alabama, College of Medicine, where she graduated at the top of her class, and she completed her residency at the University of Southern California. There, she received tremendous experience in all facets of Obstetrics and Gynecology but specifically had an interest in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She continued her medical training and pursued a subspecialty in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School.
Since Dr. Kashani is focused on providing her patients with the most personalized approach to fertility services and treatments, she opened up her own practice in 2020. Her practice’s mission is to ensure patients feel comfortable and cared for since infertility treatments can be overwhelming.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Bana Kashani about navigating birth control. In a rapidly evolving landscape of reproductive health, navigating the variety of birth control options can be overwhelming. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
How do you help patients determine which birth control method is best suited for them?
What factors should individuals take into consideration when selecting birth control to meet their needs?
What are the most common forms of birth control available?
Can you talk about the efficacy of these methods?
What are the main differences between barrier methods and hormonal methods?
When talking specifically about hormonal birth control, how effective is it in preventing pregnancy, and is there any negative impact on fertility when used for an extended period of time?
Can you explain what Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) are and how they differ from other forms of birth control?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of LARCs compared to other methods?
What are some common side effects associated with different types of birth control?
We know that it can be overwhelming when navigating the world of birth control, but we hope this episode leaves you feeling more knowledgeable about the different forms of contraception as well as empowered to choose the right form for you.
Dr. Kashani's Resources
Website: www.banakashanimd.com
Instagram: @dr.banakashani
Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to being empowered to make your own choices!
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This discussion was a good one and about several topics that I am so incredibly passionate about: women's choice of care, midwives, evidence-based birth practices, and better birth outcomes. Dr. Darrell Martin shared so many fascinating stories and talked to us all about his experience advocating for women's choice in healthcare, his support of midwives, and the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. I was smiling from ear to ear throughout our entire conversation because I kept thinking, "YES! This doctor GETS IT." And I want everyone to know what he knows and his story.
Who is Dr. Darrell Martin?
Dr. Darrell Martin is a gynecologist and a dedicated healthcare advocate with four decades of expertise in women’s health. His dedication to patient care and choice propelled him to testify before Congress, championing the rights of Certified Nurse Midwives and advocating for patients' freedom to select their healthcare providers. A standout moment in his career was his fervent support for nurse-midwifery in Nashville, Tennessee, showcasing his commitment to advancing the profession. Additionally, Dr. Martin takes great pride in having played a pivotal role in more than 5,000 births, marking a legacy of life and joy he has helped bring into the world.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Darrell Martin about midwifery and the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
How did you become passionate about women's health, midwifery, and patient rights?
Please give us a brief explanation of what a midwife is and what their role encompasses in the context of childbirth.
Also, to our listeners, tune in to our episode #43: What is a Midwife? for more information!
In your opinion, how is the role of a midwife different from an OB/GYN when it comes to childbirth?
Please tell us about the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment.
How do you believe midwives contribute to a positive birthing experience for individuals and their families?
What are some common challenges or misconceptions that midwives face in their practice?
How do you see the role of midwives evolving in the future of childbirth?
It was a pure delight chatting with Dr. Martin about midwifery care and his beliefs about women's care and childbirth. His passion, perseverance, and commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care are leading to meaningful change, and we hope to see more of it!
Dr. Martin's Resources
Website: darrellmartinbooks.com
Book:
Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to midwifery and safe, beautiful births!! (GO TO SHOW NOTES FOR MORE!)
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When you and your partner are ready to start your family, it's a wonderful and exciting time! If you are in a cis-hetero relationship, this is when you begin "trying" and hope to see a positive confirmation on your next pregnancy test. But for many couples, it isn't so easy. According to a 2023 World Health Organization report, about 1 in 6 people worldwide experience infertility. This is heartbreaking, and the road to having a child becomes a lot more difficult. Thankfully, there are several things couples can consider during their fertility journey, and one of them might be acupuncture. I've heard a lot of great things about acupuncture, so I had to learn more and talk to an expert.
Who is Dr. Haley Parker?
Dr. Haley Parker is a State Board Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist in Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, New Jersey, and Georgia. Haley received her Master’s Degree in The Science of Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her background as a Division 1 athlete contributed to her successful strategy of working with student-athletes on sports-related psychological and competitive performance. Her passion for teaching was ignited, and she joined the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine in 2021 to teach the practice management and clinical communications curriculum.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Haley about acupuncture and fertility and what people who are having a tougher time conceiving need to know. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
In what ways can women particularly benefit from acupuncture?
Can acupuncture really improve fertility? What's the science behind it?
What are some common misconceptions about acupuncture's role in fertility, and how can they be addressed?
What specific acupuncture techniques are believed to enhance fertility, and how do they work?
Can acupuncture be used as a standalone treatment for fertility issues, or is it usually combined with other interventions?
Are there any risks associated with acupuncture for fertility?
Are there any lifestyle changes that you recommended alongside acupuncture for fertility?
Do you have any tips and first steps for someone who is exploring acupuncture to help with their fertility journey?
Dr. Haley is a wealth of knowledge on this topic and really broke down what people need to know about acupuncture, how it can potentially help with their fertility journey, and what to expect. Be sure to listen or share this episode with someone who wants to learn more about acupuncture and how it can positively impact their fertility.
Dr. Haley's Resources
Website: VUIM Clinic
Instagram: @dr.haley.vuim
Facebook: Dr. Haley Parker
LinkedIn: Dr. Haley Parker
Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to your fertility journey!
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Everything changes the moment you find out you're pregnant. Priorities change, lifestyle choices change, and your whole world changes. You realize you are no longer just taking care of yourself. Caring for your baby becomes the priority. You may become protective and think about what you're exposing yourself to, including harsh chemicals and toxins. It's normal during pregnancy for women to rethink the products they're bringing into their homes and how they may affect their growing baby. Our guest, Sophia Ruan Gushée, can absolutely relate. After her pregnancy with her firstborn, her passion for a nontoxic life was ignited. Since then, she has created an empire to help others detox their lives. Today, she's answering our questions and sharing her expert tips on detoxifying your home for your newborns, kids, and family.
Who is Sophia Ruan Gushée?
Sophia is a nontoxic lifestyle expert and author of A to Z of D-Toxing: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Our Toxic Exposures and several detox workbooks. She is praised by experts in both medical and wellness fields for her practical approach to avoiding toxins and cultivating a healthier home environment. A graduate of Brown University and Columbia Business School, Sophia has helped thousands of people enjoy healthier lives by simplifying nontoxic living while protecting the ease and convenience of modern life.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Sophia about detoxifying your home for your family, why it is important, and how to do it. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
Why is it important for us to consider detoxifying our homes, specifically for newborns and young children?
What are some common toxins or pollutants found in homes that parents may not be aware of?
Can you share some practical tips for identifying and removing toxins from our homes?
What are the top areas or aspects of a home that parents should focus on when detoxifying for their children's health?
Are there any specific household products or materials that parents should be especially cautious of?
What are some of the long-term benefits of maintaining a detoxified home environment for children's health and well-being?
How can parents effectively communicate the importance of home detoxification to other family members or caregivers coming into their home?
What resources or tools do you recommend for parents who want to learn more about and get started in detoxifying their homes for their children's and family’s health?
It was an enlightening conversation that really got me interested in how I can create a healthier space for myself and my family. Tune in to learn more!
Sophia's Resources
Website: www.ruanliving.com
Instagram: @ruanliving
Facebook: @Ruan Living
LinkedIn: Sophia Ruan Gushée
TikTok: @ruanliving
Book: A to Z of D-Toxing: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Our Toxic Exposures
Sophia's Podcast: Practical Nontoxic Living Podcast
Her D-tox Academy
Mentioned in the episode:
Environmental Health Trust
Tech Wellness
Dr. Bronner's castile soap
Think Dirty app
Healthy Living app - EWG
Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to detoxing your home for you and your growing family!
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Many things may change over the years, but something that we want to instill in our kids is that it's always cool to be kind. In my opinion, kindness is beginning to be a lost art in our world. We hear so much negativity and unkind things in the news and media that it's spilling into our everyday lives. Fortunately, we are our children's greatest teachers (and they are ours). We can make a difference in our world by starting at home. Teaching our kids the power of kindness can lead to so many wonderful things for them. Our guest, Rachel Tomlinson, knows all about it (she literally wrote the book) and is sharing her words of wisdom.
Who is Rachel Tomlinson?
Rachel Tomlinson is a registered psychologist and internationally published author of "Teaching Kids to Be Kind" and "A Blue Kind of Day" (a picture book on depression). Rachel has worked with adults, families, and children (birth through 18 years old) in a variety of settings, including play therapy, children’s residential facilities, education settings, trauma counseling, and parenting support programs. She has presented at national conferences on mental health topics as well as guest lectured about domestic violence and relationships at colleges and universities. She also serves as a subject matter expert for journalists on topics such as parenting, child development, and relationships. We love having her as a contributor at Baby Chick, and we are excited to now have her here on our podcast! Rachel resides with her family in Perth, Australia.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Rachel about teaching kids to be kind, what kindness really looks like, and tips and strategies to encourage kids to be kind. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
As parents, one of our greatest hopes is that our children grow up to be good people. What qualities do you think make a good person?
At what age do you think children are able to understand the concept of kindness and what it means?
How would you define kindness to a child?
Can you share some examples of what kindness looks like to children?
What are the long-term benefits of teaching kindness to our children at a young age?
What are some practical strategies parents can use to encourage kindness in children?
What role does leading by example play, and what are some ways parents can model kindness for their children?
What are some common challenges parents face when teaching kindness to children, and how can they be overcome?
As parents, how should we react when our children exhibit behavior that is unkind?
What are your top tips for teaching kindness to kids?
Rachel shared relatable stories and powerful advice when it comes to teaching our kids about kindness. Be sure to listen!
Rachel's Resources
Website: towardwellbeing.com
Instagram: @towardwellbeing
Rachel's author page at Baby Chick
Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to being kind and raising a kinder generation!
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Women can experience a lot of discomfort during pregnancy. All of these aches, pains, and changes in our body can also take a toll on our sleep. If we aren't moving around to find just the right position to get comfortable or having to get up to use the restroom again, you can count on our restless leg syndrome or pregnancy insomnia to kick in. With all of these issues, we had to chat with Dr. Ann Kristin Homdrum to learn more.
Who is Dr. Ann Kristin Homdrum?
Dr. Ann Kristin is a chiropractic doctor who specializes in pediatrics and women's health. She's not only a dedicated healthcare professional - she’s also an author, a public speaker, and a successful entrepreneur. She’s founded multiple businesses, including co-founding the maternity brand bbhugme, and is a co-owner of Norway's largest pediatric chiropractic franchise. But what's even more inspiring is her commitment to family. As a mom of three and alongside her husband, she's passionate about sharing her knowledge of conscious health decisions with fellow parents.
What Did We Discuss?
In this episode, we chat with Dr. Ann Kristin about sleep during pregnancy, common sleep issues women experience during pregnancy, and how to overcome them all. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation:
How did you become passionate about working with pregnant women?
How common are sleep issues during the prenatal period?
What are some common sleep challenges that pregnant women face?
How does pregnancy affect sleep patterns?
Why do many expectant mothers struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position?
Can you explain the role of chiropractic care in promoting better sleep during pregnancy?
What other lifestyle recommendations do you typically provide to pregnant women to enhance their sleep quality?
Are there certain sleep positions that are better than others during pregnancy?
How important is a routine in pregnancy sleep?
What are your top tips for getting a restful sleep during pregnancy?
Dr. Ann Kristin's Resources
Website: bbhugme.com
Instagram: @natural_born_parenting
Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to a restful pregnancy!
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